bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Original article. The role of p38MAPK in asymmetric dimethylarginineinduced cytoskeleton and cellular permeability changes in cultured endothelial cells
Authors: Zhou Yunfei , Zhang Changqin , Zhang Qidong , Zhang Li , Liu Wenhu 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Background: Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) induces endothelial cell barrier dysfunction via cytoskeleton activation and contraction. It is supposed that activated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) would trigger the formation of stress fibers and increase cellular permeability.
Objective: Explore p38 MAPK as a potentially important enzyme in ADMA-mediated endothelial cell contractile response and permeability change.
Methods: Human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured, where ADMA and/or SB203580 (the specific inhibitor of p38MAPK) were used to stimulate HUVECs. Immunofluorescent staining was carried out to examine the expression and distribution of F-actin, flow cytometry was used to quantify F-actin, and Transwell was applied to test cellular permeability with FITC-labelled human serum albumin (HSA). Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) was utilized to observe the changes of intercellar contact.
Results: ADMA induced significant p38MAPK activation in a dose-dependent manner, which correlated with increased stress fibers. SB-203580 attenuated the formation of actin stress fiber and the increase of cellular permeability induced ADMA in the HUVECs (p<0.01, LSCM; p<0.01, cytometry; p<0.05, Transwell). Widened intercellular space induced by ADMA was detected and could be inhibited by SB-203580 (SEM). SB-203580 alone had no effect on cytoskeleton and cellular permeability.
Conclusion: p38MAPK activation participated in cytoskeleton and cellular permeability changes induced by ADMA in HUVECs.
Original article. Effects of telmisartan on angiotensin II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and p-ERK1/2 phosphorylation in rat cultured cardiomyocytes
Authors: Chang Wei-Han , Yan Jing-Jing , Li Xin , Guo Hai-Yan , Liu Yu 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Background: Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy is a common complication of hypertension, and is recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Up to now, no study has been made on the effects of telmisartan on Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy.
Objective: Investigate the effects of telmisartan on angiotensin II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK1/2) in rat-cultured cardiomyocytes.
Methods: Rat myocardial cells were cultured. Beating rates of the cardiomyocytes, cell volumes, total protein contents, protein synthesis rates, and ERK activity were measured. The phosphorylation of p-ERK1/2 was analyzed by Western blot.
Results: Treatment of cultured cardiomyocytes with telmisartan inhibited angiotensin II-induced increases in cell volume, beating rate, total protein content and protein synthesis rate. Telmisartan markedly inhibited p-ERK1/2 phosphorylation in a dose- and time-dependent manner.
Conclusion: Telmisartan could suppress cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by angiotensin II. The mechanism might be related to the inhibition of p-ERK1/2 phosphorylation.
Original article. Work-related quality of life scale among Singaporean nurses
Authors: Zeng Xu , Chaiear Naesinee , Klainin Piyanee , Khiewyoo Jiraporn , Koh David , Horng Hien Peter Wong , Lee Siu Yin 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Background: The Work-Related Quality of Life Scale (WRQLS) was developed for health-care workers in England but might be useful, if valid, in other parts of the world or for other professions.
Objective: We test the construct validity and reliability of the WRQLS as applied to nurses in Singapore.
Methods: A descriptive study was undertaken in 2009 on a sample of 811 nurses at the National University Hospital (NUH) of Singapore who had at least one year’s work experience. The WRQLS was used in order to test its construct validity. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to reduce the factors used to determine WRQLS variance. The Pearson’s correlation was used to evaluate the relationship between the WRQLS and the 12-item short form health survey (SF-12) in order to substantiate conclusions regarding construct validity while Cronbach’s alpha was calculated to test WRQLS reliability.
Results: The median age of the respondents was 31 (IQR=12) and the majority were female (96.9%). The median duration of work experience was seven years (IQR=10). Following the exploratory factor analysis, a five-factor model with 22 items was selected, including; 1) job and career satisfaction, 2) general well-being, 3) home-work interface, 4) stress at work, and 5) working conditions. The correlation coefficient showed a moderate relationship between the WRQLS and mental component scale (MCS-12) (r=0.495); and a weak relationship between the WRQLS and physical component scale (PCS-12) (r=0.149). The Cronbach’s alpha revealed good reliability (r=0.92).
Conclusion: The WRQLS test among nurses in Singapore showed good construct validity and reliability. It could be useful in a working environment in Asia but further testing might be warranted.
Vaspin in newly and previously diagnosed Chinese type 2 diabetic females: a case-control study
Authors: Feng Ren-Nan , Wang Cheng , Sun Chang-Hao , Guo Fu-Chuan , Zhao Chen , Li Ying 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Background: Visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor (vaspin) is a novel adipocytokine. Several studies have indicated that vaspin may exert an important role in the development of metabolic disorders.
Objective: Evaluate serum vaspin and its relation to clinical parameters in newly and previously diagnosed Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) females as a case-control study.
Materials and methods: One hundred twenty female participants (newly and previously diagnosed T2DM patients) were recruited from an affiliated hospital of Harbin Medical University. Sixty healthy female volunteers from various communities were included as controls. Anthropometric parameters, serum fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, lipid profile, HbA1c, and vaspin were measured in each participant.
Results: Serum vaspin levels were significantly lower in previously diagnosed T2DM patients (0.51±0.29 ng/mL) than in newly diagnosed T2DM patients (0.62±0.28 ng/mL) and healthy controls (0.69±0.31 ng/mL). However, there was no difference in serum vaspin between newly diagnosed T2DM patients and healthy controls. In multiple linear regression analysis, serum vaspin was significantly and positively associated with HbA1c in both newly and previously diagnosed T2DM patients, negatively associated with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in previously diagnosed patients, and positively correlated with age and body mass index in healthy controls.
Conclusion: Serum vaspin was significantly lower in previously diagnosed T2DM patients than in newly diagnosed T2DM patients and healthy controls. Serum vaspin might be a predictor of poor glucose control and insulin resistance in T2DM.
Brief communication (Original). Visual outcome in open globe injuries in Thailand: a prospective study
Authors: Sintuwong Sunisa , Winitchai Ruthairat 
Published: July 2011

AbstractBackground: Eye injuries, especially open globe injuries, cause visual morbidities and socioeconomic burden. It is urgent have good database and stakeholder involvement for open globe injuries.Objectives: Investigate the epidemiology and predictive factors of visual outcome in open globe injuries in an industrial area in Thailand.Methods: Consecutive cases of in-patient open globe injuries in Mettapracharak Eye Centre between February 2009 and January 2010 were examined. Patients were interviewed at first visit and followed-up for six months. The Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology was used to classify types of injuries. Demographic data, cost of treatment, length of stay, and predictive factors (initial visual acuity, presence of relative afferent pupillary defect, hyphema, vitreous hemorrhage, intraocular foreign bodies, retinal detachment, time-duration to surgery, and wound length) were assessed.Results: Fifty-two out of 60 eyes were included. Most (82.7%) of patients were men and average age was 34.1 years (range: 8-68 years). About half (51.9%) graduated from primary school and 65.3% were labourers. Most patients had not used protective devices. The endophthalmitis rate was 13.5%, and panophthalmitis rate was 5.8%. The enucleation rate was 9.6%. The median length of stay was nine days. Poor initial visual acuity and intraocular foreign bodies were significant predictive factors of poor visual outcome (p <0.05).Conclusion: Open globe injuries caused visual morbidity especially in young adult male, laborers with low education. Initial visual acuity and intraocular foreign bodies were significant predictive factors of poor visual outcome.
Technical report. Accuracy of intensity-modulated radiation therapy dose calculations: verification based on-board conebeam CT imaging
Authors: Tuntipumiamorn Lalida , Iampongpaiboon Porntip , Damrongkijudom Nuanpen , Krongyuth Khummook , Polwatsatian Vinai , Jaikreng Satja 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Background: Patient’s conebeam computer tomography (CBCT) images have suggested a possibility for adaptive radiotherapy although the dose delivery is of structural complexity. It is of practical importance to verify and test the intensity-modulated radiation (IMRT) planning system for radiation therapy.
Objective: Verify accuracy of dose calculations based on CBCT imaging.
Materials and methods: Electron density calibration curve was generated for planning CT and CBCT data set using two CT phantoms (Gammex RMI® and Catphan® 600). Anthropomorphic head and neck phantom images were acquired from planning CT and CBCT. The routine IMRT technique was generated on the planning CT, which was applied to the CBCT. Dose distributions were computed. All LiF TLD-100 dosimeters were calibrated with gamma-ray. Forty-eight TLD measuring points were chosen in five different slices of the phantom. Measurements were repeated four times, and the average dose was compared to the reading doses on both CT and CBCT plans. Dose volume histograms (DVH) of various structures were generated, and dose statistics were analyzed.
Results: Hounsfield unit obtained from Catphan phantom was similar between planning CT and CBCT. IMRT dose calculations based on the planning CT and CBCT agreed well with reading doses at 48 points. Statistical point doses by DVH calculation on CBCT were about 3% lower than those by the conventional CT. Dose ratios calculated over measured ones ranged from 0.82 to 1.09.
Conclusion: Point doses and DVH calculations based on the planning CT and on-board CBCT were in acceptable agreement. CT phantom specifically designed for CBCT is recommended to improve accuracy of IMRT dose calculation on CBCT images.
Technical report. Left ventricular ejection fraction measurement using cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in patients with post-myocardial infarction: assessment of reproducibility by a cardiovascular radiologist and a trained technologist
Authors: Tumkosit Monravee , Detphirattanamongkhol Juthamas , Kuadwongsa Achara , Srimahachota Suphot , Kitsukjit Weeranuch , Wangsuphachart Somjai 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) has recently been accepted as a preferential method for evaluation left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The LVEF analysis by CMR is usually performed by trained technologists in many institutions of Thailand.
Objective: Assess the reproducibility of LVEF measured by a cardiovascular radiologist and a trained technologist using CMR in patients with post-myocardial infarction (MI).
Methods: Twenty-one MI patients (18 men and 3 women) were recruited, where nine patients underwent CMR and left ventriculography to follow-up LVEF two times in six months. Both CMR and left ventriculography were examined within two weeks. LVEF from CMR were measured by a cardiovascular radiologist and a trained technologist and the correlation between the left ventriculography and CMR was determined.
Results: In 30 CMR studies, interobserver reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient ICC=0.94) and intraobserver reliability (ICC=0.96) was excellent. LVEF measured by left ventriculography was higher compared with that by CMR, and their correlation was moderate (ICC=0.56).
Conclusion: The LVEF measurement by a cardiovascular radiologist and a trained technologist using CMR was very reproducible, but the correlation between CMR and left ventriculography was moderate.
Fault detection for nonlinear networked systems with random packet dropout and probabilistic interval delay
Authors: Zhang Yong , Fang Huajing 
Published: July 2011

SUMMARYIn this paper, the fault detection (FD) problem of nonlinear networked control systems (NCSs) is investigated. A nonlinear stochastic systems model is proposed to account for the NCSs with network‐induced random packet dropout and non‐uniformly distributed time‐varying delay in both from sensor to controller and from controller to actuator. On the basis of the new model, by employing FD filter as residual generator, the addressed FD problem is converted into auxiliary nonlinear H ∞  filtering problem. Then, with the help of Lyapunov functional approach, a sufficient condition for the desired FD filter is constructed in terms of certain linear matrix inequalities, which depends on not only nonlinear level but also delay interval occurrence rate and successful joint packet transmission rate. Especially, a trade‐off phenomenon among maximum allowable delay bound, nonlinear level, and successful joint packet transmission rate is found, which typically resulted from the limited bandwidth of the communication networks. The effectiveness of the proposed methods is demonstrated by simulation examples. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bias compensation‐based parameter estimation for output error moving average systems
Authors: Ding Jie , Ding Feng 
Published: July 2011

SUMMARYIdentification problems of output error models with moving average noises are considered in this paper. The least‐squares‐based parameter estimation is biased under the colored noises in outputs. Firstly, a bias compensation term is formulated to achieve the bias‐eliminated estimates of the system parameters. Secondly, the bias compensation term is determined by the unknown variance of the noise and the unknown noise model, thus based on the hierarchical identification principle, an unbiased parameter estimation is obtained by interactively estimating noise variance and noise parameters. Finally, the estimated bias compensation term is added to the biased parameter estimates. The simulation examples confirm the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calcite Reinforced Silica–Silica Joints in the Biocomposite Skeleton of Deep‐Sea Glass Sponges
Authors: Ehrlich Hermann , Brunner Eike , Simon Paul , Bazhenov Vasily V. , Botting Joseph P. , Tabachnick Kontantin R. , Springer Armin , Kummer Kurt , Vyalikh Denis V. , Molodtsov Serguei L. , Kurek Denis , Kammer Martin , Born René , Kovalev Alexander , Gorb Stanislav N. , Koutsoukos Petros G. , Summers Adam 
Published: July 2011

AbstractThe hierarchically structured glass sponge Caulophacus species uses the first known example of a silica and calcite biocomposite to join the spicules of its skeleton together. In the stalk and body skeleton of this poorly known deep‐sea glass sponge siliceous spicules are modified by the addition of conical calcite seeds, which then form the basis for further silica secretion to form a spinose region. Spinose regions on adjacent spicules are then joined by siliceous crosslinks, leading to unusually strong cross‐spicule linkages. In addition to the biomaterials implications it is now clear, from this first record of a biomineral other than silica, that the hexactinellid sponges are capable of synthesizing calcite, the ancestral skeletal material. We propose that, while the low concentrations of calcium in deep sea waters drove the evolution of silica skeletons, the brittleness of silica has led to retention of the more resilient calcite in very low concentrations at the skeletal joints.
Molecular mechanisms responsible for the structural changes occurring during geopolymerization: Multiscale simulation
Authors: White Claire E. , Provis John L. , Proffen Thomas , van Deventer Jannie S. J. 
Published: July 2011

AbstractTo date, the fundamental details of the molecular structural changes and associated mechanisms, which take place during the formation of aluminosilicate geopolymer gels, have remained largely elusive. Here, density functional theory‐based coarse‐grained Monte Carlo modeling, a multiscale simulation technique, is used to simulate the geopolymerization reaction and to determine the molecular mechanisms controlling this process. Silica supplied by the alkaline solution plays a significant role in enhancing the dissolution of the solid aluminosilicate precursor (metakaolin, in this case) and the polymerization of the gel. In the reaction between NaOH and metakaolin, in the absence of initially dissolved silica, the solid precursor completely dissolves and the aluminosilicate gel forms via the percolation of small aluminosilicate clusters. On the other hand, in the presence of dissolved silicate, the metakaolin only partially dissolves, as the aluminosilicate gel precipitates on the surfaces of the metakaolin particle after a period of time. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Synthesis and characterization of chlorine‐containing flame‐retardant polyurethane nanocomposites via in situ polymerization
Authors: Aslzadeh M. Mohammadi , Mir Mohamad Sadeghi G. , Abdouss M. 
Published: July 2011

AbstractWe have developed flame‐retardant polyurethanes (FRPUs) and polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites via in situ polymerization. Three series of thermoplastic elastomeric PUs were synthesized to investigate the effect of incorporating 3‐chloro‐1,2‐propanediol (CPD) and nanoclay on mechanical, thermal properties, and also resistance to burning. PU soft segments were based on poly(propylene glycol). Hard segments were based on either CPD or 1,4‐buthane diol (BDO) in combination with methyl phenyl di‐isocyanate named PU or FRPU, respectively. In the third series, CPD was used as chain extender also nanoclay (1% wt) and incorporated and named as flame‐retardant polyurethane nanocomposites (FRPUN). Mechanical properties and LOI of PUs and nanocomposites have been evaluated. Results showed that increasing the hard segment (chlorine content) leads to the increase in flame retardancy and burning time. Addition of nanoclay to CPD‐containing PUs leads to obtain self‐extinguish PUs using lower CPD contents, higher Young's modulus, and strength without any noticeable decrease in elongation at break. Investigation of the TGA results showed that copresence of nanoclay and chlorine structure in the PU backbone can change thermal degradation pattern and improve nanocomposite thermal stability. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy studies confirmed that exfoliation and intercalation have been well done. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Synthesis, characterization, and fluorescence properties of lanthanide complexes with the copolymers of 2‐butenedioic acid (z)‐mono‐ethyl ester and styrene
Authors: Hou Li‐Ping , Su Yi‐Bing , Yang Ying , Gao Ya‐Ping 
Published: July 2011

AbstractIn this study, the luminescent macromolecular lanthanide complexes with the copolymers of styrene (St) and 2‐butenedioic acid (z)‐mono‐ethyl ester (BAME) have been synthesized, and an extensive characterization has been carried out by means of elemental analysis, FTIR, thermal analysis, and fluorescence determination. The results showed that the carboxylic groups on the chain of the polymers acted as bidentate ligands coordinated to lanthanide ions; and the coordination degree of ‐COO−/Ln3+ in the macromolecular complexes was closely dependent on both the pH value of the solution and the molar ratio of St to BAME in the polymeric ligands. Thermal analysis manifested that the macromolecular complexes Ln‐PSt/BAME (Ln = Y, Sm, Dy, Eu, and Tb) were highly crosslinked and had high thermal stability and solvent resistance. The fluorescence determination indicated that Ln‐PSt/BAME complexes could emit characteristic fluorescence with comparatively high brightness and good monochromaticity, and the fluorescence intensity increased with an increasing of lanthanide content. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Effect of phase separation on spherulitic growth rate of PP/EPR in‐reactor alloys
Authors: Liu Yi‐Min , Li Ying , Xu Jun‐Ting , Fu Zhi‐Sheng , Fan Zhi‐Qiang 
Published: July 2011

AbstractIn this work, the effect of phase separation on the spherulitic growth rate of a polypropylene/ethylene–propylene random (PP/EPR) copolymer in‐reactor alloy was investigated. The PP/EPR in‐reactor alloy was either directly quenched from homogeneous melt to crystallization temperature or held at various temperatures for phase separation prior to crystallization. It is found that at lower crystallization temperatures previous phase separation in the melt retards the crystallization rate. The higher the phase separation rate, the smaller the spherulitic growth rate. This can be attributed to faster crystallization rate than the rate of secondary phase separation. The composition of the PP‐rich phase and corresponding depression of the equilibrium melting temperature of PP vary with phase separation temperature. On the other hand, at higher crystallization temperature, previous phase separation in the melt has little effect on the spherulitic growth rate because secondary phase separation can take place prior to crystallization. The transition temperature from regime II to regime III also shifts to lower temperature as the phase separation temperature increases. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Free‐radical homo‐ and copolymerization of vinyl acetate and n‐butyl acrylate: Kinetic studies by online 1H NMR kinetic experiments
Authors: Abdollahi Mahdi , Massoumi Bakhshali , Yousefi Mohammad Reza , Ziaee Farshid 
Published: July 2011

AbstractFree‐radical homo‐ and copolymerization of vinyl acetate (VAc) and n‐butyl acrylate (BA) in benzene‐d6 were performed by using benzoyl peroxide as an initiator at 70°C. Polymerization kinetic was followed by online 1H NMR kinetic experiments. Significant drift in the comonomer mixture composition with reaction progress was observed. Reactivity ratios of VAc and BA were calculated by terminal unit model (TUM) as well as by simplified penultimate unit model (PUM) with rVAc = 0. It was found that copolymer composition can be described well by the TUM. “Lumped” kinetic parameter (
$ k_p .k_t^{ - 0.5} $) was estimated from experimental data. A good fitting between the theoretical and experimental drifts in the comonomer mixture and copolymer compositions with reaction progress was observed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011