bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Woman's body symmetry and oxidative stress in the first trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Żelaźniewicz Agnieszka , Nowak Judyta , Pawłowski Bogusław
Published: April 2015

Objectives

High level of oxidative stress (OS) during the first weeks of pregnancy is related to many serious pregnancy complications. Previous studies showed that body fluctuating asymmetry (FA) is related to OS level in men, suggesting that FA is a marker of oxidative balance in an individual. The aim of this study was to analyze if body FA was related to the level of biomarkers of OS in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

The sample included 34 women in the first trimester of pregnancy, not smoking, and not exposed to toxins in their work environment. The composite FA and levels of two biomarkers of OS, 8‐iso‐ProstaglandinF2α (an indicator of oxidative damage to lipids) and 8‐OH‐dG (an indicator of oxidative damage to DNA) were measured. Factors that may affect the level of OS (vitamin supplementation, age, smoking, alcohol drinking, physical activity, and health condition) were controlled.

Results

The levels of OS markers in the first trimester of pregnancy correlated positively with women's FA (r = 0.52, P = 0.002 for 8‐OH‐dG; r = 0.50; P = 0.003 for 8‐iso‐PGF2α level) and positively with body height (r = 0.37, P = 0.03 for 8‐OH‐dG level).

Conclusion

The level of OS is likely to be a substantial and important fitness trait, and FA may convey information on the level of OS in women. The result confirms that FA is an indicator of biological condition, as suggested by an evolutionary approach to morphological human traits perceived as attractive. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:816–821, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and properties of sulfonated poly(phosphazene)‐graft‐poly(styrene‐co‐N‐benzylmaleimide) copolymers via atom transfer radical polymerization for proton exchange membrane
Authors: Dong Yan , Xu Hu‐Lin , He Min‐Lan , Fu Feng‐Yan , Zhu Chang‐Jin
Published: April 2015

A series of sulfonated poly(phosphazene)‐graft‐poly(styrene‐co‐N‐benzylmaleimide) (PP‐g‐PSN) copolymers were prepared via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), followed by regioselective sulfonation which occurred preferentially at the poly(styrene‐co‐N‐benzylmaleimide) sites. The structures of these copolymers were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, 1H‐NMR, and 31P‐NMR, respectively. The resulting sulfonated PP‐g‐PSN membranes showed high water uptakes (WUs), low water swelling ratios (SWs), low methanol permeability coefficients, and proper proton conductivities. In comparison with non‐grafting sulfonated poly(bis(phenoxy)phosphazene) (SPBPP) membrane previously reported, the present membranes displayed higher proton conductivity, significantly improved the thermal and oxidative stabilities. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation showed clear phase‐separated structures resulting from the difference in polarity between the hydrophobic polyphosphazene backbone and hydrophilic sulfonated poly(styrene‐co‐N‐benzylmaleimide) side chains, indicating effective ionic pathway in these membranes. The results showed that these materials were promising candidate materials for proton exchange membrane (PEM) in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42251.
Surface modification of monolithic PolyHIPE Polymers for anionic functionality and their ion exchange behavior
Authors: Barlık Necla , Keskinler Bülent , Kocakerim M. Muhtar , Akay Galip
Published: April 2015

Monolithic PolyHIPE Polymer (PHP), being a highly porous, low density, open cellular material was produced by polymerization of a high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) in which the polymerizable continuous phase consisted of monomers, styrene (STY), and divinyl benzene (DVB). The inner dispersed phase (90 vol %) was an aqueous solution containing 0.4 wt % potassium persulphate as initiator. The resulting porous structure had 12% crosslinking density. Surface chemistry of the monoliths was modified by chloromethylation and amination to impart anionic functionality. Surface modified monoliths had ion exchange capacity of 3.01 meq/g, and had the ability to uptake water about 10 times of its mass. It was used Cr (VI) ion removal from aqueous solution. The experimental results investigated for both the Langmuir and the Dubinin–Radushkevich adsorption models. The maximum Cr (VI) adsorptions are 126.6 mg Cr (VI)/g and 129.3 mg Cr (VI)/g, respectively. The mean free energy E of adsorption is 11.18 kJ/mol according to the Dubinin–Radushkevich adsorption model, indicating that the adsorption occurs through a chemical ion‐exchange process and it is not diffusion limited. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42286.
ASIS&T annual meeting pre‐conference activities: SIG/IFP‐SIG/III pre‐conference workshop trust in the age of data: Big and small
Authors: Unsworth Kristene
Published: April 2015

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

The Special Interest Groups/Information Policy (SIG/IFP) and International Information Issues (SIG/III) joined forces at the 2014 ASIS&T Annual Meeting for an interdisciplinary workshop exploring trust in the context of data collection and mining. Among the topics addressed during the workshop were ethical stewardship of information, trust in the validity and authenticity of digital repository holdings, trust in extra‐academic environments and trust as a critical requirement for interdisciplinary collaboration. The discussion of trust extended to justice in global regions in conflict, use of body cameras in law enforcement and broad scale population surveillance. The success of the workshop, particularly with its lively audience participation, will drive efforts to reinvigorate Special Interest Group/Information Policy as a unified forum on public policy and ethics related to information.
ASIS&T annual meeting pre‐conference activities: SIG/USE research symposium context in information behavior research
Authors: Xiao Lu , Kim Kyung‐Sun , Tang Rong , Given Lisa , Agosto Denise E. , Burnett Gary , Waugh Amanda
Published: April 2015

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

ASIS&T's Special Interest Group/Information Needs, Seeking and Use (SIG/USE) met during the 2014 Annual Meeting for the group's 14th Annual Research Symposium, focusing on Context in Information Behavior Research. Keynote speaker J. David Johnson set the tone as he encouraged research into the context of information activities outside the usual settings and using varied theoretical perspectives and tools. Attendees also heard 14 lightning talks exploring conceptual and methodological issues. Speakers considered time and emotion as dominant contextual influences in information behavior, the role of information overload and ways diverse contexts affect seeking and providing information. Discussion of research methods encouraged a mixed‐method approach and analytic bracketing and illuminated how study participants create their own information context. During the world café session, tablemates discussed how information context is constructed and evolves, research gaps and available methodologies. The symposium ended with presentation of awards for outstanding research, best paper and poster and for travel to pursue studies. Gary Marchionini was recognized for his outstanding contributions to information behavior research throughout his career.
ASIS&T annual meeting pre‐conference activities: 10th annual social informatics research symposium: Connecting (epistemic) cultures and (intellectual) communities
Authors: Rosenbaum Howard , Fichman Pnina
Published: April 2015

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

At the 2014 ASIS&T Annual Meeting, the Special Interest Group/Social Informatics (SIG/SI) celebrated 10 years spearheading research on the intersection of people, information and communications technology. The SIG's pre‐conference symposium attracted an international group of scholars and students demonstrating ways their work applies to the Annual Meeting's theme of Connecting Collections, Cultures, and Communities. Presented papers examined the influence of IT consultants' work by organizational and technical contexts, social and cultural barriers impeding the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by resource‐poor individuals, genre analysis of technologically mediated workplace practices and links between social networks and ICTs. A panel discussion explored ties between epistemic cultures and intellectual communities and ways to promote social informatics research on the topic. The SIG presented awards for Best Paper and Best Student Paper, both touching on collaboration to enhance content. The importance of the annual research symposium was reinforced by SIG/SI earning the 2014 SIG Publication‐of‐the‐Year Award for a book that emerged from its 2012 symposium.
Alessandro Acquisti addresses ASIS&T plenary session
Authors: Hardin Steve
Published: April 2015

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

During a plenary session of the 2014 ASIS&T Annual Meeting, Alessandro Acquisti explored aspects of online privacy and circumstances that heighten or relax our privacy concerns. Applying behavioral economics and considering our conflicting biases helps make sense of contradictory privacy decisions and behavior. Acquisti's research shows people surrender personal information for a small incentive but turn secretive when they know or suspect they are being observed. The personal information we readily post on social media can be easily collected and combined with other available clues to enable inferences with alarming breadth and accuracy. The need for social connection is precariously balanced with the desire for privacy. Acquisti further theorized an evolutionary link between perceived threat eliciting privacy concerns and our response to stimuli we interpret as suggesting the presence of others and potential risk. Though they may be subtle or hidden, such cues exist online, adding to the challenge of designing effective privacy technologies.
An introduction to the joint principles for data citation
Authors: Altman Micah , Borgman Christine , Crosas Mercè , Matone Maryann
Published: April 2015

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

While the conventions of bibliographic citation have been long established, the sole focus is on reference to other scholarly works. Access to the data serving as the basis for scholarly work has been limited. Data citation extends important access to material that has been largely unavailable for sharing, verification and reuse. The Joint Declaration of Data Citation Principles, finalized in February 2014, is a formal statement pulling together practices used in the research and publishing arenas and in common use. The declaration encompasses eight principles that stress the importance and legitimacy of data, the need to give scholarly credit to contributors and the importance of data as evidence. Cited data should have unique and persistent identifiers, and the citation should facilitate human and machine access and support verification and interoperability. The principles are expected to have broad impact on research, recognition and scholarly publishing.
Invasiveness of plants is predicted by size and fecundity in the native range
Authors: Jelbert Kim , Stott Iain , McDonald Robbie A. , Hodgson Dave
Published: April 2015

An important goal for invasive species research is to find key traits of species that predispose them to being invasive outside their native range.

Comparative studies have revealed phenotypic and demographic traits that correlate with invasiveness among plants. However, all but a few previous studies have been performed in the invaded range, an approach which potentially conflates predictors of invasiveness with changes that happen during the invasion process itself.

Here, we focus on wild plants in their native range to compare life‐history traits of species known to be invasive elsewhere, with their exported but noninvasive relatives. Specifically, we test four hypotheses: that invasive plant species (1) are larger; (2) are more fecund; (3) exhibit higher fecundity for a given size; and (4) attempt to make seed more frequently, than their noninvasive relatives in the native range. We control for the effects of environment and phylogeny using sympatric congeneric or confamilial pairs in the native range.

We find that invasive species are larger than noninvasive relatives. Greater size yields greater fecundity, but we also find that invasives are more fecund per‐unit‐size.

Synthesis: We provide the first multispecies, taxonomically controlled comparison of size, and fecundity of invasive versus noninvasive plants in their native range. We find that invasive species are bigger, and produce more seeds, even when we account for their differences in size. Our findings demonstrate that invasive plant species are likely to be invasive as a result of both greater size and constitutively higher fecundity. This suggests that size and fecundity, relative to related species, could be used to predict which plants should be quarantined.
Behavioral responses of Atlantic cod to sea temperature changes
Authors: Freitas Carla , Olsen Esben Moland , Moland Even , Ciannelli Lorenzo , Knutsen Halvor
Published: April 2015

Understanding responses of marine species to temperature variability is essential to predict impacts of future climate change in the oceans. Most ectotherms are expected to adjust their behavior to avoid extreme temperatures and minimize acute changes in body temperature. However, measuring such behavioral plasticity in the wild is challenging. Combining 4 years of telemetry‐derived behavioral data on juvenile and adult (30–80 cm) Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), and in situ ocean temperature measurements, we found a significant effect of sea temperature on cod depth use and activity level in coastal Skagerrak. During summer, cod were found in deeper waters when sea surface temperature increased. Further, this effect of temperature was stronger on larger cod. Diel vertical migration, which consists in a nighttime rise to shallow feeding habitats, was stronger among smaller cod. As surface temperature increased beyond ~15°C, their vertical migration was limited to deeper waters. In addition to larger diel vertical migrations, smaller cod were more active and travelled larger distances compared to larger specimens. Cold temperatures during winter tended, however, to reduce the magnitude of diel vertical migrations, as well as the activity level and distance moved by those smaller individuals. Our findings suggest that future and ongoing rises in sea surface temperature may increasingly deprive cod in this region from shallow feeding areas during summer, which may be detrimental for local populations of the species.
Toxicity of fuel-contaminated soil to Antarctic moss and terrestrial algae
Authors: Nydahl Anna C. , King Catherine K. , Wasley Jane , Jolley Dianne F. , Robinson Sharon A.
Published: April 2015

Fuel pollution is a significant problem in Antarctica, especially in areas where human activities occur, such as at scientific research stations. Despite this, there is little information on the effects of petroleum hydrocarbons on Antarctic terrestrial biota. The authors demonstrate that the Antarctic mosses Bryum pseudotriquetrum, Schistidium antarctici, and Ceratodon purpureus, and the Antarctic terrestrial alga Prasiola crispa are relatively tolerant to Special Antarctic Blend (SAB) fuel–contaminated soil (measured as total petroleum hydrocarbons). Freshly spiked soils were more toxic to all species than were aged soils containing degraded fuel, as measured by photosynthetic efficiency (variable fluorescence/maximum fluorescence [Fv/Fm]), pigment content, and visual observations. Concentrations that caused 20% inhibition ranged from 16 600 mg/kg to 53 200 mg/kg for freshly spiked soils and from 30 100 mg/kg to 56 200 mg/kg for aged soils. The photosynthetic efficiency of C. purpureus and S. antarctici was significantly inhibited by exposure to freshly spiked soils with lowest-observed-effect concentrations of 27 900 mg/kg and 40 400 mg/kg, respectively. Prasiola crispa was the most sensitive species to freshly spiked soils (Fv/Fm lowest-observed-effect concentration 6700 mg/kg), whereas the Fv/Fm of B. pseudotriquetrum was unaffected by exposure to SAB fuel even at the highest concentration tested (62 900 mg/kg). Standard toxicity test methods developed for nonvascular plants can be used in future risk assessments, and sensitivity data will contribute to the development of remediation targets for petroleum hydrocarbons to guide remediation activities in Antarctica. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2004–2012. © 2015 SETAC
A Homozygous [Cys25]PTH(1-84) Mutation That Impairs PTH/PTHrP Receptor Activation Defines a Novel Form of Hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Lee Sihoon , Mannstadt Michael , Guo Jun , Kim Seul Min , Yi Hyon-Seung , Khatri Ashok , Dean Thomas , Okazaki Makoto , Gardella Thomas J , Jüppner Harald
Published: April 2015

Hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia are encountered in idiopathic hypoparathyroidism (IHP) and pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP1B). In contrast to PHP1B, which is caused by resistance toward parathyroid hormone (PTH), the genetic defects leading to IHP impair production of this important regulator of mineral ion homeostasis. So far, only five PTH mutations were shown to cause IHP, each of which is located in the hormone's pre-pro leader segment and thus impair hormone secretion. In three siblings affected by IHP, we now identified a homozygous arginine-to-cysteine mutation at position 25 (R25C) of the mature PTH(1-84) polypeptide; heterozygous family members are healthy. Depending on the assay used for evaluating these patients, plasma PTH levels were either low or profoundly elevated, thus leading to ambiguities regarding the underlying diagnosis, namely IHP or PHP1B. Consistent with increased PTH levels, recombinant [Cys25]PTH(1-84) and wild-type PTH(1-84) were secreted equally well by transfected COS-7 cells. However, synthetic [Cys25]PTH(1-34) was found to have a lower binding affinity for the PTH receptor type-1 (PTH1R) than PTH(1-34) and consequently a lower efficiency for stimulating cAMP formation in cells expressing this receptor. Consistent with these in vitro findings, long-term infusion of [Cys25]PTH(1-34) resulted only in minimal calcemic and phosphaturic responses, despite readily detectable levels of [Cys25]PTH(1-34) in plasma. The mineral ion abnormalities observed in the three IHP patients are thus most likely caused by the inherited homozygous missense PTH mutation, which reduces bioactivity of the secreted hormone. Based on these findings, screening for PTH(1-84) mutations should be considered when clinical and laboratory findings are consistent with PHP1B, but GNAS methylation changes have been excluded. Differentiating between IHP and PHP1B has considerable implications for genetic counseling, therapy, and long-term outcome because treatment of IHP patients with inappropriately high doses of active vitamin D and calcium can contribute to development of nephrocalcinosis and chronic kidney disease. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Diacylglycerol Kinase ζ (DGKζ) Is a Critical Regulator of Bone Homeostasis Via Modulation of c-Fos Levels in Osteoclasts
Authors: Zamani Ali , Decker Corinne , Cremasco Viviana , Hughes Lindsey , Novack Deborah V , Faccio Roberta
Published: April 2015

Increased diacylglycerol (DAG) levels are observed in numerous pathologies, including conditions associated with bone loss. However, the effects of DAG accumulation on the skeleton have never been directly examined. Because DAG is strictly controlled by tissue-specific diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs), we sought to examine the biological consequences of DAG accumulation on bone homeostasis by genetic deletion of DGKζ, a highly expressed DGK isoform in osteoclasts (OCs). Strikingly, DGKζ-/- mice are osteoporotic because of a marked increase in OC numbers. In vitro, DGKζ-/- bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) form more numerous, larger, and highly resorptive OCs. Surprisingly, although increased DAG levels do not alter receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL) osteoclastogenic pathway, DGKζ deficiency increases responsiveness to the proliferative and pro-survival cytokine macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). We find that M-CSF is responsible for increased DGKζ-/- OC differentiation by promoting higher expression of the transcription factor c-Fos, and c-Fos knockdown in DGKζ-/- cultures dose-dependently reduces OC differentiation. Using a c-Fos luciferase reporter assay lacking the TRE responsive element, we also demonstrate that M-CSF induces optimal c-Fos expression through DAG production. Finally, to demonstrate the importance of the M-CSF/DGKζ/DAG axis on regulation of c-Fos during osteoclastogenesis, we turned to PLCγ2+/- BMMs, which have reduced DAG levels and form fewer OCs because of impaired expression of the master regulator of osteoclastogenesis NFATc1 and c-Fos. Strikingly, genetic deletion of DGKζ in PLCγ2+/- mice rescues OC formation and normalizes c-Fos levels without altering NFATc1 expression. To our knowledge, this is the first report implicating M-CSF/DGKζ/DAG axis as a critical regulator of bone homeostasis via its actions on OC differentiation and c-Fos expression. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Common physical properties among relational networks improve analogy aptness
Authors: Ruiz Francisco J. , Luciano Carmen
Published: April 2015

Relational frame theory (RFT) conceptualizes analogy as the establishment of a relation of coordination among common types of relations. This study provided an initial RFT analysis of analogy aptness. Twenty participants initially learned to respond to the structure of analogical tests after which they were trained on two separate relational networks, each consisting of three equivalence classes (Network: 1 F1‐G1‐H1, F2‐G2‐H2, F3‐G3‐H3; Network 2: M1‐N1‐O1, M2‐N2‐O2, M3‐N3‐O3). The node stimuli always appeared with color spots on their backgrounds (F1 and M1: yellow; F2 and M2: red; F3 and M3: blue). In the critical test, participants had to select the more correct response from two options: relating combinatorial relations of coordination with the same color in the node stimuli (e.g., relating G1H1 to N1O1) versus relating combinatorial relations with different colors in the node stimuli (e.g., relating G1H1 to N2O2). The colors of the node stimuli did not appear on the critical test. Ninety percent of participants selected the analogies with common color properties as the more correct ones. Practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Gravure‐printed PEDOT:PSS on flexible PEN substrate as ITO‐free anode for polymer solar cells
Authors: Montanino M. , De Girolamo Del Mauro A. , Tesoro M. , Ricciardi R. , Diana R. , Morvillo P. , Nobile G. , Imparato A. , Sico G. , Minarini C.
Published: April 2015

In this work, highly conductive and transparent films based on poly(3,4 ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) doped with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were printed onto a flexible substrate, the polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), using the gravure printing method. Gravure‐printed DMSO‐PEDOT:PSS ink suitably modified with isopropanol was developed and used as anode in flexible solar cells replacing the commonly used anode, that is, Indium Tin Oxide (ITO). Several inks were prepared and characterized in terms of viscosity and surface energy and tested by gravure printing. The wettability of the PEN substrate was investigated through contact angle measurements. For comparison, the anodic conductive polymer was also spin coated on the PEN substrate using an ink suitable for this technique. The films produced with both the techniques, gravure printing and spin coating, each using a proper ink, were characterized in terms of structure and physical–chemical properties. The printed layers were employed as anodes into ITO free‐polymer solar cells based on a bulk heterojunction of Poly({4,8‐bis[(2‐ethylhexyl)oxy]benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl}{3‐fluoro‐2‐[(2‐ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno [3,4‐b]thiophenediyl}) (PTB7) and [6,6]‐phenyl C70‐butyric acid methyl ester ([70]PCBM). The performances of the devices with printed and spin coated polymeric anode were compared. The cell with the spin‐coated anode reached a power conversion efficiency of 3% while the corresponding device with the printed anode a value around 2%. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1104–1109, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and characterization of hybrid clay/poly (N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) nanocomposites
Authors: Assem Yasser , Khalaf A.I. , Rabia A.M. , Yehia A.A. , Zidan T.A.
Published: April 2015

Four quaternary ammonium salt monomers (2a–d) were synthesized from N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate and subsequently polymerized to afford cationic polymers (3a–d). The synthesized monomers and polymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. Molecular weights of the synthesized polymers were determined using gel permeation chromatography. Polymer/clay nanocomposites (4a–d) were prepared using solution‐intercalation method and characterized by FTIR, X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray, and thermogravimetric analysis. Data analysis showed that polymer/clay nanocomposites have intercalated structure. The dielectric properties of the polymer/clay nanocomposites were studied as a function of both temperature and frequency. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2950–2959, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
The effect of expanded graphite on the physical properties of conductive EVA/wax phase change blends for thermal energy storage
Authors: Mochane Mokgaotsa J. , Luyt Adriaan S.
Published: April 2015

A study of the morphology, dynamic mechanical, impact, and tensile properties of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/expanded graphite (EG) and EVA/wax/EG composites is presented. The composites were prepared by melt blending. The EVA/EG composites showed ductile behavior, while brittle behavior was observed in the presence of wax. A finer dispersion of EG was observed in the matrix when wax was present. The storage modulus of the EVA/wax/EG composite was higher than that of the EVA/EG composite, which is ascribed to a better interaction between the EVA and the wax‐covered EG that significantly reduced the EVA chain mobility. The composites showed a decrease in impact strength with increasing EG and wax contents. There was a significant difference in the elongation at break between the EVA/EG and EVA/wax/EG composites, and little change in Young's modulus of EVA in the presence of EG and with increasing EG content. However, Young's modulus of the EVA/wax blends increased in the presence of and with increasing EG content. In all the investigated samples containing EVA and wax, irrespective of the EG content, the stress at break decreased with an increase in wax content. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:3025–3032, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Formulation and characterization of oleogels based on high‐oleic sunflower oil and ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer/polypropylene blends
Authors: Martín‐Alfonso J.E. , Franco J. M.
Published: April 2015

New oleogel formulations based on high‐oleic sunflower oil (HOSO) and ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/polypropylene (PP) blends were prepared using the mixing rheometry technique and further characterized. The effects of PP tacticity and EVA vinyl acetate (VAc) content on the rheological, morphological, and thermal behavior of derived oleogels were investigated. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarized‐light optical microscopy (PLOM) observations indicated that VAc segments markedly influence the crystalline structure of polymeric fractions and phase morphology of oleogels. The normalized crystallinity of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) phase increased linearly with its concentration whereas syndiotactic polypropylene (sPP) content does not exert a significant influence. PLOM observations showed that VAc content plays an important role in the phase morphology of PP frictions (size and shape of crystals). The viscoelastic response of oleogels depended on PP tacticity and VAc content, which may be explained attending to the different microstructures attained. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:1429–1440, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Understanding of nanogels swelling behavior through a deep insight into their morphology
Authors: Pikabea Aintzane , Aguirre Garbiñe , Miranda Jose I. , Ramos Jose , Forcada Jacqueline
Published: April 2015

A thorough understanding of the morphology of the environmental sensitive nanogels was indispensable to obtain a deeper insight on their stimuli‐responsive behavior. Therefore, in this work the colloidal characterization and the study of the inner morphology were related by using light scattering technique and 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance transverse relaxation measurements combined with the Flory–Rehner theory. Different biocompatible and dual‐stimuli‐sensitive nanogel particles based on poly(2‐diethylaminoethyl) methacrylate were synthesized using three different crosslinkers: two bifunctional and one multifunctional. All the nanogels obtained had a core–shell type heterogeneous morphology, but they presented completely different swelling behaviors due to their different crosslinking points’ distribution and polymeric chains’ microstructure. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2017–2025
Synthesis and structure–property relationship of carbazole‐alt‐benzothiadiazole copolymers
Authors: Oriou Jules , Ng Feifei , Hadziioannou Georges , Brochon Cyril , Cloutet Eric
Published: April 2015

A series of four π‐conjugated carbazole‐alt‐benzothiadiazole copolymers (PCBT) were prepared by Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction between synthesized dibromocarbazoles as electron‐rich subunits and 4,7‐bis(4,4,5,5‐tetramethyl‐1,3,2‐dioxaborolan‐2‐yl)−2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole as electron‐deficient subunits. The subunits were directly linked through 2,7‐ or 3,6‐ positions of the carbazole. In addition, the carbazole monomers have been N‐substituted by a branched or a linear side‐chain. The chemical structure of the copolymers and their precursors was confirmed by NMR and IR spectroscopies, and their molar masses were estimated by SEC. Thermal analysis under N2 atmosphere showed no weight loss below 329°C, and no glass transition was observed in between 0 and 250°C. The band gaps of all PCBTs evaluated by optical spectroscopies and by cyclic voltammetry analysis were consistent with expectations and ranged between 2.2 and 2.3 eV. Finally, 2,7 and 3,6 linkages were shown to influence optical properties of PCBTs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2059–2068
Theoretical insight of nitric oxide adsorption on neutral and charged Pdn (n = 1–5) clusters
Authors: Begum Pakiza , Gogoi Pranjal , Mishra Bhupesh Kumar , Deka Ramesh Chandra
Published: April 2015

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations within the framework of generalized gradient approximation have been used to systematically investigate the adsorption of nitric oxide (NO) molecule on neutral, cationic, and anionic Pdn (n = 1–5) clusters. NO coordinate to one Pd atom of the cluster by the end‐on mode, where the tilted end‐on structure is more favorable due to the additional electron in the π* orbital. On the contrary, in the neutral and cationic Pd2 system, NO coordinates to the bridge site of cluster preferably by the side‐on mode. Charge transfer between Pd clusters and NO molecule and the corresponding weakening of NO bond is an essential factor for the adsorption. The NO stretching frequency follow the order of cationic > neutral > anionic. Binding energy of NO on anionic clusters is found to be greater than those of neutral and cationic clusters. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of a novel PDE10APET radioligand, [11C]T‐773, in nonhuman primates: Brain and whole body PET and brain autoradiography
Authors: Takano Akihiro , Stepanov Vladimir , Gulyás Balázs , Nakao Ryuji , Amini Nahid , Miura Shotaro , Kimura Haruhide , Taniguchi Takahiko , Halldin Christer
Published: April 2015

Phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A) is considered to be a key target for the treatment of several neuropsychiatric diseases. The characteristics of [11C]T‐773, a novel positron emission tomography (PET) radioligand with high binding affinity and selectivity for PDE10A, were evaluated in autoradiography and in nonhuman primate (NHP) PET. Brain PET measurements were performed under baseline conditions and after administration of a selective PDE10A inhibitor, MP‐10. Total distribution volume (VT) and binding potential (BPND) were calculated using various kinetic models. Whole body PET measurements were performed to calculate the effective dose of [11C]T‐773. Autoradiography studies in postmortem human and monkey brain sections showed high accumulation of [11C]T‐773 in the striatum and substantia nigra which was blocked by MP‐10. Brain PET showed high accumulation of [11C]T‐773 in the striatum, and the data could be fitted using a two tissue compartment model. BPND was approximately 1.8 in the putamen when the cerebellum was used as the reference region. Approximately 70% of PDE10A binding was occupied by 1.8 mg/kg of MP‐10. Whole body PET showed high accumulation of [11C]T‐773 in the liver, kidney, heart, and brain in the initial phase. The radioligand was partly excreted via bile and the gastrointestinal tract, and partly excreted through the urinary tract. The calculated effective dose was 0.007 mSv/MBq. In conclusion, [11C]T‐773 was demonstrated to be a promising PET radioligand for PDE10A with favorable brain kinetics. Dosimetry results support multiple PET measurements per person in human studies. Further research is required with [11C]T‐773 in order to test the radioligand's potential clinical applications. Synapse 69:345–355, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimizing collection methods for noninvasive genetic sampling of neotropical felids
Authors: Wultsch Claudia , Waits Lisette P. , Hallerman Eric M. , Kelly Marcella J.
Published: April 2015

Field‐sampling methods for molecular scatology studies must be optimized, especially when working on elusive species in challenging tropical environments where rates of DNA degradation are elevated because of hot and humid weather conditions. To maximize polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification success and genotyping accuracy rates and to minimize genotyping error rates for fecal DNA samples of jaguars (Panthera onca) and co‐occurring Neotropical felids collected in Belize, Central America, we evaluated the performance of two fecal DNA storage techniques (dimethyl sulfoxide saline solution [DETs buffer] and 95% ethanol [EtOH]) suitable for long‐term preservation at remote tropical sites. Additionally, we tested fecal samples collected from 4 different locations on the scat (top, side, bottom, inside) at 2 different tropical forest types (tropical broadleaf and tropical pine forests). DETs buffer was the superior fecal DNA preservation method, with 44% higher PCR amplification success (P = 0.009) and 17% higher genotyping accuracy (P = 0.021) than 95% EtOH‐stored samples. Polymerase chain reaction amplification success of fecal DNA collected at the more open, pine‐forest (Pinus sp.) site differed significantly across locations on the scat, with highest mean success rates obtained from the top (85% ± 6.5% SD), followed by the side (79% ± 9.4% SD), bottom (76% ± 11.9% SD), and inside (69% ± 10.3% SD) of scat samples. Scat samples collected at the more closed‐canopy broadleaf site did not show any significant differences in amplification success rates across scat locations. We recommend that researchers optimize field‐sampling methods, including collection and storage protocols, by conducting a pilot study prior to their molecular scatology research efforts. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Ready-to-eat cereals improve nutrient, milk and fruit intake at breakfast in European adolescents
Authors: Michels Nathalie , De Henauw Stefaan , Beghin Laurent , Cuenca-García Magdalena , Gonzalez-Gross Marcela , Hallstrom Lena , Kafatos Anthony , Kersting Mathilde , Manios Yannis , Marcos Ascensión , Molnar Denes , Roccaldo Romana , Santaliestra-Pasías Alba M. , Sjostrom Michael , Reye Béatrice , Thielecke Frank , Widhalm Kurt , Claessens Mandy
Published: April 2015

Purpose

Breakfast consumption has been recommended as part of a healthy diet. Recently, ready-to-eat cereals (RTEC) became more popular as a breakfast item. Our aim was to analyse the dietary characteristics of an RTEC breakfast in European adolescents and to compare them with other breakfast options.

Methods

From the European multi-centre HELENA study, two 24-h dietary recalls of 3137 adolescents were available. Food items (RTEC or bread, milk/yoghurt, fruit) and macro- and micronutrient intakes at breakfast were calculated. Cross-sectional regression analyses were adjusted for gender, age, socio-economic status and city.

Results

Compared to bread breakfasts (39 %) and all other breakfasts (41.5 %), RTEC breakfast (19.5 %) was associated with improved nutrient intake (less fat and less sucrose; more fibre, protein and some micronutrients like vitamin B, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus) at the breakfast occasion. Exceptions were more simple sugars in RTEC breakfast consumers: more lactose and galactose due to increased milk consumption, but also higher glucose and fructose than bread consumers. RTEC consumers had a significantly higher frequency (92.5 vs. 50.4 and 60.2 %) and quantity of milk/yoghurt intake and a slightly higher frequency of fruit intake (13.4 vs. 10.9 and 8.0 %) at breakfast.

Conclusions

Among European adolescents, RTEC consumers showed a more favourable nutrient intake than consumers of bread or other breakfasts, except for simple sugars. Therefore, RTEC may be regarded as a good breakfast option as part of a varied and balanced diet. Nevertheless, more research is warranted concerning the role of different RTEC types in nutrient intake, especially for simple sugars.
Canadian Association of Radiologists Radiation Protection Working Group: Automated Patient-Specific Dose Registries—What Are They and What Are They Good for?
Authors: Bjarnason Thorarin A. , Thakur Yogesh , Chakraborty Santanu , Liu Peter , O'Malley Martin E. , Coulden Richard , Noga Michelle , Mason Andrew , Mayo John
Published: April 2015

Medical radiation should be used appropriately and with a dose as low as reasonably achievable. Dose monitoring technologies have been developed that automatically accumulate patient dose indicators, providing effective dose estimates and patient-specific dose histories. Deleterious radiation related events have prompted increased public interest in the safe use of medical radiation. Some view individualized patient dose histories as a tool to help manage the patient dose. However, it is imperative that dose monitoring technologies be evaluated on the outcomes of dose reduction and effective patient management. Patient dose management needs to be consistent with the widely accepted linear no-threshold model of stochastic radiation effects. This essay reviews the attributes and limitations of dose monitoring technologies to provoke discussion regarding resource allocation in the current fiscally constrained health care system.
Compression of the Celiac Artery by the Median Arcuate Ligament: Multidetector Computed Tomography Findings and Characteristics
Authors: Baskan Ozdil , Kaya Emre , Gungoren Fatma Zeynep , Erol Cengiz
Published: April 2015

Purpose

The prevalence of the celiac artery stenosis caused by median arcuate ligament (MAL) compression and its multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) characteristics were evaluated in patients who underwent abdominal MDCT procedures, retrospectively.

Methods

Totally 1121 patients who had abdominal MDCT with arterial phase or MDCT angiography of the abdominal aorta for various indications were analyzed for celiac artery compression by the MAL.

Results

Fifty (ie, 4.6%) patients showed typical MDCT features of MAL compression. Focal narrowing of the proximal celiac artery, a characteristic hooked appearance of the narrowed segment without calcification and atherosclerotic changes were diagnostic. Poststenotic dilatation was detected in 22 (44%) patients with MAL compression. The ratio of the stenosis of the celiac artery was between 35%-50% in 15 patients and 51%-80% in 35 patients. The gastroduodenal artery diameter of these patients was not significantly different from the asymptomatic control group.

Conclusion

MALS is an uncommon entity but it should be kept in mind in the presence of unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. MDCT is a minimally invasive and plays a dominant role in the diagnosis of MAL compression especially with reformatted and 3-D reconstructed images.
Crystal structure of an acetylesterase from Talaromyces cellulolyticus and the importance of a disulfide bond near the active site
Authors: Watanabe Masahiro , Fukada Harumi , Inoue Hiroyuki , Ishikawa Kazuhiko
Published: April 2015

Carbohydrate esterase catalyzes the de‐O or de‐N‐acylation of substituted saccharides in plant cell walls and thus has great potential for industrial biomass saccharification. We recently identified the putative carbohydrate esterase family 3 (CE3) from Talaromyces cellulolyticus. Here, we prepared the recombinant catalytic domain of the enzyme and crystallized it. The crystal structure was determined to 1.5 Å resolution. From the structural analysis, it was elucidated that a n‐octyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside bound to near the catalytic triad (Ser10, Asp179 and His182) and was buried in the active site cavity. Site‐directed mutagenesis showed that the N‐terminal disulfide bond located near the catalytic triad is involved in the activity and structural stability of the enzyme.
Deficiency of cathepsin K prevents inflammation and bone erosion in rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis and reveals its shared osteoimmune role
Authors: Hao Liang , Zhu Guochun , Lu Yun , Wang Min , Jules Joel , Zhou Xuedong , Chen Wei
Published: April 2015

Using rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis mouse models, we demonstrate that RA and periodontitis share many pathological features, such as deregulated cytokine production, increased immune‐cell infiltration, increased expression of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), and enhanced osteoclast activity and bone erosion. We reveal that genetic deletion of cathepsin K (Ctsk) caused a radical reduction in inflammation and bone erosion within RA joint capsules and periodontal lesions, a drastic decrease in immune‐cell infiltration, and a significant reduction in osteoclasts, macrophages, dendritic and T‐cells. Deficiency of Ctsk greatly decreased the expression of TLR‐4, 5, and 9 and their downstream cytokines in periodontal gingival epithelial lesions and synovial RA lesions. Hence, Ctsk may be targeted to treat RA and periodontitis simultaneously due to its shared osteoimmune role.
Identification of centromere regions in chromosomes of a unicellular red alga, Cyanidioschyzon merolae
Authors: Kanesaki Yu , Imamura Sousuke , Matsuzaki Motomichi , Tanaka Kan
Published: April 2015

To investigate the evolution of centromere architecture in plant cells, it is important to identify centromere regions of primitive algae, such as Cyanidioschyzon merolae. In a previous genome project, in silico analysis predicted an AT‐rich region in each chromosome as putative centromere regions. Here, we identified a centromere position in each chromosome by ChIP‐on‐chip analysis using an anti‐CENP‐A antibody. The identified centromeres were of the regional type, about 2–3 kb in length and contained no consensus or repeat elements. Centromeres in primitive eukaryotic plant cells may have originated from these regional type centromeres.
Suppressive effect of SATB1 on hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis in rats
Authors: He Jiayi , Gong Jin , Ding Qiang , Tan Qinghai , Han Ping , Liu Jingmei , Zhou Zhenzhen , Tu Wei , Xia Yujia , Yan Wei , Tian Dean
Published: April 2015

Liver fibrosis is a worldwide clinical issue. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the central event during liver fibrosis. We investigated the role of SATB1 in HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis. The results show that SATB1 expression is reduced during HSC activation. Additionally, SATB1 inhibits HSC activation, proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis. Furthermore, CTGF, a pro‐fibrotic agent, is also significantly inhibited by SATB1 through the Ras/Raf‐1/MEK/ERK/Ets‐1 pathway. In vivo, SATB1 deactivates HSCs and attenuates fibrosis in TAA‐induced fibrotic rat livers. These data indicate that SATB1 plays an important role in HSC activation and liver fibrosis.
Developmental stage‐dependent impact of midazolam on calbindin, calretinin and parvalbumin expression in the immature rat medial prefrontal cortex during the brain growth spurt
Authors: Osterop Samira F. , Virtanen Mari A. , Loepke Johanna R. , Joseph Bernadin , Loepke Andreas W. , Vutskits Laszlo
Published: April 2015

Background

Human epidemiological data suggest a link between anesthesia exposure in early postnatal life and subsequent lasting neurocognitive alterations. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of this potential association is of paramount importance in an attempt to develop protective strategies. While general anesthetics are powerful modulators of GABAergic neurotransmission, little is known about the impact of these drugs on developing GABAergic networks. Here we addressed this issue by evaluating the impact of a 6‐h‐long midazolam exposure on the development of calbindin‐, calretinin‐ and parvalbumin‐expressing GABAergic interneurons.

Methods

Physiological expression patterns of calbindin‐, calretinin‐, and parvalbumin‐positive neurons as well as the impact of a 6‐h‐long midazolam exposure on these cell populations were evaluated in the medial prefrontal cortex of Wistar rats at defined stages of the brain growth spurt using stereological analysis. Activated caspase‐3 immunohistochemistry was used to quantify apoptotic death in controls and midazolam‐treated subjects.

Results

In control animals, the number of parvalbumin expressing cells significantly (p < 0.01) increased while those of calbindin positive populations significantly (p < 0.01) decreased between postnatal day 10 and 20. Expression of calretinin remained constant during this period. Immediately following exposure, midazolam induced neuroapoptosis at both early (postnatal day 5, p = 0.016) and later (postnatal day 15, p = 0.025) stages of brain development. While this did not diminish overall neuronal density in the medial prefrontal cortex, exposure at P5 led to a subsequent increase in the number of parvalbumin positive neurons in lower cortical layers, and midazolam administration at P15 increased the number of both parvalbumin and calretinin expressing neurons 5 days following exposure.

Conclusion

These observations demonstrate that midazolam exposure can impair the physiological differentiation patterns of GABAergic interneurons during the brain growth spurt. Considering the important role of GABAergic networks in neuronal physiology, these data provide us with one potential mechanism that could account for the lasting neurobehavioral and cognitive deficits observed in the context of anesthesia exposure in the early postnatal period.