bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity of labellar micromorphological structures in selected species of Malaxidinae (Orchidales)
Authors: Kowalkowska Agnieszka , Margońska Hanna B.
Published: April 2013

There are no papers examining the labellar micromorphology in Malaxidinae in detail. The aim of this paper is to present the results of labellar micromorphology of our studies on Malaxidinae. The micromorphology of nine species was examined and described (calli, nectaries, OP structures, concavities). These species are divided into six groups of which the lip morphology probably represents different forms of attracting and rewarding pollinators. Group one consists of Disticholiparis gregaria and Platystyliparis aurita with characteristic globular nectary and pad-like callus. The second group with Liparis nervosa has two conelike convexities. The third one is represented by Liparis sutupensis with spread lip, the basal callus, and the epichile often eroding with age. The fourth group (Stichorkis cespitosum) has a massive hypochil with basal callus and delicate epichil. The fifth group (Microstylis ophioglossoides, Dienia ophrydis) is characterized by a lip with developed lateral lobes, three deep concavities in the middle part, an erect callus, and many raphide cells.Crepidium cf. rheedii and Crepidium dryadum from the sixth group have a three-lobed lip with entire or toothed mid-lobe, basal callus, cavity surrounded by a rim and OP structures with raphide cells. We also emphasized the different way and place of nectar secretion in the subtribe and gave some suggestions about pollination strategies.
Mechanical strength of stems in aquatic macrophytes
Authors: Bociąg Katarzyna , Gałka Agnieszka , Łazarkiewicz Tymon , Szmeja Józef
Published: April 2013

In populations of submerged macrophytes, individuals are selected in terms of resistance to the effect of hydrodynamic forces. The aim of this study was to check whether individuals growing in river water are more tensile and bending resistant than plants occurring in places not exposed to flow stress. We determined the ultimate tensile strength of stems in four macrophyte species, Potamogeton natans, P. pectinatus, Batrachium fluitans and Chara fragilis, which occur in two environmental variants: in running (current velocity of 0.1-0.6 m/s-1) and stagnant water. In addition, flexure of P. natans stems from both environmental variants was examined. What is more, the type and arrangement of strengthening structures in stems of the plants under study were determined. Potamogeton natans stems are the most resistant to stretching (15.6±4.7 N), while stems of P. pectinatus (3.3±1.0 N) and Batrachium fluitans (2.6±0.8 N) are less resistant. Chara fragilis (0.6±0.3 N) has the least resistant stems. Batrachium, Chara and P. pectinatus are more resistant to stretching if they occur in a river current, whereas P. natans, in stagnant lake water. Ultimate bending moment of P. natans stems from lakes is also much greater than of stems from a river (9.75•10-3 – 4.25•10-3 Nm as compared to 2.12•10-3 – 1.00•10-3 Nm). The resistance of stems to breaking is directly proportional to the stem and thallus cross sectional areas. On the one hand, in all the studied Cormophyta species, the more resistant stems (in P. natans from stagnant water, in the others from running water) are thicker and characterised by a higher contribution of air spaces in the overall stem cross-section. On the other hand, the stems retain their species specific structure and have a similar proportion of strengthening elements.
Inhibition of raffinose family oligosaccharides and galactosyl pinitols breakdown delays germination of winter vetch (Vicia villosa Roth.) seeds
Authors: Lahuta Lesław B. , Goszczyńska Joanna
Published: April 2013

Beside RFOs, which are commonly present in legume seeds, seeds of some species contain galactosyl pinitols (GPs). These carbohydrates, like RFOs, have been hypothesized to constitute an important energy and carbon skeletal source during germination. To test this hypothesis we have applied a specific α-galactosidase inhibitor (1-deoxygalactonojirimycin, DGJ) to germinating winter vetch (Vicia villosa Roth.) seeds, containing more galactosyl pinitols than RFOs. The breakdown of RFOs but not that of GPs was completely blocked in both embryonic axes and cotyledons tissues, during the first 18 h of imbibition in DGJ. The inhibitor only decreased the rate of GPs degradation. The inhibitory effect of DGJ on GPs degradation was partially alleviated by addition of sucrose or galactose to DGJ solutions. After three days of germination in water, RFOs and GPs disappeared in axial tissues of seeds imbibed in water, galactose or sucrose. Eighteen-hour imbibition of seeds in DGJ drastically reduced germination, by ca 50%, during the first three days. The inhibitory effect of DGJ decreased during the next seven days of germination. The presence of galactose or sucrose in imbibition solution initially stimulated seed germination, but later this effect was not statistically significant. Our study provides clear evidence that galactosyl pinitols play an important role in early winter vetch seeds germination. Additionally, we suggest that galactosyl pinitols can replace RFOs as reserve material necessary for early germination.
Cladonia diversa (Cladoniaceae, Lichenized Ascomycota) - overlooked lichen in Poland
Authors: Osyczka Piotr
Published: April 2013

This is the first report on Cladonia diversa Asperges in Poland. Till the present this species was overlooked and usually included under the name C. coccifera. The study is based on revision of over a thousand of specimens of the genus Cladonia section Cocciferae deposited in Polish herbaria. The morphology, chemistry, habitat requirements and known distribution of the lichen in Poland are discussed. A taxonomical remarks concerning the species are also provided.
The 'Verrucaria fuscella group' in Poland with some nomenclatorial remarks.
Authors: Krzewicka Beata
Published: April 2013

The Verrucaria fuscella group in Poland is revised. Two species, Placopyrenium fuscellum and Verrucaria polysticta, are confirmed for Poland, and Placopyrenium canellum is reported for the first time. Dermatocarpon subfuscellum var. serpentini Servít is synonymized with P. fuscellum and V. fuscella f. subpruinosa Servít is synonymized with V. polysticta.
Ramaria fagicola (Fungi, Basidiomycota) - the first record for Poland, and from a new substratum
Authors: Łuszczyński Janusz
Published: April 2013

Ramaria fagicola is a rare European species. It was previously known only from three localities in western Europe. The species is reported here from Poland, where it was first observed on decomposing wood of Pinus sylvestris in the Wierzchlas reserve in Bory Tucholskie Forest (N Poland). It is the first record of the fungus on conifer wood as habitats associated with deciduous wood, mostly Fagus, reported in literature.
Epilithic algae from caves of the Krakowsko-Częstochowska Upland (Southern Poland)
Authors: Czerwik-Marcinkowska Joanna , Mrozińska Teresa
Published: April 2013

This paper describes the first study of algae assemblages in 20 caves in the Krakowsko-Częstochowska Upland (Southern Poland), in the period between 2005-2006. The investigations showed mostly on epilithic algae and their subaeric habitats (rock faces within caves and walls at cave entrances). The morphological and cytological variability of algae were studied in fresh samples, in cultures grown on agar plates and in SPURR preparations. A total of 43 algae species was identified, mostly epilithic species and tolerant of low light intensities. The largest group was formed by representatives of the division Chlorophyta (24 species), and then the division Chrysophyta (Heterokontophyta) - 17 species, with 9 species belonging to the class Bacillariophyceae, 7 species - Xanthophyceae and 1 species representing the class Eustigmatophyceae. Dinophyta (2 species) constituted the last and the smallest group. Among the collected algae, the following species deserve special attention: Thelesphaera alpina, Bracteacoccus minor, Trachychloron simplex, Tetracystis intermedia and T. cf. isobilateralis. The last species was not earlier found in Europe. Identification of species was greatly aided by examination of cell ultrastructure, which provided an array of further features, increasing chances of correct species identification. Furthermore, the studies focused that algae, although usually remaining under dominance of cyanobacteria, excellently differentiate this special area and even enrich it.
Antioxidant compounds in Salvia officinalis L. shoot and hairy root cultures in the nutrient sprinkle bioreactor
Authors: Grzegorczyk Izabela , Wysokińska Halina
Published: April 2013

The study focused on the production of compounds with antioxidant activity in hairy root and shoot cultures of Salvia officinalis grown in laboratory-scale sprinkle nutrient bioreactors. HPLC analysis showed that production of rosmarinic acid in transformed roots (34.65 ±1.07 mg l-1) was higher that in shoot culture (26.24 ±0.48 mg l-1). In the latter diterpenoids: carnosic acid (1.74 ±0.02 mg l-1) and carnosol (1.34 ±0.01 mg l-1) were also found. Biomass accumulation after a growth period in the bioreactor was also studied. An 18-fold increase in hairy root biomass was recorded after 40 days of culture. In sage shoot culture, biomass increased 43 times after 21 days of bioreactor run. The current operating conditions of the bioreactor were not suitable for the propagation of Salvia officinalis mainly due to the hyperhydricity problem of leaves and stems.
Evaluation of cell membrane injury in caraway (Carum carvi L.) genotypes in water deficit conditions
Authors: Seidler-Łożykowska Katarzyna , Bandurska Hanna , Bocianowski Jan
Published: April 2013

The aim of the study was to evaluate the resistance of caraway genotypes to water deficit based on the estimation of cell membrane stability (CMS) in leaves using polyethylene glycol (PEG) test. In 2007 and 2008, 25 selected caraway genotypes, originating from European botanical gardens (18), cultivars (2) and our own breeding strains (5), were tested. The plant material was collected from the experimental field. The obtained results showed highly significant differences in cell membrane injuries (p = 0.001) among investigated genotypes. The rank of genotypes in membrane injury index in 2007 was similar to that of 2008. Caraway genotypes originating from Warsaw (49.4%), Cracow (45.3%), Reykiavik (39.9%), Berlin (23.8%), Wisley (22.7%) and strains 9/2 (23.7%), 60/8 (22.2%) exhibited a high level of injury, which showed weak CMS and their high sensitivity to drought. The lowest extent of membrane injury was observed in genotypes originating from Bayreuth (4.2%), Ulm (4.4%), Cluj (5.5%), Lousanne (6.8%) and cultivar "Kończewicki" VI/4 (6.2%), which proves low sensitivity of these genotypes to water deficit and cell membrane stability. These genotypes may be used in further breeding program to improve caraway resistance to drought.
Similarity between seed bank and herb layer in a natural deciduous temperate lowland forest
Authors: Wódkiewicz Maciej , Kwiatkowska-Falińska Anna Justyna
Published: April 2013

Forest seed banks mostly studied in managed forests proved to be small, species poor and not reflecting aboveground species composition. Yet studies conducted in undisturbed communities indicate a different seed bank characteristic. Therefore we aimed at describing soil seed bank in an undisturbed forest in a remnant of European lowland temperate forests, the Białowieża Forest. We compared similarity between the herb layer and seed bank, similarity of seed bank between different patches, and dominance structure of species in the herb layer and in the seed bank of two related oak-hornbeam communities. We report relatively high values of Sorensen species similarity index between herb layer and seed bank of both patches. This suggests higher species similarity of the herb layer and soil seed bank in natural, unmanaged forests represented by both plots than in fragmented communities influenced by man. Although there was a set of core seed bank species present at both plots, yielding high Sorensen species similarity index values, considerable differences between plots in seed bank size and dominance structure of species were found, indicating spatial variability of studied seed bank generated by edaphic conditions. Dominance structure of species in the herb layer was not reflected in the underlying seed bank. This stresses, that natural forest regeneration cannot rely only on the seed bank, although some forest species are capable of forming soil seed banks. While forest seed banks may not reflect vegetation composition of past successional stages, they may inform on history and land use of a specific plot.
Cochlearia polonica Fröhl. (Brassicaceae), a narrow endemic species of southern Poland: history of conservation efforts, overview of current population resources and genetic structure of populations
Authors: Cieślak Elżbieta , Kaźmierczakowa Róża , Ronikier Michał
Published: April 2013

Cochlearia polonica Fröhl. (Brassicaceae) is one of the rarest species in the Polish and European flora and a taxon endemic to a very small area in southern Poland. Due to industrial activities and subsequent transformation of habitats it was extinct in all natural localities around 1994. The persistence of the species was ensured thanks to the active protection efforts including a series of transplantations based on the material from the last and decreasing natural population. The history of conservation efforts of C. polonica provides a model example of successful active protection in the European flora. Here, we provide a complete review comprising the following aims: (i) outline of the discovery and taxonomic conceptions on C. polonica, (ii) review of conservation efforts aimed at preserving its populations, (iii) description of the existing population resources, and (iv) analysis of the genetic structure of all existing populations based on previously published data and new, supplementary results.
Environmental gradients across wetland vegetation groups in the arid slopes of Western Alborz Mountains, N. Iran
Authors: Kamrani Asghar , Naqinezhad Alireza , Jalili Adel , Attar Farideh
Published: April 2013

Mountain wetlands are unique ecosystems in the arid southern slopes of Alborz range, the second largest range in Iran. The spatial distribution characteristics of wetland vegetation in the arid region of the Alborz and the main factors affecting their distributional patterns were studied. A classification of vegetation and ecological characteristics were carried out using data extracted from 430 relevés in 90 wetland sites. The data were analyzed using Two Way Indicator Species Analysis (TWINSPAN) and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA). The wetland vegetation of Alborz Mountain was classified into four large groups. The first vegetation group was calcareous rich vegetation, mainly distributed in the river banks and characterized by helophytes such as Bolboschoenus affinis as indicator species. The second group was saline transitional vegetation, distributed in the ecotone areas and dominated by Phragmites australis. The third vegetation group is wet meadow vegetation which mainly consists of geophytes, endemic and Irano-Turanian species, distributed in the higher altitudes. This vegetation is mainly characterized by indicator species such as Carex orbicularis, high level concentration of Fe2+ and percentage of organic matter in the soil. The fourth vegetation group is aquatic vegetation, distributed in the lakeshores. The aquatic group species are mainly hydrophytic such as Batrachium trichophyllum. The TWINSPAN vegetation groups could be also recognized in the DCA graphs and ecologically differentiated by ANOVA of studied variables. Four vegetation groups can be differentiated on two first axes of indirect ordination. There is a gradient of pH, EC and organic matter associated with altitude on the DCA diagram. Correlation analysis between the axes of DCA and environmental factors shows that altitude, soil texture and other dependant environmental variables (e.g. pH) are the main environmental factors affecting the distribution of wetland vegetation groups.
Efficiency of different forest types in carbon storage depends on their internal structure
Authors: Gheorghe Iuliana F. , Biriş Iovu A. , Valcu Cristina M.
Published: April 2013

Forest vegetation is a key factor in the maintenance of global carbon cycle balance under the present climate change conditions. Forest ecosystems are both buffers against extreme climatic events accompanying climate change and carbon sinks diminishing the environmental impact of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. We investigated the influence of stand structure and site characteristics on the productivity and carbon storage capacity of temperate forest types. Predictors of species productivity were parameters such as stand density, age, height, average diameter and wood density. Morus alba (L.) was more productive than average both in terms of annual volume increment and annual biomass gain, while Quercus sessiliflora (Matt.) Lieb. and Quercus frainetto (Ten.) were significantly less productive than average. Differences in stand productivity were explained by stand density, age, height, altitude, type of regeneration and species composition. Statistically significant differences were measured between the productivity of stands dominated by different woody species, with low productive stands dominated by slow growing species with high wood density like Quercus or Fagus, and highly productive stands rich in fast growing species with low wood density like Populus or Salix. Stands with different plant communities in the underlying herbaceous layer also tended to have different levels of productivity.
Revision of Nymphaea candida range - new data on the distribution and habitat preferences of the species in southern Poland
Authors: Nowak Arkadiusz , Nobis Marcin , Dajdok Zygmunt , Zalewska-Gałosz Joanna , Nowak Sylwia , Nobis Agnieszka , Czerniawska-Kusza Izabela , Kozak Maciej , Stebel Adam , Bula Renata , Sugier Piotr , Szlachetka Andrzej , Bena Waldemar , Trojecka Anna , Piwowarczyk Renata , Adamiec Aleksandra , Krawczyk Rafał
Published: April 2013

The paper presents results of geobotanical and taxonomic studies on the distribution and habitat requirements of Nymphaea candida in southern Poland. The researches were conducted in southern Poland in 2003-2009, in the provinces of Lower Silesia, Lublin, Małopolska, Opole, Silesian province as well as, in southern parts of Mazowieckie and Lubuskie. Flowers, leaves and fruits of Nymphaea species were collected from 27 locations. Altogether pollens from 73 populations of N. candida and 18 of N. alba from all the researched area were measured. The trophic level of an ecosystem was evaluated according to the results of the total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chlorophyll a, transparency and biological parameters. As the result of the studies of more than 200 water bodies, 57 localities of N. candida were documented within the investigation area. The populations of N. candida occupy mid-forest water bodies and river ox-bow lakes. A significant number of populations was also found in artificial reservoirs - fish ponds. The most suitable habitat conditions for N. candida occur in shallow waters in the shore zone with the amplitude of the water column vary from 0.5 to 2 m. Regarding the trophy level, N. candida occupies different habitats, mainly mesotrophic and also eutrophic with high content of organic matters. Considering the 15 checked morphological parameters, especially the stigma diameter, the number of carpellary teeth, flower and pollen diameters, the found and collected specimens of N. candida significantly differ from N. alba. The study confirms that N. candida ocurrs in whole lowland Poland without any regional distribution gaps. According to the IUCN guidelines to species assessment the data gathered during the presented study do not allow to classify N. candida as a vulnerable species in Poland. Still existing populations for more than 150 years, numerous stable locations, abundant populations, a habitat accessibility, a biotope extent, an ecological amplitude against the trophy level and direct human impacts suggest, that the species should be regarded as a least concern (LC) taxon.
The distribution of Elatine hexandra (Lapierre) DC. (Elatinaceae)
Authors: Popiela Agnieszka , Łysko Andrzej , Wieczorek Anetta , Nalepka Dorota
Published: April 2013

General distribution map of Elatine hexandra (Lapierre) DC. was made based on literature and web-based data confronted and possible reasons of the formation of taxon's distribution range and history are discussed.
The effects of different types of woodstand disturbance on the persistence of soil seed banks
Authors: Kwiatkowska-Falińska Anna J. , Panufnik-Mędrzycka Dorota , Wódkiewicz Maciej , Sondej Izabela , Jaroszewicz Bogdan
Published: April 2013

The research was conducted on four patches of thermophilous oak wood in Białowieża Primeval Forest: A – with a woodstand: oak + approx. 30-year-old hornbeam + hornbeam brushwood; B – with a hornbeam stand formed by natural seed fall after logging (ca. 1920) oaks; C – after logging oaks and replanted (ca. 1965) with pine and oak; D – with a natural low-density oak stand. Species composition and seed bank density were estimated using the seedling emergence method. Seedling emergence was observed over two vegetation seasons. Research demonstrated that: 1) the species abundance of the seed banks depends on canopy cover (A, B approx. 50 species; C, D approx. 70 species); 2) the floristical similarity (Sørensen's index) of the seed bank and ground vegetation is higher in the undisturbed patch D (0.50) than in disturbed patches (0.30-0.35); 3) species diversity in plots A, B, C, D (H'=12.5; 13.4; 15.5; 16.9) and seed bank density per m2 (432.5; 958.0; 1486.5; 2268.0) are negatively correlated with the degree of patch shading; 4) the average weight of diaspores in the seed banks of shady plots is lower (A, B approx. 0.003 g) than that of sunny plots (C, D approx. 0.08 g); 5) the share of long-lived diaspores increases in patches after logging.
The wind and fire disturbance in Central European mountain spruce forests: the regeneration after four years
Authors: Budzáková Monika , Galvánek Dobromil , Littera Pavol , Šibík Jozef
Published: April 2013

A strong windstorm in November 2004 resulted in a huge blown-down spruce forest area in the southern part of the Tatra National Park in the Western Carpathians in Slovakia, Central Europe. The aim of this work is to study the vegetation composition of spruce forest at differently managed sites four years after this disturbance. Four study areas were selected for this purpose: (i) an area where the fallen trees were extracted and new seedlings were planted; (ii) an area, which was hit by a forest fire after the extraction; (iii) an area where no active management was applied; (iv) a reference forest unaffected by such disturbance. A total of 100 plots were selected, 25 of each area type. The result of DCA and CCA analyses consistently indicated that after this short period the non-extracted and extracted areas are currently most similar to the reference forest area, while the fire affected area differed. A one-way ANOVA comparing species cover for the different plot sizes indicated some significant differences between the extracted and non-extracted plots. The abundance of certain species commonly occurring in spruce forests, such as Dyopteris carthusiana agg., Vaccinium myrtillus and Avenella flexuosa, correlated weli with the non-extracted plots, compared to the extracted plots. Coverage of these species was lowest on burned plots. The lowest Shannon-Wiener’s diversity values were recorded in burned plots. This was most likely a consequence of mono-dominant competitive species spread, (mainly Chamerion angustifolium) which profited from the altered ecological conditions following the fire. Although some differences were also registered in the Shannon-Wiener diversity index between the remaining research plots, however these were not statistically significant. The most important results of our investigations include the extensive influence of fire disturbance on vegetation. Study revealed that the wind-disturbed area is able to regenerate sufficiently without human intervention.
Determinants of medium and high VACS index in HIV‐positive patients on effective HAART
Authors: Suardi E , Gazzola L , Cicconi P , Grillo E , Bini T , Marchetti G , d'Arminio Monforte A
Published: April 2013

Non‐AIDS events are the leading cause of death in HIV‐positive patients (pts) on effective HAART. The VACS index, composed by HIV‐RNA, CD4+, age, hemoglobin, FIB‐4, eGFR and HCV co‐infection, has been validated as 5‐year mortality index in HIV‐ positive pts [1]. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence and any possible predictive factors of medium‐high VACS index in a cohort of HIV‐positive pts; we also evaluated whether it relates with markers of systemic immune activation. 501 consecutive HIV‐positive asymptomatic pts on effective HAART (HIV‐RNA <40 cp/ml) were enrolled. T‐cell activation (CD38+, CD8+45R0, CD8+38R0) and differentiation (CD127+) was assessed by flow cytometry; VACS index was calculated closest to the sample timepoint. Comparisons were assessed by Chi‐square test. Factors associated with VACS index equal or greater than 10% (gender, time on HAART, CD4+nadir, AIDS diagnosis, previous or current IDU, immune‐activation markers) in univariate model entered the multivariate logistic regression. Of the 501 patients enrolled, 350 (70%) had a low VACS index (VACS <10%), 143 (28%) a medium index (VACS 10–30%) and 8 (1%) an high one (VACS >30%). Groups (pts with low and medium‐high VACS index) were comparable for CD4+ nadir, AIDS diagnosis, CD8+45RO%, CD8+38RO%, CD127+%. Females, active or previous IDU, pts with shorter HAART exposure showed more frequently medium‐high VACS index (table 1). In the multivariable model, female sex (AOR 6.26, 95% CI 3.45‐11.38, p<0.000), IDU history (AOR 2.409, 95% CI 1.31–4.422, p=0.0045) and current CD38+/CD8% (each% more: AOR 1.122, 95% CI 1.03‐1.21, p=0.004) were all independent predictors of VACS ≥10%. Our data suggest that a persistently‐activated immune profile despite virologically‐suppressive HAART may contribute to all‐cause mortality risk, possibly through its role in accelerating degenerative disease. Possible determinants of gender differences in VACS index (such as hemoglobin) need to be further studied.

Variable associated with medium‐high VACS index in univariate model

Pts with low (<10%) VACS index (n=350)
Pts with medium‐high (>10%) VACS index (n=151)
p

Female sex °
69 (19%)
66 (43%)
0.0001

AIDS°
75 (21%)
50 (33%)
0.38

Nadir CD4+ T cells/mmc*
211 (7–600)
183 (4–489)
0.75

HAART duration, years*
8.1 (1–21)
7.9 (1–20)
0.01

IDU°
74 (21%)
50 (33%)
0.004

CD127/CD4 + %*
35 (0–63)
35 (0–58)
0.81

CD127/CD8 + %*
44 (0–55)
45 (0–46)
0.70

CD8 + 45/RO%*
13 (0–43)
14 (0–61)
0.7

CD8 + 38/RO%*
1,5 (0–27)
1,6 (0–13)
0.85

CD8 + CD38 + %*
3.01 (0–23)
4.09 (0–23)
0.004

Data are presented as mean (range)

Data are presented as the number (percentage)
Social Fear Conditioning as an Animal Model of Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Toth Iulia , Neumann Inga D. , Slattery David A.
Published: April 2013

Social fear and avoidance of social situations represent the main behavioral symptoms of social anxiety disorder (SAD), a disorder that is poorly elucidated and has rather unsatisfactory therapeutic options. Therefore, animal models are needed to study the underlying etiology of the disorder and possible novel treatment approaches. However, the current paradigms modeling SAD‐like symptoms in rodents are not specific, as they induce numerous other behavioral deficits in addition to social fear and avoidance. Here, we describe the protocol for the social fear conditioning paradigm, an animal model of SAD that specifically induces social fear of unfamiliar con‐specifics without potentially confounding alterations in other behavioral measures. Theoretical and practical considerations for performing the social fear conditioning paradigm in both rats and mice, as well as for the analysis and interpretation of the obtained data, are described in detail. Curr. Protoc. Neurosci. 63:9.42.1‐9.42.13. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Autoimmune Myocarditis, Valvulitis, and Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Myers Jennifer M. , Fairweather DeLisa , Huber Sally A. , Cunningham Madeleine W.
Published: April 2013

Myocarditis and valvulitis are inflammatory diseases affecting myocardium and valve. Myocarditis, a viral‐induced disease of myocardium, may lead to dilated cardiomyopathy and loss of heart function. Valvulitis leads to deformed heart valves and altered blood flow in rheumatic heart disease. Animal models recapitulating these diseases are important in understanding the human condition. Cardiac myosin is a major autoantigen in heart, and antibodies and T cells to cardiac myosin are evident in inflammatory heart diseases. This unit is a practical guide to induction and evaluation of experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) in several mouse strains and the Lewis rat. Purification protocols for cardiac myosin and protocols for induction of EAM by cardiac myosin and its myocarditis‐producing peptides, and coxsackievirus CVB3, are defined. Protocols for assessment of myocarditis and valvulitis in humans and animal models provide methods to define functional autoantibodies targeting cardiac myosin, β‐adrenergic, and muscarinic receptors, and their deposition in tissues. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 101:15.14.1‐15.14.51. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Unlocking the Latent Antimicrobial Potential of Biomimetically Synthesized Inorganic Materials
Authors: Dickerson Matthew B. , Lyon Wanda J. , Gruner William E. , Mirau Peter A. , Jespersen Michael L. , Fang Yunnan , Sandhage Kenneth H. , Naik Rajesh R.
Published: April 2013

Inspired by biomineralization, biomimetic approaches utilize biomolecules and synthetic analogs to produce materials of controlled chemistry, morphology, and function under relatively benign conditions. A common characteristic of biological and biomimetic mineral‐forming processes is the generation of mineral/biomolecule nanocomposites. In this work, it is demonstrated that a facile chemical reaction may be utilized to halogenate the nitrogen‐containing moieties of the organics entrapped within bio‐inorganic composites to yield halamine compounds. This process provides rapid and potent bactericidal activity to biomimetically and biologically produced materials that otherwise lack such functionality. Additionally, bio‐inorganic composites containing the chlorinated peptide protamine are effective in rapidly neutralizing Bacillus spores (≥99.97% reduction in colony forming units within 10 min). The straightforward nature of the described process, and the efficacy of halamine compounds in neutralizing biological and chemical agents, provide new applicability to biogenic and biomimetic materials.
In Situ Observations and Tuning of Physical and Chemical Phenomena on the Surfaces of Strongly Correlated Oxides
Authors: Gai Zheng , Kalinin S. V. , Li An‐Ping , Shen Jian , Baddorf A. P.
Published: April 2013

The characteristic aspect of strongly correlated oxides systems is the strong coupling between the structural, electronic and magnetic properties. A small change in one property can produce a large change in another. Controllable surface tuning provides the opportunity to study how structural, electronic, and magnetic properties respond to the broken symmetry and opens avenues for exploration of completely new physical properties. The extreme sensitivity of properties to external chemical and physical stimuli makes in situ characterization a requirement for controlled tuning of complex correlated materials. This paper reviews some recent progress in in situ observations and tuning of physical and chemical phenomena on the surfaces of strongly correlated oxides thin films and crystals, including atomic‐level structural studies, control, and tuning of the physical properties.
Giant Temperature Coefficient of Resistance in Carbon Nanotube/Phase‐Change Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Fernandes Gustavo E. , Kim Jin Ho , Sood Ashok K. , Xu Jimmy
Published: April 2013

The temperature coefficient of resistance of a carbon nanotube nanocomposite with the non‐conductive phase‐change hydrogel Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) is studied. This nanocomposite is found to achieve the largest reported temperature coefficient of resistance, ≈−10%/°C, observed in carbon nanotube‐polymer nanocomposites to date. The giant temperature coefficients of resistance results from a volume‐phase‐transition that is induced by the humidity present in the surrounding atmosphere and that enhances the temperature dependence of the resistivity via direct changes in the tunneling resistance that electrons experience in moving between nearby carbon nanotubes. The bolometric photoresponses of this new material are also studied. The nanocomposite's enhanced responses to temperature and humidity give it great potential for sensor applications and uncooled infrared detection.
The Influence of MoOx Anode Stoicheometry on the Performance of Bulk Heterojunction Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Griffin Jonathan , Watters Darren C. , Yi Hunan , Iraqi Ahmed , Lidzey David , Buckley Alastair R.
Published: April 2013

Bulk heterojunction solar cells containing molybdenum oxide hole extracting anode contacts have been fabricated with varying stoicheometry using radio frequency reactive sputtering from a Molybdenum metal target. A blend of the newly synthesised conjugated polymer poly[9‐(heptadecan‐9‐yl)‐9H‐carbazole‐2,7‐diyl‐alt‐(5,6‐bis(octyloxy)‐4,7‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole)‐5,5‐diyl] (PCDTBT‐8) and fullerene [6,6]‐Phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC70BM) was used as the photoactive layer and device results show that anodes with greater than 98% Molybdenum (VI) oxide result in peak power conversion efficiencies of 3.7%.The presence of up to 28% of Mo (V) results in no significant reduction in efficiency, however the presence of metallic Mo (IV) and lower oxidation states lead to severe reductions in device performance due to a combination of a large hole extraction energy barrier of approximately 0.9eV and reduced device stability.
Parasitic Absorption and Internal Quantum Efficiency Measurements of Solid‐State Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Margulis George Y. , Hardin Brian E. , Ding I‐Kang , Hoke Eric T. , McGehee Michael D.
Published: April 2013

The internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of solid‐state dye sensitized solar cells (ssDSCs) is measured using a hybrid optical modeling plus absorptance measurement approach which takes into account the parasitic absorption of the hole transport material (HTM). Across device thicknesses of 1 to 4 microns, ssDSCs sensitized with Z907 and TT1 dyes display relatively constant IQEs of approximately 88% and 36%, respectively, suggesting excellent charge collection efficiencies for both dyes but poor carrier injection for TT1 devices. The addition of more coadsorbent is shown to increase the IQE of TT1 up to approximately 58%, but significantly lowers dye loading. Finally, optical losses due to absorption by the HTM are quantified and found to be a significant contribution to photocurrent losses for ssDSCs sensitized with poor absorbers such as Z907, as the weak absorption of the dye gives the HTM opportunity for significant parasitic absorption within the active layer.
Effect of inulin formulation on the microstructure and viscoelastic properties of low‐fat mayonnaise containing modified starch
Authors: Alimi Mazdak , Mizani Maryam , Naderi Ghasem , Shokoohi Shirin
Published: April 2013

Combinations of three types of inulin differing in the degree of polymerization, that is, short, medium, and long chained (0–10%), and modified starch (0–3%) with different composition ratios were prepared according to the D‐optimal design of experiments. The microstructural and rheological characteristics of the prepared samples were analyzed to study the effect of the inulin composition on the low‐fat mayonnaise. Rheological characterizations, including oscillatory frequency sweep tests, transient creep, and stress relaxation analysis, were carried out on the samples. An optical microscope was used to observe the microstructure. According to the results, the effects of all types of inulin were precarious in the presence of starch (≥1.5%). In fact, a relationship was found between the inulin type and concentration and also the starch content in all of the prepared samples; with increasing starch content (≥1.5%), inulin chain length, and concentration of long‐chain inulin (≥5%), the elastic properties of the emulsion were improved and showed a higher resistivity against deformation. Furthermore, a more packed structure with a larger average particle diameter and dominant monodispersity were observed under such conditions. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 801‐809, 2013
Taguchi‐based analysis of polyamide 6/acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber/nanoclay nanocomposites: The role of processing variables
Authors: Jahromi Ali Ebrahimi , Arefazar Ahmad , Jazani Omid Moini , Sari Morteza Ganjaee , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Salehi Mohammad
Published: April 2013

Applying the Taguchi method of experimental design, we prepared various polyamide 6 (PA6)/acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/nanoclay nanocomposites under different processing conditions by melt mixing in an internal mixer. The effects of the processing variables, including the rotor speed, chamber temperature, and mixing order on the morphology, that is, the rubber particle size and interlayer distance, and the mechanical properties, that is, the tensile modulus and impact strength, were then investigated. As demonstrated with the Taguchi approach, the lower temperature associated with higher rotor speeds improved the mechanical properties of the 90/5/5 PA6/NBR/nanoclay systems. However, it was revealed that the mixing order did not affect the mechanical properties for the assigned composition. Hence, the simultaneous mixing of all the ingredients is seemingly the simplest way of mixing to obtain the desired mechanical properties. These results were confirmed with transmission and scanning electron microscopy observations and X‐ray diffraction measurements. Image analysis corresponding to the mean particle size of the NBR constituent was also performed. The optimum processing condition to achieve the appropriate mechanical properties is ultimately predicted by the Taguchi analysis and corresponded to a chamber temperature of 230°C and a screw speed of 80 rpm. Moreover, the simultaneous mixing of all of the ingredients was suggested for convenience. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 820‐828, 2013
Synthesis of calix[6]arene based XAD‐4 material for the removal of reactive blue 19 from aqueous environments
Authors: Bhatti Ashfaque Ali , Kamboh Muhammad Afzal , Solangi Imam Bakhsh , Memon Shahabuddin
Published: April 2013

This study describes the synthesis of calix[6]arene (C6) appended Amberlite XAD‐4 resin and its application for the removal of anthraquinone‐based reactive blue 19 (RB‐19) dye from aqueous environments. The C6‐resin 5 was characterized with various analytical techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and elemental analysis. Adsorption experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of the pH, adsorbent dosage, electrolyte, contact time, and temperature on the adsorption of RB‐19 dye onto the C6‐resin 5. From the results, we observed that the percentage adsorption of the RB‐19 dye was highly dependent on the concentration of electrolyte and the pH of the solution. The maximum adsorption was achieved at pH 9. The thermal study demonstrated that the adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous in nature. The isothermic study showed that the adsorption behavior could be better demonstrated by the Langmuir and Dubinin and Radushkevich isotherm model. From field studies, it has been concluded that C6‐resin 5 is an effective adsorbent for the removal of RB‐19 dye. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 776‐785, 2013
Chemically amplified, positive tone, cross‐linkable thick‐film polymer
Authors: Mueller Brennen K. , Kohl Paul A.
Published: April 2013

A new class of positive tone, permanent materials has been demonstrated, which are chemically amplified (CA), aqueous‐developable, and cross‐linkable. The intended purpose is a patterning and cross‐linking method to create high sensitivity permanent dielectrics for microelectronic devices and packages. The photochemistry is based on traditional CA, acid‐catalyzed deprotection of a protected organic functionality to yield an aqueous base soluble group such as a carboxylic acid or alcohol. This CA chemistry produces high contrast and high photo‐speed patterning, which is especially valuable for thick‐film applications where high UV exposure doses are required for non‐CA materials. The photospeed is about an order of magnitude faster than commercial materials at a similar thickness. Subsequent to patterning, the remaining films or features can be cross‐linked by a variety of chemical mechanisms. The working photo‐patterning and cross‐linking mechanisms are demonstrated on a random copolymer of tert‐butyl methacrylate (TBMA) and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). The optical contrast (at 248 nm) was found to be 12.7 and the sensitivity, D100, was calculated to be 50.2 mJ/cm2 in a 9.07‐μm‐thick film. Undeveloped regions were cross‐linked after patterning. The esterification reaction is much slower than the TBMA deprotection, so that the cross‐linking reaction does not interfere with the photopatterning. Cross‐linking was also evident by the change in thin film stress 6.2 to 17.9 MPa during a thermal cure. Other polymers for Fischer esterification are discussed with their advantages and disadvantages along with other cross‐linking chemistries. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 759‐765, 2013
Session analysis of people search within a professional social network
Authors: He Ru , Wang Jiong , Tian Jin , Chu Cheng‐Tao , Mauney Bradley , Perisic Igor
Published: April 2013

We perform session analysis for our domain of people search within a professional social network. We find that the content‐based method is appropriate to serve as a basis for the session identification in our domain. However, there remain some problems reported in previous research which degrade the identification performance (such as accuracy) of the content‐based method. Therefore, in this article, we propose two important refinements to address these problems. We describe the underlying rationale of our refinements and then empirically show that the content‐based method equipped with our refinements is able to achieve an excellent identification performance in our domain (such as 99.820% accuracy and 99.707% F‐measure in our experiments). Next, because the time‐based method has extremely low computation costs, which makes it suitable for many real‐world applications, we investigate the feasibility of the time‐based method in our domain by evaluating its identification performance based on our refined content‐based method. Our experiments demonstrate that the performance of the time‐based method is potentially acceptable to many real applications in our domain. Finally, we analyze several features of the identified sessions in our domain and compare them with the corresponding ones in general web search. The results illustrate the profession‐oriented characteristics of our domain.
Toward a layered model of context for health information searching: An analysis of consumer‐generated questions
Authors: Zhang Yan
Published: April 2013

Designing effective consumer health information systems requires deep understanding of the context in which the systems are being used. However, due to the elusive nature of the concept of context, few studies have made it a focus of examination. To fill this gap, we studied the context of consumer health information searching by analyzing questions posted on a social question and answer site: Yahoo! Answers. Based on the analysis, a model of context was developed. The model consists of 5 layers: demographic, cognitive, affective, situational, and social and environmental. The demographic layer contains demographic factors of the person of concern; the cognitive layer contains factors related to the current search task (specifically, topics of interest and information goals) and users' cognitive ability to articulate their needs. The affective layer contains different affective motivations and intentions behind the search. The situational layer contains users' perceptions of the current health condition and where the person is in the illness trajectory. The social and environmental layer contains users' social roles, social norms, and various information channels. Several novel system functions, including faceted search and layered presentation of results, are proposed based on the model to help contextualize and improve users' interactions with health information systems.
Switched State Model Predictive Control of Fractional‐Order Nonlinear Discrete‐Time Systems
Authors: Domek Stefan
Published: April 2013

Model predictive control is one of the more effective and frequently employed‐in‐industry control methods, especially for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) processes, in which a dynamic model of the process is used to predict its behavior over some time horizon and to determine the optimal future control policy. In this paper, a novel predictive algorithm for advanced process control for nonlinear and/or uncertain fractional‐order discrete‐time processes is proposed. First, a state model predictive controller for MIMO linear fractional‐order discrete‐time systems is introduced, and then the concept is extended to MIMO nonlinear and uncertain fractional‐order processes which can be modeled by means of linear multimodels of fractional order. The algorithm is based on fast model selection to cope with process uncertainty and represents a class of so‐called switched systems. Finally, a simulation example is provided.
Substance P as a neuronal factor in the enteric nervous system of the porcine descending colon in physiological conditions and during selected pathogenic processes
Authors: Gonkowski Slawomir
Published: April 2013

The present investigation pertains to changes in substance P‐like immunoreactive (SP‐LI) nerve structures of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the porcine descending colon, caused by chemically‐induced inflammation and nerve injury (axotomy). The distribution pattern of SP‐LI structures was studied using the double immunofluorescence technique in the myenteric (MP), outer submucous (OSP) and inner submucous (ISP) plexuses, as well as in the circular muscle and mucosal layers. Under physiological conditions, SP‐LI neurons have been shown to constitute 4.13 ± 0.24%, 3.36 ± 0.26%, and 7.92 ± 0.16% in the MP, OSP, and ISP, respectively. Changes in SP‐immunoreactivity depended on the pathological factor studied. The numbers of the SP‐LI perikarya amounted to 7.89 ± 0.34, 5.56 ± 0.30, and 19.96 ± 0.57 in chemically‐induced colitis, and 4.28 ± 0.13%, 7.18 ± 20%, and 11.62 ± 0.48% after axotomy in MP, OSP, and ISP, respectively. The both studied processes generally resulted in an increase in the number of SP‐LI nerve fibers in the circular muscle and mucosal layers. The obtained results suggest that SP‐LI nerve structures of the ENS may participate in various pathological processes in the porcine descending colon and exact functions of SP probably depend on the type of the pathological factor. © 2013 BioFactors 39(5):542–551, 2013