bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immersed sol‐gel based amino‐functionalized SPME fiber and HPLC combined with post‐column photochemically induced fluorimetry derivatization and fluorescence detection of pyrethroid insecticides from water samples
Authors: Bagheri Habib , Ghanbarnejad Hadi , Khalilian Faezeh
Published: August 2009

A method based on direct immersion solid‐phase microextraction (DI‐SPME) coupled with high performance liquid chromatography combined with post‐column photochemically induced fluorimetry derivatization and fluorescence detection (HPLC‐PIF‐FD) was developed to extract three pyrethroid insecticides, i.e. cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, and flumethrin from water samples. A sol‐gel based coating fiber using 3‐(trimethoxysilyl propyl) amine as precursor was prepared and used for the extraction of the pyrethroids from groundwater samples. A post‐column photochemical reactor was designed and constructed for the derivatization of these environmentally important pollutants to increase their fluorescence sensitivity and determination in HPLC. The parameters affecting extraction process (extraction time and temperature, pH, salt addition, and co‐solvent) and desorption step (solvent, desorption time, and temperature) of the analytes from the sol‐gel‐based fiber, along with photochemical reaction conditions were investigated. The developed method proved to be relatively rapid, simple, and easy and offers high sensitivity and reproducibility. Linear dynamic ranges (LDR) for these insecticides were ranged between 0.25 to 50 μg/L. The regression coefficients were satisfactory (R2 > 0.984) for these pyrethroids. The limits of detection and limits of quantification varied between 0.09 and 0.35 μg/L and 0.25 and 1.00 μg/L, respectively. Relative standard deviation RSDs values varied between 4.41% and 6.20%. Relative recoveries obtained from analysis of Jajroud river water sample ranged between 94% and 104%.
Establishing a training program for residents in robotic surgery
Authors: Moles Jeremiah J. , Connelly Patricia E. , Sarti Evan E. , Baredes Soly
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To develop a program for teaching robotic skills to residents. To assess the development of proficiency in basic robotic surgical skills in a resident cohort.

Study Design:

Prospective educational project using a commercially available surgical robot. Residents use a surgical robot to complete a designated set of tasks intended to simulate surgical maneuvers. Performance is analyzed for errors and total time of procedure.

Methods:

Otolaryngology residents are introduced to robotic surgery with a tutorial on the usage of the da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA). Participants perform defined exercises accomplishing the following tasks: circular pin transfer, simultaneous bimanual carrying, precision bead drop, needle passing, and suture tying. Performance of these tasks can be quantitatively assessed.

Results:

An educational program for teaching residents basic robotic skills can easily be introduced into a residency program. Resident progress in acquiring robotic surgical skills can be measured. The analysis of variance for composite score revealed statistically significant effects for task (F4,24 = 8.11, P < .01) and trial (F2,12 = 5.71, P < .01).

Conclusions:

Robotic surgery will likely become an integral part of otolaryngologic surgical practice. Training programs in robotic surgery need to be formally established in residency programs. We present a preliminary program for introducing robotic surgical skills in residency training. Laryngoscope, 2009
Results of auditory brainstem response monitoring of microvascular decompression: A prospective study of 22 patients with hemifacial spasm
Authors: Lee Su Hwan , Song Dae Gun , Kim SungHee , Lee Jeong Ho , Kang Dong Gee
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The nerve function of cranial nerve VIII is at risk during microvascular decompression (MVD) for hemifacial spasm. Intraoperative monitoring of auditory brainstem response (ABR) is a useful tool to decrease the danger of hearing loss. The purpose of this study was to assess the side effects of MVD on hearing and describe the main intraoperative ABR changes observed in the authors' series.

Study Design:

A prospective consecutive case series was performed.

Methods:

The study includes 22 patients who underwent MVD with monitoring of ABRs. The latency prolongation and wave loss were analyzed at each surgical step, which were decided arbitrarily. Patients were divided into four groups depending on degree of change of wave V. Group 1 consisted of minimal change, whereas group 4 was permanent loss of wave V. Hearing changes were evaluated in 20 patients in the four groups who were available for postoperative hearing results.

Results:

Loss of wave I, III, and V occurred with 6%, 13%, and 9% of surgical actions, respectively. Wave III disappearance was identified as the earliest and most sensitive sign and was usually preceded by the disappearance of wave V. The greatest prolongation of wave V at more than 1.0 ms developed statistically significant sensorineural hearing loss in the range of 10 dB. One patient in group 4 experienced deafness.

Conclusions:

In addition to the significant delay of wave V, useful recognition of early changes of wave III is possible and enables a change of microsurgical maneuvers to favor ABR recovery. Laryngoscope, 2009
Indicators for the correct usage of intranasal medications: A computational fluid dynamics study
Authors: Garlapati Revanth Reddy , Lee Heow Pueh , Chong Fook Hin , Wang De Yun
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Intranasal medications are commonly used in treating nasal diseases. However, technical details of their correct administration are unclear.

Methods:

A three‐dimensional model of nasal cavity was constructed from the magnetic resonance imaging scans of a healthy human subject. Nasal cavities corresponding to moderate and severe nasal obstruction were derived from the healthy nose by enlarging the inferior turbinate geometrically, which can be documented by approximately one third reduction of the minimum cross‐sectional area in the moderate and two thirds in the severe obstruction. The discrete phase model based on computational fluid dynamics was used to study the gas particle flow. The percentage of discrete particles that pass through the minimum cross‐sectional area in the nasal valve (NV) region is computed as the percentage of NV penetration rate.

Results:

The percentage of NV penetration is 10 to 20 times higher when nasal spray is accompanied by an inspiratory airflow than no flow, which can be as low as 4.69% to 8.81% in the healthy model, and 0% in moderate and severe blockage models. In the presence of inspiratory airflow, there is no significant difference in the percentage of NV penetration (80.97%–82.13%) among different head tilt angles (0°–90°).

Conclusions:

When using an intranasal medication, it is advisable to have an inspiratory flow to improve drug penetration. Various suggested head positions do not improve drug penetration significantly, even in the presence of uniform quiet breathing. Further studies that consider turbulence and unsteady airflow are needed to investigate the deposition distribution of discrete particles inside various nasal cavities. Laryngoscope, 2009
Embeddable reference electrodes for corrosion monitoring of reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Duffó G. S. , Farina S. B. , Giordano C. M.
Published: August 2009

Mixed‐metal oxide (MMO), graphite and laboratory‐made Ag/AgCl electrodes were electrochemically characterized to be used as reference electrodes embedded in concrete structures. Electrodes were studied in both, aqueous solutions of pH ranging from 7 to 13.5 and embedded into cement mortars; and the electrochemical studies were carried out in the absence and presence of chloride ions. Potential evolution, polarisation behaviour, galvanostatic pulse response and impedance characteristics of the electrodes were carried out in aqueous solutions. Besides, the electrochemical stability of the electrodes embedded in mortar was studied for an exposure period of two years. It was found that the MMO pseudo‐reference electrode is pH‐sensitive, the graphite pseudo‐reference electrode is oxygen sensitive and the Ag/AgCl pseudo‐reference electrode is chloride sensitive. Then, regarding the corrosion monitoring of steel rebars, care should be taken to avoid misleading interpretations of the corrosion potential measurements. However, any of them can be used to measure the corrosion rate of the rebars by means of traditional electrochemical techniques.
Chemically Modified PPyCOOH Microtubes as an Affinity Matrix for Protein Purification
Authors: Shi Wei , Cao Huihui , Shen Yuqing , Song Cunfeng , Li Donghui , Zhang Ye , Ge Dongtao
Published: August 2009

Novel affinity microtubes, with high ligand content and adsorption capacity of proteins, were fabricated by functionalization of the carboxyl group on the inner and outer surfaces of conductive polymer, poly(1‐(2‐carboxyethyl)pyrrole) (PPyCOOH) microtubes with iminodiacetic acid (IDA), which affords the active site to form metal‐IDA chelates used for immobilized‐metal affinity chromatography. After immobilization with copper ions, the microtubes were used to recover a model protein, bovine hemoglobin, from red cell lysate in a batch manner. The protein adsorption indicates that the affinity microtubes exhibit a high adsorption capacity and good selectivity, and the adsorption isotherm fitted the Freundlich model well. Elution of the protein showed that the desorption ratio was up to 99.5% in 3 h, using 0.2 M CH3COOHCH3COONa buffer solution (pH = 3.6) as the desorption agent. The adsorption‐desorption cycle was repeated 10 times using the same microtubes without significant loss in the hemoglobin adsorption capacity.

magnified image
Morphology Modification of Polyethylene/Clay Nanocomposite Samples under Convergent Flow
Authors: La Mantia Francesco Paolo , Marino Rosamaria , Dintcheva Nadka Tzankova
Published: August 2009

The morphology of PE/CL nanocomposite samples subjected to convergent flows is studied. Elongational flow – the typical flow involved in spinning and film‐blowing processing operations – significantly increases with the reduction of the capillary diameter. The values of the convergent extensional stress (calculated by Cogswell's formula) for the PE/CL systems, for all the adopted capillary geometries, are greater than the calculated values for pure polyethylene. The applied convergent flow, at the entrance of the capillary, is able to change the clay morphology and consequently the final material properties on the PE/CL system with limited affinity between the matrix and organo‐modified clay particles.

magnified image
Lupin protein acts hypocholesterolemic and increases milk fat content in lactating rats by influencing the expression of genes involved in cholesterol homeostasis and triglyceride synthesis
Authors: Bettzieche Anja , Brandsch Corinna , Eder Klaus , Stangl Gabriele I.
Published: August 2009

Lupin protein has been shown to reduce triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations in plasma of hypercholesterolemic growing and adult rats. However, the effect of lupin protein on lipid metabolism during pregnancy and lactation is unknown. Female rats were assigned to two groups and were fed a hypercholesterolemic diet containing either 200 g/kg lupin protein or casein during pregnancy until day 18 of lactation. Dams fed lupin protein had lower triglyceride concentrations in plasma (–55%) and higher triglyceride concentrations in liver (>2‐fold) and milk (+81%) than dams fed casein (p < 0.05). The concentration of cholesterol in plasma, VLDL, LDL, and liver was markedly lower and the concentration of HDL cholesterol was higher in rats fed lupin protein than in rats fed casein (p < 0.05). Lupin protein induced a 2.6‐fold increase of hepatic LDL receptor concentration compared to casein (p < 0.05), down‐regulated genes involved in fatty acid oxidation in the liver, and up‐regulated lipogenic genes in the mammary gland (p < 0.05). This study shows that lupin protein increases milk fat content and strongly modifies triglyceride and cholesterol metabolism by influencing the transcription levels of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation and synthesis and cholesterol homeostasis.
Delphinidin inhibits a broad spectrum of receptor tyrosine kinases of the ErbB and VEGFR family
Authors: Teller Nicole , Thiele Wilko , Boettler Ute , Sleeman Jonathan , Marko Doris
Published: August 2009

Delphinidin has been reported to inhibit EGFR signalling. To determine whether other receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are also influenced by delphinidin, we examined its ability to inhibit the kinase activity of EGFR, ErbB2, VEGFR‐2, VEGFR‐3 and IGF1R in a cell‐free test system. We found that delphinidin strongly inhibited the protein tyrosine kinase activity of all tested RTKs at low micromolar concentrations. In A431 and PAE cells, ligand‐induced phosphorylation of the receptors was also potently suppressed, with a preference for the suppression of the activity of ErbB3 (IC50 ˜ 100 nM) and VEGFR‐3 (IC50 < 50 μM). Thus the inhibition of RTKs by delphinidin is not limited to cell‐free assays but is also of relevance in the cellular context. The results indicate that delphinidin acts as a broad‐spectrum inhibitor of RTKs. Given the crucial role of the receptors in tumour growth and metastasis, we conclude that delphinidin has the potential to act directly against tumour cells as well as to interfere with key tumour–host interactions, although the suitability of delphinidin as a drug in cancer management may be compromised by its limited stability. Nevertheless, delphinidin may represent a novel lead compound for the development of chemopreventative and chemotherapeutic intervention strategies.
Aromatic hydroxylation is a major metabolic pathway of the mycotoxin zearalenone in vitro
Authors: Pfeiffer Erika , Hildebrand Andreas , Damm Georg , Rapp Andreas , Cramer Benedikt , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich , Metzler Manfred
Published: August 2009

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a common mycotoxin, for which only reductive metabolites have been identified so far. We now report that ZEN is extensively monohydroxylated by microsomes from human liver in vitro. Two of the major oxidative metabolites arise through aromatic hydroxylation and are catechols. Their chemical structures have been unambiguously determined by using deuterium‐labeled ZEN and by comparison with authentic reference compounds. Moreover, both catechol metabolites of ZEN were substrates of the enzyme catechol‐O‐methyl transferase. One of the monomethyl ethers represented the major metabolite when ZEN was incubated with rat liver slices, thus demonstrating that catechol formation also takes place under in vivo‐like conditions. Out of ten major human cytochrome P450 (hCYP) isoforms only hCYP1A2 was able to hydroxylate ZEN to its catechols with high activity. Catechol formation represents a novel pathway in the metabolism of ZEN and may be of toxicological relevance.
Tautomeric behaviour and isotopic multiplets in the 13C NMR spectra of partially deuterated 5‐arylazo‐pyrimidine (1H,3H,5H)‐2,4,6‐triones and 5‐arylazo‐2‐thioxo‐pyrimidine (1H,3H,5H)‐4,6‐diones—evidence for elucidation of tautomeric forms
Authors: Pesyan Nader Noroozi
Published: August 2009

NMR spectra of the synthesized azo dyes, 5‐arylazo‐pyrimidine (1H,3H,5H)‐2,4,6‐triones (5a–g), 1,3‐dimethyl‐5‐arylazo‐pyrimidine (1H,3H,5H)‐2,4,6‐triones (6a–g), and 5‐arylazo‐2‐thioxo‐pyrimidine (1H,3H,5H)‐4,6‐diones (7a–g) were studied in (CD3)2SO (three drops of CD3OD were added into solutions of the dyes in two different concentrations). All dyes showed intramolecular hydrogen bonding. Dyes 5a–7a showed bifurcated intramolecular hydrogen bonds. Tautomeric behaviours of some of N‐methylated azo dyes (6a‐g) were studied in two different concentrations. The solvent–substrate proton exchange of dyes 5a–d, 6a and 7a–e was examined in presence of three drops of CD3OD. The dyes which were soluble in (CD3)2SO containing CD3OD showed isotopic splitting (β‐isotope effect) in the 13C NMR spectra. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative analysis of neurulation: First impressions do not count
Authors: Harrington Michael J. , Hong Elim , Brewster Rachel
Published: August 2009

The central nervous system of vertebrate embryos originates from the neural tube (NT), a simple epithelium surrounding a central lumen. The mechanisms underlying the shaping of the NT, a process otherwise known as neurulation, have been the focus of numerous studies, using a variety of model systems. Yet, it remains unclear to what extent neurulation is conserved across vertebrates. This review provides a comparison between modes of neurulation, with a focus on cellular mechanisms. An emerging concept is that cell behaviors reveal similarities between modes of neurulation that cannot be predicted from morphological comparisons. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 954–965, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modeling of Molecular Transfer in Heterophase Polymerization
Authors: Hernández Hugo F. , Tauer Klaus
Published: August 2009

Mass transfer across interfaces greatly determines the kinetics of heterophase polymerization. All molecules in the system can cross any interface as long as they possess enough energy to overcome barriers such as interfacial tension, chemical potentials, etc. Two main groups of mathematical approaches have been used to model mass transfer: macroscopic deterministic and molecular stochastic. Macroscopic modeling may use fundamental laws, thermodynamic expressions and empirical or semi‐empirical equations. Molecular models are based on the discrete character of nature and include stochastic simulation, BD or MD. Special emphasis is placed on the most relevant molecular transfer processes observed in free‐radical emulsion polymerization.

magnified image
RNA splicing factors regulated by HPV16 during cervical tumour progression
Authors: Mole Sarah , McFarlane Melanie , Chuen‐Im Thanaporn , Milligan Steven G , Millan David , Graham Sheila V
Published: August 2009

The most prevalent human papillomaviruses (HPVs) causing cervical disease are the ‘high‐risk’ HPV types 16 and 18. All papillomaviruses express a transcription factor, E2, that can regulate viral and cellular gene expression. Recently, we demonstrated high‐risk HPV E2‐mediated transcriptional transactivation of SF2/ASF. This essential oncoprotein is a key member of a family of proteins, the SR proteins, that regulate constitutive and alternative splicing. Tight control of RNA splicing is necessary for the production of wild‐type proteins. So, aberrant expression of SR proteins is involved in the aetiology of a range of human diseases, including cancer. Here we demonstrate epithelial differentiation‐specific control of SF2/ASF in HPV16‐infected keratinocytes in organotypic raft culture and in low‐grade cervical lesions (CIN1). Further, we demonstrate HPV16 infection/differentiation‐induced up‐regulation of a specific subset of SR proteins and present evidence that HPV16 E2 controls expression of SRp20, SC35 and SRp75. Using a series of cell lines that model cervical tumour progression, we show that SF2/ASF, SRp20 and SC35 are specifically up‐regulated in a model of cervical tumour progression. These SR proteins are also over‐expressed in high‐grade cervical lesions, indicating that they may all have oncogenic functions. SR proteins could be useful biomarkers for HPV‐associated disease. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of polypropylene fiber/banana fiber composites by novel commingling method
Authors: Paul Sherely Annie , Joseph Kuruvilla , Mathew Gem , Pothen Laly A. , Thomas Sabu
Published: August 2009

Short natural fiber thermoplastic composites are usually fabricated by melt mixing or solution mixing followed by conventional methods like injection molding or compression molding. In melt mixing, the fibers are subjected to high shear and this damage the natural fiber. In solution mixing, the use of the organic solvent is essential and its use is hazardous. Development of a novel method commingling to prepare polypropylene (PP)/short natural fiber composite is the main objective of this study. The influence of fiber loading on the mechanical properties of the composites prepared by the above method has been evaluated. The applications and limitations of several equations to predict physical properties such as tensile strength and modulus of the composites have been described. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate)/calcium phosphate nanocomposites: Thermo mechanical and gas permeability measurements
Authors: Selvin Thomas P. , Seno Jose , Murukan B. , Santhosh Aprem Abi , Sabu Thomas , Weimin Yang , Sri Bandyopadhyay
Published: August 2009

Poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (EVA)/Calcium phosphate nanocomposites were prepared by melt mixing in a Brabender plasticoder. Nanoparticles of calcium phosphate were synthesized by the polymer‐mediated synthesis and characterized by X‐ray diffractometry and transmission electron microscopy. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, tensile modulus, tear strength, etc., were measured with respect to the filler loading. Thermal stability of the composites under nitrogen atmosphere was also measured. The composites showed better thermal stability due to the nanoreinforcement. Oxygen gas permeability of the composites showed considerable decrease due to tortuous path created by the nanofillers. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Rheology, morphology, and thermal behavior of HDPE/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Rezanavaz R. , Razavi Aghjeh M.K. , Babaluo A.A.
Published: August 2009

HDPE/Clay nanocomposites were prepared using laboratory made HDPE grafted maleic anhydride (HDPE‐g‐MA) as a compatibilizer. Rheology, morphology, and thermal behavior of nanocomposites were studied. The results showed that increasing the degree of grafted MA increased the intercalation of clay platelets leading to their exfoliation. The presence of free MA enhanced the clay dispersion via regrafting onto PE matrix. Although the presence of antioxidant improved the thermal stability of PE, it decreased the clay dispersion because of inhibition of regrafting of free MAs. The exfoliated nanocomposites exhibited higher viscosity and elasticity than those of intercalated nanocomposites. They displayed viscosity upturn and nonterminal behavior of elasticity at low frequency ranges, representative of the creation of three‐dimensional networks via the individual clay platelets and/or chain bridging between the platelets. The presence of such a network was evidenced by tan δ studies. Incorporation of clay remarkably increased the thermal stability of the PE. It was found that the effect of Hofmann elimination reaction can effectively be eliminated using the antioxidant. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Comparison between laser‐induced nucleation of ZnS and CdS nanocrystals directly into polymer matrices
Authors: Athanassiou Athanassia , Blasi Laura , De Giorgi Milena , Caputo Gianvito , Fragouli Despina , Tsiranidou Elsa , Laera Anna Maria , Tapfer Leander , Cingolani Roberto
Published: August 2009

The nucleation of two kinds of crystalline nanoparticles, zinc sulfide (ZnS), and cadmium sulfide (CdS), is achieved directly into specific sites of polymer matrices after their irradiation with UV laser pulses. The starting samples consist of polymers doped with precursors of Zn or Cd thiolate that are proved to decompose after the absorption of UV light, resulting into the nanoparticles formation. The growth of the crystalline nanostructures is followed throughout the irradiation of the samples with successive incident pulses, by different methods, such as transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, confocal microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Special attention is paid to the difference of the formation pathways of the two kinds of nanoparticles studied, because the Cd thiolate precursor exhibits much higher absorption efficiency than the Zn thiolate one, at the applied UV wavelength. Indeed, CdS nanoparticles become evident after the very first incident UV pulses, whereas the formation of ZnS nanocrystals requires rather prolonged irradiation, always through a macroscopically nondestructive procedure for the polymer matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
What do women with diabetes know about pregnancy and contraception?
Authors: Cartwright A , Wallymahmed M , Macfarlane I , Casson I
Published: August 2009

Maternal diabetes complicates one in 250 pregnancies in the UK. The risk of congenital malformation, stillbirth and neonatal death remains three to four times higher in women with diabetes than the background population. In 2005, a Confidential Enquiry into Maternal and Child Health report proposed that an improvement in pregnancy outcomes may be influenced by preconception care and careful planning of pregnancies. The National Service Framework for Diabetes recommended that women with diabetes be given advice about planning pregnancy and contraception annually.

The aim of this audit was (1) to establish if women attending a routine diabetes clinic could recall information given to them relating to pregnancy and contraception, and (2) to ascertain if women who previously completed a pregnancy were able to recall more accurate information.

A total of 100 women of child bearing age (up to age 40 years, 88% insulin treated) attending a diabetes clinic completed a questionnaire.

Only 35% recalled having a discussion about contraception or pregnancy. Less than a quarter knew of risks to the baby and that good glycaemic control influenced these risks. Only 25% knew about folic acid supplements. The 31 patients who had had a previous pregnancy with diabetes had similar poor knowledge.

In conclusion, two‐thirds of women of child bearing age were unable to recall having had a discussion regarding pregnancy or contraception. There was poor understanding of the risks associated with pregnancy. A previous pregnancy and antenatal care did not improve knowledge. New educational strategies for preconceptual care are needed for women with diabetes, regardless of parity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monitoring of drug‐associated electrolyte disturbances in a hospital
Authors: Zornic Nenad , Radojevic Danijela Jovanovic , Jankovic Slobodan , Djuric Dusan , Varjacic Mirjana , Simic Viktorija Dragojevic , Milovanovic Dragan R.
Published: August 2009

Purpose

The aim of our study was to find drug‐associated changes in serum levels of major electrolytes using clinical‐event monitoring method.

Methods

During 1‐year period, electrolyte disturbances in serum samples from patients of Clinical Center Kragujevac, Serbia, were monitored in central biochemical facility. A sample of 982 patients was randomly selected from total population of 43 120 patients whose electrolyte serum levels were measured in the facility during the study period.

Results

Clinically important drug‐associated electrolyte disturbances were detected in 181 patient. There were 25 significant associations between the drugs and electrolyte values outside the reference range. However, only four causal connections were established: use of normal saline infusion with hypernatremia (OR 6.97, 95%CI 2.24–21.67), theophylline with acid–base disturbances (7.75, 1.46–41.02), polygeline infusion with decrease in bicarbonate levels (4.08, 1.42–11.73), and association of risperidone and hypocalcemia (4.10, 1.42–11.81).

Conclusion

Although clinical‐event monitoring method is far from optimal, it could quantify the known risks and provide evidence for credible hypothesis of drug adverse reactions, based on both relevant biological pathways and reasonable clinical thinking, as it was the case in our study. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential modulation of S‐nitrosoproteome of Brassica juncea by low temperature: Change in S‐nitrosylation of Rubisco is responsible for the inactivation of its carboxylase activity
Authors: Abat Jasmeet Kaur , Deswal Renu
Published: August 2009

Nitric oxide (NO), a new addition to plant hormones, affects numerous processes in planta. It is produced as a part of stress response, but its signaling is poorly understood. S‐nitrosylation, a PTM, is currently the most investigated modification of NO. Recent studies indicate significant modulation of metabolome by S‐nitrosylation, as the identified targets span major metabolic pathways and regulatory proteins. Identification of S‐nitrosylation targets is necessary to understand NO signaling. By combining biotin switch technique and MS, 20 S‐nitrosylated proteins including four novel ones were identified from Brassica juncea. Further, to know if the abiotic stress‐induced NO evolution contributes to S‐nitrosothiols (SNO), the cellular NO reservoirs, SNO content was measured by Saville method. Low temperature (LT)‐stress resulted in highest (1.4‐fold) SNO formation followed by drought, high temperature and salinity. LT induced differentially nitrosylated proteins were identified as photosynthetic, plant defense related, glycolytic and signaling associated. Interestingly, both the subunits of ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) showed an increase as well as a decrease in nitrosylation by LT. Inactivation of Rubisco carboxylase by LT is well documented but the mechanism is not known. Here, we show that LT‐induced S‐nitrosylation is responsible for significant (∼40%) inactivation of Rubisco. This in turn could explain cold stress‐induced photosynthetic inhibition.
Star‐like polyurethane hybrids with functional cubic silsesquioxanes: Preparation, morphology, and thermomechanical properties
Authors: Mya Khine Y. , Wang Yinxia , Shen Lu , Xu Jianwei , Wu Yongling , Lu Xuehong , He Chaobin
Published: August 2009

Star‐like polyurethane (PU) hybrid films containing octafunctional cubic silsesquioxanes are prepared by polyaddition reaction between octakis(dimethylsilyloxy) silsesquioxane isopropenyldimethylbenzyl isocyanate (OS‐PDBI) and octakis(dimethylsilyloxy) hydroxypropyl silsesquioxane (HPS); and between OS‐PDBI and hexane diol (HD). The effect of incorporation of nanostructured cubic silsesquioxanes (CSSQ) on the macroscopic properties of PU film and their thermomechanical properties are investigated. The obtained hybrid films are relatively transparent. Their morphologies and properties are studied by using Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetry (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and contact angle measurements. The formation of urethane linkage disrupts the three‐dimensional ordered structure of CSSQ in the hybrid film. AFM images show clearly that no phase separation in the macroscopic level for both PU hybrid films. TGA and DMA analyzes indicate that the incorporation of octafunctional silsesquioxane in PU hybrid film provides enhanced thermal stability and increased crosslink density. Moreover, the existence of cage structure also improves oxidation resistance and mechanical strength. The incomplete reaction between OS‐PDBI and HPS due to the steric hindrance of highly branched rigid CSSQ could result in a slight decrease in initial decomposition temperature. Furthermore, hardness and out‐of‐plane compressive modulus are also investigated by nanoindentation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4602–4616, 2009
Three‐cationic carbocyanine dyes as sensitizers in very efficient photoinitiating systems for multifunctional monomer polymerization
Authors: Kabatc Janina , Pączkowski Jerzy
Published: August 2009

This article is focused on the description of the synthesis, spectroscopic, electrochemical properties, and the free radical photoinitiation abilities of new three‐cationic carbocyanine dyes. A new synthestic strategy for preparation of symmetrical cyanine dyes has been developed based on the 2‐methylbenzothiazole, 2‐methylbenzoxazole and 2,3,3‐trimethylindolinium quaternization by α‐bromo‐ω‐tertiary ammonium salts followed by the condensation of obtained product with triethyl ortho‐formate. Resulted dyes possess in one molecule three quaternary nitrogen atoms, for example, they are three‐cationic in character. Novel three‐cationic symmetric carbocyanine dyes paired with n‐butyltriphenylborate anions are very efficient photoinitiators of free radical polymerization of acrylate monomers, for example, (TMPTA) when irradiated with the visible emission of an argon‐ion laser. The photoinitiating abilities of the novel photoredox pairs were compared to the photoinitiation properties of their monocationic equivalents, for example, N,N′‐diethylthia‐, N,N′‐diethyloxa‐ and N,N′‐dimethylindocarbocyanine n‐butyltriphenylborates (SB2, OB2, and IB2) and also compared to the initiation ability of Rose Bengal derivative, for example, typical triplet state photoinitiator. The kinetic studies clearly demonstrated that the three‐cationic carbocyanine borate photoredox pairs exhibit a significant increase in the efficiency of TMPTA free radical polymerization in comparison to the photoredox pairs containing structurally related, mono‐cationic carbocyanine borates. It was also shown that, the addition of a second coinitiator to the cyanine borate salts enhances their photoinitiating abilities. The best results were obtained for three cationic carbocyanine borates in the presence of second coinitiator being N‐methoxypyridinium n‐butyltriphenylborate. The photoinitiating abilities of the systems of these types are more effective than those composed of carbocyanine cation/borate anion exclusively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4636–4654, 2009
Synthesis and characterization of a poly(GMA)‐graft‐poly(Z‐L‐lysine) graft copolymer with a rod‐like structure
Authors: Tu You‐Liang , Wang Cheng‐Chien , Chen Chuh‐Yung
Published: August 2009

This study applied the macromonomers and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) to synthesize a series of the graft copolymers, poly(GMA)‐graft‐poly(Z‐L‐lysine), and investigated the conformation of the graft copolymer. The graft copolymers were synthesized with different GMA monomer ratios (28 to 89%) and different degrees of polymerization (DP) (8 to 15) of the poly(Z‐L‐lysine) side chain to analyze secondary structure relationships. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and both wide angle and small angle X‐ray scattering spectroscopy (WAXS, SAXS) were used to investigate the relationship between the microstructure and conformation of the graft copolymers and the different monomer ratios and side chain DP. In AFM images, n8‐G89 (the graft copolymer containing 89% GMA units and the macromonomer DP is 8) showed tiny and uniform rod‐like structures, and n14‐G43 (the graft copolymer containing 43% GMA units and the macromonomer DP is 14) showed uniform rod‐like structures. FTIR spectra of the graft copolymers showed that the variations of α‐helix and β‐sheet secondary structures in the graft copolymers relate to the monomer ratios of the graft copolymers. However, the X‐ray scattering patterns indicated that the graft copolymer conformations were mainly dependent on the poly(Z‐L‐lysine) side chain length, and these results were completely in accordance with the AFM images. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4655–4669, 2009
Self‐assembly of H‐bonded side‐chain and cross‐linking copolymers containing diblock‐copolymeric donors and single/double H‐bonded light‐emitting acceptors
Authors: Lin Hong‐Cheu , Jiang Meng‐Dan , Wu Shen‐Chang , Jou Leng‐Long , Chou Kai‐Pin , Huang Ching‐Mao , Wei Kung‐Hwa
Published: August 2009

A series of diblock‐copolymers were synthesized through anionic polymerization of styrene and tert‐butyl methacrylate (tBuA) with different monomer ratios, and analogous block‐copolymeric derivatives (PS‐b‐PAA)s with monofunctional carboxylic acid groups were obtained by further hydrolyzation as hydrogen‐bonded (H‐bonded) proton donors. Via H‐bonded interaction, these diblock‐coplymeric donors (PS‐b‐PAA)s were incorporated with luminescent mono‐pyridyl/bis‐pyridyl acceptors to form single/double H‐bonded supramolecules, that is, H‐bonded side‐chain/cross‐linking copolymers, respectively. The supramolecular architectures formed by donor polymers and light‐emitting acceptors were influenced by the ratio of acid blocks in the diblock copolymeric donors and the type of single/double H‐bonded light‐emitting acceptors. Their thermal and luminescent properties can be adjusted by H‐bonds, and more than 100 nm of red‐shifted photoluminescence (PL) emissions were observed, which depend on the degrees of the H‐bonding interactions. Self‐assembled phenomena of amphiphilic dibolck copolymers and their H‐bonded complexes were confirmed by TEM micrographs, and supramolecular microphase separation of spherical micelle‐like morphology was demonstrated to affect the photophysical properties. Polymer light‐emitting diode (PLED) devices containing H‐bonded complexes showed electroluminescence (EL) emissions of 503–560 nm under turn‐on voltages of 7.5–9.0 V, maximum power efficiencies of 0.23–0.37 cd/A (at 100 mA/cm2), and maximum luminances of 318–519 cd/m2 (around 25 V). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4685–4702, 2009
An Integrated Atmospheric Microwave Plasma Source
Authors: Kovacs Reinhold , Bibinov Nikita , Awakowicz Peter , Porteanu Horia‐Eugen , Kühn Silvio , Gesche Roland
Published: August 2009

Atmospheric plasma processes become more and more popular in recent times. A new integrated atmospheric plasma source is presented which consists of a microwave resonator combined with a solid‐state power oscillator. This allows for a very compact and efficient design of a microwave plasma source without external microwave power supply and matching units. Hydrophobic polymers have to be activated to ensure an effective painting or glueing. The performance of this new plasma source has been investigated with respect to surface activation depending on axial and radial distance to the substrate, process time, process gas, and flow velocity. Several polymeric materials have been compared. Polyethylene, polyamide, polystyrene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, and polytetrafluorineethylene show good activation results. This tool can be used especially for bulky goods and/or mass products, when a vacuum process is not possible or too expensive.
Adhesion Improvement of Polyimide/Metal Interface by He/O2/NF3 Atmospheric Pressure Plasma
Authors: Lee Su Bin , Kim Yoon‐Kee
Published: August 2009

The surface of polyimide (PI) was modified with He/O2/NF3 dielectric barrier discharge generated by 13.56 MHz r.f. at atmospheric pressure in order to improve adhesion between metal (Cu/Cr) and PI. He/O2/NF3 plasma severely etched the surface of PI and formed many conical clusters of below 100 nm diameter on the PI surface. The surface roughness of PI was increased from 0.4 to 11 nm with r.f. power. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that oxygen concentration was increased as much as the decrease of carbon concentration after plasma treatment. XPS analysis also showed that the component ratio of CO bonding, which is a hydrophilic functional group, was increased about 30% by the plasma treatment as compared with untreated PI. T‐peel test showed that peel strength was increased with r.f. power. The highest peel strength was 148 gf · nm−1, which was about 50 times as high as the peel strength obtained without plasma activation. It is more than two times as strong as the adhesion between the Cu/Cr film and PI substrate treated by O2 plasma. The surface morphology and chemical composition of the detached side of the PI treated by He/O2/NF3 plasma were similar to untreated PI.
Mechanical Study of High Resistance Silicon Carbide Based Multi‐Nano‐Layers Grown by Multifrequency PACVD
Authors: Rebib Farida , Gaudy Thomas , Soum‐Glaude Audrey , Caron Isabelle , Da Silva Tony , Picard Christine , Cournut Fabienne , Thomas Laurent
Published: August 2009

Titanium alloys are commonly used to lighten aeronautical structures. Unfortunately, their poor tribological properties need to confer onto the surface both high mechanical resistance under load and low friction/low wear against other metals. Based on amorphous silicon carbide (a‐SiC:H), periodic multi‐nano‐coatings have been found to be candidates for this use. Such coatings were deposited on Ti surfaces using multifrequency plasma CVD devices. Scratch‐testing measurements have revealed that the critical loads corresponding to cohesive/adhesive cracks are significantly increased using multilayered stacks. Fretting‐wear tests also revealed the influence of multilayer architecture and preliminary analysis of wear tracks and material transfers leaded to a first classification of the coatings.
Impact of incomplete DNase I treatment on human macrophage proteome analysis
Authors: Acosta‐Martin Adelina Elena , Chwastyniak Maggy , Beseme Olivia , Drobecq Hervé , Amouyel Philippe , Pinet Florence
Published: August 2009

The aim of our study was to analyze the proteomic pattern of human macrophages obtained over a 4 year period from blood donors. The purpose was to simulate a long‐term clinical study to assess the application of 2‐D DIGE technique for differential proteomic analysis of these scarce samples. Bioinformatic analysis of 2‐D DIGE gels of 19 different cultures of macrophages assessed whether they did or did not contain at least specific five spots identified by MS as being or containing bovine deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I). Bovine DNase I was used during sample treatment to remove nucleic acids from protein extracts. Macrophages were classified in two groups, which appeared to be differentiated by the completeness of DNase I treatment. Further detailed analysis revealed a different proteomic pattern of macrophage protein samples according to the completeness of this treatment. The major group of proteins affected, accounting for one third of the differentially expressed proteins, included proteins involved in cell motion and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. The use of DNase I for the removal of nucleic acids from protein samples must be avoided in proteomic studies since it can generate bias in the analysis of protein expression patterns.
Optimization of the Synthesis of 2,4,6,8,10,12‐Hexaallyl‐ 2,4,6,8,10,12‐Hexaazaisowurtzitane
Authors: Adamiak Joanna , Maksimowski Paweł
Published: August 2009

2,4,6,8,10,12‐Hexaallyl‐2,4,6,8,10,12‐hexaazaisowurtzitane (HALLIW) was obtained in a condensation reaction of glyoxal with allylamine in the presence of a protonic acid as a catalyst. Optimization of the synthesis was accomplished by means of a mathematical experiment planning theory with the steepest descent method. The effect of the following parameters was examined: process temperature, amount of the catalyst, amount of the solvent, glyoxal addition time, reaction time, and the ratio of the substrates. As a result of the study an improved yield was achieved from 20 to 66.5%. The highest yield for the reaction was found for the conditions (mole ratios relative to glyoxal): catalyst (formic acid) 0.1 : 1; solvents: acetonitrile 9.35 : 1, water 0.18 : 1; allylamine 2.2 : 1; temperature 15 °C; glyoxal addition time 15 min, reaction time 60 min. The studies were conducted on a small laboratory scale where the yield and purity of the product obtained were examined. A method was developed for purification of HALLIW. NMR, IR spectroscopy, DSC, and TG analyses were employed in the study and their results are reported.
Effects of acute and subacute garlic supplement administration on serum total antioxidant capacity and lipid parameters in healthy volunteers
Authors: Koseoglu M. , Isleten F. , Atay A. , Kaplan Y. C.
Published: August 2009

Garlic has long been used for medicinal purposes. It has been shown that different forms of garlic have significant antioxidant effects. The strong flavor, odor and unwanted gastrointestinal side effects of fresh garlic has rendered the use of commercial garlic supplements as a preferable option. To investigate the effects of garlic supplementation on serum total antioxidant capacity and lipid parameters, 17 healthy volunteers were administered four standardized commercial garlic tablets every day for 30 days. Blood samples were taken at day 1 (before the first administration of tablets [control] and at 3 h after the administration of tablets), 15 and 30 days, respectively. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) and triglyceride (TG) were measured in sera. Serum TAC was increased significantly at 30 days compared with 15 days, 3 h and control. There was also a significant increase in serum TAC at 15 days compared with 3 h and control. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and TG were not found to be significantly different between control, 3 h, 15 and 30 days. These data suggest that garlic, used as a dietary supplementation, may be beneficial in increasing the antioxidant capacity of the body. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Citrus bergamiarisso & poiteau juice protects against renal injury of diet‐induced hypercholesterolemia in rats
Authors: Trovato Ada , Taviano Maria F. , Pergolizzi Simona , Campolo Loredana , De Pasquale Rita , Miceli Natalizia
Published: August 2009

The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of treatment withCitrus bergamiajuice (1 mL/day, for 30 days) against hypercholesterolemic diet‐induced renal injury in rat.

C. bergamiajuice provoked a significant reduction in the plasma levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL, and an increase in HDL levels, versus hyperlipidemic controls (p< 0.05). Plasma creatinine levels, measured to assess renal glomerular function, did not change compared with hyperlipidemic controls (0.37 ± 0.11 mg/dL and 0.32 ± 0.10 mg/dL, respectively).

Moreover,in vivolipid peroxidation was measured in kidney homogenate;C. bergamiajuice administration significantly decreased MDA levels elevations compared with hyperlipidemic controls (4.10 ± 0.10 nmol/mg protein and 4.78 ± 0.15 nmol/mg protein, respectively).

Histological observations of the kidney supported the biochemical data and indicated a protective effect ofC. bergamiajuice on the development of renal damage in hypercholesterolemic rats.

The antioxidant potential ofC. bergamiajuice was examined in twoin vitrosystems: in the DPPH test the juice showed a noticeable effect on scavenging free radicals (IC50= 25.01 ± 0.70 ±L); in the reducing power assay it showed a strong activity, too (1.44 ± 0.01 ASE/mL).

These findings suggest thatC. bergamiajuice has a protective role in hypercholesterolemic diet‐induced renal damage, which may be attributed to its antioxidant properties. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.