bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Islam and Traditional Practices on Women’s Health and Reproduction
Authors: Bahar Zuhal , Okçay Hale , Özbıçakçı şeyda , Beşer Ayşe , üstün Besti , Öztürk Meryem
Published: October 2005

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Islam as a religion and culture on Turkish women’s health. The study included 138 household members residing in the territory of three primary health care centers in Turkey: Güzelbahçe, Fahrettin Altay and Esentepe. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire prepared by a multidisciplinary team that included specialists from the departments of public health, psychiatric nursing and sociology. We found that the women’s health behavior changed from traditional to rational as education levels increased, and that religious and traditional attitudes and behaviors were predominant in the countryside, especially practices related to pregnancy, delivery, the postpartum period, induced abortion and family planning. One of the most important prerequisites for the improvement of women’s health is that nurses should know the religious practices and culture of the society for which they provide care, so that their efforts to protect and improve women’s health will be effective.
Moral Competence in Nursing Practice
Authors: Jormsri Pantip , Kunaviktikul Wipada , Ketefian Shaké , Chaowalit Aranya
Published: October 2005

This article presents the derivation of moral competence in nursing practice by identifying its attributes founded on Thai culture. In this process moral competence is formed and based on the Thai nursing value system, including personal, social and professional values. It is then defined and its three dimensions (moral perception, judgment and behavior) are also identified. Additionally, eight attributes as indicators of moral competence are identified and selected from three basic values. The eight attributes are loving kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, equanimity, responsibility, discipline, honesty, and respect for human values, dignity and rights. All attributes are discussed by addressing the three moral dimensions in order to present how to deal with ethical issues in nursing practice. As a summary, a model of moral competence is presented to demonstrate moral competence in nursing practice in Thailand.
Sensitivity to Ethical Issues Confronted by Korean Hospital Staff Nurses
Authors: Kim Yong-Soon , Park Jee-Won , You Mi-Ae , Seo Ye-Suk , Han Sung-Suk
Published: October 2005

This descriptive study was undertaken to identify the degree of ethical sensitivity of staff nurses and to analyze the differences in ethical sensitivity in terms of both general and ethics-related characteristics. Participants were 236 staff nurses working in general hospitals in Korea. Ethical sensitivity was measured by means of an instrument developed by the researchers. The results showed that the mean score for the degree of ethical sensitivity was 0.71 out of a possible maximum score of 1 (range 0.30 to 0.97). For general characteristics, there was a significant difference in ethical sensitivity according to age (F (df 2233)-3.99, P-0.02). For characteristics related to ethics, there was a significant difference in ethical sensitivity according to attitude towards the nursing profession (F (df 4231)-2.94, P-0.03). It is therefore recommended that a training program reflecting these variables be developed to enhance staff nurses’ ethical sensitivity.
Ways of Relating During Childbirth: An ethical responsibility and challenge for midwives
Authors: Hallgren Anita , Kihlgren Mona , Olsson Pia
Published: October 2005

The way in which midwives relate to expectant parents during the process of childbirth greatly influences the parents’ childbirth experiences for a long time. We believe that examining and describing ways of relating in naturally occurring interactions during childbirth should be considered as an ethical responsibility. This has been highlighted in relation to parents’ experiences and in the light of the relational ethics of Løgstrup. Four couples’ and nine midwives’ ways of relating were documented by 27 hours of observation, including 14.5 hours of video-recorded sessions. A qualitative content analysis was conducted. The midwives strongly influenced the different ways of relating and three aspects of professional competence were disclosed. The results can contribute to reflections about current praxis as an ethical demand for midwives.
The influence of the Internet on decision making in acoustic neuroma
Authors: Orabi A A , D’Souza A R , Walsh R R , Irving R M
Published: October 2005

Objective: To determine the access to and the use of the Internet by acoustic neuroma patients as a medical information source, and the influence of the Internet on decision-making, as well as the patients' views on the quality of particular sites.

Materials and methods: A retrospective 27-item questionnaire was sent to 138 consecutive acoustic neuroma patients diagnosed between 1997 and 2002. The study included patients treated by conservative, radiotherapeutic and surgical modalities.

Main outcome measures: Patient demographics, the extent of Internet use as well as quality and quantity of available information.

Results: There were 86.95 per cent questionnaires available for analysis. Twenty-four per cent accessed the Internet to obtain information about acoustic neuromas. Ninety-seven per cent of patients said that the information provided in the clinic matched with the information obtained from the websites, 49 per cent said that the information obtained from the Internet did not influence decision making regarding acceptance of treatment of their tumour. Some patients said the Internet information was depressing, devastating, and they would never look up the Internet again for medical information.

Conclusion: A significant proportion of our patients accessed the Internet for information. Caution should be exercised when advising patients regarding websites as the information on the Internet is often not controlled or checked for accuracy. Acoustic neuroma specialists and ENT surgeons in general should familiarize themselves with related websites so that patients can then be directed to high-quality sites.
Post-operative radiotherapy in advanced laryngeal cancer: effect on local and regional recurrence, distant metastases and second primaries
Authors: Yılmaz Taner , Hoşal Şefik , Özyar Enis , Akyol Fadıl , Gürsel Bülent
Published: October 2005

This was a retrospective study of patients who did or did not receive post-operative radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx.

The rates of local and regional recurrences, distant metastases and second primaries were evaluated in 236 patients who received radiotherapy following surgery. These rates were evaluated and compared with those from 294 patients treated with surgery alone.

Multivariate analysis of irradiated patients revealed that local and regional recurrences were determined independently by tumour (T) and pathologic node (pN) stages (p < 0.05). The distant metastasis rate significantly depended on N stage (p < 0.05). Multiple primary tumours were not significantly affected by any of the factors studied (p > 0.05).

Analysis of both irradiated and non-irradiated patients revealed that local and regional recurrence was determined independently by pathologic T (pT) stage, tumour localization, radiation status and pN stages (p < 0.05). The distant metastasis rate significantly depended on N stage and tumour localization (p < 0.05) and the rate of formation of multiple primary tumours was significantly affected by the patient's age and radiation status (p < 0.05).

In conclusion irradiation of laryngeal cancer patients independently increases the risk of local and regional recurrence, and also increases the risk of multiple primary tumours while not significantly influencing the risk of distant metastasis. The risk of distant metastasis is affected by determinants of advanced lesions and tumour localization.
Vocal fold injury following endotracheal intubation
Authors: Kitahara Satoshi , Masuda Yukihiro , Kitagawa Yoko
Published: October 2005

Vocal fold scarring results in the formation of fibrous tissue which disturbs the vibratory pattern of the fold during phonation. However, vocal fold scarring in humans is poorly understood because of the lack of clear case reports focusing on voice quality. The authors present a case of vocal fold scarring with changes in voice quality. At the time of injury the pedicle mucosa was cemented with fibrin glue. Phonation was inhibited for two weeks and tranilast (300 mg/day) was given for 3 months. Sixty-nine days later, perceptual evaluation showed a normal result and the phonation time became better, but the mucosal vibration was still lacking. Ninety-seven days later, mucosal vibration was finally restored. We suggest that characterization of vocal fold scarring in humans may be different from that in animals, and recommend that surgical management should be avoided for at least three months after injury.
CO2 laser cordectomy as a day-case procedure
Authors: Altuna X , Zulueta A , Algaba J
Published: October 2005

Objective: To evaluate the safety of CO2 laser cordectomy in the treatment of glottic carcinoma as a day-case procedure.

Study design: This was a retrospective study of a cohort of 73 patients with glottic carcinoma treated by laser cordectomy as a day-case procedure using a CO2 laser, between January 2000 and June 2004.

Results: There were no major complications and no patients required reintubation. More than 90 per cent of the patients were discharged on the day of the procedure. There were seven unplanned admissions to hospital but none of these appeared to be the direct result of the surgery, and the patients were discharged the next day. All the patients stated they would have further surgery in this manner if required.

Conclusion: Laser cordectomy for glottic carcinoma can be safely performed as an out-patient procedure if patients are carefully selected according to specific criteria.
Outcome of bacterial culture from mastoid granulations: is it relevant in chronic ear disease?
Authors: Albert Rita Ruby Anbuselvi , Job Anand , Kuruvilla George , Joseph Richard , Brahmadathan K N , John Alice
Published: October 2005

Objective: To detect the presence of bacteria in mastoid granulations and compare its prevalence in both types of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM). To find out if stage of disease activity, age, duration of disease, and aditus patency relate to obtaining positive cultures.

Study design and setting: A prospective, parallel group study done at a tertiary care referral centre. Mastoid granulations from 79 patients with CSOM undergoing mastoidectomy were processed for anaerobic and aerobic bacteria.

Results: Aerobes were isolated from 57.55 per cent of the tubotympanic and 74.4 per cent of atticoantral disease (p = 0.18). Anaerobic cultures were positive in one case from each group. Monomicrobial growth was detected in 37.5 per cent of tubotympanic and 48.5 per cent of atticoantral disease. Polymicrobial growth occurred in 20 per cent and 25.6 per cent in the tubotympanic and atticoantral groups, respectively. The predominant aerobic isolate was coagulase negative Staphylococcus, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, non-fermenting Gram-negative bacteria, Enterobacter and Enterococcus, Proteus species, Citrobacter, non-pathogenic Neisseria, aerobic spore formers were grown only in atticoantral disease. A single isolate of Aspergillus was grown. Correlating the state of disease activity of the ears with positive mastoid granulation cultures, six out of the eight inactive ears were culture positive along with seven out of the nine active and 10 out of the 23 quiescent ears. Positive mastoid granulation cultures were obtained in 60 per cent of those with blocked aditus and 42.9 per cent with patent aditus.

Conclusion and significance: In this study, we found that mastoid granulations are not sterile but harbour polymicrobial pathogens. Positive cultures were obtained irrespective of stage of disease activity, age, duration of disease and aditus patency. The pattern of organisms cultured from safe and unsafe CSOM and also from ears in active, quiescent and inactive stages, were similar. These findings suggest that these organisms may be responsible for mastoid granulations. We also noted that positive cultures had no statistical correlation with aditus patency and duration of disease. We suggest further studies to evaluate the significance of asymptomatic mastoid granulations harbouring organisms and whether opening the mastoid antrum and achieving aditus patency, irrespective of the stage of disease activity, will help improve the long-term surgical outcome and also prevent recurrence of ear discharge.
First clinical experience with β-trace protein (prostaglandin D synthase) as a marker for perilymphatic fistula
Authors: Michel Olaf , Petereit Hela , Klemm Eckart , Walther Leif Erik , Bachmann-Harildstad Gregor
Published: October 2005

A diagnosis of perilymphatic fistula is still controversial. Recently, a case report indicated that β-trace protein (prostaglandin D synthase) might be a potential marker for perilymphatic fluid. In this multicentre clinical case series study β-trace protein was used as a marker for perilymphatic fluid fistula. Fifteen fluid samples were collected during diagnostic tympanoscopy. In addition, five samples were collected from patients with tympanic membrane perforation for use as as negative controls. Samples were obtained using precision glass capillaries and were analysed for β-trace protein using laser nephelometry. The diagnosis of perilymphatic fistula was defined by the patient's history, the audiological and vestibular investigation and the findings at tympanoscopy. The cut-off level of β-trace protein for perilymph-positive samples was chosen at 1.11 mg/l. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated using a 2 × 2 contingency table. There was no false positive result, but in two cases a false negative result was found. The specificity was 1 and the sensitivity was 0.81. The material of this first clinical study is small owing to the rarity of patients undergoing diagnostic tympanoscopy for perilymphatic fluid fistula. However, according to these preliminary results β-trace protein might be a promising marker in the diagnosis of perilymphatic fluid fistulas.
Outcome following retrosigmoid microvascular decompression of the facial nerve for hemifacial spasm
Authors: Moffat D A , Durvasula V S P , Stevens King A , De R , Hardy D G
Published: October 2005

This paper evaluates the outcome of retrosigmoid microvascular decompression of the facial nerve in a series of patients suffering from hemifacial spasm who had been referred to the skull-base team (comprising senior authors DAM and DGH). The paper is a retrospective review of 15 patients who underwent retrosigmoid microvascular decompression of the facial nerve at Addenbrooke's Hospital between 1985 and 1995. In this series it was possible to obtain complete resolution of hemifacial spasm in 93.3 per cent of cases in the short term and in 80 per cent in the long term. Twelve patients (80 per cent) were symptom-free post-operatively. Two patients had minor recurrence of symptoms occurring within six months of the procedure. One patient with no identifiable vascular impingement of the facial nerve had no improvement following surgery. Three patients suffered sensorineural hearing loss. Two patients complained of post-operative tinnitus, and transient facial palsy was noted in one patient.

Retrosigmoid microvascular decompression of the facial nerve provides excellent long-term symptom control in a high percentage of patients with hemifacial spasm.
Airway obstruction: a rare complication of thrombolytic therapy
Authors: Ahmed J , Philpott J , Lew-Gor S , Blunt D
Published: October 2005

Bleeding into head and neck structures as a complication of thrombolysis is extremely rare but potentially lethal. It is usually associated with local trauma. We describe a case of a 67-year-old woman who developed spontaneous, massive pan aerodigestive tract haemorrhage precipitating airway obstruction following administration of streptokinase for myocardial infarction; a previously unreported complication. This case highlights the importance of being vigilant of airway symptoms following such treatment, prompting early involvement of anaesthetic and otolaryngology personnel.
Self-retaining retractors in head and neck surgery
Authors: Banerjee A S , Stafford F W
Published: October 2005

The Norfolk and Norwich retractor is a vital tool in head and neck surgery. It is of great aid in training junior surgeons and has become an integral part of the standard neck dissection instrument set in our unit. This retractor enables good exposure of the carotid sheath, its atraumatic blunt tip retracting the carotid sheath without damage. It makes a single skin incision for neck exposure possible, rather than a Y, T or wine glass incision, avoiding a three-point junction, especially in the post-irradiated neck. In thyroid surgery it reduces the need for manual retraction thereby relieving the assistant surgeon and enhancing the quality of the learning experience.
Medical and surgical complications of the second 100 adult cochlear implant patients in Birmingham
Authors: Dutt Sunil N , Ray Jaydip , Hadjihannas Edward , Cooper Huw , Donaldson Ivor , Proops David W
Published: October 2005

One hundred consecutive adult cochlear implant patients, numbered 101 to 200 in an ongoing series, were prospectively monitored and data collected using the same protocol as for the first 100 patients. The study period was 1999 to 2001. The total number of procedures was 122. Changes in practice following the first 100 implants included a standard surgical technique with a smaller incision and lesser flap mobilization, and routine facial nerve monitoring. As far as was practicable, the same commercial type of implant was used. There were 111 (91 per cent) implantation episodes, five (4 per cent) explantation episodes, four (3.3 per cent) reimplantation episodes and two (1.6 per cent) revision procedures. Eighty-nine patients underwent unilateral implantation and 11 underwent bilateral implantation.

Major complications included flap breakdown (1.6 per cent), extrusion of electrode array (0.8 per cent) and device failure (0.8 per cent). The overall major complication rate was 3.2 per cent (4/122). The overall minor complication rate was 18 per cent. In addition, 7.3 per cent experienced transient vertigo and 5.7 per cent experienced local discomfort lasting three days on average with complete resolution. The overall complication rate in the second 100 implant patients was lower than in the first 100. Smaller incision and lesser flap mobilization reduced the minor complication rate.
Pseudomonas cervical osteomyelitis with retropharyngeal abscess: an unusual complication of otitis media
Authors: Paul C A , Kumar A , Raut V V , Garhnam A , Kumar N
Published: October 2005

We present the unusual case of a 54-year-old diabetic man with chronic suppurative otitis media, presenting with cervical osteomyelitis and retropharyngeal abscess. This was treated with decompression, debridement and fusion from C2 to C4 with external halo-frame stabilization. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was cultured from the ear and the osteomyelitis specimen. Exploration of the left ear showed evidence of mucosal disease, with granulations in the middle ear and oedematous mucosa in the mastoid antrum, but no evidence of dural-plate dehiscence. Haematogenous spread probably led to cervical osteomyelitis and retropharyngeal abscess formation. Cervical osteomyelitis may develop as a rare complication and present as a cause of severe neck pain in patients with otitis media.
Consent and the use of Foley catheters in epistaxis
Authors: Pellard Sarah , Boyce Jamie , Ingrams Duncan R
Published: October 2005

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency stated in 2003 that doctors should endeavour to avoid using products in treatments not covered by their product licence. Foley catheters are commonly used in the management of epistaxis although their product licence does not cover this. We undertook a questionnaire survey of members of the British Association of Otorhinolaryngologists – Head & Neck Surgeons to study the extent of the use of these catheters and the knowledge that members had of their legal status.

Most members appear to use Foley catheters in the management of epistaxis; however, many are not aware that the product is not licensed for this purpose. Because of this lack of knowledge, only half obtain verbal consent for treatment with this device and only a very small number obtain written consent from patients.

In the era of increasing litigation, documentation of informed consent could be considered mandatory to protect us from possible legal action, and this needs to be known by all practising otolaryngologists.
Laser arytenoidectomy for bilateral vocal fold palsy in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Qayyum A , Mierzwa K , See M , Sharma A , Montgommery P Q
Published: October 2005

We report a case of laser arytenoidectomy for bilateral abductor palsy of the vocal fold in a patient with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is known to be a rare cause for bilateral vocal fold palsy and this is the second case reported in the English literature. Majority of the reports to date are in the non-English literature. Tracheostomy has been the classic treatment option offered to these patients. To date no report has been found in the literature about a laser arytenoidectomy being performed in a patient suffering from bilateral vocal fold palsy in Parkinson's disease. We have suggested this option as it improves the quality of life of the individual and avoids the difficulty faced by a Parkinson's patient in managing tracheostomy care due to bradykinesia, rigidity and tremor.
Sphenopalatine artery ligation: technical note
Authors: Pothier David D , MacKeith Samuel , Youngs Robin
Published: October 2005

Epistaxis is a common problem. Most patients presenting to hospital will stop bleeding with simple first-aid measures or with nasal packing. Those who do not stop will usually require surgical management. For persistent posterior epistaxis, the sphenopalatine artery may be ligated as the artery leaves the sphenopalatine foramen to enter the nasal mucosa of the lateral wall of the nose. This may be performed endoscopically. We describe the anatomy of the area and the surgical technique. We also present a brief review of the literature on this technique.
Immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis – a United Kingdom survey and short review
Authors: Dhanasekar G , Izzat A B , D'Souza A R
Published: October 2005

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common condition which is treated using different modalities, including immunotherapy. The aim of this study was to survey the current management strategies among ENT consultants in the UK in treating AR, and their views on immunotherapy. The study design was a postal questionnaire survey and the setting a university teaching hospital. Participants were consultant members of the British Association of Otolaryngologists – Head and Neck Surgeons (BAO-HNS). The main outcome measures were common treatment modalities adopted by the survey group to treat AR, and the number of consultants practising immunotherapy. The majority (81.1 per cent) of the consultants surveyed practise medical therapy with or without surgery. Immunotherapy is advised by 26 per cent of ENT consultants, but only 6.6 per cent currently administer immunotherapy.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E for Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Boothby Lisa A , Doering Paul L
Published: October 2005

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the literature on supplemental vitamin C and vitamin E therapy in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

DATA SOURCES

Literature retrieval was accessed through MEDLINE (1966–March 2005) using the key words antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–March 2005), Current Contents (1996–March 2005), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (1994–March 2005), and Ebsco's Academic Search Elite (1975–March 2005) were searched with the same key words.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Articles related to the objective that were identified through PubMed were included.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Oral supplementation of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and vitamin E (D-alfa-tocopherol acetate) alone and in combination have been shown to decrease oxidative DNA damage in animal studies in vivo, in vitro, and in situ. Recent results of a prospective observational study (n = 4740) suggest that the combined use of vitamin E 400 IU daily and vitamin C 500 mg daily for at least 3 years was associated with the reduction of AD prevalence (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.60) and incidence (HR 0.36; 95% CI 0.09 to 0.99). Contradicting this is a previous prospective observational study (n = 980) evaluating the relationship between 4 years of vitamin C and E intake and the incidence of AD, which detected no difference in the incidence of AD during the 4-year follow-up. Recent meta-analysis results suggest that doses of vitamin E ≥400 IU daily for more than one year are associated with increased all-cause mortality. Mega-trial results suggest that vitamin E doses ≥400 IU daily for 6.9 years in patients with preexisting vascular disease or diabetes mellitus increase the incidence of heart failure, with no other outcome benefits noted.

CONCLUSIONS

In the absence of prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trials documenting benefits that outweigh recently documented morbidity and mortality risks, vitamin E supplements should not be recommended for primary or secondary prevention of AD. Although the risks of taking high doses of vitamin C are lower than those with vitamin E, the lack of consistent efficacy data for vitamin C in preventing or treating AD should discourage its routine use for this purpose.
Physical and Chemical Stability of Pemetrexed Solutions in Plastic Syringes
Authors: Zhang Yanping , Trissel Lawrence A
Published: October 2005

BACKGROUND

Pemetrexed is a multitargeted antifolate antineoplastic agent that is indicated for single-agent use in advanced or metastatic non–small-cell lung cancer and in combination with cisplatin for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma not treatable by surgery. Currently, there is no information on the long-term stability of pemetrexed solutions beyond 24 hours.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the stability of pemetrexed reconstituted with NaCl 0.9% injection to a concentration of 25 mg/mL and packaged in polypropylene syringes.

METHODS

Triplicate samples of reconstituted pemetrexed 25 mg/mL were packaged in 20-mL polypropylene syringes and evaluated for physical and chemical stability performed initially and over 2 days of storage at 23 °C and over 31 days of storage at 4 °C. Physical stability was assessed using turbidimetric and particulate measurement, as well as visual observation. Chemical stability was evaluated by HPLC.

RESULTS

The reconstituted pemetrexed solutions remained physically and chemically stable throughout the respective study periods, with no precipitation or color change and little or no loss of pemetrexed.

CONCLUSIONS

Pemetrexed reconstituted with NaCl 0.9% to a concentration of 25 mg/mL packaged in polypropylene syringes was found to be stable for 2 days at room temperature and 31 days refrigerated.
Genotypisierung – von genomischer DNA zum Genotyp in einem Schritt
Authors: Strerath Michael , Marx Andreas
Published: October 2005

Nucleotidvariationen im menschlichen Genom, wie single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), sind mit wachsendem Interesse erforscht worden, seit klar wurde, dass es eine direkte Verbindung zwischen diesen Abweichungen und verschiedenen Krankheiten und Arzneimittelnebenwirkungen gibt. Für die tägliche Laborpraxis werden zur Untersuchung genomischer DNA Methoden benötigt, die Zeit, Arbeit und Kosten sparend sind. Diese Kriterien werden von so genannten Closed‐Tube‐Methoden erfüllt, die ohne Voramplifizierung direkt auf genomische DNA angewendet werden können.
Genotyping—From Genomic DNA to Genotype in a Single Tube
Authors: Strerath Michael , Marx Andreas
Published: October 2005

Nucleotide variations in the human genome, such as single‐nucleotide polymorphisms, have been researched more intensively since it became apparent that these deviations are linked to various diseases and also several side effects of drugs. The investigation of genomic DNA in the laboratory requires routine methods that are time‐, labour‐, and cost‐effective. These criteria are fulfilled by so‐called closed‐tube methods, which are applied directly to isolated genomic DNA without any preamplification.
Swelling–deswelling kinetics of ionic poly(acrylamide) hydrogels and cryogels
Authors: Ceylan Deniz , Ozmen M. Murat , Okay Oguz
Published: October 2005

A series of ionic poly(acrylamide) (PAAm) gels was prepared by free‐radical crosslinking copolymerization of acrylamide and N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide in aqueous solutions. The gels were prepared both below and above the bulk freezing temperature of the polymerization solvent water, which are called as the cryogels and the hydrogels, respectively. The deswelling behavior of swollen gels in acetone as well as the reswelling behavior of the collapsed gels in water were investigated. It was shown that the cryogels respond against the external stimuli much faster than the hydrogels. The interior morphology of the cryogel networks exhibits a discontinuity and a two‐phase structure, compared to the continuous morphology of the hydrogel networks. Introduction of the ionic units in the network chains further increased the response rate of the cryogels. In contrast to these advantages of cryogels, they exhibit lower swelling capacities than the conventional hydrogels. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 319–325, 2006
Studies on novel composites of polyoxymethylene/ polyamide 6
Authors: Li Yulin , Xie Tingxiu , Yang Guisheng
Published: October 2005

A series of new composite of polyoxymethylene/polyamide 6 (POM/PA 6) were synthesized by using ε‐caprolactam as a reactive solvent with POM soluble in it. Incorporating a small content of POM (1–4 wt %) into PA 6 led to a great improvement of impact resistance POM/PA 6. The effects of POM content on the mechanical, morphological, and thermal properties of the composites were investigated. Incorporating minor POM (1 wt %), disposed in finely dispersed level (about 1 μm), into PA 6 matrix can greatly reduce the crystallization rate and crystallinity of PA 6. Scanning electron microscopy measurements indicated that much microfibers with aspect ratio about 10 appeared with the addition of 3 wt % POM because of the change of phase separation mechanisms. As a result, with a small content of PA 66 (1–4 wt %) incorporated, the impact strength and elongation of POM/PA 6 were improved markedly, with retention of good tensile strength. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 335–339, 2006
Water bamboo husk‐reinforced poly(butylene succinate) biodegradable composites
Authors: Shih Yeng‐Fong , Lee Wan‐Chien , Jeng Ru‐Jong , Huang Chien‐Ming
Published: October 2005

The water bamboo husk is one of major agricultural wastes in Taiwan. In this study, the fiber and powder obtained from the water bamboo husk were chemically modified by coupling agents. Furthermore, the modified fiber and powder were added to the biodegradable polymer poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) separately, to form novel fiber‐reinforced composites. Morphologies, mechanical properties, and heat resistance of these water bamboo husk‐reinforced composites were investigated. The results indicate that the fibers modified by coupling agents exhibited better compatibility with the polymer matrixes than did the untreated fibers. Moreover, it is found that the thermal properties were improved as plant fiber was incorporated to those polymers. Furthermore, the mechanical properties were also increased with the addition of coupling agent‐treated fiber. On the other hand, it is found that the homogeneity of untreated powder‐containing samples is better than that of untreated fiber‐containing samples. Moreover, the results reveal that the powders modified with coupling agents were not effective in improving the mechanical properties of the reinforced PBS. This is due to the bulky structure of lignin leading to a smaller reaction ratio with the coupling agents. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 188–199, 2006
Asymmetric cyanine dyes as fluorescence probes and visible‐light photoinitiators of free‐radical polymerization processes
Authors: Kabatc Janina , Jędrzejewska Beata , Pączkowski Jerzy
Published: October 2005

This article introduces asymmetric cyanine dyes employed as visible‐light photoinitiators of vinyl monomer polymerization and as fluorescence probes monitoring the progress of polymerization. A degree of polymer cure from the measurement of the changes in the probe emission intensity and position shifts during the thermally initiated polymerization of monoacrylate was obtained. A distinct increase in the intensity of the probe fluorescence was observed during polymerization when the degree of monomer conversion was gradually increasing. This effect was accompanied by a blue‐shift of the probe emission maxima. The second part of this work is focused on the possibility of an application of the tested dyes, in combination with borate anions, as photoinitiating systems. The kinetics of polymerization of trimethylolpropane triacrylate, with cyanine borates as photoinitiators, was studied by a microcalorimetric method. Asymmetric cyanine borates were found to be effective photoinitiators, and both the initiator and coinitiator concentration as well as the light intensity strongly affected the progress of photopolymerization, leading, for example, to an increase in the polymerization rate. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 207–217, 2006
Synthetic and spectroscopic studies of chelate polymers involving azelaoyl bis‐N‐phenyl hydroxamic acid with transition metal ions
Authors: Ukey Vaishali V. , Juneja Harjeet D.
Published: October 2005

Chelate polymers of azelaoyl bis‐N‐phenyl hydroxamic acid with Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) were synthesized for the first time in a dimethylformamide (DMF) medium. These newly synthesized chelate polymers were characterized on the basis of several analytical techniques, namely, elemental analyses, infrared and reflectance spectral studies, magnetic moment, and thermal analyses. On the basis of data obtained with these techniques, the composition of the polymeric units, the structure, and the geometry were ascertained. It was found that the Mn(II) and Zn(II) chelate polymers had a tetrahedral geometry, whereas the Co(II) and Ni(II) chelate polymers were octahedral. Thermal analytical data clearly indicated that the Ni(II) chelate polymer was highly thermally stable relative to the Mn(II), Co(II), and Zn(II) chelate polymers. Since these chelate polymers are highly insoluble in almost all the organic solvents, including alcohol, acetone, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, DMF, and DMSO, and have high thermal stability, they may be used as surface‐coating materials and as thermally stable materials. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 273–278, 2006
Preparation of polyimide/nylon 6 graft copolymers from polyimides containing ester moieties: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Pae Youlee
Published: October 2005

Polyimide‐g‐nylon 6 copolymers were prepared by the polymerization of phenyl 3,5‐diaminobenzoate with several diamines and dianhydrides with a one‐step method. The polyimides containing pendant ester moieties were then used as activators for the anionic polymerization of molten ϵ‐caprolactam. In the graft copolymer syntheses, the phenyl ester groups reacted quickly with caprolactam anions at 120°C to generate N‐acyllactam moieties, which activated the anionic polymerization. The thermal stability and chemical resistance were dramatically increased by the incorporation of only 5 wt % polyimide in the graft copolymers. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 309–318, 2006
Artificial neural network modeling for predicting melt blowing processing
Authors: Chen Ting , Wang Jun , Huang Xiubao
Published: October 2005

An artificial neural network model is established for predicting the fiber diameter of melt blown nonwoven fabrics from the processing parameters. An attempt is made to study the effect of the number of hidden layers and hidden layer neurons to minimize the prediction error. The artificial neural network with three hidden layers (5, 2, and 3 neurons in the first, second, and third hidden layer, respectively) yields the minimum prediction error and thus is determined as the preferred network. The square of the correlation coefficient of measured and predicted fiber diameters shows the good performance of the model. Using the established ANN model, computer simulations of the effects of the processing parameters on the fiber diameter are carried out. The results show great promise for this research in the field of computer assisted design of melt blowing technology. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 424–429, 2006
Preparation of poly(ether sulfone) hollow fiber UF membrane for removal of NOM
Authors: Qin Jian‐Jun , Cao Yi‐Ming , Oo Maung‐Htun
Published: October 2005

In this study, a high performance poly(ether sulfone) (PES) hollow fiber ultrafiltration (UF) membrane has been prepared for removal of natural organic matter (NOM). The membrane was spun from a dope solution containing PES/poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP 40K)/N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) by using a wet‐spinning process. Characterization of the membrane in terms of pure water flux, molecule weight cut‐off (MWCO), and retention for a model humic acid (HA) were conducted, and the fouling resistance was analyzed. The experimental results showed that the membrane had a pure water permeability of 20 × 10−5 L m−2 h−1 Pa−1 and a nominal MWCO of 6000 Da. The results also showed that the membrane retention for humic acid was over 97% and both productivity and selectivity for HA increased with increasing feed velocity. The PES membrane in this study exhibited a much lower fouling tendency than the commercial polysulfone membrane. SEM images revealed that the membrane had an outer dense skin and a porous inner surface. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 99: 430–435, 2006
Natural polypeptide scaffolds: β‐sheets, β‐turns, and β‐hairpins
Authors: Rotondi Kenneth S. , Gierasch Lila M.
Published: October 2005

This paper provides an introduction to fundamental conformational states of polypeptides in the β‐region of φ,ψ space, in which the backbone is extended near to its maximal length, and to more complex architectures in which extended segments are linked by turns and loops. There are several variants on these conformations, and they comprise versatile scaffolds for presentation of side chains and backbone amides for molecular recognition and designed catalysts. In addition, the geometry of these fundamental folds can be readily mimicked in peptidomimetics. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 84: 13–22, 2006

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Structure–activity relationship studies of gomesin: Importance of the disulfide bridges for conformation, bioactivities, and serum stability
Authors: Fázio Marcos A. , Oliveira Vani X. , Bulet Philippe , Miranda M. Terêsa M. , Daffre Sirlei , Miranda Antonio
Published: October 2005

Gomesin is an antimicrobial peptide isolated from hemocytes of the Brazilian spider Acanthoscurria gomesiana that contains two disulfide bridges Cys2‐15/Cys6‐11 and presents a β‐hairpin structure. To investigate the role of the disulfide bridges on gomesin conformation, bioactivities, and serum stability, structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies were conducted. Initially, gomesin and variants lacking one or both disulfide bridges were synthesized. CD studies showed that the gomesin structure is very rigid independently of the solvent environment. On the other hand, the linearized analogues adopted secondary structures according to the environment, while the monocyclic disulfide‐bridged peptides had a tendency to adopt a turn structure. The absence of one or both bridges resulted in a decrease in the antimicrobial and hemolytic activities. In addition, serum stability studies revealed that, contrasting to gomesin that was stable even after 48 h of incubation, the linearized analogues were rapidly degraded. The replacement of the disulfide bounds by lactam bridges led to monocyclic and bicyclic compounds. SAR studies indicated that the monocyclic lactam‐bridged analogues tend to assume a α‐helical structure being less potent, hemolytic, and serum stable than the wild‐type gomesin. On the other hand, the bicyclic lactam/disulfide‐bridged analogues displayed a similar conformation and degradation kinetics identical to gomesin. However, the antimicrobial activity appeared to be dependent on the lactam bridge position and size. These findings indicated that (i) the secondary structure plays a pivotal role for the full activity of gomesin; (ii) the antimicrobial and hemolytic activities of gomesin are correlated events; (iii) while at least one of the disulfide bridges is needed for the maintenance of a significant antimicrobial activity of gomesin, both bridges are required for high serum stability and optimal conformation; and finally (iv) the best analogue obtained was the bicyclo (2‐15,6‐11)[Glu2, Cys6,11, Lys15]‐Gm since it is as stable and potent as gomesin. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 84: 205–218, 2006

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Synthesis and characterization of DNA quadruplexes containing T‐tetrads formed by bunch‐oligonucleotides
Authors: Oliviero Giorgia , Amato Jussara , Borbone Nicola , Galeone Aldo , Varra Michela , Piccialli Gennaro , Mayol Luciano
Published: October 2005

The solid phase syntheses of the bunch oligonucleotides 1 and 2 based on the sequences of the natural oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) d(TG2TG2C) (3) and d(CG2TG2T) (4), respectively, attached to a non‐nucleotidic tetrabranched linker, are reported. Bunch‐ODNs 1 and 2 were shown to form more stable monomolecular parallel G‐quadruplexes I and II when compared with their tetramolecular counterparts [d(TG2TG2C)]4 (III) and [d(CG2TG2T)]4 (IV), respectively. The structure and stability of all the synthesized complexes have been investigated by circular dichroism (CD), CD thermal denaturation experiments, and 1H‐NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) experiments at variable temperatures. Particularly, the spectroscopic data confirmed that 1 adopts a T‐tetrad containing parallel‐stranded quadruplex structure I as in the tetramolecular complex III. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 81: 194–201, 2006

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
High‐Pressure Synthesis and Crystal Structure of the New Orthorhombic Polymorph β‐HgB4O7.
Authors: Emme Holger , Weil Matthias , Huppertz Hubert
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
The High‐Pressure Modification of CePtSn — Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties.
Authors: Riecken Jan F. , Heymann Gunter , Soltner Theresa , Hoffmann Rolf‐Dieter , Huppertz Hubert , Johrendt Dirk , Poettgen Rainer
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Preparation, Crystal Structure, Properties, and Electronic Band Structure of TlTaSe3.
Authors: Teske Christoph L. , Bensch Wolfgang , Benea Diana , Minar Jan , Perlov Alexander , Ebert Hubert
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Reinvestigation of Ge4Se9 Based on Single‐Crystal Data.
Authors: Kwak Jung‐Eun , Yun Hoseop
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Transport and Structural Properties of Pure and Cr Doped Li3VO4.
Authors: Massarotti V. , Capsoni D. , Bini M. , Mustarelli P. , Chiodelli G. , Azzoni C. B. , Galinetto P. , Mozzati M. C.
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Hydrogen Desorption Mechanism in a Li—N—H System by Means of the Isotopic Exchange Technique.
Authors: Isobe Shigehito , Ichikawa Takayuki , Hino Satoshi , Fujii Hironobu
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Cr(salen)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Addition of Allylstannane to Aldehydes.
Authors: Shimada Yuya , Katsuki Tsutomu
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Enantioselective Intramolecular Amidation of Sulfamate Esters Catalyzed by Chiral Manganese(III) Schiff‐Base Complexes.
Authors: Zhang Ji , Chan Philip Wai Hong , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activiy of 1H‐Pyrazolo[3,4‐b]pyrazine and ‐pyridine Derivatives.
Authors: Foks Henryk , Pancechowska‐Ksepko Danuta , Kedzia Anna , Zwolska Zofia , Janowiec Mieczyslaw , Augustynowicz‐Kopec Ewa
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Regioselective Nucleophilic Opening of Azetidinium Ions.
Authors: Couty Francois , Durrat Francois , Evano Gwilherm
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A Recyclable Catalytic System Based on a Temperature‐Responsive Catalyst.
Authors: Hamamoto Hiromi , Suzuki Yachiyo , Yamada Yoichi M. A. , Tabata Hidetsugu , Takahashi Hideyo , Ikegami Shiro
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
CrO3/Al2O3: Rapid Oxidation of Alcohols to Carbonyl Compounds in a Solvent‐Free System.
Authors: Kiasat A. R. , Kazemi F. , Nourbakhsh K.
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Osmium‐Catalyzed Dihydroxylation of Alkenes by H2O2 in Room Temperature Ionic Liquid Co‐Catalyzed by VO(acac)2 or MeReO3.
Authors: Johansson Mikael , Linden Auri A. , Baeckvall Jan‐E.
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Catalytic Ester—Amide Exchange Using Group (IV) Metal Alkoxide—Activator Complexes.
Authors: Han Chong , Lee Jonathan P. , Lobkovsky Emil , Porco John A. Jr.
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Molybdatophosphoric Acid as a Catalyst for the Methoxymethylation of Alcohols under Solvent‐Free Conditions.
Authors: Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Shiri Morteza
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Picolinyl Group as an Efficient Alcohol Protecting Group: Cleavage with Zn(OAc)2×2H2O under a Neutral Condition.
Authors: Baek Ju Yuel , Shin Yong‐Joo , Jeon Heung Bae , Kim Kwan Soo
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation of Ketones Catalyzed by Orthometalated Ruthenium(III) 2‐(Arylazo)phenolate Complexes Containing Triphenylarsine.
Authors: Venkatachalam Galmari , Ramesh Rengan
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A Practical and Controllable Enantioselective Synthesis of 2‐Phenyl‐1‐cyclopropanecarboxylates via a Camphor‐Derived Sulfonium Ylide.
Authors: Huang Kun , Huang Zhi‐Zhen
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Intramolecular Pauson—Khand Reactions of Cycloheptynedicobalt Complexes.
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed B. , Green James R. , Masuda Jason
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Substituted 1‐Allyl‐2‐allenylbenzenes via Palladium‐Catalyzed Allylallenylation of Benzyne Derivatives.
Authors: Jeganmohan Masilamani , Cheng Chien‐Hong
Published: October 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.