bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanoporous and Nanosize Materials for Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Fukumori Yoshinobu , Takada Kanji , Takeuchi Hirofumi
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Nanomaterials for Coating

Commercially Available Aqueous Polymeric Nanomaterials

Novel Terpolymer Nanoparticles for Coating

Core–shell Nanoparticles for Fine Particle Coating

Core–Shell Nanoparticles for Thermosensitively Drug‐releasing Microcapsules

Chitosan Nanoparticles for Microparticle Coating

Materials for Nanoparticulate Therapy and Diagnosis

Inorganic Nanoparticles

Polymeric Nanoparticles

Other Case Studies

Nanoporous Materials as Drug Delivery System Carriers

Inorganic Calcium Compounds

Silastic Compounds

Nanoporous Silastic Materials for Solidifying Oily Drugs

Nanoporous Silastic Materials for Poorly Absorbable Drugs

Nanoporous Silica Materials for Controlled Release of Drugs

Carbon Nanotubes (
CNTs
)

CNTs
for Oral Delivery of Protein Drug

CNTs
for Intracellular Delivery of Protein

Toxicity of
CNTs

Functionalized
CNTs
(
f
‐
CNTs
) for Drug Delivery

f
‐
CNTs
for Gene Delivery

CNHs
for Drug Delivery

Physicochemical Aspects of Porous Silastic Materials for Drug Delivery

Solid Dispersion Particles with Porous Silica

Mesoporous Silica
Polymeric Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Kallinteri Paraskevi , Garnett Martin C.
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction: Application of Nanoparticles for Noncancer Applications

Physiological and Uptake of Particles

Routes of Tissue and Cellular Uptake of Particles

Uptake by Macrophages and Lymphoid Tissues

Mucosal‐associated Lymphoid Tissues (MALT)

Routes of Delivery

Oral

Nasal

Pulmonary

Transdermal/Subcutaneous

Drug Delivery

Ocular Delivery

Anatomy of the Eye

Pathology

Drug Delivery

Tolerability

Future Prospects for Nanoparticles in Ocular Delivery

Macrophage‐related Diseases

Leishmaniasis

Other Parasitic Infections

Antifungal

Treatment

Drug Delivery Systems

Tuberculosis

Physiology and Pathology

Treatment

Future Prospects

AIDS

Pathology

Treatment

Nanoparticle Delivery Systems

Vaccines andAIDS

Vaccines

Delivery Route

Diabetes

Treatment

Delivery Routes

Conclusions
Intelligent Hydrogels in Nanoscale Sensing and Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Hilt J. Zach
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Intelligent Hydrogels

Ionic Hydrogels

Temperature‐Responsive Hydrogels

Biohybrid Hydrogels

Imprinted Hydrogels

Sensor Applications

Actuation Detection

Optical Detection

Electrical Detection

Drug Delivery Applications

Micro/nanoscale Devices

Nanoscale Macromolecular Structures

Conclusions
Nanoshells for Drug Delivery
Authors: De Villiers Melgardt M. , Lvov Yuri M.
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Metallic Nanoshells

Synthesis of the Nanoshells

Application in Nanomedicine

Nanoshells Formed by PolyionE‐LbLSelf‐assembly

Preparation ofE‐LbLNanoshells

Proving the Nanoshells

Influence of the Core on Nanoshell Properties

Barrier Properties ofE‐LbLAssembled Nanoshells

Controlled Release of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Encapsulated byE‐LbLAssembled Nanoshells

Nanoshell Permeability for Low‐molecular‐weight Compounds

Nanoshell Permeability for High‐molecular‐weight Compounds

E‐LbLAssembled Nanoshells as Protective and Functional Barriers

Magnetic Nanoshells

Nano‐organized Shells with Functions other than a Adjustable Diffusion Barrier

Colloidal Stabilization

Interpolyelectrolyte Complex Formation

Biomimetic Approach

Conclusion
Bionanoparticles and their Biomedical Applications
Authors: Lee L. Andrew , Barnhill Hannah N. , Wang Qian
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

BNPs

Genetic and Chemical Alterations ofBNPs

Chemical Modifications

Conventional Bioconjugation Methods for Selective Modifications

“Click Chemistry” for Bioconjugation ofBNPs

New Developments in Tyrosine Modification

Genetic Alterations

Heterologous Peptide Insertions

NAASubstitutions

Protein Expression Systems

BNPsin Therapeutics

Cell Targeting

Gene Delivery

Bioimaging

Drug Encapsulation and Release

Immune Response

Vaccine Development

Immune Modulation

Future Directions

Acknowledgments
Nanotechnology for Gene Therapy –
HVJ
‐
E
Vector
Authors: Nakagami Hironori , Tabata Yasuhiko , Kaneda Yasufumi
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Biological Barriers to Gene Transfer

Reaching Target Cells

Recognition by Specific Target Tissues

Avoidance of Nonspecific Uptake

Resistance to Degradation in Systemic Circulation

Crossing the Cell Membrane

Nuclear Targeting

Regulation of Gene Expression

Stable Retention of Transgenes

Regulation of Transcription

HVJ
‐
E
Vector

Development of
HVJ
‐
E
Vector

Approaches to Cancer Gene Therapy Utilizing
HVJ
‐
E
Vector

Transfection of Dendritic Cells (
DCs
) with Melanoma‐associated Antigen (
MAA
) using
HVJ
Envelope Vector for Immunotherapy of Melanoma

Fusion of
DC
Tumor Cells and Simultaneous Gene Transfer to the Hybrid Cells using
HVJ
‐
E
for the Prevention and Treatment of Cancers

Biocompatible Polymer with
HVJ
‐
E

Magnetic Nanoparticles for Medicine

Conclusion
Nanotoxicology of Synthetic Gene Transfer Vectors: Poly(ethyleneimine)‐ and Polyfectin‐mediated Membrane Damage and Apoptosis in Human Cell Lines
Authors: Moghimi Seyed M.
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

PEIas a Nonviral Vector

Structure and Properties ofPEIandPEI–DNAComplexes

Cytotoxicity

PEI‐mediated Cell Dysfunction and Apoptosis

PEIandPEI–DNAComplex Internalization

Plasma Membrane Damage and Apoptosis

Effect ofPEIon the Function of Isolated Mitochondria

Other Plausible Apoptotic Routes

Cell Damage and Apoptosis with Related Polycations and Cationic Lipids

Conclusions and Future Outlook
Nanoparticles for the Treatment ofAlzheimer's Disease: Theoretical Rationale, Present Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Liu Gang , Men Ping , Perry George , Smith Mark A.
Published: September 2007

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Rationales: The Ability of Nanoparticles to Cross theBBB– A Useful Tool to Deliver Drugs into the Brain

Physiological Functions of theBBB

Strategies for DrugBBBPenetration

Preparation of Polymeric Nanoparticulate Drug Delivery Systems

Possible Mechanisms by which Nanoparticles Cross theBBB

Status: Nanoparticle Targeting Transport of Therapeutic Agents for Potential Treatment ofAD

Nanoparticle Targeting ofAβ to Deliver Potentially Therapeutic Agents

Nanoparticulate Antioxidant Delivery to Increase Efficacy againstAβ‐mediated Oxidative Stress

Nanoparticle Delivery of Copper Chelator for Preventing and ReversingAβ Deposition

Nanoparticle Transport of Iron Chelators and Metal Chelator Complexes Into and Out of the Brain, Respectively

Increased Levels of Various Metals in the Brain ofADPatients

Problems with Iron Chelators for Simultaneous Removal of Multimetal Ions for Treatment ofAD

Nanoparticle Transport Technology to Improve Chelation Therapy forAD

Experimental Descriptions

Results and Discussion

Perspectives

Acknowledgments
Effects of the addition of small amounts of a thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer on the processing characteristics of polyphenylene oxide–polyamide alloys
Authors: Ruggiero Vera , Acierno Domenico
Published: September 2007

The possibility of improving the processing characteristics of a high‐viscosity engineering polymer alloy (PPO‐PA6,6) was explored through the addition of small amounts of a thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (LCP). The thermal and rheological characteristics were examined for LCP contents up to 5 wt%. Inclusion of even a small amount of LCP (1 wt%) has resulted in a substantial decrease in the melt viscosity (∼50%) and in the possible lowering of the processing temperature of the PPO–PA alloy. Numerical simulation and experimental tests for the injection molding of a fairly complex component have shown that cavity filling occurs more rapidly when small amounts of LCP are added to the blend. Together with morphological examinations, these results have confirmed that LCP is thoroughly dispersed in the blend and acts as a true viscosity depressant, rather than behaving as an external lubricant. The resulting improvements in processing characteristics were also evident from the increase in the onset degradation temperature and the reduction in thermal expansion coefficient of the blends. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 26:109–120, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20089
Improved thermal design of a compression mold
Authors: Kuczmarski Maria A. , Johnston J. Christopher
Published: September 2007

An analysis of the heat transfer in a tool for producing neat resin disks was conducted to determine how to bring about a better agreement between the tool temperature and the applied temperature profile. Using the commercial code FLUENT to investigate the relative effects of heat conduction into the tool and heat loss from the tool by convection, it was shown that convective heat transfer appears more important than conduction in controlling the tool performance. Decreasing the height of the tool was predicted to decrease the heat losses by convection. Redesigning of the tool based on this analysis resulted in the tool experiencing the applied temperature profile. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 26:86–99, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20091
Synthesis and characterization of poly(ε‐caprolactones) and poly(δ‐valerolactone): Macroactivators for obtaining poly(esteramides)
Authors: Toncheva Natalia Valentinova , Mateva Rosa Petrova
Published: September 2007

Two new families of biodegradable poly[(ε‐caprolactam)‐co‐(ε‐caprolactone)] and poly[(ε‐caprolactam)‐co‐(δ‐valerolactone)] copolymers were synthesized via anionic polymerization. The polymerization was activated with macroactivators (MAs) based on telechelic poly(ε‐caprolactones) (PCLOs) and poly(δ‐valerolactone) (PVLO) polyols. The molecular weights of the polyesters were varied to obtain a large diversity of copolymer structures and properties. The MAs were prepared by reaction of reactive hydroxyl end‐groups of PCLO polyols or hydroxyl‐carboxyl end‐groups PVLO polyol with isophorone diisocyanate (IF). The diisocyanate‐end‐capped poly(lactones) were additionally blocked in situ with ε‐caprolactam to receive corresponding carbamoyllactam derivates. Analyses of the isolated products by FTIR, 1H NMR spectroscopy, and size exclusion chromatography indicated that nearly quantitative end‐functionalization was achieved in all cases. The prepared MAs reduce the polymerization time to several minutes and improve the toughness of the synthesized poly(esteramides). © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 26:121–131, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20093
Curing characteristics and mechanical properties of carbon fiber‐interlayered fabric composites based on a polyurethane matrix
Authors: Lavorgna Marino , Cerruti Pierfrancesco , Casula Gianluca , Iannace Salvatore , Harper John F.
Published: September 2007

Polyurethane matrix composites based on fiber‐interlayered carbon fabric laminates were prepared by compression molding to assess the feasibility of this approach, when using a highly reactive resin as matrix. The polyurethane matrix was prepared using the excess isocyanate to enhance the rigidity of the system through additional crosslinking. The fiber‐interlayered laminates consisted of different amount of short fibers between two carbon fabrics. Three composites containing, respectively, 12%, 18%, and 26% wt/wt total carbon fibers were produced for this study. Thermal and IR spectroscopic analysis were performed to select the most suitable thermal curing conditions for the matrix. The results showed that 70°C represents the minimum curing temperature required to carry out the reactions between polyol and isocyanate groups at an economical rate. In this condition, a multistep reaction occurs to consume the excess isocyanate. Mechanical strength of the composites was measured by three‐point bending tests, and the data were analyzed by the Weibull statistical method. Fiber content in the interlayer is a critical parameter in the manufacture of these types of composite materials. Composites with 13% and 21% wt/wt short fibers in the interlayers (giving a total carbon fiber content of 18% and 26% wt/wt) exhibit a wider cumulative distribution of strength data due to the restrictions that they impose on the flow of the resin, thereby resulting in an inhomogeneous distribution of resin throughout the samples. A composite with 12% total carbon content (7% wt/wt short fibers) exhibits a narrower cumulative distribution, denoting a greater reliability relative to the manufacturing method used in this study. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 26:132–145, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20094
Packing structure of MPS SAMs and its influence on oriented deposition of SnO2 crystal films
Authors: Zhang Jinli , Zhang Ming , Li Wei , Zhai Yi
Published: September 2007

The (110) crystal plane of SnO2 was found by X‐ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy to grow preferentially in the direction of short‐chain sulfonate self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) formed from in situ oxidation of 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) treated Si substrates. Molecular simulations were performed to study the optimal packing structure of MPS SAMs on Si (100) surface as well as its induced deposition mechanism to the SnO2 crystal. Molecular mechanics calculations showed that the MPS molecules self‐assembled on Si (100) surfaces with a coverage ratio of 50% and a zigzag‐like packing pattern. Molecular dynamics calculations reflected that oxidation of the SH of MPS contributed to uniform SO3H‐terminated SAMs with narrower distribution of dihedral angles. Density functional theory calculations suggested the existence of strong interactions between the SO3H groups of SAMs and SnO2 (110) plane, which was due to the structural and electrical match between the SO3H group and the unsaturated atoms on SnO2 (110) plane. These results consistently confirmed that the ordered SAMs with SO3H terminal group are beneficial to the epitaxial growth of crystal SnO2. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Hydrodynamics and mass transfer in a draft tube airlift reactor with dilute alcohol solutions
Authors: Albijanić B. , Havran V. , Petrović D. Lj. , Đurić M. , Tekić M. N.
Published: September 2007

The aim of this work was to investigate an influence of different alcohols on the behavior of a draft tube airlift reactor. The main hydrodynamic and mass transfer parameters in 1 wt % aqueous solutions of five aliphatic alcohols were examined. The results showed that alcohol addition enhanced gas holdup and mass transfer coefficient, but led to notable reduction of liquid velocity and hence elongation of circulation time, relative to the values determined for water. By introducing the surface tension gradient as a relevant independent variable, we defined a simple empirical correlation for overall gas holdup, circulation time, and mass transfer coefficient. The proposed empirical correlations have shown a satisfactory agreement between the calculated and the experimental data. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
The origin of trisomy 13
Authors: Hall Heather E. , Chan E. Ricky , Collins Andrew , Judis LuAnn , Shirley Sofia , Surti Urvashi , Hoffner Lori , Cockwell Annette E. , Jacobs Patricia A. , Hassold Terry J.
Published: September 2007

Trisomy 13 is one of the most common trisomies in clinically recognized pregnancies and one of the few trisomies identified in liveborns, yet relatively little is known about the errors that lead to trisomy 13. Accordingly, we initiated studies to investigate the origin of the extra chromosome in 78 cases of trisomy 13. Our results indicate that the majority of cases (>91%) are maternal in origin and, similar to other autosomal trisomies, the extra chromosome is typically due to errors in meiosis I. Surprisingly, however, a large number of errors also occur during maternal meiosis II (∼37%), distinguishing trisomy 13 from other acrocentric and most nonacrocentric chromosomes. As with other trisomies, failure to recombine is an important contributor to nondisjunction of chromosome 13. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fetal anticonvulsant syndromes and polymorphisms in MTHFR, MTR, and MTRR
Authors: Dean John , Robertson Zoe , Reid V. , Wang Q. Diana , Hailey Hazel , Moore Sue , Rasalam A. Dee , Turnpenny Peter , Lloyd David , Cardy Amanda , Shaw Duncan , Little Julian
Published: September 2007

The malformations found in fetal anticonvulsant syndromes (FACS) are associated with folic acid deficiency and methylene‐tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms in the general population. To investigate a possible association between FACS and MTHFR genotype, we recruited 200 mothers who had taken anti‐epileptic drugs in pregnancy, and delivered at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital over a 26‐year period. Clinical findings in the mothers and their 337 children were documented. A clinical algorithm was devised to diagnose FACS objectively. Case‐parent triads were genotyped for polymorphisms in MTHFR, serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT1), methionine synthase (MTR), and methionine synthase reductase (MTRR), and analyzed by log‐linear regression. No effect of the child's genotype on congenital malformation, neurodevelopmental disorder or FACS was detected using this method. The risk of having a child with congenital malformation or FACS was three to four times higher for mothers who were MTHFR 677TT homozygotes compared with MTHFR 677CC homozygotes. MTR 2756A > G and MTRR 66A > G genotype frequencies in children with FACS and neurodevelopmental disorder were different from those in healthy blood donor controls. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recurrent inverted duplication of 2p with terminal deletion in a patient with the classical phenotype of trisomy 2p23‐pter
Authors: Gruchy Nicolas , Jacquemont Marie‐Line , Lyonnet Stanislas , Labrune Philippe , El Kamel Imen , Siffroi Jean‐Pierre , Portnoï Marie‐France
Published: September 2007

Inverted duplications with terminal deletions have been reported in an increasing number of chromosomes and are probably more frequent than suspected until recently. We describe the cytogenetic and molecular characterization of an inverted duplication of chromosome 2p in an 8‐year‐old girl. Firstly interpreted as partial duplication 2p, the rearrangement was in fact an inverted duplication associated with a terminal deletion of the short arm of the rearranged chromosome 2, the latter not being detectable by cytogenetic analysis. The complete karyotype was: 46,XX,add(2)(p23)dn.ish inv dup del(2)(:p23.2→p25.3::p25.3→qter) (wcp2+,N‐MYC++,2pter−)dn. We precisely define the extension of both the duplication and the deletion using bacterial artificial chromosomes clones spanning the regions. The size of the inverted duplicated segment was estimated to be 28 Mb, spanning from 2p23.2 to 2p25.3, and an approximately 1.6 Mb segment at 2pter‐p25.3 was deleted in the abnormal chromosome. The physical findings noted in our patient include prominent forehead, hypertelorism, flat nasal bridge, and low‐set and large ears. In addition, she had congenital heart defect and scoliosis. Her psychomotor development was severely delayed from the beginning. All these clinical features are the same as observed for the typical trisomy 2p23‐pter syndrome. The phenotypic effects of the terminal deletion of 2p in addition to the trisomy are discussed. This is the third patient presenting with a severe clinical phenotype and a de novo inv dup del (2p). © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sibling phenotype concordance in classical infantile Pompe disease
Authors: Smith Wendy E. , Sullivan‐Saarela Jennifer A. , Li Jennifer S. , Cox Gerald F. , Corzo Deyanira , Chen Yuan‐Tsong , Kishnani Priya S.
Published: September 2007

Pompe disease (acid‐α‐glucosidase deficiency) encompasses a clinical spectrum, ranging from severe infantile‐onset disease with clinical symptoms appearing before 1 year of age with rapid progression to an early death, to late‐onset disease with a much more variable age at onset and disease course. Sibling phenotype discordance has been reported for late‐onset Pompe disease, but has not been studied in classical infantile disease. We reviewed the medical literature for affected sibships in which at least one sibling had clinical and pathology or biochemical findings consistent with infantile Pompe disease including symptoms beginning in infancy, early hypotonia, cardiomegaly documented by 6 months of age, and early death. The age at symptom onset, age at death, and clinical course were compared between probands and affected siblings. Our results showed that since 1931, publications document 13 families with 31 affected infants (11 probands; 20 affected siblings). The median age at symptom onset for all affected infants was 3 months (range 0–6 months) with significant correlation (R = 0.60, P = 0.04) between probands and affected siblings. The median age at death for all affected infants was 6 months (range 1.5–13 months); probands were slightly older at death than their siblings. The median length of disease course for all affected infants was 3 months (0–10 months) and was slightly longer for probands. Unlike late‐onset Pompe disease, there appears to be minimal phenotypic and lifespan variation among siblings with infantile Pompe disease. This prognostic information is vital for families with affected infants and allows for appropriate genetic counseling. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two novel GALNT3 mutations in familial tumoral calcinosis
Authors: Garringer Holly J. , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad Javad , Esteghamat Fatemehsadat , Malekpour Mahdi , Boztepe Harika , Tanakol Refik , Davis Siobhan I. , White Kenneth E.
Published: September 2007

Familial tumoral calcinosis (TC) is characterized by elevated serum phosphate concentrations, normal or elevated 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D, as well as periarticular and vascular calcifications. Recessive mutations in the mucin‐like glycosyltransferase GalNAc transferase‐3 (GALNT3) and the phosphaturic hormone fibroblast growth factor‐23 (FGF23) have been shown to result in TC. In the present study, mutational analyses were performed on two patients with TC to determine the molecular basis of their diseases. Analysis of the first patient revealed a novel, homozygous base insertion (1102_1103insT) in GALNT3 exon 5 that results in a frameshift and premature stop codon (E375X). The second patient had a novel homozygous transition (1460 g>a) in GALNT3 exon 7, which caused a nonsense mutation (W487X). Both mutations are predicted to markedly truncate the mature GALNT3 protein product. Although the patients carry GALNT3 mutations, these individuals presented with low‐normal serum concentrations of intact biologically active FGF23 and high levels of C‐terminal FGF23. In order to discern a possible relationship between GALNT3 and FGF23 in TC, a comprehensive assessment of the reported TC mutations was also performed. In summary, we have detected novel GALNT3 mutations that result in familial TC, and show that disturbed serum FGF23 concentrations are present in our TC cases as well as in previously reported cases. These studies expand our current genetic understanding of familial TC, and support a pathophysiological association between GALNT3 and FGF23. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lymphedema, cardiac septal defects, and characteristic facies: Possible new case of Irons–Bianchi syndrome
Authors: van Steensel M.A.M. , van Geel M. , Schrander‐Stumpel C. , Steijlen P.M. , Veraart J.C.J.M.
Published: September 2007

We describe a Dutch girl with fetal hydrops, congenital lymphedema of the lower legs, complex congenital cardiac malformation, and a typical face with epicanthal folds. This particular combination of symptoms has been previously described by Irons and Bianchi in 1996. Our report confirms their observation and suggests that this particular constellation of symptoms may constitute a new syndrome. Molecular analysis confirms this statement by demonstrating absence of mutations in several genes known to be involved in syndromes with lymphedema. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Periconceptional consumption of vitamins containing folic acid and risk for multiple congenital anomalies
Authors: Bitsko Rebecca H. , Reefhuis Jennita , Romitti Paul A. , Moore Cynthia A. , Honein Margaret A.
Published: September 2007

Although it has been well established that periconceptional use of multivitamins containing folic acid (FA) reduces the risk for neural tube defects, two recent U.S. studies have shown an increased risk for multiple congenital anomalies (MCAs) associated with periconceptional use of vitamins containing FA. This study assessed the association between the periconceptional use of vitamins containing FA and MCAs in a third U.S. population. Mothers of infants with MCAs and a random sample of live births (control infants) born in Iowa during 1993–1995 were eligible to participate in the Birth Defects Risk Factor Surveillance case‐control study. During a telephone interview, participants reported on exposure to FA through vitamins, cereal, and food supplements. There was no association between taking vitamins containing FA during the periconceptional period (3 months before conception through the first trimester) and MCAs in the crude estimates or after adjusting for maternal race or ethnicity, education, gravidity, smoking, or alcohol use in the first trimester, or body mass index prior to pregnancy [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–1.69]. There was also no association between vitamin exposure beginning in the first trimester and MCAs outcome (aOR = 1.05, 95% CI 0.59–1.87). In contrast to the two recently published reports, there was no association between periconceptional vitamin exposure and MCAs in the Iowa population. Published 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PAK3 related mental disability: Further characterization of the phenotype
Authors: Peippo Maarit , Koivisto Anne M. , Särkämö Teppo , Sipponen Marjatta , von Koskull Harriet , Ylisaukko‐oja Tero , Rehnström Karola , Froyen Guy , Ignatius Jaakko , Järvelä Irma
Published: September 2007

We report clinical, neuropsychological and molecular findings in affected males and carrier females in the fourth reported family with mental retardation caused by mutation in the PAK3 gene (Xq22.3‐q23), W446S. In contrast to previous reports, carrier females manifested learning problems and mild mental disability. Skewed X‐inactivation was observed here for the first time in carriers of PAK3 mutation. Neuropsychological tests in affected males and carrier females suggested a common neuropsychological profile of impaired spatial cognitive abilities and defects in attentional and executive functions. The five affected males examined herein had a proportionally small head size or microcephaly, large ears, oral motor hypotonia with drooling and inarticulate speech and short attention span, anxiety, restlessness, and aggression. Brain imaging showed signs of chronic non‐progressive hydrocephalus in one patient who manifested psychosis and fluctuant gait deterioration, while two other patients showed no abnormalities. EEG recordings were available from four affected males and one carrier female, and all showed similar posterior slow wave activity without epileptic discharges. Only one affected male in the family suffered from epilepsy. When comparing the affected males in this family and the three previously reported families with mental retardation due to a PAK3 mutation, similarities in their characteristics were small head size or microcephaly, large ears, speech defects, behavioral abnormalities, and psychiatric disease. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetics of tension‐type headache: A population based twin study
Authors: Russell Michael Bjørn , Levi Niels , Kaprio Jaakko
Published: September 2007

The purpose was to investigate the importance of genetic and environmental factors in tension‐type headache using a genetic modeling analysis. Twins age 12–41 years old from the population based Danish Twin Registry received a validated posted questionnaire about tension‐type headache and migraine. Inclusion required that both twins in a pairs replied on the questionnaire and known zygosity. Twin pairs where one or both twins had co‐occurrence of migraine were excluded. Migraine significantly increases the risk as well as the frequency of tension–type headache. The quantitative genetic modeling included 2,437 monozygotic (MZ), 2,720 same gender dizygotic (DZ), and 2,203 opposite gender DZ twin pairs without co‐occurrence of migraine. Polychoric correlations were significantly higher in MZ than same gender DZ twin pairs analyzed separately by gender, while polychoric correlation were higher in same gender than opposite gender DZ twin pairs, although this was not significant in the comparison with male same gender DZ twin pairs. The best fitting model is based on gender specific prevalence and variance components without gender specific genetic effects. Heritability estimates of 48% in men and 44% in women were obtained. Genetic effects contribute to nearly half of variance in the liability to tension‐type headache. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dopamine beta‐hydroxylase (DBH) activity and ‐1021C/T polymorphism of DBH gene in combat‐related post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Mustapić Maja , Pivac Nela , Kozarić‐Kovačić Dragica , Deželjin Martina , Cubells Joseph F. , Mück‐Šeler Dorotea
Published: September 2007

The roles of dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are unclear. The aim of the study was to determine plasma dopamine beta‐hydroxylase (DBH) activity and DBH‐1021C/T gene polymorphism in combat veterans with (N = 133) or without (N = 34) chronic PTSD. Similar frequencies in genotype or allele distribution were found between veterans with or without PTSD. War veterans with PTSD had lower DBH activity, associated with the DBH‐1021C/T variant in DBH genes, than veterans without PTSD. A significantly lower plasma DBH activity was found in combat veterans with PTSD carrying the CC genotype as compared to veterans without PTSD carrying the corresponding genotype. Since both groups were exposed to the same trauma, it is possible that a pre‐existing trait difference in regulation of NE function contributed to a differential vulnerability to develop PTSD, or that the regulation of DBH expression was different in response to trauma. The results suggest that that genotype‐controlled measurement of plasma DBH activity might be used as a potential biological marker of the response to trauma, and that further studies of DBH and other loci related to DA and NA in PTSD are warranted. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polyacrylate/(carboxymethylcellulose modified montmorillonite) superabsorbent nanocomposite: Preparation and water absorbency
Authors: Qiu Haixia , Yu Jiugao
Published: September 2007

Montmorillonite (MMT) was modified with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR analyses showed that the CMC chains had intercalated into the MMT sheets, and the strong chemical interaction between the ether bonds from CMC and SiO bonds from MMT was the driving force for intercalation. Polyacrylate (PAA)/modified MMT superabsorbent nanocomposites were fabricated by effectively dispersing the modified MMT in acrylic acid solution and polymerizing the acid. The superabsorbent composites were characterized by XRD, TEM, and FTIR. The influence of modified MMT, weight ratio of CMC to MMT, and modified MMT content in the nanocomposites on the water absorbency was investigated. Results showed that the introduction of pure MMT could decrease the water absorbency of the gel, but adding modified MMT could not only effectively increase the water absorbency of the gel, but also improve its water retention ability. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Elastic effects on solubility in semicrystalline polymers
Authors: Serna L. V. , Becker J. L. , Galdámez J. R. , Danner R. P. , Duda J. L.
Published: September 2007

Capillary column inverse gas chromatography experiments at infinite solvent dilution were conducted for 15 polyethylene/solvent systems. Thermodynamic data were collected for various types of penetrant molecules (normal alkanes, 1‐alkenes, isomers of hexane, and ring compounds). Theoretical predictions of the solubility data were made with an activity coefficient model (Universal Functional Group Activity‐van der Waals‐Free‐Volume) (UNIFAC‐vdw‐FV) and an equation‐of‐state model (Group‐Contribution, Lattice‐Fluid, Equation of State) (GCLF‐EoS). Although good agreement between the experimental data and theoretical predictions was obtained above the melting point of the polymer, at temperatures below the melting point, significant differences were found. This occurred because at those temperatures, the polymer had a semicrystalline structure and the solubility of the solvent was reduced on account of the constraints on some of the chains in the amorphous phase by the polymer crystallites. The theory developed by Michaels and Hausslein to account for such elastic effects on solubility was incorporated into the two predictive models. After these modifications, the new estimations of the solubility showed significantly improved agreement with the experimental results. Moreover, the elasticity effect resulted in elevated estimates of the crystallinity when inverse gas chromatography retention volumes were used. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Remote polymerization of coatings with the release of borane from its amine complex
Authors: Fedorov Andrei V. , Ermoshkin Andrey A. , Neckers Douglas C.
Published: September 2007

We defineremote polymerizationas the formation of a photopolymer without the benefit of either light or a photoinitiator. In the reported experiments, a radical‐generating trialkylborane–oxygen system was used with an active trialkylborane that was released from its stable amine complex by a vaporous (i.e., gas‐phase) reagent. Acrylates and methacrylates were polymerized after oxidative radical formation from the highly reactive borane. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Lignins for phenol replacement in novolac‐type phenolic formulations. II. Flexural and compressive mechanical properties
Authors: Tejado A. , Kortaberria G. , Peña C. , Blanco M. , Labidi J. , Echeverría J. M. , Mondragon I.
Published: September 2007

Several hexamethylenetetraamine‐cured novolac‐type lignophenolic resins have been subjected to mechanical analysis to check the influence of the addition of different types of lignins (kraft pine lignin, soda/anthraquinone flax lignin, and sulfonated kraft lignin from mixed softwoods) and the influence of different phenol substitution levels. Both flexural and compression tests have been performed to evaluate the influence of the curing temperature and pressure. The results have been compared with those from a commercial novolac system. Flexural tests show that lignin incorporation leads to systems with increased rigidity, whereas up to 82% of the maximum strength can be retained with respect to a commercial phenolic (phenol–formaldehyde) at a 45 wt % substitution degree. Compression analyses show that modified prepolymers are not significantly affected by the presence of lignin at a medium curing pressure (150 bar), but their deformability results considerably increase at high curing pressures (400 or 600 bar). © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Environmentally friendly mixed tannin/lignin wood resins
Authors: Lei Hong , Pizzi A. , Du Guanben
Published: September 2007

We obtained lignin‐based wood adhesives satisfying the requirements of relevant international standards for the manufacture of wood particleboard. These were based on two different low‐molecular‐mass lignins. These lignin‐based wood adhesives did not use any formaldehyde in their formulation; formaldehyde was substituted with a nonvolatile nontoxic aldehyde, namely, glyoxal. The last formaldehyde present, contributed by a fortifying synthetic phenol–formaldehyde resin, was also eliminated by the substitution of the phenol–formaldehyde resin with a natural, vegetable polyflavonoid tannin extract to which no aldehyde was added. This substitution brought the total content of natural material up to 80 wt % of the total adhesive. The adhesives yielded good internal bond strength results of the panels, enough to pass relevant international standard specifications for interior‐grade panels. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Diversity of fish and fisheries from the Lake Encantada Environmental Protection Area, Ilhéus, Brazil
Authors: Rocha G.R.A. , Schiavetti A.
Published: September 2007

Lake Encantada, in the basin of the Almada River (Bahia State), has an area of 650.5 ha and a perimeter of 13.3 km. In 1993, an area of 11 800 ha around the lake was designated an Environmental Protection Area (Class V category). The main goal of this study was to identify fish species in the lake and to determine possible threats to their conservation.

Fish samples were obtained with gillnets between May 2002 and February 2004, and used to calculate indices of species diversity Shannon (H′), richness (d) and evenness (J′).

Eleven fish species comprising nine families were collected during the sampling period. Three introduced species occurred in the lake: Prochilodus argenteus, endemic to the São Francisco river basin, and two African species, Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus. In overall ranking, Prochilodus argenteus was first in number of individuals (46%) and weight (59%), followed by Genidens genidens in numbers (31%), and Clarias gariepinus in weight (15%).

The occurrence and dominance of introduced species is discussed as well as their possible impacts on the trophic structure of this ecosystem.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epithelial and Muscular Regionalization of the Human Developing Anorectum
Authors: Fritsch Helga , Aigner Felix , Ludwikowski Barbara , Reinstadler‐Zankl Sandra , Illig Romana , Urbas Dieter , Schwarzer Christoph , Longato Stefano
Published: September 2007

In the past, interpretations of anorectal development were mainly based on analysis of serially sectioned embryos of various nonhuman species as well as some human specimens. A four‐dimensional view of the developmental situation in the human has never been established nor connected to recent findings obtained from newer molecular techniques. We, therefore, investigated human embryonic and fetal pelves by means of immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization to elucidate differentiation and interaction of epithelial and mesenchymal layers of the anorectum. To emphasize spatial as well as sequential morphological development, we produced three‐dimensional reconstructions of the specimens at hand. Research conducted proved that the decisive steps of epithelial and muscular differentiation occur between the 7th and 9th week after conception. This study elucidates a biphasic epithelial “closure” in the anal canal and interactions between epithelium, smooth musculature, and skeletal musculature. Based on the results presented here, it is possible to describe the pathogenesis of two anorectal malformations: the imperforate anal membrane and the anal membrane stenosis. This study will now provide the basis for further research into developmental processes occurring before the ones examined. Anat Rec, 1449‐1458, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Understanding user acceptance of multimedia messaging services: An empirical study
Authors: Lee Matthew K.O. , Cheung Christy M.K. , Chen Zhaohui
Published: September 2007

Multimedia Messaging Services (MMS) is a new medium that enriches people's personal communication with their business partners, friends, or family. Following the success of Short Message Services, MMS has the potential to be the next mobile commerce “killer application” which is useful and popular among consumers; however, little is known about why people intend to accept and use it. Building upon the motivational theory and media richness theory, the research model captures both extrinsic (e.g., perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use) and intrinsic (e.g., perceived enjoyment) motivators as well as perceived media richness to explain user intention to use MMS. An online survey was conducted and 207 completed questionnaires were collected. By integrating the motivation and the media richness perspectives, the research model explains 65% of the variance. In addition, the results present strong support to the existing theoretical links as well as to those newly hypothesized in this study. Implications from the current investigation for research and practice are provided.
Browsing and searching in a faceted information space: A naturalistic study of PubMed users' interaction with a display tool
Authors: Tang Muh‐Chyun
Published: September 2007

The study adopts a naturalistic approach to investigate users' interaction with a browsable MeSH (medical subject headings) display designed to facilitate query construction for the PubMed bibliographic database. The purpose of the study is twofold: first, to test the usefulness of a browsable interface utilizing the principle of faceted classification; and second, to investigate users' preferred query submission methods in different problematic situations.

An interface that incorporated multiple query submission methods—the conventional single‐line query box as well as methods associated the faceted classification display was constructed. Participants' interactions with the interface were monitored remotely over a period of 10 weeks; information about their problematic situations and information retrieval behaviors were also collected during this time. The traditional controlled experiment was not adequate in answering the author's research questions; hence, the author provides his rationale for a naturalistic approach.

The study's findings show that there is indeed a selective compatibility between query submission methods provided by the MeSH display and users' problematic situations. The query submission methods associated with the display were found to be the preferred search tools when users' information needs were vague and the search topics unfamiliar.

The findings support the theoretical proposition that users engaging in an information retrieval process with a variety of problematic situations need different approaches. The author argues that rather than treat the information retrieval system as a general purpose tool, more attention should be given to the interaction between the functionality of the tool and the characteristics of users' problematic situations.
Statistical Methods for Anomalous Discrete Time Series Based on Minimum Cell Count
Authors: Wu Chih‐Chieh , Grimson Roger C. , Amos Christopher I. , Shete Sanjay
Published: September 2007

Temporal incidence patterns of point epidemics often contain periods of unusually low or high frequencies. Identifying variations in incidence frequencies, which may be caused by changes in exposure to infectious or environmental agents, may provide important insights into the pathogenesis or etiology of a disease. We propose and formulate new statistical tests for temporal and space‐time anomalies that are based on the minimum frequency in a unit of time and that are meaningful for the characteristic incidence patterns of the cases studied. Among the most widely applied methods are the Ederer–Myers–Mantel test, the Maxima test, and the scan test, which are all sensitive to the maximum frequency within a short period of time. We elucidate the importance and utility of our new tests and the existing tests and suggest a systematic statistical analysis of reported disease anomalies using these tests combined. Data on a temporal series of adolescent suicide from the US National Center for Health Statistics were analyzed using these methods. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Determination and pharmacokinetic study of norcantharidin in human serum by HPLC‐MS/MS method
Authors: Wei Chun‐min , Zhang Rui , Wang Ben‐jie , Yuan Gui‐yan , Guo Rui‐chen
Published: September 2007

A sensitive, simple and selective high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and applied to the determination of norcantharidin concentration in human serum. Norcantharidin (NCTD) and cyclophosphamide (IS) in serum were extracted with acetone, separated on a C18 reversed‐phase column, gradiently eluted with a mobile phase of acetonitrile–water containing 2 mm ammonium acetate and 0.1% formic acid (pH 3), ionized by positive ion pneumatically assisted electrospray and detected in the multi‐reaction monitoring mode using precursor → product ions of m/z 169.3 → 123.1 for NCTD and 261.2 → 140.2 for IS, respectively. The linear range of the calibration curve for NCTD was 2.5–50 ng/mL, with a lowest limit of quantification of 2.5 ng/mL, and the intra/inter‐day RSD was less than 10%. The method was suitable for determination of low NCTD concentration in human serum after therapeutic oral doses, and has been successfully used for pharmacokinetic studies in healthy Chinese volunteers. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of harpagoside and cinnamic acid in rat plasma by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and its application to pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Wang Su‐Jun , Ruan Jin‐Xiu , Zhao Yan‐Hong , Zhang Zhen‐Qing
Published: September 2007

A simple and sensitive method was developed for the simultaneous quantification of harpagoside and cinnamic acid in rat plasma using high‐performance liquid chromatography system coupled to a negative ion electrospray mass spectrometric analysis. The plasma sample preparation was a simple deproteinization by the addition of two volumes of acetonitrile. The analytes were separated on an Intersil C8‐3 column (2.1 mm i.d. × 250 mm, 5 µm) with acetonitrile–5 mm ammonium formate aqueous solution (60:40, v/v) as mobile phase at a flow‐rate of 0.2 mL/min. Detection was performed on a quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with electrospray ionization (ESI) source operated under selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. [M + HCOO]− at m/z 539 for harpagoside, [M − H]− at m/z 147 for cinnamic acid and [M − H]− at m/z 137 for salylic acid (internal standard) were selected as detecting ions, respectively. The method was validated over the concentration range 7–250 ng/mL for harpagoside and 5–500 ng/mL for cinnamic acid. The lower limits of quantitation for harpagoside and cinnamic acid were 7 and 5 ng/mL, respectively. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions (RSD%) were within 9.5% and the assay accuracies (RE%) ranged from −5.3 to 3.0% for both analytes. Their average recoveries were greater than 86%. Both analytes were proved to be stable during all sample storage, preparation and analysis procedures. The method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of harpagoside and cinnamic acid following oral administration of Radix Scrophulariae extract to rats. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.