bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astrocytes drive upregulation of the multidrug resistance transporter ABCB1 (P‐Glycoprotein) in endothelial cells of the blood–brain barrier in mutant superoxide dismutase 1‐linked amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Qosa Hisham , Lichter Jessica , Sarlo Mark , Markandaiah Shashirekha S. , McAvoy Kevin , Richard Jean‐Philippe , Jablonski Michael R. , Maragakis Nicholas J. , Pasinelli Piera , Trotti Davide
Published: May 2016

The efficacy of drugs targeting the CNS is influenced by their limited brain access, which can lead to complete pharmacoresistance. Recently a tissue‐specific and selective upregulation of the multidrug efflux transporter ABCB1 or P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) in the spinal cord of both patients and the mutant SOD1‐G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease that prevalently kills motor neurons has been reported. Here, we extended the analysis of P‐gp expression in the SOD1‐G93A ALS mouse model and found that P‐gp upregulation was restricted to endothelial cells of the capillaries, while P‐gp expression was not detected in other cells of the spinal cord parenchyma such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons. Using both in vitro human and mouse models of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), we found that mutant SOD1 astrocytes were driving P‐gp upregulation in endothelial cells. In addition, a significant increase in reactive oxygen species production, Nrf2 and NFκB activation in endothelial cells exposed to mutant SOD1 astrocytes in both human and murine BBB models were observed. Most interestingly, astrocytes expressing FUS‐H517Q, a different familial ALS‐linked mutated gene, also drove NFκB‐dependent upregulation of P‐gp. However, the pathway was not dependent on oxidative stress but rather involved TNF‐α release. Overall, these findings indicated that nuclear translocation of NFκB was a converging mechanism used by endothelial cells of the BBB to upregulate P‐gp expression in mutant SOD1‐linked ALS and possibly other forms of familial ALS. GLIA 2016 GLIA 2016;64:1298–1313
Automated segmentation of the human hippocampus along its longitudinal axis
Authors: Lerma‐Usabiaga Garikoitz , Iglesias Juan Eugenio , Insausti Ricardo , Greve Douglas N. , Paz‐Alonso Pedro M.
Published: May 2016

The human hippocampal formation is a crucial brain structure for memory and cognitive function that is closely related to other subcortical and cortical brain regions. Recent neuroimaging studies have revealed differences along the hippocampal longitudinal axis in terms of structure, connectivity, and function, stressing the importance of improving the reliability of the available segmentation methods that are typically used to divide the hippocampus into its anterior and posterior parts. However, current segmentation conventions present two main sources of variability related to manual operations intended to correct in‐scanner head position across subjects and the selection of dividing planes along the longitudinal axis. Here, our aim was twofold: (1) to characterize inter‐ and intra‐rater variability associated with these manual operations and compare manual (landmark based) and automatic (percentage based) hippocampal anterior–posterior segmentation procedures; and (2) to propose and test automated rotation methods based on approximating the hippocampal longitudinal axis to a straight line (estimated with principal component analysis, PCA) or a quadratic Bézier curve (fitted with numerical methods); as well as an automated anterior–posterior hippocampal segmentation procedure based on the percentage‐based method. Our results reveal that automated rotation and segmentation procedures, used in combination or independently, minimize inconsistencies generated by the accumulation of manual operations while providing higher statistical power to detect well‐known effects. A Matlab‐based implementation of these procedures is made publicly available to the research community. Hum Brain Mapp 37:3353–3367, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Training your brain to be more creative: brain functional and structural changes induced by divergent thinking training
Authors: Sun Jiangzhou , Chen Qunlin , Zhang Qinglin , Li Yadan , Li Haijiang , Wei Dongtao , Yang Wenjing , Qiu Jiang
Published: May 2016

Creativity is commonly defined as the ability to produce something both novel and useful. Stimulating creativity has great significance for both individual success and social improvement. Although increasing creative capacity has been confirmed to be possible and effective at the behavioral level, few longitudinal studies have examined the extent to which the brain function and structure underlying creativity are plastic. A cognitive stimulation (20 sessions) method was used in the present study to train subjects and to explore the neuroplasticity induced by training. The behavioral results revealed that both the originality and the fluency of divergent thinking were significantly improved by training. Furthermore, functional changes induced by training were observed in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and posterior brain regions. Moreover, the gray matter volume (GMV) was significantly increased in the dACC after divergent thinking training. These results suggest that the enhancement of creativity may rely not only on the posterior brain regions that are related to the fundamental cognitive processes of creativity (e.g., semantic processing, generating novel associations), but also on areas that are involved in top‐down cognitive control, such as the dACC and DLPFC. Hum Brain Mapp 37:3375–3387, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Resection and microvascular reconstruction of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw: The role of microvascular reconstruction
Authors: Neto Tiago , Horta Ricardo , Balhau Rui , Coelho Lígia , Silva Pedro , Correia‐Sá Inês , Silva Álvaro
Published: May 2016

Background

Current treatment guidelines caution against osseous reconstruction using free flap tissue to treat bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ). The primary rationale for this stance is the theoretical risk of nonunion and recurrence of disease within the reconstruction. Emerging evidence suggests that these theoretical risks may be overestimated. We performed a literature review of this procedure for the treatment of advanced BRONJ. We also present a new case report of resection and microvascular reconstruction in a 58‐year‐old man with stage III BRONJ.

Methods

A MEDLINE search was performed to gather all reports of maxillary and mandibular reconstruction using free tissue flap transfer for BRONJ. Inclusion criteria were confirmed stage II or III BRONJ, free tissue transfer and reconstruction, and reported complications. Articles were excluded if they contained only local flap reconstruction, wound closure without reconstruction, or osteoradionecrosis. Outcomes from our case report were added to the analysis.

Results

We identified 10 articles that met criteria. Adding our case, we identified 40 cases of free flap reconstruction. The rate of nonunion was 5% (2 of 40). Fistulas formed in 4 cases (10%). BRONJ recurred in 2 cases (5%).

Conclusion

Complication rates after free flap microvascular reconstruction in BRONJ seem acceptable. Nonunion is relatively rare and should not be the sole reason to recommend against free flap reconstruction. A randomized clinical trial would help clarify the role of this procedure in refractory BRONJ; however, we believe that segmental resection and microvascular reconstruction is a viable option in select cases of BRONJ. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38:1278–1285, 2016
Myocardin inhibits estrogen receptor alpha‐mediated proliferation of human breast cancer MCF‐7 cells via regulating MicroRNA expression
Authors: Xiang Yuan , Lu Da‐Lin , Li Jia‐Peng , Yu Cheng‐Xi , Zheng De‐Liang , Huang Xuan , Wang Zhen‐Yu , Hu Peng , Liao Xing‐Hua , Zhang Tong‐Cun
Published: May 2016

Myocardin is frequently repressed during human malignant transformation, and restoration of myocardin expression in sarcoma cells contributes to the inhibition of malignant growth. However, its role in breast carcinoma has barely been addressed. Here, we reported that myocardin could inhibit the proliferation of MCF‐7 cells. Notably, we show that myocardin inhibited ERα‐mediated proliferation of breast cancer MCF‐7 via impairing ER‐dependent transcriptional activation, mainly through the inhibition of the activity of ERα. Importantly, the molecular mechanism for the inhibition of the ERα‐mediated proliferation is that myocardin inhibited the transcription and expression of ERα‐induced PCNA, Ki‐67, and E2F1 to impair ERα‐mediated proliferation of breast cancer MCF‐7. Interestingly, myocardin significantly enhanced the transcription and expression of miR‐885 depending on the CArG box in miR‐885 promoter, and miR‐885 targeted the 3′ untranslated regions (UTR) of E2F1 to silence the expression of E2F1. Thus, our data provided important and novel insights into how myocardin may deeply influence ERα‐mediated breast cancer proliferation. In conclusion, myocardin could be seen as a breast cancer tumor suppressor so that it will provide new ideas for the treatment of breast cancer. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(6):477–487, 2016
No effect of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) on prognosis in patients with early triple‐negative breast cancer: Validation of recommendations by the International TILs Working Group 2014
Authors: Park Hyung Seok , Heo Ilyeong , Kim Jee Ye , Kim Sanghwa , Nam Sanggeun , Park Seho , Kim Seung Il
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the International TILs Working Group 2014 (IWG) recommendations for evaluating the clinical utility of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in patients with early triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Methods

Records for 133 patients with early TNBC who underwent surgery between 2008 and 2010 were reviewed. A total of 121 of 133 formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tumor samples were available and reviewed following IWG recommendations.

Results

Most of the patients had node‐negative T1‐2 tumors and received adjuvant chemotherapy; T1‐2 tumors accounted for 117 of 121 cases. Sixty‐two percent (75/121) of all patients had >10% stromal TILs. Intratumoral TILs and lymphocyte‐predominant breast cancer (LPBC) were observed in 72% and 19% of the patients, respectively. However, there were no significant differences according to the presence of stromal TILs, intratumoral TILs, TILs at the invasive edge, or LPBC in terms of recurrence‐free and overall survival (all P > 0.05). A multivariate analysis adjusted for T and N stage, grade, and adjuvant chemotherapy revealed that no TILs parameters were associated with survival outcomes.

Conclusions

TILs evaluations following the IWG recommendations may not be useful for predicting survival outcomes in patients with early TNBC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:17–21. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinicopathologic and survival analysis of resected ampullary adenocarcinoma
Authors: Doepker Matthew P. , Thompson Zachary J. , Centeno Barbara A. , Kim Richard D. , Wong Joyce , Hodul Pamela J.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Ampullary adenocarcinoma (AAC) is a rare neoplasm. We sought to determine the clinicopathologic factors contributing to the overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free (RFS) survival.

Methods

Patients (pts) with resected AAC were identified from 1996 to 2015 and reviewed for clinicopathologic factors and correlated with outcome.

Results

We identified and evaluated 106 pts diagnosed with AAC. The median age was 70.2 years (range 41–86) and 60 (56.6%) were male. Overall, 105 pts (99.1%) had a pancreaticoduodenectomy. An R0 resection was achieved in 101 (95%) pts. Median follow‐up was 19 months with a median OS of 49.3 months. Lymph node metastasis and poorly differentiated tumors adversely affected OS on multivariate analysis (MVA). Twenty patients (18.9%) developed recurrence. The median RFS was 27 months. RFS was adversely affected by lymph node count and metastasis, tumor differentiation, and histological subtype on MVA. Survival was not affected by the addition of adjuvant therapy. Retrieval of ≤12 lymph nodes and lymph node ratio ≥0.10 resulted in worse OS on Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Conclusions

Our data show retrieval of ≤12 nodes, involvement of nodes with AAC, moderately or poorly differentiated tumors, and pancreaticobiliary subtype adversely affected survival, while the use of adjuvant therapy demonstrated no significant benefit. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:170–175. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anastomotic recurrence of colon cancer: Genetic analysis challenges the widely held theories of cancerous cells’ intraluminal implantation and metachronous carcinogenesis
Authors: Costi Renato , Santi Caterina , Bottarelli Lorena , Azzoni Cinzia , Zarzavadjian Le Bian Alban , Riccó Matteo , Sarli Leopoldo , Silini Enrico Maria , Violi Vincenzo
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

Anastomotic recurrence (AR), whose etiopathogenesis is attributed to intraluminal implantation of cancerous cells or metachronous carcinogenesis, is a major issue for patients undergoing colon cancer (CC) resection. The objective of the study is to throw some light on AR etiopathogenesis and to identify risk factors of AR in selecting patients to undergo early endoscopy.

Methods

An analysis of clinical and histopathological parameters, including MSI and LOH of seven sites (Myc‐L, BAT26, BAT40, D5S346, D18S452, D18S64, D16S402) was performed in primary CC and AR of 18 patients. They were then compared to 36 controls not developing AR.

Results

A genetic instability was present in 16/18 patients, with distinct genetic patterns between primaries and ARs. LOH at 5q21 and/or 18p11.23 were found in both primary and AR in >50% of cases, but this rate was no different from control population. CEA resulted as associated with AR (P = 0.03), whereas N status presented a borderline result (P = 0.08).

Conclusions

Our findings challenge present theories about AR development. No “genetic marker” has been found. CEA and, to a lesser extent, N status, appear associated with AR. Rectal washout is seemingly meaningless. Iterative resection should be recommended since a long survival may be expected. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:228–236. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Local treatment with electrochemotherapy of superficial angiosarcomas: Efficacy and safety results from a multi‐institutional retrospective study
Authors: Guida Michele , Campana Luca G. , Curatolo Pietro , Strippoli Sabino , Bonadies Antonio , Grilz Gretha , Cabula Carlo , Rotunno Roberta , Bucher Stefania , Solari Nicola , Santoriello Antonio , Valpione Sara , Rossi Carlo R.
Published: May 2016

Background

Angiosarcoma is an aggressive vascular neoplasm with a high propensity for local recurrence. Electrochemotherapy is an emerging skin‐directed therapy, exerting prominent cytotoxic activity, and antivascular effects. Its efficacy in angiosarcoma has not been investigated.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective analysis reviewed patients who underwent electrochemotherapy from 2007 to 2014 for superficial advanced angiosarcomas. Bleomycin was administered intravenously and delivered within tumors by means of percutaneously applied electric pulses, according to the European Standard Operating Procedures for Electrochemotherapy. Tumor assessment was performed using RECIST (version 1.1). Toxicity (CTCAE, v4.0) and local progression‐free survival (LPFS) were also evaluated.

Results

Nineteen patients (13 with locally advanced and 6 with metastatic angiosarcomas) were treated. Tumor sites were: scalp (n = 5), breast (n = 8), other skin sites (n = 3), and soft tissue (n = 3). Target lesions (n = 54) ranged in size from 1.5 to 2.5 cm (median, 2 cm). Treatment was well tolerated. After 2 months, an objective response was observed in 12/19 (63%) patients, complete in 8 (42%). One‐year LPFS within treatment field was 68%. Local symptom improvement included palliation of bleeding (5/19 patients) and pain relief (6/19 patients).

Conclusions

Electrochemotherapy may represent a new locoregional treatment for selected patients with superficial angiosarcomas. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:246–253. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid determination of nitrite in foods in acidic conditions by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
Authors: Wang Xiao‐fang , Fan Ji‐cai , Ren Ren , Jin Quan , Wang Jing
Published: May 2016

In this study, a simple, rapid, and sensitive method for the determination of nitrite (NO2−) in food samples by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection in acidic conditions had been developed. The derivatization of the nitrite with 2,3‐diaminonaphthalene was performed in acidic conditions to yield the highly fluorescent 2,3‐naphthotriazole, which was directly analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection without adjusting the solution to alkaline. The analysis column was reversed‐phase C8 column. A constant flow rate of 1.0 mL/min was employed using water/acetonitrile as the mobile phase in isocratic mode (70:30, v/v). Fluorescence was monitored with excitation at 375 nm and emission at 415 nm. The standard calibration curves were linear for nitrite in different matrixes in the concentration range of 0–100 μg/L, and the correlation coefficients ranged from 0.9978 to 0.9998. The limits of detection and quantification were in the ranges of 0.012–0.060 and 0.040–0.20 mg/kg, respectively. The recoveries of nitrite from samples spiked at three different concentrations were 74.0–113.2%, and the relative standard deviations of the recovery results (n = 6) were 1.67–10.8%. The proposed method has good repeatability and is very sensitive and simple. It has been successfully used to determine nitrite in foods.
Evaluation and application of a mixed‐mode chromatographic stationary phase in two‐dimensional liquid chromatography for the separation of traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Wei Zhishen , Fu Qing , Cai Jianfeng , Huan Liyun , Zhao Jianchao , Shi Hui , Jin Yu , Liang Xinmiao
Published: May 2016

In this study, two mixed‐mode chromatography stationary phases (C8SAX and C8SCX) were evaluated and used to establish a two‐dimensional liquid chromatography system for the separation of traditional Chinese medicine. The chromatographic properties of the mixed‐mode columns were systematically evaluated by comparing with other three columns of C8, strong anion exchanger, and strong cation exchanger. The result showed that C8SAX and C8SCX had a mixed‐mode retention mechanism including electrostatic interaction and hydrophobic interaction. Especially, they were suitable for separating acidic and/or basic compounds and their separation selectivities could be easily adjusted by changing pH value. Then, several off‐line 2D‐LC systems based on the C8SAX in the first dimension and C8SAX, C8SCX, or C8 columns in the second dimension were developed to analyze a traditional Chinese medicine—Uncaria rhynchophylla. The two‐dimensional liquid chromatography system of C8SAX (pH 3.0) × C8SAX (pH 6.0) exhibited the most effective peak distribution. Finally, fractions of U. rhynchophylla prepared from the first dimension were successfully separated on the C8SAX column with a gradient pH. Thus, the mixed‐mode stationary phase could provide a platform to separate the traditional Chinese medicine in practical applications.
Simultaneous extraction and determination of free and conjugated phytosterols in tobacco
Authors: Xiang Lei‐Wen , Liu Yan , Li Hai‐Fang , Lin Jin‐Ming
Published: May 2016

Acid hydrolysis and alkaline saponification were incorporated into a microwave‐assisted extraction process for the simultaneous extraction of free and conjugated phytosterols from tobacco. The crude extract of the microwave‐assisted extraction was purified by C18 solid‐phase extraction and then determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Phytosterols of cholesterol, ergosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol, and β‐sitosterol were determined by chromatographic quantification. The multiple parameters of microwave‐assisted extraction were optimized by a uniform design method. The optimal ratio of extraction ethanol solvent to tobacco mass was 30 mL/g. The microwave‐assisted extraction acid hydrolysis was carried out in sulfuric acid medium by heating for 10 min at 55°C. The microwave‐assisted extraction alkaline saponification was performed after adding excessive sodium hydroxide by heating another 10 min. The repeatability of the proposed method was acceptable with recoveries from 69.68 to 88.17% for the phytosterols. Five target phytosterols were all found in the tobacco samples, and the contents were significantly different in samples from different producing areas.
Quantification of trace fatty acid methyl esters in diesel fuel by using multidimensional gas chromatography with electron and chemical ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Webster R. L. , Rawson P. M. , Evans D. J. , Marriott P. J.
Published: May 2016

Measurement of contamination of marine and naval diesel fuels (arising from product mixing or adulteration) with biodiesel or fatty acid methyl esters can be problematic, especially at very low levels. A suitable solution for this task for trace amounts of individual fatty acid methyl esters with resolution and quantification can be achieved by using a multidimensional gas chromatographic approach with electron and chemical ionization mass spectrometric detection. A unique column set comprising a 100 m methyl‐siloxane nonpolar first dimension column and high‐temperature ionic liquid column in the second dimension enabled identification of individual fatty acid methyl esters at below the lowest concentrations required to be reported in a diesel fuel matrix. Detection limits for individual fatty acid methyl esters compounds ranged from 0.5 to 5.0 mg/L, with excellent linearity up to 5000 mg/L and repeatability of the method from 1.3 to 3.2%. The method was applied to the analysis of diesel fuel samples with suspected biodiesel contamination. Contamination at 568 mg/L was calculated for an unknown sample and interpretation of the results permitted the determination of a likely source of the contamination.
Enhanced photonic spin Hall effect with subwavelength topological edge states
Authors: Slobozhanyuk Alexey P. , Poddubny Alexander N. , Sinev Ivan S. , Samusev Anton K. , Yu Ye Feng , Kuznetsov Arseniy I. , Miroshnichenko Andrey E. , Kivshar Yuri S.
Published: May 2016

Photonic structures offer unique opportunities for controlling light‐matter interaction, including the photonic spin Hall effect associated with the transverse spin‐dependent displacement of a light beam that propagates in specially designed optical media. However, due to small spin‐orbit coupling, the photonic spin Hall effect is usually weak at the nanoscale. Here we suggest theoretically and demonstrate experimentally, in both optics and microwave experiments, the photonic spin Hall effect enhanced by topologically protected edge states in subwavelength arrays of resonant dielectric particles. Based on direct near‐field measurements, we observe the selective excitation of the topological edge states controlled by the handedness of the incident light. Additionally, we reveal the main requirements to the symmetry of photonic structures to achieve the topology‐enhanced spin Hall effect, and also analyse the robustness of the photonic edge states against the long‐range coupling.

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Effect of Soft‐to‐Hard Segment Ratio on Viscoelastic Behavior of Model Thermoplastic Polyurethanes during Phase Transitions
Authors: Gadley Jesse L. , Andrade Ricardo J. , Maia João M.
Published: May 2016

Model thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) are prepared with the aim of investigating the effect of soft‐to‐hard segment ratio on the phase transition and the resulting structure that forms upon isothermal exposure to temperatures near their phase transition temperature. The dynamic rheological properties of TPUs before exposure to these isothermal conditions show a phase transition at high temperatures that is directly related to the content of hard segments. The extensional viscosity data indicate a strain‐hardening behavior that becomes less pronounced with the increase of hard segments. After isothermal treatment, the DSC results show that the high‐temperature endotherm peak narrows and shifts to higher temperatures, suggesting a transition in structure. Small angle X‐ray scattering, wide angle X‐ray scattering, and atomic force microcopy results indicate a phase‐separated system in which the hard domain sizes and crystallinity change during this process. The rheological data collected after recrystallization show a significant increase in both moduli, transitioning from viscoelastic fluid‐like to glassy behavior. Concurrently, the uniaxial elongation viscosity presents a significant increase in absolute values, but with a shift from strain‐hardening to strain‐softening behavior for all strain rates. A transition from traditional phase separated viscoelastic melt behavior to more brittle rupture is also observed, marking a significant fundamental difference in properties before and after recrystallization.

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Whole food approach for type 2 diabetes prevention
Authors: Xi Pan , Liu Rui Hai
Published: May 2016

Diet is intimately associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Recently, attention has focused on the contributions of individual nutrients, food groups and eating patterns to the outcome of T2D. High consumption of coffee, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and nuts are each independently associated with the reduced risk of T2D in high risk, glucose intolerant individuals. Experimental and clinical trials have given insight to the diverse mechanisms that may be responsible for the observed protective effects of certain foods on T2D, including nutrients, phytochemicals and dietary fiber, weight control, enhanced satiety and improvement in glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients. Elevated consumption of refined grains and sugar‐sweetened beverages has shown to significantly elevate the risk of incident T2D. An overall healthy diet primarily comprising whole plant‐based foods, together with regular physical activity and weight manage, could significantly reduce the risk of T2D. The present review consolidates current research and delineates major food groups shown to significantly influence risk of T2D. Documenting and quantifying the effects of diet on the outcome of T2D are of great scientific and public health importance as there is urgent need to implement dietary strategies to prevent and manage the outcome of T2D.
Quantitative characterization of interdiffusion at the resin–resin and resin–prepreg interphases of epoxy systems processed by model SQ‐RTM
Authors: Ballout W. , Coulon B. , Janssens Y.‐A. , Van Velthem P. , Sclavons M. , Magnin D. , Pardoen T. , Bailly C.
Published: May 2016

The interdiffusion between a low and a high viscosity epoxy resin was studied on model systems representing the novel composite manufacturing process called “Same Qualified‐Resin Transfer Molding” (SQ‐RTM). Neat resin model systems were first characterized after curing by Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray microscopy, and nano‐indentation, all methods reveal an interdiffusion distance of about 700–900 µm. Transmission electron microscopy further revealed a complex morphological gradient structure in the interdiffusion zone. The interdiffusion distance was about 800 µm in the absence of carbon fibers, reducing down to 500 µm when the viscous resin was replaced by the corresponding prepreg, due to the geometrical constraints imposed by the fibers. Moreover, some asymmetry was observed in the interdiffusion profile because of the viscosity difference between the resins. The results obtained on the model systems were found to match very well the interdiffusion profiles generated in real SQ‐RTM composites processed with the same combination of resins. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 56:1061–1069, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Sulfonated poly(meta‐phenylene isophthalamide)s as proton exchange membranes
Authors: Liu Feilong , Knauss Daniel M.
Published: May 2016

Random and block sulfonated poly(meta‐phenylene isopthalamide)s as proton exchange membranes were synthesized through the Higashi‐Yamazaki phosphorylation method. Polymers with different degrees of sulfonation from 40 to 100 mol percent were prepared by adjusting the molar feed ratio of 5‐sulfoisophthalic acid sodium salt (SIPA) and isophthalic acid (IPA) in the reaction with meta‐phenylene diamine. Creasable polymer films were obtained by casting DMSO polymer solutions and the membrane films could be exchanged to the proton form in strong acid. 1H NMR spectroscopy and titration confirmed the degree of sulfonation. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated good thermal stabilities with 5% weight loss greater than 380 °C. The copolymers with low degrees of sulfonation (DS = 40 mol %) exhibited low water uptake (water uptake < 17 wt %) at room temperature. A segmented multiblock copolymer prepared by preforming a sulfonated block showed lower water uptake at high temperatures than the random polymer with the same DS of 40 mol % and displayed stability in water up to 80 °C. Both random and block copolymers showed higher proton conductivities at high temperature than that of Nafion‐117 under 95% relative humidity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2582–2592
Fabrication of V‐shaped brushes consisting of two highly incompatible arms of PEG and fluorinated PMMA and their protein‐resistance performance
Authors: Huang Jin , He Tingting , He Xumiao , Xu Jianquan , Zuo Biao , Wang Xinping
Published: May 2016

In this article, the fluorinated amphiphilic V‐shaped brushes with two highly incompatible arms of mPEG42 and PMMA38‐b‐PFMAy were produced by reacting COOH in the PAA segment in methoxypoly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(acrylic acid)‐b‐poly(methyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(2‐perfluoro‐octylethyl methacrylate) (mPEG42‐b‐PAA11‐b‐PMMA38‐b‐PFMAy) with an epoxy group on the functionalized SiO2 substrate. It was found that the resulting phase separation structures of the V‐shaped brushes can be adjusted by altering the degree of polymerization (y) of PFMA. The brush surface with y = 8 showed an alternating phase separation structure, in which one domain was water‐soluble PEG and the other was ultralow surface energy domain with a crystalline fluorinated side group. Protein adsorption studies indicated that this surface structure exhibited desirable protein‐resistant performance. The reason was attributed to the stimuli‐responsive PEG domain, in which PEG chains stretch out at the interface in water, while the PFMA domain remains relatively stable. The synergistic effect of the hydrophilic PEG domain and the hydrophobic PFMA domain in water prevents protein adsorption. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2599–2610
Controlled metal‐free polymerization toward well‐defined thermoresponsive polypeptides by polymerization at low temperature
Authors: Jiang Yuanzhang , Wang Shixue , Zhang Xiaojie , Tao Youhua , Wang Xianhong
Published: May 2016

A controlled metal‐free synthetic methodology toward well‐defined thermoresponsive polypeptides by decreasing the reaction temperature to 0 °C has been developed. Good control over the molecular weight in the polymerization of a trithiocarbonate‐functionalized N‐carboxyanhydride (MES‐l‐Glu‐NCA) monomer was obtained using n‐hexylamine as the initiator at 0 °C. It yielded homopolypeptide macro‐transfer agent (PMESLG) with narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI < 1.3) and controllable chain length. Detailed 1H NMR and MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysis clearly confirmed that frequently occurring side‐reactions was absent at 0 °C, and the polymerization was controlled. The resultant PMESLG was applied to mediate the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of oligo‐ethylene‐glycol acrylate (OEGA) for the metal‐free synthesis of thermoresponsive polypeptides. These thermoresponsive polypeptides have well‐controlled molecular weight, adopted regular α‐helical conformation, and exhibited a lower critical solution temperature between 23 °C and 55 °C. To the best of our knowledge, there are very few reports about the synthesis of well‐defined thermoresponsive graft polypeptides via NCA polymerization and RAFT. Consequently, this provides a new strategy for the synthesis of promising intelligent material for future biomedical applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2618–2624
Importance of domain purity in semi‐conducting polymer/insulating polymer blends transistors
Authors: Zhang Guocheng , Yang Huihuang , He Lilin , Hu Liqin , Lan Shuqiong , Li Fushan , Chen Huipeng , Guo Tailiang
Published: May 2016

Printed electronics is a rapidly developing field of research which covers any electronic devices or circuits that can be processed using direct printing techniques. Among those printing techniques, inkjet printing is a technique of increasing interest for organic field‐effect transistors (FETs) due to its fully data driven and direct patterning. In this work, the morphology of semi‐conducting polymer/insulating polymer blends from inkjet printing and their FET properties have been investigated. We attempted to optimize the morphology of the blends by the addition of a co‐solvent to the blend solution prior to film deposition. By varying the boiling temperature of the co‐solvent, blend films are fabricated with varying domain purity and different degree of semi‐conducting polymer ordering. The morphologies of all the as‐cast samples from inkjet printing and subsequently thermally annealed samples are characterized by grazing incidence wide angle x‐ray scattering and small angle neutron scattering. The results indicate that the sample where a low boiling temperature co‐solvent is used exhibits a lower degree of semi‐conducting polymer ordering and less pure domains, resulting in a decrease of hole mobility. The morphologies that are formed when high boiling temperature co‐solvent is used, however, give a higher degree of semi‐conducting polymer ordering along with higher domain purity, significantly improving hole mobility up to 1.44 cm2 V−1 s−1 at VDS = 40 V. More importantly, with thermal annealing, all the samples exhibit similar semi‐conducting polymer ordering and domain sizes while the domain purity significantly varies. This work is a unique example that demonstrates the importance of domain purity in the optimization of morphology and FET performance, which is previous unavailable. It also provides a novel process that can efficiently control the morphology of semi‐conducting polymer/insulating polymer mixtures during deposition to maximize FET performance from inkjet printing. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1760–1766
Larval western bean cutworm feeding damage encourages the development of Gibberella ear rot on field corn
Authors: Parker Nicole S , Anderson Nolan R , Richmond Douglas S , Long Elizabeth Y , Wise Kiersten A , Krupke Christian H
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

A 2 year study was conducted to determine whether western bean cutworm (Striacosta albicosta Smith) (WBC) larval feeding damage increases severity of the fungal disease Gibberella ear rot [Fusarium graminearum (Schwein.) Petch] in field corn (Zea mays L.). The effect of a quinone‐outside inhibiting fungicide, pyraclostrobin, on Gibberella ear rot severity and mycotoxin production, both with and without WBC pressure, was also evaluated. The impact of each variable was assessed individually and in combination to determine the effect of each upon ear disease severity.

RESULTS

There was a positive correlation between the presence of WBC larvae in field corn and Gibberella ear rot severity under inoculated conditions in the 2 years of the experiment. An application of pyraclostrobin did not impact Gibberella ear rot development when applied at corn growth stage R1 (silks first emerging).

CONCLUSION

Feeding damage from WBC larvae significantly increases the development of F. graminearum in field corn. We conclude that an effective integrated management strategy for Gibberella ear rot should target the insect pest first, in an effort to limit disease severity and subsequent mycotoxin production by F. graminearum in kernels. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
About the difference between density functionals defined by energy criterion and density functionals defined by density criterion: Exchange functionals
Authors: Finzel Kati
Published: May 2016

The difference between density functionals defined by energy criterion and density functionals defined by density criterion is studied for the exchange functional. It is shown that Slater potentials are exact exchange potentials in the sense that they yield the Hartree–Fock electron density if all operators are given by local expressions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization and desorption isotherm modeling of cassava bagasse (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Authors: Paternina Contreras Ana , Salcedo Mendoza Jairo , Contreras Lozano Karen , García Paternina Maribel
Published: May 2016

Cassava bagasse is a semisolid material resulting from the extraction of native starch. It represents up to 30% w/w of the original roots used in this process. The equilibrium moisture content (Xe) is an important factor in the drying process of materials that is studied using desorption isotherms. The objectives of this study were to characterize the cassava bagasse obtained from an industrial process and to define desorption isotherm models. Desorption isotherms were obtained within a temperature range of 25–40°C and a water activity range of 0.11–0.97. The results showed a material with a low protein content (<1%), a starch content of 41.25% dry basis, and 58.19% of fiber, with the presence of these two compounds confirmed by the SEM images and XRD diffractograms. The Xe did not show dependence on temperature, and the data showed a good fit to the modified Peleg, GAB, and Oswin models, with determination coefficient values (R2) > 0.96 and mean relative percent errors (%E) <10%.
Effects of α‐maltotriohydrolase hydrolysis prior to debranching on the structure and digestibility of normal maize starch
Authors: Wu Chunsen , Zhou Xing , Wei Benxi , Tian Yaoqi , Xu Xueming , Jin Zhengyu
Published: May 2016

Gelatinized normal maize starch was hydrolyzed by glucan 1,4 α‐maltotriohydrolase (AMTS) to various degrees, and then debranched by pullulanase and retrograded at 4°C for 48 h to enhance the formation of type III resistant starch (RS3). AMTS hydrolyzes starch through combined exo‐ and endo‐action, and favors the production of maltotriose. After AMTS hydrolysis, the relative crystallinity and RS contents had all increased, and the highest relative crystallinity (59.2%) and RS content (40.8%) were obtained after 2 h of hydrolysis. The short‐length chains (degree of polymerization (DP) 13–30) and long‐length chains (DP > 130) were nearly simultaneously hydrolyzed by AMTS; thus, medium‐length chains with a DP of 30–130 accumulated after moderate hydrolysis. The results suggest that RS3 formation is affected by branch chain lengths, especially medium‐length chains (DP 30–130), and it can be improved when AMTS hydrolysis precedes debranching.
Phase Transfer Catalysis with Quaternary Ammonium Type Gemini Surfactants: O‐Alkylation of Isovanillin
Authors: Boz Mesut , Baştürk Sedat Semih
Published: May 2016

In this paper, O‐alkylation of isovanillin with unusual phase transfer catalysts alkandiyl‐α,ω‐bis(dimethylalkylammonium bromide) dimeric surfactants (also known as gemini surfactants) is described. Some dimeric surfactants with simple hydrophobic alkyl chains and others with hydrophobic alkyl chains containing ester functionalities with different lengths were synthesized and characterized in our laboratory. The alkylation of isovanillin with alkyl halide was successively carried out in the presence of potassium carbonate and a phase transfer catalyst in tetrahydrofuran. The same reactions were also performed with both the traditional phase transfer catalyst tetrabutylammonium bromide and without any catalyst. The results were compared with those of dimeric surfactants. Consequently, it was expressed that alkandiyl‐α,ω‐bis(dimethylalkylammonium bromide) dimeric surfactants successively exhibit the character of phase transfer catalysts through environmentally friendly procedures under mild conditions. The most significant feature of this work is that dimeric surfactants have been determined to act as phase transfer agents.
Polysiloxanes with Quaternary Ammonium and Polyether Groups for Silyl‐Terminated Polypropylene Oxide Waterborne Emulsions
Authors: Hou Zhaosheng , Yang Bing , Zhang Dongmei , Xu Zhen , Kan Chengyou
Published: May 2016

In this paper, polysiloxanes with pendant quaternary ammonium and polyether segments (EQAPS, nonionic–cationic silicone surfactant) were synthesized through hydrosilylation of poly(dimethylhydro)siloxane with allyl poly(ethylene glycol) acetic ester (Mn = 540) and allyl glycidyl ether, followed by a ring‐opening reaction of epoxide groups with diethyl amine and quaternization with benzyl chloride. The chemical structures of EQAPS and intermediate products were characterized by 1H‐NMR and FT‐IR spectra. The surface activity and thermal properties of EQAPS were studied with surface tension measurement and differential scanning calorimetry analysis, respectively. The results showed that the EQAPS had a much smaller critical micelle concentration value (118 mg/L) and lower glass‐transition temperature (Tg: −57 °C). The silyl‐terminated polypropylene oxide waterborne emulsions, which were substantially free from organic solvent, were prepared via a phase‐inversion emulsification technique using EQAPS as single emulsifier and/or poly(ethylene glycol) (n = 400) as cosolvent. The electrical properties of the system indicated that the phase inversion was completely accomplished. The viscosity of the emulsions with different solid contents was measured, and the results showed that the most suitable solid content was about 50 wt%. The emulsions with smaller particle size (12 μm) had better storage stability (48 days at 50 °C) and freeze–thaw stability.
The treatment of the sea peril exception of the Hague-Visby Rules in common law and civil law jurisdictions
Authors: Katsivela Marel
Published: May 2016

The present study is a comparative analysis of the international ocean carrier of goods sea peril exoneration (article 4.2.c of the Hague and the Visby Rules) following Australian, English, Canadian, French, Italian, Greek and Chinese laws. The author analyses the main characteristics of the liability defence under the mentioned domestic laws in seeking to determine whether uniformity in the qualification of the exception exists or is possible.
Spatial distribution of Crustacea and associated organisms in the Luoping Biota (Anisian, Middle Triassic), Yunnan Province, China: evidence of periodic mass kills
Authors: Feldmann Rodney M. , Schweitzer Carrie E. , Hu Shixue , Huang Jinyuan , Zhou Changyong , Zhang Qiyue , Wen Wen , Xie Tao , Maguire Evin
Published: May 2016

The distribution of all recognized biotic elements was mapped on five extensive surfaces of the Middle Triassic Guanling Formation exposed in quarries near Luoping, Yunnan Province, China. A 0.5 m2 grid was overlain on the surfaces, and all recognizable fossils were located by placing them in one of nine quadrants within the grid. A total of 240 m2 were mapped, and each specimen observed was recorded as one of 15 categories, subsequently grouped as pelagic, benthic, and other (bone, trace fossils, algae). The pelagic component, fish, thylacocephalans, and mysidaceans, dominated all layers. The benthic component was sparse on all surfaces; epifaunal, vagrant organisms were the dominant forms, suggesting that the substrate was unsuitable for infaunal and sessile epifaunal organisms. Shrimp and bivalves dominated the benthic organisms. Two of the surfaces were overwhelmingly dominated by mysidaceans, and one was dominated by thylacocephalans, suggesting that their remains documented periodic mass kills of swarming, pelagic organisms. Scanning electron microscope analysis of the bedding surfaces revealed nothing remarkable about the sediment, suggesting that the cause of death of the organisms was likely due to an event within the water column, possibly an algae bloom, not recorded in the sediment record.
New and little-known bryozoans from Monte León Formation (early Miocene, Argentina) and their paleobiogeographic relationships
Authors: Pérez Leandro M. , López-Gappa Juan , Griffin Miguel
Published: May 2016

The bryozoan fauna from the South American Cenozoic is poorly known. The study of new material collected in the Monte León Formation (early Miocene), gave us the opportunity to describe four new species:Valdemunitella canuin. sp.,Foveolaria praecursorn. sp.,Neothoa reptansn. sp., andCalyptotheca santacruzanan. sp. Two of them (V.canuiandC.santacruzana) were first recorded by F. Canu and interpreted as recent species from the Australian bryozoan fauna, but are herein described as new species. The stratigraphic range ofOtionella parvula(Canu, 1904) is extended to the early Miocene. The present study emphasizes the close relationships between the South American Neogene bryozoan faunas and those of other Gondwanan sub-continents such as New Zealand and Australia.
The new genusTalacastospongia: insights on the first record of a Devonian sponge from South America
Authors: Carrera Marcelo G. , Rustán Juan José
Published: May 2016

The Lower Devonian (Lochkovian) hexactinellid spongeTalacastospongia minimanew genus new species is reported from the lower beds of the Talacasto Formation in the Argentine Precordillera. It represents the first Devonian sponge from South America and the best record in the paleobiogeographic context of the Malvinokaffric Realm, otherwise virtually devoid of spiculate sponges. This discovery provides some tentative insights on the age and oldest record of the Family Pileolitidae. The paleogeographical context for this new finding shows a high latitude setting with a notable scarcity of hexactinellid sponges recorded to date in Devonian Malvinokaffric basins, and the absence of calcareous spiculate sponges (heteractinids) and hypercalcified sponges (stromatoporoids, sphinctozoans).
A catalog of M-type star candidates in the LAMOST data release 1
Authors: Zhong Jing , Lépine Sébastien , Li Jing , Chen Li , Hou Jinliang
Published: May 2016

In this work, we present a set of M-type star candidates selected from the LAMOST DR1. A discrimination method with the spectral index diagram is used to separate M giants and M dwarfs. Then, we have successfully assembled a set of M giants templates from M0 to M6, using the spectra identified from the LAMOST spectral database. After combining the M dwarf templates in Zhong et al. (2015a) and the new created M giant templates, we use the M-type spectral library to perform the template-fit method to classify and identify M-type stars in the LAMOST DR1. A catalog of M-type star candidates including 8639 M giants and 101690 M dwarfs/subdwarfs is provided. As an additional results, we also present other fundamental parameters like proper motion, photometry, radial velocity and spectroscopic distance.