bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanically Adaptive and Shape‐Memory Behaviour of Chitosan‐Modified Cellulose Whisker/Elastomer Composites in Different pH Environments
Authors: Wu Tongfei , Su Yuli , Chen Biqiong 
Published: June 2014

AbstractBiomimetic polymer composites with water‐active mechanically adaptive and shape‐memory behaviour in different pH environments are synthesised by using chitosan‐modified cellulose whiskers (CS‐CWs) as the stimulus‐responsive phase and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) as the resilient matrix. The effect of surface modification on the mechanically adaptive behaviour of CS‐CW/TPU composites is investigated by using three representative solutions with various pH values. The results show that surface modification significantly enhances the modulus contrast under wet and dry conditions with the acidic solution as the stimulus, while maintaining the high modulus contrast with the basic solution as the stimulus. CS‐CW/TPU composites also exhibit excellent shape‐memory effects in all three solutions that are comparable to those pristine CW/TPU composites. Furthermore, activation of force generation in the stretched CS‐CW/TPU composites by water absorption/desorption was observed.
Role of Reduced Graphene Oxide in the Critical Components of a CdS‐Sensitized TiO2‐Based Photoelectrochemical Cell
Authors: Selvaraj Josephine , Gupta Satyajit , DelaCruz Steven , Subramanian Vaidyanathan (Ravi) 
Published: June 2014

AbstractNitrogen (N)‐doped reduced graphene oxide (nRGO) is systematically incorporated into a TiO2–CdS photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell and its role is examined in the three main components of the cell: 1) the CdS‐sensitized TiO2 photoanode, 2) the cathode, and 3) the S2−/S.− aqueous redox electrolyte. The nRGO layer is sandwiched between TiO2 nanorods (deposited by using a solvothermal method) and CdS (deposited by using the successive ionic‐layer‐adsorption and ‐reaction method). Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDS) reveals the spatial distribution of CdS and nRGO, whereas nRGO formation is evident from Mott Schottky analysis. Chronoamperometry and PEC analysis indicate that upon incorporation of nRGO, a photocurrent density that is at least 27 times higher than that of pristine TiO2 is achieved; this increase is attributable to the ability of the nRGO to efficiently separate and transport charges. Stability analysis performed by continuous photoillumination over ∼3 h indicates a 26% and 42 % reduction in the photocurrent in the presence and absence of the nRGO respectively. Formation of SO42− is identified as the cause for this photocurrent reduction by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It is also shown that nRGO‐coated glass is as effective as a Pt counter electrode in the PEC cell. Unlike the benefits offered by nRGO at the anode and cathode, introducing it in the redox electrolyte is detrimental. Systematic and complementary electrolyte and film‐based studies on this aspect reveal evidence of the capacitive behavior of nRGO. Competition between the nRGO and the oxidized electrolyte is identified, based on linear‐sweep voltammetry analysis, as the limiting step to efficient charge transport in the electrolyte.
Post‐Synthetic Modification of Hangman Porphyrins Synthesized on the Gram Scale
Authors: Graham Daniel J. , Zheng Shao‐Liang , Nocera Daniel G. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractWe report a multi‐gram scale synthesis of methyl 6‐formyl‐4‐dibenzofurancarboxylate and its subsequent use in the gram scale synthesis of a dibenzofuran‐functionalized hangman porphyrin containing a pendant carboxylic acid (HPD‐CO2H). HPD‐CO2H can be isolated as a free carboxylic acid in high purity with minimal purification. Post‐synthetic modification of HPD‐CO2H allows for the introduction of any desired pendant group in good yields, resulting in a practical amount of hangman porphyrin ligand with an easily customizable second coordination sphere. The cobalt complexes of these hangman porphyrins are shown to be active proton reduction electrocatalysts.
Transcriptional profiling of genes involved in steviol glycoside biosynthesis in Stevia rebaudiana bertoni during plant hardening
Authors: Modi Arpan , Litoriya Nitesh , Prajapati Vijay , Rafalia Rutul , Narayanan Subhash 
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACTBackground: Stevioside is a diterpene glycoside found in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (Asteraceae) and is 200–300 times sweeter than sucrose. It is synthesized through a plastid localized 2‐C‐methyl‐D‐erythritol‐4‐phosphate (MEP) pathway. Fifteen genes are involved in the formation of steviol glycosides (stevioside and rebaudioside A). In the present investigation, micropropagated plants were allowed to harden for one month during which transcriptional profiling of candidate genes was carried out. Sampling from all the plants was carried out during hardening at different time intervals (day 10, 20, and 30) along with control plants (day 0). Stevioside content was also measured. Results: Of 15 genes, 9 were up‐regulated two‐fold or greater. Nine genes were expressed at higher levels after 30 days than in the untreated controls. Moreover, these transcriptional differences were correlated with a significant enhancement in stevioside content from 0‐ (11.48%) to 30‐ (13.57%) day‐old plants. Conclusions: MEP pathway genes in stevia are expressed at higher levels during hardening, a change to vegetative growth from reproductive growth. Although there were higher transcript levels of candidate genes at the initial phase of hardening, the highest stevioside content was found after 30 days of hardening, suggesting translational/posttranslational regulatory mechanisms. Developmental Dynamics 243:1067–1073, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Persistent angina pectoris in ischaemic cardiomyopathy: increased rehospitalization and major adverse cardiac events
Authors: Mentz Robert J. , Broderick Samuel , Shaw Linda K. , Chiswell Karen , Fiuzat Mona , O'Connor Christopher M. 
Published: June 2014

AimsThe impact of refractory angina pectoris (AP) in patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) is unknown. We investigated the characteristics and outcomes of ICM patients with persistent AP following cardiac catheterization.Methods and resultsPatients who underwent coronary angiography at Duke from 2000 to 2009 with an EF <40% and ICM with persistent AP were compared with similar patients without persistent AP. Persistent AP was defined by patient report of ischaemic symptoms within 1 year of index catheterization. Time‐to‐event was examined using Kaplan–Meier or cumulative incidence and Cox proportional hazards modelling methods for death/myocardial infarction (MI)/revascularization [i.e. major adverse cardiac events (MACE)], death/MI, death, and cardiovascular death/hospitalization. Of 965 ICM patients, 298 (31%) had persistent AP. These patients were younger and had more previous revascularization than patients without persistent AP. Both groups had high use of aspirin, beta‐blockers, ACE inhibitors, and statins, but modest nitrate use. Over a median follow‐up of >5 years, patients with persistent AP had increased rates of MACE, and cardiovascular death/hospitalization compared with patients without persistent AP [5‐year cumulative event rates of 53% vs. 46% (P = 0.013) and 73% vs. 60% (P < 0.0001), respectively], but similar rates of death (P = 0.59) and death/MI (P = 0.50). After multivariable adjustment, persistent AP remained associated with increased MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 1.30; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–1.57], and cardiovascular death/hospitalization (HR 1.36; 95% CI 1.14–1.62).ConclusionPersistent AP is common despite medical therapy in patients with ICM and is independently associated with increased long‐term MACE and rehospitalization. Future prospective studies of persistent AP in ICM patients are warranted.
Point‐Functionalization of Ionic Liquids: An Overview of Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Chiappe Cinzia , Pomelli Christian Silvio 
Published: June 2014

AbstractIn recent years, the designer nature of ionic liquids (ILs) has driven their exploration and exploitation in numerous fields. Undoubtedly, the most attractive feature of ILs is their tunability and the incorporation of functional groups into the cations or anions is the most efficient way to impart a particular property. Functionalized ILs are generally named “task‐specific ionic liquids” (TSILs). In this review, we survey some of the classes of TSILs, generally characterized by the presence of only one “common” functional group, arising from slight modifications (here, defined as “point‐functionalization”) that can be achieved through simple synthetic procedures. In particular, we will discuss their synthesis, immobilization and applications in some specific fields. Among these, we consider their use as solvent catalysts in organic synthesis and metal‐catalysed processes, and as fluids in metal extraction processes and gas capture, highlighting their possible uses in materials sciences. The aim of this review is to provide, through a careful survey of the literature, indications of sustainable and rational developments in this extremely prolific field.
Trophodynamics of current use pesticides and ecological relationships in the Bathurst region vegetation-caribou-wolf food chain of the Canadian Arctic
Authors: Morris Adam D. , Muir Derek C.G. , Solomon Keith R. , Teixeira Camilla , Duric Mark , Wang Xiaowa 
Published: June 2014

Abstract

The bioaccumulation of current use pesticides (CUPs) and stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen were investigated in vegetation-caribou-wolf food chain in the Bathurst region (Nunavut, Canada). Volumetric bioconcentration factors (BCFv) in vegetation were generally greatest for dacthal (10–12) ≥ endosulfan sulfate (10–11) &gt; ß-endosulfan (&gt;9.0–9.7) ≥ pentachloronitrobenzene (PCNB; 8.4–9.6) &gt; α-endosulfan (8.3–9.3) &gt; chlorpyrifos (8.0–8.7) &gt;chlorothalonil (7.6–8.3). The BCFv values in vegetation were significantly correlated with the logarithm of the octanol–air partition coefficients (log KOA) of CUPs (r2 = 0.90, p = 0.0040), although dacthal was an outlier and not included in this relationship. Most biomagnification factors (BMFs) for CUPs in caribou:diet comparisons were significantly less than 1. Similarly, the majority of wolf:caribou BMFs were either significantly less than 1 or were not statistically greater than 1. Significant trophic magnification factors (TMFs) were all less than 1, indicating that these CUPs exhibit trophic dilution through this terrestrial food chain. The log KOA reasonably predicted bioconcentration in vegetation for most CUPs but was not correlated with BMFs or TMFs in mammals. Our results, along with those of metabolic studies, suggest that mammals actively metabolize these CUPs, limiting their biomagnification potential despite entry into the food chain through effective bioconcentration in vegetation. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014; 33:1956–1966. © 2014 SETAC
Hunger macht langsam
Authors: Gronemeyer Reimer , Fink Michaela 
Published: June 2014

AbstractIm südlichen Afrika leben über 15 Millionen AIDS‐Waisen. Wie in Namibia werden die meisten bislang von ihren Großfamilien versorgt. Doch die traditionellen Strukturen zerfallen — statt ihrer müssen zivilgesellschaftliche Initiativen versuchen, die Not zu lindern.
Coronary artery indexed diameter and z score regression equations in healthy Chinese Han children
Authors: Zhang Yu‐qi , Chen Shu‐bao , Huang Guo‐ying , Zhang Hong‐yan , Huang Mei‐rong , Wang Shan‐shan , Wu Lan‐ping , Hong Wen‐jing , Shen Rong , Liu Yi‐qing , Zhu Jun‐xue , Lu Zhao‐hui 
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACTObjectiveIn children with coronary disease, clinical decision should be based on detailed measurements of the coronary arteries by two‐dimensional echocardiography. We aimed to establish coronary artery reference indexed diameter and z scores regression equations in a large cohort of Chinese Han children.MethodsWe measured the diameter of the proximal right (RCA), left main (LMCA), left anterior descending, and left circumflex coronary artery, and of the aortic annulus, and calculated the coronary‐aorta index (coronary artery‐to‐aortic annulus ratio) in 506 Chinese Han children with normal hearts whose ages ranged from 1 day to 18 years. Regression analyses were performed, relating the coronary artery dimensions to body surface area (BSA). Several models were used, and the best model (yielding the maximum adjusted R2) was chosen to establish a z score calculator.ResultsBased on cubic regression, (M) = β0 + β1 × BSA + β2 × BSA2 + β3 × BSA3, the adjusted R2 values were 0.515, 0.553, 0.505, and 0.518 for the RCA, LMCA, left anterior descending, and left circumflex coronary artery models, respectively. RCA/aortic annulus was 0.14 ± 0.02 (range, 0.07–0.24) and LMCA/AOA was 0.15 ± 0.03 (range, 0.10–0.28).ConclusionsOur results provide reference values of coronary artery z scores, regression equation, and coronary‐aorta index as a quick guide to determine coronary dilation in Chinese Han children. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 43:39–46, 2015
Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of placenta accreta—Impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes
Authors: Hall Tania , Wax Joseph R. , Lucas F. Lee , Cartin Angelina , Jones Michael , Pinette Michael G. 
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACTPurposeTo compare maternal and neonatal outcomes of prenatally diagnosed versus undiagnosed cases of placenta accreta.MethodsThis retrospective study included all pathology‐proven placentas accreta/increta/percreta from a single tertiary center from January 1, 2005 to December 31, 2012. Outcomes were compared between prenatally diagnosed and undiagnosed cases.ResultsThirty‐six cases of abnormal implantations were identified, of which 19 (53%) were prenatally diagnosed by ultrasound. Prenatal detection was more likely with a percreta (7/19 versus 2/17, p = .07), parity (18/19 versus 9/17, p = .01), prior cesarean (17/19 versus 4/17, p = .0001), shorter cesarean‐conception interval (22.8 ± 21.4 versus 108 ± 7.6 months, p = .01), and spontaneous conception (19/19 versus 12/17, p = .03). Cases diagnosed prenatally more frequently received steroids for fetal maturity (13/20 versus 3/19, p = .003), delivered by cesarean (19/19 versus 11/17, p = .01) under general anesthesia (14/19 versus 4/17, p = .002) with a cell saver (5/19 versus 0/17, p = .06). There were no statistically significant differences by group in maternal blood loss, transfusion, intensive care admission or length of stay, operative injury, or severe composite morbidity (reoperation, coagulopathy, thromboembolism, wound infection, multiorgan failure, transfusion reaction, fistula, or chest compressions). There were no statistically significant differences in 5‐minute Apgar <7, neonatal intensive care unit admission or length of stay, or severe composite morbidity.ConclusionPrenatally undiagnosed accretas are less complex than prenatally diagnosed cases, but associated with statistically similar outcomes, suggesting benefit to prenatal recognition. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:449–455, 2014
Rhizosphere dynamics under nitrogen‐induced root modification: The interaction of phosphorus and calcium
Authors: Makhani Mitalie , Isaac Marney E. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractOptimizing root phosphorus (P) acquisition to reduce intensive fertilizer use is a crucial pathway for sustainable agriculture, particularly as P is an important plant macronutrient, often limiting in a majority of soils worldwide. Although many studies have assessed plant growth and P acquisition, few studies have investigated the interactive effects of nitrogen (N)‐induced root modification on soil P processes or the understudied effects of soil calcium (Ca) dynamics on soil P bioavailability. In this study, we investigate soil P and Ca response in the rhizosphere of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. spp. durum). Wheat grown under controlled conditions preloaded for 20 d with two N treatments [preloaded low N (1 mmol KNO3 plant−1) and preloaded high N (2 mmol KNO3 plant−1)] were transferred to rhizoboxes for 12 d [days after transfer (DAT)]. Shoot and root biomass, P and Ca concentration, and plant‐available P and extractable Ca were determined every three days (0, 3, 6, 9, 12 DAT). Significantly higher root mass (P = 0.7%), root length (P = 1.8%) and total biomass (P = 2.2%) were found at the end of the experiment but exclusively for high N preloaded wheat. This greater root biomass was associated with lower root P concentration, suggesting a dilution response, while little difference was observed in shoot P concentration over the 12 d. However, Ca accumulated in both roots and shoots under both preloading N levels. Concurrently, soil‐extractable Ca declined, and plant‐available P increased (r = –0.62; P = 0.03%), presumably due to a promoting effect of Ca uptake on soil P availability; lower soil Ca in turn increased the repulsive forces between P ions and the negatively charged soil surface, resulting in an increased P availability in the soil solution. This study contributes to the understanding of the complex interplay between multi‐nutrient dynamics within the rhizosphere.
Ultrafiltration liquid chromatography combined with high‐speed countercurrent chromatography for screening and isolating potential α‐glucosidase and xanthine oxidase inhibitors from Cortex Phellodendri
Authors: Li Sainan , Liu Chunming , Guo Liping , Zhang Yuchi , Wang Jing , Ma Bing , Wang Yueqi , Wang Yumeng , Ren Junqi , Yang Xiaojing , Qin Yao , Tang Ying 
Published: June 2014

Cortex Phellodendri is a typical Chinese herb with a large number of alkaloids existing in all parts of it. The most common methods for screening and isolating alkaloids are mostly labor intensive and time consuming. In this study, a new assay based upon ultrafiltration liquid chromatography was developed for the rapid screening of ligands for α‐glucosidase and xanthine oxidase. The C. Phellodendri extract was found to contain two alkaloids with both α‐glucosidase‐ and xanthine oxidase binding activities and one lactone with α‐glucosidase‐binding activity. Subsequently, with the help of high‐speed countercurrent chromatography, the specific binding ligands including palmatine, berberine, and obaculactone with purities of 97.38, 96.12, and 96.08%, respectively, were successfully separated. An optimized low‐toxicity two‐phase solvent system composed of ethyl acetate/n‐butanol/ethanol/water (3.5:1.7:0.5:5, v/v/v/v) was used to isolate the three compounds mentioned above from C. Phellodendri. The targeted compounds were identified by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. Therefore, ultrafiltration liquid chromatography combined with high‐speed countercurrent chromatography is not only a powerful tool for screening and isolating α‐glucosidase and xanthine oxidase inhibitors in complex samples but is also a useful platform for discovering bioactive compounds for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus and gout.
Colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyps in relation to allium vegetables intake: A meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Turati Federica , Guercio Valentina , Pelucchi Claudio , Vecchia Carlo La , Galeone Carlotta 
Published: June 2014

ScopeTo provide updated quantitative estimates of the associations between allium vegetables intake and risk of colorectal cancer and colorectal adenomatous polyps.Methods and resultsWe combined all published data on the issue, using a meta‐analytic approach. Pooled relative risks (RRs) were calculated using random‐effects models. Sixteen studies (13 333 cases) were included in the meta‐analyses of colorectal cancer. Seven studies provided information on garlic, six on onion, and four on total allium vegetables. The pooled RRs of colorectal cancer for the highest versus the lowest category of intake were 0.85 (95% confidence interval; CI, 0.72–1.00) for garlic (0.76 for case‐control, 0.99 for cohort studies), 0.85 (95% CI, 0.70–1.04) for onion (0.74 for case‐control, 1.04 for cohort studies), and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.56–1.08) for total allium vegetables. Significant heterogeneity was found for the three meta‐analyses. The pooled RR of colorectal adenomatous polyps for the highest versus the lowest category of total allium vegetables intake was 0.88 (95% CI, 0.80–0.98, three studies), with no heterogeneity.ConclusionHigh garlic intake may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. However, evidence of such protection derived mainly from case‐control studies. High intake of total allium vegetables may be associated with a risk reduction of colorectal adenomatous polyps.
Changes in vitamin D target gene expression in adipose tissue monitor the vitamin D response of human individuals
Authors: Ryynänen Jussi , Neme Antonio , Tuomainen Tomi‐Pekka , Virtanen Jyrki K. , Voutilainen Sari , Nurmi Tarja , de Mello Vanessa D. F. , Uusitupa Matti , Carlberg Carsten 
Published: June 2014

ScopeVitamin D3, its biologically most active metabolite 1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) are important for adipose tissue biology.Methods and resultsWe extrapolated genomic VDR association loci in adipocytes from 55 conserved genome‐wide VDR‐binding sites in nonfat tissues. Taking the genes DUSP10, TRAK1, NRIP1, and THBD as examples, we confirmed the predicted VDR binding sites upstream of their transcription start sites and showed rapid mRNA up‐regulation of all four genes in SGBS human pre‐adipocytes. Using adipose tissue biopsy samples from 47 participants of a 5‐month vitamin D3 intervention study, we demonstrated that all four primary VDR target genes can serve as biomarkers for the vitamin D3 responsiveness of human individuals. Changes in DUSP10 gene expression appear to be the most comprehensive marker, while THBD mRNA changes characterized a rather different group of study participants.ConclusionWe present a new approach to predict vitamin D target genes based on conserved genomic VDR‐binding sites. Using human adipocytes as examples, we show that such ubiquitous VDR target genes can be used as markers for the individual's response to a supplementation with vitamin D3.
Natural D‐glucose as a biodegradable MRI relaxation agent
Authors: Yadav Nirbhay N. , Xu Jiadi , Bar‐Shir Amnon , Qin Qin , Chan Kannie W.Y. , Grgac Ksenija , Li Wenbo , McMahon Michael T. , van Zijl Peter C.M. 
Published: June 2014

PurposeDemonstrate applicability of natural D‐glucose as a T2 MRI contrast agent.MethodsD‐glucose solutions were prepared at multiple concentrations and variable pH. The relaxation rate (R2 = 1/T2) was measured at 3, 7, and 11.7 T. Additional experiments were performed on blood at 11.7 T. Also, a mouse was infused with D‐glucose (3.0 mmol/kg) and dynamic T2 weighted images of the abdomen acquired.ResultsThe transverse relaxation rate depended strongly on glucose concentration and solution pH. A maximum change in R2 was observed around physiological pH (pH 6.8‐7.8). The transverse relaxivities at 22°C (pH 7.3) were 0.021, 0.060, and 0.077 s−1mM−1 at 3.0, 7.0, and 11.7 T, respectively. These values showed good agreement with expected values from the Swift‐Connick equation. There was no significant dependence on glucose concentration or pH for T1 and the diffusion coefficient for these solutions. The transverse relaxivity in blood at 11.7 T was 0.09 s−1mM−1. The dynamic in vivo experiment showed a 10% drop in signal intensity after glucose infusion followed by recovery of the signal intensity after about 50–100 s.ConclusionGlucose can be used as a T2 contrast agent for MRI at concentrations that are already approved for human use. Magn Reson Med 72:823–828, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.