bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of personnel factors on the recovery of delayed software projects: A system dynamics approach
Authors: Farshchi Mostafa , Jusoh Yah , Murad Azmi
Published: June 2012

Delay in a software project may result in the loss of a market opportunity or
the postponement of a dependent project. Therefore, software project managers
take various steps to ensure that their project is completed on time, such as
adding new members to the project team. However, adding new manpower to a
delayed project may cause a negative impact on the team's productivity due to
assimilation time, training overhead and communication overhead.
Consequently, project managers have difficulty in making the decision on
whether or not to add new members to the team. Thus, this research aims to
examine whether a significant schedule improvement can be achieved with
consideration of the new manpower's capabilities, skills and experience. A
System Dynamics Model is proposed to simulate the behaviour of a project's
progress when new members are added. The proposed model was evaluated through
experiments using two types of case studies. The results of the experiments
indicate that a significant schedule improvement of a late project can be
achieved if people with certain levels of personnel factors are added to the
project.
Wavelet trees: A survey
Authors: Makris Christos
Published: June 2012

The topic of this paper is the exploration of the various characteristics of
the wavelet tree data structure, a data structure that was initially proposed
for text compression applications but has found a plethora of other uses in
text indexing and retrieval. Issues concerning the efficient maintenance of
the structure, plus its handling in various applications are explored. Our
main aim is to provide to computer science researchers that would like to
explore the specific area, an up-to-date comprehensive material covering a
wide range of applications. This kind of up-to-date survey is missing from
the current bibliography and we hope that it will help young researchers to
get familiar with the notions of this research area.
Influence of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester on clinical and biochemical effects of methylene blue in pentylenetetrazole-evoked convulsions
Authors: Jelenkovic Ankica , Jovanovic Marina , Bokonjic Dubravko , Maksimovic Milan , Boskovic Bogdan
Published: June 2012

Background/Aim. Despite years of research in a number of experimental models
the question whether nitric oxide (NO) and methylene blue (MB) have pro- or
anticonvulsant effects remains to be fully resolved. Methods. In adult Wistar
rats the influence of a nonselective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase
NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (LNAME, 10?g) on clinical and biochemical
effects of MB (10?g) given before the intraperitoneally administered chemical
convulsant pentylenetetrazole (PTZ, 80 mg/kg) was examined. MB and L-NAME
were applied intracerebroventricularly. PTZ application was followed by a 4-
minute observation time, after which rats were sacrificed and elements of
oxido-reductive balance were measured in a crude mitochondrial fraction of
forebrain cortex, hippocampus and striatum. Results. Convulsive responses
(forelimb dystonia - FLD, generalised clonic- and clonic-tonic convulsions -
GCC and GCTC respectively) were observed in all rats received PTZ, together
with significantly decreased lipid peroxidation in the forebrain cortex and
striatum and increased superoxide dismutase activity in the hippocampus, in
comparison to controls (saline treated). It was registered anticonvulsant
effects of L-NAME pretreatment. However, these effects were insignificant. In
the hippocampus of these animals there was decreased lipid peroxidation (p <
0.01, p < 0.05 vs saline-treated and PTZ-treated rats, respectively) and
reverted PTZ-induced increase of superoxide dismutase activity. But MB
individually pretreatment significantly decreased the incidence of CTCs and
GCCs (FLD: p = 0.0513), prolonged the convulsive latent time for FLD, GCTCs
and GCCs, in all the examined brain regions increased lipid peroxidation and
decreased the level of superoxide anion. Administration of L-NAME 10 minutes
before MB reverted all MB-evoked clinical and biochemical effects.
Conclusion. Methylene blue applied individually before PTZ has strong
anticonvulsant effects that were eliminated by L-NAME pretreatment. These
effects and changed biochemical parameters in the brains of animals treated
by L-NAME before MB in comparison to MBtreated group suggest involvement of
NO in MB?s effects in the animal model of PTZ-evoked convulsions.
The prognostic value of amplitude-integrated electroencephalography in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy
Authors: Vasiljevic Brankica , Maglajlic-Djukic Svjetlana , Gojnic Miroslava
Published: June 2012

Background/Aim. Diagnosis of perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
and early prediction neurological outcome is important and difficult. The aim
of this study was to determine the prognostic value of amplitude integrated
electroencephalography (aEEG) for abnormal neurodevelopment outcome in a
neonate with HIE. Methods. A total of 90 neonates > 32 gestational age (GA)
with HIE were enrolled prospectively. All neonates with HIE were categorized
into three grades according to the Sarnat and Sarnat clinical scoring system
(mild HIE, moderate HIE and severe HIE). aEEG traces were recorded with a
cerebral function monitor (CFM) during the first 72 h of life. The
neurodevelopment outcome was assessed at 12 months of age of corrected
gestational age. Results. The pattern of aEEG correlated with the severity of
HIE (p < 0.0001) and subsequent neurodevelopment outcome (p < 0.001). We
found that aEEG background patterns exhibited superior prediction of abnormal
outcomes at 12 months of age (sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity of 94.3%,
positive predictive value of 78.6% and negative predictive value of 98.1%)
when compared to aEEG seizure (sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 48%,
positive predictive value of 57% and a negative predictive value of 92%).
Electroclinical dissociation seizure was detected in 28% of the neonates with
HIE. Conclusions. Our results confirm that aEEG is simple and accurate
bedside diagnostic method for assessing extension of hypoxic-ischemic brain
damage and early identification of neonates with perinatal HIE who are at
high risk of neurodevelopmental impairment.
Motivating Employees to Share Their Failures in Knowledge Management Systems: Anonymity and Culture
Authors: Huerta Esperanza , Salter Stephen B. , Lewis Philip A. , Yeow Pamela
Published: June 2012

This study investigates the effect of the type of information to be disclosed and the possibility of sharing the information anonymously on the intention to share information through a knowledge management system. Data for the experiment were collected in two individualist (U.K. and U.S.) and two collectivist (Chile and Mexico) countries to evaluate the influence of culture on information sharing patterns. The study finds that although anonymity has no influence on the intention to share successes, the intention to share failures increases when the information is shared anonymously. Further, participants from collectivist (versus individualist) cultures are more likely to share failures. However, the influence of anonymity and culture is limited. Failures are still shared at lower levels than successes, even in anonymous conditions and in collectivist cultures.
Pereira’s Attack on Legalizing Euthanasia or Assisted Suicide: Smoke and Mirrors
Authors: Downie J. , Chambaere K. , Bernheim J.L.
Published: June 2012

Objective: To review the empirical claims made in: Pereira J. Legalizing euthanasia or assisted suicide: the illusion of safeguards and controls. Curr Oncol 2011;18:e38–45. Design: We collected all of the empirical claims made by Jose Pereira in “Legalizing euthanasia or assisted suicide: the illusion of safeguards and controls.” We then collected all reference sources provided for those claims. We compared the claims with the sources (where sources were provided) and evaluated the level of support, if any, the sources provide for the claims. We also reviewed other available literature to assess the veracity of the empirical claims made in the paper. We then wrote the present paper using examples from the review. Results: Pereira makes a number of factual statements without providing any sources. Pereira also makes a number of factual statements with sources, where the sources do not, in fact, provide support for the statements he made. Pereira also makes a number of false statements about the law and practice in jurisdictions that have legalized euthanasia or assisted suicide. Conclusions: Pereira’s conclusions are not supported by the evidence he provided. His paper should not be given any credence in the public policy debate about the legal status of assisted suicide and euthanasia in Canada and around the world.
A Canadian Perspective on Bendamustine for the Treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Van der Jagt R. , Laneuville P. , MacDonald D. , Stewart D. , Christofides A. , Sehn L.H.
Published: June 2012

Despite the success of standard treatments in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), patients are often unable to tolerate aggressive regimens, and they require effective alternatives. Bendamustine is a bifunctional alkylator with unique properties that significantly distinguish it from other agents in its class. In untreated CLL, bendamustine has demonstrated rates of response and progression-free survival (PFS) that are superior to those with chlorambucil, with an acceptable toxicity profile. In the relapsed setting, combination treatment with bendamustine–rituximab (BR) has demonstrated promising activity in high-risk patients such as those refractory to fludarabine or alkylating agents. In untreated patients with indolent NHL and mantle cell lymphoma, BR has demonstrated a PFS significantly longer than that achieved with R-CHOP (rituximab–cyclophosphamide–doxorubicin–vincristine–prednisone), with significantly reduced toxicity. In the relapsed setting, BR has demonstrated rates of response and PFS superior to those with fludarabine–rituximab, with comparable toxicity. In the United States and Europe, bendamustine has been approved for the treatment of CLL and indolent NHL; its approval in Canada is pending and eagerly awaited. Once available, bendamustine will benefit many Canadian patients with NHL and CLL.
Solitary Fibrous Tumour Presenting as a Pedunculated Lung Mass with Associated Lung Atresia: Report of a Case
Authors: Shah S.K. , Walker P.A. , Khalil K.G. , Irani A.D.
Published: June 2012

This case report describes a solitary fibrous tumour presenting as a pedunculated mass arising from an almost completely atretic right middle lobe of lung. The intraoperative findings and pathologic diagnostic criteria used are described. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a solitary fibrous tumour associated with partial lung atresia.
Estimation of lifetime of carbonaceous aerosol from open crop residue burning during Mount Tai Experiment 2006 (MTX2006)
Authors: Pan X. L. , Kanaya Y. , Wang Z. F. , Komazaki Y. , Taketani F. , Akimoto H. , Pochanart P. , Liu Y.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. Studying the emission ratios of carbonaceous aerosols (element carbon, EC, and organic carbon, OC) from open biomass burning helps to reduce uncertainties in emission inventories and provides necessary constraints for model simulations. We measured apparent elemental carbon (ECa) and OC concentrations at the summit of Mount Tai (Mt. Tai) during intensive open crop residue burning (OCRB) episodes using a Sunset OCEC analyzer. Equivalent black carbon (BCe) concentrations were determined using a Multiple Angle Absorption Photometer (MAAP). In the fine particle mode, OC and EC showed strong correlations (r > 0.9) with carbon monoxide (CO). Footprint analysis using the FLEXPART_WRF model indicated that OCRB in central east China (CEC) had a significant influence on ambient carbonaceous aerosol loadings at the summit of Mt. Tai. ΔECa/ΔCO ratios resulting from OCRB plumes were 14.3 ± 1.0 ng m−3 ppbv−1 at Mt. Tai. This ratio was more than three times those resulting from urban pollution in CEC, demonstrating that significant concentrations of soot particles were released from OCRB. ΔOC/ΔCO ratio from fresh OCRB plumes was found to be 41.9 ± 2.6 ng m−3 ppbv−1 in PM1. The transport time of smoke particles was estimated using the FLEXPART_WRF tracer model by releasing inert particles from the ground layer inside geographical regions where large numbers of hotspots were detected by a MODIS satellite sensor. Fitting regressions using the e-folding exponential function indicated that the removal efficiency of OC (normalized to CO) was much larger than that of ECa mass, with mean lifetimes of 27 h (1.1 days) for OC and 105 h (4.3 days) for ECa, respectively. The lifetime of black carbon estimated for the OCRB events in east China was comparably lower than the values normally adopted in the transport models. Short lifetime of organic carbon highlighted the vulnerability of OC to cloud scavenging in the presence of water-soluble organic species from biomass combustion.
Modelling the impact of Siboglinids on the biogeochemistry of the Captain Arutyunov mud volcano (Gulf of Cadiz)
Authors: Soetaert K. , van Oevelen D. , Sommer S.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. A 2-Dimensional mathematical reaction-transport model was developed to study the impact of the mud-dwelling frenulate tubeworm Siboglinum sp. on the biogeochemistry of a sediment (MUC15) at the Captain Arutyunov mud volcano (CAMV). By explicitly describing the worm in its surrounding sediment, we are able to make budgets of processes occurring in- or outside of the worm, and to quantify how different worm densities and biomasses affect the anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) and sulfide reoxidation (HSox). The model shows that, at the observed densities, the presence of a thin worm body is sufficient to keep the upper 10 cm of sediment well homogenized with respect to dissolved substances, in agreement with observations. By this "bio-ventilation" activity, the worm pushes the sulfate-methane transition (SMT) zone downward to the posterior end of its body, and simultaneously physically separates the sulfide produced during the anaerobic oxidation of methane from oxygen. While there is little scope for the AOM to take place in the tubeworm's body, 70% of the sulfide that is produced by sulfate reduction processes or that is advected in the sediment is preferentially shunted via the organism where it is oxidised by endosymbionts providing the energy for the worm's growth. The process of sulfide reoxidation, occurring predominantly in the worm's body is thus very distinct from the anaerobic oxidation of methane, which is a diffuse process that takes place in the sediments in the methane-sulfate transition zone. We show how the sulfide oxidation process is affected by increasing densities and length of the frenulates, and by upward advection velocity. Our biogeochemical model is one of the first to describe tubeworms explicitly. It can be used to directly link biological and biogeochemical observations at seep sites, and to study the impacts of mud-dwelling frenulates on the sediment biogeochemistry under varying environmental conditions. Also, it provides a tool to explore the competition between bacteria and fauna for available energy resources.
Preparation and characterization of porous and nonporous polymeric microspheres by the phase inversion process
Authors: Lakshmi D. Shanthana , Figoli A. , Buonomenna M. G. , Golemme G. , Drioli E.
Published: June 2012

Microspheres (MCs) of different polymers, such as poly(ether sulfone) (PES), polyetheretherketone with card, with and without pore formers, were prepared by the non‐solvent–induced phase separation (NIPS) process. The polymers were solubilized in different types of solvents, such as dimethyl formamide (DMF), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), N‐methylpyrrolidone, and γ ‐butyrolactone as a dispersed phase, whereas dodecane, isopropanol, water, and sodium dodecyl sulfate were used as continuous phases. The technique yielded asymmetric and symmetric porous, spongy, or finger‐like, spherical MCs having a diameter tailored by the monopore film pore size employed. The influence of polymer and pore former (polyvinylpyrrolidone k17), the continuous phase composition and operating membrane process conditions, and solvent uptake behavior of different solvents are studied in detail. The operative conditions and chemical compositions are correlated with the spherical nature, structural interaction, pore size, porosity, and morphology of the MCs prepared. Ternary phase diagrams were drawn for PES/DMF and PES/DMSO using different alcohols, such as butanol, isopropanol, ethanol, and methanol. BET (Brunauer–Emmet–Teller) surface analysis also provided information about the surface of MCs. MCs with different diameters and porosities are obtained by controlling the concentration of the dispersed phase polymer concentration, used during the preparation, and diameter of the monopore film. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 31: 231–241, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21281
A transient method for mass‐transfer characterization through supported zeolite membranes: Extension to two components
Authors: Courthial Lucile , Baudot Arnaud , Tayakout‐Fayolle Mélaz , Jallut Christian
Published: June 2012

In a previous work (Courthial et al.) a transient state characterization method for zeolite supported membranes has been proposed and tested for single components in the Henry domain. An extension of the method to single components beyond the Henry domain and to binary mixtures is described. Since the method is based on experiments performed within the linear domain, the dynamic model previously developed for single components in the Henry domain is extended. The parameter estimation procedure that is described is based on a deep analysis of the model structure with respect to its structural identifiability properties. Some experimental results concerning pure n‐butane as well as isobutane/n‐butane mixtures transport through mordenite framework inverted (MFI)‐supported membranes are finally shown to illustrate the technique. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 959–970, 2013
The calculations of dispersion coefficients inside two‐dimensional randomly packed beds of circular particles
Authors: Jourak Amir , Frishfelds Vilnis , Lundström T. Staffan , Herrmann Inga , Hedström Annelie
Published: June 2012

The longitudinal (DL) and transverse (DT) dispersion coefficients in two‐dimensional (2‐D) randomly packed beds of circular particles in a laminar flow regime are derived. A 2‐D discrete system of particles is divided into cells using modified Voronoi diagrams. The relationship between the variation of the stream function and the averaged vorticity is obtained from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The whole flow pattern is then obtained by using the principle of energy dissipation rate minimization. The obtained values of DL agree well with 3‐D experimental data for all velocities investigated. At very high velocities, DT in 2‐D appears to be higher than 3‐D experimental data. In addition, the effects of particle‐size distributions, packing structure, and porosity on the DL and DT were studied. One result was that an increase in the width of the particle‐size distribution resulted in higher values of DL and DT at high velocities. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 1002–1011, 2013
Homozygous SMN1 exons 1–6 deletion: Pitfalls in genetic counseling and general recommendations for spinal muscular atrophy molecular diagnosis
Authors: Thauvin‐Robinet C. , Drunat S. , Saugier Veber P. , Chantereau D. , Cossée M. , Cassini C. , Soichot P. , Masurel‐Paulet A. , De Monléon J.V. , Sagot P. , Huet F. , Antin M. , Calmels N. , Faivre L. , Gérard B. ,   le “réseau français de génétique moléculaire”
Published: June 2012

We report on a rare homozygous intragenic deletion encompassing exons 1–6 of the SMN1 gene in a patient with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) born into a consanguineous family. This exceptional configuration induced misinterpretation of the molecular defect involved in this patient, who was first reported as having a classic SMN1 exon 7 deletion. This case points out the possible pitfalls in molecular diagnosis of SMA in affected patients and their relatives: exploration of the SMN1 exon 7 (c.840C/T alleles) may be disturbed by several non‐pathological or pathological variants around the SMN1 exon 7. In order to accurately describe the molecular defect in an SMA‐affected patient, we propose to apply the Human Genome Variation Society nomenclature. This widely accepted nomenclature would improve the reporting of the molecular defect observed in SMA patients and thus would avoid the commonly used but imprecise terminology “absence of SMN1 exon 7.” © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Studies of TBX4 and chromosome 17q23.1q23.2: An uncommon cause of nonsyndromic clubfoot
Authors: Lu W. , Bacino C.A. , Richards B.S. , Alvarez C. , VanderMeer J.E. , Vella M. , Ahituv N. , Sikka N. , Dietz F.R. , Blanton S.H. , Hecht J.T.
Published: June 2012

Clubfoot is a common birth defect characterized by inward posturing and rigid downward displacement of one or both feet. The etiology of syndromic forms of clubfoot is varied and the causes of isolated clubfoot are not well understood. A microduplication of 2.2 Mb on chromosome 17q23.1q23.2 which includes T‐box 4 (TBX4), a hindlimb‐specific gene, and 16 other genes was recently identified in 3 of 66 families reported as nonsyndromic clubfoot, but additional non‐foot malformations place them in the syndromic clubfoot category. Our study assesses whether variation in or around TBX4 contributes to nonsyndromic clubfoot. To determine whether this microduplication was a common cause of nonsyndromic clubfoot, 605 probands (from 148 multiplex and 457 simplex families) with nonsyndromic clubfoot were evaluated by copy number and oligonucleotide array CGH testing modalities. Only one multiplex family (0.68%) that had 16 with clubfoot and 9 with other foot anomalies, had a 350 kb microduplication, which included the complete duplication of TBX4 and NACA2 and partial duplication of BRIP1. The microduplication was transmitted in an autosomal dominant pattern and all with the microduplication had a range of phenotypes from short wide feet and toes to bilateral clubfoot. Minimal evidence was found for an association between TBX4 and clubfoot and no pathogenic sequence variants were identified in the two known TBX4 hindlimb enhancer elements. Altogether, these results demonstrate that variation in and around the TBX4 gene and the 17q23.1q23.2 microduplication are not a frequent cause of this common orthopedic birth defect and narrows the 17q23.1q23.2 nonsyndromic clubfoot‐associated region. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
De novo triplication of the MAPT gene from the recurrent 17q21.31 microdeletion region in a patient with moderate intellectual disability and various minor anomalies
Authors: Gregor Anne , Krumbiegel Mandy , Kraus Cornelia , Reis André , Zweier Christiane
Published: June 2012

We report on a 16‐year‐old male patient with moderate intellectual disability, behavioral problems, and further anomalies such as facial dysmorphism, heart defect, and urogenital anomalies. By molecular karyotyping we identified the first de novo copy number gain to four copies on chromosome 17q21.31 including the MAPT gene but not the entire recurrent microdeletion/microduplication region. Recurrent microdeletions of this region including the MAPT and the CHRH1 genes have been shown to be a relatively frequent cause of intellectual disability, while only a few reciprocal duplications in patients with variable cognitive disorders have been published so far. A common inversion polymorphism in this region has been linked to a distinct H2 haplotype and seems to be associated with an increased risk for microdeletions and ‐duplications. Our patient and his father were both heterozygous for the H1/H2 haplotype, whereas the mother was homozygous for the H2 haplotype. In our patient the dosage gain apparently occurred on the paternal H1 allele and did not involve the H2 allele as in the previously published cases. This patient further delineates the genotypic and phenotypic variability associated with copy number variants from the 17q21.31 microdeletion region. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An unmasked mutation of EIF2B2 due to submicroscopic deletion of 14q24.3 in a patient with vanishing white matter disease
Authors: Shimada Shino , Miya Kazushi , Oda Nozomi , Watanabe Yuki , Kumada Tomohiro , Sugawara Midori , Shimojima Keiko , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: June 2012

Leukodystrophy with vanishing white matter (VWM) is a neurodegenerative disorder with autosomal recessive traits that is caused by alteration of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor‐2B (EIF2B). An 11‐month‐old patient with distinctive features began to exhibit progressive developmental deterioration associated with intractable epilepsy, which was triggered by recurrent acute infectious diseases. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed abnormal white matter intensity. Chromosomal microarray testing identified a submicroscopic deletion at 14q24.3 that included EIF2B2, the gene encoding one of the subunits of EIF2B. Because the patient's clinical findings were distinctive for VWM, compound heterozygous mutations of EIF2B2 were suspected, and subsequent sequencing analysis of the remaining allele unmasked the existence of a novel missense mutation of EIF2B2 (V85W). Some distinctive features including small palpebral fissures, bushy eyebrows, ear abnormalities, small upturned nose, downturned corners of the mouth, and micrognathia may be the common features of the patients with 14q24.3 deletions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polymerization of 1,3‐butadiene with VO(P204)2 activated by methylaluminoxane, purified methylaluminoxane, and trimethylaluminum
Authors: Wang Haiying , Cao Lihui , Zhang Xuequan
Published: June 2012

The effect of different aluminum‐based cocatalysts (MAO, pMAO, and TMA) on butadiene (Bd) polymerization catalyzed by VO(P204)2 was investigated. The bimodal dependence of the polymer yield on the [MAO]/[V] molar ratio was revealed, and an highest polymer yield was achieved at a rather low [MAO]/[V] molar ratio ([MAO]/[V] = 13). The microstructures of the resulting poly(Bd)s were also significantly influenced by the ratio. In the TMA or pMAO system, the polymer yields were also very sensitive to the [Al]/[V] molar ratio. However, the microstructures of the resulting poly(Bd)s were almost independent of the ratio. In relation to the microstructures of poly(Bd)s obtained by the MAO and TMA systems at various temperatures, the 1,2‐unit contents were found to be the most abundant microstructure for both systems. In the pMAO system, the trans‐1,4‐units were the most abundant. The results of the additions of Lewis bases (THF and TPP) into Bd polyerization system comfirmed the existing of the two types of the reactions of VO(P204)2‐MAO catalyst and had the polymerization process controlled to some extent. The different thermal behaviors of these catalytic systems also show that multiple types of active centers were formed during the reaction between VO(P204)2 and MAO. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Effect of modified kaolin clays on the mechanical properties of polypropylene/polystyrene blends
Authors: Krishnan Asha K. , George Tresa Sunitha , Anjana R. , Joseph Newly , George K. E.
Published: June 2012

Nanoclay composites based on polypropylene (PP)/polystyrene (PS) blends were prepared by melt mixing in a Thermo Haake Rheochord mixer. The effect of modified clays on the properties of nanocomposites has been studied. The degree of dispersion and morphology of nanocomposites were evaluated from X‐ray diffraction and Scanning electron microscopy. Nanocomposites prepared from modified clays show improved tensile modulus and strength as compared to those prepared from unmodified clay. Vinyl silane modified nanocomposites show maximum improvement in mechanical properties, suggesting that vinyl silane provides better interfacial interaction. Thermogravimetric analysis shows improved thermal stability of PP/PS/clay nanocomposites. The dynamic mechanical analysis reveals higher storage moduli over a temperature range of 40–125°C for nanocomposites, and the extent of increase in the storage modulus is dependent on the type of clay. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Mechanical modeling of a three‐phase nanocomposite polymeric material
Authors: Meng Qingkai , Kee Daniel De
Published: June 2012

The presented model to predict the elastic modulus of a polymer/ellipsoidal filler/oblate platelet system is based on Eshelby's equivalent inclusion method and Mori‐Tanaka's back‐stress analysis. We considered wood flour and intercalated clay particles in three‐phase polymer nanocomposites as ellipsoidal and oblate platelet shapes, respectively. The intercalated clay particles along with the polymer chains in the clay galleries are treated as equivalent oblate fillers (EOFs). Via controlling wood flour and EOF aspect ratios (α and β) and the silicate layer number (n) in an EOF, the model prediction was compared with experimental data. The model predicted α and β values are within a range of 2.4–5 and 44–75, respectively, which are in good agreement with experimental observations. Quantitative agreement between model prediction and experimental data is achieved for α = 3.7 and β = 75 when n = 2. The proposed model recovers the two‐phase results for polymer/ellipsoidal filler systems or polymer/oblate platelet systems. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Positive‐tone, aqueous‐developable, polynorbornene dielectric: Lithographic, and dissolution properties
Authors: Mueller Brennen K. , Elce Edmund , Grillo Angelica M. , Kohl Paul A.
Published: June 2012

A positive‐tone, aqueous base soluble, polynorbornene (PNB) dielectric formulation has been developed. The photolithographic solubility switching mechanism is based on diazonaphthoquinone (DNQ) inhibition of PNB resin functionalized with pendent fluoroalcohol and carboxylic acid substituents. The optical contrast (at 365 nm) was found to be 2.3. The maximum height‐to‐width aspect ratio of developed line and space features was 3 : 2. The sensitivity, D100, of a formulation containing 20 pphr of DNQ photoactive compound (PAC) was calculated to be 408 mJ cm−2. The effects of the PAC molecule structure on miscibility and dissolution of the photosensitive films in aqueous base developer were studied. The effect of the monomer composition of the PNB polymer on the dissolution rate of the formulated PNB resin was evaluated. A unique dissolution and swelling behavior was observed. The effect is attributed to a copolymer synthesized with two monomers each of which is susceptible to deprotonation in aqueous base. FTIR measurements showed that the pure PNBFA has a small percentage of free hydroxyl groups, which did not change appreciably by the addition of PAC to the mixture. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Preparation and electrochemical properties of poly‐2,5‐dihydroxyaniline/activated carbon composite electrode in organic electrolyte
Authors: Sun Miao , Wang Wei , He Benlin , Sun Mingliang , Liu Wei , Ge Honglun , Zhang Qinjie , Sun Fan
Published: June 2012

Poly‐2,5‐dimethoxyaniline coating has been fabricated on active carbon (AC) substrates by cyclic voltammetry (CV) in organic system. The resulted coating is hydrolyzed to produce poly‐2,5‐dihydroxyaniline (PDHA) to enhance the capacitance of the composite electrode. Scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectra, CV, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and galvanostatic charge/discharge test are used to investigate the properties of these electrodes. In organic electrolyte, due to the introduced hydroquinone units, high value of capacitance up to 975 F g−1 of the PDHA/AC has been obtained at a current density of 0.37 A g−1 at a potential window of 0–1.5 V. An asymmetric capacitor has been assembled with the PDHA/AC positive and pure AC negative electrodes, which is able to obtain a specific energy as high as 178 Whkg−1 in the potential range of 0–2.0 V at a current density of 0.93 A g−1. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Development and characterization of plasticized starch‐based biocomposites with soy pulp as reinforcement filler
Authors: Behera Ajaya Kumar , Avancha Sridevi , Sen Ramkrishna , Adhikari Basudam
Published: June 2012

Soy pulp, a byproduct of soymilk industry, was used in varying amount as reinforcement filler with thermoplastic starch, to develop and characterize starch–soy (SS) composites. The composite filled with 10 wt % soy pulp showed 112% and 98% increment in tensile and flexural strength, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectrum of composite revealed occurrence of chemical bonding between hydroxyl group of soy pulp and that of starch matrix. The optimized composite containing 10 wt % soy pulp, with maximum mechanical strength was found thermally stable up to 312°C. Water absorption of these composites was enhanced with the increase in filler loading due to increase in hydrophilicity as evident from lowering of contact angle value. These composites are expected to be ecofriendly as soy pulp and starch are biodegradable in nature. The SS pulp composites so developed and characterized find potential application as disposable and packaging items. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Mechanical and UV‐shielding properties of in situ synthesized poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene)/zinc oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Rodríguez‐Tobías Heriberto , Morales Graciela , Rodríguez‐Fernández Oliverio , Acuña Pablo
Published: June 2012

A series of poly(acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene)/ZnO nanocomposites with different ZnO nanoparticles content were synthesized by a mass‐suspension polymerization process. Nanocomposites obtained through this technique presented high impact resistance despite the presence of agglomerates for high ZnO nanoparticles content so that, these samples were subjected to twin‐screw extrusion. The extrusion led to a dramatic morphological change and increased in impact resistance, higher than 100% in most of the cases. On the other hand, the higher the ZnO content, the higher the UV blocking (>95% for 1 and 3% of ZnO) for both materials, before and after extrusion. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate signaling in physiology and diseases
Authors: Takuwa Yoh , Okamoto Yasuo , Yoshioka Kazuaki , Takuwa Noriko
Published: June 2012

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P), which acts as both the extracellular and intracellular messenger, exerts pleiotropic biological activities including regulation of formation of the vasculature, vascular barrier integrity, and lymphocyte trafficking. Many of these S1P actions are mediated by five members of the G protein‐coupled S1P receptors (S1P1–S1P5) with overlapping but distinct coupling to heterotrimeric G proteins. The biological activities of S1P are based largely on the cellular actions of S1P on migration, adhesion, and proliferation. Notably, S1P often exhibits receptor subtype‐specific, bimodal effects in these cellular actions. For example, S1P1 mediates cell migration toward S1P, that is, chemotaxis, via Gi/Rac pathway whereas S1P2 mediates inhibition of migration toward a chemoattractant, that is, chemorepulsion, via G12/13/Rho pathway, which induces Rac inhibition. In addition, S1P1 mediates stimulation of cell proliferation through the Gi‐mediated signaling pathways including phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt and ERK whereas S1P2 mediates inhibition of cell proliferation through mechanisms involving G12/13/Rho/Rho kinase/PTEN‐dependent Akt inhibition. These differential effects of S1P receptor subtypes on migration and proliferation lead to bimodal regulation of various biological responses. An observed biological response is likely determined by an integrated outcome of the counteracting signals input by S1P receptor subtypes. More recent studies identified the new intracellular targets of S1P including the inflammatory signaling molecule TRAF2 and histone deacetylases HDAC1 and HDAC2. These interactions of S1P regulate NF‐κB activity and gene expression, respectively. Development of S1P receptor agonists and antagonists with improved receptor subtype‐selectivity, inhibitors, or modulators of sphingolipid‐metabolizing enzymes, and their optimal drug delivery system provide novel therapeutic tactics. © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Ligand binding by PDZ domains
Authors: Chi Celestine N. , Bach Anders , Strømgaard Kristian , Gianni Stefano , Jemth Per
Published: June 2012

The postsynaptic density protein‐95/disks large/zonula occludens‐1 (PDZ) protein domain family is one of the most common protein–protein interaction modules in mammalian cells, with paralogs present in several hundred human proteins. PDZ domains are found in most cell types, but neuronal proteins, for example, are particularly rich in these domains. The general function of PDZ domains is to bring proteins together within the appropriate cellular compartment, thereby facilitating scaffolding, signaling, and trafficking events. The many functions of PDZ domains under normal physiological as well as pathological conditions have been reviewed recently. In this review, we focus on the molecular details of how PDZ domains bind their protein ligands and their potential as drug targets in this context. © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Free energy calculations of the interactions of c‐Jun‐based synthetic peptides with the c‐Fos protein
Authors: Zuo Zhili , Gandhi Neha S. , Arndt Katja M. , Mancera Ricardo L.
Published: June 2012

The c‐Fos–c‐Jun complex forms the activator protein 1 transcription factor, a therapeutic target in the treatment of cancer. Various synthetic peptides have been designed to try to selectively disrupt the interaction between c‐Fos and c‐Jun at its leucine zipper domain. To evaluate the binding affinity between these synthetic peptides and c‐Fos, polarizable and nonpolarizable molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted, and the resulting conformations were analyzed using the molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) method to compute free energies of binding. In contrast to empirical and semiempirical approaches, the estimation of free energies of binding using a combination of MD simulations and the MM/GBSA approach takes into account dynamical properties such as conformational changes, as well as solvation effects and hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions. The predicted binding affinities of the series of c‐Jun‐based peptides targeting the c‐Fos peptide show good correlation with experimental melting temperatures. This provides the basis for the rational design of peptides based on internal, van der Waals, and electrostatic interactions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97:899–909, 2012.
The impact of influenza hemagglutinin fusion peptide length and viral subtype on its structure and dynamics
Authors: Lorieau Justin L. , Louis John M. , Bax Ad
Published: June 2012

A peptide comprising no fewer than the first 20 residues of the influenza hemagglutinin HA2 subunit suffices to induce lipid mixing between the membranes of different unilamellar vesicles. This 20‐residue peptide was previously reported to adopt an open “boomerang” structure that differs significantly from the closed helical‐hairpin structure of a fusion peptide consisting of the first 23 residues of the HA2 sequence. This study investigates the structural and dynamic features of fusion peptides of different length and subtype. Lacking key interactions that stabilize the closed, helical‐hairpin structure, the 20‐residue peptide is in a dynamic equilibrium between closed and open states, adopting a ca. 11% population of the former when solubilized by DPC micelles. Peptides shorter than 20 residues would have even fewer interactions to stabilize a helical hairpin fold, resulting in a vanishing hairpin population. Considering the conserved nature of hairpin‐stabilizing interactions across all serotypes, and the minimum of 20 residues needed for fusion, we postulate that the closed state plays an essential role in the fusion process. However, opening of this hairpin structure may be essential to the formation of a membrane pore at the final stage of the fusion process. Published 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 99: 189–195, 2013.
The spatiotemporal localization of JAM‐C following sciatic nerve crush in adult rats
Authors: Avari Parizad , Huang Wenlong , Averill Sharon , Colom Bartomeu , Imhof Beat A. , Nourshargh Sussan , Priestley John V.
Published: June 2012

JAM‐C is a junctional adhesion molecule, enriched at tight junctions on endothelial and epithelial cells, and also localized to Schwann cells at junctions between adjoining myelin end loops. The role of JAM‐C following peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is currently unknown. We examined the localization of JAM‐C after sciatic nerve crush injury in adult rats. JAM‐C immunoreactivity was present in paranodes and incisures in sham surgery control nerve, but distal to the crush injury significantly decreased at three and 14 days. JAM‐C was re‐expressed at 28 days and, by 56 days, was significantly increased in the distal nerve compared to controls. In a 7‐mm length of sciatic nerve sampled distal to the crush site, the densities of JAM‐C immunoreactive paranodes increased in the distal direction. Conversely, the densities of JAM‐C immunoreactive incisures were highest immediately distal to the crush site and decreased in the more distal direction. Further analysis revealed a strong correlation between JAM‐C localization and remyelination. Fifty‐six days after crush injury, greater densities of JAM‐C paranodes were seen compared to the nodal marker jacalin, suggesting that paranodal JAM‐C precedes node formation. Our data are the first to demonstrate a potential role of JAM‐C in remyelination after PNI.
Exposure to welding fumes increases lung cancer risk among light smokers but not among heavy smokers: evidence from two case–control studies in Montreal
Authors: Vallières Eric , Pintos Javier , Lavoué Jérôme , Parent Marie‐Élise , Rachet Bernard , Siemiatycki Jack
Published: June 2012

We investigated relationships between occupational exposure to gas and arc welding fumes and the risk of lung cancer among workers exposed to these agents throughout the spectrum of industries. Two population‐based case–control studies were conducted in Montreal. Study I (1979–1986) included 857 cases and 1066 controls, and Study II (1996–2001) comprised 736 cases and 894 controls. Detailed job histories were obtained by interview and evaluated by an expert team of chemist–hygienists to estimate degree of exposure to approximately 300 substances for each job. Gas and arc welding fumes were among the agents evaluated. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of lung cancer using logistic regression, adjusting for smoking history and other covariates. The two studies provided similar results, so a pooled analysis was conducted. Among all subjects, no significant association was found between lung cancer and gas welding fumes (OR = 1.1; 95% CI = 0.9–1.4) or arc welding fumes (OR = 1.0; 95% CI = 0.8–1.2). However, when restricting attention to light smokers, there was an increased risk of lung cancer in relation to gas welding fumes (OR = 2.9; 95% CI = 1.7–4.8) and arc welding fumes (OR = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.3–3.8), with even higher OR estimates among workers with the highest cumulative exposures. In conclusion, there was no detectable excess risk of lung cancer due to welding fumes among moderate to heavy smokers; but among light smokers we found an excess risk related to both types of welding fumes.
Interleukin‐1β mediates metalloproteinase‐dependent renal cell carcinoma tumor cell invasion through the activation of CCAAT enhancer binding protein β
Authors: Petrella Brenda L. , Vincenti Matthew P.
Published: June 2012

Effective treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains a major medical concern, as these tumors are refractory to standard therapies and prognosis is poor. Although molecularly targeted therapies have shown some promise in the treatment of this disease, advanced RCC tumors often develop resistance to these drugs. Dissecting the molecular mechanisms underlying the progression to advanced disease is necessary to design alternative and improved treatment strategies. Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) found in aggressive RCC tumors produce a variety of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). Moreover, the presence of TAMs and high serum levels of IL‐1β in RCC patients correlate with advanced disease. We hypothesized that IL‐1β in the tumor microenvironment promotes the development of aggressive RCC tumors by directing affecting tumor epithelial cells. To address this, we investigated the role of IL‐1β in mediating RCC tumor cell invasion as a measure of tumor progression. We report that IL‐1β induced tumor cell invasion of RCC cells through a process that was dependent on the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and was independent of migration rate. Specifically, IL‐1β induced the expression of MMP‐1, MMP‐3, MMP‐10, and MT1‐MMP in a mechanism dependent on IL‐1β activation of the transcription factor CCAAT enhancer binding protein β (CEBPβ). Consistent with its role in MMP gene expression, CEBPβ knockdown significantly reduced invasion, but not migration, of RCC tumor cells. These results identify the IL‐1β /CEBPβ/MMP pathway as a putative target in the design of anti‐metastatic therapies for the treatment of advanced RCC.
Example‐based inverse kinematics using cage
Authors: Yoshiyasu Yusuke , Yamazaki Nobutoshi
Published: June 2012

This paper presents a cage‐based inverse kinematics (CageIK) that enables interactive posing of character models in a wide range of mesh representations using handle points. By providing a set of cage geometries as examples, CageIK optimizes deformations of the cage according to handle movements and reconstructs the model using a subspace deformation method based on Green Coordinates. CageIK therefore not only poses the model naturally but also preserves details even when leaving the example space. Furthermore, by blending deformations based on bounded biharmonic weights, CageIK can edit the pose of the model locally. Because example cages can be generated from existing models, we can reuse animation assets that were already created by artists or simulations, which avoids repeating the time‐consuming process of creating examples. We show that CageIK can edit a wide variety of models, including multicomponent meshes, polygon soups, and quadrilateral meshes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamics of cellular automata with input: basis for a systematic study
Authors: Pazienza Giovanni E. , Roska Tamás
Published: June 2012

Cellular Automata (CA) and related paradigms have been recently revitalized by their practical application to novel computational paradigms. Although numerous aspects of CA have been analyzed throughout the last few decades, little has been done on the CA including an external input, which instead adds dramatically important features to the standard model. In this paper, we propose a methodology to analyze thoroughly and rigorously the CA with input, and provide an accurate simulator for experimental purposes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.