bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micronutrient productivity: a comprehensive parameter for biofortification in rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain
Authors: Khan Jameel A , Narayana Krupa Kuntanahalli , Holla Sumantha , Shrinivas Sowjanya Makkivalli , Dar Zahoor A , Shashidhar Halagappa Eshwarappa
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Enhancing the micronutrient content of staple crops such as rice will improve human nutrition and address the problem of hidden hunger globally. Rice grains consumed after polishing lack adequate amounts of micronutrients. The present study aims to reveal the effects of polishing on micronutrient content and to identify superior genotype(s) to improve yield and micronutrient content after polishing.

RESULTS

AM65 exhibited the highest zinc content, and AM180 had the highest iron content, even after polishing. There was little or no difference between the genotypes for zinc content in bran, indicating a possible threshold for micronutrient accumulation in the aleurone layer. A comprehensive selection criterion called ‘micronutrient productivity’ was used to select for both yield and micronutrient parameters. AM65 and ARB6 showed high zinc and iron productivity indices. OsZIP4b and OsZIP6c markers showed an association with iron content on an agarose gel. Sequencing of markers revealed that OsYSL15 and OsZIP6c were associated with grain zinc content and OsZIP3b, OsMTP1a, and OsYSL4b with grain iron content. These markers can be used for selecting superior accessions.

CONCLUSION

AM65 was loaded with micronutrients and manifested a positive correlation with the grain yield, and it is undoubtedly ‘super elite’. Bran does not drain the grain but rather acts as gateway for micronutrient transportation to the endosperm. Micronutrient productivity is a comprehensive parameter for the biofortification of grain. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Thorough characterization and stability of HP‐β‐cyclodextrin thymol inclusion complexes prepared by microwave technology: A required approach to a successful application in food industry
Authors: Rodríguez‐López María Isabel , Mercader‐Ros María Teresa , López‐Miranda Santiago , Pellicer José A , Pérez‐Garrido Alfonso , Pérez‐Sánchez Horacio , Núñez‐Delicado Estrella , Gabaldón José A
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

The aims of the present study were to obtain a stable dry powder formulation of cyclodextrins (CDs) encapsulating thymol, for successful use as an ingredient on an industrial scale, and to characterize the thymol‐CDs complexes using different techniques.

RESULTS

Thymol was successfully solubilized in aqueous solutions and the Kc value increased with the pH of the media until the pH was neutral, giving the highest values (2583 ± 176 L mol−1) for HP‐β‐cyclodextrins (HP‐β‐CDs). The best encapsulation efficiency of thymol in solid complexes was obtained using the microwave (MWI) encapsulation method. The different characterization techniques have demonstrated the affinity of HP‐β‐CDs for thymol molecules, forming stable complexes.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the use of the MWI method in the preparation of solid HP‐β‐CD‐thymol complexes, due to greater encapsulation efficiency and technological and economic advantages for industrial applications. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of steam treatment on shelf‐life stability of a xanthone‐rich green herbal tea (Cyclopia maculata Andrews Kies) – identifying quality changes during storage
Authors: Alexander Lara , de Beer Dalene , Muller Magdalena , van der Rijst Marieta , Joubert Elizabeth
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Steam treatment of shredded, fresh C. maculata (honeybush) plant material improves the aroma of this green herbal tea with a slight impact on color and phenolic content, but the effect on storage stability is not known.

RESULTS

Steam‐treated (60 s before drying) and untreated (control) dried plant material was stored under normal storage conditions in semi‐permeable sachets at 25 °C and 60% relative humidity. Reference samples of treated (steamed) and untreated (control) material were stored at 0 °C in impermeable pouches for maximum retention of quality. The stability of the herbal tea was assessed in terms of sensory profile, phenolic composition and color over a storage period of 6 months. Normal storage conditions resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in green color, especially in steamed samples. Intensities of fruity and sweet‐associated aroma attributes increased progressively during storage, while the opposite was observed for vegetal and cereal‐like attributes. These changes in the aroma profile were more pronounced in untreated (control) samples. Individual phenolic content remained stable during storage.

CONCLUSIONS

Storage of 3 to 6 months may result in a more appealing aroma profile and enhanced product quality, despite loss of green color. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Post‐veraison trimming slow down sugar accumulation without modifying phenolic ripening in Sangiovese vines
Authors: Valentini Gabriele , Allegro Gianluca , Pastore Chiara , Colucci Emilia , Filippetti Ilaria
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Vineyard strategies have recently been developed to combat the effects of global warming on grapevines, which is causing grapes to ripen quickly, excessive sugar accumulation in berries, and high alcohol levels in wines. We evaluate the effectiveness of post‐veraison trimming as a means of slowing down sugar accumulation, without modifying phenolic ripening, in Sangiovese vines grown in highly fertile and well watered soil.

RESULTS

The removal of about two‐thirds of the leaf area by shoot trimming after veraison led to a reduction in sugar content without affecting yield. Total and extractable anthocyanins, skin, and seed tannins showed no significant variation at harvest after the treatment during the three‐year trial, while the replenishment of carbohydrates in canes at the end of the trial was negatively affected.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that, in highly fertile and well‐watered soil, post‐veraison trimming may represent a powerful tool for decreasing sugar concentration during harvest without affecting yield or total and extractable phenolic compounds. However, the reduction in starch reserves compared to the control serves as a warning about repeated trimming over the years. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of dietary zinc oxide nanoparticles supplementation on growth performance, zinc status, intestinal morphology, microflora population, and immune response in weaned pigs
Authors: Pei Xun , Xiao Zhiping , Liu Lujie , Wang Geng , Tao Wenjing , Wang Minqi , Zou Junbiao , Leng Dongbi
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effects of dietary zinc oxide nanoparticles (nano‐ZnOs) on growth performance, zinc status, intestinal morphology, microflora population, and immune response in weaned piglets. A total of 150 weaned piglets (9.37 ± 0.48 kg) were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments and fed with a basal diet (control), or the basal diet supplemented with nano‐ZnOs at 150, 300, or 450 mg kg−1, and 3000 mg kg−1 ZnO for 21 days. After a feeding test, six pigs from the control, 450 mg kg−1 nano‐ZnOs and 3000 mg kg−1 ZnO groups were slaughtered.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, dietary supplements of nano‐ZnOs and ZnO could improve (P < 0.05) average daily weight gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and villus height to crypt depth ratio in the duodenum and jejunum, and decrease (P < 0.05) diarrhea incidence. Zinc retention in the serum, heart, liver, spleen and kidney of pigs supplemented with nano‐ZnOs and ZnO was increased (P < 0.05). Nano‐ZnOs decreased (P < 0.05) the zinc excretion compared with conventional ZnO. Lower Escherichia coli counts in the cecum, colon, and rectum were observed (P < 0.05) in the nano‐ZnOs group compared with the other groups. Compared with the control, ZnO and nano‐ZnOs increased (P < 0.05) the serum concentration of IgA, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, and decreased (P < 0.05) the concentration of IgM.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that low doses of nano‐ZnOs can have beneficial effects on growth performance, intestinal morphology and microflora, and immunity in weanling pigs, which are similar to the effects of pharmacological dosages of conventional ZnO. Nano‐ZnOs may reduce mineral excretion, which may reduce environmental challenges. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficacy of adjunctive photodynamic therapy in the treatment of generalized aggressive periodontitis: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Borekci Tugce , Meseli Suleyman Emre , Noyan Ulku , Kuru Bahar Eren , Kuru Leyla
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP) is a distinct type of periodontal disease characterized by rapid loss of attachment and alveolar bone occurring in young individuals. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) was introduced in periodontology as an adjunctive approach to non‐surgical periodontal treatment (NPT) in periodontitis patients. In this trial, the aim was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological effects of adjunctive PDT to NPT in patients with GAgP.

Methods

In this prospective controlled clinical study, 24 systemically healthy, non‐smoking subjects with GAgP were enrolled. Subjects were randomly assigned into a control group (n = 12) treated with NPT only or to a test group (n = 12) treated with NPT and PDT. Plaque index, sulcus bleeding index (SBI), probing depth (PD), relative attachment level, gingival recession, and tooth mobility were recorded at baseline and on day 63. Microbiological samples were obtained from the sites with PD ≥ 5 mm at both time periods and evaluated for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola via micro‐IDent® test.

Results

Clinical and microbial parameters declined significantly in both groups after the treatments (P < 0.01). The comparisons between the groups showed that only the full mouth SBI score of the test group was significantly lower than the control group on day 63 (P < 0.05). Although the reduction in periodontopathogens of the test group was greater than the control group, there was no significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limits of this study, it can be concluded that in the treatment of GAgP, usage of PDT as an adjunct to NPT does not lead to any beneficial effects on the investigated clinical and microbiological parameters except for SBI. Nevertheless, the statistically significant difference for the SBI score demonstrates that PDT may have additional effect on the reduction in gingival bleeding. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:167–175, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Do touch interface users feel more engaged? The impact of input device type on online shoppers’ engagement, affect, and purchase decisions
Authors: Chung Sorim , Kramer Thomas , Wong Elaine M.
Published: August 2018

Over the past decade, one of the most fundamental changes in computer‐mediated environments has been the evolution in the type of input devices from mouse devices to touch interfaces. In this paper, the authors conduct three experiments to examine the underlying connections between input device types and online shoppers’ decision‐making processes in relation to affect‐driven information processing. The results show that shoppers who use a touch interface (vs. mouse) to view products demonstrate a significantly higher engagement with their shopping experience in a low‐involvement setting. Touch interface users are likely to have greater purchase intentions, as compared to mouse users, and this effect is mediated by positive affect induced by higher engagement. Using a touch interface (vs. mouse) also increases the likelihood that consumers will choose a hedonic over a utilitarian option and make an immediate purchase decision. These findings indicate that using a touch interface increases consumers’ reliance on affect‐driven information processing and has a positive impact on purchase decision processes.
Biomarkers of Individual Foods, and Separation of Diets Using Untargeted LC–MS‐based Plasma Metabolomics in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Acar Evrim , Gürdeniz Gözde , Khakimov Bekzod , Savorani Francesco , Korndal Sanne Kellebjerg , Larsen Thomas Meinert , Engelsen Søren Balling , Astrup Arne , Dragsted Lars O.
Published: August 2018

Scope

Self‐reported dietary intake does not represent an objective unbiased assessment. The effect of the new Nordic diet (NND) versus average Danish diet (ADD) on plasma metabolic profiles is investigated to identify biomarkers of compliance and metabolic effects.

Methods and results

In a 26‐week controlled dietary intervention study, 146 subjects followed either NND, a predominantly organic diet high in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and fish, or ADD, a diet higher in imported and processed foods. Fasting plasma samples are analyzed with untargeted ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadruple time‐of‐flight. It is demonstrated that supervised machine learning with feature selection can separate NND and ADD samples with an average test set performance of up to 0.88 area under the curve. The NND plasma metabolome is characterized by diet‐related metabolites, such as pipecolic acid betaine (whole grain), trimethylamine oxide, and prolyl hydroxyproline (both fish intake), while theobromine (chocolate) and proline betaine (citrus) were associated with ADD. Amino acid (i.e., indolelactic acid and hydroxy‐3‐methylbutyrate) and fat metabolism (butyryl carnitine) characterize ADD whereas NND is associated with higher concentrations of polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholines.

Conclusions

The plasma metabolite profiles are predictive of dietary patterns and reflected good compliance while indicating effects of potential health benefit, including changes in fat metabolism and glucose utilization.
Prediction of peripheral nerve stimulation thresholds of MRI gradient coils using coupled electromagnetic and neurodynamic simulations
Authors: Davids Mathias , Guérin Bastien , vom Endt Axel , Schad Lothar R. , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

As gradient performance increases, peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is becoming a significant constraint for fast MRI. Despite its impact, PNS is not directly included in the coil design process. Instead, the PNS characteristics of a gradient are assessed on healthy subjects after prototype construction. We attempt to develop a tool to inform coil design by predicting the PNS thresholds and activation locations in the human body using electromagnetic field simulations coupled to a neurodynamic model. We validate the approach by comparing simulated and experimentally determined thresholds for 3 gradient coils.

Methods

We first compute the electric field induced by the switching fields within a detailed electromagnetic body model, which includes a detailed atlas of peripheral nerves. We then calculate potential changes along the nerves and evaluate their response using a neurodynamic model. Both a male and female body model are used to study 2 body gradients and 1 head gradient.

Results

There was good agreement between the average simulated thresholds of the male and female models with the experimental average (normalized root‐mean‐square error: <10% and <5% in most cases). The simulation could also interrogate thresholds above those accessible by the experimental setup and allowed identification of the site of stimulation.

Conclusions

Our simulation framework allows accurate prediction of gradient coil PNS thresholds and provides detailed information on location and “next nerve” thresholds that are not available experimentally. As such, we hope that PNS simulations can have a potential role in the design phase of high performance MRI gradient coils.
Impact of the route of clean intermittent catheterization on quality of life in children with lower urinary tract dysfunction
Authors: Alencar Valeria P. , Gomes Cristiano M. , Miranda Eduardo P. , dos Santos Lelis Maria A. , Fera Patrícia , de Bessa Jose , Srougi Miguel , Bruschini Homero
Published: August 2018

Aims

To compare the impact of the different routes for clean intermittent catheterization on the quality of life of children with lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, all children and adolescents under treatment in our clinic from August 2011 to May 2012 who were on CIC for bladder dysfunction were included. To evaluate the technical difficulty and the discomfort associated with the procedure we used a standard visual analog scale. Quality of life was measured using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0.

Results

A total of 70 children including 38 (54.3%) boys and 32 (45.7%) girls with a mean age of 11.8 ± 3.6 years (range 5 to 18 years) were evaluated. The mean daily number of catheterizations was 4.2 ± 1.1. CIC was performed through the urethra in 51 (72.9%) subjects and a stoma in 19 (27.1%). A 45 (64.3%) were assisted by a caregiver to perform a catheterization. No differences in both difficulty and discomfort for performing CIC were observed between groups. Children who performed CIC through a stoma had a better quality of life scores for the physical (P = 0.015) and social functioning domains (P = 0.011).

Conclusion

The quality of life of children and adolescents performing CIC appears to be affected by the route of catheterization, with a worse performance for those using urethral catheterization.
Effect of TRPV4 activation in a rat model of detrusor underactivity induced by bilateral pelvic nerve crush injury
Authors: Takaoka Ei‐ichiro , Kurobe Masahiro , Okada Hiroki , Takai Shun , Suzuki Takahisa , Shimizu Nobutaka , Kwon Joonbeom , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Yoshimura Naoki , Chermansky Christopher J.
Published: August 2018

Aims

To produce an animal model of peripheral neurogenic detrusor underactivity (DU) and to evaluate the effect of TRPV4 receptor activation in this DU model.

Methods

In female Sprague‐Dawley rats, bilateral pelvic nerve crush (PNC) was performed by using sharp forceps. After 10 days, awake cystometrograms (CMG) were recorded in sham and PNC rats. A TRPV4 agonist (GSK 1016790A) with or without a TRPV4 antagonist (RN1734) were administered intravesically and CMG parameters were compared before and after drug administration in each group. The TRPV4 transcript level in the bladder mucosa and histological changes were also evaluated.

Results

In CMG, PNC rats showed significant increases in intercontraction intervals (ICI), number of non‐voiding contractions (NVCs), baseline pressure, threshold pressure, bladder capacity, voided volumes, and post‐void residual (PVR) compared to sham rats. Contraction amplitude and voiding efficiency were significantly decreased in PNC rats. In PNC rats, intravesical application of GSK1016790A (1.5 μM) significantly decreased ICI, bladder capacity, voided volume, and PVR without increasing NVCs, and these effects were blocked by RN1734 (5.0 μM). In contrast, 1.5 μM GSK1016790A had no significant effects on CMG parameters in normal rats. TRPV4 expression within the bladder mucosa of PNC rats was increased in association with urothelial thickening.

Conclusions

Rats with bilateral PNC showed characteristics of DU, and this model seems appropriate for further evaluation of peripheral neurogenic mechanisms of DU. Also, TRPV4 receptors, the activation of which reduced bladder capacity and PVR, could be a target for DU treatment.
Influence of the concentration of copper nanoparticles on the thermo‐mechanical and antibacterial properties of nanocomposites based on poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)
Authors: Felipe Jaramillo Andrés , Riquelme Silvia , Montoya Luis Felipe , Sánchez‐Sanhueza Gabriela , Medinam Carlos , Rojas David , Salazar Fredy , pablo Sanhueza Juan , Francisco Meléndrez Manuel
Published: August 2018

Poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) was mixed with copper nanoparticles (Cu‐NPs) in concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5% with particle size between 100 nm and 200 nm by the melting method. A morphological, thermal, and structural characterization of the nanocomposites (NCs‐PBAT/Cu) was performed to analyze the effect of the Cu‐NPs on the polymer chains, as well as to explain the influence on their crystallinity, and its influence on the thermomechanical and antibacterial properties. The percentage of crystallinity (Xc) increased 6.7% to 9.5% with the amount of Cu‐NPs in the matrix. E‐modulus was slightly improved from 84.04 to 87.7 MPa, in the same way the degradation temperature (Td) of the PBTA was improved from 420.7°C to 427.2°C for 5% loading of Cu‐NPs. In contrast, ΔHm decreased from 12.50 to 6.96 J/g, indicating that there was no significant modification of the PBAT chain, mainly by heterogeneous nucleation in the presence of Cu‐NPs, which act as a heat barrier. No blue or red shifts we observed in the nanocomposites Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, indicating there is no effective interaction between PBAT and Cu‐NPs. The nanocomposites showed excellent antibacterial properties inhibiting 100% of the strains Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans, and Staphylococcus aureus, at 2 hours of treatment. For more resistant strains such as Acinetobacter baumannii, the NCs‐PBAT/Cu did not show antibacterial activity at any time of treatment. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1870–1882, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Production and characterization of bamboo and flax fiber reinforced polylactic acid filaments for fused deposition modeling (FDM)
Authors: Depuydt Delphine , Balthazar Michiel , Hendrickx Kevin , Six Wim , Ferraris Eleonora , Desplentere Frederik , Ivens Jan , Van Vuure Aart W.
Published: August 2018

A new type of fiber reinforced filament materials for Fused Deposition Modeling applications has been developed. Polylactic acid (PLA), compounded with two types of plasticizer, is reinforced with bamboo and flax fibers. The fiber fractions are characterized by measuring their length (l) over diameter (d) before and after compounding so that the effect of the l/d on the final filament properties can be systematically studied. The pre‐processing and processing activities, to produce filaments with a diameter of 3 mm, are described. The porosities and the orientation of the fibers in the filament are assessed to predict the theoretical stiffness of the filament via short fiber mechanics which is compared to the experimental results. Reinforcing the PLA filament with short bamboo fibers (l/d = 4–5) increases the modulus with 91–230%, whereas the dust‐like fractions only show an increase up till 39%. The glass transition temperature of the produced filaments is also determined to investigate the suitability of the filaments and finally a demonstrator part was printed. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1951–1963, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Characterization of surface phenomena: probing early stage degradation of low‐density polyethylene films
Authors: Garnai Hirsch Shiran , Barel Boris , Segal Ester
Published: August 2018

Photo‐oxidative degradation of polyethylene triggers significant deterioration in the polymer properties. Much interest is aimed at characterizing and possibly predicting photo‐oxidative damages, at early stages, prior to the occurrence of profound changes in mechanical properties. Herein, we study the degradation of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) films, focusing on surface deterioration processes. Thin films of various molecular weights are exposed to accelerated weathering while their chemical, mechanical and morphological characteristics are monitored throughout by apparent contact angle (CA) measurements, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile test, and electron microscopy. A significant decrease in the films' CA during degradation is observed. CA is highly sensitive to two simultaneous phenomena with opposing effect: nanoscale surface roughening and composition changes. We found the latter (specifically the evolution of polar groups) to be the dominant parameter affecting the CA behavior. Consequently, simple CA measurements coincide well with conventional FTIR analysis, and are more sensitive to changes occurring at early stages of degradation. The deterioration in the mechanical properties is also characterized and is found to present poor sensitivity and high variability at these early aging stages. Thus, simple CA measurements could potentially be used as a qualitative indicator for evaluating the aging impact on LDPE. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:E129–E137, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Thermal stability and thermal degradation kinetics of short and long glass fiber reinforced PA10T composites
Authors: Guo Jianbing , Wang Jian , Wu Yifan , He Yong , Song Haishuo , Chen Xiaolang
Published: August 2018

In this work, the long glass fiber reinforced poly(decamethylene terephthalanide) (PA10T/LGF) composites and short glass fiber reinforced PA10T (PA10T/SGF) composites were prepared by two different extrusion processing methods, respectively. The results of mechanical properties reveal the introduction of glass fiber can improve the performance of the material, and the LGF reinforced PA10T composites can achieve much higher performance than the SGF reinforced ones at the same level of fiber contents. The thermal stabilities of neat PA10T, PA10T/SGF, and PA10T/LGF are investigated by nonisothermal TG analysis. The thermal degradation kinetics is introduced by using Kissinger and Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa methods and the thermal degradation mechanism functions of the samples are calculated by the Coats‐Redfem model. The results show that the thermal stabilities of PA10T/SGF and neat PA10T are better than that of PA10T/LGF. In addition, the incorporation of glass fiber into PA10T do not have much effect on the reaction mechanism type of thermal degradation compared with that neat PA10T. Furthermore, the thermal stability analysis of the composites is verified by the computed results of Gibbs free energy (ΔG#). POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:246–253, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Silver hydroxyapatite reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol)—starch cryogel nanocomposites and study of biodegradation, compressive strength and antibacterial activity
Authors: Bagri Laxmi Prasad , Saini Rajesh K. , Kumar Bajpai Anil , Choubey Rashmi
Published: August 2018

In the present work polyvinyl alcohol‐starch/silver hydroxyapatite (PVA‐starch/AgHap) cryogel nanocomposites were prepared by successive freezing‐thawing of a blend of PVA and starch solutions to fabricate a cryogel followed by its reinforcement with silver hydroxyapatite (AgHap). The prepared macroporous cryogel nanocomposites were characterized by Infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR), environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), and particle size and charge analysis. The amylase induced enzymatic degradation of nanocomposites was studied gravimetrically in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and effect of various parameters like chemical composition of the nanocomposite, number of freeze‐thaw cycles, and enzyme activity were assessed on the extent of degradation of the nanocomposite. The influence of chemical composition and experimental conditions like the number of freeze thaw cycles was studied on the elastic modulii of the cryogels. The in vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of nanocomposites was also evaluated against L‐529 fibroblast cells and gram positive and gram negative bacteria, respectively. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:254–263, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Self–Compassion as A Facet of Neuroticism? A Reply to the Comments of Neff, TóTh–KiráLy, and Colosimo (2018)
Authors: Geiger Mattis , Pfattheicher Stefan , Hartung Johanna , Weiss Selina , Schindler Simon , Wilhelm Oliver
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we respond to comments by Neff et al. (2018) made about our finding that the negative dimensions of self–compassion were redundant with facets of neuroticism ( rs ≥ 0.85; Pfattheicher et al., 2017) and not incrementally valid. We first provide epistemological guidance for establishing psychological constructs, namely, three hurdles that new constructs must pass: theoretically and empirically sound measurement, discriminant validity, and incremental validity—and then apply these guidelines to the self–compassion scale. We then outline that the critique of Neff et al. (2018) is contestable. We question their decisions concerning data–analytic methods that help them to circumvent instead of passing the outlined hurdles. In a reanalysis of the data provided by Neff et al. (2018), we point to several conceptual and psychometric problems and conclude that self–compassion does not overcome the outlined hurdles. Instead, we show that our initial critique of the self–compassion scale holds and that its dimensions are best considered facets of neuroticism. © 2018 European Association of Personality Psychology
An inhibitor of apoptosis (SfIAP) interacts with SQUAMOSA promoter‐binding protein (SBP) transcription factors that exhibit pro‐cell death characteristics
Authors: Kessens Ryan , Sorensen Nick , Kabbage Mehdi
Published: August 2018

Despite the importance of proper cell death regulation across broad evolutionary distances, an understanding of the molecular machinery underpinning this fundamental process in plants remains largely elusive. This is despite its critical importance to development, homeostasis, and proper responses to stress. The identification of endogenous plant regulators of cell death has been hindered by the fact that many core regulators of cell death in animals are absent in plant genomes. Remarkably, numerous studies have shown that the ectopic expression of animal prosurvival genes in plants can suppress cell death imposed by many stresses. In this study, we capitalize on the ectopic expression of one of these animal prosurvival genes, an inhibitor of apoptosis from Spodoptera frugiperda (SfIAP), to identify novel cell death regulators in plants. A yeast two‐hybrid assay was conducted using SfIAP as bait to screen a tomato cDNA library. This screen identified several transcription factors of the SQUAMOSA promoter‐binding protein (SBP) family as potential SfIAP binding partners. We confirmed this interaction in vivo for our top two interactors, SlySBP8b and SlySBP12a, using coimmunoprecipitation. Interestingly, overexpression of SlySBP8b and SlySBP12a induced cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. Overexpression of these two transcription factors also induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and enhanced the growth of the necrotrophic pathogen Alternaria alternata. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed the nuclear localization of both SlySBP8b and SlySBP12a, while SlySBP12a was also localized to the ER membrane. These results suggest a prodeath role for SlySBP8b and SlySBP12a and implicate ER membrane tethering as a means of regulating SlySBP12a activity.
Clinician attitudes towards borderline personality disorder: A 15‐year comparison
Authors: Day Nicholas J.S. , Hunt Annalise , Cortis‐Jones Louise , Grenyer Brin F.S.
Published: August 2018

Stigma towards people with borderline personality disorder has been a common theme reported within mental health services staff. A longitudinal, mixed method design investigated attitudes of mental health staff working at the same public health service in 2000 and 2015. Participants from both the 2000 and 2015 samples completed a short 10‐item version of the Attitude to Personality Disorders Questionnaire and identical qualitative questions. The 2015 sample also completed the Attitude to Deliberate Self‐Harm Questionnaire and the Attitude and Skills Questionnaire. Qualitatively, the 2000 sample endorsed much more negative descriptions (e.g. ‘attention seeking’ and ‘manipulative’), and the 2015 sample focused more on treatment approaches and skills (e.g. ‘management plan’ and ‘empathy’). Quantitatively, the 2015 sample endorsed more positive attitudes than the 2000 sample. This positive attitudinal shift is an encouraging step in successful treatment of borderline personality disorder and may reflect a changing landscape of the mental health system and greater awareness and use of effective treatments. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative Analysis of the Global Proteome in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Patients with New‐Onset Psoriasis
Authors: Li Fengdi , Wang Yacui , Li Yu , Yang Hongpu , Wang Hongmei
Published: August 2018

Psoriasis is a common chronic autoimmune skin disease involving the activation of T cells. To explore the proteomic signature of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, a quantitative analysis of their global proteome was conducted in samples from Chinese patients with new‐onset psoriasis (n = 31) and healthy controls (n = 32) using an integrated quantitative approach with tandem mass tag labeling and LC–MS/MS. Protein annotation, unsupervised hierarchical clustering, functional classification, functional enrichment and cluster, and protein–protein interaction analyses were performed. A total of 5178 proteins were identified, of which 4404 proteins were quantified. The fold‐change cutoff was set at 1.2 (patients vs controls); 335 proteins were upregulated, and 107 proteins were downregulated. The bioinformatics analysis indicated that the differentially expressed proteins were involved in processes related to the activation of immune cells including the nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) pathway, cellular energy metabolism, and proliferation. Three upregulated proteins and two phosphorylated proteins in the NF‐κB pathway were verified or identified by Western blotting. These results confirm that the NF‐κB pathway is critical to psoriasis. In addition, many differentially expressed proteins identified in this study have never before been associated with psoriasis, and further studies on these proteins are necessary.
Rigid‐Unit Modes in Layers and Nanotubes
Authors: Nikolić Božidar , Popović Zoran P. , Milošević Ivanka , Damnjanović Milan
Published: August 2018

Among the vibrational modes of a complex system, apart from the rigid‐body displacements of the system as a whole, there can exist also the rigid‐body displacements of the subsystems. While in the standard considerations of the layered structures, it is understood that rigid‐layer modes emerge due to the relatively weaker inter‐layer (than intra‐layer) coupling, here we derive universal dynamical condition which provides exactly rigid modes of subsystems. It clarifies that weak inter‐layer interaction itself is sufficient to induce the layer modes which are only approximately rigid. The obtained exact condition separates effective dynamical matrix, which in the layered systems corresponds to the well‐known linear chain model. The analysis of quasi‐one‐dimensional systems is more refined, due to additional rigid‐body degrees of freedom: the twisting modes and their interference with other modes (e.g., mixing of twisting and breathing modes in multiwalled nanotubes). It is also shown that condition for exactly rigid modes of subsystems can be fulfilled due to symmetry, used also to determine infrared and Raman activity of rigid‐layer modes in uniform multilayers (with one repeated monolayer).
Dye‐Anchored MnO Nanoparticles Targeting Tumor and Inducing Enhanced Phototherapy Effect via Mitochondria‐Mediated Pathway
Authors: Zhou Lihua , Wu Yayun , Meng Xiaoqing , Li Sanpeng , Zhang Jiali , Gong Ping , Zhang Pengfei , Jiang Tao , Deng Guanjun , Li Wenjun , Sun Zhihong , Cai Lintao
Published: August 2018

Phototherapy is a promising treatment method for cancer therapy. However, the various factors have greatly restricted phototherapy development, including the poor accumulation of photosensitizer in tumor, hypoxia in solid tumor tissue and systemic phototoxicity. Herein, a mitochondrial‐targeted multifunctional dye‐anchored manganese oxide nanoparticle (IR808@MnO NP) is developed for enhancing phototherapy of cancer. In this nanoplatform, IR808 as a small molecule dye acts as a tumor targeting ligand to make IR808@MnO NPs with capacity to actively target tumor cells and relocate finally in the mitochondria. Meanwhile, continuous production of oxygen (O2) and regulation of pH induced by the high reactivity and specificity of MnO NPs toward mitochondrial endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) could effectively modulate tumor hypoxia and lessen the tumor subacid environment. Large amounts of reactive oxide species (ROS) are generated during the reaction process between H2O2 and MnO NPs. Furthermore, under laser irradiation, IR808 in IR808@MnO NPs turns O2 into a highly toxic singlet oxygen (1O2) and generates hyperthermia. The results indicate that IR808@MnO NPs have the high efficiency of specific targeting of tumors, relieving tumor subacid environment, improving the tumor hypoxia environment, and generating large amounts of ROS to kill tumor cells. It is expected to have a wide application in treating cancer.
Temporally Programmed Disassembly and Reassembly of C3Ms
Authors: Cingil Hande E. , Meertens Nicky C. H. , Voets Ilja K.
Published: August 2018

Responsive materials, which can adapt and operate autonomously under dynamic conditions, are a stepping stone towards functional, life‐like systems inspired by fueled self‐assembly processes in nature. Complex coacervate core micelles (C3Ms) comprising oppositely charged macromolecules constitute a novel class of polymeric micelles ideally suited for use as responsive nanoscopic delivery vehicles of hydrophilic and hydrophobic cargo. To fully exploit their potential, it is important that the C3Ms form and fall apart in an autonomous fashion as orchestrated by dynamic cues in their environment. Herein a means to temporally program the self‐regulated C3M coassembly pathway, using a modulated base‐catalyzed feedback system, is presented. Incorporated in the C3Ms is a pH responsive polyfluorene‐based conjugated polyelectrolyte (CPF) as a building block and trace amounts of a molecular sensor (doxorubicin HCl) as cargo, both of which report on micellar coassembly and disassembly via binding‐induced fluorescence quenching. CPF additionally reports on the pH of its microenvironment as its pH‐dependent conformational states are mirrored in the transitions of its vibronic bands. This experimental design enables one to monitor solution pH, C3M disassembly and reassembly, as well as cargo release and recapture noninvasively in a closed system with real time florescence experiments.
Edge‐Terminated MoS2 Nanoassembled Electrocatalyst via In Situ Hybridization with 3D Carbon Network
Authors: Chung Dong Young , Yoo Ji Mun , Park Subin , Jung Gwan Yeong , Kang Jin Soo , Ahn Chi‐Yeong , Kwak Sang Kyu , Sung Yung‐Eun
Published: August 2018

Transition metal dichalcogenides, especially MoS2, are considered as promising electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Since the physicochemical properties of MoS2 and electrode morphology are highly sensitive factor for HER performance, designed synthesis is highly pursued. Here, an in situ method to prepare a 3D carbon/MoS2 hybrid catalyst, motivated by the graphene ribbon synthesis process, is reported. By rational design strategies, the hybrid electrocatalysts with cross‐connected porous structure are obtained, and they show a high HER activity even comparable to the state‐of‐the‐art MoS2 catalyst without appreciable activity loss in long‐term operations. Based on various physicochemical techniques, it is demonstrated that the synthetic procedure can effectively guide the formation of active site and 3D structure with a distinctive feature; increased exposure of active sites by decreased domain size and intrinsically high activity through controlling the number of stacking layers. Moreover, the importance of structural properties of the MoS2‐based catalysts is verified by controlled experiments, validating the effectiveness of the designed synthesis approach.
Supplier codes of conduct: Company authorization of subcontractors
Authors: Kashmanian Richard M.
Published: August 2018

Companies continue to build greater sustainability and transparency in their supply chains to increase their business value and to respond to greater stakeholder pressures and expectations to increase sustainability and transparency. As company supply chains have grown and expanded, which presents increased challenges for building greater transparency, it is possible that the use of subcontractors in supply chains has also increased. The amount and impact of subcontracting conducted in supply chains may be of greater concern to certain companies and/or sectors than others, and it may have an important impact on their sustainability efforts. This article assesses the extent to which supplier codes of conduct apply to the use of subcontractors and include a requirement for suppliers to obtain prior company approval or authorization before subcontractors conduct work. Based on a review of more than 50 supplier codes of conduct, the companies that are highlighted in this article for including this requirement are primarily in the apparel/footwear, food, pharmaceuticals, and/or retail sectors. The article asserts that supplier codes of conduct that include requirements for suppliers to protect and safeguard confidential business information could be strengthened to further protect the company's products, integrity, and reputation/brand and increase its competitiveness and resilience by also including a requirement of prior approval or authorization of a supplier's use of subcontractors.
Effect of Graphene and Carbon Nanotube on Low‐Density Polyethylene Nanocomposites
Authors: Sabet Maziyar , Soleimani Hassan , Mohammadian Erfan
Published: August 2018

The nanocomposites of low‐density polyethylene contain graphene (LDPE/Gr) and low‐density polyethylene contains carbon‐nanotubes (LDPE/CNTs) with different Gr loadings (0.5, 1, and 3 wt%) were formulated with a melt‐mixing method. The distribution of Grs in LDPE was detected by scanning electron microscopy. In this study, morphological, electrical, thermal, tensile, and rheological properties of nanocomposites were comparatively investigated. The outcomes were reviewed and it was recognized that LDPE/Gr nanocomposites reveal superior properties than LDPE/CNTs nanocomposites at the same loadings. The superior performance of LDPE/Gr nanocomposites attributes to the large aspect ratio of Gr and its two dimensional flat surfaces which effect in increasing physical interlinking with LDPE chains and expanded the interface zone at filler–LDPE interface. It was also identified that the achieved results for LDPE/CNT nanocomposites, which has a compact surface area and linkage with LDPE, are less noticeable than similar Gr compounds due to higher interfacial interactions between Gr and LDPE. The thermomechanical results of LDPE/Gr nanocomposites have been studied and the influence of nanoscaled strengthening in the thermoplastic matrix has been investigated. The existence of Gr limits the flexibility of LDPE chains, increases the rigidity and the strength of the LDPE‐nanocomposites. This study compares how a flat or roll structure of carbon nano‐structure additive (Grs vs. CNTs) can change the various properties of LDPE nanocomposites. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:35–40, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Structure and properties of plasticized polyvinyl butyral‐silica nanocomposite films and test production of laminated glass using films
Authors: Ueno Tomoya , Mizutani Kosuke , Nakane Koji
Published: August 2018

Plasticized polyvinyl butyral (PVB)‐silica nanocomposite films were formed by mixing PVB ethanol solution and silica sol, which was prepared from tetraethyl orthosilicate. The nanocomposite films were colorless and transparent even though the content of silica was 70 wt%. The glass transition temperature of PVB in the silica 2.5 wt% nanocomposites was higher by about 10°C than that of plasticized PVB. The PVB‐silica nanocomposite films were applied as an interlayer for laminated glass. The laminated glass made with the nanocomposite films containing less than 10 wt% silica showed good penetration resistance, not only at room temperature but also at 70°C. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:E59–E63, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Features of the Structure and Properties of Radiation Vulcanizates Based on Blends of Polybutadiene and Ethylene‐Propylene Diene Rubber
Authors: El‐Nemr Khaled F. , Ali Magdy A. M. , Hassan Medhat M. , Hamed Huda E.
Published: August 2018

Polybutadiene rubber (BR) was blended with ethylene‐propylene diene (EPDM) rubber on rubber mill with different weight ratios (100/0‐70/30‐50/50‐30/70‐0‐100), then application of gamma rays at different irradiation doses from 25 up to 150 kGy to induce crosslinking. Mechanical, physio‐chemical, and characterization of prepared blends are to be followed up as functions of the blend composition and the radiation absorbed dose. Mechanical properties like tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (Eb), and tensile modulus (M100) were increased with increasing content of EPDM in blend composition. On the other hand, TS and M100 increased with radiation dose, whereas the value of Eb decreased with radiation dose. Physico‐chemical properties like gel fraction and volume fraction of rubber in swollen gel (Vr) increased with increasing the content of EPDM rubber in blend formulation while the swelling ratio and soluble fraction decreased with increasing content of EPDM. On the other hand, the Vr increased with radiation dose, whereas the values of soluble fraction and selling ratio (Q) decreased with radiation dose. Fourier transforms‐infrared measurements confirmed the compatibility between BR and EPDM rubber moieties in the blend matrix. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:E64–E72, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Large-c superconformal torus blocks
Authors: Alkalaev Konstantin , Belavin Vladimir
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We study large-c SCFT2 on a torus specializing to one-point superblocks in the

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 Neveu-Schwarz sector. Considering different contractions of the Neveu-Schwarz superalgebra related to the large central charge limit we explicitly calculate three superblocks, osp(1|2) global, light, and heavy-light superblocks, and show that they are related to each other. We formulate the osp(1|2) superCasimir eigenvalue equations and identify their particular solutions as the global superblocks. It is shown that the resulting differential equations are the Heun equations. We study exponentiated global superblocks arising at large conformal dimensions and demonstrate that in the leading approximation the osp(1|2) superblocks are equal to the non-supersymmetric sl(2) block.