A predictive model including the factors for the swelling is proposed, allowing

for the estimation of absorbency capacity in this type of copolymers. The results show that the optimum values of the variables given by the experimental design were s = 8.1, e = 1.0, and T = 49 degrees C, with predicted swelling capacity of 1041 and experimental of 1014. The variables are relevant, with a preponderance of s, and the effect of the square of temperature is also significant. (C) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 115: 520-525, 2010″
“Objective Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a significant psychological problem for cancer survivors. Some survivors experience FCR, which is both persistent and highly distressing. The aim SB525334 of this systematic review was to identify the key factors associated with fear of recurrence among cancer patients. Methods A comprehensive literature search using keywords was performed with three databases, followed by an organic search to identify additional relevant articles. Included studies had a quantitative methodology

presenting empirical findings focussed on adult cancer patients. A methodological quality assessment was performed for each study, and the strength of evidence was defined by the consistency of results. Results Forty-three studies met the inclusion criteria and are presented in this review. The most consistent predictor of elevated FCR was younger age. There was strong evidence 17DMAG supplier for an association between physical symptoms and fear of cancer recurrence. Additional factors moderately associated with increased FCR included treatment type, low optimism, family stressors and fewer significant others. Inconsistent evidence was found for socio-demographic factors. Conclusions Fear of cancer recurrence is a complex issue influenced by a multitude of factors, including

demographic, clinical and psychological factors. However, some studies have reported contradictory evidence, and FCR has been measured using a range of scales, which can hamper comparison across studies. Selleck LCL161 Further research is needed to clarify inconsistencies in the current published research. Copyright (c) 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.”
“Recognition of bacterial infection is the first key step to the initiation of an inflammatory response and host defense. Transmembrane proteins of the Toll-like receptor family have long been recognized as key detectors of the extracellular presence of pathogens. Recently, much research has identified a variety of intracellular detectors that also mediate innate immune responses following bacterial infection.