bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of organoclay contents on morphological characterization, mechanical and thermal properties of epoxidized natural rubber-50 toughened polyamide 6 nanocomposites
Authors: Nouparvar Hamed , Hassan Azman , Mohamad Zurina , Wahit Mat Uzir , Roozbahani Fatemeh
Published: November 2013

Nanocomposites consisting of polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix with epoxidized natural rubber-50 (ENR-50) and organoclay-modified montmorillonite (OMMT) were prepared by melt blending in a twin-screw extruder followed by injection molding. The influence of varying amounts (0–6 phr) of OMMT loadings on ENR-50 (10 wt.%) toughened PA6 nanocomposites was examined. Morphological characterizations and mechanical and thermal properties of the blend and nanocomposites were investigated. The addition of OMMT resulted in an increase in tensile strength and modulus, while impact strength and elongation at break reduced. Thermal study revealed no significant change in thermal properties with OMMT loadings. Exfoliated structure was observed from X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns for <4 phr OMMT and was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images.
Influence of Volume and Activation Mode on Polymerization Shrinkage Forces of Resin Cements
Authors: Ishikiriama Sergio Kiyoshi , Maenosono Rafael Massunari , Oda Denise Ferracioli , Ordonez-Aguilera Juan Fernando , Wang Linda , Mondelli Rafael Francisco Lia
Published: November 2013

The concern with the polymerization shrinkage of restorative resin composites also applies to resin cements. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of volume and polymerization mode on forces generated during polymerization shrinkage (FGPS) of resin cements. Two light-cured resin cements - Variolink II (VL; Ivoclar Vivadent) and Nexus 3 (NX; Kerr) - and two self-cured resin cements - Multilink (ML; Ivoclar Vivadent) and Cement Post (CP; Angelus) - were inserted between two rectangular steel bases (6x2 mm) with distance set at 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 mm, establishing a variation of volume. These steel bases were attached to a universal test machine with 50 kg load cell and forces (N) were registered for 10 min. Values of maximum forces generated by each material were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test for individual comparisons (α=0.05). VL, NX and CP developed increasing FGPS as the volume of material increased, while ML presented the opposite behavior. It may be concluded that higher volume increases FGPS even with a concomitant decrease of C-factor, unless the resin cements present lower force generation rates as a function of time in combination with a low C-factor, resulting in stress relief and consequently lower values of FGPS.
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology and Intralesional Steroid Injection in a Central Giant Cell Granuloma Affecting the Gingiva: A New Clinical Approach
Authors: Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Ribeiro Ana Carolina Prado , Santos-Silva Alan Roger dos , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Lopes Marcio Ajudarte
Published: November 2013

Central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is a benign jaw lesion predominantly found in the mandible of young female patients with a variable clinical behavior. Although surgical management is regarded as the main treatment modality for this lesion, the use of intralesional injections of steroids has been recently advocated for its treatment. In addition to this conservative management, the use of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) for diagnosing CGCGs has been proven a safe and efficient approach, especially useful in cases with lesions located in esthetic regions. Herein, it is described a case of CGCG extending to the overlying gingiva of a 15-year-old male patient diagnosed by FNAC and subsequently treated with intralesional injections of a solution of triamcinolone acetonide and ethanolamine oleate that led to an important clinical remission, allowing a more conservative surgical procedure for preservation of gingival esthetics. Therefore, both procedures can be considered as management options for CGCG of the jaws.
Bond Durability of Er:YAG Laser-Prepared Primary Tooth Enamel
Authors: Borsatto Maria Cristina , Martinelli Mayara Garcia , Contente Marta Maria Martins Giamatei , Mellara Talitha de Siqueira , Pecora Jesus Djalma , Galo Rodrigo
Published: November 2013

This study evaluated in vitro the influence of thermocycling and water storage (WS) on the shear bond strength (SBS) of composite resin in cavities prepared in primary tooth enamel with conventional bur or Er:YAG laser. The test surfaces were obtained from 48 primary molars and randomly assigned to 2 groups (n=24), according to cavity preparation: A: bur-preparation and B: Er:YAG laser irradiation. The specimens were restored with an etch-and-rinse adhesive system and composite resin. Each group was divided into 4 subgroups (n=6) according to WS duration and number of thermal cycles (TCs): I: 24 h WS/no thermocycling; II: 7 days WS/500 TCs; III: 1 month WS/2,000 TCs; IV: 6 months WS/12,000 TCs. The specimens were tested to failure in shear strength at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Data were analyzed statistically by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test. SBS means (S.D.) in MPa were: AI: 17.45 (2.03), AII:16.38 (1.49), AIII: 6.88 (0.66), AIV: 7.77 (1.53), BI: 12.32 (0.99), BII: 15.37 (2.24), BIII: 15.05 (2.01) and BIV-5.51 (1.01). WS duration and number of TCs influenced significantly the SBS values only for BIV (p<0.05). AI presented the highest SBS value, which was statistically similar to those of AII, BII and BIII. In conclusion, the adhesion of an etch-and-rinse adhesive to Er:YAG laser-irradiated primary tooth enamel was affected by the methods used to simulate degradation of the adhesive interface only when 6 months WS/12,000 TCs were employed.
Levels of Immunoglobulin A1 in Peri-Implant Fluid and Saliva from Patients with Mucositis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Moura Camilla Christian Gomes , Soares Priscilla Barbosa Ferreira , Vieira Andreia Espindola , Souza Maria Aparecida de , Dechichi Paula
Published: November 2013

There are no studies evaluating the possible use of immunoglobulin A1 (IgA1) as an early marker for peri-implant inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the IgA1 levels in peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) and saliva of partially edentulous patients as an indicator of mucositis. Twenty-seven patients were examined to determine the peri-implant status based on probing depth and bleeding on probing. Saliva and PISF around dental implants were collected and the IgA1 levels were evaluated by Elisa assay. IgA1 in saliva and PISF of these patients were compared and their correlations with clinical parameters were evaluated. Differences in IgA1 levels in saliva (821.1 ± 290.6; 779.8 ± 401.5) and PISF (26.6 ± 20.7; 25.1 ± 20.5) of healthy and mucositis groups, respectively were not observed (p>0.05). Correlation between clinical parameters and IgA1 in saliva or PISF was not observed in healthy or mucositis groups (p=0.607; p=0.826, respectively). These results suggest that IgA1 cannot be used as an immunological marker of mucositis.
Root Reconstructed with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Guided Tissue Regeneration in Apical Surgery: A 5-year Follow-up
Authors: Bernabe Pedro Felicio Estrada , Azuma Mariane Maffei , Ferreira Luciana Louzada , Dezan-Junior Eloi , Gomes-Filho Joao Eduardo , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo
Published: November 2013

Apical surgery should be considered as the last treatment option and employed when conventional endodontic treatment does not provide the expected result. In teeth undergoing apical surgery, the type of retrograde filling material is one of the factors interfering with the repair of periapical tissues. The material in intimate contact with the periapical tissues plays a fundamental role in the repair process. Several materials have been studied and indicated for use in apical surgery procedures, but the mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is still the most frequently used one. Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) techniques have been proposed as an adjunct to apical surgery to enhance bone healing. Here is reported a clinical case in which apical surgery was performed in conjunction with MTA-based root reconstruction of the maxillary right second incisor. After the apical surgery, a root-end cavity was prepared at the vestibular face of the involved tooth and filled with MTA. A bovine bone graft and a cortical collagen membrane were placed on the bone defect. After 5 years, clinical and radiographic assessments showed that the treatment was successful. It may be concluded that MTA presents favorable characteristics in adverse conditions and can be used in conjunction with GTR in cases involving root reconstruction.
Communication and adaptation: coastal flood risk in Lincolnshire
Authors: Hickman David , Flikweert Jaap
Published: November 2013

Lincolnshire's coastal floodplain is home to over 200 000 people in communities that range from small villages to the port town of Boston. It contains much of the country's best agricultural land and annually generates £400 million from tourism, but is very low-lying, defended by raised sea defences and maintained by pumped drainage systems. Major coastal flooding would impact severely on local communities and businesses, which presents a significant challenge when planning for future growth and regeneration. Lincolnshire's Coastal Change Pathfinder explored approaches and solutions to this challenge that would be strategically sustainable, and have the support of the diverse communities within the coastal environment. Fundamental in this was raising awareness of flood risk in ways that were accessible to a wide range of communities, but also left a legacy of better public and business understanding of coastal flood risk, along with greater capacity to respond to it in the longer term.
A heuristic approach to reduce carbon dioxide emissions
Authors: Kramberger Tomaž , Dragan Dejan , Prah Klemen
Published: November 2013

Transport accounts for 26% of global carbon dioxide emissions. The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide, is thus becoming increasingly urgent and several approaches have been adopted to achieve this goal. Alternative sustainable technologies form one possible solution, and changes in driving styles could also contribute to a reduction in emissions. An alternative interesting approach is to reduce vehicle miles travelled. In this paper, the concept of vehicle miles travelled reduction based on a heuristic optimisation approach and geographical information system technology is introduced. The suitability of the concept was tested with the school bus routing problem. Working mechanisms of the adopted optimisation algorithms are explained. The results show that optimisation of bus stops, bus routes and driving schedules could significantly reduce the amount of vehicle miles travelled and, consequently, carbon dioxide emissions.
The Use of Antiretroviral Therapy in the Prevention of HIV Transmission Among Serodiscordant Couples
Authors: Peters Michelle
Published: November 2013

Despite the advances the HIV community has made in the past 3 decades in evolving HIV into a manageable chronic disease, emphasis needs to remain on reduction in the risk of transmission. Multiple studies conducted on serodiscordant couples have demonstrated an association between viral load and risk of transmission. Treatment of serodiscordant couples as a preventative measure may be a critical weapon to add to the defensive arsenal in continuing to battle the HIV epidemic. Two case reports are presented that may be of “typical” serodiscordant couples.
The Relationship Between Self-Efficacy and Fluid and Dietary Compliance in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: John Ansy , Alpert Patricia T. , Kawi Jennifer , Tandy Richard
Published: November 2013

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) require complex medical management that necessitates strict adherence to their treatment program. But why individuals are noncompliant with their prescribed therapeutic regimen is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between self-efficacy and self-reported fluid and dietary compliance as well as identify the possible barriers that prevented patient compliance. One hundred ESRD patients who received hemodialysis three times a week participated. Bivariate correlational analysis showed there were strong positive correlations between self-efficacy and daily fluid (r = .56; p < .001) and dietary (r = .53; p < .001) restrictions. Linear regression analysis was used to analyze the potential barriers predicted for fluid and dietary compliance, which also showed statistical significance. The results showed those who reported being in social gatherings were less compliant with fluid and dietary restrictions (F[1, 90] = 14.62, p < .001). Similarly, those who reported greater frustration with kidney disease reported less compliance with fluid and dietary restrictions (F[1, 90] = 4.65, p < .01). By using the results of this study, clinicians and nurses can adopt multiple strategies to improve patient self-efficacy levels and self-management capacities. This study also provides a better understanding of barriers that prevents dietary and fluid restriction compliance.
Cyclosporine A Inhibits Apoptosis of Rat Gingival Epithelium
Authors: Ma Su , Liu Peihong , Li Yanwu , Hou Lin , Chen Li , Qin Chunlin
Published: November 2013

Background: The use of cyclosporine A (CsA) induces hyperplasia of the gingival epithelium in a site‐specific response manner, but the molecular mechanism via which the lesion occurs is unclear. The present research aims to investigate the site‐specific effect of CsA on the apoptosis of gingival epithelium associated with gingival hyperplasia.

Methods: Forty Wistar rats were divided into CsA‐treated and non‐treated groups. Paraffin‐embedded sections of mandibular first molars were selected for hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry analyses of bcl‐2 and caspase‐3, and the staining of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transfer‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL). The area of the whole gingival epithelium and the length of rete pegs were measured, and the number of bcl‐2‐ and caspase‐3‐positive cells in the longest rete peg were counted. The analysis of variance for factorial designs and Fisher least significant difference test for post hoc analysis were used to determine the significance levels.

Results: In CsA‐treated rats, bcl‐2 expression was significantly upregulated, whereas caspase‐3 expression was downregulated, along with a reduced number of TUNEL‐positive cells. The site‐specific distribution of bcl‐2 was consistent with the site‐specific hyperplasia of the gingival epithelium in CsA‐treated rats.

Conclusions: CsA inhibited gingival epithelial apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway and common pathway. The antiapoptotic protein bcl‐2 might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of the site‐specific hyperplasia of gingival epithelium induced by CsA. There were mechanistic differences in the regulation of apoptosis for cells in the attached gingival epithelium, free gingival epithelium, and junctional epithelium.
Association of Plasma 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations and Pathogenic Oral Bacteria in Postmenopausal Females
Authors: Sahli Michelle W. , Wactawski‐Wende Jean , Ram Pavani K. , LaMonte Michael J. , Hovey Kathleen M. , Genco Robert J. , Andrews Christopher A. , Millen Amy E.
Published: November 2013

Background: Previous findings of an association between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and periodontal disease may be partially explained by the antimicrobial properties of vitamin D. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has investigated the association between 25(OH)D and pathogenic oral bacteria, a putative cause of periodontal disease.

Methods: The association between plasma 25(OH)D concentrations and pathogenic oral bacteria was examined among postmenopausal females in the Buffalo Osteoporosis and Periodontal Disease Study (1997 to 2000), an ancillary study of the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Subgingival plaque samples were assessed using immunofluorescence for the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, and Campylobacter rectus. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for prevalent bacteria by quintile (Q) of 25(OH)D concentrations, adjusting for age and body mass index.

Results: Of the 855 participants, 288 (34%) had deficient/inadequate (<50 nmol/L) 25(OH)D concentrations, and 496 (58%) had at least one species of pathogenic bacteria. No significant association was found between 25(OH)D and presence of any of these bacteria (adjusted OR for high [Q5] compared to low [Q1] 25(OH)D = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.61 to 1.50; P for trend = 0.50). Inverse, although not statistically significant, associations were found between 25(OH)D and more than one species of pathogenic bacteria (adjusted OR for adequate compared to deficient/inadequate 25(OH)D = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.60 to 1.19).

Conclusions: No association was observed between pathogenic oral bacteria and 25(OH)D concentrations in postmenopausal females. This may be attributable to the species of bacteria assessed, small effect size, or a true absence of an association.
Informative Provenance for Repurposed Data: A Case Study using Clinical Research Data
Authors: Bache Richard , Miles Simon , Coker Bolaji , Taweel Adel
Published: November 2013

The task repurposing of heterogeneous, distributed data for originally unintended research objectives is a non-trivial problem because the mappings required may not be precise. A particular case is clinical data collected for patient care being used for medical research. The fact that research repositories will record data differently means that assumptions must be made as how to transform of this data. Records of provenance that document how this process has taken place will enable users of the data warehouse to utilise the data appropriately and ensure that future data added from another source is transformed using comparable assumptions. For a provenance-based approach to be reusable and supportable with software tools, the provenance records must use a well-defined model of the transformation process. In this paper, we propose such a model, including a classification of the individual â€˜sub-functionsâ€™ that make up the overall transformation. This model enables meaningful provenance data to be generated automatically. A case study is used to illustrate this approach and an initial classification of transformations that alter the information is created.
Disciplinary differences in faculty research data management practices and perspectives
Authors: Akers Katherine G. , Doty Jennifer
Published: November 2013

Academic librarians are increasingly engaging in data curation by providing infrastructure (e.g., institutional repositories) and offering services (e.g., data management plan consultations) to support the management of research data on their campuses. Efforts to develop these resources may benefit from a greater understanding of disciplinary differences in research data management needs. After conducting a survey of data management practices and perspectives at our research university, we categorized faculty members into four research domainsâ€”arts and humanities, social sciences, medical sciences, and basic sciencesâ€”and analyzed variations in their patterns of survey responses. We found statistically significant differences among the four research domains for nearly every survey item, revealing important disciplinary distinctions in data management actions, attitudes, and interest in support services. Serious consideration of both the similarities and dissimilarities among disciplines will help guide academic librarians and other data curation professionals in developing a range of data-management services that can be tailored to the unique needs of different scholarly researchers.
Gathering Evidence of Benefits: A Structured Approach from the Jisc Managing Research Data Programme
Authors: Molloy Laura , Hodson Simon , Poschen Meik , Tedds Jonathan
Published: November 2013

The work of the Jisc Managing Research Data programme is â€“ along with the rest of the UK higher education sector â€“ taking place in an environment of increasing pressure on research funding. In order to justify the investment made by Jisc in this activity â€“ and to help make the case more widely for the value of investing time and money in research data management â€“ individual projects and the programme as a whole must be able to clearly express the resultant benefits to the host institutions and to the broader sector. This paper describes a structured approach to the measurement and description of benefits provided by the work of these projects for the benefit of funders, institutions and researchers. We outline the context of the programme and its work; discuss the drivers and challenges of gathering evidence of benefits; specify benefits as distinct from aims and outputs; present emerging findings and the types of metrics and other evidence which projects have provided; explain the value of gathering evidence in a structured way to demonstrate benefits generated by work in this field; and share lessons learned from progress to date.
A Maturing Process of Engagement: Raising Data Capabilities in UK Higher Education
Authors: Pryor Graham
Published: November 2013

In the spring of 2011, the UKâ€™s Digital Curation Centre (DCC) commenced a programme of outreach designed to assist individual universities in their development of aptitude for managing research data. This paper describes the approaches taken, covering the context in which these institutional engagements have been discharged and examining the aims, methodology and processes employed. It also explores what has worked and why, as well as the pitfalls encountered, including example outcomes and identifiable or predicted impact. Observing how the research data landscape is constantly undergoing change, the paper concludes with an indication of the steps being taken to refit the DCC institutional engagement to the evolving needs of higher education.
Implementing the Research Data Management Policy: University of Edinburgh Roadmap
Authors: Rice Robin , Ekmekcioglu Ã‡una , Haywood Jeff , Jones Sarah , Lewis Stuart , Macdonald Stuart , Weir Tony
Published: November 2013

This paper discusses work to implement the University of Edinburgh Research Data Management (RDM) policy by developing the services needed to support researchers and fulfil obligations within a changing national and international setting. This is framed by an evolving Research Data Management Roadmap and includes a governance model that ensures cooperation amongst Information Services (IS) managers and oversight by an academic-led steering group. IS has taken requirements from research groups and IT professionals, and at the request of the steering group has conducted pilot work involving volunteer research units within the three colleges to develop functionality and presentation for the key services. The first pilots cover three key services: the data store, a customisation of the Digital Curation Centreâ€™s DMPonline tool, and the data repository. The paper will report on the plans, achievements and challenges encountered while we attempt to bring the University of Edinburgh RDM Roadmap to fruition.
Challenges in Building an Institutional Research Data Catalogue
Authors: Rumsey Sally , Jefferies Neil
Published: November 2013

The University of Oxford is preparing systems and services to enable members of the university to manage research data produced by its scholars. Much of the work has been carried out under the Jisc-funded Damaro project. This project draws together existing nascent services, adds new systems and services to ‘fill the gaps’ and provides a wide-ranging infrastructure. Development comprises four parallel strands: endorsement of a university research data management policy; training and guidance in research data management; technical infrastructure; and future sustainability. A key element of the technical infrastructure is DataFinder, a catalogue of Oxford research data outputs. DataFinder’s core purposes are to record the existence of Oxford datasets, enable their discovery, and provide details of their location. DataFinder will record metadata about Oxford research data, irrespective of location, discipline or format, and is viewed by the university as a crucial hub for the university’s Research Data Management (RDM) infrastructure.
On the maximum orders of an induced forest, an induced tree, and a stable set
Authors: Hertz Alain , Marcotte Odile , Schindl David
Published: November 2013

Let G be a connected graph, n the order of G, and f (resp. t) the maximum
order of an induced forest (resp. tree) in G. We show that f - t is at most
n - ?2?n-1?. In the special case where n is of the form a2 + 1 for some
even integer a ? 4, f - t is at most n - ?2?n-1?-1. We also prove
that these bounds are tight. In addition, letting ? denote the stability
number of G, we show that ? - t is at most n + 1- ?2?2n? this bound is
also tight.
Association between Mycoplasma-specific polymerase chain reaction assay results and oral bacterial contamination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples from dogs with respiratory tract disease: 121 cases (2005–2012)
Authors: Chan Christina M. , Ridgway Marcella D. , Mitchell Mark A. , Maddox Carol W.
Published: November 2013

Objective—To determine whether an association exists between oral bacterial contamination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and positive PCR assay results for the detection of Mycoplasma spp in BALF samples of dogs with lower respiratory tract (LRT; portion from the trachea to the lungs) disease.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—121 dogs with LRT disease.

Procedures—Medical records from January 2005 to April 2012 were reviewed. Dogs with LRT disease that had BALF samples evaluated by use of Mycoplasma-specific PCR assay, bacterial culture, and cytologic examination were included. Information on signalment, final diagnoses, and BALF testing results was extracted.

Results—83 (68.6%) dogs had BALF samples with negative PCR assay results for Mycoplasma spp, and 38 (31.4%) had positive results. The BALF samples with cytologic evidence of oral bacterial contamination were 5.1 times as likely to have positive Mycoplasma-specific PCR assay results as were noncontaminated samples. Compared with hound or herding dogs, other breeds were 13.6 times as likely to have positive PCR assay results. Dogs with bronchitis were less likely than dogs with other LRT diseases to have positive Mycoplasma-specific PCR assay results. No significant association was found between Mycoplasma-specific PCR assay results and bacterial culture results.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs with LRT disease, Mycoplasma-specific PCR assay results for BALF samples should be interpreted in terms of possible oral bacterial contamination. Mycoplasma-specific PCR assay of BALF samples from herding dogs, hound dogs, and dogs with bronchitis may be less rewarding than for other dogs with LRT disease.
Investigation into the Synthesis of C-25 Oxysterols
Authors: Zhao Qian , Ji Li , Qian Chao , Chen Xin-Zhi
Published: November 2013

A simple and environmentally benign method for the preparation of 25-hydroxycholesterol, a modulator of cholesterol biosynthesis, has been developed. The final product can be obtained by the reaction of mCPBA and 24-dehydrocholesterol, followed by reduction with lithium aluminium hydride in THF in moderate yields.
A Multicomponent Reaction of Acetals for the Preparation of Quinolines
Authors: Zhang Xue-Lin , Wu Qin-Pei , Zhang Qing-Shan
Published: November 2013

A straightforward, mild, one-pot method has been found for the preparation of quinolines via a multi-component reaction using acetals or cyclic acetals, aromatic amines and alkynes catalysed by Bi(OTf)3. It gives good yields under mild conditions. This approach has been successfully applied for the synthesis of a range of quinolines with a variety of functional groups.
MgI2 Etherate-Catalysed Strecker Reaction: A Facile and Efficient Synthesis of α-Aminonitriles from Aldimines and Trimethylsilyl Cyanide
Authors: Lu Yongping , Wang Yanping , Zhang Xingxian
Published: November 2013

A mild and efficient procedure for the synthesis of α-aminonitriles is achieved by treatment of aldimines with trimethylsilyl cyanide catalysed by MgI2 etherate.
A Review of the Applications of Chitin and Its Derivatives in Agriculture to Modify Plant-Microbial Interactions and Improve Crop Yields
Authors: Sharp Russell
Published: November 2013

In recent decades, a greater knowledge of chitin chemistry, and the increased availability of chitin-containing waste materials from the seafood industry, have led to the testing and development of chitin-containing products for a wide variety of applications in the agriculture industry. A number of modes of action have been proposed for how chitin and its derivatives can improve crop yield. In addition to direct effects on plant nutrition and plant growth stimulation, chitin-derived products have also been shown to be toxic to plant pests and pathogens, induce plant defenses and stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial microbes. A repeating theme of the published studies is that chitin-based treatments augment and amplify the action of beneficial chitinolytic microbes. This article reviews the evidence for claims that chitin-based products can improve crop yields and the current understanding of the modes of action with a focus on plant-microbe interactions.
Dimeric Surfactants: Promising Ingredients of Cosmetics and Toiletries
Authors: Kumar Naveen , Tyagi Rashmi
Published: November 2013

Surfactants are an essential ingredient for cosmetic, toiletries and personal care products for enhancing their performance. Dimeric surfactants demonstrate superiority compared to conventional surfactants in all areas of application. Dimeric surfactants are extremely promising for utilization in various cosmetic formulations viz. shampoo, lotions, creams, conditioners etc. These surfactants possess extremely unique surface properties viz. lower surface tension, unique micellization, low critical micelle concentration (CMC) and antimicrobial activity, higher solubilization etc. Dimerics enhance the performances of cosmetics in an extraordinary manner and provide eco-friendly preparations for human epidermis.
Systems Biology Approach to the Dissection of the Complexity of Regulatory Networks in the S. scrofa Cardiocirculatory System
Authors: Martini Paolo , Sales Gabriele , Calura Enrica , Brugiolo Mattia , Lanfranchi Gerolamo , Romualdi Chiara , Cagnin Stefano
Published: November 2013

Genome-wide experiments are routinely used to increase the understanding of the biological processes involved in the development and maintenance of a variety of pathologies. Although the technical feasibility of this type of experiment has improved in recent years, data analysis remains challenging. In this context, gene set analysis has emerged as a fundamental tool for the interpretation of the results. Here, we review strategies used in the gene set approach, and using datasets for the pig cardiocirculatory system as a case study, we demonstrate how the use of a combination of these strategies can enhance the interpretation of results. Gene set analyses are able to distinguish vessels from the heart and arteries from veins in a manner that is consistent with the different cellular composition of smooth muscle cells. By integrating microRNA elements in the regulatory circuits identified, we find that vessel specificity is maintained through specific miRNAs, such as miR-133a and miR-143, which show anti-correlated expression with their mRNA targets.
Different Effects of Androgen on the Expression of Fut1, Fut2, Fut4 and Fut9 in Male Mouse Reproductive Tract
Authors: Wang Chun-Mei , Hu Shuang-Gang , Ru Yan-Fei , Yao Guang-Xin , Ma Wu-Bin , Gu Yi-Hua , Chu Chen , Wang Shou-Lin , Zhou Zuo-Min , Liu Qiang , Zhou Yu-Chuan , Zhang Yong-Lian
Published: November 2013

The α-(1,2) fucosyltransferases (Fut1 and Fut2) and α-(1,3) fucosyltransferases (Fut4, Fut9) are responsible for the synthesis of Lewis X (LeX) and Lewis Y (LeY) conjugated to glycoproteins. We recently reported that these fucosyltransferases were differentially expressed in the reproductive tract of male mouse. Here, we studied the effect of androgen on fucosyltransferase expression through the use of mouse castration models. We found that Fut1 mRNA and Fut4 mRNA were upregulated, while Fut2 mRNA and Fut9 mRNA were downregulated by androgen in the caput epididymis. However, in the vas deferens and prostate, only Fut4 mRNA and Fut2 mRNA were respectively upregulated following exposure to androgen. In the seminal vesicle, all fucosyltransferases, with the exception of Fut9, were upregulated. We identified the androgen receptor binding sites (ARBSs) of Fut2, Fut4 and Fut9 in the caput epididymis. Luciferase assay for these ARBSs is able to provide an indication as to why Fut4 and Fut9 are differently expressed and regulated by androgen, although they catalyze the same α-(1,3) fucose linkage. Our study showed that androgen could differentially regulate the expression of these fucosyltransferases and provided an insight into the characteristic distribution of each fucosyltransferase responsible for LeX/LeY biosynthesis in the male reproductive tract.
Housing Density and Ecosystem Function: Comparing the Impacts of Rural, Exurban, and Suburban Densities on Fire Hazard, Water Availability, and House and Road Distance Effects
Authors: Vukomanovic Jelena , Doumas Sandra , Osterkamp W. , Orr Barron
Published: November 2013

Many amenity-rich regions are experiencing rapid land-use change through low-density residential development or exurbanization. Those same natural-resource amenities that attracted migration are often degraded by housing growth and associated development. This study examines the impacts of exurbanization on three ecosystem indicators (fire hazard, water availability, and generalized distance effects of houses and roads) and compares them to areas with rural and suburban housing densities in the Sonoita Plain, southeastern Arizona. We found that although they support significantly lower population densities, exurban areas have impacts on ecosystem function comparable to suburban areas. Exurban areas had the highest potential for fire, suggesting that it is the presence of people rather than the density that increases fire hazard. The increase in the number of wells in exurban areas far exceeded suburban areas and matched increases for agricultural use in rural areas. When the impacts of houses and roads on ecosystem function were considered, 98% of exurban areas were “highly” or “very highly” impacted, compared to 100% for suburban areas and 35% for rural areas. Since development in the area is not readily visible, assessing the spatial extent of impacts is important for understanding the vulnerability of systems and guiding decisions about development.
Optimized Slurries for Spray Drying: Different Approaches to Obtain Homogeneous and Deformable Alumina-Zirconia Granules
Authors: Naglieri Valentina , Gutknecht Dan , Garnier Vincent , Palmero Paola , Chevalier Jérôme , Montanaro Laura
Published: November 2013

Spray drying is widely used for producing granulated feed materials for compaction process, which is the current industrial method for manufacturing alumina-zirconia femoral heads. The optimization of the granules compaction behavior requires the control of the slurry rheology. Moreover, for a dual-phase ceramic suspension, the even phase distribution has to be kept through the atomization step. Here we present two approaches addressing the key issues involved in the atomization of a composite system. Alumina-10 vol % zirconia powders were prepared by either a powder mixing route, or by the surface modification of a commercial α-alumina powder with a zirconium salt. Slurries from both powders were spray dried. The correlation between slurry rheology and pH, granules morphology and sintered microstructures was here investigated and discussed on the ground of the two feed materials characteristics. The processing conditions were optimized to obtain dense and homogeneous alumina-zirconia micro-nano composites by both processing routes.
Voltammetric Studies on Gold Electrodes Coated with Chitosan-Containing Layer-by-Layer Films
Authors: Takahashi Shigehiro , Watahiki Ryota , Tomida Kohji , Wang Baozhen , Anzai Jun-ichi
Published: November 2013

Gold (Au) electrodes coated with layer-by-layer (LbL) thin films composed of chitosan (CHI) were prepared to evaluate the redox properties of hexaammine ruthenium ions, Ru(NH3)63+, and ferricyanide ions, Fe(CN)63− LbL films were prepared on an Au electrode by electrostatic LbL deposition using polycationic CHI and poly(vinyl sulfate) (PVS) or poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) as anionic component. Redox peak current in cyclic voltammetry of Ru(NH3)63+ on the CHI/PVS and CHI/PAA film-coated electrodes increased with increasing thickness of the films. Interestingly, the cyclic voltammograms showed two pair of redox peaks, originating from Ru(NH3)63+ diffusing across the LbL layers and from those confined in the film. The results were rationalized in terms of the electrostatic interactions between Ru(NH3)63+ and excess negative charges in the LbL films originating from PVS and PAA. In contrast, Fe(CN)63− was not confined in the LbL films due to electrostatic repulsion of Fe(CN)63− and excess negative charges. Significant amounts of Ru(NH3)63+ were confined in the films at pH 7.0, whereas few ions were bound at pH 3.0 due to the reduced net negative charge in the films. The results suggest a potential use of the CHI-containing LbL films as scaffold for immobilizing positively charged ionic species on the electrode surface.
An In Vitro Study of the Antimicrobial Effects of Indigo Naturalis Prepared from Strobilanthes formosanus Moore
Authors: Chiang Yin-Ru , Li Ann , Leu Yann-Lii , Fang Jia-You , Lin Yin-Ku
Published: November 2013

Indigo naturalis is effective in treating nail psoriasis coexisting with microorganism infections. This study examines the antimicrobial effects of indigo naturalis prepared from Strobilanthes formosanus Moore. Eight bacterial and seven fungal strains were assayed using the agar diffusion method to examine the effects of indigo naturalis and its bioactive compounds. The bioactive compounds of indigo naturalis were purified sequentially using GFC, TLC, and HPLC. Their structures were identified using mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. UPLC-MS/MS was applied to compare the metabolome profiles of indigo naturalis ethyl-acetate (EA) extract and its source plant, Strobilanthes formosanus Moore. The results of in vitro antimicrobial assays showed that indigo naturalis EA-extract significantly (≥1 mg/disc) inhibits Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermis and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA)) and mildly inhibits non-dermatophytic onychomycosis pathogens (Aspergillus fumigates and Candida albicans), but has little effect on dermatophyes. Isatin and tryptanthrin were identified as the bioactive compounds of indigo naturalis using S. aureus and S. epidermis as the bioassay model. Both bioactive ingredients had no effect on all tested fungi. In summary, indigo naturalis prepared from Strobilanthes formosanus Moore exhibits antimicrobial effects on Staphylococcus and non-dermatophytic onychomycosis pathogens. Tryptanthrin and isatin may be its major bioactive ingredients against Staphylococcus and the inhibitory effect on MRSA may be due to other unidentified ingredients.
Deracemization of Axially Chiral Nicotinamides by Dynamic Salt Formation with Enantiopure Dibenzoyltartaric Acid (DBTA)
Authors: Yagishita Fumitoshi , Kamataki Norifumi , Okamoto Kazuma , Kanno Shota , Mino Takashi , Masu Hyuma , Sakamoto Masami
Published: November 2013

Dynamic atroposelective resolution of chiral salts derived from oily racemic nicotinamides and enantiopure dibenzoyltartaric acid (DBTA) was achieved by crystallization. The absolute structures of the axial chiral nicotinamides were determined by X-ray structural analysis. The chirality could be controlled by the selection of enantiopure DBTA as a chiral auxiliary. The axial chirality generated by dynamic salt formation was retained for a long period after dissolving the chiral salt in solution even after removal of the chiral acid. The rate of racemization of nicotinamides could be controlled based on the temperature and solvent properties, and that of the salts was prolonged compared to free nicotinamides, as the molecular structure of the pyridinium ion in the salts was different from that of acid-free nicotinamides.
“Jello® Shots” and Cocktails as Ethanol Vehicles: Parametric Studies with High- and Low-Saccharin-Consuming Rats
Authors: Dess Nancy , Madkins Chardonnay , Geary Bree , Chapman Clinton
Published: November 2013

Naïve humans and rats voluntarily consume little ethanol at concentrations above ~6% due to its aversive flavor. Developing procedures that boost intake of ethanol or ethanol-paired flavors facilitates research on neural mechanisms of ethanol-associated behaviors and helps identify variables that modulate ethanol intake outside of the lab. The present study explored the impact on consumption of ethanol and ethanol-paired flavors of nutritionally significant parametric variations: ethanol vehicle (gelatin or solution, with or without polycose); ethanol concentration (4% or 10%); and feeding status (chow deprived or ad lib.) during flavor conditioning and flavor preference testing. Individual differences were modeled by testing rats of lines selectively bred for high (HiS) or low (LoS) saccharin intake. A previously reported preference for ethanol-paired flavors was replicated when ethanol had been drunk during conditioning. However, indifference or aversion to ethanol-paired flavors generally obtained when ethanol had been eaten in gelatin during conditioning, regardless of ethanol concentration, feeding status, or caloric value of the vehicle. Modest sex and line variations occurred. Engaging different behavioral systems when eating gelatin, rather than drinking solution, may account for these findings. Implications for parameter selection in future neurobiological research and for understanding conditions that influence ethanol intake outside of the lab are discussed.
Oral Zinc Supplementation for the Treatment of Acute Diarrhea in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lamberti Laura , Walker Christa , Chan Kit , Jian Wei-Yan , Black Robert
Published: November 2013

Evidence supporting the impact of therapeutic zinc supplementation on the duration and severity of diarrhea among children under five is largely derived from studies conducted in South Asia. China experiences a substantial portion of the global burden of diarrhea, but the impact of zinc treatment among children under five has not been well documented by previously published systematic reviews on the topic. We therefore conducted a systematic literature review, which included an exhaustive search of the Chinese literature, in an effort to update previously published estimates of the effect of therapeutic zinc. We conducted systematic literature searches in various databases, including the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and abstracted relevant data from studies meeting our inclusion and exclusion criteria. We used STATA 12.0 to pool select outcomes and to generate estimates of percentage difference and relative risk comparing outcomes between zinc and control groups. We identified 89 Chinese and 15 non-Chinese studies for the review, including studies in 10 countries from all WHO geographic regions, and analyzed a total of 18,822 diarrhea cases (9469 zinc and 9353 control). None of the included Chinese studies had previously been included in published pooled effect estimates. Chinese and non-Chinese studies reported the effect of therapeutic zinc supplementation on decreased episode duration, stool output, stool frequency, hospitalization duration and proportion of episodes lasting beyond three and seven days. Pooling Chinese and non-Chinese studies yielded an overall 26% (95% CI: 20%−32%) reduction in the estimated relative risk of diarrhea lasting beyond three days among zinc-treated children. Studies conducted in and outside China report reductions in morbidity as a result of oral therapeutic zinc supplementation for acute diarrhea among children under five years of age. The WHO recommendation for zinc treatment of diarrhea episodes should be supported in all low- and middle-income countries.
Preparation of Microcapsules Containing β-Carotene with Thermo Sensitive Curdlan by Utilizing Reverse Dispersion
Authors: Taguchi Yoshinari , Ono Fumiyasu , Tanaka Masato
Published: November 2013

We have tried to microencapsulate β-carotene with curdlan of a thermogelation type polysaccharide. Microcapsules were prepared by utilizing reverse dispersion, in which salada oil was the continuous phase (O’) and the curdlan water slurry (W) was the dispersed phase. β-carotene (O) as a core material was broken into fine oil droplets in the dispersed phase to form the (O/W) dispersion. The (O/W) dispersion was poured in the continuous phase (O’) and stirred to form the (O/W)/O’ dispersion at room temperature and then, temperature of the dispersion was raised to 80 °C to prepare curdlan-microcapusles containing β-carotene. In this microencapsulation process, the concentrations of curdlan and oil soluble surfactant and the impeller speed to form the (O/W)/O’ dispersion were mainly changed stepwise. We were able to prepare microcapsules by the microencapsulation method adopted here. The content of core material was increased with the curdlan concentration and decreased with the impeller speed and the oil soluble surfactant concentration. With the curdlan concentration, the drying rate of microcapsules was decreased and the retention ability for water was increased due to the stable preservation of β-carotene.
Development and Evaluation of an Improved Technique for Pulmonary Function Testing Using Electrical Impedance Pneumography Intended for the Diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients
Authors: Sim Myeong , Kim Min , Jeong In , Park Sung , Yong Suk , Kim Won , Yoon Hyung
Published: November 2013

Spirometry is regarded as the only effective method for detecting pulmonary function test (PFT) indices. In this study, a novel impedance pulmonary function measurement system (IPFS) is developed for directly assessing PFT indices. IPFS can obtain high resolution values and remove motion artifacts through real-time base impedance feedback. Feedback enables the detection of PFT indices using only both hands for convenience. IPFS showed no differences in the sitting, supine, and standing postures during the measurements, indicating that patient posture has no effect on IPFS. Mean distance analysis showed good agreement between the volume and flow signal of IPFS (p < 0.05). PFT indices were detected in subjects to differentiate a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patient group from a normal group. The forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, and peak expiratory flow (PEF) in the COPD group were lower than those in the normal group by IPFS (p < 0.05). IPFS is therefore suitable for evaluating pulmonary function in normal and COPD patients. Moreover, IPFS could be useful for periodic monitoring of existing patients diagnosed with obstructive lung disease.
Correction: Grenez, F., et al. Wireless Prototype Based on Pressure and Bending Sensors for Measuring Gait Quality. Sensors 2013, 13, 9679–9703
Authors: Grenez Florent , Villarejo María , Zapirain Begoña , Zorrilla Amaia
Published: November 2013

In [1], we would like to change “Gate” to “Gait” in the title, which should read “Prototype Based on Pressure and Bending Sensors for Measuring Gait Quality”. In Figure 7 we would like to change the analog inputs. The measurements should be between the sensor and the resistance, and not after the resistance. The revised figure is shown below. [...]