bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and environmental consistency in serial sexual assault
Authors: Lundrigan Samantha , Czarnomski Sarah , Wilson Marc
Published: August 2009

This study examines the crime patterns of 76 New Zealand serial sexual offenders in order to determine the extent to which offenders display locational consistency in their choice of crime locations. More specifically, the hypothesis was that there would be intraseries consistency in the distances travelled (spatial consistency) and the characteristics of the crime sites selected (environmental consistency) by serial sexual offenders.

For spatial consistency to be tested, the distances travelled from home to offend and the criminal range for each offence series were analysed. Support was found for spatial consistency, and, in line with much overseas research, it was also found that the offenders typically did not travel very far from home to offend (median distance of 3 km).

The environmental consistency measure was made up of various physical, temporal, and contextual variables that described the environmental characteristics of an offence. As hypothesised, it was found that offenders displayed intraseries environmental consistency in offence site selection beyond the level of that expected by chance. The implications of this both for understanding offender spatial decision making and for geographical profiling are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of PGE2 increases in tendons subjected to repetitive mechanical loading and induces differentiation of tendon stem cells into non‐tenocytes
Authors: Zhang Jianying , Wang James H.‐C.
Published: August 2009

Whether tendon inflammation is involved in the development of tendinopathy or degenerative changes of the tendon remains a matter of debate. We explored this question by performing animal and cell culture experiments to determine the production and effects of PGE2, a major inflammatory mediator in tendons. Mouse tendons were subjected to repetitive mechanical loading via treadmill running, and the effect of PGE2 on proliferation and differentiation of tendon stem cells (TSCs) was assessed in vitro. Compared to levels in cage control mice, PGE2 levels in mouse patellar and Achilles tendons were markedly increased in response to a bout of rigorous treadmill running. PGE2 treatment of TSCs in culture decreased cell proliferation and induced both adipogenesis and osteogenesis of TSCs, as evidenced by accumulation of lipid droplets and calcium deposits, respectively. Effects of PGE2 on both TSC proliferation and differentiation were apparently PGE2–dose‐dependent. These findings suggest that high levels of PGE2, which are present in tendons subjected to repetitive mechanical loading conditions in vivo as shown in this study, may result in degenerative changes of the tendon by decreasing proliferation of TSCs in tendons and also inducing differentiation of TSCs into adipocytes and osteocytes. The consequences of this PGE2 effect on TSCs is the reduction of the pool of tenocytes for repair of tendons injured by mechanical loading, and production of fatty and calcified tissues within the tendon, often seen at the later stages of tendinopathy. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:198–203, 2010
Vibrational spectra of lead(II) oxalate
Authors: Mancilla Nancy , D'Antonio Maria C. , González‐Baró Ana C. , Baran Enrique J.
Published: August 2009

The infrared and Raman spectra of anhydrous lead oxalate (PbC2O4) were recorded and discussed on the basis of its structural peculiarities. Some comparisons with other previously investigated metallic oxalates were made. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman optical activity of an achiral element in a chiral environment
Authors: Smith Andrew M. , Collins Richard F. , Ulijn Rein V. , Blanch Ewan
Published: August 2009

Raman optical activity (ROA) is a relatively new technique used to determine the structure of chiral molecules and is proving useful in the study of biological molecules such as proteins and DNA/RNA. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate the applicability of ROA as a technique to study achiral groups in chiral environments, detecting the induced chirality of N‐(fluorenyl‐9‐methoxycarbonyl) (Fmoc) in a chiral self‐assembled structure of Fmoc‐dipeptides. This technique is therefore of interest to those studying self‐assembled systems that adopt a chiral structure. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Desmoglein 3 is overexpressed in inverted papilloma and squamous cell carcinoma of sinonasal cavity
Authors: Huang Chi‐Che , Lee Ta‐Jen , Chang Po‐Hung , Lee Yun‐Shien , Chuang Chi‐Cheng , Jhang You‐Jia , Chen Yi‐Wei , Chen Chiang‐Wen , Tsai Chi‐Neu
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

We sought to investigate the role of desmoglein 3 in pathogenesis of sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP) and its malignant transformation.

Methods:

Fifteen subjects with sinonasal IP and 15 subjects of normal sphenoid sinus mucosa were enrolled. Each specimen was divided into two portions: one for mRNA expression analysis by real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and the other for detection of targeted proteins by immunohistochemistry analysis. In addition, another 10 cases of IP with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were added for immunohistochemistry analysis.

Results:

The mRNA expression level of desmoglein 3 was significantly higher in IP tissues than in the normal sinus mucosa (P < .001). In immunohistochemistry study, desmoglein 3 was detected in plasma membrane areas of IP and IP with SCC tissues, but no obvious expression was found in normal sinus mucosa (total score; both P < .001). Positive desmoglein 3 staining was strongly present in nearly all malignant transformation areas of IP with SCC cases (90%), but only in scattered areas of some cases of IP (53%) (total score; P < .001).

Conclusions:

Desmoglein 3 was overexpressed in IP and IP with SCC, and the overexpression was correlated with malignant transformation of IP. It may provide valuable insight into the pathobiology of this disease, and can potentially provide a venue to predict malignant transformation in sinonasal IP. Laryngoscope, 2010
An easy technique to prevent post‐tympanoplasty ventilation tube blockage
Authors: Javed Faisal , Devesa Pablo Martinez , Bottrill Ian D.
Published: August 2009

No abtract.
Comparison of positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging and ultrasound in staging and surveillance of head and neck and thyroid cancer
Authors: Hwang Harry S. , Perez Daniel A. , Orloff Lisa A.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Positron emission tomography (PET) combined with cross‐sectional computed tomography (CT) is increasingly used for staging and surveillance of cancers in the head and neck region. Ultrasonography (US) is an alternative imaging technique that provides diagnostic information while enabling simultaneous image‐guided biopsies. A comparison of these diagnostic modalities in cancer detection is warranted.

Methods:

All patients with malignant neoplasms in the head and neck region who were evaluated by both PET/CT and US were reviewed. Diagnostic accuracy rates of PET/CT and US were determined according to whether cytologically or histologically confirmed cancer was present in US‐guided fine‐needle biopsy or surgical specimens.

Results:

From October 2004 to December 2007, 42 patients with an ultimately confirmed tissue diagnosis of a head and neck malignancy underwent both neck US and PET/CT. The sensitivity and specificity of US in predicting malignancy in the head and neck was 96.8% and 93.3%, respectively, in those 42 individuals. The positive predictive value (PPV) was 96% and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 93%. In comparison, PET/CT in this group demonstrated a sensitivity of 90.3%, specificity 20%, PPV 70%, and NPV 50%.

Conclusions:

PET/CT and US, especially when combined with US‐guided fine‐needle biopsy, are complementary tools in the detection of cancers of the head and neck. The highly sensitive and specific nature of US, combined with its low cost, low morbidity, availability as an in‐office examination, and ability to guide biopsies, warrant consideration of its routine use in the management of head and neck and thyroid cancer patients. Laryngoscope, 2009
Vertebrobasilar insufficiency presenting as isolated positional vertigo or dizziness: A double‐blind retrospective cohort study
Authors: Moubayed Sami Pierre , Saliba Issam
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Vertebral artery (VA) stenosis caused mainly by atherosclerosis accounts for up to 20% of posterior circulation strokes. Isolated positional vertigo or dizziness can be the initial presentation symptom. The objective is to compare the presence of isolated positional vertigo or dizziness in patients with evaluation of VA morphology, thrombotic stroke risk factors, and evolution of symptoms with time.

Study Design:

Double‐blind retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

Magnetic resonance angiography reports describing the VAs of 258 patients were reviewed, and 133 were questioned and their hospital charts reviewed for positional vertigo or dizziness. Neurotologic examination was performed on 75 patients. Vestibular testing using electronystagmography was performed on 46 patients. The prevalence of thrombotic stroke factors was evaluated in all patients. Groups were compared using chi‐square statistical analysis.

Results:

A total of 72 patients with normal VAs (group A) were compared with a group of 61 patients with stenotic or hypoplastic VAs (group B). When stratifying patients for stroke risk factors, 85.7% of group B patients complaining of isolated positional vertigo on the questionnaire with at least three stroke risk factors had a vertebral artery abnormality (P = .026). A hypothesized mechanism is transient ischemic attack of the semicircular canals or vestibular nucleus during rotation and extension of the neck, which compresses a contralateral stenotic VA in patients with bilateral VA abnormalities.

Conclusions:

In patients complaining of isolated positional vertigo or dizziness of unexplained etiology and having at least three thrombotic stroke risk factors, we recommend a vertebrobasilar radiological evaluation for timely treatment accordingly to the results. Laryngoscope, 2009
Hepatocyte growth factor protects auditory hair cells from aminoglycosides
Authors: Kikkawa Yayoi S. , Nakagawa Takayuki , Tsubouchi Hirohito , Ido Akio , Inaoka Takatoshi , Ono Kazuya , Ito Juichi
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To examine the effect of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) for protection of auditory hair cells against aminoglycosides and its molecular mechanisms.

Study Design:

Experimental study.

Methods:

We quantitatively assessed protective effects of HGF on mouse cochlear hair cells against neomycin toxicity using explant culture systems. To understand mechanisms of hair cell protection by HGF, we examined the expression of c‐Met, HGF receptor, and 4‐hydroxynonenal (a lipid peroxidation marker) in the cochlea by means of immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

Results:

The application of HGF to cochlear explant cultures significantly reduced the hair cell loss induced by neomycin. Immunohistochemistry showed c‐Met expression in normal auditory hair cells, and its increase in response to neomycin‐induced damage. Immunostaining for 4‐hydroxynonenal suggested that HGF acted by attenuating the lipid peroxidation of auditory epithelia induced by neomycin.

Conclusions:

These findings demonstrate that a functional HGF/c‐Met coupling is present in the cochlea, and HGF application exerts protective effects on hair cells, indicating the potential of HGF as a therapeutic agent for sensorineural hearing loss. Laryngoscope, 2009
Prophylactic effect of clarithromycin in skin flap complications in cochlear implants surgery
Authors: Garcia‐Valdecasas Juan , Jiménez‐Moleon Jose Juan , Sainz Manuel , Fornieles Constanza , Ballesteros Jose Manuel
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To assess the usefulness of postoperative clarithromycin versus classical postoperative prophylaxis with occlusive dressing to prevent cochlear implant skin flap complications.

Study Design:

Cohort study.

Methods:

Surgical site infections were compared in four groups: 1) ceramic/classical postoperative cares (21 patients), 2) titanium‐silicon/classical postoperative cares (75), 3) ceramic/clarithromycin (24), and 4) titanium‐silicon/clarithromycin (76). Preoperative ceftriaxone was systematically used in all patients in all four groups. Patients were followed up for at least 4 months. Attributable risk and number needed to treat were calculated.

Results:

All infections appeared in titanium‐silicon covered implants, and the risk of surgical site infection was 8.1 times higher in patients treated only with ceftriaxone and classical postoperative prophylaxis compared to those also given clarithromycin. Eleven patients needed to receive clarithromycin to avoid surgical infection.

Conclusions:

Long‐term treatment with low‐dose clarithromycin may reduce the incidence of surgical site infections. Laryngoscope, 2009
Repair of transected facial nerve with mesenchymal stromal cells: Histopathologic evidence of superior outcome
Authors: Satar Bulent , Karahatay Serdar , Kurt Bulent , Ural Ali Ugur , Safali Mukerrem , Avcu Ferit , Oztas Emin , Kucuktag Zulkuf
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Despite advanced surgical techniques, clinical results of the transected facial nerve are still far from the desired outcome. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were shown to transdifferentiate into Schwann cells and express some growth factors beneficial in peripheral nerve injury. We aimed to document histopathological improvement obtained from application of the homograft bone marrow‐derived MSCs immediately after conventional anastomosis of a transected facial nerve branch in rats, and to compare the results with those nerves anastomosed only.

Study Design:

Animal, prospective, and controlled study.

Methods:

The study was performed in 15 rats. The right buccal branch was completely transected and repaired with epineural sutures. The right‐side anastomosis was additionally treated with MSCs thereafter. The right marginal mandibular branch was kept intact, but in contact with MSCs. The left buccal branch was transected and repaired in a similar fashion except for MSC application. The left‐side marginal mandibular branch was left intact. Rats were sacrificed at month 1, 3, and 6. Four branches of each rat were sampled, and nerve segments distal to the anastomosis were histopathologically examined.

Results:

The examination revealed that intact nerve segments and nerve segments in contact with MSCs had completely normal appearance regardless of the time interval. Samples from the nerves anastomosed and treated with MSCs did better than those nerves anastomosed only in terms of axonal organization and myelin thickness.

Conclusions:

This preliminary report witnessed beneficial effects of MSCs application onto the injured facial nerve as evidenced by the histopathological examination. Laryngoscope, 2009
Histologic assessment of thermal injury to tonsillectomy specimens: A comparison of electrocautery, coblation, harmonic scalpel, and tonsillotome
Authors: Modi Vikash K. , Monforte Hector , Geller Kenneth A. , Koempel Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To determine the extent of thermal injury to the tonsillar tissue following the use of various types of instrumentation. To determine if tonsillectomy specimens routinely contain tissue other than lymphoid tissue.

Study Design:

Retrospective histologic analysis.

Methods:

A histologic analysis performed on 228 tonsillectomy specimens removed by use of an electrocautery in 132 specimens, harmonic scalpel in 46, coblation device in 24, and a tonsillotome in 26. The specimens were evaluated for presence and percentage of skeletal muscle and depth of thermal tissue injury.

Results:

The mean percentage of skeletal muscle present in the specimens was 0.79% for electrocautery, 1.74% for harmonic scalpel, 0.97% for coblation device, and 1.66% for the tonsillotome. Skeletal muscle was absent in only 8 of 228 specimens (3.5%). Electrocautery has a statistically significant (P < .05) lower percentage of muscle tissue compared to harmonic scalpel and the tonsillotome. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean depth of thermal injury among the harmonic scalpel (0.68 mm), electrocautery (0.58 mm), and coblation device (0.71 mm) specimens. The tonsillotome specimens had no thermal injury.

Conclusions:

Attempts to remove the entire tonsil results in a similar depth of thermal injury to tonsillectomy specimens when using the harmonic scalpel, electrocautery, and coblation device. Skeletal muscle is a nearly ubiquitous finding in routine tonsillectomy specimens. The use of an electrocautery with a needle point may allow for a more precise dissection as it results in tonsillectomy specimens with a smaller percentage of muscle present. Laryngoscope, 2009
Level V involvement in patients with early T‐stage, node‐positive oropharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Pattani Kavita M. , Califano Joseph , Sanguineti Giuseppe
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To assess the risk of level V nodal involvement for early T‐stage and node positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (ORO‐SCC).

Methods:

Retrospective analysis performed on patients with ORO‐SCC and clinically positive lymph nodes who had undergone upfront elective dissection of level V before definitive chemoradiotherapy. Pathological data collected and prevalence of involvement of level V determined.

Results:

A total of 119 patients had level V dissection. The prevalence of pathologically positive lymph nodes in level V was 3.4% (4/119). Moreover, it was observed only in the presence of pathological involvement of multiple other nodal levels (4/52 patients, 7.7% vs. 0/67 in patients with a single nodal station involved, χ2P = .02).

Conclusions:

Subclinical involvement of level V in ORO‐SCC is rare, especially in the presence of disease confined to a single nodal level. The present data do not support its dissection after primary chemoradiotherapy. Laryngoscope, 2009
Statistical analysis of exponential lifetimes under an adaptive Type‐II progressive censoring scheme
Authors: Ng Hon Keung Tony , Kundu Debasis , Chan Ping Shing
Published: August 2009

In this article, a mixture of Type‐I censoring and Type‐II progressive censoring schemes, called an adaptive Type‐II progressive censoring scheme, is introduced for life testing or reliability experiments. For this censoring scheme, the effective sample size m is fixed in advance, and the progressive censoring scheme is provided but the number of items progressively removed from the experiment upon failure may change during the experiment. If the experimental time exceeds a prefixed time T but the number of observed failures does not reach m, we terminate the experiment as soon as possible by adjusting the number of items progressively removed from the experiment upon failure. Computational formulae for the expected total test time are provided. Point and interval estimation of the failure rate for exponentially distributed failure times are discussed for this censoring scheme. The various methods are compared using Monte Carlo simulation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2009
Reducing dimensionality in topology optimization using adaptive design variable fields
Authors: Guest James K. , Smith Genut Lindsey C.
Published: August 2009

Topology optimization methodologies typically use the same discretization for the design variable and analysis meshes. Analysis accuracy and expense are thus directly tied to design dimensionality and optimization expense. This paper proposes leveraging properties of the Heaviside projection method (HPM) to separate the design variable field from the analysis mesh in continuum topology optimization. HPM projects independent design variables onto element space over a prescribed length scale. A single design variable therefore influences several elements, creating a redundancy within the design that can be exploited to reduce the number of independent design variables without significantly restricting the design space. The algorithm begins with sparse design variable fields and adapts these fields as the optimization progresses. The technique is demonstrated on minimum compliance (maximum stiffness) problems solved using continuous optimization and genetic algorithms. For the former, the proposed algorithm typically identifies solutions having objective functions within 1% of those found using full design variable fields. Computational savings are minor to moderate for the minimum compliance formulation with a single constraint, and are substantial for formulations having many local constraints. When using genetic algorithms, solutions are consistently obtained on mesh resolutions that were previously considered intractable. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Viscoplasticity using peridynamics
Authors: Foster J. T. , Silling S. A. , Chen W. W.
Published: August 2009

Peridynamics is a continuum reformulation of the standard theory of solid mechanics. Unlike the partial differential equations of the standard theory, the basic equations of peridynamics are applicable even when cracks and other singularities appear in the deformation field. The assumptions in the original peridynamic theory resulted in severe restrictions on the types of material response that could be modeled, including a limitation on the Poisson ratio. Recent theoretical developments have shown promise for overcoming these limitations, but have not previously incorporated rate dependence and have not been demonstrated in realistic applications. In this paper, a new method for implementing a rate‐dependent plastic material within a peridynamic numerical model is proposed and demonstrated. The resulting material model implementation is fitted to rate‐dependent test data on 6061‐T6 aluminum alloy. It is shown that with this material model, the peridynamic method accurately reproduces the experimental results for Taylor impact tests over a wide range of impact velocities. The resulting model retains the advantages of the peridynamic formulation regarding discontinuities while allowing greater generality in material response than was previously possible. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying indicators of well‐being for caregivers of children with disabilities
Authors: Larson Elizabeth
Published: August 2009

This study identified key indicators of well‐being for caregivers of children with disabilities, Thirty‐nine caregivers completed life satisfaction and psychological well‐being (WB) measures, and qualitative interviews. Data analysis included descriptive statistics of WB measures and categorical analysis of qualitative data. Data triangulation was achieved by importing theoretically derived codes for initial qualitative coding and quantitizing qualitative categories. Core indicators focused on positive family functioning and a reasonable family lifestyle, caregiver's personal growth and capacity to manage life demands, and the importance of daily balance. Study limitations included no standardized assessments of the child with disabilities' functioning, and the inclusion of caregivers with a range of years of experience. Findings suggest therapists need to attend to how interventions foster or impede positive family functioning and assist caregivers in balancing daily occupations to support capacity to caregiving. Future research should examine how well‐being varies over time as caregivers adapt from initial and later caregiving. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low‐dose oral midazolam reduces fear and distress during needle procedures in children with cancer
Authors: Hedén Lena , von Essen Louise , Frykholm Peter , Ljungman Gustaf
Published: August 2009

Background

Children with cancer often mention needle procedures as the most frightening, distressing, and sometimes painful aspect of the disease and treatment. The aim was to investigate whether children experience less fear, distress, and/or pain according to parents, nurses, and children ≥7 years of age when they receive oral midazolam versus placebo before a needle is inserted in a subcutaneously implanted intravenous port.

Procedure

Fifty children 1–18 years of age who were being treated in a pediatric oncology and hematology setting were included consecutively when undergoing routine needle insertion into an intravenous port. All children were subjected to one needle insertion in this randomized, triple‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in which orally administered midazolam (n = 24) 0.3 mg/kg body weight (maximum 10 mg) was compared with placebo (n = 26). Parents, nurses, and children ≥7 years reported the patients' fear, distress, and pain on 0–100 mm Visual Analogue Scales.

Results

Fear was lower in the midazolam group according to parents (P = 0.001), nurses (P = 0.001), and children (P = 0.015). Parents and nurses also reported lower distress (P = 0.020 and 0.007, respectively). Post hoc analyses indicated that the effects were more pronounced in younger children (<7 years of age).

Conclusion

Low‐dose oral midazolam was effective in reducing fear and distress in pediatric oncology patients, especially in younger children, undergoing subcutaneous port needle insertion. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:1200–1204. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Weight patterns in children with higher risk ALL: A report from the Children's Oncology Group (COG) for CCG 1961
Authors: Withycombe Janice S. , Post‐White Janice E. , Meza Jane L. , Hawks Ria G. , Smith Lynette M. , Sacks Nancy , Seibel Nita L.
Published: August 2009

Background

This retrospective analysis defined and described patterns and predictors of weight change during treatment in children with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) with high‐risk features who received treatment on Children's Cancer Group protocol CCG 1961.

Procedure

Patients (1,638) were enrolled in CCG 1961 from November 1996 to May 2002. Weight was measured as BMI percent (%), specific for age and gender, and defined as 100 × ln(BMI/median BMI).

Results

By the end of treatment, 23% of children were obese (BMI ≥95%), compared with 14% at diagnosis. Children who received post‐induction intensified therapy (arms C, D, SER with Doxorubicin or Idarubicin) had higher gastrointestinal toxicities and lower BMI% from consolidation through interim maintenance 1. BMI% then increased for all arms between delayed intensification and maintenance 1 or 2. Children who were of Black or Hispanic race, obese at diagnosis, or who had grade 3 or 4 pancreatitis/glucose toxicities during induction had higher BMI% throughout treatment. Children were more likely to be obese at the end of the study if they were aged 5–9 years at diagnosis or female gender. Cranial radiation was not a predictor of obesity.

Conclusions

Successful treatment of higher risk childhood ALL was associated with obesity, independent of cranial irradiation. The beginning of maintenance therapy may be the best time to intervene with nutritional and behavioral interventions, particularly for children who are obese or aged 5–9 years at diagnosis, female, Black or Hispanic, or those with metabolic toxicities during induction. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:1249–1254. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biomarkers in the cerebrospinal fluid and neurodegeneration in Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Gavhed Désirée , Åkefeldt Selma Olsson , Österlundh Gustaf , Laurencikas Evaldas , Hjorth Lars , Blennow Kaj , Rosengren Lars , Henter Jan‐Inge
Published: August 2009

Background

Progressive neurodegeneration may result in potentially severe cognitive and motor dysfunctions as a complication of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), a suggested IL‐17A‐associated inflammatory condition. To detect this complication (CNS‐LCH) early and to evaluate the potential efficacy of therapeutic interventions, biomarkers detecting and measuring ongoing neurodegeneration would be valuable. We evaluated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of ongoing neurodegeneration in CNS‐LCH patients.

Procedure

Nine patients with endocrine, neuromotor, cognitive or/and behavioral abnormalities as well as neuroradiological evidence of CNS‐LCH were evaluated 4–12 years after LCH diagnosis for CSF levels of neurofilament protein light chain (NF‐L), glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAp), and total tau protein (TAU). Two patients were analyzed longitudinally. One hundred ten children with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) served as controls.

Results

NF‐L, TAU, and GFAp levels were elevated in four, six, and eight of nine patients studied, respectively. NF‐L (P < 0.001) and GFAp (P < 0.001) were higher in patients than in controls (TAU not analyzed in controls). The patient with most severe clinical and neuroradiological CNS‐LCH displayed the highest levels of NF‐L and GFAp whereas three patients without signs of systemic disease had low TAU levels and normal/slightly elevated NF‐L. NF‐L tended to be higher at radiological progression of neurodegeneration than at status quo (P = 0.07). Notably, we experienced frequent lumbar puncture complications in these patients.

Conclusions

CSF levels of NF‐L, TAU, and GFAp appear to be elevated in CNS‐LCH. It would be valuable if these markers were validated in order to serve as markers for early CNS‐LCH, to monitor disease progression and to evaluate various treatment attempts for CNS‐LCH. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:1264–1270. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A novel wound dressing composed of nonwoven fabric coated with chitosan and herbal extract membrane for wound healing
Authors: Liu Bai‐Shuan , Huang Tsung‐Bin
Published: August 2009

This study presents a novel design of an easily stripped bilayer composite that consists of an upper layer of soybean protein nonwoven fabric coated with a lower layer, genipin‐crosslinked chitosan and Bletilla striata herbal extract (GCB) film as a wound dressing material (GCB/NWF). Preliminary tests investigated the in vitro characteristics of the genipin‐crosslinked chitosan (GC) film. Experimental results showed that the dark bluish color of the GC film may have resulted from the reaction of genipin with the amino acid group in the chitosan solution. Additionally, adding more wt% genipin caused the bluish color of the GC films to be darker. This new wound dressing material also exhibited good mechanical properties. Genipin and chitosan were released from the soaked GC film. Cytotoxic test revealed that 20 ppm of the genipin in the culture medium could be criteria, over which cytotoxicity to L929 fibroblasts could be produced. However, the chitosan and B. striata herbal extract not only were not toxic but also promoted the viability and growth of L929 fibroblasts. Additionally, the GCB film more effectively supported cell attachment and growth. The in vivo histological assessment results revealed that epithelialization and reconstruction of the wound were achieved by covering the wound with the GCB/NWF wound dressing material, and it would be easily stripped from the wound surface without damaging newly regenerated tissue. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical behavior of recycled reinforced polyamide railway fasteners
Authors: Casado José Antonio , Carrascal Isidro , Diego Soraya , Polanco Juan Antonio , Gutiérrez‐Solana Federico , García Alberto
Published: August 2009

Modern railway tracks use short‐fiber glass reinforced polyamide to inject insulating and mechanically resistant fasteners to connect the rails to the sleepers. Some of this material is later withdrawn, due either to defective production or to breakage in service. The recovery of the material for its later re‐use would lead to a great saving, from both an environmental and an economic viewpoint. Mechanical recycling is a simple, economic process that only requires the crushing of the material and its subsequent molding, without the need for any chemical treatments. However, it has some drawbacks; as with any kind of recycling, there is a certain loss of material quality with some degradation of its properties. In this work, the physical and mechanical results for fasteners injected with recycled material are compared to others injected with pure material. The results show that the use of recycled fasteners is limited in‐service by working conditions that increase the thermoplastic material temperature above its critical glass transition temperature, Tg. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1142–1149, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
A nonlinear theoretical model for prediction of mechanical behavior of particulate composites and experimental verification of the model predictions
Authors: Ramazani S.A. A. , Najafi C. N.
Published: August 2009

A model for prediction the stress‐strain behavior of particulate composite over wide ranges of filler concentration and composite deformation has been developed through combination of Anderson's and Yilmizer's model. The constitutive equations are extracted from first law of thermodynamic and nonlinear dilatational effects which are produced by filler‐matrix debonding process. In addition to nonlinear behavior that has been resulted by filler‐matrix debonding and was presented by Yilmizer, the formation and growing of void or cavitations has been also introduced in this model, whereas Anderson's model, most important reason for deviation of linear behavior is filler‐matrix debonding and has been indicated by change of modulus. Model predictions for effects of the filler concentration and its particle size and particle size distribution for some matrix‐filler systems are compared with related experimental data from literature and some investigated systems in this work. An excellent agreement even better than prediction of Anderson's model between experimental data and model predictions can be observed in most cases especially for some concentrated systems. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1150–1155, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
The role of interface modification on thermal degradation and crystallization behavior of composites from commingled polypropylene fiber and banana fiber
Authors: Paul Sherely Annie , Oommen Charlie , Joseph Kuruvilla , Mathew Gem , Thomas Sabu
Published: August 2009

The thermal degradation behavior of banana fiber and polypropylene/banana fiber composites has been studied by thermogravimetric analysis. Banana fiber was found to be decomposing in two stages, first one around 320°C and the second one around 450°C. For chemically treated banana fiber, the decomposition process has been at a higher temperature, indicating thermal stability for the treated fiber. Activation energies for thermal degradation were estimated using Coats and Redfern method. Calorific value of the banana fiber was measured using a constant volume isothermal bomb calorimeter. Crystallization studies exhibited an increase in the crystallization temperature and crystallinity of polypropylene upon the addition of banana fiber. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of clay modification on the morphological, mechanical, and thermal properties of polyamide 6/polypropylene/montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: Kusmono  , Ishak Z.A. Mohd , Chow W.S. , Takeichi T. , Rochmadi
Published: August 2009

Polyamide 6/polypropylene (PA6/PP = 70/30 parts) blends containing 4 phr (parts per hundred resin) of organophilic montmorillonite (OMMT) were prepared by melt compounding. The sodium montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) was modified using three different types of alkyl ammonium salts, namely dodecylamine, 12‐aminolauric acid, and stearylamine. The effect of clay modification on the morphological and mechanical properties of PA6/PP nanocomposites was investigated using x‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), tensile, flexural, and impact tests. The thermal properties of PA6/PP nanocomposites were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and heat distortion temperature (HDT). XRD and TEM results indicated the formation of exfoliated structure for the PA6/PP nanocomposites prepared using stearylamine modified montmorillonite. On the other hand, a mixture of intercalated and exfoliated structures was found for the PA6/PP nanocomposites prepared using 12‐aminolauric acid and dodecylamine modified montmorillonite. Incorporation of OMMT increased the stiffness but decreased the ductility and toughness of PA6/PP blend. The PA6/PP nanocomposite containing stearylamine modified montmorillonite showed the highest tensile, flexural, and thermal properties among all nanocomposites. This could be attributed to better exfoliated structure in the PA6/PP nanocomposite containing stearylamine modified montmorillonite. The storage modulus and HDT of PA6/PP blend were increased significantly with the incorporation of both Na‐MMT and OMMT. The highest value in both storage modulus and HDT was found in the PA6/PP nanocomposite containing stearylamine modified montmorillonite due to its better exfoliated structure. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1156–1167, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Improvement of the mechanical properties of nano‐TiO2/poly(vinyl alcohol) composites by enhanced interaction between nanofiller and matrix
Authors: Lou Yuanhua , Liu Meihong , Miao Xiaowei , Zhang Li , Wang Xinping
Published: August 2009

Surface‐carboxylated nano‐TiO2 was used to prepare poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposites to improve the dispersity of nano‐TiO2 particles in PVA and to enhance the interaction between nanofiller and matrix. The effects of the extents of carboxylation and carboxylated nano‐TiO2 loading on mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. The results show that the tensile strength of the nanocomposites was greatly improved, both by increasing the carboxylated nano‐TiO2 loading and by the extent of carboxylation of the nanoparticles, compared with unmodified nano‐TiO2. The storage modulus within the rubbery state increased and the loss tangent decreased with increasing COOH content on the TiO2 surface and with increasing carboxylated nano‐TiO2 loading. These observations were attributed to a high dispersion of modified nano‐TiO2 in the PVA matrix and to crosslinking between OH groups in PVA chains and COOH moieties on inorganic nanoparticle surfaces. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1184–1193, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Aromatic‐aliphatic poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) bionanocomposite: Influence of organic modification on structure and properties
Authors: Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: August 2009

Bionanocomposite hybrids based on poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) and layered silicates were prepared by melt interaction technique using corotating twin screw extruder having a blown film unit. Sodium montmorillonite (Na+MMT) along with three different commercially available nanoclays i.e., Cloisite30B (C30B), Cloisite20A (C20A), Bentonite (B109) have been used as a reinforcing agent. Wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) studies indicated an increase in d spacing of the nanoclays in the bionanocomposite hybrids revealing formation of intercalated morphology. Morphological studies using transmission electron microscopy also confirmed that nanoclays were finely dispersed in the PBAT matrix and there was presence of partially exfoliated clay galleries along with intercalated structures in the bionanocomposite hybrids. Mechanical tests showed that the bionanocomposite hybrids prepared using B109 nanoclay exhibited higher tensile modulus. Functionalization of PBAT matrix upon grafting with maleic anhydride (MA) resulted in further improvement in mechanical properties. The existence of interfacial bonds in grafted bionanocomposite hybrids are substantiated using fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy. Thermal properties of bionanocomposite hybrids employing DSC, TGA also revealed improved Tg, Tc and thermal stability over the virgin polymer. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated an increase of storage modulus (E′) of PBAT biopolymer with incorporation of nanofiller. The biodegradability of PBAT bionanocomposite hybrids showed an increase in the rate of biodegradability with addition of Na+MMT due to hydrophilic nature of the nanoclay. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1194–1204, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Proteomic evaluation of wound‐healing processes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tuber tissue
Authors: Chaves Inês , Pinheiro Carla , Paiva Jorge A. P. , Planchon Sébastien , Sergeant Kjell , Renaut Jenny , Graça José A. , Costa Gonçalo , Coelho Ana V. , Ricardo Cândido P. Pinto
Published: August 2009

Proteins from potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tuber slices, related to the wound‐healing process, were separated by 2‐DE and identified by an MS analysis in MS and MS/MS mode. Slicing triggered differentiation processes that lead to changes in metabolism, activation of defence and cell‐wall reinforcement. Proteins related to storage, cell growth and division, cell structure, signal transduction, energy production, disease/defence mechanisms and secondary metabolism were detected. Image analysis of the 2‐DE gels revealed a time‐dependent change in the complexity of the polypeptide patterns. By microscopic observation the polyalyphatic domain of suberin was clearly visible by D4, indicating that a closing layer (primary suberisation) was formed by then. A PCA of the six sampling dates revealed two time phases, D0–D2 and D4–D8, with a border position between D2 and D4. Moreover, a PCA of differentially expressed proteins indicated the existence of a succession of proteomic events leading to wound‐periderm reconstruction. Some late‐expressed proteins (D6–D8), including a suberisation‐associated anionic peroxidase, have also been identified in the native periderm. Despite this, protein patterns of D8 slices and native periderm were still different, suggesting that the processes of wound‐periderm formation are extended in time and not fully equivalent. The information presented in this study gives clues for further work on wound healing‐periderm formation processes.
Comparative proteome analysis of TGF‐β1‐induced fibrosis processes in normal rat kidney interstitial fibroblast cells in response to ascofuranone
Authors: Kang Jeong‐Han , Cho Hyun‐Ji , Lee In‐Seon , Kim Moonkyu , Lee In‐Kyu , Chang Young‐Chae
Published: August 2009

Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) has a wide range of biological functions such as the regulation of cell growth, differentiation, and immunological response in various types of cells. Particularly, TGF‐β1 induces plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) as a major target protein. PAI‐1 is associated with fibrosis, thrombosis, and metabolic disorders. In this study, to identify proteins potentially involved in TGF‐β1‐induced fibrosis processes, we performed a proteomic analysis of TGF‐β1‐induced normal rat kidney cells exposed to ascofuranone (AF). In these cells, we detected 1500 proteins, with 74 differentially expressed proteins identified by MALDI‐TOF and reference to the NCBI and Swiss‐Prot databases, including PAI‐1, peroxisome prdifesator‐activated receptor, prohibitin, glutamate formyltransferase, LIM domain protein 1, LASP‐1, porphobilinogen deaminase, and peroxiredoxin 2. We also found that AF suppresses expression of profibrotic factors induced by TGF‐β in renal fibroblasts, including matrix proteins and PAI‐1. AF was also shown to inhibit selectively phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor, and downstream kinases such as extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK‐1/2). Further ongoing analysis of fibrosis‐related proteins will determine AF's potential for application in fibrotic diseases and therapeutics.
TheFusarium oxysporumcell wall proteome under adhesion‐inducing conditions
Authors: Prados‐Rosales Rafael , Luque‐Garcia Jose L. , Martínez‐López Raquel , Gil Concha , Di Pietro Antonio
Published: August 2009

Fusarium oxysporumis a soilborne fungus that causes vascular wilt disease on a wide range of crops. During initial stages of infection, fungal hyphae attach firmly to roots, penetrate the cortex and colonize xylem vessels. The mechanisms underlying root attachment are poorly understood, although it was previously shown that this process depends on Fmk1, a mitogen‐activated protein kinase orthologous to the mating/filamentation mitogen‐activated protein kinases Fus3/Kss1 in yeast. We investigated the hypothesis that root adhesion is mediated by fungal cell wall proteins (CWPs). To characterize the cell wall subproteome ofF. oxysporum, we performed LC‐MS/MS analysis of tryptic digests of purified cell walls obtained from adhesion‐inducing conditions, identifying a total of 174 proteins, 19 of which contain a predicted signal peptide and 10 of which have a predicted glycosylphosphatidyl‐inositol motif. 2‐D DIGE was used to compare four different fractions of CWPs extracted from hyphae of the wild‐type strain and the Δfmk1mutant. We detected 18 proteins differing significantly in abundance between the two strains. Differential expression of five of these proteins was confirmed by RT‐PCR analysis. A significant fraction of the subproteome lacked functional information, highlighting the limitations in the current understanding of CWPs inF. oxysporum.
Proteomic analysis of changes in mitochondrial protein expression during fruit senescence
Authors: Qin Guozheng , Wang Qing , Liu Jia , Li Boqiang , Tian Shiping
Published: August 2009

Fruit senescence has been reported to be an oxidative phenomenon, but the detailed mechanisms by which ROS regulate this process remain largely unknown. Here we show that senescence process of apple fruit was concomitant with the dynamic alterations in the mitochondrial proteome. Mitochondrial proteins involved in tricarboxylic acid cycle, electron transport chain, carbon metabolism, and stress response were found to be differentially expressed during fruit senescence. Alleviating oxidative stress by lowering the ambient oxygen concentration noticeably decreased the number of changed proteins and delayed fruit senescence, indicating the involvement of ROS in this process. To further investigate the regulatory effect of ROS on senescence process, we analyzed the mitochondrial proteome variations upon exposure to high oxygen (100%), which induces oxidative stress and accelerates fruit senescence. High oxygen treatment led to a further identification of differentially expressed proteins such as mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant scavenging superoxide radicals produced in the mitochondria. Activity of manganese superoxide dismutase was reduced after high oxygen exposure, accompanied by an increase in oxidative protein carbonylation (damaged proteins). These data suggest that ROS may regulate fruit senescence by changing expression profiles of specific mitochondrial proteins and impairing the biological function of these proteins.
Proteome reference map for the plant growth‐promoting bacterium Pseudomonas putida UW4
Authors: Cheng Zhenyu , Woody Owen Z. , Song Jiming , Glick Bernard R. , McConkey Brendan J.
Published: August 2009

A proteome reference map containing 326 2‐D gel spots representing 275 different proteins was constructed for the plant growth‐promoting bacterium Pseudomonas putida UW4. Protein identifications were obtained using Q‐TOF MS/MS spectra matching to homologous proteins from other Pseudomonas strains and confirmed by PMF analysis. This data set is accessible at http://world‐2dpage.expasy.org/repository/ and will aid in further characterization of Pseudomonas strains and interactions of plant growth‐promoting bacterium with the plant rhizosphere environment.