bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of a carbon‐based material derived from coking industry solid waste–phenol residue and its performance as hydrolysis catalysts
Authors: Shen Shuguang , Li Huanmei , Wang Tao , Han Yong , Qin Haifeng
Published: October 2012

A carbon‐based solid acid was successfully synthesized by sulfonating a carbon precursor from pyrolysis of phenol residue, which is a solid waste from coking industry and contains higher phenols. The unit structures of the phenolic residual‐based solid acid are fused aromatic rings bearing CH3 side chains besides phenolic‐OH, COOH and SO3H groups. The direct pyrolysis and carbonization process of phenol residue abounding in phenolic hydroxyl groups avoids the loss of sulfonic acid groups instead of low temperature carbonization in concentrated sulfuric acid. Reaction kinetics of sucrose heterogeneous hydrolysis over the solid acid was studied to assess its catalytic activity and stability. The results indicate that the carbonization temperature for the preparation of carbon precursor significantly affects the catalytic performance of the solid acid because of the difference in the compact degree of carbon skeleton. The activation energy calculated is 74.67 kJ mol−1, which reveals good catalytic activity. And the catalyst is fairly stable after repeatedly being used five times. It can substitute enzymes and sulfuric acid in sucrose hydrolysis. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of connection mode between carboxyl groups and main chains on polycarboxylate superplasticizer properties
Authors: Lv Shenghua , Ju Haobo , Qiu Chaochao , Ma Yujuan , Zhou Qingfang
Published: October 2012

Preparation and characterization of polycarboxylate superplasticizers of IPCs(copolymer of itaconic acid and allyl polyoxyethylene ether) and MPCs (copolymer of maleic anhydride and allyl polyoxyethylene ether) are shown. The difference between IPCs and MPCs is that half of the carboxyl groups of IPCs indirectly connect to the main chains through methylene. The effects of the carboxyl group‐main chain connection mode on the properties of IPCs and MPCs were investigated by assessing the paste fluidity and the pore diameters and compressive strength. The interaction between IPCs (MPCs) and cement were revealed by zeta‐potential and the adsorption amount. The results indicated that the indirect connection mode favorably improved paste fluidity, decreased pore diameters, and increased the compressive strength compared with the direct connection mode. This is likely because that when carboxyl groups are connected to the main chains indirectly, more moving space allows easier adsorption on cement particles. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and characterization of hyperbranched polyurethanes via monomeric A2 plus monomeric B3 approach
Authors: Wang Biao , Liu Yuhong , Li Guangqiong
Published: October 2012

The monomeric A2 plus monomeric B3 approach was employed to prepare hyperbranched polyurethanes (HBPUs) based on 4,4′‐methylenediphenyl diisocyanate and trimethylolpropane with the molecular weights ranging from 20,000 to 59,800 g mol−1. Through controlling the concentration and stoichiometric ratio of monomers, gel was successfully prevented in the monomeric A2 plus monomeric B3 system. The structures of HBPUs were characterized by 13C NMR. Molecular weights of HBPUs were characterized by gel permeation chromatography. A gradual increase in HBPU molecular weight as well as degree of branching was observed when the stoichiometric ratio of A2 to B3 increased. It was exhibited that the solution concentration of the reaction had great effect on the gel point and cyclization of the monomeric A2 plus monomeric B3 system. This novel isocyanate terminated HBPUs are expected to be capable of modifying the curing performance of benzoxazine resin. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Chitosan gel film bandages: Correlating structure, composition, and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Anaya P. , Cárdenas G. , Lavayen V. , García A. , O'Dwyer C.
Published: October 2012

Chitosan gel films were successfully obtained by evaporation cast from chitosan solutions in aqueous acidic solutions of organic acids (lactic and acetic acid) as gel film bandages, with a range of additives that directly influence film morphology and porosity. We show that the structure and composition of a wide range of 128 thin gel films, is correlated to the antimicrobial properties, their biocompatibility and resistance to biodegradation. Infrared spectroscopy and solid‐state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to correlate film molecular structure and composition to good antimicrobial properties against 10 of the most prevalent Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Chitosan gel films reduce the number of colonies after 24 h of incubation by factors of ∼105–107 CFU/mL, compared with controls. For each of these films, the structure and preparation condition has a direct relationship to antimicrobial activity and effectiveness. These gel film bandages also show excellent stability against biodegradation with lysozyme under physiological conditions (5% weight loss over a period of 1 month, 2% in the first week), allowing use during the entire healing process. These chitosan thin films and subsequent derivatives hold potential as low‐cost, dissolvable bandages, or second skin, with antimicrobial properties that prohibit the most relevant intrahospital bacteria that infest burn injuries. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Delay‐Dependent Exponential Stability for Discrete‐Time Singular Switched Systems with Time‐Varying Delay
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Zhao Jiemei
Published: October 2012

In this paper, the exponential stability problem is investigated for a class of discrete‐time singular switched systems with time‐varying delay. By using a new Lyapunov functional and average dwell time scheme, a delay‐dependent sufficient condition is established in terms of linear matrix inequalities for the considered system to be regular, causal, and exponentially stable. Different from the existing results, in the considered systems the corresponding singular matrices do not need to have the same rank. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed result.
An analytical method for measuring α‐amylase activity in starch‐containing foods
Authors: Koyama Kazuo , Hirao Takashi , Toriba Akira , Hayakawa Kazuichi
Published: October 2012

The quality of starch‐containing foods may be significantly impaired by contamination with very small amounts of α‐amylase, which can enzymatically hydrolyze the starch and cause viscosity loss. Thus, for quality control, it is necessary to have an analytical method that can measure low amylase activity. We developed a sensitive analytical method for measuring the activity of α‐amylase (from Bacillus subtilis) in starch‐containing foods. The method consists of six steps: (1) crude extraction of α‐amylase by centrifugation and filtration; (2) α‐amylase purification by desalting and anion‐exchange chromatography; (3) reaction of the purified amylase with boron‐dipyrromethene (BODIPY)‐labeled substrate, which releases a fluorescent fragment upon digestion of the substrate, thus avoiding interference from starch derivatives in the sample; (4) stopping the reaction with acetonitrile; (5) reversed‐phase solid‐phase extraction of the fluorescent substrate to remove contaminating dye and impurities; and (6) separation and measurement of BODIPY fluorescence by HPLC. The proposed method could quantify α‐amylase activities as low as 10 mU/mL, which is enough to reduce the viscosity of starch‐containing foods. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Die ProcessNet‐Fachgemeinschaft Anlagen‐ und Prozesssicherheit: ein Beitrag zum Qualitätsmerkmal „Made in Germany“
Authors: Pfeil Norbert
Published: October 2012

„Chemie und Petrochemie repräsentieren einen bedeutenden Teil der Wirtschaftskraft der Bundesrepublik Deutschland. Nicht nur für eine moderne Industriegesellschaft sind ihre Produkte unverzichtbar geworden. Unverzichtbar für die Weiterentwicklung dieser Wirtschaftszweige ist auch, dass die in Deutschland geplanten, gebauten und betriebenen Produktionsanlagen sicherheitstechnisch auf hohem Niveau sind. Die Fachgemeinschaft Anlagen‐ und Prozesssicherheit und ihre Vorgänger leisten hierzu seit über 30 Jahren wichtige Beiträge.“ Mit diesen Worten lädt unter processnet.org/aps.html die Einstiegswebseite der ProcessNet‐Fachgemeinschaft Anlagen‐ und Prozesssicherheit den Leser dazu ein, sich mit Aufgaben und Zielen, mit Arbeitsweise und Strukturen und mit den Produkten der Fachgemeinschaft näher zu befassen. Dies soll auch hier erreicht werden, nicht als Selbstdarstellung, sondern für den Erhalt und die Weiterentwicklung der notwendigen Kompetenz in der Anlagen‐ und Prozesssicherheit. Hierfür braucht die Fachgemeinschaft die Mitwirkung der verfügbaren Fachleute, aber auch junge Ingenieure und Wissenschaftler, auch Studenten, die Fachleute der Prozess‐ und Anlagensicherheit werden und sich weiterentwickeln wollen.
Canonical biplot statistical analysis to detect the magnitude of the effects of phosphates crystallization aging on the color in siliceous conglomerates
Authors: Iñigo A. C. , García‐Talegón J. , Vicente‐Tavera S.
Published: October 2012

The Canonical Biplot method is used to determine the magnitude of the effects on the Δ chromatic coordinates (ΔL*, Δa*, Δb*) and the parameter ΔE*, where (ΔL*, Δa*, Δb*) are the difference in the values of the sample after each aging cycle and the value of the untreated sample and ΔE* = [(ΔL*)2+ (Δa*)2+ (Δb*)2]1/2. We performed a study of the changes in color produced by two types of artificial aging procedures on four varieties of siliceous conglomerates from Zamora (Spain) that have traditionally been used in construction and later renovations in historical buildings in the zone. To accomplish this, 25 cycles of the following types of accelerated artificial aging were carried out: (a) freezing/thawing and cooling/heating (T1) and (b) combined freezing/thawing and cooling/heating + salt (phosphates) crystallization (T2).

The results of the statistical study applied (Canonical Biplot) allowed us to differentiate the magnitude effect on the color of the surface brought about by T1 as compared with T2. These effects (p < 0.05) were observed in all but one (ochre conglomerate) of the varieties, but mainly in the variable governing red hue (Δa*) and yellow hue (Δb*). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 39, 82–87, 2014
Precoding and channel state information sharing in cooperative macro base stations and femto sites
Authors: Long H. , Xiang W. , Zhang Y. , Wang J. , Zheng K. , Wang W.
Published: October 2012

Femto cell technology is a promising solution for indoor coverage of cellular systems. The interference between macro and femto cells can be mitigated via cooperation between the macro base station (BS) and the inside femto sites (FSs). In this paper, the idea of multi‐cell multi‐input and multi‐output is introduced, whereby the macro BS shares the same frequency band with the inside FSs in support of the femto users. Both single‐user and multi‐user precoding at the macro BS are proposed to support the cooperative transmission between the macro BSs and FSs. In single‐user precoding and multi‐user precoding without power allocation, only the angle information of the FS‐user channels is required to be sent from the users to the macro BS. If the magnitude information is also sent by each user, multi‐user precoding with power allocation can be employed to support cooperation between macro BSs and FSs, which is an extension of the classical water‐filling optimization problem. Theoretical derivations and an iterative algorithm are both presented to solve this optimization problem. Analytical and simulation results with respect to the signal received with interferences validate the effectiveness of cooperation between the macros BSs and FSs.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐layer packet scheduler for QoS support over Digital Video Broadcasting‐Second Generation broadband satellite systems
Authors: Rendon‐Morales Elizabeth , Mata‐Díaz Jorge , Alins Juanjo , Muñoz Jose L. , Esparza Oscar
Published: October 2012

This article presents a cross‐layer packet scheduler to provide end‐to‐end QoS guarantees for Digital Video Broadcasting‐Second Generation (DVB‐S2) broadband satellite systems. The scheduler design is based on a cross‐layer mechanism defined between the physical and the network layer. It includes an algorithm to guarantee the required QoS specifications established in the service level agreement. The algorithm calculation depends basically on two parameters: the available bandwidth present in a DVB‐S2 satellite link and the QoS requirements of each traffic class defined by the satellite operator. The cross‐layer scheduler's operation is demonstrated using the NS‐2 simulator tool. The results show that the proposed mechanism maximizes the bandwidth utilization while enforcing the priority level of each service class when an extreme reduction of bandwidth caused by rain events is experienced. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Palladium(II) Complexes with Chelating Biscarbene Ligands in the Catalytic Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: Micksch Maik , Strassner Thomas
Published: October 2012

We studied the catalytic activity of palladium(II) complexes with chelating imidazolium and benzimidazolium ligands in the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. The methylene‐bridged systems with aryl substituents carrying sterically and electronically different groups (F, NO2, OMe, H, Me, iPr) show good to excellent catalytic activities in the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction of aryl bromides. The p‐methoxyphenyl‐substituted bis(NHC)–palladium complex was the most active one under our reaction conditions, also in the context of a wide substrate scope. Several ortho‐ as well as para‐substituted aryl bromides were coupled in excellent yields under mild reaction conditions.
Towards new analyses of aroma and volatiles to understand sensory perception of olive oil
Authors: Aparicio Ramón , Morales María T. , García‐González Diego L.
Published: October 2012

The rich flavor of virgin olive oil (VOO) is one of the reasons why it stands out as a gourmet product. The classification of olive oils into quality categories basically relies on the sensory assessment, together with some chemical indices that do not provide information about aroma or taste. Some analytical techniques attempt to analyze the volatile compounds of olive oil, which are actually responsible for the aroma, and give objective chemical information that can explain the sensory perception. They are based on gas chromatography (GC) and gas sensor, such as metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors. In both cases, the chemical data should be interpreted from a sensory perspective, considering the impact of each compound on aroma and trying to get as much information as possible with new data processing. In the case of MOS sensors, the coupling of a GC column allows gaining more information on aroma. Despite the extensive knowledge on the volatile compounds of olive oil, these techniques still fail in reproducing some results of the panellists. The physiological processes implied in the olfaction needs to be explored with new approaches to understand the sensory perception. These new approaches will support the alternatives to sensory assessment.
Host national and religious identification among Turkish Muslims in Western Europe: The role of ingroup norms, perceived discrimination and value incompatibility
Authors: Martinovic Borja , Verkuyten Maykel
Published: October 2012

Using a sample of 602 Turkish Muslims from Germany and the Netherlands, we examined the influence of ingroup norms and perceived discrimination on religious group identification and host national identification. Participants experiencing pressures from their ingroup to maintain an ethnoreligious lifestyle as well as those who perceived discrimination by natives identified more strongly with their religious group and, in turn, identified less with the host country. Further, the positive relationship between discrimination and religious group identification and the negative relationship between religious and national identification were especially strong for participants who perceived incompatibility between Western and Islamic ways of life. It is concluded that Muslim and host national identities are not always mutually exclusive and that it is important to study the conditions that reconcile and contrast them. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioremoval of C.I. Basic Red 46 as an azo dye from contaminated water by Lemna minor L.: Modeling of key factor by neural network
Authors: Movafeghi A. , Khataee A.R. , Torbati S. , Zarei M. , Lisar S.Y. Salehi
Published: October 2012

This study was carried out to investigate the potential of duckweed (Lemna minor L.) for bioremediation of C.I. Basic Red 46 (BR46) solution. Our results revealed the notable ability of the plant species in biological degradation of BR46. The reusability of the plant in long‐term repetitive operations was also confirmed. The decolorization efficiency was extremely dependent on different operational parameters such as initial dye concentration, pH, temperature, and amount of plant. Interestingly, activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase as antioxidant enzymes were increased in different concentrations of the dye. In contrast, catalase activity declined in duckweed plants exposed to the dye. An artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict the biological decolorization efficiency. The obtained data indicated that ANN provide realistic predictive performance (R2 = 0.981). © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 1082–1089, 2013
Transformation of Jatropha oil into green diesel over a new heteropolyacid catalyst
Authors: Liu Can , Liu Jing , Zhou Gang , Tian Weiqian , Rong Long
Published: October 2012

An environmentally friendly hydrocracking catalyst (Ni‐H3PW12O40/Al2O3) was designed for generating green diesel from Jatropha oil in a clean process. The Ni‐HPW/Al2O3 (where HPW = H3PW12O40) catalyst was prepared by a two‐step impregnation method and characterized using N2 adsorption, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy techniques. The catalytic assays were executed in a fixed‐bed reactor, and the effects of the reaction parameters, i.e., temperature, hydrogen‐to‐oil ratio, and liquid hourly space velocity, on the conversion and reaction pathways were investigated. Of the evaluated reaction parameters, temperature played the most significant role in the selectivity of the reaction pathway. Nearly 97.8% conversion of Jatropha oil and 83.5% selectivity of the diesel fraction were obtained at a temperature of 360°C, and a pressure of 3.5 MPa, H2/oil volume ratio of 500 Nm3 m−3, and liquid hourly space velocity of 1.0 h−1. The developed Ni‐H3PW12O40/Al2O3 catalyst is not only more environmentally friendly than conventional sulfided hydrocracking catalysts but also shows high activity and selectivity in the production of hydrocarbons in the diesel fuel range. Therefore, this catalyst may be a promising alternative for the production of green diesel. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 1240–1246, 2013
Bidirectional loading hybrid tests of square cross‐sections of steel bridge piers
Authors: Dang Ji , Aoki Tetsuhiko
Published: October 2012

Steel rectangular section columns with stiffened plates are commonly used for elevated highway bridges in the urban areas of Japan. The seismic design of bridge piers is usually performed by dynamic analysis in the horizontal direction using various independent directional seismic acceleration data. However, this simple treatment does not reflect the effect of bilateral loading as a structural response to inelastic interaction. In this study, unidirectional and bidirectional loading hybrid tests were conducted to examine the seismic response and performance of square cross‐sections of steel bridge piers subjected to bidirectional seismic accelerations. Comparison of the results of unidirectional and bidirectional loading tests revealed that the maximum load is the same as the average of unidirectional loading in the NS and EW directions; however, the maximum response displacement and residual displacement increase in proportion with hard to soft ground types. Moreover, a modified seismic design is proposed considering these bidirectional loading effects. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The entire miR‐200 seed family is strongly deregulated in clear cell renal cell cancer compared to the proximal tubular epithelial cells of the kidney
Authors: Duns Gerben , van den Berg Anke , van Dijk Marcory C. R. F. , van Duivenbode Inge , Giezen Cor , Kluiver Joost , van Goor Harry , Hofstra Robert M. W. , van den Berg Eva , Kok Klaas
Published: October 2012

Despite numerous studies reporting deregulated microRNA (miRNA) and gene expression patterns in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), no direct comparisons have been made to its presumed normal counterpart: the renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs). The aim of this study was to determine the miRNA expression profiles of 10 ccRCC‐derived cell lines and short‐term cultures of PTEC and to correlate these with their gene expression and copy‐number profiles. Using microarray‐based methods, a significantly altered expression level in ccRCC cell lines was observed for 23 miRNAs and 1630 genes. The set of miRNAs with significantly decreased expression levels include all members of the miR‐200 family known to be involved in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition process. Expression levels of 13 of the 47 validated target genes for the downregulated miRNAs were increased more than twofold. Our data reinforce the importance of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition process in the development of ccRCC. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tumor–microenvironment interactions studied by zonal transcriptional profiling of squamous cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Wu Hui , Haag Daniel , Muley Thomas , Warth Arne , Zapatka Marc , Toedt Grischa , Pscherer Armin , Hahn Meinhard , Rieker Ralf J. , Wachter David L. , Meister Michael , Schnabel Philipp , Müller‐Decker Karin , Rogers Michael A. , Hoffmann Hans , Lichter Peter
Published: October 2012

Invasion is a critical step in lung tumor progression. The interaction between tumor cells and their surroundings may play an important role in tumor invasion and metastasis. To better understand the mechanisms of tumor invasion and tumor–microenvironment interactions in lung tumors, total RNA was isolated from the inner tumor, tumor invasion front, adjacent lung, and distant normal lung tissue from 17 patients with primary squamous cell lung carcinoma using punch‐aided laser capture microdissection. Messenger RNA expression profiles were obtained by microarray analysis, and microRNA profiles were generated from eight of these samples using TaqMan Low Density Arrays. Statistical analysis of the expression data showed extensive changes in gene expression in the inner tumor and tumor front compared with the normal lung and adjacent lung tissue. Only a few genes were differentially expressed between tumor front and the inner tumor. Several genes were validated by immunohistochemistry. Evaluation of the microRNA data revealed zonal expression differences in nearly a fourth of the microRNAs analyzed. Validation of selected microRNAs byin situhybridization demonstrated strong expression ofhsa‐miR‐196ain the inner tumor; moderate expression ofhsa‐miR‐224in the inner tumor and tumor front, and strong expression ofhsa‐miR‐650in the adjacent lung tissue. Pathway analysis placed the majority of genes differentially expressed between tumor and nontumor cells in intrinsic processes associated with inflammation and extrinsic processes related to lymphocyte physiology. Genes differentially expressed between the inner tumor and the adjacent lung/normal lung tissue affected pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism and eicosanoid signaling. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nano‐Segregation and Directed Self‐Assembly in the Formation of Functional Liquid Crystals
Authors: Goodby John W. , Davis Edward J. , Mandle Richard J. , Cowling Stephen J.
Published: October 2012

It is often a question that is asked: “How can you predict from the molecular architecture of a material the structure of the condensed phases it forms, and what properties would you expect the phase to exhibit?” For liquid crystals, knowing how to design materials for particular applications requires precision molecular engineering. In this article we examine how molecular topology and interactions influence phase formation and report on material design.
FARM SIZE, IRRIGATION PRACTICES, AND CONSERVATION PROGRAM PARTICIPATION IN THE US SOUTHWEST
Authors: Frisvold George B. , Deva Shailaja
Published: October 2012

The US Department of Agriculture's Farm and Ranch Irrigation Survey collects the most detailed and comprehensive data on US irrigation practices. Yet, because the data are only easily available in cross‐tab form, data are rarely used for statistical analysis of irrigator behavior. Using data from Arizona and New Mexico, this study illustrates how statistical measures of association can be used test hypotheses about how farm size (measured by sales class) affects (i) use of water management information, (ii) investment in irrigation improvements, and (iii) participation in conservation programs. Parametric (Cochran–Armitage trend test) and nonparametric (Goodman–Kruskall gamma) methods yielded similar results. Reliance on low‐cost, general information was common among all size classes, while larger operations relied more on private, tailored information. Larger operations were more likely to use directly provided data (e.g. media and Internet reports) than smaller operators, who relied more on information provided by intermediaries. Smaller farms were less likely to investigate irrigation improvements, use management‐intensive methods for irrigation scheduling, or participate in cost‐share programs to encourage adoption of improved irrigation practices. Adoption of scientific irrigation scheduling methods was low for all groups, but especially low for small‐scale irrigators. There appear to be significant barriers to information acquisition, use of management‐intensive irrigation practices, and participation in conservation programs among smaller‐scale irrigators. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface design forin situcapture of endothelial progenitor cells: VEGF‐bound surface architecture and behaviors of cultured mononuclear cells
Authors: Matsuda Takehisa , Kuwana Makoto , Aomizu Tatsuki , Yamagishi Masakazu , Ohtake Hiroshi , Watanabe Go
Published: October 2012

In situcapture of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the arterial bloodstream may allow the creation of a functioning endothelium on the luminal surfaces of implanted cardiovascular devices. Our strategy is to use highly biospecific interaction between the cell‐surface marker and surface‐bound protein. The target‐cell marker defined is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor, which is exclusively expressed on endothelial lineage cells. The candidate surface‐bound proteins are VEGF and anti‐VEGF receptor (VEGF‐R1 and VEGF‐R2) antibodies, which were covalent‐bound on poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) bearing a high‐surface density of hydroxyl groups. Incubating human mononuclear cells on these substrates affected the histochemical expression of cell‐surface markers specific for EPCs and endothelial cells (ECs). The VEGF‐bound surface significantly increased the number of cells expressing both VEGF receptors after 1 or 2 weeks of culture, whereas both anti‐VEGF receptor antibody‐bound substrates did not affect the expression of the surface markers, and cells on these surfaces were eventually died. These results indicate that, among the three candidate molecules, VEGF is best able to capture EPCs and induces their differentiation. Additionally, a pilot study of surface architecture of stents and small‐diameter artificial grafts was conducted for an ongoing implantation study in a porcine model. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 101B: 50–60, 2013.
The anti‐adhesive effect of thermally cross‐linked gelatin film and its influence on the intestinal anastomosis in canine models
Authors: Tsujimoto Hiroyuki , Tanzawa Ayumi , Matoba Mari , Hashimoto Ayumi , Suzuki Shuko , Morita Shinichiro , Ikada Yoshito , Hagiwara Akeo
Published: October 2012

To generate a more effective and safer anti‐adhesive material, we have developed a new type of thermally cross‐linked gelatin film. In this study, we preclinically examined the anti‐adhesive efficacy of this film and evaluated the possibility applying the film safely onto fresh intestinal anastomoses, compared with hyaluronate and carboxymethyl‐cellulose (HA/CMC) film. Using a canine adhesion model, the degree of adhesion for each film was evaluated by adhesion scoring systems and histological observation. Three weeks after surgery, only the gelatin film showed significantly superior anti‐adhesive effects compared to the control (no treatment), in particular, exhibiting excellent re‐peritonization. Next, in a canine anastomosis model, the anastomoses were wrapped directly by each film and the bursting pressures of the anastomoses were examined 3 and 7 days after surgery. The gelatin film did not significantly affect either the bursting pressures or the healing process, compared with the control. However, the HA/CMC film significantly decreased the bursting pressures measured at 3 days after surgery. In conclusion, the thermally cross‐linked gelatin film had satisfactory anti‐adhesive effects with excellent re‐peritonization. It could be safely applied to intestinal anastomoses without decreasing the bursting pressures. The gelatin film is considered to be quite favorable as an anti‐adhesive material. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 101B: 99–109, 2013.
Fatigue testing of electron beam‐melted Ti‐6Al‐4V ELI alloy for dental implants
Authors: Joshi Gaurav V. , Duan Yuanyuan , Neidigh John , Koike Mari , Chahine Gilbert , Kovacevic Radovan , Okabe Toru , Griggs Jason A.
Published: October 2012

Customized one‐component dental implants have been fabricated using Electron Beam Melting® (EBM®), which is a rapid prototyping and manufacturing technique. The goal of our study was to determine the effect of electron beam orientation on the fatigue resistance of EBM Ti‐6Al‐4V ELI alloy. EBM technique was used to fabricate Ti‐6Al‐4V ELI alloy blocks, which were cut into rectangular beam specimens with dimensions of 25 × 4 × 3 mm, such that electron beam orientation was either parallel (group A) or perpendicular (group B) to the long axis of the specimens. The specimens were subjected to cyclic fatigue (R = 0.1) in four‐point flexure under ambient conditions using various stress amplitudes below the yield stress. The fatigue lifetime data were fit to an inverse power law–Weibull model to predict the peak stress corresponding to failure probabilities of 5 and 63% at 2M cycles (σmax, 5% and σmax, 63%). Groups A and B did not have significantly different Weibull modulus, m (p > 0.05). The specimens with parallel orientation showed significantly higher σmax, 63% (p ≤ 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the σmax, 5% (p > 0.05). Thus, it can be concluded that the fatigue resistance of the material was greatest when the electron beam orientation was perpendicular to the direction of crack propagation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 101B: 124–130, 2013.
Ultrastructure alteration in the corneal stroma of hydrated camel corneoscleral button and corneal button
Authors: Akhtar Saeed
Published: October 2012

PURPOSE:

To investigate the changes in the ultrastructural architecture of hydrated corneoscleral button (HCSB) and hydrated corneal button (HCB).

METHOD:

Corneoscleral buttons (n = 4) and corneal buttons (n = 4) were hydrated in deionized water for 24 and 48 h and were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde containing cuprolinic blue in sodium acetate buffer and processed for electron microscopy. The tissue was dehydrated and embedded in TAAB 031 resin. Normal CSB and CB were also processed using the same method. Ultrathin sections were stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate. The sections were observed under JEOL 1400 transmission electron microscope.

RESULTS:

In both HCSB and HCB, the lamellae were disorganized and proteoglycans (PGs) were degenerated and detached from the collagen fibrils (CFs). In the HCSB samples, interfibrillar spacing increased but the diameter of the CF had not changed compared with those in the normal tissue. Within the HCSB, the interfibrillar spacing in the posterior stroma was significantly higher compared with those in the anterior and middle stroma. In the HCB, both the interfibrillar spacing and CF diameter had significantly increased compared to those observed in both the HCSB and normal tissue. The CFs were severely damaged exhibiting very thin microfilaments within CFs. Remnants of the CFs were present in the stromal matrix.

CONCLUSION:

Hydration of the cornea in both the HCSB and HCB increases the interfibrillar spacing in the anterior, middle, and posterior stroma. The CF in the HCB was enlarged and had degenerated. This could be due to penetration of water into the intermolecular spacing within the CF. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficient design of a double‐band coplanar hybrid antenna using multi‐objective evolutionary programming
Authors: Sánchez‐Montero R. , López‐Espí P. , Manjarres D. , Landa‐Torres I. , Salcedo‐Sanz S. , Del Ser J.
Published: October 2012

In this paper, we propose the optimization of the parameters of a hybrid antenna for wireless applications by using a multi‐objective evolutionary programming (EP). Specifically, the antenna proposed is formed by a planar inverted‐F antenna and a coplanar patch, in the same structure. The objective functions to carry out the optimization process are related to the antenna's bandwidth and the gain requirements in the wireless applications considered. In fact, the antenna is intended to be used in mobile and WIFI applications simultaneously. To be concise, we have utilized an improved fast EP optimization approach that includes a selection mechanism based on nondominated ranking procedure with crowding distance to maintain diversity in the population. In the experimental part of the paper, we show that the multi‐objective EP–improved fast EP is able to obtain excellent results in the parameters' design of this hybrid device, with reasonable values of both bandwidth and gain values. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carbamylated erythropoietin ameliorates hypoxia‐induced cognitive and behavioral defects with the generation of choline acetyltransferase‐positive neurons
Authors: Ding Jing , Li Qin‐Ying , Yu Jie‐Zhong , Wang Xin , Lu Chuan‐Zhen , Ma Cun‐Gen , Xiao Bao‐Guo
Published: October 2012

Carbamylated erythropoietin (CEPO) is attracting widespread interest because of its neuroprotective effects without influencing erythropoiesis. Here we show that CEPO, unlike EPO, does not stimulate erythropoiesis. Both CEPO and EPO inhibit the death/apoptosis of neurons in the hypoxic model of primary neurons and induce neuron proliferation and differentiation in hypoxic mice. Hypoxic mice show apparent memory deficits at 3 and 30 days after hypoxia. The administration of CEPO/EPO significantly improves cognitive and behavioral defects after hypoxic insults. Further investigation shows that CEPO/EPO induces neuron proliferation and differentiation and promotes the generation of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)+ neurons in hypoxic mice. Phosphorylated AKT was colabeled with ChAT+ neurons and coexpressed in bromodeoxyuridine‐positive cells, suggesting that the PI3K/AKT pathway may play a pivotal role in CEPO/EPO‐cholinergic neuron generation. These results reveal that CEPO/EPO ameliorates hypoxia‐induced cognitive and behavioral defects possibly through the generation of ChAT‐positive neurons. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changing behaviour: Increasing the effectiveness of workplace interventions in creating pro‐environmental behaviour change
Authors: Unsworth Kerrie L. , Dmitrieva Alina , Adriasola Elisa
Published: October 2012

There is a great deal of research outlining interventions to increase pro‐environmental behaviour, many of which are aimed at employees. However, to date the results for these have not lived up to their initial promise. Instead of offering another intervention, we propose a model which identifies psychological conditions under which these interventions are most likely to succeed. Through the integration of previously separate literatures from experimental social psychology, organisational psychology, organisational behaviour and environmental psychology, we suggest that the degree to which the intervention‐related goal is efficacious and attractive, self‐concordant, in conflict with other goals, and perceived to be completed will affect the level and type of behaviour change. Our model aims to provide actionable knowledge that extends our understanding of the effectiveness of workplace interventions designed to increase green organisational behaviour. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the linear additivity of climate forcing‐response relationships at global and continental scales
Authors: Shiogama Hideo , Stone Dáithí A. , Nagashima Tatsuya , Nozawa Toru , Emori Seita
Published: October 2012

Within the context of the prediction, detection and attribution of climate change, a number of studies have explicitly or implicitly assumed that individual climate responses to individual forcing agents can be linearly added to obtain the total climate response to the sum of the forcing agents. This assumption of the ‘linear additivity of forcing‐response relationships’ has been tested by previous studies, but it remains controversial whether linear additivity holds with all combinations of forcing agents, such as ‘greenhouse gases plus indirect effects of anthropogenic aerosols’ or ‘greenhouse gases plus solar irradiance’. This study explored whether linear additivity holds in 5‐year mean temperature/precipitation responses to various combinations of forcing agents in the 20th century and in a future‐emissions scenario at global and continental scales. We used Model for Interdisciplinary Research on Climate version 3, which includes the first and second indirect effects of aerosols. The forcing factors considered were well‐mixed greenhouse gases, the direct and indirect effects of sulphate and carbon aerosols, ozone, land‐use changes, solar irradiance and volcanic aerosols (the latter three factors were specified only in the 20th‐century runs). By performing and analysing an enormous matrix of forcing runs, we concluded that linear additivity holds in temperature responses for all of the combinations of forcing agents at the global and continental scales, but it breaks down for precipitation responses in certain cases of future projections.
Spectroscopic characterization of an innovative biological treatment for corroded metal artefacts
Authors: Joseph Edith , Simon Anaële , Mazzeo Rocco , Job Daniel , Wörle Marie
Published: October 2012

Nowadays, organic coatings such as waxes, acrylic resins, and corrosion inhibitors are commonly used for the protection and corrosion inhibition of metal artefacts. However, research efforts still need to be emphasized on innovative treatments that aim at modifying existing corrosion products into more stable and less soluble compounds while maintaining the surface's appearance. Within the framework of the Biological patinA for arcHaeological and Artistic Metal ArtefactS project, biological treatments based on such criteria are being evaluated for the preservation of metal artefacts. In particular, the capacity of a fungal strain, Beauveria bassiana, to precipitate copper oxalates is exploited for the stabilization of soluble patinas (copper hydroxysulfates) or the transformation of active corrosion products (copper hydroxychlorides). In fact, copper oxalates produce green compact patinas showing a high degree of insolubility and chemical stability even in acid atmospheres (pH 3). In the present work, cultures of B. bassiana were applied on copper‐based coupons naturally aged in urban or marine environment. The results clearly showed that the original patina was gradually transformed into copper oxalates and that the conversion is completed on the surface areas where B. bassiana grew. Cross‐sectioned samples were also analyzed to determine the distribution of the copper oxalates. Raman mapping was demonstrated here to be a valuable tool for precisely and nondestructively localizing corrosion products and for evaluating protective treatments on metal artefacts. This study also permitted the further improvement of the treatment to be easily and directly applied in situ by conservators–restorers. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Environmental approach to hydraulic fluids
Authors: Müller‐Zermini Ben , Gaule Gerhard
Published: October 2012

Over the past years, contradictory information about ‘bio‐oils’ and ‘fast biodegradable hydraulic oils’ has been spread in the media and in the public. There are norms and standards that define the environmental requirements of environmental‐compatible hydraulic fluids. A key criterion in all of these standards is ready biodegradability, but testing biodegradability of poorly water soluble products is difficult. However, how important is fast biodegradability in the environment? Degradation needs oxygen. In sewage treatment plants, there is much oxygen due to an artificial supply, but in the environment, there is often a lack of oxygen, e.g. the biodegradation of 1 kg oil needs the oxygen that is dissolved in 400.000 l of water. If a fast biodegradable substance gets into an ecosystem, nature has to cope with oxygen deprivation. In the following review article we will summarise the present understanding of an environmental‐compatible hydraulic fluid, from a holistic point of view. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancement of Fatty Acid‐based Polyurethanes Cytocompatibility by Non‐covalent Anchoring of Chondroitin Sulfate
Authors: González‐Paz Rodolfo J. , Lligadas Gerard , Ronda Juan C. , Galià Marina , Ferreira Ana M. , Boccafoschi Francesca , Ciardelli Gianluca , Cádiz Virginia
Published: October 2012

For tissue engineering purpose biopolymer chondroitin sulfate (CS), one of the major components of cartilage and bone extracellular matrix, was immobilized onto the surface of amino‐functionalized polyurethane (PU) films derived from naturally occurring oleic and 10‐undecenoic acids. The amino‐functionalized PUs were prepared by aminolysis with 1,6‐hexamethylenediamine of synthesized PUs containing methyl ester groups. FTIR‐ATR, XPS, SEM, and water contact angle measurements were used to confirm the surface changes at each step of treatment, both in morphologies and chemical composition. Cytotoxicity and cell morphology analysis using osteoblast cell line MG63 showed that PU‐CS films are suitable materials for cell growth, spreading, and differentiation.

magnified image
Polymer Carriers for Anticancer Drugs Targeted to EGF Receptor
Authors: Studenovsky Martin , Pola Robert , Pechar Michal , Etrych Tomas , Ulbrich Karel , Kovar Lubomir , Kabesova Martina , Rihova Blanka
Published: October 2012

A novel actively targeted polymer carrier for anticancer drugs based on an N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer (PHPMA) is proposed. An oligopeptide sequence GE7, attached to the polymer, is a specific ligand for the EGF receptor overexpressed on most tumor cells. Co‐attachment of selected chemotherapeutics will therefore lead to formation of tumor‐specific polymer therapeutics, further enhanced by the EPR effect. FACS measurements prove elevated binding activity of the fluorescently labeled PHPMA/GE7 conjugate in EGFR‐rich cells (FaDu, MCF‐7), compared to conjugates of scrambled peptides. Cell lines with low EGFR level (SW620, B16F10) bind the GE7 conjugate significantly less.

magnified image
Predicting the Change of MWD Caused by Interchange Reactions During Melt‐Mixing of Linear and Branched Polycondensates (AB2)
Authors: Iedema Piet D. , Dreischor Menno , Hungenberg Klaus‐Dieter , Orlov Yuri
Published: October 2012

During mix melting of hyperbranched AB2‐ and linear CD‐polycondensates distributive properties are changing by interchange reactions. Two mathematical modeling approaches are presented: (i) Simplified approach of monodisperse population of three‐arm stars undergoing interchange reactions, both analytical and by Monte Carlo simulations, assuming interchange as subsequent scission and recombination of fragments. (ii) Full system of interchange and polycondensation/hydrolysis reactions with Monte Carlo simulations and kinetic model describing reactions of free groups (A, B, C, D) and bonds (AB, CD, BC, AD). MC simulations show that the final molecular weight and branching distribution is attained after 10% of reaction time. The change of structure, from few large fragments to more, smaller ones, is slower.

magnified image
Termination of Surface Radicals and Kinetic Analysis of Surface‐Initiated RAFT Polymerization on Flat Surfaces
Authors: Zhou Dapeng , Mastan Erlita , Zhu Shiping
Published: October 2012

si‐RAFT polymerization is widely used for surface modification. However, how the surface radicals terminate requires further elucidation. A kinetic model is developed for si‐RAFT via the R group approach. The model describes the molecular weight of grafted polymers as well as polymer layer thickness and various chain concentrations. It is shown that surface/surface radical termination plays an important role. The termination is facilitated by the migration of surface radicals through “hopping” and “rolling” mechanisms. “Hopping” occurs through activation/deactivation cycles between surface and solution chains, dependent on the RAFT concentration in solution. “Rolling” occurs through transfers between surface/surface chains, dependent on the grafting density at surface.

magnified image