bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid and protein deterioration during the chilled storage of minced sea salmon (Pseudopercis semifasciata)
Authors: Tironi Valeria A , Tomás Mabel C , Añón María C
Published: July 2007

Sea salmon is a very appreciated seafood. The aim of this work was to analyze changes in lipid and protein fractions of minced muscle during chilled storage (1 ± 1 °C). Lipid oxidation was important during the first 6 days of storage according to 2‐thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values determined, decreasing mainly ω3 22:6 fatty acid content. Lipid hydrolysis was evident after 9 days of storage. Interaction compounds between oxidation products and other cellular components were analyzed by fluorescence measurements. The results obtained showed evidence of the formation of interaction products involved, mainly polar components such as proteins. Decreases in myosin and actin thermal stability and myosin denaturation were recorded by differential scanning calorimetry. Solubility of total and myofibrillar proteins decreased after 6 days of storage. The electrophoretic profile of soluble fractions showed an increase in the intensity of bands corresponding to low‐molecular‐weight polypeptides and a decrease in high‐molecular‐weight species. Available lysine content did not change during chilled storage. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Tumor doubling time and local immune response to hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer
Authors: Kito Ayako , Tanaka Kuniya , Fujimaki Haruka , Nakazawa Masatoshi , Togo Shinji , Minami Mutsuhiko , Shimada Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Background and objectives

A number of studies have investigated the role of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in cancer, yet the local immune response to hepatic colorectal cancer metastasis remains unclear. As the tumor doubling time (DT) of hepatic colorectal cancer metastases is a good index of tumor growth, we examined the correlation between tumor DT and the local immune response by phenotype in hepatic colorectal cancer metastases.

Methods

Tumor DT and local immune response were examined in 20 patients with hepatic colorectal cancer metastases by analyzing tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes using flow cytometry or immunohistochemical studies. Tumor proliferative activity was also investigated by determining the expression levels of Ki‐67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA).

Results

Locally abundant populations of CD83+ dendritic cells (DCs) and CD8+ T cells were positively related to longer tumor DT (P < 0.05), as were abundant CD8+ T cells having interferon‐γ‐producing potentials (P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between tumor cell expression levels of Ki‐67 or PCNA and tumor DT.

Conclusions

Longer DT tumors have increased local populations of CD8+ T cells and CD83+ DCs even in hepatic colorectal cancer metastases. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:525–533. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
How does the molecular velocity distribution affect kinetics measurements by time‐resolved mass spectrometry?
Authors: Taatjes Craig A.
Published: July 2007

The equations governing the time fidelity in molecular‐beam mass sampling are derived for supersonic‐beam sampling, where the velocity distribution is well‐fitted by a displaced Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution. Supersonic sampling is shown to offer much higher fidelity than the corresponding effusive‐beam sampling, and rules of thumb are derived for the validity of kinetic measurements for supersonic‐beam sampling. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 39: 565–570, 2007
Mass spectrometry in nutrition: Understanding dietary health effects at the molecular level
Authors: Kussmann Martin , Affolter Michael , Nagy Kornél , Holst Birgit , Fay Laurent B.
Published: July 2007

In modern nutrition research, mass spectrometry has developed into a tool to assess health, sensory as well as quality and safety aspects of food. In this review, we focus on health‐related benefits of food components and, accordingly, on biomarkers of exposure (bioavailability) and bioefficacy. Current nutrition research focuses on unraveling the link between dietary patterns, individual foods or food constituents and the physiological effects at cellular, tissue and whole body level after acute and chronic uptake. The bioavailability of bioactive food constituents as well as dose‐effect correlations are key information to understand the impact of food on defined health outcomes. Both strongly depend on appropriate analytical tools to identify and quantify minute amounts of individual compounds in highly complex matrices—food or biological fluids—and to monitor molecular changes in the body in a highly specific and sensitive manner. Based on these requirements, mass spectrometry has become the analytical method of choice with broad applications throughout all areas of nutrition research. The current review focuses on selected areas of application: protein and peptide as well as nutrient and metabolite analysis. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 26:727–750, 2007
Macromol. Theory Simul. 5/2007
Authors: Fleer Gerard J. , Skvortsov Alexander M. , Tuinier Remco
Published: July 2007

Cover: The osmotic pressure Π as a function of the polymer concentration φ is given by a linear combination of the dilute and semidilute limits: $\Pi = \Pi_0 + \Pi_{\rm sd}$, where $\Pi_0 = \varphi/N$ (Van't Hoff) and $\Pi_{\rm sd} \sim \varphi^{3\alpha}$ (De Gennes). An equivalent description is $\Pi/ \Pi_0 = 1 + (\varphi/ \varphi_{\rm ex})^{3\alpha-1}$, where $\varphi_{\rm ex}$ is the extrapolation concentration. Further details can be found in the article by G. J. Fleer, A. M. Skvortsov, and R. Tuinier* on page 531.
Transient stress and stress enzyme responses have practical impacts on parameters of embryo development, from IVF to directed differentiation of stem cells
Authors: Xie Y. , Liu J. , Proteasa S. , Proteasa G. , Zhong W. , Wang Y. , Wang F. , Puscheck E.E. , Rappolee D.A.
Published: July 2007

In this review, we discuss the expression, regulation, downstream mechanisms, and function of stress‐induced stress enzymes in mammalian oocytes, peri‐implantation embryos, and the stem cells derived from those embryos. Recent reports suggest that stress enzymes mediate developmental functions during early mammalian development, in addition to the homeostatic functions shared with somatic cells. Stress‐induced enzymes appear to insure that necessary developmental events occur: many of these events may occur at a slower rate, although some may occur more rapidly. Developmental events induced by stress may be mediated by a single dominant enzyme, but there are examples of responses that require the integration of more than one stress enzyme. The discussion focuses on the consequences of stress as a function of duration and magnitude, and this includes an emerging understanding of the threshold levels of duration and magnitude that lead to pathology. Other topics discussed are the reversibility of the developmental as well as homeostatic consequences of stress, the further problems with readaptation after stress subsides, and the mechanisms and functions of stress enzymes during early mammalian development. The analyses are done with specific concern for their practical impact in assisted reproductive technology (ART) and stem cell technologies. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 689–697, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Applicability and limitations of MR tracking of neural stem cells with asymmetric cell division and rapid turnover: The case of the Shiverer dysmyelinated mouse brain
Authors: Walczak P. , Kedziorek D.A. , Gilad A.A. , Barnett B.P. , Bulte J.W.M.
Published: July 2007

LacZ‐transfected C17.2 neural stem cells (NSCs) were labeled with the superparamagnetic iron oxide formulation Feridex prior to ICV injection in shi/shi neonates. Feridex labeling did not alter cell differentiation in vitro and in vivo. Initially, MR images obtained at 11.7T correlated closely to NSC distribution as assessed with anti‐dextran and anti‐β‐galactosidase double‐fluorescent immunostaining. However, at 6 days postgrafting there was already a pronounced mismatch between the hypointense MR signal and the histologically determined cell distribution, with a surprisingly sharp cutoff rather than a gradual decrease of signal. Positive in vivo BrdU labeling of NSCs showed that significant cell replication occurred post‐transplantation, causing rapid dilution of Feridex particles between mother and daughter cells toward undetectable levels. Neural differentiation experiments demonstrated asymmetric cell division, explaining the observed sharp cutoff. At later time points (2 weeks), the mismatch further increased by the presence of non‐cell‐associated Feridex particles resulting from active excretion or cell death. These results are a first demonstration of the inability of MRI to track rapidly dividing and self‐renewing, asymmetrically dividing SCs. Therefore, MR cell tracking should only be applied for nonproliferating cells or short‐term monitoring of highly‐proliferative cells, with mitotic symmetry or asymmetry being important for determining its applicability. Magn Reson Med 58:261–269, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the application of chemical shift‐based multipoint water‐fat separation methods in balanced SSFP imaging
Authors: Kim Hyeonjin , Pinus Alexander B. , Wang Jinghua , Murphy Philip S. , Constable R. Todd
Published: July 2007

Chemical shift‐based multipoint water‐fat separation methods have been applied in balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) sequences because of the high signal‐to‐noise‐ratio (SNR) attainable. In this approach the echo formation is approximated to occur concurrently for both water and fat at an echo time (TE) equal to half the repetition time (TR/2 approximation). However, the degree to which the imaging conditions underlying the TR/2 approximation are satisfied can significantly vary in vivo depending upon the imaging region of interest (ROI) and the pixels across a field of view (FOV). The consequence of the TR/2 approximation on chemical shift‐based multipoint water‐fat separation was investigated. The influence of a mismatch between the pass‐band profiles of water and fat (pass‐band mismatch) on fat quantification was also examined. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate that the TR/2 approximation can result in spatially dependent noise performance of multipoint water‐fat separation methods, and the pass‐band mismatch can render the precision of fat quantification spatially dependent. Given that local tissue characteristics in affected liver can be substantially variable, this study is of particular importance in liver imaging. Magn Reson Med 58:413–418, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spectroscopic imaging of the pilocarpine model of human epilepsy suggests that early NAA reduction predicts epilepsy
Authors: Gomes W.A. , Lado F.A. , de Lanerolle N.C. , Takahashi K. , Pan C. , Hetherington H.P.
Published: July 2007

Reduced hippocampal N‐acetyl aspartate (NAA) is commonly observed in patients with advanced, chronic temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). It is unclear, however, whether an NAA deficit is also present during the clinically quiescent latent period that characterizes early TLE. This question has important implications for the use of MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in the early identification of patients at risk for TLE. To determine whether NAA is diminished during the latent period, we obtained high‐resolution 1H spectroscopic imaging during the latent period of the rat pilocarpine model of human TLE. We used actively detuneable surface reception and volume transmission coils to enhance sensitivity and a semiautomated voxel shifting method to accurately position voxels within the hippocampi. During the latent period, 2 and 7 d following pilocarpine treatment, hippocampal NAA was significantly reduced by 27.5 ± 6.9% (P < 0.001) and 17.3 ± 6.9% (P < 0.001) at 2 and 7 d, respectively. Quantitative estimates of neuronal loss at 7 d (2.3 ± 7.7% reduction; P = 0.58, not significant) demonstrate that the NAA deficit is not due to neuron loss and therefore likely represents metabolic impairment of hippocampal neurons during the latent phase. Therefore, spectroscopic imaging provides an early marker for metabolic dysfunction in this model of TLE. Magn Reson Med 58:230–235, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Absolute and relative contributions of BOLD effects to the muscle functional MRI signal intensity time course: Effect of exercise intensity
Authors: Damon Bruce M. , Wadington Megan C. , Hornberger Jennifer L. , Lansdown Drew A.
Published: July 2007

The time course of exercise‐induced T2‐weighted signal intensity (SI) changes contains an initial rise, early dip, and secondary rise. The purposes of this study were to test the hypothesis that the secondary rise occurs earlier during more intense contractions, and to determine the contribution of BOLD contrast to the SI changes. Eight subjects performed 90‐s isometric dorsiflexion contractions at 30% and 60% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) while T2‐weighted (TR/TE = 4000 ms/35 ms) images were acquired and total hemoglobin ([THb]) and oxy‐Hb saturation (%HbO2) were measured. At 30% MVC, [THb] remained constant and %HbO2 decreased from 66.3% (standard error [SEM] = 2.6%) to 32.4% (SEM = 6.4%). At t = 88 s, SI increased by ∼8% and was greater than at t = 8 and 56s. At 60% MVC, [THb] remained constant and %HbO2 decreased from 70.2% (SEM = 2.3%) to 40.4% (SEM = 5.4%). SI increased by ∼17% and at t = 56 and 88 s was greater than at t = 8 and 20 s. The absolute contribution of calculated BOLD effects was −1% at 30% and 60% MVC. The relative contribution was greater at 30% than at 60% MVC (up to −26% and −10%, respectively). We conclude that the secondary rise occurs earlier at 60% MVC and that the relative contribution of BOLD effects is greater during less intense contractions. Magn Reson Med 58:335–345, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of a compact MRI system for trabecular bone microstructure measurements of the distal radius
Authors: Handa Shinya , Tomiha Sadanori , Haishi Tomoyuki , Kose Katsumi
Published: July 2007

A compact MRI system for trabecular bone (TB) microstructure measurements of the distal radius was developed using a 1.0 T permanent magnet and a compact MRI console. TB microstructure of the distal radius was clearly visualized using a three‐dimensional (3D) driven equilibrium spin‐echo (DESE) sequence in 23 min. The image obtained had a sufficient spatial resolution (150 μm × 150 μm × 500 μm) and signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) (approximately 10) for 3D bone microstructure analysis. The system demonstrated the feasibility of using a permanent magnet compact MRI system as a clinical instrument for bone microstructure measurements of the distal radius. Magn Reson Med 58:225–229, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the noise correlation matrix for multiple radio frequency coils
Authors: Brown Ryan , Wang Yi , Spincemaille Pascal , Lee Ray F.
Published: July 2007

Noise correlation between multiple receiver coils is discussed using principles of statistical physics. Using the general fluctuation‐dissipation theorem we derive the prototypic correlation formula originally determined by Redpath (Magn Res Med 1992;24:85–89), which states that correlation of current spectral noise depends on the real part of the inverse impedance matrix at a given frequency. A distinct correlation formula is also derived using the canonical partition function, which states that correlation of total current noise over the entire frequency spectrum depends on the inverse inductance matrix. The Kramers‐Kronig relation is used to equate the inverse inductance matrix to the spectral integral of the inverse impedance matrix, implying that the total noise is equal to the summation of the spectral noise over the entire frequency spectrum. Previous conflicting arguments on noise correlation may be reconciled by differentiating between spectral and total noise correlation. These theoretical derivations are verified experimentally using two‐coil arrays. Magn Reson Med 58:218–224, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Can studies of the second lumbrical interossei and its premotor potential reduce the number of tests for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Authors: Therimadasamy Aravinda K. , Li Eileen , Wilder‐Smith Einar P.
Published: July 2007

The second lumbrical interossei latency difference test (2‐LINT) is a frequently used test for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Recently, the premotor potential (2‐LUMP) observed with 2‐LINT was identified as a median sensory potential. 2‐LINT recording therefore not only compares conduction across equidistant median and ulnar motor segments, but also registers median sensory conduction. In 52 CTS and 50 control hands, we tested whether motor and sensory data obtained with 2‐LINT help to reduce the number of tests necessary to diagnose CTS. The combined sensitivity of 2‐LINT derived parameters (2‐LUMP latency, median second lumbrical to ulnar interossei latency difference, ulnar digit 5 sensory to 2‐LUMP velocity, and ulnar interossei to 2‐LUMP latency difference) was 89%, identical to that of combined non–2‐LINT derived parameters (median digit 3 sensory velocity, ulnar digit 5 to median digit 3 sensory velocity difference, median abductor pollices brevis [APB] latency, median APB to ulnar abductor digiti minimi latency). The 2‐LINT technique with its premotor potential may therefore help to reduce the number of nerve conduction tests commonly needed to investigate patients with suspected CTS. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Effect of age on adrenergic and vagal baroreflex sensitivity in normal subjects
Authors: Huang Chih‐Cheng , Sandroni Paola , Sletten David M. , Weigand Stephen D. , Low Phillip A.
Published: July 2007

The baroreflex maintains a stable blood pressure (BP) by dynamically adjusting heart rate (vagal component) and total peripheral resistance (adrenergic component). Vagal baroreflex sensitivity (BRS‐v) is widely used but no methodology existed to quantitate adrenergic baroreflex sensitivity (BRS‐a) until we developed the indices of BP recovery time (PRT) and BRS‐a. The aims of this study were to generate a normative database and to evaluate whether there is an age effect on the cardiovagal and adrenergic sensitivities. We evaluated recordings of heart rate (HR) and BP in 255 normal subjects during the Valsalva maneuver (VM) and determined both BRS‐v and BRS‐a sensitivities. PRT increased with age whereas all other parameters declined with age. The adrenergic parameters correlated well with each other but not significantly with BRS‐v. The results indicate that both BRS‐a and BRS‐v become blunted with increasing age and that these indices behave independently of each other. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Frequency of seronegativity in adult‐acquired generalized myasthenia gravis
Authors: Chan Koon Ho , Lachance Daniel H. , Harper C. Michel , Lennon Vanda A.
Published: July 2007

We determined the prevalence of muscle acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies in patients with adult‐acquired generalized myasthenia gravis (MG), the seroconversion rate at 12 months, and the prevalence of muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibody among persistently seronegative patients. We identified 562 consecutive Mayo Clinic patients with MG based on clinical and electrophysiological criteria. At presentation, 508 patients (90.4%) tested positive for AChR binding or AChR modulating antibodies. After 12 months, 15.2% of initially seronegative patients had become seropositive, yielding a seronegativity rate of 8.2% (95% confidence interval: 6.2–9.6%). Among seronegative patients not receiving immunosuppressants, 38% were MuSK antibody‐positive and 43% were seropositive for nonmuscle autoantibodies. Classification as seronegative MG should be reserved for nonimmunosuppressed patients with generalized MG who lack muscle AChR binding, AChR modulating, or MuSK antibodies at presentation and at follow‐up of at least 12 months. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Pain and soreness associated with a percutaneous electrical stimulation muscle cramping protocol
Authors: Miller Kevin C. , Knight Kenneth L.
Published: July 2007

Muscle cramps are difficult to study scientifically because of their spontaneity and unpredictability. Various laboratory techniques to induce muscle cramps have been explored but the best technique for inducing cramps is unclear. Electrical stimulation appears to be the most reliable, but there is a perception that it is extremely painful. Data to support this perception are lacking. We hypothesized that electrical stimulation is a tolerable method of inducing cramps with few side effects. We measured cramp frequency (HZ), pain during electrical stimulation, and soreness before, at 5 s, and 30, 60, and 90 min after cramp induction using a 100‐mm visual analog scale. Group 1 received tibial nerve stimulation on 5 consecutive days; Group 2 received it on alternate days for five total treatments. Pain and soreness were mild. The highest ratings occurred on Day 1 and decreased thereafter. Intersession reliability was high. Our study showed that electrical stimulation causes little pain or soreness and is a reliable method for inducing cramps. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Episodic hypoxia exacerbates respiratory muscle dysfunction in DMDmdx mice
Authors: Farkas Gaspar A. , Mccormick Kathleen M. , Gosselin Luc E.
Published: July 2007

Many patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are eventually diagnosed with sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB). SDB is associated with reduced ventilation, decreased arterial oxygen tension, and increased respiratory muscle recruitment during sleep, factors that could be especially detrimental to respiratory muscles in DMD. To assess whether SDB impacts dystrophin‐deficient respiratory muscle function and fibrosis, diaphragm strength, and collagen content were evaluated in dystrophic mice (Dmdmdx) exposed to experimental SDB. Diurnal exposure to episodic hypoxia resulted in a 30% reduction in diaphragm strength without affecting collagen content. Episodic hypoxia secondary to SDB can exacerbate respiratory muscle dysfunction in DMD. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Urethral diverticula: A review and an update
Authors: Rovner Eric S.
Published: July 2007

Likely originating from the periurethral glands, female urethral diverticula (UD) are an uncommon but fascinating clinical entity. UD are variable in their presentation and the diagnosis is sometimes difficult and delayed. Modern imaging modalities such as surface coil and endoluminal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have added to the diagnostic armamentarium but have also furthered our understanding of UD. Accurate preoperative characterization of the often complex anatomical patterns seen on these imaging studies including saddlebag and circumferential urethral involvement, as well as complete evaluation of associated voiding dysfunction such as complete evaluation of associated voiding dysfunction such as urinary incontinence often impacts contemporary surgical management. Neurourol. Urodynam. 26:972–977, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tail hazard rate ordering properties of order statistics and coherent systems
Authors: Navarro Jorge
Published: July 2007

We study tail hazard rate ordering properties of coherent systems using the representation of the distribution of a coherent system as a mixture of the distributions of the series systems obtained from its path sets. Also some ordering properties are obtained for order statistics which, in this context, represent the lifetimes of k‐out‐of‐n systems. We pay special attention to systems with components satisfying the proportional hazard rate model or with exponential, Weibull and Pareto type II distributions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2007
The maximum residual flow problem:NP‐hardness with two‐arc destruction
Authors: Du Donglei , Chandrasekaran R.
Published: July 2007

The maximum residual flow problem with one‐arc destruction is shown to be solvable in strongly polynomial time in [Aneja et al., Networks, 38 (2001), 194–198]. However, the status of the corresponding problem with more than one‐arc destruction is left open therein. We resolve the status of the two‐arc destruction problem by demonstrating that it is already NP‐hard. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 50(3), 181–182 2007
Continuum approximation techniques for the design of integrated package distribution systems
Authors: Smilowitz Karen R. , Daganzo Carlos F.
Published: July 2007

Complex package distribution systems are designed using idealizations of network geometries, operating costs, demand and customer distributions, and routing patterns. The goal is to find simple, yet realistic, guidelines to design and operate a network integrated both by transportation mode and service level; i.e., overnight (express) and longer (deferred) deadlines. The decision variables and parameters that define the problem are presented along with the models to approximate total operating cost. The design problem is then reduced to a series of optimization subproblems that can be solved easily. The proposed approach provides valuable insight for the design and operation of integrated package distribution systems. Qualitative conclusions suggest that benefits of integration are greater when deferred demand exceeds express demand. This insight helps to explain the different business strategies of package delivery firms today. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 50(3), 183–196 2007
On tree 3‐spanners in directed path graphs
Authors: Panda B.S. , Das Anita
Published: July 2007

A spanning tree T of a graph G is said to be a tree t‐spanner if the distance between any two vertices in T is at most t times their distance in G. While the complexity of the problem of recognizing whether a graph has a tree t‐spanner is known for any fixed t≠3, the case t = 3 is still open. H.‐O. Le and V. B. Le (1999, Networks, 34(2), 81‐87) have shown that every directed path graph admits a tree 3‐spanner by proposing an algorithm to construct a tree 3‐spanner of a given directed path graph. In this paper, we point out a flaw in their algorithm by producing a directed path graph for which their algorithm fails to produce a tree 3‐spanner although the graph admits a tree 3‐spanner. Furthermore, we show that directed path graphs need not admit tree 3‐spanners in general. Next, we show that directed path graphs of diameter two always admit tree 2‐spanners and hence tree 3‐spanners. Finally, we show that a tree 2‐spanner of a diameter two directed path graph can be constructed in linear time. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 50(3), 203–210 2007
Patient involvement in health‐related decisions during prolonged critical illness
Authors: Happ Mary Beth , Swigart Valerie A. , Tate Judith A. , Hoffman Leslie A. , Arnold Robert M.
Published: July 2007

We describe patterns of communication of patients involved in health‐related decision making during prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV). Data were collected using observation, interview, and record review. Twelve of 30 patients participated in decisions about initiating, withdrawing, and withholding life‐sustaining treatment, surgery, artificial feeding, financial/legal issues, discharge care, and daily care procedures. Patient involvement was largely validation or confirmation of what clinicians and families had already decided. Patients' participation was enlisted by clinicians and family members even when the patients did not exhibit full decisional capacity. Patient involvement in health‐related decisions during prolonged critical illness is a shared and negotiated process that requires continued empirical study and ethical analysis. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:361–372, 2007.
Is the CVI an acceptable indicator of content validity? Appraisal and recommendations
Authors: Polit Denise F. , Beck Cheryl Tatano , Owen Steven V.
Published: July 2007

Nurse researchers typically provide evidence of content validity for instruments by computing a content validity index (CVI), based on experts' ratings of item relevance. We compared the CVI to alternative indexes and concluded that the widely‐used CVI has advantages with regard to ease of computation, understandability, focus on agreement of relevance rather than agreement per se, focus on consensus rather than consistency, and provision of both item and scale information. One weakness is its failure to adjust for chance agreement. We solved this by translating item‐level CVIs (I‐CVIs) into values of a modified kappa statistic. Our translation suggests that items with an I‐CVI of .78 or higher for three or more experts could be considered evidence of good content validity. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:459–467, 2007.
Staff–family relationships in the care of older people: A report on a systematic review
Authors: Haesler Emily , Bauer Michael , Nay Rhonda
Published: July 2007

This article reports on a systematic review of the strategies, practices, and organizational characteristics that promote constructive staff–family relationships in the care of older adults in the health care setting. Research evidence points to the need to address power and control issues, communication, and collaborative approaches to care. Interventions designed to promote family–staff relationships are more likely to achieve maximum benefit when implemented with accompanying information sharing, education, and managerial support. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:385–398, 2007.
Using standardized survey items with older adults hospitalized for chronic illness
Authors: Fox Mary T. , Sidani Souraya , Streiner David
Published: July 2007

We used the stages of the question response model as a framework to discuss the challenges in administering standardized measures to older adults hospitalized with chronic illnesses. Items with complex content and those with negative stems were associated with difficulties during the comprehension stage. Present experience with the subject of the item was a barrier to retrieving past experiences. The lack of relevance of an item's content to the respondent's situation was associated with problems during the judgment stage. The numeric response format of the items was an obstacle during the response stage. Strategies to enhance the validity of the surveys included breaking up, rephrasing, and contextualizing items, and using descriptive response options. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:468–481, 2007.
Using crash scene variables to predict the need for trauma center care in older persons
Authors: Scheetz Linda J. , Zhang Juan , Kolassa John E.
Published: July 2007

Current trauma triage protocols lack sensitivity to occult injuries in older persons, resulting in unacceptable undertriage rates. We identified crash scene information that could be used by emergency personnel to identify the need for trauma center care in older persons injured in motor vehicle crashes. Crash records of 7,883 persons 65 years and older were explored using classification and regression trees (CART) analysis. CART analysis of 26 crash scene variables resulted in two classification trees from which triage decision rules were stated for persons with severe and moderate injuries. Sensitivity and specificity of the rules were 95.15% and 76.47% for severe injury and 83.1% and 81.5% for moderate injury. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:399–412, 2007
Nurse adherence to a minimal‐contact smoking cessation intervention on cardiac wards
Authors: Segaar Dewi , Willemsen Marc C. , Bolman Catherine , De Vries Hein
Published: July 2007

Health promotion interventions are often underused by care practitioners and, therefore, are not effective. In this study, we assessed nurses' use of a smoking cessation intervention in Dutch cardiac wards and factors associated with their adherence. Ninety‐four of 206 nurses did not fully apply the intervention in daily practice; they did not always provide patients with self‐help guides, discuss smoking cessation aids, or provide follow‐up care. The significant factors in our integrated change model accounted for 52% of the variance in adherence. Adherence was most likely if nurses consistently used an intervention card, perceived advantages of the intervention, had other nurses around them who used it, and had been involved in decision‐making. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:429–444, 2007.
The relationships among sexually transmitted infection, depression, and lifetime violence in a sample of predominantly African American women
Authors: Laughon Kathryn , Gielen Andrea Carlson , Campbell Jacquelyn C. , Burke Jessica , McDonnell Karen , O'Campo Patricia
Published: July 2007

This study was a secondary analysis of the relationships among lifetime experiences of violence, depressive symptoms, substance use, safer sex behaviors use, and past‐year sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment among a sample of 445 low income, primarily African American women (257 HIV‐, 188 HIV+) reporting a male intimate partner within the past year. Twenty‐one percent of HIV− and 33% of HIV+ women reported past‐year STI treatment. Violence victimization increased women's odds of past‐year STI treatment, controlling for HIV status and age. Depressive symptoms increased, and use of safer sex behaviors decreased, women's odds of past‐year STI treatment. Results suggest that positive assessment for violence and/or depression indicates need for STI screening. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 30:413–428, 2007.
Sonocrystallization of polycarbonate melts
Authors: Yoo Youngjae , Park Changhyun , Won Jong Chan , Lee Sung‐Goo , Choi Kil‐Yeong , Lee Jae Heung
Published: July 2007

In this paper, we showed the simplified continuous process to crystallize the polycarbonate (PC) melts using sonocrystallization which is based on ultrasonic cavitation and ‘hot spot’ theory. High power ultrasonic wave was introduced to crystallize the PC prepolymers which is generally used for solid‐state polymerization (SSP) to obtain the ultra‐high molecular weight PCs. The structure and properties of PC treated with ultrasonic wave such as torque changes and crystallinities were studied. The experimental results showed that ultrasonic wave could improve the crystallinities of PCs and sonication time was proportional to their crystallinity. This is attributed to the decrease of the specific volume and the resulting shrinkage is compensated by a flux of a polymer melt toward the crystallization front. Torque data were collected directly from the Haake internal mixer and crystallinities were evaluated from differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). This process is an environmentally benign process so that no additional solvents or treatments are needed and will be very useful in the conventional solid‐state process which is used industrially. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective analysis of phenolic compounds in propolis by HPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Medana Claudio , Carbone Francesco , Aigotti Riccardo , Appendino Giovanni , Baiocchi Claudio
Published: July 2007

Phenolic compounds (flavonoids and phenolic acid derivatives) are major active constituents of the resinous fraction of propolis, and also represent its allergenic principles. We have developed a chromatography electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS) method to characterise the polyphenolic fraction of propolis rapidly and quali‐quantitatively. With precursor ion scanning, selective detection of caffeic esters was easily achieved, confirming the identification of prenyl caffeate, benzyl caffeate and phenylethyl caffeate by comparison with synthetic standards. The ionisation and fragmentation behaviour of the major propolis flavonoids was rationalised and applied to selected real samples. Taken together, the results of this study show that the introduction of precursor ion analysis leads to a significant improvement in the characterisation of the phenolic fraction of propolis, paving the way to the establishment of a better quality control for this important natural remedy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimisation of supercritical fluid extraction of indole alkaloids from Catharanthus roseus using experimental design methodology—comparison with other extraction techniques
Authors: Verma Arvind , Hartonen Kari , Riekkola Marja‐Liisa
Published: July 2007

Response surface modelling, using MODDE 6 software for Design of Experiments and Optimisation, was applied to optimise supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) conditions for the extraction of indole alkaloids from the dried leaves of Catharanthus roseus. The effects of pressure (200–400 bar), temperature (40–80°C), modifier concentration (2.2–6.6 vol%) and dynamic extraction time (20–60 min) on the yield of alkaloids were evaluated. The extracts were analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography and the analytes were identified using ion trap‐electrospray ionisation–mass spectrometry. The method was linear for alkaloid concentration in the range 0.18–31 µg/mL. The limits of detection and quantification for catharanthine, vindoline, vinblastine and vincristine were 0.2, 0.15, 0.1 and 0.08 µg/mL and 2.7, 2.0, 1.3 and 1.1 µg/g, respectively. The dry weight content of major alkaloids in the plants were compared using different extraction methods, i.e. SFE, Soxhlet extraction, solid–liquid extraction with sonication and hot water extraction at various temperatures. The extraction techniques were also compared in terms of reproducibility, selectivity and analyte recoveries. Relative standard deviations for the major alkaloids varied from 4.1 to 17.5% in different extraction methods. The best recoveries (100%) for catharanthine were obtained by SFE at 250 bar and 80°C using 6.6 vol% methanol as modifier for 40 min, for vindoline by Soxhlet extraction using dichloromethane in a reflux for 16 h, and for 3′,4′‐anhydrovinblastine by solid–liquid extraction using a solution of 0.5 m sulphuric acid and methanol (3:1 v/v) in an ultrasonic bath for 3 h. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isoflavones in the rutaceae family: twenty selected representatives of the genera Citrus, Fortunella, Poncirus, Ruta and Severinia
Authors: Koblovská Radka , Macková Zuzana , Vítková Michaela , Kokoška Ladislav , Klejdus Bořivoj , Lapčík Oldřich
Published: July 2007

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays in combination with semi‐preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and analytical HPLC with mass spectroscopy in the selective ion monitoring mode were used for the determination of selected isoflavones, daidzein, genistein, biochanin A and their homologues, in 20 representatives of the Rutaceae family. Species belonging to five genera were studied, namely Citrus, Fortunella, Poncirus, Ruta and Severinia. The enzyme immunoassays used were based on polyclonal antibodies raised against isoflavonoid conjugates with bovine serum albumin (BSA), namely biochanin A‐7‐BSA, daidzein‐7‐BSA, daidzein‐4′‐BSA, genistein‐7‐BSA and genistein‐4′‐BSA. Aglycones as well as glycosides were detected, and methoxyisoflavones appeared to be more abundant than hydoxyisoflavones. The content of individual isoflavonoids ranged from 0 to 2.6 mg/kg (dry weight); the sum of all measured substances reached up to 5.9 mg. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plant proteome analysis: A 2006 update
Authors: Jorrín Jesús V. , Maldonado Ana M. , Castillejo Ma Angeles
Published: July 2007

This 2006 ‘Plant Proteomics Update’ is a continuation of the two previously published in ‘Proteomics’ by 2004 (Canovas et al., Proteomics 2004, 4, 285–298) and 2006 (Rossignol et al., Proteomics 2006, 6, 5529–5548) and it aims to bring up‐to‐date the contribution of proteomics to plant biology on the basis of the original research papers published throughout 2006, with references to those appearing last year. According to the published papers and topics addressed, we can conclude that, as observed for the three previous years, there has been a quantitative, but not qualitative leap in plant proteomics. The full potential of proteomics is far from being exploited in plant biology research, especially if compared to other organisms, mainly yeast and humans, and a number of challenges, mainly technological, remain to be tackled. The original papers published last year numbered nearly 100 and deal with the proteome of at least 26 plant species, with a high percentage for Arabidopsis thaliana (28) and rice (11). Scientific objectives ranged from proteomic analysis of organs/tissues/cell suspensions (57) or subcellular fractions (29), to the study of plant development (12), the effect of hormones and signalling molecules (8) and response to symbionts (4) and stresses (27). A small number of contributions have covered PTMs (8) and protein interactions (4). 2‐DE (specifically IEF‐SDS‐PAGE) coupled to MS still constitutes the almost unique platform utilized in plant proteome analysis. The application of gel‐free protein separation methods and ‘second generation’ proteomic techniques such as multidimensional protein identification technology (MudPIT), and those for quantitative proteomics including DIGE, isotope‐coded affinity tags (ICAT), iTRAQ and stable isotope labelling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) still remains anecdotal. This review is divided into seven sections: Introduction, Methodology, Subcellular proteomes, Development, Responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, PTMs and Protein interactions. Section 8 summarizes the major pitfalls and challenges of plant proteomics.
Surface energetics, dispersion, and nanotribomechanical behavior of POSS/PP hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Misra Rahul , Fu Bruce X. , Morgan Sarah E.
Published: July 2007

Hybrid organic–inorganic polymer nanocomposites incorporating polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanoparticles are of increasing interest for high performance materials applications. Octaisobutyl POSS/polypropylene nanocomposites were prepared at varying POSS concentrations via melt blending. The interplay of POSS molecular geometry, composition, and concentration in relation to the tribological, nanomechanical, surface energy, and bulk properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. Ultra‐low friction and enhanced hardness, modulus, and hydrophobicity were observed for the nanocomposite surfaces, with minimal changes in the bulk thermomechanical properties. Parallel AFM, SEM, TEM, and spectroscopic analyses demonstrated significant differences in POSS distribution and aggregation in the surface and the bulk, with preferential segregation of POSS to the surface. Additionally, contact angle studies reveal significant reduction in surface energy and increase in hysteresis with incorporation of POSS nanoparticles. The differences in bulk and surface properties are largely explained by the gradient concentration of POSS in the polymer matrix, driven by POSS/POSS and POSS/polymer interactions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 2441–2455, 2007
Sorption and diffusion of normal alkanes through poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) membranes
Authors: Kumar S. Anil , Kumaran M. G. , Thomas Sabu
Published: July 2007

The transport behavior of uncrosslinked and crosslinked poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) membranes has been investigated using normal alkanes as probe molecules, in the temperature range of 30–60 °C. Benzoyl peroxide was used for crosslinking the matrix. It has been observed that, a critical concentration of crosslinker is necessary for maximum solvent uptake, followed by a decrease at higher concentration. The effect of free volume on liquid transport was investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. The mechanism of transport has been found to deviate from the regular Fickian behavior. The dependence of the transport coefficients on crosslink density, nature of penetrants, and temperature was studied. The polymer–solvent interaction parameter, enthalpy, and entropy of sorption have also been estimated from the transport data. The affine and phantom models for chemical crosslinks were used to predict the nature of crosslinks. Finally, the experimental sorption data were compared with theoretical predictions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 2470–2480, 2007
Plasma Process. Polym. 5/2007
Authors: Borras Ana , Barranco Ángel , Espinós Juan P. , Cotrino José , Holgado Juan P. , González‐Elipe Agustín R.
Published: July 2007

Cover: This picture presents an SEM image of the nanofibres prepared by plasma deposition, another image by TEM to show the internal structure of the fibres and a pictorical scheme to show the importance of the inhomogeneities of the electrical field of the plasma sheath in the formation of the fibres. Further details can be found in the article by A. Borras, Á. Barranco, J. P. Espinós, J. Cotrino, J. P. Holgado, and A. R. González‐Elipe*
High resolution oligonucleotide CGH using DNA from archived prostate tissue
Authors: Paris Pamela L. , Sridharan Shivaranjani , Scheffer Alicia , Tsalenko Anya , Bruhn Laurakay , Collins Colin
Published: July 2007

Background

The current focus on biomarker discovery is a result of an improved understanding of the biological basis for carcinogenesis and advances in technology. Biomarkers can aid in diagnosis, prognosis, treatment selection, and drug development. There is an urgent need for high‐resolution tools that perform well using archived tissue for biomarker discovery and tools that can translate into the clinic.

Methods

Oligonucleotide array comparative genomic hybridization (oCGH) was compared to BAC‐based aCGH using unamplified total genomic DNA from formalin fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) prostate tissue.

Results

The copy number aberrations detected with the BAC and oligonucleotide arrays were highly correlated in cases where the arrays contained probes in similar genomic locations. The oligonucleotide array platform provided more precise mapping due to the higher density of oligonucleotide probes.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the utility of high‐resolution oligonucleotide arrays designed to use genomic DNA for CGH measurements using archived tissue samples for discovery and clinic based assays. Prostate 67: 1447–1455, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Classification of conformational stability of protein mutants from 3D pseudo‐folding graph representation of protein sequences using support vector machines
Authors: Fernández Michael , Caballero Julio , Fernández Leyden , Abreu Jose Ignacio , Acosta Gianco
Published: July 2007

This work reports a novel 3D pseudo‐folding graph representation of protein sequences for modeling purposes. Amino acids euclidean distances matrices (EDMs) encode primary structural information. Amino Acid Pseudo‐Folding 3D Distances Count (AAp3DC) descriptors, calculated from the EDMs of a large data set of 1363 single protein mutants of 64 proteins, were tested for building a classifier for the signs of the change of thermal unfolding Gibbs free energy change (ΔΔG) upon single mutations. An optimum support vector machine (SVM) with a radial basis function (RBF) kernel well recognized stable and unstable mutants with accuracies over 70% in crossvalidation test. To the best of our knowledge, this result for stable mutant recognition is the highest ever reported for a sequence‐based predictor with more than 1000 mutants. Furthermore, the model adequately classified mutations associated to diseases of human prion protein and human transthyretin. Proteins 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.