bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of human papillomavirus persistence among women with equivocal or mildly abnormal cytology
Authors: Maucort‐Boulch Delphine , Plummer Martyn , Castle Philip E. , Demuth Franklin , Safaeian Mahboobeh , Wheeler Cosette M. , Schiffman Mark
Published: July 2009

We investigated short‐term persistence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection among 2,408 women with low‐grade or equivocal cytological abnormalities followed for 24 months. Odds ratios (ORs) for persistence to the next 6‐month visit were estimated by a discrete time survival model. Prevalent HPV infections persisted longer in older women, but no association with age was found for incident HPV infections. Increased likelihood of persistence was found among current smokers of >20 cigarettes per day compared with smokers of ≤10 cigarettes per day (OR=1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–2.01) and among current injectable contraceptive users (OR=1.15; 95% CI: 1.01–1.32). Persistence was more likely among infections with higher viral load (OR=2.05; 95% CI: 1.65–2.53) or with concurrent cytological abnormalities (OR=1.19; 95% CI: 1.03–1.39 and 1.29; 95% CI: 0.99–1.70 for ASCUS/LSIL and ASC‐H/HSIL, respectively). We conclude that new HPV infections in older women are not riskier by the metric of viral persistence than those in younger women. Other risk factors such as oral contraceptive use and multiparity that have been associated with cervical cancer or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 were not associated with short‐term HPV persistence.
Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 protects MCF‐7 breast cancer cells from paclitaxel‐induced apoptosis by decreasing the stability of cyclin B1
Authors: Wang Ting , Lv Jing‐Huan , Zhang Xiong‐Fei , Li Chao‐Jun , Han Xiao , Sun Yu‐Jie
Published: July 2009

Paclitaxel (PTX) is a very effective drug in treating tumors. It disturbs microtubule dynamics and impairs the transition of cells from metaphase to anaphase in mitosis, leading to cell death by apoptosis. However, the effectiveness of PTX in cancer chemotherapy is hampered by drug resistance in some patients. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) is well known to be capable of inhibiting apoptosis. Elevated tumor tissue TIMP‐1 levels have been significantly associated with a poor response to chemotherapy. We hypothesized that TIMP‐1 could reduce the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to PTX by inhibiting apoptosis. To test this hypothesis, we first examined the effects of TIMP‐1 on the apoptosis induced by PTX and investigated the effects of TIMP‐1 on the expression and stability of cyclin B1 that critically regulates the metaphase to anaphase transition during mitosis in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells. Our data demonstrate that TIMP‐1 could significantly decrease the sensitivity of MCF‐7 cells to PTX‐induced apoptosis, attenuate mitotic blockage in G2/M, and enhance the degradation of cyclin B1. To further investigate whether the inhibitory effect of TIMP‐1 on PTX‐induced apoptosis is mediated by lowering levels of cyclin B1, a cyclin B1‐expression plasmid was transfected into clone overexpressing TIMP‐1. The levels of PTX‐induced apoptosis were then analyzed. The data showed that the TIMP‐1‐based decrease in PTX‐induced apoptosis was reversed by cyclin B1. Our data indicate that TIMP‐1 can protect breast cancer cells from PTX‐induced apoptosis by decreasing the stability of cyclin B1.
Caveolin‐1 promotes resistance to chemotherapy‐induced apoptosis in Ewing's sarcoma cells by modulating PKCα phosphorylation
Authors: Tirado Oscar M. , MacCarthy Caitlin M. , Fatima Naheed , Villar Joaquín , Mateo‐Lozano Silvia , Notario and Vicente
Published: July 2009

Caveolin‐1 (CAV1) has been implicated in the regulation of several signaling pathways and in oncogenesis. Previously, we identified CAV1 as a key determinant of the oncogenic phenotype and tumorigenic activity of cells from tumors of the Ewing's Sarcoma Family (ESFT). However, the possible CAV1 involvement in the chemotherapy resistance commonly presented by an ESFT subset has not been established to date. This report shows that CAV1 expression determines the sensitivity of ESFT cells to clinically relevant chemotherapeutic agents. Analyses of endogenous CAV1 levels in several ESFT cells and ectopic CAV1 expression into ESFT cells expressing low endogenous CAV1 showed that the higher the CAV1 levels, the greater their resistance to drug treatment. Moreover, results from antisense‐ and shRNA‐mediated gene expression knockdown and protein re‐expression experiments demonstrated that CAV1 increases the resistance of ESFT cells to doxorubicin (Dox)‐ and cisplatin (Cp)‐induced apoptosis by a mechanism involving the activating phosphorylation of PKCα. CAV1 knockdown in ESFT cells led to decreased phospho(Thr638)‐PKCα levels and a concomitant sensitization to apoptosis, which were reversed by CAV1 re‐expression. These results were recapitulated by PKCα knockdown and re‐expression in ESFT cells in which CAV1 was previously knocked down, thus demonstrating that phospho(Thr638)‐PKCα acts downstream of CAV1 to determine the sensitivity of ESFT cells to chemotherapeutic drugs. These data, along with the finding that CAV1 and phospho(Thr638)‐PKCα are co‐expressed in ∼45% of ESFT specimens tested, imply that targeting CAV1 and/or PKCα may allow the development of new molecular therapeutic strategies to improve the treatment outcome for patients with ESFT.
Urokinase plasminogen activator receptor is expressed in invasive cells in gastric carcinomas from high‐ and low‐risk countries
Authors: Alpízar‐Alpízar Warner , Nielsen Boye Schnack , Sierra Rafaela , Illemann Martin , Ramírez Jose A. , Arias Adriana , Durán Sundry , Skarstein Arne , Ovrebo Kjell , Lund Leif R. , Laerum Ole D.
Published: July 2009

Gastric cancer is the second cancer causing death worldwide. Both incidence and mortality rates vary according to geographical regions. The receptor for urokinase plasminogen activator (uPAR) is involved in extracellular matrix degradation by mediating cell surface associated plasminogen activation, and its presence on gastric cancer cells is linked to micro‐metastasis and poor prognosis. Immunohistochemical analyses of a set of 44 gastric cancer lesions from Costa Rica showed expression of uPAR in cancer cells in both intestinal subtype (14 of 27) and diffuse subtype (10 of 17). We compared the expression pattern of uPAR in gastric cancers from a high‐risk country (Costa Rica) with a low‐risk country (Norway). We found uPAR on gastric cancer cells in 24 of 44 cases (54%) from Costa Rica and in 13 of 23 cases (56%) from Norway. uPAR was seen in macrophages and neutrophils in all cases. We also examined the nonneoplastic mucosa and found that uPAR was more frequently seen in epithelial cells located at the luminal edge of the crypts in cases with Helicobacter pylori infection than in similar epithelial cells in noninfected mucosa (p = 0.033; χ2 = 4.54). In conclusion, the expression of uPAR in cancer cells in more than half of the gastric cancer cases suggests that their uPAR‐positivity do not contribute to explain the different mortality rates between the 2 countries, however, the actual prevalence of uPAR‐positive cancer cells in the gastric cancers may still provide prognostic information.
Sustained local drug delivery from a novel polymeric ring to inhibit intimal hyperplasia
Authors: Kanjickal Deenu , Lopina Stephanie , Evancho‐Chapman Mary M. , Schmidt Steven , Donovan Duane
Published: July 2009

The long‐term clinical success of autologous vein and synthetic vascular grafts are limited because of the development of anastomotic intimal hyperplasia (IH). We have previously published data suggesting that cyclosporine (CyA) may reduce the development of IH in a canine model (Hirko et al., J Vasc Surg 1993;17:877–887). However, systemic administration of CyA could create serious adverse effects. Therefore, it is our long‐term goal to test the hypothesis that the controlled local release of CyA from a polymeric vascular wrap would prevent the development of IH. To test this hypothesis, we developed a controlled release polymeric ring that could be placed around anastomotic sites to deliver therapeutic drugs locally. The ring is a composite polymeric device consisting of poly(DL‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres embedded in a poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel. Several in vitro studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of different sterilization procedures on the properties of the device. It was determined that gamma sterilization was the preferred sterilization method of choice for this device. In vivo studies were conducted on a swine model to evaluate the biocompatibility of the ring. The histological findings of the ring implants at 2 and 4 weeks demonstrate the biocompatibility of this device. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Electrospun polyurethane vascular grafts: In vitro mechanical behavior and endothelial adhesion molecule expression
Authors: Grasl Christian , Bergmeister Helga , Stoiber Martin , Schima Heinrich , Weigel Guenter
Published: July 2009

Engineered small diameter vascular grafts must closely match mechanical characteristics of native vessels and exhibit stimulus‐responsive bioactivity. In this study, mechanical homogeneity of electrospun small diameter polyurethane grafts as well as spontaneous attachment, proliferation, and adhesion molecule expression of endothelial cells (EC) in their presence was studied in vitro. Axial and circumferential tensile strengths were measured and found to be twofold higher in the circumferential direction. EC attachment was easily achieved without precoating the fiber matrix. Stimulation of EC with interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) led to a statistically significant upregulation of the adhesion molecules E‐Selectin, ICAM‐1, and VCAM‐1. Quantification of adhesion molecule expression by means of energy‐dispersive X‐ray microanalysis revealed no differences in the stimulatory responses of EC cultured on electrospun polyurethane when compared with cells grown on tissue culture‐treated cover slips. Summarizing, highly uniform small diameter polyurethane grafts were fabricated and shown to allow spontaneous EC attachment. The synthetic graft surface neither impaired the endothelial response toward IL‐1β stimulation nor did it adversely affect the regulation of expression of endothelial adhesion molecules. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Synthesis of [3‐3H]20(S)‐protopanaxadiol
Authors: Meng Jian , Zhao Lizhi , Hu Youhong , Chen Xiaoyan , Zhong Dafang
Published: July 2009

[3‐3H]20(S)‐Protopanaxadiol (PPD) was prepared via selective reduction of PPD dioxide with sodium borotritide in N,N‐dimethyl acetamide. A radiochemical yield of 22% was obtained. The radiochemical purity of the final product was 99% and the ratio of C‐3/C‐12 tritium labeling was 97:3. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biofilm dispersal of community‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus on orthopedic implant material
Authors: Lauderdale Katherine J. , Malone Cheryl L. , Boles Blaise R. , Morcuende Jose , Horswill Alexander R.
Published: July 2009

Orthopedic implant‐related bacterial infections are associated with high morbidity that may lead to limb amputation and exert significant financial burden on the healthcare system. Staphylococcus aureus is a dominant cause of these infections, and increased incidence of community‐associated methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (CA‐MRSA) is being reported. The ability of S. aureus to attach to the foreign body surface and develop a biofilm is an important determinant of resistance to antibiotic prophylaxis. To gain insight on CA‐MRSA biofilm properties, USA300 biofilm maturation and dispersal was examined, and these biofilms were found to exhibit pronounced, quorum‐sensing mediated dispersal from a glass surface. For comparison of biofilm maturation on different surface chemistries, USA300 biofilm growth was examined on glass, polycarbonate, and titanium, and minimal differences were apparent in thickness, total biomass, and substratum coverage. Importantly, USA300 biofilms grown on titanium possessed a functional dispersal mechanism, and the dispersed cells regained susceptibility to rifampicin and levofloxacin treatment. The titanium biofilms were also sensitive to proteinase K and DNaseI, suggesting the matrix is composed of proteinaceous material and extracellular DNA. These studies provide new insights on the properties of CA‐MRSA biofilms on implant materials, and indicate that quorum‐sensing dispersion could be an effective therapeutic strategy. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:55–61, 2010
Tip enhanced Raman spectroscopy on azobenzene thiol self‐assembled monolayers on Au(111)
Authors: Picardi Gennaro , Chaigneau Marc , Ossikovski Razvigor , Licitra Christophe , Delapierre Guillame
Published: July 2009

Tip enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) and imaging experiments in tunnelling (gap) mode were performed on a 2 nm thick azobenzene thiol monolayer grafted on Au(111). A strong dependence on the tunnelling parameters, regulating the gold tip–gold surface gap distance, was observed for the intensity of the enhanced Raman signal. The influence of the incident light polarization is also discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectroscopic investigation of modern pigments on purportedly medieval miniatures by the ‘Spanish Forger’
Authors: Burgio Lucia , Clark Robin J. H. , Hark Richard R.
Published: July 2009

Five miniatures by the so‐called ‘Spanish Forger’ were acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum in 2008. Believed to be authentic medieval miniatures until the mid‐twentieth century, they are now considered to have been painted around the end of the nineteenth and the beginning of the twentieth century. To investigate this attribution and to gather detailed knowledge about the materials used by the artist, a comprehensive pigment analysis by Raman microscopy and X‐ray fluorescence was carried out. Although traditional materials such as vermilion, carbon black, red lead, lead white and indigo were identified, many others (chrome yellow, Scheele's green, emerald green and ultramarine blue) are modern and synthetic pigments, a result which provides a firm scientific basis for stating that the miniatures are forgeries. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Silica‐based monolithic column with evaporative light scattering detector for HPLC analysis of bacosides and apigenin in Bacopa monnieri
Authors: Bhandari Pamita , Kumar Neeraj , Singh Bikram , Singh Virendra , Kaur Inderjeet
Published: July 2009

A high performance liquid chromatographic method using a silica‐based monolithic column coupled with evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC–ELSD) was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of bacosides (bacoside A, bacopaside I, bacoside A3, bacopaside II, bacopaside X, bacopasaponin C) and apigenin in Bacopa monnieri. The chromatographic resolution was achieved on a Chromolith RP‐18 (100×4.6 mm) column with acetonitrile/water (30:70) as mobile phase in isocratic elution at a flow rate of 0.7 mL/min. The drift tube temperature of the ELSD was set to 95°C, and the nitrogen flow rate was 2.0 SLM (standard liter per minute). The calibration curves revealed a good linear relationship (r2 >0.9988) within the test ranges. The detection limits (S/N = 3) and the quantification limits (S/N = 10) for the compounds were in the range of 0.54–6.06 and 1.61–18.78 μg/mL, respectively. Satisfactory average recovery was observed in the range of 95.8–99.0%. The method showed good reproducibility for the quantification of these compounds in B. monnieri with intra‐ and inter‐day precision of less than 0.69 and 0.67%, respectively. The validated method was successfully applied to quantify analytes in nine accessions of B. monnieri and thus provides a new basis for overall quality assessment of B. monnieri.
Separation of hydrophobic metabolites using monolithic silica column in high‐performance liquid chromatography and supercritical fluid chromatography
Authors: Bamba Takeshi , Fukusaki Eiichiro
Published: July 2009

Monolithic silica columns have very low back‐pressures and offer several advantages over conventional columns packed with spherical particles, such as high separation efficiency and rapid analysis. In this review, we report the applicability of monolithic silica columns for the analysis of complex hydrophobic metabolites. We have used monolithic columns in HPLC and developed a separation technique for the high‐speed and high‐resolution analysis of the geometric analogs of natural polyprenols. We also used monolithic columns in supercritical fluid chromatography for the successful separation of the structural isomers of carotenoids after deciding the analytical conditions that were suitable for this separation and have developed a method for profiling biological samples containing complex matrices. We have proved that excellent resolution can be obtained by connecting a number of monolithic columns in series.
Preparation of a poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate) monolithic capillary and its application for in‐tube solid‐phase microextrac‐tion coupled to high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Ma Qiao , Chen Ming , Shi Zhi‐Guo , Feng Yu‐Qi
Published: July 2009

A poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate) (poly(NIPAAm‐co‐EDMA)) monolith was in situ prepared in the capillary and was investigated for in‐tube solid‐phase microextraction (SPME). NIPAAm, an acrylamide monomer with isopropyl group, was crosslinked with EDMA. PEG of 400–20 000 Da molecular weight and methanol were selected as the binary porogens. The porous structures of the resulting monoliths have been assessed by SEM, nitrogen adsorption–desorption, and pressure drop measurements. To investigate the extraction mechanism, several groups of model analytes (including neutral, acidic, and basic) were examined. The result showed that this monolithic material exhibited high extraction efficiencies for compounds under highly acidic and basic conditions, which was due to the hydrophobic interactions and excellent pH stability of the monolith. The equilibrium extraction time profiles were also monitored for model compounds to evaluate the extraction capacity of monolithic capillary. Finally, the developed monolith in‐tube SPME–HPLC method was applied to the determination of three tricyclic antidepressants from urine samples.
Applications of methacrylate‐based monolithic supports for speciation analysis
Authors: Ščančar Janez , Milačič Radmila
Published: July 2009

Liquid chromatography combined with element specific detection is commonly applied in speciation analysis. In these analyses, to obtain reliable data chemical species should not be transformed. To preserve chemical species during the separation step, fast chromatographic procedures and mild separation conditions are required. Monolithic supports that enable rapid chromatographic separations have rarely been used in speciation analysis. Methacrylate‐based anion‐ and cation‐exchange monolithic supports offer separation of charged chemical species of elements and can be used as a complementary tool to particle‐packed liquid chromatographic columns. The present paper presents an overview of successful applications of methacrylate‐based monolithic supports in speciation of zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), and aluminium (Al) in environmental, occupational health, and biological samples. Measures of analytical performance of convective interaction media (CIM) monolithic chromatographic supports, namely selectivity, sensitivity, and time of analysis, are compared to those of particle‐packed columns. The potential of CIM monolithic chromatography in speciation analysis is critically discussed. Direct comparison of the experimental data in speciation of elements by ion‐exchange monolithic and fast protein liquid chromatography is reported for the first time. Finally, some recommendations are given for further investigations of the potential of monolithic chromatography and its implementations in different fields of element speciation analysis.
Characterization of monoclonal antibodies using polymeric cation exchange monoliths in combination with salt and pH gradients
Authors: Nordborg Anna , Zhang Bo , He Xiaoping Z. , Hilder Emily F. , Haddad Paul R.
Published: July 2009

The characterization of three different mAb formulations of pharmaceutical interest is demonstrated using cation exchange polymethacrylate‐based monolithic columns as well as imaged CE (iCE). Elution of the mAbs from both a strong cation exchanger (ProSwiftTM SCX‐1S) and a weak cation exchanger (ProSwift WCX‐1S) was readily achieved employing a linear salt gradient or a mixed buffer pH gradient indicating that either approach can be used in purification or isolation. Using a linear salt gradient, the elution profile on the two types of exchangers was found to differ indicating that the combination of both strong and weak ion exchangers is needed for complete characterization. The elution profile of two of the mAbs on the strong cation exchanger used in combination with a linear pH gradient from pH 4 to 10 showed signs of charge heterogeneity. The use of iCE was found to be the best choice for characterization of charge heterogeneity, showing a clear charge distribution for all three mAbs.
Performance of a Chromolith RP‐18e column for the screening of β‐blockers
Authors: Pous‐Torres Sandra , Ruiz‐Ángel Maria‐José , Torres‐Lapasió José Ramón , García‐Álvarez‐Coque Maria Celia
Published: July 2009

The chromatographic performance of a monolithic column (Chromolith RP‐18e) was comprehensively examined in the isocratic separation of ten β‐blockers, using ACN–water mobile phases, and compared with the performance of three microparticulate RP columns manufactured with different types of silica: Spherisorb ODS‐2, Kromasil C18 and XTerra MS C18. The comparison considered the analysis time, selectivity, peak shape (column efficiency and asymmetry) and resolution, and was extended to a wide range of mobile phase compositions. The Chromolith column showed good performance for the analysis of β‐blockers with regard to the packed columns. In terms of selectivity and analysis time, the greatest similarity was found between the Chromolith and XTerra columns. The addition of a silanol blocking agent (0.1% triethylamine) to both Chromolith and Spherisorb columns yielded, apparently, a similar blocking degree of the silanol groups (based on the similar peak shapes), and gave rise to similar selectivity.
A tourism research agenda for Portugal
Authors: Silva João Albino , Rodrigues Paulo M.M. , Mendes Júlio , Pereira Luís N.
Published: July 2009

The need to direct research towards the tourism industry is related to the increasingly competitive environment it finds itself in, especially in terms of services rendered, having grown more complex in the features and critique that comprise the tourist experience, and as economic and social agents become more selective regarding both demand and supply. Possessing information and the proper understanding of the real needs of information users and those responsible for public and private decision‐making processes at the action and intervention levels becomes a fundamental issue for sustainable tourism growth and its statement for international competitiveness. This paper proposes a tourism research agenda for Portugal in order to guide future developments towards the industry's needs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Versatile Responsive Surfaces via Hybrid Polymers Containing Acetal Side Groups
Authors: Wiss Kerstin T. , Kessler Daniel , Wendorff Timothy J. , Theato Patrick
Published: July 2009

Two hybrid polymers, poly(methylsilsesquioxane)‐poly(2,2‐diethoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(methylsilsesquioxane)‐poly(1,3‐dioxolan‐2‐ylmethyl acrylate), were synthesized and used for preparation of stable surface coatings. Their acetal side groups could be functionalized via solution‐dipping with different primary amines and hydroxylamines after acidic deprotection and thus allowed for flexible modification of the surface hydrophilicity. Functionalization with a thermo‐responsive polymer resulted in a thermo‐responsive surface with temperature‐dependent contact angles. Further, the two types of acetals showed different stability toward acidic treatment and could be addressed independently.

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Properties of Waterborne Polyurethane/Functionalized Graphene Sheet Nanocomposites Prepared by an in situ Method
Authors: Lee Yu Rok , Raghu Anjanapura V. , Jeong Han Mo , Kim Byung Kyu
Published: July 2009

Nanocomposites of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) with functionalized graphene sheets (FGS) were prepared by an in situ method. The morphology observed by transmission electron microscopy showed that pristine nanosize FGS can be finely dispersed in a WPU matrix so that it can efficiently improve the conductivity of WPU. The modulus improvement by the reinforcing effect of FGS was more evident than our previous results of nanocomposites prepared by a physical mixing method, showing that the interactions between FGS and WPU were improved when made by the in situ method. In addition, the FGS enhanced the crystallization of the soft segment of WPU evidently; however, it reduced that of the hard segment. The thermal degradation of WPU was accelerated by FGS.

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Novel Rubbers from the Cationic Copolymerization of Soybean Oils and Dicyclopentadiene, 2 – Mechanical and Damping Properties
Authors: Andjelkovic Dejan D. , Lu Yongshang , Kessler Michael R. , Larock Richard C.
Published: July 2009

A series of various soybean oil/dicyclopentadiene (DCP) thermosetting copolymers with renewable carbon percentages of 53–86% have been prepared by cationic copolymerization of regular (SOY) or 100% conjugated soybean oils (C100SOY) with DCP initiated by NFO ethyl ester modified and SOY‐ and C100SOY‐diluted BF3 diethyl etherate. The effects of stoichiometry, the type of soybean oil, and the initiator on the mechanical and damping properties of the copolymers have been investigated. The materials exhibit compressive stress/strain behavior ranging from soft rubbers to tough and ductile plastics, and possess good damping properties. They represent promising new materials for efficient sound and vibration damping applications over a broad temperature and frequency range.

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Cross‐Linked Conjugated Polymers for Achieving Patterned Three‐Color and Blue Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes with Multi‐Layer Structures
Authors: Deng Xianyu , Wong King Young
Published: July 2009

Reactions between the ethylene groups in the backbone of conjugated polymers under UV illumination and heat treatment result in the cross‐linking of the main polymer chains. The cross‐linking leads to two simultaneous results in the polymer: excellent solvent resistance and increased bandgap. Using this reaction, three‐color polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) with a multi‐layer structure can be easily realized by a dry photo‐pattern in an active‐gas‐free environment. Multi‐layer blue devices with dramatically enhanced efficiency can also be achieved conveniently.

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High‐Throughput Screening in Olefin‐Polymerization Catalysis: From Serendipitous Discovery Towards Rational Understanding
Authors: Busico Vincenzo , Pellecchia Roberta , Cutillo Francesco , Cipullo Roberta
Published: July 2009

High–throughput‐screening (HTS) tools and methods are used more and more, especially in industry, in the search for new, selective organometallic catalysts. In most cases, the approach is, in essence, empirical, and the strategy is to increase the number of experiments that can be run at a given place in a given time. Highly miniaturized, parallel reaction setups have been implemented for the rapid assessment of whether novel catalysts resulting from the structural amplification of a basic framework are “good” or “bad” with respect to the properties of interest, and, depending on the response, worthy of a subsequent, more‐careful evaluation. In this article, we demonstrate that it is possible to utilize these state‐of‐the‐art HTS platforms with a different strategy: the rapid generation of reliable kinetic data for mechanistic studies in view of a thorough understanding and rational catalyst design. Ziegler–Natta‐type catalytic olefin polymerization will be used throughout as an example.

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Discriminating Among Co‐monomer Sequence Distributions in Random Copolymers Using Interaction Chromatography
Authors: Han Junwon , Jeon Byung Ho , Ryu Chang Y. , Semler James J. , Jhon Young K. , Genzer Jan
Published: July 2009

Interaction chromatography has been employed to validate that adsorption of poly[styrene‐co‐(4‐bromostyrene)] (PBrxS) random copolymers, where x denotes the mole fraction of 4‐bromostyrene (4–BrS) in PBrxS in solution depends on the average number of adsorptive segments, the type of adsorbing substrate, and on the co‐monomer sequence distribution in PBrxS.

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In situ Pressure Fluctuations of Polymer Melt Flow Instabilities: Experimental Evidence about their Origin and Dynamics
Authors: Palza Humberto , Naue Ingo F. C. , Wilhelm Manfred
Published: July 2009

Despite the practical importance of polymer melt instabilities, there is still a lack of experiments able to characterize in situ the origin and behavior of these phenomena. In this context, a new set‐up consisting of high sensitive pressure transducers located inside a slit‐die and an advanced mathematical framework to process in situ measurements of polymer melt instabilities, are developed and applied. Our results show for the first time that pressure oscillations can actually be detected inside the die under sharkskin conditions. This originates from a factor of 103 and 102 improvement in terms of time and pressure resolution. Furthermore, new evidence towards the propagation of the slip phenomena along the die in spurt instabilities are found.

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Temporal lobe changes in early, untreated Parkinson's disease
Authors: Martin W.R. Wayne , Wieler Marguerite , Gee Myrlene , Camicioli Richard
Published: July 2009

The purpose of this study was to determine if focal cortical abnormalities may occur in early Parkinson's disease (PD). We studied 26 untreated patients with early PD and 14 healthy control subjects, with cognitive screening and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Voxel‐based morphometry was used to assess for the presence of localized cortical grey matter (GM) and/or subcortical white matter (WM) changes. Patient and control groups showed no differences in age or gender distribution. Females had a greater GM% than males (P = 0.001). Comparison of patients and controls revealed no difference in local GM volumes. In PD, however, there was decreased WM volume in the anterior right fusiform gyrus and superior temporal gyrus. There were no correlations between the California Verbal Learning Test long delay free recall, Judgment of Line Orientation, Trail Making A or B and either the GM or WM localized volumes. These results suggest that right anterior temporal lobe changes occur in untreated patients with PD. The earliest changes may occur in subcortical white matter rather than temporal cortex. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
TARDBP variation associated with frontotemporal dementia, supranuclear gaze palsy, and chorea
Authors: Kovacs Gabor G. , Murrell Jill R. , Horvath Sandor , Haraszti Laszlo , Majtenyi Katalin , Molnar Maria J. , Budka Herbert , Ghetti Bernardino , Spina Salvatore
Published: July 2009

TDP‐43 has been identified as the pathological protein in the majority of cases of frontotemporal lobar degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). TARDBP mutations have so far been uniquely associated with familial and sporadic ALS. We describe clinicopathological and genetic findings in a carrier of the novel K263E TARDBP variation, who developed frontotemporal dementia, supranuclear palsy, and chorea, but no signs of motor neuron disease. Neuropathologic examination revealed neuronal and glial TDP‐43‐immunoreactive deposits, predominantly in subcortical nuclei and brainstem. This is the first report of a TARDBP variation associated with a neurodegenerative syndrome other than ALS. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
No evidence for cognitive dysfunction or depression in patients with mild restless legs syndrome
Authors: Driver‐Dunckley Erika , Connor Donald , Hentz Joe , Sabbagh Marwan , Silverberg Nina , Hernandez Jose , Vedders Linda , Evidente Virgilio Gerald , Shill Holly , Caviness John , Adler Charles
Published: July 2009

Restless legs syndrome is a common disoder that may interrupt sleep and has been reported to produce daytime fatigue and/or mood changes. This study assessed whether patients with RLS have more cognitive dysfunction and depression than individuals of the same age and education who do not have RLS. The study showed that older individuals with mild RLS for at least 1 year do not have cognitive dysfunction and are not depressed compared with a control group of similar age and education. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Medial malleolus and deltoid ligament reconstruction in open ankle fractures with combination of vascularized fibular head osteo‐tendinous flap and free flap transfers
Authors: Wu Shui‐Pei , Zhang Fa‐Hui , Yu Feng‐Bin , Zhou Rong
Published: July 2009

Treatment of the traumatic bone and soft tissue defect of the medial ankle is a challenge in reconstructive orthopedic surgery. In this report, we described a novel reconstruction procedure for the medial malleolus reconstruction using microsurgical transfer of the fibular head osteo‐tendinous flap combined with a free latissimus dorsi flap (free LD flap) or a free anterolateral thigh flap (free ALT flap) in six patients. The sizes of the wounds ranged from 10 × 8 cm to 24 × 10 cm, and the sizes of the LD and ALT flaps were from 12 × 9 cm to 24 × 12 cm. All transplants survived. Five patients had primary wound healing. One patient had fibular graft and soft tissue infection that caused delayed healing. On average 4 months after surgery, all patients were able to stand and walk without crutch assistance. With a mean follow‐up of 3.5 years (range, 1–5 years), all patients achieved stable ankles and were satisfied with the range of motion with excellent American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society functional scores (>85). The fibular head resembles the medial malleolus in morphology. Vascularized fibular head transfer combined with a free flap provides satisfactory results for complex medial malleolus reconstruction. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2009.
Global existence, blow up and asymptotic behaviour of solutions for nonlinear Klein–Gordon equation with dissipative term
Authors: Runzhang Xu
Published: July 2009

We study the Cauchy problem of nonlinear Klein–Gordon equation with dissipative term. By introducing a family of potential wells, we derive the invariant sets and prove the global existence, finite time blow up as well as the asymptotic behaviour of solutions. In particular, we show a sharp condition for global existence and finite time blow up of solutions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new model for gas flow in pipe networks
Authors: Herty M. , Mohring J. , Sachers V.
Published: July 2009

We introduce a new model for gas dynamics in pipe networks by asymptotic analysis. The model is derived from the isothermal Euler equations. We present the derivation of the model as well as numerical results illustrating the validity and its properties. We compare the new model with existing models from the mathematical and engineering literature. We further give numerical results on a sample network. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes in joint angle, muscle‐tendon complex length, muscle contractile tissue displacement, and modulation of EMG activity during acute whole‐body vibration
Authors: Cochrane Darryl J. , Loram Ian D. , Stannard Stephen R. , Rittweger Jörn
Published: July 2009

It has been suggested that vibration causes small changes in muscle length, but to the best of our knowledge, these have yet to be demonstrated during whole‐body vibration (WBV). This was an observational study to determine whether acute WBV would result in muscle lengthening. We hypothesized that acute WBV would increase electromyography (EMG) activity concurrently with measurable changes in muscle contractile length. Nine healthy males performed two conditions on a Galileo vibration machine for 15 s at 0 HZ (resting) and 6 HZ at a set knee angle of 18°. Muscle tendon complex length, contractile tissue displacement of the medial gastrocnemius muscle, and EMG of soleus, tibialis anterior, and vastus lateralis muscles were measured. At 6 HZ the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle tendon complex (MTC) amplitude (375 μm) was significantly greater (P < 0.05) compared to 0 HZ (35 μm). The MG contractile length (CD) amplitude at 6 HZ (176 μm) was significantly greater (P < 0.01) compared to 0 HZ (4 μm). Significant increases (P < 0.05) in EMG modulation were found for all muscles during the 6 HZ compared to the 0 HZ condition. The major finding was that ≈50% of the elongation occurred within the muscle itself and was associated with preceding changes in EMG. This indicates muscle lengthening may be a prerequisite for eliciting stretch reflexes. In conclusion, there is a temporal association between EMG activity and muscle contractile tissue displacement where low‐frequency WBV results in small muscle length changes and increases muscle activation. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Assay of diffusion of different botulinum neurotoxin type a formulations injected in the mouse leg
Authors: Carli Luca , Montecucco Cesare , Rossetto Ornella
Published: July 2009

Botulinum neurotoxin type‐A (BoNT/A) is very effective in the therapy of a wide range of human syndromes characterized by hyperactivity of peripheral cholinergic nerve terminals. Little diffusion of this toxin from the site of injection is commonly observed, but even minor changes in this property would greatly affect the validity of the treatment. Different pharmacological formulations of BoNT/A are available, and they may have different diffusion characteristics due to protein complex size, product format, and pharmacological properties. Here we assessed the extent of diffusion of three commercial preparations of BoNT/A: Botox (Allergan), Dysport (Ipsen), and Xeomin (Merz Pharmaceuticals) using a novel and highly sensitive test based on neural cell adhesion molecule (N‐CAM) expression in muscle. N‐CAM is a membrane glycoprotein that accumulates on muscle fibers after denervation and is not expressed in untreated adult muscle. This allows fine monitoring of the functional diffusion of this toxin, and the sensitivity of this assay is emphasized by the use of the mouse model because of the small muscle dimensions. The results presented here indicate that there is no significant difference between Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin with respect to diffusion into adjacent muscles in the mouse leg. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Sciatic nerve moneuropathy: An unusual late effect of radiotherapy
Authors: Pradat Pierre‐François , Bouche Pierre , Delanian Sylvie
Published: July 2009

In this study we report a progressive sciatic mononeuropathy occurring 13 years after radiotherapy (56‐Gy prescribed dose) for a synovial sarcoma of the thigh. Conformal dosimetric reconstitution showed that irradiation was heterogeneous and that the sciatic nerve received 66 Gy over a 25‐cm length. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed muscle fibrosis and increased sciatic nerve diameter. Our observation suggests that the risk of late mononeuropathy should be considered when large‐volume and high‐dose radiotherapy includes a nerve trunk. Muscle Nerve, 2009
In vivo bioluminescent imaging of Schwann cells in a poly(DL‐lactide‐ε‐caprolactone) nerve guide
Authors: Ma Ming‐San , Van Dam Gooitzen , Meek Marcel , Boddeke Erik , Copray Sjef
Published: July 2009

Nerve guides seeded with Schwann cells (SCs) promote axonal regeneration in peripheral nerve lesions. We examined the applicability of bioluminescent imaging (BLI) for monitoring the fate of SCs in nerve guides after implantation. Rat SCs were transfected with the firefly luciferase (Fluc) gene and subsequently seeded in nerve guides, which were implanted subcutaneously in rats. In vivo bioluminescence of transfected SCs (Fluc‐SCs) was assessed with a BLI system. Scans were validated ex vivo using immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy. We found that BLI enables longitudinal in vivo monitoring of Fluc‐SCs, given that proper access of luciferin to the cells is assured. Muscle Nerve, 2009
The fundamental solution of poroelastic plate saturated by fluid and its applications
Authors: Wen P. H. , Liu Y. W.
Published: July 2009

In this paper, the numerical model of the transverse vibrations of a thin poroelastic plate saturated by a fluid was proposed. Two coupled dynamic equations of equilibrium related to the plate deflection and the equivalent moment were established for an isotropic porous medium with uniform porosity. The fundamental solutions for a porous plate were derived both in the Laplace transform domain and in the time domain. A meshless method was developed and demonstrated in the Laplace transform domain for solving two coupled dynamic equations. Numerical examples demonstrated the accuracy of the method of the fundamental solutions and comparisons were made with analytical solutions. The proposed meshless method was shown to be simple to implement and gave satisfactory results for a poroelastic plate dynamic analysis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of hepatocyte growth factor and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 on the myogenic differentiation of satellite cells in human urethral rhabdosphincter
Authors: Sumino Yasuhiro , Hanada Mari , Hirata Yuji , Sato Fuminori , Mimata Hiromitsu
Published: July 2009

Aims

To examine the effects of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) on the myogenic differentiation of human urethral rhabdosphincter (RS) satellite cells.

Methods

Human RS was obtained from patients undergoing radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. Selectively cultured RS satellite cells, transfected with temperature sensitive simian virus‐40 T antigen (ts‐SV40 Tag) to extend their lifespan, were cultured at 33°C, and then incubated at 39°C to induce myogenic differentiation. Varying concentrations of HGF and IGF‐1 were added to the differentiation medium. Inactivation of SV40 Tag and evaluations of myogenic differentiation were examined by immunocytochemistry, western blotting and real‐time RT‐PCR.

Results

At 39°C, ts‐SV40 Tag‐transfected RS satellite cells slowly proliferated, fused to form multinucleated myotubes, and expressed myosin heavy chain (MHC) in association with the temperature‐dependent inactivation of SV40 Tag. IGF‐1 significantly accelerated the MHC expression in a dose‐dependent fashion through activation of the PI3‐kinase pathway. Conversely, HGF did not promote MHC expression due a reduction in phosphorylation of both the MAP‐kinase and the PI3‐kinase pathways, a pattern of response different than the response of proliferating RS satellite cells to HGF.

Conclusions

HGF did not induce myogenic differentiation of RS satellite cells. Conversely, IGF‐1 promoted myogenic differentiation of RS satellite cells via the PI3‐K pathway likewise proliferating RS satellite cells. These findings may be useful for developing novel techniques for regenerating the human RS to treat urinary incontinence. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:470–475, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of nerve growth factor immunoreactivity and messenger RNA in ischemic urinary bladder
Authors: Liang Ching‐Chung , Tseng Ling‐Hong , Ko Yu‐Shien , Lee Tsong‐Hai
Published: July 2009

Aims

The bladder contractile dysfunction resulting from acute ischemia may be attributed to nerve growth factor (NGF) overexpression. This study was conducted to evaluate the acute and mid‐term effects of bladder ischemia on the temporal expression of NGF immunoreactivity and mRNA.

Materials and Methods

Bladder ischemia was induced by ligation of bilateral vesical arteries in female rats. We examined the NGF content of bladder detrusor muscle at 1 day, 1 week and 4 weeks after artery ligation. Immunoreactivity of NGF was studied by immunofluorescent staining and Western blot. The NGF mRNA was analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The immunofluorescence of NGF at 1 week and 4 weeks was significantly reduced when compared to sham‐operated group (P < 0.05). This decreased tendency was also found in Western blot test. An increased expression of NGF mRNA was noted at 1 day, 1 week and 4 weeks, but had no significant change when compared to sham‐operated group (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study showed bilateral vesical artery ligation may cause damage of detrusor muscle and there is decreased NGF immunofluorescence and elevated NGF mRNA in bladder suggesting an expression disparity following ischemia. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:512–516, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of voiding function and nociceptive behavior in two rat models of cystitis induced by cyclophosphamide or acetone
Authors: Saitoh Chikashi , Yokoyama Hitoshi , Chancellor Michael B. , de Groat William C. , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: July 2009

Aims

Nociceptive behavior and its relationship with bladder dysfunction were investigated in two cystitis models, which were induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of cyclophosphamide (CYP) or intravesical instillation of acetone, using freely moving, non‐catheterized conscious rats.

Methods

Female Sprague–Dawley rats were used. Cystitis was induced by i.p. injection of CYP (100 and 200 mg/kg) or intravesical instillation of acetone (10%, 30%, and 50%) via a polyethylene catheter temporarily inserted into the bladder through the urethra. Then the incidence of nociceptive behavior (immobility with decreased breathing rates) was scored. Voided urine was collected simultaneously and continuously to measure bladder capacity. The plasma extravasation in the bladder was quantified by an Evans blue (EB) dye leakage technique.

Results

CYP (100 mg/kg, i.p.) induced nociceptive behavior without affecting bladder capacity or EB concentration in the bladder. A higher dose of CYP (200 mg/kg, i.p.) decreased bladder capacity and increased EB levels as well as nociceptive behavior. In contrast, intravesical instillation of acetone (30%) decreased bladder capacity and increased EB levels, but evoked nociceptive behavior less frequently compared with CYP‐treated animals. In capsaicin‐pretreated rats, nociceptive behavior induced by CYP or acetone was reduced; however, the overall effects of CYP or acetone on bladder capacity and bladder EB levels were unaffected.

Conclusions

These results suggest that there is a difference in the induction process of nociceptive behavior and small bladder capacity after two different types of bladder irritation, and that C‐fiber sensitization is more directly involved in pain sensation than reduced bladder capacity. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:501–505, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.