bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A model for social spatial behavior in virtual characters
Authors: Karimaghalou Nahid , Bernardet Ulysses , DiPaola Steve
Published: May 2014

Plausible spatial behavior is a key capability that autonomous virtual characters need in order to provide ecologically valid social interactions. However, there is a lack of psychological data on spatial behavior in the larger scale social settings and over extended periods of time. In this paper, we present a social navigation model that aims at generating human‐like spatial behavior for a virtual human in a social setting with group dynamics. We employ an engineering approach by defining a dynamic representation of interest and then using it as the psychometric function that regulates the behavior of the agent. We evaluate our model by means of two test cases that address different aspect of the model and serve as a proof of concept. Our work is a step toward models for generating more plausible social spatial behavior for virtual characters that is based on both internal dynamics and attributes of the social environment. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adolescent male hazardous drinking and participation in organised activities: Involvement in team sports is associated with less hazardous drinking in young offenders
Authors: Hallingberg Britt , Moore Simon , Morgan Joanne , Bowen Katharine , van Goozen Stephanie H. M.
Published: May 2014

Background

There is a lack of research investigating organised activity participation and associated alcohol use in vulnerable groups.

Aims

The purpose of this research was to test and compare associations between participation in organised activities and indicators of hazardous drinking between young offenders and young non‐offenders.

Methods

Two groups of 13–18 year‐old males were recruited in Cardiff, UK: 93 young offenders and 53 non‐offenders from secondary schools matched on estimated IQ, sex and socioeconomic status. Indicators of hazardous drinking were measured using the Fast Alcohol Screening Test (FAST). Organised activity participation and externalising behaviour was measured by the Youth Self Report. The Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence was also administered.

Results

Young offenders participated in fewer organised activities and had higher FAST scores than non‐offenders. Young offenders and non‐offenders significantly differed on mean FAST scores if they participated in no organised activities but not if they participated in at least one team sport. Externalising behaviour problems were unrelated to participation in organised activities.

Conclusions

Although young offenders were less likely to have participated in organised activities, for them, participation in a team sport was associated with less hazardous drinking. Vulnerable youths who might benefit most from sporting activities actually access them the least. Future research should identify the different barriers to participation that they face. © 2014 The Authors. Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Variable influence on projection (VIP) for orthogonal projections to latent structures (OPLS)
Authors: Galindo‐Prieto Beatriz , Eriksson Lennart , Trygg Johan
Published: May 2014

A new approach for variable influence on projection (VIP) is described, which takes full advantage of the orthogonal projections to latent structures (OPLS) model formalism for enhanced model interpretability. This means that it will include not only the predictive components in OPLS but also the orthogonal components. Four variants of variable influence on projection (VIP) adapted to OPLS have been developed, tested and compared using three different data sets, one synthetic with known properties and two real‐world cases. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sonogashira, CuAAC, and Oxime Ligations for the Synthesis of MnI Tricarbonyl PhotoCORM Peptide Conjugates
Authors: Pai Sandesh , Radacki Krzysztof , Schatzschneider Ulrich
Published: May 2014

In this work, facial tricarbonylmanganese(I) complexes [Mn(bpeaCH2C6H4R)(CO)3]PF6 incorporating a functionalized 2,2‐bis(pyrazolyl)ethylamine (bpea) ligand with R = I, C≡CH, and CHO have been explored for their utility in bioorthogonal coupling to carrier peptides bearing N‐terminal alkyne, azide, and aminoxy residues. As a model system, the transforming growth factor β‐recognizing (TGF‐β) peptide sequence R′‐Leu‐Pro‐Leu‐Gly‐Asn‐Ser‐His‐OH was used in which R′ is the reactive group complementary to the metal complex functionality. The use of catalyst‐free oxime ligation gave the most stable conjugate with no degradation observed by HPLC over 96 h even after repeated freeze–thaw cycles. Both the parent complex as well as the functionalized peptide were investigated for photoactivated CO delivery to heme proteins by using the myoglobin assay and found to have essentially identical release properties. This work has established a new strategy for the conjugation of photoactivatable CO‐releasing molecules (PhotoCORMs) to biological carrier systems.
Using covariates to model dependence in nonstationary, high‐frequency meteorological processes
Authors: Poppick Andrew , Stein Michael L.
Published: May 2014

Meteorological processes that are measured at high temporal frequencies require nonstandard statistical models to adequately characterize their observed behavior. We examine this problem through the specific example of a nonstationary, bivariate process—the high‐frequency changes in surface temperature and dew point—conditionally on the average hourly level of relative humidity, magnitude of minute‐to‐minute changes in wind direction, and presence of sunlight. One particularly interesting aspect of this process is that dew point is bounded above by temperature, and so a part of the modeler's challenge is to characterize the joint behavior as temperature approaches dew point (or equivalently as relative humidity approaches 100%). The data analyzed are from early May from the years 2003 through 2012 at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program's Southern Great Plains site in Northern Oklahoma, at the central facility near Lamont, Oklahoma. Our model gives a parametric description of how the spectral matrix of the process varies with covariates over blocks of time. The spectral approach allows for convenient and interpretable models of bivariate processes in time, and our model captures many of the observed changes in the behavior of the process. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring the influence of biofilm on short‐term expansion and contraction of supratidal rock: an example from the Mediterranean
Authors: Mayaud Jerome R. , Viles Heather A. , Coombes Martin A.
Published: May 2014

Previous geomorphological investigations using the traversing micro‐erosion meter (TMEM) have identified daily and hourly contractions and expansions of littoral rock on a range of lithologies. While organic influences on these patterns have been inferred, this has rarely been tested in a controlled way. Here, a TMEM was used to measure micro‐scale (<mm) topographic changes on supratidal limestone of the Massif des Calanques, southern France. Four TMEM monitoring sites (each 64 cm2) were set up in total, two in the Calanque de Morgiou and two in the Presqu'ile de Cassis. On both shores one TMEM bolt site was positioned on bare rock and the other on colonized rock. TMEM data were collected and the surface micro‐topography mapped for each site at two‐hourly intervals from early morning to late evening across one day in mid‐summer.

Significant relative expansion and contraction was observed between measurement periods at all four sites, regardless of biofilm colonization (P < 0.001 in all instances), and sometimes between adjacent zones on the rock surface (at a scale of centimetres). Rock with and without biofilm behaved broadly similarly, but the magnitude of topographic change varied: average movement from one interval to the next was 0.03 mm on bare sites and 0.06 mm on biofilm‐colonized sites. As expected, patterns of surface change related largely to insolation, with greatest movement occurring in the morning and evening when thermal gradients were steepest. Interestingly, the presence of a biofilm intensified rock expansion, but delayed surface response to microclimatic variability. We largely attribute this effect to biofilm influences on surface albedo, and hypothesize that episodes of contraction and expansion are superimposed onto longer (annual to decadal) episodes of surface movement and downwearing. Short‐term TMEM studies therefore need to be coupled with longer‐term seasonal and annual measurements to improve understanding of rock surface dynamics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inventorying slope movements in an Alpine environment using DInSAR
Authors: Barboux Chloé , Delaloye Reynald , Lambiel Christophe
Published: May 2014

Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) is a technique that can be used to detect and characterize slope movements. It is investigated here as a tool for establishing a detailed overview of complex slope movements at a regional scale in an Alpine context. This paper gives specific recommendations to use and to understand DInSAR signals in mountainous areas located above the tree line, excluding glaciated areas. It proposes a systematic procedure based on accurate interpretations of interferometric signals from a large DInSAR dataset to locate and estimate the displacement rate of moving zones. The methodology was successfully applied in the Western Swiss Alps, where about 1500 moving objects were detected above the tree line using a large dataset of ERS and JERS interferograms dating from the 1990s. The DInSAR‐detected movements had a displacement rate ranging from a few centimeters to several meters per year and were attributed to various types of mass wasting phenomena (rock glaciers, landslides, etc.). This kind of inventory derived from DInSAR can be used as a preliminary tool for natural hazard management and process understanding in mountain areas. As automatic data archiving and systematic acquisition of SAR data are ensured worldwide for most SAR sensors, a similar methodology can basically be applied in many other parts of the globe – also by using data from current SAR sensors – as long as a high resolution DEM is available. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrated assessment of runoff from livestock farming operations: Analytical chemistry, in vitro bioassays, and in vivo fish exposures
Authors: Cavallin Jenna E. , Durhan Elizabeth J. , Evans Nicola , Jensen Kathleen M. , Kahl Michael D. , Kolpin Dana W. , Kolodziej Edward P. , Foreman William T. , LaLone Carlie A. , Makynen Elizabeth A. , Seidl Sara M. , Thomas Linnea M. , Villeneuve Daniel L. , Weberg Matthew A. , Wilson Vickie S. , Ankley Gerald T.
Published: May 2014

Animal waste from livestock farming operations can contain varying levels of natural and synthetic androgens and/or estrogens, which can contaminate surrounding waterways. In the present study, surface stream water was collected from 6 basins containing livestock farming operations. Aqueous concentrations of 12 hormones were determined via chemical analyses. Relative androgenic and estrogenic activity was measured using in vitro cell assays (MDA-kb2 and T47D-Kbluc assays, respectively). In parallel, 48-h static-renewal in vivo exposures were conducted to examine potential endocrine-disrupting effects in fathead minnows. Mature fish were exposed to surface water dilutions (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100%) and 10-ng/L of 17α-ethynylestradiol or 50-ng/L of 17β-trenbolone as positive controls. Hepatic expression of vitellogenin and estrogen receptor α mRNA, gonadal ex vivo testosterone and 17β-estradiol production, and plasma vitellogenin concentrations were examined. Potentially estrogenic and androgenic steroids were detected at low nanogram per liter concentrations. In vitro estrogenic activity was detected in all samples, whereas androgenic activity was detected in only 1 sample. In vivo exposures to the surface water had no significant dose-dependent effect on any of the biological endpoints, with the exception of increased male testosterone production in 1 exposure. The present study, which combines analytical chemistry measurements, in vitro bioassays, and in vivo fish exposures, highlights the integrated value and future use of a combination of techniques to obtain a comprehensive characterization of an environmental chemical mixture. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1849–1857. Published 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. This article is a US Government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Time‐frequency MSE analysis of linear channel estimation methods for the LTE downlink
Authors: Argenti Fabrizio , Biagini Massimiliano , Del Re Enrico , Morosi Simone
Published: May 2014

Orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing (OFDM) is widely used in modern communication systems thanks to the ease of its implementation as well as to a simple design of channel estimation methods. Pilot‐based schemes are commonly employed to recover channel information and implement efficient channel equalisation. From the symbols transmitted over the pilot carriers, the channel coefficients for a whole OFDM are estimated. In this paper, we propose a method to compute in a closed form the mean square estimation error of different linear approximation and interpolation algorithms in the time‐frequency domain. Specifically, by exploiting the linear relationship between the estimated channel coefficients for the whole frame and those relative to the pilots, the proposed approach permits to obtain the mean square error relative to all OFDM symbols in a frame. The method can be used for any linear frequency/time interpolation/approximation method and for any choice of pilot positions and channel statistics. Thanks to our derivations, several pilot‐aided channel estimation and interpolation algorithms can be compared without resorting to burdensome computer simulations. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method, the downlink of the long term evolution system is taken as a case study: some popular channel estimators have been selected and the best strategy in a realistic wireless scenario is investigated. The performance of the method is also verified by computing, by means of simulations, bit error rate (BER) curves for the long term evolution (LTE) multiple input multiple output (MIMO) downlink, using 2 × 2 and 4 × 4 Alamouti space‐frequency coding configurations, in both uncoded and coded communications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activation of the TRPV1 cation channel contributes to stress‐induced astrocyte migration
Authors: Ho Karen W. , Lambert Wendi S. , Calkins David J.
Published: May 2014

Astrocytes provide metabolic, structural, and synaptic support to neurons in normal physiology and also contribute widely to pathogenic processes in response to stress or injury. Reactive astrocytes can undergo cytoskeletal reorganization and increase migration through changes in intracellular Ca2+ mediated by a variety of potential modulators. Here we tested whether migration of isolated retinal astrocytes following mechanical injury (scratch wound) involves the transient receptor potential vanilloid‐1 channel (TRPV1), which contributes to Ca2+‐mediated cytoskeletal rearrangement and migration in other systems. Application of the TRPV1‐specific antagonists, capsazepine (CPZ) or 5'‐iodoresiniferatoxin (IRTX), slowed migration by as much as 44%, depending on concentration. In contrast, treatment with the TRPV1‐specific agonists, capsaicin (CAP) or resiniferatoxin (RTX) produced only a slight acceleration over a range of concentrations. Chelation of extracellular Ca2+ with EGTA (1 mM) slowed astrocyte migration by 35%. Ratiometric imaging indicated that scratch wound induced a sharp 20% rise in astrocyte Ca2+ that dissipated with distance from the wound. Treatment with IRTX both slowed and dramatically reduced the scratch‐induced Ca2+ increase. Both CPZ and IRTX influenced astrocyte cytoskeletal organization, especially near the wound edge. Taken together, our results indicate that astrocyte mobilization in response to mechanical stress involves influx of extracellular Ca2+ and cytoskeletal changes in part mediated by TRPV1 activation. GLIA 2014;62:1435–1451
Multisource Ratings Of Managerial Competencies And Their Predictive Value For Managerial And Organizational Effectiveness
Authors: Semeijn Judith H. , Van Der Heijden Beatrice I. J. M. , Van Der Lee Anne
Published: May 2014

This study examined the predictive value of multisource ratings of managerial competencies for managerial and organizational effectiveness. Data from 155 subordinates, 59 peers, and 28 supervisors were gathered in order to provide insight into their perceptions on managerial competencies for their managers. With regard to the outcome variable (i.e., effectiveness), both individual‐level (subordinates’, peers’, and supervisors’ ratings of managers) and organizational‐level (Balanced Scorecard) measures were used. As expected, subordinates, peers, and supervisors have distinct perspectives on the managerial competencies that are relevant for effectiveness. Moreover, the specific managerial competencies differ in terms of their predictive validity respectively for managerial and organizational effectiveness. The outcomes of our study suggest that a multisource and multimethod approach is valuable in assessing both managerial competencies and managerial and organizational effectiveness. Several implications for human resource management practices are discussed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collagen/hydroxyapatite scaffold enriched with polycaprolactone nanofibers, thrombocyte‐rich solution and mesenchymal stem cells promotes regeneration in large bone defect in vivo
Authors: Prosecká E. , Rampichová M. , Litvinec A. , Tonar Z. , Králíčková M. , Vojtová L. , Kochová P. , Plencner M. , Buzgo M. , Míčková A. , Jančář J. , Amler E.
Published: May 2014

A three‐dimensional scaffold of type I collagen and hydroxyapatite enriched with polycaprolactone nanofibers (Coll/HA/PCL), autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in osteogenic media, and thrombocyte‐rich solution (TRS) was an optimal implant for bone regeneration in vivo in white rabbits. Nanofibers optimized the viscoelastic properties of the Coll/HA scaffold for bone regeneration. MSCs and TRS in the composite scaffold improved bone regeneration. Three types of Coll/HA/PCL scaffold were prepared: an MSC‐enriched scaffold, a TRS‐enriched scaffold, and a scaffold enriched with both MSCs and TRS. These scaffolds were implanted into femoral condyle defects 6 mm in diameter and 10‐mm deep. Untreated defects were used as a control. Macroscopic and histological analyses of the regenerated tissue from all groups were performed 12 weeks after implantation. The highest volume and most uniform distribution of newly formed bone occurred in defects treated with scaffolds enriched with both MSCs and TRS compared with that in defects treated with scaffolds enriched by either component alone. The modulus of elasticity in compressive testing was significantly higher in the Coll/HA/PCL scaffold than those without nanofibers. The composite Coll scaffold functionalized with PCL nanofibers and enriched with MSCs and TRS appears to be a novel treatment for bone defects. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 671–682, 2015.
FTIR-I Compositional Mapping of the Cartilage-to-Bone Interface as a Function of Tissue Region and Age
Authors: Khanarian Nora T , Boushell Margaret K , Spalazzi Jeffrey P , Pleshko Nancy , Boskey Adele L , Lu Helen H
Published: May 2014

Soft tissue-to-bone transitions, such as the osteochondral interface, are complex junctions that connect multiple tissue types and are critical for musculoskeletal function. The osteochondral interface enables pressurization of articular cartilage, facilitates load transfer between cartilage and bone, and serves as a barrier between these two distinct tissues. Presently, there is a lack of quantitative understanding of the matrix and mineral distribution across this multitissue transition. Moreover, age-related changes at the interface with the onset of skeletal maturity are also not well understood. Therefore, the objective of this study is to characterize the cartilage-to-bone transition as a function of age, using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic imaging (FTIR-I) analysis to map region-dependent changes in collagen, proteoglycan, and mineral distribution, as well as collagen organization. Both tissue-dependent and age-related changes were observed, underscoring the role of postnatal physiological loading in matrix remodeling. It was observed that the relative collagen content increased continuously from cartilage to bone, whereas proteoglycan peaked within the deep zone of cartilage. With age, collagen content across the interface increased, accompanied by a higher degree of collagen alignment in both the surface and deep zone cartilage. Interestingly, regardless of age, mineral content increased exponentially across the calcified cartilage interface. These observations reveal new insights into both region- and age-dependent changes across the cartilage-to-bone junction and will serve as critical benchmark parameters for current efforts in integrative cartilage repair. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis C virus strains and risk factors associated with infection and viral subtypes among Iranian patients
Authors: Salehi Moghadam Faraz , Mohebbi Seyed Reza , Hosseini Seyed Masoud , Romani Sara , Mirtalebi Hanieh , Azimzadeh Pedram , Damavand Behzad , Naghoosi Hamed , Khanyaghma Mahsa , Sanati Azar , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2014

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has infected approximately 170 million people worldwide. While the seroprevalence of anti‐HCV antibody among Iranian blood donors is 0.13%, HCV infection is prevalent in 59–80% of Iranian injecting drug users. One hundred seventy‐eight anti‐HCV positive patients were referred to the Gastroenterology Department at the Taleghani Hospital (Tehran, Iran) between June 2007 and June 2012. Out of 178 samples, 142 were positive for HCV‐RNA. HCV subtypes were determined using phylogenetic analysis of the NS5B or 5′UTR/core regions. Of 142 viremic patients, 71 (50%) were infected with HCV subtype 1a, 43 (30.3%) with subtype 3a, 20 (14.1%) with subtype 1b, 3 (2.1%) with subtype 4d, 2 (1.4%) with subtype 4a, 1 (0.7%) with subtype 2b, and 1 (0.7%) with subtype 6a. Interestingly, genetic analysis of a sub‐genomic fragment from one patient identified a non‐subtypeable HCV genotype‐3 strain. There was a significant association between HCV subtype and a history of injecting drug use (P = 0.003). Subtype 3a was predominant among patients with such a history. Injecting drug use was associated with younger age (P < 0.001). HCV subtype was also significantly associated with a history of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (P = 0.02). Subtype 1a was more frequent among patients with such a history. In addition, history of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was significantly associated with older age (P = 0.002). In conclusion, while HCV subtype 1a is predominant among infected Iranian individuals, subtype 3a is predominant among Iranian injecting drug users. J. Med. Virol. 86:1342–1349, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Monitoring by Raman spectroscopy of the damage induced in the wake of energetic ions
Authors: Miro Sandrine , Velisa Gihan , Thomé Lionel , Trocellier Patrick , Serruys Yves , Debelle Aurélien , Garrido Frédérico
Published: May 2014

This article reports micro‐Raman experiments performed on cross sections of 6H‐SiC crystals irradiated with heavy ions of different energies. The results demonstrate that this technique is very powerful to quantify the damage created in the wake of energetic ions from the surface of samples down to the ion resting position. For slow ions (900‐keV I), ballistic collisions lead to the amorphization of the surface region of samples. For swift ions (36‐MeV W), the surface region remains crystalline and amorphization occurs around the end of the ion path. Moreover, synergistic effects between electronic and nuclear slowing down processes are put forward. The methodology used in this work may be adapted to other materials where radiation effects need to be investigated, provided that the damage created by irradiation is detectable by Raman spectroscopy. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The source of blue colour of archaeological glass and glazes: the Raman spectroscopy/SEM‐EDS answers
Authors: Caggiani Maria Cristina , Acquafredda Pasquale , Colomban Philippe , Mangone Annarosa
Published: May 2014

The founding of lapis lazuli to give blue colour to glass and glazes is more and more coming out from the most recent studies of pottery and glassware of different epochs and provenances. The recent discovery in the south of Italy (Frederick II, Melfi castle) of enamelled glass pieces including blue enamels questioned the real nature of the blue colour raw materials because the castle is built over and not far from outcrops of two volcanic rocks – haüynophire and phonolite – that contain haüyne, mineral belonging to sodalite group as lazurite, that can be blue or become blue after heating. Raman microscopy and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy were tested in order to identify the rock used as raw material and to understand if the chromophore‐bearing mineral in the artefacts could be other than lazurite. To do this, the two volcanic rocks, lapis lazuli and archaeological glass with blue enamels, were studied. In particular, temperature‐dependent Raman measurements and Raman mappings both on single lazurite and haüyne crystals and on the rocks and the enamels were carried out also in order to investigate the colouration mechanism of haüyne. The results obtained allowed to make hypotheses about the transformations occurring in haüyne with heating and about the procedures of distinguishing the raw materials. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Financial Crisis of Banks (Before, During and After): An Intellectual Capital Perspective
Authors: Curado Carla , Guedes Maria João , Bontis Nick
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the link between intellectual capital components and financial performance across three temporal periods on either side of a financial crisis.

The study offers a longitudinal approach, combining two data collecting methods. A survey on intellectual capital components was administered during the initial period followed by objective performance ratios in subsequent time periods (covering pre, during and post‐financial crisis analysis). Regarding the three periods in the study, evidence seems to support the argument that intellectual capital scores are good predictors of future banking performance. One bank in particular that was ranked very low in 2005 intellectual capital scores eventually failed to survive autonomously. By 2012, it was forced to be rescued by governmental aid using public funds. Generally speaking, we can argue that intellectual capital average scores are good predictors of future banking performance.

The study's generalizability is limited to the Portuguese banking industry. This is the first academic research study to evaluate the link between intellectual capital and the financial performance of banks across three temporal periods: 2005–2006 (pre‐crisis), 2007–2008 (during crisis), and 2009–10 (post‐crisis). Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mussel‐Inspired Cell‐Adhesion Peptide Modification for Enhanced Endothelialization of Decellularized Blood Vessels
Authors: Lee Jung Seung , Lee Kihong , Moon Sung‐Hwan , Chung Hyung‐Min , Lee Jun Hyup , Um Soong Ho , Kim Dong‐Ik , Cho Seung‐Woo
Published: May 2014

Enhanced endothelialization of tissue‐engineered blood vessels is essential for vascular regeneration and function of engineered vessels. In this study, mussel‐inspired surface chemistry of polydopamine (pDA) coatings are applied to functionalize decellularized vein matrix (DVM) with extracellular matrix‐derived cell adhesion peptides (RGD and YIGSR). DVMs engineered with pDA‐peptides enhance focal adhesion, metabolic activity, and endothelial differentiation of human endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) derived from cord blood and embryonic stem cells compared with EPCs on non‐coated or pDA‐coated DVMs. These results indicate that pDA‐peptide functionalization may contribute to enhanced, rapid endothelialization of DVM surfaces by promoting adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of circulating EPCs. Ultimately, this approach may be useful for improving in vivo patency and function of decellularized matrix‐based blood vessels.
Template Assisted Change in Morphology from Particles to Nanofibers by Side‐by‐Side Electrospinning of Block Copolymers
Authors: Jiang Shaohua , Jin Qiao , Agarwal Seema
Published: May 2014

Template assisted change in morphology from particles to nanofibers was shown for low molar mass amphiphilic block copolymers by side‐by‐side electrospinning. The reversibly cross‐linkable particles and fibers could be easily obtained from the same polymeric material by choosing proper processing conditions and spinning nozzles. The conventional electrospinning with single‐component nozzle provided only particles. The morphology of the particles was controlled by varying the electrospraying conditions and characterized by SEM, optical microscope, and AFM. The same low molecular weight non‐spinnable polymers provided fibrous morphology by Template Assisted Method (TAM) using side‐by‐side electrospinning nozzle with PEO as sacrificial polymer.
Fingerprint Multiplicity in MALDI‐TOF Mass Spectrometry of Copolymers
Authors: Horský Jiří , Walterová Zuzana
Published: May 2014

Due to the limited resolution of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, the assignment of binary‐copolymer composition to the peak molecular weight observed in the spectrum is not unique. Consequently, several clusters, called fingerprints, appear on calculated 2‐D distribution, but usually only one of them corresponds to the sample composition. The ambiguity in the assignment of the composition to peaks in mass spectra of binary copolymers was explained in the framework of number theory and several criteria for identification of the correct fingerprint were proposed. The results were applied in analysis of poly(propylene glycol)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(propylene glycol) triblock copolymer Reverse Pluronic 17R4.
NMR Methods to Study Effects of Additives on Phase Separation of Thermoresponsive Polymer
Authors: Chen Jianqiang , Spěváček Jiří , Hanyková Lenka
Published: May 2014

NMR methods including 1H NMR spectroscopy, 2D NOESY spectroscopy, pulsed‐field gradient (PFG) NMR as well as spin‐spin relaxation times T2 measurement were employed to study the effects of one surfactant (sodium n‐dodecyl sulfate, SDS) and three inorganic salts (NaCl, Na2SO4, Na3PO4) on the phase transition of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) in aqueous solution. The molecular interactions between SDS and PNIPAM during the coil‐to‐globule transition of PNIPAM have been accurately observed through 2D NOESY spectra and PFG NMR. Through the combination of 1H NMR spectra and T2 measurements, the salts effects have been found not only shift the phase transition of PNIPAM but also lead to difference in the final conformational state of PNIPAM in aqueous solution after phase transition. Diffusion coefficients of Na+ cations support the idea that the major effect of salts on phase transition of PNIPAM in aqueous solution is produced by anions.
Spectroscopic Study of Poly(dimethylsiloxane) ZnO Nanocomposites Exposed to Proton Irradiation
Authors: Bistričić Lahorija , Borjanović Vesna , Zamboni Ivana , Jakšić Milko , McGuire Gary E.
Published: May 2014

In this study poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) nanocomposites with 1wt % of zinc oxide (ZnO) and 1wt % of silanized ZnO nanoparticles were prepared through cross‐linking reaction. The prepared samples were irradiated under vacuum at room temperature with a 2 MeV proton beam with fluences in the 1013–1015 cm−2 range. The influence of nanoparticles on the cross‐linking processes and structural degradation of irradiated PDMS nanocomposites was investigated using Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR). The analysis of vibrational spectra has shown that prepared PDMS nanocomposites have higher resistance to proton irradiation in comparison to pristine PDMS. Under the highest proton irradiation fluence (1015 cm−2) PDMS with 1 % ZnO provided the best radiation protection.
Series of Poly(4‐vinylpyridine) Containing Quaternary Alkyl bromides: Synthesis and Determination Percentage of Quaternization
Authors: Medjahed Kouider , Tennouga Lahcene , Mansri Ali
Published: May 2014

In this study, we focus on the synthesis series of poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (P4VP) containing quaternary alkyl bromides. The poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (P4VP) was synthesized by conventional radical copolymerization and then the P4VP was quaternized by alkyl bromides containing chains consisting of 5 and 10 carbon atoms. Two copolymers series with three degrees of polymerization have been synthesized, the first poly[N‐isopentyl(4‐vinylpyridinium)] bromide P4VPIPBr (I); (II); (III) and the second poly[N‐decyl(4‐vinylpyridinium)] bromide P4VPBrD (I); (II); (III). The following techniques have been used to characterize the structure and composition of the cationic copolymers (P4VPIPBr) and (P4VPBrD), HNMR, conductimetry and viscometry.
Characteristic “Forcible” Geste Antagoniste in Oromandibular Dystonia Resulting From Pantothenate Kinase‐Associated Neurodegeneration
Authors: Petrović Igor N. , Kresojević Nikola , Ganos Christos , Svetel Marina , Dragašević Nataša , Bhatia Kailash P. , Kostić Vladimir S.
Published: May 2014

Geste antagonistes are usually considered typical of primary dystonia, although rarely they have been described in secondary/heredodegenerative dystonias. We have recently come across a particular geste antagoniste in 5 of 10 patients with pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) who had prominent oromandibular involvement with severe jaw‐opening dystonia. It consists of touching the chin with both hands characteristically clenched into a fist with flexion at the elbows. Because of the resemblance of this geste antagoniste with the praying‐like posture of Mantis religiosa, we coined the term “mantis sign.” Reviewing videos of PKAN cases in literature, including what is considered the first cinematic depiction of a case of this disorder, 3 additional cases with akin maneuvers were identified. In contrast, examining 205 videos of non‐PKAN dystonic patients from our database for the presence of a similar maneuver was unrevealing. Thus, we consider the mantis sign to be quite typical of PKAN and propose it to be added as a clinical hint toward diagnosis.
Reduced dopamine transporter binding predates impulse control disorders in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Vriend Chris , Nordbeck Anna H. , Booij Jan , van der Werf Ysbrand D. , Pattij Tommy , Voorn Pieter , Raijmakers Pieter , Foncke Elisabeth M.J. , van de Giessen Elsmarieke , Berendse Henk W. , van den Heuvel Odile A.
Published: May 2014

Impulse control disorders (ICD) are relatively common in Parkinson's disease (PD) and generally are regarded as adverse effects of dopamine replacement therapy, although certain demographic and clinical risk factors are also involved. Previous single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) studies showed reduced ventral striatal dopamine transporter binding in Parkinson patients with ICD compared with patients without. Nevertheless, these studies were performed in patients with preexisting impulse control impairments, which impedes clear‐cut interpretation of these findings. We retrospectively procured follow‐up data from 31 medication‐naïve PD patients who underwent dopamine transporter SPECT imaging at baseline and were subsequently treated with dopamine replacement therapy. We used questionnaires and a telephone interview to assess medication status and ICD symptom development during the follow‐up period (31.5 ± 12.0 months). Eleven patients developed ICD symptoms during the follow‐up period, eight of which were taking dopamine agonists. The PD patients with ICD symptoms at follow‐up had higher baseline depressive scores and lower baseline dopamine transporter availability in the right ventral striatum, anterior‐dorsal striatum, and posterior putamen compared with PD patients without ICD symptoms. No baseline between‐group differences in age and disease stage or duration were found. The ICD symptom severity correlated negatively with baseline dopamine transporter availability in the right ventral and anterior‐dorsal striatum. The results of this preliminary study show that reduced striatal dopamine transporter availability predates the development of ICD symptoms after dopamine replacement therapy and may constitute a neurobiological risk factor related to a lower premorbid dopamine transporter availability or a more pronounced dopamine denervation in PD patients susceptible to ICD. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
History of smoking and olfaction in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lucassen Elisabeth B. , Sterling Nicholas W. , Lee Eun‐Young , Chen Honglei , Lewis Mechelle M. , Kong Lan , Huang Xuemei
Published: May 2014

Objective

Olfactory dysfunction is the most common pre‐motor symptom in Parkinson's disease (PD), and smoking is known to be associated with lower risk of PD. This study tested the hypothesis that smoking is associated with better olfaction in PD.

Methods

Smoking history was obtained from 76 PD subjects (22 with a history of smoking [smokers], 54 who never smoked [nonsmokers]), and 70 controls (17 smokers, 53 nonsmokers). Olfaction was assessed using the 40‐item University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT). The olfactory scores between groups and subgroups were compared using analysis of covariance with adjustment for age, gender, and monoamine oxidase B (MAO‐B) inhibitor usage.

Results

Overall the olfactory score was lower in PD compared with controls (olfactory scores: 21.5 vs. 33.5, P < 0.0001). Among controls, there was no significant difference in olfaction between smokers and nonsmokers (olfactory scores, 33.2 vs. 34.2; P = 0.95). Among PD subjects, however, smokers scored significantly better regarding olfaction compared with nonsmokers (olfactory scores: 24.4 vs. 19.9, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

These data suggest that a history of smoking is associated with better olfaction among PD patients. The finding may be related to why smoking may be protective against PD. Further studies are needed to confirm this finding and investigate the underlying mechanisms. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A novel VCP mutation underlies scapuloperoneal muscular dystrophy and dropped head syndrome featuring lobulated fibers
Authors: Liewluck Teerin , Milone Margherita , Mauermann Michelle L. , Castro‐Couch Melissa , Cerhan Jane H. , Murthy Naveen S.
Published: May 2014

Introduction: Valosin‐containing protein (VCP) is a ubiquitously expressed, multifunctional AAA‐ATPase protein. Its dominant mutations cause hereditary inclusion body myopathy associated with Paget disease of bone and frontotemporal dementia (IBMPFD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The pattern of muscle weakness in IBMPFD patients is variable and includes limb‐girdle, scapuloperoneal, distal, or axial distributions. Case Report: We report a 63‐year‐old man with progressive scapuloperoneal weakness, head drop, and hyperCKemia since age 40 years. Electromyography showed myopathic changes and rare myotonic discharges. Muscle biopsy revealed numerous lobulated fibers, few fibers with glycogen accumulation, and rare fibers with polyglucosan bodies. Rimmed vacuoles and congophilic inclusions, often seen in IBMPFD, were absent. VCP sequencing identified a novel heterozygous c. 1160G>A mutation resulting in p.Asn387Ser substitution. Conclusions: Our patient broadens the pathological spectrum of VCP‐myopathy and emphasizes the importance of VCP analysis in patients with scapuloperoneal muscular dystrophy despite the absence of Paget disease, dementia, rimmed vacuoles, or intracellular amyloid deposition. Muscle Nerve 50:295–299, 2014
EXPLAINING HYBRIDITY IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: AN EMPIRICAL CASE OF BHUTAN'S CIVIL SERVICE
Authors: Ugyel Lhawang
Published: May 2014

Public administrations are mostly hybrid in nature with a combination of characteristics of different paradigms and models. In the first part of the paper, I use the notion of paradigms to explain a form of hybridity in public administration. The concept of paradigms in public administration is helpful in identifying a typology of the ideal types and their characteristics based on the main paradigms and models of public administration: the patronage system, the traditional public administration, the new public administration, and other emerging models such as public value management, responsive governance, and new public service. In the second part of the paper, through the trajectory of Bhutan's public administration history, we observe that its public administration exhibits characteristics that sit across the various paradigms and models of public administration. Thus, in doing so, the paper makes a significant contribution in applying the ideal type typology to explain how hybridity in public administration occurs in practice. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stage‐based approach to the management of fetal growth restriction
Authors: Figueras Francesc , Gratacos Eduard
Published: May 2014

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is among the obstetrical entities with the greatest variation in clinical practice. The first clinically relevant step in the management of FGR is the distinction of ‘true’ FGR, associated with signs of abnormal feto‐placental function and poorer perinatal outcome, from small for gestational age fetuses, which do not present abnormal Doppler and have near normal perinatal outcome. Such distinction should not be only relied on umbilical artery Doppler, as this parameter identifies only severe, early‐onset, forms of placental insufficiency. Instead, FGR should be diagnosed in the presence of any of the factors associated with a poorer perinatal outcome, including Doppler cerebroplacental ratio and uterine artery Doppler, a growth centile below the third centile. Upon diagnosis, differentiating into early‐onset and late‐onset FGR is useful to distinguish two clear phenotypes, with differences in severity, association with preeclampsia, and sequence of fetal deterioration. Finally, management of FGR aims at an optimal balance between minimizing fetal injury or death versus the risks of iatrogenic preterm delivery. We propose a protocol that integrates current evidence to classify stages of fetal deterioration, and establishes follow‐up intervals and optimal delivery timings, which may facilitate decision‐making and minimize variability in the clinical management. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermodynamic and structural investigation of the specific SDS binding of humicola insolens cutinase
Authors: Kold David , Dauter Zbigniew , Laustsen Anne K. , Brzozowski Andrzej M. , Turkenburg Johan P. , Nielsen Anders D. , Koldsø Heidi , Petersen Evamaria , Schiøtt Birgit , De Maria Leonardo , Wilson Keith S. , Svendsen Allan , Wimmer Reinhard
Published: May 2014

The interaction of lipolytic enzymes with anionic surfactants is of great interest with respect to industrially produced detergents. Here, we report the interaction of cutinase from the thermophilic fungus Humicola insolens with the anionic surfactant SDS, and show the enzyme specifically binds a single SDS molecule under nondenaturing concentrations. Protein interaction with SDS was investigated by NMR, ITC and molecular dynamics simulations. The NMR resonances of the protein were assigned, with large stretches of the protein molecule not showing any detectable resonances. SDS is shown to specifically interact with the loops surrounding the catalytic triad with medium affinity (Ka ≈ 105 M−1). The mode of binding is closely similar to that seen previously for binding of amphiphilic molecules and substrate analogues to cutinases, and hence SDS acts as a substrate mimic. In addition, the structure of the enzyme has been solved by X‐ray crystallography in its apo form and after cocrystallization with diethyl p‐nitrophenyl phosphate (DNPP) leading to a complex with monoethylphosphate (MEP) esterified to the catalytically active serine. The enzyme has the same fold as reported for other cutinases but, unexpectedly, esterification of the active site serine is accompanied by the ethylation of the active site histidine which flips out from its usual position in the triad.
Only a subset of the PAB1‐mRNP proteome is present in mRNA translation complexes
Authors: Zhang Chongxu , Wang Xin , Park Shiwha , Chiang Yueh‐chin , Xi Wen , Laue Thomas M. , Denis Clyde L.
Published: May 2014

We have previously identified 55 nonribosomal proteins in PAB1‐mRNP complexes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using mass spectrometric analysis. Because one of the inherent limitations of mass spectrometry is that it does not inform as to the size or type of complexes in which the proteins are present, we consequently used analytical ultracentrifugation with fluorescent detection system (AU‐FDS) to determine which proteins are present in the 77S monosomal translation complex that contains minimally the closed‐loop structure components (eIF4E, eIF4G, and PAB1), mRNA, and the 40S and 60S ribosomes. We assayed by AU‐FDS analysis 33 additional PAB1‐mRNP factors but found that only five of these proteins were present in the 77S translation complex: eRF1, SLF1, SSD1, PUB1, and SBP1. eRF1 is involved in translation termination, SBP1 is a translational repressor, and SLF1, SSD1, and PUB1 are known mRNA binding proteins. Many of the known P body/stress granule proteins that associate with the PAB1‐mRNP were not present in the 77S translation complex, implying that P body/stress granules result from significant protein additions after translational cessation. These data inform that AU‐FDS can clarify protein complex identification that remains undetermined after typical immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometric analyses.
Automated antibody structure prediction using Accelrys tools: Results and best practices
Authors: Fasnacht Marc , Butenhof Ken , Goupil‐Lamy Anne , Hernandez‐Guzman Francisco , Huang Hongwei , Yan Lisa
Published: May 2014

We describe the methodology and results from our participation in the second Antibody Modeling Assessment experiment. During the experiment we predicted the structure of eleven unpublished antibody Fv fragments. Our prediction methods centered on template‐based modeling; potential templates were selected from an antibody database based on their sequence similarity to the target in the framework regions. Depending on the quality of the templates, we constructed models of the antibody framework regions either using a single, chimeric or multiple template approach. The hypervariable loop regions in the initial models were rebuilt by grafting the corresponding regions from suitable templates onto the model. For the H3 loop region, we further refined models using ab initio methods. The final models were subjected to constrained energy minimization to resolve severe local structural problems. The analysis of the models submitted show that Accelrys tools allow for the construction of quite accurate models for the framework and the canonical CDR regions, with RMSDs to the X‐ray structure on average below 1 Å for most of these regions. The results show that accurate prediction of the H3 hypervariable loops remains a challenge. Furthermore, model quality assessment of the submitted models show that the models are of quite high quality, with local geometry assessment scores similar to that of the target X‐ray structures. Proteins 2014; 82:1583–1598. © 2014 The Authors. Proteins published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.