bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le vieillir actif des femmes aînées : conceptualiser la citoyenneté au quotidien
Authors: Marchand Isabelle , Firbank Oscar E.
Published: May 2014

Dans le cadre de cet article, nous proposons une réflexion sur la citoyenneté sociale et politique des femmes qui avancent en âge au regard du référentiel du vieillissement actif et de la logique « d’activation » qui le sous-tend. Après avoir présenté ce référentiel, nous exposons quelques déconstructions qu’a subies entre autres le modèle marshallien de la citoyenneté moderne en ce qui a trait à l’inclusion des femmes et d’autres groupes sociaux en marge des conceptions classiques de la citoyenneté. Nous discutons enfin des fondements théoriques d’une citoyenneté empirique, ancrée dans les réalités diversifiées des pratiques du quotidien caractérisant le vieillir actif au féminin ainsi que des enjeux méthodologiques que soulève une telle perspective.
Sobre a publicação eletrônica na plataforma SEER – Sistema Eletrônico de Editoração de Revistas
Authors: Abadan Diego
Published: May 2014

Não está disponível
Índice de incapacitação das lombalgias em motoristas de caminhão
Authors: Pedroso Amarilda Aparecida Dos Santos , Reis Amir Curcio dos , Souza Rafael Rodrigo Silva de , Rabelo Nayra Deise Dos Anjos , Lucareli Paulo Roberto Garcia , Blay André Serra
Published: May 2014

Introdução: As lombalgias são causas de morbidade e incapacidade na realização de atividades de vida diária. Motoristas de caminhão apresentam risco aumentado de desenvolvimento da lombalgia em razão das demandas mecânico-posturais características da profissão. Objetivo: Investigar o nível de interferência das lombalgias nas atividades de vida diária de motoristas de caminhão. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal, no qual foram entrevistados 30 motoristas de caminhão, do sexo masculino, com idade entre 25 e 35 anos e com mais de cinco anos de experiência na profissão. Apenas os indivíduos que referiram dor lombar crônica, persistente há mais de três meses, foram instruídos a responder o questionário sobre o índice de incapacitação de Oswestry para dor lombar, com intuito de classificar os níveis de interferência das lombalgias nas atividades de vida diária. Resultados: Vinte e nove motoristas de caminhão atenderam aos critérios de inclusão do estudo (média de idade 31,83±3,63 anos, tempo de experiência 8,93±2,4 anos e média de 13,66±2,47 horas diárias de trabalho). Vinte e dois motoristas (75,86%) apresentavam incapacidade mínima (score 8,45±6,58) e sete (24,14%), incapacidade moderada (score 27,14±6,3). Conclusão: Apenas 24,14% da amostra estudada apresentou incapacidade moderada, interferindo assim na realização de atividades de vida diária, tais como: problemas ao sentar, levantar peso e ficar de pé.
Neurophysiological aspects of musical auditory stimulation on the cardiovascular system
Authors: Ferreira Lucas Lima , Vanderlei Luiz Carlos Marques , Abreu Luiz Carlos de , Guida Heraldo Lorena , Valenti Vitor Engrácia
Published: May 2014

Introduction: The literature has shown that musical stimulation can influence the cardiovascular system, however, the neurophysiological aspects of this influence are not yet fully elucidated. Objective: This study describes the influence of music on the neurophysiological mechanisms in the human body, specifically the variable blood pressure, as well as the neural mechanisms of music processing. Methods: Searches were conducted in Medline, PEDro, Lilacs and SciELO using the intersection of the keyword “music” with the keyword descriptors “blood pressure” and “neurophysiology”. Results: There were selected 11 articles, which indicated that music interferes in some aspects of physiological variables. Conclusion: Studies have indicated that music interferes on the control of blood pressure, heart and respiratory rate, through possible involvement of limbic brain areas which modulate hypothalamic-pituitary functions. Further studies are needed in order to identify the mechanisms by which this influence occurs.
Factors associated with suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy in Asia
Authors: Jiamsakul Awachana , Kumarasamy Nagalingeswaran , Ditangco Rossana , Li Patrick CK , Phanuphak Praphan , Sirisanthana Thira , Sungkanuparph Somnuek , Kantipong Pacharee , Lee Christopher KC , Mustafa Mahiran , Merati Tuti , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Singtoroj Thida , Law Matthew ,   on behalf of the TREAT Asia Studies to Evaluate Resistance Monitoring Study (TASER‐M)
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) plays an important role in treatment outcomes. It is crucial to identify factors influencing adherence in order to optimize treatment responses. The aim of this study was to assess the rates of, and factors associated with, suboptimal adherence (SubAdh) in the first 24 months of ART in an Asian HIV cohort.

Methods

As part of a prospective resistance monitoring study, the TREAT Asia Studies to Evaluate Resistance Monitoring Study (TASER‐M) collected patients’ adherence based on the World Health Organization‐validated Adherence Visual Analogue Scale. SubAdh was defined in two ways: (i) <100% and (ii) <95%. Follow‐up time started from ART initiation and was censored at 24 months, loss to follow‐up, death, treatment switch, or treatment cessation for >14 days. Time was divided into four intervals: 0–6, 6–12, 12–18 and 18–24 months. Factors associated with SubAdh were analysed using generalized estimating equations.

Results

Out of 1316 patients, 32% ever reported <100% adherence and 17% ever reported <95%. Defining the outcome as SubAdh <100%, the rates of SubAdh for the four time intervals were 26%, 17%, 12% and 10%. Sites with an average of >2 assessments per patient per year had an odds ratio (OR)=0.7 (95% confidence interval (CI) (0.55 to 0.90), p=0.006), compared to sites with ≤2 assessments per patient per year. Compared to heterosexual exposure, SubAdh was higher in injecting drug users (IDUs) (OR=1.92, 95% CI (1.23 to 3.00), p=0.004) and lower in homosexual exposure (OR=0.52, 95% CI (0.38 to 0.71), p<0.001). Patients taking a nucleoside transcriptase inhibitor and protease inhibitor (NRTI+PI) combination were less likely to report adherence <100% (OR=0.36, 95% CI (0.20 to 0.67), p=0.001) compared to patients taking an NRTI and non‐nucleoside transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI+NNRTI) combination. SubAdh decreased with increasing time on ART (all p<0.001). Similar associations were found with adherence <95% as the outcome.

Conclusions

We found that SubAdh, defined as either <100% and <95%, was associated with mode of HIV exposure, ART regimen, time on ART and frequency of adherence measurement. The more frequently sites assessed patients, the lower the SubAdh, possibly reflecting site resourcing for patient counselling. Although social desirability bias could not be excluded, a greater emphasis on more frequent adherence counselling immediately following ART initiation and through the first six months may be valuable in promoting treatment and programme retention.
Ta'u and Ofu/Olosega volcanoes: The “Twin Sisters” of Samoa, their P, T, X melting regime, and global implications
Authors: Hart Stanley R. , Jackson Matthew G.
Published: May 2014

The Samoan islands of Ta'u and Ofu/Olosega (Ofol hereafter) are single shield volcanoes that have erupted alkali basalt for the past 70 and 440 kyr, respectively. They are 20 km apart, and are the easternmost subaerial expressions of the Samoan plume. The isotopic data for these islands are published; we report here the first major and trace element data for Ofol. The two islands are similar isotopically and in trace elements. Their high 3He/4He marks them as being a FOZO mantle end‐member. By comparing data from both volcanoes, we test the efficacy of melting models in constraining the mantle compositions and their P‐T of melting. We show that the mantle sources are similar, with spidergrams that peak at Ta (4× BSE), and Lu ∼0.5× BSE. Melts and mantle sources both have Lu/Hf ratios that are too low to support measured 176Hf/177Hf ratios, pointing to a young enrichment event in the mantle source. Degrees of melting are 6.5% for Ta'u and 5.2% for Ofol. P‐T of melting show a wide, overlapping range, but define a precise array; average values are 1475°C—77 km for Ta'u and 1550°C—110 km for Ofol. The deepest P‐T estimate is 4.2 GPa and 1550°C. The P‐T array is either a melting adiabat, or a mixing line of melts equilibrated at various depths. Kinetic modeling shows melt re‐equilibration will be likely for ascent velocities (m/yr) less than 40/(conduit radius in cm)2. P‐T estimates for melting may typically be minimum values.
Annual primary production in Antarctic sea ice during 2005–2006 from a sea ice state estimate
Authors: Saenz Benjamin T. , Arrigo Kevin R.
Published: May 2014

Using the data‐bounded Sea Ice Ecosystem State (SIESTA) model, we estimate total Antarctic sea ice algal primary production to be 23.7 Tg C a−1 for the period July 2005–June 2006, of which 80% occurred in the bottom 0.2 m of ice. Simulated sea ice primary production would constitute 12% of total annual primary production in the Antarctic sea ice zone, and ∼1% of annual Southern Ocean primary production. Model sea ice algal growth was net nutrient limited, rather than light limited, for the vast majority of the sunlit season. The seasonal distribution of integrated ice algal biomass matches available observations. The vertical algal distribution was weighted toward the ice bottom compared to observations, indicating that interior ice algal communities may be under‐predicted in the model, and that nutrient delivery via gravity‐induced convection is not sufficient to sustain summertime algal biomass. Bottom ice algae were most productive in ice of 0.36 m thickness, whereas interior algal communities were most productive in ice of 1.10 m thickness. Sensitivity analyses that tested different atmospheric forcing inputs, sea ice parameterizations, and nutrient availability caused mean and regional shifts in sea ice state and ice algal production even when sea extent and motion was specified. The spatial heterogeneity of both ice state and algal production highlight the sensitivity of the sea ice ecosystem to physical perturbation, and demonstrate the importance of quality input data and appropriate parameterizations to models of sea ice and associated biology.
Optical extinction of highly porous aerosol following atmospheric freeze drying
Authors: Adler Gabriela , Haspel Carynelisa , Moise Tamar , Rudich Yinon
Published: May 2014

Porous glassy particles are a potentially significant but unexplored component of atmospheric aerosol that can form by aerosol processing through the ice phase of high convective clouds. The optical properties of porous glassy aerosols formed from a freeze‐dry cycle simulating freezing and sublimation of ice particles were measured using a cavity ring down aerosol spectrometer (CRD‐AS) at 532 nm and 355 nm wavelength. The measured extinction efficiency was significantly reduced for porous organic and mixed organic‐ammonium sulfate particles as compared to the extinction efficiency of the homogeneous aerosol of the same composition prior to the freeze‐drying process. A number of theoretical approaches for modeling the optical extinction of porous aerosols were explored. These include effective medium approximations, extended effective medium approximations, multilayer concentric sphere models, Rayleigh‐Debye‐Gans theory, and the discrete dipole approximation. Though such approaches are commonly used to describe porous particles in astrophysical and atmospheric contexts, in the current study, these approaches predicted an even lower extinction than the measured one. Rather, the best representation of the measured extinction was obtained with an effective refractive index retrieved from a fit to Mie scattering theory assuming spherical particles with a fixed void content. The single‐scattering albedo of the porous glassy aerosols was derived using this effective refractive index and was found to be lower than that of the corresponding homogeneous aerosol, indicating stronger relative absorption at the wavelengths measured. The reduced extinction and increased absorption may be of significance in assessing direct, indirect, and semidirect forcing in regions where porous aerosols are expected to be prevalent.
Sub‐slab anisotropy beneath the Sumatra and circum‐Pacific subduction zones from source‐side shear wave splitting observations
Authors: Lynner Colton , Long Maureen D.
Published: May 2014

Understanding the dynamics of subduction is critical to our overall understanding of plate tectonics and the solid Earth system. Observations of seismic anisotropy can yield constraints on deformation patterns in the mantle surrounding subducting slabs, providing a tool for studying subduction dynamics. While many observations of seismic anisotropy have been made in subduction systems, our understanding of the mantle beneath subducting slabs remains tenuous due to the difficulty of constraining anisotropy in the sub‐slab region. Recently, the source‐side shear wave splitting technique has been refined and applied to several subduction systems worldwide, making accurate and direct measurements of sub‐slab anisotropy feasible and offering unprecedented spatial and depth coverage in the sub‐slab mantle. Here we present source‐side shear wave splitting measurements for the Central America, Alaska‐Aleutians, Sumatra, Ryukyu, and Izu‐Bonin‐Japan‐Kurile subduction systems. We find that measured fast splitting directions in these regions generally fall into two broad categories, aligning either with the strike of the trench or with the motion of the subducting slab relative to the overriding plate. Trench parallel fast splitting directions dominate beneath the Izu‐Bonin, Japan, and southern Kurile slabs and part of the Sumatra system, while fast directions that parallel the motion of the downgoing plate dominate in the Ryukyu, Central America, northern Kurile, western Sumatra, and Alaska‐Aleutian regions. We find that plate motion parallel fast splitting directions in the sub‐slab mantle are more common than previously thought. We observe a correlation between fast direction and age of the subducting lithosphere; older lithosphere (>95 Ma) is associated with trench parallel splitting while younger lithosphere (<95 Ma) is associated with plate motion parallel fast splitting directions. Finally, we observe source‐side splitting for deep earthquakes (transition zone depths) beneath Japan and Sumatra, suggesting the presence of anisotropy at midmantle depths beneath these regions.
Three‐dimensional electrical structure of the crust and upper mantle in Ordos Block and adjacent area: Evidence of regional lithospheric modification
Authors: Dong Hao , Wei Wenbo , Ye Gaofeng , Jin Sheng , Jones Alan G. , Jing Jianen , Zhang Letian , Xie Chengliang , Zhang Fan , Wang Hui
Published: May 2014

Long‐period magnetotelluric (MT) data from project SINOPROBE were acquired and modeled, using three‐dimensional (3D) MT inversion, to study the electrical structure of Ordos Block, a component of the North China Craton. For the first time, a high‐resolution 3D resistivity model of the lithosphere is defined for the region. Contrary to what would be expected for a stable cratonic block, a prominent lithospheric conductive complex is revealed extending from the upper mantle to the mid‐to‐lower crust beneath the northern part of Ordos. Correlating well with results of seismic studies, the evidence from our independent magnetotelluric data supports regional modification of the lithosphere under the north Ordos and lithosphere thinning beneath Hetao Graben. The abnormally conductive structure may result from upwelling of mantle material in mid‐to‐late Mesozoic beneath the northern margin of the Ordos block.
Arctic influence on subseasonal midlatitude prediction
Authors: Jung Thomas , Kasper Marta Anna , Semmler Tido , Serrar Soumia
Published: May 2014

Forecast experiments with the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts model with and without relaxation of the Arctic troposphere toward reanalysis data are carried out in order to explore the influence that improved Arctic forecasts during wintertime would have on the skill of medium‐range and extended‐range prediction of 500 hPa geopotential height in the Northern Hemisphere midlatitudes. It turns out that the largest midlatitude improvements are found over eastern Europe, northern Asia, and North America; no discernible impact is found over the North Atlantic and North Pacific, where midlatitude and tropical dynamics appear to be more important. The strength of the linkage between the Arctic and the midlatitudes is found to be flow dependent, with anomalous northerly wind leading to a stronger Arctic influence. Finally, the results are discussed in the context of the possible impact of Arctic sea ice decline on midlatitude weather and climate.
Lysenko, Trofim Denisovich
Authors: Gratzer Walter
Published: May 2014

Trofim Denisovich Lysenko (1898–1976) was a Soviet agronomist and charlatan, who proclaimed the inheritance of acquired characteristics and transformation of species in plants. Lysenko was a member of the cohort of uneducated ‘barefoot professors’, whose folk wisdom would lead the way in developing the country's agriculture. He came to the notice of the régime by publicising his technique of ‘vernalisation’, which he asserted could ‘educate’ winter wheat into producing an abundant crop in the spring, not just in the following year but ever after. This was enough to secure him a position as director of a specially created unit at the All‐Union Plant Breeding Institute, and thereafter his claims became ever more extravagant. He could not only impose newly acquired characteristics on crop plants, but also convert one species into another. As his power grew, Lysenko's doctrines were officially recognised, and dissidents were treated harshly. The poison spread to engulf most of Soviet genetics. Lysenko's reign of two decades ended with Stalin's death.
Vaccinia Virus Expression System
Authors: Hall Yper , Carroll Miles W
Published: May 2014

Replication‐competent vaccinia virus was used as the vaccine in the campaign to eradicate smallpox. After the disease was eradicated, recombinant vaccinia viruses were created that were capable of expressing foreign genes. This made vaccinia‐based systems available for mammalian cell expression of recombinant protein, an advantage of which, like other mammalian expression systems, is authentic posttranslational modification. Generation of recombinant vaccinia also provided an opportunity for developing vaccinia‐based vaccines for use against nonpoxvirus diseases. In this respect, recombinant vaccinia virus and recombinant versions of an attenuated derivative, Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) have been extensively studied. Today, there are recombinant vaccinia viruses expressing foreign antigens in phases I–III clinical trials relating to viral, bacterial, parasitic and cancer‐related diseases, and a licensed veterinary vaccine.

Key Concepts:

Smallpox was eradicated following a vaccination campaign in which live vaccinia virus was used as the vaccine.

Foreign genes can be inserted into the vaccinia virus genome to create recombinant vaccinia virus strains.

The vaccinia virus expression system allows for mammalian cell expression of recombinant protein, an advantage of which is authentic post‐translational modification.

Recombinant vaccinia can deliver vaccine antigens and evoke potent cell‐mediated and humoral responses specific to the inserted gene.

Vaccination with recombinant organisms can confer protection against viral, bacterial, parasitic and cancer‐related diseases.
Generation, Expansion, and Differentiation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSCs) Derived From the Umbilical Cords of Newborns
Authors: Song Richard S. , Carroll Jeanne M. , Acevedo Lisette , Wu Dongmei , Liu Yang , Snyder Evan Y.
Published: May 2014

The umbilical cord is tissue that is normally discarded after the delivery of the infant, but it has been shown to be a rich source of stem cells from the cord blood, Wharton's jelly, and umbilical endothelial cells. Patient‐specific human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) reprogrammed from patient specific human umbilical vein endothelial cells in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) population (specifically, premature neonates) have not been shown in the literature. This unit describes a protocol for the generation and expansion of hiPSCs originating from umbilical cords collected from patients in the NICU. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 29:1C.16.1‐1C.16.13. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Self‐concept in children with Down syndrome
Authors: Saha Sayoni , Doran Eric , Osann Kathryn E. , Hom Christy , Movsesyan Nina , Rosa Diana D. , Tournay Anne , Lott Ira T.
Published: May 2014

Self‐concept is a critical indicator of quality of life but few studies have examined this subject in children with Down syndrome (DS). In this study, we propose a novel methodology to assess the self‐concept of children with DS by analyzing their responses towards two dolls, one with a “typically developing” (TD) appearance and one with the phenotypic features of DS. Fifty‐four children with DS participated in play sessions with both dolls and were then interviewed to assess doll preference, resemblance, and attribution of positive qualities. We observed that children with DS: (i) exhibited a preference for the TD doll regardless of age, gender, IQ or self‐awareness; (ii) attributed more positive qualities to the TD doll than the DS doll; and (iii) believed that they resembled the TD doll, rather than the more phenotypically accurate representation of themselves. Older participants were more likely to exhibit self‐recognition by this technique. These findings contribute to current understandings of how people with DS view themselves and their disability. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A child with split‐hand/foot associated with tibial hemimelia (SHFLD syndrome) and thrombocytopenia maps to chromosome region 17p13.3
Authors: Al Kaissi Ali , Ganger Rudolf , Rötzer Katharina M. , Klaushofer Klaus , Grill Franz
Published: May 2014

We describe a‐2‐year‐old boy who presented with a neonatal history of thrombocytopenia associated with a constellation of limb malformations mimicking split hand/foot malformation with long bone deficiency (SHFLD) syndrome. Limb malformations consisted of unilateral monodactyly with radial aplasia, unilateral split foot and bilateral club foot. Tibial aplasia of one limb and tibial hypoplasia of the other limb were notable. Partial agenesis of the sacrum was additional skeletal malformation. Craniofacial features included dense thick scalp hair, narrow frontal area, thick eye‐brows, deep‐set eyes, depressed nasal bridge, and small overhanging nasal tip, full‐cheeks, and large ears. Array‐CGH showed duplication of the short arm of chromosome 17p13.3 in the boy and his father, respectively. The father was free from any skeletal abnormalities, though he shares similar craniofacial dysmorphic features like his son. In addition, a paternal sib (uncle of the proband) manifested a phenotype similar to that of the proband. To the best of our knowledge the overall phenotypic and genotypic characterizations were consistent but not completely compatible with the traditional type of TAR syndrome or with SHFLD syndrome. We report on what might be a novel variant of SHFLD associated with transient thrombocytopenia, dysmorphic facial features, and a constellation of bone malformations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chiral nickel(II) and palladium(II) catalysts bearing strong electron‐withdrawing fluorine groups: synthesis, characterization and their application in catalytic polymerization for ethylene and styrene
Authors: Yuan Jianchao , Zhao Jie , Song Fengying , Xu Weibing , Mu Yanqiong , Chen Jingjing , Zhang Zhenghua
Published: May 2014

A series of new chiral and achiral nickel(II) and palladium(II) complexes, {bis[N,N′‐(2,6‐diethyl‐4‐naphthylphenyl)imino]‐1,2‐dimethylethane}dibromonickel 3a, {bis[N,N′‐(4‐fluoro‐2‐methyl‐6‐sec‐phenethylphenyl)imino]‐1,2‐dimethylethane}dibromonickel rac‐(RS)‐3b, {bis[N,N′‐(4‐fluoro‐6‐sec‐phenethylphenyl)imino]‐1,2‐dimethylethane}dibromonickel rac‐(RR/SS)‐3c and {bis[N,N′‐(4‐fluoro‐6‐sec‐phenethylphenyl)imino]‐1,2‐dimethylethane}dichloropalladium rac‐(RR/SS)‐3d were successfully synthesized and characterized. The molecular structures of representative ligand rac‐(RS)‐2b, nickel complex 3a, rac‐(RR/SS)‐3c and palladium complex rac‐(RR/SS)‐3d were determined by X‐ray crystallography. The structures of complexes 3a and rac‐(RR/SS)‐3c have pseudo‐tetrahedral geometry about the nickel center, showing C2 molecular symmetry. However, the structure of palladium complex rac‐(RR/SS)‐3d has pseudo‐square planar geometry about the palladium center, showing C2 molecular symmetry. Complex 3e {bis[N,N′‐(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)imino]‐1,2‐dimethylethane}dibromonickel was also synthesized for comparison. Nickel complex rac‐(RS)‐3b bearing strong electron‐withdrawing fluorine group in the para‐aryl position and a chiral sec‐phenethyl group in the ortho‐aryl position of the ligand (one methyl group in the ortho‐aryl position) displays the highest catalytic activity for ethylene and styrene polymerization, and produced highly branched polyethylene and syndiotactic‐rich polystyrene. However, palladium complex rac‐(RR/SS)‐3d shows low catalytic activity for ethylene and styrene polymerization due to the poor leaving group, Cl, attached to palladium and the unfavorable molecular structure. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamically bonded layer‐by‐layer films: Dynamic properties and applications
Authors: Guan Ying , Zhang Yongjun
Published: May 2014

Layer‐by‐layer (LBL) assembly, a simple but versatile method for thin film fabrication, has been widely employed to fabricate nanoengineered films with controlled composition and thickness. Dynamically bonded LBL films are films fabricated using dynamic bonds, that is, chemical bonds which can undergo reversible breaking and reformation usually under equilibrium conditions, as driving forces. Because of the reversible, dynamic nature of the dynamic bonds, these films exhibit various dynamic properties, ranging from a small scale movement of the polymer chains within the films (chain rearrangement), to a large scale movement of the chains, which results in film disintegration. Usually an external stimulus is used to trigger the response of a dynamic film. Novel applications have been proposed by exploiting the dynamic properties of these films. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40918.
Poly(p‐phenylene sulfide) nanofibers prepared by CO2 laser supersonic drawing
Authors: Koyama Hiroyuki , Watanabe Yuta , Suzuki Akihiro
Published: May 2014

Poly(p‐phenylene sulfide) (PPS) nanofibers are prepared by irradiating a PPS fiber with a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser while drawing it at supersonic speeds. A supersonic jet is generated by blowing air into a vacuum chamber through the fiber injection orifice. Nanofibers obtained at a laser power of 30 W and chamber pressure of 10 kPa exhibit an average diameter of 600 nm and a draw ratio of 110,000. Scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction analyses are employed to investigate the relationships among the chamber pressure, fiber morphology, and crystallization behavior. The nanofibers exhibit two melting temperatures (Tm): approximately 280°C and 320°C. The endothermic peak at Tm = 280°C is ascribable to lamellar crystals and that at Tm = 320°C to the highly complete crystals, since the polymer molecular chain is highly oriented. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40922.
Synthesis of biocompatible and degradable microspheres based on 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate via microfluidic method
Authors: Tarameshlou Mohammad , Jafari Seyed Hassan , Rezaeian Iraj , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: May 2014

Monodisperse poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate), p‐HEMA, microspheres in size ranging from 16 to 340 (μm) were synthesized by in situ emulsion photopolymerization of HEMA monomer with polyethylene glycol diacrylate (p‐EGDA) by means of a three‐dimensional microfluidic flow‐focusing device. An aqueous solution of HEMA, p‐EGDA as chain extender and UV‐photoinitiator serving as dispersed phase formed microdroplets in a continuous oil phase mainly consisting of n‐heptane. A downward coaxial orifices design in the device led to confinement of the reaction admixtures thread to central axis of the microchannels. This design strategy could solve the wetting problem of dispersed phase with the microchannels leading to a successful production of monodisperse microspheres with size variation of less than 4%. The effects of concentration of p‐EGDA, surfactant, and flow rate ratios on microsphere size were examined. It was observed that increasing the concentration of p‐EGDA slightly increases the size whereas increasing the flow rate ratios of continuous to dispersed phase effectively decreases the size of microspheres. The rapid continuous synthesis of p‐HEMA based microspheres via the microfluidic route with reliable control over size, size distribution, and composition opens new doors for mass production of biocompatible and degradable polymeric microspheres for enormous biotechnological applications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40925.
Synthesis and thermal stability properties of boron‐doped silicone resin
Authors: Hao Zhifeng , Zhang Jin , Wu Yahong , Yu Jian , Yu Lin
Published: May 2014

In this article, a novel boron‐doped silicone resin (BSR) was synthesized by hydrolysis‐polycondensation method, with propyl‐triethoxysilane (PTES), dimethyl‐diethoxysilane (DMDES), and boric acid (BA) as starting materials, using absolute ethyl alcohol as solvent and hydrochloric acid as catalyst. The structures of the BSR were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). FTIR spectra showed characteristic BOSi and SiOSi stretching modes. XPS and NMR results confirmed further that boron element was doped successfully into the main chains of the silicone resin as SiOB bond motifs, and hydroxyl groups from BA were condensed properly with SiOH or SiOR to form cross‐linked structure of BSR with narrowed molecular weight distributions in optimum experimental condition. The thermal stability of the BSR was studied by thermogravimetry analysis and derivative thermogravimetry. The thermal degradation temperature of the silicone resin improved greatly after doping element boron into the main chain, and the thermal stability of the BSR was influenced by the content of boron. The thermal degradation mechanism of this BSR was also discussed. The degradation process can be divided into two stages, the weight loss in the first stages may be corresponding to the loss of the small groups and weaker bonds in the chains, such as CH3, and C3H7, the weight loss in the second stage may be corresponding to the loss of the group as OC2H5. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40934.
Key Role of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 in Regulating gp130 Cytokine–Induced Signaling and Limiting Chondrocyte Responses During Murine Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Liu Xiao , Croker Ben A. , Campbell Ian K. , Gauci Stephanie J. , Alexander Warren S. , Tonkin Brett A. , Walsh Nicole C. , Linossi Edmond M. , Nicholson Sandra E. , Lawlor Kate E. , Wicks Ian P.
Published: May 2014

Objective

To examine the impact of the gp130 cytokine family on murine articular cartilage and to explore a potential regulatory role of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS‐3) in murine chondrocytes.

Methods

In wild‐type (WT) mouse chondrocytes, baseline receptor expression levels and gp130 cytokine–induced JAK/STAT signaling were determined by flow cytometry, and expression of SOCS‐3 was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The role of endogenous SOCS‐3 was examined in cartilage explants and chondrocytes from mice with conditional deletion of Socs3 driven by the Col2a1 promoter in vitro (Socs3Δ/Δcol2) and from mice during CD4+ T cell–dependent inflammatory monarthritis. Bone erosions in the murine joints were analyzed by micro–computed tomography.

Results

On chondrocytes from WT mice, gp130 and the oncostatin M (OSM) receptor were strongly expressed, whereas the transmembrane interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) receptor was expressed at much lower levels. Compared to other gp130 cytokines, OSM was the most potent activator of the JAK/STAT pathway and of SOCS‐3 induction. Treatment of Socs3Δ/Δcol2 mouse cartilage explants and chondrocytes with gp130 cytokines prolonged JAK/STAT signaling, enhanced cartilage degradation, increased the expression of Adamts4, Adamts5, and RANKL, and elevated the production of IL‐6, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor, CXCL1, and CCL2. Socs3Δ/Δcol2 mice developed exacerbated inflammation and joint damage in response to gp130 cytokine injections, and these histopathologic features were also observed in mice with inflammatory monarthritis.

Conclusion

The results of this study highlight a key role for SOCS‐3 in regulating chondrocyte responses during inflammatory arthritis. Within the gp130 cytokine family, OSM is a potent stimulus of chondrocyte responses, while IL‐6 probably signals via trans‐signaling. The gp130 cytokine–driven production of RANKL in chondrocytes may link chondrocyte activation and bone remodeling during inflammatory arthritis. Thus, these findings suggest that the inhibition of OSM might reduce the development and severity of structural joint damage during inflammatory arthritis.
Neutrophil Extracellular Trap–Derived Enzymes Oxidize High‐Density Lipoprotein: An Additional Proatherogenic Mechanism in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Smith Carolyne K. , Vivekanandan‐Giri Anuradha , Tang Chongren , Knight Jason S. , Mathew Anna , Padilla Robin L. , Gillespie Brenda W. , Carmona‐Rivera Carmelo , Liu Xiaodan , Subramanian Venkataraman , Hasni Sarfaraz , Thompson Paul R. , Heinecke Jay W. , Saran Rajiv , Pennathur Subramaniam , Kaplan Mariana J.
Published: May 2014

Objective

Oxidative stress and oxidized high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) are implicated as risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Yet, how HDL is oxidized and rendered dysfunctional in SLE remains unclear. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), the levels of which are elevated in lupus, possess oxidant‐generating enzymes, including myeloperoxidase (MPO), NADPH oxidase (NOX), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS). We hypothesized that NETs mediate HDL oxidation, impairing cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC).

Methods

Plasma MPO levels and CEC activity were examined in controls and lupus patients, and 3‐chlorotyrosine (MPO specific) and 3‐nitrotyrosine (derived from reactive nitrogen species) were quantified in human HDL. Multivariable linear models were used to estimate and test differences between groups. HDL was exposed to NETs from control and lupus neutrophils in the presence or absence of MPO, NOX, NOS inhibitors, and chloroquine (CQ). Murine HDL oxidation was quantified after NET inhibition in vivo.

Results

SLE patients displayed higher MPO levels and diminished CEC compared to controls. SLE HDL had higher 3‐nitrotyrosine and 3‐chlorotyrosine content than control HDL, with site‐specific oxidation signatures on apolipoprotein A‐I. Experiments with human and murine NETs confirmed that chlorination was mediated by MPO and NOX, and nitration by NOS and NOX. Mice with lupus treated with the NET inhibitor Cl‐amidine displayed significantly decreased HDL oxidation. CQ inhibited NET formation in vitro.

Conclusion

Active NOS, NOX, and MPO within NETs significantly modify HDL, rendering the lipoprotein proatherogenic. Since NET formation is enhanced in SLE, these findings support a novel role for NET‐derived lipoprotein oxidation in SLE‐associated CVD and identify additional proatherogenic roles of neutrophils and putative protective roles of antimalarials in autoimmunity.
Inhibition of Fucosylation Reshapes Inflammatory Macrophages and Suppresses Type II Collagen–Induced Arthritis
Authors: Li Jun , Hsu Hui‐Chen , Ding Yana , Li Hao , Wu Qi , Yang PingAr , Luo Bao , Rowse Amber L. , Spalding David M. , Bridges S. Louis , Mountz John D.
Published: May 2014

Objective

Fucosylation catalyzed by fucosyltransferases (FUTs) is an important posttranslational modification involved in a variety of biologic processes. This study was undertaken to determine the roles of fucosylation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to assess the efficacy of reestablishing immune homeostasis with the use of 2‐deoxy‐d‐galactose (2‐d‐gal), a fucosylation inhibitor.

Methods

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine the expression of FUT genes in synovial tissue from RA and osteoarthritis (OA) patients and in fluorescence‐activated cell–sorted cells from RA synovial fluid. The in vivo inhibitory effect of 2‐d‐gal was evaluated in a murine collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) model. The in vitro effects of 2‐d‐gal on differentiation of inflammatory macrophages, production of cytokines, and antigen uptake, processing, and presentation functions were analyzed.

Results

FUTs that are involved in terminal or subterminal fucosylation, but not those involved in core fucosylation or O‐fucosylation, were up‐regulated in RA compared to OA synovial tissue. The expression of terminal FUTs was highly positively correlated with the expression of TNF (encoding for tumor necrosis factor α). Terminal FUTs were predominantly expressed in M1 macrophages. In vivo, 2‐d‐gal treatment of mice precluded the development of CIA by reducing inflammatory macrophages and Th17 cells in the draining lymph nodes and decreasing the levels of TNFα, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and antibodies to type II collagen in the serum. In vitro, treatment with 2‐d‐gal skewed the differentiation of M1 macrophages to IL‐10–producing M2 macrophages. Furthermore, 2‐d‐gal significantly inhibited the antigen‐presenting function of M1 macrophages.

Conclusion

Terminal fucosylation is a novel hallmark of inflammatory macrophages. Inhibition of terminal FUTs reshapes the differentiation and functions of M1 macrophages, leading to resolution of inflammation in arthritis.
The triple helix and international collaboration in science
Authors: Choi Sujin , Yang Joshua SungWoo , Park Han Woo
Published: May 2014

Previous studies of international scientific collaboration have rarely gone beyond revealing the structural relationships between countries. Considering how scientific collaboration is actually initiated, this study focuses on the organization and sector levels of international coauthorship networks, going beyond a country‐level description. Based on a network analysis of coauthorship networks between members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), this study attempts to gain a better understanding of international scientific collaboration by exploring the structure of the coauthorship network in terms of university‐industry‐government (UIG) relationships, the mode of knowledge production, and the underlying dynamic of collaboration in terms of geographic, linguistic, and economic factors. The results suggest that the United States showed overwhelming dominance in all bilateral UIG combinations with the exception of the government‐government (GG) network. Scientific collaboration within the industry sector was concentrated in a few players, whereas that between the university and industry sectors was relatively less concentrated. Despite the growing participation from other sectors, universities were still the main locus of knowledge production, with the exception of 5 countries. The university sector in English‐speaking wealthy countries and the government sector of non–English‐speaking, less‐wealthy countries played a key role in international collaborations between OECD countries. The findings did not provide evidence supporting the institutional proximity argument.
A novel approach to citation normalization: A similarity‐based method for creating reference sets
Authors: Colliander Cristian
Published: May 2014

A similarity‐oriented approach for deriving reference values used in citation normalization is explored and contrasted with the dominant approach of utilizing database‐defined journal sets as a basis for deriving such values. In the similarity‐oriented approach, an assessed article's raw citation count is compared with a reference value that is derived from a reference set, which is constructed in such a way that articles in this set are estimated to address a subject matter similar to that of the assessed article. This estimation is based on second‐order similarity and utilizes a combination of 2 feature sets: bibliographic references and technical terminology. The contribution of an article in a given reference set to the reference value is dependent on its degree of similarity to the assessed article. It is shown that reference values calculated by the similarity‐oriented approach are considerably better at predicting the assessed articles' citation count compared to the reference values given by the journal‐set approach, thus significantly reducing the variability in the observed citation distribution that stems from the variability in the articles' addressed subject matter.
Development and Validation of a New Measure of Intuition: The Types of Intuition Scale
Authors: Pretz Jean E. , Brookings Jeffrey B. , Carlson Lauren A. , Humbert Tamera Keiter , Roy Michael , Jones Meghan , Memmert Daniel
Published: May 2014

The Types of Intuition Scale (TIntS) measures three types of intuition identified in a literature review by Pretz and Totz (2007): holistic, inferential, and affective. Holistic intuitions integrate diverse sources of information in a Gestalt‐like, non‐analytical manner; inferential intuitions are based on previously analytical processes that have become automatic; and affective intuitions are based on feelings. Current intuition measures inadequately assess these distinct types. We report four validity studies: Study 1 reports the reliability and factor structure of the TIntS and correlations with extant intuition and personality measures. Study 2 presents a confirmatory factor analysis. Studies 3 and 4 examine the predictive validity of the TIntS with respect to clinical decision making in occupational therapy and musical performance. Scales were internally consistent and stable over time, and factor analyses supported the predicted distinctions among them. Correlations with existing measures of intuition, personality, and behavior showed that the TIntS is unique in its assessment of all three types of intuition in one measure. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment of Mid‐Pregnant Mice with KRN633, an Inhibitor of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase, Induces Abnormal Retinal Vascular Patterning in Their Newborn Pups
Authors: Morita Akane , Nakahara Tsutomu , Abe Naomichi , Kurauchi Yuki , Mori Asami , Sakamoto Kenji , Nagamitsu Tohru , Ishii Kunio
Published: May 2014

We previously reported that treatment of mid‐pregnant mice with KRN633, a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, caused fetal growth restriction resulting from diminished vascularization in the placenta and fetal organs. In this study, we examined how the treatment of mid‐pregnant mice with KRN633 affects the development and morphology of vascular components (endothelial cells, pericytes, and basement membrane) in the retinas of their newborn pups. Pregnant mice were treated with KRN633 (5 mg/kg) once daily from embryonic day 13.5 until the day of delivery. Vascular components were examined using immunohistochemistry with specific markers for each component. Radial vascular growth in the retina was slightly delayed until postnatal day 4 (P4) in the newborn pups of KRN633‐treated mothers. On P8, compared with the pups of control mothers, the pups of KRN633‐treated mothers exhibited decreased numbers of central arteries and veins and abnormal branching of the central arteries. No apparent differences in pericytes or basement membrane were observed between the pups of control and KRN633‐treated mothers. These results suggest that a critical period for determining retinal vascular patterning is present at the earliest stages of retinal vascular development, and that the impaired vascular endothelial growth factor signaling during this period induces abnormal architecture in the retinal vascular network
Interactive motion synthesis with optimal blending
Authors: Oshita Masaki
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we propose an interactive motion synthesis technique that synthesizes a continuous motion sequence from given elementary motions. A user can either specify the execution timings of motions or execute motions in a sequence with automatically determined execution timings. Our method is based on a previous approach that determined the appropriate synthesis method and blending range for each pair of sequential motions, while considering the constraints between the foot and ground in the elementary motions to prevent foot sliding. However, using only the foot‐ground constraints to determine the blending range may generate unnatural motions such as nonsmooth, too fast, or too slow transitions. Moreover, simple motion blending with a regular weight function can generate unnatural motions. To solve these problems, we have introduced an optimal blending range and a weight function, which are determined for each blending segment for the upper and lower body. We also introduced extensions for applying this method to interactive character control. We have successfully applied our method to both animation generation and interactive character control. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A hybrid level‐of‐detail representation for large‐scale urban scenes rendering
Authors: Zhou Shengchuan , Yoo Innfarn , Benes Bedrich , Chen Ge
Published: May 2014

A novel hybrid level‐of‐detail (LOD) algorithm is introduced. We combine point‐based, line‐based, and splat‐based rendering to synthesize large‐scale urban city images. We first extract lines and points from the input and provide their simplification encoded in a data structure that allows for a quick and automatic LOD selection. A screen‐space projected area is used as the LOD selector. The algorithm selects lines for long‐distance views providing high contrast and fidelity of the building silhouettes. For medium‐distance views, points are added, and splats are used for close‐up views. Our implementation shows a 10 × speedup as compared with the ground truth models and is about four times faster than geometric LOD. The quality of the results is indistinguishable from the original as confirmed by a user study and two algorithmic metrics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Turbulence synthesis for shape‐controllable smoke animation
Authors: Yang Ben , Jin Xiaogang
Published: May 2014

We present a novel procedural synthesis method to improve small‐scale turbulence details for controllable smoke animation constrained by shapes and paths. In order to enhance fluid details without introducing unpleasing fluid control effects, we propose a spatial–temporal varying synthesis parameter to control turbulence behaviors and compute it from control force and the vorticity velocity. Our approach can control enhanced turbulence behaviors efficiently and produces visually plausible realistic fine‐scale details while reducing artifacts of large‐scale noises on fluid control. We compare our algorithm to existing procedural synthesis ones to validate its efficiency and controllability. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.