bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated with Long‐Term Antibody Production Induced by Hepatitis B Vaccine in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Elwell Rowland J. , Neumann Marianne , Bailie George R.
Published: May 2004

Study Objective. To assess the influence of various clinical factors on antibody production induced by hepatitis B vaccine in patients receiving hemodialysis up to 24 months after vaccination.

Design. Retrospective cohort study.

Setting. Outpatient dialysis center.

Patients. Adult patients undergoing hemodialysis who received a three‐dose series of intramuscular hepatitis B vaccine 40 ug at time 0, 1, and 6 months, according to protocol.

Measurements and Main Results. Antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti‐HBs) titers were monitored quarterly, and booster doses were given according to protocol. Patients with anti‐HBs of at least 10 mIU/ml were considered seropositive. Clinical variables—age, diabetes mellitus status, serum albumin level, and equilibrated Kt/V (eKt/V; Kt/V is a measure of urea clearance during dialysis, used to quantify the delivered dose of hemodialysis)—were compared between seropositive and seronegative patients 12 months (cohort 1) and 24 months (cohort 2) after vaccination. In cohort 1 (66 patients), 24 (36.4%) were seropositive at 12 months. In cohort 2 (40 patients), 15 (37.5%) were seropositive at 24 months. Comparison of seropositive and seronegative patients revealed no statistically significant differences in mean age, sex, serum albumin level, or eKt/V. However, at 24 months, patients with diabetes were 2.5 times more likely to demonstrate seropositivity than those without diabetes (60% vs 24%, respectively, p=0.02).

Conclusion. Long‐term seroprevalence induced by hepatitis B vaccine was low in our patients 12 and 24 months after vaccination. These results were comparable to previously reported long‐term results. Larger, prospective studies would be needed to confirm the finding that patients with diabetes had superior hepatitis B vaccine‐induced antibody production at 24 months.
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist Implementation of Lisinopril Therapy in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease and Diabetes Mellitus
Authors:   For the Clinical Pharmacy Cardiac Risk Service Study Group, McConnell Karen J. , Humphries Tammy L. , Raebel Marsha A. , Merenich John A.
Published: May 2004

Study Objective. As the results of the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation trial suggested that patients with both coronary artery disease (CAD) and diabetes mellitus would benefit from angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor therapy, our objective was to increase the percentage of patients with both of these conditions receiving the goal dosage (20 mg/day) or highest tolerated dosage of the ACE inhibitor lisinopril through intervention of a clinical pharmacy service.

Study Design. Prospective study with historic comparison (control group).

Setting. Clinical Pharmacy Cardiac Risk Service.

Patients. Hospitalized patients with CAD and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Measurements and Main Results. At hospital discharge, lisinopril 5 mg/day was started in eligible patients; the drug was titrated to a goal dosage of 20 mg/day or the highest tolerated dosage. Potassium level, serum creatinine level, and blood pressure were monitored at baseline, at each dosage titration, and 2 weeks after the goal or highest tolerated dosage was reached. The group receiving usual care (control group) consisted of 95 patients; the treatment group had 101 patients. At baseline, 19 patients (20%) in the control group were receiving the goal dosage of lisinopril, 34 (36%) were taking a suboptimal dosage, 16 (17%) were excluded from treatment, and 26 (27%) were eligible but were not receiving lisinopril therapy. After 9 months, ACE inhibitor dosages had changed minimally in the control group. In the treatment group, at baseline, 37 patients (36%) were at their goal dosage and therefore titration was not necessary; 15 (15%) were receiving a suboptimal dosage, 35 (35%) were excluded from treatment, and 14 (14%) were eligible but not receiving therapy. After the titration period, 55 (54%) treatment group patients were at the goal dosage, 11 (11%) were taking a suboptimal dosage, and 35 (35%) were not candidates for ACE inhibitor therapy. The most common reasons for exclusion were renal insufficiency, cough, and baseline hypotension. Changes in potassium level, serum creatinine level, and blood pressure were not significant during the study.

Conclusion. The clinical pharmacy service more than doubled the number of patients with CAD and diabetes who achieved the goal dosage of an ACE inhibitor, a drug class that has been shown to decrease morbidity and mortality in this patient population.
New Hormonal Contraceptives: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Forinash Alicia B. , Evans Stephanie L.
Published: May 2004

Over 16 million women in the United States take oral hormonal contraceptives, yet approximately 5% experience an unintended pregnancy during the first year of use. Compliance with the regimen is important in maintaining cycle control and preventing pregnancy. New hormonal contraceptive agents, norelgestromin‐ethinyl estradiol patch, etonogestrel‐ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring, and medroxyprogesterone‐estradiol cypionate injection, were designed to increase compliance and decrease adverse effects while maintaining efficacy. Each one has potential advantages for women seeking alternatives to traditional oral contraceptives or for those who have trouble remembering to take a daily pill. Each agent also may have its own disadvantages, including application site reactions, need for monthly injections, and device‐related events; however, all have similar efficacy and adverse‐effect profiles compared with current oral hormonal contraceptives.
Invasive Aspergillosis in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Wiederhold Nathan P. , Lewis Russell E. , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: May 2004

Invasive aspergillosis is an increasingly common and often fatal opportunistic fungal infection in patients with hematologic malignancies. Prolonged and profound neutropenia remains a key risk factor for the development of invasive aspergillosis. However, qualitative deficiencies in host immune responses resulting from prolonged corticosteroid therapy, graft‐versus‐host disease, and cytomegalovirus infection are important risk factors for the recurrence and progression of Aspergillus infections after bone marrow recovery. Early diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis remains a challenge, and few tools are available for monitoring its course once the diagnosis is established. Even with the recent introduction of new antifungal therapies, mortality in patients with invasive aspergillosis remains high, and uniformly effective prophylaxis or preemptive therapeutic strategies are lacking. Strategies such as combination antifungal therapy and immunotherapy often are used as first‐line treatment approaches in patients with documented invasive aspergillosis despite a paucity of clinical trial data. Recent advances in our understanding of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of invasive aspergillosis in patients with hematologic malignancies are reviewed. The problems and controversies associated with defining optimal treatment strategies for invasive aspergillosis in this heavily immunocompromised population are highlighted.
A Structured Review of the Relationship Between Microalbuminuria and Cardiovascular Events in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension
Authors: Park Hayley Y. , Schumock Glen T. , Pickard A. Simon , Akhras Kasem
Published: May 2004

Study Objective. To quantify the relative risk of cardiovascular events associated with microalbuminuria in patients with both diabetes mellitus and hypertension.

Design. A structured literature search from January 1990‐December 2002 using MEDLINE, IPA, and CINAHL.

Measurements and Main Results. We identified original studies that reported the presence or absence of microalbuminuria and estimates of risk associated with cardiovascular events in patients with both diabetes and hypertension. Abstracted information consisted of study design, patient demographics and risk factors, treatment regimens, and outcome variables. Point estimates and confidence intervals for relative risk were calculated from available data. Of 651 citations identified and reviewed based on title and abstract, 72 were selected for full review. Seven met the inclusion criteria. Because of lack of homogeneity among studies, the results were not conducive to pooling. Cardiovascular end points associated with the presence of microalbuminuria in these studies were all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and composite cardiovascular morbidity. The relative risk of cardiovascular end points associated with the presence of microalbuminuria ranged from 1.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2–2.2) to 7.9 (95% CI 2.5–25.3).

Conclusion. From the limited information available, the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality is estimated to be 2–8 times higher when microalbuminuria is present in patients with diabetes and hypertension. Point estimates in relative risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes and hypertension were generally higher compared with studies estimating risk in those with only diabetes. Studies that examine the relationship between microalbuminuria (scaled as a continuous or ordinal variable) and cardiovascular events are necessary to clarify potential benefits of pharmacotherapies that reduce levels of urinary albumin.
Fenoldopam and N‐acetylcysteine for the Prevention of Radiographic Contrast Material—Induced Nephropathy: A Review
Authors: Walker Paul D. , Brokering Kristi L. , Theobald John C.
Published: May 2004

Radiographic contrast material‐induced nephropathy (RCIN) is the third most common cause of hospital‐acquired renal insufficiency and has been associated with an increase in patient mortality. Many strategies to prevent RCIN have been explored unsuccessfully. The standard of care remains hydration with 0.45% sodium chloride before and after administration of contrast material. Recently, N‐acetylcysteine and fenoldopam have been studied to determine their efficacy in preventing RCIN. Of seven prospective studies using various dosing regimens of N‐acetylcysteine, four revealed beneficial results. Although some discrepancies exist, the data strongly suggest that N‐acetylcysteine has a role in patients at risk for the development of RCIN. The data for fenoldopam are more limited, with only one retrospective study showing benefit. Additional prospective data are required to determine if fenoldopam has a role in the prevention of RCIN.
Optimizing Antibiotic Use in Hospitals: The Role of Population‐Based Antibiotic Surveillance in Limiting Antibiotic Resistance Insights from the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists
Authors: Madaras‐Kelly Karl
Published: May 2004

To minimize antibiotic resistance, pharmacists increasingly are becoming involved in antibiotic surveillance, formulation of antibiotic use policies, and day‐to‐day control of problematic antibiotic use. Population‐based antibiotic surveillance has become common with the proliferation of electronic databases. The most widely applied measure of antibiotic consumption is the defined daily dose/1000 patient days. Most studies correlating antibiotic consumption with resistance have focused on antibiogram‐related end points; antibiogram data generally reflect institutional nosocomial infection patterns. Most study designs have been derived from traditional epidemiology such as case‐control with regression modeling or simple linear regression; however, these methods have limitations. Several experimental designs show promise. Many historical‐control studies, including a multicentered study, suggest that population‐based antibiotic surveillance and policy intervention can decrease antibiotic resistance in hospitals. Further research on the relationships among antibiotic surveillance, structured antibiotic policy interventions, and other microbiologic, patient‐oriented, and economic end points is needed.
Evaluating the Impact of Pharmacists in Mental Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Finley Patrick R. , Crismon M. Lynn , Rush A. John
Published: May 2004

Efforts to improve the outcomes of patients with mental illness often have involved incorporating the skills of a variety of health care professionals into collaborative care models. For over 30 years, clinical pharmacists have contributed to these care models in capacities ranging from educator to consultant to provider. This systematic review evaluates the quantity and quality of medical literature examining the impact of pharmacists in mental health from 1972–2003. Although we identified approximately 35 publications describing the roles of clinical pharmacists in this regard, only 16 were of sufficient scientific rigor to permit evaluation and comparison. The 16 studies were divided equally between inpatient and outpatient settings and were conducted in a variety of health care organizations (e.g., Veterans Administration, health maintenance organizations, community mental health clinics, and nursing homes). Nine of the studies examined the role of pharmacists in providing treatment recommendations and patient education, five featured pharmacists as providers (with prescriptive authority), and the remaining two described the impact pharmacists have in delivering education to the psychiatric staff. Six of the 16 studies were prospective, but only three of these incorporated a randomization procedure for patients or facilities. Collectively, the results of the 16 studies were positive, demonstrating improvements in outcomes, prescribing practices, patient satisfaction, and resource use. Unfortunately, most of the investigations were small, and significant limitations in study design limited further comparison. Given the long history and anecdotal success of pharmacists in mental health care settings, additional multicenter cost‐effectiveness trials are warranted to further support the role of the psychiatric pharmacist.
Acute Myocardial Infarction Induced by Ephedrine Alkaloids
Authors: Enders Jason M. , Dobesh Paul P. , Ellison James N.
Published: May 2004

A 45‐year‐old woman was hospitalized to rule out acute myocardial infarction after coming to the emergency department with a complaint of substernal chest pressure. Her initial electrocardiogram indicated normal sinus rhythm with T‐wave inversion and nonspecific ST changes suggestive of possible ischemia. She had no medical problems and took no prescription drugs. Further evaluation revealed that for approximately 4 years she had been taking Metabolife 356 preparations—a source of ephedrine alkaloids—for weight loss, and that she was at low risk for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Due to elevated cardiac markers, cardiac catheterization was performed, which revealed no atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries. The patient's acute myocardial infarction was attributed to coronary artery vasospasm induced by ephedrine alkaloids. Clinicians should be aware of the growing evidence that supports life‐threatening cardiovascular toxicities associated with these substances.
Ethylene Glycol Intoxication: Case Report and Pharmacokinetic Perspectives
Authors: Vasavada Nina , Williams Craig , Hellman Richard N.
Published: May 2004

A 42‐year‐old man was brought to the emergency department with ethylene glycol intoxication. He was hemodynamically stable and had normal renal function. His serum ethylene glycol concentration was 284 mg/dl approximately 1 hour after ethylene glycol consumption. The patient was treated with fomepizole and forced diuresis. Elimination of ethylene glycol in this patient followed first‐order pharmacokinetics. Elimination pharmacokinetics in this patient were compared with that in a patient who received fomepizole and hemodialysis. Fomepizole monotherapy can be given in patients without renal failure or metabolic acidosis even with serum ethylene glycol concentrations greater than 50 mg/dl. However, cost estimates based on this case suggest that if the patient is treated adequately with a single hemodialysis session and 24‐hour hospitalization, then fomepizole monotherapy may be more expensive than the combination regimen of fomepizole and hemodialysis.
Late‐Onset Drug Fever Associated with Minocycline: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Grim Shellee A. , Romanelli Frank , Jennings Patricia R. , Ofotokun Ighovwerha
Published: May 2004

A 15‐year‐old Caucasian boy experienced severe fever, fatigue, and a 40‐lb weight loss after 2 years of minocycline therapy. A workup for infectious causes was negative. One week after minocycline discontinuation, the patient reported that his fever had resolved. Two months later, he reported full resolution of symptoms, weight gain, and a return to normal activity. An objective causality assessment indicated that his illness probably was caused by minocycline, which is considered a safe drug; however, it has been associated with rare serious adverse effects. This patient's presentation of fever was noteworthy not only because minocycline is a rare cause of drug fever, but also because of the delayed onset. Clinicians should be aware that minocycline may cause severe fever and illness even after an extended period of drug exposure.
Cognitive Impairment Associated with Atorvastatin and Simvastatin
Authors: King Deborah S. , Wilburn Amanda J. , Wofford Marion R. , Harrell T. Kristopher , Lindley Brent J. , Jones Daniel W.
Published: May 2004

Clinical guidelines for cholesterol testing and management have been updated recently. With the evolving recognition of benefits and intensified recommendations for cholesterol management, many more patients will require cholesterol‐lowering drugs. All the statins share similar adverse‐effect profiles, with a low overall frequency of undesirable effects. Emerging data associate statins with a decreased risk of Alzheimer's disease; however, we report two women who experienced significant cognitive impairment temporally related to statin therapy. One woman took atorvastatin, and the other first took atorvastatin, then was rechallenged with simvastatin. Clinicians should be aware of cognitive impairment and dementia as potential adverse effects associated with statin therapy.
Fatality Related to a 30‐g Venlafaxine Overdose
Authors: Mazur Joseph E. , Doty John D. , Krygiel Ashley S.
Published: May 2004

A 30‐g venlafaxine overdose resulted in death for a 39‐year‐old woman whose 43‐day clinical course was highlighted by refractory hypotension and the resulting complications of bowel ischemia and perforation. Her venlafaxine and O‐desmethylvenlafaxine levels, analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography one day after ingestion, were 21.82 mg/L (therapeutic range 0.1–0.5 mg/L) and 3.33 mg/L (0.2–0.4 mg/L), respectively. These levels remained elevated for over 7 days. Postulated explanations for these extended elevated levels were saturation of drug metabolism, decreased drug metabolism, and existence of a genetic polymorphism. Our patient's venlafaxine overdose produced a wide variety of clinical challenges, to include seizures, tachycardia, decreased level of consciousness, refractory hypotension, and bowel dysmotility. In addition, this case augments the growing body of literature that suggests that venlafaxine may be fatal in overdose situations.
Impact of Long‐Acting Growth Factors on Practice Dynamics and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Beveridge Roy A. , Rifkin Robert M. , Moleski Ronald J. , Milkovich Gary , Reitan John F. , Paivanas Thomas A. , Jacobs R. Jake
Published: May 2004

Objective. To quantify time expended, patient satisfaction, and econometrics associated with short‐acting (sargramostim, epoetin alfa) and long‐acting (darbepoetin alfa, pegfilgrastim) growth factors.

Design. Retrospective resource utilization and prospective two‐phase observational study.

Methods. During week 1, time‐motion measurements related to patient treatment and drug preparation were collected for scheduling; check‐in; phlebotomy; laboratory; and drug preparation, administration, and recording. Drug utilization for one chemotherapy cycle during weeks 2 and 3 was assessed for sargramostim, pegfilgrastim, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, sargramostim plus epoetin alfa, and pegfilgrastim plus darbepoetin alfa. Patients completed a satisfaction survey.

Results. Among 140 patients (mean age 58 yrs), mean chemotherapy cycle duration was 19 days. A total of 268 events were observed. Mean total staff time/patient visit for drug administration was 22.1 minutes, with most time spent on scheduling (5.5 min) and drug preparation, administration, recording (5.2 min). For sargramostim only versus pegfilgrastim only, pegfilgrastim resulted in a 37% reduction (p<0.01) in all visits and an 85% reduction (p<0.01) in mean number of doses. For epoetin alfa only versus darbepoetin alfa only, darbepoetin alfa resulted in a 48% reduction (p<0.01) in mean number of doses. The most common dosage of epoetin alfa was 40,000 U/week (63.6%) and that of darbepoetin alfa was 200 μg every other week (92%), but complete blood counts were obtained weekly. For pegfilgrastim plus darbepoetin alfa versus sargramostim plus epoetin alfa, a 45% reduction (p<0.01) in total visits and a 77% reduction (p<0.01) in mean number of doses were noted in the former group. In 69 patients converted to long‐acting drugs, 65 actual hours for a single treatment cycle were saved. For patients receiving pegfilgrastim plus darbepoetin alfa, there was a 45% reduction in total clinic visits, 77% reduction in doses, and staff time savings of 1.9 hours/patient/cycle of chemotherapy. Fifty‐four patients completed the survey and trended toward neutral in their responses, with moderate disagreement that receiving injections is painful.

Conclusion. Long‐acting growth factors resulted in significant time savings for staff and providers by reducing the number of necessary office visits for drug administration. These time savings can significantly improve the quality of life for patients, as well as nurses, physicians, and caregivers.
Guidelines for Using Darbepoetin alfa in Patients with Chemotherapy‐Induced Anemia
Authors: Bloomfield Michael , Jaresko George , Zarek John , Dozier Nicki
Published: May 2004

Anemia is an undertreated but common complication of cancer and is associated with debilitating symptoms that impair the patient's ability to perform daily functions of life. Treatment with darbepoetin alfa, a novel erythropoiesis‐stimulating protein, is appropriate for chemotherapy‐induced anemia. Guidelines on darbepoetin alfa therapy will assist clinicians in its appropriate application. Other causes of anemia in patients with cancer should be investigated and corrected before therapy with darbepoetin alfa is begun. Patients with hemoglobin levels below 11 g/dl are candidates for immediate therapy. For patients receiving chemotherapy who have declining hemoglobin levels but less severe anemia (< 12 but ≥ 11 g/dl), the decision to treat immediately should be determined by the clinical circumstances. The preferred initial dosage for darbepoetin alfa is 200 μg every 2 weeks; 100 μg/week is an acceptable alternative. Dosages should be titrated to maintain hemoglobin levels at or near 12 g/dl. Reasons for failure to respond to darbepoetin alfa should be investigated before discontinuing therapy. Clinicians should consider discontinuing therapy if the hemoglobin level has not increased by 1 g/dl or more at 6–8 weeks after appropriate dosage adjustments or the number of red blood cell transfusions has not decreased.
Considerations in Darbepoetin alfa Cost and Reimbursement: A Model for Pharmacy Managers
Authors: Anderson Ernest R. , Gibson Gene
Published: May 2004

With health care administrators focusing on the financial aspects of patient care, pharmacy budget managers must be able to evaluate all financial implications of drugs under formulary review. Clinical considerations, dosing equivalency, direct and indirect costs, payer mix, and reimbursement level are issues that should be considered by a multidisciplinary team. A pharmacoeconomic evaluation of darbepoetin alfa compared with epoetin alfa is presented as a model to help pharmacy budget managers address these issues and develop an evaluation of two high‐cost drugs to determine which would be the better agent to have on their formulary.
Attitudes of deaf individuals towards genetic testing
Authors: Taneja Patricia Rubal , Pandya Arti , Foley Debra L. , Nicely Lauren Vanner , Arnos Kathleen S.
Published: May 2004

Recent advances have made molecular genetic testing for several forms of deafness more widely available. Previous studies have examined the attitudes of the deaf towards genetic testing, including prenatal diagnosis. This study examines the attitudes of deaf college students towards universal newborn hearing screening, including molecular testing for specific forms of deafness, as well as the utilization of genetic test results for mate selection. We found that there may be differences in the attitudes of deaf individuals who associate closely with the deaf community (DC), and those who have equal involvement with both the deaf and hearing communities (EIC). The majority perceived newborn hearing screening for deafness to be helpful. However, more members of the EIC than the DC groups support newborn testing for genes for deafness. While there was reported interest in using genetic testing for partner selection, most participants reported they would not be interested in selecting a partner to have children with a specific hearing status. The results of this study point out important differences that genetic professionals should be aware of when counseling deaf individuals. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mutation analysis of the M6b gene in patients with Pelizaeus–Merzbacher‐like syndrome
Authors: Henneke Marco , Wehner Lars‐Erik , Hennies Hans Christian , Preuß Natalie , Gärtner Jutta
Published: May 2004

“Pelizaeus–Merzbacher‐like syndrome” is an undetermined leukodystrophy disorder of diffuse hypomyelination. The patients' clinical phenotype is indistinguishable from classical Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease (PMD), but the patients lack PLP1 gene duplications or mutations. They represent about 20% of all cases with a clinical PMD phenotype. The M6b gene has been localized to Xp22.2. The encoded M6B protein is a member of a novel proteolipid family that also includes other major brain myelin components like the proteolipid protein (PLP). Recent cotransfection experiments suggest a protein–protein interaction of M6B and mutant PLP1 that may contribute to oligodendrocyte dysfunction in PMD. Therefore, M6b has been considered a good candidate gene for Pelizaeus–Merzbacher‐like syndrome. However, our molecular analyses in eight thoroughly characterized patients make it unlikely that mutations in this gene are involved in this subgroup of human hypomyelination disorders. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
NR4A2 and schizophrenia: Lack of association in a Portuguese/Brazilian study
Authors: Ruano Dina , Macedo António , Dourado Ana , Soares Maria João , Valente José , Coelho Isabel , Santos Vítor , Azevedo Maria Helena , Goodman Ann , Hutz Mara Helena , Gama Clarissa , Lobato Maria Inês , Belmonte‐de‐Abreu Paulo , Palha Joana Almeida
Published: May 2004

The present study investigates the association of mutations in the nuclear receptor NR4A2 in schizophrenic patients. The human Nur‐related receptor 1, NR4A2, is an orphan nuclear receptor that can be constitutively active as a transcription factor and for which no natural ligand has yet been identified. Alone or with retinoid X receptor, RXR, NR4A2 influences the expression of several genes important for human brain development and regulation. In the absence of Nurr1 (the mouse homologue to human NR4A2), ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic mouse neurons evidence severe developmental failure, a condition that is lethal soon after birth. Nurr1 involvement in the dopaminergic system makes it a good candidate for study in neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and Parkinson disease. Evidence by others support this hypothesis (1) mapping of the NR4A2 gene to chromosome 2q22‐23, a region with suggestive linkage to schizophrenia and (2) identification of mutations in patients with schizophrenia (c.366‐369delTAC, c.308A > G, c.‐469delG), manic depression (c.289A > G), and familial Parkinson's disease (c.‐291delT, c.‐245T > G). To further extend these observations, we searched for all these mutations in 176 Caucasian Portuguese and 82 Caucasian Brazilian subjects with lifetime diagnosis of schizophrenia. The study failed to identify any of the described mutations in patients or controls. Nevertheless, these negative results do not exclude altered expression of nuclear receptors in schizophrenia or the presence of other mutations. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gelation in the radical polymerization of dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride
Authors: Kozlov G. V. , Malkanduev Y. A. , Zaikov G. E.
Published: May 2004

Within the framework of an irreversible aggregation model on a sample of polydimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride, we demonstrated that gelation occurred on a transient part from the autoacceleration stage until the dopolymerization stage. During part of the autoacceleration, the polymer solution was in a sol state on the segment of autoacceleration. Therefore, the use of the term gel effect in reference to the beginning of the reaction did not seem quite justified. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1394–1396, 2004
Natural rubber vulcanizate reinforced by modified coal‐shale‐based fillers
Authors: Zhao Ming , Xiang Yu
Published: May 2004

Coal shale is considered a waste material in coal mining and washing processes. It comprises both inorganic and organic components. In this study, two kinds of coal shale were microcracked, burned, modified by enoxidation natural rubber (ENR), and then used as reinforcing fillers for natural rubber (NR). The NR vulcanizates reinforced with this modified filler were characterized by bounded rubber content, apparent crosslink density, and various mechanical property tests. The results show that the ultramicro coal‐shale powder was a good filler for NR. It could be mixed quickly, and it dispersed well in NR, which resulted in a significant enhancement. After modification by ENR, the reinforcement properties were improved further. The results suggest that this new type of filler could be used as a semireinforcing filler to replace or partially replace carbon black. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1397–1400, 2004
Synthesis and characterization of cellulose triacetate and poly(ethylene imine) membranes containing a polyether macrobicyclic: Their application to the separation of copper(II) and silver(I) ions
Authors: Arous Omar , Amara Mourad , Kerdjoudj Hacène
Published: May 2004

A cellulose triacetate (CTA)–poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) membrane containing a polyether macrobicyclic (cryptand) as a carrier and 2‐nitrophenyloctyl ether (NPOE) as a plasticizer was prepared. The CTA–PEI–cryptand–NPOE membrane was characterized with chemical techniques as well as Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. The permeation of silver and copper ions through the CTA–PEI–cryptand–NPOE membrane was comparable to that through a supported liquid membrane. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1401–1410, 2004
Plasma‐enhanced deposition of silver nanoparticles onto polymer and metal surfaces for the generation of antimicrobial characteristics
Authors: Jiang Hongquan , Manolache Sorin , Wong Amy C. Lee , Denes Ferencz S.
Published: May 2004

Silver nanoparticle thin layers were deposited onto formaldehyde‐radio frequency (RF)‐plasma‐functionalized medical‐ and food‐grade silicone rubber, stainless steel, and paper surfaces. The silver deposition was carried out under ex situ plasma conditions using the Tollen's reaction. Results from survey and high‐resolution electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy investigations confirmed the presence of thin silver layers on the plasma‐exposed and subsequently modified substrate surfaces. In addition, SEM and AFM demonstrated the nanoparticle‐based morphology of the deposited layers. Our results showed that thin macromolecular layers bearing aldehyde functionalities can be deposited onto silicone rubber, stainless steel, and paper surfaces. The bactericidal properties of the silver‐coated surfaces were demonstrated by exposing them to Listeria monocytogenes. No viable bacteria were detected after 12 to 18 h on silver‐coated silicone rubber surfaces. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1411–1422, 2004
Effect of butyl rubber type on properties of polyamide and butyl rubber blends
Authors: Van Dyke J. D. (Jack) , Gnatowski Marek , Koutsandreas Andy , Burczyk Andrew
Published: May 2004

Polyamide‐12 was blended with butyl rubber, bromobutyl rubber, and chlorobutyl rubber with and without a sulfur curing system. Mechanical properties for dynamically vulcanized blends generally exceed those made with no vulcanization. Chlorobutyl‐containing blends prepared by dynamic vulcanization have higher tensile strength and elongation at break values in comparison to those made from other butyl rubbers. For a variety of polyamide/rubber blends made by dynamic vulcanization, there is very little effect of rubber percentage unsaturation and Mooney viscosity on the mechanical properties of the blends. In chlorobutyl‐containing blends prepared by dynamic vulcanization, the swelling index values attributed to the rubber portion decrease as rubber content decreases, and it is likely that the polyamide phase completely surrounds the rubber particles at compositions exceeding approximately 25% polyamide. Swelling index results can be correlated with elongation at break values for similar blends. The results of differential scanning calorimetry suggest that the polyamide phase is not a neutral component in high shear mixing with butyl rubbers with or without curing agents. Rheological studies indicate strong non‐Newtonian behavior for all blends of polyamide‐12 with butyl rubbers. Scanning electron microscopy on polyamide‐12/butyl rubber blends indicates compatibility for butyl rubbers in the order of chlorobutyl > bromobutyl > butyl rubber. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1423–1435, 2004
Poly[poly(oxypropylene) phosphate] macroionophores for transport and separation of cations in a hybrid: Cation‐exchange polymer and liquid membrane system
Authors: Wódzki Romuald , Świa̧tkowski Marek , Pretula Julia , Kałużyñski Krzysztof
Published: May 2004

Poly[poly(oxypropylene) phosphate]s (PPOPP, Mn = 5800, 8100, 10,400), with different POP units (400, 1200, 2000), were synthesized and applied as cation‐selective macroionophores in a multimembrane hybrid system (MHS). The solution of PPOPP in dichloroethane formed the flowing liquid membrane (FLM) circulating between two polymer cation‐exchange membranes, and subsequently, between two polymer‐made pervaporation (PV) membranes. It was found that the PPOPP macroionophores activate the preferential transport of Zn2+ cations from aqueous solutions containing competing Cu2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, and Na+ cations. The following separation orders were observed for PPOPPs with POP‐400 and POP‐1200: Zn2+ > Cu2+ ≫ Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Na+, and for PPOPP with POP‐2000: Zn2+ > Cu2+,Ca2+ ≫ Mg2+, K+, Na+. Always, the particular cations are separated as: Zn2+ > Cu2+, Ca2+ > Mg2+, and K+ > Na+. The properties of PPOPPs were compared to respective transport and separation characteristics corresponding to those of respective poly(propylene glycol)s and poly(oxypropylene) bisphosphates. The results of investigation indicate that the bifunctional character of PPOPPs is caused by the presence of ionizable groups and probably pseudocyclic POP structures. By comparing the separation of cations in the simple MHS[FLM] system and the system supported by pervaporation unit [MHS[FLM‐PV] it was found that continuous dehydration of an organic FLM improves the system overall performance. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1436–1445, 2004
Effects of maleated styrene–(ethylene‐co‐butene)–styrene on compatibilization and properties of nylon‐12,12/nylon‐6 blends
Authors: Xie Tingxiu , Yang Guisheng
Published: May 2004

Effects of a maleated triblock copolymer of styrene–(ethylene‐co‐butene)–styrene (SEBS‐g‐MA) on compatibilization and mechanical properties of nylon‐12,12/nylon‐6 blends were investigated. The results showed that addition of SEBS‐g‐MA could improve the compatibility between nylon‐12,12 and nylon‐6. Nylon‐12,12 could disperse very well in nylon‐6 matrix, although the dispersion of nylon‐6 was poor when nylon‐6 was the dispersed phase. At a fixed nylon‐12,12/nylon‐6 ratio of 30/70, supertoughness was achieved with addition of 15% SEBS‐g‐MA in weight. Scanning electron microscopy of the impact‐fractured surface indicated that cavitation and matrix shear yielding were the predominant mechanisms of impact energy dissipation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1446–1453, 2004
Synthesis and characterization of polyamphoteric hydrogel membrane based on chitosan
Authors: Gholap S. G. , Badiger M. V.
Published: May 2004

Polyamphoteric hydrogel membranes were synthesized by graft copolymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) and 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl propane sulfonic acid (AMPS) onto chitosan (CS). The incorporation of poly(NIPAm) (PNIPAm) and poly(AMPS) (PAMPS) into CS was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The swelling behavior of membranes as a function of pH, temperature, and ionic strength was studied. Permeability of solutes through these membranes was investigated at different temperatures. The results showed the dual sensitivity of membranes toward pH and temperature. The formation of the polyelectrolyte complex between CS and PAMPS showed influence on the lower critical solution temperature of PNIPAm. The permeabilities of solutes through these membranes were strongly dependent on the size of solutes, solution temperature, and hydrophilicity of the membranes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1454–1461, 2004
Toughening of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) with a maleic anhydride grafted SEBS triblock copolymer
Authors: Yu Zhong‐Zhen , Yang Ming‐Shu , Dai Shao‐Cong , Mai Yiu‐Wing
Published: May 2004

Toughening of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) was carried out by blending with a maleic anhydride grafted styrene‐ethylene/butylene‐styrene triblock copolymer (SEBS‐g‐MA). With 30 wt % of the SEBS‐g‐MA, the notched Izod impact strength of the recycled PET was improved by more than 10‐fold. SEM micrographs indicated that cavitation occurred in just a small area near the notch root. Addition of 0.2 phr of a tetrafunctional epoxy monomer increased the recycled PET melt viscosity by chain extension reaction. Different from the positive effect of the epoxy monomer in toughening of nylon and PBT with elastomers, the use of the epoxy monomer in the recycled PET/SEBS‐g‐MA blends failed to further enhance dispersion quality and thus notched impact strength. This negative effect of the epoxy monomer was attributed to the faster reactivity of the epoxy group with maleic anhydride of the SEBS‐g‐MA than with the carboxyl or hydroxyl group of recycled PET. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1462–1472, 2004
UV‐initiated free radical and cationic photopolymerizations of acrylate/epoxide and acrylate/vinyl ether hybrid systems with and without photosensitizer
Authors: Cho Jung‐Dae , Hong Jin‐Who
Published: May 2004

Various properties of UV‐initiated acrylate/epoxide and acrylate/vinyl ether hybrid photopolymerizations with and without photosensitizer in the presence of free radical and cationic‐type photoinitiators have been determined by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), calorimetric analysis (photodifferential scanning calorimetry, photo‐DSC; and differential scanning calorimetry), and scanning electron microscopy. DMTA experiments revealed that the UV curing of hybrid systems may produce interpenetrating polymer networks. Photo‐DSC analyses indicated that the acrylates polymerized faster than the epoxide and vinyl ether in the hybrid systems; the addition of a photosensitizer, isopropylthioxanthone (ITX), increased the polymerization rate of the epoxide and vinyl ether in the hybrid systems. SEM analysis confirmed that the free radical system seemed to be significantly affected by oxygen inhibition, while the cationic and hybrid systems were not nearly inhibited by oxygen; the presence of photosensitization produced by the addition of ITX enhanced the surface curing of the hybrid systems. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1473–1483, 2004
Compositional analysis of thermoplastic wood composites by TGA
Authors: Renneckar Scott , Zink‐Sharp Audrey G. , Ward Thomas C. , Glasser Wolfgang G.
Published: May 2004

A method has been developed for the quantitative determination of the composition of thermoplastic wood composites. The method involves area measurements of the two peaks in the derivative curve of a tracing produced by the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of a thermoplastic composites sample in an inert atmosphere. This may involve the standard, constant heating rate method or the high resolution (Hi‐Res™) TGA method; both produce virtual baseline separation between wood and polyolefin peaks over a wide compositional range. Because this baseline separation suffers from a mutual effect on the thermal degradation of wood and polyolefins, best results are obtained if the parameters relating peak area with polyolefin content are different below and above 40% polyolefin content. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1484–1492, 2004
Solubility study of polyacrylamide in polar solvents
Authors: Wu Shuhui , Shanks R. A.
Published: May 2004

Contact angles and surface tension data were measured to obtain the surface tension components of polyacrylamide (PAM). According to Van Oss, Chaudhury, and Good (VCG) theory, the surface tension components were used to calculate the PAM solubility in five different polar solvents: water, ethylene glycol (EG), acetone, ethanol, and dimethyl formamide (DMF). It was found that PAM had a monopolar surface nature, which resulted in polymer dissolution in water. The solubility of PAM in water was greater than in EG, but PAM was solvophobic in the other three solvents. For PAM, water, and the second solvent (cosolvent) ternary system, the solubility of PAM could not be calculated directly. Surface tension was used as an index of polarity for cosolvent systems (the mixture of water and the second solvent). The cosolvent polarity decreased when the composition of the second solvent increased. PAM would be dissolved in the cosolvent when the system's polar contribution was greater than the apolar contribution. The apparent surface tension of PAM aqueous solutions was not sensitive enough to show polymer conformation changes when additive concentrations were changed. The solubility of PAM in binary polar solvent systems or ternary cosolvent systems was used to estimating the swelling properties of a PAM hydrogel under corresponding external conditions. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 1493–1499, 2004
cDNA cloning, expression, and characterization of an arylphorin‐like hexameric storage protein, AgeHex2, from the mulberry longicorn beetle, Apriona germari
Authors: Kim Seong Ryul , Lee Kwang Sik , Yoon Hyung Joo , Park Nam Sook , Lee Sang Mong , Je Yeon Ho , Jin Byung Rae , Sohn Hung Dae
Published: May 2004

An arylphorin‐like hexameric storage protein, AgeHex2, cDNA was cloned from the mulberry longicorn beetle, Apriona germari (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae), larval cDNA library. The complete cDNA sequence of AgeHex2 is comprised of 2,088 bp encoding 696 amino acid residues. The AgeHex2 had four potential N‐glycosylation sites. The AgeHex2 contained the highly conserved two larval storage protein signature motifs. The deduced protein sequence of AgeHex2 showed high homology with A. germari hexamerin1 (51% amino acid identity), Tenebrio molitor hexamerin2 (49% amino acid identity), T. molitor early‐staged encapsulation inducing protein (43% amino acid identity), and Leptinotarsa decemlineata diapause protein1 (43% amino acid identity). Phylogenetic analysis further confirmed the AgeHex2 is more closely related to coleopteran hexamerins than to the other insect storage proteins. Northern blot analysis confirmed that the AgeHex2 showed fat body‐specific expression. The cDNA encoding AgeHex2 was expressed as a 75‐kDa protein in the baculovirus‐infected insect cells. Furthermore, N‐glycosylation of the recombinant AgeHex2 was revealed by tunicamycin to the recombinant virus‐infected Sf9 cells, demonstrating that the AgeHex2 is N‐glycosylated. Western blot analysis using the polyclonal antiserum against recombinant AgeHex2 indicated that the AgeHex2 corresponds to a 75‐kDa storage protein present in the A. germari larval hemolymph. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 56:61–72, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fatty acid and sex pheromone changes and the role of glandular lipids in the Z‐strain of the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner)
Authors: Foster S.P.
Published: May 2004

Lipids in the sex pheromone gland of females of the Z‐strain of Ostrinia nubilalis were analyzed for fatty acyl pheromone analogs (FAPAs) and other potential biosynthetic intermediates. More than 80% of the FAPAs were found in the triacylglycerols (TGs), with smaller amounts found in the phosphatidyl cholines, ethanolamines, and serines. Analysis of the TGs by lipase revealed that the two FAPAs were distributed fairly evenly among all three stereospecific positions. Comparison of changes in titers of key glandular fatty acids with those of pheromone components, with respect to photoperiodic time and age of females, showed that both FAPA and pheromone titers exhibited a cyclical pattern with peaks in the scotophase and valleys in the photophase. However, whereas pheromone titer tended to peak in the first half of the scotophase, FAPA titer peaked at the end of the scotophase. Significantly, the titer of the FAPA of the minor component, (E)‐11‐tetradecenyl acetate (3% of pheromone), was always much greater than the titer of the FAPA of the major component, (Z)‐11‐tetradecenyl acetate (97%), of the pheromone. Titer of myristate, an intermediate in pheromone biosynthesis, was also higher during the scotophase than the photophase. However, myristate titer showed a pronounced dip in the middle of the scotophase. These data suggest two roles for glandular lipids in sex pheromone biosynthesis in O. nubilalis. Firstly, they remove excess FAPA of the minor component so the fatty acid reductase system is not presented with a high ratio of this isomer (which would otherwise result from the reductase's own selectivity), which could cause changes in the final pheromone ratio. Secondly, hydrolysis of the large amounts of stored saturated fatty acids from the TGs may provide substrate for pheromone biosynthesis. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 56:73–83, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.