bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) composite membranes based on amino‐modified halloysite nanotubes that effectively immobilize phosphotungstic acid
Authors: He Shaojian , Dai Wenxu , Zhai Shaoxiong , Song Hao , Lin Jun 
Published: May 2020

AbstractIn this work, we prepared amino‐modified halloysite nanotubes (PEI‐DHNTs) via the co‐deposition of self‐polymerized dopamine and polyethylenimine (PEI) on the surface of nanotubes, which was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). A series of composite proton exchange membranes (PEMs) were prepared by incorporating PEI‐DHNTs and phosphotungstic acid (HPW) into sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK). It was found that both PEI‐DHNTs and HPW were well dispersed in the polymer matrix, exhibiting excellent filler‐matrix compatibility. The composite membranes demonstrated enhanced proton conductivity, reaching as high as 0.078 S cm−1 with 33.3 wt.% HPW loading, which was ~90% higher than that of SPEEK control membrane. Such improvement was mainly attributed to the strong acid–base pairs formed by PEI‐DHNT with both SPEEK and HPW, which shortened proton hopping distance and created more continuous proton conduction pathways. Furthermore, the membrane conductivity remained almost constant after 1 year's immersion in liquid water, indicating the successful immobilization of HPW in the composite membranes.
Maltodextrin as stabilizer for emulsion polymerization: Adsorption and grafting behavior
Authors: Ferrari Raffaele , Storti Giuseppe , Morbidelli Massimo 
Published: May 2020

AbstractEmulsion polymerization of the three‐monomer system butyl acrylate–styrene–methacrylic acid was performed in batch using a commercial maltodextrin derived from starch degradation as stabilizer. Stable latexes with narrow particle size distributions were obtained in all examined cases. A method was developed to analyze and quantify the partitioning of the maltodextrin between the continuous phase (supernatant) and the particle phase. Significant differences between the polysaccharides adsorbed onto particles with or without emulsion polymerization reaction were observed. The possible reactions of maltodextrin in presence of a radical initiator were studied in aqueous phase, thus confirming maltodextrin degradation. The formation of copolymers involving the original monomers and the stabilizer according to two different reactive pathways was also confirmed. In terms of adsorbed maltodextrin, two different contributions were observed: maltodextrin physically adsorbed and maltodextrin chemically grafted and/or physically incorporated into the polymer.
Process regulation for encapsulating pure polyamine via integrating microfluidic T‐junction and interfacial polymerization
Authors: Cao Xianwu , Peng Junjie , Fang Xinglei , Yang Zhitao , Liao Zicen , Yan Zhibin , Jiang Chuanxia , Liu Bin , Zhang He 
Published: May 2020

AbstractThe quality of microcapsules directly determines the performance of microcapsule‐based functional materials, such as self‐healing materials. How to achieve high‐quality microcapsules depends on not only the selected microencapsulation technique but also the process regulation. Herein, using tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA) as the core target to be encapsulated by a novel microencapsulation technique through integrating microfluidic T‐junction and interfacial polymerization, this investigation studied how the process parameters influence the microencapsulation process and the quality of the synthesized microcapsules regarding the size, morphology, shell structure, and composition. The studied parameters include the solvent type and surfactant concentration in the co‐flow solution, the fed volume of the co‐flow solution, the types of the solvent, catalyst, and shell‐forming monomer in the reaction solution for the shell‐growth stage, and the reaction temperature at the shell‐growth stage. The influence mechanisms were established based on the observations, and the optimized parameter combination for the process was achieved. Through the parametric study for the microencapsulation technique, this study also lays a solid foundation for the technique to fabricate microcapsules containing other functional substances with high quality.
Opportunities for improving conservation early warning and alert systems
Authors: Tabor Karyn M. , Holland Margaret B. 
Published: May 2020

AbstractConservation early warning and alert systems (CEAS) provide tremendous opportunities to inform strategic and effective environmental responses. However, these systems are not systematically evaluated based on how they are contributing to conservation outcomes. We survey the current state of systems enabled by satellite monitoring to support tropical forest management and highlight their recent proliferation and the sparse evaluations of these systems in terms of user adoption and application for improving conservation decisions. To guide practitioners, funders and policymakers to choose the appropriate tool for the application, we distinguish two types of CEAS, Rapid Response and Targeted Response, characterized by the user application and the timeframe for decision‐making. These tools are distinct from monitoring tools used for policy and planning which require routine, high‐accuracy and quantifiable estimates of land cover change. We see a need for more systematic evaluations quantifying their environmental and socioeconomic benefits and improved indicators measuring progress toward achieving conservation outcomes. To inform system developers, we summarize best practices for increasing system adoption and use gleaned from seasoned applications of early warning and alert systems for conservation and humanitarian applications. Engaging diverse stakeholders, building permanent capacity, increasing accessibility and interpretability of the information, and communicating the information value to decision‐makers help root these systems into decision‐making processes. Incorporating local knowledge and on‐the‐ground monitoring information from stakeholders can improve alert accuracy while respectfully honoring local knowledge and garnering stakeholder trust in the systems. Strengthening cross‐institutional networks, building political support, and allocating adequate resources empower decision‐makers to act upon the information. Addressing today’s urgent conservation challenges requires linking accessible, trusted and effective CEAS to empowered people taking conservation actions.
Ubiquitous overexpression of CXCL12 confers radiation protection and enhances mobilization of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Rajendiran Smrithi , Smith-Berdan Stephanie , Kunz Leo , Risolino Maurizio , Selleri Licia , Schroeder Timm , Forsberg E. Camilla 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12; aka SDF1α) is a major regulator of a number of cellular systems, including hematopoiesis, where it influences hematopoietic cell trafficking, proliferation, and survival during homeostasis and upon stress and disease. A variety of constitutive, temporal, ubiquitous, and cell-specific loss-of-function models have documented the functional consequences on hematopoiesis upon deletion of Cxcl12. Here, in contrast to loss-of-function experiments, we implemented a gain-of-function approach by generating a doxycycline-inducible transgenic mouse model that enables spatial and temporal overexpression of Cxcl12. We demonstrated that ubiquitous CXCL12 overexpression led to an increase in multipotent progenitors in the bone marrow and spleen. The CXCL12+ mice displayed reduced reconstitution potential as either donors or recipients in transplantation experiments. Additionally, we discovered that Cxcl12 overexpression improved hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell mobilization into the blood, and conferred radioprotection by promoting quiescence. Thus, this new CXCL12+ mouse model provided new insights into major facets of hematopoiesis and serves as a versatile resource for studying CXCL12 function in a variety of contexts.
Lineage-specific differentiation of osteogenic progenitors from pluripotent stem cells reveals the FGF1-RUNX2 association in neural crest-derived osteoprogenitors
Authors: Kidwai Fahad , Mui Byron W. H. , Arora Deepika , Iqbal Kulsum , Hockaday Madison , Castro Diaz Luis Fernandez , Cherman Natasha , Martin Daniel , Myneni Vamsee D. , Ahmad Moaz , Futrega Katarzyna , Ali Sania , Merling Randall K. , Kaufman Dan S. , Lee Janice , Robey Pamela G. 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can provide a platform to model bone organogenesis and disease. To reflect the developmental process of the human skeleton, hPSC differentiation methods should include osteogenic progenitors (OPs) arising from three distinct embryonic lineages: the paraxial mesoderm, lateral plate mesoderm, and neural crest. Although OP differentiation protocols have been developed, the lineage from which they are derived, as well as characterization of their genetic and molecular differences, has not been well reported. Therefore, to generate lineage-specific OPs from human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells, we employed stepwise differentiation of paraxial mesoderm-like cells, lateral plate mesoderm-like cells, and neural crest-like cells toward their respective OP subpopulation. Successful differentiation, confirmed through gene expression and in vivo assays, permitted the identification of transcriptomic signatures of all three cell populations. We also report, for the first time, high FGF1 levels in neural crest-derived OPs—a notable finding given the critical role of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) in osteogenesis and mineral homeostasis. Our results indicate that FGF1 influences RUNX2 levels, with concomitant changes in ERK1/2 signaling. Overall, our study further validates hPSCs' power to model bone development and disease and reveals new, potentially important pathways influencing these processes.
Linnaean names in Arum (Araceae): Typification of A. arisarum (≡ Arisarum vulgare) and A. tenuifolium (≡ Biarum tenuifolium)
Authors: Iamonico Duilio 
Published: May 2020

AbstractAs part of ongoing studies on the family Araceae, and of the Italian Loci Classici Census project, the typification of the Linnaean names Arum arisarum (≡ Arisarum vulgare) and A. tenuifolium (≡ Biarum tenuifolium s.str.) is discussed. An image of L'Obel's Arisarum latifolium and a BM specimen are designated respectively as the lectotypes. An epitype (deposited at HFLA) is also designated for A. tenuifolium subsp. tenuifolium.
Sensor Technologies for Automobiles and Robots
Authors: Nonomura Yutaka 
Published: May 2020

AbstractThis paper reviews various sensor technologies with application in automobiles and robots. Several automotive sensors have been developed using the micro‐electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. The technologies related to combustion pressure sensors, yaw rate sensors, acceleration sensors, and optical scanners are described here. The combustion pressure sensors are used for engine control, while the yaw rate sensors of quartz and silicon crystals and the acceleration sensors are applied for vehicle motion control. Optical scanners are developed for autonomous driving. Several automotive sensors have been significantly reduced in size and cost, and their performance has been improved dramatically by MEMS technology. The inertial force‐sensing system with yaw rate and acceleration sensors enabled the assistant and partner robots to stand on two legs, walk, or invert and move on two wheels. Because the robots are required to have a variety of sensors, a nerve‐net sensing system was developed. This sensing system has three layers: the host, relay, and sensor nodes. The sensor node is a special large‐scale integration called a ‘nerve‐net chip.’ A triaxial force tactile sensor integrated with the nerve‐net chip was developed as a 2.8‐mm square surface‐mountable chip. A force and thermal tactile sensor was also developed, which detected heat flows and discriminated the materials of contacted objects. The heat flow sensor was thinned with thin‐film technology. The sensor technologies will be used for eco cars and autonomous vehicles. Next‐generation robots are also supported by several automotive sensor technologies. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Comparative proteomic analysis of mitochondrial proteins from maize CMS‐C sterile, maintainer and restorer anthers
Authors: Zhang Huaisheng , Wang Bin , Li Bing , Lin Yanan , Yang Huili , Ding Dong , Xue Yadong , Tang Jihua 
Published: May 2020

AbstractThe maize C system of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and its fertility restoration gene Rf4 have been widely used for maize hybrid production; however, the underlying mechanism is still uncertain. The sterility factor functions in mitochondria, where it interacts directly or indirectly with the restorer. Mitoproteomics can capture all participants involved in CMS and restoration at the organelle level. In the present study, we identified and quantified anther mitochondrial proteins from CMS, maintainer and restorer lines. We obtained 14,528 unique peptides belonging to 3,369 proteins. Comparative analysis of 1840 high‐confidence proteins revealed 68 were differentially accumulated proteins likely involved in CMS or its restoration within mitochondria. These proteins were mainly associated with fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism and protein‐processing pathways. These results suggest that an energy deficiency caused by the sterility factor hinders other proteins or protein complexes required for pollen development through nuclear‐mitochondrial interaction. The restorer factor may boost the energy generation by activating alternative metabolic pathways and by improving the post‐translation processing efficiency of proteins in energy‐producing complexes to restore pollen fertility. Our findings may aid detailed molecular analysis and contribute to a better understanding of maize CMS‐C restoration and sterility.
Nanoparticle contrast agents for X‐ray imaging applications
Authors: Hsu Jessica C. , Nieves Lenitza M. , Betzer Oshra , Sadan Tamar , Noël Peter B. , Popovtzer Rachela , Cormode David P. 
Published: May 2020

AbstractX‐ray imaging is the most widely used diagnostic imaging method in modern medicine and several advanced forms of this technology have recently emerged. Iodinated molecules and barium sulfate suspensions are clinically approved X‐ray contrast agents and are widely used. However, these existing contrast agents provide limited information, are suboptimal for new X‐ray imaging techniques and are developing safety concerns. Thus, over the past 15 years, there has been a rapid growth in the development of nanoparticles as X‐ray contrast agents. Nanoparticles have several desirable features such as high contrast payloads, the potential for long circulation times, and tunable physicochemical properties. Nanoparticles have also been used in a range of biomedical applications such as disease treatment, targeted imaging, and cell tracking. In this review, we discuss the principles behind X‐ray contrast generation and introduce new types of X‐ray imaging modalities, as well as potential elements and chemical compositions that are suitable for novel contrast agent development. We focus on the progress in nanoparticle X‐ray contrast agents developed to be renally clearable, long circulating, theranostic, targeted, or for cell tracking. We feature agents that are used in conjunction with the newly developed multi‐energy computed tomography and mammographic imaging technologies. Finally, we offer perspectives on current limitations and emerging research topics as well as expectations for the future development of the field.This article is categorized under:
Diagnostic Tools > in vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology
Catch crop diversity increases rhizosphere carbon input and soil microbial biomass
Authors: Gentsch Norman , Boy Jens , Batalla Juan Daniel Kennedy , Heuermann Diana , von Wirén Nicolaus , Schweneker Dörte , Feuerstein Ulf , Groß Jonas , Bauer Bernhard , Reinhold-Hurek Barbara , Hurek Thomas , Céspedes Fabricio Camacho , Guggenberger Georg 
Published: May 2020

AbstractCatch crops increase plant species richness in crop rotations, but are most often grown as pure stands. Here, we investigate the impacts of increasing plant diversity in catch crop rotations on rhizosphere C input and microbial utilization. Mustard (Sinapis alba L.) planted as a single cultivar was compared to diversified catch crop mixtures of four (Mix4) or 12 species (Mix12). We traced the C transfer from shoots to roots towards the soil microbial community and the soil respiration in a 13C pulse labelling field experiment. Net CO2-C uptake from the atmosphere increased by two times in mix 4 and more than three times in mix 12. Higher net ecosystem C production was linked to increasing catch crop diversity and increased belowground transfer rates of recently fixed photoassimilates. The higher rhizosphere C input stimulated the growth and activity of the soil microbiome, which was investigated by phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analyses. Total microbial biomass increased from 14 to 22 g m−2 as compared to the fallow and was 18 and 8% higher for mix 12 and mix 4 as compared to mustard. In particular, the fungal and actinobacterial communities profited the most from the higher belowground C input and their biomass increased by 3.4 and 1.3 times as compared to the fallow. The residence time of the 13C pulse, traced in the CO2 flux from the soil environment, increased with plant diversity by up to 1.8 times. The results of this study suggest positive impacts of plant diversity on C cycling by higher atmospheric C uptake, higher transport rates towards the rhizosphere, higher microbial incorporation and prolonged residence time in the soil environment. We conclude that diversified catch crop mixtures improve the efficiency of C cycling in cropping systems and provide a promising tool for sustainable soil management.
Acrophobia and visual height intolerance: advances in epidemiology and mechanisms
Authors: Huppert Doreen , Wuehr Max , Brandt Thomas 
Published: May 2020

AbstractHistorical descriptions of fear at heights date back to Chinese and Roman antiquity. Current definitions distinguish between three different states of responses to height exposure: a physiological height imbalance that results from an impaired visual control of balance, a more or less distressing visual height intolerance, and acrophobia at the severest end of the spectrum. Epidemiological studies revealed a lifetime prevalence of visual height intolerance including acrophobia in 28% of adults (32% in women; 25% in men) and 34% among prepubertal children aged 8–10 years without gender preponderance. Visual height intolerance first occurring in adulthood usually persists throughout life, whereas an early manifestation in childhood usually shows a benign course with spontaneous relief within years. A high comorbidity was found with psychiatric disorders (e.g. anxiety and depressive syndromes) and other vertigo syndromes (e.g. vestibular migraine, Menière’s disease), but not with bilateral vestibulopathy. Neurophysiological analyses of stance, gait, and eye movements revealed an anxious control of postural stability, which entails a co-contraction of anti-gravity muscles that causes a general stiffening of the whole body including the oculomotor apparatus. Visual exploration is preferably reduced to fixation of the horizon. Gait alterations are characterized by a cautious slow walking mode with reduced stride length and increased double support phases. Anxiety is the critical factor in visual height intolerance and acrophobia leading to a motor behavior that resembles an atavistic primitive reflex of feigning death. The magnitude of anxiety and neurophysiological parameters of musculoskeletal stiffening increase with increasing height. They saturate, however, at about 20 m of absolute height above ground for postural symptoms and about 40 m for anxiety (70 m in acrophobic participants). With respect to management, a differentiation should be made between behavioral recommendations for prevention and therapy of the condition. Recommendations for coping strategies target behavioral advices on visual exploration, control of posture and locomotion as well as the role of cognition. Treatment of severely afflicted persons with distressing avoidance behavior mainly relies on behavioral therapy.
Bayesian inference in multivariate spatio-temporal areal models using INLA: analysis of gender-based violence in small areas
Authors: Vicente G. , Goicoa T. , Ugarte M. D. 
Published: May 2020

AbstractMultivariate models for spatial count data are currently receiving attention in disease mapping to model two or more diseases jointly. They have been thoroughly studied from a theoretical point of view, but their use in practice is still limited because they are computationally expensive and, in general, they are not implemented in standard software to be used routinely. Here, a new multivariate proposal, based on the recently derived M models for spatial data, is developed for spatio-temporal areal data. The model takes account of the correlation between the spatial and temporal patterns of the phenomena being studied, and it also includes spatio-temporal interactions. Though multivariate models have been traditionally fitted using Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques, here we propose to adopt integrated nested Laplace approximations to speed up computations as results obtained using both fitting techniques were nearly identical. The techniques are used to analyse two forms of crimes against women in India. In particular, we focus on the joint analysis of rapes and dowry deaths in Uttar Pradesh, the most populated Indian state, during the years 2001–2014.