bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous regeneration of recurrent laryngeal nerve following long‐term vocal fold paralysis in humans: Histologic evidence
Authors: Chen Donghui , Chen Shicai , Wang Wei , Zhang Chuansen , Zheng Hongliang
Published: April 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To validate the occurrence of spontaneous regeneration of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) in patients with symptomatic vocal fold paralysis (VFP).

Study Design:

Histologic study.

Methods:

Between June 2008 and February 2009, 29 patients with symptomatic unilateral VFP caused by thyroid surgery were continuously enrolled in this study, with 30 normal RLNs serving as the control. The denervation course was from 7 to 74 months. Intraoperative exploration was performed to identify the sites and types of RLN lesions. The status of RLN regeneration was detected by histologic examination, and the number of myelinated axons was counted.

Results:

Intraoperative exploration showed that RLN was transected in 24 cases, and the continuity of the RLN stump was recognized in the five other cases. Connective tissue connected the distal and the proximal ends of all transected RLNs under a surgical microscope. Light microscopy showed varying numbers (17–259) of abnormal myelinated axons in these injured RLNs; the maximum was less than 40% of those of normal RLNs (658 ± 79). Electron microscopy also demonstrated that abnormal myelinated axons with small diameters commonly existed in all injured RLNs, with dark myelin clumps without axons (Bungner bands) and fibrotic components.

Conclusions:

The present study demonstrates that a varying degree of spontaneous RLN regeneration is substantially engaged in the process of subclinical reinnervation following laryngeal denervation in humans, which may account for different clinical characteristics and outcomes of VFP.
Salvage total pharyngolaryngectomy and free jejunum transfer
Authors: Miyamoto Shimpei , Sakuraba Minoru , Nagamatsu Shogo , Hayashi Ryuichi
Published: April 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The objective of this retrospective study was to examine the safety and efficacy of free jejunum transfer after total pharyngolaryngectomy after radiotherapy (RT) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) to the neck for patients with recurrent or second primary disease.

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Methods:

A total of 313 patients were divided into two groups on the basis of a history of RT to the neck: 86 patients had received RT and 227 patients had not. The patients who had received RT were subdivided on the basis of the type of previous treatment: those who had received RT alone (32 patients) and those who had undergone concurrent CRT (54 patients). Postoperative complications were compared between RT and non‐RT groups and between the RT‐alone and CRT groups.

Results:

The rates of complications did not differ significantly between the RT and non‐RT groups, but the rates of anastomotic thrombosis and carotid rupture were slightly but not significantly higher in the RT group than in the non‐RT group. The overall complication rate did not differ between the RT‐alone group and the CRT group.

Conclusions:

Pharyngolaryngectomy and free jejunum transfer can be performed safely, even in patients who have received RT, without significant increases in morbidity or mortality. However, a risk of carotid rupture due to pharyngocutaneous fistula remains in patients who have received RT, and prevention and early detection of fistulas are crucial. The risk of postoperative complications is not higher with CRT than with RT alone.
Medicinal leeches and the microsurgeon: A four‐year study, clinical series and risk benefit review
Authors: Whitaker Iain S. , Josty Ian C. , Hawkins Simon , Azzopardi Ernest , Naderi Naghmeh , Graf Joerg , Damaris Lisa , Lineaweaver William C. , Kon Moshe
Published: April 2011

Background: There are case reports and small series in the literature relating to the use of medicinal leeches by plastic surgeons; however, larger series from individual units are rare. The aim of this article is to present a comprehensive 4‐year case series of the use of medicinal leeches, discuss the current evidence regarding indications, risks, and benefits and highlight the recent updates regarding leech speciation. Methods: Patients prescribed leeches in a 4‐year period (July 2004–2008) were collated from hospital pharmacy records (N = 35). The number of leeches used, demographic, clinical, and microbiological details were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Thirty‐five patients were treated with leeches. The age range was 2 to 98 years (mean = 49.3). Leeches were most commonly used for venous congestion in pedicled flaps and replantations. Blood transfusions were necessary in 12 cases (34%) [mean = 2.8 units, range 2–5 units]. Our infection rate was 20% (7/35) including five infections with Aeromonas spp. (14.2%). The proportion of patients becoming infected after leech therapy was significantly greater in the group of patients that did not receive prophylactic antibiotic treatment (Fisher's Exact test P = 0.0005). In total, 14 cases (40%) were salvaged in entirety, in 7 cases 80% or more, in 2 cases 50 to 79%, and in 1 case less than 50% of the tissues were salvaged. In 11 cases (31%), the tissues were totally lost. Conclusion: Our study highlights both the benefits and the risks to patients in selected clinical situations and also the potential risks. The routine use of antibiotic prophylaxis is supported. In view of the emerging evidence that Hirudo verbana are now used as standard leech therapy, and the primary pathogen is Aeromonas veronii, until a large prospective multicenter study is published, large series of patients treated with leeches should be reported. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Combination of a free jejunal flap and a Roux‐en‐Y colojejunostomy for reconstruction of esophageal stricture secondary to a distant blast injury: A case report
Authors: Wu Yi‐Chia , Tang Yueh‐Bih , Chen Wency , Lai Chung‐Sheng , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: April 2011

Pneumatic perforation of the esophagus caused by blast injury is very rare. Our patient presented with esophageal stricture in the context of a previous reconstruction of an esophageal rupture secondary to a distant air‐blast injury. The ruptured esophagus was initially reconstructed with a left pedicled colon interposition in an antiperistaltic pattern. However, dysphagia developed 4 years later because of severe reflux‐induced stenosis at the junction of the cervical esophagus and the left pedicled colon segment. A free isoperistaltic jejunal flap was performed to replace the cervical esophagus, with an anti‐reflux Roux‐en‐Y colojejunostomy between the caudal segment of the left pedicled colon and the jejunum. The patient was discharged uneventfully 29 days later with smooth esophageal transit and no further reflux, as shown by scintigraphic scan. Esophageal reconstruction in an isoperistaltic pattern using a free isoperistaltic jejunal flap combined with an anti‐reflux Roux‐en‐Y colojejunostomy has never been reported in the literature and appears to be an effective method to provide smooth passage of food and prevent restenosis of the esophagus. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
The effect of melatonin and platelet gel on sciatic nerve repair: An electrophysiological and stereological study
Authors: Kaplan SüLeyman , PişKin Ahmet , Ayyildiz Mustafa , Aktaş Abit , KöKsal BüLent , Ulkay Muzaffer BaşAK , TüRkmen Aysin Pinar , Bakan Fatma , Geuna Stefano
Published: April 2011

Nerve regeneration after surgical reconstruction is far from optimal, and thus effective strategies for improving the outcome of nerve repair are being sought. In this experiment, we verified if postoperative intraperitoneal melatonin (MLT) administration after intraoperative platelet gel application improves peripheral nerve regeneration. In adult male rats, 1‐cm long sciatic nerve defects were repaired using four different strategies: autologous nerve graft repair followed by MLT (NM, n = 5), collagen conduit repair followed by MLT (CM, n = 5), platelet gel‐enriched collagen conduit repair followed by MLT (CGM, n = 6), and platelet gel‐enriched collagen conduit (CG, n = 5) repair followed by no substance administration. Sham operated animals were used as controls (Cont, n = 5). Ninety days after surgery, the nerve regeneration outcome was comparatively assessed by means of electrophysiological and stereological analysis. Electrophysiology revealed no significant differences between the experimental and the sham control groups. Stereological analysis showed no significant differences among the experimental groups regarding axon size and myelin thickness, but the axon number was significantly lower in the CM compared to Cont and NM group. Moreover, there was no significant difference between number of axons in CG and Cont groups, between CGM and CM, and between CM and NM. Although it was observed that platelet gel have a positive effect on nerve regeneration, but a combination of local platelet gel with MLT does not have the same effect on nerve repair. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Morphological abnormalities, impaired fetal development and decrease in myostatin expression following somatic cell nuclear transfer in dogs
Authors: Hong Il‐Hwa , Jeong Yeon‐Woo , Shin Taeyoung , Hyun Sang‐Hwan , Park Jin‐Kyu , Ki Mi‐Ran , Han Seon‐Young , Park Se‐Il , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Lee Eun‐Mi , Kim Ah‐Young , You Sang‐Young , Hwang Woo‐Suk , Jeong Kyu‐Shik
Published: April 2011

Several mammals, including dogs, have been successfully cloned using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), but the efficiency of generating normal, live offspring is relatively low. Although the high failure rate has been attributed to incomplete reprogramming of the somatic nuclei during the cloning process, the exact cause is not fully known. To elucidate the cause of death in cloned offspring, 12 deceased offspring cloned by SCNT were necropsied. The clones were either stillborn just prior to delivery or died with dyspnea shortly after birth. On gross examination, defects in the anterior abdominal wall and increased heart and liver sizes were found. Notably, a significant increase in muscle mass and macroglossia lesions were observed in deceased SCNT‐cloned dogs. Interestingly, the expression of myostatin, a negative regulator of muscle growth during embryogenesis, was down‐regulated at the mRNA level in tongues and skeletal muscles of SCNT‐cloned dogs compared with a normal dog. Results of the present study suggest that decreased expression of myostatin in SCNT‐cloned dogs may be involved in morphological abnormalities such as increased muscle mass and macroglossia, which may contribute to impaired fetal development and poor survival rates. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:337–346, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nucleoli from growing oocytes inhibit the maturation of enucleolated, full‐grown oocytes in the pig
Authors: Kyogoku Hirohisa , Ogushi Sugako , Miyano Takashi , Fulka Josef
Published: April 2011

In mammals, the nucleolus of full‐grown oocyte is essential for embryonic development but not for oocyte maturation. In our study, the role of the growing oocyte nucleolus in oocyte maturation was examined by nucleolus removal and/or transfer into previously enucleolated, growing (around 100 µm in diameter) or full‐grown (120 µm) pig oocytes. In the first experiment, the nucleoli were aspirated from growing oocytes whose nucleoli had been compacted by actinomycin D treatment, and the enucleolated oocytes were matured in vitro. Most of non‐treated or actinomycin D‐treated oocytes did not undergo germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD; 13% and 12%, respectively). However, the GVBD rate of enucleolated, growing oocytes significantly increased to 46%. The low GVBD rate of enucleolated, growing oocytes was restored again by the re‐injection of nucleoli from growing oocytes (23%), but not when nucleoli from full‐grown oocytes were re‐injected into enucleolated, growing oocytes (49%). When enucleolated, full‐grown oocytes were injected with nucleoli from growing or full‐grown oocytes, the nucleolus in the germinal vesicle was reassembled (73% and 60%, respectively). After maturation, the enucleolated, full‐grown oocytes injected with nucleoli from full‐grown oocytes matured to metaphase II (56%), whereas injection with growing‐oocyte nucleoli reduced this maturation to 21%. These results suggest that the growing‐oocyte nucleolus is involved in the oocyte's meiotic arrest, and that the full‐grown oocyte nucleolus has lost the ability. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:426–435, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MG‐ADL: Still a relevant outcome measure
Authors: Muppidi Srikanth , Wolfe Gil I. , Conaway Mark , Burns Ted M. ,   and the MG COMPOSITE AND MG‐QOL15 STUDY GROUP
Published: April 2011

Introduction:

The aim of this analysis was to examine the performance of the Myasthenia Gravis–specific Activities of Daily Living scale (MG‐ADL) during a multicenter scale validation study.

Methods:

Consecutive MG patients were assessed with several MG outcome measures, including the MG‐ADL. Statistical tests included descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation, and sensitivity/specificity.

Results:

Eighty‐seven patients completed the MG‐ADL, MG Composite (MGC), and MG 15‐item Quality of Life scale (MG‐QOL15) on the first visit, and 76 returned for the second visit. At the first visit, there was a strong positive correlation between MG‐ADL and MGC (r = 0.85, P < 0.0001) and MG‐QOL15 (r = 0.76, P < 0.0001). Correlation of the delta MG‐ADL score and physician impression of change between the visits was strong (r = 0.70, P < 0.0001). A 2‐point improvement in the MG‐ADL best predicted clinical improvement. Test–retest analysis demonstrated a high reliability coefficient.

Conclusions:

The MG‐ADL correlates strongly with newer, validated MG outcome measures. A 2‐point improvement in the MG‐ADL indicates clinical improvement. The MG‐ADL is useful as a research tool and in routine clinical management. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Intramuscular distribution of the phrenic nerve in human diaphragm as shown by Sihler staining
Authors: AN Xiaochun , Yue Bin , Lee Je‐Hun , Lee Mi‐Sun , Lin Chenghe , Han Seung‐Ho
Published: April 2011

Introduction: Intramuscular innervation of the human diaphragm has not been well described. The goal of this study was to elucidate the detailed intramuscular distribution of the phrenic nerve in the human diaphragm. Methods: Fifteen human diaphragms were visualized using modified Sihler staining, and the detailed intramuscular phrenic nerve distribution was photographed and recorded. Results: Three types of primary phrenic nerve branches were noted. Each type of primary branch innervated a confined muscular subvolume of the diaphragm, and the intramuscular branches in each subvolume anastomosed largely with one another and formed a characteristic “net” of nerve branches. A few small nerve filaments were seen entering the peripheral diaphragm. The directions and locations of nerve branches innervating the hiatal diaphragm were not symmetrical between sides. Conclusion: These findings may offer useful information for anatomists, physiologists, and clinicians. Muscle Nerve, 2012
A Padé family of iterations for the matrix sign function and related problems
Authors: Gomilko Oleksandr , Greco Federico , Ziȩtak Krystyna
Published: April 2011

In this paper we consider the Pad'e family of iterations for computing the matrix sign function and the Padé family of iterations for computing the matrix p‐sector function. We prove that all the iterations of the Padé family for the matrix sign function have a common convergence region. It completes a similar result of Kenney and Laub for half of the Padé family. We show that the iterations of the Padé family for the matrix p‐sector function are well defined in an analogous common region, depending on p. For this purpose we proved that the Padé approximants to the function (1−z)−σ, 0<σ<1, are a quotient of hypergeometric functions whose poles we have localized. Furthermore we proved that the coefficients of the power expansion of a certain analytic function form a positive sequence and in a special case this sequence has the log‐concavity property. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cyanate ester resin modified by hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene: Morphology, thermal, and mechanical properties
Authors: Liu Jing , Ding Naidong , Xu Renfu , He Qihui , Shen Jian , Hu Baixing
Published: April 2011

Hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) rubber was used as a modifier for bisphenol A dicyanate ester (BADCy) to improve its toughness. The effect of catalyst on the curing behavior of the resin and the curing techniques were developed by differential scanning calorimetry. The dynamic mechanical analysis, thermogravimetry analysis, and tensile test were used to study the thermal behavior, mechanical properties, and dynamic mechanical performance of the modified BADCy resins. Results show that addition of HTPB resulted in improved toughness while maintaining relatively good thermal stability. Additional, phase separation phenomenon was confirmed by the analysis of scanning electron microscope. For the toughening of the resin, the main toughening mechanism is shear yielding and crack branching. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Processing and rheological behavior of ABS/montmorillonite nanocomposites via single screw capillary extrusion
Authors: Sánchez Saul E. , Ibarra Rigoberto
Published: April 2011

Evidence for intercalated and exfoliated clay nanostructures was found in Acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene/montmorillonite (MMT) compounds. Formulations with MMT from 0.5 to 9 vol. % have been processed by single screw capillary extrusion. Melt rheology showed that the onset of shear thinning shifts to lower shear rates until one order in magnitude in shear rate (
$\dot{\gamma}$), as modified clay increases. On the other hand, the viscosity at zero shear (η0) augments in the order of 650% in the highest concentration sample. Furthermore, viscosity curves from capillary rheometry showed a strong shear thinning behavior as clay content is increased. From X‐ray diffraction, it is inferred a nanoclay d‐spacing increase independent from the clay content in capillary extrusion samples. Transmission Electron Microscopy shows intercalated/exfoliated clay structures from capillary extrusion. Proper processing conditions in conventional equipment for plastics transformation, may lead to obtain intercalated and exfoliated nanocomposites without complex tooling configuration. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of wheel rotating speed and LiCl additives on electrospun aligned polyacrylonitrile nanofiber
Authors: Li Ni , Xiong Jie , Xue Hua
Published: April 2011

A rotating wheel was used as the collector during electrospinning to produce aligned nanofiber. Then the effects of wheel rotating speed and LiCl (Lithium Chloride) additives on nanofiber morphology and mechanical behavior of nanofiber mat were studied. The results indicated that the rotating speed of 150 rpm (round per minute) was desirable for fabricating well‐aligned nanofiber with nanoscale diameter. Fiber diameter and fiber angle both showed exponential relationship with wheel rotating speed. Meanwhile fiber assemblage was observed when 0.4, 0.6 or 0.8 wt% LiCl was added in 12 wt% polyacrylonitrile (PAN) with N,N‐dimethylformamide solution respectively. LiCl adding increased nanofiber diameter but had not obviously influence on fiber angle. The mechanical examination revealed that LiCl adding decreased the stress of PAN mats and 0.6 wt% LiCl was appropriate for desirable stress and strain. The failure stress and failure strain of the PAN mat with 0.6 wt% LiCl was 50.23 MPa and 82.45%, respectively. © POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Investigation on the effect of a compatibilizer on the fatigue behavior of PP/coir fiber composites
Authors: Bettini Sílvia H.P. , Antunes Marcela C. , Magnabosco Rodrigo
Published: April 2011

The mechanical behavior of polypropylene (PP) and 30 wt% coir fiber reinforced PP composites, with and without compatibilizer, were assessed through monotonic (tensile and bending) and cyclic (fatigue) tests. Fatigue load controlled tests were conducted under tension loads at a frequency of 6 Hz. The fracture mechanism was accompanied by surface fracture analyses using both optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The compatibilizer used was the PP grafted with maleic anhydride. The compatibilized composites exhibited longer fatigue life times. It was also concluded that the presence of coir fibers changed the preferential fatigue mechanism, because the fracture mechanism in PP was mainly caused by heat generated by viscous effects during solicitation (thermal fatigue), whereas in the compatibilized and noncompatibilized PP/coir composites the predominant fracture mechanism was mechanical fatigue. However, thermal fatigue was also observed in the composites, especially in the noncompatibilized ones. © POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Scientific issues in the revision of personality disorders for DSM‐5
Authors: Skodol Andrew E.
Published: April 2011

DSM‐5 is scheduled for publication in 2013. The revision process will be the product of over 13 years of work. DSM‐5 Work Groups have recently proposed changes in each of the major diagnostic classes of mental disorders and revised their proposals in anticipation of APA‐sponsored and APA‐conducted Field Trials now underway. This article will review the scientific and philosophical principles guiding the revisions and how they have influenced the development of the proposed changes for the assessment and diagnosis of personality psychopathology for DSM‐5. Included are discussions of the definition of mental disorder, dimensional vs. categorical approaches to diagnosis, criteria for change, validity vs. clinical utility, cultural applicability, the relationship of DSM‐5 and ICD‐11 and diagnosis for specialty vs. primary care settings. Although principles for revising the DSM‐5 were articulated some time ago, the revision process thus far has proceeded with some degree of ambiguity, controversy and contradiction. Copyright © 2011 American Psychiatric Association.
European perspectives on personality disorders: Knowing a complex history for a (hopefully) bright future
Authors: Fossati Andrea
Published: April 2011

A recent focus in Western European research on personality disorders (PDs) has been an attempt to generate an integrative perspective or at least a common framework that could be used by researchers with different theoretical orientation to exchange and integrate their findings. This article discusses 19th and 20th century Western European perspectives on PDs, which led to their conceptualization as separate entities. In particular, we focus on the contribution of three approaches: the psychiatric approach, the dynamic contribution and the individual difference perspective. European tradition suggests revising current PD classification systems to produce PD diagnoses that are close to clinical reality but also grounded in data from scientific studies and characterized by a high degree of transtheoretical acceptance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment received by persons with BPD participating in a randomized clinical trial of the Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving programme
Authors: Black Donald W. , Allen Jeff , McCormick Brett , Blum Nancee
Published: April 2011

We report the treatment experience of 164 subjects with BPD who participated in a randomized clinical trial testing the Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving group treatment programme. Participation in psychotherapy, use of psychotropic medication, use of emergency services and hospitalization were carefully tracked. Nearly all (96%) subjects were prescribed psychotropic medication; 74% took antidepressants at baseline; the figures were 41% for anxiolytics, 39% for mood stabilizers and 32% for antipsychotics. Sixty‐four percent reported taking ≥2 medications, and 39% took ≥3 medications. Most subjects (73%) participated in individual psychotherapy; 24% had been hospitalized at least once in the month prior to study entry. Importantly, medication usage at baseline was not associated with clinical severity. Medication usage declined during the 20‐week clinical trial and 1‐year follow‐up. Few patients (6%) had ever received electroconvulsive therapy. In conclusion, data show that many persons with BPD are prescribed multiple medications and frequently participate in individual and other types of psychotherapy. Medication usage at baseline does not explain variation in clinical symptoms. Implications of the findings are discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SAIL: A 3D rehabilitation system to improve arm function following stroke
Authors: Meadmore Katie L , Cai Zhonglun , Tong Daisy , Hughes Ann‐Marie , Freeman Chris T , Rogers Eric , Burridge Jane H
Published: April 2011

In the September/October 2009 issue of Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry, we featured an article describing a promising new 2D robotic and electronic stimulation system developed at the University of Southampton for rehabilitation of arm movement following stroke. Here, the scientists who developed the system describe a further extension of the technique to a new 3D system known as SAIL (Stimulation Assistance through Iterative Learning). Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Diagnosis and management of menstrual migraine
Authors: MacGregor E Anne
Published: April 2011

The prevalence of migraine is highest during the peak reproductive years and many women report its association with their menstrual periods. In this review, Professor MacGregor discusses the diagnosis, pathophysiology and management of menstrual migraine. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
The Poppelreuter figure visual perceptual function test for dementia diagnosis
Authors: Sells Rebecca , Larner Andrew J
Published: April 2011

The Poppelreuter figure is a simple test of visual perceptual function consisting of four overlapping images. This study investigates its utility for the diagnosis of dementia in a cognitive function clinic. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Copper(0)‐catalyzed one‐pot synthesis of ABC triblock copolymers via the combination of single electron transfer nitroxide radical coupling reaction and “click” chemistry
Authors: Jing Rongkuan , Lin Wencheng , Wang Guowei , Huang Junlian
Published: April 2011

The synthesis of ABC triblock copolymers were accomplished by Cu(0)‐catalyzed one‐pot strategy combining single electron transfer‐nitroxide radical coupling (SET‐NRC) reaction with “click” chemistry. First, the precursors α,ω‐heterofunctionalized poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) with a 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (TEMPO) group and an alkyne group, polystyrene (PS), and poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) (PtBA) with bromine or azide end group were designed and synthesized, respectively. Then, the one‐pot coupling reactions between these precursors were carried out in the system of Cu(0)/Me6TREN: The SET‐NRC reaction between bromine group and nitroxide radical group, subsequently click coupling between azide and alkyne group. It was noticeable that Cu(I) generated from Cu(0) by SET mechanism was utilized to catalyze click chemistry. To estimate the effect of Cu(0) on the one‐pot reaction, a comparative analysis was performed in presence of different Cu(0) species. The result showed that Cu(0) with more active surface area could accelerate the one‐pot reaction significantly. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis and properties of liquid crystalline urethane methacrylates for dental composite applications
Authors: Buruiana Tinca , Melinte Violeta , Costin George , Buruiana Emil C.
Published: April 2011

Three novel liquid crystalline methacrylates have been synthesized and characterized to be tested as comonomers in light‐curing dental resin‐based composites. The selected formulations consist of an alkylammonium or cholesteryl urethane methacrylate and 2,2‐bis[4‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methacryloyloxypropyl)phenyl]propane (BisGMA) or a BisGMA derivate modified with urethane methacrylate groups, further diluted with triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and reinforced with 70% filler (zirconium silicate nanopowder, silanized filler). This study addresses the relationships between the LC monomer structure, photopolymerization rates (by differential scanning photo calorimetry), and specific properties of the dental resin composites (volumetric shrinkage, water sorption, water solubility, and hydrophobicity). The investigation of LC properties by differential scanning calorimetry and polarizing microscopy indicated that the LC mesophase is stable to room temperature (cationic monomers) or at 40 °C (cholesteryl methacrylate). It was found that the polymerization rate for LC urethane methacrylates used in combination with BisGMA/TEGDMA (0.122–0.136 s−1) is higher than that of the mesogenic monomers alone (0.085–0.107 s−1). The structures of the urethane monomers and, consequently, the viscosity of the comonomer mixture influence both the rate and the degree of conversion (44.8–67.5 %) of the photopolymerization process. Polymerization shrinkage measured by pycnometry showed lower values for LC monomers (3.25–3.43 vol %) comparatively with the monomer mixture (5.19–6.65 vol %). Preliminarily, the effect of ammonium groups from two resin composites incorporating alkylammonium structures (4.5 wt %) was tested on Streptococcus mutans, and distinct zone of inhibition was observed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis, characterization, and rheological properties of hybrid titanium star‐shaped poly(n‐butyl acrylate)
Authors: Périneau Fabien , Hu Guangjun , Rozes Laurence , Ribot François , Sanchez Clément , Creton Costantino , Bouteiller Laurent , Pensec Sandrine
Published: April 2011

The synthesis of hybrid star‐shaped polymers was carried out by atom transfer radical polymerization of n‐butyl acrylate from a well‐defined multifunctional titanium‐oxo‐cluster initiator. Conditions were identified to prevent possible side reactions among monomer, polymer, and the titanium‐oxo‐cluster ligands. Polymerizations provided linear first‐order kinetics and the evolution of the experimental molecular weight is also linear with the conversion. 1H DOSY NMR and cleavage of the polymeric branches from the multifunctional initiator by hydrolysis were used to (i) prove the star‐shaped structure of the polymer, and (ii) demonstrate that the shoulder observed on size exclusion chromatograms is not due to a noncontrolled polymerization but to ungrafting of polymeric branches during analysis. Rheological properties of the hybrid star‐shaped poly(n‐butyl acrylate) were studied in the linear regime and show that the Ti‐oxo‐cluster not only increases significantly the viscosity of the polymer relative to its ungrafted arm but has a rheological signature which is qualitatively different from that of stars with organic cores suggesting that the Ti cluster reduces significantly the molecular mobility of the star. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Annealing effect on performance and morphology of photovoltaic devices based on poly(3‐hexylthiophene)‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Gu Zhijie , Kanto Tatsuya , Tsuchiya Kousuke , Shimomura Takeshi , Ogino Kenji
Published: April 2011

Novel block copolymers, poly(3‐hexylthiophene)‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide) (P3HT‐b‐PEO) were synthesized via Suzuki coupling reaction of P3HT and PEO homopolymers. The copolymers were characterized by NMR, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimeter, and UV–vis measurements. A series of devices based on the block copolymers with a fullerene derivative were evaluated after thermal or solvent annealing. The device using P3HT‐b‐PEO showed higher efficiency than using P3HT blend after thermal annealing. Phase‐separated structures in the thin films of block copolymer blends were investigated by atomic force microscopy to clarify the relationship between morphologies constructed by annealing and the device performance. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis and self‐assembly of thermotropic block copolymer with long alkyl tethered cage silsesquioxane in the side chain
Authors: Ishida Yoshihito , Hirai Tomoyasu , Goseki Raita , Tokita Masatoshi , Kakimoto Masa‐Aki , Hayakawa Teruaki
Published: April 2011

Thermotropic POSS‐containing poly(methacrylate) with long alkyl chain tethered polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) in the side chain and the block copolymers (PMMA‐b‐PMAC11POSS) were developed by through living anionic polymerization. The resulting polymers indicated a phase transition temperature at 112 °C from spherocrystal to isotropic phase. The POSS‐containing polymer segments tended to form matrix of microphase‐separated nanostructures in the bulk even in the very low volume fraction, for instance, PMMA cylindrical nanostructure was obtained by PMMA175‐b‐PMAC11POSS11 (ϕPMAC11POSS = 0.44). The control of thin film morphology was carried out by not only solvent annealing, but also thermal annealing, resulting in the formation of well‐ordered dot‐ and fingerprint‐type nanostructures. This is the first report in a series of POSS‐containing block polymers that are capable for thermal annealing to generate well‐ordered microphase‐separated nanostructures in thin films. The novel thermotropic POSS‐containing block copolymer offers a promising material for block copolymer lithography. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Direct effects of ionizing radiation on macromolecules
Authors: Kempner Ellis S.
Published: April 2011

In the dry or frozen states, macromolecules are damaged directly by interactions with ionizing radiation. As γ‐rays and high‐energy electrons randomly ionize orbital electrons in their path, larger molecules are more likely to suffer an interaction with these radiations. In each interaction, energy is transferred to the struck molecule, resulting in irreversibly broken covalent bonds. There is an extensive literature describing these radiation modifications in both synthetic and biopolymers. Although many different properties are measured, there emerges a similar picture of the nature of radiation damage that is common to all macromolecules. The techniques used in study of one species may be used to resolve questions raised in the other class of macromolecules. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.† J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Molecular dynamics simulations of end‐grafted polymers with charged side chains
Authors: Cao Qianqian , Zuo Chuncheng , Ma Yanhong , Li Lujuan , Chen Siyan , Hu Zhangyou
Published: April 2011

We report molecular dynamics simulations on bottle‐brush polyelectrolytes end‐grafted to a planar surface. For each bottle‐brush polyelectrolyte, flexible charged side chains are anchored to one neutral main chain. The effects of the counterion valence and the grafting density on the density profiles and the structural characteristics of the brush were studied in this work. It is found that the electrostatic repulsion between charged monomers in the side chains leads an extended conformation of the brush in a solution containing monovalent counterions, while strong electrostatic binding of multivalent counterions to the side chains has a significant contribution to the collapse of the brush. For the trivalent case, the distribution of end monomers in the main chains becomes broader upon decreasing the grafting density, as compared with the monovalent case. However, the position of the distribution for the monovalent case is relatively insensitive to the change of the grafting density. Additionally, with increased counterion valence, enhanced electrostatic correlation between counterions and charged side chains also weakens the diffusive ability of counterions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
High‐frequency oscillatory ventilation associated with inhaled nitric oxide compared to pressure‐controlled assist/control ventilation and inhaled nitric oxide in children: Randomized, non‐blinded, crossover study
Authors: Fioretto Jose Roberto , Batista Khristiani Almeida , Carpi Mario Ferreira , Bonatto Rossano Cesar , Moraes Marcos Aurélio , Ricchetti Sandra Mara Queiroz , Batistella Rafaelle Fernandes
Published: April 2011

Purpose

To compare the acute oxygenation effects of high‐frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) plus inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) with pressure‐controlled assist/control ventilation (PCACV) plus iNO in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) children.

Methods

Children with AHRF, aged between 1 month and 14 years under PCACV with PEEP ≥ 10 cmH2O were randomly assigned to PCACV (PCVG, n = 14) or HFOV (HFVG, n = 14) in a crossover design. Oxygenation indexes and hemodynamic variables were recorded at enrollment (Tind), 1 hr after PCACV start (T0) and then every 4 hr (T4h, etc.).

Results

PO2/FiO2 significantly increased after 4 hr compared to enrollment in both groups [(PCVG—Tind: 111.95 ± 37 < T4h: 143.88 ± 47.5 mmHg, P < 0.05; HFVG—Tind: 123.76 ± 33 < T4h: 194.61 ± 62.42 mmHg, P < 0.05)] without any statistical differences between groups. At T8h, PO2/FiO2 was greater for HFVG compared with PCVG (HFVG: 227.9 ± 80.7 > PCVG: 171.21 ± 52.9 mmHg, P < 0.05). FiO2 could be significantly reduced after 4 hr for HFVG (HFVG—T4h: 0.53 ± 0.09 < Tind: 0.64 ± 0.2; P < 0.05) but only after 8 hr for PCVG. Comparing groups at T8h, it was observed that FiO2 decrease was greater for HFVG (HFVG: 0.47 ± 0.06 < PCVG: 0.58 ± 0.1; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Both ventilatory techniques with iNO improve oxygenation. HFOV causes earlier FiO2 reduction and increased PO2/FiO2 ratio compared to PCACV at 8 hr. However, at the end of the protocol, there was no significant difference and no clinical improvement derived from the application of both ventilatory strategies with iNO. It is not possible to say what would have happened if a different conventional ventilatory mode and a fully protective ventilatory strategy had been used, given the fact that our study is non‐blind, and that a limited number of patients were included in each group. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:809–816. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bronchoalveolar lavage versus bolus administration of lucinactant, a synthetic surfactant in meconium aspiration in newborn lambs
Authors: Rey‐Santano C. , Alvarez‐Diaz F.J. , Mielgo V. , Murgia X. , Lafuente H , Ruiz‐del‐Yerro E. , Valls‐i‐Soler A. , Gastiasoro E.
Published: April 2011

This study was designed to study effects of lung lavage versus the classical bolus instillation with a peptide‐based synthetic surfactant (lucinactant) in a model of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS). Eighteen newborn lambs received meconium and were randomized to: the experimental meconium installation (eMAS) group—lambs with eMAS kept on conventional mechanical ventilation (control); the SF‐Bolus group—eMAS receiving a lucinactant bolus (30 mg/ml); or the D‐SF‐Lavage group—eMAS treated with dilute lucinactant bronchoalveolar lavage (10 mg/ml). Systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures, blood gases, and pulmonary mechanics were recorded for 180 min. In addition, the intrapulmonary distribution of the lucinactant was determined using dye‐labeled microspheres. Following meconium instillation, severe hypoxia, hypercapnia, acidosis, and pulmonary hypertension developed, and dynamic compliance decreased (50% from baseline). After lung lavage with dilute lucinactant, gas exchange significantly improved versus bolus instillation (P < 0.05). Further, only in the lavage group did pulmonary arterial pressure return to basal values and dynamic compliance significantly increased. Both lung lavage and bolus techniques for the administration of lucinactant resulted in a non‐uniform lung distribution. In conclusion, in newborn lambs with respiratory failure and pulmonary hypertension induced by meconium, lung lavage with dilute lucinactant seems to be an effective and safe alternative for treatment for MAS. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:991–999. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tomato juice protects the lungs of the offspring of female rats exposed to nicotine during gestation and lactation
Authors: Maritz G.S. , Mutemwa M. , Kayigire A.X.
Published: April 2011

Maternal nicotine exposure during gestation and lactation adversely affects lung development in the offspring. It has been suggested that the “program” that control long‐term maintenance of the structural integrity of the lung may be compromised. The aim of the study was to study the long‐term effect of maternal nicotine exposure on the structural integrity of the lungs of the offspring, and secondly to determine whether supplementing the mother's diet with tomato juice, as a rich source of antioxidants such as lycopene, will prevent the effects of nicotine on the lungs of the offspring. Wistar rats were used in the study. After mating the rats were randomly divided into three groups. One group received nicotine (1 mg/kg body weight/day); a second group received tomato juice; and a third group received nicotine and tomato juice. The controls receive saline. Morphological and morphometric techniques were used to evaluate changes in the lung structure of the offspring at postnatal days 21, 42, 63, and 84. Neither nicotine nor tomato juice had any effect on the growth of the offspring. Although maternal nicotine exposure during gestation and lactation had no effect on the lung parenchyma of the offspring up to weaning, deterioration, and other structural changes started to appear around postnatal day 42, that is, 3 weeks after weaning and thus the onset of nicotine withdrawal. Microscopic emphysema was apparent at postnatal day 42, the increase in male and female lung volume from postnatal day 63 and thickening of the alveolar walls at postnatal day 84. All these nicotine‐induced structural changes were prevented by supplementing the mother's diet with tomato juice. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:976–986. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Non‐invasive ventilation in pediatric status asthmaticus: A prospective observational study
Authors: Mayordomo‐Colunga Juan , Medina Alberto , Rey Corsino , Concha Andrés , Menéndez Sergio , Arcos Marta Los , Vivanco‐Allende Ana
Published: April 2011

Objective

Non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to be effective in different causes of respiratory failure in both adult and pediatric patients. However, its role in status asthmaticus (SA) remains unclear. We designed a prospective study to assess the feasibility of NIV in children with SA.

Study design

Prospective observational study, over a 4.5‐year period.

Patient selection

Children with SA unresponsive to conventional therapy with a modified Wood's clinical asthma score (m‐WCAS) ≥4 and marked increased work of breathing, were included.

Methodology

Patients were placed on pressure support NIV. During NIV therapy, salbutamol was nebulized continuously and ipratropium bromide every 2 hr; methyl‐prednisolone was given at a dose of 1–2 mg/kg/6 hr. Clinical variables were measured at baseline and at 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hr.

Results

During the study period, there were 122 PICU admissions due to SA; 72 episodes fulfilled inclusion criteria. Baseline mean values were as follows: m‐WCAS of 5.7 points, heart rate (HR) of 166.7 beats/min, respiratory rate (RR) of 49.5 breaths/min and FiO2 of 45.3%. In the first hour m‐WCAS fell 2.3 ± 1.5 points, HR 13.5 ± 14 beats/min, and RR 9.8 ± 10 breaths/min (P < 0.01). After institution of NIV therapy, 5 children required intubation due to increasing respiratory distress. There was one case of massive subcutaneous emphysema, with no other serious adverse effects associated with NIV.

Conclusions

These results show that NIV is a feasible therapy in children with SA unresponsive to conventional treatment. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:949–955. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A survey of the utilization of anti‐pseudomonal beta‐lactam therapy in cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Zobell Jeffery T. , Young David C. , Waters C. Dustin , Ampofo Krow , Cash Jared , Marshall Bruce C. , Olson Jared , Chatfield Barbara A.
Published: April 2011

The purpose of this study was to characterize the utilization of anti‐pseudomonal beta‐lactam antibiotics in the treatment of acute pulmonary exacerbations (APE) among Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF)‐accredited care centers. An anonymous national cross‐sectional survey of CFF‐accredited care centers was performed using an electronic survey tool (SurveyMonkey.com®). One hundred and twenty‐one of 261 centers completed the survey (46%) representing 56% (14,856/26,740) of patients in the CFF Patient Registry. One hundred and nineteen of 121 (98%) respondents reported using beta‐lactams for the treatment of APE. Intermittent dosing regimens constituted 155/167 (93%) reported regimens, while extended infusions were 12/167 (7%). Ceftazidime was the most commonly utilized beta‐lactam comprising 74/167 (44%) of all infusions (intermittent and extended) of which 70/74 (95%) were intermittent infusions. The majority of intermittent ceftazidime regimens (56/70; 80%) were at doses lower than CFF and European guidelines recommended doses. In conclusion, a great majority of respondents use intermittent anti‐pseudomonal beta‐lactam antibiotics, with over half of respondents utilizing lower than guidelines recommended doses. While this is of concern, it is not known if optimization of dosing strategies according to guidelines recommendations will result in clinical benefit. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:987–990. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Airway refractoriness to inhaled mannitol after repeated challenge
Authors: Suh Dong In , Lee Ju Kyung , Kim Jin‐Tack , Koh Young Yull
Published: April 2011

Exercise and inhaled mannitol are thought to cause bronchoconstriction through a similar mechanism in asthma. The response to exercise becomes refractory with repeated challenges. This study aimed to investigate whether repeated challenge with mannitol induces refractoriness, as with exercise.

Forty‐one children with asthma underwent two consecutive dose–response mannitol challenges (Phase 1); the second challenge proceeded after recovery (FEV1: 95% or more of baseline value) from the first. The response to mannitol was expressed as a provocative dose causing a 15% fall in FEV1 (PD15) and the response–dose ratio (RDR) (% fall in FEV1/cumulative dose). In 18 subjects who were deemed to have mannitol refractoriness in Phase 1, a mannitol challenge was performed before and after a methacholine challenge (Phase 2).

In Phase 1, the time taken for the FEV1 to recover after the first mannitol challenge ranged from 20 to 100 min with a median of 50 min. In the 23 subjects with a measurable mannitol PD15 in both challenges, the geometric mean (95%CI) PD15 in the second challenge (163 mg [114–232]) was significantly higher than that in the first challenge (66 mg [50–88], P < 0.001). The geometric mean (95%CI) RDR decreased from the value of 0.083%/mg (0.055–0.125) in the first challenge to 0.029%/mg (0.017–0.048) in the second challenge (P < 0.001). In Phase 2, prior challenge with methacholine or mannitol did not significantly alter subsequent bronchoconstriction to the opposite challenge.

Repeated challenge with mannitol resulted in less bronchoconstriction when compared with the initial challenge. This refractoriness seems not to be attributable to functional loss of responsiveness or non‐specific effect of prior bronchoconstriction. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:1007–1014. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.