bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homeobox gene HOP has a potential tumor suppressive activity in human lung cancer
Authors: Chen Yuan , Pacyna‐Gengelbach Manuela , Deutschmann Nicole , Niesporek Silvia , Petersen Iver
Published: April 2007

The homeobox containing gene HOP (Homeodomain Only Protein) was identified in the developing heart and lung where it functions downstream of Nkx2.5 and Nkx2.1 to modulate cardiac and lung gene expression. Previously, we found that HOP was downregulated in lung cancer. In this study, we constructed an expression vector containing the full‐length cDNA of HOP and transfected it into a lung cancer cell line H2170. Stable transfection led to an increased expression of HOP confirmed by Northern blot analysis. HOP positive transfectants remarkably reduced the growth rate and the ability of anchorage‐independent growth in soft agar, and moreover suppressed the tumor formation in nude mice compared to controls. Transient transfection of Nkx2.1 into H2170 resulted in the overexpression of HOP, and correspondingly, siRNA silencing of Nkx2.1 reduced the expression of HOP in lung cancer cells. Treatment with a differentiation modulating agent 5‐bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) led to restoration of HOP expression in a small cell lung cancer cell line H526. In 29 paired primary lung tumor samples, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) analysis was performed by using the 3 microsatellite markers D4S189, D4S231 and D4S392 around the region of chromosome 4q12 where HOP locates. LOH was only found in 4 out 23 cases (17.4%) indicating that allelic loss is a rare genetic event not responsible for the downregulation of HOP in lung cancer. Taken together, our data suggest that HOP is a potential tumor suppressor possibly involved in lung cancer differentiation, and functions downstream of Nkx2.1. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Finding social justice in education policy: Rethinking theory and approaches in policy research
Authors: St. John Edward P.
Published: April 2007

Employing a critical‐empirical approach to the study of college access, the author explores the role of policy researchers in seeking educational equity.
Women's paths in science: A critical feminist analysis
Authors: Kinzie Jillian
Published: April 2007

The author introduces her critical and feminist perspective, elaborates on her critical approach, and discusses how this influenced the development of her research questions, methodology, data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of findings.
Pseudolymphoma of the liver: Sonographic findings and review of the literature
Authors: Matsumoto Naoki , Ogawa Masahiro , Kawabata Machiko , Tohne Risa , Hiroi Yoshikazu , Furuta Takeshige , Yamamoto Toshiki , Gotoh Iori , Ishiwata Hirotoshi , Ono Yoshiki , Arakawa Yasuyuki , Kinukawa Noriko
Published: April 2007

We report a case of hepatic pseudolymphoma in a 67‐year‐old woman that was detected during an abdominal sonography screening. The lesion was further evaluated using CT, MRI, angiography, and contrast‐enhanced sonography. The imaging features of this tumor are discussed herein. The diagnosis of pseudolymphoma was achieved via sonographically guided biopsy. The lesion regressed completely within 1 year. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Unusual maternal vasculature in the placental periphery leading to the diagnosis of abdominal pregnancy at 25 weeks' gestation
Authors: Sherer David M. , Dalloul Mudar , Gorelick Constantine , Kheyman Mila , Abdelmalek Ehab , Zinn Harry L. , Abulafia Ovadia
Published: April 2007

Abdominal pregnancy is a rare condition in which the fetus and placenta are located within the peritoneal cavity. Sonographic findings include visualization of the fetus separate from the uterus, failure to visualize the uterine wall between the fetus and urinary bladder, close approximation of fetal parts to the maternal abdominal wall, eccentric position or abnormal fetal attitude, and visualization of extrauterine placental tissue. We present an unusual case in which mid‐trimester transabdominal color Doppler sonographic findings depicted unusual maternal vasculature in the placental periphery leading to the diagnosis of abdominal pregnancy. Postpartum maternal angiography confirmed these vessels as abnormal maternal arterial perfusion of the extrauterine placenta emanating from the uterine arteries and inferior epigastric arteries. Systematic review of the literature confirms that this is the first report of such sonographic manifestations of an abdominal pregnancy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2007
Retaining maximum antioxidative potency of wheat germ oil refined by molecular distillation
Authors: Martinello Miriam A , Villegas Mauro , Pramparo Maria del C
Published: April 2007

A process of physical refining wheat germ oil using the technique of molecular distillation (MD) is presented in this work. Wheat germ oil was obtained from the germ by solvent extraction using hexane and also by cold pressing. The oil extracted with hexane was degummed and bleached before deacidification in order to modify the parameters of phosphorus and color. The goal in carrying out the stage of physical refining by MD was to preserve the maximum amount of original antioxidative potential obtained from extraction of the crude oil. The effect of evaporation temperature of one‐stage MD on the efficiency of free fatty acid elimination was studied. The antioxidant portion was followed by means of analytic determination of tocopherols by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Tocopherol retention up to 98% was achieved in the oil extracted by pressing, and yields of up to 96% were achieved in the oil extracted with hexane. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Stress Levels and Health Status of Victims of a Natural Disaster
Authors: Murphy Shirley A.
Published: April 2007

Bereaved, property loss, and control groups (N = 155) were compared 11 months after the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens using standardized instruments and structured interviews. It was hypothesized that the greater the loss the greater the stress and the poorer the health. Bereaved subjects reported significantly higher levels of stress and lower levels of mental health, but not physical health. Persons who lost their permanent homes reported high rates of stress, but did not report significantly higher levels of depression, somatization, or poorer physical health. Conceptual and methodological implications are discussed.
Prevalence of nurse smokers and variables identified with successful and unsuccessful smoking cessation
Authors: Feldman Bernadine M. , Richard Elaine
Published: April 2007

A mailed survey of 823 randomly selected registered nurses, constituting an 82% return rate, was conducted to determine the prevalence and quit rate of smoking related behaviors. Variables identified with successful quitters and continuing smokers also were investigated. The findings revealed that nurses have a decreased proportion of current smokers, an increased proportion of never smokers, and an increased quit smoking rate. The smoking cessation method used most frequently by successful quitters was “cold turkey.”
Emotionally triggered asthma as a predictor of airway response to suggestion
Authors: Janson‐Bjerklie Susan , Boushey Homer A. , Carrieri Virginia K. , Lindsey Ada M.
Published: April 2007

Twenty‐nine male and female adults with asthma were tested to determine the relationship between perceived response to emotional triggers of asthma and broncho‐constrictive suggestion. Subjects were told that they were inhaling a bronchoconstricting agent in four increasingly potent concentrations, when in fact the solution the subjects inhaled was nebulized isotonic saline. Ten subjects responded to suggestion with a greater than 20% increase in specific airway resistance, but this response could not be predicted by the report of perceived emotional triggers of asthma. The finding that perception of asthmatic response to emotional arousal does not predict airway response to bronchoconstrictive suggestion may mean that suggestion is an invalid proxy variable for studying the role of psychological factors in provocation of asthma.
Testing a classification instrument for the ambulatory care setting
Authors: Verran Joyce A.
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the construct validity, generalizability, and interrater reliability of an instrument designed to measure the complexity of nursing care in the ambulatory care setting. The conceptual framework for the development of the classification instrument was adapted from a theory of organizations and is based upon knowledge technology. Previous research using the Delphi methodology delineated 44 activity categories for the classification instrument. These categories were organized under six literature‐based responsibility areas. The instrument was tested in seven areas of one hospital‐based ambulatory care setting. A total of 641 valid patient ratings were used for the analysis. Results indicate the instrument has beginning construct validity and high interrater reliability with training. It is not generalizable across services unless the effect of clinic type on nursing care complexity is considered.
Marathon running: Comparison of physical and psychosocial risks for men and women
Authors: Estok Patricia J. , Rudy Ellen B.
Published: April 2007

Physical and psychosocial risks of running and addiction were compared in a sample of female (n = 112) and male (n = 108) marathon runners. While female runners reported more pain in the knee, shin, hip, and heel, and more stress fractures, than the men, no injuries were significantly higher in women. Over 40% of both male and female subjects reported knee injury, making it the most common running injury reported. There were no significant differences in level of self esteem, anxiety, or running addiction between the two groups. There was, however, a significant relationship between level of negative addiction scores and two injuries: torn ligaments X2 (2, 202) = 8.45, p < .02, and hematuria X2 (2, 202) = 11.31, p < .005.
Body temperature in elderly surgical patients
Authors: White Helen E. , Thurston Norma E. , Blackmore Kay A. , Green Shirley E. , Hannah Kathryn J.
Published: April 2007

Body temperatures of 37 elderly surgical patients with fractured hips were measured using tympanic membrane probes. Comparisons were made between patients having the usual body coverings and those protected by extra body coverings. Of 21 patients with the usual body coverings, eight were hypothermic as compared with one of 16 patients with extra body coverings. Temperatures were significantly different between groups in‐traoperatively (p < 0.001) and in the recovery room p < 0.002) where the lowest temperatures were recorded. Anxiolytics given preoperatively had a significant negative relationship with lower body temperatures. Careful monitoring of temperatures and extra coverings are recommended for elderly hip fractured patients perioperatively.
Women's causal explanations of divorce: Relationships to self‐esteem and emotional distress
Authors: Barron Cecilia R.
Published: April 2007

The relationships of women's self‐esteem and emotional distress to their causal explanations of divorce were investigated. Thirty‐six women ending a first marriage were interviewed using the Tennessee Self‐Concept Scale (Fitts, 1965), the Ireton Personal Inventory (Ireton, 1980), and the Women's Attributions to Divorce Questionnaire. Self‐esteem was associated with causal explanations characterized as internal, whereas emotional distress was related to causal explanations characterized as internal, stable, and global. The relationships occurred only in women who perceived themselves as being unable to prevent the marriage from ending. The findings support the learned helplessness model for predicting emotional distress and provide nurses with information useful in assessing mental health.
Test of the nursing minimum data set: Availability of data and reliability
Authors: Devine Elizabeth C. , Werley Harriet H.
Published: April 2007

An initial study of the availability of the elements in the Nursing Minimum Data Set (NMDS) and intercoder reliability across four types of clinical settings is reported. These clinical settings included an acute care hospital, a nursing home, a home health care agency, and two ambulatory care clinics. The health records of 116 randomly selected subjects were reviewed to determine the availability of the NMDS elements. A randomly selected subset of 23 of these records provided data on intercoder agreement. All but four of the NMDS elements were available for 85% or more of the subjects. The average intercoder agreement across all NMDS elements was a satisfactory 91%. However, the intercoder agreement on some NMDS elements was much lower, suggesting a need to refine the definitions and procedures for collecting some of the NMDS elements. Where appropriate, coefficient Kappa and Pearson product moment correlation statistics for reliability are reported on individual NMDS elements.
Cognitive disturbance in hospitalized and institutionalized elders
Authors: Roberts Beverly L. , Lincoln Ruth E.
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between empirical findings and a theoretical model of cognitive disturbance among 94 hospitalized and 78 institutionalized elders. Path analysis was used to determine the magnitude of relationships between variables described in the model. Neural function was the only variable in both groups that was significantly associated with greater cognitive disturbance. In the hospitalized group, neural structural changes and physiologic alterations contributed indirectly to cognitive disturbance by their effects on neural function. Further, neural function indirectly affected cognitive disturbance through its effects on sensory deficits. In the institutionalized group, environmental deficits and neural functions were significantly related to greater cognitive disturbance. Except for the direct effects of neural function on activity limitations and physiologic alterations on mental health, all the relationships between the variables described by the model were significantly different between hospitalized and institutionalized elders. The results suggest that different interventions to reduce cognitive disturbances may be required for institutionalized and hospitalized elders.
Identification of nursing diagnoses and defining characteristics: Two research models
Authors: Woodtli Anne
Published: April 2007

Nursing diagnoses and their defining characteristics associated with one Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) were identified and validated. The clinical‐retrospective model and the nurse validation model were used to identify high‐volume nursing diagnoses associated with DRG 366, transurethral prostatectomy, and to validate related defining characteristics. For the clinical‐retrospective model, 34 patient records classified as DRG 366 were reviewed, nursing diagnoses and their associated defining characteristics were identified and retrospectively validated. The nurse‐validation model was implemented by assessing nine patients within DRG 366 over 22 shifts. Analysis using descriptive statistics demonstrated 80% level of agreement on five most frequently identified nursing diagnoses, but lack of agreement on the associated defining characteristics.
Explaining the pain of active labor: The importance of maternal confidence
Authors: Lowe Nancy K.
Published: April 2007

This study was designed to investigate the relationships between the perception of pain during active labor and nine predictor variables: age, parity, childbirth preparation, state anxiety, confidence in ability to handle labor, concern regarding the outcome of labor, fear of pain, cervical dilatation and frequency of uterine contractions. The sample included 134 low‐risk women at term with a normal singleton pregnancy. Standard and stepwise regression was used to examine the ability of the selected variables to explain the variance in the sensory, affective, and evaluative components of pain as measured by the subscales of the Pain Rating Index of the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Although significant proportions of variance were explained for each component of pain, the study variables were most powerful in their ability to explain the variance in the affective component of active labor pain. The stepwise analysis suggested that of the nine variables, confidence in ability to handle labor was the most significant predictor of all components of pain during active labor.
Stress and coping in a NICU
Authors: Rosenthal Susan L. , Schmid Kathleen D. , Black Maureen M.
Published: April 2007

The stress and coping of NICU nurses were examined in this study. Questionnaires were designed to measure the coping strategies used by the nurses (N = 30); the perceived helpfulness of the coping strategies; the frequency, controllability, and stressfulness of eight common NICU situations; and overall stress and satisfaction. The results suggested that nurses used a variety of problem‐oriented and emotion‐oriented coping strategies, which they found helpful. Common coping strategies were identified regardless of the NICU situation. Overall satisfaction was inversely related to experience and education, but unrelated to stress. The implications of these findings for managing stress and reducing burnout were discussed.
False positivity of FDG‐PET/CT in a child with Hodgkin disease
Authors: Beker Dildar Bahar , Berrak Su Gulsun , Canpolat Cengiz , Tugtepe Halil , Ones Tunc , Tecimer Tulay
Published: April 2007

Role of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with F‐18‐2‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (FDG) in staging of Hodgkin disease is well established despite several controversies. We report a Stage III Hodgkin lymphoma patient with false positive FDG‐PET/CT results. Seven‐year‐old male with Hodgkin lymphoma was in remission at end of chemotherapy. At third and fourth month of postchemotherapy follow‐up, increased Gallium uptake and positive FDG‐PET/CT in right lower quadrant of abdomen was observed. Open biopsy revealed lymphoid hyperplasia. He has been followed for 21 months without any evidence of disease. Despite its documented benefit, we believe that results of FDG‐PET/CT should be interpreted with great caution in order to avoid unnecessary interventions. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:881–883. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Helicobacter pylori associated gastric Burkitt lymphoma
Authors: Grewal Satkiran S. , Hunt John P. , O'Connor Stephen C. , Gianturco Laurie E. , Richardson Matthew W. , Lehmann Leslie E.
Published: April 2007

Chronic Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has been linked to lymphoma of gastric mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), a tumor that is typically localized at presentation. Sporadic Burkitt lymphoma (BL) frequently presents as an abdominal mass. However, primary gastric BL is unusual and the role of H. pylori in its pathogenesis is unclear. We describe a 12 year old with localized gastric BL and concurrent H. pylori infection. In this report, we discuss the potential association between H. pylori and gastric BL and also highlight certain similarities between gastric MALT lymphomas and BL arising in the stomach. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:888–890. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Formation of honeycomb films from poly(L‐lactide)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) via water‐droplet templating
Authors: Tian Ye , Dai Chong , Ding Huaiyu , Jiao Qingze , Wang Lihua , Shi Yanqiao , Liu Biqian
Published: April 2007

The fabrication of honeycomb‐patterned films from amphiphilic poly(L‐lactide)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) (PLEG) in a high‐humidity atmosphere is reported. The influence of the solution concentration on pattern formation was investigated. Moreover, by comparing the different conditions of fabricating regular structures between PLEG and poly(phenylene oxide), the mechanism of the regular pattern formation was studied. Finally, by adding sodium dodecylsulfate to a concentrated solution of 1 g L−1 PLEGCHCl3 which otherwise could not form regular pores, we found that regular pores could be obtained. The PLEG honeycomb films are expected to be of use in cell culture, tissue engineering and many other areas. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Contribution of polymer chemistry to dentistry: development of an impermeable interpenetrating polymer network to protect teeth from acid demineralization
Authors: Nakabayashi Nobuo
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this review article is to show how polymer science can contribute to the further improvement of modern dentistry. It has long been believed that the development of strong dental materials is essential to improve dentistry, and polymeric materials might not be reliable compared to metals and ceramics. It was hypothesized that the bonding of restoration materials to the tooth structure is required in order to inhibit the detachment of prostheses. However, bonding of artificial materials to natural tissues is difficult. It has been found that a polymer network interpenetrated with dental hard tissues resolves this problem, that formal bonding is not required and that protection of prepared dentin against lactic acid demineralization with an impermeable barrier is a requisite for prevention of caries. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrode kinetics in polymer electrolyte solid‐state cells
Authors: Scrosati Bruno
Published: April 2007

The kinetics of lithium metal and of selected intercalation electrodes in electrochemical cells using poly(ethylene oxide)‐based electrolytes are discussed on the basis of cyclic voltammetry, polarisation curves and frequency response analysis. The results indicate that the lithium electrode, even if inherently reversible, may be passivated by the polymer electrolytes with the growth of a resistive layer at the interface. Among the most common intercalation compounds the Li1+xV3O8 bronze shows reversible behaviour and appears to be a very promising positive electrode in rechargeable lithium/polymer electrolyte batteries.
Electroactive polymer blends
Authors: Inganäs Olle
Published: April 2007

The rapid development of two new classes of electrically active polymer materials, electronically conducting and electroactive polymers and ion‐conducting polymers respectively, offers new possibilities for application of both classes of material, especially in combination with each other. While some of these combinations have been attempted before, they all met serious problems due to poor interpenetration of the two polymers. The recent availability of solubilized and soluble electroactive and conductive polymers has greatly advanced the possibilities of reducing the interpenetration problem. Some experimental studies using the combination of solubilized electroactive polypyrrole with poly(ethylene oxide) in an electroactive polymer blend electrode for solid‐state polymer batteries are discussed. The opportunities for using polymer blends for solid‐state electrochemical polymeric devices, and avenues for the development of materials for such devices, are also reviewed.
Tensile, stress‐strain and creep rupture properties of poly (vinyl chloride)/poly(neopentyl glycol adipate)/poly(vinylidene fluoride) blends
Authors: Lau Wayne W. Y. , Swee‐Hin Teoh , Suat‐Hong Goh
Published: April 2007

Poly (vinyl chloride), PVC, and poly(vinylidene fluoride), PVDF, are incompatible polymers. Poly(neopentyl glycol adipate), PDPA, is miscible with both PVC and PVDF. With PDPA acting as a compatibilizer between PVC and PVDF. compatible PVC/PDPA/PVDF blends can be formed at PVDF content of about less than 50wt%. Above 50wt% PVDF the ternary blends exist in two phases exhibiting two glass transition temperatures, Tg, PVC is the main contributor to the mechanical strength while PDPA and PVDF contribute to the elastic properties of these blends. A compatible blend of 55/22.5/22.5 wt% PVC/PDPA/PVDF exhibiting one single Tg appears to show an interesting balance of the properties of the blend components.
Characterisation of some melamine‐formaldehyde condensates and some cured resins by 1H, 13C and 15N n.m.r. spectroscopy
Authors: Ebdon John R. , Hunt Barry J. , O'Rourke William T. S. , Parkin John
Published: April 2007

Some oligomeric species (condensates) in a melamine‐formaldehyde adduct mixture have been isolated by preparative high performance liquid chromatography (h.p.l.c.) and partly identified by high field 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (n.m.r.) spectroscopy. The oligomers are shown most likely to be largely dimers, trimers and tetramers and to contain both methylene and methylene ether linkages. Some cured melamine‐formaldehyde resins are shown by solid‐state cross‐polarisation magic angle sample spinning (c.p./m.a.s.) 13C and 15N n.m.r. to contain linear and branched methylene and methylene ether linkages but few free methylol groups. The relative proportions of the various linkages in both the oligomers and the cured resins appear to be controlled mainly by the melamine: formaldehyde ratio.
Resin transfer moulding of aerospace resins—a review
Authors: Robertson Frank C.
Published: April 2007

Considerable work has been carried out on the development of resin transfer moulding (RTM) as a viable processing alternative to conventional autoclave and compression techniques. RTM has the capability of producing high quality components of complex shape with tight tolerances.

This paper reviews recent advances in materials suitable for the process of RTM and production of aerospace components. Three main areas are covered:

a general description of the process of RTM,

resin systems which have been used for RTM (epoxy, bismaleimides and polystyrylpyridines) of aerospace components,

high temperature resin systems which have the main processing attributes for RTM but have yet to be used in this area.
New developments in polybenzhydrolimide resins: Application in the field of heat resistant coatings, adhesives and laminates
Authors: Malinge Jean , Garapon Jacques , Sillion Bernard
Published: April 2007

The approach to obtaining fully cyclised polyimides is based on the interactions between a benzhydrol group carried in the polyimide main chain and the solvent. The CH of the benzhydrol function is an efficient 1H‐NMR probe in order to follow the extent of imide cyclisation, as shown using benzhydrol tetracarboxylic dimethylester (5.95 ppm), the corresponding diamide diacid (6.20 ppm) and the final imide (6.35 ppm).

Three types of polybenzhydrolimides are described. A linear AABB polymide was prepared from benzhydrol tetracarboxylic dimethylester obtained by hydrogenation of the corresponding industrial ketonic tetraacid diester. The solution properties of the polyimide and the extent of imide cyclisation are discussed.

The synthesis of a linear AB polymer from (3‐aminophenyl)‐4‐hydroxymethyl monomethylphthalate is described. This product is used as silver filled adhesive for electronic applications.

A cyclised nadimide end‐capped benzhydrolimide oligomer (Mw=1940, Mn = 1370) is soluble in diglyme. The crosslinking of this oligomer starts at 275°C and the properties of the network according to the curing cycle are discussed.
Kinetic study of addition of substituted and unsubstituted phenylthiyl radicals to aromatic olefins: Steric effect on reactivities of monomers containing bulky groups
Authors: Yoshizawa Hideo , Ito Osamu , Matsuda Minoru
Published: April 2007

For olefins containing aromatic groups such as naphthyl, monomer reactivities have been evaluated on the basis of the absolute rate constants and relative equilibrium constants which were determined by the flash photolysis method using phenylthiyl radicals as attacking radicals. The rate constant for addition of α‐methyl‐1‐vinylnaphthalene is lower than that of α‐methyl‐2‐vinylnaphthalene. This suggests that the aromatic π‐orbital; of the 1‐naphthalene derivative are twisted away from the olefinic π‐orbital; in the transition state, the delocalization of the unpaired electron on the olefinic carbon into the naphthyl group is reduced by the angular structure. For such twisted monomers, the dihedral angles between the aromatic π‐orbitals and the olefinic π‐orbital have been estimated by comparing the observed rate constants with the reactivity indexes calculated by the molecular orbital method. In the case of α,β‐disubstituted olefins, the rate constants are lower than those of α,α‐disubstituted ones; this suggests that the approach of the phenylthiyl radical is impeded. New reactivity parameters were evaluated for the monomers with bulky groups.
Thermal characterisation of polymeric systems by mass spectrometry
Authors: Blease Trevor G. , Paterson George A. , Scrivens James H.
Published: April 2007

The utility of mass spectrometry as a technique for the characterisation of polymeric formulations is discussed in general terms. The use of thermal techniques in which sufficient energy is given to the system to liberate volatile components of the formulation and, in some cases, to induce small amounts of polymer degradation, is described. Results obtained using this technique for a variety of polymer systems are discussed and the advantages of using this approach outlined. Recent developments in field desorption‐mass spectrometry for the direct characterisation of modern polymer systems are discussed and some early results presented.
Relationship between surface energy and adhesion strength in polyethylene—paper composites
Authors: Gervason Georges , Ducom Jean , Cheradame Herve
Published: April 2007

This work reports adhesion behaviour of polyethylene on paper, and deals with the surface energy of the materials involved in the manufacture of these composites, and its influence on the adhesion strength, at constant roughness, for the paper substrates. The surface energy of different papers treated with various sizing agents was determined by measuring contact angles according to the Owens‐Wendt method. The peeling energy was shown to follow a linear relationship versus the reversible energy of adhesion. This result is explained by the fact that rupture takes place at the interface and that the size of the defect at the interface depends on the spreading coefficient. Corona treatment, applied to strongly sized papers before making the composites, restored the adhesion strength to its original range of values, again demonstrating the thermodynamic character of adhesion in thermoplastic‐paper composites.
Crosslinking reactions during processing of silane modified polyethylenes
Authors: Bullen David J. , Capaccio Giancarlo , Frye Christopher J. , Brock Thomas
Published: April 2007

A study of the crosslinking reactions in silane modified polyethylenes has been completed. Crosslinking of ethylene‐vinyl trimethoxy silane copolymers during high temperature melt processing has been investigated using melt rheological and infrared spectroscopic techniques. Two environmental factors are shown to influence crosslinking formation, namely oxidation of the polymer and the presence of di‐n‐butyl‐tin dilaurate, a condensation catalyst. These are believed to initiate high temperature crosslink formation via different non‐interacting mechanisms. It is deduced that silane crosslink formation as a result of oxidation is due to intramolecular interaction of oxidised polyethylene and pendant methoxy silane branches. Observation of a hydrogen bonded silanol intermediate species is consistent with this hypothesis.
Polymerization of MMA at the surface of inorganic submicron particles
Authors: Caris Carola H. M. , Van Elven Louisa P. M. , Van Herk Alex M. , German Anton L.
Published: April 2007

Inorganic submicron particles, such as TiO2, were modified with titanate coupling agents. The structure and stability of some titanates, both in solution and at the particle surface, were investigated by various methods. The modified titanium dioxide was dispersed in a solution of sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS) in water. The surfactant adsorbs at the now hydrophobic particle surface, thus creating a micellelike structure with an inorganic particle in the centre. In this system an emulsion polymerization of methyl methacrylate was carried out. Product formed at the particle surface is either physically bound by entanglement or chemically bound by covalent bonding to the titanates. In this way a core‐shell morphology is obtained with an inorganic core and a polymer shell. The effects of several reaction parameters on the kinetics of the polymerization were studied. The encapsulated TiO2 particles may offer interesting prospects in those applications where good coupling between polymer matrix and inorganic particles is necessary, such as latex paints and polymer composite materials.
XPS and SEM study of UV laser surface modification of polymers
Authors: Novis Yvan , De Meulemeester Rita , Chtaïb Mohammed , Pireaux Jean‐Jacques , Caudano Roland
Published: April 2007

Several commercial polymers—poly(ethylene) (PE), poly(propylene) (PP), poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVF2), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and polystyrene (PS)—were treated in air with an argon‐fluorine UV excimer laser (λ = 193 nm).

The polymer etch rate was investigated by two methods: quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and piercing of films.

X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis was performed on the modified surfaces after laser exposure at various fluences. Samples were subsequently analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

From our results, polymers may be classified into two categories concerning their reactivity towards UV laser light.

— the weakly absorbing polymers (e.g. PE, PP, PVF2) where a photothermal process (thermal degradation) dominates the interaction.

— the strongly absorbing polymers (e.g. PVC, PS) where a photochemical process (photoablation) dominates the interaction.
Adhesion improvement of polyester/aluminium interface by plasma polymerization pretreatments
Authors: Novis Yvan , Chtaïb Mohammed , Caudano Roland , Lutgen Pierre , Feyder Gusty
Published: April 2007

Plasma polymerizations (PP) of acrylic acid (AA) and methacrylic acid (MAA) on polyester were used to improve the adhesion of the polyester/aluminium interface. It was found that this adhesion measured by the peel test method is 5‐10 times higher than in the case of untreated polyester. Comparisons of the X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results obtained from the treated polyester, the untreated polyester and the reference spectra of poly(acrylic acid) cast from H2O suggest that the observed adhesion improvement can be explained in terms of the formation of new functionalities at the polyester surface.
FTIR/ATR study of the copolymerization of diglycidyl ether of Bisphenol A with methyl‐substituted γ‐lactones catalyzed by rare earth triflate initiators
Authors: Arasa Mercè , Ramis Xavier , Maria Salla Josep , Mantecón Ana , Serra Angels
Published: April 2007

Mixtures of DGEBA with γ‐valerolactone (γ‐VL) or α‐methyl‐γ‐butyrolactone (γ‐MBL) 2:1 (mol/mol) were cationically copolymerized in the presence of scandium, ytterbium, or lanthanum triflates as initiators. The evolution of the different reactive groups was followed by means of FTIR/ATR spectroscopy. From these experiments, we could detect the coexistence of two unexpected processes: a reversion of the intermediate spiroorthoester formed to the initial products and a depolymerization process, which only takes place in samples with γ‐VL, when scandium triflate was used as initiator or when the proportion of ytterbium triflate was increased from 1 to 3 phr. When γ‐MBL was used as comonomer no depolymerization occurs which supports the proposed mechanism. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 2129–2141, 2007
Conformation transition kinetics of Bombyx mori silk protein
Authors: Chen Xin , Shao Zhengzhong , Knight David P. , Vollrath Fritz
Published: April 2007

Time‐resolved FTIR analysis was used to monitor the conformation transition induced by treating regenerated Bombyx mori silk fibroin films and solutions with different concentrations of ethanol. The resulting curves showing the kinetics of the transition for both films and fibroin solutions were influenced by the ethanol concentration. In addition, for silk fibroin solutions the protein concentration also had an effect on the kinetics. At low ethanol concentrations (for example, less than 40% v/v in the case of film), films and fibroin solutions showed a phase in which β‐sheets slowly formed at a rate dependent on the ethanol concentration. Reducing the concentration of the fibroin in solutions also slowed the formation of β‐sheets. These observations suggest that this phase represents a nucleation step. Such a nucleation phase was not seen in the conformation transition at ethanol concentrations > 40% in films or > 50% in silk fibroin solutions. Our results indicate that the ethanol‐induced conformation transition of silk fibroin in films and solutions is a three‐phase process. The first phase is the initiation of β‐sheet structure (nucleation), the second is a fast phase of β‐sheet growth while the third phase represents a slow perfection of previously formed β‐sheet structure. The nucleation step can be very fast or relatively slow, depending on factors that influence protein chain mobility and intermolecular hydrogen bond formation. The findings give support to the previous evidence that natural silk spinning in silkworms is nucleation‐dependent, and that silkworms (like spiders) use concentrated silk protein solutions, and careful control of the pH value and metallic ion content of the processing environment to speed up the nucleation step to produce a rapid conformation transition to convert the water soluble spinning dope to a tough solid silk fiber. Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Technology acquisition choices for newly industrializing countries: The case of Taiwan
Authors: Contractor Farok J.
Published: April 2007

This article examines the determinants of technology development and acquisition for companies based in a newly industrializing nation. The actual selection of a method for acquiring a technological capability has to be analyzed at the firm level and is influenced by attributes of the technology in question, as well as by the attributes of the technology‐receiving organization. This article demonstrates that the selection of a technology transfer method has to be done on a case‐by‐case basis and provides several criteria. These criteria are, however, conditioned by the economic environment faced by the company, and government policies. Taiwan is chosen as an illustration in this article because it is a country trying to formulate a technology policy for its economy. Its days as a low‐cost producer of relatively unsophisticated goods are almost over. Yet the small scale of much of Taiwan's industry, growing technological protectionism, as well as changes in marketing and business organization in principal overseas markets, are some of the constraints on the ability of its companies to reach the cutting edge of technology in most industries. The article concludes by examining the role of the Taiwan government and indicating some policy directions. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The transition from state care to adulthood: International examples of best practices
Authors: Reid Carrie
Published: April 2007

Youth who are moving out of state care require a number of important supports to aid in their successful transition to adulthood. Without these, they lack the proper tools and risk limited life chances.
The role of housing in the transition process of youth and young adults: A twenty‐year perspective
Authors: Kroner Mark J.
Published: April 2007

Experience living independently while still in care can play a key role in developing self‐sufficiency skills for foster youth. Can a comprehensive housing program in Ohio be replicated in other communities?
Promoting autonomous functioning among youth in care: A program evaluation
Authors: Goyette Martin
Published: April 2007

After a brief outline of the contextual organization of youth protection offered in Quebec, the author presents an intervention program that aims to prepare youth in high‐risk categories for employment, independent living, and an overall orientation to the development of an autonomous lifestyle.
Using youth expertise at all levels: The essential resource for effective child welfare practice
Authors: Crowe Kathi M.
Published: April 2007

This chapter explores the benefits of engaging youth as resources in all levels of child welfare work. The respect inherent in this inclusion not only assists the development of a stronger bond between youth and staff, it also results in more effective policies, programs, and services.
Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Two Mastectomy Techniques
Authors: Rodd Caroline D. , Velchuru Vamsi R. , Holly‐Archer Frances , Clark Allan , Pereira Jerome H.
Published: April 2007

Background

The unit was considering the routine use of diathermy scissors for standard mastectomy surgery. We therefore aimed to assess scientifically the outcome of patients following the use of this instrument in their operation before accepting it as a routine procedure.

Methods

A single blind randomized control trial compared the outcome of patients undergoing simple mastectomy using either the standard scalpel blade technique or the bipolar cutting scissors technique. Each arm of the trial contained 30 patients.

Results

The two primary outcome measures were blood loss intraoperatively and the operating time. There was a significant difference between the two groups, with a statistically significant benefit in the scissors group in terms of the secondary outcome measures of chest wall clearance and skin flap development as assessments of surgical completeness of mastectomy.There is no evidence of any other secondary outcome measures differing between the treatment groups.

Conclusion

There is strong evidence that using electric scissors reduces intraoperative blood loss and operating time. There is some evidence that the scissors may provide better surgical completeness of mastectomy.
Microglia: a newly discovered role in visceral hypersensitivity?
Authors: Saab Carl Y. , Wang Jing , Gu Chunping , Garner Kirsten N. , Al-Chaer Elie D.
Published: April 2007

Given the growing body of evidence for a role of glia in pain modulation, it is plausible that the exaggerated visceral pain in chronic conditions might be regulated by glial activation. In this study, we have investigated a possible role for microglia in rats with chronic visceral hypersensitivity and previously documented altered neuronal function. Experiments were performed on adult male Sprague-Dawley rats pre-treated with neonatal colon irritation (CI) and on control rats. Effects of fractalkine (FKN, a chemokine involved in neuron-to-microglia signaling) and of minocycline (an inhibitor of microglia) on visceral sensitivity were examined. Visceral sensitivity was assessed by recording the electromyographic (EMG) responses to graded colorectal distension (CRD) in mildly sedated rats. Responses to CRD were recorded before and after injection of FKN, minocycline or vehicle. Somatic thermal hyperalgesia was measured by latency of paw withdrawal to radiant heat. The pattern and intensity of microglial distribution at L6–S2 in the spinal cord was also compared in rats with CI and controls by fluorescence microscopy using OX-42. Results show that: (1) FKN significantly facilitated EMG responses to noxious CRD by >52% in control rats. FKN also induced thermal hyperalgesia in control rats, consistent with previous reports; (2) minocycline significantly inhibited EMG responses to noxious CRD by >70% in rats with CI compared to controls 60 min after injection. The anti-nociceptive effect of minocycline lasted for 180 min in rats with CI, reaching peak values 60 min after injection. Our results show that FKN enhances visceral and somatic nociception, whereas minocycline inhibits visceral hypersensitivity in chronically sensitized rats, which indicates a role for microglia in visceral hypersensitivity.
Reliabilität und Validität der deutschsprachigen «NCCPC-R» Eine Pilotstudie zu den psychometrischen Eigenschaften eines Schmerzassessmentinstrumentes bei kognitiv beeinträchtigten Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Kleinknecht Michael
Published: April 2007

Die «Non-Communicating Children’s Pain Checklist – Revised» (NCCPC-R) ist für das Schmerzassessment bei kognitiv beeinträchtigten Kindern und Jugendlichen, die Schmerzen weder verbal noch mit Mimik oder Gestik bewusst und angemessen äußern können, entwickelt worden. Ziel dieser nicht-experimentellen Pilotstudie war es, eine Aussage über die psychometrische Güte der deutschsprachigen Version der NCCPC-R zu machen. Bei 24 Kindern und Jugendlichen, die in einem in der deutschsprachigen Schweiz gelegenen Rehabilitationszentrum hospitalisiert waren, wurden von 42 Pflegefachfrauen insgesamt 187 schmerzfreie Situationen und 62 Schmerzepisoden gemessen. Die Gesamtscores der NCCPC-R waren intern konsistent, über die Zeit stabil und korrelierten mit der von den beurteilenden Pflegefachfrauen vorgenommenen subjektiven Einschätzung und der bei den Studienteilnehmenden vermuteten Schmerzintensität substanziell. Die Gesamtscores zwischen Messungen schmerzvoller und schmerzfreier Episoden differierten deutlich. Bei einem Gesamtscore von 5 als Cut-off-point beträgt die Sensitivität 84% und die Spezifizität 78%. Unter Berücksichtigung der Tatsache, dass die Resultate auf einer schlanken Datenbasis beruhen, kann angenommen werden, dass die deutschsprachige NCCPC-R eine für die alltägliche Handhabung in der Pflegepraxis ausreichende Güte hinsichtlich der untersuchten Reliabilitätaspekte und Validitätsformen aufweist. Ihre Eignung für das Schmerzassessment bei kognitiv beeinträchtigten Kindern und Jugendlichen sollte in weiteren Studien noch breiter und vertiefter untersucht werden.
Retroflection of part of the east Greenland current at Cape Farewell
Authors: Holliday N. Penny , Meyer Amélie , Bacon Sheldon , Alderson Steven G. , de Cuevas Beverly
Published: April 2007

The east Greenland current (EGC) and the smaller east Greenland coastal current (EGCC) provide the major conduit for cold fresh polar water to enter the lower latitudes of the North Atlantic. They flow equatorward through the western Irminger Basin and around Cape Farewell into the Labrador Sea. The surface circulation and transport of the Cape Farewell boundary current region in summer 2005 is described. The EGCC merges with Arctic waters of the EGC to the south of Cape Farewell, forming the west Greenland current. The EGC transport decreases from 15.5 Sv south of Cape Farewell to 11.7 Sv in the eastern Labrador Sea (where the water becomes known as Irminger Sea Water). The decrease in EGC transport is balanced by the retroflection of a substantial proportion of the boundary current (5.1 Sv) into the central Irminger Basin; a new pathway for fresh water into the interior of the subpolar gyre.