bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Phoma negriana, a new species from grapevine canes in Poland
Authors: Machowicz-Stefanik Zofia , Król Ewa
Published: December 2013

The occurrence and elements of morphology of P. negriana Thüm. were studied. The fungus cultures were isolated from grapevine canes cultivated in South–East Poland. Grapevine stems from which the cultures of P. negriana were obtained showed symptoms of necrosis and bark break. The species of the fungus was identified on the basis of pycnidia and conidia morphology, the character of colonies growth and biochemical features of the studied isolates.
New records of annulate Pluteus in European and Asian Russia
Authors: Malysheva Ekaterina , Morozova Olga , Zvyagina Elena
Published: December 2013

New records of the annulate Pluteus were made by the authors in Central Russia (Zhigulevsky Nature Reserve) and Western Siberia (Yugansky Nature Reserve). The description of the species based on these records is presented. The taxonomic value of such features as the presence of velum and the color of lamellae edge as well as the similarity between Chamaeota and Pluteus are discussed and the new combination Pluteus fenzlii is proposed.
Fungal biodiversity in rhizosphere of healthy and needle cast-affected Scots pine transplants
Authors: Mańka Małgorzata
Published: December 2013

Healthy Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) transplants had in rhizosphere a community of saprotrophic fungi which considerably suppressed the growth of severe root pathogens Heterobasidion annosum and Armillaria obscura. A community from transplants affected by needle cast (Lophodermium spp.) suppressed both pathogens to a much smaller extent.
Armillaria species in coniferous stands
Authors: Żółciak Anna
Published: December 2013

Identification of the Armillaria species in selected coniferous stands (Scots pine stands, Norway spruce stands and fir stands) was the aim of the work carried out on the basis of mating tests and consideration of macroscopic traits of fruit-bodies. One species of Armillaria [A. ostoyae (Romagnesi) Herink] was found in Scots pine stands, three species [A. ostoyae, A. cepistipes Velenovský and A. borealis Marxmüller et Korhonen] were found in Norway spruce stands and two species [A. ostoyae and A. cepistipes] were found in fir stands.
Soil fungi communities from young Scots pine plantations affected with root rot
Authors: Szewczyk Wojciech
Published: December 2013

The aim of work was to investigate the qualitative and quantitative characteristic features of soil fungi associations occurring in I class pine stands threatened by pathogens of tree roots in Zielonka Experimental Forest District. During the mycological analyses of soil, a total of 694 isolates of fungi representing 33 species were obtained. The most numerously represented species was Penicillium daleae which made 75% of all isolates. The second place in the ranking belonged to Penicillium janczewski amounting to 11%. In order to define the qualitative and quantitative similarity between the studied areas, a proportional inconformity was determined. The greatest similarity occurred between the associations of soil fungi obtained from site 64c and 35b.
Influence of some physical factors on the growth and sporulation of entomopathogenic fungi
Authors: Piątkowski Jerzy , Krzyżewska Aneta
Published: December 2013

The objective of the study was to examine, how some physical factors and inoculation techniques affect the growth and sporulation of three insecticidal fungal strains, Hirsutella tompsonii, Paecilomyces sp., and Pandora sp. Although the methods of inoculation, as well as such physical parameters as temperature, the osmotic value of the habitat and UV radiation, exerted an influence on the above-mentioned features of the fungi, their contribution varied from one strain to another. Some of the effects, however (e.g., the production of filamentous structures by Pandora, or the lethal action of glycerol on Pandora), require a close examination.
Fungi and fungi-like Oomycetes isolated from affected leaves of rhododendron
Authors: Kowalik Maria
Published: December 2013

The aim of the work is to identify fungi and fungi-like Oomycetes occurring on affected leaves of rhododendron Rhododendron L. Mycological analyses were carried out on 200 leaves collected from green areas of Kraków from May till September 2005. Isolated fungi-like Oomycetes belonged to 67 taxa. The most frequently found fungi included: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, Coelophoma empetri, Nigrospora sphaerica, Pestalotia sydowiana, Phialophora cyclaminis, Phomopsis archeri, Septoria azalea and Sordaria fimicola. Among fungi-like organisms Phytophthora cinnamomi and P. citricola were isolated.
Cephalotrichum stemonitis as a biofilm inhabitant in gold mine in Poland
Authors: Chlebicki Andrzej
Published: December 2013

Cephalotrichum stemonitis and its synanamorph Echinobotryum atrum isolated from bacterial biofilm is presented.
Autofluorescence of ascospores and conidial spores in selected lichen species of the Opegrapha genus
Authors: Wieczorek Anetta
Published: December 2013

The paper presents findings of the research work on autofluorescence phenomenon in ascospores and conidial spores that was carried out on 12 selected species of the Opegrapha genus occurring in Poland.
Hypogeous fungi of Lithuania: a preliminary checklist
Authors: Kutorga Ernestas , Kataržytė Marija
Published: December 2013

The paper reports on hypogeous fungi known from Lithuania, and data on their habitats, phenology, and distribution. References on the collections kept in the herbaria are also pointed out. The information is based on literature data and re-examination of all available voucher specimens. 22 species (12 genera, 3 phyla) recorded from 124 localities are presented in a preliminary checklist.
Three species of the genus Agaricus new to Poland
Authors: Łuszczyński Janusz
Published: December 2013

The paper presents informations on Agaricus excellens (F. H. Møller) F. H. Møller, A. maleolens F. H. Møller and A. romagnesii Wasser, three new species for Poland.
Association of water-borne conidial fungi with epiphytic tree fern (Drynaria quercifolia)
Authors: Karamchand Kishore S. , Sridhar Kandikere R.
Published: December 2013

The live and dead tissues, and trapped leaf litter by the epiphytic tree fern Drynaria quercifolia associated with riparian tree species of Konaje (west coast) and Sampaje (Western Ghat) streams of India during dry (summer) and wet (monsoon) seasons yielded 37 species of water-borne conidial fungi on bubble chamber incubation. Dead bracket leaves of fern possess the highest species as well as conidia in Konaje, while the trapped leaf litter in Sampaje. During summer, the diversity was highest in bracket leaves in both locations, while in monsoon season it was highest in rhizomes of Konaje and in trapped leaf litter in Sampaje. Even though the conidial output from tissues of Drynaria and trapped leaf litter were not equivalent to stream submerged leaf litter, the species richness ranged between 40% and 75% in Konaje and Sampaje streams. As stable epiphyte, Drynaria exposed to wet and dry regimes in tree canopies of west coast and Western Ghats likely to serve as host for perfect states of water-borne hyphomycetes.
Antifungal activity of sodium chloride on Saprolegnia diclina and Aphanomyces sp.
Authors: Ali Esam H.
Published: December 2013

Sixteen identified and three unidentified species belonging to six genera of zoosporic fungi were isolated from forty water samples which were collected from different fish and fish hatcheries farms at Abbassa city, Sharkiya governorate, Egypt, using sesame seeds baiting technique at 20±2°C. Saprolegnia and Achlya contributed the broadest spectra of species diversity amongst the other genera of zoosporic fungi. Saprolegnia diclina and Aphanomyces sp. were the most prevalent species of zoosporic fungi. The abundance of zoosporic fungal species in these aquacultures was correlated with some physicochemical characteristics of the water samples. The two dominant species of zoosporic fungi were tested for their tolerance of NaCl solution and its impact on some morphological and metabolic activities of these fungi. Saprolegnia diclina tolerated concentrations of NaCl solution till 12000 μg/ml whereas the maximum resistance of Aphanomyces sp. was 8000 μg/ml. The examined morphological aspects of the two studied fungal species, which included the colony diameters, the vegetative hyphae, zoosporogenesis, zoospores discharge, sexual reproductive structures and gemmae formation, were generally affected depending upon the tested fungal species and the applied dose of NaCl solution. The low treatments of NaCl solution were significantly stimulative compared with the control for protease production by S. diclina but higher doses were significantly suppressive. A significant decline in protease activity at all applications was found when Aphanomyces sp. was treated with NaCl solution. The total free amino acids and total protein content of S. diclina and Aphanomyces sp. mycelia were almost significantly increased relative to untreated controls at the low dose of NaCl solution and they were significantly dropped at the higher concentrations by the two zoosporic fungi.
Lichens of abandoned zinc-lead mines
Authors: Bielczyk Urszula , Jędrzejczyk-Korycińska Monika , Kiszka Józef
Published: December 2013

A list of lichens from areas of zinc-lead ores in Southern Poland and a review of the characteristic lichen biota of these sites is provided. In spite of the devastated and heavy metal contaminated environment, a highly diverse epigeic and epilithic lichen biota was found, including species characteristic of various anthropogenic habitats, particularly zinc and lead enriched substrates (Diploschistes muscorum, Steinia geophana, Sarcosagium campestre, Vezdaea aestivalis and V. leprosa). Also, the high-mountain species Leucocarpia biatorella, as well as very rare in Europe Thelocarpon imperceptum, and several species categorized as very rare, endangered and protected in Poland were recorded. Crustose lichens are the most abundant; among fruticose forms Cladonia spp. predominate and Stereocaulon incrustatum is common.
Epiphytic lichens of apple orchards in Poland, Slovakia, and Italy
Authors: Zarabska Daria , Gutová Anna , Christofolini Fabiana , Giordiani Paolo , Lackovičová Anna
Published: December 2013

Following the study of epiphytic lichens in 30 apple orchards from Poland, Slovakia and Italy the list of 74 taxa was prepared. The most common are the meso- to xerophytic and heliophilous species. The highest number of taxa was observed in Slovak orchards. Moreover, lichens shared with at least one other country were also noted mainly in Slovakia. Bark of apple trees seems to create favourable habitats for Bacidia rubella, which together with Strangospora pinicola were valuable founds in Polish orchards. In Slovak orchards, special attention should be paid to Acrocordia gemmata, Melanelixia glabra and Usnea hirta. Among interesting records in Italian orchards, Phaeophyscia hispidula and Ph. kairamoi can be mentioned.
Ultrastructural examination of the pycnidia and conidia of the genus Opegrapha (Arthoniales, Ascomycota)
Authors: Wieczorek Anetta
Published: December 2013

The paper presents a summary of examinations on the variation of pycnidia and conidia of the following Opegrapha species occurring in Poland: O. atra, O. calcarea, O. dolomitica, O. gyrocarpa, O. niveoatra, O. rupestris, O. varia, O. vermicellifera, O. viridis and O. vulgata.
First records of Lecanora semipallida (lichenized fungi) from Romania
Authors: Śliwa Lucyna
Published: December 2013

Lecanora semipallida is a saxicolous member of L. dispersa-group. The first localities of the species in Romania come from Southern Carpathians (Bucegi Mts.) and Eastern Carpathians (Rodnei Mts.). L. semipallida is supposed to be a common lichen species in Europe. Aspecies of similar appearance is L. dispersa s.str. Akey character distinguishing L. semipallida is the presence of epithecial granules that are soluble in KOH. The presence of vinetorin, often causing yellowish colour of apothecia and resulting in positive spot tests and UV reactions of the apothecial disc, is also diagnostic. Apart from Romania, the species is also reported from Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.
Lichens and allied fungi of two Regional Parks in Vilnius area (Lithuania)
Authors: Motiejūnaitė Jurga
Published: December 2013

Two Regional Parks – Verkiai and Pavilniai are situated in Vilnius city area comprising territories both of the city itself and Vilnius district and are under strong anthropogenic influence. During the present study 172 species of lichens, lichenicolous and saprobic fungi were revealed in Verkiai RP and 92 species – in Pavilniai RP. Three lichen species – Absconditella pauxilla, Thelenella pertusariella (in Verkiai RP), Bacidia caligans (in Pavilniai RP) and one saprobic fungus – Chaenothecopsis debilis (in Verkiai RP) are reporded for the first time in Lithuania. Seven lichen species of Lithuanian Red Data Book were recorded, all of them only in Verkiai RP; this indicates less strong anthropogenic impact and better conditions for biodiversity in this Park.
Robillarda sessilis, a rare coelomycete isolated from Scots pine seedlings
Authors: Yurchenko Eugene , Belomesyatseva Dasha
Published: December 2013

A coelomycete with appendage-bearing conidia, R. sessilis, was isolated three times from stems of living healthy Pinus sylvestris seedlings of the 1st year growing in a nursery in central Belarus. Macroscopic and microscopic morphology of the fungus in culture is described.
Polish resupinate Russulales: the genus Vararia
Authors: Karasiński Dariusz
Published: December 2013

The paper discusses three corticioid species of the genus Vararia P. Karst. Two species, Vararia gallica (Bourdot & Galzin) Boidin and Vararia ochroleuca (Bourdot & Galzin) Donk, are reported from Poland for the first time. The cosmopolitan species Vararia investiens P. Karst., previously known only from one Polish record, was rediscovered after over 100 years since the previous Polish collection. Macro- and micromorphological characters of the Polish collections are described and illustrated. The knowledge of their distribution and ecology is briefly summarized. A key to European members of the genus is given.
Macrolepiota olivascens, a new species for Poland
Authors: Jaworska Justyna
Published: December 2013

The article presents a new for Poland species of fungi, Macrolepiota olivascens M. M. Moser & Singer, found in Milechowy reserve near Chęciny in the western part of the Góry Świętokrzyskie Mountains. Morphological characters of the specimens are described and illustrated in the paper.
The occurrence and distribution of cellulolytic fungi and Fusarium in seven Montagu’s Harrier (Circus pygargus)
Authors: Korniłłowicz-Kowalska Teresa , Kitowski Ignacy , Iglak Helena
Published: December 2013

A total of 45 species of cellulolytic fungi and ten Fusarium species were identified. Three genera (Chaetomium, Trichoderma, Fusarium) represented 80% of the frequency of cellulolytic fungi. Of them, Chaetomium globosum, Trichoderma viride and T. koningii were some of the most frequent species. A high differentiation of the richness and frequency of species of cellulolytic fungi depending on the nest and its individual layers was observed. Reasons for the differences in the frequency and species composition of the fungi were discussed.
Contribution to morphology and ecology of Polyporus rhizophilus
Authors: Łuszczyński Janusz , Łuszczyńska Bożena
Published: December 2013

The distribution and ecological conditions of the occurrence of Polyporus rhizophilus in Poland are discussed. The species was previously known from only one locality in Dwikozy near Sandomierz. Further localities were found on the roots of Stipa capillata in the Skorocice reserve near Busko Zdrój and at an anthropogenic site among Dactylis glomerata, Poa annua and P. trivialis grasses in an urban park in Końskie. The latter locality is noteworthy as it is situated outside the occurrence range of xerothermic grasslands in the Wyżyna Kielecko-Sandomierska upland. This locality is isolated ecologically from the two remaining Polish localities situated in the xerothermic grasslands.
Water-borne hyphomycetes in tree canopies of Kaiga (Western Ghats), India
Authors: Sudheep Naga M. , Sridhar Kandikere R.
Published: December 2013

The canopy samples such as trapped leaf litter, trapped sediment (during summer), stemflow and throughfall (during monsoon) from five common riparian tree species (Artocarpus heterophyllus, Cassia fistula, Ficus recemosa, Syzygium caryophyllatum and Xylia xylocarpa) in Kaiga forest stand of the Western Ghats of southwest India were evaluated for the occurrence of water-borne hyphomycetes. Partially decomposed trapped leaf litter was incubated in bubble chambers followed by filtration to assess conidial output. Sediments accumulated in tree holes or junction of branches were shaken with sterile leaf disks in distilled water followed by incubation of leaf disks in bubble chamber and filtration to find out colonized fungi. Stemflow and throughfall samples were filtered directly to collect free conidia. From five canopy niches, a total of 29 water-borne hyphomycetes were recovered. The species richness was higher in stemflow and throughfall than trapped leaf litter and sediments (14-16 vs. 6-10 species). Although sediments of Syzygium caryophyllatum were acidic (5.1), the conidial output was higher than other tree species. Stemflow and throughfall of Xylea xylocarpa even though alkaline (8.5-8.7) showed higher species richness (6-12 species) as well as conidial load than rest of the tree species. Flagellospora curvula and Triscelophorus acuminatus were common in trapped leaf litter and sediments respectively, while conidia of Anguillospora crassa and A. longissima were frequent in stemflow and throughfall. Diversity of water-borne hyphomycetes was highest in throughfall of Xylea xylocarpa followed by throughfall of Ficus recemosa. Our study reconfirms the occurrence and survival of diverse water-borne hyphomycetes in different niches of riparian tree canopies of the Western Ghats during wet and dry regimes and predicts their possible role in canopy as saprophytes, endophytes and alternation of life cycle between canopy and aquatic habitats.
The lichen genus Pertusaria in Poland I. P. multipuncta and P. ophthalmiza
Authors: Oset Magdalena , Kukwa Martin
Published: December 2013

The paper presents results of study on two morphologically very similar lichens in Poland, P. multipuncta (Turner) Nyl. and P. ophthalmiza (Nyl.) Nyl. (Pertusariales, Ascomycota). Previously, specimens were determined using only thallus characters and spot test reaction, with no data on lichen substances. This led to several misidentifications. After the revision of all available material of P. multipuncta from Poland it appeared to be reported correctly only from one locality in Gorce Mts. Most of other specimens belong to P. ophthalmiza, which has not been recorded in Polish lichenological literature until 2008.
Resiliency Planning Ensures Better Outcomes
Authors: Lechevallier Mark W. , Chelius James J.
Published: December 2013

During weather events, a utility's level of preparedness means the difference between temporary inconveniences and serious health and environmental consequences. Preparedness can greatly affect how quickly communities recover from a disaster.
Utility Optimizes Treatment, Controls THM Formation with Online Analyzer
Authors: Bailey Timothy , Shaffer Cor , Mui Rudy
Published: December 2013

Local source water management and monitoring, plus optimizing coagulation, allow a Southern California utility to optimize operations and minimize imported water use.
Noninvasive Antenna Mounting Preserves Tank Integrity
Authors: Klein David
Published: December 2013

The Otay (Calif.) Water District solved environmental and safety concerns regarding storage tank‐mounted antennas by requiring a wireless communications company to use a noninvasive mounting system to install eight antennas on district tanks.
Regulatory Update: Delay Is the Name of the Game
Authors: Roberson Alan
Published: December 2013

Gridlock in the US Congress, sequestration budget cuts in January 2013, and the federal government shutdown in October 2013 have delayed some regulatory actions. However, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) was surprisingly busy in 2013.
Deregulated FGF and homeotic gene expression underlies cerebellar vermis hypoplasia in CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Yu Tian , Meiners Linda C , Danielsen Katrin , Wong Monica TY , Bowler Timothy , Reinberg Danny , Scambler Peter J , van Ravenswaaij-Arts Conny MA , Basson M Albert
Published: December 2013

Mutations in CHD7 are the major cause of CHARGE syndrome, an autosomal dominant disorder with an estimated prevalence of 1/15,000. We have little understanding of the disruptions in the developmental programme that underpin brain defects associated with this syndrome. Using mouse models, we show that Chd7 haploinsufficiency results in reduced Fgf8 expression in the isthmus organiser (IsO), an embryonic signalling centre that directs early cerebellar development. Consistent with this observation, Chd7 and Fgf8 loss-of-function alleles interact during cerebellar development. CHD7 associates with Otx2 and Gbx2 regulatory elements and altered expression of these homeobox genes implicates CHD7 in the maintenance of cerebellar identity during embryogenesis. Finally, we report cerebellar vermis hypoplasia in 35% of CHARGE syndrome patients with a proven CHD7 mutation. These observations provide key insights into the molecular aetiology of cerebellar defects in CHARGE syndrome and link reduced FGF signalling to cerebellar vermis hypoplasia in a human syndrome.
From brief encounters to lifelong unions
Authors: Olson Bradley JSC
Published: December 2013

Could the transient aggregation of unicellular organisms have paved the way for the evolution of the multicellular animals?
Arctic Report Card Underscores Continued Long‐Term Warming Trend
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: December 2013

Although fewer record‐setting snow and ice events occurred in the Arctic in 2013 compared to 2012, “the impacts of the persistent warming trend of over 30 years remain clearly evident,” according to the 2013 Arctic Report Card issued by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) at a 12 December news briefing at the AGU Fall Meeting in San Francisco, Calif.
GPS as a Weather Sensor
Authors: Kumar Mohi
Published: December 2013

Global Positioning System (GPS) stations are not just useful for studying how tectonic plates and glaciers surge or creep or how land deforms as magma runs below it. They also are rapidly becoming important sensors for monitoring the terrestrial water cycle (see “Using GPS to study the terrestrial water cycle,” pages 505–506). What is more, they can help study and forecast weather, according to scientists who presented their work at AGU's 2013 Fall Meeting in San Francisco, Calif.
Leveraging Remote Sensing for Conservation Decision Making
Authors: Leidner Allison K. , Brink Andreas B. , Szantoi Zoltan
Published: December 2013

Remote sensing makes a vital contribution to the biodiversity research and conservation applications communities. However, to realize the full benefit of remote sensing to conservation practice, strong partnerships among remote sensing scientists and conservation practitioners are needed to improve the applicability of remote sensing tools and products for conservation activities.
Ultrahigh‐speed camera captures unexpected lightning attachment
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: December 2013

A bolt of lightning takes, from start to finish, just a few fractions of a second, making lightning difficult to image, but ultrahigh‐speed cameras now enable observations that show new details of the lightning process. Using multiple high‐speed cameras, including one that can record at 20‐microsecond intervals to capture 50,000 frames per second, Lu et al. describe the unexpected processes behind a lightning bolt that struck the 440‐meter‐tall International Finance Center in Guangzhou, China. From their high‐speed records the authors report for the first time the observation of a lightning bolt where the downward leader attached below the tip of the upward connecting leader.
Hourly oxygen and total gas tension measurements at the Southern Ocean Time Series site reveal winter ventilation and spring net community production
Authors: Weeding Ben , Trull Thomas W.
Published: December 2013

Using a moored instrument package at 35 m depth at the Southern Ocean Time Series (SOTS) site near 46°56′S 142°15′E from September 2010 to April 2011 (219 days), we obtained the first Southern Ocean Time Series of dissolved oxygen (from an optode sensor) and nitrogen (from a total gas tension sensor). Nitrogen was consistently supersaturated (100.8%–102.9%), while oxygen was highly subsaturated in early spring (as low as 93.5%) and reached supersaturation (maximum 104.9%) during only 37 days in early summer. The low oxygen levels in spring illustrate the importance of deep mixing in the Subantarctic Zone in ventilating the upper limb of the global overturning circulation. Using nitrogen as a proxy for physical processes, we isolated biological contributions to the oxygen time series to obtain net community production (NCP). Almost all NCP occurred in spring in the presence of deep mixed layers, with only small additional contributions in summer after water column stratification. The temperature and salinity time series also revealed distinct parcels of water. Rapid changes at their interfaces generated unrealistic NCP events in the standard calculation model, which were removed, while still retaining NCP contributions from each parcel. NCP totaled 2.2 ± 1.2 mol O2 m−2 over the deployment, within the range of previous estimates from low temporal resolution techniques. Examination of errors revealed particular sensitivity to entrainment, suggesting more rigorous understanding of this process is required, e.g., via profiling instruments.
Longitudinal Validation of the Brief Index of Lupus Damage
Authors: Katz Patricia , Trupin Laura , Rush Stephanie , Yazdany Jinoos
Published: December 2013

Objective

To provide further validation of the Brief Index of Lupus Damage (BILD), assessing its sensitivity to change in disease status and ability to predict mortality risk.

Methods

Data were from the University of California, San Francisco Lupus Outcomes Study (n = 958), in which the BILD was administered twice, approximately 5 years apart. We examined disease activity and health care utilization among participants who completed the BILD twice (n = 745). We identified increases in disease activity and utilization that would suggest a disease flare between the 2 BILD administrations and compared their occurrence by BILD score increases (0, 1, 2, 3, >3). Deaths were ascertained when annual interviews were attempted. Kaplan‐Meier life‐table analysis compared mortality rates for 4 groups of initial BILD scores (0, 1, 2, ≥3), and differences were tested using a log rank test. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we estimated the risk of death associated with higher BILD scores.

Results

BILD score increases were associated with spikes in disease activity (P = 0.05) and physician visits (P = 0.004) over baseline, and with hospitalizations (P < 0.001) during the intervening years. Of those with BILD score increases >3, 84% were hospitalized prior to the second BILD. During followup, there were 60 deaths (6.3%). BILD scores of 2 (hazard ratio [HR] 6.1, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.3–30.0) and ≥3 (HR 10.8, 95% CI 2.5–46.2) were associated with higher risk of death.

Conclusion

This analysis provides evidence of the predictive validity of the BILD and its ability to detect change. While not intended to replace clinical evaluation of disease damage, the BILD appears to be a useful tool for research.
Risk Factors in the Progression of Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Lertratanakul Apinya , Wu Peggy , Dyer Alan R. , Kondos George , Edmundowicz Daniel , Carr James , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind
Published: December 2013

Objective

To investigate risk factors in subclinical atherosclerosis progression as measured by coronary artery calcium (CAC) and aorta calcium (AC) in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE; cases) and in comparison with a control population.

Methods

A cohort of 149 cases and 124 controls participated in the Study of Lupus Vascular and Bone Long‐Term Endpoints. Demographic information, cardiovascular and SLE risk factors, and laboratory assessments were collected at an initial visit. CAC and AC were measured by electron beam computed tomography (CT) or multidetector CT at an initial visit and at a followup visit. Logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of progression in CAC and AC; multivariate models were adjusted for age, hypertension, and total cholesterol to high‐density lipoprotein ratio.

Results

Higher modified Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI) score (odds ratio [OR] 2.15, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.33–3.57), use of a corticosteroid (OR 2.93, 95% CI 1.14–7.86), and use of aspirin (OR 4.23, 95% CI 1.53–11.74) were associated with CAC progression in multivariate models. Presence of SLE (OR 2.64, 95% CI 1.26–5.72), lower C3 (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.33–0.87), lower C4 (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.27–0.86), use of a corticosteroid (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.03–7.64), higher corticosteroid dose (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.12–3.00), higher lipoprotein(a) (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.11–2.98), and higher homocysteine (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.06–4.29) were associated with AC progression in multivariate models.

Conclusion

Higher disease damage at the first study visit, as measured by the modified SDI, may predict increased risk in CAC progression, whereas higher disease activity at the first study visit, as measured by hypocomplementemia and use of corticosteroids, may predict increased risk in AC progression.
Synthesis and optical properties of poss‐based oxadiazole nanohybrids with three‐dimensional molecular conjugated structure
Authors: Yan Yongxin , Wang Jun , Liu Tianbao , Wang Xin , Su Xinyan , Feng Yan
Published: December 2013

A series of oxadiazole‐containing molecular hybrid materials with three‐dimensional structure (P1–P3) was prepared by Heck reaction based on the octavinylsilsesquioxane. All resultant hybrid materials are soluble in common organic solvents and possess good film‐forming property. Their structures and properties were characterized and evaluated by FTIR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, 29Si‐NMR, MALDI‐TOF, UV–vis, photoluminescence (PL), cyclic voltammetry, and elemental analysis (EA). The results showed that the substituted arm numbers of hybrids (P2 and P3) with pushing electron groups were efficiently controlled. Moreover, the hybrids possessed a steady blue emission and good electron‐injecting property in film. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40246.
Rapid fabrication of organic/organic photonic bandgap films with tuneable mechanical properties using blended polymer spheres
Authors: Kuo Yu‐Cheng , Chen Meng‐Chu , Lin Tsung‐Te , Shiu Yi‐Ru , Chen Hui
Published: December 2013

In this study, the photonic bandgap (PBG) film with tunable mechanical properties and photonic stop band was prepared by a simple and feasible approach. Colloid polymer spheres with a relatively large diameter (approximate Dn of 200 nm) and different glass transition temperatures (Tg) were blended with small polystyrene (PS) latex (Dn = 20 nm) and were subsequently casted on a substrate for 3 h at 50°C for self‐assembly of the PBG film. The monodispersed polymer spheres were synthesized by soap‐free emulsion polymerization in the boiling state. The Tg values of the spheres were predetermined based on the Fox equation, and designed to fall in the region of −34°C to 112°C. Small PS could also be synthesized by this approach using the comonomer, sodium p‐styrenesulfonate (NaSS), to ensure the small diameter. The long‐range ordered structure constructed by embedding the small PS in the PBG film was indirectly confirmed on the basis of SEM analysis, from which the monochromatic film color was determined based on Bragg's diffraction law. Tunable film color was achieved by adjusting the diameter of the spheres, as evaluated using UV–Vis. Tunable mechanical properties of the PBG film were also achieved by varying the Tg of the spheres or the filling ratio of small PS. Based on these approaches, the ultimate tensile strength could be tuned in the region between 0.39 to 4.7 Mpa, and the relative strain could be varied from 1236% to 16%, illustrative of the excellent deformability of the film. Furthermore, by variation of these two parameters, the film properties could be changed from typical elastomer behavior to brittle plastic polymer type behavior, greatly extending the prospective application fields. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40276.
Melt spinning and drawing of polyethylene nanocomposite fibers with organically modified hydrotalcite
Authors: Fambri Luca , Dabrowska Izabela , Pegoretti Alessandro , Ceccato Riccardo
Published: December 2013

Fibers of high density polyethylene (HDPE)/organically modified hydrotalcite (LDH) were produced by melt intercalation in a two‐step process consisting of twin‐screw extrusion and hot drawing. The optimum drawing temperature was 125°C at which the draw ratios up to 20 could be achieved. XRD analysis revealed intercalation with a high degree of exfoliation for the composites with 1–2% of LDH. Higher thermal stability of nanofilled fibers was confirmed by TGA analysis. DSC data indicated that dispersed LDH particles act as a nucleating agent. Crystallization kinetics of the HDPE matrix in the composite fibers is characterized by two transition temperatures, that is, for Regimes I/II at 123°C and for Regimes II/III ranging between 114–119°C as a function of the nanocomposite composition. Fibers with 1–2% of LDH show for the drawing ratios up to 15 a higher elastic modulus, 9.0–9.3 GPa (with respect to 8.0 GPa of the neat HDPE), maintain tensile strength of 0.8 GPa and deformation at break of 20–25%. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40277.
Cellulose/acrylic acid copolymer blends for films and coating applications
Authors: Saarikoski Eve , Rautkoski Hille , Rissanen Marja , Hartman Jonas , Seppälä Jukka
Published: December 2013

Enzymatically treated cellulose was dissolved in a NaOH/ZnO solvent system and mixed together with poly(ethylene‐co‐acrylic acid) (PE‐co‐AA) or poly(acrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) (PAA‐co‐AA) polymers, in order to improve the properties of dissolved cellulose and to prepare homogeneous cellulose‐based blends for films and coatings. The solution stage properties of the blends were evaluated by rheological methods and the precipitated dry blends were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. Paperboard coating tests done at laboratory scale showed dissolved cellulose/acrylic acid copolymer‐based blends function well as coating materials. All of the tested blends showed a good resistance against grease in the coating trials, having grease resistance from 60 to 69 days despite a very thin (∼2 µm) coating layer. In addition, cellulose/PE‐co‐AA coating showed improved water vapor and oxygen barrier properties when compared with neat dissolved cellulose‐coated paperboard. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40286.
Surface modification of BaTiO3 inclusions in polydicyclopentadiene nanocomposites for energy storage
Authors: Culver Sean P. , Beier Christopher W. , Rafson Jessica P. , Brutchey Richard L.
Published: December 2013

A new nanocomposite system displaying high breakdown strength, improved permittivity, low dielectric loss, and high thermal stability is presented. Free‐standing nanocomposite films were prepared via a solvent‐free in‐situ polymerization technique whereby 5 vol % BaTiO3 (BT) nanocrystals with tailored surface chemistry were dispersed in dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) prior to initiation of ring opening metathesis polymerization by a second generation Grubbs catalyst. The relative permittivity was enhanced from 1.7 in the neat poly(DCPD) film to a maximum of 2.4 in the composite, while the dielectric loss tangent was minimized below 0.7%. Surface modification of the BT nanocrystals mitigated reduction in breakdown strength of the resulting nanocomposites such that only a 13% reduction in breakdown strength was observed relative to the neat polymer films. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40290.
Bioactive agarose carbon‐nanotube composites are capable of manipulating brain–implant interface
Authors: Lewitus Dan Y. , Smith Karen L. , Landers John , Neimark Alexander V. , Kohn Joachim
Published: December 2013

Composite electrodes made of the polysaccharide agarose and carbon nanotubes (A‐CNE) have shown potential to be applied as tissue‐compatible, micro‐electronic devices. In this article, A‐CNEs were functionalized using neuro‐relevant proteins (laminin and alpha‐melanocyte stimulating hormone) and implanted in brain tissue for 1 week (acute response) and 4 weeks (chronic response). Qualitative and quantitative analysis of neuronal and immunological responses revealed significant changes in immunological response to implanted materials depending on the type of biomolecule used. The potential to manipulate tissue response through the use of an anti‐inflammatory protein, alpha‐melanocyte stimulating hormone, was shown in the reduction of astroglia presence near the implant site during the glial scar formation. These results suggest that A‐CNEs, which are soft, flexible, and easily made bioactive, have the ability to modify brain tissue response through surface modification as a function of the biomolecule used. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40297.
Simultaneous toughening of PPO/HIPS/Glass fiber reinforced composites with thermoplastic rubbers
Authors: Tang Weihua , Guo Xuejiao , Li Dapeng , Zhu Enwei , Yuan Huilin
Published: December 2013

Simultaneously reinforced and toughened PPO/HIPS/SEBS/glass fiber (GF) 60/40/5/30 composites were successfully prepared with GF as reinforcing agent and SEBS as toughener. The formulation of PPO/HIPS/SEBS/GF quaternary composites was stepwise optimized by evaluating the effect of GF and SEBS on the processing, mechanical and thermal properties of the composites. The synergistic effects of GF reinforcement and elastomer toughening are attributed to high performance PPO/HIPS/SEBS/GF composites. Among the four elastomers studied, SEBS exhibited as effective toughener for PPO/HIPS matrix and the resulted PPO/HIPS/SEBS/GF composites presented a good combination of mechanical and thermal properties. The optimized PPO/HIPS/SEBS/GF 60/40/5/30 quaternary composites displayed a tensile strength of 123.6 MPa, a bending strength of 149.7 MPa, an unnotched impact strength of 46.6 KJ/m2 and a heat distortion temperature of 148.9°C. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40299.
Ethylene–propylene‐diene terpolymer/halloysite nanocomposites: Thermal, mechanical properties, and foam processing
Authors: Lee Kangsuk , Chang Young‐Wook , Kim Seong Woo
Published: December 2013

Ethylene–propylene‐diene terpolymer (EPDM)/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposites were prepared by melt mixing in an internal mixer using a commercially available maleated semicrystalline EPDM and HNT. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of the EPDM/HNT composites revealed that the HNTs are uniformly dispersed at a nanometer scale in the matrix. Differential scanning calorimeter studies indicated that the HNT caused an increase in the nonisothermal crystallization temperature of the EPDM. Tensile and dynamic mechanical analysis exhibited that a small amount of the HNTs effectively enhanced the stiffness of the EPDM without adversely affecting its elongation‐at‐break. The EPDM/HNT nanocomposites were used to produce foams by using a batch process in an autoclave, with supercritical carbon dioxide as a foaming agent. The nanocomposite foams showed a smaller cell size and higher cell density as compared to the neat EPDM foam, and the nanocomposite with 10 phr HNT produced a microcellular foam with average cell size as small as 7.8 μm and cell density as high as 1.5 × 1010 cell/cm3. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40307.
EXAMINING THE ROLE OF foraging AND malvolio IN HOST‐FINDING BEHAVIOR IN THE HONEY BEE PARASITE, Varroa destructor (ANDERSON & TRUEMAN)
Authors: Cabrera Ana R. , Shirk Paul D. , Teal Peter E. A. , Grozinger Christina M. , Evans Jay D.
Published: December 2013

When a female varroa mite, Varroa destructor (Anderson & Trueman), invades a honey bee brood cell, the physiology rapidly changes from feeding phoretic to reproductive. Changes in foraging and malvolio transcript levels in the brain have been associated with modulated intra‐specific food searching behaviors in insects and other invertebrates. Transcription profiles for both genes were examined during and immediately following brood cell invasion to assess their role as potential control elements. Vdfor and Vdmvl transcripts were found in all organs of varroa mites with the highest Vdfor transcript levels in ovary‐lyrate organs and the highest Vdmvl in Malpighian tubules. Changes in transcript levels of Vdfor and Vdmvl in synganglia were not associated with the cell invasion process, remaining comparable between early reproductive mites (collected from the pre‐capping brood cells) and phoretic mites. However, Vdfor and Vdmvl transcript levels were lowered by 37 and 53%, respectively, in synganglia from reproductive mites compared to early reproductive mites, but not significantly different to levels in synganglia from phoretic mites. On the other hand, in whole body preparations the Vdfor and Vdmvl had significantly higher levels of transcript in reproductive mites compared to phoretic and early reproductive, mainly due to the presence of both transcripts accumulating in the eggs carried by the ovipositing mite. Varroa mites are a critical component for honey bee population decline and finding varroa mite genes associated with brood cell invasion, reproduction, ion balance and other physiological processes will facilitate development of novel control avenues for this honey bee parasite.
Neuromuscular Versus Quadriceps Strengthening Exercise in Patients With Medial Knee Osteoarthritis and Varus Malalignment: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bennell Kim L. , Kyriakides Mary , Metcalf Ben , Egerton Thorlene , Wrigley Tim V. , Hodges Paul W. , Hunt Michael A. , Roos Ewa M. , Forbes Andrew , Ageberg Eva , Hinman Rana S.
Published: December 2013

Objective

To compare the effects of neuromuscular exercise (NEXA) and quadriceps strengthening (QS) on the knee adduction moment (an indicator of mediolateral distribution of knee load), pain, and physical function in patients with medial knee joint osteoarthritis (OA) and varus malalignment.

Methods

One hundred patients with medial knee pain, mostly moderate‐to‐severe radiographic medial knee OA, and varus malalignment were randomly allocated to one of two 12‐week exercise programs. Each program involved 14 individually supervised exercise sessions with a physiotherapist plus a home exercise component. Primary outcomes were peak external knee adduction moment (3‐dimensional gait analysis), pain (visual analog scale), and self‐reported physical function (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index).

Results

Eighty‐two patients (38 [76%] of 50 in the NEXA group and 44 [88%] of 50 in the QS group) completed the trial. There was no significant between‐group difference in the change in the peak knee adduction moment (mean difference 0.13 Nm/[body weight × height]% [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −0.08, 0.33]), pain (mean difference 2.4 mm [95% CI −6.0, 10.8]), or physical function (mean difference −0.8 units [95% CI −4.0, 2.4]). Neither group showed a change in knee moments following exercise, whereas both groups showed similar significant reductions in pain and improvement in physical function.

Conclusion

Although comparable improvements in clinical outcomes were observed with both neuromuscular and quadriceps strengthening exercise in patients with moderate varus malalignment and mostly moderate‐to‐severe medial knee OA, these forms of exercise did not affect the knee adduction moment, a key predictor of structural disease progression.
Methotrexate and Lung Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Conway Richard , Low Candice , Coughlan Robert J. , O'Donnell Martin J. , Carey John J.
Published: December 2013

Objective

Methotrexate has shown efficacy for the treatment of several diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methotrexate has also been implicated as a causative agent in interstitial lung disease. Patients with RA may develop pulmonary manifestations of their disease and are at increased risk of respiratory infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relative risk (RR) of pulmonary disease among patients with RA treated with methotrexate.

Methods

We searched the PubMed and Cochrane databases (publication dates January 1, 1990 to February 1, 2013) for double‐blind, randomized, controlled trials of methotrexate versus placebo or active comparator agents in adults with RA. Studies with <100 subjects or with a duration of <24 weeks were excluded. Two investigators independently searched both databases, and all of the investigators reviewed the selected studies. We compared differences in the RR using the Mantel‐Haenszel random‐effects method.

Results

A total of 22 studies with 8,584 participants met the inclusion criteria. Heterogeneity across studies was not significant (I2 = 3%), allowing combination of the trial results. Methotrexate was associated with an increased risk of all adverse respiratory events (RR 1.10, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.02−1.19) and respiratory infection (RR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02−1.21). Patients treated with methotrexate were not at increased risk of death due to lung disease (RR 1.53, 95% CI 0.46−5.01) or noninfectious respiratory events (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.65−1.60). A subgroup analysis of studies in which pneumonitis was described revealed an increased risk associated with methotrexate (RR 7.81, 95% CI 1.76−34.72).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a small but significant increase in the risk of lung disease in patients with RA treated with methotrexate compared with other disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic agents.