bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantile Equivalence to Evaluate Compliance With Habitat Management Objectives
Authors: Cade Brian S. , Johnson Pamela R. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractEquivalence estimated with linear quantile regression was used to evaluate compliance with habitat management objectives at Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge based on monitoring data collected in upland (5,781 ha; n  =  511 transects) and riparian and meadow (2,856 ha, n  =  389 transects) habitats from 2005 to 2008. Quantiles were used because the management objectives specified proportions of the habitat area that needed to comply with vegetation criteria. The linear model was used to obtain estimates that were averaged across 4 y. The equivalence testing framework allowed us to interpret confidence intervals for estimated proportions with respect to intervals of vegetative criteria (equivalence regions) in either a liberal, benefit-of-doubt or conservative, fail-safe approach associated with minimizing alternative risks. Simple Boolean conditional arguments were used to combine the quantile equivalence results for individual vegetation components into a joint statement for the multivariable management objectives. For example, management objective 2A required at least 809 ha of upland habitat with a shrub composition ≥0.70 sagebrush (Artemisia spp.), 20–30% canopy cover of sagebrush ≥25 cm in height, ≥20% canopy cover of grasses, and ≥10% canopy cover of forbs on average over 4 y. Shrub composition and canopy cover of grass each were readily met on &gt;3,000 ha under either conservative or liberal interpretations of sampling variability. However, there were only 809–1,214 ha (conservative to liberal) with ≥10% forb canopy cover and 405–1,098 ha with 20–30% canopy cover of sagebrush ≥25 cm in height. Only 91–180 ha of uplands simultaneously met criteria for all four components, primarily because canopy cover of sagebrush and forbs was inversely related when considered at the spatial scale (30 m) of a sample transect. We demonstrate how the quantile equivalence analyses also can help refine the numerical specification of habitat objectives and explore specification of spatial scales for objectives with respect to sampling scales used to evaluate those objectives.
Alphaviruses: Semliki Forest Virus and Sindbis Virus Vectors for Gene Transfer into Neurons
Authors: Ehrengruber Markus U. , Schlesinger Sondra , Lundstrom Kenneth 
Published: October 2011

AbstractAlphaviral vectors based on Semliki Forest virus and Sindbis virus infect many host cell types, causing rapid and high‐level transgene expression. In the CNS, Semliki Forest virus and Sindbis virus exhibit an outstanding preference for neurons rather than glial cells, compared to other viruses. Generation of high‐titer virus stocks is rapid (less than two days) and typically requires biosafety level 1 or 2 containment. Wild‐type vectors are cytotoxic, permitting short‐term transgene expression. However, mutant vectors with decreased cytotoxicity, to prolong host cell survival, have been developed. They also increase transgene expression and cellular co‐infection, permitting heteromeric protein expression in individual cells. In addition, mutants with temperature‐dependent control of transgene expression and altered host cell preference to target interneurons and astrocytes rather than principal neurons are available. Other alphavirus vectors based on Venezuelan equine encephalitis and Eastern equine encephalitis virus replicons have been engineered, too. Alphavirus vectors have been successfully used not only in neuroscience, but also for other applications including drug discovery, structural biology, vaccine development, and cancer therapy. Curr. Protoc. Neurosci. 57:4.22.1‐4.22.27. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Assessing Mitochondrial Redox Status by Flow Cytometric Methods: Vascular Response to Fluid Shear Stress
Authors: Li Rongsong , Jen Nelson , Yu Fei , Hsiai Tzung K. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractMitochondria are an important source of superoxide production contributing to physiological and pathological responses, including vascular oxidative stress that is relevant to cardiovascular diseases. Vascular oxidative stress is intimately linked with pro‐inflammatory states and atherosclerosis. Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (OxLDL) modulates intracellular redox status and induces apoptosis in endothelial cells. Hemodynamic, specifically, fluid shear stress imparts both biomechanical and metabolic effects on vasculature. Mitochondria are an important source of superoxide production contributing to vascular oxidative stress with relevance to cardiovascular diseases. We hereby present biophysical and biochemical approaches, including fluorescence‐activated cell sorting, to assess the dynamics of vascular redox status. Curr. Protoc. Cytom. 58:9.37.1‐9.37.14. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Footwear characteristics and factors influencing footwear choice in patients with gout
Authors: Rome Keith , Frecklington Mike , Mcnair Peter , Gow Peter , Dalbeth Nicola 
Published: October 2011

AbstractObjectiveGout is associated with foot pain, impairment, and disability. The aim of this study was to assess footwear characteristics and key factors influencing footwear choice in patients with gout. We also wanted to evaluate the relationship between footwear characteristics and foot disability.MethodsFifty patients with a history of acute gout were recruited from rheumatology clinics during the summer months. Clinical characteristics, global function, and foot impairment and disability measures were recorded. Footwear characteristics and the factors associated with choice of footwear were identified using validated assessment tools. Suitability of footwear was assessed using predetermined criteria for assessing adequacy of footwear, based on a previous study of foot pain.ResultsThe patients had moderate to severe foot pain, impairment, and disability. Poor footwear characteristics included poor cushioning, lack of support, lack of stability, and motion control. More than 50% of shoes were ≥12 months old and demonstrated excessive wear patterns. Patients reported comfort (98%), fit (90%), support (90%), and cost (60%) as important factors in choosing their own footwear. No correlation was found between footwear characteristics (length and width) and foot characteristics (foot pain, impairment, and disability). Patients with poor footwear reported higher foot‐related impairment and disability.ConclusionUse of poor footwear is common in patients with chronic gout and is associated with foot disability and impairment.
Prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis in the First Nations population of Alberta, Canada
Authors: Barnabe Cheryl , Joseph Lawrence , Belisle Patrick , Labrecque Jeremy , Edworthy Steven , Barr Susan G. , Fritzler Marvin , Svenson Lawrence W. , Hemmelgarn Brenda , Bernatsky Sasha 
Published: October 2011

AbstractObjectiveTo estimate the population‐based prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc) in Alberta, Canada, stratified by First Nations status.MethodsPhysician billing claims and hospitalization data for the province of Alberta (1994–2007) were used to ascertain cases of SLE and SSc using 3 case definitions. A latent class Bayesian hierarchical regression model was employed to account for the imperfect sensitivity and specificity of billing and hospitalization data in case ascertainment. We accounted for demographic factors, estimating prevalence rates for the First Nations and non–First Nations populations by sex, age group, and location of residence (urban/rural).ResultsOur model estimated the prevalence of SLE in Alberta to be 27.3 cases per 10,000 females (95% credible interval [95% CrI] 25.9–28.8) and 3.2 cases per 10,000 males (95% CrI 2.6–3.8). The overall prevalence of SSc in Alberta was 5.8 cases per 10,000 females (95% CrI 5.1–6.5) and 1.0 case per 10,000 males (95% CrI 0.7–1.4). First Nations females over 45 years of age had twice the prevalence of either SLE or SSc relative to non–First Nations females. There was also a trend toward higher overall SLE prevalence in urban dwellers, and higher overall SSc prevalence in rural residents.ConclusionFirst Nations females older than 45 years of age have an increased prevalence of either SLE or SSc. This may reflect a true predominance of autoimmune rheumatic diseases in this demographic, or may indicate systematic differences in health care delivery.
Between‐phase‐based statistical analysis and modeling for transition monitoring in multiphase batch processes
Authors: Zhao Chunhui , Gao Furong 
Published: October 2011

AbstractBetween‐phase transition analysis and monitoring are a critical problem in multiphase (MP) batch processes. An improved statistical analysis, modeling, and monitoring strategy are proposed for MP processes with between‐phase transition. It is realized that between‐phase transition may show complex “irregular dynamics” over different batches. That is, transition patterns may follow different trajectories with different durations and reveal different characteristics in different batch cycles. Phase centers are defined to capture the transition irregularity, and the relationship between two neighboring phase centers is analyzed by performing between‐phase analysis. Two different subspaces are thus separated in each phase, driven by the phase‐common and dependent correlations, respectively. The basic assumption is that despite their different operation patterns, the two neighboring phases share a certain common correlations immune to phase shift. Then, reconstruction‐based transition identification algorithm is designed, by which, between‐phase transition can be supervised automatically and dynamically without the need of transition model development. The proposed method captures the between‐phase transition from a new viewpoint. Its feasibility and performance are illustrated with a practical case. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
New multifunctional poly(lactide acid) composites: Mechanical, antibacterial, and degradation properties
Authors: Fortunati E. , Armentano I. , Iannoni A. , Barbale M. , Zaccheo S. , Scavone M. , Visai L. , Kenny J. M. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe aim of this work was to study the effect of the innovative combination of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and silver nanoparticles (Ag) on the poly (lactide acid) (PLA) composite properties, to modulate the PLA mechanical response and induce an antibacterial effect. The preparation and characterization of PLA‐based composites with MCC and Ag nanoparticles by twin‐screw extrusion followed by injection molding is reported. A film procedure was also performed to obtain PLA and PLA composite films with a thickness ranged between 20 and 60 μm. The analysis of disintegrability in composting conditions by means of visual, morphological, thermal, and chemical investigations was done to gain insights into the post‐use degradation processes. Tensile test demonstrated the MCC reinforcing effect, while a bactericidal activity of silver‐based composites against a Gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) and a Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) was detected at any time points and temperatures analyzed. Moreover, the disintegrability in composting showed that MCC is able to promote the degradation process. The combination of MCC and Ag nanoparticles in PLA polymer matrix offers promising perspectives to realize multifunctional ternary composites with good mechanical response and antibacterial effect, maintaining the optical transparency and the disintegrability, hence suitable for packaging applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Oxidative chemical polymerization of 3, 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene and its applications in antistatic coatings
Authors: Wang Jikui , Cai Guofeng , Zhu Xudong , Zhou Xiaping 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe oxidative chemical polymerization of 3, 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) was conducted at room temperature in the presence of poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) as the doping agent, sodium supersulphate (Na2S2O8) and ferric sulphate(Fe2(SO4)3) as the compound oxidant and deionized water as the solvent. In order to remove sodium ion (Na+), ferric ion (Fe3+), and sulfate ion (SO42−), certain amount of ion exchanger was added after 24 h, the dark blue poly(3, 4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDT)/PSS solution was obtained. The influence of different proportions of EDOT and PSS, different proportions of EDOT and the compound oxidant, different stirring rates on the morphology, and surface resistivity were discussed. The influence of pH value of the PEDT/PSS solution, the coating thickness, and soak time on the surface resistivity was investigated. Recipe and experimental conditions were optimized and the PEDT/PSS solution was obtained with excellent performance which has relatively low in surface resistance, good water tolerance, and light transmittance. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Environmentally friendly flame‐retardant materials produced by atmospheric pressure plasma modifications
Authors: Totolin Vladimir , Sarmadi Majid , Manolache Sorin O. , Denes Ferencz S. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe objective of this work was to investigate plasma modification of viscose for environmentally friendly flame‐retardant cellulosic materials. Sodium silicate layers were predeposited onto viscose and cotton flannel substrates and grafted/crosslinked using atmospheric pressure plasma. The modified cellulosic fabrics tested with the automated 45° angle test chamber showed significant improvement in their flame‐retardant properties. Analysis conducted by TGA and DSC exhibited enhanced thermal stability of the treated fabrics. Furthermore, the surface analysis (XPS and SEM) confirmed the presence of the SiO2 network attached to the substrate even after intense ultrasound washes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Polylactic acid/ethylene glycol triblock copolymer as novel crosslinker for epoxidized natural rubber
Authors: Nguyen T.‐H. , Tangboriboonrat P. , Rattanasom N. , Petchsuk A. , Opaprakasit M. , Thammawong C. , Opaprakasit P. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractPolylactic acid/ethylene glycol triblock copolymer (LLA46EG46LLA46) was prepared and used in a crosslink process of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) by employing a ring‐opening reaction using Sn(Oct)2 as a catalyst. The OH‐capped copolymer acts as a macromolecular crosslinking agent in the formation of ENR networks, leading to drastic enhancement in tensile properties. Crosslink efficiency and chemical structures of the cured materials are examined by solvent fractionation, swelling experiments, XRD, 1H‐NMR, and ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy. The efficiency of the curing process is dependent on the ENR/copolymer feed ratios. The degree of property improvement and gas permeability/selectivity behaviors of the cured materials are strongly dependent on the copolymer content and the efficiency of the curing process. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Preparation and properties of polystyrene/SiCw/SiCp thermal conductivity composites
Authors: Gu Junwei , Zhang Qiuyu , Dang Jing , Yin Changjie , Chen Shaojie 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe silicon carbide whisker (SiCw) and silicon carbide particle (SiCp) were employed to prepare polystyrene/silicon carbide whisker/silicon carbide particle (PS/SiCw/SiCp) thermal conductivity composites, and the titanate coupling reagent of NDZ‐105 was introduced to functionalize the surface of fillers. The thermal conductive coefficient λ improved from 0.18 W/mK for native PS to 1.29 W/mK for the composites with 40% volume fraction of SiCw/SiCp (volume fraction, 3 : 1) hybrid fillers. Both the thermal decomposition temperature and dielectric constant of the composites increased with the addition of SiCw/SiCp hybrid fillers. At the same addition of SiCw/SiCp hybrid fillers, the surface modification of hybrid fillers by NDZ‐105 could improve the thermal conductivity and the mechanical properties of the composites. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Interferon regulatory factor 5 activation in monocytes of systemic lupus erythematosus patients is triggered by circulating autoantigens independent of type I interferons
Authors: Stone Rivka C. , Feng Di , Deng Jing , Singh Sukhwinder , Yang Lisong , Fitzgerald‐Bocarsly Patricia , Eloranta Maija‐Leena , Rönnblom Lars , Barnes Betsy J. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractObjectiveGenetic variants of interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF‐5) are associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). IRF‐5 regulates the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and type I interferons (IFNs) believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. The aim of this study was to determine the activation status of IRF‐5 by assessing its nuclear localization in the immune cells of SLE patients and healthy donors, and to identify SLE‐associated triggers of IRF‐5 activation.MethodsIRF‐5 nuclear localization in subpopulations of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 14 genotyped SLE patients and 11 healthy controls was assessed using imaging flow cytometry. The activation and function of IRF‐5 were examined after ex vivo stimulation of healthy donor monocytes with SLE serum or components of SLE serum. Cellular localization was determined by ImageStream flow cytometry, and cytokine expression was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsIRF‐5 was activated in a cell type–specific manner; monocytes from SLE patients had constitutively elevated levels of nuclear IRF‐5, as compared to natural killer cells and T cells. SLE serum was identified as a trigger for IRF‐5 nuclear accumulation; however, neither IFNα nor SLE immune complexes could induce nuclear localization. Instead, autoantigens composed of apoptotic/necrotic material triggered IRF‐5 nuclear accumulation in monocytes. Production of the cytokines IFNα, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin‐6 in monocytes stimulated with SLE serum or autoantigens was distinct, yet showed a correlation with the kinetics of IRF‐5 nuclear localization.ConclusionThis study provides the first formal proof that IRF‐5 activation is altered in the monocytes of SLE patients, which can be attributed, in part, to the SLE blood environment.
T cell protein tyrosine phosphatase deficiency results in spontaneous synovitis and subchondral bone resorption in mice
Authors: Doody Karen M. , Bussières‐Marmen Stéphanie , Li Ailian , Paquet Marilène , Henderson Janet E. , Tremblay Michel L. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractObjectiveT cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TC‐PTP) is an important regulator of hematopoiesis and cytokine signaling. Recently, several genome‐wide association studies have identified single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the locus of TC‐PTP that are associated with rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, among other autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TC‐PTP deficiency on the bone and joint environment using a knockout mouse model.MethodsRadiographic and micro–computed tomography analyses were performed on femurs of 3‐week‐old mice. In addition, the femorotibial joints were assessed by histology, flow cytometry, and cytokine detection.ResultsDeficiency of TC‐PTP resulted in decreased bone volume as well as an increase in osteoclast density within the mouse femurs. In addition, synovitis, characterized by infiltration of mixed inflammatory cell types and proinflammatory cytokines, developed in the knee joints of TC‐PTP−/− mice.ConclusionThese findings demonstrate that loss of TC‐PTP expression results in synovitis with several hallmarks of inflammatory arthritis. The inflammatory environment observed in the knee joints of TC‐PTP−/− mice differs from the systemic inflammation previously described in these mice and merits further research into the role of TC‐PTP in the synovium. Furthermore, the results support recently described associations between SNPs in the TC‐PTP locus and arthritis incidence.
Accuracy of phenotyping children with autism based on parent report: what specifically do we gain phenotyping “rapidly”?
Authors: Warren Zachary , Vehorn Alison , Dohrmann Elizabeth , Nicholson Amy , Sutcliffe James S. , Veenstra-VanderWeele Jeremy 
Published: October 2011

AbstractAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is considered among the most heritable of all neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, but identification of etiologically significant genetic markers and risk variants has been hampered by a lack of sufficiently large samples. Rapid phenotyping procedures, where self‐report measures are used instead of extensive clinical assessment, have been proposed as methods for amassing large genetic databases due to their hypothesized time‐efficiency and affordability. We assessed the diagnostic accuracy of potential rapid phenotyping procedures using the Social Communication Questionnaire and the Social Responsiveness Scale in a sample of 333 children who also received extensive phenotypic assessments. While the rapid phenotyping measures were able to accurately identify a large number of children with ASD, they also frequently failed to differentiate children with ASD from children with other complex neurobehavioral profiles. These data support the continued need of expert clinical validation in combination with rapid phenotyping procedures in order to accurately amass large‐scale genetic collections of children with ASD. Autism Res 2012,5:31–38. © 2011 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Design, synthesis, and biocompatibility of an arginine‐based polyester
Authors: Chu Hunghao , Gao Jin , Wang Yadong 
Published: October 2011

AbstractPolycations are very useful in biotechnology. However, most existing polycations have high toxicity that significantly limits their clinical translation. We designed poly(ethylene argininylaspartate diglyceride) (PEAD) that is based on arginine, aspartic acid, glycerol, and ethylene glycol. A set of in vitro assays demonstrated that PEAD exhibited no cytotoxicity at 1 mg/mL, which is at least 100 times higher than the widely used polycation‐polyethylenimine. Subcutaneous injection of 1 mg PEAD in rats did not cause an adverse response acutely or after 4 weeks. Zeta potential measurements revealed that PEAD has high affinity to biological polyanions such as DNA and hyaluronic acid. This polycation represents a new platform of biocompatible polycations that may lead to clinical innovations in gene therapy, controlled release, tissue engineering, biosensors, and medical devices © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012