bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasticization of PEDOT:PSS by Common Additives for Mechanically Robust Organic Solar Cells and Wearable Sensors
Authors: Savagatrup Suchol , Chan Esther , Renteria‐Garcia Sandro M. , Printz Adam D. , Zaretski Aliaksandr V. , O'Connor Timothy F. , Rodriquez Daniel , Valle Eduardo , Lipomi Darren J.
Published: November 2014

Despite the ubiquity of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) in applications demanding mechanical flexibility, the effect on the mechanical properties of common additives—i.e., dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), Zonyl fluorosurfactant (Zonyl), and poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI)—has not been reported. This paper describes these effects and uses plasticized films in solar cells and mechanical sensors for the detection of human motion. The tensile moduli of films spin‐coated from solutions containing 0%, 5%, and 10% DMSO and 0.1%, 1%, and 10% Zonyl (nine samples total) are measured using the buckling technique, and the ductility is inferred from measurements of the strain at which cracks form on elastic substrates. Elasticity and ductility are maximized in films deposited from solutions containing 5% DMSO and 10% Zonyl, but the conductivity is greatest for samples containing 0.1% Zonyl. These experiments reveal enlargement of presumably PEDOT‐rich grains, visible by atomic force microscopy, when the amount of DMSO is increased from 0% to 5%. PEI—which is used to lower the work function of PEDOT:PSS—has a detrimental effect on the mechanical properties of the PEDOT:PSS/PEI bilayer films. Wearable electronic sensors employing PEDOT:PSS films containing 5% DMSO and 10% Zonyl are ­fabricated, which exhibit detectable responses at 20% strain and high mechanical robustness through elastic deformation.
Optical Properties of Gyroid Structured Materials: From Photonic Crystals to Metamaterials
Authors: Dolan James A. , Wilts Bodo D. , Vignolini Silvia , Baumberg Jeremy J. , Steiner Ullrich , Wilkinson Timothy D.
Published: November 2014

The gyroid is a continuous and triply periodic cubic morphology which possesses a constant mean curvature surface across a range of volumetric fill fractions. Found in a variety of natural and synthetic systems which form through self‐assembly, from butterfly wing scales to block copolymers, the gyroid also exhibits an inherent chirality not observed in any other similar morphologies. These unique geometrical properties impart to gyroid structured materials a host of interesting optical properties. Depending on the length scale on which the constituent materials are organised, these properties arise from starkly different physical mechanisms (such as a complete photonic bandgap for photonic crystals and a greatly depressed plasma frequency for optical metamaterials). This article reviews the theoretical predictions and experimental observations of the optical properties of two fundamental classes of gyroid structured materials: photonic crystals (wavelength scale) and metamaterials (sub‐wavelength scale).
Controlled Doping Methods for Radial p/n Junctions in Silicon
Authors: Elbersen Rick , Tiggelaar Roald M. , Milbrat Alexander , Mul Guido , Gardeniers Han , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: November 2014

P/n and n/p junctions with depths of 200 nm to several micrometers have been created in flat silicon substrates as well as on 3D microstructures by means of a variety of methods, including solid source dotation (SSD), low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD), atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition, and plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Radial junctions in Si micropillars are inspected by optical and scanning electron micro­scopies, using a CrO3‐based staining solution, which enables visualization of the junction depth. When applying identical‐doping parameters to flat substrates, ball grooving, followed by staining and optical microscopy, yields similar junction depth values as high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy imaging on stained cross‐sections and secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profilometry. For the investigated 3D microstructures, doping based on SSD and LPCVD give uniform and conformal junctions. Junctions made with SSD‐boron doping and CVD‐phosphorus doping could be accurately predicted with a model based on Fick's diffusion law. 3D‐microstructured silicon pillar arrays show an increased efficiency for sunlight capturing. The functionality of micropillar arrays with radial junctions is evidenced by improved short‐circuit current densities and photovoltaic efficiencies compared with flat surfaces, for both n‐ and p‐type wafers (average pillar arrays efficiencies of 9.4% and 11%, respectively, compared with 8.3% and 6.4% for the flat samples).
Segmental fat‐free and fat mass measurements by bioelectrical impedance analysis in 2,224 healthy spanish women aged 18–85 years
Authors: Pedrera‐Zamorano Juan D. , Roncero‐Martin Raul , Lavado‐Garcia Jesus M. , Calderon‐Garcia Julian F. , Rey‐Sanchez Purificacion , Vera Vicente , Martinez Mariana , Moran Jose M.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

This study provides updated data on body composition in adult Spanish women.

Methods

We considered data, including height and weight, from a survey conducted on a total of 4,013 adult women between 2009 and 2010. A subgroup of 2,224 women completed a bioelectrical body impedance analysis of body composition using a Tanita Body Composition Analyzer (Model no. BF‐418).

Results

Total fat mass (FM) gradually increased between 18 and 74 years of age and decreased thereafter. FM increased in both legs between 65 and 74 years of age (5.69 ± 1.4 Kg and 5.66 ± 1.4 Kg for right and left legs, respectively) and decreased thereafter. FM in the right arm increased until 44 years of age (1.22 ± 2.6 Kg), decreased to 1.19 ± 0.5 Kg between 45 and 54 years of age, and increased to 1.54 ± 0.63 from 65 to 74 years of age. FM in the left arm increased constantly until it reached a peak of 1.63 ± 0.6 Kg between 65 and 74 years of age and decreased thereafter. FM increased in the trunk throughout life (peaks at 13.27±3.8 Kg) until subjects reached between 65 and 74 years of age. Fat free mass increased until 44 years of age (42.42 ± 4.17 Kg) and decreased thereafter. The prevalence of overweight/obesity significantly increased with age in the entire sample.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that age‐related increases in weight were at least partially due to increased adiposity. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:468–474, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tool use for food acquisition in a wild mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei)
Authors: Kinani Jean‐Felix , Zimmerman Dawn
Published: November 2014

On May 14, 2013, a wild, human‐habituated, juvenile female mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda was observed utilizing a tool to acquire food. The young gorilla watched an adult male use his hand to collect ants from a hole in the ground, and then quickly withdrew his hand and move away from the hole, shaking his arm to presumably remove biting ants. The juvenile female engaged in similar behavior, withdrawing her hand covered in ants, and shaking her arm vigorously. She then selected a piece of wood approximately 20 cm long and 2 cm wide at one end, 1 cm wide at the other, and proceeded to insert the stick into the hole, withdraw the stick, and then lick ants off of the stick. In contrast to the sizeable body of literature on tool use in wild chimpanzees, this is the first report of tool use for food acquisition by a wild gorilla. Am. J. Primatol. 77:353–357, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nanoporous Carbon Tubes from Fullerene Crystals as the π‐Electron Carbon Source
Authors: Shrestha Lok Kumar , Shrestha Rekha Goswami , Yamauchi Yusuke , Hill Jonathan P. , Nishimura Toshiyuki , Miyazawa Kun'ichi , Kawai Takazumi , Okada Susumu , Wakabayashi Katsunori , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: November 2014

Here we report the thermal conversion of one‐dimensional (1D) fullerene (C60) single‐crystal nanorods and nanotubes to nanoporous carbon materials with retention of the initial 1D morphology. The 1D C60 crystals are heated directly at very high temperature (up to 2000 °C) in vacuum, yielding a new family of nanoporous carbons having π‐electron conjugation within the sp2‐carbon robust frameworks. These new nanoporous carbon materials show excellent electrochemical capacitance and superior sensing properties for aromatic compounds compared to commercial activated carbons.
Stereocomplexed Poly(Limonene Carbonate): A Unique Example of the Cocrystallization of Amorphous Enantiomeric Polymers
Authors: Auriemma Finizia , De Rosa Claudio , Di Caprio Maria Rosaria , Di Girolamo Rocco , Ellis W. Chadwick , Coates Geoffrey W.
Published: November 2014

We report the cocrystallization of the regio‐ and stereoregular chiral copolymer poly(limonene carbonate). To the best of our knowledge, this marks the first example of an amorphous, enantiomerically pure polymer that becomes crystalline upon stereocomplexation with its complementary enantiomer. By analyzing X‐ray powder diffraction data, we propose a packing model in which sheets of enantiopure chains interdigitate with layers of the opposite enantiomer, forming a “steric zipper”.
Assessment of droughts in the Iberian Peninsula using the WASP‐Index
Authors: Andrade C. , Belo‐Pereira M.
Published: November 2014

This paper analyses the temporal and spatial variability of droughts in Iberia (IP) and in five IP regions (1951−2007) using four observational precipitation‐gridded data sets. Droughts were analysed by means of the Weighted Anomaly of Standardized Precipitation (WASP) for 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month time scales. WASP‐Index and the Standardized Precipitation Index are highly correlated. The major drought spells at Iberian scale are identified by the four data sets. Moreover, the droughts frequency and severity increased from the late 1980s. Finally, in western Iberia, statistically significant drying trends are detected. In eastern Iberia, larger uncertainties are found on the trends signal.
Human pharmacokinetic profiling of the dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitor teneligliptin using physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Nakamaru Yoshinobu , Emoto Chie , Shimizu Makiko , Yamazaki Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

Teneligliptin is a type 2 diabetes drug that has an inhibitory effect on dipeptidyl peptidase‐4. The aim of this study was to establish a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to elucidate in detail the pharmacokinetics of teneligliptin. A PBPK model of teneligliptin was developed using the population‐based Simcyp simulator incorporating the results of in vitro and in vivo studies. Model validation was conducted by comparison of simulated teneligliptin plasma concentrations with those from clinical trials. Using the PBPK model, predicted drug–drug interactions with concomitant medication were examined. The robustness of the PBPK model was demonstrated by the accurate simulation of clinically measured plasma concentrations of teneligliptin after oral administration in different ethnic groups, in subjects belonging to different age groups and in patients with kidney or liver impairment; none of these factors were incorporated during model development. The fraction absorbed and intestinal availability of teneligliptin predicted by the model were 0.62 and 0.99, respectively. The predicted ratios of areas under the time–concentration curves (AUCs) in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment who were concomitantly administered ketoconazole, a potent inhibitor of P450 3A4, were, respectively, 2.1‐ and 2.2‐fold those in healthy adults who were given teneligliptin alone. A robust PBPK model reflecting the pharmacokinetic properties of teneligliptin was constructed. The final optimized PBPK model enabled us to elucidate in detail the factors affecting the pharmacokinetics of teneligliptin and to predict changes in exposure in drug–drug interactions or in specific populations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro metabolism of an estrogen‐related receptor γ modulator, GSK5182, by human liver microsomes and recombinant cytochrome P450s
Authors: Joo Jeongmin , Wu Zhexue , Lee Boram , Shon Jong Cheol , Lee Taeho , Lee In‐Kyu , Sim Taebo , Kim Kyung‐Hee , Kim Nam Doo , Kim Seong Heon , Liu Kwang‐Hyeon
Published: November 2014

GSK5182 (4‐[(Z)‐1‐[4‐(2‐dimethylaminoethyloxy)phenyl]‐hydroxy‐2‐phenylpent‐1‐enyl]phenol) is a specific inverse agonist for estrogen‐related receptor γ, a member of the orphan nuclear receptor family that has important functions in development and homeostasis. This study was performed to elucidate the metabolites of GSK5182 and to characterize the enzymes involved in its metabolism. Incubation of human liver microsomes with GSK5182 in the presence of NADPH resulted in the formation of three metabolites, M1, M2 and M3. M1 and M3 were identified as N‐desmethyl‐GSK5182 and GSK5182 N‐oxide, respectively, on the basis of liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometric (LC‐MS/MS) analysis. M2 was suggested to be hydroxy‐GSK5182 through interpretation of its MS/MS fragmentation pattern. In addition, the specific cytochrome P450 (P450) and flavin‐containing monooxygenase (FMO) isoforms responsible for GSK5182 oxidation to the three metabolites were identified using a combination of correlation analysis, chemical inhibition in human liver microsomes and metabolism by expressed recombinant P450 and FMO isoforms. GSK5182 N‐demethylation and hydroxylation is mainly mediated by CYP3A4, whereas FMO1 and FMO3 contribute to the formation of GSK5182 N‐oxide from GSK5182. The present data will be useful for understanding the pharmacokinetics and drug interactions of GSK5182 in vivo. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concerted modulation of paxillin dynamics at focal adhesions by deleted in liver cancer‐1 and focal adhesion kinase during early cell spreading
Authors: Kaushik Shelly , Ravi Archna , Hameed Feroz M. , Low Boon Chuan
Published: November 2014

Deleted in Liver Cancer‐1 (DLC1) is a RhoGTPase‐activating protein (GAP) and a tumor suppressor often downregulated in cancers. It is localized to the focal adhesions (FAs) and its absence leads to enhanced cell migration, invasion, and metastasis. Although DLC1 interacts with focal adhesion kinase (FAK), talin, and tensin, its role in focal adhesions dynamics remains unclear. We examined the effect of DLC1 in Human Foreskin Fibroblasts and determined its localization, dynamics and impact on paxillin by Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching at both nascent and mature focal adhesions. During early cell spreading, DLC1 is preferentially localized at the inner/mature adhesions whereas phosphorylated paxillin occupies the outer/nascent FAs. In addition, DLC1 downregulates paxillin turnover in a process, that does not require its GAP activity. Instead, it requires the presence of FAK. Acting in concert, both DLC1 and FAK could provide a unique spatio‐temporal mechanism to regulate paxillin function in tissue homeostasis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The prevalence of trimetazidine use in athletes in Poland: excretion study after oral drug administration
Authors: Jarek Anna , Wójtowicz Marzena , Kwiatkowska Dorota , Kita Monika , Turek‐Lepa Ewa , Chajewska Katarzyna , Lewandowska‐Pachecka Sylwia , Pokrywka Andrzej
Published: November 2014

Stimulants, together with anabolic androgenic steroids, are regarded as one of the most popular doping substances in sport. Owing to a great variety of these substances and new designer drugs being introduced to the market, each year the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) updates the list of substances and methods prohibited in sport. On 1 January 2014, a new doping agent ‐ trimetazidine (TMZ) ‐ was added to the WADA Prohibited List. TMZ, a substance prohibited in competition, is classified in the S6b Specified Stimulant Group. TMZ is used as a well‐known cardiologic drug with confirmed biochemical and clinical activity. According to knowledge of the pharmacology and mechanism of TMZ action, TMZ can be used by athletes to improve physical efficiency, especially in the case of endurance sports. This study presents the phenomena of TMZ use by Polish athletes involved in anti‐doping control in the WADA‐accredited laboratory in Warsaw (Poland) between 2008 and 2013. Samples were taken from the athletes of such disciplines as cycling, athletics, and triathlon. Moreover, the elimination study of TMZ has been conducted to establish the change of TMZ concentration in urine sample after oral administration of a single or double (during the long‐term therapy) dose. TMZ was monitored in urine samples by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐nitrogen phosphorus detection (GC‐MS‐NPD). Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vitamin D status in anorexia nervosa: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Veronese Nicola , Solmi Marco , Rizza Wanda , Manzato Enzo , Sergi Giuseppe , Santonastaso Paolo , Caregaro Lorenza , Favaro Angela , Correll Christoph U.
Published: November 2014

Objective

In anorexia nervosa (AN), osteoporosis and osteopenia are common, which have been associated with low circulating levels of vitamin D (VitD) in other settings. We aimed to meta‐analyze cross‐sectional studies reporting on VitD parameters in patients with AN and healthy controls (HCs).

Method

Electronic PubMed search from database inception until December 31, 2013 and meta‐analysis of cross‐sectional studies comparing serum levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OH‐D), 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25OH‐D) and dietary VitD between patients with AN and HCs, before or after VitD supplementation. We calculated random effects standardized mean differences (SMDs) ±95% confidence intervals (CIs) as effect size measures.

Results

Out of 1,739 initial hits, 15 studies with a total of 927 participants (AN = 408 and HCs = 519) were meta‐analyzed. In the unsupplemented state, both serum 25OH‐D (studies = 4; n = 168; SMD = −0.43; 95%CI: −0.83 to −0.03; p = .03) and 1,25OH‐D levels (studies = 4; n = 113; SMD = −1.06; 95%CI: −1.47 to −0.66; p < .00001) were significantly lower in AN than HCs. In AN patients treated with cholecalciferol supplementation, serum 25OH‐D levels were significantly higher than in HCs (studies = 5; n = 449; SMD = 0.66; 95%CI: 0.01–1.31; p = .05). Paradoxically, despite lower 25OH‐D and 1,25OH‐D levels, AN patients reported similar intake of VitD compared to HCs (studies = 6; n = 314; SMD = 0.33; 95%CI: −0.16, 0.81; p = .19).

Discussion

Although AN patients reported similar dietary VitD intake compared to HCs, AN patients had significantly lower 25OH‐D and 1,25OH‐D levels without supplementation. Conversely, supplementation with cholecalciferol fully normalized VitD serum levels. Future studies are needed to clarify the role of VitD supplementation in AN for improving bone health. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2015; 48:803–813)
Paradoxical increase of plasma vitamin B12 and folates with disease severity in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Corbetta Fabiola , Tremolizzo Lucio , Conti Elisa , Ferrarese Carlo , Neri Francesca , Bomba Monica , Nacinovich Renata
Published: November 2014

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex disorder involving severe psychological manifestations and multiple organ damage, including liver dysfunction. The primary aim of this study consisted in assessing plasma levels of vitamin B12 and folates with respect to liver function enzymes considering the liver‐storage properties of this vitamin.

Method

We recruited 70 restrictive type AN adolescents and the severity of psychopathological traits was assessed using EDI‐3 scale. Plasma levels of vitamin B12, folates, transaminases (AST, ALT), gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and cholinesterase (CHE) were determined.

Results

About 38.5% of patients displayed vitamin B12 values (H‐B12) above the upper range of normal reference; 4.3% of patients had increased values of folates; 20 and 11.4% of patients displayed ALT and AST values above reference limits; none had GGT values above normal range. Albeit low CHE and ALP values were found in 55 and 20% of patients, respectively, a linear correlation with both transaminases was present only for vitamin B12 and folates; furthermore, H‐B12 patients had both higher AST and ALT values. EDI‐ 3 subscores significantly correlated with vitamin B12 and folates plasma values and H‐B12 patients displayed EDI‐3 higher values.

Discussion

These data suggest that plasma levels of vitamin B12 might be an early marker of liver dysfunction, possibly also related to more severe psychopathological aspects. The identification of patients with higher fasting plasma vitamin B12 levels could therefore lead to earlier and more careful refeeding interventions. Further studies will clarify the potential role of this vitamin in AN clinical practice. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2015; 48:317–322)
Differential expression of the immunosuppressive enzyme IL4I1 in human induced Aiolos+, but not natural Helios+, FOXP3+ Treg cells
Authors: Scarlata Clara‐Maria , Celse Clotilde , Pignon Pascale , Ayyoub Maha , Valmori Danila
Published: November 2014

IL4I1 encodes an L‐phenylalanine oxidase that inhibits T‐cell proliferation. It has been recently reported that IL4I1 is expressed in TH17 cells as part of a mechanism that limits their pathogenicity. We have previously identified a population of human FOXP3+ Treg cells that secrete IL‐17 ex vivo; here, we addressed the expression of IL4I1 in that Treg‐cell population. We found that in ex vivo isolated circulating Treg cells, IL4I1 expression is induced by activation. Moreover, IL4I1 expression is restricted to cells that do not express Helios, a transcription factor that characterizes natural Treg cells, but that express Aiolos, which is involved in the differentiation of TH17 and induced Treg cells. We also showed that conversion of Treg cells under inflammatory conditions increases IL4I1 expression, likely as part of a regulatory loop that attempts to limit the pathogenicity resulting from their conversion into TH17. The specific expression of IL4I1 in TH17 and iTreg cells may provide insights into approaches that aim at modulating these populations in different pathological conditions involving inflammation‐mediated immunosuppression.
Dysregulation of adaptive immune responses in complement C3‐deficient patients
Authors: Pekkarinen Pirkka T. , Heikkilä Nelli , Kisand Kai , Peterson Pärt , Botto Marina , Daha Mohamed R. , Drouet Christian , Isaac Lourdes , Helminen Merja , Haahtela Tari , Meri Seppo , Jarva Hanna , Arstila T. Petteri
Published: November 2014

In addition to its effector functions, complement is an important regulator of adaptive immune responses. Murine studies suggest that complement modulates helper T‐cell differentiation, and Th1 responses in particular are impaired in the absence of functional complement. Here, we have studied humoral responses to toxoid vaccines in eight patients with C3 deficiency, representing more than 25% of all the known patients worldwide. Serum cytokine levels were also studied. The patients developed normal Ig responses to tetanus and diphtheria toxoids, but IgE levels were low. The pattern of antigen‐specific IgG subclasses was abnormal, with increased Th1‐related IgG3 responses, low IgG2, and almost completely undetectable IgG4. The patients also had increased amounts of Th1‐related cytokines IL‐12p70 and IL‐21, and these showed a positive correlation with IgG3 levels. Our results confirm that complement modulates Th differentiation, but reveal a more nuanced outcome than previously reported. Since IgG4 has been linked to tolerogenic responses, the data also suggest that in the absence of functional complement at least some aspects of systemic tolerance are impaired.
Genotoxicity of synthetic amorphous silica nanoparticles in rats following short‐term exposure, part 2: Intratracheal instillation and intravenous injection
Authors: Guichard Yves , Maire Marie‐Aline , Sébillaud Sylvie , Fontana Caroline , Langlais Cristina , Micillino Jean‐Claude , Darne Christian , Roszak Joanna , Stępnik Maciej , Fessard Valérie , Binet Stéphane , Gaté Laurent
Published: November 2014

Synthetic amorphous silica nanomaterials (SAS) are extensively used in food and tire industries. In many industrial processes, SAS may become aerosolized and lead to occupational exposure of workers through inhalation in particular. However, little is known about the in vivo genotoxicity of these particulate materials. To gain insight into the toxicological properties of four SAS (NM‐200, NM‐201, NM‐202, and NM‐203), rats are treated with three consecutive intratracheal instillations of 3, 6, or 12 mg/kg of SAS at 48, 24, and 3 hrs prior to tissue collection (cumulative doses of 9, 18, and 36 mg/kg). Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage was assessed using erythrocyte micronucleus test and the standard and Fpg‐modified comet assays on cells from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), lung, blood, spleen, liver, bone marrow, and kidney. Although all of the SAS caused increased dose‐dependent changes in lung inflammation as demonstrated by BALF neutrophilia, they did not induce any significant DNA damage. As the amount of SAS reaching the blood stream and subsequently the internal organs is probably to be low following intratracheal instillation, an additional experiment was performed with NM‐203. Rats received three consecutive intravenous injections of 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg of SAS at 48, 24, and 3 hrs prior to tissue collection. Despite the hepatotoxicity, thrombocytopenia, and even animal death induced by this nanomaterial, no significant increase in DNA damage or micronucleus frequency was observed in SAS‐exposed animals. It was concluded that under experimental conditions, SAS induced obvious toxic effects but did cause any genotoxicity following intratracheal instillation and intravenous injection. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 56:228–244, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gully cut‐and‐fill cycles as related to agro‐management: a historical curve number simulation in the Tigray Highlands
Authors: Lanckriet Sil , Frankl Amaury , Mesfin Gebrekidan , Descheemaeker Katrien , Nyssen Jan
Published: November 2014

Gully cut‐and‐fill dynamics are often thought to be driven by climate and/or deforestation related to population pressure. However, in this case‐study of nine representative catchments in the Northern Ethiopian Highlands, we find that neither climate changes nor deforestation can explain gully morphology changes over the twentieth century. Firstly, by using a Monte Carlo simulation to estimate historical catchment‐wide curve numbers, we show that the landscape was already heavily degraded in the nineteenth and early twentieth century – a period with low population density. The mean catchment‐wide curve number (> 80) one century ago was, under the regional climatic conditions, already resulting in considerable simulated historical runoff responses. Secondly, twentieth century land‐cover and runoff coefficient changes were confronted with twentieth century changing gully morphologies. As the results show, large‐scale land‐cover changes and deforestation cannot explain the observed processes. The study therefore invokes interactions between authigenic factors, small‐scale plot boundary changes, cropland management and sociopolitical forces to explain the gully cut processes. Finally, semi‐structured interviews and sedistratigraphic analysis of three filled gullies confirm the dominant impact of (crop)land management (tillage, check dams in gullies and channel diversions) on gully cut‐and‐fill processes. Since agricultural land management – including land tenure and land distribution – has been commonly neglected in earlier related research, we argue therefore that it can be a very strong driver of twentieth century gully morphodynamics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Macrophages in spinal cord injury: Phenotypic and functional change from exposure to myelin debris
Authors: Wang Xi , Cao Kai , Sun Xin , Chen Yongxiong , Duan Zhaoxia , Sun Li , Guo Lei , Bai Paul , Sun Dongming , Fan Jianqing , He Xijing , Young Wise , Ren Yi
Published: November 2014

Macrophage activation and persistent inflammation contribute to the pathological process of spinal cord injury (SCI). It was reported that M2 macrophages were induced at 3–7 days after SCI but M2 markers were reduced or eliminated after 1 week. By contrast, M1 macrophage response is rapidly induced and then maintained at injured spinal cord. However, factors that modulate macrophage phenotype and function are poorly understood. We developed a model to distinguish bone‐marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs) from residential microglia and explored how BMDMs change their phenotype and functions in response to the lesion‐related factors in injured spinal cord. Infiltrating BMDMs expressing higher Mac‐2 and lower CX3CR1 migrate to the epicenter of injury, while microglia expressing lower Mac‐2 but higher CX3CR1 distribute to the edges of lesion. Myelin debris at the lesion site switches BMDMs from M2 phenotype towards M1‐like phenotype. Myelin debris activates ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) for cholesterol efflux in response to myelin debris loading in vitro. However, this homeostatic mechanism in injured site is overwhelmed, leading to the development of foamy macrophages and lipid plaque in the lesion site. The persistence of these cells indicates a pro‐inflammatory environment, associated with enhanced neurotoxicity and impaired wound healing. These foamy macrophages have poor capacity to phagocytose apoptotic neutrophils resulting in uningested neutrophils releasing their toxic contents and further tissue damage. In conclusion, these data demonstrate for the first time that myelin debris generated in injured spinal cord modulates macrophage activation. Lipid accumulation following macrophage phenotype switch contributes to SCI pathology. GLIA 2015;63:635–651
Are attentional resources a mediator for sex differences in memory?
Authors: Seçer Ilmiye , Yılmazoğulları Yüksel
Published: November 2014

The divided attention paradigm was used to investigate sex differences in encoding and retrieval processes of memory. Participants performed a memory and reaction time (RT) task under full attention and two divided attention conditions, that is, at encoding and retrieval. Results revealed that females recalled significantly more words than males under the full attention and divided attention at encoding conditions. Results further showed that secondary task costs were larger for males than females during divided attention at retrieval. Furthermore, regardless of sex, recall was best under full attention and worst under divided attention at encoding conditions. In relation to the RT task, RTs were shorter under full attention and longer under the divided attention at retrieval condition. Overall, these results show that females recall more words than males possibly due to a more severe effect of reduced attention during encoding than retrieval for males. The current findings thus suggest that a reduction in attentional resources may mediate sex‐related decreases in word recall.
Assessing the Design of A Model‐Based Irrigation Advisory Bulletin: The Importance of End‐User Participation
Authors: Tapsuwan Sorada , Hunink Johannes , Alcon Francisco , Mertens‐Palomares Aafke N. , Baille Alain
Published: November 2014

Successful uptake of modern irrigation techniques and farmer decision support tools are necessary to promote the sustainable use of water resources. However, many of these tools fail to receive sufficient uptake from farmers to have a significant impact on water saving. End‐user participation during tool development can increase the adoption rate as the tool becomes more usable. In the Segura River Basin of Spain, an irrigation advisory bulletin was designed to support farmers in their irrigation planning and scheduling. The bulletin was distributed to innovative farmers who are early adopters of modern irrigation technology. A formative evaluation procedure was applied to assess the acceptability of the bulletin against a number of non‐adoption criteria, including irrelevance, inflexibility, inaccessibility, lack of confidence and institutional and political barriers. Feedback from the pre‐ and post‐trial run surveys revealed that there were discrepancies between perceived and actual information needs by farmers, which include seasonal influences, water quality, salinity levels and crop life cycle. We demonstrate and argue the importance of assessing end‐user needs again after the implementation of the decision support system in order to limit the risk of non‐adoption. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bone healing around nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite, deproteinized bovine bone mineral, biphasic calcium phosphate, and autogenous bone in mandibular bone defects
Authors: Broggini Nina , Bosshardt Dieter D. , Jensen Simon S. , Bornstein Michael M. , Wang Chun‐Cheng , Buser Daniel
Published: November 2014

The individual healing profile of a given bone substitute with respect to osteogenic potential and substitution rate must be considered when selecting adjunctive grafting materials for bone regeneration procedures. In this study, standardized mandibular defects in minipigs were filled with nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA‐SiO), deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM), biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) with a 60/40% HA/β‐TCP (BCP 60/40) ratio, or particulate autogenous bone (A) for histological and histomorphometric analysis. At 2 weeks, percent filler amongst the test groups (DBBM (35.65%), HA‐SiO (34.47%), followed by BCP 60/40 (23.64%)) was significantly higher than the more rapidly substituted autogenous bone (17.1%). Autogenous bone yielded significantly more new bone (21.81%) over all test groups (4.91%–7.74%) and significantly more osteoid (5.53%) than BCP 60/40 (3%) and DBBM (2.25%). At 8 weeks, percent filler amongst the test groups (DBBM (31.6%), HA‐SiO (31.23%), followed by BCP 60/40 (23.65%)) demonstrated a similar pattern and was again significantly higher as compared to autogenous bone (9.29%). Autogenous bone again exhibited statistically significantly greater new bone (55.13%) over HA‐SiO (40.62%), BCP 60/40 (40.21%), and DBBM (36.35%). These results suggest that the osteogenic potential of HA‐SiO and BCP is inferior when compared to autogenous bone. However, in instances where a low substitution rate is desired to maintain the volume stability of augmented sites, particularly in the esthetic zone, HA‐SiO and DBBM may be favored. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1478–1487, 2015.
Transcatheter fiber heart valve: Effect of crimping on material performances
Authors: Khoffi Foued , Heim Frederic , Chakfe Nabil , Lee Jason T.
Published: November 2014

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a popular alternative technique to surgical valve replacement. However, the biological valve tissue used in these devices appears to be fragile material in the long term particularly due being folded for low diameter catheter insertion purposes and when released in a calcified environment with irregular geometry. Textile polyester material is characterized by outstanding folding and strength properties combined with proven biocompatibility. It could therefore be considered as a replacement for biological valve leaflets in the TAVI procedure. The folding process associated with crimping, however, may degrade the filaments involved in the fibrous assembly and limit the durability of the device. The purpose of the present work is to study the effect of different crimping conditions on the mechanical performances of textile valve prototypes made from various fabric constructions. Results show that crimping generates some creases in the fabrics, which surface topography varies with fabric construction and crimping configuration. The mechanical properties of the crimped materials are globally slightly reduced. To determine how critical the modifications due to crimping are for prosthesis durability, more detailed long term in vitro and in vivo trials with crimped textile prototypes are needed in addition to this preliminary work. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1488–1497, 2015.
Injectable radiopaque and bioactive polycaprolactone‐ceramic composites for orthopedic augmentation
Authors: No Young Jung , Roohani‐Esfahani Seyed‐Iman , Lu Zufu , Schaer Thomas , Zreiqat Hala
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to develop and characterize an injectable bone void filler by incorporating baghdadite (Ca3ZrSi2O9) particles (average size of 1.7 µm) into polycaprolactone (PCL). A series of PCL composites containing different volume percentages of baghdadite [1 (PCL‐1%Bag), 5 (PCL‐5%Bag), 10 (PCL‐10%Bag), 20 (PCL‐20%Bag), and 30 (PCL‐30%Bag)] were prepared, and their injectability, setting time, mechanical properties, radiopacity, degradation, and cytocompatibility were investigated. PCL, PCL‐1%Bag, PCL‐5%Bag, and PCL‐10%Bag were able to be injected through a stainless steel syringe (Length: 9.0 mm, nozzle diameter: 2.2 mm) at 75°C at injection forces of below 1.5 kN. The core temperature of the injected material at the nozzle exit ranged between 55 and 60°C and was shown to set after 2.5–3.5 min postinjection in a 37°C environment. Injection force, melt viscosity, and radiopacity of the composites increased with increasing baghdadite content. Incorporation of 10–30 vol % baghdadite into PCL increased the compressive strength of the composites from 36 to 47.1 MPa, compared with that for pure PCL (31.4 MPa). Similar trend was found for the compressive modulus of the composites, which increased from 203.8 to 741 MPa, compared with that for pure PCL (205 MPa). Flexural strain of PCL, PCL‐5%Bag, and PCL‐10%Bag exceeded 30%, and PCL‐10%Bag showed the highest flexural strength (29.8 MPa). Primary human osteoblasts cultured on PCL‐10%Bag showed a significant upregulation of osteogenic genes compared with pure PCL. In summary, our results demonstrated that PCL‐10%Bag could be a promising injectable material for orthopedic and trauma application. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1465–1477, 2015.
Iota‐carrageenan/chitosan/gelatin scaffold for the osteogenic differentiation of adipose‐derived MSCsin vitro
Authors: Li Junjie , Yang Boguang , Qian Yufeng , Wang Qiyu , Han Ruijin , Hao Tong , Shu Yao , Zhang Yabin , Yao Fanglian , Wang Changyong
Published: November 2014

In this study, we have developed ι‐carrageenan/chitosan/gelatin (CCG) scaffold containing multiple functional groups (‐NH2, ‐OH, ‐COOH, and –SO3H) to resemble the native extracellular matrix (ECM), using the ion‐shielding technology and ultrasonic dispersion method. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of the CCG scaffolds suggests that the formation of CCG network involves electrostatic interactions between ι‐carrageenan (ι‐CA) and chitosan/gelatin, and the covalent cross‐linking among amino groups of chitosan and/or gelatin. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observation reveals that the porous structure of scaffolds can be modulated by the ratio of ι‐CA to chitosan/gelatin. The swelling ratio of the hydrogels increases as the ι‐CA contents increase. Using differential scanning calorimetry, we found that the double helix structure of ι‐CA is only stabilized at low contents of ι‐CA in the CCG scaffolds (e.g., 5 wt %). The scaffolds containing 5% ι‐CA showed the best protein adsorption capacity (4.46 ± 0.63 μg protein/mg scaffold) and elastic modulus (5.37 ± 1.03 MPa). In addition, the CCG scaffolds exhibit excellent support for adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) attachment and proliferation, and they can improve the osteogenic differentiation and neovascularization capacities of ADMSCs. Overall, we conclude that the CCG may represent an ideal scaffold material for bone tissue engineering. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1498–1510, 2015.
Biological properties of a thermally crosslinked gelatin film as a novel anti‐adhesive material: Relationship between the biological properties and the extent of thermal crosslinking
Authors: Tsujimoto Hiroyuki , Tanzawa Ayumi , Miyamoto Hiroe , Horii Tsunehito , Tsuji Misaki , Kawasumi Akari , Tamura Atsushi , Wang Zhen , Abe Rie , Tanaka Shota , Yamanaka Kouki , Matoba Mari , Torii Hiroko , Ozamoto Yuki , Takamori Hideki , Suzuki Shuko , Morita Shinichiro , Ikada Yoshito , Hagiwara Akeo
Published: November 2014

In order to prevent postoperative adhesion and the related complications, a thermally crosslinked gelatin (TCG) film was developed and the basic biological properties were examined, paying special attention to the relationship between these properties and the extent of crosslinking of the film. The gelatin films crosslinked thermally for five different time periods (0, 1, 3, 8, and 14 hours) were developed and the following tests were performed. Regarding the material characterization of the films, the water content, the water solubility, and the enzymatic degradation for collagenase were found to be closely related to the duration of thermal crosslinking. In an in vitro study conducted to examine the cell growth of fibroblasts cultured on the films, the degree of cell growth, except no crosslinked film, was less than that observed in the control group, thus suggesting that such effects of the films on fibroblast cell growth may be related with their anti‐adhesive effects. In in vivo tests, the films crosslinked for longer time periods (3, 8, and 14 hours) were retained for longer after being implanted into the abdominal cavity in rats and showed a significant anti‐adhesive effect in the rat cecum adhesion models, indicating that the biodegradability and anti‐adhesive effects of the TCG films depend on the duration of thermal crosslinking. In order to develop useful and effective anti‐adhesive gelatin film, it is very important to optimize duration of the thermal crosslinking. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1511–1518, 2015.
Rapid discrimination of slimming capsules based on illegal additives by electronic nose and flash gas chromatography
Authors: Xia Zhenzhen , Cai Wensheng , Shao Xueguang
Published: November 2014

The discrimination of counterfeit and/or illegally manufactured medicines is an important task in the pharmaceutical industry for pharmaceutical safety. In this study, 22 slimming capsule samples with illegally added sibutramine and phenolphthalein were analyzed by electronic nose and flash gas chromatography. To reveal the difference among the different classes of samples, principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis were employed to analyze the data acquired from electronic nose and flash gas chromatography, respectively. The samples without illegal additives can be discriminated from the ones with illegal additives by using electronic nose or flash gas chromatography data individually. To improve the performance of classification, a data fusion strategy was applied to integrate the data from electronic nose and flash gas chromatography data into a single model. The results show that the samples with phenolphthalein, sibutramine and both can be classified well by using fused data.
Quantification of 3‐n‐butylphthalide in beagle plasma samples by supercritical fluid chromatography with triple quadruple mass spectrometry and its application to an oral bioavailability study
Authors: Li Yun , Zhao Longshan , Li Xiaoting , Guo Bei , Zhao Juanhang , Wang Xianglin , Zhang Tianhong
Published: November 2014

A high‐throughput, rapid, sensitive, environmentally friendly, and economical supercritical fluid chromatography with triple quadruple mass spectrometry method was established and validated for the first time to determine a cerebral stroke treatment drug named 3‐n‐butylphthalide in dog plasma. Plasma samples were prepared by protein precipitation with methanol and the analytes were eluted on an ACQUITY UPC2TM HSS‐C18 SB column (3 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) maintained at 50°C. The mobile phase comprised supercritical carbon dioxide/methanol (90:10, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min, the compensation solvent was methanol at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min and the total run time was 1.5 min per sample. The detection was carried out on a tandem mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization source. Calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 1.02–1021.00 ng/mL (r2 ≥ 0.993) with the lower limit of quantification of 1.02 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision values were below 15% and the accuracy was from 97.90 to 103.70% at all quality control levels. The method was suitable for a pharmacokinetic study of 3‐n‐butylphthalide in beagle dogs.
Sunflower oil and its applications
Authors: Gupta Monoj K.
Published: November 2014

Sunflower is one of the oldest oilseeds in the Americas. It is the state flower of Kansas State and constitutes a significant segment of oilseeds produced in the former Soviet Union Block. Sunflower is admired worldwide for its vibrant beauty and is an important source of food. Its oil is viewed as a healthy vegetable oil and its seeds contain a wide range of nutrients that are enjoyed as a tasty snack as well as nutritious ingredient in many foods, such as health bars, salad garnish and spreads similar to peanut butter. Sunflower is an important crop choice for US growers from the northern plains of Dakotas to Texas panhandle. The oil has very good taste and appearance. Today, there is the traditional sunflower oil, which is high in linoleic acid content that makes it excellent for both domestic and industrial use. The high linoleic acid content makes the oil unstable in industrial or institutional frying. Mid‐oleic sunflower, which contains higher oleic acid and lower level of linoleic acid than the garden variety sunflower oil is more suitable for industrial and institutional frying along with the applications such as salad oil and cooking oil. High oleic sunflower oil, that contains 80% or higher oleic acid and very low linoleic acid, is one of the most stable oils for all applications, including industrial and institutional frying, and also for industrial non‐food applications such as lubricant, as transformer oil and various other applications.
Comprehensive phenotyping of regulatory T cells after liver transplantation
Authors: Gronert Álvarez Anna , Fytili Paraskevi , Suneetha Pothakamuri V. , Kraft Anke R. M. , Brauner Christin , Schlue Jerome , Krech Till , Lehner Frank , Meyer‐Heithuis Christoph , Jaeckel Elmar , Klempnauer Juergen , Manns Michael P. , Cornberg Markus , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: November 2014

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an important role in controlling alloreactivity after solid organ transplantation, but they may also impair antiviral immunity. We hypothesized that the Treg frequency and the Treg phenotype are altered in hepatitis C virus (HCV)–infected recipients of liver transplantation (LT) with possible prognostic implications. Tregs from 141 individuals, including healthy individuals, LT recipients with or without persistent HCV infections, and nontransplant patients with chronic HCV, were studied. A comprehensive phenotypic analysis was performed with multicolor flow cytometry, which included standard Treg markers [CD4+, CD25hi, CD127–, and FoxP3+ in addition to HLA DR, CCR7, CD45RA, CD62L, CD49d, CD39, ICOS and LAP‐TGFβ stainings. Healthy individuals and LT patients displayed similar Treg frequencies and largely comparable Treg phenotypes, which were stable over time after transplantation. In contrast, Tregs with a CD45RA–CCR7– effector phenotype were enriched in LT recipients with chronic HCV versus HCV‐negative transplant patients. HCV infection, rather than LT, altered the expression of functional markers on Tregs. A principal component analysis revealed distinct Treg phenotypes in HCV‐infected LT recipients with rejection and patients with recurrent graft HCV. In conclusion, Treg phenotypes are altered in HCV‐infected LT patients. An investigation of Tregs may possibly help to distinguish recurrent HCV from graft rejection. Further functional studies are needed to define the role of Tregs in determining the balance between antiviral and allogenic immunity. Liver Transpl 21:381–395, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.