bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychosocial aspects of donor insemination
Authors: Nielsen Anders Faurskov , Pedersen Bjørn , Lauritsen Jørgen Glenn
Published: November 2007

Background. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the attitudes and opinions among donor insemination recipient couples with respect to the informing of offspring and relatives, the effects of donor insemination on sexual life and marital status, and their concerns about the risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease.

Methods. A questionnaire study design. Three hundred and sixteen (194 Danish and 122 Swedish) couples were included.

Results. Answering rate among the Danish couples was 89% and among the Swedes 75%, (p<0.01).

Fifty percent of the Danish couples and 66% of the Swedes were of the opinion that the treatments should be kept secret from good friends, (p<0.05). Sixty‐seven percent of the Danes and 87% of the Swedes found it important that knowledge about the inseminations was not made common knowledge to all interested parties, (p<0.005).

Parameters in which there were no differences between Danes and Swedes: Fifty‐one percent of the couples would withhold information about the insemination from the child even when it was old enough to understand this information.

Seventy percent of the couples would prefer not to know themselves, whether they had been conceived by donor insemination.

Nineteen percent of the Danish couples would not have accepted donor insemination if the legislation guaranteeing donor anonymity had not been in existence.

Eighty percent thought that their sexual life was unaffected during the course of the treatment. When asked, 95% were still married to the same partner with whom they began the treatment. Eighty‐five percent of the couples were worried about getting a sexually transmitted disease through the treatment.

Conclusion. The results suggest that secrecy about the treatment and donor anonymity have a high priority among Danish and Swedish recipient couples, irrespective of the different legislation in the two countries.
Intracranial blood flow during laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: Kirkinen Perti , Hirvonen Eila , Kauko Minna , Purhonen Slnlkka , Nuutinen Lauri
Published: November 2007

Aim of the study. To examine intracranial blood flow during major laparoscopic gynecologic operation and the effects of a deep Trendelenburg position and pneumoperitoneum on the flow.

Material. Fifteen patients scheduled for laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Methods. Trans‐cranial Doppler examination of blood flow velocity waveforms in the middle cerebral artery during operation.

Results. Trendelenburg position and pneumoperitoneum were followed by a decrease in cardiac output and an increase of central venous pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. No significant changes in the pulsatility index or maximal or mean blood flow velocities in the middle cerebral artery occurred during operations. A negative correlation between percentual changes in the pulsatility index and mean arterial pressure existed.

Conclusions. Uncomplicated laparoscopic hysterectomy is not associated with harmful changes in intracranial circulation in spite of a Trendelenburg position, pneumoperitoneum and changes in the patient's extracranial hemodynamics.
Expectant management of ectopic pregnancy in the presence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
Authors: Yaron Yuval , Lessing Joseph B. , Peyser M. Reuben
Published: November 2007

Cases of coexisting ovarian hyperstimulation and ectopic pregnancy are rare, and pose a difficult diagnostic problem. The routine attempts at laparoscopic diagnosis and treatment of these pregnancies may prove to be hazardous. Such cases may be better managed nonsur‐gically either by methotrexate or, in selected cases, by expectant management while monitoring the p‐hCG level and clinical status.
Influence of fatty fish intake during pregnancy in the polyunsaturated fatty acids of erythrocyte phospholipids in the mother at labor and newborn infant
Authors: Sanjurjo Pablo , Matorras Roberto , Perteagudo Lourdes
Published: November 2007

Background. Assessing the relationship between fatty fish intake, the main source of N‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and maternal and fetal levels in erythrocytes at labor.

Methods. The fatty acid composition was studied in 64 mother‐newborn infant pairs by means of capillar gas chromatography. Following a nutritional inquiry our population was classified as follows: superior intake group (SIG) (> 4 times fatty fish per month; 54.4±20.5 g/day), medium intake group (MIG) (2–4 per month; 16.5±4 g/day) and inferior intake group (IIG) (< 2 times per month; 4.3±4 g/day).

Results. In erythrocyte phospholipids higher levels were observed in SIG in relation to IIG in mothers regarding eicosapentaenoic (0.56±0.3% and 0.39±0.2%; p=0.02) and docosahexaenoic acids (6.14±1.16% and 5.4±0.98%; p=0.02) and in newborn infants regarding eicosapentaenoic acid (0.32±0.24% and 0.17±0.09%; p < 0.01). On the other hand, SIG had lower values of arachidonic acid than IIG in mother (11.15±1.61% vs 12.83±1.86%; p < 0.01) and newborn infants (16.08 ± 3.42% vs 17.89±2.57%; p=0.05).

Conclusions. From a biochemical point of view, and taking into account the pre‐existing literature, it is suggested that a minimum fatty fish intake of twice per month should be recommended (edible portion 85 g.) in order to reach the N‐6/N‐3 quotient usually proposed.
Maternal mortality in a maternity hospital in Turkey
Authors: Tuncer Rahime Akarin , Erkaya Salim , Sipahi Tevfik , Kutlar Irfan
Published: November 2007

Background. To determine the leading causes of maternal mortality in a large maternity hospital and to define priorities regarding this subject throughout Turkey.

Methods. Retrospective, institutional study among 100,531 live births between 1983 and 1992.

Results. Seventeen maternal deaths took place in this institution. Thus, the overall maternal mortality ratio was 16.9 per 100,000. The leading causes of maternal mortality were hemorrhage in seven (41.2%) and pulmonary embolism in six (35.3%) patients. The majority of deaths were observed in the 25–29 and 30–34 age groups and in patients with parity more than two.

Conclusion. The relatively low figure of 16.9/100,000 for maternal mortality may be seen as a promising health index. However, obstetric hemorrhage is still the leading cause of this series. Pregnant women less than 20 years old and greater than 35 years old, and grand multiparous women as well as women with hypertension and heart disease are at high mortality risk. The observation of such cases demands further efforts for improved obstetric care in the hospital and throughout Turkey.
Acute pancreatitis in pregnancy
Authors: Chen Chie‐Pein , Wang Kuo‐Gon , Su Tsung‐Hsien , Yang Yuh‐Cheng
Published: November 2007

Background. Discuss the course of acute pancreatitis in pregnant patients and demonstrate that most attacks of pancreatitis in pregnancy are mild.

Methods. This article is a retrospective case series study. Eight patients with acute pancreatitis during pregnancy were seen in referral‐based obstetric practice at our department in the last 5 years. Five of them had either gallstones or hyperlipidemia. Two patients had both gallstones and hyperlipidemia. One patient was lost to follow‐up at 33 weeks gestation. The others were followed at least one month post‐partum. Conservative treatment was instituted for pancreatitis and a fat‐restricted diet was instituted for hyperlipidemia.

Results. There was no maternal mortality and only one fetal death. Acute pancreatitis occurred in both primipara and multipara patients. Preterm labor or preeclampsia may occur in pregnancy complicated by acute pancreatitis. Most patients experience relief from the pancreatitis soon after delivery. Two patients underwent cesarean section, one was due to fetal distress and the other was elective.

Conclusions. Early diagnosis and treatment is of utmost importance. Gallstones and/or hyperlipidemia seems to have a specific link with acute pancreatitis in pregnancy. Although acute pancreatitis is a rare complication of pregnancy, we present evidence that both maternal and fetal mortality can be minimized if appropriately treated.
Evaluation and the learning curve of the first one hundred laparoscopic hysterectomies
Authors: Härkki‐Siren Päivi , Sjöberg Jari
Published: November 2007

Background. We analyzed the first one hundred laparoscopic hysterectomies done by one senior gynecologist to study the learning curve and complications of this technique.

Methods. One hundred laparoscopic hysterectomies done for uterine fibroid (64%), menorrhagia (20%), adenomyosis or endometriosis (10%), cervical dysplasia (3%) and endometrial cancer (3%) were studied.

Results. No conversion to laparotomy was needed. The weight of the uterus ranged from 70 to 470 grams (mean 206 g) and the operating time ranged from 45 to 245 minutes (mean 109 min). The mean operating time was reduced from 180 to 75 minutes. The uterine weight and the weight of the patient had a positive correlation to operating time. The use of automatic staplers or clips did not reduce the operating time. Ten complications occurred: one perforation of the urinary bladder, five bleedings and four pelvic infections.

Conclusion. The operating time was clearly shortened during the first one hundred laparoscopic hysterectomies. The rate of the complications did not fall similarly. Technical complications (bladder perforation and intraoperative bleeding) occurred in the beginning. Complications like infection and bleeding do not seem to disappear with experience. Laparoscopic hysterectomy appears to be as safe as abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy and the postoperative convalescence time is short. It is clearly an acceptable alternative to hysterectomy.
Book Review
Authors: Bergsjo Per
Published: November 2007

O'Dowd MJ, Philipp EE. The History of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 710 pages, illustrated. New York, London: The Parthenon Publishing Group, 1994. Price: GBP 65.

Waaldijk K. Step‐by‐step surgery of vasicovaginal fistulas. A full‐color atlas. 103 pages, figures. Edinburgh: Campion Press Limited, 1994. Price not stated.

Mansel RE, ed. Advances in the study of benign breast disease. 280 pages, tables, figures. Parthenon Publishing 1994. Price £38.00.
Age at First Pregnancy and the Viral Etiology of Cervical Neoplasia
Authors: Burger Matthé P.M. , Wilterdink Jan B.
Published: November 2007

In a retrospective study of cervical neoplasia, the relative risk estimate (with 95% confidence limits) of a first pregnancy before 22 years of age was 2.6 (1.41;5.12), with regard to the herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection 6 (2.05;23.81) and with regard to the cytomegalovirus ICMV) infection 2 (1.07;3.85). There was no relation between gravidity and cervical neoplasia. After eliminating the confounding effect of the HSV and the CMV infection, the relative risk for cervical neoplasia of a first pregnancy before 22 years of age was estimated to be 2.17 (1.24; 3.80). There was no evidence of a tumor‐promoting role of low age at first pregnancy in the possible neoplastic outcome of the HSV and CMV infections. The association between low age at first pregnancy and cervical neoplasia presumably results from the association between a low age at first pregnancy and the occurrence of a causal infectious agent other than HSV and CMV.
The ASAM and Green Spring Alcohol and Drug Detoxification and Rehabilitation Criteria for Utilization Review
Authors: Book Jonathan , Harbin Henry , Marques Clarissa , Silverman Chip , Lizanich‐Aro Suzanne , Lazarus Arthur
Published: November 2007

The authors examine the use of two sets of criteria, both dealing with substance abuse level‐of‐care determinations, yet having two different functions, and frequently yielding different decisions: The Green Spring Health Services (GSHS) Medical Necessity Criteria for Utilization Management and The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Patient Placement Criteria. The GSHS criteria are used for rendering medical‐necessity determinations for individuals covered under a managed care program. These determinations involve assigning the least restrictive and least intensive level of care capable of meeting the patient's needs through the use of the complete continuum of treatment service options, including outpatient detoxification, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, and supervised residential settings. The ASAM criteria are oriented toward treatment planning within substance abuse settings to coordinate patient placement between levels of care within a treatment program.
Acupuncture as an Adjunct to Methadone Treatment Services
Authors: Wells Elizabeth A. , Jackson Ron , Diaz O. Rachel , Stanton Viki , Saxon Andrew J. , Krupski Antoinette
Published: November 2007

The authors randomly assigned 60 subjects entering methadone maintenance treatment to receive “specific” or “nonspecific” (placebo) auricular acupuncture; patients were followed for 6 months. The two groups did not differ in acupuncture attendance, self‐reported withdrawal symptoms, or drug use, by self‐report or urinalysis. Their reports of heroin and cocaine cravings differed in a direction opposite to expectation, with greater cravings in the specific than the nonspecific group. The combined acupuncture groups had fewer cocaine‐positive urine results than a no‐acupuncture historical comparison group over the 6 months. Results are discussed in relation to recruitment for such studies, selection of an appropriate acupuncture placebo, and the need to control for potentially confounding variables in future studies.
Alexithymia in Cocaine Abusers
Authors: Keller Daniel S. , Carroll Kathleen M. , Nich Charla , Rounsaville Bruce J.
Published: November 2007

Using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, the authors evaluated prevalence and significance of alexithymia in 93 ambulatory cocaine abusers treated with psychotherapy (cognitive‐behavioral relapse prevention) and pharmacotherapy (desipramine), alone and in combination. Thirty‐nine percent of the sample scored in the alexithymic range; alexithymic and nonalexithymic subjects did not differ significantly on demographic variables, severity or pattern of cocaine use, substance‐related problems, or treatment history; alexithymic subjects reported significantly more current distress, but did not differ from nonalexithymic subjects in rates of Axis I disorders or clinician‐rated evaluations; although there was no difference in overall treatment retention or cocaine outcomes, alexithymic subjects had better outcomes when treated with clinical management over cognitive‐behavioral relapse prevention, a finding consistent with the theory that suggests alexithymic patients have difficulty in treatments requiring identification of affects and cognitions.
Transdermal Nicotine and Drug Craving
Authors: Wiseman Eve J. , McMillan Donald E.
Published: November 2007

The authors observed the effect of transdermally administered nicotine on the drug craving of 15 patients with nicotine dependence and recent cocaine abuse. Transdermal nicotine and placebo patches were applied in a crossover, double‐blind design, and outcome was assessed by visual analog scales to measure drug craving. Nicotine patches significantly reduced craving for cigarettes without affecting cigarette use. There was a nonsignificant trend for nicotine patches to reduce cocaine craving more than placebo patches.
Solid and Microcellular Polylactide-Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites
Authors: Pilla S. , Kramschuster A. , Gong S. , Chandra A. , Turng L.-S.
Published: November 2007

In this study, polylactide (PLA)-multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites were melt-compounded using a twin-screw extruder. Solid and microcellular tensile bar specimens were produced via conventional and microcellular injection molding, respectively. Various characterization techniques were applied to study the static and dynamic mechanical properties, degree of MWCNT dispersion, cell morphology, and crystallization behavior. The addition of a small amount of MWCNTs led to a decrease in the cell size and an increase in the cell density of the microcellular PLA specimens. A transmission electron microscopy analysis of the PLA-MWCNT specimens revealed a higher degree of MWCNT dispersion in the microcellular PLA-MWCNT composite compared with its solid counterpart, indicating that the microcellular injection molding process further dispersed the MWCNTs. For both solid and microcellular specimens, the addition of 1.5 wt% MWCNTs reduced the specific strength, specific toughness and strain-at-break while exerting less impact on the specific modulus. The storage modulus was not affected significantly with the addition of MWCNTs, but was found to be higher for the microcellular specimens compared with their solid counterparts. Finally, the crystallinity of PLA increased with the addition of MWCNTs.
Association between myeloid malignancies and acquired deficit in protein 4.1R: A retrospective analysis of six patients
Authors: Alanio‐Bréchot Cécile , Schischmanoff Pierre‐Olivier , Fénéant‐Thibault Madeleine , Cynober Thérèse , Tchernia Gil , Delaunay Jean , Garçon Loïc
Published: November 2007

Constitutional deficit in the erythroid protein 4.1 (4.1R), a structural component of the erythrocyte membrane, is implicated in hereditary elliptocytosis. Acquired deficit in protein 4.1R have been rarely described in myelodysplastic syndromes. Here, we report a series of six patients presenting a myelodysplastic or a myeloproliferative disease in association with an elliptocytosis curve on osmotic gradient ektacytometry and a significant decrease in protein 4.1R level. We confirm that deficit in protein 4.1R is recurrent in myeloid malignancies and should be particularly investigated when deletion del (20q) is present, since we found this chromosomal abnormalityin four out of six patients. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A familial case of achondrogenesis type II caused by a dominant COL2A1 mutation and “patchy” expression in the mosaic father
Authors: Forzano F. , Lituania M. , Viassolo A. , Superti‐Furga V. , Wildhardt G. , Zabel B. , Faravelli F.
Published: November 2007

Achondrogenesis type II (ACG2) is the most severe disorder that can be produced by dominant mutations in COL2A1. We report on four pregnancies of an apparently healthy, nonconsanguineous young couple. The father had scoliosis as a child, and has slight body disproportion with short trunk. The first child was born at 32 weeks and died neonatally. In the second pregnancy, short limbs and fetal hygroma were noted on ultrasound at 17 weeks' gestation. Similar findings were observed in the third fetus. Clinical, radiological, and histological evaluation of the fetuses after termination of the pregnancies showed findings consistent with ACG2. Molecular analysis of genomic DNA extracted from amniotic cells of the second and third fetuses revealed heterozygosity for a 10370G > T missense mutation (G346V) in the COL2A1 gene. This mutation was also found in the father, as a mosaic. The couple had a fourth pregnancy, and at 11 weeks fetal hydrops with a septated cystic hygroma were obvious. DNA from CVS demonstrated the same COL2A1 mutation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multilayer coating by drawing a thin plastic fiber through a polymer solution
Authors: Oda Masaaki , Suga Shinichiro , Yoshii Hidefumi , Furuta Takeshi
Published: November 2007

Continuous entrainment of a core fiber through the free surfaces of various polymer solutions was applied as a multilayer coating method of the fiber. This method, by use of polymer solutions of different refractive indices (RIs), will ultimately result in a graded‐index polymer optical fiber (GI‐POF) with an established radial RI distribution. The coating behavior of polymer solutions of different compositions of monomers and polymers was studied by means of a newly developed three‐stage coating equipment. Data correlation showed that the dimensionless coating thickness, e∞, was proportionally dependent on the square root of the capillary number, Ca0.5. The coating thickness could be controlled by changing the composition of the polymer solution. It was also found that the multilayer coating method was able to produce fibers with excellent circularity. Copyright © 2007 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel multimonomer‐grafted polypropylene preparation and application in polypropylene/poly(vinyl chloride) blends
Authors: Hou Lianlong , Zhao Min , Liu Hongzhi , Yang Guisheng
Published: November 2007

A novel grafted polymer was prepared in one step through free‐radical melt grafting in a single‐screw extruder. It was shown that the addition of styrene (St) to the melt‐grafting system as a comonomer could significantly enhance the grafting degree of methyl methacrylate (MMA) onto polypropylene (PP) and reduce the degradation of the PP matrix by means of Fourier transform infrared and melt flow rate testing, respectively. Then, the potential of using multimonomer‐grafted PP, which was designated PP‐g‐(St‐co‐MMA), as the compatibilizer in PP/poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) blends was also examined. In comparison with PP/PVC blends, the average size of the dispersed phase was greatly reduced in grafted polypropylene (gPP)/PVC blends because of the addition of the PP‐g‐(St‐co‐MMA) graft copolymer. The tensile strength of the gPP/PVC blends increased significantly, and the impact strength was unchanged from that of the pure PP/PVC blends. The results of differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy suggested that the compatibility of the PP/PVC blends was improved. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation and conductivity of substituted germanic heteropoly acids polyethylene glycol hybrid materials
Authors: Zhao Shouli , Wu Qingyin , Huan Xuelu , Zhao Lichuan
Published: November 2007

In this work, the polyethylene glycol (PEG) hybrid materials composited with substituted germanic heteropoly acids were prepared. Infrared (IR) spectra revealed that the Keggin structure characteristic of the GeM11VO405− anion were present in the hybrid materials. At room temperature (20°C), the conductivity of the products is 4.07 × 10−3 S cm−1 and 2.12 × 10−3 S cm−1, respectively. The results indicated that the conductivity of substituted germanic heteropoly acids PEG hybrid materials is higher than that of the corresponding pure substituted germanic heteropoly acids. According to the experimental results, we proposed a possible mechanism of the proton conduction of the hybrid materials. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Influence of compatibilizers on the rheological, mechanical, and morphological properties of epoxidized natural rubber/polypropylene thermoplastic vulcanizates
Authors: Thitithammawong A. , Noordermeer J. W. M. , Kaesaman A. , Nakason C.
Published: November 2007

In polymeric materials combining desirable properties, compatibility between constituent components of incompatible blends is necessary. The influence of two types of blend compatibilizers, a graft copolymer of maleic anhydride and polypropylene (PP) and phenolic‐modified PP, on the rheological, mechanical, and morphological properties of epoxidized natural rubber/PP thermoplastic vulcanizates was investigated at varied concentrations. All properties improved in a range of loading levels of compatibilizers at 0–7.5 wt % of PP. This was attributed to a chemical interaction between the different phases caused by the functionalized compatibilizers. Increasing chemical interaction between interfaces improved the interfacial tension and led to a microscale size of the dispersion. A decreasing trend in the properties was observed at compatibilizer levels higher than 7.5 wt % of PP because of segregation, which led to a third blend component dispersed in the PP matrix. The compatibilizers behaved as lubricants in the polymer melt flow. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation of multinuclear microparticles using a polymerization in emulsion process
Authors: Salaün F. , Devaux E. , Bourbigot S. , Rumeau P.
Published: November 2007

A new microencapsulation method, in which a paraffin medium and small sub‐micron spheres were encapsulated by an amino resin has been established. These multinuclear microparticles were made by polymerization in emulsion and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and interfacial tension measurements. This process is based on several emulsion mixings following Torza and Mason's approach, in which we combined the characteristics of a coacervation with a conventional interfacial reaction and an in situ polymerization followed by a water in oil in water emulsion. The inner phase of the microcapsules consisted of a mixture of paraffin and microspheres of poly(vinyl) alcohol/hydrated salt crosslinked by methylene diisocyanate. The encapsulation mechanism is based on the liquid/solid–liquid separation of methoxylolmelamines and will be described in this study to explain the surface morphology. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
The effect of matrix composition on the properties of cellulosic fibers–polyethylene composites
Authors: Katsoulotos G. , Tarantili P. A.
Published: November 2007

The solution/precipitation method was used for the preparation of polyethylene (PE)/cellulosic fibers composites. Blends of modified linear low density PE [linear low density PE‐grafted maleic anhydride (LLDPE‐g‐MAH)] with low density PE (LDPE) were used as matrices for the aforementioned composites. Blends of LDPE with a copolymer of LDPE and acrylic acid (AA)/n‐butyl acrylate (n‐BA) [(AA/n‐BA)–LDPE] were also studied for the same purpose. The reinforcing effect of cellulosic fibers in terms of tensile strength is more enhanced when mixtures of the modified polar polymer with pure PE were used as matrices, as compared with that corresponding to matrices consisting of modified PE alone. Regarding the Izod impact strength, composites of LLDPE‐g‐MAH presented the best performance with an improvement of 135% in comparison with specimens consisting of LDPE matrix, whereas composites of (AA/n‐BA)‐LDPE matrix showed a modest improvement of their impact resistance. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Atomic force microscopy analysis of morphology of low density polyethylene influenced by Al nano‐ and microparticles
Authors: Huang Xingyi , Jiang Pingkai , Kim Chonung , Duan Jingkuan , Wang Genlin
Published: November 2007

Spherulites are important morphological forms in semicrystalline polymers. Polarized optical microscope (POM) is a powerful tool for observing the spherulite morphology of semicrystalline polymers and their composites, but it can not resolve spherulites with average size smaller than 5 μm and also not be used to study the opaque nanocomposites film samples. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is an excellent tool for observing spherulites comparatively small in size and not restricted by the transparency of the samples. In this work, AFM was used to investigate the impact of Al nano‐ and microparticles on spherulitic textures, lamellar thickness, and thickness distribution of low density polyethylene (LDPE). It was found that the spherulitic texture was seriously disordered by the nanoparticles, and that the LDPE in nanocomposites was found only to have poorly developed spherulite structure. The incorporation of microparticles can facilitate the growth of the lamellae but decrease the size of the spherulites. Furthermore, the lamellar thickness and its distribution did not alter so much with the addition of nano‐ and microparticles. Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WXRD) was used to determine the crystal structure of LDPE, and the results show that both Al nanoparticles and microparticles do not change the unit cell parameters. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Dopants dependent ion sensitivity of polypyrrole‐modified electrode: Case of pH sensing
Authors: Pandey P. C. , Singh G.
Published: November 2007

The polypyrrole (PPY)‐modified electrode made through electropolymerization of pyrrole monomer is found sensitive to different cations depending on the dopants present within microstructure of polymeric domain. When p‐toluenesulfonate (PTS) anion is doped, the modified electrode is sensitive to proton whereas, under similar conditions, in the presence of tetraphenylborate (TPB) anion, the same is sensitive to zinc ion. A comparative study on ion sensing behavior of PPY‐modified electrodes is reported in this communication. The electro‐polymerization of PTS‐doped PPY‐modified electrode, made under both potentiodynamic and potentiostatic conditions, are studied. The modified electrode is characterized by scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry and compared with those recorded for TPB‐doped PPY‐modified electrode made under similar conditions. The results based on scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry suggested; (i) dependence of microstructure based on mode of electropolymerization; (ii) dopant‐dependant ion sensitivity of PPY‐modified electrode, (iii) variation in the redox behavior of the PPY‐modified electrode based on dopants and mode of electropolymerization. Typical results on pH sensing together stability of PPY‐based pH sensor are reported and compared with those recorded for polyaniline (PANI)‐based pH sensor. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Cyclic ureas as solvents for esterification of poly(vinyl alcohol) and vinyl acetate‐vinyl alcohol copolymers with acid chlorides
Authors: Fernández M. D. , Fernández M. J.
Published: November 2007

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVAL) and vinyl acetate‐vinyl alcohol copolymers (VAVAL) were esterified with 3,5‐dinitrobenzoyl chloride using the cycled urea N,N′‐dimethylpropyleneurea (1,3‐dimethyl‐3,4,5,6‐tetrahydro‐2(1H)‐pyrimidinone) (DMPU) as the solvent. Vinyl alcohol‐vinyl‐3,5‐dinitrobenzoate copolymers (VALVDNB) and vinyl acetate‐vinyl‐3,5‐dinitrobenzoate copolymers (VAVDNB) were obtained. High degrees of esterification were obtained when PVAL was esterified (86%). The degree of transformation was determined by 1H‐NMR as well as by chemical analysis, and the structure of the resulting polymers by means of IR spectroscopy and 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR. The microstructure of PVA, PVAL, VAVAL copolymers and VALVDNB copolymers were determined from 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR techniques. The sequence distributions for VAVAL copolymers prepared by base‐catalyzed transesterification of PVA were blocky, while the distributions were close to random for VALVDNB copolymers obtained by esterification of PVAL. Thermal properties were studied by DSC. The Tg values of VAVAL, VALVDNB, and VAVDNB copolymers as a function of copolymer compositions were determined. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Comparative study on the effect of manchurian ash and larch wood flour on mechanical property, morphology, and rheology of HDPE/wood flour composites
Authors: Li Bin , Jiang Hongli , Guo Lihua , Shi Hengchong
Published: November 2007

Effects of wood flour species and polyethylene grafted with maleic anhydride (MA‐PE) on mechanical properties and morphology and torque rheology of high density polyethylene (HDPE)/wood flour composites have been comparatively investigated. The results demonstrated that without compatbilizer, wood flour species exhibited little influence on mechanical properties. In the presence of MA‐PE, the mechanical properties were obviously increased. On the basis of the mechanical property data obtained from wood flour extracted by different methods, the extractant was an important factor affecting the mechanical properties. Manchurian ash and larch wood flours extracted by hot water presented almost the same mechanical properties, and larch wood flour was the most beneficial to enhance the mechanical properties. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the atomic force microscopy (AFM) further confirmed that interfacial adhesion and dispersion of manchurian ash wood flour in composites were effectively improved by MA‐PE. The torque results demonstrated that the chemical reactions of maleic anhydride groups on MA‐PE with hydroxyl on cellulose in wood flour probably took place due to the increase of the equilibrium torque and the appearance of the torque peak, and larch wood flour was more beneficial to prepare the composites containing the higher wood flour content. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and aqueous solution behaviors of sodium sulfonate‐terminated dendritic poly(ester‐amine)
Authors: Xu Dong‐Mei , Zhao Zhong‐Ling , Wang Ai‐Feng , Zhang Ke‐Da , Zhu Xiu‐Lin
Published: November 2007

Sodium sulfonate‐terminated dendritic poly(ester‐amine) (SPEA) was synthesized by sulfonation of acrylic double bond‐terminated dendritic poly(ester‐amine) (APEA) with sodium hydrogen sulfite (NaHSO3) in mixture of diglycol and 2‐butanone under normal pressure. The structure of SPEA was characterized by IR, 1H‐NMR, and elemental analysis. SPEA was water‐soluble. 1.0–40.0% (mass) SPEA aqueous solutions appeared as dilatant fluid. When pH value varied from 1.5 to 12.0, the viscosity of 1–5% (mass) SPEA aqueous solutions changed very small, and the electric conductivity almost kept stable within pH 3.0–10.0. The relationship between the viscosity and the concentration of SPEA water solutions was similar to that of NaCl water solutions. The surface tension of SPEA water solutions was lower than that of polyethylene glycol 2000 water solutions with the same concentration. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of polyamide 6 and ethylene‐co‐butyl acrylate blends
Authors: Balamurugan G. Prasath , Maiti S. N.
Published: November 2007

The nonisothermal melt‐crystallization behavior of PA6 and EBA blends at varying EBA content was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry at different scanning rates. Several macrokinetic models such as Avrami, Jeziorny, Ozawa, Liu, Ziabicki, and Tobin were applied to analyze the crystallization behavior thoroughly under nonisothermal conditions. The Avrami and Tobin model predicted that, for pure PA6 and PA6/EBA blends, simultaneous growth of all forms of crystal structures such as fibrillar, disc‐like, and spherulitic proceeds at an increasing nucleation rate. However, when applied to blends for isothermal crystallization, the Avrami model predicted that the crystallization process is diffusion‐controlled for pure PA6 and PA6/EBA blend containing higher content of EBA (50 phr), where the nylon‐6 chains were able to diffuse freely to crystallize under isothermal conditions. Liu model predicted that, at unit crystallization time, a higher cooling rate should be used to obtain a higher degree of crystallinity for both PA6 and PA6/EBA blends. The kinetic crystallizability of PA6 in the blends calculated using Ziabicki's approach varies depending upon the nucleation density and PA6‐rich regions present in the blend compositions. Nucleation activity of the blends estimated by Dobreva and Gutzowa method reveals that the EBA particles are inert at lower concentrations of EBA and do not act as nucleating agent for PA6 molecules in the blends. The activation energy of nonisothermal crystallization, calculated using Augis–Bennett, Kissinger, and Takhor methods indicated that the activation energy is slightly lower for the blends when compared to the neat PA6. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Microgel formation and thermo‐mechanical properties of UV‐curing unsaturated polyester acrylates
Authors: Nebioglu Ahmet , Soucek Mark D.
Published: November 2007

The effect of internal and terminal unsaturation on the properties of the acrylated polyester films was investigated. Four types of acrylated polyester resin were prepared using adipic acid, maleic anhydride, neopentyl glycol, trimethylolpropane, and acrylic acid. Terminal and internal double bond content as well as branching was adjusted by the molar quantities of trimethylolpropane and maleic anhydride, respectively. A reactive diluent, trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), was also used. A three‐factor, three‐level Box‐Behnken design was used to investigate complex nonlinear relationships. Dynamic mechanical, fracture toughness, and tensile properties were evaluated with respect to the amount of terminal and internal unsaturation, and reactive diluent concentration. It was found that microgel formation extensively affects the final UV‐cured film properties. Small quantities of microgels function as micro‐support units, whereas high extent of microgelation causes phase separation through cluster formation and hence, decreases the mechanical properties. It is essential to control the extent of microgelation and phase separation to optimize product performance. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Isolation and functional analysis of a 24‐residue linear α‐helical antimicrobial peptide from Korean blackish cicada, Cryptotympana dubia (Homoptera)
Authors: Park Doo‐Sang , Leem Jae Yoon , Suh Eun Young , Hur Jang Hyun , Oh Hyun‐Woo , Park Ho‐Yong
Published: November 2007

A new antimicrobial peptide, cryptonin, was isolated and characterized from the adult Korean blackish cicada, Cryptotympana dubia. It consists of 24 amino acid residues and has a molecular weight of 2,704 Da on mass spectroscopy. The predicted α‐helical structure analysis and increased helix percent in 40% trifloroethanol of cryptonin suggests that it belongs to the typical linear α‐helix forming peptide. Binding of the biotin‐labeled cryptonin at the surface of E. coli cells and increased influx of propidium iodide in E. coli after cryptonin treatment indicates that it kills microbial cells by binding bacterial cell surfaces and disrupting the cell permeability. Cryptonin showed strong antibacterial (MIC 1.56–25 μg/ml) and antifungal (MIC 3.12–50 μg/ml) activities against tested bacteria and fungi including two antibiotic‐resistant bacterial strains; methicilin‐resistant S. aureus and vancomycin‐resistant Enterococci (MIC 25 μg/ml, each). Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 66:204–213, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An investigation into the native‐like properties of de novo designed cavitand‐based four‐helix bundle proteins
Authors: Huttunen‐Hennelly Heidi E. K. , Sherman John C.
Published: November 2007

We investigated the hydrophobic packing of two previously designed caviteins, LG2 and LG3, which differ by one Gly in the linker regions between the peptide sequence and the cavitand scaffold. We sought to diminish the putative native‐like properties of LG2 and LG3, and see if we could diagnose a change in the conformational specificity of the hydrophobic core. We replaced the leucine residues with norleucine residues at the hydrophobic positions in LG2 and LG3, to create NG2 and NG3, respectively. LG2 exhibited more dispersion, but less sharp signals than LG3 in the amide region of its 1H NMR spectrum. NG3 and NG2 were found to be slightly less helical and significantly less stable toward guanidine hydrochloride compared with their reference caviteins. The 1H NMR spectrum of NG2 was very similar to that of LG2, whereas there was a noticeable loss in the number and sharpness of the amide signals of NG3 compared with LG3. These data suggest that LG3 is very well packed; a loss in conformational specificity resulted from replacement of the leucine residues with norleucine residues. In contrast, the packing and dynamics of the hydrophobic core in LG2 were similar to those in NG2 (both more modest than LG3), as their 1H NMR spectra were virtually indistinguishable. Overall, substitution of leucine by norleucine provided an efficient, convenient, and informative probe of the packing and dynamics of our caviteins' hydrophobic cores. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 90: 37–50, 2008.

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
γ‐Zein secondary structure in solution by circular dichroism
Authors: Bicudo Tatiana C. , Bicudo Rogério C. , Forato Lucimara A. , Beltramini Leila M. , Batista Luiz A. R. , Filho Rubens Bernardes , Colnago Luiz A.
Published: November 2007

The proline‐rich N‐terminal domain of γ‐zein has been reported in relevant processes, which include its ability to cross the cell membranes. Evidences indicate that synthetic hexapeptide (PPPVHL), naturally found in N‐terminal portion of γ‐zein, can adopt the polyproline II (PPII) conformation in aqueous solution. The secondary structure of γ‐zein in maize protein bodies had been analyzed by solid state Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies. However, it was not possible to measure PPII content in physiological environment since the β‐sheet and PPII signals overlap in both solid state techniques. Here, the secondary structure of γ‐zein has been analyzed by circular dichroism in SDS aqueous solution with and without ditiothreitol (DTT), and in 60% of 2‐propanol and water with DTT. The results show that γ‐zein has high helical content in all solutions. The PPII conformation was present at about 7% only in water/DTT solution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 175–178, 2008.

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
Web‐based analysis for student‐generated complex genetic profiles
Authors: Kass David H. , LaRoe Robert
Published: November 2007

A simple, rapid method for generating complex genetic profiles using Alu‐based markers was recently developed for students primarily at the undergraduate level to learn more about forensics and paternity analysis. On the basis of the Cold Spring Harbor Allele Server, which provides an excellent tool for analyzing a single Alu variant, we present a new web‐based system for analyzing several genetic loci, including Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium, genetic drift, and Fst genetic‐distance calculations, as well as analyzing eight loci profiles simultaneously for forensic purposes. By analyzing several loci, students can determine more precisely the relatedness of populations as well as develop a greater appreciation for the use of DNA markers in forensic analysis by concurrently assessing the frequencies of genotypes for eight genetic loci.
Developing a new interdisciplinary lab course for undergraduate and graduate students: Plant cells and proteins
Authors: Jez Joseph M. , Schachtman Daniel P. , Berg R. Howard , Taylor Christopher G. , Chen Sixue , Hicks Leslie M. , Jaworski Jan G. , Smith Thomas J. , Nielsen Erik , Pikaard Craig S.
Published: November 2007

Studies of protein function increasingly use multifaceted approaches that span disciplines including recombinant DNA technology, cell biology, and analytical biochemistry. These studies rely on sophisticated equipment and methodologies including confocal fluorescence microscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray crystallography that are beyond the scope of traditional laboratory courses. To equip the advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students with an enabling base of knowledge and initial experience with advanced protein research methodologies, a laboratory course entitled Plant Cells and Proteins was developed in a partnership between Washington University and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis. In this one semester course, 10–12 students obtain hands‐on experience with plant tissue culture, gene transformation, subcellular localization of fluorescent recombinant proteins using confocal microscopy, purification of affinity‐tagged recombinant proteins, isolation of total protein extracts, enzymatic assays, one‐ and two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis, MALDI‐TOF and ESI‐Q‐TOF mass spectrometry, protein crystallization, and X‐ray diffraction. The course is taught as a series of modules, each led by an expert researcher. Students are evaluated based on a series of graded written reports and tests of their mastery of key concepts, interpretations, and the limitations of the experimental methods.
Irritable bowel syndrome: symptomatic treatment versus integrative psychotherapy
Authors: Kraft Tom , Kraft David
Published: November 2007

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder thought to affect 10% to 20% of the population worldwide. Essentially the paper is in two parts. The first part of the paper investigates the world literature and a variety of up to date treatment approaches which, with the exception of cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) which also has beneficial effects on patients' overall mood and bloating, are designed to manage individual symptoms of IBS. The review examines the efficacy of pharmaceutical agents (antispasmodics, antidepressants, antidiarrhoeals and the new serotonergic modifying agonists/antagonists), dietary control (fibre, lactose free products, partially hydrolyzed guar gum, peppermint oil, prebiotics and probiotics), CBT (with or without the use of an audiotape) and the standard gut‐directed hypnotherapy approach of the Manchester Model.

In the second half, in sharp contrast to the symptomatic treatments, the authors give a detailed account of a 54‐year‐old female patient with refractory IBS in a setting of a phobic anxiety state. The treatment approach – a combination of psychotherapy and hypnosis – was designed to effect a complete recovery rather than to manage individual symptoms. This case study exemplifies the complex nature of IBS symptoms in relation to the patient's emotions. It was necessary for her to work through these emotional problems so that she did not need to express her intense hostility through her bowels. These problems were expressed both in the psychotherapy sessions as well as in the hypnotherapy. The patient made a full recovery and this was maintained at the follow‐up a year later. Copyright © 2007 British Society of Experimental & Clinical Hypnosis. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical insight into the influences of α‐substituents in aliphatic aldehydes on the enantioselectivities of aldol reactions
Authors: Fan Jian‐Fen , He Liang‐Jun , Sun Yun‐Peng
Published: November 2007

Density functional theory has been applied to study the influences of α‐substituents in aliphatic aldehydes on the enantioselectivities of the (S)‐proline‐catalyzed direct aldol reactions. Reaction scenarios of three kinds of aliphatic aldehydes were investigated. Four transition states associated with the stereocontrolling step of each reaction have been obtained. They are corresponding to the syn and anti arrangements of enamine intermediates and the si and re attacks to the carbonyl group of an aldehyde. The solvent effect of DMSO was investigated using self‐consistent reaction field method based on the polarizable continuum model. The computed energies of transition states explain the origin of the catalysis and enantioselectivities for these (S)‐proline‐catalyzed aldol reactions and reveal the influences of α‐substituents in aliphatic aldehydes on the enantioselectivities of these reactions. Chirality, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Density Functional Study on the Hydrolysis Process of Non‐classical Transplatin(II) with Two Same Planar Heterocycle Amines
Authors: YUAN Qing‐Hui , ZHOU Li‐Xin
Published: November 2007

In the present work, the hydrolysis process of non‐classical transplatin(II) with two same planar heterocycle amines has been studied using hybrid density functional theory (B3LYP) and IEF‐PCM solvation models. Optimizations were performed at the B3LYP level using a combined basis set of (LanL2DZ+6‐31+G(d,p)) with single‐point energy evaluations using the B3LYP/6‐31++G(3df,2pd) approach in vacuo and in aqueous solution. For the obtained structures of reactants, intermediates, transition states, and products, both thermodynamic (reaction energies and Gibbs energies) and kinetic (reaction barriers) characteristics were estimated. In comparison with cisplatin, decreased activation energies were obtained. The result implies that the non‐classical transplatin with two same planar heterocycle amines increases the equatorial steric effect and lowers reaction barriers, which may assist in designing novel Pt‐based anticancer drugs.