bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of blending ratio and oligomer structure on the thermal transitions of stereocomplexes consisting of a D‐lactic acid oligomer and poly(L‐lactide)
Authors: Inkinen Saara , Stolt Mikael , Södergård Anders 
Published: February 2010

AbstractPoly(lactic acid) (PLA) stereocomplexes have high potential as renewable materials for advanced polymer applications, mainly due to their high melting temperature (Tm, typically 230–240°C). The properties of PLA stereocomplexes consisting of linear high molar mass homopolymers have been studied extensively in the past, but the available information about the possibilities to affect the thermal properties of the stereocomplex by varying the structure of the blend components has not been sufficient. Novel stereocomplexes containing linear or star‐shaped D‐lactic acid (D‐LA) oligomers and high molar mass poly(L‐lactide) (L‐PLA) were thus prepared. The Tm and melting enthalpy (ΔHm) of the racemic crystallites were found to depend strongly on both the blending ratio and the arm‐length of the D‐lactic acid oligomer. The preparation method of the oligomers, i.e. step‐growth polymerization or ring‐opening polymerization (ROP), did not affect the Tm or ΔHm of the blends significantly. Slightly higher ΔHm values were, however, obtained, when linear oligomers were used. The results thus indicated that the Tm and ΔHm of PLA stereocomplexes could be optimized, simply by selecting a D‐LA oligomer having a suitable arm‐length and structure as the other blend component. The possibility to adjust the melting behavior of the stereocomplex blend is a significant advantage and could make PLA suitable for a wider range of products used at elevated temperatures. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐containing semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks: a versatile concept for the design of optical or mechanical electroactive devices
Authors: Vidal Frederic , Plesse Cédric , Aubert Pierre‐Henri , Beouch Layla , Tran‐Van François , Palaprat Guillaume , Verge Pierre , Yammine Paolo , Citerin Johanne , Kheddar Abderrahmane , Sauques Laurent , Chevrot Claude , Teyssié Dominique 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThe synthesis of one‐piece electronic conducting interpenetrating polymer networks is proposed as an alternative to multilayer architectures for the design of electroactive devices. The electronic conducting polymer poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) as active component was symmetrically distributed in a solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) matrix based on poly(ethylene oxide) which was subsequently swollen with either LiClO4 or an ionic liquid. Depending on the composition and the crosslinking density of the SPEs, the ionic conductivities vary between 0.9 × 10−3 and 2.2 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 30 °C. Controlling the PEDOT content from 0.3 to 12 wt% in the material, electrochromic, electroemissive or electromechanical properties are obtained. Typical transmissive and reflective contrast values reach 33 and 27% at 630 and 2500 nm, respectively, for free‐standing films upon application of a 1.2 V bias voltage. Both bending and linear actuating devices were developed as beam‐shaped or hollow fibres. The actuation occurs under low applied voltage up to 4 V and the output force ranges from 50 to 300 mN. In all cases the electroactive properties are stable over 10 000 (electroemissivity) to 3.5 × 106 (actuation) cycles in open air providing an ionic liquid is used as electrolyte. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
An electrospun polycaprolactone–collagen membrane for the resurfacing of cartilage defects
Authors: Ho Saey Tuan Barnabas , Ekaputra Andrew Krishna , Hui James Hoi , Hutmacher Dietmar Werner 
Published: February 2010

AbstractA polycaprolactone (PCL)–collagen electrospun mesh is proposed as a novel alternative to the conventional periosteal graft in autologous chondrocyte implantation. This is the first known attempt in designing a cartilage resurfacing membrane using a mechanically resilient PCL mesh with a weight‐average molecular weight of 139 300 that is enhanced with bioactive collagen. PCL–collagen 10, 20 and 40% electrospun meshes (Coll‐10, Coll‐20 and Coll‐40) were evaluated and it was discovered that the retention of surface collagen could only be achieved in Coll‐20 and Coll‐40. Furthermore Coll‐20 was stiffer and stronger than Coll‐40 and it satisfied the mechanical demands at the cartilage implant site. When seeded with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the cells adhered on the surface of the Coll‐20 mesh and they remained viable over a period of 28 days; however, they were unable to infiltrate through the dense meshwork. Cell compatibility was also noted in the chondrogenic environment as the MSCs differentiated into chondrocytes with the expression of Sox9, aggrecan and collagen II. More importantly, the mesh did not induce a hypertrophic response from the cells. The current findings support the use of Coll‐20 as a cartilage patch, and future implantation studies are anticipated. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Barrier properties of poly(lactic acid) and its morphological changes induced by aroma compound sorption
Authors: Colomines Gael , Ducruet Violette , Courgneau Cécile , Guinault Alain , Domenek Sandra 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThe barrier properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) play a key role in food packaging applications. For their optimization, the influence of crystallinity on the barrier properties of PLA and the interaction of PLA with the aroma compound ethyl acetate were investigated. PLA film samples with various crystallinities were fabricated by flat die extrusion and thermocompression and compared to PLA Biophan™. The degree of crystallinity had no effect on the oxygen permeability. However, an increase of crystallinity caused a decrease in ethyl acetate sorption. The sorption isotherm of ethyl acetate obtained using microgravimetry showed a steep increase with increasing aroma activity, a form which is consistent with a plasticization effect. This behaviour was verified using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. Sorption caused a marked decrease in the glass transition temperature well below room temperature to approximately 0 °C. Furthermore, PLA underwent a solvent‐induced crystallization when equilibrated in ethyl acetate atmosphere at an activity of 0.5. The results obtained show the importance of considering possible interactions between polymer and foodstuff during the optimization step of polymeric materials for food packaging applications. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Life is precious and I'm making the best of it: coping strategies of long‐term cancer survivors
Authors: Zucca Alison C. , Boyes Allison W. , Lecathelinais Christophe , Girgis Afaf 
Published: February 2010

AbstractObjective: Coping strategies mediate the relationship between challenging situations and their impact on psychosocial outcomes. Many long‐term cancer survivors continue to face a range of challenges in their daily lives, yet little is known about how this population copes. The study explored the prevalence and predictors of cancer‐specific coping strategies among a heterogeneous sample of long‐term cancer survivors.Methods: A population‐based cross‐sectional sample of 863 adult cancer survivors 5–6 years post‐diagnosis completed a pen‐and‐paper survey. Cancer‐specific coping was assessed via the Mini‐Mental Adjustment to Cancer (mini‐MAC) Scale. Potential predictor variables included patient, disease and treatment characteristics and social support.Results: The most commonly used coping strategies were fatalism and fighting spirit. Of those survivors that used any of the coping strategies assessed, 53% used at least two strategies. Maladaptive coping was commonly predicted by low social support (OR=1.77 to 2.49) and being a disability pensioner, whereas having ever received chemotherapy widely predicted greater use of all types of coping. A weekly household income of over $1000 a week uniquely predicted not using any mini‐MAC coping strategies.Conclusions: Survivors continue to engage in cancer‐specific coping strategies many years after diagnosis, albeit to a lesser extent than recent survivor populations. A number of predictors were identified that can alert health workers to long‐term survivors at increased risk of maladaptive coping. Given that low social support consistently predicted maladaptive coping responses, interventions aimed at promoting positive coping responses should include strategies to increase access to social support. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Common‐sense beliefs about cancer and health practices among women completing treatment for breast cancer
Authors: Costanzo Erin S. , Lutgendorf Susan K. , Roeder Susan L. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractObjective: Following the end of adjuvant treatment, breast cancer survivors must cope with uncertainty related to the possibility of recurrence and the loss of the ‘safety net’ treatment provides. This study examined breast cancer survivors' efforts to manage uncertainty by making lifestyle changes, such as improvement in diet and exercise. We further investigated the role of women's common‐sense beliefs about their cancer, as described by Leventhal's self‐regulation theory, in explaining post‐treatment changes.Method: At 3 weeks and 3 months post‐treatment, 79 women who received adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy for stages 0–III breast cancer (mean age=55 years) completed assessments of changes in health practices and other behaviors. Participants also completed measures of beliefs about the causes, course, personal control, and consequences of their cancer.Results: Survivors reported behavior changes directed toward improving physical, emotional, and spiritual well‐being. Results further indicated that women who believed their cancer had more severe consequences and those who attributed the development of cancer or the prevention of recurrence to health behaviors or stress were most likely to report improvement in diet or physical activity and reduction in alcohol use or stress.Conclusions: Findings suggest that breast cancer survivors are poised to make lifestyle changes after treatment ends, creating an opportune time for health promotion interventions. Understanding women's cancer beliefs could help guide the development of tailored, proactive interventions to improve the health and well‐being of breast cancer survivors. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Barriers to procreational intentions among cancer survivors 2 years after diagnosis: a French national cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Mancini Julien , Rey Dominique , Préau Marie , Le Corroller‐Soriano Anne Gaëlle , Moatti Jean‐Paul 
Published: February 2010

AbstractObjectives: To determine the procreational intention rates among cancer survivors whose fertility was unimpaired and to identify the factors associated with their procreational intentions.Methods: Six thousand nine hundred and fifty‐seven adult cancer patients treated between September and October 2002 were randomly selected from the French National Health Insurance Fund's Chronic Disease File. Of the 6957, 4270 responded to a cross‐sectional questionnaire 2 years after diagnosis, of whom 959 reported being fertile and responded to a question about their procreational intentions.Results: Among the 257 male and female survivors aged 20–44, 86 (33.5%) had procreational intentions. After adjusting for age, gender, and already having children, only a high educational level (adjusted odds ratio: 3.1, 95% confidence interval 1.3–7.8) and stable or increasing financial resources (2.4, 1.0–5.7) were independently associated with the respondents' procreational intentions. Neither cancer stage at diagnosis nor the present stage significantly affected their plans in this respect.Conclusions: Two years after cancer diagnosis, the reasons why some survivors who are still fertile have no parenthood projects were similar to those earlier given by members of the general population. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suppression of pine wilt disease by an antibacterial agent, oxolinic acid
Authors: Kwon Hyeok Ran , Choi Gyung Ja , Choi Yong Ho , Jang Kyoung Soo , Sung Nack‐Do , Kang Mun Seong , Moon Yilseong , Lee Seung Kyu , Kim Jin‐Cheol 
Published: February 2010

AbstractBACKGROUND: Pine wilt disease (PWD) is very complex and has been reported to be caused by pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) Nickle, and its accompanying bacteria. However, there is no report on the control of PWD by antibacterial agent. The present study was performed to investigate disease control efficacy of antibacterial agents against PWD.RESULTS: Among six antibacterial antibiotics tested, oxolinic acid (OA) showed the strongest antibacterial activity against five bacteria isolated from three strains of pine wood nematode. In in vivo assay, it effectively suppressed the development of PWD in three‐year‐old seedlings of Pinus densiflora Sieb. & Zucc.; it showed 71% control when injected at 3 mg per seedling. A mixture of OA and the nematicidal agent abamectin (Ab) showed higher disease control efficacy against PWD than either OA or Ab alone. In addition, OA alone and a mixture of OA and Ab also controlled PWD in approximately 20‐year‐old pine trees under field conditions.CONCLUSION: This is the first report on the suppression of PWD by OA. The result strongly indicates that PWD could be controlled by antibacterial antibiotic alone and a combination of antibacterial and nematicidal agents. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Melemium Methylsulfonates HC6N7(NH2)3H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)3·H2O and H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)2·H2O
Authors: Sattler Andreas , Schönberger Stefanie , Schnick Wolfgang 
Published: February 2010

AbstractMelem C6N7(NH2)3 was shown to form a variety of adduct phases and salts. Salts of melem can be yielded by reaction of melem with strong acids. We investigated the reaction of melem with methylsulfonic acid, thus identifying two new melemium salts with formulas HC6N7(NH2)3H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)3·H2O (1) and H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)2·H2O (2), respectively. The structures of both compounds were elucidated using single‐crystal XRD compound 1: (P\bar{1} no. 2, Z = 2, a = 10.096(2), b = 12.865(3), c = 13.369(3) Å, α = 63.28(3), β = 81.19(3), γ = 72.92(3)°, V = 1461.4(7) Å3) compound 2: (P21/n, no. 14, Z = 4, a = 8.0757(16), b = 7.6937(15), c = 27.540(6) Å, β = 92.03(3)°, V = 1710.6(6) Å3). Both compounds are discussed in comparison to structural data from the literature of other melemium salts. We also present new synthetic approaches for the preparation of melem in larger quantities.
Two Outstanding Explosives Based on 1,2‐Dinitroguanidine: Ammonium‐ dinitroguanidine and 1,7‐Diamino‐1,7‐dinitrimino‐2,4,6‐trinitro‐2,4,6‐triazaheptane
Authors: Altenburg Thomas , Klapötke Thomas M. , Penger Alexander , Stierstorfer Jörg 
Published: February 2010

AbstractAmmonium‐dinitroguanidine (ADNQ) and 1,7‐diamino‐1,7‐dinitrimino‐2,4,6‐trinitro‐2,4,6‐triazaheptane (APX) have been synthesized in high yield and purity. Both compounds were characterized by multinuclear NMR (1H, 13C, 14N) and vibrational spectroscopy. The molecular structures were elucidated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. ADNQ crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a crystal density of ρ = 1.735 g·cm–3, APX in the orthorhombic space group Pbnc with a crystal density of ρ = 1.911 g·cm–3. ADNQ decomposes at 197 °C, APX at 174 °C. Impact (IS), friction (FS) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivities were determined experimentally for both compounds. (ADNQ: IS ≥ 10 J, FS ≥ 252 N and ESD ≥ 0.4 J, APX: IS ≥ 3 J, FS ≥ 80 N and ESD ≥ 0.1 J). Polymer bonded mixtures of APX with 5 % PVAA resin proved to be less sensitive towards mechanical stimuli (IS ≥ 5J, FS = 160 N). The detonation parameters (EXPLO5 code) were calculated using combined quantum chemical (CBS‐4M) methods and a chemical equilibrium calculation based on the steady‐state model of detonation: ADNQ (Vdet = 9066 m·s–1, pC–J = 332 kbar, Qv = –5193 kJ·kg–1), APX (Vdet = 9540 m·s–1, pC–J = 395 kbar, Qv = –5935 kJ·kg–1). The experimentally determined detonation velocity (fibre optic technique) agrees well with the theoretical values, indicating that APX shows better detonation performance than HMX (1,3,5,7‐Tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazoctane).
Do Basic Psychomotor Skills Transfer Between Different Image‐based Procedures?
Authors: Buzink Sonja N. , Goossens Richard H. M. , Schoon Erik J. , de Ridder Huib , Jakimowicz Jack J. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractBackgroundSurgical techniques that draw from multiple types of image‐based procedures (IBP) are increasing, such as Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery, fusing laparoscopy and flexible endoscopy. However, little is known about the relation between psychomotor skills for performing different types of IBP. For example, do basic psychomotor colonoscopy and laparoscopy skills interact?MethodsFollowing a cross‐over study design, 29 naïve endoscopists were trained on the Simbionix GI Mentor and the SimSurgery SEP simulators. Group C (n = 15) commenced with a laparoscopy session, followed by four colonoscopy sessions and a second laparoscopy session. Group L (n = 14) started with a colonoscopy session, followed by four laparoscopy sessions and a second colonoscopy session.ResultsNo significant differences were found between the performances of group L and group C in their first training sessions on either technique. With additional colonoscopy training, group C outperformed group L in the second laparoscopy training session on the camera navigation task.ConclusionsOverall, training in the basic colonoscopy tasks does not affect performance of basic laparoscopy tasks (and vice versa). However, to limited extent, training of basic psychomotor skills for colonoscopy do appear to contribute to the performance of angled laparoscope navigation tasks. Thus, training and assessment of IBP type‐specific skills should focus on each type of tasks independently. Future research should further investigate the influence of psychometric abilities on the performance of IBP and the transfer of skills for physicians who are experienced in one IBP type and would like to become proficient in another type of IBP.
The Effect of Obstruction and Perforation on Colorectal Cancer Disease‐Free Survival
Authors: Ho Yik‐Hong , Siu Simon K. K. , Buttner Petra , Stevenson Andrew , Lumley John , Stitz Russel 
Published: February 2010

AbstractBackgroundObstruction (OBSTR) and perforation (PERF) in colorectal cancer impact adversely upon outcomes, and cancer‐related survival may also be affected. However, data are sparse, particularly on disease‐free survival (DFS) where the cancer is both obstructed and perforated (OBS‐PERF).MethodsData were extracted from a prospectively collected database of 1876 colorectal cancer patients managed and followed up at the Royal Brisbane Hospital from 1984 to 2004. The patients who had curative surgery (n = 1426) were classified as OBSTR (n = 153), PERF (n = 53), OBS‐PERF (n = 19), and uncomplicated (UNCOM; n = 1201). Kaplan‐Meier survival and Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed.ResultsPostoperative mortality within 30 days of surgery was 1.5% (n = 22) and the overall complication rate was 40.8% (n = 582). However, only 7.2% (n = 102) required reoperations. The median survival time was 71 (IQR = 64.9–77.1) months and the median follow‐up for DFS was 37.5 (IQR 14–68) months. The overall recurrence rate was 32.7% (n = 466), the local recurrence rate was 9.4% (n = 135), and local and distant recurrences occurred in the same patient in 4.7% (n = 67). Male gender, OBSTR, PERF, OBS‐PERF, emergency operation, major medical and surgical complications, reoperation, TNM staging, tumor grading, and tumor venous invasion adversely affected DFS (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that OBS‐PERF (p = 0.008), major medical complications (p = 0.011), reoperation (p = 0.018), TNM staging (p < 0.001), grading (p = 0.018), and venous invasion (p = 0.002) were independently associated with a poorer DFS.ConclusionsOBS‐PERF colorectal cancer is associated with a poorer DFS, which may be worse than either OBSTR or PERF alone.
Effect of Dexamethasone on Postoperative Symptoms in Patients Undergoing Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sánchez‐Rodríguez Petra‐Evelyn , Fuentes‐Orozco Clotilde , González‐Ojeda Alejandro 
Published: February 2010

AbstractBackgroundDexamethasone has been reported to reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, its effects on other surgical outcomes, such as pain and fatigue, have been unclear. We evaluated the efficacy of preoperative dexamethasone for ameliorating postoperative symptoms after LC.MethodsIn this prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, 210 patients scheduled for elective LC were analyzed after randomization to intravenous dexamethasone (8 mg) or a placebo. All patients underwent standardized procedures for general anesthesia and surgery. Episodes of PONV and the pain and fatigue scores were recorded on a visual analog scale. Analgesic and antiemetic requirements were also recorded.ResultsThere were no significant differences between groups with regard to medical or demographic variables. Significantly fewer patients experienced PONV in the dexamethasone group immediately after LC and at 6 and 12 h. The need for ondansetron to relieve PONV was higher in the placebo group (P = 0.001). Patients in the study group reported less postoperative pain during the first 24 h and less fatigue after 6, 12, and 24 h. The need for buprenorphine to relieve intolerable pain was also less in this group (P = 0.009). There were no side effects, and the morbidity was similar in the two groups (6.7 vs. 7.6%).ConclusionsThe regimen we employed is safe and without apparent side effects. Thus, preoperative dexamethasone can significantly reduce the incidence of PONV, pain and fatigue after elective LC.
LigaSure for Pancreatic Sealing During Distal Pancreatectomy
Authors: Hartwig Werner , Duckheim Martin , Strobel Oliver , Dovzhanskiy Dmitry , Bergmann Frank , Hackert Thilo , Büchler Markus W. , Werner Jens 
Published: February 2010

AbstractBackgroundPancreatic fistula is an unresolved problem after distal pancreatectomy. The current study investigated the safety of LigaSure for distal pancreatic resection in a porcine model.MethodsA distal pancreatectomy was performed in 22 pigs. Animals were randomly assigned to undergo conventional scalpel transection with hand‐sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant or pancreatic transection and sealing by LigaSure. Closed‐suction drainage was collected daily. Animals were sacrificed on postoperative day (POD) 7 and the pancreatic remnant was sampled for histology.ResultsTwo grade A postoperative temporary pancreatic fistulas (ISGPF definition) developed after hand suturing but none after LigaSure sealing. Amylase and lipase levels in drainage fluid were higher in the suture group during the first postoperative days but showed no differences after the fourth day. All but two animals that had to be euthanized because of small bowel invagination survived until POD 7. No significant differences were found in macroscopic changes between groups at reexploration. Histology demonstrated focal, chronic granulating inflammation with minor necrosis in all animals.ConclusionsThe LigaSure sealing device provides a safe alternative to conventional hand‐sewn closure of the pancreatic stump in distal pancreatectomy. This is the first study that investigated this effective and highly applicable technique for pancreatic transection.