bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excessive Cellular Proliferation Negatively Impacts Reprogramming Efficiency of Human Fibroblasts
Authors: Gupta Manoj K. , Teo Adrian Kee Keong , Rao Tata Nageswara , Bhatt Shweta , Kleinridders Andre , Shirakawa Jun , Takatani Tomozumi , Hu Jiang , De Jesus Dario F. , Windmueller Rebecca , Wagers Amy J. , Kulkarni Rohit N.
Published: August 2015

The impact of somatic cell proliferation rate on induction of pluripotent stem cells remains controversial. Herein, we report that rapid proliferation of human somatic fibroblasts is detrimental to reprogramming efficiency when reprogrammed using a lentiviral vector expressing OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, and cMYC in insulin-rich defined medium. Human fibroblasts grown in this medium showed higher proliferation, enhanced expression of insulin signaling and cell cycle genes, and a switch from glycolytic to oxidative phosphorylation metabolism, but they displayed poor reprogramming efficiency compared with cells grown in normal medium. Thus, in contrast to previous studies, our work reveals an inverse correlation between the proliferation rate of somatic cells and reprogramming efficiency, and also suggests that upregulation of proteins in the growth factor signaling pathway limits the ability to induce pluripotency in human somatic fibroblasts.

Significance

The efficiency with which human cells can be reprogrammed is of interest to stem cell biology. In this study, human fibroblasts cultured in media containing different concentrations of growth factors such as insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 exhibited variable abilities to proliferate, with consequences on pluripotency. This occurred in part because of changes in the expression of proteins involved in the growth factor signaling pathway, glycolysis, and oxidative phosphorylation. These findings have implications for efficient reprogramming of human cells.
CXCL12Gene Therapy Ameliorates Ischemia-Induced White Matter Injury in Mouse Brain
Authors: Li Yaning , Tang Guanghui , Liu Yanqun , He Xiaosong , Huang Jun , Lin Xiaojie , Zhang Zhijun , Yang Guo-Yuan , Wang Yongting
Published: August 2015

Remyelination is an important repair process after ischemic stroke-induced white matter injury. It often fails because of the insufficient recruitment of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) to the demyelinated site or the inefficient differentiation of OPCs to oligodendrocytes. We investigated whether CXCL12 gene therapy promoted remyelination after middle cerebral artery occlusion in adult mice. The results showed that CXCL12 gene therapy at 1 week after ischemia could protect myelin sheath integrity in the perifocal region, increase the number of platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFRα)-positive and PDGFRα/bromodeoxyuridine-double positive OPCs in the subventricular zone, and further enhance their migration to the ischemic lesion area. Coadministration of AMD3100, the antagonist for CXCL12 receptor CXCR4, eliminated the beneficial effect of CXCL12 on myelin sheath integrity and negatively influenced OPC proliferation and migration. At 5 weeks after ischemia, CXCR4 was found on the PDGFRα- and/or neuron/glia type 2 (NG2)-positive OPCs but not on the myelin basic protein-positive mature myelin sheaths, and CXCR7 was only expressed on the mature myelin sheath in the ischemic mouse brain. Our data indicated that CXCL12 gene therapy effectively protected white matter and promoted its repair after ischemic injury. The treatment at 1 week after ischemia is effective, suggesting that this strategy has a longer therapeutic time window than the treatments currently available.

Significance

This study has demonstrated for the first time that CXCL12 gene therapy significantly ameliorates brain ischemia-induced white matter injury and promotes oligodendrocyte progenitor cell proliferation in the subventricular zone and migration to the perifocal area in the ischemic mouse brain. Additional data showed that CXCR4 receptor plays an important role during the proliferation and migration of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, and CXCR7 might play a role during maturation. In contrast to many experimental studies that provide treatment before ischemic insult, CXCL12 gene therapy was performed 1 week after brain ischemia, which significantly prolonged the therapeutic time window of brain ischemia.
Concise Review: Human Dermis as an Autologous Source of Stem Cells for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Vapniarsky Natalia , Arzi Boaz , Hu Jerry C. , Nolta Jan A. , Athanasiou Kyriacos A.
Published: August 2015

The exciting potential for regenerating organs from autologous stem cells is on the near horizon, and adult dermis stem cells (DSCs) are particularly appealing because of the ease and relative minimal invasiveness of skin collection. A substantial number of reports have described DSCs and their potential for regenerating tissues from mesenchymal, ectodermal, and endodermal lineages; however, the exact niches of these stem cells in various skin types and their antigenic surface makeup are not yet clearly defined. The multilineage potential of DSCs appears to be similar, despite great variability in isolation and in vitro propagation methods. Despite this great potential, only limited amounts of tissues and clinical applications for organ regeneration have been developed from DSCs. This review summarizes the literature on DSCs regarding their niches and the specific markers they express. The concept of the niches and the differentiation capacity of cells residing in them along particular lineages is discussed. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of widely used methods to demonstrate lineage differentiation are considered. In addition, safety considerations and the most recent advancements in the field of tissue engineering and regeneration using DSCs are discussed. This review concludes with thoughts on how to prospectively approach engineering of tissues and organ regeneration using DSCs. Our expectation is that implementation of the major points highlighted in this review will lead to major advancements in the fields of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

Significance

Autologous dermis-derived stem cells are generating great excitement and efforts in the field of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. The substantial impact of this review lies in its critical coverage of the available literature and in providing insight regarding niches, characteristics, and isolation methods of stem cells derived from the human dermis. Furthermore, it provides analysis of the current state-of-the-art regenerative approaches using human-derived dermal stem cells, with consideration of current guidelines, to assist translation toward therapeutic use.
Descobrindo as parasitoses: jogo educativo para o ensino de ciências
Authors: Trindade Fabrícia Fraga , Dantas Mário André Trindade , Donato Christiane Ramos , Vieira Fabiana Silva
Published: August 2015

No município de Boquim, Sergipe, há presença de casos de doença de chagas, leishmaniose e esquistossomose. Diante das restrições ocorridas nos livros didáticos, das formas tradicionais com que são lecionados os assuntos pertinentes à parasitologia, foi elaborado um jogo educativo baseado nas dificuldades identificadas no conhecimento do aluno, da didática do professor e da apresentação do livro adotado pelo Colégio Cleonice Soares Fonseca, situado no município citado. Para a construção desse recurso foi aplicado um questionário ao professor na tentativa de descobrir suas dificuldades para lecionar as parasitoses. Outro questionário foi aplicado aos alunos com perguntas referentes ao assunto em estudo para verificar o nível de informações pré-existentes sobre os mesmo e análise do livro. O jogo dispõe de cartelas com dicas relacionadas às doenças, estimula a capacidade de dedução e curiosidade investigativa dos participantes, podendo ser adotado em sala de aula ou até mesmo pelos alunos sozinhos. Assim, podemos considerá-lo com um recurso de auxílio no ensino-aprendizagem dos estudantes sobre doenças parasitológicas.
Voluntary work in pastoral da criança at the third age: a personal impact
Authors: Gomes Labegalini Célia Maria , Tognollo Borotta Uema Roberta , Carreira Ligia , Higarashi Ieda Harumi , Denardi Antoniassi Baldissera Vanessa
Published: August 2015

Objetivo: Analisar as repercussões pessoais do trabalho voluntário de idosos na Pastoral da Criança. Método: Estudo descritivo exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa. Foram entrevistadas 12 idosas, no período de maio a julho de 2014, com auxílio de roteiro semiestruturado. Os relatos foram transcritos e procedeu-se à análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados: Após análise formaram-se as seguintes categorias temáticas: A Pastoral da Criança é um ambiente de aprendizado para voluntárias e famílias atendidas; As voluntárias possuem sentimentos de satisfação pessoal e social; A Pastoral da Criança permite e estimula o convívio social; O trabalho voluntário resignifica a vida e transforma o processo de envelhecimento. Conclusões: O trabalho na Pastoral da Criança é percebido pelos idosos como muito importante, pois promove um ambiente de convívio social entre todas as faixas etárias. A enfermagem, em especial a que atua na atenção básica, deve estar atenta e aberta aos benefícios do voluntariado à terceira idade.
Use of medicinal plants by people with venous ulcer in outpatient treatment
Authors: Silva Dalva Cezar da , Budó Maria de Lourdes Denardin , Schimith Maria Denise , Heisler Elisa Vanessa , Simon Bruna Sodré , Torres Gilson de Vasconcelos
Published: August 2015

Objetivo: Conhecer a utilização de plantas medicinais por pessoas com úlcera venosa acompanhadas no ambulatório de um hospital público, da região central do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva, na qual foram entrevistadas 14 pessoas com úlcera venosa entre janeiro e fevereiro de 2013. Os dados foram tratados conforme a análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Elaboraram-se as categorias: Plantas medicinais utilizadas no cuidado da úlcera venosa; Aprendizado no cuidado com plantas medicinais; e Formas de uso das plantas medicinais no cuidado à úlcera venosa. Conclusão: As plantas são utilizadas na forma de chá ou diretamente na lesão. Esse cuidado antecede a busca aos serviços de saúde ou ocorre de forma complementar às práticas profissionais. Faz-se importante a enfermagem identificar a influência desse conhecimento popular no cuidado de pessoas com úlcera venosa.
Coverage of strategies for strengthening the basic health care
Authors: Kessler Marciane , Menegazzo Ediane , Berra Elise , Trindade Letícia de Lima , Krauzer Ivete Maroso , Vendruscolo Carine
Published: August 2015

Objetivos: analisar a cobertura das estratégias para fortalecimento da Atenção Básica nos municípios da 4a Gerência Regional de Saúde de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Métodos: estudo transversal, descritivo, realizado no banco de indicadores de cobertura de equipes de Saúde da Família (SF), equipes de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde (ACS), Programa Nacional de Melhoria do Acesso e da Qualidade da Atenção Básica (PMAQ), Programa de Valorização do Profissional da AB (PROVAB), Centros de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS) e Rede Cegonha, de 25 municípios. Resultados: 88% dos municípios estão adequados em relação à quantidade de equipes de SF; 100% da população está coberta por ACS; 95,5% das equipes de SF aderiram ao PMAQ; 48% não aderiram ao PROVAB; 64% não possuem CAPS; 32% não aderiram à Rede Cegonha. Conclusão: os achados sinalizam a busca pela qualificação e resolubilidade das equipes e serviços de saúde, mas revelam dificuldades na expansão e articulação das ações.
Scientific production about calgary model for evaluation of the family: a bibliometric study
Authors: Rodrigues Francileide de Araújo , Costa Solange Fátima Geraldo da , Fernandes Maria Andréia , Zaccara Ana Aline Lacet , Duarte Marcella Costa Souto , Andrade Cristiane Garrido de
Published: August 2015

Objetivo: Caracterizar a produção científica disponibilizada em periódicos online sobre o Modelo Calgary de Avaliação da Família. Métodos: Pesquisa bibliométrica cuja amostra correspondeu 52 artigos publicados entre 2004 e 2013 em periódicos de enfermagem, nas bases de dados LILACS, BDENF e na Biblioteca Digital SciELO. Dados coletados de março a abril de 2014. Resultados: Os dados evidenciaram que em 2009 teve o maior quantitativo de trabalhos (15.38%). Os periódicos com maior número de publicações foram a Revista de Pesquisa: Cuidado é Fundamental e a Revista da Escola Anna Nery Revista de Enfermagem. O maior quântico dos artigos obtiveram Qualis B2 e B1, com destaque para base de dados LILACS. Quanto à modalidade das publicações predominaram estudos originais. Ressalta-se a titulação de mestre entre os pesquisadores dos estudos. Conclusão: Os resultados evidenciaram a produção científica investigada como uma temática de interesse e crescimento no campo da Enfermagem.
An analytical model of sub‐Alfvénic moon‐plasma interactions with application to the hemisphere coupling effect
Authors: Simon Sven
Published: August 2015

We develop a new analytical model of the Alfvén wing that is generated by the interaction between a planetary moon's ionosphere and its magnetospheric environment. While preceding analytical approaches assumed the obstacle's height‐integrated ionospheric conductivities to be spatially constant, the model presented here can take into account a continuous conductance profile that follows a power law. The electric potential in the interaction region, determining the electromagnetic fields of the Alfvén wing, can then be calculated from an Euler‐type differential equation. In this way, the model allows to include a realistic representation of the “suspension bridge”‐like conductance profile expected for the moon's ionosphere. The major drawback of this approach is its restriction to interaction scenarios where the ionospheric Pedersen conductance is large compared to the Hall conductance, and thus, the Alfvénic perturbations are approximately symmetric between the planet‐facing and the planet‐averted hemispheres of the moon. The model is applied to the hemisphere coupling effect observed at Enceladus, i.e., to the surface currents and the associated magnetic discontinuities that arise from a north‐south asymmetry of the obstacle to the plasma flow. We show that the occurrence of this effect is very robust against changes in the conductance profile of Enceladus' plume, and we derive upper limits for the strength of the magnetic field jumps generated by the hemisphere coupling effect. During all 11 reported detections of the hemisphere coupling currents at Enceladus, the observed magnetic field jumps were clearly weaker than the proposed limits. Our findings are also relevant for future in situ studies of putative plumes at the Jovian moon Europa.
Mechanical compaction and strain localization in Bleurswiller sandstone
Authors: Baud Patrick , Reuschlé Thierry , Ji Yuntao , Cheung Cecilia S. N. , Wong Teng‐fong
Published: August 2015

We performed a systematic investigation of mechanical compaction and strain localization in Bleurswiller sandstone. Our data show that the effective pressure principle can be applied in both the brittle faulting and cataclastic flow regimes, with an effective pressure coefficient close to but somewhat less than 1. Under relatively high confinement, the samples typically fail by development of compaction bands. X‐ray computed tomography (CT) was used to resolve preexisting porosity clusters, as well as the initiation and propagation of the compaction bands in deformed samples. Synthesis of the CT and microstructural data indicates that there is no casual relation between collapse of the porosity clusters in Bleurswiller sandstone and nucleation of the compaction bands. Instead, the collapsed porosity clusters may represent barriers for the propagation of compaction localization, rendering the compaction bands to propagate along relatively tortuous paths so as to avoid the porosity clusters. The diffuse and tortuous geometry of compaction bands results in permeability reduction that is significantly lower than that associated with compaction band formation in other porous sandstones. Our new data confirm that Bleurswiller sandstone stands out as the only porous sandstone associated with a compactive cap that is linear, and our CT and microstructural observation show that it is intimately related to collapse of the porosity clusters. We demonstrate that the anomalous linear caps and their slopes are in agreement with a micromechanical model based on the collapse of a spherical pore embedded in an elastic‐plastic matrix that obeys the Coulomb failure criterion.
Structural Origins for Tunable Open‐Circuit Voltage in Ternary‐Blend Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Khlyabich Petr P. , Rudenko Andrey E. , Thompson Barry C. , Loo Yueh‐Lin
Published: August 2015

Ternary‐blend bulk‐heterojunction solar cells have provided a unique opportunity for tuning the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) as the “effective” highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) or lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy levels shift with active‐layer composition. Grazing‐incidence X‐ray diffraction (GIXD) measurements performed on such ternary‐blend thin films reveal evidence that the two polymer donors interact intimately; their ionization potentials are thus reflections of the blend compositions. In ternary‐blend thin films in which the two polymer donors do not interact physically, the polymer donors each retain their molecular electronic character; solar cells constructed with these ternary blends thus exhibit Vocs that are pinned to the energy level difference between the highest of the two lying HOMO and the LUMO of the electron acceptor. These observations are consistent with the organic alloy model proposed earlier. Quantification of the square of the square‐root differences of the surface energies of the components provides a proxy for the Flory–Huggins interaction parameter for polymer donor pairs in these ternary‐blend systems. Of the three ternary‐blend systems examined herein, this quantity has to be below 0.094 in order for ternary‐blend solar cells to exhibit tunable Voc.
Graphene‐Based Fibers: A Review
Authors: Meng Fancheng , Lu Weibang , Li Qingwen , Byun Joon‐Hyung , Oh Youngseok , Chou Tsu‐Wei
Published: August 2015

Motivated by their unique structure and excellent properties, significant progress has been made in recent years in the development of graphene‐based fibers (GBFs). Potential applications of GBFs can be found, for instance, in conducting wires, energy storage and conversion devices, actuators, field emitters, solid‐phase microextraction, springs, and catalysis. In contrast to graphene‐based aerogels (GBAs) and membranes (GBMs), GBFs demonstrate remarkable mechanical and electrical properties and can be bent, knotted, or woven into flexible electronic textiles. In this review, the state‐of‐the‐art of GBFs is summarized, focusing on their synthesis, performance, and applications. Future directions of GBF research are also proposed.
Improved Amplified Spontaneous Emission of Dye‐Doped Functionalized Mesostructured Silica Waveguide Films
Authors: Ramírez Manuel G. , Jahnke Justin P. , Junk Matthias J. N. , Villalvilla José M. , Boj Pedro G. , Quintana José A. , Calzado Eva M. , Chmelka Bradley F. , Díaz‐García María A.
Published: August 2015

Amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) in dye‐doped mesostructured silica films, deposited directly over fused silica substrates, is demonstrated with low thresholds. Due to functionalization of the silica network with phenyl groups, the refractive index of the active layer is sufficiently increased to impart waveguiding properties that lead to highly efficient ASE. Such functionalization eliminates the need for a separate low‐refractive‐index layer between the active film and the substrate, as is often used to achieve waveguiding properties with silica mesostructured materials, though which is typically accompanied by significant optical losses that reduce overall ASE performance. By forming a high‐quality waveguide without the need for a separate low‐refractive‐index layer, significantly improved properties are obtained, with ASE thresholds as low as 8 kW cm−2. Solid‐state 2D NMR spectroscopy measurements establish the compositions and structures of the active mesostructured film at a molecular level, in particular that phenyl functionalization of the mesochannel surfaces promotes the homogeneous dispersion of the laser dye species over nanoscale dimensions in the materials.
Trends in chronic rhinosinusitis research in the past three decades
Authors: Banglawala Sarfaraz M. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Wenztel Jennifer , Walsh Thomas , Overton Lewis , Soler Zachary M.
Published: August 2015

Background

The objective of this work was to identify trends in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS)‐related publications for the past 3 decades.

Methods

Literature review was conducted using multiple terms, including sinusitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, chronic sinus disease, nasal polyposis, ethmoid sinusitis, frontal sinusitis, and maxillary sinusitis. Abstracts were divided into 3 decades: 1983 through 1992, 1993 through 2002, and 2003 through 2012. For each decade, we compared the total number of publications and journals, study design, use of validated outcome measures, quality of evidence, number of authors, country of origin, and clinical vs basic science.

Results

A total of 3406 abstracts were identified. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of publications with a 637% increase from 1983 through 1992 to 2003 through 2012 (p < 0.05). Likewise, the number of journals with CRS‐related publications significantly increased during the study period (117 to 350; p < 0.05). Prospective studies increased (15.30% to 28.90%, p < 0.05) and retrospective studies decreased (33.00% to 17.36%, p < 0.05). Cohort studies were the most common type of design study (18.70% to 32.46%). In studies reporting outcome measures, the use of validated measures significantly increased over time (2.56% to 49.70%, p < 0.05). Although, the quality of evidence for most clinical publications for all 3 decades were grade C, the number and percentage of grade A and grade B publications increased significantly over time (0.99% to 7.23%, p < 0.05; 6.9% to 10.44%, p < 0.05; respectively).

Conclusion

CRS‐related publication quantity and quality have increased over the last 3 decades.
The clinical significance of the pollen calendar of the Western Thrace/northeast Greece region in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Katotomichelakis Michael , Nikolaidis Christos , Makris Michael , Zhang Nan , Aggelides Xenophon , Constantinidis Theodoros C. , Bachert Claus , Danielides Vassilios
Published: August 2015

Background

There are major differences in the clinical pattern of allergic rhinitis (AR) patients among countries, reflecting local aerobiological conditions. We analyzed the correlation between airborne pollen concentrations of the Western Thrace/northeast (NE) Greece region with symptoms scores in AR patients. The above data is the first provided for the Mediterranean climate of Greece and reflects the clinical significance of pollen calendar in everyday clinical practice.

Methods

An annual pollen calendar of the most important outdoor aeroallergens (grasses, trees, and weeds) was developed, using a Burkard volumetric spore trap. A total of 168 AR patients were studied and asked to evaluate their symptoms and main seasonal appearance. Sensitization prevalence to pollen species was detected by skin prick tests. Symptoms were evaluated by Total 5 Symptoms Score (T5SS) and correlated to aerobiological data.

Results

As far as the pollen calendar is concerned, the highest total percentages of pollens were recorded for olive (24.02% of total), oak (13.74%), grasses (9.08%), and cypress (7.63%). Regarding patients’ sensitivities, the most prevalent ones were to grasses (56.0%), olive (43.5%), wall pellitory (24.4%), and cypress (16.7%) antigens. A strong significant correlation between total pollen counts and patients’ T5SS (r = 0.874, p < 0.001) was observed. Moreover, strong significant correlations between T5SS and pollen counts were also found for the most prevalent species, including grasses, olive, and Parietaria allergens (r = 0.627, p = 0.029; r = 0.695, p = 0.012; and r = 0.656, p = 0.021, respectively).

Conclusion

Patients’ symptoms scores were found to be significantly correlated to pollen counts. Given data are important for the management of AR patients who live in similar Mediterranean climate conditions.
Condensation Agents Determine the Temperature–Pressure Stability of F‐Actin Bundles
Authors: Gao Mimi , Berghaus Melanie , von der Ecken Julian , Raunser Stefan , Winter Roland
Published: August 2015

Biological cells provide a large variety of rodlike filaments, including filamentous actin (F‐actin), which can form meshworks and bundles. One key question remaining in the characterization of such network structures revolves around the temperature and pressure stabilities of these architectures as a way to understand why cells actively use proteins for forming them. The packing properties of F‐actin in fascin‐ and Mg2+‐induced bundles are compared, and significantly different pressure‐temperature stabilities are observed because of marked differences in their nature of interaction, solvation, and packing efficiency. Moreover, differences are observed in their morphologies and disintegration scenarios. The pressure‐induced dissociation of the actin bundles is reminiscent of a single unbinding transition as observed in other soft elastic manifolds.
Sulfonated palladium(II) N‐heterocyclic carbene complex immobilized on nano–micro size poly(4‐vinylpyridinium chloride) for Suzuki‐Miyauracross‐coupling reaction
Authors: Pahlevanneshan Zari , Moghadam Majid , Mirkhani Valiollah , Tangestaninejad Shahram , Mohammadpoor‐Baltork Iraj , Rezaei Saghar
Published: August 2015

The sulfonated palladium(II) N‐heterocyclic carbene complex PdII(NHC)SO3−, supported on poly(4‐vinylpyridinium chloride), was used as a heterogeneous, recyclable and active catalyst for the Suzuki–Miyaura reaction. This catalyst was applied for coupling of various aryl halides with phenylboronic acid and the corresponding products were obtained in excellent yields and short reaction times. The catalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared and diffuse reflectance UV–visible spectroscopies, scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis. After each reaction, the catalyst was recovered easily by simple filtration and reused several times without significant loss of its catalytic activity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of polyvinyl alcohol/intercalated MMT composite foams fabricated by melt extrusion
Authors: Li Yan , Tian Huafeng , Jia Qingqing , Niu Ping , Xiang Aimin , Liu Di , Qin Yanan
Published: August 2015

In this work, novel polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/intercalated montmorillonite (MMT) nanocomposite foams were fabricated by melt extrusion with fixed amount of foaming agent, and the structure and properties were investigated with X‐ray diffraction, transmittance electron microscope, differential scanning calorimetry, plate rheometer, scanning electron microscope, density analysis, and mechanical testing in detail. The results revealed that pristine MMT could be intercalated by PVA during melt‐extrusion. Both exfoliation and intercalation structure was formed in the composites. The strong interaction between PVA and MMT restricted the motion of PVA molecules, leading to the enhanced complex viscosity, storage modulus, and melt flow index, suggesting the improved melt elasticity and melt strength. The improved melt strength of PVA through MMT incorporation facilitated the foaming process. With the increase of MMT, cell rupture was limited and the thickness of cell‐wall decreased, leading to the decreased density. The homogeneous cells and the closed cell structure with the foaming density of 0.35 g/cm3 could be formed with 2 wt % MMT incorporation. With the increase of MMT, the tensile strength of PVA/MMT foams decreased because of the enlarged foaming ratio and decreased density. This work aims to pave a simple and convenient way to produce biodegradable foams. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42706.
Role of silk fibroin and rice starch on some physical properties of hydroxyapatite‐based composites
Authors: Sriudom Suchaya , Niamsup Hataichanoke , Saipanya Surin , Watanesk Ruangsri , Watanesk Surasak
Published: August 2015

The role of organic blends of silk fibroin (SF) and rice starch (RS) in bone composites based on inorganic hydroxyapatite (HA) is studied. The physical property of HA‐based composites prepared by using the sol–gel method from Ca(OH)2 and H3PO4 in ethanol and water solvent (4 : 1 volume ratio) could be improved by adding SF and RS (1 : 2 weight ratio) to HA (7 : 3 weight ratio). The Fourier transform infrared spectrometer spectrum shows that the SF and RS organic phases are blended homogeneously into the HA crystal structure. Addition of SF increases the pore size and surface area of the composites, as measured by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method, but their pore volume is slightly decreased. The values of lattice parameters, crystallinity, and crystallite size, as determined from the field‐emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and X‐ray diffractometer results, increase after adding RS. The results are agreeable with the increase of their compressive strength and Young's modulus. Thus, the improved physical property of the prepared HA–SF/RS composites is better suited as bone‐filling material than the standard HA or HA‐based composites with either SF or RS only. Therefore, due to its low cost, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity, this innovative solution could be worth taken under consideration by the restorative dental and orthopedic implants industry. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42722.
Electrospun protective self‐healing coatings for light alloys: A better understanding of the intrinsic potential of the technology
Authors: Firouzi Amin , Impagnatiello Andrea , Del Gaudio Costantino , Lamastra Francesca Romana , Bianco Alessandra , Montesperelli Giampiero
Published: August 2015

Polymeric coating systems exhibit high potentiality to provide an effective barrier against corrosion of metallic surfaces. However, these coatings can lose their protective characteristics because of their high susceptibility to damage. Thus, the addition of corrosion inhibitors is desirable and considered as an alternative route for active corrosion protection. In the present work, eco‐friendly electrospun coatings of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) loaded with cerium salts have been deposited onto aluminium 6082 alloy. Two different precursors of cerium (III) (i.e., cerium nitrate and cerium acetylacetonate) were added to the electrospinning solutions and the effectiveness of the resulting nanofibrous coatings was evaluated for the healing of generated defects. The microstructural features of the electrospun coatings have been investigated by scanning electron microscopy, infraredspectroscopy, and thermal analysis. Tensile tests were performed to assess the mechanical properties of the different fibrous coatings. The electrochemical behavior of both intact and damaged coatings was evaluated in 3 wt % NaCl solution by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. All the deposited PVA coatings loaded with cerium(III) salts showed remarkable corrosion resistance. In the case of artificially damaged coatings, a self‐healing effect, which stops the development of the corrosion process and provides a significant recovery of the corrosion resistance, has been observed only for coatings loaded with cerium III acetylacetonate. The release of cerium from damaged PVA fibers has been demonstrated by means of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The observed self‐healing effect has been ascribed to the formation of cerium hydroxide on the defective zone, which hindered the corrosion process. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42728.
Effect of zinc oxide on properties of phenolic foams/halogen‐free flame retardant system
Authors: Ma Yufeng , Wang Jifu , Xu Yuzhi , Wang Chunpeng , Chu Fuxiang
Published: August 2015

A halogen‐free flame retardant system consisting of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) as an acid source, blowing agent, pentaerythritol (PER) as a carbonific agent and zinc oxide (ZnO) as a synergistic agent, was used in this work to enhance flame retardancy of phenolic foams. ZnO was incorporated into flame retardant formulation at different concentrations to investigate the flammability of flame retardant composite phenolic foams (FRCPFs). The synergistic effects of ZnO on FRCPFs were evaluated by limited oxygen index (LOI), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), cone calorimeter tests, and images of residues. Results showed that the flame retardant significantly increased the LOI of FRCPFs. Compared with PF, heat release rate (HRR), total heat release (THR), effective heat of combustion (EHC), production or yield of carbon monoxide (COP or COY) and Oxygen consumption (O2C) of FRCPFs all remarkably decreased. However specific extinction area (SEA) and total smoke release (TSR) significantly increased, which agreed with the gas‐phase flame retardancy mechanism of the flame retardant system. The results indicated that FRCPFs have excellent fire‐retardant performance and less smoke release. And the bending and compression strength were decreased gradually with the increase of ZnO. The comprehensive properties of FRCPFs were better when the amount of ZnO was 1∼1.5%. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42730.
Improved swelling–deswelling behavior of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) gels with poly(N,N′‐dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate) grafts
Authors: Dutta Sujan , Dhara Dibakar
Published: August 2015

Thermoresponsive and pH‐responsive gels were synthesized fromN‐isopropyl acrylamide (NIPA) andN,N′‐dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) monomers. Gelation reactions were carried out with both conventional free‐radical polymerization (CFRP) and controlled free‐radical polymerization [reversible addition fragmentation transfer (RAFT)] techniques. The CFRP gels were prepared by polymerizing mixtures of NIPA and DMAEMA in 1,4‐dioxane in presence ofN,N'‐methylene bisacrylamide (BIS) as cross‐linker. The RAFT gels were prepared by a the polymerization of NIPA via a similar process in the presence of different amounts of poly(N,N′‐dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate) macro chain‐transfer agent and the crosslinker. These gels were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimetry. SEM analysis revealed a macroporous network structure for the RAFT gels, whereas their volume phase‐transition temperatures (VPTTs) were found to be in the range 32–34°C, close to that of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) gels. However, the CFRP copolymer gels exhibited a higher VPTT; this increased with increasing DMAEMA content. The RAFT gels exhibited higher swelling capabilities than the corresponding CFRP gels and also showed faster shrinking–reswelling behavior in response to changes in temperature. All of the gels showed interesting pH‐responsive behavior as well. The unique structural attributes exhibited by the RAFT gels can potentially open up opportunities for developing new materials for various applications, for example, as adsorbents or carrier of drugs or biomolecules. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2015,132, 42749.
Transparent and conductive indium tin oxide/polyimide films prepared by high‐temperature radio‐frequency magnetron sputtering
Authors: Wen Yu , Liu Huan , Yang Shiyong , Fan Lin
Published: August 2015

A highly transparent and thermally stable polyimide (PI) substrate was prepared and used for the fabrication of indium tin oxide (ITO)/PI films via radio‐frequency magnetron sputtering at an elevated substrate temperature. The effect of the deposition conditions, that is, the oxygen flow rate, substrate temperature, sputtering power, and working pressure, on the optical and electrical properties of the ITO/PI films were investigated from the microstructural aspects. The results indicate that the optical and electrical properties of ITO were sensitive to the oxygen. Moreover, it was beneficial to the improvement of the ITO conductivity through the adoption of a high substrate temperature and sputtering power and a low working pressure in the deposition process. A two‐step deposition method was developed in which a thick bulk ITO layer was overlapped by deposition on a thin seed ITO layer with a dense surface to prepare the highly transparent and conductive ITO/PI films. The ITO/PI film after annealing at 240°C gave a transmittance of 83% and a sheet resistance of 19.7 Ω/square. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42753.
Preparation of polydimethylaminoethyl methacrylate grafted attapulgite via ceric ion‐induced redox polymerization
Authors: Xu Hang , Yang Haicun , Xue Sheng , Pan Ji , Ni Qingting , Gong Fanghong
Published: August 2015

Hybrid nanocomposites consisting of polydimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA) and attapulgite (ATP) were prepared by using a surface thiol‐Ce (IV) redox initiation system via graft from approach. Initially, ATP was chemically modified with γ‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MTS) to anchor thiol groups on the surface (ATP‐MTS). Subsequently, surface‐initiated polymerization of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate was performed by using ATP‐MTS and cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) in aqueous nitric acid (HNO3) to afford hybrid particles (ATP‐g‐PDMAEMA). Evidence of grafting of PDMAEMA was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The crystal structure of PDMAEMA grafted ATP was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Morphology of ATP‐g‐PDMAEMA was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The effects of concentration of Ce (IV), HNO3, and reaction temperature were examined by determining the percentage of grafting (PG). With other condition kept constant, the optimum conditions were obtained as follows: the reaction temperature was 50°C, Ce (IV) and HNO3 concentrations were 12.5 mmol/L and 1 mol/L, respectively, when 0.2 g of ATP‐MTS, 1 mL of DMAEMA, and 4 mL of aqueous solution were used. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42762.
Damage‐Associated Molecular Patterns Generated in Osteoarthritis Directly Excite Murine Nociceptive Neurons Through Toll‐like Receptor 4
Authors: Miller Rachel E. , Belmadani Abdelhak , Ishihara Shingo , Tran Phuong B. , Ren Dongjun , Miller Richard J. , Malfait Anne‐Marie
Published: August 2015

Objective

To determine whether selected damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) present in the osteoarthritic (OA) joints of mice excite nociceptors through Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR‐4).

Methods

The ability of S100A8 and α2‐macroglobulin to excite nociceptors was determined by measuring the release of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1) by cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells as well as by measuring the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in cultured DRG neurons from naive mice or from mice that had undergone surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) 8 weeks previously. The role of TLR‐4 was assessed using TLR‐4–/– cells or a TLR‐4 inhibitor. The [Ca2+]i in neurons within ex vivo intact DRGs was measured in samples from Pirt‐GCaMP3 mice. Neuronal expression of the Tlr4 gene was determined by in situ hybridization. DMM surgery was performed in wild‐type and TLR‐4–/– mice; mechanical allodynia was monitored, and joint damage was assessed histologically after 16 weeks.

Results

DRG neurons from both naive and DMM mice expressed Tlr4. Both S100A8 and α2‐macroglobulin stimulated release of the proalgesic chemokine MCP‐1 in DRG cultures, and the neurons rapidly responded to S100A8 and α2‐macroglobulin with increased [Ca2+]i. Blocking TLR‐4 inhibited these effects. Neurons within intact DRGs responded to the TLR‐4 agonist lipopolysaccharide. In both of the calcium‐imaging assays, it was primarily the nociceptor population of neurons that responded to TLR‐4 ligands. TLR‐4–/– mice were not protected from mechanical allodynia or from joint damage associated with DMM.

Conclusion

Our experiments suggest a role of TLR‐4 signaling in the excitation of nociceptors by selected DAMPs. Further research is needed to delineate the importance of this pathway in relation to OA pain.
Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Patients With Cryopyrin‐Associated Periodic Syndromes: A Large Database Study
Authors: Houx Laetitia , Hachulla Eric , Kone‐Paut Isabelle , Quartier Pierre , Touitou Isabelle , Guennoc Xavier , Grateau Gilles , Hamidou Mohamed , Neven Bénédicte , Berthelot Jean‐Marie , Lequerré Thierry , Pillet Pascal , Lemelle Irène , Fischbach Michel , Duquesne Agnès , Le Blay Pierre , Le Jeunne Claire , Stirnemann Jérome , Bonnet Christine , Gaillard Dominique , Alix Lilian , Touraine Renaud , Garcier François , Bedane Christophe , Jurquet Anne‐Laure , Duffau Pierre , Smail Amar , Frances Camille , Grall‐Lerosey Martine , Cathebras Pascal , Tran Tu Anh , Morell‐Dubois Sandrine , Pagnier Anne , Richez Christophe , Cuisset Laurence , Devauchelle‐Pensec Valérie
Published: August 2015

Objective

To determine the type and frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms at onset and during followup of cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndromes (CAPS).

Methods

We retrospectively recorded the articular and muscular symptoms of patients with CAPS followed up in French hospitals. Data were presented as frequencies or the median (range), and patient groups were compared using chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann‐Whitney test.

Results

The study included 133 patients (33 children), 20 with familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome, 88 with Muckle‐Wells syndrome, 22 with chronic infantile neurologic, cutaneous, articular syndrome, and 3 with unclassified CAPS. The median age was 35 years (range 0–78 years) at the time of the study, 1 year (range 0–41 years) at symptom onset, and 23 years (range 0–58 years) at diagnosis. The disease was sporadic in 17% of the patients. Cutaneous symptoms predominated at onset (77%), followed by articular symptoms (30%). The p.Thr348Met and p.Arg260Trp NLRP3 mutations were significantly associated with the presence and absence of articular symptoms at onset, respectively. During followup, 86% of the patients had musculoskeletal symptoms, 88% had arthralgia, and 58% had arthritis, but only 9% had joint destruction. Tendinopathies occurred in 21.5% of the patients, tender points in 16.5%, and myalgia in 33%. Only 3 patients had typical knee deformities. Radiographs were rarely obtained. Except for bone deformities, osteoarticular symptoms occurred at similar frequencies in the different CAPS phenotypes.

Conclusion

Joint manifestations were frequent in all CAPS phenotypes. Bone deformities were rare. Musculoskeletal manifestations varied within given families but tended to worsen over time.
Progranulin Overproduction Due to Fli‐1 Deficiency Contributes to the Resistance of Dermal Fibroblasts to Tumor Necrosis Factor in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Ichimura Yohei , Asano Yoshihide , Akamata Kaname , Noda Shinji , Taniguchi Takashi , Takahashi Takehiro , Toyama Tetsuo , Tada Yayoi , Sugaya Makoto , Sato Shinichi , Kadono Takafumi
Published: August 2015

Objective

Progranulin is a growth factor that is active in wound repair and is an antagonist of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors, regulating fibroblast activation, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Because long‐standing activation of gene programs related to wound healing is a hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc), we sought to investigate the role of progranulin in SSc.

Methods

Progranulin expression levels in human and murine skin samples were determined by immunohistochemical analysis and quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The role of progranulin in fibroblast activation was examined using a gene‐silencing technique. Progranulin levels in serum obtained from 60 patients with SSc and 16 healthy control subjects were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Progranulin expression was increased in SSc dermal fibroblasts compared with normal dermal fibroblasts, both in vivo and in vitro. Transcription factor Fli‐1, a deficiency of which is involved in the activation of SSc dermal fibroblasts, served as a potent repressor of the progranulin gene, and Fli‐1+/− mice and bleomycin‐treated wild‐type mice exhibited up‐regulated expression of progranulin in dermal fibroblasts. SSc dermal fibroblasts were resistant to the antifibrotic effect of TNF, but this resistance was reversed by gene silencing of progranulin. Serum progranulin levels were elevated in patients with early diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc), especially in those with inflammatory skin symptoms, and were positively correlated with the C‐reactive protein level.

Conclusion

Progranulin overproduction due to Fli‐1 deficiency may contribute to the constitutive activation of SSc dermal fibroblasts by antagonizing the antifibrotic effect of TNF. Progranulin may also be involved in the inflammatory process associated with progressive skin sclerosis in early dcSSc.
Simple procedure applying lactose induction and one‐step purification for high‐yield production of rhCIFN
Authors: Bashir Hamid , Ahmed Nadeem , Khan Mohsin Ahmad , Zafar Ahmad Usman , Tahir Saad , Khan Muhammad Islam , Khan Faidad , Husnain Tayyab
Published: August 2015

Recombinant consensus interferon (CIFN) is a therapeutic protein with molecular weight of 19.5 kDa having broad spectrum antiviral activity. Recombinant human CIFN (rhCIFN) has previously been expressed in Escherichia coli using isopropyl‐β‐d‐thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG), a non‐metabolizable and expensive compound, as inducer. For economical and commercial‐scale recombinant protein production, it is greatly needed to increase the product yield in a limited time frame to reduce the processing cost. To reduce the cost of production of rhCIFN in E. coli, induction was accomplished by using lactose instead of IPTG. Lactose induction (14 g/L) in shake flask experiment resulted in higher yield as compared with 1 mM IPTG. Finally, with single‐step purification on DEAE sepharose, 150 mg/L of >98% pure rhCIFN was achieved. In the present study, an attempt was made to develop a low cost process for producing quality product with high purity. Methods devised may be helpful for pilot‐scale production of recombinant proteins at low cost.