bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamique des modèles d’affaires et écosystème : le cas des synchrotrons
Authors: Avadikyan Arman , Bach Laurent , Lambert Gilles , Lerch Christophe , Wolff Sandrine
Published: August 2014

Cet article a pour objectif d’analyser les mécanismes selon lesquels une grande Infrastructure de Recherche, ici un synchrotron, co-construit l’écosystème dans lequel elle s’insère et l’utilise pour soutenir et nourrir sa dynamique d’innovation. Notre analyse se fonde sur l’étude du synchrotron français SOLEIL. Nous postulons qu’il est possible d’analyser le modèle d’affaires d’une telle infrastructure, et surtout de comprendre les mécanismes de son évolution. Si celle-ci résulte de processus de résolution de tensions repérables au niveau micro­économique, les mécanismes à l’œuvre mettent en jeu des dynamiques de coopération et de compétition opérant par l’intermédiaire des différentes communautés au sein d’un écosystème de synchrotrons.
Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy
Authors: Katrancha Elizabeth D. , Gonzalez Luis S.
Published: August 2014

Coagulopathy is the inability of blood to coagulate normally; in trauma patients, it is a multifactorial and complex process. Seriously injured trauma patients experience coagulopathies during the acute injury phase. Risk factors for trauma-induced coagulopathy include hypothermia, metabolic acidosis, hypoperfusion, hemodilution, and fluid replacement. In addition to the coagulopathy induced by trauma, many patients may also be taking medications that interfere with hemostasis. Therefore, medication-induced coagulopathy also is a concern. Traditional laboratory-based methods of assessing coagulation are being supported or even replaced by point-of-care tests. The evidence-based management of trauma-induced coagulopathy should address hypothermia, fluid resuscitation, blood components administration, and, if needed, medications to reverse identified coagulation disorders.
ARTÍCULO RETRACTADO: La retradicionalización de los roles de género en la maternidad transnacional: el caso de mujeres peruanas en Santiago de Chile
Authors: León Gin Camila
Published: August 2014

ÉSTE ARTÍCULO HA SIDO RETIRADO POR INFRINGIR LAS NORMAS DE DERECHO DE AUTOR.
‘Between life and death’: On land, silence and liberation in the capital city
Authors: De Beer Stephan F.
Published: August 2014

This article reflects on the unfinished task of liberation – as expressed in issues of land – and drawing from the work of Franz Fanon and the Durban-based social movement Abahlali baseMjondolo. It locates its reflections in four specific sites of struggle in the City of Tshwane, and against the backdrop of the mission statement of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Pretoria, as well as the Capital Cities Research Project based in the same university. Reflecting on the ‘living death’ of millions of landless people on the one hand, and the privatisation of liberation on the other, it argues that a liberating praxis of engagement remains a necessity in order to break the violent silences that perpetuate exclusion.
‘... conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary’: The exposition of the Heidelberg Catechism in the light of present-day criticism
Authors: Van Wyk Ignatius W.C.
Published: August 2014

The article is a contribution to the 450 year celebrations of the Heidelberg Catechism (HC). Sunday 14, Questions and Answers 35 and 36 receive attention. It deals with the two statements of the creed ‘… conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary’. The exposition of the HC is compared to the catechisms of Zacharias Ursinus and John Calvin in order to capture something about the historicity of the text. The exposition of the creed is an on-going process. Karl Barth, Eberhard Busch and Jan Milič Lochman are good examples of Reformed theologians who remain faithful to the intention of the HC, but who explain these statements with present-day criticism in mind. The exposition of Peter Berger is valuable because this sceptic argues that the opinion of modern, liberal Protestantism is of no value. The article concludes that the ‘virgin birth’ as such has no great value. It is only one aspect of the Christian gospel. It also does not proof the divinity of Christ. The divinity of Christ is presupposed.
Modelling the effect of soil moisture and organic matter degradation on biogenic NO emissions from soils in Sahel rangeland (Mali)
Authors: Delon C. , Mougin E. , Serça D. , Grippa M. , Hiernaux P. , Diawara M. , Galy-Lacaux C. , Kergoat L.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. This work is an attempt to provide seasonal variation of biogenic NO emission fluxes in a sahelian rangeland in Mali (Agoufou, 15.34° N, 1.48° W) for years 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Indeed, NO is one of the most important precursor for tropospheric ozone, and the contribution of the Sahel region in emitting NO is no more considered as negligible. The link between NO production in the soil and NO release to the atmosphere is investigated in this study, by taking into account vegetation litter production and degradation, microbial processes in the soil, emission fluxes, and environmental variables influencing these processes, using a coupled vegetation–litter decomposition–emission model. This model includes the Sahelian-Transpiration-Evaporation-Productivity (STEP) model for the simulation of herbaceous, tree leaf and fecal masses, the GENDEC model (GENeral DEComposition) for the simulation of the buried litter decomposition, and the NO emission model for the simulation of the NO flux to the atmosphere. Physical parameters (soil moisture and temperature, wind speed, sand percentage) which affect substrate diffusion and oxygen supply in the soil and influence the microbial activity, and biogeochemical parameters (pH and fertilization rate related to N content) are necessary to simulate the NO flux. The reliability of the simulated parameters is checked, in order to assess the robustness of the simulated NO flux. Simulated yearly average of NO flux ranges from 0.69 to 1.09 kg(N) ha−1 yr−1, and wet season average ranges from 1.16 to 2.08 kg(N) ha−1 yr−1. These results are in the same order as previous measurements made in several sites where the vegetation and the soil are comparable to the ones in Agoufou. This coupled vegetation–litter decomposition–emission model could be generalized at the scale of the Sahel region, and provide information where little data is available.
Robotic Services at Home: An Initialization System Based on Robots' Information and User Preferences in Unknown Environments
Authors: Mohd Nor Nur Safwati , Mizukawa Makoto
Published: August 2014

One important issue in robotic services is the construction of the robotic system in the actual environment. In other words, robots must perform environment sensing or have information on real objects, such as location and 3D dimensions, in order to live together with humans. It is crucial to have a mechanism to create an actual robotic system (intelligent space) such that there is no initialization framework for the objects in the environment, or we have to perform SLAM and object recognition as well as mapping to generate a useful environmental database. In intelligent space research, normally the objects are attached to various sensors in order to extract the necessary information. However, that approach will highly depend on sensor accuracy and the robotic system will be burdened if there are too many sensors in an environment. Therefore, in this paper we present a system in which a robot can obtain information about an object and even create the furniture layout map for an unknown environment. Our approach is intended to improve home-based robotic services by taking into account the user or individual preferences for the Intelligent Space (IS). With this information, we can create an informational map of the home-based environment for the realization of robot assistance of humans in their daily activities at home, especially for disabled people. The result shows the system design and development in our approach by using model-based system engineering.
Micro-Assembly of a Vascular-Like Micro-Channel with Railed Micro-Robot Team-Coordinated Manipulation
Authors: Wang Huaping , Shi Qing , Yue Tao , Nakajima Masahiro , Takeuchi Masaru , Huang Qiang , Fukuda Toshio
Published: August 2014

The 3D assembly of cellular structures is important for the fabrication of biological substitutes in tissue engineering. In particular, a micro-channel with a 200 μm diameter is of interest because of its promising ability to construct the vascular network for oxygen and nutrition delivery in thick biological substitutes in the future. In this paper, a novel rail-guided micro-robot-team system is proposed for the micro-assembly of a cellular structure. The cellular two-dimensional (2D) component was fabricated by ultraviolet (UV) illumination of a cross-linkable hydrogel. The modular rail-guided micro-robotic system was set up with multi-micromanipulators as the modules and controlled with hybrid motors to achieve an operation resolution of 30 nm. To realize the bottom-up fabrication of the cellular micro-channel, different micro-assembly strategies with multi-manipulators were developed. The micro-assembly success rate and the efficiency of the different strategies were evaluated based on the assembly of micro-donuts. Through the novel, designed, concentric movement of the multi-manipulators along the rail, arbitrary change of the approaching angle and the coordination posture was achieved to improve the micro-assembly's flexibility. The operation range for every micromanipulator in different coordinated manipulation modes was analysed to avoid the breakdown of the assembled 3D structure. The image processing for the target location and end-effector identification was conducted to improve assembly efficiency in the micro-robot-team system. Finally, the assembly of the cellular vascular-like micro-channel was achieved with coordinated manipulation in the rail-guided micro-robot-team system.
On Consensus of Multiple High-Order Uncertain Systems Based on Distributed Backstepping Framework
Authors: Huang Jie , Chen Chen , Fang Hao , Chen Jie , Dou Lihua
Published: August 2014

This paper focuses on the consensus problem of multiple high-order systems with uncertainties. Since it is difficult to use matrix theory approaches to design consensus controllers for a class of multiple high-order uncertain nonlinear systems, in this paper a set of consensus control laws are proposed by employing adaptive control theory and a backstepping technique. The distributed virtual control functions of the multi-agent systems are elaborately constructed by only using their local information in the recursive controller design procedure. Furthermore, the asymptotic stability of the overall interconnected system is proved relying on the Lyapunov stability analysis method. Finally, simulations are provided to verify the effectiveness of the control algorithms.
BECCS capability of dedicated bioenergy crops under a future land‐use scenario targeting net negative carbon emissions
Authors: Kato Etsushi , Yamagata Yoshiki
Published: July 2014

Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) is a key component of mitigation strategies in future socioeconomic scenarios that aim to keep mean global temperature rise below 2°C above preindustrial, which would require net negative carbon emissions in the end of the 21st century. Because of the additional need for land, developing sustainable low‐carbon scenarios requires careful consideration of the land‐use implications of deploying large scale BECCS. We evaluated the feasibility of the large‐scale BECCS in RCP2.6, which is a scenario with net negative emissions aiming to keep the 2°C temperature target, with a top‐down analysis of required yields and a bottom‐up evaluation of BECCS potential using a process‐based global crop model. Land‐use change carbon emissions related to the land expansion were examined using a global terrestrial biogeochemical cycle model. Our analysis reveals that first‐generation bioenergy crops would not meet the required BECCS of the RCP2.6 scenario even with a high‐fertilizer and irrigation application. Using second‐generation bioenergy crops can marginally fulfill the required BECCS only if a technology of full postprocess combustion CO2 capture is deployed with a high‐fertilizer application in the crop production. If such an assumed technological improvement does not occur in the future, more than doubling the area for bioenergy production for BECCS around 2050 assumed in RCP2.6 would be required; however, such scenarios implicitly induce large‐scale land‐use changes that would cancel half of the assumed CO2 sequestration by BECCS. Otherwise, a conflict of land use with food production is inevitable.
Do seasonal‐to‐decadal climate predictions underestimate the predictability of the real world?
Authors: Eade Rosie , Smith Doug , Scaife Adam , Wallace Emily , Dunstone Nick , Hermanson Leon , Robinson Niall
Published: July 2014

Seasonal‐to‐decadal predictions are inevitably uncertain, depending on the size of the predictable signal relative to unpredictable chaos. Uncertainties can be accounted for using ensemble techniques, permitting quantitative probabilistic forecasts. In a perfect system, each ensemble member would represent a potential realization of the true evolution of the climate system, and the predictable components in models and reality would be equal. However, we show that the predictable component is sometimes lower in models than observations, especially for seasonal forecasts of the North Atlantic Oscillation and multiyear forecasts of North Atlantic temperature and pressure. In these cases the forecasts are underconfident, with each ensemble member containing too much noise. Consequently, most deterministic and probabilistic measures underestimate potential skill and idealized model experiments underestimate predictability. However, skilful and reliable predictions may be achieved using a large ensemble to reduce noise and adjusting the forecast variance through a postprocessing technique proposed here.
Seasonal variation and solar activity dependence of the quiet‐time ionospheric trough
Authors: Ishida T. , Ogawa Y. , Kadokura A. , Hiraki Y. , Häggström I.
Published: July 2014

We have conducted a statistical analysis of the ionospheric F region trough, focusing on its seasonal variation and solar activity dependence under geomagnetically quiet and moderate conditions, using plasma parameter data obtained via Common Program 3 observations performed by the European Incoherent Scatter (EISCAT) radar between 1982 and 2011. We have confirmed that there is a major difference in frictional heating between the high‐ and low‐latitude sides of the EISCAT field of view (FOV) at ~73°0′N–60°5′N (geomagnetic latitude) at an altitude of 325 km, which is associated with trough formation. Our statistical results show that the high‐latitude and midlatitude troughs occur on the high‐ and low‐latitude sides of the FOV, respectively. Seasonal variations indicate that dissociative recombination accompanied by frictional heating is a main cause of trough formation in sunlit regions. During summer, therefore, the occurrence rate is maintained at 80–90% in the postmidnight high‐latitude region owing to frictional heating by eastward return flow. Solar activity dependence on trough formation indicates that field‐aligned currents modulate the occurrence rate of the trough during the winter and equinox seasons. In addition, the trough becomes deeper via dissociative recombination caused by an increased ion temperature with F10.7, at least in the equinox and summer seasons but not in winter.
Paleomobility in the Tiwanaku Diaspora: Biogeochemical analyses at Rio Muerto, Moquegua, Peru
Authors: Knudson Kelly J. , Goldstein Paul S. , Dahlstedt Allisen , Somerville Andrew , Schoeninger Margaret J.
Published: July 2014

Paleomobility has been a key element in the study of the expansion of ancient states and empires, including the Tiwanaku polity of the South Central Andes (AD 500–1000). We present radiogenic strontium and oxygen isotope data from human burials from three cemeteries in the Tiwanaku‐affiliated Middle Horizon archaeological site complex of Rio Muerto in the Moquegua Valley of southern Peru. At Rio Muerto, archaeological human enamel and bone values range from 87Sr/86Sr = 0.70657–0.72018, with a mean of 87Sr/86Sr = 0.70804 ± 0.00207 (1σ, n = 55). For the subset of samples analyzed for oxygen isotope values (n = 48), the data ranges from δ18Ocarbonate(VSMOW) = +18.1 to +27.0‰. When contextualized with other lines of archaeological evidence, we interpret these data as evidence for an archaeological population in which the majority of individuals had “local” origins, and were likely second‐generation, or more, immigrants from the Tiwanaku heartland in the altiplano. Based on detailed life history data, we argue a smaller number of individuals came at different ages from various regions within the Tiwanaku polity. We consider whether these individuals with isotopic values consistent with “nonlocal” geographic origins could represent first‐generation migrants, marriage exchange partners, or occupationally mobile herders, traders or other travelers. By combining isotopic life history studies with mortuary treatment data, we use a person‐centered migration history approach to state integration and expansion. Isotopic analyses of paleomobility at the Rio Muerto site complex contribute to the role of diversity in ancient states by demonstrating the range of geographic origins rather than simply colonists from the Lake Titicaca Basin. Am J Phys Anthropol 155:405–421, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photocatalytic Water Oxidation by a Mixed‐Valent MnIII3MnIVO3 Manganese Oxo Core that Mimics the Natural Oxygen‐Evolving Center
Authors: Al‐Oweini Rami , Sartorel Andrea , Bassil Bassem S. , Natali Mirco , Berardi Serena , Scandola Franco , Kortz Ulrich , Bonchio Marcella
Published: July 2014

The functional core of oxygenic photosynthesis is in charge of catalytic water oxidation by a multi‐redox MnIII/MnIV manifold that evolves through five electronic states (Si , where i=0–4). The synthetic model system of this catalytic cycle and of its S0→S4 intermediates is the expected turning point for artificial photosynthesis. The tetramanganese‐substituted tungstosilicate [MnIII3MnIVO3(CH3COO)3(A‐α‐SiW9O34)]6− (Mn4POM) offers an unprecedented mimicry of the natural system in its reduced S0 state; it features a hybrid organic–inorganic coordination sphere and is anchored on a polyoxotungstate. Evidence for its photosynthetic properties when combined with [Ru(bpy)3]2+ and S2O82− is obtained by nanosecond laser flash photolysis; its S0→S1 transition within milliseconds and multiple‐hole‐accumulating properties were studied. Photocatalytic oxygen evolution is achieved in a buffered medium (pH 5) with a quantum efficiency of 1.7 %.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Cascade CH Trifluoroethylation of Aryl Iodides and Heck Reaction: Efficient Synthesis of ortho‐Trifluoroethylstyrenes
Authors: Zhang Hao , Chen Pinhong , Liu Guosheng
Published: July 2014

A palladium‐catalyzed selective CH bond trifluoroethylation of aryl iodides has been explored. The reaction allows for the efficient synthesis of a variety of ortho‐trifluoroethyl‐substituted styrenes. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicate that the reaction might involve a key PdIV intermediate, which is generated through the rate‐determining oxidative addition of CF3CH2I to a palladacycle; the bulky nature of CF3CH2I influences the reactivity. Reductive elimination from the PdIV complex then leads to the formation of the aryl–CH2CF3 bond.
Stereoselective Construction of 1,3‐Disilylcyclopentane Derivatives by Scandium‐Catalyzed [3+2] Cycloaddition of Allylsilanes to β‐Silylenones
Authors: Okamoto Kazuhiro , Tamura Eisuke , Ohe Kouichi
Published: July 2014

The Sc(OTf)3‐catalyzed [3+2] cycloaddition of allylsilanes to β‐silyl‐α,β‐unsaturated ketones (β‐silylenones) has been developed to form five‐membered syn‐1,3‐disilylketones diastereoselectively through the rearrangement of the silicon substituents on the allylsilane. Stabilization of the carbocation intermediates by a double silicon effect plays a key role in directing the course of the reaction to favor the [3+2] cycloaddition pathway over simple allylation.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Ammonium Sulfinates from Aryl Halides and a Sulfur Dioxide Surrogate: A Gas‐ and Reductant‐Free Process
Authors: Emmett Edward J. , Hayter Barry R. , Willis Michael C.
Published: July 2014

Sulfonyl‐derived functional groups populate a broad range of useful molecules and materials, and despite a variety of preparative methods being available, processes which introduce the most basic sulfonyl building block, sulfur dioxide, using catalytic methods, are rare. Described herein is a simple reaction system consisting of the sulfur dioxide surrogate DABSO, triethylamine, and a palladium(0) catalyst for effective convertion of a broad range of aryl and heteroaryl halides into the corresponding ammonium sulfinates. Key features of this gas‐ and reductant‐free reaction include the low loadings of palladium (1 mol %) and ligand (1.5 mol %) which can be employed, and the use of isopropyl alcohol as both a solvent and formal reductant. The ammonium sulfinate products are converted in situ into a variety of sulfonyl‐containing functional groups, including sulfones, sulfonyl chlorides, and sulfonamides.
Mapping Polyamide–DNA Interactions in Human Cells Reveals a New Design Strategy for Effective Targeting of Genomic Sites
Authors: Erwin Graham S. , Bhimsaria Devesh , Eguchi Asuka , Ansari Aseem Z.
Published: July 2014

Targeting the genome with sequence‐specific synthetic molecules is a major goal at the interface of chemistry, biology, and personalized medicine. Pyrrole/imidazole‐based polyamides can be rationally designed to target specific DNA sequences with exquisite precision in vitro; yet, the biological outcomes are often difficult to interpret using current models of binding energetics. To directly identify the binding sites of polyamides across the genome, we designed, synthesized, and tested polyamide derivatives that enabled covalent crosslinking and localization of polyamide–DNA interaction sites in live human cells. Bioinformatic analysis of the data reveals that clustered binding sites, spanning a broad range of affinities, best predict occupancy in cells. In contrast to the prevailing paradigm of targeting single high‐affinity sites, our results point to a new design principle to deploy polyamides and perhaps other synthetic molecules to effectively target desired genomic sites in vivo.
Persistent Antimony‐ and Bismuth‐Centered Radicals in Solution
Authors: Ishida Shintaro , Hirakawa Fumiya , Furukawa Ko , Yoza Kenji , Iwamoto Takeaki
Published: July 2014

Stibinyl and bismuthinyl radicals are recognized as representative intermediates of antimony and bismuth compounds, but still elusive in the condensed phase. We successfully synthesized persistent stibinyl and bismuthinyl radicals in solution by facile dissociation of the corresponding dimers with bulky substituents. We characterized the radicals by NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopy and estimated the thermodynamic parameters for the dissociation equilibria. The radicals show n→p (HOMO→SOMO) transition bands at 497 nm (stibinyl) and 543 nm (bismuthinyl) in 3‐methylpentane and react with a stable nitroxyl radical to give the cross‐radical coupling products in good yields.
The Dominant Role of Chalcogen Bonding in the Crystal Packing of 2D/3D Aromatics
Authors: Fanfrlík Jindřich , Přáda Adam , Padělková Zdeňka , Pecina Adam , Macháček Jan , Lepšík Martin , Holub Josef , Růžička Aleš , Hnyk Drahomír , Hobza Pavel
Published: July 2014

The chalcogen bond is a nonclassical σ‐hole‐based noncovalent interaction with emerging applications in medicinal chemistry and material science. It is found in organic compounds, including 2D aromatics, but has so far never been observed in 3D aromatic inorganic boron hydrides. Thiaboranes, harboring a sulfur heteroatom in the icosahedral cage, are candidates for the formation of chalcogen bonds. The phenyl‐substituted thiaborane, synthesized and crystalized in this study, forms sulfur⋅⋅⋅π type chalcogen bonds. Quantum chemical analysis revealed that these interactions are considerably stronger than both in their organic counterparts and in the known halogen bond. The reason is the existence of a highly positive σ‐hole on the positively charged sulfur atom. This discovery expands the possibilities of applying substituted boron clusters in crystal engineering and drug design.
Hierarchical Zn/Ni‐MOF‐2 Nanosheet‐Assembled Hollow Nanocubes for Multicomponent Catalytic Reactions
Authors: Zhang Zhicheng , Chen Yifeng , He Su , Zhang Jingchao , Xu Xiaobin , Yang Yong , Nosheen Farhat , Saleem Faisal , He Wei , Wang Xun
Published: July 2014

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are potentially useful molecular materials that can exhibit structure flexibilities induced by some external stimuli. Such structure transformations can furnish MOFs with improved properties. The shape‐controlled growth of MOFs combined with crystal‐structure transformation is rarely achieved. Herein, we demonstrate the synthesis of hierarchical Zn/Ni‐MOF‐2 nanosheet‐assembled hollow nanocubes (NAHNs) by a facile surfactant‐free solvothermal approach. The unique nanostructures undergo crystal‐structure transformation from Zn/Ni‐MOF‐5 nanocubes to Zn/Ni‐MOF‐2 nanosheets, which is analogous to the dissolution and recrystallization of inorganic nanocrystals. The present synthetic strategy to fabricate isostructural MOFs with hierarchical, hollow, and bimetallic nanostructures is expected to expand the diversity and range of potential applications of MOFs.
A comprehensive study on mechanism of formation and techniques to diagnose asphaltene structure; molecular and aggregates: a review
Authors: Hosseini‐Dastgerdi Z. , Tabatabaei‐Nejad S.A.R. , Khodapanah E. , Sahraei E.
Published: July 2014

As the formation of asphaltene aggregates causes its deposition in various processes, exact determination of the molecular and aggregate structure and mechanism of aggregate formation is very important in order to prevent asphaltene deposit formation. The aim of this paper is to review the molecular and aggregate structure of asphaltene using various techniques. The other purpose is to specify and compare different mechanisms of aggregate formation, suggested by researchers. These mechanisms are proposed by researchers according to the molecular characteristics of asphaltene and the structure of aggregates. Researchers have considered four general models for the formation mechanism of asphaltene aggregates: the micellar/colloidal, polymeric, solubility, and modified Yen models. In comparison with other models, the modified Yen model shows more consistency with new studies, which determine the island molecular structure and small nano‐aggregates for asphaltene. Experimental studies show that the dominant mechanism of aggregate formation depends on asphaltene architecture, intermolecular forces, and the solubility definition of asphaltene. Depending on the asphaltene source, solvent, thermodynamic conditions, and various techniques such as near‐infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, small‐angle neutron scattering, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering, different structural information on the shape (spheres, discoid, oblate, membrane‐like, prolate cylinders, and mass fractal aggregates) and size of aggregates has been reported. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Designing and preparing of quercetin surface‐imprinted material and its molecular recognition characteristics
Authors: Gao Baojiao , Zhang Yanyan , Chen Tao
Published: July 2014

Quercetin is an important compound of flavonoids. In this work, quercetin molecule surface‐imprinted material with high performance was prepared using a novel surface‐imprinting technique of “synchronously graft‐polymerizing and imprinting.” The modified micron‐sized silica gel particles containing amino groups were used as matrix, methacrylic acid (MAA) was used as functional monomer, and N,N′‐Methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) was used as crosslinker. In dimethyl formamide solution of quercetin, MAA molecules arranged automatically around the template quercetin molecule by right of hydrogen bonding interactions of two type, ordinary hydrogen bond and π‐type hydrogen bond. By initiating the surface‐initiating system of –
, the graft/cross‐linking polymerization of MAA on SiO2 particles and the quercetin molecule surface‐imprinting were simultaneously carried out, forming quercetin molecule surface‐imprinted material MIP‐PMAA/SiO2. With another two flavonoids, rutin and genistein, as contrasting substances, the molecule recognition character of the quercetin molecule surface‐imprinted material MIP‐PMAA/SiO2 was investigated with batch and column methods. The experimental results show that the imprinted material MIP‐PMAA/SiO2 possesses special recognition selectivity and excellent binding affinity for quercetin molecule. The binding capacity of MIP‐PMAA/SiO2 for quercetin is 0.325 mmol/g, and its selectivity coefficients for quercetin relative to rutin and genistein are 7.69 and 4.40, respectively. The main conditions of imprinting process affect the property of MIP‐PMAA/SiO2 greatly, and the optimal molar ratio of monomer MAA to crosslinker MBA is 7 : 1 and appropriate molar ratio of monomer MAA to template quercetin is equal to 6 : 1. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41112.
Cotton‐fabric‐grafted poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) initiated by ammonium peroxydisulfate
Authors: Jian Nenmei , Xu Tao
Published: July 2014

In this article, we report that thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAAm) was successfully grafted onto a cotton fabric (CF) surface by free‐radical solution grafting polymerization; we obtained a thermoresponsive CF‐grafted PNIPAAm. This reaction system only contained four constituents: the monomer, solvent, initiator, and CFs. Ammonium peroxydisulfate was chosen as the initiator, and water was chosen as the solvent. A series of initiator concentrations and grafting polymerization temperatures were used in the experiments, and their effects on the grafting ratio (G) were also studied. Also, the effects of the G of CF‐g‐PNIPAAm on their corresponding thermoresponses was studied further. The structure of CF‐g‐PNIPAAm was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy–attenuated total reflectance analysis and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The G of CF‐g‐PNIPAAm was measured by a gravimetric method. The thermoresponse of CF‐g‐PNIPAAm was characterized by modulated differential scanning calorimetry, water contact angle measurements, and wetting time measurements. The experiments manifested the following results: (1) the initiator concentration and grafting polymerization temperature both influenced G, (2) the grafted PNIPAAm covered the CF surface, (3) the CF‐g‐PNIPAAm showed thermoresponsive hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, and (4) a relationship existed between the thermoresponse of CF‐g‐PNIPAAm and the corresponding G. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41193.
Modification of chitosan onto PE by irradiation in salt solutions and possible use as Cu2+ complex film for pest snail control
Authors: Pasanphan Wanvimol , Haema Kamonwon , Tangthong Theeranan , Piroonpan Thananchai
Published: July 2014

Chitosan‐grafted‐polyethylene (CS‐g‐PE) film was prepared using simultaneous radiation‐inducing grafting technique. The copper ion (Cu2+) adsorptivity on the CS‐g‐PE film was determined. The CS‐hydroxybenzyltriazole (CS‐HOBt), CS‐N‐hydroxysuccinimide (CS‐NHS), CS‐acetic acid (CS‐HOAc), and CS‐glutathione (CS‐GSH) were used as CS‐salts in aqueous solutions. Among these grafting solution systems, the CS‐g‐PE film prepared from CS‐HOBt solution showed the greatest grafting amount and highest Cu2+ adsorptivity, up to 30.2% (1.51 ppm, 7.56 µg cm−2). The effects of the CS‐HOBt concentration and mixing solution on the grafting amount were also observed to clarify their efficacies to assist radiation‐induced grafting reaction. SEM/EDS mapping, ICP and XRF were used to clarify the Cu2+ adsorption capacity of the CS‐g‐PE film and the stability of Cu2+ on the CS‐g‐PE complex film. The Cu2+ showed its stability on the CS‐g‐PE film at room temperature in neutral and basic solutions. The Cu2+‐‐‐CS‐g‐PE complex film reduced pest snail breeding as high as 54%. The success of this observation is a new approach to modify PE surface with a functional biopolymer, CS containing Cu2+ complex for controlling pest snail breeding. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41204.
Synthesis of macroporous monolithic materials from a waste renewable source
Authors: Forgacz Claire , Birot Marc , Deleuze Hervé
Published: July 2014

Interconnected porous monolithic materials can be directly obtained from non‐templating methods by reacting raw Kraft black liquor with epichlorohydrin either in the presence or not of surfactant, whereas extracted lignin leads to non‐porous materials. In the presence of a surfactant, micelles organization takes place and porosity of 40–60% can be achieved. Without surfactant, chemically induced phase separation occurs, giving materials with agglomerated nodules morphology. Carbonization followed by activation with CO2 yield monolithic micro/mesoporous carbons with surface area of 300 m2 g−1. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41215.
Improved thermostability and interfacial matching of nanoclay filler and ethylene vinyl alcohol matrix by silane‐modification
Authors: Geyer Björn , Röhner Stefan , Lorenz Günter , Kandelbauer Andreas
Published: July 2014

The interfacial compatibility between polymers and nanoclay fillers as well as the thermostability of both components are important characteristics for processing them into polymer composites. While the polymer component is often grafted using common polymerization reactions, the nanoclay component is usually surface modified by surfactant treatment to improve compatibility. In the present study, the polymer ethylene vinyl alcohol and a nanoclay filler based on natural bentonite are both surface modified by different silanes, 3‐glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane and methacryloxymethyltrimethoxysilane and their interfacial properties are investigated by inverse gas chromatography. The silane‐modified samples had improved interfacial properties as reflected by a significant increase in dispersive and specific surface energies. Lewis acidities were determined using chloroform and 1,4‐dioxane as polar probes and showed a good match between polymer and nanofiller interfaces. Lewis acidity was generally lower after silane‐modification. Silanization yielded increased thermal stability of the treated samples. Thus, silanization led to improved compatibility and enhanced thermal stability which facilitates further processing. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41227.
Orographic disturbances of surface winds over the shelf waters adjacent to South Georgia
Authors: Hosking J. Scott , Bannister Daniel , Orr Andrew , King John , Young Emma , Phillips Tony
Published: July 2014

This study seeks to quantify the influence of South Georgia's orography on regional surface winds. A typical case study characterized by large‐scale westerly winds is analysed using a high‐resolution setup (3.3 km) of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) regional model. The simulation produces significant fine‐scale spatial variability which is in agreement with satellite‐derived winds. The model simulation indicates that these orography‐driven wind disturbances are responsible for strong wind stress curl and enhanced heat flux over the shelf waters surrounding South Georgia. Such surface forcing is entirely absent from the reanalysis, highlighting the need to use high‐resolution forcing in regional ocean model simulations.
Molecular cloning, relative expression, and structural analysis of pattern recognition molecule β‐glucan binding protein from mangrove crabEpisesarma tetragonum
Authors: Sivakamavalli Jeyachandran , Selvaraj Chandrabose , Singh Sanjeev Kumar , Vaseeharan Baskaralingam
Published: July 2014

A full‐length cDNA of a β‐glucan binding protein (β‐GBP) gene was identified from the mangrove crabEpisesarma tetragonum. The open reading frame of theE. tetragonumβ‐GBP (Epteβ‐GBP) is 1,167 bp long, encoding a polypeptide of 389 amino acids. The deduced amino acidsequence of Epte β‐GBPgene has conserved a potential recognition motif for β‐1,3 linkages of polysaccharides and putative RGD (Arg–Gly–Asp) cell adhesion sites. Phylogenetic analysis of theEpte β‐GBPgene showed the similarity with β‐GBPs of other crustaceans and arthropods. Quantitative RT‐PCR results showed the upregulation ofEpte β‐GBPgene expression inE. tetragonumhemocytes following a 12‐H challenge in response to β‐glucan (β‐G).Epteβ‐GBP was involved in the regulation and activation of the prophenoloxidase cascade. A three‐dimensional structure of activeEpteβ‐GBP was modeled by homology modeling and refined with molecular dynamics simulations. A structural aspect of the protein is discussed based on experimental and theoretical results obtained.
Split Ssp DnaB mini‐intein‐mediated production of recombinant human glucagon‐like peptide‐1/7‐36
Authors: Jiang Aiqin , Jin Wenbo , Zhao Feng , Tang Yanchun , Sun Ziyong , Liu Jian‐Ning
Published: July 2014

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) plays an important role in the regulation of postprandial insulin release. Here, we used the split DnaB mini‐intein system to produce recombinant human GLP‐1/7‐36 (rhGLP‐1) in Escherichia coli. The C‐terminal domain of DnaB mini‐intein (IntC) was genetically fused at the N‐terminus of rhGLP‐1 to produce IntC–GLP‐1. IntC–GLP‐1 and N‐terminal domain of DnaB mini‐intein (IntN) protein were prepared in a denatured buffer of pH 8.0. IntC–GLP‐1 was diluted 1:8 into the phosphate buffer of pH 6.6. IntN was added into the diluted solution of IntC–GLP‐1 at the molar ratio of 1:2. Then, rhGLP‐1 was released from IntC–GLP‐1 via inducible C‐terminal peptide‐bond cleavage by shifting pH from 8.0 to 6.6 at 25 °C for 24‐H incubation. Then, the supernatant was applied to a Ni‐Sepharose column, and the pass through fraction was collected. About 5.34 mg of rhGLP‐1 with the purity of 97% was obtained from 1 L of culture medium. Mass spectrometry showed the molecular weight of 3,300.45 Da, which was equal to the theoretical value of GLP‐1/7‐36. The glucose‐lowering activity of rhGLP‐1 was confirmed by the glucose tolerance test in mice. In conclusion, the reported method was an efficient strategy to produce rhGLP‐1 without using enzyme or chemical reagents, which could also be used for other similar peptides.
Hirschsprung's disease prevalence in Europe: A register based study
Authors: Best Kate E. , Addor Marie‐Claude , Arriola Larraitz , Balku Eszter , Barisic Ingeborg , Bianchi Fabrizio , Calzolari Elisa , Curran Rhonda , Doray Berenice , Draper Elizabeth , Garne Ester , Gatt Miriam , Haeusler Martin , Bergman Jorieke , Khoshnood Babak , Klungsoyr Kari , Martos Carmen , Materna‐Kiryluk Anna , Matias Dias Carlos , McDonnell Bob , Mullaney Carmel , Nelen Vera , O'Mahony Mary , Queisser‐Luft Annette , Randrianaivo Hanitra , Rissmann Anke , Rounding Catherine , Sipek Antonin , Thompson Rosie , Tucker David , Wellesley Diana , Zymak‐Zakutnia Natalya , Rankin Judith
Published: July 2014

Background: Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital gut motility disorder, characterised by the absence of the enteric ganglion cells along the distal gut. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of Hirschsprung's disease, including additional congenital anomalies, total prevalence, trends, and association with maternal age. Methods: Cases of Hirschsprung's disease delivered during 1980 to 2009 notified to 31 European Surveillance of Congenital Anomaly registers formed the population‐based case‐series. Prevalence rates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated as the number of cases per 10,000 births. Multilevel Poisson regression was performed to investigate trends in prevalence, geographical variation and the association with maternal age. Results: There were 1,322 cases of Hirschsprung's disease among 12,146,210 births. The total prevalence was 1.09 (95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.15) per 10,000 births and there was a small but significant increase in prevalence over time (relative risk = 1.01; 95% credible interval, 1.00–1.02; p = 0.004). There was evidence of geographical heterogeneity in prevalence (p < 0.001). Excluding 146 (11.0%) cases with chromosomal anomalies or genetic syndromes, there were 1,176 cases (prevalence = 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.91–1.03 per 10,000 births), of which 137 (11.6%) had major structural anomalies. There was no evidence of a significant increased risk of Hirschsprung's disease in cases born to women aged ≥35 years compared with those aged 25 to 29 (relative risk = 1.09; 95% credible interval, 0.91–1.31; p = 0.355). Conclusion: This large population‐based study found evidence of a small increasing trend in Hirschsprung's disease and differences in prevalence by geographic location. There was also no evidence of an association with maternal age. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 100:695–702, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brief report novel mechanism for valproate‐induced teratogenicity
Authors: Fathe Kristin , Palacios Ana , Finnell Richard H.
Published: July 2014

Background: Valproic acid (VPA) is a commonly prescribed drug for those affected by epilepsy and bipolar disorders. VPA has a well known teratogenic potential, causing a variety of birth defects including neural tube defects (NTDs) and other congenital malformations, when women are treated with this medication during pregnancy. Unfortunately, the mechanism by which VPA is teratogenic remains unknown, although a range of potential mechanisms including histone deacetylase inhibition and folate antagonism have been proposed. The latter is of considerable importance, as clinicians need to know if additional folate supplements can prevent VPA‐induced defects. Methods: We herein approach this question experimentally, using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay assays and cell culture modeling, to demonstrate that VPA serves as a noncompetitive inhibitor of the high affinity folate receptors. Results: Binding affinities experimentally determined through enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay assays indicate that VPA serves as a noncompetitive substrate that can lessen the ability of the three primary folate forms to bind to the high affinity folate receptors. Tests in HEK293T cells indicate that the membrane‐bound folate receptors of VPA treated cells bind significantly lower amounts of folic acid than do untreated cells. Conclusion: If these data translate to the overall transport and subsequent bioavailability of folates, noncompetitive inhibition of the folate receptors by VPA may serve to lower the bioavailable folates in VPA treated mothers. This represents a novel mechanism by which in utero VPA exposure could be disrupting developmental processes by noncompetitively binding to the folate receptors during embryogenesis, thus inducing the wide range of defects seen in babies born to VPA treated mothers. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:592–597, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of chromosomal structural variation in patients with congenital left‐sided cardiac lesions
Authors: White Peter S. , Xie Hongbo M. , Werner Petra , Glessner Joseph , Latney Brande , Hakonarson Hakon , Goldmuntz Elizabeth
Published: July 2014

Background: We sought to characterize the landscape of structural variation associated with the subset of congenital cardiac defects characterized by left‐sided obstruction. Methods: Cases with left‐sided cardiac defects (LSCD) and pediatric controls were uniformly genotyped and assessed for copy number variant (CNV) calls. Significance testing was performed to ascertain differences in overall CNV incidence, and for CNV enrichment of specific genes and gene functions in LSCD cases relative to controls. Results: A total of 257 cases of European descent and 962 ethnically matched, disease‐free pediatric controls were included. Although there was no difference in CNV rate between cases and controls, a significant enrichment in rare LSCD CNVs was detected overall (p = 7.30 × 10−3, case/control ratio = 1.26) and when restricted either to deletions (p = 7.58 × 10−3, case/control ratio = 1.20) or duplications (3.02 × 10−3, case/control ratio = 1.43). Neither gene‐based, functional nor knowledge‐based analyses identified genes, loci or pathways that were significantly enriched in cases as compared to controls when appropriate corrections for multiple tests were applied. However, several genes of interest were identified by virtue of their association with cardiac development, known human conditions, or reported disruption by CNVs in other patient cohorts. Conclusion: This study examines the largest cohort to date with LSCD for structural variation. These data suggest that CNVs play a role in disease risk and identify numerous genes disrupted by CNVs of potential disease relevance. These findings further highlight the genetic heterogeneity and complexity of these disorders. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:951–964, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dietary folate intake levels in rural women immediately before pregnancy in Northern China
Authors: Meng Qinqin , Zhang Le , Liu Jufen , Li Zhiwen , Jin Lei , Zhang Yali , Wang Linlin , Ren Aiguo
Published: July 2014

Background

The study aims to assess dietary folate levels and food sources in women immediately before pregnancy in a rural area of northern China associated with a high prevalence of neural tube defects.

Methods

Information was collected by face‐to‐face interviews with women who sought premarital healthcare and planned to become pregnant within the next 12 months from November 2009 through December 2012. Information regarding food consumption was obtained by means of 24‐hr dietary recall. Folate values were assigned to foods according to the China Food Composition 2004. Factors associated with dietary folate intake were analyzed by multiple linear regression.

Results

Mean (± standard deviation) and median (interquartile range) daily folate intake levels were 114.3 ± 59.7 and 102.8 (69.3–146.8) μg/day, respectively. Over 99% of the subjects had an intake level below 320 μg/day, the estimated average requirement for nonpregnant women. Only 1% and 7% of the women consumed 75% and 50%, respectively, of the recommended daily folate intake of 400 μg for nonpregnant women. Over 80% of total folate consumption came from cereals, vegetables, and tubers, whereas fruit consumption was severely lacking. Underweight women, farmers, women enrolled during the winter, and women with access to fewer food types or daily meals were more likely to exhibit low folate intake levels.

Conclusion

Dietary folate intake among study participants was far below the recommended intake level. Folic acid fortification of cereals is advised to raise folate intake in rural Chinese women planning to become pregnant. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 103:27–36, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.