bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relating nitrogen export patterns from a mixed land use catchment in NW Spain with rainfall and streamflow
Authors: Rodríguez‐Blanco M. L. , Taboada‐Castro M. M. , Taboada‐Castro M. T. , Oropeza‐Mota J. L.
Published: November 2014

The temporal variability in nitrogen (N) transport in the Corbeira agroforestry catchment (NW Spain) was analysed from October 2004 to September 2008. Nitrate (NO3–N) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) loads and concentrations were determined at various timescales (annual, seasonal and event). The results revealed a strong intra‐annual and inter‐annual variability in N transport influenced by weather patterns and consequently by the hydrological regime. Mean annual export of total N in the catchment was 5.5 kg ha−1 year−1, with NO3–N being the dominant form. Runoff events comprised 10% of the study period but contributed 40 and 61% of the total NO3–N and TKN loads, respectively. The NO3–N and TKN concentrations were higher during runoff events than under baseflow conditions, pointing to diffuse sources of N. The mobilization of TKN during runoff events was attributed to surface runoff, while NO3–N might be related to subsurface and groundwater flow. Runoff events were characterized by high variability in N loads and concentrations. Higher variability was observed in N loads than in N concentrations, indicating that event magnitude plays an important role in N transport in this catchment; event magnitude explained approximately 96% of the NO3–N load. However, a combination of variables related to runoff event intensity (rainfall, discharge increase and kinetic energy) explained only 66% of the TKN load. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polarization second harmonic generation microscopy provides quantitative enhanced molecular specificity for tissue diagnostics
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Grønhaug Kirsten M. , Romijn Elisabeth I. , Finnøy Andreas , Davies Catharina L. , Drogset Jon O. , Lilledahl Magnus B.
Published: November 2014

Due to specific structural organization at the molecular level, several biomolecules (e.g., collagen, myosin etc.) which are strong generators of second harmonic generation (SHG) signals, exhibit unique responses depending on the polarization of the excitation light. By using the polarization second harmonic generation (p‐SHG) technique, the values of the second order susceptibility components can be used to differentiate the types of molecule, which cannot be done by the use of a standard SHG intensity image. In this report we discuss how to implement p‐SHG on a commercial multiphoton microscope and overcome potential artifacts in susceptibility (χ) image. Furthermore we explore the potential of p‐SHG microscopy by applying the technique to different types of tissue in order to determine corresponding reference values of the ratio of second‐order χ tensor elements. These values may be used as a bio‐marker to detect any structural alterations in pathological tissue for diagnostic purposes.

The SHG intensity image (red) in (a) shows the distribution of collagen fibers in ovary tissue but cannot determine the type of collagen fiber. However, the histogram distribution (b) for the values of the χ tensor element ratio can be used to quantitatively identify the types of collagen fibers.

magnified image

The SHG intensity image (red) in (a) shows the distribution of collagen fibers in ovary tissue but cannot determine the type of collagen fiber. However, the histogram distribution (b) for the values of the χ tensor element ratio can be used to quantitatively identify the types of collagen fibers.
Preparation and evaluation of novel chiral stationary phases based on quinine derivatives comprising crown ether moieties
Authors: Wang Dongqiang , Zhao Jianchao , Wu Haixia , Wu Haibo , Cai Jianfeng , Ke Yanxiong , Liang Xinmiao
Published: November 2014

The C9‐position of quinine was modified by meta‐ or para‐substituted benzo‐18‐crown‐6, and immobilized on 3‐mercaptopropyl‐modified silica gel through the radical thiol‐ene addition reaction. These two chiral stationary phases were evaluated by chiral acids, amino acids, and chiral primary amines. The crown ether moiety on the quinine anion exchanger provided a ligand‐exchange site for primary amino groups, which played an important role in the retention and enantioselectivity for chiral compounds containing primary amine groups. These two stationary phases showed good selectivity for some amino acids. The complex interaction between crown ether and protonated primary amino group was investigated by the addition of inorganic salts such as LiCl, NH4Cl, NaCl, and KCl to the mobile phase. The resolution results showed that the simultaneous interactions between two function moieties (quinine and crown ether) and amino acids were important for the chiral separation.
Faster and Smoother Thanks to Laser Polishing
Authors: Pauli Anton
Published: November 2014

The demand for the lowest possible surface roughness is growing — partly for aesthetic but primarily for functional reasons. Conventional polishing methods are reaching their limits, and conventional laser systems achieve results which are good but not sufficiently reproducible. The laser micro machining specialists at GFH GmbH have now tested ultra‐short pulse lasers as an alternative. These had previously not been considered on account of their largely melt‐free mode of operation. In burst mode, however, they achieved a significant reduction in surface roughness and simultaneously reduced the process times.
Wind Erosion Reduction by Scattered Woody Vegetation in Farmers' Fields in Northern Burkina Faso
Authors: Leenders Jakolien K. , Sterk Geert , van Boxel John H.
Published: November 2014

Wind erosion is an important soil degradation process on agricultural fields in the Sahel and is strongly affected by scattered woody vegetation. This paper analyses the effect of scattered vegetation on sediment transport in agricultural fields in northern Burkina Faso. A model was developed to simulate the changes in wind speed and sediment transport around shrubs and trees. The model was applied by using field measurements on wind speed, wind direction, and sediment transport, obtained from two farmers' fields during the rainy season of 2003. Vegetation characteristics and the density of vegetation elements differed per field. The model was used for scenario studies to test the effect of height, number, element type and spatial arrangement of vegetation elements on aeolian sediment transport. The local effects of vegetation elements on wind speed and sediment transport are small compared with the effects caused by the changes in the aerodynamic roughness length and changing wind speed at a larger scale. With relatively small changes in the characteristics of scattered woody vegetation, sediment transport can change considerably. An optimal arrangement of vegetation elements in an area in itself does not exist; it is an interrelation between the number of vegetation elements, the silhouette area and the type of vegetation elements present. This interrelation makes the use of scattered vegetation as a wind erosion control strategy attractive, as it fits in a variety of farming systems and can easily be adapted to specific needs of farmers. Therefore, scattered woody vegetation can be used to reduce sediment transport. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An In Situ Generated Achiral Cu(II)‐Containing Polymer Complex Sensor for Enantioselective Recognition Induced from L‐/D‐Histidine Enantiomers
Authors: Wei Guo , Meng Fandian , Wang Yuxiang , Cheng Yixiang , Zhu Chengjian
Published: November 2014

A novel achiral polymer P‐1 is synthesized by the polymerization of (2,5‐bis(octyloxy)‐1,4‐phenylene)diboronic acid (M‐1) with pyridine‐2,6‐diylbis(methanylylidene)bis(4‐iodoaniline) (M‐2) via Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki coupling reaction. The tridentate ligand in the main chain backbone can further coordinate with Cu2+ to afford the corresponding achiral copper‐containing polymer complex P‐2, which selectively responds to L‐/D‐histidine with significant fluorescence enhancement over other amino acids. Interestingly, P‐2 exhibits obvious CD response toward L‐ or D‐histidine compared with its model compound MC, indicating that this kind Cu(II)‐containing polymer complex sensor can be used as an effective chemosensor for enantioselective recognition of histidine enantiomers by means of CD spectroscopy.

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Flüstertüten und Besselhörner
Authors: Mathelitsch Leopold , Verovnik Ivo
Published: November 2014

Trompeten und verwandte Blechblasinstrumente sind physikalisch gesehen einseitig geschlossene Pfeifen mit ungeraden Obertönen. Der Trichter sorgt für ein gerichtetes Abstrahlen vor allem höherer Frequenzen, was den strahlenden Klang erzeugt. Zudem hebt er Eigenfrequenzen von tieferen Tönen an, während das Mundstück diejenigen von höheren Tönen absenkt. Beide Effekte schieben die Eigenresonanzen zu einer harmonischen Obertonreihe zusammen.
Computational modeling of the mind: what role for mental representation?
Authors: Rescorla Michael
Published: November 2014

Theclassical computational theory of mind(CTM) holds that many important mental processes are computations similar to those executed by Turing machines. This article compares two alternative frameworks through which one can developCTM:formal‐syntactic computationalismandcontent‐involving computationalism. According to formal‐syntactic computationalism, computation is sensitive to syntax but not semantics. Mental computation manipulates formal‐syntactic items without regard to any representational properties those items may have. According to content‐involving computationalism, certain computational descriptions characterize mental states through their representational properties rather than any alleged formal‐syntactic properties. The article examines strengths and weaknesses of each framework.WIREs Cogn Sci2015, 6:65–73. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1325

This article is categorized under:

Philosophy > Foundations of Cognitive Science

Philosophy > Representation
Synthesis, Structure and Reactivity of the Compound [Cu(C7H7NH2)Cl]4 derived from CuCl and Benzylamine (C7H7NH2)
Authors: Becker Sabine , Behrens Ulrich , Schindler Siegfried
Published: November 2014

The facile synthesis, molecular structure, and reactivity of [Cu(C7H7NH2)Cl]4 (1) towards dioxygen and derivatives is reported. The compound could easily be prepared in good yields by mixing CuCl and benzylamine under inert conditions in dichloromethane. Surprisingly this copper(I) compound, a copper(I) tetramer with CuI···CuI interactions of 2.89 Å, was formed instead of an expected cubane cluster. Oxidation reactions led to formation of μ‐oxido‐species as intermediates, however 1 did not show any catalytic activity in the activation of CH bonds. In contrast it turned out that 1 was quite stable towards oxidation. Analogous reactions with CuBr or CuI were different and neither cluster units or polynuclear copper(I) complexes were obtained.
A Study of the Influence of Charged Residues on β-Hairpin Formation by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Makowska Joanna , Żmudzińska Wioletta , Uber Dorota , Chmurzyński Lech
Published: November 2014

Chain reversals are often nucleation sites in protein folding. The β-hairpins of FBP28 WW domain and IgG are stable and have been proved to initiate the folding and are, therefore, suitable for studying the influence of charged residues on β-hairpin conformation. In this paper, we carried out NMR examination of the conformations in solution of two fragments from the FPB28 protein (PDB code: 1E0L) (N-terminal part) namely KTADGKT-NH2 (1E0L 12–18, D7) and YKTADGKTY-NH2 (1E0L 11–19, D9), one from the B3 domain of the protein G (PDB code: 1IGD), namely DDATKT-NH2 (1IGD 51–56) (Dag1), and three variants of Dag1 peptide: DVATKT-NH2 (Dag2), OVATKT-NH2 (Dag3) and KVATKT-NH2 (Dag4), respectively, in which the original charged residue were replaced with non-polar residues or modified charged residues. It was found that both the D7 and D9 peptides form a large fraction bent conformations. However, no hydrophobic contacts between the terminal Tyr residues of D9 occur, which suggests that the presence of a pair of like-charged residues stabilizes chain reversal. Conversely, only the Dag1 and Dag2 peptides exhibit some chain reversal; replacing the second aspartic-acid residue with a valine and the first one with a basic residue results in a nearly extended conformation. These results suggest that basic residues farther away in sequence can result in stabilization of chain reversal owing to screening of the non-polar core. Conversely, smaller distance in sequence prohibits this screening, while the presence oppositely-charged residues can stabilize a turn because of salt-bridge formation.
Enzymatic Degumming of Crude Jatropha Oil: Evaluation of Impact Factors on the Removal of Phospholipids
Authors: Gofferjé G. , Motulewicz J. , Stäbler A. , Herfellner T. , Schweiggert‐Weisz U. , Flöter E.
Published: November 2014

Jatropha curcas seeds are rich in non‐edible oil, and this plant has received much interest in recent years, especially with respect to biodiesel production. Owing to the high content of phospholipids, crude jatropha oil has to be refined before further use. Conventional refining processes have several environmental and energetic shortcomings. Thus, the search for alternative degumming methods has become relevant. This study compares the enzymatic degumming of screw‐pressed crude jatropha oil with Lecitase Ultra (phospholipase A1) and LysoMax (phospholipase A2). Degumming with phospholipase A2 was less effective that degumming with phospholipase A1. Phospholipase A1 showed the highest reaction rate at 50 °C, 700 rpm stirring, 3 mL of water per 100 g of oil, and with 75 ppm of added phospholipase. To ensure optimum enzyme activity, the pH was adjusted to 5. The phosphorus content was reduced continuously for reaction times up to 3 h. The residual phosphorus content was found to be independent of its initial level. Laboratory experiments showed that enzymatic degumming of jatropha oil with phospholipase A1 at the adapted parameters enables the phosphorus content to be reduced to levels below 4 ppm.
Mosaikbefunde in der Microarray-Diagnostik bei prä- und postnatalen Untersuchungen
Authors: Fiedler Eveline
Published: November 2014

Die molekulare Karyotypisierung mithilfe der „Array“-basierten genomischen Hybridisierung (Microarrays) ermöglicht nicht nur den genomweiten, hochauflösenden Nachweis von Kopienzahlveränderungen, -zugewinnen und -verlusten, sondern auch die Detektion bestimmter Mosaike. Der Beitrag gibt eine Übersicht über Einflussgrößen beim Nachweis von Mosaiken mit Microarrays und über verschiedene Mosaikfälle, die sowohl mit Array-CGH (CGH: „comparative genomic hybridization“) als auch mit SNP-Arrays (SNP: „single nucleotide polymorphism“) erhoben wurden. Dabei wird anhand der Array-CGH eine Möglichkeit aufgezeigt, wie der Prozentsatz eines Mosaiks bestimmt werden kann.
The Clinical Outcome of Management of Periprosthetic Infection in Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Siu-Hei Tse Michael , Hing-Cheong Wong , Wai-Lam Chan , Siu-Bon Woo
Published: November 2014

Background/Purpose

Infection is a severe complication after total knee replacement (TKR) and creates great disability. We reviewed our 11-year experience in the management of TKR infection and its outcome.

Methods

Patients who had TKR infection from 2001 to 2011 in our hospital were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

A total of 727 TKRs were performed from 2001 to 2011 and 12 cases of post-TKR infection were identified (1.65%). In the acute group, two patients had debridement with exchange of liner and four patients had a two-stage operation. No re-infection was noted. For the chronic presentation group, four out of six patients had a two-stage operation and none of them suffered from re-infection. The remaining two patients had debridement and exchange of liner and both had re-infection with a two-stage operation performed afterwards. One patient had no re-infection thereafter. Another patient was on long-term suppressive antibiotics because of the failure to eradicate the infection.

Conclusion

The incidence of TKR infection in our hospital is comparable to the reported incidence in the literature. This study also showed that a two-stage operation has a higher success rate in the management of chronic TKR infection.
The True North Strong and Free Healthcare? Nationalism and Attitudes Towards Private Healthcare Options in Canada
Authors: Dufresne Yannick , Jeram Sanjay , Pelletier Alexandre
Published: November 2014

This article endeavours to explain why English Canadians and Quebeckers differ in their opinions about private healthcare options. Data indicates that respondents in the nine predominantly English-speaking provinces are more likely to oppose private hospitals than Quebeckers. No one province or region in “English Canada” drives these results: aversion to private hospitals is consistent across the nine provinces. Research on welfare states slots Canada into the “liberal” category, which is indicative of a preference for market solutions to welfare problems, which makes this finding perplexing. The argument presented here is that universal healthcare has become bound up with the national identity of English Canada, resulting in a general aversion to private healthcare initiatives outside of Quebec.
Resolving the Difference between Evolutionary Antecedents of Political Attitudes and Sources of Human Variation
Authors: Lockyer Adam , Hatemi Peter K.
Published: November 2014

Humans, despite the country they inhabit, the social structures they constitute, and the forms of governments they live under, universally possess political attitudes; that is, those attitudes towards sexual norms, out-groups, resource allocation, cooperation and fairness. It has been proposed that this near universal manifestation across societies remains ingrained in the psychological architecture of humans because of human evolution. However, there is enormous variation in political attitudes within and across populations, and this variation is not merely a function of social differences but derives, in part, through neurobiological differences within human populations. Thus, there is great confusion on the difference between what has evolved as universal, and what is due to individual variation. This confusion, results, in part on the lack of integration of the theoretical mechanisms that addresses how humans vary within evolutionarily adaptive universals. Here we seek to fill this lacuna by explicating how evolutionary biology and psychology account for the universal need for humans to have political attitudes while neurobiological differences account for variation within those evolved structures.
Shallow-water scleractinian corals of Ascension Island, Central South Atlantic
Authors: Zibrowius Helmut , Wirtz Peter , Nunes Flavia L.D. , Hoeksema Bert W. , Benzoni Francesca
Published: November 2014

The presence of five shallow-water scleractinian species at Ascension Island is confirmed, i.e. Favia gravida, Madracis sp., Siderastrea radians, Polycyathus atlanticus and Rhizosmilia gerdae. The three former are zooxanthellate, the two latter azooxanthellate. A sixth species, Cladocora debilis (azooxanthellate), dredged from moderately deep water is also expected to occur in shallow water. Madracis sp. and P. atlanticus are new records for the island. A previous record of Astrangia solitaria at Ascension is now referred to as P. atlanticus. Favia gravida, S. radians and C. debilis are amphi-Atlantic. Rhizosmilia gerdae is currently known only from Ascension Island and the Western Atlantic. None of the species are endemic to Ascension Island. No member of the family Dendrophylliidae has as yet been found at Ascension, whereas that family is represented at its nearest neighbour, St Helena Island.
Ghostly Gunslingers: the Postmortem Lives of the Kiel Brothers, Nevada's First Frontiersmen
Authors: Crandall John J. , Harrod Ryan P.
Published: November 2014

In October 1900, Edwin and William Kiel were killed outside of Nevada's oldest standing structure in North Las Vegas. Since their death, the Kiel brothers have been analysed by bioarchaeologists and forensic experts. Their ranch, now a historic site, remains the property of the city of North Las Vegas and is a contested space which has seen little development. In this article, we discuss the post-mortem social lives of the brothers within the context of debates about the ranch and the brother's bones which remain separated. How the brothers have taken on various symbolic forms after death and how their bones have not yet been returned to the site are examined. We document the ways the brothers have been used rhetorically as tools by the living as they have debated the future of the ranch. We argue that the brother's bones, even in their absence, are effective tools in ongoing political debates. This article provides an example of how absent bodies, or bodies out of place, can serve as secondary agents. Additionally, the study provides bioarchaeologists with a narrative of how the dead are more than tools but may unexpectedly alter human behaviour.
Ruins in Pre-Columbian Maya Urban Landscapes
Authors: Halperin Christina T.
Published: November 2014

There is a growing recognition that ancient cultures actively reworked their own pasts (and thus their futures) by reusing and modifying relics and ruined buildings. In the Maya area, architectural ruins of the Pre-Columbian past are often considered as isolated from major centres or as subsumed by new architectural constructions. In contrast, this article examines recent survey and excavations from the North-central sector of Tayasal, Guatemala, where I document the ways in which common peoples from a Terminal Classic (c. ad 800–900/950) neighbourhood lived amongst the ruins of a Late Preclassic monumental past (c. 300 bc–ad 300). Conceptions of such ruins are explored through both (1) a long-term, structural pattern of temple-pyramids seen as metaphors of mountains, and (2) the lens of everyday practices, in which the social lives of common people and ruins become entangled through quotidian activities. Taken together, the article highlights the dynamism of enduring structural patterns. These patterns both challenge dualistic divides of wilderness and urban settings and reveal ancient Maya urban landscapes as places of mixed temporalities.
Prenatal nicotine is associated with reduced AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated rises in calcium within the laterodorsal tegmentum: a pontine nucleus involved in addiction processes
Authors: McNair L. F. , Kohlmeier K. A.
Published: November 2014

Despite huge efforts from public sectors to educate society as to the deleterious physiological consequences of smoking while pregnant, 12–25% of all babies worldwide are born to mothers who smoked during their pregnancies. Chief among the negative legacies bestowed to the exposed individual is an enhanced proclivity postnatally to addict to drugs of abuse, which suggests that the drug exposure during gestation changed the developing brain in such a way that biased it towards addiction. Glutamate signalling has been shown to be altered by prenatal nicotine exposure (PNE) and glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter within the laterodorsal tegmental nucleus (LDT), which is a brainstem region importantly involved in responding to motivational stimuli and critical in development of drug addiction-associated behaviours, however, it is unknown whether PNE alters glutamate signalling within this nucleus. Accordingly, we used calcium imaging, to evaluate AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated calcium responses in LDT brain slices from control and PNE mice. We also investigated whether the positive AMPA receptor modulator cyclothiazide (CYZ) had differential actions on calcium in the LDT following PNE. Our data indicated that PNE significantly decreased AMPA receptor-mediated calcium responses, and altered the neuronal calcium response to consecutive NMDA applications within the LDT. Furthermore, CYZ strongly potentiated AMPA-induced responses, however, this action was significantly reduced in the LDT of PNE mice when compared with enhancements in responses in control LDT cells. Immunohistochemical processing confirmed that calcium imaging recordings were obtained from the LDT nucleus as determined by presence of cholinergic neurons. Our results contribute to the body of evidence suggesting that neurobiological changes are induced if gestation is accompanied by nicotine exposure. We conclude that in light of the role played by the LDT in motivated behaviour, the cellular changes in the LDT induced by exposures to nicotine prenatally, when combined with alterations in other reward-related regions, could contribute to the increased susceptibility to smoking observed in the offspring.
Chemical Synthesis of Carbonates, Esters, and Acetals from Soybean Oil
Authors: Doll Kenneth M.
Published: November 2014

Vegetable oil is a convenient material for the production of agricultural products. Unfortunately, it does have drawbacks for some applications, an example being insufficient oxidative stability. Using chemistry, these problems can be solved. For example the epoxidized product formed from methyl oleate, oxidizes at a temperature that is 44 °C higher than the starting material and the carbonated material is even more stable. A short history of these compounds is reviewed herein, before moving on to the modern synthetic methods for production. Coverage ranges from epoxides, to carbonates, and also to branched ester and acetal compounds, all from vegetable oil.
Thiol-ene and H-Phosphonate-ene Reactions for Lipid Modification
Authors: Bantchev Grigor B. , Cermak Steven C. , Biresaw Girma , Appell Michael , Kenar James A. , Murray Rex E.
Published: November 2014

This chapter is a short introduction to the thiol-ene reaction and includes the thiol-ene reaction as a click chemistry reaction, radical chain reactions, basic mechanisms and kinetics, the use of the thiol-ene reaction for the synthesis of novel bio-based materials (polymers, lubricants and coatings), addition of H-phosphonates to double bonds, some reaction information and bio-based products, and possible applications of the products (lubricants, plasticizers and anti-microbial agents).
Solid state effects on the electronic structure of H2OEP
Authors: Marsili M. , Umari P. , Di Santo G. , Caputo M. , Panighel M. , Goldoni A. , Kumar M. , Pedio M.
Published: November 2014

UPS-IPS measurements in combination with GW calculations disclose the mechanism of the H2OEP electronic structure changes upon packing to form a crystal.
Plasma-induced grafting of polyacrylamide on graphene oxide nanosheets for simultaneous removal of radionuclides
Authors: Song Wencheng , Wang Xiangxue , Wang Qi , Shao Dadong , Wang Xiangke
Published: November 2014

PAM/GO is a suitable material for simultaneous removal of metal ions from aqueous solutions.
The structure of insulin at the air/water interface: monomers or dimers?
Authors: Mauri S. , Weidner T. , Arnolds H.
Published: November 2014

We identify spectroscopically insulin monomers at the air/water interface and compare measured spectra with calculated nonlinear second order susceptibilities.
Sn(ii)-catalyzed β-citronellol esterification: a Brønsted acid-free process for synthesis of fragrances at room temperature
Authors: da Silva M. J. , Julio A. A. , dos Santos K. T.
Published: November 2014

Simple SnCl2·2H2O was demonstrated to be able to catalyze β-citronellol esterification with acetic acid at room temperature under solvent-free conditions, achieving high conversion and ester selectivity (ca. 88% and 99%, respectively).
Dual nature of the excited state in organic–inorganic lead halide perovskites
Authors: Stamplecoskie Kevin G. , Manser Joseph S. , Kamat Prashant V.
Published: November 2014

A dual nature of the excited state of CH3NH3PbI3 perovskites is discovered, which fully identifies the spectral features in transient spectroscopy.
A novel calix[4]arene-based dimeric-cholesteryl derivative: synthesis, gelation and unusual properties
Authors: Wu Ying , Liu Kaiqiang , Chen Xiangli , Chen Yongping , Zhang Shaofei , Peng Junxia , Fang Yu
Published: November 2014

The exceptionally high thermo-stability and superior thixotropic property may make the C2N2C/benzene gel find important real-life applications.
Catalysed stereodivergent hydrosilylation with Onium Salts stabilised M(0) nanocatalysts prepared in scCO2
Authors: Pascu O. , Liautard V. , Vaultier M. , Pucheault M. , Aymonier C.
Published: November 2014

M(0) nanocatalysts stabilised in Onium Salt were synthesised using an original preparation and their effectiveness in catalysing the challenging selective sterodivergent alkyne hydrosilylation reaction was studied.
Extended petroleum hydrocarbon bioremediation in saline soil using Pt-free multianodes microbial fuel cells
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Wang Xin , Zhang Yueyong , Cheng Lijuan , Liu Jie , Li Fan , Gao Bingli , Zhou Qixing
Published: November 2014

Greater charge and a higher degradation rate of hydrocarbons in soil are obtained using a multi-anode bioelectrochemical system.
Coating of carboxymethyl dextran on liposomal curcumin to improve the anticancer activity
Authors: Huang Qiyu , Zhang Lili , Sun Xiaoyi , Zeng Ke , Li Juan , Liu You-Nian
Published: November 2014

Coating of carboxymethyl dextran (CMD) on the liposome for improved anticancer activity by enhancing the cellular uptake.
Delineating Monascus azaphilone pigment biosynthesis: oxidoreductive modifications determine the ring cyclization pattern in azaphilone biosynthesis
Authors: Bijinu Balakrishnan , Suh Jae-Won , Park Si-Hyung , Kwon Hyung-Jin
Published: November 2014

Coordination of oxidoreductive modifications in controlling ring cyclization pattern in azaphilone biosynthesis.
A metal-free and a solvent-free synthesis of thio-amides and amides: an efficient Friedel–Crafts arylation of isothiocyanates and isocyanates
Authors: Varun Begur Vasanthkumar , Sood Ankush , Prabhu Kandikere Ramaiah
Published: November 2014

A rapid, metal-free and solvent-free (very low loading of solvent in few cases) reaction conditions for synthesizing thioamides and amides using a Bronsted super acid such as triflic acid has been developed.
Electrochemical properties and lithium-ion storage mechanism of LiCuVO4 as an intercalation anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Malin , Yang Xu , Wang Chunzhong , Chen Nan , Hu Fang , Bie Xiaofei , Wei Yingjin , Du Fei , Chen Gang
Published: November 2014

LiCuVO4, as an intercalation-type anode, shows spontaneous coating behavior with Cu nanoparticles on the surface of Li3VO4 after the 1st discharge.
New anhydrous proton exchange membranes for high-temperature fuel cells based on PVDF–PVP blended polymers
Authors: Guo Zhibin , Xu Xin , Xiang Yan , Lu Shanfu , Jiang San Ping
Published: November 2014

Outstanding performance in high-temperature PEMFCs: a new anhydrous proton exchange membrane based on PVDF–PVP blends showed a high power density (530 mW cm−2 at 180 °C in H2/O2) and excellent stability without external humidification.
A novel intermediate connector with improved charge generation and separation for large-area tandem white organic lighting devices
Authors: Ding Lei , Sun Yan-Qiu , Chen Hua , Zu Feng-Shuo , Wang Zhao-Kui , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: November 2014

An intermediate connector is developed for fabricating tandem white organic light-emitting diodes.
Enhanced visible fluorescence in highly transparent Al-doped ZnO film by surface plasmon coupling of Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Bishnoi Swati , Das Rupali , Phadke Parikshit , Kotnala R. K. , Chawla Santa
Published: November 2014

ZnO:Al (AZO) film has been deposited on quartz substrate by Pulsed laser deposition and showed monophasic hexagonal structure of c-axis oriented nanorods upto 80 nm in height. AZO film was optimally conjugated with Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in a hybrid nanostructure to achieve significant enhancement in the visible fluorescence emission. Augmented near field and extinction spectra of shape tailored Ag NPs and their dimers are simulated through FDTD method, and a direct association with fluorescence enhancement is established. Such plasmon- enhanced visible emission from a transparent conducting oxide could be very important for solar cell applications.
Strain relaxation of thick (11–22) semipolar InGaN layer for long wavelength nitride-based device
Authors: Kim Jaehwan , Min Daehong , Jang Jongjin , Lee Kyuseung , Chae Sooryong , Nam Okhyun
Published: November 2014

In this study, the properties of thick stress-relaxed (11–22) semipolar InGaN layers were investigated. Owing to the inclination of growth orientation, misfit dislocations (MDs) occurred at the heterointerface when the strain state of the (11–22) semipolar InGaN layers reached the critical point. We found that unlike InGaN layers based on polar and nonpolar growth orientations, the surface morphologies of the stress-relaxed (11–22) semipolar InGaN layers did not differ from each other and were similar to the morphology of the underlying GaN layer. In addition, misfit strain across the whole InGaN layer was gradually relaxed by MD formation at the heterointerface. To minimize the effect of surface roughness and defects in GaN layers on the InGaN layer, we conducted further investigation on a thick (11–22) semipolar InGaN layer grown on an epitaxial lateral overgrown GaN template. We found that the lateral indium composition across the whole stress-relaxed InGaN layer was almost uniform. Therefore, thick stress-relaxed (11–22) semipolar InGaN layers are suitable candidates for use as underlying layers in long-wavelength devices, as they can be used to control strain accumulation in the heterostructure active region without additional influence of surface roughness.
Axial magnetic field and toroidally streaming fast ions in the dense plasma focus are natural consequences of conservation laws in the curved axisymmetric geometry of the current sheath
Authors: Auluck S. K. H.
Published: November 2014

Direct measurement of axial magnetic field in the PF-1000 dense plasma focus (DPF), and its reported correlation with neutron emission, call for a fresh look at previous reports of existence of axial magnetic field component in the DPF from other laboratories, and associated data suggesting toroidal directionality of fast ions participating in fusion reactions, with a view to understand the underlying physics. In this context, recent work dealing with application of the hyperbolic conservation law formalism to the DPF is extended in this paper to a curvilinear coordinate system, which reflects the shape of the DPF current sheath. Locally unidirectional shock propagation in this coordinate system enables construction of a system of 7 one-dimensional hyperbolic conservation law equations with geometric source terms, taking into account all the components of magnetic field and flow velocity. Rankine-Hugoniot jump conditions for this system lead to expressions for the axial magnetic field and three components of fluid velocity having high ion kinetic energy.
On noise induced Poincaré–Andronov–Hopf bifurcation
Authors: Samanta Himadri S. , Bhattacharjee Jayanta K. , Bhattacharyay Arijit , Chakraborty Sagar
Published: November 2014

It has been numerically seen that noise introduces stable well-defined oscillatory state in a system with unstable limit cycles resulting from subcritical Poincaré–Andronov–Hopf (or simply Hopf) bifurcation. This phenomenon is analogous to the well known stochastic resonance in the sense that it effectively converts noise into useful energy. Herein, we clearly explain how noise induced imperfection in the bifurcation is a generic reason for such a phenomenon to occur and provide explicit analytical calculations in order to explain the typical square-root dependence of the oscillations' amplitude on the noise level below a certain threshold value. Also, we argue that the noise can bring forth oscillations in average sense even in the absence of a limit cycle. Thus, we bring forward the inherent general mechanism of the noise induced Hopf bifurcation naturally realisable across disciplines.
Temperature-dependent diffusive to ballistic transport transition in aligned double walled carbon nanotubes in the high frequency regime
Authors: Chimowa George , Flahaut Emmanuel , Bhattacharyya Somnath
Published: November 2014

Low-temperature induced diffusive to ballistic transport in aligned double walled carbon nanotubes (DWNT) is reported. This is evidenced by a crossover of the imaginary (reactive) component of the alternating current impedance being greater than the real (resistive) component, which happens in the range of 9 GHz–1.5 GHz at temperatures77 K and 4 K from which we estimate a long lifetime of 17 ps and 106 ps in DWNTs, respectively. By simulating the measured scattering parameters of a few aligned DWNTs over a wide temperature range, we show that this observation is strongly influenced by the electrode–DWNT coupling strength.
The conceptual origins of Maxwell’s equations and gauge theory
Authors: Yang Chen Ning
Published: November 2014

Already in Faraday’s electrotonic state and Maxwell’s vector potential, gauge freedom was an unavoidable presence. Converting that presence to the symmetry principle that underpins our successful standard model is a story worth telling.
Quantitative cell biology: the essential role of theory
Authors: Howard Jonathon
Published: November 2014

Quantitative biology is a hot area, as evidenced by the recent establishment of institutes, graduate programs, and conferences with that name. But what is quantitative biology? What should it be? And how can it contribute to solving the big questions in biology? The past decade has seen very rapid development of quantitative experimental techniques, especially at the single-molecule and single-cell levels. In this essay, I argue that quantitative biology is much more than just the quantitation of these experimental results. Instead, it should be the application of the scientific method by which measurement is directed toward testing theories. In this view, quantitative biology is the recognition that theory and models play critical roles in biology, as they do in physics and engineering. By tying together experiment and theory, quantitative biology promises a deeper understanding of underlying mechanisms, when the theory works, or to new discoveries, when it does not.
Challenges and dreams: physics of weak interactions essential to life
Authors: Chien Peter , Gierasch Lila M.
Published: November 2014

Biological systems display stunning capacities to self-organize. Moreover, their subcellular architectures are dynamic and responsive to changing needs and conditions. Key to these properties are manifold weak “quinary” interactions that have evolved to create specific spatial networks of macromolecules. These specific arrangements of molecules enable signals to be propagated over distances much greater than molecular dimensions, create phase separations that define functional regions in cells, and amplify cellular responses to changes in their environments. A major challenge is to develop biochemical tools and physical models to describe the panoply of weak interactions operating in cells. We also need better approaches to measure the biases in the spatial distributions of cellular macromolecules that result from the integrated action of multiple weak interactions. Partnerships between cell biologists, biochemists, and physicists are required to deploy these methods. Together these approaches will help us realize the dream of understanding the biological “glue” that sustains life at a molecular and cellular level.
Spatial trigger waves: positive feedback gets you a long way
Authors: Gelens Lendert , Anderson Graham A. , Ferrell James E.
Published: November 2014

Trigger waves are a recurring biological phenomenon involved in transmitting information quickly and reliably over large distances. Well-characterized examples include action potentials propagating along the axon of a neuron, calcium waves in various tissues, and mitotic waves in Xenopus eggs. Here we use the FitzHugh-Nagumo model, a simple model inspired by the action potential that is widely used in physics and theoretical biology, to examine different types of trigger waves—spatial switches, pulses, and oscillations—and to show how they arise.
The role of TORC1 in muscle development in Drosophila.
Authors: Hatfield Isabelle , Harvey Innocence , Yates Erika R. , Redd JeAnna R. , Reiter Lawrence T. , Bridges Dave
Published: November 2014

Myogenesis is an important process during both development and muscle repair. Previous studies suggest that mTORC1 plays a role in the formation of mature muscle from immature muscle precursor cells. Here we show that gene expression for several myogenic transcription factors including Myf5, Myog and Mef2c but not MyoD and myosin heavy chain isoforms decrease when C2C12 cells are treated with rapamycin, supporting a role for mTORC1 pathway during muscle development. To investigate the possibility that mTORC1 can regulate muscle in vivo we ablated the essential dTORC1 subunit Raptor in Drosophila melanogaster and found that muscle-specific knockdown of Raptor causes flies to be too weak to emerge from their pupal cases during eclosion. Using a series of GAL4 drivers we also show that muscle-specific Raptor knockdown also causes shortened lifespan, even when eclosure is unaffected. Together these results highlight an important role for TORC1 in muscle development, integrity and function in both Drosophila and mammalian cells.
Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Rio Donald C.
Published: November 2014

Reverse transcription coupled to the polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) is commonly used to detect the presence of mRNAs, pre-mRNAs, or other types of RNA such as noncoding RNAs. The method involves using a primer annealed to the RNA of interest. For mRNA, the primer is usually a synthetic oligo(dT)15–18, a random hexamer mixture (dN)6, or a synthetic DNA oligonucleotide that is complementary to a specific transcript (a gene-specific primer). This DNA:RNA hybrid serves as a template during reverse transcription, in which the enzyme reverse transcriptase (RT) generates a single-stranded cDNA copy of a portion of the target RNA molecule. Using random hexamer priming, it is possible to obtain representative cDNA copies of sequences from the entire length of the mRNAs and pre-mRNAs in a population. This cDNA can then be used as a template for PCR. On addition of gene-specific primers, a specific DNA fragment corresponding to a portion of the RNA of interest is generated.
Detection of Apoptotic Cells Using Propidium Iodide Staining
Authors: Newbold Andrea , Martin Ben P. , Cullinane Carleen , Bots Michael
Published: November 2014

Flow cytometry assays are often used to detect apoptotic cells in in vitro cultures. Depending on the experimental model, these assays can also be useful in evaluating apoptosis in vivo. In this protocol, we describe a propidium iodide (PI) flow cytometry assay to evaluate B-cell lymphomas that have undergone apoptosis in vivo. B-cell lymphoma cells are injected into recipient mice and, on tumor formation, the mice are treated with the apoptosis inducer vorinostat (a histone deacetylase inhibitor). Tumor samples collected from the lymph nodes and/or the spleen are used to prepare a single-cell suspension that is exposed to a hypotonic solution containing the fluorochrome PI. The DNA content of the cells, now labeled with PI, is analyzed by flow cytometry. Nuclear DNA content is lost during apoptosis, resulting in a hypodiploid (or sub-G1) DNA profile during flow cytometry. In contrast, healthy cells display a sharp diploid DNA profile.
Complexity science approaches to the application foresight
Authors: Horton Averil
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to present an exploration of recent work in complexity theory to explain why and how disruptive events happen in systems and how responses could be better, particularly in the policy‐making arena.

Design/methodology/approach

The main method applied is critical thinking combined with a review of selected aspects of complexity theory and a general experience of applying foresight. Several new and practical implications for foresight techniques and their application are derived. Promoting variation is examined as one way to make policies more resilient in a complex system.

Findings

Complexity science demonstrates that disruptive events do not need an associated trigger, as they are a normal part of a complex system. This insight implies that if we are always looking for weak signals we will certainly be caught unawares.

Practical implications

The assumption that disruptive events can be managed by planning and forecasting is not a workable option. Instead, policy making needs to assume that unexpected disruptive events will happen even with the best horizon scanning system in place. Foresight techniques need to be developed to embrace emergence and to provide capabilities such as reframing to visualise systems from very different perspectives, including those considered impossible now.

Originality/value

Although neither complexity theory nor the concept of reframing is new in the area of foresight, the derivation of practical implications for foresight techniques is original.
Business lessons from the soccer World Cup
Authors: Berrone Pascual
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Based on Spain's recent achievement as soccer World Cup winner, the purpose of this paper is to draw lessons for business leaders.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a reflection, from a strategic viewpoint, on the events surrounding the championship.

Findings

Ten general lessons are drawn for business leaders, entrepreneurs, family business owners, and managers in how they interact with customers and employees.

Originality/value

The paper's value lies in using a high visibility sports event to draw lessons for businesses in a practice‐oriented note.
Sex‐specific effects of natural and sexual selection on the evolution of life span and ageing in Drosophila simulans
Authors: Archer C. Ruth , Duffy Eoin , Hosken David J. , Mokkonen Mikael , Okada Kensuke , Oku Keiko , Sharma Manmohan D. , Hunt John
Published: November 2014

Variation in the strength of age‐dependent natural selection shapes differences in ageing rates across species and populations. Likewise, sexual selection can promote divergent patterns of senescence across the sexes. However, the effects of these processes on the evolution of ageing have largely been considered independently, and interactions between them are poorly understood.

We use experimental evolution to investigate how natural and sexual selection affect life span and ageing in Drosophila simulans.

Replicate populations were evolved under lifetime monogamy (relaxed sexual selection) or lifetime polyandry (elevated sexual selection) and at one of two temperatures, 25 °C (relaxed natural selection) or 27 °C (enhanced natural selection), in a fully factorial design. We measured longevity in 150 individually housed flies taken from each of three replicate populations per selection regime.

We found that natural and sexual selection affected the evolution of life span via sex‐specific effects on different ageing parameters (ageing rate vs. baseline mortality): natural selection reduced the rate of ageing in both sexes but increased male baseline mortality, while sexual selection elevated baseline mortality in both sexes but particularly in males.

This means that sexual and natural selection interacted to reduce male life span but acted on female life span by independently affecting particular ageing parameters. Sex‐specific effects of sexual and natural selection may help explain the diverse patterns of ageing seen in nature but complicate predictions about how ageing and life span evolve across the sexes