bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degree of discrepancy between self and other‐reported everyday functioning by cognitive status: dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and healthy elders
Authors: Farias Sarah Tomaszewski , Mungas Dan , Jagust William
Published: August 2005

Background

Previous studies show individuals with dementia overestimate their cognitive and functional abilities compared to reports from caregivers. Few studies have examined whether individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) also tend to underestimate their deficits. In this study we examined whether degree of discrepancy between patient and informant‐reported everyday functioning was associated with cognitive status.

Methods

The sample consisted of 111 ethnically diverse community‐dwelling older adults (46 Caucasians and 65 Hispanic individuals), which was divided into four diagnostic categories: cognitively normal, MCI‐memory impaired, MCI‐nonmemory impaired, and demented. Everyday functional abilities were measured using both a self‐report and informant‐report version of the Daily Function Questionnaire (DFQ). A Difference Score was calculated by subtracting patients' DFQ score from their informants' score.

Results

DFQ Difference Scores were significantly higher in the demented group compared to normals and both of the MCI groups. However, the Difference Scores for the MCI groups were not significantly different than the normals. Further, while patient reported everyday functioning did not differ among the four diagnostic groups, informant reported functional status was significantly different across all diagnostic groups except MCI‐nonmemory impairedvsnormals. Performance on objective memory testing was associated with informant‐rated but not patient‐rated functional status. Demographic characteristics of the patients and informants, including ethnicity, had no association with the degree of discrepancy between raters.

Conclusions

Although there may be some mild functional changes associated particularly with the MCI‐memory impaired subtype, individuals with MCI do not appear to under‐report their functional status as can often been seen in persons with dementia. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of single and dual sensory loss on symptoms of depression in the elderly
Authors: Capella‐McDonnall Michele E.
Published: August 2005

Objectives

The primary purposes of this study were to determine the effect of dual sensory loss (i.e. combined hearing and vision loss) on depressive symptoms, to determine whether dual sensory loss has an effect on depressive symptoms when controlling for common covariates of depression, and to determine whether persons with dual sensory loss were more likely than those with a single sensory loss to experience depressive symptoms.

Design

Secondary analyses of 2001 National Health Interview Survey data.

Participants

Nine thousand eight hundred and thirty‐two people aged 55 and older residing in the community in the US.

Measurements

Self‐report answers to questions about hearing and vision status, depressive symptoms, health, education level, poverty, social activities, social support, and functional disability (ADL and IADL status).

Results

Dual sensory loss had a significant effect on depressive symptoms (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 2.8–4.0), which was lowered but still significant after controlling for covariates of depression (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.7–2.9). Those with dual sensory loss were not significantly more likely than those with vision loss, but were significantly more likely than those with hearing loss, to experience symptoms of depression.

Conclusion

Experiencing depressive symptoms is a problem that needs to be addressed with elderly persons with dual sensory loss. Not only is this population more likely to experience these symptoms, because of their sensory losses treatment for them may be problematical. Professionals working with the elderly should be aware of the increased risks of depressive symptoms in those with single or dual sensory loss, and should screen for them. If present, rehabilitation for sensory losses may help decrease them. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Subjective memory complaints in Chinese subjects with mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lam Linda C. W. , Lui Victor W. C. , Tam Cindy W. C. , Chiu Helen F. K.
Published: August 2005

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional state between normal aging and dementia. However, there is inconsistent opinion as to the validity of subjective memory complaints as a criterion for diagnosis.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the potential significance of applying a short memory questionnaire in the assessment of Chinese subjects with MCI and early dementia.

Methods

Three hundred and six ambulatory Chinese subjects were recruited. Each participant completed a short memory questionnaire. They were also assessed with the Chinese versions of the mini‐mental state examination (CMMSE), Alzheimer's disease assessment scale—cognitive subscale (ADAS‐Cog), category verbal fluency test (CVFT) and span tests. Severity of cognitive impairment was evaluated using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR); subjects with CDR 0.5 were further classified into MCI not demented (MCIND) and MCI possible incipient dementia (MCIID) depending on the subscale scores of CDR.

Results

An increasing frequency of memory complaints with increasing CDR was observed (Kruskal Wallis test, chi square = 21.29, df 3, p < 0.001). With a cutoff of 3 or more memory complaints, the memory questionnaire demonstrated a sensitivity of 65.3% and 70.4% in identifying subjects with incipient and early dementia respectively. Significant associations between memory complaints and most cognitive test performance were found (Spearman's correlations, p < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis revealed that educational level, the memory questionnaire, ADAS‐Cog total and delayed recall scores were significant predictors of MCIID status.

Conclusions

The findings suggested that a short memory questionnaire is useful in the screening of MCI, particularly in subjects who already present with subtle functioning disturbances. Subjective memory complaints were significant correlated with objective performance of memory functions, reflecting the usefulness of memory complaints in the assessment of MCI. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The amount of informal and formal care among non‐demented and demented elderly persons—results from a Swedish population‐based study
Authors: Nordberg G. , von Strauss E. , Kåreholt I. , Johansson L. , Wimo A.
Published: August 2005

Background

Developed countries are experiencing a dramatic increase in the proportion of elderly persons, as well as a progressive aging of the elderly population itself. Knowledge regarding the amount of formal and informal care and its interaction at population‐based level is limited.

Objectives

To describe the amount of formal and informal care for non‐demented and demented persons living at home in a population‐based sample.

Methods

The population consisted of all inhabitants, 75 + years, living in a rural community (n = 740). They were clinically examined by physicians and interviewed by nurses. Dementia severity was measured according to Washington University Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR). Informal and formal care was examined with the RUD (Resource Utilization in Dementia) instrument.

Results

The amount of informal care was much greater than formal care and also greater among demented than non‐demented. There was a relationship between the severity of the congnitive decline and the amount of informal care while this pattern was weaker regarding formal care. Tobit regression analyses showed a clear association between the number of hours of informal and formal care and cognitive decline although this pattern was much stronger for informal than formal care.

Conclusions

Informal care substitutes rather than compliments formal care and highlights the importance of future studies in order to truly estimate the amount of informal and formal care and the interaction between them. This knowledge will be of importance when planning the use of limited resources, and when supporting informal carers in their effort to care for their intimates. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of cognitive functioning on functional status in an older population: 3‐ and 6‐year follow‐up of the Maastricht Aging Study
Authors: van Hooren Susan A. H. , van Boxtel Martin P. J. , Valentijn Susanne A. M. , Bosma Hans , Ponds Rudolf W. H. M. , Jolles Jelle
Published: August 2005

Background

To date, it remains unclear to what extent cognitive competence is related to a change in general functional status in older adults.

Objectives

To evaluate both the cross‐sectional and the longitudinal relation between cognitive functioning and functional status.

Methods

Sensorimotor speed, memory, and executive functioning were assessed in a large population of healthy adults aged 60 years and older (n = 485) who participated in the Maastricht Aging Study. Data from the baseline (1993–1995), three‐year follow‐up, and six‐year follow‐up were used. Functional status was measured using the SF‐36, which was coded into a physical and a mental component summary measure.

Results

After adjustment for age, sex, and educational level, a high level of cognitive functioning appeared to be associated with better functional status in the cross‐sectional analysis. Longitudinal analyses demonstrated, that cognitive functioning was not a predictor of functional status three or six years later.

Conclusions

Thus while cognitive functioning is useful clinically for predicting the short‐term functional status of an older person, it is not useful for predicting that person's long‐term (>3 years) functional status and thus the period of validity of the results of these tests in answering such questions is limited. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma of the Intraductal Growth-Type and Its Precursor Lesions *
Authors: Yeh Ta-Sen , Tseng Jeng-Hwei , Chen Tse-Ching , Liu Nai-Jen , Chiu Cheng-Tang , Jan Yi-Yin , Chen Miin-Fu
Published: August 2005

A cohort of patients with intraductal growth-type intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IG-ICC) and its precursor lesions, collectively termed intraductal papillary neoplasm of the liver (IPNL), was characterized with respect to demographics, clinical manifestations, perioperative management, long-term survival, and molecular features associated with carcinogenesis. A total of 122 patients with IPNL types 1 through 4, 108 patients with non–IG-ICC and 210 patients with hepatolithiasis alone were studied. Expression of CDX2, TFF1, MUC1, MUC2, MUC5AC, EGFR, and p53 was determined by using immunohistochemistry. Females predominated in those with hepatolithiasis alone and IPNL. The mean age of patients with hepatolithiasis alone was 6 to 8 years younger than that of those with IPNL. The association with hepatolithiasis in patients with IPNL types 1 and 2, IPNL types 3 and 4, and non–IG-ICC was 100%, 79%, and 64%, respectively. Mucobilia, anemia, and elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels were helpful in distinguishing IG-ICC and its precursor lesions. The mean survival of patients with IPNL type 3, IPNL type 4, and non–IG-ICC was 55.5 months, 36.9 months, and 15.8 months, respectively. The incidence of expression of CDX2 and TFF1 was maximal in IPNL type 3. Expression and cellular distribution of MUC2 and CDX2 were similar. MUC5AC was strongly expressed in all patients with IPNL; EGFR and p53 were rarely expressed in patients with IPNL.
In conclusion
, hepatolithiasis appears to be a precipitating factor in the development of IPNL. Signs of mucobilia were specific for the diagnosis of IPNL. Expression of CDX2 and MUC2 are helpful in differentiating IPNL and non–IG-ICC. Significant differences in survival associated with the various lesions studied warrants a more aggressive surgical strategy in their management. (Hepatology 2005;42:657–664.)
A Genomic and Proteomic Study of the Spectrum of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease *
Authors: Younossi Zobair M. , Baranova Ancha , Ziegler Katharine , Del Giacco Luca , Schlauch Karen , Born Timothy L. , Elariny Hazem , Gorreta Francesco , VanMeter Amy , Younoszai Abraham , Ong Janus P. , Goodman Zachary , Chandhoke Vikas
Published: August 2005

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease, and some of its forms are progressive. This study describes the profiling of hepatic gene expression and serum protein content in patients with different subtypes of NAFLD. Liver biopsy specimens from 98 bariatric surgery patients were classified as normal, steatosis alone, steatosis with nonspecific inflammation, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Microarray hybridizations were performed in triplicate and the microarray expression levels of a selected group of genes were confirmed using real-time quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Serum protein profiles of the same patients were determined by SELDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Of 98 obese patients, 91 were diagnosed with NAFLD (12 steatosis alone, 52 steatosis with nonspecific inflammation, and 27 NASH), and 7 patients without NAFLD served as obese controls. Each group of NAFLD patients was compared with the obese controls, and 22 genes with more than twofold differences in expression levels were revealed. Proteomics analyses were performed for the same group comparisons and revealed twelve significantly different protein peaks.
In conclusion
, this genomic/proteomic analysis suggests differential expression of several genes and protein peaks in patients within and across the forms of NAFLD. These findings may help clarify the pathogenesis of NAFLD and identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention. (Hepatology 2005;42:665–674.)
Histopathology of Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease * #
Authors: Schwimmer Jeffrey B. , Behling Cynthia , Newbury Robert , Deutsch Reena , Nievergelt Caroline , Schork Nicholas J. , Lavine Joel E.
Published: August 2005

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are common in children and adolescents. However, standard histological criteria for pediatric NAFLD and NASH are undeveloped. We reviewed consecutive patients ages 2 to 18 years with biopsy-proven NAFLD diagnosed between 1997 and 2003. Biopsies were evaluated by two pathologists for individual features of steatohepatitis. Agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis demonstrated two different forms of steatohepatitis. Type 1 was characterized by steatosis, ballooning degeneration, and perisinusoidal fibrosis; type 2 was characterized by steatosis, portal inflammation, and portal fibrosis. The study included 100 children with NAFLD. Simple steatosis was present in 16% of subjects, and advanced fibrosis was present in 8%. Type 1 NASH was present in 17% of subjects, and type 2 NASH was present in 51%. Boys were significantly (

P

< .01) more likely to have type 2 NASH and less likely to have type 1 NASH than girls. The NASH type differed significantly (

P

< .001) by race and ethnicity. Type 1 NASH was more common in white children, whereas type 2 NASH was more common in children of Asian, Native American, and Hispanic ethnicity. In cases of advanced fibrosis, the pattern was generally that of type 2 NASH.
In conclusion
, type 1 and type 2 NASH are distinct subtypes of pediatric NAFLD, and type 2 is the most common pattern in children. NASH subtypes should be considered when interpreting liver biopsies and planning studies of the pathophysiology, genetics, natural history, or response to treatment in pediatric NAFLD. (Hepatology 2005;42:641–649.)
A kinetic approach to osteoblast adhesion on biomaterial surface
Authors: Bigerelle M. , Anselme K.
Published: August 2005

An incompletely understood question in the field of biomaterials is how eucaryotic cells adhere on material surfaces. The adhesion of cells on materials is generally studied after some hours. Because this evaluation after some hours cannot let us presume about the future of the cells on the material, we have developed a culture model that does allow study in the long term of an elaborate cell/material interface closer to the in vivo situation. For that, we used a progressive trypsin‐based detachment method. Here we report on the mathematical modeling of long‐term human primary osteoblastic cell adhesion on metallic substrates, which allows us to quantify the real adhesion simultaneously by taking into account the effect of cell proliferation. A time‐dependent adhesion index td is proposed, which varies with culture time t according to the power law: td(t) = atb, a being independent of b. The exponent b is equal to 0.5 ± 0.03 and is independent of the substrate's characteristics, meaning that the long‐term adhesion increases proportionally to the square root of culture time. On the contrary, the parameter a significantly depends on the material's nature, the surface's topography, and the surface chemistry of the substrate and is sufficient to characterize cell adhesion. From this relationship, we suggest that a diffusion‐based process related to the kinetic of formation of extracellular matrix should be involved in long‐term adhesion on materials. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005
Ab initio study of the oxidation of NCN by O2
Authors: Zhu R. S. , Lin M. C.
Published: August 2005

The reaction of NCN with O2 has been investigated by ab initio molecular orbital and transition state theory calculations. The mechanisms for formation of possible product channels involved in the singlet and triplet potential energy surfaces have been predicted at the highest level of the modified GAUSSIAN‐2 (G2M) method, G2M (CC1). The stationary points of species on the low‐energy paths were also examined with the third‐order Rayleigh–Schrödinger perturbation (CASPT3) and the multireference configuration interaction including Davidson's correction for higher excitations (MRCI + Q) theories at the CASPT3 (4, 4)/aug‐cc‐PVTZ//CASSCF(4,4)/cc‐pVDZ(4,4) and MRCI+Q(4,4)/aug‐cc‐PVTZ //CASSCF (4, 4)/cc‐pVDZ(4, 4) levels. The rate constants for the two low‐energy channels, NCN + O2 → cis,trans‐NCNOO → NCO + NO (k1) and NCN + O2 → cis,trans‐NCNOO → CNO + NO (k2), have been calculated in the temperature range of 1000–3000 K based on the energies obtained at the G2M(CC1) level. The results show that the formation of NCO + NO is dominant, and its branching ratio k1/(k1+k2)=0.83 is almost temperature independent from 1000 to 3000 K. The total rate constant can be expressed by kt = 7.29 × 10−15 T0.51 exp (−12370/T) cm3 molecule−1 s−1 in the 1000–3000 K range. Overall, the reaction is quite slow because of the high entrance and exit barriers. Based on the predicted heats of reaction and the known heats of formation of NCN and NO, the heats of formation of NCO and CNO at 0 K have been calculated to be 29.8 and 92.6 kcal/mol, respectively. The former agrees closely with the available experimental value, 30.4 ± 1.0 kcal/mol. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 37: 593–598, 2005
Falloff curves for the unimolecular decomposition of two acyl radicals: RCO (+M) → R + CO (+M) by pulsed laser photolysis coupled to time‐resolved infrared diode laser absorption
Authors: Dusanter Sebastien , Elmaimouni Lahcen , Fittschen Christa , Lemoine Bernard , Devolder Pascal
Published: August 2005

The rate constants kd for the unimolecular decomposition of two acyl (RĊO) radi‐ cals: 2,2‐dimethylpropionyl (CH3)3CĊO and 2‐methylpropionyl (CH3)2CHĊO (pivaloyl and isobutyryl, respectively in what follows) have been directly measured via the time‐resolved kinetics of CO formation as a function of pressure and temperature. The acyl radicals are generated by H‐atom abstraction of the aldehydic hydrogen from the corresponding substituted propanals using pulsed laser photolysis of aldehyde/Cl2/N2 mixtures. The buildup of CO concentration is monitored by time‐resolved infrared absorption at ≅2177 cm‐1. The extent of the chain reactions triggered by the reactions of Cl2 with alkyl and acyl radicals (thus generating further Cl atoms after the initial laser pulse) has been limited by adding variable known concentrations of O2, a radical scavenger which is sequestering all radicals to form less reactive RO2 radicals. Besides kd, we have also determined for the first time the rate constants of the reactions of the two acyl radicals with O2; since the latter do not exhibit any clear trend with either temperature or pressure, we thus adopt the average of all experimental values: i.e. for pivaloyl : k = (3.5 ± 1.0) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, and for isobutyryl : k = (3.2 ± 1.0) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1. Our values of kd, which are in the falloff range, are compared to those obtained from theoretical calculations using the Troe formalism 5. For pivaloyl at 298 K, we obtain the following limiting rate constants : k0 = 2.1 × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, k∞ = 4.3 × 105 s−1, FC = 0.515, which are at variance with the theoretical predictions of Tomas et al. (Phys Chem Chem Phys 2000, 2, 1165–1174). For isobutyryl, our experimental data are entirely consistent with the predictions of Tomas et al. Extrapolation of our Troe parameters to tropospheric conditions (298 K, atmospheric pressure) shows, in agreement with previous authors, that for both radicals the reaction with O2 is several orders of magnitude faster than the unimolecular decomposition. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 37: 611–624, 2005
Why is the order reversed? peroxyl‐scavenging activity and fats‐and‐oils protecting activity of vitamin E
Authors: Mukai Kazuo , Noborio Sachiyo , Nagaoka Shin‐Ichi
Published: August 2005

The orders of relative tocopherol biopotency, scavenging activity of lipid peroxyl radicals, and quenching activity of singlet oxygen are as follows: jalpha‐tocopherol > β‐tocopherol ⩾ γ‐tocopherol > δ‐tocopherol. However, the reverse is the case for the activity to protect fats and oils from oxidation: jalpha‐tocopherol < β‐tocopherol < γ‐tocopherol δ‐tocopherol. The reason for this reverse has been studied by measuring weight gains of solutions including methyl linoleate and various antioxidants at daily intervals. Antioxidant activity is expressed as an induction period in days. Induction periods are compared with the second‐order rate constants for scavenging of an aroxyl radical by the antioxidants. A plot of the logarithm of the second‐order rate constant vs. the induction period is found to give a good linear fit, and the slope is negative. From these results, it is considered that the larger the peroxyl‐radical‐scavenging activity of a tocopherol, the more favorable the production of the tocopheroxyl radical, and thus the more efficient the oxidation of fats and oils by the tocopheroxyl radical. This is not the case for tocopherols in vivo, because vitamin C and ubiquinol reduce tocopheroxyl radicals formed from tocopherols. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 37: 605–610, 2005
Kinetics and activation energy of the oxidation of para‐tolyl radical by cobalt(III) in acetic acid: Competition kinetics
Authors: Espenson James H. , Yiu Douglas Tak‐Yeung
Published: August 2005

The title reaction gives rise to a benzylic cation that is rapidly transformed to its bromide in competition with the reaction of the radical with carbon tetrachloride. Experiments were carried out over 17–69°C in acetic acid containing cobalt(II) acetate, para‐xylene, hydrobromic acid, carbon tetrachloride, and meta‐chloroperoxybenzoic acid. The product ratio, ArCH2Cl/ArCH2Br, in combination with other pertinent rate constants, was used to determine the rate constant for the step of interest: log k (L mol−1 s−1 = 19.9 – (75 ± 11 kJ mol−1/2.303 RT). The large pre‐exponential factor, which gives ΔS‡ = 128 J K−1 mol−1, signals an unusual transition state, because a negative value of ΔS‡ would be expected for a simple bimolecular reaction. The production of the ion pair ArCH‖OAc− in HOAc, which has the same dielectric constant as benzene, may be responsible, at least in part. Furthermore, inner sphere reorganization of cobalt may also contribute. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 37: 599–604, 2005
Synthesis of Macroporous PMMA/Silica Nanocomposite Monoliths in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Yue Baohua , Yang Jun , Huang Chien‐Yueh , Dave Rajesh , Pfeffer Robert
Published: August 2005

Summary: Macroporous monoliths consisting of silica nanoparticles embedded in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were synthesized in supercritical CO2. Well‐dispersed silica particles, pretreated with functional 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (MPS), were to form colloidal PMMA nanocomposites followed by a sol‐gel transition forming interconnected structures resulting in micron‐sized pores with specific areas between 1 and 7 m2 · g−1. SEM and TEM results revealed uniform morphological characteristics of the composite materials and good dispersions of the silica nanoparticles.

SEM micrograph of PMMA/Silica nanocomposites forming interconnected macroporous monolith. The average size of the silica particles is 50 nm.

image

SEM micrograph of PMMA/Silica nanocomposites forming interconnected macroporous monolith. The average size of the silica particles is 50 nm.
Surface‐Initiated Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization of Oligo(ethylene glycol) Methacrylate: Effect of Solvent on Graft Density
Authors: Feng Wei , Chen Renxu , Brash John L. , Zhu Shiping
Published: August 2005

Summary: Oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (OEGMA) was grafted from silicon wafer surfaces by surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) with CuIBr/2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) as a catalyst and various water/alcohol mixtures as solvents. The ellipsometric thickness of the poly(OEGMA) layer on the surface increased linearly with monomer conversion in solution. High graft densities were achieved in alcohols. The graft density of poly(OEGMA) in methanol was found to be 0.26 chains · nm−2, which is 50% higher than that in water/methanol (30:70, v/v). The differences in graft density were correlated to the conformation of tethered poly(OEGMA) chains. Large poly(OEGMA) coils on the surface in the presence of water limited the access of initiation sites to the catalyst complex and monomer molecules.

Development of poly(OEGMA) layer thickness on the silicon surface vs monomer conversion.

image

Development of poly(OEGMA) layer thickness on the silicon surface vs monomer conversion.
A Novel Approach to Processing High‐Performance Polymers that Exploits Entropically Driven Ring‐Opening Polymerization
Authors: Ben‐Haida Abderrazak , Colquhoun Howard M. , Hodge Philip , Stanford John L.
Published: August 2005

Summary:Blends of the poly(ether sulfone) derived from 4,4′‐biphenol and 4,4′‐dichlorodiphenylsulfone (Radel‐R™) with its homologous macrocyclic oligomers show greatly lowered melt viscosities relative to that of the parent polymer, potentially enabling more facile production and fabrication of fiber‐reinforced composite materials. The macrocycles can then undergo entropically driven ring‐opening polymerization in situ. The required blends can be obtained easilyin one step, by carrying out polycondensations at concentrations lower than those usually used for polymer synthesis.

Percentage of MCOs5in the product as a function of total monomer concentration.

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Percentage of MCOs5in the product as a function of total monomer concentration.
Multifunctional Stimuli Responsive ABC Terpolymers: From Three‐Compartment Micelles to Three‐Dimensional Network
Authors: Katsampas Ilias , Roiter Yuri , Minko Sergiy , Tsitsilianis Constantinos
Published: August 2005

Summary: A highly asymmetric P2VP58‐PAA924‐PBMA48 double hydrophilic block terpolymer exhibits a rich phase behavior as a function of pH. In acidic media (pH 1) three compartment micelles with a positively charged outer corona are formed. At high pH, the above structure is transformed into a three‐dimensional transient network constituted of hydrophobic domains interconnected with negatively charged bridging chains (PAA chains). At even higher pH (14) the network is disrupted and finally exhibits a closed loop sol–gel–sol behavior.

AFM images of P2VP58‐PAA924‐PBMA48 micellar self assemblies deposited on mica.

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AFM images of P2VP58‐PAA924‐PBMA48 micellar self assemblies deposited on mica.
Brain atrophy rates in Parkinson's disease with and without dementia using serial magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Burton Emma J. , McKeith Ian G. , Burn David J. , O'Brien John T.
Published: August 2005

Increased rates of brain atrophy are seen in Alzheimer's disease, but whether rates are similarly increased in other dementias such as Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) has not been well examined. We determined the rates of brain atrophy using serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in PDD and compared this finding to rates seen in cognitively intact Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and age‐matched control subjects. Thirty‐one patients (PD = 18, PDD = 13) and 24 age‐matched controls underwent serial volumetric 1.5 T MRI scans, approximately 1 year apart. Baseline and repeat scans were registered and quantification of the brain boundary shift integral was used to determine whole‐brain atrophy rates. Rates of brain atrophy were significantly increased in PDD (1.12 ± 0.98%/year) compared to PD (0.31 ± 0.69%/year; P = 0.018) and control subjects (0.34 ± 0.76%/year; P = 0.015). There were no differences in atrophy rates between controls and PD (P = 0.79). No correlations between increased atrophy rates and age or dementia severity (Mini‐Mental State Examination score) were observed. Serial MRI may be a useful tool for monitoring disease progression in PDD and further studies should investigate its utility for early diagnosis. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Presence of an APOE4 allele results in significantly earlier onset of Parkinson's disease and a higher risk with dementia
Authors: Pankratz Nathan , Byder Lisa , Halter Cheryl , Rudolph Alice , Shults Clifford W. , Conneally P. Michael , Foroud Tatiana , Nichols William C.
Published: August 2005

The ε4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4) has been consistently associated with a greater risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) as well as an earlier onset of AD. It is possible that APOE4 may also play a role in the etiology of other neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD). APOE genotype, age of onset, disease duration, smoking history, and dementia status were collected for families with PD, yielding 324 Caucasian families with complete information. Logistic regression employing one individual per family and including age of onset and disease duration as covariates demonstrated a significantly increased risk of dementia for those individuals having inherited at least one ε4 allele (OR = 3.37; P = 0.002). Survival analyses also demonstrated a significantly earlier age of onset for those subjects with at least one ε4 allele (59.7 years) as compared with those homozygous for the more common ε3 allele (62.4 years; P = 0.009). Thus, consistent with previous studies, we find evidence that the presence of an ε4 allele results in significantly earlier onset of PD and a greater likelihood of dementia. It appears the similarities between PD and AD may be due to an overlap in the diseases' genetic etiology. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Quantitative determination of SH groups using 19F NMR spectroscopy and disulfide of 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐4‐mercaptobenzoic acid
Authors: Potapenko Dmitrii I. , Bagryanskaya Elena G. , Grigoriev Igor A. , Maksimov Aleksander M. , Reznikov Vladimir A. , Platonov Vyacheslav E. , Clanton Thomas L. , Khramtsov Valery V.
Published: August 2005

A new method of measurement of thiol concentration by 19F NMR spectroscopy is developed. The method is based on the detection of products of the exchange reaction of thiols with a newly synthesized fluorinated disulfide, 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐4‐mercaptobenzoic acid (BSSB). A significant broadening of the 19F NMR signal of BSSB in the presence of thiols was observed and attributed to the exchange reaction between the parent disulfide and 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐4‐mercaptobenzoic acid. The rate constant for this reaction was found to be equal to (63 ± 11) × 103 M−1 s−1 at pH 7.0. The method was applied for the measurement of concentration of glutathione and albumin in rat blood. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐dose cyclophosphamide in refractory myasthenia gravis with MuSK antibodies
Authors: Lin Peter T. , Martin Beth A. , Weinacker Ann B. , So Yuen T.
Published: August 2005

We describe a 48‐year‐old woman with seronegative myasthenia gravis (MG) and high‐titer of anti‐MuSK antibody. She had severe bulbar and respiratory weakness with minimal limb weakness for 2 years. Her disease responded poorly to all the conventional immunosuppressive regimens. Treatment with immunoablative dose of cyclophosphamide led to dramatic and sustained remission of her symptoms. High‐dose cyclophosphamide is an effective alternative in patients with unusually refractory disease. Muscle Nerve, 2005
Neuroprotective adeno‐associated virus Bcl‐xL gene transfer in models of motor neuron disease
Authors: Garrity‐Moses Mary E. , Teng Qingshan , Liu James , Tanase Diana , Boulis Nicholas M.
Published: August 2005

Recent work implicates excitotoxicity‐induced apoptosis as the mechanism triggering motor neuron death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Our laboratory has previously utilized glutamate excitotoxicity in vitro to study this process. The present experiment tests whether overexpression of the gene for Bcl‐XL can inhibit excitotoxicity in this model system. To track Bcl‐XL expression, the gene for green fluorescent protein (GFP) was inserted in‐frame, upstream of the Bcl‐XL gene. The GFP‐Bcl‐XL gene was then cloned into an adeno‐associated viral (AAV2) vector. GFP expression in both SH‐SY5Y and embryonic day 15 (E15) motor neurons (MNs) peaked 48 hours after infection. Bcl‐XL expression in SH‐SY5Y cells significantly reduced terminal deoxy‐UTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL)–positive cells and maintained cell density after glutamate exposure. Similarly, Bcl‐XL expression inhibited the development of TUNEL staining in E15 MNs and supported cell density after glutamate exposure. These findings suggest that AAV‐mediated expression of genes for antiapoptotic proteins may provide a means for ALS gene therapy. Muscle Nerve, 2005
Systemic administration of L‐arginine benefits mdx skeletal muscle function
Authors: Barton Elisabeth R. , Morris Linda , Kawana Masataka , Bish Lawrence T. , Toursel Thierry
Published: August 2005

A major consequence of muscular dystrophy is that increased membrane fragility leads to high calcium influx and results in muscle degeneration and myonecrosis. Prior reports have demonstrated that increased nitric oxide production via L‐arginine treatment of normal and mdx mice resulted in increased expression of utrophin and increased activation of muscle satellite cells, which could ameliorate the dystrophic pathology. We delivered L‐arginine to normal and mdx mice, and examined muscles for any functional changes associated with its administration. Treated mdx muscles were less susceptible to contraction‐induced damage and exhibited a rightward shift of the force–frequency relationship. Immunoblotting revealed increases in utrophin and γ‐sarcoglycan in the treated muscles. There was also a decrease in Evans blue dye uptake, indicating a reduction in myonecrosis. However, there was no decrease in serum creatine kinase or the proportion of central nuclei, nor any improvement in specific force. Together, these results show that L‐arginine treatment can be beneficial to mdx muscle function, perhaps through a combination of enhanced calcium handling and increased utrophin, thereby decreasing muscle degeneration. Muscle Nerve, 2005
Improvement of the Polyimide Surface Wettability Using SiOx Films Deposited in a DECR Reactor from HMDSO/O2 Mixtures
Authors: Bellel Azzedine , Sahli Salah , Raynaud Patrice , Segui Yvan , Ziari Zahira , Eschaich David , Dennler Gilles
Published: August 2005

Summary: Polyimide (PI) foils were coated with thin SiOx films for surface wettability improvement. The deposition was carried out in a microwave DECR (Distributed Electron Cyclotron Resonance) plasma reactor from a mixture of HMDSO/O2. During deposition, the PI substrate was located downstream, exposed to long‐lived reactive precursors and to VUV radiation (position I) or located again downstream but shielded from VUV radiation (position II). Deposition time was varied in order to observe different stages of the film growth. The surfaces of the deposited films were investigated by means of contact angle, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. According to contact angle measurements, the coated PI surface became hydrophilic already at a thickness of about 2.8 nm and stayed nearly at the same level still for thicker coating. The plasma deposition of the ultra‐thin SiOx layer increased significantly the polar component of the surface energy from 9 to 53 mJ · m−2 and consequently enhanced the wettability of the material. The treated surfaces were only moderately affected after eight weeks storage time in air, indicating stable surface treatments. AFM images revealed that during deposition, the PI surface topography remains relatively smooth when coated in position I. However, for PI coated in position II, the surface roughness becomes more pronounced as thickness is increased. XPS analysis showed that VUV irradiation of the PI surface leads to the formation of a high proportion of polar species which enhance the wettability of the surface. Curve fitting of the Si2p peak showed that, as the film thickness increases, the deposited film becomes more oxidized.

Surface roughness of 6.6 nm thick SiOx film (Rav = 1.8 nm, Rrms = 2.3 nm).

magnified image

Surface roughness of 6.6 nm thick SiOx film (Rav = 1.8 nm, Rrms = 2.3 nm).
Front Cover: Plasma Process. Polym. 7/2005
Authors: Hegemann Dirk , Hossain Mohammad‐Mokbul
Published: August 2005

Front Cover: The regime of plasma polymerization can be described by the evaluation of the mass deposition rates depending on the specific energy delivered to the active plasma zone. Thus, plasma reactors with well defined geometries support this macroscopic approach, which was found to hold also for gas mixtures of polymerizable and non‐polymerizable gases. Further details can be found in the Full Paper by D. Hegemann,* and M.‐M. Hossain on page 554.
Prediction of herb–drug metabolic interactions: a simulation study
Authors: Zhou Shufeng , Huang Min , Xu Anlong , Yang Hongyuan , Duan Wei , Paxton James W.
Published: August 2005

In vitroandin vivostudies have indicated that the induction or inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP) is one of the major mechanisms for some clinically important pharmacokinetic herb–drug interactions. An attempt was made to simulate the effects of herbal preparation with single or multiple CYP‐inhibiting constituents on the area of the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) of coadministered drug that was either a low clearance drug by intravenous (i.v.) injection or a high clearance drug by oral route. Our simulation studies indicated that the expected increase (Rc) in the AUC of the coadministered drug by inhibiting herbal constituent(s) was dependent on the route of administration. For low clearance drug by i.v. injection,Rcwas generally determined by inhibition constant (Ki), unbound inhibitor concentration ([I]), hepatic fraction (fh), number of inhibitory herbal constituents (n) and metabolic pathway fraction in hepatic metabolism (fm), whileRcfor a high clearance drug by oral route,Rcwas determined byKi, [I], n andfm. By varying these parameters,Rcchanged accordingly. It appeared likely to predict a herb–drug metabolic interaction, if the inhibiting herbal constituents could be quantitatively determined. However, many herb‐ and drug‐related factors may cause difficulties with the prediction, and thusin vivoanimal and human studies are always necessary. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antimalarial compounds from Kniphofia foliosa roots
Authors: Wube Abraham Abebe , Bucar Franz , Asres Kaleab , Gibbons Simon , Rattray Lauren , Croft Simon L
Published: August 2005

During the course of screening Ethiopian medicinal plants for their antimalarial properties, it was found that the dichloromethane extract of the roots of Kniphofia foliosa Hochst. (Asphodelaceae), which have long been used in the traditional medicine of Ethiopia for the treatment of abdominal cramps and wound healing, displayed strong in vitro antiplasmodial activity against the chloroquine‐sensitive 3D7 strain of Plasmodium falciparum with an ED50 value of 3.8 µg/mL and weak cytotoxic activity against KB cells with an ED50 value of 35.2 µg/mL. Five compounds were isolated from the roots and evaluated for their in vitro antimalarial activity. Among the compounds tested, 10‐(chrysophanol‐7′‐yl)‐10‐(ξ)‐hydroxychrysopanol‐9‐anthrone and chryslandicin, showed a high inhibition of the growth of the malaria parasite, P. falciparum with ED50 values of 0.260 and 0.537 µg/mL, respectively, while the naphthalene derivative, 2‐acetyl‐1‐hydroxy‐8‐methoxy‐3‐methylnaphthalene, exhibited a less significant antimalarial activity with an ED50 value of 15.4 µg/mL. To compare the effect on the parasite with toxicity to mammalian cells, the cytotoxic activities of the isolated compounds against the KB cell line were evaluated and 10‐(chrysophanol‐7′‐yl)‐10‐(ξ)‐hydroxychrysopanol‐9‐anthrone and chryslandicin displayed very low toxicity with ED50 values of 104 and 90 µg/mL, respectively. This is the first report of the inhibition of the growth of P. falciparum by anthraquinone‐anthrone dimers and establishes them as a new class of potential antimalarial compounds with very little host cell toxicity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibitory effects of Ganoderma applanatum on rat lens aldose reductase and sorbitol accumulation in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rat tissues
Authors: Jung Sang Hoon , Lee Yeon Sil , Shim Sang Hee , Lee Sanghyun , Shin Kuk Hyun , Kim Ju Sun , Kim Yeong Shik , Kang Sam Sik
Published: August 2005

Aldose reductase, the key enzyme of the polyol pathway, is known to play important roles in diabetic complications. Therefore, inhibitors of aldose reductase would be potential agents for the prevention of diabetic complications. To evaluate the inhibitory potential of aldose reductase from Ganoderma applanatum (Polyporaceae), methanol (MeOH) and water extracts were tested for their effects on rat lens aldose reductase (RLAR). The effects of both extracts on streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetes in rats were also investigated. The MeOH extract exhibited a potent rat lens aldose reductase (RLAR) inhibition in vitro, and showed a significant inhibition, of not only serum glucose concentrations, but also of sorbitol accumulations in the lens, red blood cells (RBC) and sciatic nerves in STZ‐induced diabetic rats. Associated with a reduction in serum glucose concentration in STZ‐induced diabetic rats, this extract was found to cause a significant glucose tolerance effect. These results suggested that G. applanatum might possess constituents with antidiabetic and inhibitory effects on diabetic complications. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of some medicinal plant extracts for antidiarrhoeal activity
Authors: Atta Attia H. , Mouneir Samar M.
Published: August 2005

The antidiarrhoeal effect of seven plant extracts namely: the aerial parts of Euphorbia paralias L. (EP), Bidens bipinnata L. (BB), Cynachum acutum L. (CyAc), Diplotaxis acris (Forssk.) Boiss (DA), Convolvulus fatmensis (CF) and Schouwia thebaica Webb (ST) and the leaves of Plantago major L. (PM), was evaluated on castor oil‐induced diarrhoea, gastrointestinal movement in rats (charcoal meal) and on the motility of duodenum isolated from freshly slaughtered rabbits. A significant antidiarrhoeal effect of the tested plant extracts against castor oil‐induced diarrhoea in rats was achieved by 200 and 400 mg/kg. The tested plant extracts decreased the gastrointestinal movement as indicated by the significantly (p < 0.05 to 0.001) decreased distance travelled by the charcoal meal. The large dose of the tested plant extracts was slightly more effective than the small one. The antidiarrhoeal effect was confirmed by the reported dose dependent inhibition of the motility of duodenum isolated from freshly slaughtered rabbits. The EP and PM methanol extract produced a transient stimulation followed by inhibition in doses of less than 0.05 and 1.6 mg/kg, respectively. Higher concentrations caused rapid muscle relaxation. Tannins, flavonoids, unsaturated sterols/triterpenes, carbohyd‐rates, lactones and proteins/amino acids were reported as major active constituents of the tested plants. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photoprotection by topical application of Achyrocline satureioides (‘Marcela’)
Authors: Morquio Andrea , Rivera‐Megret Felicia , Dajas Federico
Published: August 2005

It has been demonstrated that the use of topical antioxidants can contribute to controling the free radicals excess produced by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of the skin, being beneficial for processes such as photo aging and eventually cancer. Some plant extracts, particularly because of their polyphenolic constituents, can be beneficial for skin photo damage.

Plant extracts of Achyrocline satureioides (AS) and Epilobium parviflorum (EP), potent antioxidant medicinal plants, were mixed with a cosmetic base and applied to the back skin of rabbits. Afterwards the skin was exposed to 1 h of UV irradiation from a known source. The production of the hydroxyl (OH·) radical was assessed in the skin after UV by measuring 2,3‐dyhydroxybenzoic acid (2,3‐DHBA), produced by the hydroxylation of sodium salicylate, previously injected intracutaneously (i.c.) in the irradiated areas.

The UV provoked a marked increase in 2,3‐DHBA that was significantly decreased by the AS cosmetic preparation. The EP extract did not show any effect on 2,3‐DHBA production. It is concluded that the cosmetic preparation containing the AS extract is able to scavenge OH production likely to be due to the presence of high concentrations of flavonoid aglycones such as quercetin, luteolin and 3‐O‐methylquercetin. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radioprotective effect of sugar cane extract in chickens
Authors: Amer Said , Na Ki‐Jeong , Motobu Maki , El‐Abasy Moshira , Nakamura Kikuyasu , Koge Kenji , Hirota Yoshikazu
Published: August 2005

To evaluate the radioprotective effect of sugar cane extract (SCE), SCE was orally administered into the crop of 3‐week‐old chickens for 3 consecutive days before or after x‐ray radiation at a dose of 500 mg/kg/day. The survival rate of SCE administered chickens before x‐ray radiation at a dose of 920 rad increased to 68.8% when compared with that of the irradiated control (50%). Histopathological examination revealed the intestine of SCE administered chickens to have mild to moderate pathological changes, when compared with that of the irradiated control animals. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.