bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Chemical Constituents of Plants from the Genus Litsea
Authors: Agrawal Nisha , Choudhary Amit Singh , Sharma Mahesh Chandra , Dobhal Mahabeer Prasad
Published: May 2011

Review: 115 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Postsynthetic Modification of Metal—Organic Frameworks — A Progress Report
Authors: Tanabe Kristine K. , Cohen Seth M.
Published: May 2011

Review: 73 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Block Copolymer Based Composition and Morphology Control in Nanostructured Hybrid Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage Solar Cells, Batteries, and Fuel Cells
Authors: Orilall M. Christopher , Wiesner Ulrich
Published: May 2011

Review: 68 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Why Hybrid Porous Solids Capture Greenhouse Gases?
Authors: Ferey Gerard , Serre Christian , Devic Thomas , Maurin Guillaume , Jobic Herve , Llewellyn Philip L. , De Weireld Guy , Vimont Alexandre , Daturi Marco , Chang Jong‐San
Published: May 2011

Review: 78 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: From Molecular Chemistry to Hybrid Nanomaterials. Design and Functionalization
Authors: Mehdi Ahmad , Reye Catherine , Corriu Robert
Published: May 2011

Review: 72 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Cluster‐Based Inorganic—Organic Hybrid Materials
Authors: Schubert Ulrich
Published: May 2011

Review: 46 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: NOE Experiments for Ionic Liquids: Tools and Strategies
Authors: Mele Andrea
Published: May 2011

Review: 30 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Time‐Resolved FT‐IR Spectroscopy of Membrane Proteins
Authors: Radu Ionela , Schleeger Michael , Nack Melanie , Heberle Joachim
Published: May 2011

Review: 66 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Femtosecond Fluorescence Upconversion Investigations on the Excited‐State Photophysics of Curcumin
Authors: Kee Tak W. , Adhikary Ramkrishna , Carlson Philip J. , Mukherjee Prasun , Petrich Jacob W.
Published: May 2011

Review: 84 refs.
Autonomic regulation in fragile X syndrome
Authors: Heilman Keri J. , Harden Emily R. , Zageris Danielle M. , Berry‐Kravis Elizabeth , Porges Stephen W.
Published: May 2011

Autonomic reactivity was studied in individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS), a genetic disorder partially characterized by abnormal social behavior. Relative to age‐matched controls, the FXS group had faster baseline heart rate and lower amplitude respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). In contrast to the typically developing controls, there was a decrease in RSA with age within the FXS group. Moreover, within the FXS group heart rate did not slow with age. The FXS group also responded with an atypical increase in RSA to the social challenge, while the control group reduced RSA. In a subset of the FXS group, the autonomic profile did not change following 2 months and 1 year of lithium treatment. The observed indices of atypical autonomic regulation, consistent with the Polyvagal Theory, may contribute to the deficits in social behavior and social communication observed in FXS. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 53:785–795, 2011.
Simultaneous determination of iridoid glycosides and flavanoids in Lamionphlomis rotate and its herbal preparation by a simple and rapid capillary zone electrophoresis method
Authors: Lü Wenjuan , Li Maoxing , Chen Yonglei , Chen Hongli , Chen Xingguo
Published: May 2011

Iridoid glycosides and flavanoids are two main effective components of Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) kudo. However, there is no method for simultaneous analysis of iridoid glycosides and flavanoids in L. rotata and its pharmaceutical preparations. A simple and rapid capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of two iridoid glycosides (8‐O‐acetylshanzhiside methylester and 8‐deoxyshanzhiside) and three flavanoids (apigenin, quercetin and luteolin) in L. rotata. Operational variables, such as the voltage, buffer concentration and pH were optimized, the final optimum separation condition was 10 mM sodium tetraborate‐20 mM NaH2PO4 (pH 8.5)‐15% (v/v) methanol, 238 nm UV detection, 18 kV applied voltage. The linearity and the recovery of the proposed method were very satisfactory (correlation coefficients were 0.9994–0.9998 and the recoveries were 94.5–108.8% for the analytes) and the method allowed analytes in real samples to be determined within 9 min. The proposed CZE method can be used for quality control of iridoid glycosides and flavanoids in L. rotata and its herbal preparation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of Deuterated Mevalonolactone Isotopomers
Authors: Dickschat Jeroen S. , Citron Christian A. , Brock Nelson L. , Riclea Ramona , Kuhz Henning
Published: May 2011

A synthetic route was developed for the preparation of deuterated mevalonolactones. Using low‐cost deuterated reagents, this route allows for the independent introduction of deuterium labeling into any carbon position or into any combination of positions. Following this approach, the synthesis of [6,6,6‐2H3]mevalonolactone, [4,4,6,6,6‐2H5]mevalonolactone, [5,5‐2H2]mevalonolactone, [5,5,6,6,6‐2H5]mevalonolactone, and [2,2,6,6,6‐2H5]mevalonolactone is described.
Lectin‐based structural glycomics: A practical approach to complex glycans
Authors: Hirabayashi Jun , Kuno Atsushi , Tateno Hiroaki
Published: May 2011

Glycans exist in nature in various forms of glycoconjugates, i.e., glycoproteins, glycolipids, and glycosaminoglycans, either in soluble or membrane‐bound forms. One of their prominent properties distinguished from nucleic acids and proteins is “heterogeneity” largely attributed to their inherent features of biosynthesis. In general, various methods based on the physicochemical principles have been taken for their separation and structural determination although all of them require prior liberation of glycans and appropriate labeling. On the other hand, a series of carbohydrate‐binding proteins, or “lectins,” have extensively been used in a more direct manner for cell typing, histochemical staining, and glycoprotein fractionation. Although most procedures conventionally used are useful, unfortunately they lack “throughput” comparable to a performance required for current omics studies. Recently, a novel technique called lectin microarray has attracted increasing attention from not only glycoscientists but also researchers in other fields, because it is straightforward and also informative. The method is innovating in that it enables direct approach to glycoconjugates such as glycoproteins and even cells without liberation of glycans from the core substrate, and therefore can be effectively applied for the sake of differential profiling in various fields. Concept, strategy, and technical advancement of lectin microarray are described. Also, as an introduction to glycomics, the authors explain the motivation to challenge this theme.
Comparative NMR and MS studies on the mechanism of enantioseparation of propranolol with heptakis(2,3‐diacetyl‐6‐sulfo)‐β‐cyclodextrin in capillary electrophoresis with aqueous and non‐aqueous electrolytes
Authors: Lomsadze Ketevan , Salgado Antonio , Calvo Enrique , Antonio López Juan , Chankvetadze Bezhan
Published: May 2011

In our recent studies, the reversal of the enantiomer migration order (EMO) was observed with heptakis (2,3‐dimethyl‐6‐sulfo)‐β‐CD (HDMS‐β‐CD) when aqueous electrolyte was changed with nonaqueous electrolyte in CE. One‐dimensional rotating frame nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy experiments prevailed that an inclusion complex was formed between the analyte and the chiral selector in the aqueous buffer, whereas an external complex resulted when a methanolic electrolyte was employed. In the case of the similarly substituted heptakis (2,3‐diacetyl‐6‐sulfo)‐β‐CD (HDAS‐β‐CD), the external complex was observed in the aqueous buffer but an inclusion complex was formed in methanolic electrolyte. In contrast to heptakis (2,3‐dimethyl‐6‐sulfo)‐β‐CD, no reversal of the enantiomer migration order was observed with HDAS‐β‐CD. In the present study, further mechanisms of enantioselective recognition and separation of propranolol enantiomers with HDAS‐β‐CD were investigated by using different techniques of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and high‐resolution mass spectrometry. To the best of our knowledge, enantioselective nuclear Overhauser effect was observed for the first time in this study.
Top–down‐directed synchrony from medial frontal cortex to nucleus accumbens during reward anticipation
Authors: Cohen Michael X , Bour Lo , Mantione Mariska , Figee Martijn , Vink Matthijs , Tijssen Marina A.J. , Rootselaar Anne‐Fleur van , Munckhof Pepijn van den , Richard Schuurman P. , Denys Damiaan
Published: May 2011

The nucleus accumbens and medial frontal cortex (MFC) are part of a loop involved in modulating behavior according to anticipated rewards. However, the precise temporal landscape of their electrophysiological interactions in humans remains unknown because it is not possible to record neural activity from the nucleus accumbens using noninvasive techniques. We recorded electrophysiological activity simultaneously from the nucleus accumbens and cortex (via surface EEG) in humans who had electrodes implanted as part of deep‐brain‐stimulation treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder. Patients performed a simple reward motivation task previously shown to activate the ventral striatum. Spectral Granger causality analyses were applied to dissociate “top–down” (cortex → nucleus accumbens)‐ from “bottom–up” (nucleus accumbens → cortex)‐directed synchronization (functional connectivity). “Top–down”‐directed synchrony from cortex to nucleus accumbens was maximal over medial frontal sites and was significantly stronger when rewards were anticipated. These findings provide direct electrophysiological evidence for a role of the MFC in modulating nucleus accumbens reward‐related processing and may be relevant to understanding the mechanisms of deep‐brain stimulation and its beneficial effects on psychiatric conditions. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low serum pepsinogen I and pepsinogen I/II ratio and Helicobacter pylori infection are associated with increased risk of gastric cancer: 14‐year follow up result in a rural Chinese community
Authors: Zhang Xianghong , Xue Liying , Xing Lingxiao , Wang Junling , Cui Jinfeng , Mi Jianmin , Xing Xin , Wang Juan , Du Zhanjun , Misumi Junichi , Tian Qingbao , Wang Liqin
Published: May 2011

The correlation between low serum PG level and H. pylori infection with the development of gastric cancer has caused considerable concerns all over the world. Some authors exclaimed that gastric cancer developed only in patients infected with H. pylori, whereas the other had different findings. In this study, 1,501 adult local residents with determined serum PG levels and anti H. pylori IgG status were followed for 14 years for the development of gastric cancer in a rural community with high risk of gastric cancer in Hebei Province, China. The results showed the accumulated gastric cancer incidence in the subjects with abnormal PG level and those with H. pylori infection were all significantly higher than that in the corresponding normal controls (53.9‰ vs. 12.7‰, p < 0.05 and 23.1‰ vs. 5.93‰, p < 0.05). The highest gastric cancer incidence was seen in the subjects with both abnormal serum PG and positive H. pylori (56.0‰), and followed by the subjects with abnormal PG and negative H. pylori (47.6‰) and those with normal serum PG and positive H. pylori (18.4‰). The abnormal serum PG level (OR 3.029) and H. pylori infection (OR 4.345) were all risk factors for the development of gastric cancer. The results suggested that the subjects with abnormal serum PG level and/or positive H. pylori infection in the rural area of China were all high risk population for gastric carcinoma and the subjects with both abnormal serum PG and positive H. pylori infection were at especially high risk for the development of gastric carcinoma.
Effects of α‐tocopherol on the early phase of osteoporotic fracture healing
Authors: Shuid Ahmad Nazrun , Mohamad Sharlina , Muhammad Norliza , Fadzilah Fazalina Mohd , Mokhtar Sabarul Afian , Mohamed Norazlina , Soelaiman Ima Nirwana
Published: May 2011

Fracture healing is a complex process, which is more complicated if the bone is osteoporotic. One of the vitamin E isomers, α‐tocopherol, has been found to prevent osteoporosis and improve bone fracture healing but its role in the healing of osteoporotic fractures is still unclear. We carried out a study on the effects of α‐tocopherol supplementation on osteoporotic fracture healing using an ovariectomized rat model, whereby we focused on the early phase of fracture healing, that is, the phase with excessive production of free radicals. Twenty‐four female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three groups: sham‐operated (SO), ovariectomized–control (OVC), and ovariectomized + α‐tocopherol supplementation (ATF) groups. The right femora of all the rats were fractured at mid‐diaphysis and K‐wires were inserted for internal fixation. After 2 weeks of treatment, the rats were euthanized and the femora were dissected out for measurement of callous volume by CT‐scan and radiological staging of callous formation and fracture healing. The oxidative parameters of the fractured femora were also measured. The results showed that the callous volume and callous staging were not different between the groups. However, the fracture healing stage of the OVC group was lower than the SO group, while α‐tocopherol supplementation in the ATF group had improved the healing until it was comparable to the SO group. The activities of the anti‐oxidatant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in the ATF group were found to be significantly higher than in the OVC group. In conclusion, α‐tocopherol improved fracture healing but had no effect on the callous volume and staging. The improvement in fracture healing may be due to the increased activities of the anti‐oxidatant enzymes in the bone during the early phase of fracture healing of osteoporotic bone. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1732–1738, 2011
Development of a new stir bar sorptive extraction coating and its application for the determination of six pesticides in sugarcane juice
Authors: Barletta Juliana Y. , de Lima Gomes Paulo C. F. , dos Santos‐Neto Álvaro J. , Lancas Fernando M.
Published: May 2011

In this article, a novel polydimethylsiloxane/activated carbon (PDMS‐ACB) material is proposed as a new polymeric phase for stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE). The PDMS‐ACB stir bar, assembled using a simple Teflon®/glass capillary mold, demonstrated remarkable stability and resistance to organic solvents for more than 150 extractions. The SBSE bar has a diameter of 2.36 mm and a length of 2.2 cm and is prepared to contain 92 μL of polymer coating. This new PDMS‐ACB bar was evaluated for its ability to determine the quantity of pesticides in sugarcane juice samples by performing liquid desorption (LD) in 200 μL of ethyl acetate and analyzing the solvent through gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). A fractional factorial design was used to evaluate the main parameters involved in the extraction procedure. Then, a central composite design with a star configuration was used to optimize the significant extraction parameters. The method used demonstrated a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.5–40 μg/L, depending on the analyte detected; the amount of recovery varied from 0.18 to 49.50%, and the intraday precision ranged from 0.072 to 8.40%. The method was used in the analysis of real sugarcane juice samples commercially available in local markets.
Preparation and characterization of silica monolith modified with bovine serum albumin‐gold nanoparticles conjugates and its use as chiral stationary phases for capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Lu Junyu , Ye Fanggui , Zhang Aizhu , Wei Zong , Peng Yan , Zhao Shulin
Published: May 2011

This paper describes the development of silica monolith modified with bovine serum albumin–gold nanoparticles (BSA‐GNPs) conjugates as chiral stationary phases for capillary electrochromatography (CEC). The bare monolithic silica column was prepared by a sol–gel process and has been modified chemically with 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane to provide thiol groups, followed by immobilization of gold nanoparticles via the formation of an Au‐S bond and modification with BSA as the chiral selector via the nitrogen lone pair of electrons. It has been demonstrated that the monolithic chiral stationary phases can be used for the enantioseparation of a number of phenylthiocarbamyl amino acids (PTC‐D/L‐AAs) by CEC. Ten pairs of tested amino acids enantiomers were successfully resolved within 18 min under optimized conditions, and the resolution values were in the range of 1.486–2.083. With PTC‐D/L‐tryptophan used as the probe solute, the influences of applied voltage, organic modifier and buffer pH in mobile phase on apparent retention factor, enantioselectivity and resolution factor were also investigated.
Well‐aligned Nano‐fiberous Membranes Based on Three‐pole Electrospinning with Channel Electrode
Authors: Jafari Akbar , Jeon Jin‐Han , Oh Il‐Kwon
Published: May 2011

Three‐pole electrospinning devices integrated with a blade‐cage collector were developed to fabricate well‐aligned nano‐fiberous membranes. The proposed three‐pole configuration with a channel electrode can be a powerful tool in aligning nano‐fibers with regular diameter because the generated electric field can be accurately controlled without severe fluctuation in comparison with other methods. The three‐pole electrospinning method is also valid for industrial mass production and accurate diameter control of the aligned nano‐fibers.

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Estimating air humidity from temperature and precipitation measures for modelling applications
Authors: Eccel Emanuele
Published: May 2011

Unlike precipitation and temperature, humidity is not widely measured, fostering the development of algorithms that simulate air humidity using other measures. In humid temperate climates, atmospheric water vapour close to the ground often reaches saturation around the time of minimum temperature. This allows models of daily maximum dew‐point temperature to be built from minimum air temperatures. Once the dew‐point temperature has been estimated, hourly values can be interpolated by assuming that water content in the air remains unchanged during the day, relative humidity being the result of the modulation of air temperature on vapour pressure at saturation. This approach requires certain corrections in order to take into account seasonal and local features. The present work investigated and tested the application of algorithms to simulate relative humidity from minimum daily temperatures in 23 meteorological stations in an Italian alpine region. The basic model is corrected by decreasing dew‐point temperature using temperature and precipitation measures, and also requires specific calibration. With respect to errors in the number of hours with high relative humidity, major biases may be generated at some sites. After correction, the number of sites where these techniques yield acceptable results ranges from about a quarter to a half of the total, the lower figure reflecting a stricter acceptance standard in the driest years. The simulation algorithms yield useful results for stations where site‐specific calibration can be carried out, encouraging the use of simulated series from selected sites for climatic, meteorological and phytopathological modelling. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Memory deficits in patients with pediatric CNS germ cell tumors
Authors: Wilkening Greta N. , Madden Jennifer R. , Barton Valerie N. , Roberts Adetola , Foreman Nicholas K.
Published: May 2011

Background

Germ cell tumors (GCT) of the central nervous system including germinomas and nongerminomatous germ cell tumors are rare neoplasms most commonly affecting children and adolescents. Many GCT patients seen at The Children's Hospital Denver complain of memory difficulties at the time of presentation, or demonstrate memory difficulties when assessed. Although case studies suggest that memory deficits may be associated with GCT, this is the first study to investigate memory function across a series of pediatric intracranial GCT patients.

Procedure

A total of 26 GCT patients were retrospectively examined for diagnosis, imaging results, intelligence quotient, treatment variables, evidence of increased intracranial pressure at diagnosis, and memory function. Patient Full Scale IQ was measured using the Wechsler intelligence scales. Memory was evaluated with the California Verbal Learning Test.

Results

The incidence of amnesia in GCT patients was 42%. GCT patients with amnesia were significantly older at diagnosis than those who did not develop amnesia. There was no association between hydrocephalus at presentation or having received radiation and the presence of memory deficits. Several cases of amnesia were not associated with involvement of classic memory structures.

Conclusion

The high incidence of measurable memory deficits in GCT patients suggests that amnesia may be a significant risk in this patient population. Memory assessment at diagnosis and appropriate follow‐up services may prove beneficial for GCT patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 486–491. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The clinical phenotype of children with Fanconi anemia caused by biallelic FANCD1/BRCA2 mutations
Authors: Myers Kasiani , Davies Stella M. , Harris Richard E. , Spunt Sheri L. , Smolarek Teresa , Zimmerman Sarah , McMasters Richard , Wagner Lars , Mueller Robin , Auerbach Arleen D. , Mehta Parinda A.
Published: May 2011

Fanconi anemia (FA) is characterized by progressive marrow failure, congenital anomalies, and predisposition to malignancy. Biallelic FANCD1/BRCA2 mutations are the genetic basis of disease in a small proportion of children with FA with earlier onset and increased incidence of leukemia and solid tumors. Patients with FA have increased sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation, and upon development of a solid tumor, require modification of these therapies. We report clinical and molecular features of three patients with FA associated with FANCD1/BRCA2 mutations, including two novel mutations, and discuss treatment of malignancy and associated side effects in this particularly vulnerable group. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 462–465. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Methodological and ethical aspects of randomized controlled clinical trials in minors with malignant diseases
Authors: Rothenberger Lillian G. , Henschel Andreas Dirk , Schrey Dominik , Becker Andreas , Boos Joachim
Published: May 2011

Background

Due to the new European regulations for pediatric medications, future clinical trials will include an increasing number of minors. It is therefore important to reconsider and evaluate recent methodological and ethical aspects of clinical trials in minors.

Procedure

The following questions were investigated: How are randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) performed in practice? Do investigators take into consideration biomedical ethical principles, explicated for example by Beauchamp and Childress, when planning and conducting a trial? The study was conducted in a descriptive manner. A systematic, algorithm‐guided search focusing on RCTs in minors with malignant diseases was carried out in PubMed. One‐thousand‐nine‐hundred‐sixty‐two publications from 2001 to 2005 were randomized in sequence. The first 1,000 publications were screened according to a priori defined inclusion criteria. One hundred seventy‐five publications met the criteria and were reviewed using the SIGN methodological checklist (2004), the CONSORT Statement (2001, section Methods, items 3–12) and indicators for ethical aspects. Seventeen publications were checked by two raters.

Results

Information on randomization and blinding was often equivocal. The publications were mainly rated positive for the criteria of the SIGN checklist, and mostly rated negative for the additional items of the CONSORT Statement. Regarding the ethical principles, only few contributions were found in the publications. Inter‐rater reliability was good.

Conclusions

In the publications analyzed, we found only limited information concerning methods and reflections on ethical principles of the trials. Improvements are thus necessary and possible. We suggest how such trials and their respective publications can be optimized for these aspects. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 599–605. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transforming chromium containing collagen wastes into flexible composite sheets using cellulose derivatives: Structural, thermal, and mechanical investigations
Authors: Ashokkumar Meiyazhagan , Thanikaivelan Palanisamy , Krishnaraj Kaliappa , Chandrasekaran Bangaru
Published: May 2011

Leather, footwear, and clothing industries produce significant quantity of chromium containing proteinaceous wastes. One of the major uses of these wastes is to convert them into sheets or boards. However, the previous methods could not provide flexible sheets with desired strength. Here, we describe a simple and efficient method for the preparation of flexible composite sheets using chromium containing collagenous wastes (CS) with the use of cellulose derivatives. The leather wastes have been partially hydrolyzed and converted into composite sheets under microwaves with the addition of 2‐hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) in varying concentrations from 2.5 to 20 wt%. A comprehensive strength as high as 3.14 ± 0.45 MPa with a softness of 3.8 ± 0.2 mm is achieved with the addition of 20 wt% HEC in the CS/HEC composite sheets. Scanning electron microscopic and mercury intrusion porosimetric analysis demonstrate the reduction in pores, especially micro pores (<50 μm), when the concentration of HEC is higher thereby showing improved interfacial adhesion of HEC onto CS. Infrared spectroscopy result indicates the presence of distinctive bands associated with both CS and HEC. There is also a reasonable increase in the thermal stability of the CS/HEC sheets as the content of HEC increases. Hence, the developed CS/HEC composite sheets were found to be flexible and have improved thermo‐mechanical properties, which are suitable for applications in leather product and allied industries. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Non‐isothermal crystallization of poly(ethylene oxide)/silver nanoplate composites
Authors: Rahmansyah Nandho , Lo Chieh‐Tsung , Syu Ciou‐Mei , Lee Chien‐Liang
Published: May 2011

The non‐isothermal crystallization of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/silver nanoplate composites was studied using differential scanning calorimetry. The non‐isothermal crystallization was analyzed by combining the Avrami and Ozawa equations. It was found that the Avrami exponent for neat PEO ranges from 2.51 to 2.53, whereas it ranges from 2.54 to 3.16 for its composites, indicating that the spherical crystal morphology does not change with the addition of nanoplates. However, the rate determination of crystal growth transfers from diffusion to nucleation. The crystallization half‐time showed an increase with the addition of silver nanoplates in PEO, indicating that the overall crystallization rate of PEO decreases with the addition of nanoplates. However, the nucleation activity is larger than unity in the composites and the value increases with an increase in the nanoplate content. This behavior implies that the nanoplates act as anti‐nucleating agents to hinder nucleation. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation and characterization of electrospun ultrafine polyamide‐6 nanofibers
Authors: Nirmala Rajkumar , Navamathavan Rangaswamy , El‐Newehy Mohamed Hassan , Kim Hak Yong
Published: May 2011

We report on the preparation and characterization of ultrafine polyamide‐6 nanofibers by the electrospinning technique. The effect of electrospinning on the formation of ultrafine polyamide‐6 nanofiber structure was examined. The morphological and structural characterizations and thermal properties of the ultrafine polyamide‐6 nanofibers were investigated in comparison with bulk polyamide‐6 pellets. In order to accurately characterize the ultrafine polyamide‐6 nanofiber structure by direct identification of mass resolved components, we performed matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images revealed the presence of ultrafine polyamide‐6 nanofibers bound between the main fibers. The diameter of the polyamide‐6 nanofibers was observed to be in the range 75–110 nm, whereas the ultrafine structures consisted of regularly distributed very fine nanofibers with diameters of about 9–28 nm. The MALDI‐TOF spectra showed the presence of protonated and sodiated ions that were assigned to polyamide‐6 chains. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Banded spherulites of electrospun poly(trimethylene terephthalate)/carbon nanotube composite mats
Authors: Wu Defeng , Yang Tao , Sun Yurong , Shi Tiejun , Zhou Weidong , Zhang Ming
Published: May 2011

The crystallization of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) composites containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were studied in this work. The electrospinning technology was employed successfully to fabricate thin film samples with well‐embedded CNTs for spherulite observations using atom force microscopy. The results show that the composites present a higher overall crystallization rate than that of the neat PTT due to the nucleation effect of the CNTs. Banded spherulites can be observed on both the neat PTT and the composites. The presence of CNTs does not change the twisting mode of PTT crystal, but reduces band spacing and twist period. This is attributed to the enhanced fold staggering level of lamellae caused by the narrowed lamellae size and accelerated spherulite growth, which is further confirmed by analysis through secondary nucleation theory. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Biomedical applications of biodegradable polymers
Authors: Ulery Bret D. , Nair Lakshmi S. , Laurencin Cato T.
Published: May 2011

Utilization of polymers as biomaterials has greatly impacted the advancement of modern medicine. Specifically, polymeric biomaterials that are biodegradable provide the significant advantage of being able to be broken down and removed after they have served their function. Applications are wide ranging with degradable polymers being used clinically as surgical sutures and implants. To fit functional demand, materials with desired physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical, and degradation properties must be selected. Fortunately, a wide range of natural and synthetic degradable polymers has been investigated for biomedical applications with novel materials constantly being developed to meet new challenges. This review summarizes the most recent advances in the field over the past 4 years, specifically highlighting new and interesting discoveries in tissue engineering and drug delivery applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
A coarse‐grained molecular model of strain‐hardening for polymers in the marginally glassy state
Authors: Nayak Kapileswar , Read Daniel J. , McLeish Tom C. B. , Hine Peter J. , Tassieri Manlio
Published: May 2011

We have developed a simple bead‐spring model, intended to mimic the internal dynamics of individual polymer chains in the region of the glass transition temperature. Entanglement constraints on the chains are approximated by “sliplinks.” We model the chain dynamics using a dynamic Monte Carlo scheme, with a hop acceptance criterion based on the traversal of high energy barriers. We use this to address the recent experiments of Hine et al., which investigated the effects of melt processing on stress‐strain behavior. Polystyrene samples were stretched, annealed at constant length for various times, then either subjected to shrinkage tests or further stress‐strain tests. Our model reproduces, at a qualitative level, the observations of Hine et al. It indicates that whilst the initial (weak) strain hardening involves deformation of chain subunits smaller than the entanglement length, the transition to stronger strain hardening involves the “pulling tight” of a small fraction of chain strands trapped in between entanglements. The insights gained suggest a route towards development of molecular‐based constitutive models for strain hardening in the glassy state, and specifically the effect of melt processing. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Caregiving styles and attachment orientations in couples facing advanced cancer
Authors: Braun Michal , Hales Sarah , Gilad Lior , Mikulicer Mario , Rydall Anne , Rodin Gary
Published: May 2011

Objective

This study examines associations between caregiving styles and caregivers' and patients' attachment orientations among couples facing advanced cancer. Four caregiving styles were examined: proximate, sensitive, controlling, and compulsive.

Method

A total of 110 patients with advanced gastrointestinal or lung cancer and their spouse caregivers were recruited. Measures included: the Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory, the Caregiving Questionnaire, and the Demand Subscale from the Caregiving Burden Scale.

Results

Caregivers reported high levels of proximate and sensitive caregiving and moderate levels of controlling and compulsive caregiving. Hierarchical regressions were conducted to examine the contribution of caregivers' and patients' attachment orientations to each caregiving style while controlling for caregiving demands. Both caregiving proximity and sensitive caregiving were negatively associated with caregivers' avoidant attachment. Controlling caregiving was positively related to caregivers' avoidant and anxious attachment orientations. Compulsive caregiving was positively associated with caregiving demand and caregivers' attachment anxiety. In addition, compulsive caregiving was positively associated with patients' attachment avoidance and negatively associated with patients' attachment anxiety.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated two clusters of ways to provide care: other–oriented and self‐oriented. The study revealed that both patients' and caregivers' attachment orientations contributed to caregivers' patterns of caregiving. Insecure attachment orientations and resulting couple interaction patterns of ‘demand‐withdrawal’ and ‘avoidance‐pursuit’ are potential sources of distress that may benefit from exploration in psychotherapeutic interventions for couples facing advanced cancer. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetics of Geniposide in Zhi‐Zi‐Hou‐Pu Decoction and in Different Combinations of its Constituent Herbs
Authors: Sun Yanqing , Feng Fang , Yu Xiupei
Published: May 2011

Zhi‐Zi‐Hou‐Pu decoction (ZZHPD), a classic antidepressant formula, is composed of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis (ZZ), Fructus aurantii immaturus (ZS) and Cortex magnoliae officinalis (HP). ZZHPD has attracted a great deal of attention for its antidepressant effects. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics of geniposide (one of the predominant active ingredients) after oral administration of different combinations of ZZHPD and to explore the influence of herb–herb interaction on the pharmacokinetics of geniposide. Twenty four rats were divided randomly into four groups and were administered one of the four extracts: ZZ, ZZ‐HP, ZZ‐ZS and ZZHPD (ZZ‐HP‐ZS) via intragastric gavage with approximately the same dose of 40.65 mg/kg geniposide (an effective human daily dose of ZZHPD). Plasma concentrations of geniposide were determined using an HPLC method. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated from the plasma concentration–time data. Compared with ZZ alone, the ZZ‐ZS combination delayed Tmax and ZZ‐HP, ZZ‐ZS, ZZHPD remarkably shortened the T1/2 of geniposide. In addition, ZZ‐HP, ZZ‐ZS, ZZHPD obviously increased the AUC of geniposide. The result illustrated that the oral bioavailability of geniposide was dramatically enhanced when ZZ was combined with HP or/and ZS. It can be deduced that herb–herb interaction may increase the absorption, and significantly improve the oral bioavailability of geniposide in rats. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of the Hydroalcohol Extract of Rosa canina L. Fruit on Experimentally Nephrolithiasic Wistar Rats
Authors: Tayefi‐Nasrabadi Hossein , Sadigh‐Eteghad Saeed , Aghdam Zahra
Published: May 2011

This research evaluated the possible therapeutic potential of Rosa canina (RC) as a preventive agent in experimentally induced calcium oxalate (CaOx) nephrolithiasis with ethylene glycol (1% EG) in rats. In this experiment, 50 Wistar rats were divided randomly into five groups (n = 10). These groups received tap drinking water (group I), 1% EG (group II), 250 mg/kg RC + 1% EG (group III), 500 mg/kg RC + 1% EG (group IV), or 2.5 g/kg potassium citrate + 1% EG (group V) for a period of 30 days. Blood and urine were collected for biochemical analysis, and the liver and kidneys were prepared for total lipid peroxides, calcium content and histological evaluation. The extract was analysed for total phenolics, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, citric acid and radical scavenger activity. The supplementation of the hydromethanol RC extract contributed to reducing the kidney and liver lipid peroxides to optimum levels in rats that had been treated with EG‐induced CaOx lithiasis. The extract also decreased renal and urinary calcium contents, decreased the size and number of CaOx calculi in the kidneys, and significantly increased citrate excretion without changing the volume, pH, or urinary concentrations of oxalate in comparison with the control group. According to these results, RC can be useful as a preventive agent against the formation of CaOx kidney stones. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Obstacles and opportunities in deploying model‐based GUI testing of mobile software: a survey
Authors: Janicki Marek , Katara Mika , Pääkkönen Tuula
Published: May 2011

Model‐based testing has not been widely deployed in industry yet. There seem to be both technical and non‐technical reasons for this situation. A survey among mobile software testing professions in Finland was conducted that aimed at investigating possible obstacles and opportunities towards wider deployment of this technology. This paper discusses the results and provides conclusions that indicate that at least in this context, there is much interest among practitioners towards the technology. However, more research is needed to make model creation and maintenance as easy as possible. In addition, metrics should be developed that can be used to report test results in the same manner as using existing testing techniques, enabling comparison between different approaches. Special emphasis should also be placed on enabling quick bug localization. Furthermore, it seems that successful pilot projects are a key to wider industrial adoption. Based on the survey findings, an agenda for the future model‐based testing research is outlined. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gray‐scale and color Doppler ultrasound characteristics of endometrial cancer in relation to stage, grade and tumor size
Authors: Epstein E. , Van Holsbeke C. , Mascilini F. , MÅsbäck A. , Kannisto P. , Ameye L. , Fischerova D. , Zannoni G. , Vellone V. , Timmerman D. , Testa A. C.
Published: May 2011

Objectives

To describe the gray‐scale and vascular characteristics of endometrial cancer in relation to stage, grade and size using two‐dimensional (2D)/three‐dimensional (3D) transvaginal ultrasound.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter study including 144 women with endometrial cancer undergoing transvaginal ultrasound before surgery. The sonographic characteristics assessed were echogenicity, endometrial/myometrial border, fibroids, vascular pattern, color score and tumor/uterus anteroposterior (AP) ratio. Histological assessment of tumor stage, grade, type and growth pattern was performed.

Results

Hyperechoic or isoechoic tumors were more often seen in Stage IA cancer, whereas mixed or hypoechoic tumors were more often found in cancers of Stage IB or greater (P = 0.003). Hyperechogenicity was more common in Grade 1–2 tumors (i.e. well or moderately differentiated) (P = 0.02) and in tumors with a tumor/uterine AP ratio of < 50% (P = 0.002), whereas a non‐hyperechoic appearance was more commonly found in Grade 3 tumors (i.e. poorly differentiated) and in tumors with a tumor/uterine AP ratio of ≥ 50%. Multiple global vessels were more often seen in tumors of Stage IB or greater than in Stage IA tumors (P = 0.02), in Grade 3 tumors than in Grade 1 and 2 tumors (P = 0.02) and in tumors with a tumor/uterine AP ratio of ≥ 50% (P < 0.001). A moderate/high color score was significantly more common in tumors of higher stage (P = 0.03) and larger size (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

The sonographic appearance of endometrial cancer is significantly associated with tumor stage, grade and size. More advanced tumors often have a mixed/hypoechoic echogenicity, a higher color score and multiple globally entering vessels, whereas less advanced tumors are more often hyperechoic and have no or a low color score. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of Doppler sonography on intrauterine management and neonatal outcome in preterm fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Chalubinski K. M. , Repa A. , Stammler‐Safar M. , Ott J.
Published: May 2011

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that earlier delivery may be warranted to improve neonatal outcome of fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) with abnormal Doppler parameters.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 110 fetuses with an antenatal diagnosis of IUGR due to placental insufficiency which had a very low birth weight (< 1500 g), delivered at the Department of Fetomaternal Medicine of the Medical University of Vienna, Austria, between January 1999 and July 2009. Doppler results before delivery were classified as follows: Group 1: abnormal umbilical artery (UA) pulsatility index (PI) more than 2 SD above the mean for normal reference data, or absent UA end‐diastolic flow, both with normal middle cerebral artery (MCA) PI (mean ± 2 SD); Group 2: abnormal UA‐PI > mean + 2 SD, or absent or reversed UA end‐diastolic flow, with abnormal MCA‐PI (< mean − 2 SD) and normal ductus venosus (DV) PI (mean ± 2 SD); Group 3: absent or reversed UA end‐diastolic flow, with abnormal MCA‐PI (< mean − 2 SD) and abnormal DV‐PI (> mean + 2 SD) and/or absent or reversed end‐diastolic DV flow. Pregnancy outcome was analyzed according to Doppler results.

Results

Due to very poor prognosis, 19 fetuses underwent expectant management and died in utero. These were excluded from further analyses. Of the remaining 91 cases, 17 were in Doppler Group 1, 44 in Group 2 and 30 in Group 3. Within 4 weeks after delivery, 0/17 (0%) infants in Group 1 died, 2/44 (4.5%) infants in Group 2 died and 7/30 (23.3%) infants in Group 3 died (P = 0.019). None of the 42 Group 2 cases that delivered at or after 28 completed gestational weeks died within 4 weeks after delivery, in contrast to 4/20 (20.0%) Group 3 cases (P = 0.009). In comparison, among infants delivered before 27 completed gestational weeks, 2/2 (100%) Group 2 cases died and 3/10 (30.0%) Group 3 cases died; P = 0.152).

Conclusions

Doppler examinations are highly predictive in assessing the outcome of IUGR fetuses. From 28 completed gestational weeks, early delivery before the onset of fetal cardiac decompensation might be beneficial. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improvement in the heat resistance of poly(vinyl chloride) profile with styrenic polymers
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Chen Shuangjun , Zhang Jun
Published: May 2011

The styrenic polymers poly(α‐methylstyrene‐acrylonitrile) (α‐MSAN) and poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene) (ABS) and (three types) were used to improve the heat resistance of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). The glass transition temperature (Tg) and miscibility were analyzed by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Effects of composition on heat distortion temperature (HDT) were investigated with the different styrenic polymers. Other physical properties such as mechanical properties and melt flow rate (MFR) were also determined. Morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to support the mechanical property results. The PVC was miscible with α‐MSAN but partially miscible with the ABS series, and α‐MSAN was much more effective in enhancing the Tg and HDT of rigid PVC than the ABS series as for mechanical properties, the addition of α‐MSAN could improve the tensile strength, bending strength, and bending modulus but decrease the impact strength of the materials compared with the addition of the ABS series. Improvement in processability was observed in the MFR results with the addition of the styrenic polymers. On the basis of all the properties, the formulation with an α‐MSAN content of 30 phr (parts per hundred parts of resin) was superior for heat‐resistant PVC profile. The HDT of PVC could be increased from 76.9°C to 85.4°C (measured under the maximum bending stress of 0.45 MPa) and combined with good mechanical properties and processability by the addition of 30 phr of α‐MSAN. Also, a heat‐resistant PVC profile was successfully fabricated. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Influence of acetylation on the tensile properties, water absorption, and thermal stability of (High‐density polyethylene)/(soya powder)/(kenaf core) composites
Authors: Ismail H. , Abdullah A. Hamid , Bakar A. Abu
Published: May 2011

Composites comprising high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)/(soya powder)/(kenaf core) were prepared by incorporating different loads of kenaf core powder into HDPE/(soya powder) composites with an internal mixer (Haake PolyLab) for 12 min at 180°C and 50 rpm. The composition of the soya powder used was soluble carbohydrates, 15%; insoluble carbohydrates, 15%; oil, 18%; protein, 38%; and moisture, ash, other, 14%. The effect of kenaf core acetylation on the properties of the HDPE/(soya powder)/(kenaf core) composites was investigated by using a water‐absorption test, a tensile test, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The acetylation of the kenaf core caused a significant increase in the water resistance, thermal stability, and tensile properties of the composites. The FESEM results showed that better interaction occurred between acetylated kenaf core and HDPE relative to unmodified kenaf core. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Soil burial degradation of new bio‐based additives. Part I. Rigid poly(vinyl chloride) films
Authors: Lardjane N. , Belhaneche‐Bensemra N. , Massardier V.
Published: May 2011

Commercial sunflower oil was epoxidized, and the epoxidized sunflower oil (ESO) was used as a thermal stabilizer for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). Rigid formulations stabilized with ESO as a new stabilizer and epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) as a commercial stabilizer for comparison were prepared. The aging of the PVC samples was investigated in landfill soil for 24 months. The structure modifications of the polymer were followed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, the variations of density and mechanical properties (tensile and Shore D hardness) were considered. The variations of the mass of the samples, the glass transition temperature (Tg), the molar mass distribution, and the weight loss were followed as a function of time of soil burial. The soil burial test showed the loss of additives by migration and biodegradation that led to the modification of density, mechanical properties, molar mass distribution, and weight loss of the PVC samples. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers