bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International consensus on a proposed score system for muscle biopsy evaluation in patients with juvenile dermatomyositis: A tool for potential use in clinical trials
Authors: Wedderburn Lucy R. , Varsani Hemlata , Li Charles K. C. , Newton Katy R. , Amato Anthony A. , Banwell Brenda , Bove Kevin E. , Corse Andrea M. , Emslie‐Smith Alison , Harding Brian , Hoogendijk Jessica , Lundberg Ingrid E. , Marie Suely , Minetti Carlo , Nennesmo Inger , Rushing Elisabeth J. , Sewry Caroline , Charman Susan C. , Pilkington Clarissa A. , Holton Janice L.
Published: September 2007

Objective

To devise and test a system with which to evaluate abnormalities on muscle biopsy samples obtained from children diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis (DM).

Methods

We established an International Consensus Group on Juvenile DM Biopsy and carried out 2 phases of consensus process and scoring workshops. Biopsy sections (n = 33) were stained by standard methods. The scoring tool was based on 4 domains of change: inflammatory, vascular, muscle fiber, and connective tissue. Using a Latin square design, biopsy samples were scored by 11 experts for items in each domain, and for a global abnormality measure using a 10‐cm visual analog score (VAS 0–10). The tool's reliability was assessed using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and scorer agreement (α) by determining variation in scorers' ratings.

Results

There was good agreement in many items of the tool, and several items refined between the meetings improved in reliability and/or agreement. The inflammatory and muscle fiber domains had the highest reliability and agreement. The overall VAS score for abnormality had high agreement and reliability, reaching an ICC of 0.863 at the second consensus meeting.

Conclusion

We propose a provisional scoring system to measure abnormalities on muscle biopsy samples obtained from children with juvenile DM. This system needs to be validated, and then could be used in prospective studies to test which features of muscle pathology are prognostic of disease course or outcome. We suggest that the process we used could be a template for developing similar systems in other forms of myositis.
Ein optoanalytisches Verfahren zur Bestimmung der Faserverteilung und ‐orientierung in stahlfaserverstärktem UHFB
Authors: Tue Nguyen Viet , Henze Stefan , Küchler Michael , Schenck Gunter , Wille Kay
Published: September 2007

Um dem spröden Materialverhalten von ultrahochfestem Beton (UHFB) unter Druckbeanspruchung entgegenzuwirken sowie zur gezielten Verbesserung des Zug‐ bzw. Biegetragverhaltens werden häufig Mikrodrahtfasern eingesetzt. Für den Einsatz von stahlfaserverstärktem UHFB in Konstruktionen ist zur zuverlässigen Ermittlung der Tragfähigkeit sowie aus Gründen der Wirtschaftlichkeit und Nachhaltigkeit die Kenntnis über die Verteilung und Orientierung der Fasern von Bedeutung. Da diese von geometrischen, betontechnologischen und herstellungstechnischen Faktoren beeinflusst werden, ist für jede Bauaufgabe eine gesonderte Betrachtung erforderlich. Am Institut für Massivbau und Baustofftechnologie der Universität Leipzig wurde deshalb ein einfach durchzuführendes Verfahren entwickelt, das insbesondere für die Ermittlung der Faserorientierung und ‐verteilung in stahlfaserverstärktem UHFB geeignet ist.
Zweiaxiale Druckfestigkeit von ultrahochfestem Beton
Authors: Curbach Manfred , Speck Kerstin
Published: September 2007

Ultrahochleistungsbeton (UHPC) zeichnet sich besonders durch eine hohe Druckfestigkeit von bis zu 250 N/mm2 sowie eine hohe Dichtigkeit und Korrosionsbeständigkeit aus. Diese Eigenschaften gehen mit einer zunehmenden Versprödung einher. Spröde Betone weisen unter mehraxialer Beanspruchung geringere bezogene Festigkeiten auf als relativ duktiler Normalbeton. Der effektive Einsatz von UHPC erfordert die genaue Kenntnis des Tragverhaltens unter mehraxialen Spannungszuständen. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt das Verhalten von UHPC unter zweiaxialer Druckbeanspruchung im Vergleich zu dem von Normalbeton. Es wird gezeigt, dass die in DIN 1045‐1 vorgeschlagenen Rechenansätze für mehraxiale Spannungszustände auf UHPC nicht übertragbar sind. Des Weiteren wird ein Modell vorgestellt, das eine wirklichkeitsnahe Beschreibung des Tragverhaltens von UHPC z. B. in FE‐Modellen ermöglicht.
Nichtlineare Analyse der zeitlichen Antwort von Stahlbeton‐, Spannbeton‐ und Verbundkonstruktionen auf die mechanische Einwirkung und Temperatureinwirkung
Authors: Saje Franc
Published: September 2007

Die nichtlineare Analyse der zeitabhängigen Antwort der Stahlbeton‐ und Spannbetonkonstruktionen auf die mechanische Belastung und auf die Einflüsse der Umgebung stellt ein wichtiges Werkzeug für die Lösung und Klärung vieler Probleme der Betonkonstruktionen dar. Mit der nichtlinearen Antwortanalyse von Konstruktionen unter dem Einfluss äußerer Belastung können verschiedene vereinfachte Berechnungsmethoden auf ihre Eignung überprüft werden. Teilweise können damit auch aufwändige Versuche ersetzt werden. Dies bezieht sich in erster Linie auf Versuche zur Bestimmung der Tragfähigkeit sowie auf Versuche zur Bestimmung des Brandverhaltens.
Planung von nichttragenden Bodenplatten
Authors: Schöppel Klaus
Published: September 2007

Nichttragende Bodenplatten werden i. A. als unbedeutende Bauteile angesehen. Wie die Praxis zeigt, setzen sich die Planenden häufig weder mit den Vorstellungen des Bauherrn bezüglich seiner Bodenplatte noch deren Realisierbarkeit genau auseinander. Selten werden Sonderfachleute zur Beratung des Bauherrn, für Planung und Ausführung von Bodenplatten hinzugezogen. Der unbedachte Umgang mit dem Thema nichttragende Bodenplatten führt zwangsläufig zu Mängeln und häufig aufgrund der hohen Mängelbeseitigungskosten vor allem infolge des Nutzungsausfalls zu gerichtlichen Auseinandersetzungen.

In diesem Beitrag werden daher die wesentlichen Randbedingungen und Vorgaben für eine nichttragende Bodenplatte, die bereits im frühen Planungsstadium mit dem Bauherrn abzuklären sind, aufgezeigt. Des Weiteren wird ein Überblick über die Konstruktionsmöglichkeiten nichttragender Bodenplatten gegeben. Ergänzend wird auf die Stellung von nichttragenden Bodenplatten im Regelwerk sowie auf häufig auftretende Schadensbilder eingegangen.
Prediction of The Kolmogorov Entropy Derived from CT Data in a Bubble Column Operated under The Transition Regime and Ambient Pressure
Authors: Nedeltchev S. , Shaikh A. , Al‐Dahhan M.
Published: September 2007

The Kolmogorov entropy (KE) algorithm was successfully applied to single source γ‐ray Computed Tomography (CT) data measured by three scintillation detectors in a 0.162 m‐ID bubble column equipped with a perforated plate distributor (163 holes × ∅︁ 1.32 · 10–3 m). The aerated liquid height was set at 1.8 m. Dried air was used as a gas phase, while Therminol LT (ρL = 886 kg m–3, μL = 0.88 · 10–3 Pa s, σ = 17 · 10–3 N m–1) was used as a liquid phase. At ambient pressure, the superficial gas velocity, uG, was increased stepwise with an increment of 0.01 m s–1 up to 0.2 m s–1. Based on the sudden changes in the KE values, the boundaries of the following five regimes were successfully identified: dispersed bubble regime (uG < 0.02 m s–1), first transition regime (0.02 ≤ uG < 0.08 m s–1), second transition regime (0.08 ≤ uG < 0.1 m s–1), coalesced bubble regime consisting of four regions (called 4‐region flow; 0.1 ≤ uG < 0.12 m s–1), and coalesced bubble regime consisting of three regions (called 3‐region flow; uG > 0.12 m s–1). The KE values derived from three scintillation detectors in the first transition regime were successfully correlated to both bubble frequency and bubble impact. The latter was found to be inversely proportional to the bubble Froude number. The KE model implies that the bubble size in this particular flow regime is a weak function of the orifice Reynolds number (db = 7.1 · 10–3Re0–0.05).
Human Factors Assessment Technique for the Chemical Process Industry
Authors: Gitahi Kariuki S. , Mayor Vadillo E. , Löwe K.
Published: September 2007

This paper outlines the development of a new human factors assessment tool for the chemical process industry. The approach considers the whole human factors spectrum as the basis for determining the overall quality of human factors in the plant under assessment. The output of the technique is a qualitative report and of quantitative value. From the detailed report, the weak areas in a plant can be detected. The actions to improve these areas can be derived and this not only leads to higher safety but also to higher operation efficiency. The developed computer interface makes the technique especially easy to use, even for non‐human factors experts.
The Influence of Shear Stress on Crystallization in an Ultrasound Levitator
Authors: Sacher S. , Krammer G.
Published: September 2007

Industrial precipitation processes often use chemical agents to influence crystal morphology and size distribution. This experimental study deals with the investigation of physical parameters including an alternative method to affect crystal growth, thus, avoiding the presence of additives as intrinsic impurities. The influence of shear stress acting on growing crystals within a droplet is investigated in an ultrasound levitator. An ultrasound levitator enables the suspension of a single droplet against gravity and the study of containerless precipitation with specific mechanical forces acting on crystals. The levitator is used as a three‐phase reactor with precipitation from the gas and liquid, and as a reactor for precipitation from two different solutions. Calcium carbonate is used as a model system. The variation of temperature and the amount of applied shear stress leads to different amounts of calcium carbonate morphologies. An increase in the shear stress results in more rounded or spherical crystals. The intensity of the shear stress also influences the particle size distributions of the precipitated crystals, i.e., with increasing shear stress, particle size distributions are shifted to smaller sizes.
Site Selectivity in the Reactions of the Hexanuclear Platinum Cluster [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)6][CF3SO3]2
Authors: Bonaccorsi Cristina , de Biani Fabrizia Fabrizi , Leoni Piero , Marchetti Fabio , Marchetti Lorella , Zanello Piero
Published: September 2007

The previously reported hexanuclear cluster [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)6]2+[Y]2 (1‐Y2: Y=CF3SO3−) contains a central Pt4 tetrahedron bridged at each of the opposite edges by another platinum atom; in turn, four phosphido ligands bridge the four PtPt bonds not involved in the tetrahedron, and, finally, one carbonyl ligand is terminally bonded to each metal centre. Interestingly, the two outer carbonyls are more easily substituted or attacked by nucleophiles than the inner four, which are bonded to the tetrahedron vertices. In fact, the reaction of 1‐Y2 with 1 equiv of [nBu4N]Cl or with an excess of halide salts gives the monochloride [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)5Cl]+[Y], 2‐Y, or the neutral dihalide derivatives [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)4X2] (3: X=Cl; 4: X=Br; 5: X=I). Moreover, the useful unsymmetrically substituted [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)4ICl] (6) was obtained by reacting equimolar amounts of 2 and [nBu4N]I, and the dicationic derivatives [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)4L2]2+[Y]2 (7‐Y2: L=13CO; 8‐Y2: L=CNtBu; 9‐Y2: L=PMe3) were obtained by reaction of an excess of the ligand L with 1‐Y2. Weaker nitrogen ligands were introduced by dissolving the dichloride 3 in acetonitrile or pyridyne in the presence of TlPF6 to afford [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4 (CO)4L2]2+[Z]2 (Z=PF6−, 10‐Z2: L=MeCN; 11‐Z2: L=Py). The “apical” carbonyls in 1‐Y2 are also prone to nucleophilic addition (Nu−: H−, MeO−) affording the acyl derivatives [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)4(CONu)2] (12: Nu=H; 13: Nu=OMe). Complex 12 is slowly converted into the dihydride [Pt6(μ‐PtBu2)4(CO)4H2] (14), which was more cleanly prepared by reacting 3 with NaBH4. In a unique case we observed a reaction involving also the inner carbonyls of complex 1, that is, in the reaction with a large excess of the isocyanides RNC, which form the corresponding persubstituted derivatives [Pt6(μ‐tPBu2)4(CNR)6]2+[Y]2, (15‐Y2: R=tBu; 16‐Y22−: R=−C6H4‐4‐CCH). All complexes were characterized by microanalysis, IR and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. The crystal and molecular structures of complexes 3, 5, 6 and 9‐Y2 are also reported. From the redox viewpoint, all complexes display two reversible one‐electron reduction steps, the location of which depends both upon the electronic effects of the substituents, and the overall charge of the original complex.
Contrasting Photodynamics between C60–Dithiapyrene and C60–Pyrene Dyads
Authors: Guldi Dirk M. , Spänig Fabian , Kreher David , Perepichka Igor F. , van der Pol Cornelia , Bryce Martin R. , Ohkubo Kei , Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: September 2007

The photodynamics of a C60–dithiapyrene donor–acceptor conjugate were compared with the corresponding C60–pyrene conjugate. The photoinduced charge separation and subsequent charge recombination processes were examined by time‐resolved fluorescence measurements on the picosecond timescale and transient absorption measurements on the picosecond and microsecond timescales with detection in the visible and near‐infrared regions. We have observed quite long lifetimes (i.e., up to 1.01 ns) for the photogenerated charge‐separated state in a C60–dithiapyrene dyad without the need for i) a long spacer between the two moieties, or ii) a gain in aromaticity in the radical ion pair.
Copper(II)‐Mediated Aromatic ortho‐Hydroxylation: A Hybrid DFT and Ab Initio Exploration
Authors: Comba Peter , Knoppe Stefan , Martin Bodo , Rajaraman Gopalan , Rolli Claudio , Shapiro Brett , Stork Timon
Published: September 2007

Mechanistic pathways for the aromatic hydroxylation by [CuII(L1)(TMAO)(O)]− (L1=hippuric acid, TMAO=trimethylamine N‐oxide), derived from the ON bond homolysis of its [CuII(L1)(TMAO)2] precursor, were explored by using hybrid density functional theory (B3LYP) and highly correlated ab initio methods (QCISD and CCSD). Published experimental studies suggest that the catalytic reaction is triggered by a terminal copper–oxo species, and a detailed study of electronic structures, bonding, and energetics of the corresponding electromers is presented. Two pathways, a stepwise and a concerted reaction, were considered for the hydroxylation process. The results reveal a clear preference for the concerted pathway, in which the terminal oxygen atom directly attacks the carbon atom of the benzene ring, leading to the ortho‐selectively hydroxylated product. Solvent effects were probed by using the PCM and CPCM solvation models, and the PCM model was found to perform better in the present case. Excellent agreement between the experimental and computational results was found, in particular also for changes in reactivity with derivatives of L1.
Nanosized Ball Joints Constructed from C60 and Tribenzotriquinacene Sockets: Synthesis, Component Self‐Assembly and Structural Investigations
Authors: Bredenkötter Björn , Henne Stefan , Volkmer Dirk
Published: September 2007

The formation of supramolecular host–guest complexes of fullerene (C60) and two novel tribenzotriquinacene based hosts (5 a and 5 b) was investigated in solution and in the solid state. Stability constants for 1:1 and 2:1 complexes were obtained from spectroscopic (UV/Vis, 1H NMR) titration experiments. Association constants of K1=(2908±360) L mol−1 and K2=(2076±300) L mol−1 for C60/5 a, and K1=(5608±220) L mol−1 and K2=(673±160) L mol−1 for C60/5 b were obtained. Single crystal X‐ray structural analysis of compound C60⊂5 b⋅3 toluene revealed that a molecule of C60 was located at short van der Waals contact distances in the open pre‐organised cavity of the rigid host. The supramolecular complex created resembles an engineered nanosized ball joint and represents the first member for a future nanomechanics construction kit.
Wirkstoffe auf Basis biologisch aktiver Naturstoffe
Authors: Heilmann Jörg
Published: September 2007

Im Bereich der Wirkstoffsuche sind Naturstoffe unverzichtbar. Problematisch bei der Gewinnung von Naturstoffen sind die Beschaffung des biologischen Materials, die Auffindung und Isolierung aus einer inaktiven oder sogar die biologische Testung störenden Matrix und die Gewinnung ausreichender Mengen zur chemischen und pharmakologischen Charakterisierung bzw. für die klinische Nutzung. Oft stellen Naturstoffe ideale Leitstrukturen für die synthetische oder semisynthetische Entwicklung von Wirkstoffen dar. Besonders attraktiv sind Naturstoffe dann, wenn die biologische Quelle erneuerbar bzw. sogar in Kultur modifizierbar ist. Dies ist ein wesentlicher Aspekt für die gegenwärtige Attraktivität der Wirkstoffsuche in Mikroorganismen wie Bakterien und Pilzen. Diese können im Idealfall nicht nur in Fermentern kultiviert, sondern dort auch genetisch so verändert werden, dass neuartige Strukturen entstehen.
Süße Kaugummis gegen Karies
Authors: Harrer Roswitha
Published: September 2007

Lässt sich Karies durch Kaugummikauen bekämpfen? Das hängt davon ab, mit welcher Substanz das Kaugummi gesüßt ist. Enthält es anstelle der zahnschädigenden Saccharose den Zuckeralkohol Xylit als Süßungsmittel, sind deutliche antikariogene Eigenschaften nachweisbar.
Der Schwefelzyklus
Authors: Jaenicke Lothar
Published: September 2007

Die natürlichen Rezyklisierungen von Stickstoff, Kohlenstoff, ja auch Sauerstoff sind wohlbekannt, wenn auch meist nicht verantwortlich gestützt. Aber dass auch Schwefel einem Kreislauf in der Natur vom anorganischen Meeressediment zum biologischen Molekül und zurück zum Mineral unterliegt, ist viel weniger biochemisches Allgemeingut.
Cohesin – Klebstoff für Schwesterchromatiden
Authors: Hille‐Rehfeld Annette
Published: September 2007

Vor der Teilung eukaryotischer Zellen wird die Erbinformation verdoppelt. Der kopierte DNAStrang und das Original, die als Schwesterchromatiden bezeichnet werden, bleiben bis zur Kernteilung miteinander verbunden. Wie DNA‐Schäden in Form von Doppelstrangbrüchen den Kontakt der Schwesterchromatiden beeinflussen, wurde jetzt an Hefezellen untersucht.
Synthesis of Hetero Atom Modified Pyrromethenones
Authors: Bongards Christian , Gärtner Wolfgang
Published: September 2007

A series of six heteroaromatic compounds, ethyl‐/methyl‐ and dimethylfuranones, thiophenones, and cyclopentenones, was synthesized and condensed with a methyl methylpropionate substituted pyrrole, yielding the “right” half of open‐chain tetrapyrroles. These compounds serve as light‐inducible chromophores in the plant photoreceptor phytochrome. Three‐dimensional structure analysis of the 10‐oxapyrromethen‐1‐one 25 revealed a planar conformation, similar to the dipyrromethenone parent compound, stabilized by ahydrogen bond formed between the pyrrole proton and the furanone oxygen atom. All six pyrrole‐substituted heteroaromatic derivatives 25–30 show absorbances in the visible spectrum with high molar extinction coefficients.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Modelling raindrop impact and splash erosion processes within a spatial cell: a stochastic approach
Authors: Ma Ting , Zhou Chenghu , Zhu Tongxin , Cai Qiangguo
Published: September 2007

A new approach is proposed to simulate splash erosion on local soil surfaces. Without the effect of wind and other raindrops, the impact of free‐falling raindrops was considered as an independent event from the stochastic viewpoint. The erosivity of a single raindrop depending on its kinetic energy was computed by an empirical relationship in which the kinetic energy was expressed as a power function of the equivalent diameter of the raindrop. An empirical linear function combining the kinetic energy and soil shear strength was used to estimate the impacted amount of soil particles by a single raindrop. Considering an ideal local soil surface with size of 1 m × 1 m, the expected number of received free‐falling raindrops with different diameters per unit time was described by the combination of the raindrop size distribution function and the terminal velocity of raindrops. The total splash amount was seen as the sum of the impact amount by all raindrops in the rainfall event. The total splash amount per unit time was subdivided into three different components, including net splash amount, single impact amount and re‐detachment amount. The re‐detachment amount was obtained by a spatial geometric probability derived using the Poisson function in which overlapped impacted areas were considered. The net splash amount was defined as the mass of soil particles collected outside the splash dish. It was estimated by another spatial geometric probability in which the average splashed distance related to the median grain size of soil and effects of other impacted soil particles and other free‐falling raindrops were considered. Splash experiments in artificial rainfall were carried out to validate the availability and accuracy of the model. Our simulated results suggested that the net splash amount and re‐detachment amount were small parts of the total splash amount. Their proportions were 0·15% and 2·6%, respectively. The comparison of simulated data with measured data showed that this model could be applied to simulate the soil‐splash process successfully and needed information of the rainfall intensity and original soil properties including initial bulk intensity, water content, median grain size and some empirical constants related to the soil surface shear strength, the raindrop size distribution function and the average splashed distance. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial variability in the timing, nature and extent of channel response to typical human disturbance along the Upper Hunter River, New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Hoyle Joanna , Brooks Andrew , Brierley Gary , Fryirs Kirstie , Lander James
Published: September 2007

Prior to European settlement, the Upper Hunter River near Muswellbrook, New South Wales, was a passively meandering gravel‐bed river of moderate sinuosity and relatively uniform channel width. Analyses of floodplain sedimentology, archival records, parish maps and aerial photographs document marked spatial variability in the pattern of channel change since European settlement in the 1820s. Different types, rates and extents of change are reported for seven zones of adjustment along an 8 km study reach. This variable adjustment reflects imposed antecedent controls (buried terrace material and bedrock), which have significantly influenced local variability in river sensitivity to change, as well as contemporary morphodynamics and geomorphic complexity. Local variability in system responses to disturbance has important implications for future river management and rehabilitation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Climate effects on soil erodibility
Authors: Sanchis M. P. Salvador , Torri D. , Borselli L. , Poesen J.
Published: September 2007

Soil erodibility data, calculated using measured soil loss from standard runoff plots, collected over at least one year and applying the standard requirements for calculating the soil erodibility factor (K) of the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), have been analysed to investigate whether climate affects the susceptibility of soils to water erosion. In total, more than 300 K‐values extracted from the literature have been analysed. Due to the limited availability of data related to the characteristics of the soil and the location of the measuring sites, all the analysis has been carried out using only soil textural characteristics, organic matter content, rock fragment content and the some general characteristics of the climatic zone where the plots were located.

The first evidence of a strong climate effect on soil erodibility is shown by the seasonal variation of mean monthly soil erodibility (Km). Using data collected in the USA and Italy an effect of mean monthly air temperature on Km could be identified. Data collected in Indonesia (where mean monthly air temperature remains fairly constant throughout the year) showed comparable variations of monthly soil erodibility. However, it was impossible to explain these variations in Km as no other data than mean monthly air temperature were available.

Mean annual soil erodibility shows a clear climate effect. Soil erodibilities can be subdivided into two large groups, one corresponding to soils in cool climates (Df and Cf climate according to the Köppen–Geiger climate classification) and another to soils located in warm climates (tropical Af and Aw climates). Erodibilities of Mediterranean soils (found under Cs climate) plot among the soils found in Af and Aw climates. These subdivisions can be made for both stony and non‐stony soils. Limited data suggest that soil aggregate stability is a good predictor for explaining soil erodibility variations between different climate zones. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term safety and efficacy of long‐acting risperidone in elderly psychotic patients
Authors: Kissling Werner , Glue Per , Medori Rossella , Simpson Steve
Published: September 2007

This subgroup analysis of the 6‐month, open‐label Switch to Risperidone Microspheres (StoRMi) trial evaluated long‐term safety and efficacy of a direct conversion to risperidone long‐acting injectable (RLAI) in 52 elderly patients (≥65 years) with psychosis stabilized on oral or depot antipsychotic. Study outcomes included adverse events, movement disorder severity, psychiatric symptoms, functional ability, quality of life and patient satisfaction. Change in the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale at endpoint was the primary efficacy measure. The most common dosage of RLAI used at endpoint was 25 mg every 14 days (60%). The trial was completed by 81% of patients, with six patients discontinuing treatment due to an adverse event. Tolerability was good and most side effects were mild to moderate. Serious adverse events occurred in 11 patients. Two of these (suicidal attempt, n = 1; exacerbation of disease, n = 1) were considered possibly related to RLAI. Conversion to RLAI resulted in significant improvements in movement disorder severity, psychiatric symptoms, functional status and patient satisfaction. Mean PANSS total decreased by 15.8 at endpoint, with 23 patients (46.9%) experiencing a ≥20% improvement. This post‐hoc analysis supports that RLAI is well tolerated and safe in elderly patients with psychotic illnesses switched from stable antipsychotic regimens, and suggests possible efficacy, although inferences are limited. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Imaging of blood plasma coagulation and its propagation at surfaces
Authors: Faxälv Lars , Tengvall Pentti , Lindahl Tomas L.
Published: September 2007

A new method utilizing image capture and processing was developed for the analysis of blood plasma coagulation at surfaces. The coagulation was detected in a cuvette by time‐lapse image capture of light scattering from the developing fibrin network. By image processing and computer analysis of the captured image data, both early detection of coagulation at the surface and the propagation phase of coagulation could be measured in the same experiment. It is possible to use both platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and platelet‐free plasma (PFP) with the method, and thereby study the platelet contribution to both surface coagulation and propagation of coagulation. Two well‐known model surfaces, hydrophilic and hydrophobic glass, were used in combination with PRP and PFP to illustrate the method. Hydrophilic glass activated coagulation significantly faster (PRP: 7.0 ± 1.7 min, PFP: 5.9 ± 1.2 min, n= 16) than hydrophobic glass (PRP: 50 ± 14 min, PFP: 65 ± 32 min, n = 16) in both PRP and PFP. Hydrophilic surfaces showed a faster initial propagation of coagulation adjacent to the surface (mean velocity: 0.14 ± 0.05 mm/ minute) compared with the propagation observed further out from the surface (mean velocity: 0.05 ± 0.01 mm/min). The method is very flexible and can be suitable for screening hemocompatibility of biomaterials. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Biphasic calcium phosphate: A comparative study of interconnected porosity in two ceramics
Authors: Lecomte A. , Gautier H. , Bouler J. M. , Gouyette A. , Pegon Y , Daculsi G. , Merle C.
Published: September 2007

Interconnection, one of the main structural features of macroporous calcium‐phosphate ceramics, contributes to the biological and physicochemical properties of bone substitutes. As no satisfactory method exists for evaluating this feature, analysis was performed to determine the permeability, tortuosity, and equivalent diameter of interconnecting channels, that is the parameters that appear to be representative of the way pores are linked. The testing of two ceramics with similar porosity levels revealed important differences in all three interconnection parameters. One ceramic showed poor permeability, corresponding to a small equivalent diameter for interconnecting channels in conjunction with a high tortuosity factor, while the other displayed high permeability, a large diameter for interconnecting channels, and a low tortuosity factor. The methodology used, which can be applied to the quantification of interconnection in all calcium‐phosphate ceramics, constitutes the first step in a complete study of the role of this feature in cellular colonization of the ceramic, matrix dissolution, and drug release from the calcium‐phosphate matrix. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
Fibrous and Helical Calcite Crystals Induced by Synthetic Polypeptides ContainingO‐Phospho‐L‐Serine andO‐Phospho‐L‐Threonine
Authors: Hayashi Shinya , Ohkawa Kousaku , Suwa Yukie , Sugawara Tetsunori , Asami Takahiro , Yamamoto Hiroyuki
Published: September 2007

The modification of CaCO3crystal growth by syntheticL‐Ser(PO3H2) andL‐Thr(PO3H2) containing polypeptides is described. The amino acids Gly,L‐Glu,L‐Asp,L‐Ser,L‐Ala, andL‐Lys induced rhombohedral calcite with a rough surface. Dipeptides, Xaa‐L‐Ser(PO3H2) (Xaa = Gly,L‐Glu,L‐Asp,L‐Ser,L‐Ala andL‐Lys) induced vaterite crystals in the lower [Ca2+]. On the other hand,L‐Ser(PO3H2)‐containing polypeptides formed spherical vaterite and fibrous calcite. The characteristic helical calcite was found in the presence of copoly[L‐Ser(PO3H2)75L‐Asp25] or poly[L‐Ser(PO3H2)3–L‐Asp]. Fibrous calcite, spherical vaterite, and helical calcite crystals were subjected to XRD and EDX analysis. XRD revealed the specific faces of these crystals. EDX spectra and surface analysis visualized the localization of the polypeptides and CaCO3components. Together with TEM and SAED data, we propose hypothetical growth mechanisms for the fibrous and helical calcite crystals.

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Viscoelastic Properties of Chitosan with Different Hydration Degrees as Studied by Dynamic Mechanical Analysis
Authors: Mano João F.
Published: September 2007

Dynamic mechanical analysis, DMA, is an adequate technique for characterizing the mechanical features of biomaterials, as one can use test conditions that can more closely simulate the physiological environments in which they are going to be applied. In this work it was possible to perform different tests on chitosan membranes using low/moderate hydration levels, as well in completely wet conditions. In the first case the data obtained at different relative humidity environments were rationalized under a time‐humidity superposition principle, where a master curve for the storage modulus could be obtained along a wide range of frequencies. The temperature dependence of the shift factors exhibited a curvature opposite to that expected by the WLF equation, and is consistent with relaxation dynamics behavior below the glass transition. Temperature scans above room temperature in both dry and wet conditions did not reveal strong variations in the viscoelastic properties. It was possible to follow in real time the water uptake in an initially‐dry membrane. During the initial strong and fast decrease of the storage modulus the loss factor exhibited a peak that should correspond to the occurrence of the glass transition resulting from the plasticization effect of water. Upon equilibration the loss factor reached similar values as for the dry material (tanδ ≈ 0.5). The viscoelastic characterization reported in this work for chitosan may be useful in the use of such material for a variety of biomedical applications.

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1H‐13C CPMAS and T2 Relaxation Solid‐State NMR Measurements of Melamine‐Based Polycondensed Chemical Gels
Authors: Egger Chrystelle C. , Schädler Volker , Hirschinger Jérôme , Raya Jésus , Bechinger Burkhard
Published: September 2007

Gel networks prepared from aqueous melamine‐formaldehyde resins via a sol–gel route were characterised by 13C CPMAS (where MAS stands for magic angle spinning)‐NMR and T2 relaxation. We show that within the aqueous networks, the type and amount of functional groups on the melamine ring is strongly influenced by the initial melamine/formaldehyde ratio, the sol concentration and the amount of catalyst. Residual methylol groups can be etherified by postalkoxylation using primary alcohols resulting in chemical gels with different bridging units and residual ether linkages as also confirmed by T2 measurements. In addition, in the case of initially alkoxylated gels the alcoholysis process can be followed by varying the amount of catalyst used.

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Thiol‐ene Hybrid Organic/Inorganic Nanostructured Coatings Based on Thiol‐Functionalized Zirconium Oxoclusters
Authors: Sangermano Marco , Gross Silvia , Priola Aldo , Rizza Giancarlo , Sada Cinzia
Published: September 2007

The thiol‐functionalized zirconium oxocluster Zr12(µ3‐O)8(µ3‐OH)8(MP)24 · 4MPA was used as inorganic nanosized building block in the thiol‐ene photopolymerization of APE and TH in a 1:1 molar mixture. Transparent and crack‐free coatings were obtained, and TEM analysis showed that the inorganic particles are well dispersed within the polymeric network with no significant macroscopic agglomeration. An increase of Tg values, storage modulus in the rubbery region, and thermal stability were evidenced by increasing the zirconium oxocluster content in the photocurable formulations. XPS analysis and SIMS depth profile were carried out on UV cured films and showed the presence of a homogeneously distributed zirconium oxocluster.

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Fabrication and Photocatalytic Activities of Morphology‐Controlled Titania Nanoobject Arrays by Block Copolymer Templates
Authors: Peng Juan , Li Xue , Kim Dong Ha , Knoll Wolfgang
Published: September 2007

We report a simple scheme to fabricate organic/inorganic hybrid nanostructures with extraordinary morphologies by one‐step spin coating, using a PS‐b‐PEO diblock copolymer as template coupled with sol‐gel chemistry. The shape and size of the titania nanoobject can be fine‐tuned by controlling the amount of sol‐gel precursor relative to PS‐b‐PEO and the composition of the precursor. Ordered arrays of nanoscopic titania objects such as nanodots, nanobowls, and nanonetworks were obtained from the initial hybrid nanostructures by removing the organic matrix by UV treatment. Photocatalytic activities of the resulting titania nanoobjects were investigated in terms of the degradation of a typical dye.

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Crystallization behaviors and mechanical properties of poly(ethylene 2,6‐naphthalate)/multiwall carbon nanotube nanocomposites
Authors: Kim Jun Young , Han Sang‐Il , Kim Seong Hun
Published: September 2007

Carbon nanotube (CNT)‐reinforced poly(ethylene 2,6‐naphthalate) (PEN) nanocomposites were prepared by direct melt blending process in a twin‐screw extruder. There is significant dependence of the crystallization and melting behavior of PEN/CNT nanocomposites on CNT content and crystallization temperature. The incorporation of CNT may favor the formation of the β‐form crystals in PEN/CNT nanocomposites, and more CNT content amplified this effect. In this PEN/CNT nanocomposite system, the CNT promoted the nucleation and the growth with higher crystallization rate of PEN/CNT nanocomposites, and simultaneously reduced the fold surface free energy and the work required in folding polymer chains in the polymer nanocomposites. In addition, the incorporation of a very small quantity of CNT significantly improved the mechanical properties of PEN/CNT nanocomposites. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:1715–1723, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Ultrasonic measurement of residual wall thickness during gas assisted injection molding
Authors: Brown E.C. , Mulvaney‐Johnson L. , Coates P.D.
Published: September 2007

Ultrasonic technology provides a powerful and noninvasive method of in‐process measurement during injection molding and extrusion. Changes in the velocity, attenuation and reflection coefficients of high frequency sound waves can be related to the state and conditions of the materials through which they propagate. The velocity of an ultrasonic wave changes with density and elastic moduli; this allows information on solidification and material properties to be collected during the molding cycle. The time of flight of the wave is a function of velocity and path length. This paper shows that it can be correlated with the residual wall thickness of polymer in the mold during gas assisted injection molding. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:1730–1739, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Anisotropic shrinkage of injection molded poly vinylidene fluoride samples
Authors: Speranza V. , Pantani R. , Besana G.B. , Titomanlio G.
Published: September 2007

A study of as‐molded shrinkage of Poly Vinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) injection molded samples was carried out in this work. The polymer was injected into a simple rectangular cavity under different holding pressures, and the dimensions of the resulting samples were accurately measured at room temperature 10 min after demolding. As expected, the relative difference between the sample dimensions and the corresponding cavity dimensions (namely the shrinkage) decreased on increasing holding pressure. Furthermore, the shrinkage increased on increasing distance from the injection point. A somewhat unexpected feature of experimental data was the fact that the shrinkage was much higher along the flow direction than along the transverse on‐plane direction. A thorough characterization of the elastic properties of the solid samples also showed a marked anisotropy of the elastic modulus and of the coefficient of linear thermal expansion. The injection molding tests were simulated by a software developed at University of Salerno to obtain the evolution of temperature, pressure, and crystallinity inside the samples. The predicted pressure profiles were satisfactorily compared with the measured values. The simulated histories of temperature, pressure and crystallinity were used as input for a thermomechanical model for shrinkage evolution. It was found that the reason for anisotropy in shrinkage had to be ascribed mainly to the anisotropy in material properties. It was in fact shown that, adopting the correct anisotropic values for the elastic modulus and thermal expansion coefficient, a satisfactorily description of shrinkage data could be reached. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:1788–1795, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Comparison between surface renewal devolatilizing performances of different screw extruders
Authors: Wang Ning He
Published: September 2007

The concept of surface renewal for polymer devolatilization (DV) in screw extruder was defined based on the traditional penetration theory, and a measuring criterion and comparing methods for comparing surface renewal devolatilizing performance (SRDP) between different extruders and between different types of extruders were proposed based on this concept and the extrusion–devolatilization theory previously developed by the authors. Their proprieties were further verified by using the literature data obtained in a single screw extruder (SSE) and an intermeshing co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder (ICoTSE). Moreover, the effects of some important screw geometry factors on the SRDPs of both the extruders were discussed, and the comparisons of the SRDPs between them and between types of SSE and ICoTSE were given and discussed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:1920–1926, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
A short review on rubber/clay nanocomposites with emphasis on mechanical properties
Authors: Sengupta R. , Chakraborty S. , Bandyopadhyay S. , Dasgupta S. , Mukhopadhyay R. , Auddy K. , Deuri A.S.
Published: September 2007

The invention of Nylon‐6/clay nanocomposites by the Toyota Research Group of Japan heralded a new chapter in the field of polymer composites. This article highlights the work done in the field of rubber/clay nanocomposites. The preparations of rubber/clay nanocomposites by solution blending, latex compounding, and melt intercalation are covered and a thorough discussion of the mechanical properties of the various rubber/clay nanocomposite systems is presented. Other properties such as barrier, dynamic mechanical behavior, and thermal properties are also discussed. Finally, the future trends in the rubber/clay nanocomposites are mentioned. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:1956–1974, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Serum proteomics of lung adenocarcinomas induced by targeted overexpression of c‐raf in alveolar epithelium identifies candidate biomarkers
Authors: Chatterji Bijon , Borlak Jürgen
Published: September 2007

We previously reported a proteome map of lung adenocarcinomas in serine‐threonine kinase of the Raf family (c‐raf) transgenic mice. We now extend our initial studies to serum proteins at early stage (1 month) and advanced stages of tumorigenesis (12 months). Notably, serum proteins from wild‐type and tumor bearing mice were extracted with a lysis buffer containing 5 mol/L urea, 2 mol/L thiourea, 40 mmol/L Tris, 4% CHAPS, 100 mmol/L DTT, 0.5% BioLyte 3–10, separated by 2‐DE and studied by image analysis. On average 400 protein spots per gel were excised and analyzed by MALDI‐TOF MS. We identified 45 common and 5 uniquely expressed proteins in wild‐type and tumor bearing mice. Apart from uniquely identified proteins we observed for n = 9 proteins differential expression when wild‐type and tumor bearing mice were compared. This included serpins and other protease inhibitors, lipocalins, transthyretins, globins, and Igs. Notably, we demonstrate significant regulation of alpha‐1‐antitrypsin, alpha‐2‐macroglobulin, hemoglobin subunit alpha, vitamin D‐binding protein, major urinary proteins, and transthyretin (up to eight‐fold) in serum of lung tumor bearing mice. Disease association of these proteins in human malignancies has been reported. Thus, an identification of regulated serum proteins in this lung cancer disease model provides excellent opportunities for the search of novel biomarkers.
Nitric oxide gas sensors with functionalized carbon nanotubes
Authors: Mäklin Jani , Mustonen Tero , Kordás Krisztián , Saukko Sami , Tóth Géza , Vähäkangas Jouko
Published: September 2007

Nitric oxide (NO) gas sensing with carboxyl functionalized single‐ and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs and MWCNTs) is demonstrated in this work. Stable solutions of the carboxylated nanotubes were made and then drop‐cast on alumina substrates equipped with gold electrodes and also with platinum heater elements. The obtained resistive nanotube sensors were tested in a 2‐point setup at different temperatures and NO gas concentrations up to 100 ppm in synthetic air and also in argon buffer. When exposed to NO, the conductivity of the sensors changed up to ∼40% for SWCNTs and ∼12% for MWCNTs; however, in the investigated regime, the response was found to be fairly independent on NO concentration. Though all sensors showed practically instantaneous gas response, the time needed for saturation (few tens of minutes) was found to be concentration dependent. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Raman spectroscopy of (n,m)‐identified individual single‐walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Michel T. , Paillet M. , Meyer J. C. , Popov V. N. , Henrard L. , Poncharal P. , Zahab A. , Sauvajol J.‐L.
Published: September 2007

The goal of our “complete experimental” approach was to relate the Raman response of an individual single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) to its (n,m) structure determined from an independent way. In this aim, a procedure including transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy, and electron diffraction experiments on the same SWNT has been developed. The independent determinations of both structure and Raman features of semiconducting and metallic nanotubes allows to discuss several questions concerning: (i) the relation between diameter of the tubes and the radial breathing mode (RBM) frequency, (ii) the values and the nature of the $ E ^{\rm S}_{33} $ and $ E ^{\rm S}_{44} $ optical transition energies. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Inkjet printing of transparent and conductive patterns of single‐walled carbon nanotubes and PEDOT‐PSS composites
Authors: Mustonen Tero , Kordás Krisztián , Saukko Sami , Tóth Géza , Penttilä Jari S. , Helistö Panu , Seppä Heikki , Jantunen Heli
Published: September 2007

Transparent and conductive patterns of carboxyl functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT‐COOHs) and the composites of those with poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT‐PSS) were deposited on various substrates by inkjet printing. For low print repetitions, the PEDOT‐PSS/SWCNT‐COOH composite patterns show enhanced conductance as compared to the corresponding PEDOT‐PSS conductors. The results suggest a decreased percolation threshold for the printed composite since the nanotubes establish electrical interconnections between the separate PEDOT‐PSS (conductive phase) islands being dispersed in the insulating PSS‐phase. However, the interaction between PEDOT‐PSS and SWCNTs becomes insignificant and the conductivity is not enhanced by the nanotubes, when the amount of PEDOT‐PSS is sufficient to form a continuous conducting phase. Up to now, patterns having sheet resistivities as low as ∼1 kΩ/□ could be achieved. Though there is a trade‐off between transparency and conductivity – we achieved highly transparent patterns (∼90%) with a reasonably low resistivity of ∼10 kΩ/□. The ink and printing method proposed here offer new alternatives of conventional transparent conductive materials based on either polymers or indium oxides; and pose scaleable production of cost‐effective transparent electronics. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electronic transport measurements in graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Han Melinda , Ozyilmaz Barbaros , Zhang Y. , Jarillo‐Herero P. , Kim Philip
Published: September 2007

We review recent experiments at Columbia on electronic transport in graphene nanostructures. We define the graphene nanostructures by e‐beam lithography followed by oxigen plasma etch. In this way we can pattern nanoribbons, rings, as well as other nanostructures. We use this technique to pattern graphene nanoribbons and study the formation of a band gap due to transverse electron confinement. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thin transparent carbon nanotube networks: effects of ion irradiation
Authors: Kaiser A. B. , Skákalová V. , Roth S.
Published: September 2007

We investigate the effect of irradiation by Ar+ and N+ ions on the properties of thin transparent networks of single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). The irradiation produces a small reduction in the infra‐red transmittance of the networks at a wavelength of 2000 nm that correlates with the much larger reduction in conductance, and the peaks in the infra‐red‐visible absorbance spectrum are strongly reduced. Ion irradiation greatly increases the localization of the charge carriers, suppressing the conductance at low temperatures more severely than at room temperature. The conductance follows variable‐range hopping behaviour for all samples. Nonlinearity in the current–voltage characteristics of the thin SWNT networks is observed only at very low temperatures. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)