bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal variability of suspended sediment yield in the Kamchatka Krai, Russian Federation
Authors: Kuksina L. , Alexeevsky N.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Research into the spatial and temporal variability of suspended sediment flux (SSF, t year−1) has been conducted for rivers in the Kamchatka Krai (in the far east of the Russian Federation). The study of long-term fluctuations in SSF was based on difference-integral curve analysis. Most of the rivers in the region are characterized by two relatively long-term trends in SSF; increases from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, followed by a subsequent decline. Kamchatka was divided into regions based on similar conditions of specific suspended sediment yield (SSSY, t km−2 year−1) followed by a determination of the various factors controlling it. New maps of suspended sediment concentration (SSC, mg L−1) and SSSY for Kamchatka also were constructed and, based on this study, there currently appear to be 18 SSC and 13 SSSY regions, as opposed to 4 and 2 regions, respectively, as had been determined in the 1970s. The influence of volcanoes on SSF can be substantial, and can increase up to 5-fold after eruptions; SSC can reach 6∙105 mg L−1 in rivers draining the flanks of volcanoes.
Sediment budget in the Ucayali River basin, an Andean tributary of the Amazon River
Authors: Santini W. , Martinez J.-M. , Espinoza-Villar R. , Cochonneau G. , Vauchel P. , Moquet J.-S. , Baby P. , Espinoza J.-C. , Lavado W. , Carranza J. , Guyot J.-L.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Formation of mountain ranges results from complex coupling between lithospheric deformation, mechanisms linked to subduction and surface processes: weathering, erosion, and climate. Today, erosion of the eastern Andean cordillera and sub-Andean foothills supplies over 99% of the sediment load passing through the Amazon Basin. Denudation rates in the upper Ucayali basin are rapid, favoured by a marked seasonality in this region and extreme precipitation cells above sedimentary strata, uplifted during Neogene times by a still active sub-Andean tectonic thrust. Around 40% of those sediments are trapped in the Ucayali retro-foreland basin system. Recent advances in remote sensing for Amazonian large rivers now allow us to complete the ground hydrological data. In this work, we propose a first estimation of the erosion and sedimentation budget of the Ucayali River catchment, based on spatial and conventional HYBAM Observatory network.
Rethinking the Mississippi River diversion for effective capture of riverine sediments
Authors: Jun Xu Y.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Many river deltas in the world are vibrant economic regions, serving as transportation hubs, population centres, and commercial hotspots. However, today, many of these deltaic areas face a tremendous challenge with land loss due to a number of factors, such as reduced riverine sediment supply, coastal land erosion, subsidence, and sea level rise. The development of the Mississippi River Deltaic Plain (MRDP) in southeast Louisiana, USA, over the past century is a good example. Since 1932, approximately 4877 km2 of the coastal land of MRDP has become submerged. The lower Mississippi River main channel entering the Gulf of Mexico has become an isolated waterway with both sides losing land. In contrast, large open water areas in the Mississippi River’s distributary basin, the Atchafalaya River basin, have been silted up over the past century, and the river mouth has developed a prograding delta feature at its two outlets to the Gulf of Mexico. The retrospective analysis of this paper makes it clear that the main cause of the land loss in the MRDP is not the decline of riverine sediment, but the disconnection of the sediment sources from the natural flood plains. Future sediment management efforts in the MRDP should focus on restoring the natural connection of riverine sediment supplies with flood plains, rather than solely using channelized river diversion. This could be achieved through controlled overbank flooding (COF) and artificial floods in conjunction with the use of a hydrograph-based sediment availability assessment.
Assessing the applicability of the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) to Irish Catchments
Authors: Rymszewicz A. , Mockler E. , O'Sullivan J. , Bruen M. , Turner J. , Conroy E. , Kelly-Quinn M. , Harrington J. , Lawler D.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Elevated suspended sediment concentrations in fluvial environments have important implications for system ecology and even small concentrations may have serious consequences for sensitive ecosystems or organisms, such as freshwater pearl mussels (Margaritifera margaritifera). Informed decision making is therefore required for land managers to understand and control soil erosion and sediment delivery to the river network. However, given that monitoring of sediment fluxes requires financial and human resources which are often limited at a national scale, sediment mobilisation and delivery models are commonly used for sediment yield estimation and management. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) is the most widely used model for overland flow erosion and can, when combined with a sediment delivery ratio (SDR), provide reasonable sediment load estimations for a catchment. This paper presents RUSLE factors established from extant GIS and rainfall datasets that are incorporated into a flexible catchment modelling approach. We believe that this is the first time that results from a RUSLE application at a national scale are tested against measured sediment yield values available from Ireland. An initial assessment of RUSLE applied to Irish conditions indicates an overestimation of modelled sediment yield values for most of the selected catchments. Improved methods for model and SDR factors estimation are needed to account for Irish conditions and catchment characteristics. Nonetheless, validation and testing of the model in this study using observed values is an important step towards more effective sediment yield modelling tools for nationwide applications.
National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) Common Criteria Testing
Authors: Leaman Dana S
Published: March 2015

NIST Handbook 150-20 represents the technical requirements and guidance for the accreditation of laboratories under the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) Information Technology Security Testing: Common Criteria Testing. It is intended for information and use by accredited laboratories, laboratories seeking accreditation, laboratory accreditation systems, users of laboratory services, and others needing information on the requirements for accreditation under this program. The 2014 edition of NIST Handbook 150-20 supersedes and replaces the 2005 edition. The handbook was revised with the participation of technical experts in applicable fields of testing concerning information technology security and the Common Criteria, and was approved by NVLAP. The following main changes have been made to this handbook with respect to the previous edition: - all references to applicable guides and standards have been updated; - the sequence of NVLAP assessment activities and the proficiency testing program have been changed; - all requirements have been updated to reflect the relevant changes within the National Information Assurance Partnership (NIAP); and - the number of annexes has been reduced from four to two. Annexes A and B show the sequence of events and the responsible parties for initial accreditation and development of written procedures. This handbook is also available on the NVLAP website (http://www.nist.gov/nvlap)
New Insights into the Tiwanaku Style of Snuff Trays from San Pedro de Atacama, Northern Chile
Authors: Hermann M. Niemeyer  , Diego Salazar  , Helena Horta Tricallotis  , Francisco T. Peña-Gómez
Published: March 2015

Snuff trays are conspicuous objects that are found in archaeological contexts throughout Andean South America. At San Pedro de Atacama, in northern Chile, snuff trays that exhibit iconographic motifs similar to those found on Tiwanaku megalithic monuments have been assigned to the Tiwanaku style. In the present work, we propose a new definition for this style based on the occurrence of three morphological features: an overall trapezoidal shape, incurving sides, and sharp top corners. This group includes trays with iconography from the previously defined Tiwanaku style, as well as other trays without iconography. Principal component analysis shows that Tiwanaku-style trays with and without iconography make up a single group that is significantly different from plain, largely rectangular San Pedro-style trays. The relative proportion of Tiwanaku-style trays with and without iconography does not differ between cultural periods and archaeological sites. The results point to shape as an important trait for assigning trays to styles. Furthermore, the results show that during the Middle period four main types of snuff trays were in use: Tiwanaku trays with and without iconography and local San Pedro trays, also with and without iconography. We explore the possible social implications of this co-occurrence of styles.
A New Archaeological Chronology for Aztec-Period Calixtlahuaca, Mexico
Authors: Huster Angela C. , Smith Michael E.
Published: March 2015

We describe the development of a new chronology for the Postclassic site of Calixtlahuaca, Toluca, Mexico. We identify three ceramic phases using discriminant analysis of decorated and plainware types. These phases are consistent with excavated stratigraphy, as well as a series of 54 radiocarbon dates. We then assign absolute dates to the phases using Bayesian analysis of radiocarbon dates and historical information on the date of site abandonment. The resulting chronology identifies three phases at the site: Dongu (A.D. 1130-1380), Ninupi (A.D. 1380-1450), and Yata (A.D. 1450-1530). We then discuss the local and regional implications of the chronology. More broadly, our results demonstrate the utility of using multiple, complementary methods for developing more precise chronologies.
Les carences de la traduction littéraire au Canada : des bibliographies et des traditions
Authors: Lane-Mercier Gillian
Published: March 2015

L’objectif de cet article est double. Dans un premier temps, il vise à mettre au jour deux carences de la traduction littéraire au Canada. La première est d’ordre empirique : il n’existe aucun répertoire complet des oeuvres littéraires canadiennes traduites dans les deux langues officielles. La deuxième est d’ordre théorique : si, en 1977, Philip Stratford a pu constater l’absence d’une tradition de traduction littéraire au Canada, plus de trente ans plus tard, tout porte à croire que la situation a changé. Or, non seulement il n’existe aucune étude d’envergure qui remet en question le constat de Stratford, mais aucun chercheur ne s’est penché sur ce qu’il conviendrait d’entendre par « tradition de traduction littéraire au Canada ». Après avoir exposé ces carences qui, à bien des égards, laissent perplexe en contexte de bilinguisme officiel, il s’agira, dans un deuxième temps, i) de définir l’idée de « tradition » ; ii) d’avancer l’hypothèse selon laquelle il existe depuis 1980 plusieurs traditions conflictuelles de traduction littéraire au Canada ; iii) de formuler des questions de méthodologie susceptibles d’en appréhender l’émergence, l’essor et, le cas échéant, l’étiolement ; iv) de souligner l’importance des bibliographies pour la mise au jour de nouvelles pistes analytiques d’ordre tant quantitatif que qualitatif dans le domaine de la traductologie.
Québec et Canada : entre l’unilinguisme et le bilinguisme politique
Authors: Gagnon Chantal
Published: March 2015

Le Canada est un pays officiellement bilingue, en ce sens que la communication qui émane de son gouvernement central se fait dans les deux langues officielles, l’anglais et le français. Cependant, les gouvernements des provinces canadiennes sont unilingues, à une exception près (la province du Nouveau-Brunswick est officiellement bilingue). Le contexte québécois est particulier puisque cette province est la seule dont la majorité s’exprime en français, d’où son statut de province unilingue française. Cependant, tant d’un point de vue politique que démographique, la population anglophone a toujours joué un rôle clé dans la société québécoise. La présente étude a pour objectif d’observer les différentes pratiques de traduction officielle du gouvernement du Canada et du gouvernement du Québec. Plus précisément, nous analyserons la traduction des discours de différents chefs politiques au provincial et au fédéral. Afin d’obtenir des résultats comparables, nous étudierons tout particulièrement les discours entourant un seul événement, soit le référendum québécois de 1995. Nos recherches précédentes ont démontré qu’au gouvernement fédéral, la traduction des discours politiques varie entre autres en fonction de l’époque et du premier ministre au pouvoir. Nous posons l’hypothèse qu’étant donné la longue tradition de traduction institutionnelle de certains partis politiques, les stratégies de traduction adoptées par ces partis seront plus efficaces que celles adoptées par les partis peu habitués à faire traduire leurs discours.
Vagaries of News Translation on Canadian Broadcasting Corporation Television: Traces of History
Authors: Conway Kyle
Published: March 2015

This article describes a series of failed attempts by the English and French networks of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation to present translated news. On one level, it is concerned with the impulse that prompts people during moments of crisis to suggest translated news as a solution to a problems related to Canadian identity and the reasons their suggestions to translate news programs are not acted upon. On a deeper level, it is concerned with a methodological and epistemological problem facing translation historians: what happens when the relevant documents are not preserved because journalists’ notions of translation differ from those of historians? It recommends that historians turn to “para-archives,” or collections created and preserved by non-news organizations, that contain descriptions of the documents journalists have not kept. These para-archives can provide evidence for the creation of plausible narratives about the competing interests shaping decisions not to produce translated news. They can also reveal how historians actively produce the categories they use to define their object of study.
Crustal anisotropy from tectonic tremor under Washington State in the Cascadia
Authors: Huesca‐Pérez Eduardo , Ghosh Abhijit
Published: February 2015

We present new observations of crustal shear wave anisotropy extracted from nonvolcanic tremor in Cascadia under Washington State. Measurements of crustal anisotropy are extremely sparse and limited in this area mainly due to low level of seismicity. Abundance of tremor activity during slow earthquakes offers a unique opportunity to measure anisotropy parameters of the continental crust using tremor signal. To accomplish this, polarization and splitting analyses of nonvolcanic tremor are performed using three‐component broadband seismic stations. Splitting times measurements range between 0.08 and 0.17 s and similar to the splitting magnitude typically observed in the continental crust. Fast direction of shear wave anisotropy generally trends ESE‐WNW. Fast polarization directions are, in general, perpendicular to the prevailing maximum compressive stress field but tend to be parallel to several mapped EW and ESE‐WNW trending faults in this area. The observed spatial pattern of anisotropy is likely controlled by faulting that accommodates NS compression resulting from the tectonic movement of the Oregon block toward north. Existence of several EW trending crustal faults and source parameters of crustal earthquakes at depth, consistent with the regional stress regime, indicate that these faults may be the dominant factor causing the observed pattern of shear wave anisotropy.
Sources of discrepancies between satellite‐derived and land surface model estimates of latent heat fluxes
Authors: Lipton Alan E. , Liang Pan , Jiménez Carlos , Moncet Jean‐Luc , Aires Filipe , Prigent Catherine , Lynch Richard , Galantowicz John F. , d'Entremont Robert P. , Uymin Gennady
Published: February 2015

Monthly‐average estimates of latent heat flux have been derived from a combination of satellite‐derived microwave emissivities, day‐night differences in land surface temperature (from microwave AMSR‐E), downward solar and infrared fluxes from ISCCP cloud analysis, and MODIS visible and near‐infrared surface reflectances. The estimates, produced with a neural network, were compared with data from the Noah land surface model, as produced for GLDAS‐2, and with two alternative estimates derived from different datasets and methods. Areas with extensive, persistent, substantial discrepancies between the satellite and land surface model fluxes have been analyzed with the aid of data from flux towers. The sources of discrepancies were found to include problems with the model surface roughness length and turbulent exchange coefficients for midlatitude cropland areas in summer, inaccuracies in the precipitation data that were used as forcing for the land surface model, and model underestimation of transpiration in some forests during dry periods. At the tower sites analyzed, agreement with tower data was generally closer for our satellite‐derived fluxes than for the land surface model fluxes, in terms of monthly averages.
The influence of rapid, millennial scale climate change on nitrogen isotope dynamics of the Cariaco Basin during marine isotope stage 3
Authors: Gibson Kelly Ann , Thunell Robert C. , Tappa Eric J. , Peterson Larry C. , McConnell Martha
Published: February 2015

Understanding changes to the marine nitrogen cycle on millennial and shorter time scales can help determine the influence of rapid climate change on the fixed N pool and its sources and sinks. Rapid changes in denitrification have been observed in the eastern tropical North Pacific (ETNP) and Arabian Sea; however, millennial scale δ15N records in regions influenced by N2 fixation are sparse. We present a sedimentary δ15N record from the Cariaco Basin during marine isotope stage (MIS) 3 (~35–55 ka). The δ15N record displays a pattern of millennial scale variability that tracks the Greenland ice core Dansgaard‐Oeschger cycles, with higher values observed during interstadial periods, lower values during stadial periods, and abrupt transitions in between. Conditions during interstadials are similar to those at present in the Cariaco Basin, with the sedimentary δ15N signal reflecting a combination of local processes and an imported regional signal. If interpreted to reflect regional processes, the interstadial δ15N values (average ~5.1‰) support the argument that N2 fixation did not increase in the tropical North Atlantic during the last glacial. The lower δ15N values during stadials, when lower sea level resulted in increased physical isolation of the basin, can be explained primarily by local processes. In spite of the importance of local processes, striking similarity is observed between the Cariaco record and millennial scale δ15N records from the ETNP and Arabian Sea. The apparent synchronicity of changes observed in all three regions suggests an atmospheric teleconnection between the three sites and high‐latitude climate forcing during MIS 3.
A Lysinated Thiophene‐Based Semiconductor as a Multifunctional Neural Bioorganic Interface
Authors: Bonetti Simone , Pistone Assunta , Brucale Marco , Karges Saskia , Favaretto Laura , Zambianchi Massimo , Posati Tamara , Sagnella Anna , Caprini Marco , Toffanin Stefano , Zamboni Roberto , Camaioni Nadia , Muccini Michele , Melucci Manuela , Benfenati Valentina
Published: February 2015

Lysinated molecular organic semiconductors are introduced as valuable multifunctional platforms for neural cells growth and interfacing. Cast films of quaterthiophene (T4) semiconductor covalently modified with lysine‐end moieties (T4Lys) are fabricated and their stability, morphology, optical/electrical, and biocompatibility properties are characterized. T4Lys films exhibit fluorescence and electronic transport as generally observed for unsubstituted oligothiophenes combined to humidity‐activated ionic conduction promoted by the charged lysine‐end moieties. The Lys insertion in T4 enables adhesion of primary culture of rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG), which is not achievable by plating cells on T4. Notably, on T4Lys, the number on adhering neurons/area is higher and displays a twofold longer neurite length than neurons plated on glass coated with poly‐l‐lysine. Finally, by whole‐cell patch‐clamp, it is shown that the biofunctionality of neurons cultured on T4Lys is preserved. The present study introduces an innovative concept for organic material neural interface that combines optical and iono‐electronic functionalities with improved biocompatibility and neuron affinity promoted by Lys linkage and the softness of organic semiconductors. Lysinated organic semiconductors could set the scene for the fabrication of simplified bioorganic devices geometry for cells bidirectional communication or optoelectronic control of neural cells biofunctionality.
Synthesis of D‐ and L‐Phenylalanine Derivatives by Phenylalanine Ammonia Lyases: A Multienzymatic Cascade Process
Authors: Parmeggiani Fabio , Lovelock Sarah L. , Weise Nicholas J. , Ahmed Syed T. , Turner Nicholas J.
Published: February 2015

The synthesis of substituted D‐phenylalanines in high yield and excellent optical purity, starting from inexpensive cinnamic acids, has been achieved with a novel one‐pot approach by coupling phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) amination with a chemoenzymatic deracemization (based on stereoselective oxidation and nonselective reduction). A simple high‐throughput solid‐phase screening method has also been developed to identify PALs with higher rates of formation of non‐natural D‐phenylalanines. The best variants were exploited in the chemoenzymatic cascade, thus increasing the yield and ee value of the D‐configured product. Furthermore, the system was extended to the preparation of those L‐phenylalanines which are obtained with a low ee value using PAL amination.
Enzymatic Basis of “Hybridity” in Thiomarinol Biosynthesis
Authors: Dunn Zachary D. , Wever Walter J. , Economou Nicoleta J. , Bowers Albert A. , Li Bo
Published: February 2015

Thiomarinol is a naturally occurring double‐headed antibiotic that is highly potent against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Its structure comprises two antimicrobial subcomponents, pseudomonic acid analogue and holothin, linked by an amide bond. TmlU was thought to be the sole enzyme responsible for this amide‐bond formation. In contrast to this idea, we show that TmlU acts as a CoA ligase that activates pseudomonic acid as a thioester that is processed by the acetyltransferase HolE to catalyze the amidation. TmlU prefers complex acyl acids as substrates, whereas HolE is relatively promiscuous, accepting a range of acyl‐CoA and amine substrates. Our results provide detailed biochemical information on thiomarinol biosynthesis, and evolutionary insight regarding how the pseudomonic acid and holothin pathways converge to generate this potent hybrid antibiotic. This work also demonstrates the potential of TmlU/HolE enzymes as engineering tools to generate new “hybrid” molecules.
Biosynthesis of the Carbamoylated D‐Gulosamine Moiety of Streptothricins: Involvement of a Guanidino‐N‐glycosyltransferase and an N‐Acetyl‐D‐gulosamine Deacetylase
Authors: Guo Zhengyan , Li Jine , Qin Hua , Wang Min , Lv Xun , Li Xuebing , Chen Yihua
Published: February 2015

Streptothricins (STNs) are atypical aminoglycosides containing a rare carbamoylated D‐gulosamine (D‐GulN) moiety, and the antimicrobial activity of STNs has been exploited for crop protection. Herein, the biosynthetic pathway of the carbamoylated D‐GulN moiety was delineated. An N‐acetyl‐D‐galactosamine is first attached to the streptolidine lactam by the glycosyltransferse StnG and then epimerized to N‐acetyl‐D‐gulosamine by the putative epimerase StnJ. After carbamoylation by the carbamoyltransferase StnQ, N‐acetyl‐D‐GulN is deacetylated by StnI to furnish the carbamoylated D‐GulN moiety. In vitro studies characterized two novel enzymes: StnG is an unprecedented GT‐A fold N‐glycosyltransferase that glycosylates the imine nitrogen atom of guanidine, and StnI is the first reported N‐acetyl‐D‐GulN deacetylase.
High Selectivity for Ethylene from Carbon Dioxide Reduction over Copper Nanocube Electrocatalysts
Authors: Roberts F. Sloan , Kuhl Kendra P. , Nilsson Anders
Published: February 2015

Nanostructured surfaces have been shown to greatly enhance the activity and selectivity of many different catalysts. Here we report a nanostructured copper surface that gives high selectivity for ethylene formation from electrocatalytic CO2 reduction. The nanostructured copper is easily formed in situ during the CO2 reduction reaction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows the surface to be dominated by cubic structures. Using online electrochemical mass spectrometry (OLEMS), the onset potentials and relative selectivity toward the volatile products (ethylene and methane) were measured for several different copper surfaces and single crystals, relating the cubic shape of the copper surface to the greatly enhanced ethylene selectivity. The ability of the cubic nanostructure to so strongly favor multicarbon product formation from CO2 reduction, and in particular ethylene over methane, is unique to this surface and is an important step toward developing a catalyst that has exclusive selectivity for multicarbon products.
Oxidative Addition of Carbon–Carbon Bonds to Gold
Authors: Joost Maximilian , Estévez Laura , Miqueu Karinne , Amgoune Abderrahmane , Bourissou Didier
Published: February 2015

The oxidative addition of strained CC bonds (biphenylene, benzocyclobutenone) to DPCb (diphosphino‐carborane) gold(I) complexes is reported. The resulting cationic organogold(III) complexes have been isolated and fully characterized. Experimental conditions can be adjusted to obtain selectively acyl gold(III) complexes resulting from oxidative addition of either the C(aryl)C(O) or C(alkyl)C(O) bond of benzocyclobutenone. DFT calculations provide mechanistic insight into this unprecedented transformation.
Interrupted Chalcogenide‐Based Zeolite‐Analogue Semiconductor: Atomically Precise Doping for Tunable Electro‐/Photoelectrochemical Properties
Authors: Lin Jian , Dong Youzhen , Zhang Qian , Hu Dandan , Li Na , Wang Le , Liu Yang , Wu Tao
Published: February 2015

Incorporation of semiconductor property into zeolite materials is a plausible approach to graft oxide zeolites with multifunctionality in which both electronic/optoelectronic functions and high porosity are integrated. However, creating such semiconductor zeolites, especially the ones with controllable function regulation still remains as a great synthetic challenge over the years. Hereby, we reported the first case of an interrupted chalcogenide‐based zeolite‐analog semiconductor with an entirely new boracite‐related framework and specific sites at the interrupted section. The semiconducting nature and band structure of this open‐framework n‐type semiconductor material were characterized with solid‐state UV/Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and Mott–Schottky measurements. More importantly, the In–Se chalcogenide zeolite analog was for the first time explored as an effective electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The specific indium sites served as active centers and proved to be responsible for a superior ORR activity. Meanwhile, these specific sites could be precisely replaced by bismuth(III) ions, leading to facile manipulation in their electro‐/photoelectrochemical properties. Such atomically precise doping successfully implemented at the semiconductor zeolite material with specifically interrupted sites presents a very promising route for accurately regulating electronic structure and photoelectrical properties of other open‐framework semiconductor materials.
Lewis Acid Promoted Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed Etherifications by Selective Hydrogenation of Carboxylic Acids/Esters
Authors: Li Yuehui , Topf Christoph , Cui Xinjiang , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: February 2015

Ethers are of fundamental importance in organic chemistry and they are an integral part of valuable flavors, fragrances, and numerous bioactive compounds. In general, the reduction of esters constitutes the most straightforward preparation of ethers. Unfortunately, this transformation requires large amounts of metal hydrides. Presented herein is a bifunctional catalyst system, consisting of Ru/phosphine complex and aluminum triflate, which allows selective synthesis of ethers by hydrogenation of esters or carboxylic acids. Different lactones were reduced in good yields to the desired products. Even challenging aromatic and aliphatic esters were reduced to the desired products. Notably, the in situ formed catalyst can be reused several times without any significant loss of activity.
Well‐Defined CuC2F5 Complexes and Pentafluoroethylation of Acid Chlorides
Authors: Panferova Liubov I. , Miloserdov Fedor M. , Lishchynskyi Anton , Martínez Belmonte Marta , Benet‐Buchholz Jordi , Grushin Vladimir V.
Published: February 2015

Four new well‐defined CuI complexes bearing a C2F5 ligand have been prepared and fully characterized: [(Ph3P)2CuC2F5] (2), [(bpy)CuC2F5] (3), [(Ph3P)Cu(phen)C2F5] (4), and [(IPr*)CuC2F5] (5). X‐ray structures of all four have been determined, showing that the C2F5‐ligated Cu atom can be di‐ (5), tri‐ (2 and 3), and tetracoordinate (4). The mixed phen‐PPh3 complex 4 is a highly efficient fluoroalkylating agent for a broad variety of acid chlorides. This high‐yielding transformation represents the first general method for the synthesis of RCOC2F5 from the corresponding RCOCl.
Ultralight and hydrophobic nanofibrillated cellulose aerogels from coconut shell with ultrastrong adsorption properties
Authors: Wan Caichao , Lu Yun , Jiao Yue , Jin Chunde , Sun Qingfeng , Li Jian
Published: February 2015

Ultralight aerogels based on nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) isolated from coconut shell were successfully prepared via a mild fast method, which included chemical pretreatment, ultrasonic isolation, solvent exchange, and tert‐butanol freeze drying. The as‐prepared NFC aerogels with complex three‐dimensional fibrillar networks had a low bulk density of 0.84 mg/cm3 (specific surface area = 9.1 m2/g and pore volume = 0.025 cm3/g), maintained a cellulose I crystal structure, and showed more superior thermal stability than the coconut shell raw materials. After the hydrophobic modification by methyl trichlorosilane (MTCS), the NFC aerogels exhibited high water repellency properties, an ultrastrong oil‐adsorption capacity (542 times that of the original dry weight of diesel oil), and superior oil–water separation performance. Moreover, the absorption capabilities of the MTCS‐treated NFC aerogels were as high as 296−669 times their own weights for various organic solvents and oil. Thus, this class of high‐performance adsorbing materials might be useful for dealing with chemical leaks and oil spills. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42037.
Insights into the use of zinc–mannitol alkoxide as a novel thermal stabilizer for rigid poly(vinyl chloride)
Authors: Fu Ming , Li Degang , Liu Hao , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2015

Zinc–mannitol alkoxide (Zn–Man) was synthesized through alcohol exchange reaction, and investigated by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The thermal stability of Zn–Man for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) was evaluated by Congo red testing, conductivity measurements, thermal aging testing, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy test. The experimental results demonstrate that the addition of Zn–Man not only apparently prolonged the static thermal stability time to approximately 96.5 min but also evidently improved the initial color of PVC. More importantly, the color of the PVC sheets stabilized with Zn–Man did not change to black within 180 min; this showed that no zinc‐burning phenomenon occurred. In addition, the results of TGA reveal that Zn–Man raised the initial degradation temperature of PVC to about 273.4°C. UV–vis testing indicated that the presence of Zn–Man decreased the content and shortened the length of the conjugated double bonds of PVC. The possible thermal stability mechanism is discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42038.
Cultural Economics and Intellectual Property: Tensions and Challenges for the Region
Authors: Forsyth Miranda
Published: March 2015

The Pacific islands region is currently experiencing an intensification of interest in culture as an enabler, rather than an inhibitor, of development. The emerging field of cultural economics seeks to chart ways in which culture can lead to both economic development and also to other goals, such as positive social relationships, community cohesion and maintenance and enjoyment of cultural heritage. However, bringing together these different range of goals at times involves tensions, often manifested in differences between individual autonomy and family and community obligations, generational focus and clashes of cultural logics. This paper investigates these tensions through the lens of intellectual property, an area where competing ideologies and perspectives of entitlement often come head to head. It identifies and reflects upon four areas of tension that will have to be navigated as the region experiments with both global models of intellectual property and national and local regulatory mechanisms.
Assay of ceftazidime and cefepime based on fluorescence quenching of carbon quantum dots
Authors: Huang Yu , Zhang Ying , Yan Zhengyu , Liao Shenghua
Published: February 2015

A novel and sensitive method for the determination of ceftazidime and cefepime in an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) has been developed based on the fluorescence quenching of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)2000‐capped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) prepared using a chemical oxidation method. The quenching of fluorescence intensity is proportional to the concentration of ceftazidime and cefepime over the range of 0.33–3.30 and 0.24–2.40 µg/mL, respectively. The mode of interaction between PEG2000‐capped CQDs and ceftazidime/cefepime in aqueous solutions was investigated using a fluorescence, UV/Vis and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) at physiological pH. UV/Vis and FTIR spectra demonstrated that ground state compounds were formed through hydrophobic interaction the fluorescence quenching of CQDs caused by ceftazidime and cefepime. The quenching constants decreased with increases in temperature, which was consistent with static quenching. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
External rib structure can be predicted using mathematical models: An anatomical study with application to understanding fractures and intercostal muscle function
Authors: Casha Aaron R , Camilleri Liberato , Manché Alexander , Gatt Ruben , Attard Daphne , Gauci Marilyn , Camilleri‐Podesta Marie‐Therese , Grima Joseph N.
Published: February 2015

As ribs adapt to stress like all bones, and the chest behaves as a pressure vessel, the effect of stress on the ribs can be determined by measuring rib height and thickness. Rib height and thickness (depth) were measured using CT scans of seven rib cages from anonymized cadavers. A Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model of a rib cage was constructed using a validated approach and used to calculate intramuscular forces as the vectors of both circumferential and axial chest wall forces at right angles to the ribs. Nonlinear quadratic models were used to relate rib height and rib thickness to rib level, and intercostal muscle force to vector stress. Intercostal muscle force was also related to vector stress using Pearson correlation. For comparison, rib height and thickness were measured on CT scans of children. Rib height increased with rib level, increasing by 13% between the 3rd and 7th rib levels, where the 7th/8th rib was the widest part or “equator” of the rib cage, P < 0.001 (t‐test). Rib thickness showed a statistically significant 23% increase between the 3rd and 7th ribs, P = 0.004 (t‐test). Intercostal muscle force was significantly related to vector stress, Pearson correlation r = 0.944, P = 0.005. The three nonlinear quadratic models developed all had statistically significant parameter estimates with P < 0.03. External rib morphology, in particular rib height and thickness, can be predicted using statistical mathematical models. Rib height is significantly related to the calculated intercostal muscle force, showing that environmental factors affect external rib morphology. Clin. Anat. 28:512–519, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differences Between Individual ZSM‐5 Crystals in Forming Hollow Single Crystals and Mesopores During Base Leaching
Authors: Fodor Daniel , Krumeich Frank , Hauert Roland , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: February 2015

After base treatment of ZSM‐5 crystals below 100 nm in size, TEM shows hollow single crystals with a 10 nm shell. SEM images confirm that the shell is well‐ preserved even after prolonged treatment. Determination of the Si/Al ratios with AAS and XPS in combination with argon sputtering reveals aluminum zoning of the parent zeolite, and the total pore volume increases in the first two hours of base treatment. In corresponding TEM images, the amount of hollow crystals are observed to increase during the first two hours of base treatment, and intact crystals are visible even after 10 h of leaching; these observations indicate different dissolution rates between individual crystals. TEM of large, commercially available ZSM‐5 crystals shows inhomogeneous distribution of mesopores among different crystals, which points to the existence of structural differences between individual crystals. Only tetrahedrally coordinated aluminum is detected with 27Al MAS NMR after the base leaching of nano‐sized ZSM‐5.
Chiral Resolution and Absolute Configuration of the Enantiomers of the Psychoactive “Designer Drug” 3,4‐Methylenedioxypyrovalerone
Authors: Suzuki Masaki , Deschamps Jeffrey R. , Jacobson Arthur E. , Rice Kenner C.
Published: February 2015

Illicit rac‐MDPV (3,4‐methylenedioxypyrovalerone), manufactured in clandestine labs, has become widely abused for its cocaine‐like stimulant properties. It has recently been found as one of the toxic materials in the so‐called “bath salts,” producing, among other effects, psychosis and tachycardia in humans when introduced by any of the several routes of administration (e.g., intravenous, oral, etc.). The considerable toxicity of this “designer drug” probably resides in one of the enantiomers of the racemate. In order to obtain a sufficient amount of the enantiomers of rac‐MDPV to determine their activity, we improved the known synthesis of rac‐MDPV and found chemical resolving agents, (+)‐ and (–)‐2’‐bromotetranilic acid, that gave the MDPV enantiomers in >96% enantiomeric excess as determined by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance and chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography. The absolute stereochemistry of these enantiomers was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Chirality 27:287‐293, 2015. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Evolution of pigment‐dispersing factor neuropeptides in panarthropoda: Insights from onychophora (velvet worms) and tardigrada (water bears)
Authors: Mayer Georg , Hering Lars , Stosch Juliane M. , Stevenson Paul A. , Dircksen Heinrich
Published: February 2015

Pigment‐dispersing factor (PDF) denotes a conserved family of homologous neuropeptides present in several invertebrate groups, including mollusks, nematodes, insects, and crustaceans (referred to here as pigment‐dispersing hormone [PDH]). With regard to their encoding genes (pdf, pdh), insects possess only one, nematodes two, and decapod crustaceans up to three, but their phylogenetic relationship is unknown. To shed light on the origin and diversification of pdf/pdh homologs in Panarthropoda (Onychophora + Tardigrada + Arthropoda) and other molting animals (Ecdysozoa), we analyzed the transcriptomes of five distantly related onychophorans and a representative tardigrade and searched for putative pdf homologs in publically available genomes of other protostomes. This revealed only one pdf homolog in several mollusk and annelid species; two in Onychophora, Priapulida, and Nematoda; and three in Tardigrada. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that the last common ancestor of Panarthropoda possessed two pdf homologs, one of which was lost in the arthropod or arthropod/tardigrade lineage, followed by subsequent duplications of the remaining homolog in some taxa. Immunolocalization of PDF‐like peptides in six onychophoran species, by using a broadly reactive antibody that recognizes PDF/PDH peptides in numerous species, revealed an elaborate system of neurons and fibers in their central and peripheral nervous systems. Large varicose projections in the heart suggest that the PDF neuropeptides functioned as both circulating hormones and locally released transmitters in the last common ancestor of Onychophora and Arthropoda. The lack of PDF‐like‐immunoreactive somata associated with the onychophoran optic ganglion conforms to the hypothesis that onychophoran eyes are homologous to the arthropod median ocelli. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:1865–1885, 2015 © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of the π Bridge and Acceptor on Intramolecular Charge Transfer in Push–Pull Cationic Chromophores: An Ultrafast Spectroscopic and TD‐DFT Computational Study
Authors: Carlotti Benedetta , Benassi Enrico , Barone Vincenzo , Consiglio Giuseppe , Elisei Fausto , Mazzoli Alessandra , Spalletti Anna
Published: February 2015

Three (donor–π–acceptor)+ systems with a methyl pyridinium or quinolinium as the electron‐deficient group, a dimethyl amino as the electron‐donor group, and an ethylene or butadiene group as the spacer have been investigated in a joint spectroscopic and TD‐DFT computational study. A negative solvatochromism has been revealed in the absorption spectra, which implies a solution color change, and interpreted by considering the variation in the permanent dipole moment modulus and orientation upon photoexcitation. The fluorescence efficiency decreases upon increasing solvent polarity, in agreement with the excited‐state optimized geometries (planar in low‐polarity media and twisted in high‐polarity media). Femtosecond transient absorption has revealed the occurrence of a fast photoinduced intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) and the molecular factors that determine an efficient ICT. Considering the crucial role of the ICT in tuning the nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, these compounds can be considered promising NLO materials.
Viral sensing at the blood–brain barrier: New roles for innate immunity at the CNS vasculature
Authors: Daniels BP , Klein RS
Published: February 2015

Neurotropic viral infections are a major source of disease worldwide and represent a growing burden to public health. While the central nervous system (CNS) is normally protected from viral infection by the blood–brain barrier (BBB), many viruses are able to cross the BBB and establish CNS infection through processes that largely remain poorly understood. A growing body of recent research has begun to shed light on the viral and host factors that modulate BBB function, contributing to both protective and pathological disease processes. Central to these studies have been the actions of host cytokines and chemokines, which have increasingly been shown to be key regulators of BBB physiology. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding how BBB function governs both viral pathogenesis and host immune responses during neurotropic viral infections.
Engaging Conflict History: Toward an Integrated Method of Conflict Resolution Dialogue and Capacity Building
Authors: Arai Tatsushi
Published: February 2015

This article presents a method of applied practice that engages contested historical meanings of intercommunal and international conflict. The concept of conflict history is introduced to describe a worldview of a conflict‐affected community that seeks a coherent explanation of the origin, evolution, and significance of the conflict it faces. Four interconnected perspectives on conflict history–orthodox, different, mediative, and alternative–are explored to bridge empirical inquiry into the divided past with possibilities of future coexistence. The study builds on psychoanalysis and memory research, as well as on the author's experience in conflict resolution dialogues across the Taiwan Strait.
Voltammetric Determination of Uric Acid Based on Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Modified Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Motghare Ramani V. , Tadi Kiran Kumar , Dhawale Payal , Deotare Samiksha , Kawadkar Aruna K. , Chillawar Rakesh , Khan Shirinaz
Published: February 2015

Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) for uric acid (UA) was synthesized by thermal polymerization using acrylic acid (AA) as functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as cross linker and 2,2′‐azobis(2‐isobutyro) nitrile (AIBN) as initiator. The noncovalent interactions involved in four possible conformations of pre‐polymer complex were computationally studied by density functional theory. The hydrogen bond formation between UA and AA was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of the MIP before extraction of UA. After extraction of the template, the molecularly imprinted polymer based carbon paste electrode (MIPCPE) was fabricated under optimized conditions. A significant enhancement in the electrocatalytic oxidation of UA was found at MIPCPE. The electrochemical behavior of sensor was investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry (DPAdSV). The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies revealed less charge transfer resistance (Rct) at MIPCPE than NIPCPE. Under optimized conditions, calibration curve was obtained with a linearity range of 0.5 µM to 100 µM and the limit of detection was 0.1 µM. The sensor showed good selectivity towards UA in the presence of interferents and was successfully applied for the determination of UA in spiked serum samples.
Synthesis of Nitrogen Doped Multilayered Graphene Flakes: Selective Non‐enzymatic Electrochemical Determination of Dopamine and Uric Acid in presence of Ascorbic Acid.
Authors: Biswas Sudip , Das Rashmita , Chakraborty Dipanjan , Bandhyopadhyay Rajib , Pramanik Panchanan
Published: February 2015

Nitrogen doped multilayered graphene (NDMLG) is synthesized by annealing the black fluffy mass obtained by decomposing the complex prepared from Zn(OAc)2, diethanolamine and triethanolamine. The NDMLG has been characterized by HRTEM, FESEM, XRD, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, BET which indicate formation of nitrogen doped multilayer graphene flakes with high surface area. NDMLG shows better electrochemical oxidation property towards Dopamine, Uric acid and Ascorbic acid. The linear response ranges for determination of DA, UA and AA are 0.5–150 µM, 3–60 µM and 80–2000 µM respectively and the detection limits (S/N=3) are 15 nM, 15 nM, 580 nM, respectively in the mixture.