bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surfactant Effect on Energy Transfer between Cationic Conjugated Polymer and Dye‐Labeled Oligonucleotide
Authors: Pu Kan‐Yi , Zhan Ruoyu , Liu Bin
Published: May 2009

We report a convenient and effective method to enhance the signal output of dye‐labeled oligonucleotide sensitized by cationic conjugated polymers (CCP). Sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) is utilized to regulate the interaction between CCP and dye‐labeled single‐stranded DNA in order to reduce the dye self‐quenching within the CCP/DNA complexes. Improvement of CCP‐sensitized dye emissison in the presence of SDS relative to that in the absence of SDS is observed, which reveals the importance of reducing CCP charge density in improving the energy transfer from CCP to dye‐labeled probes.
Polymers with Tethered Anionic and Cationic Groups as Membranes for Fuel Cells
Authors: Hickner Michael A. , Tudryn Gregory J. , Alam Todd M. , Hibbs Michael R. , Fujimoto Cy H.
Published: May 2009

Ionic clustering, water binding, and ion conductivity were studied in polymers functionalized with sulfonic acid and quaternary ammonium hydroxide groups. Small‐angle x‐ray scattering showed that no clustering occurred in the quaternary ammonium containing anion exchange membranes, while evidence of ionic clusters was present in both sulfonated poly(phenylene) and in Nafion, a poly(perfluorosulfonic acid). Interestingly, the water self‐diffusion coefficients of the anion exchange membranes were generally greater than those observed for the sulfonated poly‐ (phenylene)s, and moreover, the water self diffusion coefficients in anion exchange membranes were not a strong function of diffusion time. The water binding behavior lead to increased normalized conductivity in anion exchange membranes as compared to proton exchange membranes at the highest ion exchange capacities.
Global and Local Structural Changes of Protein Unfolding
Authors: Shiu Ying‐Jen , Jeng U‐Ser , Lin Sheng‐Hsien
Published: May 2009

Summery: In the mean‐field Ising model, the folding‐unfolding behavior of a protein is regarded as an ensemble of units reduced from, presumably, peptide bonds or amino acid residues. Units of similar thermodynamic properties are further classified into groups that are related to, for instance, α‐helices or β‐sheets. Units of the same group are assumed to unfold collectively, whereas those of different groups may undergo either sequential or coupled unfolding. The introduction of unfolding groups facilitates the description of non‐collective local structural changes experimentally observed via a multi‐group unfolding. We incorporate denaturants and temperature effects into the free energy expression of the protein upon dissolution in a specific environment at thermal equilibrium, and a model protein, cytochrome c, was examined. Results indicate that there are at least four unfolding groups induced unfolding of cytochrome c: two are related to the prosthetic heme group, whereas another two groups are α‐helices and global nearly group, which largely account for global changes in protein morphology. The extracted thermodynamic parameters, on the basis of the Ising model, can closely predict unfolding behaviors of the proteins in compounded denaturing environments.
Factors Inhibiting the Alkyl‐Branch Plasticization of Polyoxymethylene
Authors: Martin Ryan T. , Miller Stephen A.
Published: May 2009

The ability of an alkyl branch to depress the melting temperature in a polyoxymethylene chain is measurably less than that in a polyethylene chain. The factors that inhibit the alkyl‐branch plasticization of polyoxymethylene are considered by computational assessment of a series of model compounds at various levels of theory: DFT B3LYP 6‐31+G*, DFT B3LYP 6‐311++G**, MP2 cc‐pVTZ, T1, and G3(MP2). Intramolecular interactions—characterized as acetal CH···O hydrogen bonds—are surprisingly strong and likely encourage conformational regularity in the vicinity of the alkyl branches, allowing maintenance of the intermolecular chain‐chain interactions. The acetal CH···O hydrogen bonds in dimethylene glycol average to 2.65 kcal/mol while the non‐acetal CH···O interactions in 1,3‐propanediol are much weaker with an average of 0.34 kcal/mol (G3(MP2)). The related, classical OH···O hydrogen bond in ethylene glycol is found to be worth 2.12 kcal/mol. To describe this energetic ordering, an additional stabilizing anomeric effect is invoked for dimethylene glycol, a model for polyoxymethylene.
Shear‐Induced Phase Separation of Entangled Polymer Solutions: Formation of Optically Anisotropic Strings as Precursor Structures of Shish‐Kebab
Authors: Hashimoto Takeji , Murase Hiroki , Ohta Yasuo
Published: May 2009

Shear‐induced structures were investigated for both ultrahigh molecular weight atactic polystyrene (UHMWaPS) and linear polyethylene (UHMWPE) solutions, which were entangled but homogeneous without shear flow, as a function of shear rate ($\dot \gamma $) or time after a step‐up shear flow. For the PE solutions, the shear flow was imposed at 124 °C which is higher than the nominal melting temperature Tnm of the solution without shear flow. At sufficiently high shear rates both solutions commonly formed highly optically anisotropic string‐like structures which are composed of a series of phase‐separated domains interconnected by bundles of stretched chains and aligned along the flow direction. After cessation of the shear flow the string‐like structures completely disappeared in the UHMWaPS solution, recovering a homogeneous solution, while the UHMWPE solution exhibited shish‐kebab structure. The results reveal a new kinetic pathway for shish‐kebab formation for the entangled crystallizable solution sheared at T > Tnm which involves first formation of the phase‐separated string‐like domains and subsequent crystallization into shish from the bundles of stretched chain and then kebab in the demixed domains composed of essentially random coils.
Molecular‐Integrated Phospholipid Polymer Nanoparticles with Highly Biofunctionality
Authors: Matsuno Ryosuke , Ishihara Kazuhiko
Published: May 2009

Surface modifications of nanoparticles with phospholipid polymers composed of 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC), are summarized. The MPC can be available for various polymerization methods such as conventional radical polymerization and living radical polymerization, and easily copolymerized with other vinyl compounds. The MPC polymers have been widely used as biocompatible coating and stabilizer for nanoparticles even when they are under biological environment. Additionally, for immobilization of biomolecules, such as antibody and enzyme, the MPC polymers having active ester group are applicable. These MPC polymers coated on the nanoparticles immobilize protein under mild condition and the protein maintained bioactivity well. Moreover, introduction of functional inorganic nanocrystals inside of the nanoparticles is effective to obtain good imaging tool for specific cells. The potential of molecular integration on nanoparticles based on MPC polymer chemistry will be expanded nanobiosensing, nanoimaging and nanodiagnostic system.
Novel Nanostructural Hybride Materials for Photodynamic Theraphy
Authors: Nowakowska Maria , Nawalany Kinga , Kępczyński Mariusz , Krawczyk Zdzisław
Published: May 2009

Photodynamic theraphy (PDT) is a clinically approved method for treatment of cancer and some other diseases. It employs the combination of a drug (photosensitizer) and light to induce photoxicity towards the cancerous cells. The efficiency of currently used photosensitizers is limited due to their aggregation in aqueous media and low chemical purity; usually a mixture of various isomers is used. This paper presents the results of our studies on the development of nanostructural materials for PDT. They are constructed from porphyrin (Po) which is covalently attached to the chain of hydrophylic polymer such as poly(methacrylic acid) (PMA) or poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and solubilized in lipid bilayer of liposome vesicles. The attachment of Po to the polymer chain improves its solubility in water while the solubilization in liposome carriers helps the dye to penetrate the cell membranes. Physicochemical and photophysical properties of those systems were determined. The in vitro studies on cancer cell lines demonstrated that the photosensitizers are efficiently accumulated in the cells. Their dark toxicity is negligible, while phototoxicity is very high.
Biodegradable Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) Nanocomposite
Authors: Ohashi Eiji , Drumond Walker Soares , Zane Nicholas Picoli , de Faria Barros Pedro Wang , Lachtermacher Marly Grinapel , Wiebeck Hélio , Wang Shu Hui
Published: May 2009

This work seeks bringing a technological and social contribution by searching blends and composites of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and polyethylene widely used in packaging films, and colloidal silica. The mixtures were prepared by extrusion using a single‐screw extruder and were analyzed regarding their thermal and mechanical properties and morphology. The results have shown PHB toughness in the studied compositions, which elongation at break was in the range 5–80% compared to 2% for neat PHB. The small amount (0.2 to 0.4%) of added silica seemed to increase in 20% the tensile strength. The thermal degradation by thermogravimetry from room temperature to 800 °C revealed a mixed behavior for the composites between PHB and polyethylene.
Synthesis and Characterization of Chitosan/ Dextran‐Based Hydrogels for Surgical Use
Authors: Liu G. , Shi Z. , Kuriger T. , Hanton L.R. , Simpson J. , Moratti S.C. , Robinson B.H. , Athanasiadis T. , Valentine R. , Wormald P.J. , Robinson S.
Published: May 2009

A series of hydrogels were formed from the reaction between an amine functionalized succinyl chitosan and an oxidized dextran. The properties and rate of formation of the gel were related to both the amine and aldehyde levels of the precursors. These levels could be readily changed by altering the reaction conditions, and allowed good control of the gel properties. Oxidation of the dextran with periodate was accompanied by chain scission and a large reduction in molecular weight. The gel showed excellent haemostatic properties and reduction of adhesions in animal models.
Supramolecular Mobility in Polyrotaxanes Exploits Biomedical Functions
Authors: Yui Nobuhiko
Published: May 2009

The mobility of cyclodextrins (CDs) threaded onto a linear polymeric chain and the dethreading of the CDs from the chain are the most fascinating features seen in polyrotaxanes. These structural characteristics are very promising to their possible applications in biomedical use. Enhancing multivalent interaction between ligand‐receptor systems by using ligand‐polyrotaxane conjugates is one of the excellent properties related to the CD mobility. Gene delivery using cytocleavable polyrotaxanes is more practical but highly crucial in drug delivery. Such a supramolecular approach using CD‐containing polyrotaxanes is extensively expected to exploit a new paradigm of advanced biomaterials for future medicines.
Blends of Aromatic Polyethers Bearing Polar Pyridine Units and Their Evaluation as High Temperature Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Pefkianakis Elefterios K. , Morfopoulou Christina , Deimede Valadoula , Kallitsis Joannis K.
Published: May 2009

Aromatic polyethers containing polar pyridine units in the main chain have been synthesized using different difluoride monomers. Copolymers of 2,5‐(4′,4″dihydroxy biphenyl)‐pyridine and 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethyl‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4,4′‐diol with bis(4‐fluorophenyl) sulfone or phenyl phosphine oxide difluoride or decafluorobiphenyl (PTMPySF, PTMPyPO, PTMPyDF) were synthesized. These polymeric structures despite their common structural characteristics, showed totally different behavior in terms of solubility and acid doping ability. Blends of these copolymers have been prepared in order to be evaluated in terms of fuel cell relevant parameters like acid doping ability and conductivity. In most cases flexible membranes were obtained by solution casting. The acid doping ability was controlled based on the blend constituents and composition. The doped membranes exhibited high conductivity values, in the range of 10−3 S/cm at room temperature which is increased at 2.5 × 10−2 S/cm at temperatures up to 180 °C.
Bilateral temporoparietal fascial free flaps for reconstruction of bilateral hand defects: A report of two cases
Authors: Kruavit Arthi , Visuthikosol Vivat
Published: May 2009

Bilateral temporoparietal fascial free flaps were used for reconstruction of bilateral hand defects in two male patients. A 42‐year‐old man sustained crushed injury to both hands with avulsion defects and exposed bones and tendons. The two separate procedures were performed under general anesthesia. The temporoparietal fascial free flap was skin grafted on the ward on the following day after the operation. The other patient was a 61‐year‐old leprosy patient who had bilateral high ulnar nerve palsy for 28 years. One simultaneous procedure was performed under local anesthesia for harvesting the temporoparietal fascial free flaps and under brachial block for preparation of the recipient sites. The free flaps were used for augmentation of the atrophic first web spaces. The postoperative results of the two cases were satisfactory. The functions of both hands were restored with normal gliding mechanism of the tendons in the first case, and permanent correction of the atrophic web spaces was demonstrated in the second case. The temporoparietal fascial free flap is an ideal flap for coverage of hand defects as well as augmentation of first web space atrophy. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2009.
1H, 13C and 15N nuclear magnetic resonance coordination shifts in Au(III), Pd(II) and Pt(II) chloride complexes with phenylpyridines
Authors: Pazderski Leszek , Toušek Jaromír , Sitkowski Jerzy , Kozerski Lech , Szłyk Edward
Published: May 2009

1H, 13C and 15N nuclear magnetic resonance studies of gold(III), palladium(II) and platinum(II) chloride complexes with phenylpyridines (PPY: 4‐phenylpyridine, 4ppy; 3‐phenylpyridine, 3ppy; and 2‐phenylpyridine, 2ppy) having the general formulae [Au(PPY)Cl3], trans‐/cis‐[Pd(PPY)2Cl2] and trans‐/cis‐[Pt(PPY)2Cl2] were performed and the respective chemical shifts (δ, δ and δ) reported. 1H, 13C and 15N coordination shifts (i.e. differences between chemical shifts of the same atom in the complex and ligand molecules: $\Delta_{\rm {coord}}^{1_{\rm {H}}} = \delta_{\rm {complex}}^{1_{\rm {H}}} - \delta_{\rm {ligand}}^{1_{\rm {H}}}$, $\Delta_{\rm {coord}}^{13_{\rm {C}}} = \delta_{\rm {complex}}^{13_{\rm {C}}} - \delta_{\rm {ligand}}^{13_{\rm {C}}}$, $\Delta_{\rm {coord}}^{15_{\rm {N}}} = \delta_{\rm {complex}}^{15_{\rm {N}}} - \delta_{\rm {ligand}}^{15_{\rm {N}}}$) were discussed in relation to the type of the central atom (Au(III), Pd(II) and Pt(II)), geometry (trans‐/cis‐) and the position of a phenyl group in the pyridine ring system. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Substituent chemical shifts of N‐arylsuccinanilic acids, N‐arylsuccinimides, N‐arylmaleanilic acids, and N‐arylmaleimides
Authors: Lee Hye Sun , Yu Ji Sook , Lee Chang Kiu
Published: May 2009

NMR spectra of a series of N‐arylsuccinanilic acids, N‐arylsuccinimides, N‐arylmaleanilic acids, and N‐arylmaleimides were examined to estimate the electronic effect of the amide and imide groups on the chemical shifts of the hydrogen and carbon nuclei of the benzene ring. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of electrode location on surface electromyography changes due to eccentric elbow flexor exercise
Authors: Piitulainen Harri , Bottas Reijo , Linnamo Vesa , Komi Paavo , Avela Janne
Published: May 2009

Experiments were carried out to determine whether the location of electrodes has an effect on eccentric exercise–induced changes in surface electromyography (sEMG) variables in the biceps brachii muscle. sEMG signals were recorded with a grid of 64 electrodes before and up to 4 days post‐exercise. Root mean square (RMS) and mean power frequency (MNF) were calculated for: (1) each channel; (2) as an average of all channels; and (3) as an average of individual channel rows and columns. Mean muscle‐fiber conduction velocity (CV) was estimated similarly but was based on double‐differential channels. Maximal isometric voluntary torque decreased 21.3 ± 5.6% post‐exercise. The average sEMG variables decreased after the exercise and recovered 2 days (RMS and CV) or 4 days (MNF) post‐exercise. Site‐dependent changes were observed in sEMG variables. We conclude that site‐dependent changes in sEMG variables after eccentric exercise can be detected and are influenced in part by anatomical factors. Muscle Nerve, 2009
A novel mutation of the GAA gene in a Finnish late‐onset pompe disease patient: Clinical phenotype and follow‐up with enzyme replacement therapy
Authors: Korpela Mari P. , Paetau Anders , Löfberg Mervi I. , Timonen Marjut H. , Lamminen Antti E. , Kiuru‐Enari Sari M.K.
Published: May 2009

Pompe disease is a rare, progressive disease leading to skeletal muscle weakness due to deficiency of the acid α‐glucosidase (GAA) enzyme. Herein we report the first diagnosed Finnish patient with a phenotype compatible with the late‐onset form of Pompe disease. Molecular genetic analysis of the GAA gene revealed a novel missense mutation, 1725C>A (Y575X), combined with a previously reported mutation, 1634C>T (P545L). Human recombinant α‐glucosidase enzyme (alglucosidase‐α) treatment was initiated for this patient at age 20 years. After 12 months she was no longer fully wheelchair‐bound, and muscle strength had improved. No disease progression was visible on muscle magnetic resonance imaging of the lower limbs, and the energy state of the muscle cells increased by 46% on phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Overall, our findings suggest that enzyme replacement therapy is indicated, even in patients with late‐onset Pompe disease, to halt disease progression and improve the quality of daily life. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Vastus lateralis NA+‐K+‐ATpase activity, protein, and isoform distribution in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Green Henry James , Burnett Margaret Elizabeth , D'Arsigny Christine Linda , Webb Katherine Alexandra , McBride Ian , Ouyang Jing , O'Donnell Dennis Einan
Published: May 2009

In this study we investigate the hypothesis that protein abundance, isoform distribution, and maximal catalytic activity of sodium–potassium–adenosine triphosphatase (Na+‐K+‐ATPase) would be altered in muscle of patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Tissue samples were obtained from the vastus lateralis of 10 patients with COPD (mean ± SE: age = 67 ± 2.9 years; FEV1 = 39 ± 5.5%) and 10 healthy, matched controls (CON: age = 68 ± 2 years; FEV1 = 114 ± 4.2%). The samples were assessed for maximal catalytic activity (Vmax) of the enzyme using the K+‐stimulated 3‐O‐methylfluorescein‐phosphatase (3‐O‐MFPase) assay, enzyme abundance using the [3H]‐ouabain assay, and isoform content of both α (α1, α2, α3) and β (β1, β2, β3) using Western blot techniques. A 19.4% lower (P < 0.05) Vmax was observed in COPD compared with CON (90.7 ± 6.7 vs. 73.1 ± 4.7 nmol · mg protein−1 h−1). No differences between groups were observed for pump concentration (259 ± 15 vs. 243 ± 17 pmol · g wet weight). For the isoforms, α1 was decreased by 28% (P < 0.05), and α2 was increased by 12% (P < 0.05) in COPD compared with CON. No differences between groups were observed for α3 or for the β isoforms. We conclude that moderate COPD compromises Vmax, which occurs in the absence of changes in pump abundance. The reduction in Vmax could be due to a shift in isoform expression (α1, α2), alterations in intrinsic regulation, or to structural changes in the enzyme. The changes observed in the catalytic activity of the pump could have major effects on membrane excitability and fatigability, which are typically compromised in COPD. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Piriformis syndrome, diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Kirschner Jonathan S. , Foye Patrick M. , Cole Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2009

Piriformis syndrome (PS) is an uncommon cause of sciatica that involves buttock pain referred to the leg. Diagnosis is often difficult, and it is one of exclusion due to few validated and standardized diagnostic tests. Treatment for PS has historically focused on stretching and physical therapy modalities, with refractory patients also receiving anesthetic and corticosteroid injections into the piriformis muscle origin, belly, muscle sheath, or sciatic nerve sheath. Recently, the use of botulinum toxin (BTX) to treat PS has gained popularity. Its use is aimed at relieving sciatic nerve compression and inherent muscle pain from a tight piriformis. BTX is being used increasingly for myofascial pain syndromes, and some studies have demonstrated superior efficacy to corticosteroid injection. The success of BTX in treating PS supports the prevailing pathoanatomic etiology of the condition and suggests a promising future for BTX in the treatment of other myofascial pain syndromes. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Dynamic displacement and stress solutions for viscoelastic half‐spaces subjected to harmonic concentrated loads using the Radon and Fourier transforms
Authors: Mesquita Euclides , Adolph Marco , Carvalho Edson Rodrigues , Romanini Edivaldo
Published: May 2009

In this article a numerical solution for a three‐dimensional isotropic, viscoelastic half‐space subjected to concentrated surface stress loadings is synthesized with the aid of the Radon and Fourier integral transforms. Dynamic displacement and stress fields are computed for points at the surface and inside the domain. The analysis is performed in the frequency domain. Viscoelastic effects are incorporated by means of the elastic–viscoelastic correspondence principle. The equations of motion are solved in the Radon–Fourier transformed domain. Inverse transformations to the physical domain are accomplished numerically. The scheme used to perform the numerical inverse transformations is addressed. The solution is validated by comparison with results available in the literature. A set of original dynamic displacement and stress solutions for points within the half‐space is presented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistical inverse analysis based on genetic algorithm and principal component analysis: Applications to excavation problems and pressuremeter tests
Authors: Levasseur S. , Malecot Y. , Boulon M. , Flavigny E.
Published: May 2009

This study concerns the identification of constitutive models from geotechnical measurements by inverse analysis. Soil parameters are identified from measured horizontal displacements of sheet pile walls and from a measured pressuremeter curve. An optimization method based on a genetic algorithm (GA) and a principal component analysis (PCA), developed and tested on synthetic data in a previous paper, is applied. These applications show that the conclusions deduced from synthetic problems can be extrapolated to real problems. The GA is a robust optimization method that is able to deal with the non‐uniqueness of the solution in identifying a set of solutions for a given uncertainty on the measurements. This set is then characterized by a PCA that gives a first‐order approximation of the solution as an ellipsoid. When the solution set is not too curved in the research space, this ellipsoid characterizes the soil properties considering the measured data and the tolerate margins for the response of the numerical model. Besides, optimizations from different measurements provide solution sets with a common area in the research space. This intersection gives a more relevant and accurate identification of parameters. Finally, we show that these identified parameters permit to reproduce geotechnical measurements not used in the identification process. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An efficient second‐order characteristic finite element method for non‐linear aerosol dynamic equations
Authors: Liang Dong , Wang Wenqia , Cheng Yu
Published: May 2009

In the paper we consider the non‐linear aerosol dynamic equation on time and particle size, which contains the advection process of condensation growth and the process of non‐linear coagulation. We develop an efficient second‐order characteristic finite element method for solving the problem. A high accurate characteristic method is proposed to treat the condensation advection while a second‐order extrapolation along the characteristics is proposed to approximate the non‐linear coagulation. The method has second‐order accuracy in time and the optimal‐order accuracy of finite element spaces in particle size, which improves the first‐order accuracy in time of the classical characteristic method. Numerical experiments show the efficient performance of our method for problems of log‐normal distribution aerosols in both the Euler coordinates and the logarithmic coordinates. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genome‐wide transcriptomic profiling of microdissected human breast tissue reveals differential expression of KIT (c‐Kit, CD117) and oestrogen receptor‐α (ERα) in response to therapeutic radiation
Authors: Westbury Charlotte B , Reis‐Filho Jorge S , Dexter Tim , Mahler‐Araujo Betania , Fenwick Kerry , Iravani Marjan , Grigoriadis Anita , Parry Suzanne , Robertson David , Mackay Alan , Ashworth Alan , Yarnold John R , Isacke Clare M
Published: May 2009

The pathogenesis of late normal tissue fibrosis after high‐dose ionizing radiation involves multiple cell types and signalling pathways but is not well understood. To identify the molecular changes occurring after radiotherapy, paired normal tissue samples were collected from the non‐irradiated breast and from the treated breast of women who had undergone curative radiotherapy for early breast cancer months or years previously. As radiation may induce distinct transcriptional changes in the different components of the breast, laser capture microdissection and gene expression microarray profiling were performed separately for epithelial and stromal components and selected genes were validated using immunohistochemistry. In the epithelial compartment, a reduction of KIT (c‐Kit; CD117) and a reciprocal increase in ESR1 (oestrogen receptor‐α, ERα) mRNA and protein levels were seen in irradiated compared to non‐irradiated samples. In the stromal compartment, extracellular matrix genes including FN1 (fibronectin 1) and CTGF (connective tissue growth factor; CCN2) were increased. Further investigation revealed that c‐Kit and ERα were expressed in distinct subpopulations of luminal epithelial cells. Interlobular c‐Kit‐positive mast cells were also increased in irradiated cases not showing features of post‐radiation atrophy. Pathway analysis revealed ‘cancer, reproductive system disease and tumour morphology’ as the most significantly enriched network in the epithelial compartment, whereas in the stromal component, a significant enrichment for ‘connective tissue disorders, dermatological diseases and conditions, genetic disorder’ and ‘cancer, tumour morphology, infection mechanism’ networks was observed. These data identify previously unreported changes in the epithelial compartment and show altered expression of genes implicated in late normal tissue injury in the stromal compartment of normal breast tissue. The findings are relevant to both fibrosis and atrophy occurring after radiotherapy for early breast cancer. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gender differences in factors associated with suicidal ideation in major depression among cancer patients
Authors: Akechi Tatsuo , Okamura Hitoshi , Nakano Tomohito , Akizuki Nobuya , Okamura Masako , Shimizu Ken , Okuyama Toru , Furukawa Toshiaki A. , Uchitomi Yosuke
Published: May 2009

Objective: Major depression is a well‐documented risk factor for suicide, and several gender differences in risk factors for suicide exist in cancer patients as well as in the general population. However, no data is available regarding gender differences in risk factors for suicide among cancer patients with major depression.

Methods: We investigated the background differences between cancer patients suffering from major depression with or without suicidal ideation according to gender by analyzing the consultation data obtained for patients referred to the Psychiatry Division.

Results: Among the 5431 referred patients, 329 males and 399 females were diagnosed as having major depression; among these patients with major depression, 136 (41%) males and 157 (39%) females also had suicidal ideation. A preliminary analysis showed that physical functioning and an advanced stage were potential factors that interacted significantly with gender differences regarding suicidal ideation. A final logistic regression analysis indicated that poor physical functioning and an advanced stage were significant risk factors among male patients.

Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that gender differences in important indicators of suicidal ideation exist among cancer patients with major depression; these findings may be useful for developing strategies to prevent suicide among cancer patients. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Chemical Study of Plasma‐Deposited Organosilicon Thin Films as Low‐k Dielectrics
Authors: Coclite Anna M. , Milella Antonella , Palumbo Fabio , Fracassi Francesco , d'Agostino Riccardo
Published: May 2009

Thin films with low dielectric constant were deposited by PECVD from different organosilicon precursors. Film structure and properties were strongly affected by the precursor choice. Silane‐based precursors resulted in films with permittivities as low as 2.3 with a limited thickness loss of 6% upon thermal annealing at 400 °C. Films deposited from siloxane monomers were characterized by increased thickness shrinkage of 11%. Thermal stability was correlated not only to the cross‐linking degree but also to the presence of methylene bridges in the polymer backbone, which accounts for the better thermal stability of silane‐based films. Substrate heating (150 °C) during deposition ensured the best balance between very low permittivities and good thermal stability.

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Plasma Treatment of Polyethylene Powder Particles in a Hollow Cathode Glow Discharge
Authors: Quitzau Meike , Wolter Matthias , Kersten Holger
Published: May 2009

A hollow cathode glow discharge mounted in a spiral conveyor has been employed for surface modification of polyethylene (PE) powders. This combination of powder agitation and plasma treatment allows for a homogeneous surface modification for powders as well for foils. In this study, first the results of plasma treatment of PE powders are represented using different process gases (Ar, N2, CO2) and different hollow cathode materials like copper and aluminum. The modified PE is analyzed by water contact angle (WCA) measurement to prove changes in wettability and by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to prove changes in surface composition and to detect formed polar functional groups. Furthermore, the aging of the plasma treated PE material has been investigated.
Remote Atmospheric Pressure DC Glow Discharge Treatment for Adhesion Improvement of PDMS
Authors: De Geyter Nathalie , Morent Rino , Jacobs Tinneke , Axisa Fabrice , Gengembre Léon , Leys Christophe , Vanfleteren Jan , Payen Edmond
Published: May 2009

In this paper, a remote DC glow discharge at atmospheric pressure is employed for surface modification of PDMS aimed at improvement of its adhesive properties. The effects of the discharge on the surface properties of PDMS are probed using contact angle measurements, XPS and T‐peel tests. Results show that the DC glow discharge transforms the initially hydrophobic PDMS surface into a hydrophilic one due to the incorporation of silanol groups at the expense of methyl groups. Moreover, T‐peel tests confirm that the remote DC glow plasma is able to remarkably enhance the adhesion between two PDMS layers, but only when both layers are plasma‐treated.
Thermal Stability and Oxidation Resistance of Nanocomposite TiC/a‐C Protective Coatings
Authors: Martínez‐Martínez Diego , López‐Cartés Carlos , Gago Raúl , Fernández Asunción , Sánchez‐López Juan Carlos
Published: May 2009

Nanocomposite films composed by small crystallites of hard phases embedded in an amorphous lubricant matrix have been extensively studied as protective coatings. These kinds of coatings have often to work in extreme environments, exposed to high temperatures (above 800–900 °C), and/or oxidizing/corrosive atmospheres, which may resist. As a result, it is important to study the behavior of such coatings at high temperatures (thermal stability) and in the presence of oxygen (oxidation resistance). In this sense, we have selected a TiC/a‐C nanocomposite coating with good mechanical and tribological properties in order to do several thermal tests under three different environments: high vacuum (10−6 mbar), low vacuum (10−1 mbar), and air. Our observations allow us to establish that the film microstructure is stable at least up to 1 000 °C in high vacuum. When oxygen is present, the practical temperature of use is reduced at 700 °C (low partial pressure) and 300 °C (air) by formation of Ti oxides and C removal.
Deposition and Microstructural Characterisation of GLC Coatings on AZ31 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Wu Wenwen , Li Xiaoying , Dong Hanshan , Jiang Bailing
Published: May 2009

Magnesium alloy is one of the most attractive light alloys for transportation systems because of their lightness and ease of recycling. However, surface degradation (such as corrosion and wear) is the major technical barrier to their wider applications. To this end, graphite‐like carbon (GLC) coatings were deposited on AZ31 magnesium alloy substrate by closed filed unbalanced magnetron sputtering ion plating and detailed characterisation was carried out using SEM, TEM, XPS and pin‐on‐disc testing. Special attention has been paid to the effect of such critical processing factors as ion cleaning of the substrate, interface layer materials and the bias on the microstructure, interface, coatings/substrate bonding strength and the properties.
Effect of the Substrate Geometry on Plasma Synthesis of DLC Coatings
Authors: Bobzin Kirsten , Bagcivan Nazlim , Goebbels Nico , Yilmaz Koray
Published: May 2009

Diamond like carbon (DLC) coatings provide very good wear protection in application with machine elements like bearings, gears, shafts and chains. Ensuring the coating characteristics and reproducibility of DLC coatings on different geometries are major concerns in industrial application scale. Due to the change in the plasma intensity, the same coating process can result in different mechanical properties on different geometrical substrate shapes. In order to determine the influence of substrate geometry on the coating characteristics the plasma parameters, such as electron temperature and electron density should be determined. This study presents the effect of the substrate geometry on the plasma synthesis of hydrogen free (a‐C) and hydrogen containing (a‐C:H) DLC coatings deposited by magnetron sputter ion plating (MSIP) technology in an industrial coating facility. The electron temperature, plasma potential and electron density are determined by a Langmuir probe at two different substrate geometries, such that one of them has a planar and the other one has an angular surface, which corresponds to the geometries of a bearing and a gear, respectively. The adhesion and the mechanical characteristics, i.e. universal hardness and Young's modulus, of the DLC coatings are determined by scratch test and nanoindentation, respectively. The dependency of the mechanical characteristics on the plasma parameters for different geometrical surfaces is examined and the results are compared. The results show that depending on the plasma gas, either pure argon or mixture of argon and acetylene, the substrate geometry has a significant effect on mechanical properties and adhesion.
Deposition of Thin SiOx Films by Direct Precursor Injection in Atmospheric Pressure Microwave Torch (TIA)
Authors: Asad Syed Salman , Lavoute Jean Pierre , Dublanche‐Tixier Christelle , Jaoul Cédric , Chazelas Christophe , Tristant Pascal , Boisse‐Laporte Caroline
Published: May 2009

An axial injection torch (TIA, Torche à Injection Axiale) contained in an open air deposition chamber has been exploited to deposit thin silicon oxide films. The organosilicon precursor, tetramethylsilane (TMS), was injected directly in the plasma gas. A parametric study was carried out to study the effects of microwave power, precursor quantity and torch to substrate distance on the film deposition process. Inorganic films were obtained without the addition of oxygen in the system as the oxygen got incorporated in the plasma from the open air, as shown by optical spectroscopic studies on the plasma. The deposited films were characterised using different techniques like Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elastic recoil detection analysis (ERDA), Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) and nuclear resonance analysis (NRA). These analyses helped understanding the factors affecting the film deposition process. Results show that at short processing time, low microwave plasma power and precursor quantity at an optimised torch to substrate distance, thin non‐porous hydrogenated silicon oxide‐like films can be deposited at low substrate temperatures of around 370 K using this technique.
Measurements of Deposition Rate and Substrate Heating in a HiPIMS Discharge
Authors: West Glen , Kelly Peter , Barker Clara , Mishra Anurag , Bradley James
Published: May 2009

The thermal energy flux delivered to the substrate position was measured for continuous‐dc, pulsed dc‐ and high‐power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) magnetron discharges at the same time‐averaged discharge powers. These values were subsequently normalised for measured deposition rates. Titanium coatings were grown under the same process conditions and analysed for alterations in crystal structure via X‐ray diffraction. The HiPIMS discharges were found to deliver a significantly lower normalised thermal energy flux to the substrate than both continuous‐dc and pulsed‐dc sputtering, which is of potential benefit in coating temperature‐sensitive substrates; whilst also enabling frequency‐dependent modification of film properties resulting from the ionised deposition flux inherent in this process.
Thickness Control of Coatings by Means of Modulated IR Radiometry
Authors: Macedo Francisco , Vaz Filipe , Fernandes Ana C. , Fotsing Jean L. Nzodoum , Gibkes Juergen , Pelzl Josef , Bein Bruno K.
Published: May 2009

Coatings prepared by reactive magnetron sputtering of approximately equal thermal transport properties but differing coating thicknesses are analyzed by means of non‐contact non‐destructive modulated IR radiometry. For the quantitative interpretation, the measured thermal wave signals are calibrated, using the signals measured for a homogenous opaque solid of smooth surface. The relative minima of the inverse calibrated phase lag signals are interpreted with respect to the effective thermal transport properties and to the coating thickness using an inverse solution of the two‐layer thermal wave problem. Based on measurements of various coatings, the limitations of this thermal wave method and the errors of measurement for the coating thickness are discussed by comparing with microscopic measurements.
Deposition of TiO2‐Based Layer on Textile Substrate: Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Bartoš Petr , Špatenka Petr , Volfová Lenka
Published: May 2009

This paper is aimed on both the experimental and the theoretical study of textile surface modification by the plasma‐enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD). In the first part of this paper we describe experimental measurements of the layer profile that is deposited on the surface of a textile thread. The SEM photos of the TiO2‐based layer on fibres showed that the layer thickness changes significantly with the location of the fibre in the fabric. Although both the layer thickness and its profile are crucial quantities for many technical applications, the detailed description of the layer profile experimentally is almost impossible. Therefore, a computer model was developed that enable us to predict the layer structure on the surface of the thread in fabric. This computer model can be used effectively as a sub‐model in other areas of theoretical research.
Carbon Nanotubes Functionalized in Oxygen and Water Low Pressure Discharges used as Reinforcement of Polyurethane Composites
Authors: Zajíčková Lenka , Kučerová Zuzana , Buršíková Vilma , Eliáš Marek , Houdková Jana , Synek Petr , Maršíková Helena , Jašek Ondřej
Published: May 2009

The functionalization of multi‐walled CNTs in O2/Ar and H2O/Ar low pressure capacitive discharges was studied by XPS and FT‐IR. The pristine and functionalized CNTs were used as fillers in polyurethane paints. Successful plasma functionalization was confirmed by changes in atomic composition and chemical shift of the XPS atomic signals. The functionalization was indicated also by the shift of IR absorption peaks corresponding to the motion of carbon skeleton, especially the peak at about 1 560 cm−1. The presence of carbonyl was confirmed by IR absorption peak at 1 723 cm−1 only for O2/Ar plasma. The plasma functionalized CNTs increased significantly the universal and plastic hardness of the CNTs reinforced polyurethane as compared to the composites with pristine CNTs.
Morphology and Structure of C:Co, C:V, and C:Cu Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Berndt Markus , Krause Matthias , Abrasonis Gintautas , Mücklich Arndt , Munnik Frans , Kolitsch Andreas , Möller Wolfhard
Published: May 2009

The influence of transition metals (TM) type on the encapsulating carbon (C) medium during the growth of C:TM (TM = V, Co and Cu) composite films with a metal content of ∼30 at.‐% grown by ion beam co‐sputtering in the temperature range of RT‐500 °C is investigated by means of X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The nanostructure of both C:TM nanocomposite constituents is strongly affected by the TM type and the growth temperature. The nanoparticle size, shape, and phase depend on these parameters. Raman spectroscopy shows that all three metals enhance six‐fold ring clustering of the carbon phase independent of the nanoparticle type, size, shape and phase, and the effect is most pronounced at lower temperatures.
Systematic approach to incorporate human factors into a process plant design
Authors: Widiputri Diah Indriani , Löwe Katharina , Löher Heinz‐Josef
Published: May 2009

Despite the increasing number of accidents in process industry caused by human error, there are still too few efforts devoted to this area. This is mainly caused by people's tendency to overestimate human's capability in interacting with their working environment and moreover by the unavailability of reliable analysis methods.

Because of the current lack of adequate methods, human factors (HF) analysis is not widely performed in process industry. Some HF techniques developed in the process industry were examined regarding their practical applicability and were unfortunately proved to be unsuitable for an elaborate HF analysis. Therefore, a new approach was developed, which provides a systematic way in performing a qualitative HF analysis to achieve a safer operation and decrease the number of human failure events.

HF consideration during the design of a process plant is the key to minimize accidents caused by human error in process industry. Thus, an approach to incorporate HF into design phase is described in this article, which can help achieving a safer operation as early as possible with minimized costs. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 2009
The important role of pressure in supercritical fluid process development revealed by reaction calorimetry
Authors: Mantelis Charalampos A. , Meyer Thierry
Published: May 2009

The technique of reaction calorimetry adapted for use with reactions in supercritical fluids was used to study some safety aspects of the free‐radical dispersion polymerization of methyl methacrylate in scCO2. The reaction heat rate profile was found to change very little once the dispersion was well formed. Furthermore, it provided valuable information for the calculation of the maximum temperature attainable by the synthesis reaction (MTSR) in the case of a hypothetical cooling system failure. Finally, a series of failure scenarios demonstrated the importance of the pressure as far as the safety of the process is concerned, due to the particularity of the supercritical state of the solvent. It was found that the acceleration phase of the reaction is the most critical period, since a cooling system failure during this phase leaves very little time before the pressure overcomes the operational limit of the equipment and results in an accident. Hence, the utility and the importance of defining the reaction heat rate profile become obvious and several safety features have to be taken into consideration when designing a SCF process. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 2009
Structure dependence of biological activities for primate cathelicidins
Authors: Tomasinsig Linda , Morgera Francesca , Antcheva Nikolinka , Pacor Sabrina , Skerlavaj Barbara , Zanetti Margherita , Tossi Alessandro
Published: May 2009

We have analysed the effects of variations in orang‐utan (ppy), rhesus macaque (mmu) and leaf eater (pob) monkey orthologues of the human cathelicidin LL‐37, on a range of relevant biological activities. These host defence peptides range in cationicity from +4 to +10, and while the more cationic pob and mmuRL‐37 are in a monomeric and unstructured form in bulk solution (F‐form), the human and ppyLL‐37 are in an aggregated/helical form (A‐form). The in vitro antibacterial activity depended strongly on both the structural form and the charge. F‐form peptides were more potent against Gram‐positive and ‐negative bacteria and less salt, medium or serum sensitive than A‐form ones. CD studies suggested that A‐ and F‐form peptides interact with LPS in different manners, but the ability to detoxify it did not correlate directly with either the charge or structure. Toxicity towards eukaryotic cells also showed a varied dependence on the peptides' physical characteristics. Haemolytic activity was similar for all the tested peptides while other cytotoxicity assays revealed the highly cationic, F‐form pobRL‐37 as the most toxic, followed by the A‐form human LL‐37. As shown with the human peptide, toxicity depended markedly on the nature and metabolic state of the target cell. Our results suggest that different evolutionary trajectories for each orthologue lead to distinct sets of physical characteristics, which significantly differentiates their biological activities. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of Malaysian endophytes
Authors: Ramasamy Kalavathy , Lim Siong Meng , Bakar Hamidah Abu , Ismail Noorliana , Ismail Maria Suhana , Ali Muhamad Fuad , Faizal Weber Jean‐Frédéric , Cole Anthony L. J.
Published: May 2009

Endophytes, which are receiving increasing attention, have been found to be potential sources of bioactive metabolites following the discovery of paclitaxel producing endophytic fungi. In the present study, a total of 348 endophytes were isolated from different parts of 24 Malaysian medicinal plants. Three selected endophytes (HAB10R12, HAB11R3 and HAB21F25) were investigated for their antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities. For antimicrobial activity, HAB10R12 and HAB11R3 were found to be most active against bacteria and fungi, respectively. Their antimicrobial effects were comparable to, if not better than, a number of current commercial antibacterial and antifungal agents. Both HAB10R12 and HAB21F25 were found to be potential anticancer drug candidates, having potent activity against MCF‐7 and HCT116 cell lines and warrant further investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.