bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tenofovir: Once-daily Dosage in the Management of HIV Infection
Authors: James Amanda Marie , Ofotokun Igho , Sheth Anandi , Acosta Edward P. , King Jennifer R.
Published: July 2012

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), a prodrug of tenofovir, is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It is administered orally at 300 mg once daily in combination with an additional nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), typically emtricitabine, and an additional antiretroviral such as a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), an integrase inhibitor or a protease inhibitor (PI). After hydrolysis in the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract, tenofovir is taken up by cells and subsequently phosphorylated to the active tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) moiety. TFV-DP is incorporated into viral DNA and terminates DNA elongation. Tenofovir is excreted by the kidneys through glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Although few drug-drug interactions occur, tenofovir plasma concentrations may increase in the presence of other renally eliminated drugs. Safety and efficacy of TDF have been demonstrated in treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patients. Although generally well tolerated, some studies suggest an increased risk for adverse events, such as bone toxicity and/or nephrotoxicity with long term TDF use. Patient adherence to TDF-containing regimens is improved over other antiretrovirals due to its once daily administration and low toxicity profile. Its use as pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV is currently being investigated.
Validating the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile and Examining its Ability to Screen Sensory Processing Difficulties among Israeli People
Authors: Engel-Yeger Batya
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to (1) validate the Hebrew version of the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP); (2) screen sensory processing difficulties, as expressed in daily living in a vast range of ages of healthy Israeli adolescents, adults and older people; and (3) examine gender effect on sensory processing in the different age groups.

Findings:

Good internal consistency was found for each of the AASP quadrants, although factor analysis did not find total similarity between the Hebrew version of the AASP and the original AASP. Sensory processing difficulties were shown by 22–42% of the participants in the different age groups. Older participants had lower tendency for Sensation Seeking. Females were more sensitive than males in the age groups of 11–17 years and 18–64 years.

Conclusion:

In general, the Hebrew version of the AASP was found to be valid and succeeded in profiling sensory processing difficulties along the life span of typical Israeli adolescents and adults. Further studies should apply the Hebrew version of the AASP to screen sensory processing difficulties among individuals with disabilities and elaborate their impact on people's performance/participation in daily activities.
Modelled interannual variability of vertical organic matter export related to phytoplankton bloom dynamics – a case-study for the NW Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Bernardello R. , Cardoso J. G. , Bahamon N. , Donis D. , Marinov I. , Cruzado A.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. Mid-latitude spring blooms of phytoplankton show considerable year-to-year variability in timing, spatial extent and intensity. It is still unclear to what degree the bloom variability is connected to the magnitude of the vertical flux of organic matter. A coupled three-dimensional hydrodynamic-biogeochemical model is used to relate interannual variability in phytoplankton spring-bloom dynamics to variability in the vertical export of organic matter in the NW Mediterranean Sea. Simulation results from 2001 to 2010, validated against remote sensing chlorophyll, show marked interannual variability in both timing and shape of the bloom. Model results show a tendency for the bloom to start later after cold and windy winters. However, the onset of the bloom occurs often when the mixed layer is still several hundred meters deep while the heat flux is already approaching zero. Frequency and intensity of wind episodes control both timing and development of the bloom and the consequent export flux of organic matter. The wintertime flux is greater than zero and shows relatively low interannual variability. The magnitude of this variability is mainly determined in March when the frequency of windy days correlates positively with the export flux. Frequent wind-driven mixing episodes act to increase the export flux and, at the same time, to interrupt the bloom. Our analysis shows that years with discontinuous, low-chlorophyll blooms are likely to have higher export flux than years with undisturbed intense blooms. The area of the study shows strong analogy with the part of the North Atlantic within the same latitude range. Hence, our results may be applicable to quantitatively more important areas of the world oceans.
Tightened constraints on the time-lag between Antarctic temperature and CO2 during the last deglaciation
Authors: Pedro J. B. , Rasmussen S. O. , van Ommen T. D.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. Antarctic ice cores provide clear evidence of a close coupling between variations in Antarctic temperature and the atmospheric concentration of CO2 during the glacial/interglacial cycles of at least the past 800-thousand years. Precise information on the relative timing of the temperature and CO2 changes can assist in refining our understanding of the physical processes involved in this coupling. Here, we focus on the last deglaciation, 19 000 to 11 000 yr before present, during which CO2 concentrations increased by ~80 parts per million by volume and Antarctic temperature increased by ~10 °C. Utilising a recently developed proxy for regional Antarctic temperature, derived from five near-coastal ice cores and two ice core CO2 records with high dating precision, we show that the increase in CO2 likely lagged the increase in regional Antarctic temperature by less than 400 yr and that even a short lead of CO2 over temperature cannot be excluded. This result, consistent for both CO2 records, implies a faster coupling between temperature and CO2 than previous estimates, which had permitted up to millennial-scale lags.
Ultrasound Guided Supraclavicular Central vein Cannulation in Adults: A Technical Report
Authors: Bertini Pietro , Frediani Massimo
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Ultrasound-guided (USG) central vein cannulation has become very popular among anesthesiologists and critical care physicians in the last decade and it has been advocated as the gold standard practice for internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization.

Methods

We report a technique used at our second level hospital for cannulating either subclavian vein or innominate vein using a supraclavicular (SCV) approach under real time ultrasound guidance for elective positioning of long, medium or short-term central venous catheters (CVC). We report one year of practice.

Results

A total of 347 intravascular devices were positioned; successful USG SCV cannulation with no complication, failure or malposition was reported in 119 cases.

Conclusions

The SCV approach under ultrasound guidance is feasible and safe.
On the Economic Rationality of Fluctuations in Tourist Frequentation at Nature-Based Destinations: The Case of Corsican Seaside Hotels
Authors: Giannoni Sauveur
Published: July 2012

This paper answers a simple question: are fluctuations, and especially temporary slowdowns or decline, in frequentation always harmful for a tourist destination? The author proposes a simple theoretical model for a nature-based destination, in which a tourist's willingness to pay (WTP) depends on the environmental quality of the place. He hypothesizes that, at some points in time, there is a rational economic incentive to experience a temporary decrease in frequentation in order to allow the stock of natural assets to regenerate. The author uses a sample of 80 seaside hotels in Corsica to show that tourists' WTP for a night stay depends positively on environmental quality. The results indicate that a deterioration of the environmental quality of the destination would reduce the WTP for a night stay in Corsica by more than 25%. This finding tends to confirm the paper's initial hypothesis since, if the environmental quality of Corsica falls, rational hotel owners should ask for a limited and temporary slowdown in frequentation so that the environmental quality and the WTP can regain a higher and more profitable level.
Veterans—An untapped resource to mitigate the upcoming workforce crisis
Authors: McCain Katie
Published: July 2012

Using federal, state, and local resources, utilities facing workforce shortages can connect with veterans and tap into the varied skill sets they bring from their military service experience.
Committee Report: Awareness, assessment, and road map development‐key elements for knowledge management
Authors:   AWWA Workforce Strategies Committee
Published: July 2012

Results of a recent workshop at AWWA's 2012 Utility Management Conference in Miami, Florida, are summarized in this committee report from the AWWA Knowledge Management Subcommittee of the Workforce Strategies Committee.
Toxic Effects Observed on Light Weight Proteins of Musca domestica with Pb(CH3COO)2
Authors: Rizwanul Haq  , Ehteshamul Haq  , M. Farhanullah Khan
Published: July 2012

Lead is considered to be an important noxious waste which could contaminate the environment, such as soil, air and water, therefore, insects could be influenced easily by the lead. Musca domestica, was studied at 48 hours post treatment, under the effects of lead acetate, in different concentrations. It was observed that under the effects of lead abnormalities and deformity were developed in the larvae of flies. Thus these flies could present a useful module for the quick transmission of the environmental hazards due to lead contamination, which exerts a specific physiological and morphological effect on these flies.
Large-Scale Survey of Unselected Automated Visual Fields in a Major Reading Center: Patterns and Data Analysis
Authors: Zborowski-Naveh Lilly , Ehrlich Rita , Luski Moshe , Weinberger Dov , Boaz Mona , Gaton Dan D.
Published: July 2012

A prospective, randomized study was conducted to survey a large number of automated perimetry examinations in a central reading institute, obtaining practical information on unselected referred patients and their clinician “consumers”. Visual field records of 1041 patients were obtained, each evaluated by one of three glaucoma specialists. Statistical analysis was applied on demographics, physician characteristics, test reliability and visual field scores. Reliability was scored on a scale of 1 (excellent) to 5 (uninterpretable). Data from earlier examinations of these patients was also analyzed. The large majority of patients (70.4%) were referred due to glaucoma, ocular hypertension or suspected glaucoma. Most of the patients had threshold strategies: FastPac 24-2 or 30-2 (88.9%), Full Threshold (0.7%), and 10-2 (0.5%). In only 7 patients was short-wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP) performed. The Swedish Interactive Testing Algorithm (SITA) was applied in 1.0% of cases. More than half (56.8%) of the population had a reliability score of 1, and 22.7% had a score of 2, indicating a valid result for 79.4% of patients, providing clinically useful information. Linear regression analyses indicated that the Mean Defect was a better predictor of the visual field score than the Corrected Pattern Standard Deviation (CPSD), for the entire group and for each visual field score subgroup.
Congenital Pulmonary Malformation in Children
Authors: Nadeem Montasser , Elnazir Basil , Greally Peter
Published: July 2012

Congenital Pulmonary Malformations (CPMs) are a group of rare lung abnormalities affecting the airways, parenchyma, and vasculature. They represent a spectrum of abnormal development rather than discrete pathological entities. They are caused by aberrant embryological lung development which occurs at different stages of intrauterine life.
Diagnosing Eosinophilic Colitis: Histopathological Pattern or Nosological Entity?
Authors: Bates Alan W. H.
Published: July 2012

Reports of  “eosinophilic colitis”—raised colonic mucosal eosinophil density in patients with lower gastrointestinal symptoms—have increased markedly over the last fifteen years, though it remains a rarity. There is no consensus over its diagnosis and management, and uncertainty is compounded by the use of the same term to describe an idiopathic increase in colonic eosinophils and an eosinophilic inflammatory reaction to known aetiological agents such as parasites or drugs. In patients with histologically proven colonic eosinophilia, it is important to seek out underlying causes and careful clinicopathological correlation is advised. Because of the variability of eosinophil density in the normal colon, it is recommended that histological reports of colonic eosinophilia include a quantitative morphometric assessment of eosinophil density, preferably across several sites. Few reported cases of “eosinophilic colitis” meet these criteria. As no correlation has been shown between colonic eosinophil density and symptoms in older children or adults, it is suggested that treatment should be directed towards alleviation of symptoms and response to treatment assessed clinically rather than by histological estimates of intramucosal eosinophils.
Comparative Analysis of the Full-Length Genome Sequence of a Clinical Isolate ofHuman Parainfluenza Virus 4B
Authors: Lednicky John A. , Waltzek Thomas B. , Halpern Micah D. , Hamilton Sara B.
Published: July 2012

We are engaged in airborne transmission and epidemiology studies of respiratory pathogens, with particular interest inhuman parainfluenza virustype 4 (hPIV-4) and other lesser studied viruses. In this paper, hPIV-4 was detected in primary rhesus monkey kidney (PRMK) cells that had been inoculated with nasopharyngeal swab material obtained from a child with a mild upper respiratory tract illness. Attempts to isolate the virus in pure culture were hampered by the presence of a fast-growing simian spumavirus that was a contaminant of the PRMK cells. Total RNA was extracted from the PRMK cell culture, and PCR followed by sequencing of a subgenomic section of thefusion proteingene suggested the hPIV-4 was subtype 4B. At the time of this work, two complete but dissimilar hPIV-4B genomes had been deposited by others in GenBank. To gain better insights on hPIV-4B, and to test methods that we are developing for viral forensics, the entire genomic sequence of our virus was determined from archived RNA. The hPIV-4B genomic sequence that we determined conforms to the paramyxovirus “rule of six.” Here, we compare and contrast the genetic features of the three completely sequenced hPIV-4B genomes currently present in GenBank.
The Evolution of the Appendectomy: From Open to Laparoscopic to Single Incision
Authors: Switzer Noah J. , Gill Richdeep S. , Karmali Shahzeer
Published: July 2012

Beginning with its initial description by Fitz in the 19th century, acute appendicitis has been a significant long-standing medical challenge; today it remains the most common gastrointestinal emergency in adults. Already in 1894, McBurney advocated for the surgical removal of the inflamed appendix and is credited with the initial description of an Open Appendectomy (OA). With the introduction of minimally invasive surgery, this classic approach evolved into a procedure with multiple, smaller incisions; a technique termed Laparoscopic Appendectomy (LA). There is much literature describing the advantages of this newer approach. To name a few, patients have significantly less wound infections, reduced pain, and a reduction in ileus compared with the OA. In the past few years, Single Incision Laparoscopic Appendectomy (SILA) has gained popularity as the next major evolutionary advancement in the removal of the appendix. Described as a pioneer in the era of “scarless surgery,” it involves only one transumbilical incision. Patients are postulated to have reduced post-operative complications such as infection, hernias, and hematomas, as well as a quicker recovery time and less post-operative pain scores, in comparison to its predecessors. In this review, we explore the advancement of the appendectomy from open to laparoscopic to single incision.
Relabeling the Medications We Call Antidepressants
Authors: Antonuccio David , Healy David
Published: July 2012

This paper raises the question about whether the data on the medications we call antidepressants justify the label of antidepressant. The authors argue that a true antidepressant should be clearly superior to placebo, should offer a risk/benefit balance that exceeds that of alternative treatments, should not increase suicidality, should not increase anxiety and agitation, should not interfere with sexual functioning, and should not increase depression chronicity. Unfortunately, these medications appear to fall short on all of these dimensions. Many of the “side effects” of these medications have larger effect sizes than the antidepressant effect size. To call these medications antidepressants may make sense from a marketing standpoint but may be misleading from a scientific perspective. Consumers deserve a label that more accurately reflects the data on the largest effects and helps them understand the range of effects from these medications. In other words, it may make just as much sense to call these medications antiaphrodisiacs as antidepressants because the negative effects on libido and sexual functioning are so common. It can be argued that a misleading label may interfere with our commitment to informed consent. Therefore, it may be time to stop calling these medications antidepressants.
LaPO4 Mineral Liquid Crystalline Suspensions with Outstanding Colloidal Stability for Electro‐Optical Applications
Authors: Kim Jongwook , de la Cotte Alexis , Deloncle Rodolphe , Archambeau Samuel , Biver Claudine , Cano Jean‐Paul , Lahlil Khalid , Boilot Jean‐Pierre , Grelet Eric , Gacoin Thierry
Published: July 2012

Mineral liquid crystals are materials in which mineral's intrinsic properties are combined with the self‐organization behavior of colloids. However, the use of such a system for practical application, such as optical switching, has rarely been demonstrated due to the fundamental drawbacks of colloidal systems such as limited dispersion stability. Studying colloidal suspensions of LaPO4 nanorods, it is found that drastic improvement of colloidal stability can be obtained through a transfer of particles from water towards ethylene glycol, thus enabling the investigation of liquid crystalline properties of these concentrated suspensions. Using polarization microscopy and small‐angle x‐ray scattering (SAXS), self‐organization into nematic and columnar mesophases is observed enabling the determination of the whole phase diagram as a function of ionic strength and rod volume fraction. When an external alternative electric field is applied, a very efficient orientation of the nanorods in the liquid‐crystalline suspension is obtained, which is associated with a significant optical birefringence. These properties, combined with the high colloidal stability, are promising for the use of such high transparent and athermal material in electro‐optical devices.
Electrically Induced Disassembly of Electroactive Multilayer Films Fabricated from Water Soluble Polythiophenes
Authors: Mawad Damia , Molino Paul J. , Gambhir Sanjeev , Locke Julie M. , Officer David L. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: July 2012

A novel approach to induce disassembly of electroactive multilayer films fabricated by the layer by layer assembly technique is reported. Electroactive multilayer films are constructed using water soluble polythiophenes, i.e., negatively charged poly[ammonium (3‐thienyl)ethoxypropanesulfonate] (SPT) and positively charged poly[3‐(3′‐thienyloxy)ethyltriethylammonium] (APT). “Induced” dissolution of the films in response to applied potential is investigated using a quartz crystal microbalance equipped with an electrochemical cell module (EC‐QCM‐D). Disassembly of the films is observed in response to three different potentials: +650, –650, and ±650 mV; however the time for dissolution varies as a function of the potential with films subject to +650 mV dissolving fully in 19 h compared to 42 h for films subject to –650 mV. These electroactive films and their controlled dissolution under applied potential represent an attractive architectural feature for bionic devices that could benefit from their conductivity and dissolution over time.
Biochemical and genetic analyses of childhood attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Caylak Emrah
Published: July 2012

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children is a neurobehavioral disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. The biochemical abnormalities and genetic factors play significant roles in the etiology of ADHD. These symptoms affect the behavior performance and social relationships of children in school and at home. Recently, many studies about biochemical abnormalities in ADHD have been published. Several research groups have also suggested the genetic contribution to ADHD, and attempted to identify susceptibility and candidate genes for this disorder through the genetic linkage and association studies. To date, these studies have reported substantial evidence implicating several genes (dopaminergic: DRD4, DAT1, DRD5, COMT; noradrenergic: DBH, ADRA2A; serotonergic: 5‐HTT, HTR1B, HTR2A; cholinergic: CHRNA4, and central nervous system development pathway: SNAP25, BDNF) in the etiology of ADHD. Understanding the biochemistry and genetics of ADHD will allow us to provide a useful addition with other treatment procedures for ADHD. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Integrative Biology of Reproductive Functioning in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: DETTMER AMANDA M.
Published: July 2012

At the 34th annual meeting of the American Society of Primatologists in 2011, the society organized an interdisciplinary symposium entitled, “Reproductive Function & Dysfunction in Nonhuman Primates.” The articles in this special section, excluding this introduction, represent the findings presented by four of the five speakers in that symposium. The data presented highlight the myriad factors that contribute to primate reproductive function and dysfunction, including hormones, genes, maternal variance, environmental factors, social relationships, and strategic interactions. Collectively, these articles emphasize the integrative nature of primate reproductive function, and highlight the importance of the nonhuman primate as a model for human reproductive function and dysfunction in humans. Am. J. Primatol. 75:197‐201, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Event‐by‐event simulation of quantum phenomena
Authors: De Raedt H. , Michielsen K.
Published: July 2012

A discrete‐event simulation approach is reviewed that does not require the knowledge of the solution of the wave equation of the whole system, yet reproduces the statistical distributions of wave theory by generating detection events one‐by‐one. The simulation approach is illustrated by applications to a two‐beam interference experiment and two Bell test experiments, an Einstein‐Podolsky‐Rosen‐Bohm experiment with single photons employing post‐selection for pair identification and a single‐neutron Bell test interferometry experiment with nearly 100 % detection efficiency.
Role of 208Pb daughter nucleus and nuclear shell effects in trans‐lead cluster radioactivity by emission of neon clusters from 218–236U isotopes
Authors: Swamy G.S. , Umesh T.K.
Published: July 2012

In the present work, the cluster radioactivity of even A uranium isotopes (218–236U) with the emission of both alpha‐like and non‐alpha‐like neon clusters (20,22,24,26,28Ne) was studied. The decimal logarithm of half‐lives (expressed in seconds) were calculated by three different approaches based on (i) the single line of Universal curve (UNIV) for alpha and cluster radioactive decay, (ii) the Universal Decay law (UDL) and (iii) by considering a fission‐like model in which the interacting nuclear potential barrier was taken to be the sum of Coulomb and proximity potentials (CPPM) respectively. Based on the half‐lives calculated by using the three different approaches mentioned above, significance of the role of 208Pb nucleus (doubly magic nucleus) and nuclear shell effects in trans‐lead cluster radioactivity were investigated. The calculated half‐lives have also been compared with available experimental results. It was observed that cluster decay modes leading to the formation of 208Pb daughter nucleus have the lowest half‐lives. This implies that there is a shell closure at proton number (Z) = 82 and neutron number (N) = 126. Hence, it confirms the existence of nuclear shell effect and stresses the significance of role of 208Pb daughter nucleus in the trans‐lead cluster radioactivity. It can be noticed that the calculated half‐lives for several cluster decay modes are well within the present experimental upper limit for measurements (T1/2 < 1030S). These results may be useful for future experiments.
Multiple dark matter as a self‐regulating mechanism for dark sector interactions
Authors: Baldi M.
Published: July 2012

A wide range of astrophysical and cosmological observations support the evidence that the energy density of the Universe is presently largely dominated by particles and fields that do not belong to the standard model of particle physics. Such cosmic dark sector appears to be made of two distinct entities capable to account for the growth of large‐scale structures and for the observed acceleration of the expansion rate of the Universe, respectively dubbed dark matter and dark energy. Nevertheless, the fundamental nature of these two dark components has so far remained mysterious. In the currently accepted scenario dark matter is associated to a single new massive and weakly interacting particle beyond the standard model, while dark energy is assumed to be a simple cosmological constant. However, present cosmological constraints and the absence of a direct detection and identification of any dark matter particle candidate leave room to the possibility that the dark sector of the Universe be actually more complex than it is normally assumed. In particular, more than one new fundamental particle could be responsible for the observed dark matter density in the Universe, and possible new interactions between dark energy and dark matter might characterize the dark sector. In the present work, the possibility that two dark matter particles may exist in nature is investigated. These different species are assumed to have identical physical properties except for the sign of their coupling constant to dark energy. Extending previous works on similar scenarios, the evolution of the background cosmology as well as the growth of linear density perturbations for a wide range of parameters of such multiple dark matter model is studied. Interestingly, the results show how the simple assumption that dark matter particles carry a “charge” with respect to their interaction with the dark energy field allows for new long‐range scalar forces of gravitational strength in the dark sector without conflicting with present observations both at the background and linear levels. The presented scenario does not introduce new parameters with respect to the case of a single dark matter species for which such strong dark interactions have been already ruled out. Therefore, the present investigation suggests that only a detailed study of nonlinear structure formation processes might possibly provide effective constraints on new scalar interactions of gravitational strength in the dark sector.
Protein folding – simplicity in complexity
Authors: Lin M.M. , Zewail A.H.
Published: July 2012

Understanding and predicting protein folding would elucidate how misfolded proteins cause aggregation and amyloid formation, for example in Alzheimer's disease. Despite the seemingly bewildering complexity of protein biology, simple analytic models can still capture the basic physics and predict the fundamental limits for protein domain size and folding speed.
Improving the flame retardancy of the polypropylene/aramid fiber composites by the introduction of decabromodiphenyl ethane and antimony trioxide
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Sui , Xu Guo‐Zhi , Zhang Sheng , Zhang Rong , Sun Jun , Dong Ming‐Zhe , Zhu Xin‐Jun , Liu Wei
Published: July 2012

Our previous study showed that aramid fibers (AFs) could significantly enhance the mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP) composites; for example, the tensile strength of PP/AF composites with 30 wt % AF increased by 65.6%, whereas the Izod notched impact strength was almost five times that of pure PP. However, the fire performance of the PP/AF composites was not ideal. In this study, decabromodiphenyl ethane and antimony trioxide [Sb2O3; decabromodiphenyl ethane–antimony trioxide (D–S)] were introduced to improve the flame retardancy of PP/D–S/AF composites. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to investigate the possible chemical reaction between the phosphate coupling agent and AFs. The mechanical properties of the PP composites were evaluated by tensile, flexural, and impact tests. The flame retardancy was characterized by limiting oxygen index and UL‐94 burning tests. The thermal properties of the PP composites was also investigated by combined thermogravimetry–differential thermal analysis. The results show that good interfacial adhesion between the fibers and the PP matrix was formed in the presence of the phosphate coupling agent. The flame retardancy and mechanical properties of the PP/D–S/AF composites were significantly improved by the incorporation of AFs and D–S. The sample containing 30 wt % D–S and 20 wt % AF reached V‐0 in the UL‐94 test. The maximal char residue of PP/D–S/AF was up to 15.5%, which was 115% higher than that of PP/D–S. A possible synergism of the flame retardancy between the AFs and D–S is proposed and discussed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Alignment and properties of carbon nanotube buckypaper/liquid crystalline polymer composites
Authors: Chang Chi‐Yung , Phillips Erin M. , Liang Richard , Tozer Stanley W. , Wang Ben , Zhang Chuck , Chiu Hsien‐Tang
Published: July 2012

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been recognized as a potential superior reinforcement for high‐performance, multifunctional composites. However, non‐uniform CNT dispersion within the polymer matrix, the lack of adequate adhesion between the constituents of the composites, and lack of nanotube alignment have hindered significant improvements in composite performance. In this study, we present the development of a layer‐by‐layer assembly method to produce high mechanical performance and electrical conductivity CNT‐reinforced liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) composites using CNT sheets or buckypaper (BP) and self‐reinforcing polyphenylene resin, Parmax. The Parmax/BP composite morphology, X‐ray diffraction, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties have been investigated. SEM observations and X‐ray diffraction demonstrate alignment of the CNTs due to flow‐induced orientational ordering of LCP chains. The tensile strength and Young's modulus of the Parmax/BP nanocomposites with 6.23 wt % multi‐walled carbon nanotube content were 390 MPa and 33 GPa, respectively, which were substantially improved when compared to the neat LCP. Noticeable improvements in the thermal stability and glass transition temperature with increasing CNT content due to the restriction in chain mobility imposed by the CNTs was demonstrated. Moreover, the electrical conductivity of the composites increased sharply to 100.23 S/cm (from approximately 10−13 S/cm) with the addition of CNT BP. These results suggest that the developed approach would be an effective method to fabricate high‐performance, multifunctional CNT/LCP nanocomposites. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Preparation and characterization of electrospun Antheraea pernyi silk fibroin nanofibers from aqueous solution
Authors: He Jianxin , Cheng Yanmin , Cui Shizhong
Published: July 2012

Antheraea pernyi silk fibroin nanofibers were prepared from aqueous solution with electrospinning. The viscosity and conductivity values of the A. pernyi silk fibroin aqueous solutions with different concentrations were measured, and the morphologies of the prepared electrospun nanofibers were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The morphologies of the electrospun nanofibers changed from beadlike to uniform cylindrical and then to beltlike. The A. pernyi silk fibroin aqueous solution with a concentration of 31% exhibited good spinnability, in which uniform and regular nanofibers with an average diameter of 422 nm were obtained. The secondary structure of the electrospun A. pernyi silk fibroin nanofibers was studied by solid 13C‐NMR cross‐polarization/magic angle spinning spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. The as‐spun A. pernyi silk fibroin nanofibers presented a complete α‐helix/random coil structure, and no β‐sheet structure was observed. After insoluble treatment with water vapor, α‐helix and β‐sheet conformations coexisted in the A. pernyi silk fibroin nanofibers, and the β‐sheet conformation was predominant. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Comparison of the nanoparticles performance in the photocatalytic degradation of a styrene–butadiene rubber nanocomposite
Authors: Arantes Tatiane M. , Sala Renata L. , Leite Edson R. , Longo Elson , Camargo Emerson R.
Published: July 2012

Much has been talking about the advantages of polymeric nanocomposites, but little is known about the influence of nanoparticles on the stability of these materials. In this sense, we studied the influence of both oxides of zirconium and titanium, known to have photocatalytic properties, as well as the influence of synthetic clay Laponite on the photodegradation of styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR). SBR nanocomposites were prepared by the colloidal route by mixing commercial polymer lattices and nanometric anatase TiO2, monoclinic ZrO2 or exfoliated Laponite clays colloidal suspensions. To better understand the degradation mechanisms that occur in these nanocomposites, the efficiency of different photocatalysts under ultraviolet radiation was monitored by FT‐IR and UV–vis spectroscopies and by differential scanning calorimetric. It was observed that TiO2 and ZrO2 nanoparticles undoubtedly acted as catalysts during the photodegradation process with different efficiencies and rates. However, when compared to pure SBR samples, the polymer degradation mechanism was unaffected. Unlike studies with nanocomposites montmorillonite, exfoliated laponite clay effectively acts as a photostabilizer of polymer UV photodegradation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and reactive features of a terpolymer: Poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone‐co‐vinyl acetate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate)
Authors: Hood David K. , Kranbuehl David E. , Glover A. Jaeton , Senak Laurence , Zhu Chao , Ozkan Seher , Musa Osama M.
Published: July 2012

A polyvinyl pyrrolidone terpolymer system is described that can be chemically cross‐linked at moderate, 70–100°C, temperatures. The system has significant potential for development of durable long‐lasting pyrrolidone coatings in a wide range of applications, particularly in water filtration membrane construction where leaching is an unresolved, serious problem. The synthesis of the terpolymer, poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone‐co‐vinyl acetate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate), by free radical polymerization is described. The reactive features of this terpolymer are presented in the context of acidic anhydride curing. In a polar aprotic solvent, the terpolymer is reacted with poly(methyl vinyl ether‐co‐maleic acid) and cured thermally. Key aspects of the terpolymer synthesis and the acid anhydride cross‐linking reaction using DSC, rheology, FTIR, and a small molecule model system to study the cross‐linking chemistry are presented. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
AEBP1 gene variants in infants with gastroschisis
Authors: Feldkamp Marcia L. , Bowles Neil E. , Botto Lorenzo D.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: The AEBP1 (adipocyte enhancer binding protein) gene has two isoforms: AEBP1, the shorter of the two isoforms, and Aclp (aortic carboxypeptidase‐like protein). Aclp−/− mice demonstrate a ventral wall defect that is similar to gastroschisis in humans. Aclp is a potential candidate gene because it is expressed in numerous tissues during early development in mice; it associates with the extracellular matrix; and is essential for abdominal wall development and wound healing. In contrast, AEBP1 encodes an intracellular protein involved in proinflammatory responses, and may play a critical role in apoptosis and cell survival. Gastroschisis is a severe abdominal wall defect more common in young women and recently associated with a genitourinary infection early in pregnancy. METHODS: We screened AEBP1 in 40 cases of gastroschisis and compared identified variants in a control population. RESULTS: We identified several novel variants in AEBP1, including synonymous and nonsynonymous single nucleotide substitutions and intronic indels. However, the frequency of these variants was not significantly different from that of the control group, and the associated amino acid changes were predicted to be benign by two prediction software programs. CONCLUSIONS: Gastroschisis remains an intriguing defect that, for an unknown reason, occurs more commonly in young women and after a genitourinary infection. Although we found many alterations in AEBP1 among the gastroschisis cases, they were predicted to be benign. However, this gene requires further understanding of its interaction with other genes involved in the immune response pathway. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 94:738–742, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of microtia with maternal nutrition
Authors: Ma Chen , Shaw Gary M. , Scheuerle Angela E. , Canfield Mark A. , Carmichael Suzan L. ,   National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND

Few studies have investigated the potential association of maternal dietary intake and risk of microtia among offspring.

METHODS

The study included deliveries from 1997 to 2005 from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study. Nonsyndromic cases of microtia were compared to nonmalformed, population‐based, live‐born control infants by estimating adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from logistic regression models that included maternal race or ethnicity, education, folic acid–containing supplement intake, fertility treatment, study site, and total energy intake.

RESULTS

Comparing intake in the lowest 10th percentile versus the 10th to 90th percentiles, lower maternal intakes of carbohydrate (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.07–2.38) and dietary folate (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.09–2.25) were associated with elevated risk of microtia. In addition, results suggested that higher diet quality (as measured by the Diet Quality Index, and comparing the highest with the lowest quartile) was protective, but the CI did not exclude one (OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.50–1.07). Results were similar among obese and nonobese women.

CONCLUSIONS

These data contribute to the limited body of evidence regarding the potential contribution of maternal nutrition to the etiology of microtia. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐reported maternal smoking during pregnancy by source in Utah, 2003–2007
Authors: Srisukhumbowornchai Sivithee , Krikov Sergey , Feldkamp Marcia L.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND

Maternal self‐report is the most common method for assessment of past cigarette exposure to assess birth defect risk. This study compared maternal smoking prior to and during pregnancy based on self‐reports obtained from the medical records abstracted for the Utah Birth Defect Network (UBDN), the birth certificate, and the computer‐assisted telephone interview (CATI) in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS). The study also investigated how the different sources for maternal smoking data affect estimates in an empirical study.

METHODS

A total of 1774 case and 618 control mothers who had participated in the NBDPS and whose live born infants were delivered between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2007, were included in this study. Among the case mothers, we compared data from all three sources, whereas for control mothers only two data sources were available for comparison (i.e., birth certificate and CATI).

RESULTS

Smoking prevalence was highest in the CATI. Compared to the CATI, data from the UBDN had a higher sensitivity (61.3%) and better agreement (kappa = 0.63) than birth certificates (51.8%; kappa = 0.56). Adjusted odds ratios for all and specific birth defects (i.e., holoprosencephaly, hydrocephalus, anophthalmia/microphthalmia, anotia/microtia, total anomalous pulmonary venous return/partial anomalous pulmonary venous return [TAPVR/PAPVR], heterotaxy, and gastroschisis) were different between the birth certificate and CATI. The change in the effect estimates between the two sources ranged from 19% to 56%.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our findings, maternal smoking exposure from interview data was shown to be of higher quality with less misclassification compared to data obtained from medical records or birth certificates. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is adult stem cell aging driven by conflicting modes of chromatin remodeling?
Authors: Przybilla Jens , Galle Joerg , Rohlf Thimo
Published: July 2012

Epigenetic control of gene expression by chromatin remodeling is critical for adult stem cell function. A decline in stem cell function is observed during aging, which is accompanied by changes in the chromatin structure that are currently unexplained. Here, we hypothesize that these epigenetic changes originate from the limited cellular capability to inherit epigenetic information. We suggest that spontaneous loss of histone modification, due to fluctuations over short time scales, gives rise to long‐term changes in DNA methylation and, accordingly, in gene expression. These changes are assumed to impair stem cell function and, thus, to contribute to aging. We discuss cell replication as a major source of fluctuations in histone modification patterns. Gene silencing by our proposed mechanism can be interpreted as a manifestation of the conflict between the stem cell plasticity required for tissue regeneration and the permanent silencing of potentially deleterious genomic sequences.
Deletion of galectin‐3 exacerbates microglial activation and accelerates disease progression and demise in a SOD1G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Lerman Bruce J. , Hoffman Eric P. , Sutherland Margaret L. , Bouri Khaled , Hsu Daniel K. , Liu Fu‐Tong , Rothstein Jeffrey D. , Knoblach Susan M.
Published: July 2012

Galectins are pleiotropic carbohydrate‐binding lectins involved in inflammation, growth/differentiation, and tissue remodeling. The functional role of galectins in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is unknown. Expression studies revealed increases in galectin‐1 mRNA and protein in spinal cords from SOD1
G93A mice, and in galectin‐3 and ‐9 mRNAs and proteins in spinal cords of both SOD1
G93A mice and sporadic ALS patients. As the increase in galectin‐3 appeared in early presymptomatic stages and increased progressively through to end stage of disease in the mouse, it was selected for additional study, where it was found to be mainly expressed by microglia. Galectin‐3 antagonists are not selective and do not readily cross the blood–brain barrier; therefore, we generated SOD1
G93A/Gal‐3
−/− transgenic mice to evaluate galectin‐3 deletion in a widely used mouse model of ALS. Disease progression, neurological symptoms, survival, and inflammation were assessed to determine the effect of galectin‐3 deletion on the SOD1
G93A disease phenotype. Galectin‐3 deletion did not change disease onset, but resulted in more rapid progression through functionally defined disease stages, more severely impaired neurological symptoms at all stages of disease, and expiration, on average, 25 days earlier than SOD1
G93A/Gal‐3
+/+ cohorts. In addition, microglial staining, as well as TNF‐α, and oxidative injury were increased in SOD1
G93A/Gal‐3
−/− mice compared with SOD1
G93A/Gal‐3
+/+ cohorts. These data support an important functional role for microglial galectin‐3 in neuroinflammation during chronic neurodegenerative disease. We suggest that elevations in galectin‐3 by microglia as disease progresses may represent a protective, anti‐inflammatory innate immune response to chronic motor neuron degeneration.
Significant Formation of Adipic Acid by Direct Oxidation of Cyclohexane Using Supported Nano‐Gold Catalysts
Authors: Alshammari Ahmad , Koeckritz Angela , Kalevaru Venkata Narayana , Bagabas Abdulaziz , Martin Andreas
Published: July 2012

Adipic acid (AA) is one of the highest volume chemicals in world use with a wide range of commercial applications. This paper demonstrates the possibility of producing significant proportions of AA by the selective oxidation of cyclohexane (CH) in one step using various supported gold‐nanoparticle (AuNP) catalysts. The catalysts were characterized by ICP, BET, XRD, X‐ray photoelectron microscopy, and TEM. The catalytic activity tests were carried out in the liquid phase using autoclaves in the temperature range of 100–170 °C at 10 bar. A CH conversion of over 25 %, with 26% selectivity of AA and 70% selectivity of KA oil (cyclohexanone+cyclohexanol), was achieved over a nano‐gold/TiO2 (anatase) catalyst. The superior performance of this catalyst is attributed to the smaller size of AuNPs, which has an average particle size of 2 nm. Good correlation between activity and Au particle size could be achieved. Overall, the particle size of the AuNPs showed a strong influence on catalytic performance.