bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local volume concentration, packing domains, and scaling properties of chromatin
Authors: Carignano Marcelo A , Kroeger Martin , Almassalha Luay M , Agrawal Vasundhara , Li Wing Shun , Pujadas-Liwag Emily M , Nap Rikkert J , Backman Vadim , Szleifer Igal
Published: June 2024

We propose the Self Returning Excluded Volume (SR-EV) model for the structure of chromatin based on stochastic rules and physical interactions. The SR-EV rules of return generate conformationally defined domains observed by single-cell imaging techniques. From nucleosome to chromosome scales, the model captures the overall chromatin organization as a corrugated system, with dense and dilute regions alternating in a manner that resembles the mixing of two disordered bi-continuous phases. This particular organizational topology is a consequence of the multiplicity of interactions and processes occurring in the nuclei, and mimicked by the proposed return rules. Single configuration properties and ensemble averages show a robust agreement between theoretical and experimental results including chromatin volume concentration, contact probability, packing domain identification and size characterization, and packing scaling behavior. Model and experimental results suggest that there is an inherent chromatin organization regardless of the cell character and resistant to an external forcing such as RAD21 degradation.
A systematic literature review on meta-heuristic based feature selection techniques for text classification
Authors: Al-shalif Sarah Abdulkarem , Senan Norhalina , Saeed Faisal , Ghaban Wad , Ibrahim Noraini , Aamir Muhammad , Sharif Wareesa
Published: June 2024

Feature selection (FS) is a critical step in many data science-based applications, especially in text classification, as it includes selecting relevant and important features from an original feature set. This process can improve learning accuracy, streamline learning duration, and simplify outcomes. In text classification, there are often many excessive and unrelated features that impact performance of the applied classifiers, and various techniques have been suggested to tackle this problem, categorized as traditional techniques and meta-heuristic (MH) techniques. In order to discover the optimal subset of features, FS processes require a search strategy, and MH techniques use various strategies to strike a balance between exploration and exploitation. The goal of this research article is to systematically analyze the MH techniques used for FS between 2015 and 2022, focusing on 108 primary studies from three different databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar to identify the techniques used, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. The findings indicate that MH techniques are efficient and outperform traditional techniques, with the potential for further exploration of MH techniques such as Ringed Seal Search (RSS) to improve FS in several applications.
Evaluación de diferencias varietales, efecto del uso de CPPU y grosor del cargador sobre el pardeamiento del raquis en uva de mesa Sweet Globe y Thompson Seedless
Authors:   , Arancibia Cavieres Esteban Horacio
Published: June 2024

El pardeamiento del raquis de uva de mesa es uno de los principales problemas de postcosecha de este cultivo y afecta a productores de todo el mundo y especialmente a Chile, donde la uva es uno de los principales actores de la industria frutícola nacional, y los mercados de destino se encuentran considerablemente lejos. Por esto es necesario estudiar las principales variedades producidas en Chile, como también sus nuevas alternativas, de modo de entender la causa que produce este desorden. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar las diferencias anatómicas y de calidad del raquis entre las variedades de uva Sweet Globe y Thompson Seedless. Para esto, se midió la densidad estomática, el tamaño de haces vasculares y la relación xilema/floema. También, se midió el contenido de agua relativo (CAR) en fechas anteriores a cosecha y durante la postcosecha, junto con evaluar el efecto de la hora de cosecha sobre el CAR. Además, se analizó el pardeamiento expresado como porcentaje de área verde y expresado como Hue. Finalmente, se calculó la tasa transpiratoria mediante balances de energía obtenidos con la medición de diferencias de temperatura en el raquis. En la mayoría de los parámetros analizados hubo diferencias significativas a favor de Thompson Seedless, excepto en la densidad estomática y la relación xilema/floema, donde no hubo diferencias. Se puede concluir que esta variedad presenta una mejor calidad del raquis en postcosecha y la pérdida de agua no está tan directamente asociada a su pardeamiento como en el caso de Sweet Globe.
Study of lipid droplets role on the function of dendritic cells infected with herpes simplex virus type 1
Authors:   , Farías León Mónica Andrea
Published: June 2024

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection is highly prevalent in the human population and infections are lifelong, with sporadic reactivations that may elicit recurrent symptomatic disease. HSV-1 can evade the host immune response at multiple levels, by interfering with innate and adaptive immunity. Dendritic cells (DCs) are key immune cells that activate and regulate antiviral immune responses. DCs can activate CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, which can modulate the host antiviral immune response and elicit immunity. HSV- 1 infects DCs and alters their function by hampering their maturation, antigen-processing capacity, and migration to lymph nodes which alter their capacity to activate naïve T cells and mount an effective antiviral response. On the other hand, lipid droplets (LDs) are neutral lipid-rich organelles reported to negatively modulate DC function, decreasing the capacity of these cells to present antigens T cells and activate these cells. Here, we sought to assess whether HSV-1 alters lipid metabolism in DCs and induces LDs within these cells. Interestingly, we found that HSV-1 induces LDs in DCs, as well as significant changes in lipid metabolism processes, altering lipid accumulation and the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes. Importantly, we found that the pharmacological inhibition of lipid metabolism-related enzymes associated with fatty acid uptake and cholesterol ester synthesis inhibited LD accumulation in HSV-1-infected DCs, decreased virus yield. Furthermore, HSV-1-infected DCs treated with such drugs improved the viability of DCs and their capacity to activate virus-specific CD8+ T cells in vitro and migrate to lymph nodes to promote the activation of virus-specific CD8+ T cells in vivo. These findings indicate that HSV-1 infection significantly alters lipid metabolism in DCs, seemingly playing a significant role in the deterioration of the function of these cells upon infection with this virus.
La experiencia de los directores escolares en la construcción identitaria del sexo-género : una investigación fenomenológica
Authors:   , Jiménez Fuentes Paula Andrea
Published: June 2024

Distintos estudios han revelado la importancia de los directores escolares como responsables de liderar las instituciones educativas movilizando a la comunidad hacia logros de aprendizaje basados en una visión compartida y relaciones colaborativas en contextos de constante cambio. Dado su nivel de influencia y las recientes demandas sociales hacia la construcción de escuelas antisexistas, la figura de quienes lideran escuelas se constituyen en agentes claves para construir una escuela basada en la igualdad y el respeto. Sin embargo, para tal fin es necesario un proceso de desconstrucción (Butler, 1990) que cuestione el sexismo que impera en las aulas. La presente investigación muestra las experiencias que han vivido un grupo de directores escolares chilenos en su construcción identitaria desde el sexo-género, a través del método fenomenológica de Husserl (1992) y el procedimiento fenomenológico de Max Van Manen (2003) mediante entrevistas en profundidad. Los hallazgos, escritos en narrativa, ilustraron que los directores tuvieron una crianza estereotipada que se evidencia en los juicios que realizan de sus docentes, maternalizando la Educación. Por otro lado, se destaca la escasa reflexión sobre su ser, sin cuestionar las normas de género o las lógicas heteronormativas que no favorecen liderar y gestionar una escuela antisexista.
ANÁLISE DO SUCESSO/INSUCESSO DO ESTUDANTE SURDO NO CURSO TÉCNICO EM AGROPECUÁRIA DO IFPA – CASTANHAL
Authors: Da Silva Antonia Leite , De França Pablo Radamés Cabral , Neves Miranilde Oliveira
Published: June 2024

O presente artigo descreve os resultados de uma pesquisa realizada com o objetivo de analisar os fatores que contribuíram para o sucesso/insucesso dos estudantes surdos matriculados no Curso Técnico em Agropecuária do Instituto Federal do Pará – Campus Castanhal. Optou-se, metodologicamente, pela abordagem qualitativa. O levantamento dos dados compreendeu revisão bibliográfica e aplicação de questionários com perguntas estruturadas e semiestruturadas direcionadas aos docentes, estudantes surdos e equipe de ensino. A análise dos dados ocorreu de forma descritiva e interpretativa.  Os resultados demonstraram que as práticas de ensino para os estudantes surdos ocorrem aleatoriamente, sem direcionamento específico, o que evidenciou a necessidade de recursos e formações para assegurar a inclusão e o desenvolvimento dos educandos.
CORANTES NATURAIS
Authors: Silva Erika Matias da , Silva Adrielle Firmino da , Santos Odarlan Correia dos , Da Silva Érik José Ferreira , Alves Bruna Oliveira , Costa Celso da Silva , Santos Maria Gisely Martins dos
Published: June 2024

Os corantes são insumos categoricamente explorados pela indústria nas mais diversas áreas, porém, o uso de corantes sintéticos vem causando danos à saúde e meio ambiente; com isso, torna-se essencial a exploração de possíveis alternativas que sejam atóxicas aos seus usuários e ao meio, nesse contexto, o proveito das substâncias químicas naturais ganha espaço entre as pesquisas. Nesse cenário, foi realizada uma revisão de literatura de caráter qualitativo (analisando o que já foi trabalhado dentro do tema) e quantitativo (com a utilização dos artigos selecionados, foram observados os dados relacionados às universidades envolvidas, anos de publicação e revistas que mais publicam artigos nesse sentido), analisando os aspectos químicos relacionados ao tema. A grande maioria dos trabalhos encontrados se relacionavam com a aplicação dos corantes de origem natural nas indústrias: alimentícia, têxtil e em células solares sensibilizadas por corante (CSSC). O Brasil foi o país com maior número de aplicações, o maior pico de publicações foi no ano de 2013, tendo um decaimento e voltando a subir durante o ano de 2018. A Universidade de São Paulo possui o maior número de publicações e as revistas com mais publicações foram: Química Nova, AUTEX Research Journal e Journal of Natural Fibers.
A Study of Age, Sex Ratio, Gonado-Somatic Index, Fecundity, and Breeding Season, of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) from Khashm El-Girba Reservoir and Atbara River, Eastern Sudan
Authors: Abdalla Mutasim Yousif Mohamed , Elhalim Abu Elgasim Ibrahim Abd , Shuaib Mujtaba El Khair , Hamid Abdalla Mustafa , Sati Noha Ahmed , Elhassan Moatez Mohammed , Adam Ahmed El-Bedawi
Published: June 2024

This study aims to investigate some reproductive aspects of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus in the Khashm El-Girba reservoir and Atbara River, eastern Sudan. The study was conducted during December 2015 to November 2016. Samples were collected bi-monthly basis from three localities, namely; Um Aswad (Atbara River), El-Remila, and El-Monaba (Khashm El-Girba reservoir), using beach seine nets of 1.2 cm 4.0 cm and 7.0 cm stretched mesh. A total of 1595 O. niloticus specimens were collected from all sampling sites. The age of O. niloticus was estimated using five anterior vertebrae of fish body; The results indicate that the age ranged between 0+ to 4+ years. Most of the collected fish specimens were of age 1+, with females most dominant at this age. Sex ratio was 1:1(M: F). Gonado-somatic index (GSI) of females of O. niloticus ranged between 1.965 – 2.620, and from 0.434 – 0.439 for males. Two periods of increase of GSI were observed reflecting two breeding seasons of this species. Used gravimetric method to estimate the average fecundity of O. niloticus ranged between 481 eggs in Um Aswad sampling site, and 638 in El-Remila site. The fecundity of O. niloticus has a high correlation with gonadal weight (r=0.82708) but a low correlation with standard length (r=0.47612) and total weight (r=0.50874).
The results of this investigation on O. niloticus indicate that the age of the fish ranged from 0+ to 4+ years, with a sex ratio of 1:1. The Gonado-somatic Index (GSI) indicated two spawning seasons, and fecundity was found to be strongly correlated with gonad weight, and moderately correlated with total length and standard length. This results can be used formulate management policies and procedures for protecting and conserving the fisheries resources and to regulate and improve the catches of the most important commercial fish species in that region.
Efficacy of Silica Solubilizing Bacteria as Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and Their Biochemical Characteristics
Authors: Babu S. Vinod , Gopal A. Vijaya , Trimurtulu N. , Babu G. Kishore , Bhattiprolu S. L.
Published: June 2024

Twenty eight isolates of silica solubilising bacterial inoculants were collected from rhizosphere soils of rice crop in Kurnool, Prakasam, Guntur and Anantapur districts of Andhra Pradesh by using insoluble source of silica. These isolates were verified for plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) activity and then subjected biochemical tests in the Department of Agricultural microbiology, Advanced Post Graduate Centre, ANGRAU, Lam, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India. Two isolates, SiKPP-1 (Silica solubilizing isolate from Kurnool district, Pamulapadu Mandal and Pamulapadu Village - 1) & SiPYY-3 (Silica solubilizing isolate from Prakasam district, Yerragondapalem Mandal and Yerragondapalem Village - 3) showed the highest efficiency in the aspects of silica solubilization, phosphate solubilization, potassium release, exopolysaccharide production activity, indole acetic acid production activity, siderophore production activity and biochemical tests including starch hydrolysis, Hydrogen sulphide test, Indole production, Catalase test, Oxidase test, Gelatine liquification, Methyl red test, Vogues Proskauer test, Citrate Utilization and Ammonia production. Therefore these two isolates (SiKPP-1&SiPYY-3) were selected for further pot and field studies in direct sown paddy crop.
Efficacy and Economics of Selected Insecticides against Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Fab.) in Cowpea
Authors: Likhitkar Kunjum Pradeeprao , Kumar Ashwani
Published: June 2024

A field trail was conducted at Naini, Prayagraj during Kharif season 2023 at central research farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, in Randomized Block Design with eight treatments replicated thrice times were evaluated against Maruca vitrata i.e. Spinosad45%SC, Azadirachtin 0.03% WSP (300ppm), Profenofos 40%+ Cypermethrin 4%EC, Nisco sixer plus, Beauveria bassiana1.15%WP, Emamectin Benzoate 5%SG, Spinosad45%SC + Neem oil5% and Control. Results revealed that, among the different treatments lowest larval population of cowpea spotted pod borer was recorded in Emamectin Benzoate 5%SG (0.95), Spinosad45%SC (1.15) was found to be the next best treatment followed by Profenofos 40%+ Cypermethrin 4%EC (1.35), Spinosad45%SC + Neem oil5% ( 1.64 ) and Nisco sixer plus (1.75), Beauveria bassiana1.15 %WP, (1.95) whereas Azadirachtin 0.03% WSP (300ppm) (2.15) was found to be least effective against this pest. The plot treated with Emamectin Benzoate 5%SG show highest yield (36.66 q/ha) followed by Spinosad45%SC (34.83 q/ha), Profenofos 40%+ Cypermethrin4%EC (33.66 q/ha), Spinosad45%SC + Neem oil5% (32.48q/ha), Nisco sixer plus (28.30 q/ha), Beauveria bassiana1.15 %WP (27.60q/ha) and Azadirachtin 0.03% WSP (26.05q/ha) as compared to control plot (16.85 q/ha). Among the treatments the best and most economical treatment was Emamectin Benzoate 5%SG (1:3.55) followed by Spinosad 45%SC (1:3.11), Profenofos 40%+ Cypermethrin4%EC (1:3.24), Spinosad45%SC + Neem oil5% (1:2.71), Nisco sixer plus (1:2.39), Beauveria bassiana1.15 %WP (1:2.34) and Azadirachtin 0.03% WSP (1:2.16) as compared to control plot (1:1.20).
Integrated Greenhouse Microclimate Management: A Review
Authors: Yadav K. , Arora I. , Kumar A. , Rana M.K. , Kumar V. , Kapil  , Amit
Published: June 2024

The normal development of plants and an increase in yield depend on the microclimate in a greenhouse being controlled. Key microclimate factors, like carbon dioxide, temperature, sunlight and relative humidity could be altered by a variety of control actions such as humidification and dehumidification, heating, natural or forced ventilation and concentration of carbon dioxide. Factors like effective natural ventilation in greenhouses, considering factors like temperature differences, wind velocity, and appropriate ventilator area, are crucial for regulating internal climate, reducing energy use, and ensuring healthy plant growth.  However, these modifications result in higher energy and fuel consumption throughout the manufacturing process. Thus, appropriate management is obligatory to perform the intricate operations related to balancing energy, i.e., lowering the emanations and reducing the cost of production, even though severe climatic conditions could adversely affect the microclimate inside the greenhouse. This review document will provide concise information on the management of greenhouse microclimate, focusing on different factors that affect crop growth and how these factors can be managed.
A method to improve and automate flat defect detection during ultrasonic inspection
Authors: Merazi Meksen Thouraya , Boudraa Bachir , Boudraa Malika
Published: December 2011

In the nondestructive testing of materials, ultrasonic imagery can detect and characterize defects that are present in a structure. Data are displayed in the form of images, and processing algorithms can be applied for automatic detection and characterization. However, when using diffracted waves, the amplitude is often too low, and the signals are difficult to distinguish from the noise. Other times, the volume of data requires significant computation time.

In this paper, we propose a method that can avoid image formation by replacing it with a sparse matrix and significantly reducing the amount of data to process; this allows for the enhancement and the automation of the detection of thin and flat defects such as cracks. The elements of the sparse matrix form a curve, which is sufficient to characterize defects in many cases. These elements are selected from diffracted signals using the split‐spectrum processing method. In this way, the signal‐to‐noise ratio is improved, and the position of the echo signal is accurately determined.

When a crack is present in a material, the points of the sparse matrix form a parabola and classical tools of pattern recognition such as the Hough transform can detect it, thus providing significant help in decision‐making processes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal programming of adult mineral metabolism: Relevance to blood pressure, dietary prevention strategies, and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Schulter Günter , Goessler Walter , Papousek Ilona
Published: December 2011

Objectives:

Mounting evidence indicates that adult health outcomes such as the development of cardiovascular disease or diabetes can trace some of their roots back to prenatal development. This study investigated the epigenetic impact of a particular prenatal hormonal condition on specific health‐related consequences, i.e., on concentrations of minerals and mineral metabolism in adults.

Methods:

In 70 university students, the second‐to‐fourth digit length (2D:4D) was measured as a proxy of prenatal sex steroid action, and the concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca) were determined in hair samples by inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. Mineral concentrations and the mineral ratios Na/K, Na/Mg, and Na/Ca were analyzed in multivariate analyses of variance, with digit ratios and sex of participants as grouping variables. The results were validated in a replication cohort from the general population, and with a wider age‐range. In addition, the correlation of mineral concentrations and mineral ratios with blood pressure was examined.

Results:

Men with relatively lower (i.e., more masculine) and women with relatively higher (i.e., more feminine) digit ratios had higher Na/K, Na/Mg, and Na/Ca ratios than their counterparts. Virtually identical results were obtained in the replication study. Moreover, Na concentrations and Na/K ratios were significantly correlated with systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that the individual variation in mineral metabolism can be predicted by 2D:4D, indicating that prenatal sex steroid action may be involved in the epigenetic programming of specific metabolic conditions which are highly relevant to adult health and disease. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spina bifida subtypes and sub‐phenotypes by maternal race/ethnicity in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Authors: Agopian A.J. , Canfield Mark A. , Olney Richard S. , Lupo Philip J. , Ramadhani Tunu , Mitchell Laura E. , Shaw Gary M. , Moore Cynthia A. ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: December 2011

Spina bifida refers to a collection of neural tube defects, including myelomeningocele, meningocele, and myelocele (SBM), as well as lipomyelomeningocele and lipomeningocele (SBL). Maternal race/ethnicity has been associated with an increased risk for spina bifida among offspring. To better understand this relationship, we evaluated different spina bifida subtypes (SBM vs. SBL) and sub‐phenotypes (anatomic level or presence of additional malformations) by maternal race/ethnicity using data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study. This study is a large, multisite, population‐based study of nonsyndromic birth defects. Prevalence estimates were obtained using data from spina bifida cases (live births, fetal deaths, and elective terminations) and total live births in the study regions. From October 1997 through December 2005, 1,046 infants/fetuses with spina bifida were delivered, yielding a prevalence of 3.06 per 10,000 live births. Differences in the prevalences of SBM vs. SBL, isolated versus non‐isolated SBM, and lesion level in isolated SBM among case offspring were observed by maternal race/ethnicity. Compared to non‐Hispanic (NH) White mothers, offspring of Hispanic mothers had higher prevalences of each subtype and most sub‐phenotypes, while offspring of NH Black mothers generally had lower prevalences. Furthermore, differences in race/ethnicity among those with isolated SBM were more pronounced by sex. For instance, among male offspring, the prevalence of isolated SBM was significantly higher for those with Hispanic mothers compared to NH White mothers [prevalence ratio (PR): 1.55, 95% confidence interval: 1.23–1.95]. These findings provide evidence that certain spina bifida subtypes and sub‐phenotypes may be etiologically distinct. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“Did you find that out in time?”: New life trajectories of parents who choose to continue a pregnancy where a genetic disorder is diagnosed or likely
Authors: Hickerton Chriselle L. , Aitken MaryAnne , Hodgson Jan , Delatycki Martin B.
Published: December 2011

The availability of tests to detect genetic conditions prenatally has expanded considerably in recent decades. These advances allow women and couples choices; the choice of whether or not to undergo prenatal screening or diagnosis and therefore the choice whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy. Following prenatal testing many people choose to terminate an affected pregnancy, however little is known about the experiences of parents who choose to continue such a pregnancy. This exploratory qualitative study involved in‐depth interviews with five mothers and four fathers who experienced a pregnancy where a genetic diagnosis was, or could have been, detected prenatally. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. While the participants' experiences of genetic diagnoses and prenatal choices varied, findings revealed three major categories triggering new life trajectories for all of these parents: knowledge of reproductive risk and receiving a genetic diagnosis; adapting to diagnosis and new life path; and attitudes to prenatal diagnosis and disability. Parents reported that while dealing with their own attitudes and getting on with their “new world,” positive and negative attitudes of others impacted on these parents' experiences. A conceptual model arising from the major themes is offered as a way of thinking about this paradigm. Parents who continue a pregnancy where a genetic condition is detected or suspected prenatally, can be supported appropriately by health professionals while adjusting to their new life path. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Miscibility and crystallization behavior of biodegradable poly(ε‐caprolactone)/tannic acid blends
Authors: Liang Yonggang , Yang Fang , Qiu Zhaobin
Published: December 2011

Miscibility, isothermal melt crystallization kinetics, spherulitic morphology and growth rates, and crystal structure of completely biodegradable poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)/tannic acid (TA) blends were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy, and wide angle X‐ray diffraction in detail in this work. PCL and TA are miscible as evidenced by the single composition dependent glass transition temperature over the whole compositions range and the depression of equilibrium melting point of PCL in the PCL/TA blends. Isothermal melt crystallization kinetics of neat PCL and an 80/20 PCL/TA blend was investigated and analyzed by the Avrami equation. The overall crystallization rates of PCL decrease with increasing crystallization temperature for both neat PCL and the PCL/TA blend; moreover, the overall crystallization rate of PCL is slower in the PCL/TA blend than in neat PCL at a given crystallization temperature. However, the crystallization mechanism of PCL does not change despite crystallization temperature and the addition of TA. The spherulitic growth rates of PCL also decrease with increasing crystallization temperature for both neat PCL and the PCL/TA blend; moreover, blending with TA reduces the spherulitic growth rate of PCL in the PCL/TA blend. It is also found that the crystal structure of PCL is not modified in the PCL/TA blend. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Preparation and thermal conductivity of novolac/Ni/graphite nanosheet composites
Authors: Li Shasha , Qi Shuhua , Liu Nailiang , Cao Peng , Zhang Yi
Published: December 2011

A high thermal conductivity novolac/nickel/graphite nanosheet (novolac/Ni/NanoG) composite was synthesized through in situ polymerization. Graphite nanosheet (NanoG) was prepared by sonicating expanded graphite (EG) in an aqueous alcohol solution and was plated with nickel through an electrodeposition method. The X‐ray diffraction spectrum shows that nickel was successfully plated onto the graphite surface and the nickel thickness is about 27.89 nm. The microstructures of the Ni/NanoG were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results reveal that nickel particles with the average diameter of 25 nm are coated on NanoG surface homogeneously and densely. Energy dispersive spectrometry spectrum confirms that the Ni content coated on NanoG surface, whose atomic percentage is 61%, is much higher than that of C element. The values predicted by theoretical model were underestimated the thermal conductivity of novolac/Ni/NanoG composites. Among NG, EG, NanoG, and Ni/NanoG four kinds of particles, the Ni/NanoG improved the thermal conductivity of novolac resin significantly. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Modification of melamine‐formaldehyde resins by substances from renewable resources
Authors: Kohlmayr Martin , Zuckerstätter Gerhard , Kandelbauer Andreas
Published: December 2011

In the present contribution, investigations on the chemical modification of thermosetting melamine formaldehyde resins by natural polyol compounds are presented. As representative agents soluble starch, sucrose, and glycerol were chosen to cover three different classes of polyols. The major aim was to use substances produced from natural bio‐renewable feedstock that are available in large quantities and may serve as environmentally innocuous and bio‐renewable substitutes for petro‐chemically derived and potentially hazardous materials. Different reaction conditions lead to resins with varying technical performance. For soluble starch no reaction conditions could be found that allow the adoption of this substitute for the laminate industry due to insufficient technological performance. Sucrose and glycerol on the other hand yielded impregnation resins with suitable performance. Chemical linkage of the modifying agent into the chain propagation by poly‐condensation however, was only found with glycerol. The covalent incorporation of glycerol in the network was observed with addition of glycerol at different stages during synthesis. The technological performance of the various modified thermosetting resins was assessed by determining flow viscosity, molar mass distribution, the storage stability, and in a second step laminating impregnated paper to particle boards and testing the resulting surfaces according to standardized quality tests. Spectroscopic evidence of chemical incorporation of glycerol was found by applying by 1H, 13C, 1H/13C HSQC, 1H/13C HMBC, and 1H DOSY methods. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Synthesis and characterization of novel silver/L‐phenylalanine‐based optically active polyacrylate nanocomposite
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Rafiee Zahra , Ashrafi Ali
Published: December 2011

Novel bioactive and optically active poly(N‐acryloyl‐L‐phenylalanine) (PAPA) was synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization. PAPA‐silver (Ag) nanocomposites have been successfully prepared via in situ reducing Ag+ ions anchored in the polymer chain using hydrazine hydrate as reducing agent in an aqueous medium. By controlling of the amount of Ag+ ions introduced, we have produced an organic/inorganic nanocomposite containing Ag nanoparticles with well controlled size. Nanocomposites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared. XRD pattern showed presence of Ag nanoparticles. The PAPA/Ag nanocomposites with 1 : 10 silver nitrate (AgNO3) : PAPA ratio revealed the presence of well‐dispersed Ag nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. All of these Ag nanoparticles formed are spherical and more than 80% of them are in the range of 15–25 nm. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Synthesis and characterization of star‐shaped poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(L‐lactic acid) copolymers by melt polycondensation
Authors: Lin Yaling , Zhang Anqiang , Wang Lianshi
Published: December 2011

Compared with linear diblock or triblock poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(L‐lactic acid) copolymer (PEG‐b‐PLLA), star‐shaped PEG‐b‐PLLA (sPEG‐b‐PLLA) copolymers exhibit smaller hydrodynamic radius and lower viscosity and are expected to display peculiar morphologies, thermal properties, and degradation profiles. Compared with the synthesis routine of PEG‐b‐PLLA form lactide and PEG, the traditional synthesis routine from LA and PEG were suffered by the low reaction efficiency, low purity, lower molecular weight, and wide molecular weight distribution. In this article, multiarm sPEG‐b‐PLLA copolymer was prepared from multiarm sPEG and L‐lactic acid (LLA using an improved method of melt polycondensation, in which two types of sPEG, that is, sPEG1 (four arm, Mn = 4300) and sPEG2 (three arm, Mn = 3200) were chosen as the core. It was found the molecular weight of sPEG‐b‐PLLA could be strongly affected by the purity of LLA and sPEGs, and the purification technology of vacuum dewater and vacuum distillation could help to remove most of the impurities in commercial available LLA. The polymers, including sPEG and sPEG‐b‐PLLA with varied core (sPEG1 and sPEG2) and LLA/sPEG feeding ratios, were characterized and confirmed by 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and gel permeation chromatography, which showed that the terminal hydroxyl group in each arm of sPEGs had reacted with LLA to form sPEG‐b‐PLLA copolymers with fairly narrow molecular weight distribution. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Whitening regenerated cellulose fibers using fluorescent agent, surfactants, and salt—color indices measurements
Authors: Iamazaki Eduardo T. , Atvars Teresa D. Z.
Published: December 2011

The whitening efficiency of regenerated cellulose fibers using sodium 4,4′‐distyrylbiphenyl sulfonate in the presence of an anionic surfactant (sodium dodecylsulfate) and a cationic surfactant (dodecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride) and salt (NaCl) was determined by fluorescence spectroscopy and color index values (brightness, whiteness, and yellowness). Epifluorescence images gave an intense blue color with an apparent uniform emission distribution. In absence of salt, the whitening efficiency was higher for aqueous solutions containing cationic surfactant below critical micellar concentration (cmc). In presence of salt, whitening efficiency was higher for anionic surfactant and more important. The concentration of surfactant required for greater brightness, whiteness, and yellowness was lower than that required in absence of salt. These data were discussed by the decrease of the cmc and by the screening of the modified cellulose fibers by counter ions coming from the salt. The role of surfactants was explained by the admicelization during the sorption process. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Inhibition of activator protein 1 signaling abrogates transforming growth factor β–mediated activation of fibroblasts and prevents experimental fibrosis
Authors: Avouac Jérôme , Palumbo Katrin , Tomcik Michal , Zerr Pawel , Dees Clara , Horn Angelika , Maurer Britta , Akhmetshina Alfiya , Beyer Christian , Sadowski Anika , Schneider Holm , Shiozawa Shunichi , Distler Oliver , Schett Georg , Allanore Yannick , Distler Jörg H. W.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To investigate whether c‐Jun and c‐Fos contribute to the pathologic activation of fibroblasts in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and to evaluate the antifibrotic potential of selective activator protein 1 (AP‐1) inhibition.

Methods

Expression of c‐Jun and c‐Fos was determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemical analysis. Fibroblasts were stimulated with transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and incubated with T‐5224, a small‐molecule inhibitor of AP‐1, or were transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) duplexes against c‐Jun and c‐Fos. Collagen synthesis was quantified by real‐time PCR and hydroxyproline assay. Differentiation of resting fibroblasts into myofibroblasts was assessed by staining for α‐smooth muscle actin and stress fibers. The antifibrotic potential of T‐5224 was evaluated in mouse models of dermal fibrosis induced by bleomycin or by adenoviral overexpression of a constitutively active TGFβ receptor type I.

Results

Up‐regulation of c‐Jun and c‐Fos was detected in mouse models of SSc and in the skin and dermal fibroblasts of patients with SSc. Stimulation of healthy fibroblasts with TGFβ induced the expression of c‐Jun and c‐Fos. Treatment with T‐5224 or nucleofection with siRNA directed against c‐Jun and c‐Fos abrogated the profibrotic effects of TGFβ. T‐5224 decreased the release of collagen selectively in SSc fibroblasts. T‐5224 was well tolerated and prevented dermal fibrosis induced by bleomycin or by adenoviral activation of TGFβ signaling.

Conclusion

AP‐1 is up‐regulated in a TGFβ‐dependent manner in SSc. The selective AP‐1 inhibitor T‐5224 reduced collagen synthesis selectively in SSc fibroblasts and efficiently prevented the development of experimental dermal fibrosis. Thus, AP‐1 might be a promising new molecular target for the treatment of SSc.
Active foot synovitis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Applying clinical criteria for disease activity and remission may result in underestimation of foot joint involvement
Authors: Wechalekar Mihir D. , Lester Susan , Proudman Susanna M. , Cleland Leslie G. , Whittle Samuel L. , Rischmueller Maureen , Hill Catherine L.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To determine whether application of criteria for remission in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may result in underestimation of foot joint involvement among patients in a clinic setting.

Methods

RA patients (n = 123) were assessed at baseline and 6 months after commencement of a response‐driven combination disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) protocol. Remission was assessed using disease activity measures (the 28‐joint Disease Activity Score using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate [DAS28‐ESR], Simplified Disease Activity Index [SDAI], and Clinical Disease Activity Index [CDAI]) as well as Boolean‐based criteria for remission (the 1981 American College of Rheumatology [ACR] preliminary criteria and the 2011 ACR/European League Against Rheumatism [EULAR] provisional criteria). The prevalence of foot synovitis and the mean swollen/tender foot joint count in RA patients meeting any of these remission criteria were estimated by hurdle (mixed distribution) regression.

Results

In patients who received 6 months of combination DMARD treatment, application of the 1981 ACR criteria and the newly proposed 2011 ACR/EULAR criteria, each utilizing full joint counts (which includes assessment of the feet), classified the least number of patients as being in remission (8–10%), and evidence of foot synovitis was minimal among these patients. In contrast, ongoing foot synovitis was present in a substantial proportion of patients (>20%) meeting the 28‐joint count criteria for remission, including the DAS28‐ESR, SDAI, CDAI, and 2011 ACR/EULAR criteria (clinical practice setting or clinical trials). Furthermore, applying the 2011 ACR/EULAR composite remission criterion of a SDAI score ≤3.3 to define remission did not adequately capture the resolution of foot synovitis (i.e., residual foot involvement was still detected in a substantial proportion of patients classified as being in remission by this definition).

Conclusion

Although the DAS28‐ESR, CDAI, and SDAI have been validated for assessment of remission in RA, this study shows that the performance of these 3 disease activity measures, which do not provide a direct assessment of the foot, in detecting foot synovitis is poor, in contrast to that of the 1981 ACR and 2011 ACR/EULAR remission criteria utilizing full joint counts. Thus, patients may be at risk of ongoing damage if treatment decisions are made solely on the basis of criteria that omit foot joint assessment.
Human umbilical blood mononuclear cell–derived mesenchymal stem cells serve as interleukin‐21 gene delivery vehicles for epithelial ovarian cancer therapy in nude mice
Authors: Hu Weihua , Wang Jing , He Xiangfeng , Zhang Hongyi , Yu Fangliu , Jiang Longwei , Chen Dengyu , Chen Junsong , Dou Jun
Published: December 2011

Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system, and its overall cure rate remains low. The present study investigated human umbilical blood mononuclear cell (UBMC)–derived mesenchymal stem cells (UBMC‐MSCs) as interleukin‐21 (IL‐21) gene delivery vehicles for ovarian cancer therapy in nude mice. MSCs were isolated from UBMCs and the expanded cells were phenotyped by flow cytometry. Cultured UBMCs were differentiated into osteocytes and adipocytes using appropriate media and then the UBMC‐MSCs were transfected with recombinant pIRES2–IL‐21–enhancement green fluorescent protein. UBMC‐MSCs expressing IL‐21 were named as UBMC‐MSC‐IL‐21. Mice with A2780 ovarian cancer were treated with UBMC‐MSC–IL‐21 intravenously, and the therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by the tumor volume and mouse survival. To address the mechanism of UBMC‐MSC‐IL‐21 against ovarian cancer, the expression of IL‐21, natural killer glucoprotein 2 domain and major histocompatibility complex class I chain‐related molecules A/B were detected in UBMC‐MSC‐IL‐21 and in the tumor sites. Interferon‐γ‐secreting splenocyte numbers and natural killer cytotoxicity were significantly increased in the UBMC‐MSC–IL‐21‐treated mice as compared with the UBMC‐MSCs or the UBMC‐MSC–mock plasmid‐treated mice. Most notably, tumor growth was delayed and survival was prolonged in ovarian‐cancer–bearing mice treated with UBMC‐MSC–IL‐21. Our data provide important evidence that UBMC‐MSCs can serve as vehicles for IL‐21 gene delivery and inhibit the established tumor.
Prüfverfahren zur Bestimmung des Versinterungspotenzials von Spritzbeton – Einflussfaktoren
Authors: Kusterle Wolfgang , Pichler Walter , Saxer Andreas
Published: December 2011

Das sekundäre Entwässerungssystem von Verkehrstunneln kann durch Versinterungen stark beeinträchtigt werden. Die Zusammensetzung des Bergwassers und spezielle Umgebungsbedingungen sind dafür als Haupteinflussfaktoren anzusehen. Die Zusammensetzung zementgebundener Baustoffe kann jedoch ebenfalls dieses Versinterungspotenzial erhöhen. Ein einfaches Prüfverfahren kann helfen, dieses Potenzial abzuschätzen. Erste Erfahrungen mit diesem Verfahren zur Beurteilung von Spritzbeton, die beeinflussenden Parameter, dessen Genauigkeit und die Grenzen des Verfahrens werden vorgestellt.

Reduced Leaching Behaviour of Sprayed Concrete

The drainage system of traffic tunnels may be blocked by precipitations. Main influencing factors being the chemical composition of the water penetrating into the tunnel drainage system and the tunnel layout. Another influencing factor may be the composition of cementitious materials used. A simple, straight forward testing procedure is presented, which can be useful for detecting a potential leaching process. First experiences with this test method applied for sprayed concrete, its limits, precision and the influencing factors are presented.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infections from chest drains in blunt and penetrating thoracic injuries
Authors: Bosman A , de Jong M B , Debeij J , van den Broek P J , Schipper I B
Published: December 2011

Background

No consensus exists as to whether antibiotic prophylaxis in tube thoracostomy as primary treatment for traumatic chest injuries reduces the incidence of surgical-site and pleural cavity infections.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines to identify randomized clinical trials on antibiotic prophylaxis in tube thoracostomy for traumatic chest injuries. Data were extracted by two reviewers using piloted forms. Mantel–Haenszel pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with 95 per cent confidence intervals (c.i.).

Results

Eleven articles were included, encompassing 1241 chest drains in 1234 patients. Most patients (84·7 per cent) were men, and a penetrating injury mechanism was most common (856, 69·4 per cent). A favourable effect of antibiotic prophylaxis on the incidence of pulmonary infection was found, with an OR for the overall infectious complication rate of 0·24 (95 per cent c.i. 0·12 to 0·49). Patients who received antibiotic prophylaxis had an almost three times lower risk of empyema than those who did not receive antibiotic treatment (OR 0·32, 0·17 to 0·61). A subgroup analysis in patients with penetrating chest injuries showed that antibiotic prophylaxis in these patients reduced the risk of infection after tube thoracostomy (OR 0·28, 0·14 to 0·57), whereas in a relatively small blunt trauma subgroup no effect of antibiotic prophylaxis after blunt thoracic injury was found.

Conclusion

Infectious complications are less likely to develop when antibiotic prophylaxis is administered to patients with thoracic injuries requiring chest drains after penetrating injury.
QR codes and library engagement
Authors: Whitchurch Michael J.
Published: December 2011

QR codes are two‐dimensional patterned graphics that, when read by mobile devices, represent text and link to Internet content. At numerous libraries, QR codes are being used in a variety of ways to promote student engagement, supporting library services that are unique or improved over past approaches. Descriptions of successful implementations abound on library‐oriented wikis. Brigham Young University's Harold B. Lee Library has adopted QR codes for use in marketing materials, for a library audio tour and to reserve group study rooms. Implementation hurdles are manageable and include producing and designing the codes, locating them effectively and having access to compatible hardware, though student ownership of smartphones is rising rapidly. Libraries adopting QR codes should focus on implementations that add value, educate intended users, customize the code to reflect the school's brand, are creative and track code usage.
Information overload, information architecture and digital literacy
Authors: Koltay Tibor
Published: December 2011

Efforts to address the chronic challenge of information overload in the digital world have focused on content filtering facilitated by information architecture (IA). Information professionals traditionally served as gatekeepers using formal information organization structures, systems and tools. The exploding quantity of contributed content on social media has magnified information overload and left content control and management largely up to users, who need to be educated in digital literacy (DLi) in order to assume this role. Thus, DLi's interface with IO is relatively clear. DLi also has a twofold role in the related field of IA. By default, information architects should be digitally literate themselves. Secondly, the users of information have to be aware of the importance of structures and architecture. This awareness can be achieved by educating them to IA as part of DLi education. The proper balance between formal and informal approaches to organizing information in the Web 2.0 environment is not yet clear.
Anatomical correlates of endonasal surgery for sinonasal malignancies
Authors: Pinheiro‐Neto Carlos D. , Fernandez‐Miranda Juan C. , Wang Eric W. , Gardner Paul A. , Snyderman Carl H.
Published: December 2011

In recent years, endoscopic endonasal techniques have been applied to the treatment of sinonasal malignancies. Comprehensive anatomical knowledge is essential to preserve oncological principles and minimize surgical morbidity. The bones that form the anterior cranial base are pneumatized and the sinuses provide surgical corridors for the endoscopic endonasal approach to the skull base. During endoscopic endonasal resection of sinonasal malignancies, usually, the intranasal portion of the tumor is first debulked to provide visualization of the margins and assess the extent of the tumor. Afterwards the tumor is completely removed and the margins of resection are defined. In case of dural resection, the reconstruction is done with vascularized tissue (septal flap or pericranial flap). Sinonasal malignant neoplasms that invade the skull base can be resected accordingly to oncological principles using endoscopic endonasal techniques. Profound knowledge of the endoscopic anatomy of the ventral cranial base is paramount in order to perform a safe resection and reconstruction. Clin. Anat. 25:129–134, 2012. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.