bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reference ranges for HE4 and CA125 in a large Asian population by automated assays and diagnostic performances for ovarian cancer
Authors: Park Yongjung , Kim Yoonjung , Lee Eun Young , Lee Jong‐Han , Kim Hyon‐Suk
Published: April 2011

Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) is a new biomarker for the detection of ovarian cancer. We evaluated the analytical performance of a novel automated HE4 assay and established reference ranges of HE4 and CA125. We also compared the diagnostic performance of both biomarkers for ovarian cancer. Precision performances and linearity of the HE4 assay were assessed. Serum samples from 2,182 healthy and 72 pregnant women were also assayed for HE4 and CA125, and the 95%, 97.5% and 99% reference limits for both markers were calculated. Additionally, sera from 66 ovarian cancer and 257 benign gynecologic disease patients were tested to validate reference ranges and diagnostic performances. The total precision of the HE4 assay was <5% coefficient of variation for most of the levels evaluated. The linearity range of this assay was from 15.0 to 1100.0 pmol/L. The 97.5% upper reference limits for HE4 and CA125 were 33.2 pmol/L (95% confidence interval [CI], 32.2–34.0) and 38.3 U/mL (95% CI, 35.1–41.5), respectively. Using these values as cutoff points, the sensitivity and specificity of HE4 for differentiating ovarian cancer from benign gynecologic diseases and healthy individuals were 90.9% and 94.1%, and those of CA125 were 72.7% and 94.4%. The receiver operating characteristic‐area under the curve values of HE4 and CA125 for discriminating ovarian cancer from age‐matched control were 0.94 and 0.86, respectively, and they were statistically different (p = 0.0095). The new automated HE4 assay showed good analytical and diagnostic performances. The reference limits established in our study could be used as cutoff levels to facilitate more accurate diagnosis of ovarian cancer in Asian population.
Potentially functional polymorphisms in IL‐23 receptor and risk of esophageal cancer in a Chinese population
Authors: Chu Hongjun , Cao Weike , Chen Wei , Pan Shandong , Xiao Yong , Liu Yao , Gu Haiyong , Guo Wei , Xu Lin , Hu Zhibin , Shen Hongbing
Published: April 2011

Interleukin‐23 (IL‐23)/IL‐23 receptor (IL‐23R) is essential for Th17 cell‐mediated immune response, involved in autoimmune diseases and cancer pathogenesis. Two potentially functional genetic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; IL‐23R rs6682925 T>C and rs1884444 T>G) were found to contribute to cancer susceptibility. In our study, we conducted a case–control study including 1,645 patients with esophageal cancer and 1,694 cancer‐free controls in a Chinese population to assess the association between the two SNPs and the risk of esophageal cancer. We found that IL‐23R rs6682925 TC/CC and rs1884444 TG/GG variant genotypes were associated with significantly increased risk of esophageal cancer [rs1884444: adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.16, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) =1.01–1.33; rs6682925: adjusted OR = 1.23, 95% CIs = 1.07–1.42], compared to their corresponding wild‐type homozygotes. Furthermore, the increased risks associated with the two SNPs were independent from smoking and alcohol drinking status. These findings indicated that genetic variants in IL‐23R may contribute to esophageal cancer risk in our Chinese population.
AP1B plays an important role in intestinal tumorigenesis with the truncating mutation of an APC gene
Authors: Mimura Mitsuko , Masuda Atsuhiro , Nishiumi Shin , Kawakami Kazuyuki , Fujishima Yoshimi , Yoshie Tomoo , Mizuno Shigeto , Miki Ikuya , Ohno Hiroshi , Hase Koji , Minamoto Toshinari , Azuma Takeshi , Yoshida Masaru
Published: April 2011

Recent evidence has suggested that carcinoma is accompanied by the loss of cell polarity. An epithelial cell‐specific form of the AP‐1 clathrin adaptor complex, AP1B, is involved in the polarized transport of membrane proteins to the basolateral surface of epithelial cells. In our study, we investigated whether AP1B is involved in intestinal tumorigenesis. The cellular polarity of intestinal tumor cells was examined using APCMin/+ mice as an in vivo model and SW480 cells with a truncating mutation in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene as an in vitro model by confocal microscopy. Next, the expression of AP1B in intestinal tumor cells was examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting. The localization of β‐catenin and the expression of AP1B in the tumor tissue of patients with colorectal cancer were evaluated by confocal microscopy and real‐time PCR, respectively, and the relationships among cell polarity, AP1B expression and intestinal tumorigenesis were examined. Cellular polarity was lost in intestinal tumor cells, and the expression of AP1B was downregulated. In addition, the reduction in the expression level of AP1B correlated with the nuclear localization of β‐catenin in human colorectal cancer. Our study indicates the close associations between AP1B, intestinal tumorigenesis and mutations in the APC gene. This is the first report to reveal the relationships among AP1B, cellular polarity and intestinal tumorigenesis, and achieving a detailed understanding of AP1B will hopefully lead to discovery of therapeutic targets and novel biomarkers for intestinal cancer.
[DLys6]‐luteinizing hormone releasing hormone–curcumin conjugate inhibits pancreatic cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Aggarwal S. , Ndinguri M.W. , Solipuram R. , Wakamatsu N. , Hammer R.P. , Ingram D. , Hansel W.
Published: April 2011

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas are invariably lethal, and developing effective treatments that have minimal side effects is a challenge. Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that conjugates of cell membrane disrupting lytic peptides and luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) target and destroy human prostate and breast cancer cells in xenografts in the nude mouse model (Hansel et al., Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007;260–262:183–9; Hansel et al., Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007;269:26–33), which express LHRH receptors. The objectives of our study were to synthesize a bioconjugate of LHRH analog ([DLys6]‐LHRH) and a dietary microchemical (curcumin) and test the hypothesis that [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin targets and inhibits pancreatic cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. In in vitro studies, we determined by confocal microscopy, flow cytometry analysis and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction that MIAPaCa‐2, Panc‐1 and BxPC‐3 pancreatic cancer cell lines express LHRH receptors. [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin inhibited cell proliferation of pancreatic cancer cell lines and induced apoptotic cell death (p < 0.05). Apoptosis was induced by cleavage of polyadenosine‐5′‐diphosphate‐ribose‐polymerase and caspase‐3. The activity of [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin was equal to free curcumin at equimolar concentrations in vitro. Unlike curcumin itself, the [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin conjugate is water soluble which allows its intravenous administration. In two in vivo studies, [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin given intravenously caused a significant (p < 0.01) reduction in tumor weights and volumes, and free curcumin given by gavage at an equal dose failed to cause a significant reduction in tumor weights and volumes in the nude mouse pancreatic cancer model. [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin treatment enhanced apoptosis compared to [DLys6]‐LHRH and vehicle‐treated controls in tumor tissue. In conclusion, [DLys6]‐LHRH–curcumin may be useful in treating pancreatic cancer.
Isolation of disseminated neuroblastoma cells from bone marrow aspirates for pretreatment risk assessment by array comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Vandewoestyne Mado , Kumps Candy , Swerts Katrien , Menten Björn , Lammens Tim , Philippé Jan , De Preter Katleen , Laureys Geneviève , Van Roy Nadine , Speleman Frank , Deforce Dieter
Published: April 2011

In neuroblastoma, tumor biopsies are used for prognostic evaluation and risk assessment by molecular genetic analyses such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH). Analysis of primary tumors by array CGH can be hampered by the lack of sufficient tumor cells due to small biopsy size or availability of invaded bone marrow only. Given the importance of accurate assessment of genetic alterations in the diagnostic work‐up of patients with neuroblastoma, we evaluated the possibility to analyze bone marrow metastases in patients with disseminated disease. Disseminated neuroblastoma cells were isolated from bone marrow aspirates by using either laser capture microdissection (LCM) or magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS). The array CGH profiles of these isolated metastases were compared to array CGH profiles and/or FISH data of the corresponding primary tumor. Here, we show that the major recurrent DNA copy number alterations detected in primary neuroblastoma tumors (i.e., 1p, 3p and 11q deletion, 17q gain and MYCN amplification) can be detected, with high sensitivity and specificity, in the disseminated neuroblastoma cells isolated from the bone marrow aspirates, using an array platform with high coverage for these regions. Moreover, we demonstrate that for archived material, for example, for retrospective studies, LCM is the method of choice, while for fresh bone marrow aspirates, acquired at the time of diagnosis, MACS is superior.
Association of death receptor 4 variant (683A>C) with ovarian cancer risk in BRCA1 mutation carriers
Authors: Dick Michelle G. , Versmold Beatrix , Engel Christoph , Meindl Alfons , Arnold Norbert , Varon‐Mateeva Raymonda , Sutter Christian , Niederacher Dieter , Deissler Helmut , Preisler‐Adams Sabine , Kast Karin , Schäfer Dieter , Gadzicki Dorothea , Heinritz Wolfram , Wappenschmidt Barbara , Schmutzler Rita K.
Published: April 2011

Dysregulation of apoptosis plays an important role in carcinogenesis. Therefore, apoptosis‐associated genes like the death receptor 4 (DR4, TRAIL‐R1) are interesting candidates for modifying the penetrance of breast and ovarian cancer in carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. The DR‐4 haplotype 626C–683C [626C>G, Thr209Arg (rs4871857) and 683A>C, Glu228Ala (rs17088993)] has recently been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. To evaluate whether DR4 626C>G or DR4 683A>C modifies the risk of breast or ovarian cancer in carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, we undertook a national multicenter study including data of 840 carriers of breast cancer gene (BRCA) mutations. DNA samples were collected from 12 German research centers between 1996 and 2005 and were genotyped by the Taqman allelic discrimination assay. The association between genotypes and incidence of breast or ovarian cancer data was evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards regression model. We found evidence for a significant association of DR4 683A>C with a higher risk for ovarian cancer in carriers of BRCA1 mutations [n = 557, hazard ratio 1.78 (1.24–2.55), p = 0.009]. Our results thus indicate that the DR4 683A>C variant modifies the risk of ovarian cancer in carriers of BRCA1 mutations.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT QUANTITIES OF SUPPLEMENTAL IRRIGATION AND ITS SALINITY ON YIELD AND WATER USE OF WINTER WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM)
Authors: Kiani A. R. , Mirlatifi S. M.
Published: April 2011

An experiment was conducted to evaluate evapotranspiration (ETc), water use efficiency (WUE) and yield of wheat as affected by quantity and salinity of irrigation water. Treatments consisted of 16 combinations of irrigation water levels, viz. 0.5, 0.75, 1.00 and 1.25 times the water requirement, and irrigation water salinity levels (ECi), viz. 1.5, 8.5, 11.5 and 14.2 dS m‐1. Mean overall relative yield when referred to yield with ECi of 1.5 dS m‐1, obtained with irrigation water with salinity levels of 8.5, 11.2 and 14.2 dS m‐1, were 97, 93 and 90%, respectively. Similarly, the decline in yield when irrigation water was applied to only replenish 50 and 75% of the crop water requirement was 19 and 9%, respectively, as compared with yield obtained from full irrigation. Soil salinity increased as the depth of irrigation water and thereby salt input were increased. However, a major portion of salts in the soil profile was leached down with autumn rains and therefore had little adverse effect on establishment of the following crops. The highest WUE (12 kg ha‐1 mm‐1) of applied water was obtained at 310 mm (62% of full irrigation). With increasing irrigation water salinity the highest WUE is decreased by about 10% as compared to low saline water. Therefore, using saved fresh water for new land could increase total production. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations on the enzyme 4‐hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase
Authors: De Beer Stephanie B. A. , GlÄttli Alice , Hutzler Johannes , Vermeulen Nico P. E. , Oostenbrink Chris
Published: April 2011

4‐Hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase is a relevant target in both pharmaceutical and agricultural research. We report on molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations on this enzyme, in complex with 12 inhibitors for which experimental affinities were determined. We applied the thermodynamic integration approach and the more efficient one‐step perturbation. Even though simulations seem well converged and both methods show excellent agreement between them, the correlation with the experimental values remains poor. We investigate the effect of slight modifications on the charge distribution of these highly conjugated systems and find that accurate models can be obtained when using improved force field parameters. This study gives insight into the applicability of free energy methods and current limitations in force field parameterization. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2011
Treatment of laundry waste‐water by electrocoagulation
Authors: Janpoor Fatemeh , Torabian Ali , Khatibikamal Vahid
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND: The present study describes an electrocoagulation process for treating laundry waste‐water using aluminum plates. The effect of various parameters such pH, voltage, hydraulic retention time (HRT), and number of aluminum plates between the anode and cathode on efficiency of treatment are investigated.

RESULTS: Experimental results showed that by increasing HRT, treatment efficiency increases but beyond 45 min changes are negligible. Among the results for chemical oxygen demand (COD), phosphorus, detergent, colour and turbidity, the lowest decrease was found for phosphorus. The larger the HRT, the greater the electrical current needed to achieve constant voltage and temperature in the system. The pH of the influent is a very significant variable which affects the treatment of laundry waste‐water considerably, the optimal range being 6.0–8.0. In addition, it was found that the pH increases from 8.3 to more than 10 over the first hour of treatment after which the pH remains relatively constant. Finally, kinetic analysis indicates that the adsorption system obeys a second‐order kinetic model.

CONCLUSION: The aluminum hydroxide generated in the cell decreases the concentration of pollutants in laundry waste‐water to a permissible level. It is concluded that, compared with other treatment processes, electrocoagulation is more effective in treating laundry waste‐water under appropriate conditions. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Photodegradation of cellulose under UV light catalysed by TiO2
Authors: Fan Hongxian , Li Gang , Yang Fang , Yang Lei , Zhang Songmei
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND: Since natural cellulose is an insoluble, crystalline microfibril, which is difficult to react with other compounds, most reactions related with cellulose are heterogeneous. The methods of cellulose degradation include acid hydrolysis, thermal degradation, alkaline degradation and catalytic degradation. Photocatalysis is a very powerful process.

RESULTS: With 10 g cellulose dissolved in 100 mL ZnCl2 solution (66%), the 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural yield in the corrugated plate photocatalytic reactor reached 3.87 g L−1 under the following experimental conditions: 2 h irradiation under ultraviolet (UV) lamp (power—21 W), nine TiO2 coating cycles, and 42° corrugated plate angle.

CONCLUSION: Owing to the enhancement of catalyst surface area illuminated by UV light and the large number of photons captured on the catalyst surface, the energy efficiency per mass (EE/M) of the corrugated plate photocatalytic reactor for photocatalytic degradation of cellulose was 10.9 kWh kg−1. This is therefore an effective technology for 5‐HMF preparation from cellulose. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Postoperative ileo‐ileal intussusception following surgical resection of patent omphalomesenteric duct
Authors: Yeo Dong‐Myung , Lim Gye‐Yeon
Published: April 2011

A female neonate with patent omphalomesenteric duct was treated by ductal excision. Six days following surgery, she developed vomiting and abdominal distension. On plain radiographs, distended bowel loops with multiple, air‐fluid levels consistent with an intestinal obstruction were evident. Sonography demonstrated an ileo‐ileal intussusception. At surgery, a 3‐cm, ileo‐ileal intussusception was noted proximal to the previous Lembert suture site and was manually reduced. Awareness of the possibility of small‐bowel intussusception following surgery was critical to ensuring prompt and successful treatment of this infant. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Structural arrangement of the cardiac collagen fibers of healthy and diabetic dogs
Authors: Benedicto Hildebrando G. , Bombonato Pedro P. , Macchiarelli Guido , Stifano Giuseppe , Prado Isaura M.M.
Published: April 2011

The heart is composed by a specialized muscle, whose form and function are essentials for an adequate work and shows an amount of connective tissue which support and provide insertion for this muscle, whose collagen fibers are responsible for determination of tissue feature. Our objective was to identify the structural arrangement of the heart collagen fibers in dogs. The hearts of the dogs were submitted to the process of the controlled digestion with NaOH solution and observed by scanning electron microscope. Our results showed that the collagen fibers of the endomysial wall have structural arrangement composed by an irregular network with one layer in normal dogs but in diabetic dogs the network acquires a greater amount of the fibers and layers, looking like a “rug” of fibers modifying the relationships of the stress/strain of the tissue. Ahead of the observed results we are able to conclude that exist increase in the amount and thickness of cardiac collagen fibers, beyond the increase of layers and architectural disarrangement in the endomysial wall in the diabetic dogs. Microsc. Res. Tech. , 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A large‐sample atomic force microscope observing in both air and liquid
Authors: Fu Xia , Zhang Dongxian , Zhang Haijun , Xie Zhigang
Published: April 2011

A large‐sample atomic force microscope (AFM) that allows high resolution observation in both air and liquid has been developed. With a unique beam tracking method, laser beam is capable of reflecting off the same spot on the AFM cantilever throughout raster scan over the entire scan area, either operating in air or in liquid environment. Incorporating the stand‐alone AFM probe unit with an automated large sample stage, wide‐scan‐range imaging can be realized with high resolution and slight distortion. In addition, an image stitching method is utilized to build a broad merged image with range up to millimeters while keeping nanometer order resolution. By using a large‐volume liquid bath, large and massive sample can be observed in liquid with this AFM system. Several typical experiments have been carried out to demonstrate the imaging ability and stability of this AFM. Topographic structures of gold pattern on a glass substrate are scanned at two different places on the same specimen surface. The porosity of a sheet of filter paper is then characterized in both air and water. Finally, larger‐area AFM image of anodic aluminum oxide template in oxalic acid is on spot obtained by merging several individually scanned images together. Experiments show that this AFM system can offer high resolution and wide range AFM images even for large samples with remarkable capabilities in various environments. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ZrCl4/[bmim]BF4‐catalyzed condensation of salicylaldehydes and malononitrile: Single‐step synthesis of 3‐cyanocoumarin derivatives
Authors: Valizadeh Hassan , Mahmoodian Manzar , Gholipour Hamid
Published: April 2011

A versatile and efficient single‐step route to 3‐cyanocoumarins via Knoevenagel condensation of salicylaldehydes and malononitrile using ZrCl4 as the catalyst (15 mol %) in ionic liquid 1‐(n‐butyl)‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate as reaction medium and catalyst is described. The novel procedure features single step, short reaction time, good yields, and simple workup. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Green chemistry approach to the synthesis of 2‐aryl‐4‐ferrocenyl‐quinoline derivatives under microwave irradiation
Authors: Ma Ning , Lu Han , Wu Feiyue , Zhang Ge , Jiang Bo , Shi Feng , Gao Yuan , Tu Shujiang
Published: April 2011

A clean and expeditious route for the synthesis of 2‐aryl‐4‐ferrocenyl‐quinoline derivatives through microwave‐assisted multicomponent reaction of ferrocenecarboxaldehyde with ketone and dimedone in the presence of ammonium acetate using water as reaction media at 100°C is described. This procedure lends itself well to combinatorial methods, providing the target heteropolymetallic compounds in excellent yield. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Pitfalls of administering justice in an inconsistent world: Some reflections on the consistency rule
Authors: Patient David L.
Published: April 2011

The unique legal context investigated by Stein, Steinley, and Cropanzano (this issue) highlights important challenges facing decision makers charged with administering justice in turbulent environments. First, rules may need to be adapted to new information and changed circumstances. Second, consistency over time can compete with altruistic motives, moral convictions, and other important principles. Third, decisionmakers may face demands from multiple audiences to re‐interpret a rule in ways that are harsher, more lenient, or otherwise different than previously warranted. Since managers in other organizational settings can also face strong pressures to change over time how they interpret and apply rules, the legal context highlights important aspects of fairness that can compete with consistency over time, and that merit further investigation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypertrophy of ligamentum flavum in lumbar spine stenosis associated with the increased expression of connective tissue growth factor
Authors: Zhong Zhao‐Ming , Zha Ding‐Sheng , Xiao Wen‐De , Wu Song‐Hui , Wu Qian , Zhang Yu , Liu Fu‐Qiang , Chen Jian‐Ting
Published: April 2011

Hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum (LF) contributes to lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), and results mainly from fibrosis. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a profibrotic factor involved in the fibrotic process. This study aimed to evaluate CTGF expression in hypertrophied lumbar LF and the involvement of CTGF in LF hypertrophy. Ten patients with LSS were enrolled in this study. The control group included 10 patients with lumbar disc herniation. LF thickness was measured on the preoperative axial T1‐weighted MRI. LF samples were collected during surgery. LF fibrosis was scored by Masson's trichrome staining. CTGF expression was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry. Correlation between LF thickness and CTGF expression was analyzed. Human LF cells were cultured and treated with recombinant human (rh) CTGF. Expression of types I and III collagen was determined by real‐time PCR and ELISA. The thickness and fibrosis scores of LF in the LSS group were higher than that in the control group (all P < 0.001). CTGF was expressed in the extracellular matrix of all ligament samples, and was significantly higher in the LSS group than that in the control group (P < 0.001). The increase of CTGF expression was positive correlation with the LF thickness (r = 0.969, P = 0.000). rhCTGF treatment increased the mRNA expression and protein synthesis of types I and III collagen of the LF cells (all P < 0.001). Our results suggest that the increased expression of CTGF is associated with hypertrophy of the LF in patients with LSS. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1592–1597, 2011
Relapsing polychondritis: A rare etiology of dysphonia and novel approach to treatment
Authors: Woodbury Kristin , Smith Libby J.
Published: April 2011

Relapsing polychondritis affects the airway in half of all diagnosed patients. The traditional approach to the treatment of relapsing polychondritis in all sites is oral steroids and other immune‐modulating drugs. We present a case of laryngeal relapsing polychondritis treated with local injections of steroid in the face of oral therapy failure. The novel approach is discussed and the disease process is reviewed.
Use of portfolios in otolaryngology graduate medical education
Authors: Gurgel Richard K. , Miller Robert A. , Smith Richard J. H.
Published: April 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Learning portfolios, as defined by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), are professional development tools for resident education. Moreover, the scope of portfolio use is expanding to become a component of the accreditation system, with likely mandatory implementation by 2016. The objective of this study is to describe the extent of portfolio use in otolaryngology training programs and resident attitudes toward portfolios.

Study Design:

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods:

All residents in ACGME‐accredited otolaryngology programs were contacted via email linked to an online survey. One follow‐up email was sent after initial notification.

Results:

Three hundred eighteen (22%) of the 1,431 invited residents responded to the survey, representing 65 of 103 ACGME‐accredited otolaryngology training programs. Fifty‐eight percent of the programs represented had residents who maintained a portfolio. When asked to what extent portfolios enhanced education, 39% of residents who kept a portfolio found them helpful, 27% were neutral, and 35% did not find them helpful, although 60% plan to use their portfolio after residency. For those residents who did not maintain a portfolio, 70% cited they did not maintain a portfolio because it is not a requirement in their program. Twenty‐one percent of all respondents felt that portfolios should be mandatory, whereas 61% felt that portfolios should be encouraged, but not required.

Conclusions:

Although portfolios are encouraged by the ACGME, and will ultimately become mandatory, they are not yet fully integrated in otolaryngology training programs. Only a minority of residents in this study thought portfolios enhanced education.
The Influence of Patterned Nanofiber Meshes on Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Osteogenesis
Authors: Martins Albino , Alves da Silva Marta L. , Faria Susana , Marques Alexandra P. , Reis Rui L. , Neves Nuno M.
Published: April 2011

A specially designed electroconductive collector enables the electrospinning of P‐NFM composed of areas of parallel/uniaxially aligned fibers and areas of random/orthogonal nanofiber distribution. The biological relevance of P‐NFM is demonstrated using hBMSCs as an autologous cell source. The structures induce cell orientation along the uniaxially aligned fibers, mainly during earlier culturing periods under basal and osteogenic differentiation conditions. The microtopography of the P‐NFM also controls the deposition of mineralized extracellular matrix along the pre‐defined fiber direction. Genotypic characterization confirms the successful differentiation into the osteogenic lineage.

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Biodegradation of Thermoplastic Starch and its Blends with Poly(lactic acid) and Polyethylene: Influence of Morphology
Authors: Li Gang , Sarazin Pierre , Orts William J. , Imam Syed H. , Favis Basil D.
Published: April 2011

The room temperature mineralization of thermoplastic starch (TPS) with a high glycerol content and its blends with low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) and polylactic acid (PLA) are examined under controlled degradation conditions. These results are correlated with the morphologies and continuity behavior of the various blend systems. It is found that thermoplastic starch degrades more rapidly than native starch. Lowering the glycerol content in the TPS has virtually no effect on its biodegradation behavior. The only contribution to biodegradation of the TPS blend is from the TPS component. Blending TPS with LDPE and PLA in a co‐continuous morphology at a 50/50 composition provides a significant increase in TPS surface area, which increases the biodegradation rate for the blends as compared to pure TPS. The results indicate a close relationship between morphology, phase continuity, and biodegradation behavior.

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AFQ056 treatment of levodopa‐induced dyskinesias: Results of 2 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Berg Daniela , Godau Jana , Trenkwalder Claudia , Eggert Karla , Csoti IIona , Storch Alexander , Huber Heiko , Morelli‐Canelo Monica , Stamelou Maria , Ries Vincent , Wolz Martin , Schneider Christine , Di Paolo Thérèse , Gasparini Fabrizio , Hariry Sam , Vandemeulebroecke Marc , Abi‐Saab Walid , Cooke Katy , Johns Donald , Gomez‐Mancilla Baltazar
Published: April 2011

Study objectives were to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of AFQ056 in Parkinson's disease patients with levodopa‐induced dyskinesia. Two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, in‐patient studies for Parkinson's disease patients with moderate to severe levodopa‐induced dyskinesia (study 1) and severe levodopa‐induced dyskinesia (study 2) on stable dopaminergic therapy were performed. Patients received 25–150 mg AFQ056 or placebo twice daily for 16 days (both studies). Study 2 included a 4‐day down‐titration. Primary outcomes were the Lang‐Fahn Activities of Daily Living Dyskinesia Scale (study 1), the modified Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (study 2), and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale–part III (both studies). Secondary outcomes included the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale–part IV items 32–33. The primary analysis was change from baseline to day 16 on all outcomes. Treatment differences were assessed. Fifteen patients were randomized to AFQ056 and 16 to placebo in study 1; 14 patients were randomized to each group in study 2. AFQ056‐treated patients showed significant improvements in dyskinesias on day 16 versus placebo (eg, Lang‐Fahn Activities of Daily Living Dyskinesia Scale, P = .021 [study 1]; modified Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale, P = .032 [study 2]). No significant changes were seen from baseline on day 16 on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale‐part III in either study. Adverse events were reported in both studies, including dizziness. Serious adverse events (most commonly worsening of dyskinesias, apparently associated with stopping treatment) were reported by 4 AFQ056‐treated patients in study 1, and 3 patients (2 AFQ056‐treated patient and 1 in the placebo group) in study 2. AFQ056 showed a clinically relevant and significant antidyskinetic effect without changing the antiparkinsonian effects of dopaminergic therapy. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Movement disorders in adult surviving patients with maple syrup urine disease
Authors: Carecchio Miryam , Schneider Susanne A. , Chan Heidi , Lachmann Robin , Lee Philip J. , Murphy Elaine , Bhatia Kailash P.
Published: April 2011

Maple syrup urine disease is a rare metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase complex gene. Patients generally present early in life with a toxic encephalopathy because of the accumulation of the branched‐chain amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine and the corresponding ketoacids. Movement disorders in maple syrup urine disease have typically been described during decompensation episodes or at presentation in the context of a toxic encephalopathy, with complete resolution after appropriate dietary treatment. Movement disorders in patients surviving childhood are not well documented. We assessed 17 adult patients with maple syrup urine disease (mean age, 27.5 years) with a special focus on movement disorders. Twelve (70.6%) had a movement disorder on clinical examination, mainly tremor and dystonia or a combination of both. Parkinsonism and simple motor tics were also observed. Pyramidal signs were present in 11 patients (64.7%), and a spastic‐dystonic gait was observed in 6 patients (35.2%). In summary, movement disorders are common in treated adult patients with maple syrup urine disease, and careful neurological examination is advisable to identify those who may benefit from specific therapy. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Limb amputations in fixed dystonia: A form of body integrity identity disorder?
Authors: Edwards Mark J. , Alonso‐Canovas Araceli , Schrag Arnette , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Thompson Philip D. , Bhatia Kailash
Published: April 2011

Fixed dystonia is a disabling disorder mainly affecting young women who develop fixed abnormal limb postures and pain after apparently minor peripheral injury. There is continued debate regarding its pathophysiology and management. We report 5 cases of fixed dystonia in patients who sought amputation of the affected limb. We place these cases in the context of previous reports of patients with healthy limbs and patients with chronic regional pain syndrome who have sought amputation. Our cases, combined with recent data regarding disorders of mental rotation in patients with fixed dystonia, as well as previous data regarding body integrity identity disorder and amputations sought by patients with chronic regional pain syndrome, raise the possibility that patients with fixed dystonia might have a deficit in body schema that predisposes them to developing fixed dystonia and drives some to seek amputation. The outcome of amputation in fixed dystonia is invariably unfavorable. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Creep analysis of bamboo high‐density polyethylene composites: Effect of interfacial treatment and fiber loading level
Authors: Xu Yanjun , Lee Sun‐Young , Wu Qinglin
Published: April 2011

The effect of chemical treatment at fiber–plastic interface and fiber loading level on creep property of bamboo fiber high‐density polyethylene (BF/HDPE) composites was investigated. For single modifier systems, the use of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (PE‐g‐MA) as a coupling agent helped reduce the creep and achieved the optimum effect at the 5.7% loading level. The addition of either a semicrystalline or an amorphous MA grafted ethylene propylene rubber (sEPR‐g‐MA or aEPR‐g‐MA) as an impact modifier increased the creep. For the combined modifiers, the use of PE‐g‐MA in EPR‐g‐MA modified composites gradually improved creep performance. Four‐element Burgers model was shown to fit measured creep data well only within the specified test period. However, both partially stretched Burgers (PSB) model and fully stretched Burgers (FSB) model could be applied for characterization and prediction when the stretching exponent was fixed at certain given values. The FSB model offered a better long‐term prediction based on the short‐term creep data. Time‐temperature superposition technique produced smooth master creep curves through horizontal shifts, but it slightly over‐predicted the long‐term creep for most composite systems. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Polythiophene/borax conducting composite II: Electrorheology and industrial applications
Authors: Gumus O. Yunus , Erol Ozlem , Unal H. Ibrahim
Published: April 2011

In this study, polythiophene (PT) and polythiophene/ borax conducting composite (PT/borax) were in‐situ synthesized using FeCl3 as oxidizing agent containing 89.2% PT and 10.8% borax. The electrorheological (ER), creep‐recovery, and vibration damping characteristics of the PT/borax composite were investigated. A volume fraction series (φ = 5–25%) of the PT/borax/silicone oil dispersions were prepared and sedimentation stabilities were determined. An ER activity was observed from the samples, when subjected to external electric field strength thus, they were classified as smart materials. Some parameters affecting the ER properties of the dispersions such as volume fraction, shear rate, electric field strength, frequency and temperature were investigated. Creep tests were applied to the suspensions to investigate the viscoelastic behaviors and recoverable viscoelastic deformations observed. Finally, real time vibration damping experiment was carried out on a modified automobile shock absorber and a 68% vibration damping capacity determined for borax/SO suspension system under E = 0.3kV/mm condition. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011.© 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Carbon nanofibers for strain and impact damage sensing in glass fiber reinforced composites based on an unsaturated polyester resin
Authors: Monti Marco , Natali Maurizio , Petrucci Roberto , Kenny José M. , Torre Luigi
Published: April 2011

In this article, a successful employment of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) as a filler in the unsaturated polyester (UP) matrix of a glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) is reported. Because of the high aspect ratio of carbon nanofibers, very small amount of these particles were sufficient to significantly modify the electrical properties of the obtained glass fiber composites: for this reason, nanocomposite matrices were produced using no more than 1 wt% of these nanoparticles. The goal of this work was to investigate the possibility to correlate the presence of a mechanical stress, or the onset of damage, in the composite produced, with the variation of electrical resistance. Following this goal, the electrical resistance of the samples was constantly measured during their mechanical testing. Two different kinds of load were applied: flexural and impact. It was possible to show that a systematic variation in the electrical resistance of the composite takes place in correspondence of both the growth of a flexural state of stress, and the creation of an impact damage. In the case of the flexural load, the electrical resistance versus strain curves provides information on the growth of damage well before such damage affects the stress–strain curve. In the case of the impact damage, electric resistance measurements were able to monitor the loss of mechanical integrity before the complete failure. SEM pictures of the crack surface have confirmed the role of the carbon nanofibers in the sensing process. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of poly (vinyl butyral)‐leather fiber composites
Authors: Ambrósio J.D. , Lucas A.A. , Otaguro H. , Costa L.C.
Published: April 2011

This study reports the preparation and characterization of composites with recycled poly (vinyl butyral) (PVB) and wet blue leather fiber with leather contents of 30, 50, and 70 wt%, using an extruder equipped with a Maillefer single screw operated with a flat extrusion die. The components of the composites were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). After extrusion, the PVB/leather composite plates were compression‐molded to obtain specimens for testing the tensile properties, hardness, abrasion resistance, and tear strength. The morphologies of the composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The DMA and FTIR analyses showed that the recycled PVB contained plasticizer remained in the polymer matrix after extrusion. The SEM analysis revealed good interfacial adhesion between the PVB matrix and the leather fibers. Increasing the leather content in the composites led to a significant increase in the tensile modulus and a reduction in the tensile strain at breaks. The Shore hardness of the composites increased with the wt% of leather, whereas the abrasion resistance decreased. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Thermo‐mechanical behavior of polyamide 12—polyamide 66 recycled fiber composites
Authors: Dorigato Andrea , Fambri Luca
Published: April 2011

Postconsumed polyamide 66 (PA66) short fibers derived from carpets were utilized as reinforcement in a commercial polyamide (PA12) matrix at different concentrations, ranging from 10 wt% to 30 wt%, in order to evaluate the effect of PA66 content on the mechanical and dynamic behavior of the resulting materials. DSC tests revealed that both melting and crystallization behavior of PA12 matrix was slightly affected by the presence of the fibers, showing a somewhat nucleation effect of PA66. Quasi‐static tensile tests evidenced that the introduction of PA66 fibers provided a slight stiffening effect on the resulting composites, increasing the elastic modulus with the filler content, especially at testing temperatures above Tg. On the other hand, the presence of agglomerated fibers led to an embrittlement of polyamide composites, showing a significant reduction of the tensile properties at break increasing the PA66 fibers content. Tensile dynamic tests confirmed the stiffening effect provided by the recycled fibers, increasing both dynamic moduli (E′ and E″) with PA66 content over the whole range of considered temperatures. Glass transition temperature of PA12 was substantially increased by the presence of the fibers, while the coefficient of linear thermal expansion above Tg was progressively reduced with the filler content. Interestingly, isothermal creep compliance of the material above Tg was substantially reduced by the presence of PA66 fibers. Morphological analysis on the cryofractured surfaces revealed a quite good fiber‐matrix interfacial adhesion, with the presence of some nucleating phenomena on the pulled out surfaces. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of filler content and temperature on steady‐state shear flow of wood/high density polyethylene composites
Authors: Carrino Luigi , Ciliberto Stefano , Giorleo Giuseppe , Prisco Umberto
Published: April 2011

Steady state shear flow of wood/high density polyethylene composites is investigated through capillary rheometry to gain better insight into rheology, extrudate distortions, and wall slip phenomena of wood/polymer composite melts. Effects of filler content and temperature on onset and end of stick‐slip transition, in terms of shear rate and shear stress, are also studied. Results show that shear rates at stick‐slip transition decrease while corresponding shear stresses increase with the addition of filler. Furthermore, temperature raises the shear rate and the shear stress at which the transition occurs. It is observed a log‐linear relationship in the plots of wall slip versus the shear stress, in particular, increasing the filler content and decreasing the temperature, these plots are shifted to higher shear stress, as a consequence of viscosity increment. Wall slip and filler content play a fundamental role in surface morphology; specifically, extrudates become smoother with increasing filler content and shear rate, whose increment always results in a rise of the wall slip. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Interface stability behaviors of methanol‐melamine‐formaldehyde shell microPCMs/epoxy matrix composites
Authors: Su Jun‐Feng , Wang Xin‐Yu , Wang Sheng‐Bao , Zhao Yun‐Hui , Zhu Kong‐Ying , Yuan Xiao‐Yan
Published: April 2011

Microcapsules containing phase change materials (microPCMs) have been widely applied in smart temperature‐controlling materials. Interface stability plays a key role in these microPCMs/matrix composites. The aim of this study was to investigate the interface stability behaviors of methanol‐melamine‐formaldehyde (MMF) shell microPCMs containing paraffin/epoxy matrix composites. MMF prepolymer can be applied to fabricated microcapsules with smooth shells. The average diameter of the microPCMs could be controlled in the range of 5–45 μm by stirring speed of 500–6,000 r min−1. From the SEM morphologies of the interphase between the microPCMs and the epoxy‐matrix, it is concluded that the interaction may be enhanced by MMF graft structure due to the increasing of molecular interaction in the interface. During a repeated heat‐transmission process, not only the repeated‐times of thermal absorbing‐releasing process will damage the interface bonding, but also higher thermal conductive speed will make the interface bearing more debonding stress. Large microPCMs in matrix may supply better interface stability. Moreover, the numerical and experimental results are consistent to obtain a clear insight into the rule of interface debonding for microPCMs/matrix composites that the interface perfection can be enhanced by increasing the thickness of interphase. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Octa(aminophenyl) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane/boron‐containing phenol–formaldehyde resin nanocomposites: Synthesis, cured, and thermal properties
Authors: Gao Jungang , Li Xing , Wu Weihong , Lin Haojie
Published: April 2011

Octa(aminophenyl) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OAP‐POSS) and boron‐containing phenol‐formaldehyde resin (BPFR) were synthesized, respectively. The BPFR nanocomposites with different OAP‐POSS content (wt%) were prepared, and their properties were characterized. The results show that the thermal degradation process of this nanocomposites can be divided into three stages, and they are all following the first order mechanism. The residual ratio and thermal degradation activation energy Ea of 9 wt% OAP‐POSS/BPFR nanocomposites are both better than others and the Ea increase gradually in three stages, which is 93.3, 134.0, and 181.9 kJ mol−1, respectively. Its residual ratio at 900°C is 36.48%. The mechanical loss peak temperature Tp is 228°C for 12 wt% OAP‐POSSS/BPFR nanocomposites, which is higher 48°C than pure BPFR. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of fiber surface chemistry and roughness on interfacial structures of electrospun fiber reinforced epoxy composite films
Authors: Liao Huaqiang , Wu Yiqiong , Wu Meiyu , Liu Haiqing
Published: April 2011

This work reported the effect of surface chemistry and roughness of electrospun fibers on fiber/matrix interfacial structures and the resultant macroscopical properties of composite films. Three types of fibrous mats composed of ultrafine fibers, that is, cellulose acetate (CANM), polyurethane (PUNM), and cellulose acetate/polyurethane composite (CAPUNM) were fabricated through electrospinning. CA fiber surfaces were rough with many hydroxyl groups; PU fiber surfaces were smooth, whereas CAPU composite fibers exhibited cocontiuous structure with rough surfaces. The fiber‐reinforced epoxy composite films were prepared by the solution impregnation method. The fractured surfaces of the composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Severe interfacial debonding and fiber pullouts were observed for PUNM/epoxy composites, while strong interfacial adhesion was formed for CANM/epoxy and CAPUNM/epoxy composites. The interfacial structure played important roles in the visible light transmittance of the composite films. For example, CANM/epoxy films showed the best optical property, whereas PUNM/epoxy films displayed the poorest light transmitting property and were translucent. The interfacial structure also affected the mechanical properties of the composites. The mechanical strength of fibrous mats followed an increasing order of CANM < CAPUNM < PUNM, but the mechanical strength of the composite films was in a reverse order, that is, CANM/epoxy > CAPUNM/epoxy > PUNM/epoxy. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers