bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reply to comment on the paper “An efficient Algorithm for Energy Gradients and Orbital Optimization in Valence Bond Theory”
Authors: Wu Wei , Mo Yirong 
Published: February 2012

Abstractvan Lenthe, Broer, and Rashid made comments on our 2009 paper [Song et al., J. Comput. Chem. 2009, 30, 399] by criticizing that we did not properly reference the work by Broer and Nieuwpoort in 1988 [Broer and Nieuwpoort, Theor. Chim. Acta. 1988, 73, 405], and we favorably compared our valence bond self‐consistent field (VBSCF) algorithm with theirs. However, both criticisms are unjustified insignificant. The Broer–Nieuwpoort algorithm, properly cited in our paper, is for the evaluations of matrix elements between determinants of nonorthogonal orbitals. Stating that this algorithm “can be used for an orbital optimization” afterwards [van Lenthe et al., submitted] is not a plausible way to require more credits or even criticize others. While we stand by our statement that our algorithms scales at O(m4) and van Lenthe et al.'s approximate Newton Raphson algorithm scales at O(mN5) (here m and N are the numbers of basis functions and electrons), as we discussed in our original paper, it becomes obvious that any strict comparison among different algorithms is difficult, unproductive, and counteractive. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biopurification of air containing a low concentration of TEX: comparison of removal efficiency using planted and non‐planted biofilters
Authors: Rondeau Anne , Mandon Agnès , Malhautier Luc , Poly Franck , Richaume Agnès 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBACKGROUND: Underground car parks are confined spaces where traffic generates many pollutants such as toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (TEX) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The objective of this work was to evaluate the removal efficiency of low concentrations of TEX using planted and non‐planted biofilters. Two pilot‐scale units of biofiltration were set up. The gaseous mixture was generated to obtain a total TEX concentration of 600 µg m−3. Elimination performance of both biofilters was monitored for 96 days. Microbial behavior and the potential capacity to degrade the NOx, were investigated.RESULTS: The removal efficiency (RE) was 30% in the non‐planted and 15% in the planted biofilter at day 3. The RE decreased more rapidly in planted biofilter than in non‐planted until nutrient addition at day 77. Consequently, the RE increased to 70% in both reactors. The potential for carbon mineralization was higher than those found in soils. The denitrification activity indicated good conditions for synthesis and maintenance of the denitrifying enzyme pool in the mound of soil. This suggested that NOx could also be treated in such a system.CONCLUSION: The efficiency of the planted biofilters in removing TEX was evaluated and found to have good potential for improving air quality. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Gross and microscopic observations on the lingual structure of the franciscana (Pontoporia blainvillei — gervais and d'orbigny, 1844)
Authors: Guimarães J.P. , Mari R.B. , Marigo J. , Rosas F.C.W. , Watanabe I. 
Published: February 2012

AbstractIn most anatomical studies developed with mammals, the tongue is described as highly differentiated among different species. However, studies on the tongue of aquatic mammals are still limited as compared to those on terrestrial mammals. The aim of this study was to describe the tongue morphology of the Franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) using macroscopic observations, light, and scanning electron microscopy. Microscopically, the dorsal surface was covered by a keratinized stratified epithelium. Salivary gland acini were found on the middle and caudal third of the tongue. The dorsal surface was totally covered by filiform papillae with a connective tissue core and a connective tissue structure round in shape in the middle and caudal regions. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:737–742, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of TRPV4 in the zebrafish retina during development
Authors: Sánchez‐ramos C. , Guerrera M.C. , Bonnin‐Arias C. , Calavia M.G. , Laurà R. , Germanà A. , Vega J.A. 
Published: February 2012

AbstractThe transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are involved in sensing mechanical/physical stimuli such as temperature, light, pressure, as well as chemical stimuli. Some TRP channels are present in the vertebrate retina, and the occurrence of the multifunctional channel TRP vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) has been reported in adult zebrafish. Here, we investigate the expression and distribution of TRPV4 in the retina of zebrafish during development using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot, and immunohistochemistry from 3 days post fertilization (dpf) until 100 dpf. TRPV4 was detected at the mRNA and protein levels in the eye of zebrafish at all ages sampled. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of TRPV4 in a population of the retinal cells identified as amacrine cells on the basis of their morphology and localization within the retina, as well as the co‐localization of TRPV4 with calretinin. TRPV4 was first (3 dpf) found in the soma of cells localized in the inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers, and thereafter (10 dpf) also in the inner plexiform layer. The adult pattern of TRPV4 expression was achieved by 40 dpf the expression being restricted to the soma of some cells in the inner nuclear layer and ganglion cell layers. These data demonstrate the occurrence and developmental changes in the expression and localization of TRPV4 in the retina of zebrafish, and suggest a role of TRPV4 in the visual processing. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:743–748, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of anti‐CD3 monoclonal antibody in salivary glands of spontaneously diabetic mice
Authors: Metidieri Hugo Tadeu , Mancio Rafael Dias , Mayoral Éber Emanuel , Rojas Fernanda Alvarez , Peroni Luis Antonio , Ferri Alan Telles , Lourenço Edmir Américo , Caldeira Eduardo José 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBackground: Diabetes mellitus results in many complications, also compromising the salivary glands. The current treatment for this condition should be a substituting method to exogenous insulin. In this aspect, the immunotherapy has been tested, but, it can be inefficient as an agent for the control of damage caused by diabetes. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the anti‐CD3 monoclonal antibody as alternative immunotherapy in the recovery of salivary glands of spontaneously diabetic NOD (nonobese diabetic) mice. Methods: NOD mice were divided into two groups of 10 animals: group I (untreated diabetic mice) and group II (anti‐CD3‐treated diabetic mice). After treatment, the samples of salivary glands were collected for histological examination under both transmitted and polarized light microscopy. Results: Alterations in tissue architecture; increase in extracellular matrix and presence of inflammatory process were observed in untreated animals. Recovery of the salivary acinar cells occurred in treated animals. The parotid glands demonstrated a smaller amount of collagen fibers and were not observed severe inflammatory processes. Conclusion: These results indicate that immunotherapy contributed to reestablishment of tissue damaged by the hyperglycemic condition, demonstrating that the immunomodulation plays an important role in the recovery of salivary glands. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Isolation and identification of spermidine derivatives in tea (Camellia sinensis) flowers and their distribution in floral organs
Authors: Yang Ziyin , Dong Fang , Baldermann Susanne , Murata Ariaki , Tu Youying , Asai Tatsuo , Watanabe Naoharu 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBACKGROUND: Recently, tea (Camellia sinensis) flowers have attracted increasing interest because of their content of bioactive compounds such as catechins. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of some characteristic compounds in tea flowers.RESULTS: A principal component analysis of metabolites using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry showed differences in metabolite profile between flowers and leaves of C. sinensis var. Yabukita. Four spermidine derivatives were isolated from tea flowers. One of them was determined as N1,N5,N10‐tricoumaroyl spermidine based on NMR, MS and UV data. The other three were identified as feruoyl dicoumaroyl spermidine, coumaroyl diferuoyl spermidine and triferuoyl spermidine based on MSn data. Tricoumaroyl spermidine as the major spermidine conjugate was not detected in tea leaves. Furthermore, it decreased during floral development and mainly occurred in anthers.CONCLUSION: This study has provided the first evidence that spermidine‐phenolic acid conjugates occur in tea flowers in considerable amounts. Their presence should prompt a reconsideration of the ecological role of tea flowers. From an economic point of view, tea flowers might be suitable as a raw material in the healthcare food and pharmaceutical industries. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Prebiotic effect of soluble fibres from modern and old durum‐type wheat varieties on Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains
Authors: Marotti Ilaria , Bregola Valeria , Aloisio Irene , Di Gioia Diana , Bosi Sara , Di Silvestro Raffaella , Quinn Robert , Dinelli Giovanni 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBACKGROUND: Wheat grains are a rich source of dietary fibres, particularly in the western human diet. Many of the health effects attributed to dietary fibres are believed to be related to their microbial fermentation in the gut. This study evaluated the ability of two potentially probiotic strains, Lactobacillus plantarum L12 and Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum B7003, to ferment soluble dietary fibres (SDFs) from modern and ancient durum‐type wheat grains.RESULTS: Fibre microbial utilisation was highly variable and dependent on the strain. SDFs from the varieties Svevo and Solex supported the growth of L. plantarum L12 the best, whereas those from the varieties Anco Marzio, Solex and Kamut® Khorasan were good carbohydrate substrates for B. pseudocatenulatum B7003. The highest prebiotic activity scores (describing the extent to which prebiotics support selective growth of probiotics) for B7003 were obtained with SDFs from the varieties Solex (0.57), Kamut® Khorasan (0.56) and Iride (0.55), whereas for L12 the highest scores were achieved with the varieties Orobel (0.63), Kamut® Khorasan (0.56) and Solex (0.53).CONCLUSION: The present study has identified some SDFs from durum‐type wheat grains as suitable prebiotic substrates for the selective proliferation of B. pseudocatenulatum B7003 and L. plantarum L12 in vitro. The results provide the basis for the potential utilisation of wheat‐based prebiotics as a component of synbiotic formulations. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Adolescents' reactions after a wildfire disaster in Greece
Authors: Papadatou Danai , Giannopoulou Ioanna , Bitsakou Paraskevi , Bellali Thalia , Talias Michael A. , Tselepi Konstantina 
Published: February 2012

AbstractThis cross‐sectional study examined the factors associated with higher levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression symptoms in 1,468 adolescents, 6 months after a wildfire. The rate of probable PTSD was 29.4% and 20% for probable depression. Findings on predisaster, disaster‐related, and postdisaster factors revealed that disaster‐related factors—specifically objective and perceived threat to self and others—were associated with symptoms of PTSD but not depression. Predisaster life events, postdisaster losses, and escape‐oriented coping strategies were associated with higher levels of both PTSD and depression symptoms, while control‐oriented coping and perceived social support were differentially associated with symptoms of and depression. Findings have implications for the assessment and treatment of traumatized and depressed adolescents after a disaster.
Heat Waves, Droughts, and Preferences for Environmental Policy
Authors: Owen Ann L. , Conover Emily , Videras Julio , Wu Stephen 
Published: February 2012

AbstractUsing data from a new household survey on environmental attitudes, behaviors, and policy preferences, we find that current weather conditions affect preferences for environmental regulation. Individuals who have recently experienced extreme weather (heat waves or droughts) are more likely to support laws to protect the environment. We find evidence that the channel through which weather conditions affect policy preference is via perceptions of the importance of the issue of global warming. Furthermore, environmentalists and individuals who consult more sources of news are less likely to have their attitudes toward global warming changed by current weather conditions. These findings suggest that communication and education emphasizing consequences of climate change salient to the individual's circumstances may be the most effective in changing attitudes of those least likely to support proenvironment policy. In addition, the timing of policy introduction could influence its success.
The Effects of Building Strong Families: A Healthy Marriage and Relationship Skills Education Program for Unmarried Parents
Authors: Wood Robert G. , McConnell Sheena , Moore Quinn , Clarkwest Andrew , Hsueh JoAnn 
Published: February 2012

AbstractThis article examines the impacts of Building Strong Families, a healthy marriage and relationship skills education program serving unmarried parents who were expecting or had recently had a baby. Based on a random assignment research design, the analysis uses survey data from more than 4,700 couples across eight research sites to estimate program effects. Results varied across sites, with one site having a pattern of positive effects (but no effect on marriage) and another having numerous negative effects. However, when impacts are averaged across all research sites, the findings indicate that the program had no overall effects on couples’ relationship quality or the likelihood that they remained together or got married.
Electrospun nanocomposite polyacrylonitrile fibers containing carbon nanotubes and cobalt ferrite
Authors: Jin Xudong , Ni Qing‐Qing , Fu Yaqin , Zhang Li , Natsuki Toshiaki 
Published: February 2012

AbstractNanocomposite fibers made from polyacrylonitrile (PAN) containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanoparticles were fabricated by electrospinning. The 10–25 nm CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were made by a simple hydrothermal process. Characterization by X‐ray diffraction confirmed that the CNTs and the CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were successfully incorporated into the PAN matrix. Scanning electron microscopy showed nanocomposite fibers with regular morphologies. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the internal distribution of the CNTs and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. The nanocomposite fibers exhibited effective electromagnetic interference shielding attenuation of about 3.9 dB. Magnetic measurement using a vibrating sample magnetometer showed saturation magnetization of 4.7 emu g−1, thus this property can be accurately tailored by adjusting the loading of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Improved mechanical and thermal properties of bamboo–epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Kumar V. , Kumar Rakesh 
Published: February 2012

AbstractNatural fiber‐reinforced hybrid composites based on bamboo/epoxy/nanoclay were prepared. Ultrasound sonication was used for the dispersion of nanoclay in the bamboo–epoxy composites. The morphology of bamboo–epoxy nanocomposites was investigated by using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The results show that there exists an optimum limit in which the mechanical properties of composites improved by continuously increasing the nanoclay content. The tensile and flexural strength of bamboo–epoxy nanocomposites with 3 wt% nanoclay increased by 40% and 27%, respectively, as compared to pure composites. The highest value of impact strength was obtained for 1 wt% nanoclay content bamboo–epoxy nanocomposites. The enhanced impact strength of bamboo–epoxy nanocomposites was one of the key advantages brought by nanofiller. The results show that incorporation of nanoclay substantially increases the water resistance capability and thermal stability of bamboo–epoxy nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Electrically conductive foamed polyurethane/silicone rubber/graphite nanocomposites as radio frequency wave absorbing material: The role of foam structure
Authors: Shafieizadegan‐Esfahani Ahmad R. , Katbab Ali A. , Pakdaman Ali R. , Dehkhoda P. , Shams Mohammad H. , Ghorbani Ayaz 
Published: February 2012

AbstractRadio frequency wave absorber nanocomposites based on a flexible polyurethane (PU) foam has been manufactured by impregnation of the foam in n‐hexane solution of room temperature vulcanizing silicone rubber (SR), hybridized with graphite nanosheets (GNs) called doping solution. After impregnation, dried samples were kept at ambient temperature for the curing of the soaked graphitized SR. To evaluate the influences of the PU foam structural parameters on electrical conductivity, permittivity, and reflection loss characteristics, various foams with different structures were impregnated in the crosslinkable doping solution. Electrical conductivity, real, and imaginary parts of permittivity were measured within the frequency range of 4–6 GHz via performing waveguide measurements. The coarse thick wall PU foam sample exhibited higher conductivity and permittivity than the fine wire mesh sample having similar amounts of conductive SR/GN doping agent. Moreover, nanocomposites based on coarse foam samples showed higher potential for the wave absorption at lower absorber thickness than the fine wire mesh PU foam. The higher conductivity and hence imaginary permittivity of the coarse structure is attributed to the better coincidence of conductive paths in the PU/SR/GN nanocomposite foam with lines of electric field of the incident wave. The higher real permittivity of the coarse nanocomposite is suggested to be related to the more mutual interactions between graphite nanolayers and aggregates which form a network of minicapacitors in the structure of nanocomposites, leading to a higher capacitance and hence more real permittivity. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Contribution of nanoclays to the performance of traditional flame retardants in ABS
Authors: Ozkaraca Ayse Cagil , Kaynak Cevdet 
Published: February 2012

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to investigate contribution of nanoclays to the flame retardancy performance of a traditional brominated flame retardant compound with various combinations of antimony trioxide and zinc borate. The matrix polymer acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) was compounded by melt mixing in a laboratory size twin‐screw extruder. X‐ray diffraction analysis and transmission electron microscopy revealed that nanoclay silicate layers were mainly intercalated with certain level of exfoliation in ABS matrix. Flammability analysis investigated by mass loss calorimeter, limiting oxygen index, and UL‐94 tests indicated that use of nanoclays improved all flame retardancy parameters significantly. For instance, the increase in the limiting oxygen index was up to 32% O2, while the suppression in peak heat release rate value was as much as 82%, of course in each specimen the highest rating of V‐0 in UL‐94 test was obtained. Thermogravimetric and other residue analyses pointed out that these contributions were especially due to the condensed phase flame retardancy mechanism of nanoclay which contributes stronger and carbonaceous char formation acting as a barrier to heat and flammable gases and retarding volatilization via tortuous pathway. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Removal of 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene from “Pink Water” Using Molecularly‐Imprinted Absorbent
Authors: Meng Zihui , Zhang Qiuyue , Xue Min , Wang Dan , Wang An 
Published: February 2012

AbstractMolecularly‐Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) were designed, prepared, and tested for the removal of TNT from “pink water”, which contains 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) and other nitrobenzene compounds (NBCs) produced in army ammunition plants. We have investigated the interactions between TNT template and different monomers using molecular modeling and spectrometric methods, which enables us to optimize the MIP compositions. A suspension polymerization method was utilized to prepare MIP beads with an average diameter of 25 µm, and an imprinting effect of 4.3 was achieved. Furthermore, we have constructed a model absorbance reactor using a flash chromatography system, which was successfully used to monitor the removal of TNT and other NBCs on‐line, and the MIP absorbent was regenerated in‐situ. Compared with granular activated carbon, the capacity of the MIP absorbent is 65‐fold higher. In addition, the MIP absorbent can be regenerated easily, and the capacity only decreases by 7 % after four rounds of regeneration. Besides “pink water”, the MIP absorbent can also be used to remove NBCs in the waste stream from TNT production.
Dysregulation of circulating microRNAs and prediction of aggressive prostate cancer
Authors: Shen Jing , Hruby Gregory W. , McKiernan James M. , Gurvich Irina , Lipsky Michael Jeffrey , Benson Mitchell C. , Santella Regina M. 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBACKGROUNDIt is becoming increasingly evident that microRNAs (miRNAs) are associated with the development and progression of prostate cancer (PCa).METHODSWe examined the hypothesis that plasma miRNA levels can differentiate patients by aggressiveness in 82 PCa patients. Taqman based quantitative RT‐PCR assays were performed to measure copy number of target miRNAs.RESULTSmiR‐20a was significantly overexpressed in plasma from patients with stage 3 tumors compared to stage 2 or below (P = 0.03). The expression levels for miR‐20a and miR‐21 were significantly increased in patients with high risk CAPRA scores (16,623 and 1,595 copies, respectively). Significantly increased miR‐21 and miR‐145 expression were observed for patients with intermediate or high risk D'Amico scores compared to patients with low risk scores (P = 0.047 and 0.011, respectively). The relapse rates for CAPRA scores ranged from 1.9% for low risk to 9.5% for intermediate risk and to 22.2% for high risk patients (P = 0.023). For D'Amico scores, the relapse rates ranged from 0.0% for low risk to 7.4% for intermediate risk and 17.6% for high risk patients (P = 0.039). Expression of miR‐21 and miR‐221 significantly differentiated patients with intermediate risk from those with low risk CAPRA scores (AUC = 0.801, P = 0.002). Four miRNAs (miR‐20a, miR‐21, miR‐145, and miR‐221) could also distinguish high versus low risk in PCa patients by D'Amico score with an AUC of 0.824.CONCLUSIONSThese preliminary data suggest that altered plasma miRNAs may be useful predictors to distinguish PCa patients with varied aggressiveness. Further larger studies to validate this promising finding are warranted. Prostate 72:1469–1477, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.