bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Isolation and Characterization of Murine Macrophages
Authors: Zhang Xia , Goncalves Ricardo , Mosser David M.
Published: November 2008

Macrophages are mononuclear phagocytes that are widely distributed throughout the body. These cells can contribute to development and homeostasis and participate in innate and adaptive immune responses. The physiology of macrophages can vary tremendously depending on the environment in which they reside and the local stimuli to which they are exposed. Macrophages are prodigious secretory cells, and in that role can promote and regulate immune responses and contribute to autoimmune pathologies. Macrophages are highly phagocytic, and in this capacity have long been considered to be essential immune effector cells. The important roles of macrophages in maintaining homeostasis and in contributing to tissue remodeling and wound healing is sometimes overlooked because of their vital role in host defense. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 83:14.1.1‐14.1.14. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Activation of Murine Macrophages
Authors: Mosser David M. , Zhang Xia
Published: November 2008

Our understanding of cell mediated immunity (CMI) has revealed the importance of activated macrophages as key immune effector cells. Over the past decade, we have come to realize that macrophages exhibit remarkable plasticity, and different populations of macrophages with distinct physiologies can develop in response to different stimuli. In fact, it is likely that the number of different macrophage populations that can arise may be as diverse as the activating stimuli that induce them. Some of these stimuli can instruct macrophages to kill microbes (classical activation), lay down extracellular matrix components to promote wound healing (alternative activation), or secrete anti‐inflammatory cytokines to terminate inflammation (regulatory macrophages). New ways to biochemically identify these cells have led to a better understanding of the heterogeneity of activated macrophages. As our understanding of the various macrophage populations increases, so does the potential for therapeutic intervention based on targeting specific populations of activated macrophages. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 83:14.2.1‐14.2.8. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Laboratory Maintenance and Characterization of Yersinia pestis
Authors: Bearden Scott W. , Perry Robert D.
Published: November 2008

This unit describes protocols for Yersinia pestis maintenance and growth in research and clinical laboratories, including some protocols for strain characterization. Strain‐dependent requirements for different Biosafety Level containments are also discussed. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 11:5B.1.1‐5B.1.13. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Isolation and Confirmation of Yersinia pestis Mutants Exempt from Select Agent Regulations
Authors: Perry Robert D. , Bearden Scott W.
Published: November 2008

This unit describes protocols for Yersinia pestis to confirm plasmid profiles, construct and confirm a Δpgm mutation, and cure the low‐calcium response (Lcr) plasmid encoding a type III secretion system (TTSS). Strains lacking either the chromosomal pgm locus or the Lcr plasmid can be safely studied under BSL‐2 conditions and are exempt from Select Agent regulations in the U.S. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 11:5B.2.1‐5B.2.12. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Reply scoring and reporting: A response to bond (2008)
Authors: Ekman Paul , O'Sullivan Maureen , Frank Mark
Published: November 2008

Bond (2008) objects to the attention given to two of our publications on lie detection accuracy because of what he suggests is incompetence in one case and suppression of data in the other. It is our opinion that his claims are based principally on a tortured re‐interpretation of a manuscript we attempted to publish that he has kept in his possession for more than a decade and cites without our permission. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Charge Trapping in Intergrain Regions of Pentacene Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Tello Marta , Chiesa Marco , Duffy Claudia M. , Sirringhaus Henning
Published: November 2008

A scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM) study of the surface potential of vacuum sublimed pentacene transistors under bias stress and its correlation with the film morphology is presented. While for thicker films there are some trapping centers inhomogeneously distributed over the film, as previously reported by other authors, by decreasing the film thickness the effect of thin intergrain regions (IGRs) becomes clear and a very good correlation between the topography and the potential data is observed. It is shown that in the thick pentacene grains the potential is homogeneous and independent of the gate bias applied with negligible charge trapping, while in the thin IGRs the potential varies with the applied gate bias, indicating that only an incomplete accumulation layer can be formed. Clear evidence for preferential charge trapping in the thin IGRs is obtained.
Self‐Assembly and Metallization of Resorcinarene Microtubes in Water
Authors: Sun Yan , Yan Chao‐Guo , Yao Yong , Han Ying , Shen Ming
Published: November 2008

Amphiphilic resorcinarene‐based multiwalled microtubes, millimetres in diameter and centimetres in length, are generated in water. The thickness of the tube wall approaches 300 nm. Their self‐assembly properties are investigated using transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic‐force microscopy, dynamic light scattering, X‐ray diffraction, UV‐vis spectra, and Fourier transform IR techniques. From these studies, the structures critical for the self‐assembly of resorcinarene into microtubes in aqueous media are determined. Furthermore, the study manifests a feasible method that aims to completely change the structure from a microtube to a sheet‐like morphology by selectively eliminating key groups. Subsequently, resorcinarene‐capped water‐soluble gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are fabricated. By utilizing the obtained microtubes as a template, a gold/organic microtubular composite is successfully prepared.
Does parental expressed emotion moderate genetic effects in ADHD? an exploration using a genome wide association scan
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.S. , Lasky‐Su Jessica , Neale Benjamin M. , Oades Robert , Chen Wai , Franke Barbara , Buitelaar Jan , Banaschewski Tobias , Ebstein Richard , Gill Michael , Anney Richard , Miranda Ana , Mulas Fernando , Roeyers Herbert , Rothenberger Aribert , Sergeant Joseph , Steinhausen Hans Christoph , Thompson Margaret , Asherson Philip , Faraone Stephen V.
Published: November 2008

Studies of gene × environment (G × E) interaction in ADHD have previously focused on known risk genes for ADHD and environmentally mediated biological risk. Here we use G × E analysis in the context of a genome‐wide association scan to identify novel genes whose effects on ADHD symptoms and comorbid conduct disorder are moderated by high maternal expressed emotion (EE). SNPs (600,000) were genotyped in 958 ADHD proband‐parent trios. After applying data cleaning procedures we examined 429,981 autosomal SNPs in 909 family trios. ADHD symptom severity and comorbid conduct disorder was measured using the Parental Account of Childhood Symptoms interview. Maternal criticism and warmth (i.e., EE) were coded by independent observers on comments made during the interview. No G × E interactions reached genome‐wide significance. Nominal effects were found both with and without genetic main effects. For those with genetic main effects 36 uncorrected interaction P‐values were <10−5 implicating both novel genes as well as some previously supported candidates. These were found equally often for all of the interactions being investigated. The observed interactions in SLC1A1 and NRG3 SNPs represent reasonable candidate genes for further investigation given their previous association with several psychiatric illnesses. We find evidence for the role of EE in moderating the effects of genes on ADHD severity and comorbid conduct disorder, implicating both novel and established candidates. These findings need replicating in larger independent samples. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Shear behavior of flexible polyurethane foams under uniaxial compression
Authors: Andersson Anna , Lundmark Stefan , Magnusson Anders , Maurer Frans H. J.
Published: November 2008

The mechanisms behind the load building capabilities of a hyperbranched polymer (HBP) in polyurethane (PU) foams have been investigated, using microscopy techniques and mechanical analyses. By broadening the traditional uniaxial compression characterization of PU foams to include combined shear deformations and compression behavior, an apparent Poisson ratio of the foam could be obtained in situ. The Poisson ratio as function of uniaxial compression ratio of the foam was thus studied for foams filled with Styrene Acrylonitrile (SAN) and foams containing HBP. Generally a window of deformation ratios could be defined in which the Poisson ratio was negative. The width of this window varied systematically with the SAN loading, where an increase in SAN particle loading resulted in a broadening of the negative Poisson ratio window. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Effect of fiber/matrix chemical modification on the mechanical properties and water absorption of extruded flax/polypropylene composite
Authors: Elsabbagh A. , Steuernagel L. , Ziegmann G.
Published: November 2008

Compound of flax/polypropylene (PP) is characterized concerning the mechanical properties of stiffness, strength, and impact in addition to the water absorption behavior. Manufacturing takes place by twin‐screw extruder. The extruder screw layout is modified through different kneading elements to get high fiber aspect ratio. Sodium hydroxide solution was used as a washing solution for the flax fibers' surfaces. Both fiber and matrix are chemically modified. Selected groups of the fibers were further treated using trimethoxyvinylsilan TMVS and acrylic acid AA. The PP matrix is also treated with different coupling agents; namely, maleated PP MAPP, TMVS‐MAPP, and acrylic acid‐functionalized PP AAPP. The combinations of different fiber/matrix are extruder compounded, injection molded, and finally tested. Fiber modification seems to be positive with AA‐modified surface. AAPP matrix modification improves the stiffness four times that of the untreated flax/PP. Till 30 and 40 wt %, the more the fiber is the more the strength and stiffness, respectively. MAPP‐modified matrix improves the mechanical properties and keeps low water absorption values. AAPP‐modified matrix shows the best stiffness values. TMVS‐MAPP does not seem to have distinguished improvement compared with MAPP. NaOH‐TMVS/MAPP and NaOH‐TMVS/AAPP systems can serve as alternatives to the normal NaOH/MAPP treatment. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Migration of antifog additives in agricultural films of low‐density polyethylene and ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymers
Authors: Irusta L. , González A. , Fernández‐Berridi M. J. , Iruin J. J. , Asúa J. M. , Albizu I. , Ibarzabal A. , Salmerón A. , Espi E. , Fontecha A. , García Y. , Real A. I.
Published: November 2008

In this work, polymer films of low density polyethylene and ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymers containing two types of antifog additives (nonionic surfactants) were exposed to two simulated horticultural greenhouse environments, reproducing hot and cold climate conditions. The evolution of the antifog effect was visually observed and that of the additive concentration measured using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). All the films studied showed good antifog properties, but in all cases, the duration of the antifog effect was longer in the hot‐climate test. From the FTIR, we can conclude that the additives studied showed a low migration rate and, therefore, when the antifog effect is lost, important quantities of the additive remain in the bulk. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Improving understanding of adjuvant therapy options by using simpler risk graphics
Authors: Zikmund‐Fisher Brian J. , Fagerlin Angela , Ubel Peter A.
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND:

To help oncologists and breast cancer patients make informed decisions about adjuvant therapies, online tools such as Adjuvant! provide tailored estimates of mortality and recurrence risks. However, the graphical format used to display these results (a set of 4 horizontal stacked bars) may be suboptimal. The authors tested whether using simpler formats would improve comprehension of the relevant risk statistics.

METHODS:

A total of 1619 women, aged 40‐74 years, completed an Internet‐administered survey vignette about adjuvant therapy decisions for a patient with an estrogen receptor‐positive tumor. Participants were randomized to view 1 of 4 risk graphics, a base version that mirrored the Adjuvant! format, an alternate graph that showed only 2 options (those that included hormonal therapy), a graph that used a pictograph format, or a graph that included both changes. Outcome measures included comprehension of key statistics, time required to complete the task, and graph‐perception ratings.

RESULTS:

The simplifying format changes significantly improved comprehension, especially when both changes were implemented together. Compared with participants who viewed the base 4‐option bar graph, respondents who, instead, viewed a 2‐option pictograph version were more accurate when they reported the incremental risk reduction achievable from adding chemotherapy to hormonal therapy (77% vs 51%; P< .001), answered that question more quickly (median time, 28 seconds vs 42 seconds; P< .001), and liked the graph more (mean, 7.67 vs 6.88; P< .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although most patients will only view risk calculators such as Adjuvant! in consultation with their clinicians, simplifying design graphics could significantly improve patients' comprehension of statistics essential for informed decision making about adjuvant therapies. Cancer 2008. Published 2008 by the American Cancer Society.
Dissociative episode secondary to hypoglycemic state in anorexia nervosa: A case report
Authors: Ramli Musa , Syed Hassan Almashoor , Rosnani Sarkarsi
Published: November 2008

Objective:

Hypoglycemic attack had been reported as one of the medical complications in anorexia nervosa.

Method:

We present a 25‐year‐old man who was diagnosed earlier with anorexia nervosa, presented with an episode of dissociative state during which he was caught for shoplifting.

Results:

In the history, he had a few episodes of fainting spells, which are most possibly due to hypoglycemia. There was no evidence to suggest any misdeeds to support that the stealing was intentional.

Discussion:

Hypoglycemic attack may be common in anorexia nervosa, but this is a rare case with medico‐legal implication. © 2008 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009
Analysis, control, and economic impact assessment of major blackout events
Authors: Yamashita Koji , Joo Sung‐Kwan , Li Juan , Zhang Pei , Liu Chen‐Ching
Published: November 2008

Recent large‐scale blackouts in North America, Europe, and other countries raised great concerns over the reliability of our electric energy infrastructure and the economic impacts of blackouts. These blackouts were caused by a cascading sequence of events involving line outages, overloading of other lines, malfunctions of protection systems, power oscillations and voltage problems, and system separation and collapse. In this paper, common characteristics of blackouts are identified by analyzing the cascaded events of the blackouts. It is important to take appropriate control actions to alleviate overload and emergency conditions in a power system in order to avoid catastrophic power outages. This paper discusses available control procedures and emergency control systems needed to help prevent catastrophic outages. Economic losses from these blackouts in the U.S., Europe, and other countries were significant. An evaluation of the economic costs of blackouts can be used to estimate the benefits of emergency control systems that can be installed to prevent blackouts. This paper provides an overview of the assessment methods and procedures for evaluation of the economic costs of blackouts. This paper also describes the generic procedure of an event study to measure the economic impact of blackouts on the values of the firms in financial markets. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Benzodiazepine use in the elderly: an indicator for inappropriately treated geriatric depression?
Authors: Assem‐Hilger Eva , Jungwirth Susanne , Weissgram Silvia , Kirchmeyr Walter , Fischer Peter , Barnas Christian
Published: November 2008

Objective

To measure the prevalence of benzodiazepine (BZD) use and to explore associated demographic and clinical variables of BZD use within a cohort of 75‐year‐ old inhabitants of an urban district of Vienna.

Methods

This is a prospective, interdisciplinary cohort study on aging. Our investigation is based on the first consecutive 500 subjects that completed the study protocol. Demographic and clinical characteristics, benzodiazepine and antidepressant use were documented using a standardized questionnaire. Affective status was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and the Spielberger State‐and Trait Anxiety Inventory subscales (STAI).

Results

Prevalence of BZD use was 13.8%. Compared to non‐users, BZD users had significantly higher mean scores at the HAMD (p = 0.001), the GDS (p = 0.026), and the Spielberger State‐and Trait Anxiety Inventory subscales (p = 0.003; p = 0.001). Depression was found in 12.0% (HAMD) and 17.8% when using a self‐rating instrument (GDS). Less than one‐third of depressed subjects were receiving antidepressants. Statistically equal numbers were using benzodiazepines.

Conclusions

Inappropriate prescription of BZD is frequent in old age, probably indicating untreated depression in many cases. The implications of maltreated geriatric depression and the risks associated with benzodiazepine use highlight the medical and socioeconomic consequences of inappropriate BZD prescription. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kir2.2 inward rectifier potassium channels are inhibited by an endogenous factor in Xenopus oocytes independently from the action of a mitochondrial uncoupler
Authors: Collins Anthony , Larson Maureen K.
Published: November 2008

We previously showed inhibition of Kir2 inward rectifier K+ channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes by the mitochondrial agents carbonyl cyanide p‐trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP) and sodium azide. Mutagenesis studies suggested that FCCP may act via phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2) depletion. This mechanism could be reversible in intact cells but not in excised membrane patches which preclude PIP2 regeneration. This prediction was tested by investigating the reversibility of the inhibition of Kir2.2 by FCCP in intact cells and excised patches. We also investigated the effect of FCCP on Kir2.2 expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Kir2.2 current, expressed in Xenopus oocytes, increased in inside‐out patches from FCCP‐treated and untreated oocytes. The fraction of total current that increased was 0.79 ± 0.05 in control and 0.89 ± 0.03 in 10 µM FCCP‐treated (P > .05). Following “run‐up,” Kir2.2 current was re‐inhibited by “cramming” inside‐out patches into oocytes. Therefore, run‐up reflected not reversal of inhibition by FCCP, but washout of an endogenous inhibitor. Kir2.2 current recovered in intact oocytes within 26.5 h of FCCP removal. Injection of oocytes with 0.1 U apyrase completely depleted ATP (P < .001) but did not inhibit Kir2.2 and inhibited Kir2.1 by 35% (P < .05). FCCP only partially reduced [ATP] (P < .001), despite inhibiting Kir2.2 by 75% (P < .01) but not Kir2.1. FCCP inhibited Kir2.2 expressed in HEK cells. The recovery of Kir2.2 from inhibition by FCCP requires intracellular components, but direct depletion of ATP does not reproduce the differential inhibitory effect of FCCP. Inhibition of Kir2.2 by FCCP is not unique to Xenopus oocytes. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 8–13, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Micro‐CT analysis with multiple thresholds allows detection of bone formation and resorption during ultrasound‐treated fracture healing
Authors: Freeman Theresa A. , Patel Payal , Parvizi Javad , Antoci Valentin , Shapiro Irving M.
Published: November 2008

Multiple threshold algorithms applied to microcomputed tomography analysis were used to probe the effects of low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound on fracture healing. Rat femurs were fractured in accordance with IACUC guidelines. Ultrasound treatment was administered daily to one femur; the contralateral bone was treated with a sham transducer. Each week for 3 weeks healing fractures were harvested and scanned by micro‐CT. Remodeling activity was confirmed by evaluation of TRAP activity. Using thresholds of 331–700 and 225–330, area of cortical bone, and new bone formation, respectively, were identified, and by inference, regions of bone resorption. The increased sensitivity of this multithresholding procedure revealed that ultrasound treatment significantly increased the rate of fracture healing in vivo by activating both new bone formation and by increasing the removal of cortical bone in a time‐ and site‐specific manner. At week 1, compared to the proximal side, there was a significant increase in new bone formation distal to the fracture site. Removal of the existing cortical bone followed the same pattern at week 2. Results of the study indicate that at sites of bone turnover, this multithresholding analytical technique can be used to provide quantitative information on bone formation, as well as resorption. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 673–679, 2009
Brachial plexopathy associated with Q fever: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Seneviratne Janaka K. , Blair Janis E. , Smith Benn E.
Published: November 2008

Neurologic manifestations of Q fever are predominantly central. We report the case of a 35‐year‐old man with recurrent fever and motor and sensory deficits in the right C5, C6 territories. Electrophysiological findings were consistent with a right upper‐trunk brachial plexopathy or with suprascapular and axillary neuropathies. The patient had full resolution of neurologic symptoms with antibiotic treatment. The association of brachial plexopathy with Q fever infection, described in other rare instances, may merit consideration in individual cases, depending on clinical context. Muscle Nerve 38: 1644–1648, 2008
Nerve‐dependent changes in skeletal muscle myosin heavy chain after experimental denervation and cross‐reinnervation and in a demyelinating mouse model of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A
Authors: Maggs Alison M. , Huxley Clare , Hughes Simon M.
Published: November 2008

Innervation regulates the contractile properties of vertebrate muscle fibers, in part through the effect of electrical activity on expression of distinct myosins. Herein we analyze the role of innervation in regulating the accumulation of the general, maturational, and adult forms of rodent slow myosin heavy chain (MyHC) that are defined by the presence of distinct antigenic epitopes. Denervation increases the number of fibers that express general slow MyHC, but it decreases the adult slow MyHC epitope. Cross‐reinnervation of slow muscle by a fast nerve leads to an increase in the number of fibers that express fast MyHC. In both cases, there is an increase in the number of fibers that express slow and fast IIA MyHCs, but without the adult slow MyHC epitope. The data suggest that innervation is required for maturation and maintenance of diversity of both slow and fast fibers. The sequence of slow MyHC epitope transitions is a useful biomarker, and it may play a significant role during nerve‐dependent changes in muscle fiber function. We applied this detailed muscle analysis to a transgenic mouse model of human motor and sensory neuropathy IA, also known as Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A), in which electrical conduction in some motor nerves is poor due to demyelination. The mice display atrophy of some muscle fibers and changes in slow and fast MyHC epitope expression, suggestive of a progressive increase in innervation of muscle fibers by fast motor neurons, even at early stages. The potential role of these early changes in disease pathogenesis is assessed. Muscle Nerve 38: 1572–1584, 2008
Phrenic nerve conduction studies in spinal cord injury: Applications for diaphragmatic pacing
Authors: Alshekhlee Amer , Onders Raymond P. , Syed Tanvir U. , Elmo Maryjo , Katirji Bashar
Published: November 2008

The diaphragm pacing system (DPS) is a minimally invasive alternative to mechanical ventilation in patients with quadriplegia due to cervical myelopathy primarily caused by high cervical spinal cord injury. We evaluated 36 patients, 29 of whom had traumatic spinal cord injury, two who had a history of remote meningitis and demyelinating disease, and five who had cervical myelopathies of unknown etiology. Phrenic nerve conduction studies were performed with simultaneous fluoroscopic observation of diaphragm excursion to assess diaphragm viability. In the preoperative evaluation, diaphragm compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) were recorded only when the diaphragm moved on fluoroscopy with ipsilateral stimulation. Twenty‐six patients who were determined to have a viable diaphragm underwent DPS. Following DPS the primary outcome was the time (hours per day) that patients were able to pace and stay off the ventilator. Of 26 implanted patients, 96% (25 patients) were able to pace and tolerate being off the ventilator for more than 4 h per day. This study demonstrates that the presence of a diaphragm CMAP is associated with diaphragm movement observed by fluoroscopy in cervical myelopathy. In addition, DPS can help patients with cervical spinal cord injury to breathe unassisted by a ventilator. Muscle Nerve 38: 1546–1552, 2008
Stretch reduces central core lesions and calcium build‐up in tenotomized soleus
Authors: Baewer David V. , van Dyke Jonathan M. , Bain James L. W. , Riley Danny A.
Published: November 2008

The incidence of skeletal muscle tendon rupture is increasing. The unloaded, shortened muscle undergoes rapid degeneration. Rehabilitation takes 10–12 weeks and includes stretch therapy. Outcomes may be improved by understanding the pathophysiological changes and stretch mechanisms. We investigated the effects of passive stretch on preventing central core lesions in a rat tenotomy model of simulated Achilles tendon rupture. Adult male rats were tenotomized bilaterally. At 7 days, 39% of the soleus fibers possessed central core lesions. Whole muscle calcium concentration progressively increased and plateaued by 4 days. Dantrolene, a calcium release blocker, injected daily for 7 days, reduced central core lesion formation and calcium build‐up. Passive stretch, 20 min/day, inhibited central core lesion formation. Calcium increased at 4 days in mitochondria, and stretch prevented this increase. These findings indicate that stretch therapy reduces central core lesion occurrence by preventing calcium elevation in hypershortened muscles. Muscle Nerve 38: 1563–1571, 2008
Sensory nerve conduction slowing is a specific marker for CIDP
Authors: Bragg Julian A. , Benatar Michael G.
Published: November 2008

Most current diagnostic criteria for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) do not make use of sensory nerve conduction studies (NCSs). To investigate if surface sensory NCSs are clinically relevant in differentiating CIDP from axonal polyneuropathy, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients referred for electrodiagnostic testing to evaluate for CIDP. We found that sensory conduction velocity (CV) slowing is a highly specific, albeit insensitive, marker for differentiating CIDP from axonal polyneuropathy. Muscle Nerve 38: 1599–1603, 2008
Discrete gradient method over polygon mesh
Authors: Lu Jia , Qian Jing
Published: November 2008

This paper presents a discrete method over domains originally discretized by polygons including triangle, quadrilateral, and general n‐sided polygon elements. In this method, the domain is re‐partitioned into node‐based cells. At each node, the gradient of a physical variable is approximated using a linearly exact discrete operator that involves a set of neighboring nodes. The discrete gradient is subsequently substituted into a weak form to yield a nodal‐integration Galerkin formulation. A unified geometric approach is provided for constructing the gradient operators over an arbitrary polygon mesh. The method does not introduce continuous approximation of the unknown variable; therefore, the numerical computation is very simple. The linear displacement patch test is satisfied by construction. Numerical tests show that the method has comparable accuracy and convergence rate as the displacement finite element method. Examples are also included to illustrate the ability to resist numerical locking in the incompressibility limit and the thin‐element limit. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐healing of high elasticity block copolymers
Authors: Chipara Magdalena Dorina , Chipara Mircea , Shansky Emma , Zaleski Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2008

A new route for adding self‐healing properties to soluble polymers is presented briefly. Self‐healing block copolymers (polystyrene‐block‐polybutadiene block‐polystyrene from Sigma‐Aldrich) were obtained by dissolving the polymer in a solvent that neither dissolves the microbubbles nor deactivate the Grubbs catalyst. The self‐healing block copolymer has been obtained by mixing the polymer, the solvent, the microbubbles filled with monomer (dicyclopentadiene), and the Grubbs' catalyst followed by the evaporation of the solvent. The structure of self‐healed high elasticity block copolymer has been investigated by optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Raman spectroscopy and mechanical data suggested that the block copolymer exhibits self‐healing features. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonlinear optical polyimides consisting of chromophore‐containing dendrons with site‐isolation effect
Authors: Chen Yung‐Chung , Chang Huey‐Ling , Lee Rong‐Ho , Dai Shenghong A. , Su Wen‐Chiung , Jeng Ru‐Jong
Published: November 2008

To investigate the dendritic structure effects on the electro‐optical (EO) coefficients and thermal stability of the nonlinear optical (NLO) active materials, a bifunctional compound, IDD (4‐isocyanato‐4′(3,3‐dimethyl‐ 2,4‐dioxo‐acetidino)‐diphenylmethane) was used as a building block to synthesize a series of novel NLO chromophore‐containing dendritic structures including Generation 0.5 (G0.5) to Generation 3 (G3). The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of G1–G3 dendrons were in the range of 76–116°C, whereas only the G0.5 dendron exhibited a melting temperature (Tm), 98°C. Moreover, a series of NLO‐active guest–host systems ranging from polyimide‐G0.5 (PI‐G0.5) to polyimide‐G3 (PI‐G3) were prepared by blending 20 wt% chromophore‐containing dendron with a high Tg polyimide. EO coefficients ranged from 6.1 to 12.9 pm/V. The r33/dye content ratio increased with increasing generation of dendron‐containing polyimide samples. Particularly, the improvement in r33/dye content ratio of PI‐G2.5 sample tripled as compared to that of the guest–host sample with Disperse Red 1. Excellent temporal stability of PI‐G0.5 and PI‐G1.5 at 80°C was obtained. Moreover, waveguide properties for NLO polymers containing higher generation dendrons (3.1–3.6 dB/cm at 830 nm) were also obtained. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel conducting fabric polymer composites as stretchable electrodes: one‐step fabrication of chemical actuators
Authors: Shoji Eiichi , Takagi Susumu , Araie Hidemasa
Published: November 2008

Composite films have functioned as chemical bending actuators, where stretchable conducting fabrics were joined to both surfaces of ionomer films. This phenomenon shows that a direct metallization of either electroless or electrolytic plating having a metal dendrite formation on the ionomer film is not essential for functioning as actuators. Conducting fabric polymer composite (CFPC) actuators can be easily fabricated by a simple adhesion process using flexible conducting fabrics as electrodes. Due to their excellent contraction and expansion capabilities, gold‐ and copper‐plated knitted fabrics were employed and stably bound to Nafion‐117 film. Au‐CFPC actuators demonstrated a maximum bending displacement of ±2.5 mm at ±2 V. Cu‐CFPC gave a smaller displacement of ±0.7 mm at ±2 V, having no reverse displacement. The method described here is widely applicable, introducing conducting layers on various flexible, stretchable, and polymer substrates. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A modeling approach to the effect of resin characteristics on parison formation in extrusion blow molding
Authors: Yousefi Azizeh‐Mitra , den Doelder Jaap , Rainville Marc‐André , Koppi Kurt A.
Published: November 2008

The most critical stage in the extrusion blow‐molding process is the parison formation, as the dimensions of the blow‐molded part are directly related to the parison dimensions. The swelling due to stress relaxation and sagging due to gravity are strongly influenced by the resin characteristics, die geometry, and operating conditions. These factors significantly affect the parison dimensions. This could lead to a considerable amount of time and cost through trial and error experiments to get the desired parison dimensions based upon variations in the resin characteristics, die geometry, and operating conditions. The availability of a modeling technique ensures a more accurate prediction of the entire blow‐molding process, as the proper prediction of the parison formation is the input for the remaining process phases. This study considers both the simulated and the experimental effects of various high‐density polyethylene resin grades on parison dimensions. The resins were tested using three different sets of die geometries and operating conditions. The target parison length was achieved by adjusting the extrusion time for a preset die gap opening. The finite element software BlowParison® was used to predict the parison formation, taking into account the swell and sag. Good agreements were found between the predicted parison dimensions and the experimental data. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. Published by Society of Plastics Engineers
Group‐Based QSAR (G‐QSAR): Mitigating Interpretation Challenges in QSAR
Authors: Ajmani Subhash , Jadhav Kamalakar , Kulkarni Sudhir A.
Published: November 2008

Several approaches are widely being used as important tools for drug discovery. These approaches include Hansch method, Free‐Wilson method and conventional 2‐D/3‐D QSAR methods. The Hansch analysis assumes that substituents are independent of each other and does not include explicit interactions of groups. In the conventional QSAR method, the interpretation of model generated is rather difficult, as one does not a get clear direction about the site for improvement. A new Group‐Based QSAR (G‐QSAR) method is proposed which uses descriptors evaluated for the fragments of the molecules generated using specific fragmentation rules defined for a given dataset. Herein, we describe the application of G‐QSAR method on two different datasets belonging to a simple congeneric series and a complex noncongeneric series. This method provides models with predictive ability similar or better to conventional methods and in addition provides hints for sites of improvement in the molecules.
Charge Transport Through a Cardan‐Joint Molecule
Authors: Ruben Mario , Landa Aitor , Lörtscher Emanuel , Riel Heike , Mayor Marcel , Görls Helmar , Weber Heiko B. , Arnold Andreas , Evers Ferdinand
Published: November 2008

The charge transport through a single ruthenium atom clamped by two terpyridine hinges is investigated, both experimentally and theoretically. The metal‐bis(terpyridyl) core is equipped with rigid, conjugated linkers of para‐acetyl‐mercapto phenylacetylene to establish electrical contact in a two‐terminal configuration using Au electrodes. The structure of the [RuII(L)2](PF6)2 molecule is determined using single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, which yields good agreement with calculations based on density functional theory (DFT). By means of the mechanically controllable break‐junction technique, current–voltage (I–V), characteristics of [RuII(L)2](PF6)2 are acquired on a single‐molecule level under ultra‐high vacuum (UHV) conditions at various temperatures. These results are compared to ab initio transport calculations based on DFT. The simulations show that the cardan‐joint structural element of the molecule controls the magnitude of the current. Moreover, the fluctuations in the cardan angle leave the positions of steps in the I–V curve largely invariant. As a consequence, the experimental I–V characteristics exhibit lowest‐unoccupied‐molecular‐orbit‐based conductance peaks at particular voltages, which are also found to be temperature independent.
Selective Electroless Deposition of Metal Clusters on Solid‐Supported Bacteriorhodopsin: Applications to Orientation Labeling and Electrical Contacts
Authors: Ron Izhar , Friedman Noga , Cahen David , Sheves Mordechai
Published: November 2008

Controlling the orientation of bacteriorhodopsin (bR) monolayers is an important step in studying and utilizing such membranes in a solid‐state configuration in, for example, photoelectric applications. Macroscopic monolayers of bR have been fabricated in a variety of ways, but characterization of the distribution of the two possible orientations in which the membrane fragments can adsorb has not yet been addressed experimentally. Here, an approach is presented that labels only one of the membrane surfaces by electroless growth of metal nanoparticles on top of the solid‐supported membranes. In this way, it is possible to observe which surface of the membranes is actually adsorbed to the substrate. How this technique serves to interface the membranes with a top metal contact for further electrical measurements is also demonstrated.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Phenylimidorhenium(V) Complexes with N‐[(N′,N′‐Dialkylamino)(thiocarbonyl)]benzamidines. Observation of a pH‐Dependent Isomerisation of Related Oxorhenium(V) Compounds
Authors: Kuhn Bernd , Abram Ulrich
Published: November 2008

Reactions of [Re(NPh)Cl3(PPh3)2] with N‐[(N′,N′‐dialkylamino)(thiocarbonyl)]benzamidines (H2R2tcb) (R2 = Et2, (CH2)2O(CH2)2) in methanol give mono‐chelates of the composition [Re(NPh)Cl2(PPh3)(HR2tcb)] as the sole products independent of the amount of the added H2R2tcb. Addition of a supporting base such as NEt3 results in hydrolysis of the Re=NPh bonds and partial hydrolysis of the thiocarbamoylbenzamidines. Orange‐brown, cationic oxorhenium(V) compounds of the formula [ReO(HR2tcb)2]Cl were isolated from such reaction mixtures in good yields, and the formation of small amount of the unusual sulfido/persulfido‐bridged ReV dimer [{ReO(HEt2tcb)}2(μ‐S)(μ‐S2)] give evidence for a considerable degree of ligand decomposition under such conditions. The products have been characterized by spectroscopic methods and X‐ray crystallography.

Acidification of orange‐brown solutions of the five‐coordinate ReV oxo complex [ReO(HEt2tcb)2]Cl causes an immediate change of the color and deep blue crystals of the neutral, six‐coordinate [ReOCl(HEt2tcb)2] can be isolated from the resulting mixture. Alternatively, the product can be prepared by a ligand‐exchange protocol starting from (NBu4)[ReOCl4] and H2Et2tcb. The pH‐dependent isomerization between [ReO(HEt2tcb)2]Cl and [ReOCl(HEt2tcb)2] is reversible.
Refinement for user interface designs
Authors: Bowen Judy , Reeves Steve
Published: November 2008

Formal approaches to software development require that we correctly describe (or specify) systems in order to prove properties about our proposed solution prior to building it. We must then follow a rigorous process to transform our specification into an implementation to ensure that the properties we have proved are retained. Different transformation, or refinement, methods exist for different formal methods, but they all seek to ensure that we can guide the transformation in a way which preserves the desired properties of the system. Refinement methods also allow us to subsequently compare two systems to see if a refinement relation exists between the two. When we design and build the user interfaces of our systems we are similarly keen to ensure that they have certain properties before we build them. For example, do they satisfy the requirements of the user? Are they designed with known good design principles and usability considerations in mind? Are they correct in terms of the overall system specification? However, when we come to implement our interface designs we do not have a defined process to follow which ensures that we maintain these properties as we transform the design into code. Instead, we rely on our judgement and belief that we are doing the right thing and subsequent user testing to ensure that our final solution remains useable and satisfactory. We suggest an alternative approach, which is to define a refinement process for user interfaces which will allow us to maintain the same rigorous standards we apply to the rest of the system when we implement our user interface designs.
Scale dependency in seagrass dynamics: how does the neighboring effect vary with grain of observation?
Authors: Yamakita Takehisa , Nakaoka Masahiro
Published: November 2008

Although the importance of spatial scale in ecology has been increasingly recognized, the effects on ecological processes of changing the grain size of the observation have rarely been tested for empirical populations. A seagrass bed is an ideal system to study scale‐dependency because it occurs in two‐dimensional shallow soft‐bottoms and can be monitored on a broader scale by using remote‐sensing techniques. To investigate the grain dependency of seagrass spatial dynamics, we analyzed the effect of neighboring vegetation on the annual transition between vegetated and unvegetated states in a seagrass meadow in Futtsu, Tokyo Bay. The presence or absence of seagrass vegetation was observed at different grains from aerial photographs taken annually over 17 years. We detected the presence of a neighboring effect both in the increasing process (transition from the unvegetated to the vegetated state) and the decreasing process (vice versa) of vegetation. In the increasing process, the intensity of the neighboring effect was positive with the small grain, but the effect decreased to 0 with grain of ca. 20 m. In the decreasing process, the neighboring effect was negative with the small grain and increased to 0 with grain of ca. 30 m. The observed grain dependency in the neighboring effects also varied among different positions of the bed and among different years. The grain dependency in the increasing process cannot solely be explained by shoot elongation of the seagrass, which can cause positive neighboring effects only at small grain (≤6 m). The neighboring effect at the greater grain can be regarded as an emergent property.
Complexity, dynamics and diversity of sociality in group‐living mammals
Authors: Kutsukake Nobuyuki
Published: November 2008

Numerous studies in group‐living animals with stable compositions have demonstrated the complex and dynamic nature of social behaviour. Empirical studies occasionally provide principles that cannot be applied directly to other group‐living species. Because of this, researchers are required to address fine‐scaled conceptual questions and to incorporate species‐specific characteristics of the study species. In this paper, I raise three key topics that will promote our understanding of animal sociality: the effects of heterogeneous social relationships on the pattern, distribution, and function of social interactions; conflict management for maintaining group living; and meta‐dyad‐level perspectives for understanding dyadic social relationships and behaviours. Through the discussion of these topics together with examples of group‐living mammals, I emphasise the importance of direct behavioural observations and functional analyses in studies of species‐ or taxonomic‐group‐specific characteristics of social behaviour in a wide range of taxonomic groups. In addition to approaches focusing on specificity, another approach that examines the general principles or common characteristics found across different taxonomic groups could provide synthetic and reductive frameworks to understand divergent sociality. The complementary use of these two approaches will offer a comprehensive understanding of social evolution in group‐living animals.
Free personal and nursing care in Scotland
Authors: Sutherland Stewart
Published: November 2008

Providing care for the elderly requires particular coordination in Britain, where the seats of government at Westminster and Holyrood differ at times on the National Health Service's responsibilities. This article details the review of the implementation of the policy of Free Personal Care in Scotland published by the Scottish Government in April 2008, which focused on demographic projections and public funding. The Royal Commission found that demography projections were faulty and, consequently, public funding inadequate. It recommended stricter accountability as well as a longer term political vision. Only with a broader vision can the NHS plan for the changing nature of society and the inevitable consequences.
Risk factors for acute and chronic postoperative pain in patients with benign and malignant renal disease after nephrectomy
Authors: Gerbershagen Hans J. , Dagtekin Oguzhan , Rothe Tim , Heidenreich Axel , Gerbershagen Kathrin , Sabatowski Rainer , Petzke Frank , Özgür Enver
Published: November 2008

Aims: This longitudinal study was performed in order to analyze the incidence of and perioperative risk factors for the development of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) in patients after nephrectomy.

Methods: For baseline data acquisition, valid instruments were used for scoring sociodemographic, psychological, psychosocial, pain, pain treatment, and comorbidity factors: the Mainz Pain Staging System (MPSS) for pain chronicity, the Chronic Pain Grading Questionnaire (CPGQ), the Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Short Form 12 (SF‐12) for health‐related quality of life, the Habitual Well‐Being Questionnaire (HWBQ), the Symptom Check List (SCL‐8) for detecting psychosomatic dysfunction, and the Weighted Illness Check List (WICL) for evaluation of comorbidities and their impact on activities of daily living. Pain intensities were recorded over the first 6 postoperative days after nephrectomy. A sample of 35 patients was followed up for 3 and 6 months.

Results: Patients with more intense postoperative pain during the first 6 days had significantly higher preoperative anxiety scores. The incidence of CPSP 3 and 6 months after nephrectomy was 28.6% and 8.6%, respectively. Preoperatively increased anxiety scores, reduced physical health‐related quality of life (SF‐12), multiple comorbid conditions, and increased comorbidity‐related disability were significantly associated with the occurrence of CPSP after 3 months. These patients also reported more severe pain during the first week after surgery. Preoperative “current pain intensity” was significantly increased in CPSP patients.

Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a multifactorial development of CPSP. This process may contribute not only to the occurrence of chronic postsurgical pain but also to the biopsychosocial impairment in these patients as often seen in other chronic pain populations.