bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience factors in families living with people with mental illnesses
Authors: Jonker Liezl , Greeff Abraham P.
Published: August 2009

In South Africa, a substantial burden is placed on families living with people with mental illnesses. The aim of this study was to identify resilience factors in families living in an underprivileged area, caring for people with mental illnesses. Data was obtained from family representatives (N=34) using semistructured interviews and a set of seven self‐report, quantitative questionnaires during the course of a once‐off interview. The results of the qualitative analysis show that the most commonly cited resilience factors are religion and spirituality, and personal characteristics of individual family members. Both these factors were cited by 67.6% of the participants. The results of the Spearman correlations showed that the factor that displayed the strongest relationship with family adaptation was the quality of communication in the family unit. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Community violence exposure and aggression among urban adolescents: testing a cognitive mediator model
Authors: McMahon Susan D. , Felix Erika D. , Halpert Jane A. , Petropoulos Lara A. N.
Published: August 2009

Past research has shown that exposure to violence leads to aggressive behavior, but few community‐based studies have examined theoretical models illustrating the mediating social cognitive processes that explain this relation with youth exposed to high rates of violence. This study examines the impact of community violence on behavior through cognitive mediators: normative beliefs about aggression and self‐efficacy to control aggression. Self‐report surveys were completed by two samples (cross‐sectional and longitudinal) of early adolescent, urban African American youth. Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate a theoretical model, and results demonstrated a good fit with both samples; that is more exposure to community violence was associated with more retaliatory beliefs supporting aggression, which led to less self‐efficacy to control aggression, which led to more aggressive behavior. These findings are examined in the context of community factors, and implications for prevention and intervention are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cubic graphs with most automorphisms
Authors: van Opstall Rev. Michael A. , Veliche Răzvan
Published: August 2009

We give a sharp bound for the order of the automorphism group of a connected simple cubic graph on a given number of vertices. For each number of vertices we construct a graph, unique in special cases, attaining the bound. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 64: 99–115, 2010
Base pairs and pseudo pairs observed in RNA–ligand complexes
Authors: Kondo Jiro , Westhof Eric
Published: August 2009

Previously, a geometric nomenclature was proposed in which RNA base pairs were classified by their interaction edges (Watson–Crick, Hoogsteen or sugar‐edge) and the glycosidic bond orientations relative to the hydrogen bonds formed (cis or trans). Here, base pairs and pseudo pairs observed in RNA–ligand complexes are classified in a similar manner. Twenty‐one basic geometric families are geometrically possible (18 for base pairs formed between a nucleic acid base and a ligand containing heterocycle and 3 families for pseudo pairs). Of those, 16 of them have been observed in X‐ray and/or NMR structures. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A high‐throughput method for controlled hot‐spot fabrication in SERS‐active gold nanoparticle dimer arrays
Authors: Alexander Kristen D. , Hampton Meredith J. , Zhang Shunping , Dhawan Anuj , Xu Hongxing , Lopez Rene
Published: August 2009

We present a high‐throughput method for fabricating large arrays of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) active gold dimers. Using a large‐area/low‐cost nanopatterning method in conjunction with a meniscus force deposition technique, we were able to create large arrays of uniformly spaced nanoclusters comprising two 60‐nm gold nanospheres. Raman measurements of a thiophenol monolayer deposited on smaller scale arrays of aligned dimers yielded enhancement factors as high as 109. Polarization‐controlled measurements show spectral peak heights to be 10–100 times smaller when the incident beam is polarized perpendicularly to the dimer axis, confirming that the measured enhancements arise from the ‘hot spots’ between the two nanospheres. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering and density functional theory studies of bis(4‐aminophenyl)sulfone
Authors: Diaz‐Fleming Guillermo , Célis Freddy , Fredes Carlos , Campos‐Vallette Marcelo , Aliaga Alvaro E. , Koch Rainer
Published: August 2009

Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of dapsone by using colloidal silver nanoparticles have been recorded. Density functional theory was used for the optimization of ground state geometries and simulation of the vibrational spectrum of this molecule. The SERS spectrum with a large silver cluster as a model metallic surface was simulated for the first time. Taking into account the experimental and calculated Raman as well as the SERS normal modes and the corresponding assignments, along with the modeling of the free dapsone and the one in the presence of the colloidal silver nanoparticles, the importance of the sulfone group on the SERS effect in dapsone was inferred. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The comparison of biosorption of nutritionally significant minerals in single‐ and multi‐mineral systems by the edible microalga Spirulina sp.
Authors: Zieliñska Agnieszka , Chojnacka Katarzyna
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: This paper deals with the biosorption process as a method of enrichment of natural biomass of the edible microalga Spirulina sp. with microelement metal ions, which is of significance in terms of animal nutrition. The influence of the following process parameters was studied for the biosorption of Cr(III): pH and biomass concentration on kinetics and equilibrium of biosorption. The enrichment process were performed in single‐ and multi‐mineral systems for nutritionally significant minerals such as Cu(II), Mn(II), Co(II), Zn(II) and Cr(III) under the conditions that were determined for Cr(III).

RESULTS: The best operational parameters for the process were selected as pH 5 and Cs 1 g L−1. The maximum biosorption capacity 71.2 mg g−1, 18.4 mg g−1, 83.9 mg g−1, 31. 8 mg g−1 and 26.5 mg g−1, were reached for Cu(II), Mn(II), Co(II), Zn(II) and Cr(III), respectively. To cover 100% of animal demand on microelements, 4.91 g of the preparation for laying hens and 9 g for swine of enriched microalgae in the single‐metal system should be added to 1 kg of fodder. In the multi‐metal system the competition between microelements was high enough to make it impossible to reach a suitable ratio between bound metal ions.

CONCLUSIONS: Two methods of production of mineral feed additives were proposed: a single‐metal system and a multi‐metal system. Performing the biosorption process in the single‐metal system enabled the preparation of additives with the desired composition. Carrying out biosorption in the multi‐metal system is easier, technologically, but the ratio of bound microelements is difficult to predict. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of Maillard reaction conditions on the antigenicity of bovine α‐lactalbumin using response surface methodology
Authors: Bu Guanhao , Lu Jing , Zheng Zhe , Luo Yongkang
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Maillard reaction can modify functional properties of proteins. Bovine α‐lactalbumin (α‐LA) is often supplemented to the new generation of infant formulae, but it is considered to be a main allergen. However, there is little information on the effect of Maillard reaction on α‐LA antigenicity. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of Maillard reaction on the antigenicity of α‐LA in conjugates of whey protein isolate (WPI) with glucose under different conditions of protein/sugar weight ratio (0.17–7.83), temperature (40–60 °C) and time (24–120 h) using response surface methodology.

RESULTS: Conjugation of WPI with glucose markedly reduced the antigenicity of α‐LA. This reduction in antigenicity could be controlled by regulating the three independent variables weight ratio, temperature and time. A model of optimal reaction conditions for lower antigenicity of α‐LA was established. According to the model, the minimum antigenicity of α‐LA was achieved at 52.8 °C, 78 h and 5.96:1 WPI/glucose weight ratio. WPI/glucose weight ratio had the greatest effect on the antigenicity of α‐LA, while reaction temperature influenced α‐LA antigenicity to a lesser extent.

CONCLUSION: Well‐controlled Maillard reaction between WPI and glucose is an efficient method to reduce α‐LA antigencity. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Hemostatic Efficacy of Biological Self‐Assembling Peptide Nanofibers in a Rat Kidney Model
Authors: Song Hong , Zhang Lanlan , Zhao Xiaojun
Published: August 2009

We evaluated the hemostatic efficacy of a biological self‐assembling peptide RADA16‐I in a rat kidney injury model. Adult male rats were randomized into five groups: sham operation (no renal excision), no hemostatic agent (control), commercially available gelatin sponge (Gelfoam), 1% RADA16‐I, and 2% RADA16‐I. After left partial nephrectomy, the anesthetized animal was anticoagulated using 300 IU · kg−1 heparin, and the topical hemostatic agent was applied to the injury. Blood loss and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded. As was the case for Gelfoam, 2% RADA16‐I produced marked hemostasis versus controls (p < 0.01). Blood loss with 1% and 2% RADA16‐I was significantly less than controls. The decline in MAP during surgery was less with 2% versus 1% RADA16‐I. RADA16‐I also resulted in less histological tissue responses than Gelfoam. These data suggest that RADA16‐I can stop hemorrhage, with only minimal tissue responses, in experimental renal injury.

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Initiation of chloride‐induced corrosion of steel in concrete: role of the interfacial zone
Authors: Page C. L.
Published: August 2009

This paper provides a brief review of research aimed at characterising the steel–concrete interfacial zone (SCIZ) and its influence on the susceptibility of the metal to pitting corrosion when concrete is exposed to environments that cause ingress of chloride ions accompanied by leaching of hydroxyl ions. For reinforced concrete made from Portland cements, exposed to aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, the buffering effect of solid calcium hydroxide (portlandite) at pH ∼12.6 has been shown to restrain the gradual decline in the hydroxyl ion concentration of the concrete pore solution phase at depths corresponding to the embedded steel. When the concrete is produced under laboratory conditions that are carefully controlled to exclude macroscopic defects from the SCIZ and the steel is cleaned before being embedded, this can lead to observed chloride threshold levels being consistently greater than 1% chloride by mass of cement. The buffering action of cement hydration products formed in the SCIZ is believed to be partly responsible for this high tolerance to chloride‐induced corrosion because it counters the generation of ‘anodic acidity’ that is a necessary condition for stable growth of pits to occur. Translating this behaviour of laboratory specimens to the performance of full‐scale reinforced concrete structures has often proved difficult in the past and there is a need for further research in this area, particularly in relation to the role of non‐traditional cements.
Analysis of the variability of chloride threshold values in the literature
Authors: Alonso M. C. , Sanchez M.
Published: August 2009

Efforts are being devoted in standards and construction codes in order to give rules and guidelines for designing durable structures. Also efforts are focused in developing the models in a more accurate approach to the calculation of the service life of concrete structures. Service life models consider that reinforced concrete exposed to chloride polluted environments initiate corrosion when a certain amount of chlorides arrives to the rebar surface. The so‐called chloride threshold level is considered as an essential parameter for assessing the probability of reinforcement corrosion, and becomes one of the key parameters needed for service life prediction, being of interest to have testing methods and expressions to introduce in the models. Numerous studies have been carried out to establish a critical chloride level for the onset of corrosion, but a wide range of chloride threshold values has been suggested which makes not feasible to define a single value. Present paper includes the analysis of the variability of the chloride threshold values published in the literature. Data from mortar and concrete and from laboratory and field exposure are compiled and included in the analysis. The influence of the testing method used for determination and several variables are considered.
Poly(sulfonated phenylene)‐block‐Polyimide Copolymers for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Bi Huiping , Chen Shouwen , Chen Xinbing , Chen Kangcheng , Endo Nobutaka , Higa Mitsuru , Okamoto Kenichi , Wang Lianjun
Published: August 2009

Novel poly(2‐(3‐sulfo)benzoyl‐1,4‐phenylene)‐block‐polynaphthalimide (PSP‐b‐PI) copolymers were successfully synthesized by Ni(0)‐catalyzed copolymerization of 2,5‐dichloro‐3′‐sulfo‐benzophenone and dichloro‐terminated naphthalimide oligomer. The membranes exhibited a microphase‐separated structure and good hydrolytic stability at 130 °C. They showed a fairly strong anisotropy of membrane swelling with much smaller in‐plane swelling, but a rather weak anisotropy of proton conductivity. The membranes had a fairly high through‐plane conductivity in water and even under low relative humidity. The PSP‐b‐PI copolymer with an IEC of 1.5 meq · g−1 showed high PEFC performance due to the high through‐plane conductivity.

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Tremor in 48,XXYY syndrome
Authors: Tartaglia Nicole , Borodyanskya Mariya , Hall Deborah A.
Published: August 2009

The 48,XXYY syndrome is a form of sex chromosome aneuploidy presenting in 1:18,000 males. Tremor has been previously reported in 47,XXY and 47,XYY syndromes, but has not been well described in 48,XXYY syndrome. Ten males with 48,XXYY syndrome had a standardized neurological examination and videotaping, which included the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor and the International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale. All 10 cases had postural and kinetic tremor on physical examination. Other findings included mild gait ataxia, dysarthria, and nystagmus. Three cases are reviewed. Tremor is a common finding in children and young adults with 48,XXYY syndrome. Dosage alteration of genes on the sex chromosomes may be involved in the pathogenesis of this tremor. Karyotyping should be considered in individuals presenting with tremor and a history of developmental delay, learning disabilities, tall stature, or microorchidism. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Cognitive disturbances in primary blepharospasm
Authors: Alemán Gabriela Gonzalez , de Erausquin Gabriel A. , Micheli Federico
Published: August 2009

The common belief that primary dystonia is a purely motor disorder with no anatomical substrate and no other accompanying neurological dysfunction has recently been challenged. In addition, there is increasing evidence that the basal ganglia besides motor control, plays a role in cognitive functioning. However, no systematic cognitive performance evaluation has been carried out in patients with primary blepharospasm (BS), one of the most common forms of adult dystonia. We evaluated a series of 20 patients with primary BS and a group of 17 controls matched by severity of mood symptoms, age, and sex. BS patients performed significantly worse on the Luria sequencing test, Purdue pegboard test, reciprocal coordination, tactile denomination, and reverse visuospatial span and the differences persisted after correction for age, duration of disease, severity of BS, and degree of depression. The Wisconsin card sorting test showed no statistical difference, but BS patients made more errors and more perseverative answers than expected according to population means, whereas the control group performed poorly but within normal parameters. Our findings suggest broad cortical involvement in focal dystonia that is not correlated with the severity or duration of dystonia. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Meta‐analyses of agreement between diagnoses made from clinical evaluations and standardized diagnostic interviews
Authors: Rettew David C. , Lynch Alicia Doyle , Achenbach Thomas M. , Dumenci Levent , Ivanova Masha Y.
Published: August 2009

Standardized diagnostic interviews (SDIs) have become de facto gold standards for clinical research. However, because clinical practitioners seldom use SDIs, it is essential to determine how well SDIs agree with clinical diagnoses. In meta‐analyses of 38 articles published from 1995 to 2006 (N = 15,967 probands), mean kappas (z‐transformed) between diagnoses from clinical evaluations versus SDIs were 0.27 for a broad category of all disorders, 0.29 for externalizing disorders, and 0.28 for internalizing disorders. Kappas for specific disorders ranged from 0.19 for generalized anxiety disorder to 0.86 for anorexia nervosa (median = 0.48). For diagnostic clusters (e.g. psychotic disorders), kappas ranged from 0.14 for affective disorders (including bipolar) to 0.70 for eating disorders (median = 0.43). Kappas were significantly higher for outpatients than inpatients and for children than adults. However, these effects were not significant in meta‐regressions. Conclusions: Diagnostic agreement between SDIs and clinical evaluations varied widely by disorder and was low to moderate for most disorders. Thus, findings from SDIs may not fully apply to diagnoses based on clinical evaluations of the sort used in the published studies. Rather than implying that SDIs or clinical evaluations are inferior, characteristics of both may limit agreement and generalizability from SDI findings to clinical practice. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensitivity and specificity of univariate MRI analysis of experimentally degraded cartilage
Authors: Lin Ping‐Chang , Reiter David A. , Spencer Richard G.
Published: August 2009

MRI is increasingly used to evaluate cartilage in tissue constructs, explants, and animal and patient studies. However, while mean values of MR parameters, including T1, T2, magnetization transfer rate km, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and the dGEMRIC‐derived fixed charge density, correlate with tissue status, the ability to classify tissue according to these parameters has not been explored. Therefore, the sensitivity and specificity with which each of these parameters was able to distinguish between normal and trypsin‐degraded, and between normal and collagenase‐degraded, cartilage explants were determined. Initial analysis was performed using a training set to determine simple group means to which parameters obtained from a validation set were compared. T1 and apparent diffusion coefficient showed the greatest ability to discriminate between normal and degraded cartilage. Further analysis with k‐means clustering, which eliminates the need for a priori identification of sample status, generally performed comparably. Use of fuzzy c‐means (FCM) clustering to define centroids likewise did not result in improvement in discrimination. Finally, an FCM clustering approach in which validation samples were assigned in a probabilistic fashion to control and degraded groups was implemented, reflecting the range of tissue characteristics seen with cartilage degradation. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of unilateral electromyostimulation superimposed on voluntary training on strength and cross‐sectional area
Authors: Bezerra Pedro , Zhou Shi , Crowley Zachary , Brooks Lyndon , Hooper Andrew
Published: August 2009

In this study we investigate the effects of unilateral voluntary contraction (VC) and electromyostimulation superimposed on VC (EV) training on maximal voluntary (MVC) force and cross‐sectional area (CSA), as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging of knee extensors. Thirty young men were randomly assigned to either a control group (CG), VC group (VG), or EV group (EVG). The VG and EVG trained the right leg isometrically three sessions per week for 6 weeks. After training, MVC increased in the right leg in the VG and in both legs in the EVG, and EVG was significantly different from CG (all P < 0.01). Increased CSA was found only in the right leg in the VG and EVG (P < 0.01), and correlated with improvements of MVC (r = 0.49, P = 0.01). It appeared that the EV training was equally effective as VC at increasing MVC and CSA, while having a greater cross‐education effect. Increased strength without muscle hypertrophy in the unexercised leg of the EVG indicated that neural adaptation was responsible for the cross‐education effect. Muscle Nerve 40: 430–437, 2009
New product introduction against a predator: A bilevel mixed‐integer programming approach
Authors: Smith J. Cole , Lim Churlzu , Alptekinoğlu Aydın
Published: August 2009

We consider a scenario with two firms determining which products to develop and introduce to the market. In this problem, there exists a finite set of potential products and market segments. Each market segment has a preference list of products and will buy its most preferred product among those available. The firms play a Stackelberg game in which the leader firm first introduces a set of products, and the follower responds with its own set of products. The leader's goal is to maximize its profit subject to a product introduction budget, assuming that the follower will attempt to minimize the leader's profit using a budget of its own. We formulate this problem as a multistage integer program amenable to decomposition techniques. Using this formulation, we develop three variations of an exact mathematical programming method for solving the multistage problem, along with a family of heuristic procedures for estimating the follower solution. The efficacy of our approaches is demonstrated on randomly generated test instances. This article contributes to the operations research literature a multistage algorithm that directly addresses difficulties posed by degeneracy, and contributes to the product variety literature an exact optimization algorithm for a novel competitive product introduction problem. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2009
Morley type non‐C0 nonconforming rectangular plate finite elements on anisotropic meshes
Authors: Shi Dongyang , Xie Pingli
Published: August 2009

In this article, two Morley type non‐C0 nonconforming rectangular finite elements are discussed to numerically solve the fourth order plate bending problem under anisotropic meshes. The optimal anisotropic interpolation error and consistency error estimates are obtained by using some novel approaches. Some numerical tests are given to confirm the theoretical analysis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2010
A numerical study of 2D integrated RBFNs incorporating Cartesian grids for solving 2D elliptic differential problems
Authors: Mai‐Duy N. , Tran‐Cong T.
Published: August 2009

This article reports a numerical discretization scheme, based on two‐dimensional integrated radial‐basis‐function networks (2D‐IRBFNs) and rectangular grids, for solving second‐order elliptic partial differential equations defined on 2D nonrectangular domains. Unlike finite‐difference and 1D‐IRBFN Cartesian‐grid techniques, the present discretization method is based on an approximation scheme that allows the field variable and its derivatives to be evaluated anywhere within the domain and on the boundaries, regardless of the shape of the problem domain. We discuss the following two particular strengths, which the proposed Cartesian‐grid‐based procedure possesses, namely (i) the implementation of Neumann boundary conditions on irregular boundaries and (ii) the use of high‐order integration schemes to evaluate flux integrals arising from a control‐volume discretization on irregular domains. A new preconditioning scheme is suggested to improve the 2D‐IRBFN matrix condition number. Good accuracy and high‐order convergence solutions are obtained. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2010
Application of adapted homotopy perturbation method for approximate solution of Henon‐Heiles system
Authors: Taşcan Filiz , Özer Mehmet Naci
Published: August 2009

We performed adapted homotopy perturbation method on the Henon‐Heiles system with the help of the symbolic computation of package Maple 10 (User Manual by Maplesoft. www.maplesoft.com). We obtained a new approximate solution of the Henon‐Heiles system. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2010
Numerical investigation of the solution of Fisher's equation via the B‐spline Galerkin method
Authors: Dağ İdris , Şahin Ali , Korkmaz Alper
Published: August 2009

The Galerkin method is used with quadratic B‐spline base functions to obtain the numerical solutions of Fisher's equation which is a one dimensional reaction‐diffusion equation. To observe the effects of reaction and diffusion, four test problems related to pulse disturbance, step disturbance, super‐speed wave and strong reaction are studied. A comparison is performed between the obtained numerical results and some earlier studies. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2010
Development and initial psychometric evaluation of the Patient Perspective of Arrhythmia Questionnaire
Authors: Wood Kathryn A. , Stewart Anita L. , Drew Barbara J. , Scheinman Melvin M. , Frolicher Erika S.
Published: August 2009

There are no disease‐specific questionnaires to measure patient sensitive outcomes in arrhythmia patients. We report the development and preliminary psychometric testing of the Patient Perception of Arrhythmia Questionnaire (PPAQ). The PPAQ was developed using formative research, exploratory factor analysis, expert review, pilot study, and regression. The PPAQ measures frequency and duration of episodes, symptoms, impact on daily activities, and restricted activity days. After preliminary content validation, the sensitivity of the PPAQ was tested in 103 arrhythmia patients. The measures showed good sensitivity and reliability. Preliminary construct validation was supported by significant differences (p < .001) among groups of arrhythmia patients consistent with clinical patterns. Preliminary evidence from patients with supraventricular arrhythmias suggests that the questionnaire has acceptable psychometrics and could be useful in future studies of arrhythmia patients. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:504–516, 2009
Occupational therapy students' attitudes towards inclusion education in Australia, United Kingdom, United States and Taiwan
Authors: Mu Keli , Brown Ted , Peyton Claudia G. , Rodger Sylvia , Huang Yan‐Hua , Wu Chin‐Yu , Watson Callie , Stagnitti Karen , Hutton Eve , Casey Jackie , Hong Chia Swee
Published: August 2009

This international, cross‐cultural study investigated the attitudes of occupational therapy students from Australia, United Kingdom, United States and Taiwan towards inclusive education for students with disabilities. The possible impact of professional education on students' attitudes was also explored. A total of 485 students from 11 entry‐level occupational therapy education programmes from Australia, the United Kingdom, the United Sates and Taiwan participated in the study. Among them, 264 were freshmen (first‐year students) and 221 were seniors (final‐year students). Data collected from a custom‐designed questionnaire were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively.

In general, the occupational therapy students reported having positive attitudes towards inclusion. Considerable differences, however, existed among the student groups from the four countries. Professional education appeared to have a significant impact on students' attitudes towards inclusion from first year to senior year. Although students were in favour of inclusion, they also cautioned that their support for inclusive practices depended on various factors such as adequate preparation, support and assistance to students with disabilities.

Limitations of the study included the small, convenience sample and different degree structures of the participating programmes. Future research studies need to compare occupational therapy students' attitudes with students from other health care professions. A longitudinal study on the impact of the professional education programme on students' attitudes towards inclusive education is warranted. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanical properties and foaming behavior of cellulose fiber reinforced high‐density polyethylene composites
Authors: Kuboki Takashi , Lee Yoon H. , Park Chul B. , Sain Mohini
Published: August 2009

This article investigates the effects of fiber length and maleated polymers on the mechanical properties and foaming behavior of cellulose fiber reinforced high‐density polyethylene composites. The results from the mechanical tests suggested that long fibers provided higher flexural and impact properties than short fibers. In addition, the maleated high‐density polyethylene increased flexural strength significantly, while the maleated thermoplastic elastormers increased notched Izod impact strength dramatically. On the other hand, the results from the extrusion foaming indicated that the composites with long and short fibers demonstrated similar cell morphology, i.e., a similar average cell size and cell size distribution. However, the addition of maleated high‐density polyethylene caused an increase of the average cell size and cell size distribution in the composites. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Extraction and characterization of natural cellulose fibers from common milkweed stems
Authors: Reddy Narendra , Yang Yiqi
Published: August 2009

Natural cellulose fibers with cellulose content, strength, and elongation higher than that of milkweed floss and between that of cotton and linen have been obtained from the stems of common milkweed plants. Although milkweed floss is a unique natural cellulose fiber with low density, the short length and low elongation make milkweed floss unsuitable as a textile fiber. The possibility of using the stems of milkweed plant as a source for natural cellulose fibers was explored in this research. Natural cellulose fibers extracted from milkweed stems have been characterized for their composition, structure, and properties. Fibers obtained from milkweed stems have about 75% cellulose, higher than the cellulose in milkweed floss but lower than that in cotton and linen. Milkweed stem fibers have low % crystallinity when compared with cotton and linen but the strength of the fibers is similar to cotton and elongation is higher than that of linen fibers. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and analysis of properties of a new core–shell silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate latex
Authors: Junyan Liang , Ling He , Weidong Li , Hongjie Luo
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate copolymers are potential materials for use in the protection of ancient stone buildings. In the work reported in this paper, a new core–shell silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate latex was prepared through grafting of a fluoroacrylate copolymer latex with polysiloxane.

RESULTS: The core–shell silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate latex was successfully synthesized by seed emulsion polymerization and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) ring‐opening polymerization in the presence of a mixed emulsifier consisting of a non‐ionic emulsifier and a novel fluorine‐containing anionic emulsifier sodium perfluoro‐octane sulfonate. Transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, static contact angle measurements and scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray analysis showed that when the D4 content was controlled at 2.84–4.36 wt%, the silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate latex presented a uniform sphere core‐shell structure and had strong hydrophobic and oleophobic characters due to the association of both fluorine and silicon atoms on the latex film surface. The film cross‐section exhibited uniform and dense microstructure without any phase segregation. Additionally, thermogravimetric analysis and tensile test results indicated that all the silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate copolymers displayed better thermal stability and higher flexibility.

CONCLUSION: The synthetic core–shell silicon‐containing fluoroacrylate latex showed excellent surface properties, thermal stability and flexibility, and has encouraging prospects in application as a protective coating. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis of azobenzene‐functionalized two‐arm, three‐arm and four‐arm telomers using polyfunctional chain transfer agents
Authors: Alam Md Zahangir , Ogata Tomonari , Nonaka Takamasa , Kurihara Seiji
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Star‐shaped polymers are very attractive because of their interesting properties such as reduced viscosity, good solubility, low glass transition temperature and fast response to external stimuli. The incorporation of azobenzene moieties in star‐shaped polymers could significantly widen their potential applications in various optical devices. One of the most important properties of the azobenzene chromophore is its reversible trans–cis photoisomerization induced by UV or visible light. Photoisomerization induces conformational changes in azopolymer chains, which in turn lead to macroscopic variations in chemical and physical properties of the surroundings and media.

RESULTS: This study reports the synthesis of azobenzene‐functionalized two‐, three‐ and four‐arm telomers via free radical telomerization using the di‐, tri‐ and tetrafunctional chain transfer agents 1,2‐ and 1,4‐benzenedimethanethiol, trimethylolpropane‐tris(2‐mercaptoacetate) and pentaerythritol‐tetrakis(3‐mercaptopropionate), respectively, in the presence of azobisisobutyronitrile. Azotelomers were characterized using gel permeation chromatography and 1H NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermal phase transition behaviors were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscopy. Azotelomers synthesized in this study showed reversible photoisomerization and a fast generation of birefringence.

CONCLUSION: Considering the photoisomerization behavior and birefringence of the two‐, three‐ and four‐arm azotelomers, it can be concluded that they could be potential candidates for use in various optical devices. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Protein chip analysis of pluripotency‐associated proteins in NIH3T3 fibroblast
Authors: Ajjappala Brijesh S. , Kim Myung‐Sun , Kim Eung‐Yoon , Kim Jae‐Hwan , Kang In‐Cheol , Baek Kwang‐Hyun
Published: August 2009

Specific transcription factors regulate the totipotent and pluripotent capability of embryonic stem cells. Amongst these regulatory transcription factors in embryonic stem cells, Oct4 and Nanog are master factors that also have unique characteristic ability of cell‐specific pluripotency and self‐renewal. The expression of Nanog in fibroblasts confirms increased cell proliferation and transformation of foci‐forming phenotype indicative of its oncogenic potential. The expression of Oct4, interestingly, leads to transformation of non‐tumorgenic mouse into tumorigenic mouse. Our current investigation ascertains that the resultant increase in DNA synthesis and cell proliferation is the consequence of transforming the phenotype into foci formation. We used a manually curetted ProteoChip to carry out the signaling protein microarray analysis, which revealed up‐regulated expression of various proteins including FAK1, MEK1 and Raf1. Some of the proteins explain the mechanism by which Oct4 and Nanog transform the phenotype. In NIH3T3 cells expressed with mouse Oct4 (mOct4), mouse Nanog (mNanog) separately as well as together, the specific knockdown of mFAK1 inhibited morphological transformation of the cells, and their invasion activity. The mFAK1 overexpression leads to morphological transformation as shown with mOct4 and mNanog. Additionally, we showed that the ERK1/2 pathway is involved in the up‐regulation of c‐myc and cyclin D1 expression mediated by mFAK1. Our results signify that the combinatorial signaling protein‐array using biomolecular approach may possibly provide us with a new tool to understand cellular homeostasis.
Proteomic characterization of Phragmites communis in ecotypes of swamp and desert dune
Authors: Cui Suxia , Hu Jia , Yang Bin , Shi Lu , Huang Fang , Tsai Sau‐Na , Ngai Sai‐Ming , He Yikun , Zhang Jianhua
Published: August 2009

Phragmites communis Trin. (common reed) is a recognized model plant for studying its adaptation to contrasting and harsh environments. To understand the inherent molecular basis for its remarkable resistance to combined stresses, we performed a comprehensive proteomic analysis of the leaf proteins from two ecotypes, i.e. swamp and desert dune, naturally growing in the desert region of northwestern China. First, a proteome reference map of Phragmites was established based on the swamp ecotype. Proteins were resolved by 2‐D/SDS‐PAGE and identified by MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS. In total, 177 spots were identified corresponding to 51 proteins. The major proteins identified are proteins involved in photosynthesis, glutathione and ascorbic acid metabolism as well as protein synthesis and quality control. Second, the 2‐DE profiles of the two ecotypes were compared quantitatively via DIGE analysis. Compared with swamp ecotype, 51 proteins spots are higher‐expressed and 58 protein spots are lower‐expressed by twofold or more in desert dune ecotype. Major differences were found for the proteins involved in light reaction of photosynthesis, protein biosynthesis and quality control and antioxidative reactions. The physiological significance of such differences is discussed in the context of a flow of complex events in relation to plant adaptation to combined environmental stresses.
Application of iTRAQ to catalogue the skeletal muscle proteome in pigs and assessment of effects of gender and diet dephytinization
Authors: Hakimov Hatam A. , Walters Sandra , Wright Tom C. , Meidinger Roy G. , Verschoor Chris P. , Gadish Moshe , Chiu David K. Y. , Strömvik Martina V. , Forsberg Cecil W. , Golovan Serguei P.
Published: August 2009

In this study iTRAQ was used to produce a highly confident catalogue of 542 proteins identified in porcine muscle (false positive<5%). To our knowledge this is the largest reported set of skeletal muscle proteins in livestock. Comparison with human muscle proteome demonstrated a low level of false positives with 83% of the proteins common to both proteomes. In addition, for the first time we assess variations in the muscle proteome caused by sexually dimorphic gene expression and diet dephytinization. Preliminary analysis identified 19 skeletal muscle proteins differentially expressed between male and female pigs (≥1.2‐fold, p<0.05), but only one of them, GDP‐dissociation inhibitor 1, was significant (p<0.05) after false discovery rate correction. Diet dephytinization affected expression of 20 proteins (p<0.05). This study would contribute to an evaluation of the suitability of the pig as a model to study human gender‐related differences in gene expression. Transgenic pigs used in this study might also serve as a useful model to understand changes in human physiology resulting from diet dephytinization.
Dinuclear Zn(II) catalysts as biomimics of RNA and DNA phosphoryl transfer enzymes: changing the medium from water to alcohol provides enzyme‐like rate enhancements
Authors: Brown R. Stan , Lu Zhong‐Lin , Liu C. Tony , Tsang Wing Yin , Edwards David R. , Neverov Alexei A.
Published: August 2009

Phosphodiesters are notoriously hydrolytically inert compounds that are demonstrated to have large accelerations of P‐OR cleavage promoted by transition and lanthanide metal ions in methanol and ethanol media. This review commentary describes recent findings of how a simple mononuclear and a dinuclear Zn(II) complex promote the cleavage of a series of RNA models and DNA models in alcohol media. The discussion centers on the analysis of the mechanisms of cleavage, energetics of the catalytic process, on recent findings of electrophilic assistance of leaving group departure, and the observation of a rapid hydrolytic reaction of a DNA model promoted by the dinuclear Zn(II) complex in ethanol containing less than 2% water. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of new neutral organic super‐electron donors: a theoretical study
Authors: Wang Hua‐Jing , Shi Jing , Fang Ming , Li Zhe , Guo Qing‐Xiang
Published: August 2009

For the purpose of designing new functional super‐electron donors (SEDs), the structure and stability of analogous tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) compounds are investigated and compared with those of the parent TTF by quantum chemistry calculations. Density functional theory (DFT) method B3LYP in combination with the polarized continuum model (PCM) is employed to compute the standard redox potentials ($E_{{\rm redox}}^{\rm o} $) of about 80 neutral organic SEDs in acetonitrile. Theoretical models are evaluated through correlation with 40 available experimental data. Excellent agreement between the theoretical predictions and experimental data is found with a mean absolute deviation of 0.08 V. Furthermore, we designed new species related to tetraazafulvalene (TAF) and evaluated their redox potential in search of new SEDs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Systematic conformational search analysis of the SRR and RRR epimers of 7‐hydroxymatairesinol
Authors: Li Manni Giovanni , Barone Giampaolo , Duca Dario , Murzin Dmitry Yu.
Published: August 2009

An extensive and systematic conformational search was performed on the two epimers of the natural lignan 7‐hydroxymatairesinol (HMR), by means of a home‐made Systematic Conformational Search Analysis (SCSA) code, designed to select more and more stable conformers through sequential geometry optimization of trial structures at increasing levels of calculation theory. In the present case, the starting molecular structures were selected by the semi‐empirical AM1 method and filtered – i.e. decreased in number by choosing the more stable species – on the basis of their energy calculated by the HF method and the 6‐31G(d) basis set. The geometries obtained were further refined by performing density functional theory (DFT) optimizations, using the B3LYP functional and the 6‐31G(d,p) basis set, both in vacuo and in ethanol solution. This procedure allowed us to isolate, at a high level of theory, three groups of epimer conformers characterized by open, semi‐folded, and folded conformations. Moreover, the SCSA allowed us to describe a conformational space made‐up by about 20 species for each of the two epimers. The corresponding energy content of these species was within 27 kJ mol−1 from the absolute minimum found, both in vacuo and in ethanol solution. The conformational analysis, followed by the inspection of the stereochemistry of the two most stable conformers of both epimers, provides support in rationalizing the proposed reaction mechanism of the catalytic hydrogenolysis of the HMR to matairesinol (MAT). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanistic studies of oxidation reactions by fluorescence spectroscopy: a critical assessment
Authors: Schmitt Alexander , Hinkeldey Babette , Hötzer Benjamin , Jung Gregor
Published: August 2009

The synthesis and properties of a ratiometric fluorescent dye system as a probe for the detection of oxidizing species are described. The dye consists of a strongly fluorescent Bodipy label attached to a styryl moiety. The oxidation of the exocyclic double bond by agents for syn‐ and anti‐ dihydroxylation leads to a visible change in fluorescence colour from orange to green. IR spectroscopy provides evidence for the generation of the epoxide in the reaction with peroxides, whereas a ketone and a product of unknown structure are produced in the reaction with osmiumtetroxide, each in contrast to the expected hydroxylations. Based on these first attempts, we discuss the significance of fluorescence spectroscopy to track chemical reactions at low concentrations and give a perspective of how present shortcomings can be overcome. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fluorescent dendritic polymers and nanostructured coatings for the detection of chemical warfare agents and other analytes
Authors: Hartmann‐Thompson Claire , Keeley Douglas L. , Rousseau Joseph R. , Dvornic Petar R.
Published: August 2009

Polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers of generations zero (G0) to four (G4), and a hyperbranched polyurea (HB‐PU), were functionalized with 1,5‐dansyl (1,5‐D), 2,5‐dansyl (2,5‐D), 2,6‐dansyl (2,6‐D) and nitrobenzofurazan (NBD) fluorophores that change their fluorescence emission wavelength in response to chemical environment, and the resulting dendritic polymers were characterized by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Fluorophore‐functionalized dendritic polymers were then reacted further with 3‐acryloxypropyldimethoxymethylsilane (AOP‐DMOMS) at various fluorophore to DMOMS substitution ratios. The resulting materials were cast onto glass slides, and cured into robust nanostructured coatings. Coatings with 50% fluorophore–50% DMOMS substitution showed the strongest fluorescence and the best physical properties. Coated coupons were tested against a wide range of analytes including the chemical warfare agent simulants dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) and chloroethylethylsulfide (CEES), and the water‐methanol‐ethanol series. It was found that the ability of the coatings to distinguish between analytes decreased with increasing cross‐link density for both dendrimer and hyperbranched polymer‐based coatings. It was also found that the percent fluorophore substitution and the type of dendritic polymer carrying the fluorophore had no significant effect upon fluorescence emission wavelength, but fluorescence emission wavelength became less dependent upon solvent with increasing dendrimer generation and molecular mass. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5101–5115, 2009
Carboxylic‐functionalized water soluble π‐conjugated polymer: Highly selective and efficient chemosensor for mercury(II) ions
Authors: Balamurugan A. , Reddy M. L. P. , Jayakannan M.
Published: August 2009

Here, we report a new carboxylic‐functionalized water soluble π‐conjugated polymer for selective detection of highly toxic Hg2+ in neutral pH condition. carboxylic‐functionalized thiophene containing oligophenylenevinylene was synthesized and polymerized under oxidative route to obtain water soluble polymer. Free carboxylic groups present in the π‐conjugated materials provide opportunity to use pH as external stimuli for studying secondary interaction such as hydrogen bonding and aromatic π‐stacking of the chromophores. The pH changes strongly influence on the molecular interactions in the monomer, whereas the long chain polymer was less disturbed. The polymer showed high selectivity for detecting Hg2+ ions compared with any other transition metal ions in water. The detection efficiency of the polymer was found almost 40 times higher than that of its monomeric unit. Stern‐Volmer constant for the Hg2+ ion sensing was determined through concentration dependent studies as 6.4 × 105 M−1. The carboxylic‐functionalized polymer showed reversibility in the metal‐ion detecting capabilities which was further investigated by NaCl complexation with Hg2+ complex. Both funneling of excitation energy to the Hg2+ center and also excitation energy migration through chain π‐conjugated backbone were correlated to the superior sensing characteristics of the polymer compared to its monomeric counterpart. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 5144–5157, 2009