bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Mixed Sol‐Gel Precursors on the Metal‐Oxo Phase Within a UV‐Curable Silicone Hybrid Material
Authors: Dworak David P. , Soucek Mark D. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSummary: An inorganic hybrid material was produced using a polysiloxane binder and metal‐oxo‐clusters which were derived from sol‐gel precursors. The continuous phase is composed of an elastomeric polysiloxane functionalized with cycloaliphatic epoxide groups. Pendant alkoxy silane groups serve as a coupling agent to form a network between the metal‐oxo‐clusters and the crosslinked polysiloxane. Methyl, cyclopentyl, and cyclohexyl substituted polysiloxanes were formulated with a variety of sol‐gel precursors (tetraethylorthosilicate oligomers, titanium(IV) iso‐propoxide, zirconium(IV) propoxide, and zinc acetate). Phase‐modulated FT‐IR, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, solid state 29Si NMR, and solid state 13C NMR were used to investigate the internal structure of the mixed metal‐oxo/silicon‐oxo colloids prepared within the cured polysiloxane matrix. Results indicate that the cycloaliphatic groups inhibit the complete hydrolysis and condensation of the pendant triethoxysilane group and reaction of the sol‐gel precursors. Analysis also indicated that the metal‐oxo‐clusters were comprised of mixed species of sol‐gel precursors resulting in hetero‐bonded (SiOMetal) colloids.Possible network compositions of the cured material (a) specific metal‐oxo‐clusters, (b) hetero‐bonded metal‐oxo‐clusters, and (c) core/shell type metal‐oxo‐cluster configuration.magnified imagePossible network compositions of the cured material (a) specific metal‐oxo‐clusters, (b) hetero‐bonded metal‐oxo‐clusters, and (c) core/shell type metal‐oxo‐cluster configuration.
Characterization of the Mode of Incorporation of Lipophilic Compounds in Solid Dispersions at the Nanoscale Using Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)
Authors: van Drooge Dirk Jan , Braeckmans Kevin , Hinrichs Wouter L. J. , Remaut Katrien , De Smedt Stefaan C. , Frijlink Henderik W. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSummary: Efficient engineering of solid dispersions stagnates by the current inability to establish the mode of drug distribution on a molecular level at a low drug load. This study describes the application of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to characterize the mode of incorporation of dispersed lipophilic molecules in a solid matrix. Two different lipophilic fluorophores (donor and acceptor) were used as model substances and were incorporated in polyvinylpyrrolidone to form solid dispersions using two different production processes: lyophilization and fusion. The efficiency of the resonance energy transfer from donor to acceptor was measured by confocal microscopy. We show that the method can be used to compare the modes of drug incorporation of solid dispersions at the nanoscale.Absorption and emission spectra of Bodipy R6G (donor) and Bodipy 650/665 (acceptor).magnified imageAbsorption and emission spectra of Bodipy R6G (donor) and Bodipy 650/665 (acceptor).
Dissipative Particle Dynamics Study of the Formation of Multicompartment Micelles from ABC Star Triblock Copolymers in Water
Authors: Xia Jun , Zhong Chongli 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSummary: Dissipative particle dynamics simulation was performed to study the formation of multicompartment micelles from ABC star triblock copolymers in water. The study revealed some new morphologies that had not been observed before and also provided a direct visualization of the evolution of wormlike multicompartment micelles that follows the fusion process. Thus, this work provides molecular understanding of multicompartment micelles which will be useful for the future rational synthesis of novel micelles.Multicompartment micelles formed from ABC star triblock copolymers in water by DPD simulations.magnified imageMulticompartment micelles formed from ABC star triblock copolymers in water by DPD simulations.
Preparation of Polystyrene‐Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PS‐PNIPA) Core‐Shell Particles by Photoemulsion Polymerization
Authors: Lu Yan , Wittemann Alexander , Ballauff Matthias , Drechsler Markus 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSummary: Monodisperse thermosensitive PS‐NIPA core‐shell particles composed of a PS core and a cross‐linked PNIPA shell can be successfully synthesized by a novel method: photoemulsion polymerization. Cryo‐TEM images indicate clearly the core‐shell morphology of the PS‐NIPA particles: A homogeneous regular PNIPA shell has been affixed on the spherical PS core. DLS measurements indicate that the obtained PS‐NIPA latex particles are thermosensitive. The shell of PNIPA networks with different cross‐linking densities can shrink and re‐swell with temperature and the volume transition temperature is around 32 °C in all cases.Cryo‐TEM image of PS‐NIPA core‐shell particles.magnified imageCryo‐TEM image of PS‐NIPA core‐shell particles.
Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Particles Synthesized by Suspension Polymerization in Silicone Oil
Authors: Wang Xiaobing , Ding Xiaobin , Zheng Zhaohui , Hu Xinhua , Cheng Xu , Peng Yuxing 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSummary: Magnetic nanoparticles have been prepared by a co‐precipitation method and modified with methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane. Magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer particles have been prepared by suspension polymerization in silicone oil. The particles possess a high affinity to the template molecules and are rapidly separated under a magnetic field.SEM photograph of magnetic MIP particles.magnified imageSEM photograph of magnetic MIP particles.
A Rational Approach to Crosslinking of Coordination Polymers Using the Photochemical [2+2] Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Nagarathinam Mangayarkarasi , Vittal Jagadese J. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSummary: Polymerization as a result of photocrosslinking is one of the most versatile technologies for producing organic polymers. This article highlights the formation of crosslinking in metal coordination polymers in the solid‐state using a photochemical approach and its importance in material science. Past and current developments of solid‐state photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition in organic and inorganic systems relevant to the topic are reviewed. The challenges for the coordination chemist in utilising this rational approach to orient the coordination polymers and the scope of this work are delineated.The CC‐containing molecules can be aligned by metal coordination bonds in such a way as to promote crosslinking by a photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition reaction.magnified imageThe CC‐containing molecules can be aligned by metal coordination bonds in such a way as to promote crosslinking by a photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition reaction.
Breast cancer cells secreted platelet‐derived growth factor‐induced motility of vascular smooth muscle cells is mediated through neuropilin‐1
Authors: Banerjee Snigdha , Sengupta Krishanu , Dhar Kakali , Mehta Smita , D'Amore Patricia A. , Dhar Gopal , Banerjee Sushanta K. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractMotility of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is an essential step for both normal and pathologic angiogenesis. We report here that breast tumor cells, such as MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231, can modulate this SMC migration. We present evidence that the tumor cell‐derived platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) is the key regulator of vascular SMCs motility induced by breast cancer cells. PDGF significantly upregulates neuropilin‐1 (NRP‐1) mRNA expression and protein production in aortic smooth muscle cells (AOSMCs) and depletion of NRP‐1 production by AOSMCs with specific short hairpin RNA (shRNA) prevents the PDGF‐dependent migration of vascular SMCs. Moreover, we demonstrate that PDGF physically interacts with NRP‐1. We propose that tumor‐derived PDGF and NRP‐1 of AOSMCs function as a relay system that promotes motility of vascular SMCs. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical significance of urodynamic studies in neurogenic bladder dysfunction caused by intervertebral disk hernia
Authors: Dong Dexin , Xu Zhishun , Shi Benkang , Chen Jun , Jiang Xianzhou , Wang Haixin 
Published: July 2006

AbstractAimsTo discuss the clinical significance of urodynamic studies in neurogenic bladder dysfunction caused by intervertebral disk hernia.MethodsThirty patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction caused by intervertebral disk hernia were divided into three groups according to the category of detrusor muscle activity: neurogenic detrusor overactivity without detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD), neurogenic detrusor overactivity with DSD, or detrusor underactivity. The patients were divided into three groups according to the condition of urinary retention and incontinence: urinary retention, urinary incontinence, or neither urinary retention nor urinary incontinence. Also they were divided into three groups according to the location of the intervertebral disk hernia: cervical hernia, thoracic hernia, or lumbar hernia. All patients underwent computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and urodynamic study. The results were analyzed statistically.ResultsThere was significant correlation between the category of detrusor muscle activity, bladder compliance (BC, P < 0.05), and the pressure at maximum flow (P(det,Qmax), P < 0.01). There were significant differences in post void residual (PVR), cystometric capacity (CC), and maximum flow rate (Qmax) between the three groups of urinary retention, urinary incontinence, and the group of neither retention nor incontinence (P < 0.05). There was statistical correlation between the location of the intervertebral disk hernia and the urodynamic results. There was significant correlation between the BC (the threshold was 15 ml/cmH2O), detrusor pressure (Pdet, the threshold was 40 cmH2O), DSD, the location of intervertebral disk hernia, and the upper urinary tract lesion (P < 0.01).ConclusionsUrodynamic studies are indispensable in the classification, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of the neurogenic bladder dysfunction caused by intervertebral disk hernia. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurogenic bladder treatment by doubling the recommended antimuscarinic dosage
Authors: Horstmann M. , Schaefer T. , Aguilar Y. , Stenzl A. , Sievert K.D. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractIntroduction and ObjectivesThe dosage of the antimuscarinic drugs: Tolterodine ER or Trospium was increased to a higher‐than‐recommended dosage in patients where the manufacturer's recommended dosage had failed. All patients were suffering from neurogenic detrusor overactivity incontinence. Tolerability and success were evaluated in the present study.Materials and MethodsTwenty‐one patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity were evaluated: 17 with spinal cord injury, 3 with multiple sclerosis, and 1 with a meningomyelocele. All patients catheterized themselves or were catheterized. If neurogenic detrusor overactivity continued and the medication was well tolerated, the dosage was doubled to either 8 mg of Tolterodine ER [2 × 4 mg (n = 11)] or 90 mg of Trospium [3 × 30 mg (n = 10)]. The follow‐up was monitored by a bladder diary and urodynamic evaluation.ResultsSixteen patients significantly decreased their incontinence episodes from 8–12 episodes before to 0–2 episodes during the doubled treatment. The reflex volume increased from 202 ± 68 to 332 ± 50 ml (P < 0.001). Cystometric capacity enlarged from 290 ± 56 to 453 ± 63 ml (P < 0.001). One patient had to stop the medication because of intolerable side effects and five patients did not experience satisfactory benefit.ConclusionThe increased dosage of Tolterodine or Trospium is an effective treatment in patients with neurogenic bladder. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
AMG by element agglomeration and constrained energy minimization interpolation
Authors: Kolev Tzanio V. , Vassilevski Panayot S. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThis paper studies AMG (algebraic multigrid) methods that utilize energy minimization construction of the interpolation matrices locally, in the setting of element agglomeration AMG. The coarsening in element agglomeration AMG is done by agglomerating fine‐grid elements, with coarse element matrices defined by a local Galerkin procedure applied to the matrix assembled from the individual fine‐grid element matrices. This local Galerkin procedure involves only the coarse basis restricted to the agglomerated element. To construct the coarse basis, one exploits previously proposed constraint energy minimization procedures now applied to the local matrix. The constraints are that a given set of vectors should be interpolated exactly, not only globally, but also locally on every agglomerated element. The paper provides algorithmic details, as well as a convergence result based on a ‘local‐to‐global’ energy bound of the resulting multiple‐vector fitting AMG interpolation mappings. A particular implementation of the method is illustrated with a set of numerical experiments. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability and validity of the sexual pressure scale
Authors: Jones Rachel 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to develop the Sexual Pressure Scale (SPS) as a valid and reliable measure of gender stereotypical expectations to engage in sexual behavior. Data were collected using audio computer‐assisted self‐interview in 306 urban women, aged 18 to 29. Exploratory principal components analysis with varimax rotation yielded 19 items consisting of five factors: Condom Fear, Sexual Coercion, Women's Sex Role, Men Expect Sex, and Show Trust, accounting for 62% of the variance. Divergent and convergent validity were supported, respectively, by negative relationships of SPS factors with dyadic trust and positive relationships with sexual victimization and sexual risk behavior. Alpha reliability was .81; factor reliabilities ranged from .63 to .82. A valid assessment of sexual pressure can suggest the extent to which stereotypical gender expectations structure women's freedom to explore partner and condom use choices. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 29: 281–293, 2006.
Development and testing of the social capital scale for families of children with special health care needs
Authors: Looman Wendy Sue 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to develop and psychometrically test the Social Capital Scale for families of children with special health care needs. Researchers have suggested a link between social capital and health, however, psychometrically tested measures of social capital are not described in the literature. The Social Capital Scale (SCS) demonstrated internal consistency, stability over time, and construct validity (as evaluated through factor analysis, correlation with existing measures, and hypothesis testing). Five subscales provide insight into family strengths and areas for improvement related to their investment in relationships that support health. Use of the SCS will contribute to the establishment of consensus and precision in communication about social capital's utility and measurement in the population of families of children with special health care needs. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 29: 325–336, 2006
Posttrauamatic stress disorder (PTSD) in young adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Rourke Mary T. , Hobbie Wendy L. , Schwartz Lisa , Kazak Anne E. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractBackgroundPosttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were assessed in young adult survivors of childhood cancer, including the role of four sets of variables in understanding PTSD in this population: demographic characteristics, disease and treatment factors, psychosocial and functional outcomes, and cancer‐related beliefs.ProcedureOne hundred eighty‐two survivors of pediatric malignancies, ages 18–37 years old completed a psychiatric interview and self‐report measures. Survivors were ≥5 years from diagnosis and ≥2 years from the completion of cancer treatment for a variety of cancers.ResultsNearly 16% of the sample had PTSD. Most survivors reported re‐experiencing symptoms. There were no significant differences between survivors with and without PTSD on demographic or disease and treatment variables. Survivors with PTSD reported more psychological problems and negative beliefs about their illness and health status than those without PTSD. A logistic regression model predicted 50% of the variance in PTSD.ConclusionsPTSD affects a subset of young adult cancer survivors. These survivors experience more psychological problems in general. Beliefs about the cancer experience are more potent predictors of PTSD than demographic or disease and treatment factors. Screening for PTSS and PTSD in cancer survivors is recommended. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:177–182. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Self‐report of somatic symptoms in survivors of childhood cancer: Effects of adaptive style
Authors: Jurbergs Nichole , Long Alanna , Hudson Melissa , Phipps Sean 
Published: July 2006

AbstractBackgroundScreening for late effects in survivors of childhood cancer may be influenced by the patients' self‐reporting of their somatic state. However, self report of somatic symptoms may be influenced by factors other than objectively documented physical functions. This study examined the self report of somatic symptoms in children with cancer and matched healthy control children as a function of child adaptive style.ProcedureTwo groups of children age 7–18 were studied; children with cancer at least 6‐month post completion of therapy (n = 120) and a group of healthy children (n = 120) matched on age, race, and gender. Children completed measures of somatic symptoms, body consciousness, and adaptive style.ResultsContrary to expectations, there were no differences between children with cancer and healthy controls in self‐reported somatic symptoms, although cancer patients reported slightly lower symptomatology. In contrast, there were significant differences in self‐reported somatic symptoms as a function of adaptive style. Children identified as repressors reported the lowest level of somatic symptoms and differed significantly from all other adaptive style groups.ConclusionThese results do not support the prevailing hypothesis that a repressive style may be a risk factor for psychosomatic illness. However, the findings are consistent with a response bias interpretation, suggesting a general under‐reporting of symptoms in repressors, including physical symptoms. These results have significant implications for health care providers and researchers following long‐term survivors of childhood cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:84–89. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Women's preferences in screening for Down syndrome
Authors: Deverill Mark , Robson Stephen 
Published: July 2006

AbstractObjectivesIn this article, we seek to establish women's preferences (expressed as utility values) for a number of scenarios relating to the process and associated outcomes of first‐ and second‐trimester screening for Down syndrome.MethodsWe used the standard gamble (SG) approach with a sample of 100 pregnant women. Standard gamble is a choice‐based preference elicitation technique that values scenarios on a 0–1 scale.ResultsA true negative screening test, whether obtained in the first or second trimester, had the highest utility scores (both 0.98), which were not significantly different from the scores for the false‐positive scenarios leading to first‐ or second‐trimester invasive testing but the birth of a healthy infant (0.95 and 0.94, respectively). The mean utility score for the false‐negative scenario resulting in the birth of a Down syndrome infant (0.77) was lower than both the true negative scenarios and the false‐positive healthy baby scenarios (p < 0.000).ConclusionWe did not find any differences in the values of the key scenarios regarding either the timing of reassurance of a healthy fetus or the ability to access early surgical termination, rather than later medical termination for a Down syndrome fetus. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of a partial 6q trisomy: a case report
Authors: Valerio Domenico , Di Domenico Anna , Felicetti Maria , La Boccetta Alfredo , Ferrara Claudio , Antonio Novelli , Borrelli Antonio L. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo present a case of partial 6q trisomy diagnosed prenatally.MethodA 28‐year‐old woman underwent genetic amniocentesis at 23 weeks of gestation on the detection of an enlarged nuchal fold (8.5 mm), which was the only clinical abnormality on routine ultrasound examination. Fetal karyotyping revealed a partial trisomy 6q (q21‐q22) caused by a balanced maternal chromosomal insertion.ResultsA female infant was delivered at 38 weeks of gestation. At birth, minor dysmorphisms were recorded, which included low set ears, macrocephaly and a webbed neck. At 17 months of age, neurological developmental assessment was normal.ConclusionsThe appearance of phenotypic expression and clinical outcome of partial 6q trisomy depends on the specific chromosomal region involved in the segmental aneusomy. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of exfoliated PP/LDH nanocomposites via melt‐intercalation: Structure, thermal properties, and photo‐oxidative behavior in comparison with PP/MMT nanocomposites
Authors: Ding Peng , Qu Baojun 
Published: July 2006

AbstractExfoliated polypropylene (PP)/layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanocomposites have been successfully synthesized via melt‐intercalation. Their structure, thermal properties, and photo‐oxidative behavior have been characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMA), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum. TGA and DMA data show that the PP/LDH nanocomposites have enhanced thermal stability compared with virgin PP and corresponding PP/montmorillonites (MMT) nanocomposites, especially in high temperature range during the thermal decomposition of the samples. XPS and FTIR results give positive evidence that the photo‐oxidation mechanism of PP in the PP/LDH materials is not modified compared with that of virgin PP. However, photo‐oxidation rate of PP/LDH materials is much lower than that of PP and PP/MMT samples, indicating that the PP/LDH nanocomposites have better UV‐stability. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 46:1153–1159, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers
Amphiphilic block copolymers of PtBA‐b‐PMMA as compatibilizers for blends of PET and PMMA
Authors: Dewangan B. , Jagtap R. N. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractPET and PMMA were blended at various weight fractions. These blends were compatibilized by employing amphiphilic block copolymers of PtBA‐b‐PMMA, having three compositions (1:3, 1:1, 3:1) and three weight fractions (3, 5, and 7 wt%) using a co‐rotating twin screw extruder. The blends were evaluated for their mechanical, rheological, and morphological properties. Overall, the compatiblized blends showed improvement in properties compared with the properties of noncompatiblized blends. Mechanical properties of the compatibilized blends improved with an increase in the PMMA and compatibilizer weight fractions. It was observed that the compatibilizer with lower molecular weight and lower glass transition temperature, typically at 5 wt%, provided the overall best properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 46:1147–1152, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers.