bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid CO2 capture from ambient air by sorbent‐containing porous electrospun fibers made with the solvothermal polymer additive removal technique
Authors: Armstrong Mitchell , Shi Xiaoyang , Shan Bohan , Lackner Klaus , Mu Bin
Published: September 2018

Direct air capture (DAC) of CO2 is an emerging technology in the battle against climate change. Many sorbent materials and different technologies such as moisture swing sorption have been explored for this application. However, developing efficient scaffolds to adopt promising sorbents with fast kinetics is challenging, and very limited effort has been reported to address this critical issue. In this work, the availability and kinetic uptake of CO2 in sorbents embedded in various matrices are studied. Three scaffolds including a commercially available industrial film containing ion‐exchange resin (IER), IER particles embedded in dense electrospun fibers, and IER particles embedded in porous electrospun fibers are compared, in which a solvothermal polymer additive removal technique is used to create porosity in porous fibers. A frequency response technique is developed to measure the uptake capacity, sorbent availability, and kinetic uptake rate. The porous fiber has 90% IER availability, while the dense fibers have 50% particle accessibility. The sorption half time for both electrospun fiber samples is 10 ± 3 min. Our experimental results demonstrate that electrospinning polymer/sorbent composites is a promising technology to facilitate the handleability of sorbent particles and to improve the sorption kinetics, in which the IER embedded in porous electrospun fibers shows the highest cycle capacity with an uptake rate of 1.4 mol CO2 per gram‐hour. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 65: 214–220, 2019
Climatic niche comparison among ploidal levels in the classic autopolyploid system, Galax urceolata
Authors: Gaynor Michelle L. , Marchant D. Blaine , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S.
Published: September 2018

Premise of The Study

Autopolyploidy, or whole‐genome duplication within a species, leads to closely related cytotypes in one geographic location. One hypothesized mechanism by which autopolyploids become established is climatic niche divergence from their diploid progenitor. Here we tested this hypothesis in diploid, triploid, and tetraploid Galax urceolata (Diapensiaceae) and predicted the effects of climate change on the relative distributions of these cytotypes.

Methods

We investigated whether climatic niche divergence has shaped the current distributions of Galax urceolata cytotypes in eastern North America using climatic niche modeling, multivariate analyses of environmental space, and geographic range analyses. We then projected the models of the three cytotypes onto an ensemble of future climate maps to determine how the distributions might be altered over time.

Key Results

All cytotypes are geographically sympatric; however, climatic niche contraction and a slight niche shift of the tetraploids was observed relative to that of the diploids. Climate projections for all diploid and tetraploid cytotypes showed substantial range contraction without much, or any, range shift, suggesting that Galax urceolata will likely go extinct in nature as mountain refugia become warmer.

Conclusions

Galax urceolata tetraploids occupy a slightly wetter habitat than that of their diploid progenitors. While we cannot take into account future adaptation, our models suggest extensive decreases in range distributions for both diploid and tetraploid G. urceolata based on climate change projections. Galax urceolata may therefore be under extreme threat due to loss of suitable habitat, and conservation efforts will be needed.
Subradiological silicosis
Authors: Ehrlich Rodney , Murray Jill , Rees David
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this commentary is to bring the neglected phenomenon of subradiological silicosis and its implications to the attention of readers. We define subradiological silicosis as silicosis detectable on pathological examination of lung tissue but not visible radiologically. For extent of the phenomenon, we draw on a study using a large South African autopsy database of deceased miners and chest radiographs taken in life. At an International Labour Organization threshold of >1/0 only 43% of all pathologically detected cases were detected on chest radiograph, and only 62% of those classified on pathology as “moderate or marked” silicosis. Subradiological silicosis has a number of implications for research and practice: for dose‐response studies of silicosis; for studies of the relationship between silica and conditions such as tuberculosis, lung cancer, and autoimmune disease, including the mechanistic role of fibrogenesis; for prognostication in silica exposed workers; and for workers’ compensation criteria.
Use of nutritional devices in Cornelia de Lange syndrome: Data from a large Italian cohort
Authors: Decimi Valentina , Parma Barbara , Panceri Roberto , Fossati Chiara , Mariani Milena , Russo Silvia , Gervasini Cristina C. , Cheli Maurizio , Cereda Anna , Selicorni Angelo
Published: September 2018

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a genetic condition characterized by intellectual disability, peculiar facial dysmorphisms, multiorgan malformations, and growth problems. Majority cases of CdLS are caused by mutations in genes of Cohesin pathway. Although feeding problems are a well‐known feature, no specific data have been published about the use of nutritional devices. We analyzed use, type, time of introduction, and duration of nutritional devices in 73 CdLS patients. In total, 29/73 (40%) used a device; nasogastric tube (NGT) in 28/73 (38%) and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in 7/73 (10%). NGT was placed during the first days/weeks of life. 19/28 (68%) maintained it for less than 3 months, 7/28 (25%) for a period between 3 and 12 months, while 2/28 (7%) for more than 1 year. PEG was placed within the first year in 4/7 (57%) and removed in two patients after 4 years These data have been matched with a wide number of genetic and clinical variables. Presence of upper limb malformations is positively correlated with the need of a device. From the opposite side, the use of a device positively correlates with a more severe prognosis as regard growth, intellectual development and disease severity. Our data show that nutritional devices are frequently used by CdLS patients, also if the majority of them (93.1%) succeed with time in achieving a normal oral nutrition. Finally, the need, the type of device used and the duration of NGT or/plus PEG can be considered a further sign of worse prognosis of the disease itself.
Risk of Down syndrome birth: Consanguineous marriage is associated with maternal meiosis‐II nondisjunction at younger age and without any detectable recombination error
Authors: Ray Anirban , Oliver Tiffany Rene , Halder Pinku , Pal Upamanyu , Sarkar Sumantra , Dutta Supratim , Ghosh Sujay
Published: September 2018

Consanguineous marriage was examined as a risk factor for Down syndrome birth. We genotyped Down syndrome family trios using short tandem repeat markers on 21q‐to interpret the parental and meiotic stage of origin of errors as well as to record recombination profile along long arm of chromosome 21. We then compared nonconsanguineous (N = 811) group with‐the consanguineous (N =157) marriages. We report for the first time that consanguineous marriage is associated with an increased risk for nondisjunction of chromosome 21 in oocytes‐during the second meiotic division. We observed the absence of recombination more frequently in younger mothers in nonconsanguineous meiosis I cases. This was in contrast to an equal distribution of nonrecombinant cases across the age categories in the meiosis I consanguineous group. Moreover, the non‐consanguineous group exhibited preferential telomeric recombination in meiosis I error among younger women and centromeric recombination in meiosis II errors in older women. In contrast, the consanguineous group exhibited medially placed recombination events in both meiosis I and meiosis II nondisjunction errors. Additionally, we recorded reduced maternal age at conception in the‐consanguineous group. These findings suggest novel risk factors associated that increase the risk of chromosome 21 nondisjunction in the families with consanguinity.
The cutaneous manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Nguyen Quoc‐Bao D. , DarConte Mary D. , Hebert Adelaide A.
Published: September 2018

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic multisystem disease with variable manifestations that can prominently involve the skin. The diagnosis of this disorder has evolved over the past two centuries. The 2012 TSC criteria emphasizes the importance of dermatological findings; orocutaneous manifestations account for 4 of 11 major criterion and 3 of 6 minor criterion. A detailed clinical dermatological evaluation is recommended for both pediatric and adult patients undergoing initial evaluation for TSC. Comprehensive dermatologic evaluation is extremely helpful when assessing these lesions and constructing a differential diagnosis.
Relative neuron loss in hippocampal sclerosis of aging and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ihara Ryoko , Vincent Benjamin D. , Baxter Michael R. , Franklin Erin E. , Hassenstab Jason J. , Xiong Chengjie , Morris John C. , Cairns Nigel J.
Published: September 2018

Objective

To characterize the pattern of neuron loss in hippocampal sclerosis of aging (HS‐Aging) and age‐related diseases and to evaluate its contribution to cognitive impairment in the elderly.

Methods

Participants (n = 1,361) came from longitudinal observational studies of aging at the Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University (St. Louis, MO). Relative neuron loss in the hippocampus of HS‐Aging was measured using unbiased stereological methods. Transactive response DNA‐binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43) proteinopathy, a putative marker of HS‐Aging, was assessed. Clinical and cognitive data were analyzed using parametric statistical methods.

Results

Ninety‐three cases had HS‐Aging (6.8%), 8 cases had “pure” HS‐Aging, and 37 cases had comorbid intermediate or high Alzheimer's disease neuropathological change (i/h ADNC). Relative neuron loss (ratio of neuron number in hippocampal subfield CA1 to the neuron number in parahippocampal gyrus) was 0.15 for HS‐Aging; this was significantly lower than 0.64 for i/h ADNC and 0.66 for control cases (Kruskal‐Wallis test, p < 0.0001; p = 0.0003, respectively). TDP‐43 proteinopathy was present in 92.4% of HS‐Aging cases, higher than that in i/h ADNC (52%) and control (25%) cases. Pure HS‐Aging cases were more likely to have cognitive impairment in the memory domain.

Interpretation

Relative neuron loss in the hippocampus compared to the parahippocampus gyrus may be useful in distinguishing HS‐Aging in the context of comorbid ADNC. HS‐Aging contributes to cognitive impairment, which phenotypically resembles AD dementia. TDP proteinopathy is a frequent comorbidity in HS‐Aging and may contribute to cognitive impairment to a modest degree. Ann Neurol 2018;84:749–761
Cavitands as Containers for α,ω‐Dienes and Chaperones for Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Wu Nai‐Wei , Petsalakis Ioannis D. , Theodorakopoulos Giannoula , Yu Yang , Rebek Julius
Published: September 2018

Described herein is the behavior of α,ω‐dienes sequestered within cavitands in aqueous (D2O) solution. Hydrophobic forces drive the dienes into the cavitands in conformations that best fill the available space. Shorter dienes (C9 and C10) bind in compressed conformations that tumble rapidly in the cavitands. Longer dienes induce capsule formation between cavitands with self‐complementary hydrogen bonding sites, where the dienes exist in extended conformations. In cavitands unable to form capsules, longer dienes adopt folded structures. The wider open ends allow the synthesis of medium‐sized cycloalkenes by ring‐closing metathesis reactions with the Hoveyda–Grubbs‐II catalyst. Yields of cycloheptene and cyclooctene were enhanced by the chaperones in water when compared with reactions of the free dienes in either aqueous media or chloroform, and even cyclononene could be prepared within the cavitand.
Designing Dimeric Lanthanide(III)‐Containing Ionic liquids
Authors: McCourt Éadaoin , Esien Kane , Zhenyu Li , Felton Solveig , Nockemann Peter
Published: September 2018

Herein, we report on the preparation of liquid dimeric lanthanide(III)‐containing compounds. Starting from the design of dimeric solids, we demonstrate that by tuning of anion and cation structures we can lower the melting points below room temperature, whilst maintaining the dimeric structure. Magnetic measurements could establish the spin‐spin interactions of the neighboring lanthanide(III) ions in the liquid state at low temperatures, and matched the interactions of the analogous crystalline solid compounds.
High‐performance natural rubber latex composites developed by a green approach using ionic liquid‐modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ge Yi , Zhang Qianyun , Zhang Yandan , Liu Fusheng , Han Jingjie , Wu Chifei
Published: September 2018

The effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) modified by a hydrophilic ionic liquids (ILs), including 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide and 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide, was studied. The obtained water‐suspensible carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were still homogeneously distributed in water a month after sonication. The microstructural development of filler networks and the uniform dispersion of MWCNTs in the presence of IL were analyzed by TEM. The apparent physical (cation–π/π–π) interaction between the MWCNTs and the IL was characterized by Raman spectroscopy, DSC, and TGA. Furthermore, high‐performance composites of natural rubber latex (NRL) and CNTs modified with IL were obtained by the liquid latex blending method. The CNTs were homogeneously distributed in the matrix and CNT–ILs improved the fatigue resistance and mechanical properties of the NRL/CNT–IL composites. This study demonstrates a simple and eco‐friendly approach to develop multifunctional advanced materials based on IL‐modified MWCNT elastomer composites. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46588.
Effective structure regulation of poly(vinylidene fluoride) via soy protein isolate: A morphological study
Authors: Zheng Zhuoyuan , Cox McCord , Li Bin
Published: September 2018

The microstructures of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)/soy protein isolate (SPI) films were successfully modulated via denatured SPIs. While vegetable proteins have been extensively researched as functional biomaterials in fabrication of polymer blends, the diverse polymer‐protein interactions because of complex protein structures have not received sufficient attention. In this study, the PVDF‐SPI interactions were tuned by different denaturation treatments including heat, sonication, and chemical denaturation by 2‐mercaptoethanol and sodium dodecyl sulfate, respectively. Phase morphologies, crystal structures of PVDF, and secondary structures of SPI were analyzed by scanning electron microscope, fluorescence imaging, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. While 90 °C denaturation and sodium dodecyl sulfate led to nonporous structures, all other denatured SPIs produced distinctive porous structures. The crystallinity of PVDF was reduced to different degrees, depending on the denaturation of SPI. The distinctive microstructures of PVDF/SPI films indicated the diversity of PVDF‐SPI interactions and its importance in functional polymer/protein blends. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 134, 46706
Superhydrophobic/oleophobic coatings based on a catalyst driven thiol‐epoxy‐acrylate ternary system
Authors: Rezaei Farzad , Talley James N. , Dickey Michael D. , Hauser Peter J.
Published: September 2018

Superhydrophobic surfaces have attracted much attention for their exceptional properties such as self‐cleaning, anti‐fouling, and anti‐fogging. This study presents a facile approach for creating superhydrophobic coatings that are also oleophobic by utilizing spray deposition of polymers mixed with silica particles as an easy and effective route to control the surface roughness of the coatings. The polymer precursors formulated here are based on a ternary thiol‐epoxy‐acrylate mixture that reacts in the presence of a strong base without a need for external initiation (such as light). This system employs tetrafunctional thiol monomers as hubs where both the acrylate and the epoxy components can covalently bond. The acrylate component contains a perfluorinated side chain offering low surface energy properties and the difunctional epoxy monomers crosslink the thiol hubs to provide strength. Addition of a strong base catalyst (1,8‐diazabicycloundec‐7‐ene, or DBU) to the coating precursors initiates the polymerization reaction without the need for light. To identify the optimal formulation, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) measurements quantified the kinetics of the polymerization, X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy analysis revealed the surface composition, an optical goniometer evaluated the wetting behavior, and scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser the microscopy provided information about the surface topography of the coatings. Based on the results from FTIR, addition of 0.08 mol % of DBU effectively carries out the reaction within 10 min on the substrate while providing long solution shelf life for the spray coating process. The goniometer results showed that water contact angle of >150°, n‐dodecane contact angle of >110° and diiodomethane contact angle of >130° is achievable upon optimization of the coating precursors. This simple route to create superhydrophobic and oleophobic coatings by spraying may be useful for packaging, protective coatings, and other surface modifications. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46710.
A renewable approach toward the development of mahua oil‐based wood protective polyurethane coatings: Synthesis and performance evaluation
Authors: Raychura Ashish J. , Jauhari Smita , Patel Kalpesh I. , Dholakiya Bharatkumar Z.
Published: September 2018

In the current scenario, the demand for renewable resources is increasing day by day due to numerous factors. In view of this, current work represents the preparation of wood protective polyurethane (PU) coatings from mahua oil. Mahua oil was used as a starting material for the synthesis of fatty amide by base catalyzed aminolysis reaction. The synthesized fatty amide was converted into the polyetheramide polyols by a condensation reaction with bisphenol C. The structure of the synthesized products was confirmed by the attenuated total reflection‐Fourier transform infrared and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy. The synthesized polyetheramide polyols were used as precursors for the preparation of PUs and the prepared PUs were applied on the wood surface as a protective coating. The coating performance of the PUs was evaluated by the measurement of mechanical, thermal, and microbial properties as well as water, solvent, and chemical resistance. The coating performance revealed that mahua oil can be used as a renewable resource for the preparation of wood protective PUs. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46722.
Preparation and characterization of PPRC/EPDM thermoplastic vulcanizates: A comparative study
Authors: Saeed Farhan , Anwar Saleem , Irfan Muhammad Shafiq , Qaiser Asif Ali , Gill Yasir Qayyum
Published: September 2018

Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) of polypropylene random copolymer (PPRC) with ethylene–propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) were prepared through in situ and ex situ compatibilization techniques. Silanized silica as nanofiller was incorporated in the ex situ compatibilized TPVs. Mechanical properties were measured for different formulated TPVs with increasing loading of EPDM from 10 to 30 phr. A comparative data is generated to discuss the effect of two compatibilization techniques and addition of silica filler in the TPVs. The degradation studies were also carried out to check the stability of the blends under harsh ultraviolet environment. The in situ compatibilized TPVs provided better overall mechanical properties. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that the properties of ex situ compatiblized TPVs were enhanced by incorporation of silanized silica filler. Silanized silica filler helped in reducing the die swell significantly. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46726.
Preparation and characterization of proton exchange membrane based on polyphosphoric acid modified by PVDF‐HFP
Authors: Cheng Xiangze , Jin Huaiyang , Shen Chunhui , Gao Shanjun , Wang Jiang , Zhu Xi
Published: September 2018

A polyphosphoric acid functionalized proton exchange membrane (PEM) was prepared by a ring opening reaction using the epoxycyclohexylethyltrimethoxysilane (EHTMS) and amino trimethylene phosphonic acid (ATMP) as raw materials and was modified by poly(vinylidene fluoride)–hexafluoro propylene (PVDF‐HFP). The structure of the membranes was characterized by Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy. The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy explores the content of the elements in the membrane related to the ion exchange capacity value. The membranes’ properties including water uptake, swelling ratio, proton conductivity, and hydrolysis stability were studied. Performance tests show that when ATMP/EHTMS = 1/5, conductivity of the PVDF‐HFP modified PEMs increased from 0.83 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 20 °C to 9.53 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 160 °C, the swelling ratio of membranes decreased from 2.71% to 2.13%. The results indicate that the introduction of F atoms is beneficial to increase the proton conductivity and the dimensional stability. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46737.
Experiment‐design methods in innovative polymer material planning
Authors: Debska B. J. , Dobrowolski L. , Debska B.
Published: September 2018

In the work, the design of experiments (DOE) method was used to obtain a modified epoxy resin of reduced fragility. As modifiers of commercial epoxy resin, urethane prepolymers with isocyanate terminal groups were used. Experimental points (samples of specified composition of resin prepolymer and a curing agent) were generated by the STATISTICA program module Design of Experiments using a central composition design. A study of the mechanical properties of modified resin samples was carried out for five intermediate values of input variables x1 (resin/hardener ratio) and x2 (modifier, wt %), designated for the normalized values 0, ± 1, and ±1.414. The STATISTICA algorithms analyzing the results of the practical implementation of the planned experiments allowed us to develop a model describing the dependence of the mechanical properties of composite resins on the composition and then to select the optimal compositions of epoxy resin for their practical applications. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46761.
Synthesis and polymerization of a new highly unsaturated castor oil‐based monomer for rigid thermoset materials
Authors: Inciarte H. C. , Echeverri D. A. , Rios L. A.
Published: September 2018

A new highly functionalized monomer (maleated castor oil methacrylate, MACOMA) was synthesized from maleated castor oil (MACO) and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) through the epoxy–carboxyl reaction. This reaction led to a monomer with 8.8 double bounds per molecule and negligible acid value. Homopolymerization of MACOMA at room temperature led to a highly crosslinked elastomeric material (Tg, 15.98°C; flexural modulus, 77.7 MPa; flexural strength, 7.45 MPa and surface hardness, 46‐Shore D). On the other hand, homopolymerization of MACO led to viscous liquids even after prolonged heating. Curing of MACOMA‐styrene mixtures (20–50%) at room temperature for 4 h led to rigid materials: Tg, 54.04–81.36°C; flexural modulus, 508.6–1254.3 MPa; flexural strength, 21.97–64.06 MPa; and surface hardness, 57–69 (Shore D). Mechanical properties of these materials were better than those of MACO‐styrene copolymers. Materials obtained from both resins were stable under 230°C. However, higher thermal stabilities were obtained for MACOMA‐based materials. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46762.
Conductivity, interaction and solubility of hetero‐bifunctional end‐capped β,β’‐dihexylsubstituted sexithiophenes
Authors: Sund Pernilla , Pettersson Fredrik , Österbacka Ronald , Wilén Carl‐Eric
Published: September 2018

Three β,β’‐dihexylsexithiophenes were synthesized, one without end group modification (T6.1), one with dialdehyde (T6.2) and one with diester (T6.3) end‐capping. Their properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and it was found that while they were nonconducting in undoped form, the conductivity reached 0.001 S cm−1 (T6.1), 0.017 S cm−1 (T6.2), and 0.003 S cm−1 (T6.3) when doped with iodine vapor. The solubilities of T6.2 and T6.3 in chloroform were excellent, whereas the solubility of T6.1 was low and in line with earlier literature values. Moreover, the studies revealed that T6.2 is also highly soluble in tetrahydrofuran. For the dialdehyde end‐capped β,β’‐dihexylsexithiophene T6.2 association constants for self‐association in chloroform and with silica were determined to be 1.6 and 2.3 (mol/kg)−1, respectively. In contrast, the two other oligothiophenes did not show such associations. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46830.
Preparation of a sub‐100 nm‐thick polyetherimide coating layer with nano‐TiO2particles on poly(p‐phenylene benzobisoxazole) fiber surface
Authors: Zhu Peng , Liu Bing , Bao Limin
Published: September 2018

To improve the UV resistance of poly(p‐phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) fibers, a sub‐100 nm‐thick coating layer was prepared on PBO fibers by evaporating the suspension of polyetherimide (PEI)‐encapsulated nano‐titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles absorbed around the fiber surface. The effects of this evaporation‐induced surface modification on the structure and properties of PBO fibers were investigated. The content ratio of nano‐TiO2particles to PEI, the contents of nano‐TiO2particles and PEI, and the evaporation method greatly influenced the surface modification of the PBO fibers, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy observation. TiO2, 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, and PEI were confirmed to exist on the suitably treated PBO fiber surfaces by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The PEI coating layer containing nano‐TiO2particles was clearly observed by transmission electron microscopy of a treated PBO fiber cross section. The nano‐TiO2particle content of the treated fibers was studied by thermogravimetric analysis. The UV resistance of the PBO fibers was improved after surface modification, which was confirmed by single‐fiber tensile strength test. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2018,135, 46852.
New composite membrane poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene oxide for direct ethanol–proton exchange membrane fuel cell
Authors: Zakaria Z. , Kamarudin S. K. , Timmiati S. N. , Masdar M. S.
Published: September 2018

This study investigated a simple synthesis of a crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol)/ graphene oxide composite membrane with lower ethanol permeability membrane for passive direct ethanol–proton exchange membrane fuel cells (DE‐PEMFCs). The chemical and physical structure, morphologies, ethanol uptake and permeability, ion exchange capacities, water uptake, and proton conductivities were determined and found that transport properties of the membrane were affected by the GO loading. The composite membrane with optimum GO content (15 wt %) exhibited the highest proton conductivity of 9.5 × 10−3 Scm−1 at 30°C, 3.24 × 10−2 Scm−1 at 60°C, respectively and reduced ethanol permeability until 1.75 × 10−7 cm2 s−1. In the passive DE‐PEMFC, the power density at 60°C were obtained as 5.84 mW cm−2 higher than those by commercial Nafion 117 is 4.52 mW cm−2. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 46928.
Molecular markers for Nassella trichotoma (Poaceae) to study genetic variation in New Zealand
Authors: Lange Claudia , Goeke Dagmar F. , Bourdôt Graeme W. , Lamoureaux Shona L. , Podolyan Ana , Houliston Gary J.
Published: September 2018

Premise of The Study

Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were developed for the study of genetic diversity of New Zealand Nassella trichotoma (Poaceae) and to support future studies in its native range.

Methods and Results

Genomic DNA was extracted from N. trichotoma leaf material and subjected to Roche 454 sequencing. From a total of 745 putative SSRs, 48 with di‐ to pentanucleotide repeats were screened, 32 primer pairs were designed, and 15 polymorphic markers were optimized for multiplex PCR on 105 N. trichotoma samples from four New Zealand regions. Each locus resulted in two to six alleles per locus, and four of the loci cross‐amplified in N. tenuissima. The mean observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.00 to 0.90 and 0.00 to 0.50 per locus, respectively.

Conclusions

The novel SSR markers are valuable for the study of genetic diversity of N. trichotoma and might also be useful for closely related species.
Using Historical LCR and Water Quality Data to Evaluate Corrosion Control Treatment
Authors: Bradley Tyler , Horscroft Nicola
Published: September 2018

Historical Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) regulatory sampling data from the Philadelphia Water Department were examined to explore their potential value for guiding a water utility's progress with regard to optimal corrosion control treatment (OCCT). If a system has established a stable water treatment process with consistent corrosion control treatment (CCT) and has achieved continued decreases in lead levels during regulatory sampling, then the information collected during LCR monitoring can be used as an important data set of a broader OCCT evaluation and will help inform the benefit of additional changes in CCT. Since water utilities have LCR data dating back to 1992, these data should be used to make informed decisions. This research also showed that the addition of orthophosphate has resulted in a significant decrease in lead levels at the customer tap. Additionally, profile sampling was performed to show that first‐draw 1 L samples following a 6 h stagnation period provide a good representation of the lead concentrations measured from lead service line and home plumbing samples at the same sites and may be used to indicate overall changes in lead concentrations at the tap resulting from CCT for this system.
Tissue biomechanics during cranial neural tube closure measured by Brillouin microscopy and optical coherence tomography
Authors: Zhang Jitao , Raghunathan Raksha , Rippy Justin , Wu Chen , Finnell Richard H. , Larin Kirill V. , Scarcelli Giuliano
Published: September 2018

Background

Embryonic development involves the interplay of driving forces that shape the tissue and the mechanical resistance that the tissue offers in response. While increasing evidence has suggested the crucial role of physical mechanisms underlying embryo development, tissue biomechanics is not well understood because of the lack of techniques that can quantify the stiffness of tissue in situ with 3D high‐resolution and in a noncontact manner.

Methods

We used two all‐optical techniques, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Brillouin microscopy, to map the longitudinal modulus of the tissue from mouse embryos in situ.

Results

We acquired 2D mechanical maps of the neural tube region of embryos at embryonic day (E) 8.5 (n = 2) and E9.5 (n = 2) with submicron spatial resolution. We found the modulus of tissue varied distinctly within the neural tube region of the same embryo and between embryos at different development stages, suggesting our technique has enough sensitivity and spatial resolution to monitor the tissue mechanics during embryonic development in a noncontact and noninvasive manner.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the capability of OCT‐guided Brillouin microscopy to quantify tissue longitudinal modulus of mouse embryos in situ, and observed distinct change in the modulus during the closure of cranial neural tube. Although this preliminary work cannot provide definitive conclusions on biomechanics of neural tube closure yet as a result of the limited number of samples, it provides an approach of quantifying the tissue mechanics during embryo development in situ, thus could be helpful in investigating the role of tissue biomechanics in the regulation of embryonic development. Our next study involving more embryo samples will investigate systematic changes in tissue mechanics during embryonic development.
Mental health among children of mothers with multiple sclerosis: A Danish cohort and register‐based study
Authors: Andersen Johanna Balslev , Moberg Julie Yoon , Niclasen Janni , Laursen Bjarne , Magyari Melinda
Published: September 2018

Background

Multiple sclerosis is associated with an increased risk of developing physical, cognitive, and mental health problems. Current studies have demonstrated variating outcomes of parental multiple sclerosis mental health problems and their children's mental health development.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether maternal multiple sclerosis is associated with the mental health status of their child.

Methods

Data from the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC) were merged with information from the Danish Multiple Sclerosis Registry. Two proxies, total difficulties score and prediction of any psychiatric diagnosis based on the strengths and difficulties questionnaire, were used to measure the mental health status of the children. The two groups were compared using Mann–Whitney and logistic regression analyses.

Results

For the total difficulties score the control and exposed group consisted of respectively n = 42,016 and n = 40, and for the prediction of any psychiatric diagnosis respectively n = 16,829 and n = 17. We found no statistically significant association between maternal multiple sclerosis and mental health status on neither of the proxies.

Conclusion

Maternal multiple sclerosis did not show any association with the mental health status of their children at age eleven. On the contrary, other studies conclude that there is an association between maternal multiple sclerosis and the child's mental health status, one especially mediated by the maternal mental health status.
Impaired white matter integrity between premotor cortex and basal ganglia in writer’s cramp
Authors: Berndt Maria , Li Yong , Gora‐Stahlberg Gina , Jochim Angela , Haslinger Bernhard
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Writer’s cramp (WC) as a focal hand dystonia is characterized by abnormal postures of the hand during writing. Impaired inhibition and maladaptive plasticity in circuits linking the basal ganglia and sensorimotor cortices have been described. In particular, a dysfunction of lateral premotor cortices has been associated with impaired motor control in WC. We applied diffusion tensor imaging to identify changes in white matter connectivity between premotor regions and important cortical and subcortical structures.

Methods

Whole brain white matter tracts were reconstructed in 18 right‐handed WC patients and 18 matched controls, using probabilistic fiber tracking. We restricted our analyses to left‐hemispheric fibers between the middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and basal ganglia, thalamus, primary motor, and sensory cortex. Diffusion parameters (fractional anisotropy and linear anisotropy) were compared between both groups.

Results

A significant reduction in fractional anisotropy values was shown for patients (mean ± SD: 0.37 ± 0.02) vs. controls (0.39 ± 0.03) regarding fibers between the left‐sided MFG and the putamen (p < 0.05). The same applied for linear anisotropy values in this connection (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest an impaired structural connectivity between the left‐hemispheric MFG and putamen with a loss of equally aligned fibers in WC patients. This could reflect a structural basis for functional findings interpreted as altered inhibition and plasticity, both within the premotor cortex and the basal ganglia, that at last lead to the clinical symptoms of WC.
Functional outcome and survival following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: A retrospective population‐based study
Authors: Øie Lise R. , Madsbu Mattis A. , Solheim Ole , Jakola Asgeir S. , Giannadakis Charalampis , Vorhaug Anders , Padayachy Llewellyn , Jensberg Heidi , Dodick David , Salvesen Øyvind , Gulati Sasha
Published: September 2018

Background

Accurate and reliable clinical and radiological predictors of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) outcomes are needed to optimize treatment of ICH. The aim of this study was to investigate functional outcome and identify predictors of severe disability or death following ICH.

Materials and methods

Retrospective population‐based study of spontaneous ICH. Clinical and radiological data were obtained from electronic medical records, and functional outcome estimated using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) before ICH and at 3 and 12 months after ICH.

Results

Four hundred and fifty‐two patients were included (mean age 74.8 years, 45.6% females). Proportion of fatal outcome at 1 week was 22.1%, at 3 months 39.2%, and at 12 months 44.9%. Median mRS score before the ICH was 1 (interquartile range [IQR] 2); for survivors at 3 months, it was 5 (IQR 3); and at 12 months, it was 3 (IQR 2). Independent predictors of severe disability (mRS of 5) or death (mRS of 6) were use of oral antithrombotic drugs (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.3–3.8, p = 0.04), mRS score before the ICH (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.4–2.2, p < 0.001), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) on admission (OR 8.3, 95% CI 3.5–19.7, p < 0.001), hematoma volume >60 ml (OR 4.5, 05% CI 2.0–10.2, p < 0.001), and intraventricular hematoma extension (OR 1.8, 95% CI 0.8–4.2, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Intracerebral hemorrhage is associated with high mortality, and more than one third of survivors end up with severe disability or death 3 months later. Predictors of severe disability or death were use of oral antithrombotic drugs, functional disability prior to ICH, low GCS on admission, larger hematoma volume, and intraventricular hematoma extension.
Efficacy of exogenous pyruvate in TremblerJ mouse model of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth neuropathy
Authors: Sahenk Zarife , Yalvac Mehmet E. , Amornvit Jakkrit , Arnold William David , Chen Lei , Shontz Kimberly M. , Lewis Sarah
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Classic Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) neuropathies including those with Schwann cell genetic defects exhibit a length‐dependent process affecting the distal axon. Energy deprivation in the distal axon has been the proposed mechanism accounting for length‐dependent distal axonal degeneration. We hypothesized that pyruvate, an intermediate glycolytic product, could restore nerve function, supplying lost energy to the distal axon.

Methods

To test this possibility, we supplied pyruvate to the drinking water of the Trembler‐J (TrJ) mouse and assessed efficacy based on histology, electrophysiology, and functional outcomes. Pyruvate outcomes were compared with untreated TrJ controls alone or adeno‐associated virus mediated NT‐3 gene therapy (AAV1.NT‐3)/pyruvate combinatorial approach.

Results

Pyruvate supplementation resulted increased myelinated fiber (MF) densities and myelin thickness in sciatic nerves. Combining pyruvate with proven efficacy from AAV1.tMCK.NT‐3 gene therapy provided additional benefits showing improved compound muscle action potential amplitudes and nerve conduction velocities compared to pyruvate alone cohort. The end point motor performance of both the pyruvate and the combinatorial therapy cohorts was better than untreated TrJ controls. In a unilateral sciatic nerve crush paradigm, pyruvate supplementation improved myelin‐based outcomes in both regenerating and the contralateral uncrushed nerves.

Conclusions

This proof of principle study demonstrates that exogenous pyruvate alone or as adjunct therapy in TrJ may have clinical implications and is a candidate therapy for CMT neuropathies without known treatment.
Are people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) particularly nice? An international online case–control study of the Big Five personality factors
Authors: Parkin Kullmann Jane A. , Hayes Susan , Pamphlett Roger
Published: September 2018

Background

Many people with ALS have been suggested to have a “nice” personality, but most ALS personality studies to date have had limited numbers of participants and have not taken into account personality differences between genders. We used Big Five Inventory data obtained from an online questionnaire looking for risk factors for ALS to investigate personality traits in large numbers of people with ALS and controls.

Methods

A total of 741 questionnaire respondents aged 40 years and over indicated the extent to which they agreed with each of the 44 Big Five Inventory statements. Respondents were 339 with ALS (212 male, 127 female) who responded to the statements as they applied to them before their diagnosis and 402 controls (120 male, 282 female). Unpaired t tests with 95% confidence intervals were used to compare mean values of Big Five‐factor scores.

Results

Female respondents taken together had higher mean scores for Agreeableness and Neuroticism than all male respondents. Male ALS respondents had higher mean scores than male controls for Conscientiousness and Extraversion. Female ALS respondents had higher mean scores than female controls for Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, and Extraversion, and a lower score for Neuroticism.

Conclusions

Many people with ALS have personality traits that are likely to underlie the perception they are particularly “nice.” This raises the possibility that genetic polymorphisms that influence personality could play a role in ALS. Furthermore, different personality traits could underlie lifestyle choices that are currently thought to be risk factors for ALS.
How expected outcomes, stakeholders, and institutions influence corporate social responsibility at different levels of large basic needs firms
Authors: Shnayder Larissa , Van Rijnsoever Frank J.
Published: September 2018

A firm's choice to practice corporate social responsibility (CSR) is commonly explained using insights from institutional theory or stakeholder management. However, we do not know how important external pressures are at the executive level and individual manager level in a firm's choice to engage in particular CSR activities. Nor do we know how important these external pressures are in comparison with other attributes of CSR activities that can influence this choice, such as costs or expected returns of an activity. Finally, we do not know whether all firms respond in the same way to these influences. Hence, we ask the following:How do the outcomes and pressures for a CSR activity influence the choice of that particular activity by different classes of large basic needs industry firms?Using a choice experiment, we study the CSR activities of 402 firms in the energy, packaged foods, and pharmaceutical industries. We demonstrate that expected outcomes, rather than institutions or stakeholders, drive the choice of an activity. Firms invest differing amounts of funds into a particular activity. Although institutions and stakeholders explain the overall CSR strategy of the firm, they do not explain their choices for specific activities.
Adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction and its background mucosal pathology: A comparative analysis according to Siewert classification in a Japanese cohort
Authors: Urabe Masayuki , Ushiku Tetsuo , Shinozaki‐Ushiku Aya , Iwasaki Akiko , Yamazawa Sho , Yamashita Hiroharu , Seto Yasuyuki , Fukayama Masashi
Published: September 2018

Adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) has heterogeneous carcinogenic process due to its location straddling the esophagogastric junction. We assessed background mucosal pathology and its correlation with clinicopathological features of each Siewert type of AEG. Clinicopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of 103 AEGs and 58 gastric cancers (GCs) were conducted. Background mucosal features were evaluated according to the updated Sydney System. Siewert classification divided 103 AEGs into three type I, 75 type II, and 25 type III tumors, respectively. Two type I, 9 type II AEGs, and none of type III AEGs were Barrett‐related and were excluded from further analysis. Background mucosa of type III AEGs more frequently showed moderate to marked degree of atrophy and intestinal metaplasia than those of type II AEGs and was very similar to those of GCs. Among type II AEGs, tumors with atrophic background were significantly associated with higher patient age and intestinal‐type histology. Type II AEGs with nonatrophic background, but not those with atrophic background, showed more frequent mismatch repair deficiency, TP53 overexpression, and less frequent intestinal phenotypic markers expression than type III AEG or GC. Type II AEGs with atrophic background involved suprapancreatic nodes more frequently than those without. We demonstrated that chronic atrophic gastritis was a major precancerous condition of AEG in the Japanese population, especially Siewert type III which had background mucosal pathology similar to that of GC. Type II AEGs with and without atrophic background showed some clinicopathological differences, and these observations might represent heterogeneous carcinogenic process within type II AEGs.
Goltz syndrome in males: A clinical report of a male patient carrying a novel PORCN variant and a review of the literature
Authors: Frisk Sofia , Grandpeix‐Guyodo Catherine , Popovic Silwerfeldt Karin , Hjartarson Helgi Thor , Chatzianastassiou Dimitris , Magnusson Irina , Laurell Tobias , Nordgren Ann
Published: September 2018

Key Clinical Message

Here, we report a novel mosaic mutation in the PORCN gene in a male Goltz syndrome patient. We also compare the phenotypes of all reported males with a confirmed molecular diagnosis. This report serves to further clarify the phenotype of Goltz syndrome and suggests that expression in males varies.
Unexpected discovery of hemoglobinopathy C/β° thalassemia
Authors: Bouyarmane Wafaa , Uwingabiye Jean , Biaz Asmaa , Rachid Achraf , Mechal Youness , Dami Abdellah , Bouhsain Sanae , Ouzzif Zhor , El Machtani Idrissi Samira
Published: September 2018

Key Clinical Message

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the current method of choice for the detection of hemoglobinopathies and the quantification of A2 and fetal hemoglobin. We are describing a case where a double heterozygosity C/beta‐thalassemia was fortuitously identified, during assaying HBA1c, by HPLC.
Can pulmonary sarcoidosis trigger a progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy? Considerations from a case series and a review of literature
Authors: Gamperl Irene , Enzinger Christian , Pichler Alexander , Feichtinger Michael , Schlager Thomas , Fertl Elisabeth
Published: September 2018

Key Clinical Message

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe infectious brain disease with lethal outcome mainly seen in immunocompromised subjects. Herein, we describe a new form of PML with different outcome which was observed in patients suffering from systemic sarcoidosis. Thus, we raise the question whether preexisting sarcoidosis might predispose for or even trigger PML.