bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparaison franco-britannique de la recherche sur les services de renseignement
Authors: Chopin1 Olivier , Irondelle Bastien
Published: January 2014

Alors que la publication devenue « industrielle » de recueils et de manuels sur les études du renseignement (Intelligence Studies) démontre l’arrivée à maturité des études sur le renseignement au sein de la science politique internationale, la recherche universitaire sur le sujet demeure en France au stade de l’émergence. Le retard français par rapport au Royaume-Uni se double d’un second sur le décalage entre faible connaissance et importance des services de renseignement, la France étant un des rares pays à disposer d’une panoplie complète de services de renseignement intérieurs et extérieurs, civils et militaires, et de moyens techniques de premier plan. L’article présente l’état actuel des études sur le renseignement en France et au Royaume-Uni, analyse la trajectoire du développement de ce champ de recherches et avance des hypothèses sur la réussite britannique et le développement tardif et fragile des études sur le renseignement français. L’explication tient au fonctionnement du marché universitaire, aux transformations de l’État et des modalités de la reconnaissance institutionnelle et sociale du renseignement, et enfin à la mécanique d’un processus différencié de relégitimation du renseignement sur les deux rives de la Manche.
Quand la réadaptation blesse ? Éducateurs victimes de violence
Authors: Geoffrion1 Steve , Ouellet Frédéric
Published: January 2014

Cette étude vise à comprendre le phénomène de la violence physique vécue par les éducateurs oeuvrant dans dix Centres Jeunesse (CJ) du Québec. Pour ce faire, un sondage de victimisation a été administré à 586 éducateurs en internat. En premier lieu, la prévalence de cette problématique sera établie. Par la suite, les facteurs individuels et environnementaux prédisposant aux agressions physiques seront identifiés. Des éducateurs sondés, 53,9 % rapportent avoir été victimes de violence physique au cours de la dernière année. Sur le plan individuel, être affecté par les manifestations agressives des clients et la fréquence des violences psychologiques subies augmentent les risques de victimisation physique. Quant au contexte, l’âge de la clientèle et le motif de l’intervention (basé sur la loi justifiant le placement) auprès de l’enfant ou de l’adolescent influencent l’occurrence des actes violents dirigés contre les éducateurs. Nos analyses montrent également que les violences physiques dont sont victimes les éducateurs affectent autant l’individu que l’institution. L’identification de facteurs permettant de prédire les risques de victimisation pourrait notamment servir à orienter les programmes de prévention de la violence dans les CJ, mais aussi à cibler les éducateurs les plus à risque afin de leur fournir un soutien adapté.
A new combination and lectotypification in Xanthosia (Apiaceae)
Authors: Henwood Murray J , Hart Jennifer M
Published: January 2014

Platysace kochii (E.Pritzel) L.A.S.Johnson is here transferred to Xanthosia as X. kochii (E.Pritzel) J.M.Hart and Henwood comb. nov. (Mackinlayoideae, Apiaceae). Xanthosia bungei Keighery is reduced to the synonymy of X. kochii. A lectotype for X. kochii is here designated and the typification of X. fruticulosa is adjusted. Descriptions of X. kochii and X. fruticulosa, a distribution map and diagnostic images are provided.
Actinotus repens Keighery ex Henwood: A new species from south-west Western Australia
Authors: Henwood Murray J
Published: January 2014

Actinotus repens Keighery ex Henwood (Mackinlayoideae, Apiaceae) is here described as a new species from south-west Western Australia. A key to Western Australian species of Actinotus is included.
Real‐time GPS sensing of atmospheric water vapor: Precise point positioning with orbit, clock, and phase delay corrections
Authors: Li Xingxing , Dick Galina , Ge Maorong , Heise Stefan , Wickert Jens , Bender Michael
Published: January 2014

The recent development of the International Global Navigation Satellite Systems Service Real‐Time Pilot Project and the enormous progress in precise point positioning (PPP) techniques provide a promising opportunity for real‐time determination of Integrated Water Vapor (IWV) using GPS ground networks for various geodetic and meteorological applications. In this study, we develop a new real‐time GPS water vapor processing system based on the PPP ambiguity fixing technique with real‐time satellite orbit, clock, and phase delay corrections. We demonstrate the performance of the new real‐time water vapor estimates using the currently operationally used near‐real‐time GPS atmospheric data and collocated microwave radiometer measurements as an independent reference. The results show that an accuracy of 1.0 ~ 2.0 mm is achievable for the new real‐time GPS based IWV value. Data of such accuracy might be highly valuable for time‐critical geodetic (positioning) and meteorological applications.
Martian ionospheric responses to dynamic pressure enhancements in the solar wind
Authors: Ma Y. J. , Fang X. , Nagy A. F. , Russell C. T. , Toth Gabor
Published: January 2014

As a weakly magnetized planet, Mars ionosphere/atmosphere interacts directly with the shocked solar wind plasma flow. Even though many numerical studies have been successful in reproducing numerous features of the interaction process, these earlier studies focused mainly on interaction under steady solar wind conditions. Recent observations suggest that plasma escape fluxes are significantly enhanced in response to solar wind dynamic pressure pulses. In this study, we focus on the response of the ionosphere to pressure enhancements in the solar wind. Through modeling of two idealized events using a magnetohydrodynamics model, we find that the upper ionosphere of Mars responds almost instantaneously to solar wind pressure enhancements, while the collision dominated lower ionosphere (below ~150 km) does not have noticeable changes in density. We also find that ionospheric perturbations in density, magnetic field, and velocity can last more than an hour after the solar wind returns to the quiet conditions. The topside ionosphere forms complicated transient shapes in response, which may explain unexpected ionospheric behaviors in recent observations. We also find that ionospheric escape fluxes do not correlate directly with simultaneous solar wind dynamic pressure. Rather, their intensities also depend on the earlier solar wind conditions. It takes a few hours for the ionospheric/atmospheric system to reach a new quasi‐equilibrium state.
Transient and local weakening of surface winds observed above the Kuroshio front in the winter East China Sea
Authors: Kasamo Kenki , Isobe Atsuhiko , Minobe Shoshiro , Manda Atsuyoshi , Nakamura Hirohiko , Ogata Koto , Nishikawa Hatsumi , Tachibana Yoshihiro , Kako Shin'ichiro
Published: January 2014

To confirm whether surface winds strengthen above warm waters around oceanic fronts using in situ data, a field measurement was conducted using both expendable bathythermographs and Global Positioning System sondes released concurrently across the Kuroshio front in the East China Sea in December 2010. In contrast to previous studies mainly based on satellite observations, the finding of the present field survey is the local weakening of surface winds at the northern flank of the Kuroshio front. From the above field observation in conjunction with a regional numerical model experiment, it is suggested that the northwesterly winds crossing the Kuroshio front from the cooler side first weaken at the northern flank of the front because of the onset of upward transfer of the “nonslip” condition at the sea surface. Thereafter, as the atmospheric mixed layer with warm and humid air mass develops gradually downwind over the Kuroshio region, the surface winds are gradually accelerated by the momentum mixing with strong winds aloft. The surface winds remain strong over the cool East China Sea shelf, and it is thus considered that the surface winds only weaken at the northern flank of the Kuroshio front. However, numerical modeling indicates that this local weakening of the surface winds occurs as a transient state with a short duration and such a structure has thus rarely been detected in the long‐term averaged wind fields observed by satellites.
Asymmetric Aldol Reaction of 3‐Acetyl‐2H‐chromen‐2‐ones and Isatins Catalyzed by a Bifunctional Quinidine Urea Catalyst
Authors: Abbaraju Santhi , Zhao John Cong‐Gui
Published: January 2014

The asymmetric aldol reaction of 3‐acetyl‐2H‐chromen‐2‐ones and isatins has been realized by using a bifunctional quinidine‐derived urea as the catalyst. The corresponding 3‐hydroxyoxindole derivatives containing a 2H‐chromen‐2‐one moiety were obtained in good yields and high enantioselectivities. When (Z)‐ethyl 2‐benzylideneacetoacetate was used as the substrate, a mixture of two diastereomers (both Z and E) was obtained due to isomerization of the double bond under the reaction conditions.

magnified image
Enantioselective Allylation of Thiophene‐2‐carbaldehyde: Formal Total Synthesis of Duloxetine
Authors: Motloch Petr , Valterová Irena , Kotora Martin
Published: January 2014

The enantioselective allylation of thiophene‐2‐carbaldehyde with allyltrichlorosilane under Lewis base catalysis has been studied. The use of catalytic amount (1 mol%) of chiral bipyridine N,N′‐dioxides provided the corresponding 1‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)‐but‐3‐en‐1‐ol with asymmetric induction reaching 97% ee. The prepared chiral (S)‐1‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)‐but‐3‐en‐1‐ol was used as the crucial chiral building block in a formal total synthesis of duloxetine.

magnified image
Influence of High‐Energy Ion Irradiation on the Structural, Optical, and Chemical Properties of Polytetrafluoroethylene
Authors: Singh Paramjit , Kumar Rajesh
Published: January 2014

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymer samples were irradiated by 50 MeV Li3+ ion beams to the fluences of 1 × 1010, 1 × 1011, and 1 × 1012 ions/cm2. The structural, optical, and chemical properties were studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, respectively. The XRD analyses showed amorphization of the polymer sample at fluences of 1 × 1010 and 1 × 1011 ions/cm2. Crystallite size (calculated by applying the Scherrer formula) decreased for irradiated samples at fluences of 1 × 1010 and 1 × 1011 ions/cm2. The other factors like microstrain (ε), dislocation density (δ), and distortion parameters (g) showed variations at these fluences. However, there was no change in the interchain separation (R) and interplanar distance (d) for all irradiated samples. UV–vis showed a shift of the absorption edge of irradiated samples towards the visible region. The band gap energy (Eg) was calculated using Tauc's relation, and its value decreased with an increase of ion fluence for all irradiated samples. The number of carbon atoms per conjugation length (N) increased for the irradiated samples. The FTIR results revealed the liberation of CF2 groups and the appearance of some new bands after irradiation.
Electrohydrostatics of capillary switches
Authors: Sambath Krishnaraj , Basaran Osman A.
Published: January 2014

A capillary switch is a system of two liquid drops, one sessile and the other pendant, obtained by overfilling a hole of radius R in a plate. When surface tension dominates gravity, the equilibrium shapes of the drops are spherical sections of equal radii. If the combined volume of the top VT and bottom VB drops exceeds
, the system has three equilibrium states of which two are stable. This bistability is exploited in applications by toggling the system between its two stable states. Here, we examine the effectiveness of using an electric field for toggling. Bifurcation diagrams are obtained that depict how the system's response varies with applied field strength E, and show loss of stability at turning points and the possibility of hysteresis. A phase diagram in
space is presented to readily infer when an electric field is an effective means for toggling. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 1451–1459, 2014
Technical Note: 3D From Standard Digital Photography of Human Crania—A Preliminary Assessment
Authors: Katz David , Friess Martin
Published: January 2014

This study assessed three‐dimensional (3D) photogrammetry as a tool for capturing and quantifying human skull morphology. While virtual reconstruction with 3D surface scanning technology has become an accepted part of the paleoanthropologist's tool kit, recent advances in 3D photogrammetry make it a potential alternative to dedicated surface scanners. The principal advantages of photogrammetry are more rapid raw data collection, simplicity and portability of setup, and reduced equipment costs. We tested the precision and repeatability of 3D photogrammetry by comparing digital models of human crania reconstructed from conventional, 2D digital photographs to those generated using a 3D surface scanner. Overall, the photogrammetry and scanner meshes showed low degrees of deviation from one another. Surface area estimates derived from photogrammetry models tended to be slightly larger. Landmark configurations generally did not cluster together based upon whether the reconstruction was created with photogrammetry or surface scanning technology. Average deviations of landmark coordinates recorded on photogrammetry models were within the generally allowable range of error in osteometry. Thus, while dependent upon the needs of the particular research project, 3D photogrammetry appears to be a suitable, lower‐cost alternative to 3D imaging and scanning options. Am J Phys Anthropol 154:152–158, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The relationship between bending stress and the shape of maxillary canines in cercopithecoid monkeys
Authors: Rapoff Andrew J. , McGraw W. Scott , Daegling David J.
Published: January 2014

Primate canines function in social displays but are also recruited for biting in agonistic encounters. Although the precise nature of the loads such behavior places on the canine crown is unknown, it is thought that bending is a major component of such loads. To date, modeling of canine bending strength has relied on idealized geometric representations. Accounting for the tapering of the crown as well as shape changes along an apical–basal axis provides a more realistic model for assessment of bending stress in canines. We provide such an accounting and evaluate the hypothesis that the morphology of the cercopithecoid canine represents a structural solution for maintaining constant maximum bending stress under apical or distributed loading in a parasagittal plane. This isostress hypothesis is analogous to a design criterion of minimum mass for a given structural requirement. Examining permanent maxillary canines from males and females representing eight West African cercopithecoid species, we reconstructed crown geometry from apex to base using microcomputed tomography. From reconstructed cross‐sections, we determined section moduli about a buccolingual centroidal axis. We then determined what the taper should be for a variety of parasagittal loading distributions if the isostress hypothesis were true and compared these theoretical tapers to actual crown geometry. We found that a variety of loading distributions can be accommodated by the canines, particularly among males. These results suggest that our sample of canines are not optimized for resisting particular biting loads, but effectively limit stress gradients associated with a range of behaviors. Am J Phys Anthropol 154:61–69, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anisotrope Gold‐Nanopartikel: Synthese, Eigenschaften, Anwendungen und Toxizität
Authors: Li Na , Zhao Pengxiang , Astruc Didier
Published: January 2014

Anisotrope Gold‐Nanopartikel (AuNPs) ziehen seit einem Jahrhundert das Interesse der Wissenschaftler auf sich. Vor allem in den letzten 10 Jahren hat sich das Gebiet rasant entwickelt, einhergehend mit der Synthese unzähliger ein‐, zwei‐ und dreidimensionaler massiver und hohler AuNP‐Strukturen. Die Anisotropie dieser nichtsphärischen, hohlen und schalenartigen AuNP‐Strukturen bedingt ihre charakteristische Plasmonenabsorption im sichtbaren und nahinfraroten (NIR) Bereich. Speziell die NIR‐Absorption hängt sehr empfindlich von der Nanopartikelform und dem Medium ab und kann in den Bereich des NIR‐Spektrums verschoben werden, in welchem lebendes Gewebe am geringsten absorbiert. Dadurch ergeben sich wichtige Anwendungen in der medizinischen Diagnostik und Therapie (“Theranostik”). Von besonderem Interesse sind hier Nanoschalen und Nanostäbe sowie hohle Nanokugeln und Nanowürfel. Eine andere wichtige Anwendung sind Au‐Nanodrähte (AuNWs), die in Längen von bis zu 100 µm synthetisiert und als Plasmonenwellenleiter für optische Bauelemente genutzt werden können. Insgesamt breiten sich die Anwendungsmöglichkeiten anisotroper AuNPs rasch in den Gebieten der Optik, Biomedizin und Katalyse aus. In diesem Aufsatz geben einen kurzen historischen Überblick über das Thema und fassen dann die Synthesemethoden, Morphologien, Anwendungen und Toxizitätseigenschaften dieser schnell wachsenden Klasse von Nanomaterialien zusammen.
Gemischte Übergangsmetalloxide: Design, Synthese und energierelevante Anwendungen
Authors: Yuan Changzhou , Wu Hao Bin , Xie Yi , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: January 2014

Seit kurzem findet eine Familie gemischter Übergangsmetalloxide (mixed transition‐metal oxides, MTMOs; beschrieben durch AxB3−xO4; A, B=Co, Ni, Zn, Mn, Fe usw.) mit stöchiometrischen oder gar nichtstöchiometrischen Zusammensetzungen (typischerweise in Spinellstruktur) weltweit Interesse. Diese MTMOs dürften dank ihrer ausgezeichneten elektrochemischen Eigenschaften große Bedeutung für kostengünstige und umweltfreundliche Technologien zur Energiespeicherung/‐umwandlung erlangen. In diesem Aufsatz fassen wir die jüngsten Fortschritte beim rationalen Design von MTMOs mit steuerbaren Formen, Größen, Zusammensetzungen und Mikro‐/Nanostrukturen sowie ihren Anwendungsmöglichkeiten zusammen, z. B. als Elektrodenmaterialien für Lithium‐Ionen‐Batterien und elektrochemische Kondensatoren oder als effiziente Elektrokatalysatoren bei der Sauerstoffreduktionsreaktion in Sauerstoff/Luft‐Batterien und Brennstoffzellen. Zum Schluss diskutieren wir die weitere mögliche Entwicklung von MTMOs für die nächste Technologiegeneration der elektrochemischen Energiespeicherung/‐umwandlung.
An Efficient RuII–RhIII–RuII Polypyridyl Photocatalyst for Visible‐Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Stoll Thibaut , Gennari Marcello , Fortage Jérôme , Castillo Carmen E. , Rebarz Mateusz , Sliwa Michel , Poizat Olivier , Odobel Fabrice , Deronzier Alain , Collomb Marie‐Noëlle
Published: January 2014

The development of multicomponent molecular systems for the photocatalytic reduction of water to hydrogen has experienced considerable growth since the end of the 1970s. Recently, with the aim of improving the efficiency of the catalysis, single‐component photocatalysts have been developed in which the photosensitizer is chemically coupled to the hydrogen‐evolving catalyst in the same molecule through a bridging ligand. Until now, none of these photocatalysts has operated efficiently in pure aqueous solution: a highly desirable medium for energy‐conversion applications. Herein, we introduce a new ruthenium–rhodium polypyridyl complex as the first efficient homogeneous photocatalyst for H2 production in water with turnover numbers of several hundred. This study also demonstrates unambiguously that the catalytic performance of such systems linked through a nonconjugated bridge is significantly improved as compared to that of a mixture of the separate components.
A Diiron(III,IV) Imido Species Very Active in Nitrene‐Transfer Reactions
Authors: Gouré Eric , Avenier Frédéric , Dubourdeaux Patrick , Sénèque Olivier , Albrieux Florian , Lebrun Colette , Clémancey Martin , Maldivi Pascale , Latour Jean‐Marc
Published: January 2014

Metal‐catalyzed nitrene transfer reactions arouse intense interest as clean and efficient procedures for amine synthesis. Efficient Rh‐ and Ru‐based catalysts exist but Fe alternatives are actively pursued. However, reactive iron imido species can be very short‐lived and getting evidence of their occurrence in efficient nitrene‐transfer reactions is an important challenge. We recently reported that a diiron(III,II) complex is a very efficient nitrene‐transfer catalyst to various substrates. We describe herein how, by combining desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, quantitative chemical quench experiments, and DFT calculations, we obtained conclusive evidence for the occurrence of an {FeIIIFeIVNTosyl} intermediate that is very active in H‐abstraction and nitrene‐transfer reactions. DFT calculations revealed a strong radical character of the tosyl nitrogen atom in very low‐lying electronic configurations of the FeIV ion which are likely to confer its high reactivity.
Mechanical and chemical properties of poly(styrene‐isobutylene‐styrene) block copolymers: Effect of sulfonation and counter ion substitution
Authors: Suleiman David , Padovani Agnes M. , Negrón Arnaldo A. , Sloan James M. , Napadensky Eugene , Crawford Dawn M.
Published: January 2014

In this study, the mechanical and chemical properties of a series of sulfonated poly(styrene‐isobutylene‐styrene) (SIBS) block copolymers were evaluated using a combination of nanoindentation, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), elemental analysis (EA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), water absorption, and small angle X‐ray scattering studies (SAXS). The materials properties were characterized as a function of the sulfonation percent in the block copolymers, as well as a result of the counter‐ion substitution with Mg2+, Ca2+, and Ba2+. Nanoindentation studies revealed that the elastic modulus (E) and hardness (H) increase with sulfonation up to a certain level, at which point, the effect of water content further hinders any mechanical reinforcement. The incorporation of counter‐ions increases E and H, but the results are dependent upon the size of the counter‐ion. DMA results showed that the polymer maintained the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polyisobutylene (PIB) segment (−60°C) regardless of the sulfonation level or counter‐ion substituted. However, both the shoulder of the PIB Tg (−30°C), which was probably caused by a Rouse‐type motion, as well as the Tg of polystyrene (105°C) disappeared upon sulfonation. Counter‐ion substitution increased the storage modulus of the rubbery plateau, which is indicative of a stronger and more thermally stable crosslinked complex formation. Additional unique relaxations were observed with the counter‐ions, and could be attributed to the stretching/rotation of the SO bond and the interaction of the cations with the oxygen in the sulfonic group. FTIR results also revealed a unique shifting of the asymmetric SO band when counter‐ions were added. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40344.
Wireless in‐mold melt front detection for injection molding: A long‐term evaluation
Authors: Müller Florian , Kukla Christian , Lucyshyn Thomas , Harker Matthew , Rath Gerhard , Holzer Clemens
Published: January 2014

Wireless sensing technology for injection molding is of increasing interest in literature. Recently, a purely mechanical in‐mold sensor for melt front detection was introduced. The sensor system is based on building resonant structures into the mold which are excited by the passing melt front generating structure‐borne sound, from which the melt front position is derived. A big advantage of this system is the possibility to implement a plurality of resonant structures while just having one receiver. One important aspect is the need to separate and assign the recorded impinging sounds. A novel algebraic approach was introduced separating the resonant structures by reference to their oscillatory behavior. In this article, measurement results for over 450 injection molding cycles are given proving functionality of the separation process. In addition, it is shown that the melt front detection is reliable and robust when comparing it with results obtained by cavity temperature sensors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40346.
Nylon‐coated ultra high molecular weight polyethylene fabric for enhanced penetration resistance
Authors: Firouzi Dariush , Foucher Daniel A. , Bougherara Habiba
Published: January 2014

A coating of Nylon 6,6 or 6,12 was used to improve the penetration resistance of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabric that would be potentially useful in the manufacture of flexible body armor against spike/knife threats. Quasi‐static test results for the spike penetrator showed a 77% and 86% improvement in the puncture resistance of Nylon 6,6 and Nylon 6,12 coated UHMWPE (respectively) over a neat fabric target of equivalent areal densities. Dynamic impact testing demonstrated dramatic improvement in the puncture resistance of nylon‐coated fabrics while only a slight improvement in stab resistance was observed comparing samples with equivalent areal densities. Photography of ruptured areas after quasi‐static testing revealed limited fiber motion or fiber stretching with no evidence of fiber pullout for nylon‐coated fabric samples in contrast to neat fabric. This suggests that there was a significant increase in energy absorption by nylon‐coated fabrics at impact. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40350.
Diester based on castor oil fatty acid as plasticizer for poly(vinyl chloride)
Authors: Mehta Bhakti , Kathalewar Mukesh , Sabnis Anagha
Published: January 2014

Castor oil is a renewable resource that has potential uses as an environmental friendly material for a range of applications. In recent years, much efforts have been driven to develop alternate plasticizer for medical and commodity plastics due to growing concerns about dioctyl phthalate (DOP) for flexible poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). In this study, a bio‐based plasticizer was synthesized by a two‐step esterification reaction of castor oil fatty acid (COFA) with benzyl alcohol and octanoic acid in the presence of catalyst (dibutyl tin dilaurate). The structure of the octanoic ester (OE) was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, acid value, and hydroxyl value. OE was used as a coplasticizer in PVC for partial replacement of DOP. The addition of OE exhibited good incorporation and plasticizing performance in the PVC sheets. Incorporation of OE resulted in good plasticizing, tensile strength, percentage elongation, exudation, thermal stability, and chemical resistance because of the presence of long carbon chains of COFA. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis, and color measurements were also performed to evaluate the effect of OE. With the increase in OE, DSC and hardness results showed marginal deviation from those obtained for DOP‐plasticized sheets. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40354.
Evaluation of liquid chromatography–ion trap–time of flight hybrid mass spectrometry on the quantitative analysis for ginsenosides
Authors: Xing Lu. , Xie Lin , Liang Yan , Xing Rong , Rao Tai , Zhou Lijun , Wang Qian , Fu Hanxu , Ye Wei , Wang Guangji
Published: January 2014

It is ideal and desirable for a single instrument to meet the requirement of both qualitative and quantitative analysis of complicated components in pharmacokinetic research for herbal medicine. Liquid chromatography combined with hybrid ion trap and time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (LCMS‐IT‐TOF) was recently confirmed as a very powerful tool for the qualitative analysis of both target and nontarget components in herbal medicines. The present study was designed to investigate the feasibility of LCMS‐IT‐TOF on quantitative analysis of ginsenosides in biological matrices. A simple liquid–liquid extraction procedure was followed by injection of the extracts onto a C18 column with gradient elution and detection based on LCMS‐IT‐TOF system in negative scan mode. The developed method was validated with respect to the limit of quantification, linear dynamic range, precision, accuracy, matrix effects and stabilities. All the results suggested that the presently developed method was sufficiently sensitive and robust enough to simultaneously monitor 15 ginsenosides with diverse properties and a large range of concentration differences. Therefore, this method would be expected to be highly useful for comprehensive studies of ginsenosides in complicated matrix. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fgf2 improves functional recovery—decreasing gliosis and increasing radial glia and neural progenitor cells after spinal cord injury
Authors: Goldshmit Yona , Frisca Frisca , Pinto Alexander R. , Pébay Alice , Tang Jean‐Kitty K. Y. , Siegel Ashley L. , Kaslin Jan , Currie Peter D.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

A major impediment for recovery after mammalian spinal cord injury (SCI) is the glial scar formed by proliferating reactive astrocytes. Finding factors that may reduce glial scarring, increase neuronal survival, and promote neurite outgrowth are of major importance for improving the outcome after SCI. Exogenous fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) has been shown to decrease injury volume and improve functional outcome; however, the mechanisms by which this is mediated are still largely unknown.

Methods

In this study, Fgf2 was administered for 2 weeks in mice subcutaneously, starting 30 min after spinal cord hemisection.

Results

Fgf2 treatment decreased the expression of TNF‐a at the lesion site, decreased monocyte/macrophage infiltration, and decreased gliosis. Fgf2 induced astrocytes to adopt a polarized morphology and increased expression of radial markers such as Pax6 and nestin. In addition, the levels of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), expressed by glia, were markedly decreased. Furthermore, Fgf2 treatment promotes the formation of parallel glial processes, “bridges,” at the lesion site that enable regenerating axons through the injury site. Additionally, Fgf2 treatment increased Sox2‐expressing cells in the gray matter and neurogenesis around and at the lesion site. Importantly, these effects were correlated with enhanced functional recovery of the left paretic hind limb.

Conclusions

Thus, early pharmacological intervention with Fgf2 following SCI is neuroprotective and creates a proregenerative environment by the modulation of the glia response.
N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) in neurological disorders: mechanisms of action and therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Bavarsad Shahripour Reza , Harrigan Mark R. , Alexandrov Andrei V.
Published: January 2014

Background

There is an expanding field of research investigating the benefits of medicines with multiple mechanisms of action across neurological disorders. N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), widely known as an antidote to acetaminophen overdose, is now emerging as treatment of vascular and nonvascular neurological disorders. NAC as a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione modulates glutamatergic, neurotrophic, and inflammatory pathways.

Aim and discussion

Most NAC studies up to date have been carried out in animal models of various neurological disorders with only a few studies completed in humans. In psychiatry, NAC has been tested in over 20 clinical trials as an adjunctive treatment; however, this topic is beyond the scope of this review. Herein, we discuss NAC molecular, intracellular, and systemic effects, focusing on its potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases including spinocerebellar ataxia, Parkinson's disease, tardive dyskinesia, myoclonus epilepsy of the Unverricht–Lundbor type as well as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusion

Finally, we review the potential applications of NAC to facilitate recovery after traumatic brain injury, cerebral ischemia, and in treatment of cerebrovascular vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Identification and Characterization of the Carbapenem MM 4550 and its Gene Cluster in Streptomyces argenteolus ATCC 11009
Authors: Li Rongfeng , Lloyd Evan P. , Moshos Kristos A. , Townsend Craig A.
Published: January 2014

Nearly 50 naturally occurring carbapenem β‐lactam antibiotics, most produced by Streptomyces, have been identified. The structural diversity of these compounds is limited to variance of the C‐2 and C‐6 side chains as well as the stereochemistry at C‐5/C‐6. These structural motifs are of interest both for their antibiotic effects and their biosynthesis. Although the thienamycin gene cluster is the only active gene cluster publically available in this group, more comparative information is needed to understand the genetic basis of these structural differences. We report here the identification of MM 4550, a member of the olivanic acids, as the major carbapenem produced by Streptomyces argenteolus ATCC 11009. Its gene cluster was also identified by degenerate PCR and targeted gene inactivation. Sequence analysis revealed that the genes encoding the biosynthesis of the bicyclic core and the C‐6 and C‐2 side chains are well conserved in the MM 4550 and thienamycin gene clusters. Three new genes, cmmSu, cmm17 and cmmPah were found in the new cluster, and their putative functions in the sulfonation and epimerization of MM 4550 are proposed. Gene inactivation showed that, in addition to cmmI, two new genes, cmm22 and ‐23, encode a two‐component response system thought to regulate the production of MM 4550. Overexpression of cmmI, cmm22 and cmm23 promoted MM 4550 production in an engineered strain. Finally, the involvement and putative roles of all genes in the MM 4550 cluster are proposed based on the results of bioinformatics analysis, gene inactivation, and analysis of disruption mutants. Overall, the differences between the thienamycin and MM 4550 gene clusters are reflected in characteristic structural elements and provide new insights into the biosynthesis of the complex carbapenems.
Regulation of chondrocyte proliferation through GIT1‐Rac1‐mediated ERK1/2 pathway by PDGF
Authors: Xiao Jin , Chen Xuqiong , Xu Lipeng , Zhang Ying , Yin Qingshui , Wang Fei
Published: January 2014

There are many growth factors contributing to fracture healing after bone fractures. Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) released from platelets is a factor promoting cell division and proliferation, and first appears around the sites of fractures. Culture of chondrocytes in vitro are stimulated by PDGF to proliferation, its presence being upregulated in the extracellular matrix of cartilage; the main components include aggrecan and type II collagen. PDGF induces the expression of G the protein‐coupled receptor kinase interacting protein 1 (GIT1), promoting Rac1 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Both knocking down GIT1 expression by siRNA and blocking phosphorylation of Rac1 inhibit this induced proliferation of chondrocyte. GIT1 and Rac1 control each other, having a synergistic effect on activation of the ERK1/2 pathway. The results suggest that PDGF regulates chondrocyte proliferation through activation of ERK1/2 pathway by upregulation of GIT1 expression and Rac1 phosphorylation.
Claudin‐4 immunohistochemistry is highly effective in distinguishing adenocarcinoma from malignant mesothelioma in effusion cytology
Authors: Jo Vickie Y. , Cibas Edmund S. , Pinkus Geraldine S.
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Adenocarcinoma can be challenging to distinguish from malignant mesothelioma in effusions, and this distinction often requires ancillary studies and clinical correlation. Immunohistochemistry for claudin‐4, a tight‐junction‐associated protein, has recently been shown to distinguish adenocarcinoma from malignant mesothelioma, mostly in surgical specimens. Our aim was to validate and assess the immunoreactivity profile of claudin‐4 in a large series of malignant effusions.

METHODS

We evaluated 159 malignant effusions (84 adenocarcinomas and 75 malignant mesotheliomas). Claudin‐4 immunohistochemistry was performed on cell‐block paraffin sections and scored for staining intensity, staining pattern (cytoplasmic versus membranous), and percentage of positive tumor cells. Appropriate positive and negative controls were used throughout.

RESULTS

All cases of mesothelioma were negative for claudin‐4 (0 of 64). Eighty‐three of 84 cases of adenocarcinoma were positive (99%); 1 case of serous carcinoma was negative. Most adenocarcinomas showed strong and diffuse membranous staining (71 of 84; 84%); 12 cases (14%) showed membranous staining of moderate intensity. The overall sensitivity for adenocarcinoma was 99% (83 of 84).

CONCLUSIONS

Claudin‐4 immunohistochemistry effectively distinguishes adenocarcinoma from malignant mesothelioma with high sensitivity and specificity in the evaluation of malignant effusions. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014;122:299–306. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
GATA3: A promising marker for metastatic breast carcinoma in serous effusion specimens
Authors: Shield Paul W. , Papadimos David J. , Walsh Michael D.
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

The usefulness of GATA3 (GATA‐binding protein 3 to DNA sequence [A/T]GATA[A/G]) as a marker for metastatic breast carcinoma in serous effusion specimens was investigated.

METHODS

Cell block sections from 74 serous effusion specimens (32 ascitic, 2 pericardial, and 40 pleural fluids) were stained with an anti‐GATA3 murine monoclonal antibody. The specimens included 62 confirmed metastatic carcinomas from the breast (30 specimens), female genital tract (13 specimens), gastrointestinal tract (7 specimens), lung adenocarcinoma (9 specimens), pancreas (1 specimen), kidney (1 specimen), and bladder (1 specimen). The breast carcinoma cases included 15 ductal carcinomas and 8 lobular carcinomas; the histology subtype was not available for 7 specimens. Twelve cases containing florid reactive mesothelial cells were also stained. The breast carcinoma cases were also stained for mammaglobin and gross cystic disease fluid protein of 15 kilodaltons (GCDFP‐15) to compare their sensitivity with GATA3.

RESULTS

Positive nuclear staining for GATA3 was found to be present in 90% of metastatic breast carcinoma specimens (27 of 30 specimens). All nonbreast metastatic carcinomas tested were negative with the exception of the single case of metastatic urothelial carcinoma. No staining was observed in any of the benign reactive cases or in benign mesothelial cells present in the malignant cell block preparations. Two cases demonstrated weak positivity of benign lymphoid cells. Staining results were unambiguous because all positive cases demonstrated intense nuclear staining in > 50% of tumor cells. Mammaglobin (57% staining; 17 of 30 cases) and GCDFP‐15 (33% staining; 10 of 30 cases) were found to be less sensitive markers of breast carcinoma. If used in a panel, mammaglobin and GCFP‐15 staining would have identified only 1 additional case compared with those stained with GATA3.

CONCLUSIONS

GATA3 may be a useful addition to immunostaining panels for serous effusion specimens when metastatic breast carcinoma is a consideration. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014;122:307–312. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
A physically motivated constitutive model for 3D numerical simulation of skeletal muscles
Authors: Weickenmeier J. , Itskov M. , Mazza E. , Jabareen M.
Published: January 2014

A detailed numerical implementation within the FEM is presented for a physically motivated three‐dimensional constitutive model describing the passive and active mechanical behaviors of the skeletal muscle. The derivations for the Cauchy stress tensor and the consistent material tangent are provided. For nearly incompressible skeletal muscle tissue, the strain energy function may be represented either by a coupling or a decoupling of the distortional and volumetric material response. In the present paper, both functionally different formulations are introduced allowing for a direct comparison between the coupled and decoupled isochoric‐volumetric approach. The numerical validation of both implementations revealed significant limitations for the decoupled approach. For an extensive characterization of the model response to different muscle contraction modes, a benchmark model is introduced. Finally, the proposed implementation is shown to provide a reliable tool for the analysis of complex and highly nonlinear problems through the example of the human mastication system by studying bite force and three‐dimensional muscle shape changes during mastication. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Habitat dynamics, marine reserve status, and the decline and recovery of coral reef fish communities
Authors: Williamson David H. , Ceccarelli Daniela M. , Evans Richard D. , Jones Geoffrey P. , Russ Garry R.
Published: January 2014

Severe climatic disturbance events often have major impacts on coral reef communities, generating cycles of decline and recovery, and in some extreme cases, community‐level phase shifts from coral‐ to algal‐dominated states. Benthic habitat changes directly affect reef fish communities, with low coral cover usually associated with low fish diversity and abundance. No‐take marine reserves (NTRs) are widely advocated for conserving biodiversity and enhancing the sustainability of exploited fish populations. Numerous studies have documented positive ecological and socio‐economic benefits of NTRs; however, the ability of NTRs to ameliorate the effects of acute disturbances on coral reefs has seldom been investigated. Here, we test these factors by tracking the dynamics of benthic and fish communities, including the important fishery species, coral trout (Plectropomus spp.), over 8 years in both NTRs and fished areas in the Keppel Island group, Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Two major disturbances impacted the reefs during the monitoring period, a coral bleaching event in 2006 and a freshwater flood plume in 2011. Both disturbances generated significant declines in coral cover and habitat complexity, with subsequent declines in fish abundance and diversity, and pronounced shifts in fish assemblage structure. Coral trout density also declined in response to the loss of live coral, however, the approximately 2:1 density ratio between NTRs and fished zones was maintained over time. The only post‐disturbance refuges for coral trout spawning stocks were within the NTRs that escaped the worst effects of the disturbances. Although NTRs had little discernible effect on the temporal dynamics of benthic or fish communities, it was evident that the post‐disturbance refuges for coral trout spawning stocks within some NTRs may be critically important to regional‐scale population persistence and recovery.
Morphological abnormalities in gall‐forming aphids in a radiation‐contaminated area near Fukushima Daiichi: selective impact of fallout?
Authors: Akimoto Shin‐ichi
Published: January 2014

To evaluate the impact of fallout from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident on organisms, this study compared the morphology and viability of gall‐forming aphids between the Fukushima population and control populations from noncontaminated areas. This study, in particular, focused on the morphology of first‐instar gall formers derived from the first sexual reproduction after the accident. Of 164 first instars from Tetraneura sorini galls collected 32 km from Fukushima Daiichi in spring 2012, 13.2% exhibited morphological abnormalities, including four conspicuously malformed individuals (2.4%). In contrast, in seven control areas, first instars with abnormal morphology accounted for 0.0–5.1% (on average, 3.8%). The proportions of abnormalities and mortality were significantly higher in Fukushima than in the control areas. Similarly, of 134 first instars from T. nigriabdominalis galls, 5.9% exhibited morphological abnormalities, with one highly malformed individual. However, of 543 second‐generation larvae produced in T. sorini galls, only 0.37% had abnormalities, suggesting that abnormalities found in the first generation were not inherited by the next generation. Although investigation is limited to one study site, this result suggests that radioactive contamination had deleterious effects on embryogenesis in eggs deposited on the bark surface, but a negligible influence on the second generation produced in closed galls. Furthermore, analysis of both species samples collected in spring 2013 indicated that the viability and healthiness of the aphids were significantly improved compared to those in the 2012 samples. Thus, the results of this study suggest the possibility that a reduced level of radiation and/or selection for radiation tolerance may have led to the improved viability and healthiness of the Fukushima population.
Design of a Multiagent‐Based Voltage Control System in Peer‐to‐Peer Networks for Smart Grids
Authors: Rohbogner Gregor , Fey Simon , Benoit Pascal , Wittwer Christof , Christ Andreas
Published: January 2014

Energy management in distribution grids is one of the key challenges that needs to be overcome to increase the share of fluctuating renewable energies. Current control systems for energy management mainly demonstrate centralized‐ or decentralized‐hierarchical control structures. Very few systems manifest a fully decentralized multiagent‐based control structure. Multiagent‐based control systems promise to be an advantageous approach for the future distributed energy supply system because no central control entity is necessary, which eases parameterization in case of grid topology changes, and the agents are more stable against failures and changes of control topologies. Research is necessary to prove these benefits. In this study, we introduce a design of a multiagent‐based voltage control system for low‐voltage grids. In detail we introduce cooperative decision‐making processes and software solutions that allow the agents to perceive and control their environment, the agent‐discovery and localization in different types of communication networks, agent‐to‐agent communication, and the integration of the multiagent system in existing grid‐control infrastructures. Furthermore, the study proposes how different existing technologies can be combined into an applicable multiagent‐based voltage control system: the Java/OSGi‐based OpenMUC framework allows a generic field–device interaction; peer‐to‐peer discovery and session establishment functionalities are combined with the agent communication defined by the Foundation for Intelligent Physical Agents (FIPA). The ripple control‐signal technology is applied as a fallback communication between the agent and a central grid‐control center.
Energy saving and emission reduction opportunities in mixed‐fueled industrial boilers
Authors: Kaya Durmuş , Eyidoğan Muharrem , Kiliç Fatma Çanka , Çay Yusuf , Çağman Selman , Çoban Volkan
Published: January 2014

In this article, an “energy efficiency” study has been performed in an industrial establishment. The boiler of this industrial establishment is a mixed‐fueled (solid + gas) type and operated with different fuels as coal, coke gas, and blast furnace gas, the pressure of 7000 kPa (70 bars) and temperature of 778.15 K (505°C) and with a nominal capacity of 27.77 kg/s (100.000 kg/h) steam. In this context, the working temperature, pressure, velocity, and combustion gas measurements have been carried out at the boiler operation conditions. Using with all these measurements, the energy and mass balance equations have been set and the boiler efficiency has been calculated as the value of 85.91%. The main efficiency losses have been determined as: operating the boiler at the high air excessiveness coefficient, the air leakage in the rotary type air heaters and the heat losses of the surface. Total energy savings potential is 2,029,692 kcal/h. When anticipated enhancements can be carried out, the boiler efficiency will be 88.94%. In this case, 4861.7 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year will be reduced. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 1350–1356, 2014