bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of post‐harvest brown rot on nectarine by Epicoccum nigrum and physico‐chemical treatments
Authors: Mari Marta , Torres Rosario , Casalini Lucia , Lamarca Neus , Mandrin Jean F , Lichou Jean , Larena Inmaculada , De Cal Maria A , Melgarejo Paloma , Usall Josep
Published: April 2007

Post‐harvest physico‐chemical treatments—water at 40 °C or 60 °C (HW), and sodium bicarbonate at 1 or 2.5% (SBC) at 20, 40 and 60 °C—were tested on peaches and nectarines in order to control brown rot caused by Monilinia spp. and to select the best physico‐chemical treatment to be used in combination with pre‐harvest applications of the biological control agent Epicoccum nigrum (ATCC number 96794). Experiments were carried out in France, Italy and Spain in order to test different experimental conditions. Monilinia rot was reduced in peach and nectarine treated with HW (40 °C for 2 min) in all three countries, the percentage of rot reduction was similar for France, Italy and Spain (over 40%). A synergistic effect between HW at 40 °C during 150 s or at 60 °C during 20 s and SBC was observed in all three countries. After preliminary experiments post‐harvest treatment of HW (60 °C) + SBC (1%) during 20 s was selected to combine it with field treatments. Pre‐harvest treatments with fungicide or E. nigrum did not reduce brown rot in any country. However, pre‐harvest treatments with E. nigrum, chemical fungicide, and their integration followed by post‐harvest physico‐chemical treatment significantly reduced Monilinia rot compared to pre‐harvest untreated fruits followed by post‐harvest physico‐chemical treatment in Italy (over 70%). Post‐harvest treatments with E. nigrum were also tested in Italy on natural and artificial infections in nectarine over 3 years. E. nigrum, as fresh or formulated cells, at a concentration of 108 conidia mL−1 were effective, significantly reducing the incidence of brown rot compared to control, both under artificial and natural infection, from 43 to 100%. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Application of liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for screening and quantitative analysis of C21 steroids in the roots and rhizomes of Cynanchum paniculatum
Authors: Dou Jing , Li Ping , Song Yue , Qi Lian‐Wen , Bi Zhi‐Ming
Published: April 2007

A liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry method is presented for the quantification of C21 steroids in the roots and rhizomes of Cynanchum paniculatum. Eight C21 steroids, including five steroidal aglycones and three steroidal glycosides, were simultaneously analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. The extracted ion current chromatograms were extracted from the total ion current chromatogram using characteristic ions produced by target compounds for peak determination. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a C18 reversed‐phase column within 60 min, using an acetonitrile/water gradient. For comparision, six C. paniculatum samples from different locations were investigated by the established method, and the results indicated that the different geographical origin significantly influenced the C21 steroid composition. The method was observed to have the necessary sensitivity, selectivity, precision, and accuracy, and to be suitable for quality control of herbal medicines and their preparations.
Assessment of Chinese medicinal herb metabolite profiles by UPLC‐MS‐based methodology for the detection of aristolochic acids
Authors: Jacob Shana Sunny , Smith Norman William , Legido‐Quigley Cristina
Published: April 2007

In this study, aristolochic acid in different herbal medicines containing a mixture of varying herb species was identified through fingerprint pattern similarities. Aristolochic acid I and II are nephrotoxic compounds naturally present in the Aristolochia plant species that are commonly used in Chinese herbal medicines. Twenty‐four commercially available herbal formulations were extracted into an aqueous solution and injected into a UPLC‐MS system. All the samples were analysed by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) to check for the presence of aristolochic acids I and II. The same samples were then fingerprinted using two different gradient methods and the chromatograms deconvoluted into retention time (RT) and masses for the chemicals present taking concentration into account. Statistical analysis of this data revealed that samples were highly heterogeneous, and that the main differences between the preparations were concentrations of polar compounds. A model was constructed where the samples could be separated into two groups differentiated by the presence of the two forms of aristolochic acid.
Aggression among combat veterans: Relationships with combat exposure and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, dysphoria, and anxiety
Authors: Taft Casey T. , Vogt Dawne S. , Marshall Amy D. , Panuzio Jillian , Niles Barbara L.
Published: April 2007

Prior research has revealed heightened aggressive behavior among veterans with PTSD. This study tested a model examining the interrelationships among combat exposure, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, dysphoric symptoms, and anxiety symptoms in predicting aggressive behavior in a sample of 265 male combat veterans seeking diagnostic assessment of PTSD. Combat exposure was indirectly associated with aggression primarily through its relationship with PTSD symptoms. Symptoms of PTSD were directly related to aggression, and indirectly related to aggression through dysphoric symptoms. Results highlight the role of PTSD symptoms and dysphoric symptoms with respect to aggressive behavior among this population, and suggest the relevance of aggression theory to the study of combat veterans.
Posttraumatic appraisals in the development and persistence of posttraumatic stress symptoms
Authors: O'Donnell Meaghan L. , Elliott Peter , Wolfgang Bronwyn Jones , Creamer Mark
Published: April 2007

Cognitive models of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) posit that appraisal plays an important role in the development and persistence of PTSD. This study examined posttraumatic appraisals and their relationship to the development and course of PTSD symptoms. Two hundred fifty‐three injury survivors were assessed for PTSD symptoms and posttraumatic cognitions across a 12‐month period. A path analytic modeling approach showed that posttraumatic appraisals were important direct and indirect predictors of later PTSD severity. The findings suggest that appraisals made in the aftermath of trauma have a significant influence on subsequent psychological adjustment.
Emotional numbing weakens abused inner‐city women's resiliency resources
Authors: Johnson Dawn M. , Palmieri Patrick A. , Jackson Anita P. , Hobfoll Stevan E.
Published: April 2007

Conservation of resources theory (S. E. Hobfoll, 1988, 1999) hypothesizes that loss of resiliency resources can contribute to abused women's posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, which, in turn, contribute to a further loss of resources, which can make abused women even more vulnerable to future stressors. This study investigates the impact of PTSD symptoms on abused women's future loss of resources—resources that women both value and need to aid their ongoing adjustment. Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms contributed to future resource loss in abused women, even when controlling for the effects of prior resource loss and depression. Emotional numbing symptoms of PTSD accounted most for women's resource loss. Findings highlight the importance of research and intervention that more directly examines the link between emotions and resource loss.
Novel microwave photonic filter based on a mode-locked fiber laser
Authors: Chen D , Fu H , He S
Published: April 2007

A microwave photonic filter based on a structure of an actively mode-locked fiber laser is proposed. The mechanism and relation between the actively mode-locked fiber laser and the proposed microwave photonic filter are theoretically investigated and experimentally demonstrated. A microwave photonic filter with a free spectral range of about 7.1 MHz, a 3-dB bandwidth of about 0.05 MHz (centered around a frequency of 2.5 GHz), and a Q-factor of about 140 is demonstrated. The proposed microwave photonic filter can be tuned easily by adjusting an optical variable delay line in the ring cavity. A good agreement between the measured results and the theoretical estimations is demonstrated.
Investigation of a CuII–Poly(γ‐Glutamic Acid) Complex in Aqueous Solution and its Insulin‐Mimetic Activity
Authors: Karmaker Subarna , Saha Tapan K. , Sakurai Hiromu
Published: April 2007

The complexation between cupric ions (CuII) and poly(γ‐glutamic acid) (γ‐PGA) in aqueous solutions (pH 3–11) has been studied by UV‐visible absorption and electron spin resonance (ESR) techniques. Formation of the CuII‐γ‐PGA complex is confirmed by the observation of the blue shift of the absorption band in the visible region, anisotropic line shapes in the ESR spectrum at room temperature, and a computer simulation of the visible absorption spectrum of the complex. The structure of the CuII‐γ‐PGA complex, depending on the pH, has been determined. The in vitro insulin‐mimetic activity of the CuII‐γ‐PGA complex is examined by determining both inhibition of free fatty acid release and glucose uptake in isolated rat adipocytes treated with epinephrine, in which the concentration of the CuII‐γ‐PGA complex for 50% inhibition of free fatty acid release is very similar to that of CuSO4. However, it is significantly lower than that of a previously reported insulin‐mimetic bis(3‐hydroxypicolinato)copper(II), [Cu(3hpic)2], complex.

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Fabrication and Characterization of Zein‐Based Nanofibrous Scaffolds by an Electrospinning Method
Authors: Jiang Hongliang , Zhao Pengcheng , Zhu Kangjie
Published: April 2007

Electrospun zein membranes were prepared using DMF as solvent. By changing the solution concentration, the electrospinning voltage and the distance between the spinneret and collector, nanofibrous meshes without bead defects could be obtained. In order to improve the mechanical strength of the hydrated zein meshes, core‐shell‐structured nanofibrous membranes with PCL as the core material and zein forming the shell were prepared by coaxial electrospinning. The core‐shell structure of the composite fibers was confirmed by SEM characterization of the fibers, either extracted with chloroform to remove the inner PCL, or elongated to expose their cross‐section. The composition and average diameter of the composite fibers could be modulated by the feed rate of the inner PCL solution. It was found that the core‐shell fibrous membranes have similar wettability to the electrospun zein mesh. The presence of PCL in the fibers could significantly improve the mechanical properties of the zein membrane.

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Artificial Polymeric Flavonoids: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Uyama Hiroshi
Published: April 2007

Flavonoids, one of the most numerous and best studied groups of plant polyphenols, are well known to exhibit various biological and pharmacological effects. Functional artificial polymeric flavonoids, flavonoid polymers and amine containing polymer‐flavonoid conjugates have been developed. The acid‐catalyzed polymerization of catechin and aldehydes proceeds regioselectively to produce catechin‐aldehyde polycondensates. Peroxidases and laccases catalyze the oxidative coupling of flavonoids and oxidative conjugation with polyamines. The resulting polymers show much higher antioxidant activities than the flavonoid monomers. In addition, these polymeric flavonoids efficiently inhibit disease related enzymes, such as xanthine oxidase, collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase and tyrosinase. Based on these results, the molecular design for amplification of the biological and pharmacological properties of flavonoids is proposed.

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Reinforcement of Nylon‐6 Filaments with SiO2 Nanoparticles and Comparison of Young's Modulus with Theoretical Bounds
Authors: Mahfuz Hassan , Hasan Mohammad M. , Rangari Vijaya K. , Jeelani Shaik
Published: April 2007

Spherical silica nanoparticles were infused into nylon‐6 and drawn into filaments through a melt‐extrusion process. The idea was to improve the strength and stiffness of the resulting filaments by utilizing the interactions between the nanoparticles and the polymer. The focus was to increase the fracture strain of the filaments, as this had not been possible earlier with the infusion of carbon nanotubes. It has been observed that with the infusion of silica nanoparticles, the strength and Young's modulus of the nylon filament can be enhanced in the 28 to 36% range without any loss of fracture strain. The source of this improvement has been traced to the formation of stronger amide and carbonyl bonds, nucleated by the presence of SiO2 nanoparticles during polymerization. Moreover, calculations based on basic theories of inclusions show that the Young's modulus of the nanophased filament is within 5% of the upper bound predicted by the micromechanical theory.

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Production of Narrow‐Size‐Distribution Polymer‐Pigment‐Nanoparticle Composites via Electrohydrodynamic Atomization
Authors: Widiyandari Hendri , Hogan Christopher J. , Yun Ki Myoung , Iskandar Ferry , Biswas Pratim , Okuyama Kikuo
Published: April 2007

Near‐monodisperse, size‐controllable, poly(methyl methacrylate)‐pigment nanoparticle composites were produced using electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA). The geometric mean diameters of the composite particles were in the 0.91 to 1.90 µm‐diameter range with geometric standard deviations of approximately 1.05 to 1.12. Increasing the polymer volume fraction and liquid flow‐rate resulted in an increase in the diameter of the composite particles, which agreed well with droplet scaling relations for EHDA. The results here demonstrate that EHDA can be used for polymer‐nanoparticle‐composite production and as an alternative to conventional inkjet printing.

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Effect of Lignin on the Heat and Light Resistance of Lignocellulosic Fibers
Authors: Reddy Narendra , Salam Abdus , Yang Yiqi
Published: April 2007

The existence of lignin in lignocellulosic fibers increases the loss in breaking tenacity and elongation of fibers when they are exposed to heat and light. Delignification by sulfonation helps to remove some of the lignin from the fibers without affecting the breaking tenacity. The delignified fibers have higher resistance to heat and light exposure compared to the raw fibers. The effect of lignin on the heat and light resistance of kenaf and cornhusk fibers with three different lignin contents was studied in comparison to cotton at various periods of heat and light exposure. The changes in the breaking tenacity, breaking elongation and yellowness of the samples were studied.

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Copolymerization Behavior of Acid‐Base Monomer Systems and Properties of their Corresponding Polymers
Authors: Schmidt Christian , Merz Friederike , Jiang Shaoqun , Drache Marco , Schmidt‐Naake Gudrun
Published: April 2007

The copolymerization behavior of mixtures of an acidic and a basic monomer were studied as a function of the monomer feed composition. The four systems investigated in this way comprised APSA/1‐VIm, APSA/4‐VP, APSA/DAMA, and SSA/1‐VIm. The corresponding polyelectrolytes were obtained by free radical polymerization of the monomer mixtures in solution, while the isolated monomeric salts of equivalent amounts of both monomers were prone to spontaneous polymerization. For APSA/1‐VIm, APSA/4‐VP, and APSA/DAMA, a donor‐acceptor relationship was found, whereas for SSA/1‐VIm the SSA was favorably incorporated over all feed ratios. High Tg and complex viscosity data indicated a considerable degree of ionic, thermally reversible crosslinking within the polymers that were thermally stable up to at least 230 °C.

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Preparation of Novel Fluoroalkyl End‐Capped Oligomer/Hydroxyapatite Nanocomposites
Authors: Sawada Hideo , Takashima Hiroki , Iwaki Ken‐Ichi , Furukuwa Rika , Takishita Katsuhisa
Published: April 2007

Novel fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomer/hydroxyapatite nanocomposites have been easily prepared by the reaction of disodium hydrogenphosphate and calcium chloride in the presence of self‐assembled molecular aggregates formed by fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers in aqueous media. The fluorinated hydroxyapatite nanocomposites thus obtained were found to exhibit a good dispersibility in a variety of media, and were applied to the surface modification of glass.

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Prostaglandin E2 induces vascular endothelial growth factor secretion in prostate cancer cells through EP2 receptor‐mediated cAMP pathway
Authors: Wang Xingya , Klein Russell D.
Published: April 2007

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has been shown to induce expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other signaling molecules in several cancers. PGE2 elicits its functions though four G‐protein coupled membrane receptors (EP1–4). In this study, we investigated the role of EP receptors in PGE2‐induced molecular events in prostate cancer cells. qRT‐PCR analysis revealed that PC‐3 cells express a substantially higher level of EP2 and moderately higher EP4 than DU145 and LNCaP cells. LNCaP cells had virtually no detectable EP2 mRNA. EP1 and EP3 mRNAs were not detected in these cells. Treatment of prostate cancer cells with PGE2 (1 nM–10 µM) increased both VEGF secretion and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production. Levels of induction in PC‐3 cells were greater than in DU145 and LNCaP cells. The selective EP2 agonist CAY10399 also significantly increased VEGF secretion and cAMP production in PC‐3 cells, but not in DU145 and LNCaP cells. Moreover, PGE2 and CAY10399 increased mitogen activated protein kinase/extracellular signal regulated kinase (MAPK/Erk) and Akt phosphorylation in PC‐3 and DU145 cells, but not in LNCaP cells. However, neither the MAPK/Erk inhibitor U0126 nor the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002 abolished PGE2‐induced VEGF secretion in PC‐3 cells. We further demonstrated that the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin and the cAMP anologue 8‐bromo‐cAMP mimicked the effects of PGE2 on VEGF secretion in PC‐3 cells. Meanwhile, the adenylate cyclase inhibitor 2′5′‐dideoxyadenosine, at concentrations that inhibited PGE2‐induced cAMP, significantly blocked PGE2‐induced VEGF secretion in PC‐3 cells. We conclude that PGE2‐induced VEGF secretion in prostate cancer cells is mediated through EP2‐, and possibly EP4‐, dependent cAMP signaling pathways. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High dose levodopa therapy is not toxic in multiple system atrophy: Experimental evidence
Authors: Stefanova Nadia , Köllensperger Martin , Hainzer Monika , Cenci Angela , Poewe Werner , Wenning Gregor Karl
Published: April 2007

Levodopa is generally regarded the first choice therapy for parkinsonism associated with multiple system atrophy (MSA‐P). However, MSA‐P patients often show a poor or unsustained levodopa response which inflicts high dose therapy. This is generally attributed to progressive striatal degeneration with loss of dopamine receptors. Experimental evidence suggests that dopaminergic stimulation may accelerate the striatal disease process in MSA, possibly by pro‐oxidative mechanisms. Intact nigrostriatal dopamine release augments striatal lesion size in the unilateral nigral and striatal double lesion rat model of MSA‐P. Further, neuronal vulnerability to exogenous oxidative stress is increased in a transgenic MSA mouse model with oligodendroglial α‐synuclein inclusions. The aim of the present study was to analyze whether high dose levodopa delivery in the transgenic MSA model is associated with neurotoxicity exacerbated by the presence of oligodendroglial α‐synuclein inclusion pathology. Control and transgenic MSA mice underwent pulsatile treatment with either vehicle, low or high dose levodopa for a period of 1 month. Behavioral and neuropathological indices failed to show evidence for neurotoxic effects of high‐dose levodopa in this α‐synuclein transgenic MSA model. These findings support the idea that high dose levodopa therapy in MSA is not detrimental to the underlying neuropathological process. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Management of status dystonicus: Our experience and review of the literature
Authors: Mariotti Paolo , Fasano Alfonso , Contarino M. Fiorella , Della Marca Giacomo , Piastra Marco , Genovese Orazio , Pulitanò Silvia , Chiaretti Antonio , Bentivoglio Anna Rita
Published: April 2007

Status dystonicus (SD) is a life threatening disorder that develops in patients with both primary and secondary dystonia, characterized by acute worsening of symptoms with generalized and severe muscle contractions. To date, no information is available on the best way to treat this disorder. We review the previously described cases of SD and two new cases are reported, one of which occurring in a child with static encephalopathy, and the other one in a patient with pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration. Both patients were admitted to an intensive care unit and treated with midazolam and propofol. This approach proved to be useful in the former while the progressive nature of the dystonia of the second patient required the combination of intrathecal baclofen infusion and bilateral pallidal deep brain stimulation. We believe that a rapid and aggressive approach is justified to avoid the great morbidity and mortality which characterize SD. Our experience, combined with the data available in the literature, might permit to establish the best strategies in managing this rare and severe condition. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Levodopa‐induced dyskinesias
Authors: Fabbrini Giovanni , Brotchie Jonathan M. , Grandas Francisco , Nomoto Masahiro , Goetz Christopher G.
Published: April 2007

Levodopa‐induced dyskinesias (LID) are common and difficult to treat. This review focuses on three issues related to LID: clinical features, classification and rating, pathophysiology and pathogenesis, and management. The three primary clinical syndromes are OFF‐period dystonia, peak‐dose dyskinesia, and diphasic dyskinesia. Several other forms also occur, making the evaluation and choice of treatment complicated. A core component of the pathophysiology of LID is overactivity of the direct striatal output pathway. This pathway provides a direct GABAergic connection by which the striatum inhibits the output regions of the basal ganglia, i.e., the internal globus pallidus and the substantia nigra pars reticulata. Altering dopaminergic dosing and timing can abate dyskinesias, but usually impact the control of parkinsonism. Putative therapies to reduce the problem of dyskinesias could focus on the glutamatergic, GABAergic, α2 adrenergic, serotonergic (5HT1A, 5HT2A), opioid, histamine H3, adenosine A2A receptors, the monoamine transport or cannabinoid CB1 receptors systems. The only currently available drug with an evidence‐based recommendation on efficacy for dyskinesia is amantadine. Therapy goals include the prevention of dyskinesia and treatment of dyskinesias that are troublesome clinically. New rating measures to assess severity and disability related to dyskinesia are in the process of development and clinimetric testing. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Prevalence and clinical features of common LRRK2 mutations in Australians with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Huang Yue , Halliday Glenda M. , Vandebona Himesha , Mellick George D. , Mastaglia Frank , Stevens Julia , Kwok John , Garlepp Michael , Silburn Peter A. , Horne Malcolm K. , Kotschet Katya , Venn Alison , Rowe Dominic B. , Rubio Justin P. , Sue Carolyn M.
Published: April 2007

We determined the prevalence of two common leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene mutations in Australian patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Of 830 affected patients, eight were heterozygous for the G2019S mutation, and two were heterozygous for the R1441H (4,322 G > A) mutation. In addition, one familial patient had a novel A1442P (4,324 G > C) mutation. Haplotype analysis showed that all LRRK2 G2019S‐positive individuals carried the common founder haplotype 1 and a putative founder haplotype for the R1441H mutation carriers. Clinically, patients with LRRK2 mutations had typical levodopa responsive Parkinsonism with tremor being the commonest presenting feature. Patients with the G2019S mutation in our series had a similar age of onset of symptoms when compared with patients with other LRRK2 mutations or sporadic PD, although they were more likely to have a family history of PD (2.4% of Australian patients with familial PD and 0.3% of Australian patients with sporadic PD). Our results demonstrate that the G2019S mutation carriers share the same ancestors who migrated to Australia originally from Europe and that other LRRK2 mutations (R1441H and A1442P) can be found in this population. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Antioxidant nutritional quality of tomato
Authors: Frusciante Luigi , Carli Paola , Ercolano Maria R. , Pernice Rita , Di Matteo Antonio , Fogliano Vincenzo , Pellegrini Nicoletta
Published: April 2007

Regular consumption of tomatoes has been associated with decreased risk of chronic degenerative diseases. Epidemiological findings confirm the observed health effects are due to the presence of different antioxidant molecules such as carotenoids, particularly lycopene, ascorbic acid, vitamin E and phenol compounds, particularly flavonoids. In this work, eight components contributing to the healthy quality of tomato (i. e. lycopene, β‐carotene, other carotenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins C and E, dry residue) were studied in the framework of breeding programs aiming to develop nutritional superior genotypes. Twelve tomato advanced breeding lines and six open pollinated cultivars were grown in strictly controlled conditions and analysed for their content of antioxidants. Among the 18 genotypes analysed, 10 showed a high level of total carotenoids, 6 high level of β‐carotene, 9 high lycopene levels, 15 high flavonoids and 2 relevant concentration of vitamin E. Based on such data and on a literature survey on tomato composition, an index, called index of antioxidant nutritional quality (IQUAN), was proposed as a tool to address the breeding programs in selecting tomato genotypes with antioxidant nutritional qualities.
Coffee and Maillard products activate NF‐κB in macrophages via H2O2 production
Authors: Muscat Sonja , Pelka Joana , Hegele Jörg , Weigle Bernd , Münch Gerald , Pischetsrieder Monika
Published: April 2007

In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory activity of coffee and Maillard reaction products on macrophages in vitro. Stimulation of macrophages with coffee, but not with raw coffee extract in PBS, led to a 13‐fold increased nuclear NF‐κB translocation. A Maillard reaction mixture (25 mM D‐ribose/L‐lysine, 30 min at 120°C) increased NF‐κB translocation 18‐fold (in PBS) or six‐fold (in medium). MRPs also induced a two‐fold increased NF‐κB translocation in untransfected human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells as well as in HEK cells stably transfected with the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), indicating that the effect was not RAGE mediated. On the other hand, catalase totally abolished coffee‐ and MRP‐induced NF‐κB translocation. Consequently, up to 366 μM hydrogen peroxide was measured in the coffee preparation and Maillard mixtures used for cell stimulation. Stimulation of macrophages with MRPs did not lead to significantly increased IL‐6 or NO release. Thus, it can be concluded that coffee and MRPs induce NF‐κB translocation in macrophages via the generation of hydrogen peroxide.
NSSR1 is regulated in testes development and cryptorchidism and promotes the exon 5‐included splicing of CREB transcripts
Authors: Xiao Ping‐Jie , Hu Lingchuan , Li Jing , Lin Wanming , Chen Xianhua , Xu Ping
Published: April 2007

Neural salient serine/arginine rich protein 1 (NSSR1, alternatively SRp38) is a newly identified splicing factor that is highly expressed in neural and reproductive tissues. We showed that the expression of testicular NSSR1 increased significantly during mouse testes development. NSSR1 was mainly expressed in germ cells, but barely detected in Sertoli cells. Testicular NSSR1 was mostly phosphorylated and cytosolic in germ cells. In comparison, pituitary NSSR1 was mostly dephosphorylated and nuclear. In the cryptorchid testes, the dephosphorylated NSSR1 was significantly increased. RT‐PCR analysis demonstrated that the alternative splicing of CREB and CREM genes was altered in the cryptorchid testes. In addition, CREB transcripts were associated with NSSR1 either in testes tissues or cultured GC‐1 cells. Moreover, the studies with NSSR1 over‐expression or silence demonstrated that NSSR1 promoted the exon 5 inclusion of CREB, indicating that NSSR1 is a new factor that regulates the alternative exon 5 inclusion of CREB transcripts. The findings for the first time provide the evidence indicating the potential importance of NSSR1 in testes development, spermatogenesis and cryptorchidism. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1363–1372, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased child abuse in families with twins
Authors: Robarge Joyce P. , Reynolds Zelta B. , Groothuis Jessie R.
Published: April 2007

Close spacing of children may be a significant risk factor for subsequent abuse in some families. Twin births are an extreme example of close spacing. Therefore, the authors hypothesized that twin births may predispose to an increased incidence of child abuse. Thirty‐eight families with twins were compared with 97 single birth families and matched for birthdate, maternal age, race, and socioeconomic status. Families with twins experienced a significantly higher incidence of child abuse and neglect than did those with single births (p < .003). A written questionnaire designed to study mothers' feelings and perceptions of support systems showed a significant difference only in greater difficulty in feeding twins as compared with single infants (p < .001). Mothers of abused children were more likely not to answer the questionnaire at all (p < .005). Neither mothers of single births nor those of twins felt that health professionals provided adequate education or support following the birth of their infants.
Craniofacial trauma in the Prehispanic Canary Islands
Authors: Owens L. S.
Published: April 2007

The current project is a study of craniofacial trauma in a large sample (n = 896) of Prehispanic Canary Islanders (PCIs). The possible causes and social implications of the trauma found are considered, with reference to archaeological and historical data. Variables include the island, period and ecology, the sex and age of the individuals, the distribution of lesions across the skull (by side and by individual bone) and ante‐mortem tooth loss. The results show a fairly high trauma rate (16%), a low prevalence of peri‐mortem trauma (3.8% of all lesions), higher prevalence of trauma in males than in females (25% vs. 13% of all individuals), more cranial than facial lesions (8.9% vs. 3.5% of all elements) and more lesions on the left side of the skull (6.7% vs. 4.5% of all elements) which suggests that the lesions were sustained through intentional rather than accidental agency. There was no correspondence between trauma prevalence and ecology. The archaeological and historical data support the assertion that the lesions may be the result of skirmishing between groups, using weapons such as slingshots, stones and staves. The presence of edged‐weapon lesions on some individuals suggests that these may have been the victims of contact‐period European groups. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microscopic examination of ground sections – a simple method for distinguishing between bone and antler?
Authors: Paral V. , Witter K. , Tonar Z.
Published: April 2007

Both bones and antlers have been used throughout history for manufacturing various products. Therefore, archaeologists often have to distinguish between these materials. The more the raw material (bone or antler) has been treated, the more complicated it is to distinguish. For this study, recent macerated and archaeological samples of bone and antler and their products have been compared. Antler is usually very easy to distinguish based on the characteristic surface structure; however, the original surface is not preserved in all artefacts. The inner surface of the diaphysis of long bones is mostly compact with prominent trabeculae and lamellae, whereas, after removal of the spongiosa, the inner surface of antler is characterised by numerous grooves. Sometimes, however, artefacts are found which are composed only of the compact bone substance, without inner and outer surfaces, and it is not possible to distinguish between bones and antlers macroscopically. Haversian systems can be found in histological and ground sections of both bones and antlers. In contrast to bones, antlers have few interstitial lamellae. The osteons of antler seem to be smaller and to consist of fewer layers than those of bone. Inner and outer circumferential lamellae cannot be distinguished in antlers. Although microscopic examination of sectioned samples does not allow distinction between bones and antlers in every case, it represents a valuable additional tool for distinguishing between these two materials in historic artefacts. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with polymer shells through surface RAFT polymerization
Authors: Xu Guoyong , Wang Yusong , Pang Wenmin , Wu Wei‐Tai , Zhu Qingren , Wang Pinghua
Published: April 2007

A core–shell hybrid nanostructure, possessing a hard backbone of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) and a soft shell of brush‐like poly(methyl methacrylate), has been successfully prepared via a reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) process using a RAFT agent immobilized on MWNTs. Polymer‐modified MWNTs are easily dispersed in good solvents for the grafted polymer, such as toluene, tetrahydrofuran and CHCl3. This observation has been confirmed by transmission electron microscopy analysis. The content of polymer in the functionalized MWNTs can be well controlled by the feed ratio. It is believed that realizing these hybrid structures, on the basis of such simple grafting, will pave the way for the design, fabrication, optimization and eventual application of more functional carbon nanotube‐related nanomaterials. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Desorption of emulsifiers from polystyrene latices followed by spectroscopic techniques
Authors: Stone‐Masui Jeannine H. , Stone William E. E.
Published: April 2007

The desorption of emulsifier from the particle surface of latices prepared by emulsion polymerisation has been followed by spectroscopic techniques: transmission IR, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and static secondary ion mass spectrometry (SSIMS) ‐fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB‐MS).

In IR spectra, the extra band at 1710 cm−1 due to carboxylic groups originating from the emulsifier is fortunately visible because it is located within a window of the polystyrene peaks.

XPS is a valuable surface method of analysis (contrary to IR). Nevertheless, for the latices considered here, it is impossible to extract from the very intense carbon peak information concerning variation in the carboxyl groups, which amount to less than 1%.

Another important method for surface analysis is static‐SIMS, which allows detection of elements and molecular species present in the first few layers with a detection limit which is less than 10−4%. FAB‐MS permits the detection of the parent ion of the emulsifier employed. Freeze‐dried powders of latices extensively purified with mixed‐bed ion‐exchange resins were studied for us using FAB‐MS at UMIST in Manchester (UK).

A comparison is made of the results obtained with these three spectroscopic techniques.
Development of morphology in latex particles: The interplay between thermodynamic and kinetic parameters
Authors: Chen Yi‐Cherng , Dimonie Victoria L. , Shaffer Olga L. , El‐Aasser Mohamed S.
Published: April 2007

A thermodynamic analysis and a mathematical model were developed to describe the free energy changes corresponding to various possible morphologies in composite latex particles. Two experimental composite latex systems were used to verify and establish limitations of the model. The two latex systems were based on polystyrene/poly(methyl methacrylate), one prepared by conventional seeded emulsion polymerization and the second system by direct emulsification of a solution of a blend of the two polymers. The influence of several experimental parameters on latex particle morphology was investigated. These included monomer/polymer ratio, surfactant type, and initiator type in the seeded emulsion polymerization system. The influence of local viscosity, shear effects, and molecular weights of polymers were investigated in the artificial latex system.
Preparation and modification of monodisperse hydrogel microspheres
Authors: Kawaguchi Haruma , Fujimoto Keiji , Saito Mizue , Kawasaki Tatsuji , Urakami Yujiro
Published: April 2007

Monodisperse hydrogel microspheres were prepared by precipitation polymerization of acrylamide and comonomers in ethanol and propan‐2‐ol and their mixtures. The size of the microspheres varied from 0.2 to 1.3 μm as a function of the solubility parameter of the dispersants. The applicability of the three‐component solubility parameter approach by Paine was examined. Seeded polymerization of styrene using the seed microspheres mentioned above yielded unique composite microspheres whose surface property changed gradually with the content of styrene.
Mini‐emulsion formation and polymerization of styrene
Authors: Pan Zu‐Ren , Fan Hong , Weng Zhi‐Xue , Huang Zhi‐Ming
Published: April 2007

The morphology of an anionic emulsifier/long chain fatty alcohol complex and its change during the formation process were studied. The main factors affecting the morphology, such as various types of anionic emulsifiers and fatty alcohols, their molar ratios and the addition of styrene, were investigated. It was discovered that the rod‐like particles of the complex had a length of 0.1 ‐0‐2 μm and diameter of 0.01‐0.02 μm. A model of a rod‐like particle or molecular aggregate was proposed. Both water‐soluble and oil‐soluble initiators were used to study the kinetics of styrene mini‐emulsion polymerization and polystyrene latex size characteristics.
Preparation of micron‐size monodisperse poly(methyl methacrylate) particles using poly(2‐oxazoline) macromonomer
Authors: Kobayashi Shiro , Uyama Hiroshi , Choi Jang Hyun , Matsumoto Yasuhiro
Published: April 2007

Micron‐size monodisperse poly(methyl methacrylate) particles were prepared by dispersion copolymerization of methyl methacrylate with a hydrophilic poly(2‐oxazoline) macromonomer in an aqueous methanol solution. The macromonomer acted as a comonomer as well as a stabilizer. As the macromonomer concentration increased, the diameter of the particles decreased. The macromonomer with higher molecular weight, or with more hydrophilic nature, stabilized the particles more effectively The diameter of the particles was dependent on the initiator concentration. Under the conditions giving monodisperse particles, the particle volume increased linearly with the yield of the particles and the particle number was almost constant during the copolymerization. From ESCA analysis of the particle surface, poly(2‐oxazoline) chains were enriched on the surface.
polyimides containing s‐triazine rings in the main chain: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Sarwade Bhimrao D. , Wadgaonkar Prakash P. , Mahajan Sudhakar S.
Published: April 2007

Eight s‐triazine‐containing polyimides were synthesized by solution polycondensation of diisocyanates having an s‐triazine ring with pyromellitic dianhydride in dimethylacetamide. Polyimides derived from meta‐oriented diisocyanates were amorphous and soluble in dipolar aprotic solvents while those based on para‐oriented diisocyanates were semicrystalline and insoluble in organic solvents. However, all the polyimides were soluble in concentrated sulphuric acid. The polyimides showed similar patterns of decomposition with no weight loss below 300°C in air.
Polyethylene toughened by caco3 particles—percolation model of brittle‐ductile transition in hdpe/caco3 blends
Authors: Fu Qiang , Wang Guiheng
Published: April 2007

The percolation model is used to interpret the brittle‐ductile transition of HDPE/CaCO3 blends. The percolation threshold (θsc) for HDPE/CaCO3 blends is found to be 0.52, which is equal to π/6. The critical exponent (g) is found to be 0.83 for HDPE/CaCO3 blends. The toughening efficiency of blends which have monodisperse, highly asymmetrical particles, strong interphase adhesion and high matrix toughness is greater. The brittle‐ductile transition in polymer blends seems to be a universal percolation phenomenon.
Arylidene polymers XIX: Synthesis and properties of aromatic polyphosphate from diarylidenecycloalkanones
Authors: Aly Kamal I. , El‐Zohry Maher F. , Abd‐Alla Mohamed A.
Published: April 2007

Polyphosphate esters were synthesized by interfacial polymerization of 2,5‐bis(p‐hydroxybenzylidene)cyclopentanone, 2,5‐divanillylidenecyclopentanone, 2,6‐bis(p‐hydroxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone, 2,6‐divanillylidenecyclohexanone or 2,7‐bis(p‐hydroxybenzylidene)cycloheptanone with phenyl phosphorodichloridate. The resulting polymers were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, solubility and viscometry measurements. The thermal properties of the polymers were evaluated by TGA measurements and correlated with their structural units. The crystallinity of all the polyphosphate esters was tested by X‐ray analysis.
Calibration of thermal field‐flow fractionation using broad molecular weight standards
Authors: Nguyen Myhuoug T. , Beckett Ronald
Published: April 2007

Thermal field‐flow fractionation (ThFFF) is a new elution‐based separation method for determining molecular weight distributions of polymers. Calibration can be achieved using monodisperse standards of the specific polymer of interest. In order to expand the range of polymer types for which absolute molecular weight data can be obtained using ThFFF a calibration procedure has been developed and tested which uses only broad molecular weight polymer samples. The method requires two polydisperse molecular weight standards of the required polymer whose average molecular weight (normally M̄w) is measured by an independent method (e.g. light scattering). From the average molecular weight data and the ThFFF elution pattern (fractogram) the required calibration constants can be calculated.

The method has been tested using the polystyrene‐tetrahydrofuran system and gave satisfactory results when checked against a series of monodisperse polystyrene standards. This calibration approach should expand the applicability of ThFFF to include a wide range of polymer types.
Diffusion of water and alcohol in chemically modified polyurethane
Authors: Sreenivasan K.
Published: April 2007

Diffusion of methanol and water in polyurethane and polyurethane chemically modified by grafting different acrylic monomers was carried out. The absorption of these two molecules was found to vary with the nature and percentage grafting of the monomers. The possible use of chemically modified polyurethanes as membranes having high selectivity towards the interaction of alcohol and water is highlighted.
Some factors affecting the electrical properties of carbon‐black‐loaded butyl rubber during vulcanization
Authors: Abdel‐Bary E. M. , Hassan H. H. , El‐Lawindy A. M. , Abu‐Assy M. K. , El‐Tantawy F. K.
Published: April 2007

Butyl rubber mixtures loaded with 70 phr general purpose furnace black (GPF) and tetramethyl thiuram disulphide (TMTD)/S as vulcanizing system were prepared. The kinetics of their electrical conductivity development during the vulcanization process were followed by using an especially devised system. It was found that the increase in the electrical conductivity during vulcanization obeys an exponential growth function with time constant τ, which markedly decreases with increasing vulcanization temperature as well as with the efficiency of the vulcanizing system. After completion of the vulcanization process, about 80 min, the samples obtained possess reasonable stability and reproducibility of electrical conductivity.
Polymerization of vinyl monomers initiated by zwitterionic polymer in aqueous solution
Authors: Liaw Der‐Jang , Lee Kueir‐Rarn
Published: April 2007

The polymerization of vinyl monomers, mainly styrene and methyl methacrylate, initiated by zwitterionic poly[3‐dimethyl(methacryloyloxy‐ethyl)ammonium propane sulfonate], [poly(DMAPS)], in aqueous solution was studied under vacuum at 85°C. An initiation mechanism involving hydrogen atom transfer is proposed. The effects of the efficiency of grafting. pH, water content and betaine polymer content on the polymerization were investigated. The conversion of vinyl monomers in poly(DMAPS) is lower than that in poly [3‐dimethyl(acryloyloxyethyl)ammonium propane sulfonate], which may be due to steric hindrance of the methyl group on the α‐carbon of the former.
Flow birefringence and viscosity of cellulose solutions in semi‐dilute regime
Authors: Yasuda Katsunari , Saito Masatoshi , Kamide Kenji
Published: April 2007

An attempt was made to study the flow birefringence and the viscosity of the systems of cellulose in aqueous sodium hydroxide and cadoxen solutions. For this purpose alkali‐soluble cellulose samples with crystal form I (simply denoted as cellulose I sample), prepared from conifer wood pulp by the steam‐explosion method, and alkali‐soluble cellulose samples with crystal form of cellulose II (cellulose II sample), regenerated from cuprammonium cellulose solution under specific conditions, were used. The extinction angle χ of aqueous alkali solutions of the cellulose I sample is significantly less shear rate (γ) dependent as compared with that of the cellulose II sample. In the latter system the χ versus γ relations for a given cellulose sample shifted to the higher γ side with decrease in the average molecular weight. The viscosity of the cellulose II sample in aqueous sodium hydroxide solutions is approximately twice that of the cellulose I sample in the same solvent if compared at the same molecular weight, same concentration, and same temperature. The latter solution showed a non‐Newtonian property at relatively smaller γ than the former solution did. Spin‐lattice relaxation time T1 (by 13C‐NMR) of cellulose in cadoxen solution was smaller in cellulose I, suggesting the existence of intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bondings at the C6 position of cellulose molecules in cellulose I solution. A dynamic light scattering study on cellulose in cadoxen showed that in a 5 wt % solution of cellulose I cellulose particles are dispersed with time into smaller particles and the larger particles could be excluded by ultracentrifuge and in cellulose II solutions the cellulose particles had almost the same size during storage. The above findings indicate that in 5 wt% cellulose I solutions in aqueous alkali or in cadoxen, cellulose I is not dissolved molecularly, but a supra‐molecular structure of the solid is at least partly reserved in the above solutions.