bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voltammetric Antioxidant Analysis in Mineral Oil Samples Immobilized into Boron‐Doped Diamond Micropore Array Electrodes
Authors: Zhang Xiaohang , Paddon Christopher A. , Chan Yohan , Bulman‐Page Philip C. , Fordred Paul S. , Bull Steven D. , Chang Ho‐Chol , Rizvi Nadeem , Marken Frank
Published: June 2009

Mineral oil microdroplets containing the model antioxidant N,N‐didodecyl‐N′,N′‐diethyl‐phenylene‐diamine (DDPD) are immobilized into a 100×100 pore‐array (ca. 10 μm individual pore diameter, 100 μm pitch) in a boron‐doped diamond electrode surface. The robust diamond surface allows pore filling, cleaning, and reuse without damage to the electrode surface. The electrode is immersed into aqueous electrolyte media, and voltammetric responses for the oxidation of DDPD are obtained. In order to further improve the current responses, 20 wt% of carbon nanofibers are co‐deposited with the oil into the pore array. Voltammetric signals are consistent with the oxidation of DDPD and the associated transfer of perchlorate anions (in aqueous 0.1 M NaClO4) or the transfer of protons (in aqueous 0.1 M HClO4). From the magnitude of the current response, the DDPD content in the mineral oil can be determined down to less than 1 wt% levels. Perhaps surprisingly, the reversible (or midpoint) potential for the DDPD oxidation in mineral oil (when immersed in 0.1 NaClO4) is shown to be concentration‐dependent and to shift to more positive potential values for more dilute DDPD in mineral oil solutions. An extraction mechanism and the formation of a separate organic product phase are proposed to explain this behavior.
Characterization of interaction between doxycycline and human serum albumin by capillary electrophoresis‐frontal analysis
Authors: Sun Hanwen , He Pan
Published: June 2009

The binding of doxycycline to HSA under simulated physiological conditions (pH 7.4, 67 mM phosphate, I=0.17, drug concentration 100 μM, HSA concentration up to 475 μM, 36.5°C) was studied by CE‐frontal analysis. The number of primary binding sites, binding constant and physiological protein‐binding percentage were 1.9, 1.51×103 M−1 and 59.80%, respectively. In addition, the thermodynamic parameters including enthalpy change (ΔH), entropy change (ΔS) and free energy change (ΔG) of the reaction were obtained in order to characterize the acting forces between doxycycline and HSA. Furthermore, to better understand the nature of doxycycline–HSA binding and to get information about potential interaction with other drugs, displacement experiments were performed. The results showed that doxycycline binds at site II of HSA.
Quantifying Western blots: Pitfalls of densitometry
Authors: Gassmann Max , Grenacher Beat , Rohde Bianca , Vogel Johannes
Published: June 2009

Although Western blots are frequently quantified, densitometry is not documented and appears to be based merely on traditions and guesswork. Confirming previous experience, none of 100 randomly selected and systematically scanned most recent papers provided sufficient information on how Western blot results were translated into statistical values. The importance of such information, however, becomes evident from our correlations of plasma erythropoietin values of various mammals determined using RIA and Western blot densitometry. Different common densitometry procedures applied to the identical Western blot revealed p‐values of these correlations ranging from 0.000013 to 0.76 reflecting the necessity of a scientifically sound basis for densitometry of Western blots. At present, the current lack of any definitions in densitometry opens the door to uncontrollable acquisition of any desired p‐value. Here we provide data that define what should be considered, what avoided and what documented when quantifying Western blots.
A novel method developed for acetylcholine detection in royal jelly by using capillary electrophoresis coupled with electrogenerated chemiluminescence based on a simple reaction
Authors: Wei Wei , Wei Min , Kang Xuejun , Deng Huihua , Lu Zuhong
Published: June 2009

A novel method for highly sensitive detection of acetylcholine in royal jelly was proposed by using CE coupled with electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL). Acetylcholine, which could not react with Tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II) to strengthen its ECL signals, decomposed into trimethylamine and strengthened the ECL signals sharply when it was heated to its melting point. This reaction needed no additional reagent and it was mild, simple, stable and rapid, without any side reaction. By combining the above process with CE separation technique, trimethylamine in royal jelly was completely separated from interfering substances and was successfully detected within 4 min. The limit of detection for acetylcholine was found to be 6.3×10−8 g/mL with a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3:1. Acetylcholine in the royal jelly was detected to be 912±58 μg/g. The recoveries of acetylcholine chloride in the sample were in the ranges of 92–106%. The coefficients of variation for intra‐day and inter‐day reproducibility were equal to or less than 4.9 and 6.8%, respectively.
Cyclodextrin‐modified capillary electrophoresis for achiral and chiral separation of ergostane and lanostane compounds extracted from the fruiting body of Antrodia camphorata
Authors: Majid Ehsan , Male Keith B. , Tzeng Yew‐Min , Omamogho Jesse O. , Glennon Jeremy D. , Luong John H. T.
Published: June 2009

A CD‐modified capillary electrophoretic method has been developed for achiral and chiral analysis of seven bioactive compounds isolated from the fruiting body of Antrodia camphorata. Such important target analytes exhibit similar chemical structures and are known for their diverse properties including antioxidant and anticancer effects. The analytes were separated in 25 min using a pH 9.3, 20 mM sodium borate buffer containing 20 mM methyl‐β‐CD and 30 mM sulfobutylether‐β‐CD. With the exception of the optical isomer pairs (antcin B or zhankuic acid A, zhankuic acid C, and antcin A), the remaining bioactive compounds including the chiral pair antcin C were baseline‐separated. Analysis time was noticeably longer to baseline separate all of the above chiral pairs (∼38 min) by adding 5% DMF to the running buffer. The migration order was reversed compared with the HPLC elution. More hydrophobic compounds complexed favorably with methyl‐β‐CD and emerged earlier in the electropherogram than their more hydrophilic counterparts which were strongly associated with sulfobutylether‐β‐CD. The simple capillary electrophoretic method developed was applicable for rapid separation and characterization of several important bioactive compounds isolated from the fruiting body of A. camphorata.
A capillary electrophoretic system based on a novel microemulsion for the analysis of coenzyme Q10 in human plasma by electrokinetic chromatography
Authors: Lucangioli Silvia , Sabrina Flor , Mario Contin , Valeria Tripodi
Published: June 2009

A new analytical method for determination of coenzyme Q10 (2,3‐dimethoxy‐5‐methyl‐6‐decaprenyl‐1,4‐benzoquinone, CoQ10) in human plasma was developed based on CE using a double tensioactive microemulsion. CoQ10 was quantitatively extracted into 1‐propanol/hexane and quantified by MEEKC. The microemulsion was prepared by mixing 1.4% w/w sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate, 4% w/w cholic acid, 1% w/w octane, 8.5% w/w butanol, 0.1% w/w PVA and 85% w/w 10 mM Tris buffer at pH 9.0. The optimized electrophoretic conditions included the use of an uncoated silica capillary of 60 cm total length and 75 μm id, an applied voltage of 20 kV, room temperature and 214 nm ultraviolet detection. Selectivity, linearity, LOD, LOQ, precision and accuracy were evaluated as the parameters of validation. Owing to its simplicity and reliability, the proposed method can be an advantageous alternative to the traditional methodology for the quantitation of CoQ10 in human plasma with good accuracy and precision.
Plasmonic nanoprobes for SERS biosensing and bioimaging
Authors: Vo‐Dinh Tuan , Wang Hsin‐Neng , Scaffidi Jonathan
Published: June 2009

This article provides an overview of the development and application of plasmonic nanoprobes developed in our laboratory for biosensing and bioimaging. We describe the use of plasmonics surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) gene probes for the detection of diseases using DNA hybridization to target biospecies (HIV gene, breast cancer genes etc.). For molecular imaging, we describe a hyperspectral surface‐enhanced Raman imaging (HSERI) system that combines imaging capabilities with SERS detection to identify cellular components using Raman dye‐labeled silver nanoparticles in cellular systems The detection of specific target DNA sequences associated with breast cancer using “molecular sentinel” nanoprobes and the use of a plasmonic nanosensor to monitor pH in single cells are presented and discussed. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Public reporting of hospital quality: Recommendations to benefit patients and hospitals
Authors: Rothberg Michael B. , Benjamin Evan M. , Lindenauer Peter K.
Published: June 2009

Public reporting of hospital performance holds tremendous promise for improving the care provided by hospitals. To date, however, consumers have failed to embrace public reporting, despite considerable efforts to promote it. We review a number of reasons that public reporting has failed to live up to expectations, and we make 10 recommendations to improve the value of public reporting for both patients and hospitals. We also review 3 leading performance reporting programs to evaluate how well they adhere to these recommendations. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2009;4:541–545. © 2009 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Late Pleistocene and Holocene glaciation of the Fish Lake valley, northeastern Alaska Range, Alaska
Authors: Young Nicolás E. , Briner Jason P. , Kaufman Darrell S.
Published: June 2009

We reconstructed a chronology of glaciation spanning from the Late Pleistocene through the late Holocene for Fish Lake valley in the north‐eastern Alaska Range using 10Be surface exposure dating and lichenometry. After it attained its maximum late Wisconsin extent, the Fish Lake valley glacier began to retreat ca. 16.5 ka, and then experienced a readvance or standstill at 11.6 ± 0.3 ka. Evidence of the earliest Holocene glacial activity in the valley is a moraine immediately in front of Little Ice Age (LIA) moraines and is dated to 3.3–3.0 ka. A subsequent advance culminated at ca. AD 610–900 and several LIA moraine crests date to AD 1290, 1640, 1860 and 1910. Our results indicate that 10Be dating from high‐elevation sites can be used to help constrain late Holocene glacial histories in Alaska, even when other dating techniques are unavailable. Close agreement between 10Be and lichenometric ages reveal that 10Be ages on late Holocene moraines may be as accurate as other dating methods. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tribological performance of ionised vegetable oils as lubricity and fatty oiliness additives in lubricants and fuels
Authors: Roegiers Michel , Zhmud Boris
Published: June 2009

Lubricity and fatty oiliness additives, also known as friction modifiers in the tribological vocabulary, are steadily gaining acceptance from lubrication engineers and lubricant formulators. The present communication describes how such additives function in various tribosystems and which parameters control lubricity of finished formulations. Extensive experimental data are presented to demonstrate the outstanding tribological performance of bio‐based lubricity and fatty oiliness additives produced by ElektrionizationTM of vegetable feedstocks. Featuring a unique combination of viscosity and polarity, ionised vegetable oils form sufficiently thick and resilient protective layers by adsorption to rubbing surfaces. It is shown that, unlike extreme pressure additives, which act when a direct asperity–asperity contact occurs in the boundary lubrication regime, ionised vegetable oils function by postponing the onset of the boundary lubrication regime. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large‐Scale Oriented Assembly of Nanoparticles in Diblock Copolymer Templates under Electric Fields
Authors: Yan Li‐Tang , Schoberth Heiko G. , Böker Alexander
Published: June 2009

We perform cell dynamics simulations to study the assembly of nanoparticles in diblock copolymer templates under electric fields. Our simulations predict that the nanoparticles directed by the diblock copolymer templates can assemble into various oriented structures, e.g., lamella, alternating lamella (for two types of particles), and cylinder on the macroscopic scale by selecting appropriate parameters when an electric field is applied. Our results demonstrate that there exists a strong correlation between the ordering kinetics of nanoparticles and the evolution of block copolymer domains under electric fields. The described method can provide a new route to realize ordered and anisotropic arrays of nanoparticles on a macroscopic scale.

magnified image
Semiconducting Oligo‐(Aryleneethynylene)s with Coplanarity of Main Chain and Tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) Side Chains: Synthesis, Self‐Assembly, and Conductive Properties
Authors: Hou Yanhui , Yang Min , Wan Xiangjian , Mao Jie , Ma Yanfeng , Huang Yi , Chen Yongsheng
Published: June 2009

Two oligo‐(aryleneethynylene)s, with coplanarity of main chain and tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) side chains, have been prepared and characterized. The X‐ray diffractions (XRDs) show that their π‐extended coplanar backbones can form continuous π‐stacking. For the two oligomers, one stacks in the inter‐digitation packing mode; another stacks in the end‐to‐end packing mode. Cyclic voltammetries reveal that the two oligomers have almost the same reversible electroactive properties. The TTF units of the two oligomers can be oxidized to TTF.1+ by Fe(bpy)3(PF6)3 (bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine). The band gaps, deduced from UV‐Vis absorption spectra, are 1.92 and 2.03 eV, respectively. The conductivities of the two oligomers are 1 × 10−5 and 6 × 10−8 S · cm−1 at room temperature. The charge transfer (CT) complexes of the oligomers and tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) exhibit higher conductivity up to 0.2 S · cm−1.

magnified image
Cationic Photopolymerization in Presence of Functionalized Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Chemtob Abraham , Croutxé‐Barghorn Céline , Soppera Olivier , Rigolet Séverinne
Published: June 2009

The present study focuses on the synthesis of various silica‐filled polymer nanocomposites via cationic photopolymerization. The first part describes the chemical modification of fumed silica nanoparticles and their subsequent incorporation in three types of epoxy resins. 29Si CP MAS NMR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) enabled to characterize the surface structural composition of silica while dynamic light scattering (DLS) was employed to assess their degree of dispersion. In addition, the photopolymerization kinetics were investigated using real‐time Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (RT‐FTIR). The capacity of reinforcement of the resulting nanocomposite films were explored in regard to modulus, glass transition behaviour, abrasion resistance and hardness.

magnified image
Distortion engineering in turning processes with standard clamping systems
Authors: Grote C. , Brinksmeier E. , Garbrecht M.
Published: June 2009

During turning of cylindrical workpieces with different diameters the industry often uses standard clamping systems. These systems are economic and able to clamp different diameters. Their benefit is that valuable time for jaw changing may be saved. Therefore a special interest lies in studies which allow the minimization of distortion by using these universal clamping systems. In this study a method is presented using three‐jaw‐chucks to minimize the wallthickness‐deviation of bearing rings caused by the turning process. The experimental approach considers a specific clamping sequence in combination with a variation of the clamping pressure. Additionally the use of a form‐locking clamping system, which allows a clear decrease of the necessary clamping pressure, will be examined. As a major result an optimized specific clamping sequence is presented, using segment jaws which will minimize the distortion caused by a varying depth of cut on the outer side of bearing rings.
The influence of carburizing on size and shape changes
Authors: Clausen B. , Surm H. , Hoffmann F. , Zoch H.‐W.
Published: June 2009

Since seven years the Collaborative Research Center SFB 570 deals successfully with the ascertainment, description, and simulation of distortion. This paper aims to subjoin how carburizing and with it the case hardening process affects the already described effects of distortion and how the effects interact with each other. Due to carburizing a gradient in chemical composition is adjusted in the component. This affects not only a change in mechanical properties but also in the transformation behaviour. The local properties result in a locally varying influence on internal stresses during heating and cooling processes and deformations. Shape changes can therefore be massively influenced by the carbon profile. So far investigations have been carried out with disks and recessed shafts. Interactions to carburizing parameters appear between the intensity of segregations, the deformation parameters, stacking arrangements und quenching parameters.
Use of X‐ray diffraction and micromagnetic methods for a complete characterization of residual stress states in manufactured parts
Authors: Epp J. , Hirsch T. , de Souza Rosendo T.
Published: June 2009

As machining induced residual stress states are an important factor for the distortion of parts during following heat treatments, a complete characterization of the components residual stress state is required. For a gain of time, magnetic and micromagnetic analysis has been compared with X‐ray diffraction analysis. Cylindrical and tapered ball bearing rings made from AISI52100 steel with various and inhomogeneous residual stress states have been investigated. Reliable results and good agreement between X‐Ray diffraction data and residual stresses calculated form the magnetic and micromagnetic analysis can be obtained with the use of a calibration for each single component. An important gain of time can be achieved with the combined use of X‐ray diffraction analysis for the calibration and the micromagnetic technique. However, local variations of the residual stress may not be detected in localized zones smaller than the sensor. A global calibration with one calibration file for eight rings still needs some optimization.
Stress‐strain behaviour of the case hardening steel 20MnCr5 regarding different microstructures
Authors: Dalgic M. , Irretier A. , Zoch H.‐W.
Published: June 2009

Within the Collaborative Research Centre SFB 570 distortion is treated as a system attribute. This means that it has to be investigated during the entire processing of a component. Simulation is a powerful tool to predict and to take action on reducing distortion, but reliable materials data are one of the limiting factors of these simulations.Within these investigation, the material behaviour of the case hardening steel 20MnCr5 is described by thermo physical material values, parameters regarding the transformation and by the stress‐strain curve. Besides the temperature the microstructure has a substantial influence on the deformation curve. The subject of this paper is a description of the stress‐strain behaviour as a function of microstructure in dependence of the temperature and the carbon content by suitable equations. Therefore, tensile tests were carried out regarding different carbon contents for stable microstructures, but also conditions like the metastable austenite.
Anisotropic transformation strain and transformation plasticity: two corresponding effects
Authors: Hunkel M.
Published: June 2009

Distortion is an effect of inhomogeneous strain behaviour which can be caused by plasticity resulting from thermal or transformation stresses, inhomogeneous phase transformations, or inhomogeneous anisotropic strains during phase transformations. Anisotropic strains during phase transformations incorporate anisotropic transformation strain as well as transformation plasticity. Both effects will be discussed in this paper in a corresponding manner. This includes a theoretical derivation, experiments for determination of these effects, and experiments and simulations on workpieces.
Handedness does not predict side of onset of motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Štochl Jan , Hagtvet Knut A. , Brožová Hana , Klempíř Jiří , Roth Jan , Růžička Evžen
Published: June 2009

This study focused on the relationship between the asymmetry of initial motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) and premorbid handedness of patients. Structural equation modeling has been used for this purpose. The survey consisting of validated items measuring handedness and questions related to side of occurrence of initial symptoms was administered to 472 patients with PD [277 men, 195 women, mean age 66.5 (9.3), mean duration of the disease 10 (6.1) years]. The unidimensional model of handedness fits the data well (χ2 = 37.86, df = 20, P = 0.009, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.044, Comparative Fit Index = 1.00, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual = 0.042) and side of initial motor symptoms is not significantly related to the factor of handedness (r =0.11, SE = 0.07, P = 0.14). In contrast to several other studies, the results indicate that the side of first occurrence of PD signs cannot be predicted from premorbid handedness of patients. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Tissue distribution and elimination of sesaminol triglucoside and its metabolites in rat
Authors: Jan Kuo‐Ching , Hwang Lucy Sun , Ho Chi‐Tang
Published: June 2009

Sesame exhibits many beneficial physiological effects, which are mostly related to its lignan compounds, such as sesaminol glucosides. This investigation studies the distribution and elimination of sesaminol triglucoside from sesame in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. In order to investigate the distribution of sesaminol triglucoside (p.o. 500 mg/kg) in SD rats, the changes in concentration of sesaminol triglucoside and its metabolites were determined in tissues and plasma within 24 h period after tube‐feeding to SD rats. Results showed that sesaminol triglucoside may be deglycosylated to form sesaminol first by intestinal microflora and then incorporated via lymphatic absorption into the cardiovascular system, transported to other tissues. The concentrations of sesaminol triglucoside and its metabolites in rectum, caecum, colon, and small intestines are higher than those in liver, lung, kidney, and heart. Its concentration in brain is low but detectable. Glucuronidation and sulfation was the main metabolic pathway for sesaminol in urine, and fecal elimination was a major route of elimination. From LC/MS/MS analysis of rat organs, sesaminol triglucoside can be converted to mammalian lignans, enterodiol (END), and enterolactone (ENL), by rat intestinal microflora. In the plasma, concentrations of END and ENL were 5.9 ± 0.2 and 5.5 ± 0.2 μmol/mL, respectively.
Interactions between ABC‐transport proteins and the secondaryFusariummetabolites enniatin and beauvericin
Authors: Dornetshuber Rita , Heffeter Petra , Sulyok Michael , Schumacher Rainer , Chiba Peter , Kopp Stephan , Koellensperger Gunda , Micksche Michael , Lemmens‐Gruber Rosa , Berger Walter
Published: June 2009

Enniatins (ENN) and beauvericin (BEA) exert cytotoxic properties. Here, we observed that their impact on Ca2+‐homeostasis can be reversed by exogenous ATP. Thus, we investigated whether membrane‐located ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters influence ENNs‐ and BEA‐induced cytotoxicity. In short‐term exposure assays breast cancer resistance protein (ABCG2)‐overexpression weakly but significantly reduced the cytotoxic activity of BEA but not ENNs. In contrast, multidrug resistance‐associated protein‐1 (ABCC1)‐ andP‐glycoprotein (ABCB1)‐overexpression was not protective under identical conditions. ABCG2‐mediated resistance against BEA was reversible by ABCG2 modulators. In long‐term exposure assays, ABCG2 and ABCB1 significantly protected against ENNs‐ and to a lesser extent BEA‐induced cytotoxicity. Moreover, both fusariotoxins potently inhibited the ABCG2‐ and ABCB1‐mediated efflux of specific fluorescent substrates, with BEA being more effective. Additionally, ATPase and photoaffinity‐labelling assays proofed interaction of both substances with ABCG2 and ABCB1. Remarkably, 2 years selection of KB‐3‐1 cells against both fusariotoxins resulted only in two‐fold ENNs but negligible BEA resistance. Interestingly, the selected sublines displayed upregulation of multidrug resistance proteins and crossresistance to other chemotherapeutics. Summarizing, ABCG2 and ABCB1 slightly but significantly protect human cells against ENNs‐ and BEA‐induced cytotoxicity. However, both mycotoxins potently interact with ABCB1 and ABCG2 transport functions suggesting influences on bioavailability of xenobiotics and pharmaceuticals.
Ethylene Homo‐ and Copolymerization Using a Bis‐IndZrCl2 Metallocene Catalyst: Structural Composition Distribution of the Copolymer
Authors: Mortazavi Mohammadmehdi , Arabi Hassan , Zohuri Gholam Hossein , Ahmadjo Saeid , Nekoomanesh Mehdi , Ahmadi Mostafa
Published: June 2009

A bis‐IndZrCl2 catalyst was synthesized and used for ethylene homo‐ and copolymerization. The activity of the catalyst increases with increasing Al/Zr ratio; optimum activity was reached at 60 °C. $\overline M _{\rm v}$ of the polymer decreased as the polymerization temperature increased; increasing reaction pressure increased both $\overline M _{\rm v}$ and catalyst activity. The copolymerization of ethylene with different α‐olefins was studied using the same catalyst system. The results indicate that under identical conditions there was a general decrease in the rate of polymerization as compared to the homopolymerization. The CCD and the lamellar thickness were investigated using DSC. The heterogeneity of the CCD increased with increasing comonomer content and molar mass.

magnified image
‘All singing from the same hymn sheet’: Healthcare professionals' perceptions of developing patient education material about the cardiovascular aspects of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: John Holly , Hale Elizabeth D. , Treharne Gareth J. , Carroll Douglas , Kitas George D.
Published: June 2009

Objective: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in Britain, and its prevention is a priority. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have an increased risk of CVD, and management of modifiable classical risk factors requires a programme with patient education at its heart. Before a programme for RA patients is implemented, it is important to explore the perceptions of patients and relevant healthcare professionals and consider how these could influence the subsequent content, timing and delivery of such education. Here, we assess healthcare professionals' perceptions.

Methods: Qualitative focus group methodology was adopted. Four group meetings of healthcare professionals were held using a semi‐structured interview schedule. The focus group transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results: Three superordinate themes emerged: professional determinations about people with RA, including their perceptions about patients' priorities and motivations; communication about CVD risk, including what should be communicated, how, to whom and when; and responsibility for CVD management, referring to patients and the healthcare community.

Conclusions: Although healthcare professionals agree that it is important to convey the increased CVD risk to patients with RA, there is concern they may be less proactive in promoting risk management strategies. There was uncertainty about the best time to discuss CVD with RA patients. Maintaining a close relationship between primary and secondary care was thought to be important, with all healthcare professionals ‘singing from the same hymn sheet’. These findings can inform the development of novel education material to fulfil a currently unmet clinical need. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple bone tuberculosis in a child from predynastic Upper Egypt (3200 BC)
Authors: Dabernat H. , Crubézy É.
Published: June 2009

Tuberculosis, one of the most ancient human diseases, was present in ancient Egypt and has been observed since predynastic times. Excavations in the predynastic to early dynastic necropolis of Adaima, Upper Egypt (3500–2700 BC) led to the discovery of a number of remarkably well‐preserved skeletons of children. The skeletal remains of a 4.5–5‐year‐old child dated from Nagada III A2 (3200–3100 BC) displayed various lesions on the post‐cranial skeleton: spondylitis on the thoracic (T12) and lumbar (L1) vertebrae, partial lytic destruction of the right radio‐ulnar joint, lytic lesions on the scapula and a clavicle, dactylitis on the short bones of hands and feet, enlargement (spina ventosa) and periosteal new bone formation on the long bones. Radiographs show well‐defined radiolucent (cyst‐like) lesions in the metaphysis and the diaphysis of long tubular bones (ulna, radius, femur, tibia, fibula). The lesions recorded during macroscopic and radiological analysis strongly suggest a case of multiple bone tuberculosis. The occurrence of this case of tuberculosis in a child provides a picture of a period where tuberculosis must have been endemic throughout the population living during the origins of urban settlement in Upper Egypt during the predynastic period. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of bilateral training for upper extremity hemiparesis
Authors: Stoykov Mary Ellen , Corcos Daniel M.
Published: June 2009

Upper extremity hemiparesis is the most common post‐stroke disability. Longitudinal studies have indicated that 30–66% of stroke survivors do not have full arm function 6 months post‐stroke. The current gold standard for treatment of mild post‐stroke upper limb impairment is constraint‐induced therapy but, because of the inclusion criteria, alternative treatments are needed which target more impaired subjects. Bilateral arm training has been investigated as a potential rehabilitation intervention. Bilateral arm training encompasses a number of methods including: (1) bilateral isokinematic training; (2) mirror therapy using bilateral training; (3) device‐driven bilateral training; and (4) bilateral motor priming. Neural mechanisms mediating bilateral training are first reviewed. The key bilateral training studies that have demonstrated evidence of efficacy will then be discussed. Finally, conclusions are drawn concerning clinical implications based on the reviewed literature. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of poly(3, 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDT/PSS) composite and its applications in anti‐static coating
Authors: Qiu Chunchang , Wang Jikui , Mao Shuangming , Guo Weihong , Cheng Shujun , Wang Yaoxian
Published: June 2009

Poly(3, 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDT/PSS) composite is prepared by solution polymerization at room temperature in the presence of 3, 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene as the monomer, PSS as the doping agent, potassium supersulfate (KPS) as the oxidant, and deionized water as the solvent. The color of the PEDT/PSS solution is dark blue and its solid content is 2.2%, its pH value is 1.5. By mixing alcohols, polar organic solvents, adhesives, and so on into PEDT/PSS solution, the anti‐static coating solution is prepared. The coating is conducted by bar‐coating (20 µm) at 40% relative humidity and 20°C. The influence of the content of each component on the coating surface resistivity is discussed, and a reasonable volume content of each component is obtained. The obtained coating has low surface resistivity (1 × 106 Ω), excellent water resistance, and high transmittance of visible light together with a wide range of potential applications. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of monomer structures on the foaming processes and thermal properties of polyimide foams
Authors: Shen Yan‐Xia , Zhan Mao‐Sheng , Wang Kai
Published: June 2009

Four polyimide (PI) foams were prepared from polyamide acid precursors. The effects of monomer structures on the foaming processes and thermal properties of PI foams were investigated. The foaming processes of PI foams were observed by a self‐made visualization device. The thermal properties of four PI foams were studied by the methods of dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetry/differential thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) analysis. The results indicated that the inflation onset temperatures and maximum inflation degrees of four precursors increased from 123 to 171°C and decreased from 28 to 15 times with the increasing rigidity of the precursor molecule, respectively. The glass transition temperatures, the 5% weight loss temperatures, the decomposed activation energies, and pre‐exponential factors of PI foams increased with increase in the rigidity of monomer. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of temperature on the electrical resistivity of YBa2Cu3O7−x/polyethylene composite materials
Authors: Bhadrakumari S. , Predeep P.
Published: June 2009

Heterogeneous materials composed of conducting YBa2Cu3O7−x particles randomly dispersed inside an insulating low density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix were prepared. The resistivity of the composites was measured as a function of temperature between 293 and 400 K. A large positive temperature coefficient (PTC) of resistance was observed near 395 K. The mechanism of the PTC effect in the materials is related to the percolation behavior of the YBa2Cu3O7−x/LDPE composites and the thermal expansion of the LDPE matrix. The intensity of the PTC effect for these composites was found to be as large as nine orders of magnitude. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers.
In situ polymerization of polyamide 66 nanocomposites utilizing interfacial polycondensation. II. Sodium montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: Kalkan Zehra S. , Goettler Lloyd A.
Published: June 2009

Interfacial polycondensation (IPC) is used to generate polyamide 66 (PA66) nanocomposite using sodium montmorillonite (NaMMT), which offers better thermal stability than organically modified montmorillonite. Several approaches are used to obtain different levels of dispersion for studying the factors affecting dispersion of NaMMT layered‐silicates. These approaches include dispersing NaMMT in either aqueous media or in a compatible nonaqueous medium. Moreover, clay slurry was added to the reaction media separately or in combination with the aqueous hexamethylenediamine solution, which includes either excess amine or sodium carbonate as the by‐product scavenger, in order to study the effect of sequencing on the dispersion of NaMMT. Several characterization techniques including dynamic mechanical analysis, wide angle X‐ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy are used to examine the structure and relate it to the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. Results show that in situ polymerization techniques predominantly give rise to hybrid exfoliated–intercalated NaMMT structure. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Structure and properties of fluorinated polymer/poly(ethylene oxide) blends
Authors: Liu Tao , Ye Lin
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: In order to explore ways for improving the toughness of copolymers of vinylidene difluoride and chlorotrifluoroethylene (P(VDF‐CTFE)), polyethylene oxide (PEO) with ultrahigh molecular weight and good mechanical properties was applied for the first time to prepare P(VDF‐CTFE)/PEO blends for adhesives applications.

RESULTS: The results show that with an increase of PEO content, the mechanical properties of the blends are improved markedly, and blends with high strength, modulus and toughness are obtained. The difference in the solubility parameters of P(VDF‐CTFE) and PEO is small, and only a single α‐relaxation peak is observed in the high‐temperature zone for the blends, indicating that the blend system is partially miscible. The experimental values for the glass transition temperature of the blend varying with PEO content are always higher than those predicted by the Fox equation, and a strong interaction is supposed to occur between the molecules of P(VDF‐CTFE) and PEO. The relative crystallinity of the blends increases with PEO content, and the PEO particles disperse homogeneously in the P(VDF‐CTFE) matrix, whose average size decreases with increasing PEO content. Phase‐inverted morphologies of the blends are observed above 60 wt% of PEO.

CONCLUSION: The partial miscibility of P(VDF‐CTFE)/PEO blends leads to an improvement of the mechanical properties of the blends, which is an effective way to improve the toughness of fluorinated polymers. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Solution prepolymerization as a new route for preparing aliphatic polyurethane prepolymers using high‐throughput experimentation
Authors: Majoros László I. , Dekeyser Bernard , Hoogenboom Richard , Fijten Martin W. M. , Haucourt Nancy , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: June 2009

High‐throughput experimentation (HTE) represents a promising and versatile approach for polyurethane (PU) research as a tool to screen and characterize a large number of samples in an automated way. For the realization of a HTE workflow for PUs, the use of a Chemspeed Accelerator™ SLT106 automated parallel synthesizer was explored. To evaluate the possibility of these techniques for PUs, we studied the synthesis of prepolymers from isophorone diisocyanate and polypropylene glycol in mass and solution. Several optimization steps, transfer to solution polymerization, and downscaling prepolymerizations have been carried out in a manual way before implementing them into the Chemspeed Accelerator™. As a next step, reproducibility investigations and kinetic studies were performed in an automated manner. All experiments were evaluated by characterization with gel permeation chromatography, MALDI–TOF mass spectrometry and 1H NMR spectroscopy. These results provide a basis to use the HTE technique for screening different PU prepolymers in the future. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 3729–3739, 2009
Investigation of the conformation of hyperbranched poly(arylene oxindole)s using hyper‐Rayleigh scattering
Authors: Vandendriessche Annelies , Asselberghs Inge , Clays Koen , Smet Mario , Dehaen Wim , Verbiest Thierry , Koeckelberghs Guy
Published: June 2009

A hyperbranched poly(arylene oxindole), a poly(methacrylate), and a dendrimer, to which the same nonlinear optical chromophore was attached via a small, rigid spacer, were prepared. The difference in hyper‐Rayleigh scattering intensities was measured and compared. From this study, it was concluded that the chromophores, and hence the functional groups in the macromolecule before functionalization, are orientationally correlated in the dendrimer, whereas they are not in the linear and hyperbranched polymer. More in particular, the chromophores in the dendrimer are fixed in a centrosymmetric way because of the globular structure, whereas there is no orientational correlation between the chromophores in linear and hyperbranched polymer. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 3740–3747, 2009
Synthesis of Boltorn 1,2,3‐triazole dendrimers by click chemistry
Authors: Katritzky Alan R. , Song Yuming , Sakhuja Rajeev , Gyanda Reena , Meher Nabin K. , Wang Ling , Duran Randolph S. , Ciaramitaro David A. , Bedford Clifford D.
Published: June 2009

Second‐, third‐, and fourth‐generation hyperbranched aliphatic polyols namely Boltorn® H20, Boltorn H30, and Boltorn H40 were endcapped with azido and activated acetylenic groups in good to excellent yields (75–95%) following an acid catalyzed procedure. The resultant terminally functionalized dendritic azido and acetylenic groups undergo 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition using methyl (or ethyl) propiolate and benzyl azide, respectively, under catalytic or noncatalytic conditions below 40 °C to yield 1,2,3‐triazole dendrimeric polymers in 82–95% yield, under extremely mild conditions that could be applied for compounds sensitive to acid, base, or heat. The dendritic azido and activated acetylenic derivatives may act as novel scaffolds to tune the mechanical properties of different polymers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 3748–3756, 2009
A versatile approach for the syntheses of poly(ester amide)s with pendant functional groups
Authors: Atkins Katelyn M. , Lopez David , Knight Darryl K. , Mequanint Kibret , Gillies Elizabeth R.
Published: June 2009

Poly(ester amide)s (PEAs) are emerging as promising materials for a wide range of biomedical applications due to their potential for both hydrolytic and enzymatic degradation, as well as the ease with which their properties can be tuned by the choice of monomers. The incorporation of pendant functional handles along the PEA backbone has the potential to further expand their applications by allowing the charge and hydrophilicity of the polymers to be altered, and facilitating the conjugation of active molecules such as drugs, targeting groups, and cell signaling molecules. Described here is a simple and versatile strategy based on orthogonal protecting groups, by which L‐lysine and L‐aspartic acid can be incorporated into several families of PEAs based on monomers including the diacids succinic and terephthalic acid, the diols 1,4‐butanediol and 1,8‐octanediol, and the amino acids L‐alanine and L‐phenylalanine. All polymers were thoroughly characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. It was demonstrated that the side chain protecting groups could be readily removed, allowing the pendant amines or carboxylic acids to be functionalized. In particular, the carboxylic acid groups on a polymer containing L‐aspartic acid units were converted to N‐hydroxysuccinimidyl esters, providing a useful template for further derivatization. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 3757–3772, 2009
Controlled/living heterogeneous radical polymerization in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Zetterlund Per B. , Aldabbagh Fawaz , Okubo Masayoshi
Published: June 2009

Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) is an inexpensive and environmentally friendly medium for radical polymerizations. ScCO2 is suited for heterogeneous controlled/living radical polymerizations (CLRPs), since the monomer, initiator, and control reagents (nitroxide, etc.) are soluble, but the polymer formed is insoluble beyond a critical degree of polymerization (Jcrit). The precipitated polymer can continue growing in (only) the particle phase giving living polymer of controlled well‐defined microstructure. The addition of a colloidal stabilizer gives a dispersion polymerization with well‐defined colloidal particles being formed. In recent years, nitroxide‐mediated polymerization (NMP), atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), and reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization have all been conducted as heterogeneous polymerizations in scCO2. This Highlight reviews this recent body of work, and describes the unique characteristics of scCO2 that allows composite particle formation of unique morphology to be achieved. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 3711–3728, 2009
Birth weight and lung function in a cohort of Chinese school children
Authors: Qi‐qiang He , Tze‐wai Wong , Lin Du , Zhuo‐qin Jiang , Yang Gao , Guo‐zhen Lin , Ignatius Yu Tak‐sun
Published: June 2009

Objective

Evidence on the association between birth weight and lung function is conflicting. We evaluated the children's lung function in relation to their birth weight in China.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted in 1,599 school children. Baseline data on birth weight and other potential confounding variables were obtained from self‐administered questionnaires. Pulmonary function tests were performed with a standard procedure and repeated 6 months later.

Results

There were no significant differences in the standard deviation score (SDS) of forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) between children with low birth weight (LBW) and those with normal birth weight (NBW). The growth rates in lung function between children with LBW and NBW were also insignificant.

Conclusions

No association between birth weight and lung function was found among Chinese school children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:662–668. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tropical cyclone spin‐up revisited
Authors: Smith Roger K. , Montgomery Michael T. , Van Sang Nguyen
Published: June 2009

We present numerical experiments to investigate axisymmetric interpretations of tropical cyclone spin‐up in a three‐dimensional model. Two mechanisms are identified for the spin‐up of the mean tangential circulation. The first involves the convergence of absolute angular momentum above the boundary layer and is a mechanism to spin up the outer circulation, i.e. to increase the vortex size. The second involves the convergence of absolute angular momentum within the boundary layer and is a mechanism to spin up the inner core. It is associated with the development of supergradient wind speeds in the boundary layer. The existence of these two mechanisms provides a plausible physical explanation for certain long‐standing observations of typhoons by Weatherford and Gray, which indicate that inner‐core changes in the azimuthal‐mean tangential wind speed often occur independently from those in the outer core. The unbalanced dynamics in the inner‐core region are important in determining the maximum radial and tangential flow speeds that can be attained, and therefore important in determining the azimuthal‐mean intensity of the vortex. We illustrate the importance of unbalanced flow in the boundary layer with a simple thought experiment. The analyses and interpretations presented are novel and support a recent hypothesis of the boundary layer in the inner‐core region. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society