bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural Induction with Neurogenin1 Increases the Therapeutic Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Ischemic Brain
Authors: Kim Sung-Soo , Yoo Seung-Wan , Park Tae-Seok , Ahn Seung-Cheol , Jeong Han-Seong , Kim Ji-Won , Chang Da-Young , Cho Kyung-Gi , Kim Seung U. , Huh Youngbuhm , Lee Jong-Eun , Lee Soo-Yeol , Lee Young-Don , Suh-Kim Haeyoung
Published: July 2008

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to ameliorate a variety of neurological dysfunctions. This effect is believed to be mediated by their paracrine functions, since these cells rarely differentiate into neuronal cells. It is of clinical interest whether neural induction of MSCs is beneficial for the replacement therapy of neurological diseases. Here we report that expression of Neurogenin1 (Ngn1), a proneural gene that directs neuronal differentiation of progenitor cells during development, is sufficient to convert the mesodermal cell fate of MSCs into a neuronal one. Ngn1-expressing MSCs expressed neuron-specific proteins, including NeuroD and voltage-gated Ca2+ and Na+ channels that were absent in parental MSCs. Most importantly, transplantation of Ngn1-expressing MSCs in the animal stroke model dramatically improved motor functions compared with the parental MSCs. MSCs with Ngn1 populated the ischemic brain, where they expressed mature neuronal markers, including microtubule associated protein 2, neurofilament 200, and vesicular glutamate transporter 2, and functionally connected to host neurons. MSCs with and without Ngn1 were indistinguishable in reducing the numbers of Iba1+, ED1+ inflammatory cells, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling+ apoptotic cells and in increasing the numbers of proliferating Ki67+ cells. The data indicate that in addition to the intrinsic paracrine functions of MSCs, motor dysfunctions were remarkably improved by MSCs able to transdifferentiate into neuronal cells. Thus, neural induction of MSCs is advantageous for the treatment of neurological dysfunctions.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Chemoattractive Activity of Sonic Hedgehog in the Adult Subventricular Zone Modulates the Number of Neural Precursors Reaching the Olfactory Bulb
Authors: Angot Elodie , Loulier Karine , Nguyen-Ba-Charvet Kim T. , Gadeau Alain-Pierre , Ruat Martial , Traiffort Elisabeth
Published: July 2008

The adult subventricular zone (SVZ) supports neural stem cell self-renewal and differentiation and continually gives rise to new neurons throughout adult life. The mechanisms orienting the migration of neuroblasts from the SVZ to the olfactory bulb (OB) via the rostral migratory stream (RMS) have been extensively studied, but factors controlling neuroblast exit from the SVZ remain poorly explored. The morphogen Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) displays proliferative and survival activities toward neural stem cells and is an axonal chemoattractant implicated in guidance of commissural axons during development. We identify here the presence of Shh protein in SVZ extracts and in the cerebrospinal fluid of adult mice, and we demonstrate that migrating neuroblasts in the SVZ and RMS express the Shh receptor Patched. We show that Shh displays a chemoattractive activity in vitro on SVZ-derived neuronal progenitors, an effect blocked by Cur61414, a Smoothened antagonist. Interestingly, Shh-expressing cells grafted above the RMS of adult mice exert a chemoattractive activity on migrating neuroblasts in vivo, thus inducing their accumulation and deviation from their normal migratory pathway. Furthermore, the adenoviral transfer of Shh into the lateral ventricle or the blocking of Shh present in the SVZ of adult mice using its physiological antagonist Hedgehog interacting protein or neutralizing Shh antibodies provides in vivo evidence that Shh can retain SVZ-derived neuroblasts. The ability to modulate the number of neuroblasts leaving the SVZ and reaching the OB through the chemoattractive activity of Shh suggests a novel degree of plasticity in cell migration of this adult stem cell niche.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Does subcellular distribution in plants dictate the trophic bioavailability of cadmium to Porcellio dilatatus (crustacea, isopoda)?
Authors: Monteiro Marta S , Santos Conceição , Soares Amadeu M. V. M , Mann Reinier M
Published: July 2008

The present study examined how subcellular partitioning of Cd in plants with different strategies to store and detoxify Cd may affect trophic transfer of Cd to the isopod Porcellio dilatatus. The plant species used were Lactuca sativa, a horticultural metal accumulator species; Thlaspi caerulescens, a herbaceous hyperaccumulator species; and the nonaccumulator, T. arvense. Taking into account that differences in subcellular distribution of Cd in plants might have an important role in the bioavailability of Cd to a consumer, a differential centrifugation technique was adopted to separate plant leaf tissues into four different fractions: cell debris, organelles, heat-denatured proteins, and heat-stable proteins (metallothionein-like proteins). Plants were grown in replicate hydroponic systems and were exposed for 7 d to 100 μM Cd spiked with 109Cd. After a 14-d feeding trial, net assimilation of Cd in isopods following consumption of T. caerulescens and T. arvense leaves reached 16.0 ± 2.33 and 21.9 ± 1.94 μg/g animal, respectively. Cadmium assimilation efficiencies were significantly lower in isopods fed T. caerulescens (10.0 ± 0.92%) than in those fed T. arvense (15.0 ± 1.03%). In further experiments, Cd assimilation efficiencies were determined among isopods provided with purified subcellular fractions of the three plants. On the basis of our results, Cd bound to heat-stable proteins was the least bioavailable to isopods (14.4–19.6%), while Cd bound to heat-denatured proteins was the most trophically available to isopods (34.4–52.8%). Assimilation efficiencies were comparable in isopods fed purified subcellular fractions from different plants, further indicating the importance of subcellular Cd distribution in the assimilation. These results point to the ecological relevance of the subcellular Cd distribution in plants, which directly influence the trophic transfer of Cd to the animal consumer.
A METHOD FOR DESCRIBING PRESCHOOLERS' ACTIVITY PREFERENCES
Authors: Hanley Gregory P. , Cammilleri Anthony P. , Tiger Jeffrey H. , Ingvarsson Einar T.
Published: July 2008

We designed a series of analyses to develop a measurement system capable of simultaneously recording the free‐play patterns of 20 children in a preschool classroom. Study 1 determined the intermittency with which the location and engagement of each child could be momentarily observed before the accuracy of the measurement was compromised. Results showed that intervals up to 120 s introduced less than 10% measurement error. Study 2 determined the extent of agreement between two observers who simultaneously collected data for 20 children using 30‐, 60‐, 90‐, and 120‐s momentary time sampling (MTS) intervals. The three larger intervals resulted in high levels of interobserver agreement (above 90%), whereas the 30‐s interval resulted in unacceptably low levels of agreement (less than 80%). By allowing observers to select from among the different MTS intervals via a datasheet array and then collect data with the chosen system, Study 3 determined observers' preferences for the remaining MTS intervals. Both data collectors preferred the 90‐s MTS procedure. The sensitivity of the 90‐s MTS procedure, which was shown to be accurate, reliable, and preferred, was then demonstrated by its use to describe activity preferences of a classroom of children in Study 4. This system identified high‐and low‐preference activities for individual children and revealed interesting patterns of response allocation by the group.
A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION OF ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY AS A TREATMENT FOR MARIJUANA DEPENDENCE IN ADULTS
Authors: Twohig Michael P. , Shoenberger Deacon , Hayes Steven C.
Published: July 2008

In this investigation, 3 adults who met criteria for marijuana dependence were treated using an abbreviated version of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). The treatment was delivered in eight weekly 90‐min individual sessions. The effects of the intervention were assessed using a nonconcurrent multiple baseline across participants design. Self‐reported marijuana use, confirmed through oral swabs, reached zero levels for all participants at posttreatment. At a 3‐ month follow‐up, 1 participant was still abstinent and the other 2 were using but at a lower average level of consumption compared to baseline. Depression, anxiety, withdrawal symptoms, and general levels of experiential avoidance generally improved. This preliminary test suggests that additional development and testing of ACT for marijuana use are warranted.
THE EFFECTS OF REINFORCER PAIRING AND FADING ON PRESCHOOLERS' SNACK SELECTIONS
Authors: Solberg Katherine M. , Hanley Gregory P. , Layer Stacy A. , Ingvarsson Einar T.
Published: July 2008

The effects of reinforcement pairing and fading on preschoolers' snack selections were evaluated in a multiple baseline design. Baseline preferences for snack options were assessed via repeated paired‐item preference assessments. Edible, social, and activity‐based reinforcers were then exclusively paired with a less preferred snack option. Once the snack paired with reinforcement was selected most frequently, the three types of reinforcement were systematically faded. Frequent selections of the previously less preferred snack option were produced with paired reinforcement, but were disrupted for all children as the paired reinforcement was reduced to low levels. These data showed that paired reinforcement was initially effective in increasing preference for the originally less preferred snack options, but more permanent changes in the value of the snack options were not achieved. Conditions for producing persistent changes in children's snack choices are discussed.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF PROBLEM BEHAVIOR OF ELDERLY ADULTS IN LONG‐TERM CARE
Authors: Dwyer‐Moore Kimberly J. , Dixon Mark R.
Published: July 2008

Functional analyses were conducted for the problem behavior of 3 older adults in a long‐term care setting. Two of the problem behaviors were maintained by attention, and a third was maintained by escape from demands. Function‐based interventions were implemented that resulted in decreases in problem behavior in each case. Implications for the use of functional analysis and function‐based interventions in the field of gerontology are discussed.
TRAINING PARENT IMPLEMENTATION OF DISCRETE‐TRIAL TEACHING: EFFECTS ON GENERALIZATION OF PARENT TEACHING AND CHILD CORRECT RESPONDING
Authors: Lafasakis Michael , Sturmey Peter
Published: July 2008

Behavioral skills training was used to teach 3 parents to implement discrete‐trial teaching with their children with developmental disabilities. Parents learned to implement discrete‐trial training, their skills generalized to novel programs, and the children's correct responding increased, suggesting that behavioral skills training is an effective and efficient method of teaching discrete‐trial teaching to parents.
EMERGENCE OF INTRAVERBAL ANTONYMS IN CHILDREN WITH PERVASIVE DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER
Authors: Pérez‐González Luis Antonio , García‐Asenjo Lorena , Williams Gladys , Carnerero José Julio
Published: July 2008

In the type of intraverbal that consists of saying the opposite of a word, two intraverbals are related to one another because the response form of each intraverbal functions as part of a discriminative stimulus for the other (e.g., “cold” in response to “name the opposite of hot,” and vice versa). Moreover, the contextual cue “Name the opposite of —” is the same in the two intraverbals. The purpose of the present research was to explore a procedure designed to promote emergence of intraverbals of this type. Two children with pervasive developmental disorder learned pairs of intraverbals. Thereafter, they were tested for emergence of intraverbals with reversed stimulus‐response functions. Results indicate that, although the participants did not initially show emergence of intraverbals with reversed stimulus‐response functions, repeated cycles of probing and teaching facilitated emergence of these relations.
USE OF A DIFFERENTIAL OBSERVING RESPONSE TO EXPAND RESTRICTED STIMULUS CONTROL
Authors: Walpole Carrie Wallace , Roscoe Eileen M. , Dube William V.
Published: July 2008

This study extends previous work on the use of differential observing responses (DOR) to remediate atypically restricted stimulus control. A participant with autism had high matching‐to‐sample accuracy scores with printed words that had no letters in common (e.g., cat, lid, bug) but poor accuracy with words that had two letters in common (e.g., cat, can, car). In the DOR intervention, she matched the distinguishing letters of the overlapping words (e.g., t, n, r) immediately prior to matching the whole words. Accuracy scores improved, and accuracy remained high when DOR requirements were withdrawn.
AN EVALUATION OF THE CONSERVATIVE DUAL‐CRITERION METHOD FOR TEACHING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS TO VISUALLY INSPECT AB‐DESIGN GRAPHS
Authors: Stewart Kelise K. , Carr James E. , Brandt Charles W. , McHenry Meade M.
Published: July 2008

The present study evaluated the effects of both a traditional lecture and the conservative dual‐criterion (CDC) judgment aid on the ability of 6 university students to visually inspect AB‐design line graphs. The traditional lecture reliably failed to improve visual inspection accuracy, whereas the CDC method substantially improved the performance of each participant.
THE EFFECTS OF SIGNALING STIMULUS PRESENTATION DURING NONCONTINGENT REINFORCEMENT
Authors: Gouboth Djimir , Wilder David A. , Booher John
Published: July 2008

The effects of signaling the return of items or attention during treatment with noncontingent reinforcement were examined. First, functional analyses showed that the problem behavior exhibited by 2 teenagers with developmental disabilities was sensitive to social positive reinforcement. Next, delivery of the stimulus that maintained problem behavior on a fixed‐time (FT) schedule was compared to a condition in which the removal of the stimulus during the same FT schedule was immediately preceded by a statement indicating that the stimulus would be returned and the initiation of a digital timer. Results show that the FT schedule reduced problem behavior, and the addition of an informative statement and a timer further decreased problem behavior.
DECREASING EXPULSIONS BY A CHILD WITH A FEEDING DISORDER: USING A BRUSH TO PRESENT AND RE‐PRESENT FOOD
Authors: Girolami Peter A. , Boscoe James H. , Roscoe Nicole
Published: July 2008

Previous research has demonstrated that extinction in the form of re‐presentation of expelled bites is an effective intervention for treating food expulsion. The current study compared the effectiveness of re‐presenting expulsions with a spoon to re‐presenting with a Nuk® brush for a 4‐ year‐old boy with a feeding disorder. Fewer expulsions were observed when using the brush for re‐presentation, and further reductions were observed when the brush was also used for initial presentations.
Scale for Contraversive Pushing: Cutoff Scores for Diagnosing “Pusher Behavior” and Construct Validity
Authors: Baccini Marco , Paci Matteo , Nannetti Luca , Biricolti Claudia , Rinaldi Lucio A
Published: July 2008

Background and Purpose

Considerable disagreement exists among researchers with regard to the prevalence, pathophysiology, and treatment of “pusher behavior” (PB), partly because of different testing procedures. This study was primarily aimed at establishing cutoff scores for and the construct validity of the Scale for Contraversive Pushing (SCP). The prevalence of PB in people with right- and left-brain lesions also was investigated.

Subjects and Methods

The study subjects were 105 consecutive patients with recent stroke. Two methods were used to diagnose PB: clinical examination and SCP score with 3 different cutoff points—an SCP total score of greater than 0 (Crit_1), subscores in each section of the scale of greater than 0 (Crit_2), and subscores in each section of the scale of ≥1 (Crit_3). Clinical and SCP diagnoses were independently made by different examiners. The Cohen κ coefficient was used to determine the agreement between clinical and SCP diagnoses. The construct validity of the SCP was estimated by calculation of Spearman rank correlation coefficients for SCP and balance, mobility, and functional scores.

Results

The agreement between clinical and SCP diagnoses was low (κ=.212) when Crit_1 was used. Crit_2 led to the highest agreement with the clinical diagnosis (κ=.933). However, only Crit_3, although globally less accurate (κ=.754), ensured no false-positive results. The construct validity of the SCP was demonstrated by significant (P<.001) moderate to high correlations with mobility (rho=.595), functional (rho=.632), and balance (rho=.666) scores. The prevalence of PB was not influenced by the side of the lesion. A limitation of the study was that the reliability of the clinical examination method was not investigated.

Discussion and Conclusion

The results support the validity of the SCP and suggest the need to choose different SCP cutoff criteria (Crit_2 or Crit_3) according to the aim of the evaluation.
Asymetric Warfare: Slogan or Reality?
Authors: Plant John
Published: July 2008

In the United States, the title asymmetric warfare was popular in the years following the attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center. While still used by some senior members of the US government, the uniformed U.S. military has mostly rejected the phrase as a doctrinal term. Arguing that warfare is, always has been, and always will be fundamentally asymmetric; they have opted to describe warfare using a construct of major combat operations, stability and support operations, and irregular warfare. Seeing these arenas as overlapping and inclusive of nearly all military operations, they see little utility in another construct. Advocates of asymmetric warfare have difficulty finding a concise purposeful definition. Yet the term continues to be used by senior government leaders. This paper explores the utility of asymmetric warfare as a concept for understanding modern conflict.
Ethics, War And Human Rights
Authors: Whetham David
Published: July 2008

War is a situation in which the normal rules of civilised behaviour have broken down. The idea of upholding human rights within such a context is considered by many to be a little strange. However, warfare has always been one of the most rule-bound activities that mankind conducts. This paper explores some of the reasoning behind this apparent paradox, using the Just War Theory as a framework within which to explore the relationship between ethics, war and human rights and the way they interact in the contemporary military environment.
Iron(II) Metallomesogens Exhibiting Coupled Spin State and Liquid Crystal Phase Transitions near Room Temperature
Authors: Seredyuk Maksym , Gaspar Ana B. , Ksenofontov Vadim , Galyametdinov Yury , Kusz Joachim , Gütlich Philipp
Published: July 2008

Reaction of the ligand 2,2,2‐tris(2‐aza‐3‐((5‐akloxy)(6‐methyl)(2‐pyridyl))prop‐2‐enyl)ethane (Cn‐tameMe) with Fe(X)2 · sH2O salts afforded a series of spin crossover metallomesogens with general formula [Fe(Cn‐tame)](X)2 · sH2O (s ≥ 0), with n = 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 18, or 20 and X = ClO4− or BF4−. Single crystal X‐ray measurements have been performed on the [Fe(C6‐tameMe)](ClO4)2 (C6‐1) derivative at 100 K. The complex C6‐1 crystallizes in the triclinic system and adopts the Pbca space group. The iron(II) ion is in a distorted octahedral environment shaped by three imine and three pyridine nitrogen atoms of the Cn‐tameMe ligand. The average Fe–Nim and Fe–Npy bond distance is 1.918(2) Å and 2.084(2) Å, respectively, which are characteristic for the Fe(II) ion in the LS state. Neighbor molecules are packed in a head‐to‐head fashion forming a layered microsegregated structure. Ionic layer is composed of cationic spin crossover head‐groups and perchlorate anions, whereas alkyl tails are arranged into a non‐polar hydrocarbon layer. The complex [Fe(C18‐tameMe)](ClO4)2 (C18‐1) and the series [Fe(Cn‐tameMe)](BF4)2 (n = 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 18, 20) (Cn‐2) series show thermally driven spin crossover and mesomorphism above 300 K. The thermotropic behavior of compounds Cn‐2 depends on the chain length defined by n. A common structural feature among all homologues of the series is a similar layered structure and adoption on melting of a smectic mesophase at ca. 350–375 K. Formation of the mesophase is due to the melting of the alkyl chains rather than a rearrangement of the ionic bilayers composed of polar SCO cations and BF4− or ClO4− anions. This gives rise to a mesophase with molten alkyl chains but with restricted movement through the ionic layer. Compounds Cn‐2 show thermochromic properties, they are dark violet in the LS state (T < 275 K, Cr) and become red in the HS state (T > 275 K, Cr, SX). These bi‐functional materials combine spin state change and mesomorphic behavior in a narrow interval of temperatures, 300–375 K.
Novel Strategies for the Deposition of COOH Functionalized Conducting Copolymer Films and the Assembly of Inorganic Nanoparticles on Conducting Polymer Platforms
Authors: Vaddiraju Sreeram , Seneca Kris , Gleason Karen K.
Published: July 2008

A method for the preparation of COOH functionalized conducting copolymer films; toward the ultimate goal of developing resistance‐based sensing platforms, is presented. The method involved vapor phase copolymerization of pyrrole with a monomer containing the COOH functionality, thiophene‐3‐acetic acid (TAA). This copolymerization strategy aided in avoiding the need to employ brittle poly(thiophene‐3‐acetic acid) (PTAA) films in sensing applications. In this strategy, variation in the gas phase feed ratio of pyrrole to TAA allowed for the variation of the composition of the copolymer film and further allowed for the variation of both the conductivity and the amount of COOH functionality in the films. Further, the effect of covalent attachment of silver on the conductivity of the copolymer films is performed and presented. This covalent attachment of silver served the dual purpose of verifying the presence of active COOH groups on the surface, and also allowed for the quantification of the change in conductivity as a result of such attachment. Use of the conjugated ring containing 4‐aminothiophenol as the linker material enhanced the conductivities of the films. In contrast, employing cysteamine to link silver nanoparticles to the copolymer films did not result in any enhancement in the conductivities. An enhancement in the conductivities, ranging from 2 to 1000 times, is observed on covalent attachment of silver nanoparticles to the copolymer films using 4‐aminothiophenol as the linker material. This increase depended on the amount of TAA in the films and increased with increasing concentrations of TAA in the films. These results clearly indicate the use of these copolymer films in resistance‐based sensing. Further, this covalent attachment could be used as a novel strategy to integrate other inorganic nanomaterials on conducting polymer platforms.
Study of downward gas jets into a liquid
Authors: Emami Ahad , Briens Cedric
Published: July 2008

Gas jet penetration is an important factor in gas distributor design for two‐ and three‐phase reactors. The penetration length of downward nonreacting gas jets was measured in liquid by optical method and for gas jet velocities at subsonic conditions. The effects on jet penetration of nozzle diameter, gas density, gas jet velocity, liquid viscosity, and liquid surface tension were examined. A generalized correlation to predict the penetration depth of downward gas jets was obtained. Also a simple model, using a shell momentum balance and assuming downward gas jet as a downward cone with constant angle, was introduced and validated with experimental data. Bubble size calculated based on gas jet fluctuation frequency and validated by high‐speed videos. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Solid–liquid equilibria of multicomponent lipid mixtures under CO2 pressure: Measurement and thermodynamic modeling
Authors: Vezzù K. , Bertucco A. , Lucien F. P.
Published: July 2008

A method for evaluating solid–liquid equilibria of mixtures of lipids and carbon dioxide (CO2) under pressure is developed and presented in this article. Experimental measurements by high‐pressure differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) are performed to determine solid–liquid transition temperatures as a function of composition. These data are used to develop a simplified approach for thermodynamic modeling, that is, correlation and prediction, of the solid–liquid equilibria. The model requires fewer pure component properties in comparison with cubic equations of state: the solid‐state fugacity is determined with reference to the subcooled liquid state whereas regular solution theory is applied for the calculation of liquid‐phase activity coefficients. Application of the model is demonstrated for mixtures of ceramide 3A and cholesterol in compressed CO2 in the range of pressure from 0.1 to 6.1 MPa. A satisfactory correlation of solid–liquid equilibria is obtained for binary systems consisting of either the lipid mixture or one lipid in compressed CO2. With the fitted binary interactions parameters, the eutectic temperature of the ternary mixture is predicted to within 1°C of the experimental value in the range of pressure considered. The proposed evaluation method looks sufficiently accurate for representing multiphase equilibria of lipid mixtures in compressed CO2 and has direct application to gas‐assisted micronization processes such as PGSS (Particles from Gas‐Saturated Solution). © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Adsorption heterogeneity of lysozyme over functionalized mesoporous silica: Effect of interfacial noncovalent interactions
Authors: He Jing , Liu Zhijun , Hai Chunxi
Published: July 2008

In this work, the surface–protein interfacial noncovalent interactions are generated and tuned as hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic affinity, electrostatic interaction, and additional π‐π overlapping through designing suitable surface property with different chemical moieties and varying the pH of adsorption medium. The heterogeneity of lysozyme (Lz) adsorption is investigated. It has been found that the interfacial interactions of support surfaces and the protein play a key role in the adsorption kinetics, adsorption capacity, distribution states, and adsorption reversibility of Lz, while the protein–protein repulsion makes impact dependently on the nature of surface–protein interactions. The π‐π overlapping is another significantly crucial driving force in addition to the electrostatic force, hydrophobic interaction, and hydrogen bonding that commonly drive protein adsorption. But the hydrogen bonding between surface NH2 and Lz is exceptionally not sufficient to drive Lz adsorption. The adsorption of Lz on functionalized mesoporous silica is partial reversible and makes no damage on the protein secondary structure. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Morphometrics of wild black‐and‐white ruffed lemurs [Varecia variegata; Kerr, 1792]
Authors: Baden Andrea L. , Brenneman Rick A. , Louis Edward E.
Published: July 2008

This study presents the first detailed morphometric measurements of wild caught black‐and‐white ruffed lemurs (Varecia variegata) from the eastern rainforests of Madagascar and aims to quantify the morphological variation present throughout their recognized range. One hundred and forty‐four adult and juvenile individuals from 15 sites were sampled for 20 cranial, dental and postcranial morphometric and body mass measurements. Data were collected from an equal number of male and female individuals sampled across seasons over a 7‐year period (1999–2002, 2004–2006). Results indicate that adult body mass and morphometric measurements varied between sexes across sites; however, the only significant intersexual difference found was that females possessed, on average, longer tails than males. Contrary to previous studies, significant seasonal variation could not be detected in either male or female body mass or testicular volume (i.e., breeding vs. nonbreeding, food‐scarce vs. food‐abundant seasons). Measurements did, however, vary significantly by site and subspecies, though clinal variation could not explain these differences. The introduced population from Nosy Mangabe exhibited significantly lower body mass and overall body length than all other populations; however, this distinction may not have been attributable to natural variation, and may have instead resulted from the ecologically restrictive habitat (e.g., unusually high lemur population densities, limited food resources, ecological isolation) of this introduced population. Finally, although fore‐to‐hindlimb, brachium‐to‐thigh and hindlimb indices were comparable to previous values, forelimb indices calculated here deviate significantly from previous reports, placing V. variegata within the upper range of lemurid taxa. It is currently unknown whether this is an artifact of sampling methods (i.e., live vs. skeletal specimens) or whether this is an avenue that warrants further investigation. Am. J. Primatol. 70:913–926, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ecogeographic variation in human nasal passages
Authors: Yokley Todd R.
Published: July 2008

Theoretically, individuals whose ancestors evolved in cold and/or dry climates should have greater nasal mucosal surface area relative to air volume of the nasal passages than individuals whose ancestors evolved in warm, humid climates. A high surface‐area‐to‐volume (SA/V) ratio allows relatively more air to come in contact with the mucosa and facilitates more efficient heat and moisture exchange during inspiration and expiration, which would be adaptive in a cold, dry environment. Conversely, a low SA/V ratio is not as efficient at recapturing heat and moisture during expiration and allows for better heat dissipation, which would be adaptive in a warm, humid environment. To test this hypothesis, cross‐sectional measurements of the nasal passages that reflect surface area and volume were collected from a sample of CT scans of patients of European and African ancestry. Results indicate that individuals of European descent do have higher SA/V ratios than individuals of African descent, but only when decongested. Otherwise, the two groups show little difference. This pattern of variation may be due to selection for different SA/V configurations during times of physical exertion, which has been shown to elicit decongestion. Relationships between linear measurements of the skeletal nasal aperture and cavity and cross‐sectional dimensions were also examined. Contrary to predictions, the nasal index, the ratio of nasal breadth to nasal height, is not strongly correlated with internal dimensions. However, differences between the nasal indices of the two groups are highly significant. These results may be indicative of different adaptive solutions to the same problem. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rheological properties of cellulose/chitin xanthate blend solutions and properties of the prepared fibers
Authors: He Chunju , Sun Junfen , Ma Bomou , Wang Qingrui
Published: July 2008

The focus of this article is the rheological properties of cellulose xanthate, chitin xanthate, and their blend solutions with cellulose/chitin blend weight ratios of 9.5 : 0.5, 9 : 1, 8 : 2, and 5 : 5 (mostly 9 : 1 blend solutions). The preparation and properties of fibers from 9 : 1 blend solutions and cellulose xanthate solutions are also discussed. The non‐Newtonian index of the investigated solutions was found to vary in the following order: chitin < cellulose < 9.5 : 0.5 blend < 9 : 1 blend < 8 : 2 blend < 5 : 5 blend. Showing a tendency contrary to that of the non‐Newtonian index, the structure viscosity index varies in the following order: chitin > cellulose > 9.5 : 0.5 blend > 9 : 1 blend > 8 : 2 blend > 5 : 5 blend. For 5–9 wt % 9 : 1 blend solutions, increasing the solution temperature aids the improvement of the fluidity of 9 : 1 blend solutions in the temperature range of 10–40°C. The zero shear viscosity decreases in an index manner with the solution temperature increasing. The 7–8 wt % 9 : 1 blend solutions have good filtering and rheological properties and are ideal for spinning fibers. The mechanical properties of blend fibers spun from 7% 9 : 1 blend solutions are lower than those of pure cellulose and are much higher than those of Crabyon fiber, and they still reach the national criteria and fit the need for further processing. This proves that the viscose method which we have developed here is an efficient way of preparing cellulose/chitin blend fibers with satisfactory mechanical properties and processing properties. Scanning electron microscopy photographs show that the surface of 9 : 1 blend fibers is coarser than that of pure cellulose fibers. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation of sulfonated copolyimides containing aliphatic linkages as proton‐exchange membranes for fuel cell applications
Authors: Deligöz Hüseyin , Vantansever Sibel , Koç S. Naci , Öksüzömer Faruk , Özgümüş Saadet , Gürkaynak M. Ali
Published: July 2008

A series of random sulfonated copolyimides containing aliphatic linkages (co‐SPIAs) with controlled degrees of sulfonic acid groups were synthesized via a conventional two‐step polyimidization method. 2,4‐Diaminobenzene sulfonic acid (2,4‐DABS) and 1,6‐diaminohexane (DAH) were used as sulfonated aromatic diamine and nonsulfonated aliphatic diamine compounds, respectively. Mixtures of diamine compounds were reacted with benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) to obtain the co‐SPIAs. The molar ratios of DAH/2,4‐DABS were systematically varied to produce copolymers with controlled compositions that contained up to 70 mol % sulfonic acid moieties. The co‐SPIAs were evaluated for thermal oxidative stability, ion‐exchange capacity (IEC), water uptake, proton conductivity, solubility, and hydrolytic stability. The proton conductivity and hydrolytic stability of the co‐SPIAs were compared with the fully aromatic polyimide, sulfonated homo‐polyimide (homo‐SPI) (BTDA/2,4‐DABS). From thermogravimetric analysis, we observed desulfonation temperatures in the range 200–350°C, which suggested a high stability of the sulfonic acid groups. The co‐SPIAs with 40–70 mol % 2,4‐DABS showed higher proton conductivity than Nafion 117 in water. The proton conductivity values of the co‐SPIAs were mainly a function of IEC and water uptake. Furthermore, the hydrolytic stability of the 2,4‐DABS‐based sulfonated polyimide membranes were improved by the introduction of the nonsulfonated diamine with aliphatic linkages. The optimum concentration of 2,4‐DABS was found to be around 40 mol % from the viewpoint of proton conductivity, IEC, and hydrolytic stability. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Durability of the wettability properties of a polypropylene film with a low‐pressure CH4–O2 plasma treatment
Authors: Garcia D. , Fenollar O. , Lopez R. , Sanchis R. , Balart R.
Published: July 2008

The aim of this work was to study the durability of a polypropylene film plasma‐treated with an 80 : 20 methane–oxygen gas mixture. Three different storage conditions were used to evaluate the influence of the relative humidity and temperature on the aging process. The surface functionalization of the polypropylene film was analyzed with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and attenuated total reflectance/Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, and the variations of the surface energy and its polar and dispersive components were also investigated. The effects of this plasma treatment were similar to those of a plasma polymerization process, the ablation and polymerization mechanisms taking place simultaneously at the treated surface, but in this case, we obtained hydrophilic properties. The obtained results indicated an improvement of wettability and high durability of the plasma‐treated polypropylene film. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Zinc lactate‐catalyzed ring‐opening polymerization of trimethylene carbonate under microwave irradiation
Authors: Zhang Chao , Liao Liqiong , Gong Shaoqin
Published: July 2008

Microwave‐assisted ring‐opening polymerization (MROP) of trimethylene carbonate (TMC) was carried out with four different types of zinc lactate, as the catalyst. Poly(trimethylene carbonate)s (PTMC) with a number–average molar mass ranging from 2990 to 75,410 g/mol and a TMC conversion ranging from 85.2% to 98.2% were synthesized effectively in 30 min at 120°C under microwave irradiation. The effects of the catalyst type, catalyst concentration, and microwave irradiation time on the MROP of TMC were studied. The MROP of TMC was much faster than that under conventional heating conditions. Thermal analysis suggested that PTMC with higher molar mass exhibited higher glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal stability. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Rheological properties of progesterone microemulsions: Influence of xanthan and chitosan biopolymer concentration
Authors: Corrias F. , Dolz M. , Herraez M. , Diez‐Sales O.
Published: July 2008

In this preformulations study, rheological properties of microemulsions with progesterone (1%) were studied to analyze the effect of xanthan and chitosan at different concentrations (0.5–3%). Steady shear and oscillatory rheological properties were analyzed using a controlled stress rheometer. Steady shear data were satisfactorily adjusted to the Carreau model. For all preparations, shear‐thinning behavior was observed. Zero shear viscosity (η0) increased with the biopolymer concentration. The results from dynamic experiments showed the behavior of all preparations with xanthan gum and those of chitosan to be characteristic of weak gels and liquid‐like solutions, respectively. The correlation between dynamic and steady‐shear properties (extended Cox‐Merz rule) was satisfactory for the two polymers. The recovery analysis of microemulsions with xanthan showed a total recovery percentage of 90% for the highest concentrations of this polymer. However, microemulsions with chitosan showed practically no recovery. Progesterone release was greater for the microemulsions with chitosan. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Nanocomposite particles with core‐shell morphology. I. Preparation and characterization of Fe3O4–poly(butyl acrylate‐styrene) particles via miniemulsion polymerization
Authors: Mahdavian Ali Reza , Ashjari Mohsen , Mobarakeh Hamid Salehi
Published: July 2008

Colloidal particles with magnetic properties have become increasingly important both technologically and for fundamental studies. Here, chemical initiator‐free miniemulsion polymerization of styrene and butyl acrylate has been performed for preparation of magnetic nanocomposite particles with the diameter of 81–150 nm in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate as surfactant, span 80 as stabilizer, and hexadecane as hydrophobe. The polymerization reaction was initiated and progressed under ultrasonic irradiation, generated by immersed probe into the latex. The key point in achievement of encapsulation of modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles was preparation of a stable colloidal dispersion at the end of the reaction. The obtained products in each step were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy. Dynamic light scattering analysis was used to follow particle size diameter of the samples. Morphology of the particles and formation of core‐shell structure were analyzed by SEM and TEM micrographs, respectively. TGA and magnetometry of the polymeric films confirmed the extent of insertion of used magnetite and their corresponding behavior. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some Novel 2‐Aminothiazole Derivatives of 4‐Hydroxy‐chromene‐2‐one
Authors: Vukovic Nenad , Sukdolak Slobodan , Solujic Slavica , Milosevic Tanja
Published: July 2008

Syntheses of 2‐aminothiazole derivatives of 4‐hydroxy‐chromene‐2‐one 2c–10c are reported in this paper. These compounds 2c–10c were prepared from 3‐(2‐bromoacetyl)‐4‐hydroxy‐chromene‐2‐one 1 and corresponding thiourea derivatives 2b–10b using Hantzsch reaction. The structures of all compounds were confirmed by IR and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The molecules 2c–10c were evaluated for in vitro antimicrobial activity against ten bacteria and twelve fungi. All tested compounds exhibited antibacterial and antifungal activity.
Perceptions and importance of user friendliness of IR systems according to users' individual characteristics and academic discipline
Authors: Vilar Polona , Žumer Maja
Published: July 2008

This article presents one part of a wider study, performed at the Department of library and information science and book studies (LIS & BS) at the University of Ljubljana (UL). The study investigated the perceptions of user friendliness of information‐retrieval systems (IRS) and the role of individual characteristics of users in these perceptions. Based on an expert study, a user study with 61 postgraduate students of the UL was performed. Three interfaces of e‐journals were studied: Science Direct, Proquest Direct, and Ebsco Host. Questionnaires and observations were used for data collection. The users'perceptions of user friendliness and of importance of auxiliary functions were investigated. Also, the connections between these perceptions and the users'individual characteristics were identified. Three sets of individual characteristics were included: approaches to studying, thinking styles, and hemisphere leanings. In connection with the dimensions of individual characteristics, very different perceptions of user friendliness were expressed. Some dimensions of individual characteristics were also found to be connected to the users'academic areas. It is shown that participants from different academic areas have different requirements and perceptions of user friendliness. The results of the study are relevant for the design of the user interfaces of disciplinary IR systems. They also have implications for other areas, for example, user education and training.
Pharmacokinetics of budesonide and formoterol administered via a series of single‐drug and combination inhalers: four open‐label, randomized, crossover studies in healthy adults
Authors: Eklund Annika , Tronde Ann , Johannes‐Hellberg Ingegerd , Gillen Michael , Borgström Lars
Published: July 2008

Objective: To investigate the pharmacokinetics of budesonide and formoterol administered concomitantly in healthy adults.

Methods: Three single‐dose, open‐label crossover studies (n=28 each) were conducted (Study I: budesonide pMDI, formoterol DPI, budesonide pMDI+formoterol DPI; Study II: budesonide/formoterol pMDI, budesonide pMDI+formoterol DPI; Study III: budesonide/formoterol pMDI [three budesonide formulation strengths; constant formoterol]). Study IV (n=28) assessed steady state pharmacokinetics (budesonide/formoterol pMDI [two/four inhalations twice daily, 5‐day treatment; four inhalations, single‐dose]).

Results: Study I: no pharmacokinetic interactions were observed between budesonide and formoterol. Study II:AUCratios were 97.9% (budesonide) and 82.2% (formoterol) (budesonide/formoterol pMDI versus budesonide pMDI+formoterol DPI). Study III: formoterolAUCwas comparable across budesonide/formoterol pMDI formulation strengths; budesonideAUCincreased with formulation strength in proportion to fine particle dose. Study IV: dose proportionality was demonstrated for budesonide (AUCratio, 104.3%) and suggested for formoterol (AUCratio, 117.6%) with budesonide/formoterol pMDI (steady state); budesonide and formoterolAUCwas higher with repeated versus single‐dose budesonide/formoterol pMDI (four inhalations).

Conclusions: No pharmacokinetic interactions were observed between budesonide and formoterol. Budesonide dose variation in budesonide/formoterol pMDI did not affect formoterol exposure. Steady state budesonide/formoterol pMDI dose‐doubling yielded proportional increases in budesonide and formoterol exposure. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of gender in the oral pharmacokinetics of clindamycin in humans
Authors: Carrasco‐Portugal Miriam del Carmen , Luján Miguel , Flores‐Murrieta Francisco Javier
Published: July 2008

Clindamycin is an antimicrobial agent metabolized by CYP3A4. Gender may influence the pharmacokinetics of drugs metabolized by this pathway, however, no information about differences in the pharmacokinetics of clindamycin in men and women is available. The purpose of this study was to evaluate gender differences in clindamycin oral pharmacokinetics. Twenty‐four subjects (11 men and 13 women) received an oral 600 mg dose of clindamycin under fasting conditions and plasma concentrations were obtained at selected times during 12 h. Increased plasma levels were observed in women, but when the dose was normalized by the body weight of individuals, these differences disappeared, indicating that gender does not play an important role in the pharmacokinetics of this drug. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fungal sex genes—searching for the ancestors
Authors: Casselton Lorna A.
Published: July 2008

The sex‐determining genes of fungi reside at one or two specialised regions of the chromosome known as the mating type (MAT) loci. The genes are sufficient to determine haploid cell identity, enable compatible mating partners to attract each other, and prepare cells for sexual reproduction after fertilisation. How conserved are these genes in different fungal groups? New work1 seeks an answer to this question by identifying the sex‐determining regions of an early diverged fungus. These regions bear remarkable similarity to those described in other fungi, but the sex proteins they encode belong to only a single class of transcription factor, the high mobility group (HMG), indicating that these are likely to be ancestral to other proteins recruited for fungal sex. BioEssays 30:711–714, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The core endodermal gene network of vertebrates: combining developmental precision with evolutionary flexibility
Authors: Woodland Hugh R. , Zorn Aaron M.
Published: July 2008

Embryonic development combines paradoxical properties: it has great precision, it is usually conducted at breakneck speed and it is flexible on relatively short evolutionary time scales, particularly at early stages. While these features appear mutually exclusive, we consider how they may be reconciled by the properties of key early regulatory networks. We illustrate these ideas with the network that controls development of endoderm progenitors. We argue that this network enables precision because of its intrinsic stability, self propagation and dependence on signalling. The network enables high developmental speed because it is rapidly established by maternal inputs at multiple points. In turn these properties confer flexibility on an evolutionary time scale because they can be initiated in many ways, while buffering essential progenitor cell populations against changes in their embryonic environment on both evolutionary and developmental time scales. Although stable, these networks must be capable of rapid dissolution as cell differentiation progresses. While we focus on the core early endodermal network of vertebrates, we argue that these properties are likely to be general in early embryonic stem cell populations, such as mammalian ES cells. BioEssays 30:757–765, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.