bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thioredoxin: A novel, independent diagnosis marker in children with autism
Authors: Zhang Qing‐biao , Gao Si‐ju , Zhao Hong‐xiang
Published: November 2014

Background

Oxidative stress increases serum thioredoxin (TRX), a redox‐regulating protein with antioxidant activity recognized as an oxidative‐stress marker. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical significance of serum TRX levels in Autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Methods

Eighty patients diagnosed with ASD and 100 sex and age matched typically developing children were assessed for serum TRX content at admission. TRX were assayed with solid‐phase sandwich ELISA, and severity of ASD was evaluated with the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) Score.

Results

The results indicated that the median serum TRX levels were significantly (P < 0.0001) higher in children with ASD as compared to typically developing children [17.9(IQR: 10.7–25.8) ng/ml and 5.5(3.6–9.2) ng/ml, respectively]. Levels of TRX increased with increasing severity of ASD as defined by the CARS score. After adjusting for all other possible covariates, TRX still was an independent diagnosis marker of ASD with an adjusted OR of 1.454 (95% CI, 1.232–1.892; P < 0.0001). Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the optimal cut‐off value of serum TRX levels as an indicator for auxiliary diagnosis of autism was projected to be 10.6 ng/ml. Further, we found that an increased diagnosis of ASD was associated with TRX levels ≥10.6 ng/ml (adjusted OR 15.31, 95% CI: 7.36–31.85) after adjusting for possible confounders.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that serum TRX levels were associated with ASD, and elevated levels could be considered as a novel, independent diagnosis indicator of ASD.
Formation of iron minerals on zeolite matrix
Authors: Kondratyeva L.M. , Golubeva E.M.
Published: November 2014

We present results of a two-year research experiment on the processes involving iron–manganese bacteria at different biogeochemical barriers. Analysis of experimental samples was carried out on a scanning electron microscope (EVO-40HV, Carl Zeiss) and an X-ray diffractometer (Rigaku MiniFlexII). It is shown that goethite can form in vitro in the presence of iron-containing groundwater and iron–manganese bacteria.
Biogenic components of the Baltic Sea sediments
Authors: Emelyanov E.M.
Published: November 2014

The contents of biogenic components in 1511 samples of the Baltic Sea sediments (depth range 0–5 cm) are studied, and maps of their distribution are compiled. The sediments contain ≤ 13.03% Corg, ≤ 1.33% N, ≤ 9.0% SiO2am, ≤ 5.0% CaCO3, and ≤ 1.45% P. The maximum and elevated contents of components are found in the mud of the sea deeps. The more fraction < 0.01 mm the sediments contain, the higher are the contents of components. Four facies types of carbonaceous mud, precursors of shales, have been recognized: (1) shallow-water (lagoon) lime sapropel, (2) carbonaceous mud of the shallow-water Gulf of Finland, (3) carbonaceous mud of the middle-depth Baltic Sea, and (4) laminated carbonaceous metal-bearing mud. The latter type of mud is strongly enriched in manganese and ore-forming trace elements, which points to its formation in the stagnant environment. In composition the Baltic Sea mud is similar to petroliferous mudstones of the Bazhenov Formation in West Siberia and to ancient black shales.
The oil and gas contents of the Lower Jurassic and Achimovka reservoirs of the Nyurol’ka megadepression
Authors: Isaev V.I. , Lobova G.A. , Osipova E.N.
Published: November 2014

The paper describes Lower Jurassic (horizons J16 and J15) and Achimovka (Neocomian clinoforms) reservoirs in the area of the Nyurol’ka megadepression and its framing (42,000 km2). The total thicknesses of seven Achimovka sedimentary cycles are mapped. The thermal history of the Togur and Bazhenov parental sediments in the sections of 39 deep wells is reconstructed by paleotemperature modeling. The geotemperature criterion is used to identify paleosources of oil generation, starting from the Jurassic. The distribution of the relative density of the resources of the generated Togur and Bazhenov oils is estimated and shown on sketch maps. The Lower Jurassic reservoir is divided into zones depending on the distribution of the relative density of the Togur oil resources, and the Achimovka reservoir, of the Bazhenov oil resources. The priority oil search zones are proposed.
Recent tectonics and seismicity of the western Altai–Sayan mountainous region, Junggar basin, and Chinese Tien Shan
Authors: Novikov I.S. , Dyad’kov P.G. , Kozlova M.P. , Mamedov G.M. , Mikheeva A.V. , Cherkas O.V.
Published: November 2014

According to GPS monitoring, recent tectonic process between Tarim and West Siberia in the band within 80°–95° E is generated by the northward movement of the Tarim block. During the accompanying horizontal compression of the area, orogeny takes place within linear mobile zones when blocks are squeezed into the upper half-space. When the orientation of the mobile zones is transverse to the compression direction, the leading orogenic process is reverse faulting. When these directions intersect at an acute angle, the principal features of the mountain relief are formed by oblique-slip and strike-slip faults.

The spatial distribution of seismic activity A10 over a 40-year period of instrumental observations within the mobile zones of the study area is extremely nonuniform. Seismic activity increases to the south, toward the source of deformations—the Indo-Eurasian collision. The maximum activity is observed at the reverse-fault boundaries of the eastern Tien Shan (~40). The seismic activity of the strike-slip fault boundaries of the Great Altai is considerably lower (0.11–0.16).
Mineralogical, petrophysical, and acoustic features of serpentinites, indicators of the paleodynamic conditions of their genesis (by the example of the Main Uralian Fault zone)
Authors: Panasyan L.L. , Posukhova T.V. , Cherepetskaya E.B. , Jini Zhang
Published: November 2014

The composition, structure, and properties of different genetic types of serpentinites developed after ultrabasic rocks are studied. The rocks were sampled from massifs located along the Main Uralian Fault, in a Paleozoic subduction zone. We consider specific features of serpentinites developed after chromite-bearing ultrabasic rocks, in metamorphic zones of carbonate rocks, and within the zone of weathering of ultrabasic rocks. A comparative study of the microstructure and chemical and phase compositions of serpentinites is carried out by IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and thermal, X-ray diffraction, and microprobe analyses. The petrophysical properties and acoustic emission of the rocks are examined. Several genetic and structural groups of serpentinites developed after different protoliths (mantle and crustal) in different geologic conditions are recognized.

© 2014, V.S. Sobolev IGM, Siberian Branch of the RAS. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Spontaneous generation of a swirling plume in a stratified ambient
Authors: Marques Francisco , Lopez Juan M.
Published: November 2014

The transition from laminar to complex spatio-temporal dynamics of plumes due to a localized buoyancy source is studied numerically. Several experiments have reported that this transition is sensitive to external perturbations. Therefore, a well-controlled set-up has been chosen for our numerical study, consisting of a localized heat source at the bottom of an enclosed cylinder whose sidewall is maintained at a fixed temperature which varies linearly up the wall. Restricting the dynamics to the axisymmetric subspace, the first instability is to a puffing state. However, for smaller Grashof numbers, the plume becomes unstable to three-dimensional perturbations and a swirling plume spontaneously appears. The next bifurcation, viewed in the rotating frame where the plume is stationary, also exhibits puffing and suggests a connection between the unstable axisymmetric puffing solution and the swirling plume. Further bifurcations result in quasi-periodic states with a very low-frequency modulation, and these eventually become spatio-temporally complex.
Multi-character approach reveals a discordant pattern of phenotypic variation during ontogeny inCulex pipiensbiotypes (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Krtinić B. , Ludoški J. , Milankov V.
Published: November 2014

Culex(Culex)pipienss.l. (Diptera: Culicidae) comprises two distinct biotypes,pipiens(‘rural’) andmolestus(‘urban’), both of which are thought to have differing capacities due to different host preferences. To better understand West Nile encephalitis epidemiology and improve risk assessment, local distinction between these forms is essential. This study assesses phenotypic variation at larval and adult stages of ‘urban’ and ‘rural’ biotypes of the species by complementary use of meristic, univariate and multivariate traits analyzed by traditional and geometric morphometrics. Third- and fourth-instar larvae from a broad area of the city of Novi Sad (Serbia) were collected and reared in the laboratory. After adult eclosion, the sex of each larva was recorded based on the sex of the corresponding adult. Examination of the association between variations of larval traits revealed contrasting variations regarding pecten spines vs. siphonal size and siphonal shape in the ‘rural’ biotype. Siphons of larvae collected in marshes and forest ecosystems outside urban areas were found to be the largest, but possessed the smallest number of pecten spines. In addition, statistically significant female-biased sexual dimorphism was observed in siphonal size, wing size and wing shape. Finally, we propose that an integrative approach is essential in delimitation ofCx. pipienss.l. biotypes, since their differentiation was not possible based solely on larval and adult traits. Our findings shed light on the phenotypic plasticity important for population persistence in the changing environment of these medically important taxa.
Investigation of genetic variants in ubiquitin enzyme genes involved in the modulation of neurodevelopmental processes: a role in schizophrenia susceptibility?
Authors: ANDREWS JESSICA L. , FERNANDEZ-ENRIGHT FRANCESCA
Published: November 2014

Despite extensive research during the last few decades, the etiology of schizophrenia remains unclear. Evidence of both genetic and environmental influences in the developmental profile of schizophrenia has grown, and due to the complexity of this disorder, a polygenic aspect has been associated with this neuropsychiatric pathology. Unfortunately, no diagnostic strategies based on biological measurement or genetic testing is currently available for schizophrenia. Gene-expression profiling and recent protein studies have shown a decrease in the expression of ubiquitin pathway proteins in the prefrontal cortex of schizophrenia patients. We have examined single nucleotide polymorphisms (or SNPs) within three genes from the ubiquitin protein system: the ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2D1 (UBE2D1) gene, the E3 SUMO-protein ligase protein inhibitor of activated STAT 2 (PIAS2) gene, and the E3 ubiquitin ligase F-box and leucine-rich repeat protein 21 (FBXL21) gene, in a Caucasian case–control population for schizophrenia. After Bonferroni correction for multiple testing was applied, no significant associations were reported for any of the tested SNPs. Additional genetic analyses will be necessary to fully explore the role of these three genes in schizophrenia. Regarding the rising interest in ubiquitin-related proteins as a therapeutic target in other pathologies such as cancer, further research into the role of ubiquitin pathways in schizophrenia seems topical and timely.
Altered cortical-amygdala coupling in social anxiety disorder during the anticipation of giving a public speech
Authors: Cremers H. R. , Veer I. M. , Spinhoven P. , Rombouts S. A. R. B. , Yarkoni T. , Wager T. D. , Roelofs K.
Published: November 2014

Background

Severe stress in social situations is a core symptom of social anxiety disorder (SAD). Connectivity between the amygdala and cortical regions is thought to be important for emotion regulation, a function that is compromised in SAD. However, it has never been tested if and how this connectivity pattern changes under conditions of stress-inducing social evaluative threat. Here we investigate changes in cortical-amygdala coupling in SAD during the anticipation of giving a public speech.

Method

Twenty individuals with SAD and age-, gender- and education-matched controls (n = 20) participated in this study. During the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) session, participants underwent three ‘resting-state’ fMRI scans: one before, one during, and one after the anticipation of giving a public speech. Functional connectivity between cortical emotion regulation regions and the amygdala was investigated.

Results

Compared to controls, SAD participants showed reduced functional integration between cortical emotion regulation regions and the amygdala during the public speech anticipation. Moreover, in SAD participants cortical-amygdala connectivity changes correlated with social anxiety symptom severity.

Conclusions

The distinctive pattern of cortical-amygdala connectivity suggests less effective cortical-subcortical communication during social stress-provoking situations in SAD.
Old English poetic diction not in Old English verse or prose – and the curious case of Aldhelm's five athletes
Authors: Griffith Mark
Published: November 2014

Three contexts characterized by the occasional appearance of Old English poetic diction outside of Old English poetry — debased verse, rhythmical prose, and prose passages with rhetorical heightening — have been surveyed by previous scholars, but no serious consideration has been given to the use of poetic lexis to be found in the surviving glosses and glossaries. The article first looks at some examples in these non-poetic texts of poetic words used as markers of the heroic, the elegiac, the sublime, the exotic and the monstrous, before moving on to a detailed analysis of a significant discovery. The glosses and glossary batches to Aldhelm's extended simile in De Virginitate comparing the educational development of Christian nuns to the exertions of various athletes display (when taken together) a unique cluster of poetic diction, comparable in density (and perhaps also in motivation) to that found only in the most enriched passages of traditional heroic poetry.
ECONOMIC COST OF TREATMENT OF CHILDHOOD EPILEPSY IN ENUGU, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA
Authors: Ughasoro Maduka D. , Onwujekwe Obinna E. , Ojinnaka Ngozika C.
Published: November 2014

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the economic costs and the level of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) due to childhood epilepsy.

Methods: The study was conducted at the Paediatric Neurology Clinic of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu. Data were collected using pre-tested questionnaires that were administered to caregivers of the children. The indirect and direct expenditure due to childhood epilepsy were computed. A 40 percent of monthly non-food expenditure was used to estimate CHE.

Results: The average annual direct and indirect expenditures were USD 162.6 and USD 82.3, respectively. Most of direct costs were drugs (25.4 percent versus 35.3 percent) and investigations (48.7 percent versus 61.3 percent) for out-patient and in-patient, respectively. CHE was 34.1 percent and 63.6 percent for out-patient and in-patient care, respectively. The total annual costs: (direct and indirect), for childhood epilepsy of USD244.9. Considering the estimated 190,000 epileptic children in Nigeria, it will amount to USD46.53 million annually, approximately 0.018 percent of Nigeria Gross Domestic Product (GDP). All payments were made out-of-pocket with no health insurance for financial risk protection.

Conclusions: The cost of treatment of childhood epilepsy is high and catastrophic for many households. There was lack of usage of health financial risk mechanisms. Scale-up use of health financial risk protection mechanisms such as health insurance can reduce the economic burden.
Is the interchromosomal effect present in embryos derived from Robertsonian and reciprocal translocation carriers particularly focusing on chromosome 10 rearrangements?
Authors: Tulay Pinar , Gultomruk Meral , Findikli Necati , Yagmur Erbil , Bahceci Mustafa
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to analyse the possible occurrence of the interchromosomal effect (ICE) in human preimplantation embryos obtained from Robertsonian and reciprocal translocation carriers focusing on ones with chromosome 10 rearrangements who were undergoing preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and to investigate whether offering aneuploidy screening would be beneficial to these patients. Cleavage stage embryos from translocation carriers undergoing PGD were biopsied. Multicolour fluorescencein situhybridisation for the chromosomes involved in the translocation in addition to nine more chromosomes (13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, X and Y) was used in the analysis. The control group involved embryos obtained from age-matched patients undergoing preimplantation genetic screening (PGS). Cumulative aneuploidy rate in embryos derived from both Robertsonian and reciprocal translocation carriers was found to be similar with the control group. Therefore no ICE was observed in cleavage stage embryos obtained from these carriers. More than half of the embryos with chromosome 10 rearrangements had aneuploidy for which an increased aneuploidy rate was more apparent in male carriers. Thus, it is possible that there is a risk of ICE in reciprocal carriers with chromosome 10 rearrangements. This study showed that there is no ICE in embryos derived from Robertsonian and reciprocal translocation carriers. However high rates of aneuploidy in structurally normal chromosomes were detected in embryos derived from these carriers and thus aneuploidy screening in addition to PGD may increase the pregnancy rates of these patients.
Fluid consistencies. Material relationality in human engagements with water
Authors: Strang Veronica
Published: November 2014

Material things are not just passive recipients of human categories, meanings and values, nor mere subjects of human agency. Their particular characteristics and behaviours are formative of human–non-human relations. The common material properties of things, and the shared cognitive and phenomenological processes through which people interact with them, generate recurrent ideas and patterns of engagement in diverse cultural and historical contexts. Despite growing instrumentalism in human ‘management’ of the material world, and the emergence of new relational forms, these patterns persist.
Assembling archaeological pedagogy. A theoretical framework for valuing pedagogy in archaeological interpretation and practice
Authors: Cobb Hannah , Croucher Karina
Published: November 2014

Drawing on relational theoretical perspectives in archaeological discourse, this paper considers how we can address the undervaluation of pedagogy and pedagogic research in archaeology. Through examining the relationships between fieldwork, teaching, and research, in light of Ingold's concept of the meshwork and DeLanda's assemblage theory, the division between teaching and research is undermined, and students and pedagogy are recentred as fundamental to the production of archaeological knowledge. This paper provides a theoretical grounding for resituating our current practices, suggests practical means for change, and highlights the benefit to the archaeological discipline arising from a revaluation of archaeological pedagogic research and an enmeshed understanding of archaeological practice.
Countertransference and ethics: A perspective on clinical dilemmas in end-of-life decisions
Authors: KELLY BRIAN J. , VARGHESE FRANCIS T. , PELUSI DAN
Published: November 2014

Ethical dilemmas in end-of-life care, such as the request for assisted suicide, must be understood in the context of the relationship that exists between patients and the clinicians treating them. This context includes the way health professionals respond to the tasks in caring for a dying patient. This article reviews the literature exploring the factors the influence clinical decision making at the end of life. The interplay of ethics, countertransference and transference are explained in detail.
X-ray imaging of chemically active valence electrons during a pericyclic reaction
Authors: Bredtmann Timm , Ivanov Misha , Dixit Gopal
Published: November 2014

Time-resolved imaging of chemically active valence electron densities is a long-sought goal, as these electrons dictate the course of chemical reactions. However, X-ray scattering is always dominated by the core and inert valence electrons, making time-resolved X-ray imaging of chemically active valence electron densities extremely challenging. Here we demonstrate an effective and robust method, which emphasizes the information encoded in weakly scattered photons, to image chemically active valence electron densities. The degenerate Cope rearrangement of semibullvalene, a pericyclic reaction, is used as an example to visually illustrate our approach. Our work also provides experimental access to the long-standing problem of synchronous versus asynchronous bond formation and breaking during pericyclic reactions.
Novel method for the high-throughput processing of slides for the comet assay
Authors: Karbaschi Mahsa , Cooke Marcus S.
Published: November 2014

Single cell gel electrophoresis (the comet assay), continues to gain popularity as a means of assessing DNA damage. However, the assay's low sample throughput and laborious sample workup procedure are limiting factors to its application. “Scoring”, or individually determining DNA damage levels in 50 cells per treatment, is time-consuming, but with the advent of high-throughput scoring, the limitation is now the ability to process significant numbers of comet slides. We have developed a novel method by which multiple slides may be manipulated and undergo electrophoresis, in batches of 25 rather than individually and, importantly, retains the use of standard microscope comet slides, which are the assay convention. This decreases assay time by 60% and benefits from an electrophoresis tank with a substantially smaller footprint and more uniform orientation of gels during electrophoresis. Our high-throughput variant of the comet assay greatly increases the number of samples analysed, decreases assay time, number of individual slide manipulations, reagent requirements and risk of damage to slides. The compact nature of the electrophoresis tank is of particular benefit to laboratories where bench space is at a premium. This novel approach is a significant advance on the current comet assay procedure.
Fast Response and High Sensitivity ZnO/glass Surface Acoustic Wave Humidity Sensors Using Graphene Oxide Sensing Layer
Authors: Xuan Weipeng , He Mei , Meng Nan , He Xingli , Wang Wenbo , Chen Jinkai , Shi Tianjin , Hasan Tawfique , Xu Zhen , Xu Yang , Luo J. K.
Published: November 2014

We report ZnO/glass surface acoustic wave (SAW) humidity sensors with high sensitivity and fast response using graphene oxide sensing layer. The frequency shift of the sensors is exponentially correlated to the humidity change, induced mainly by mass loading effect rather than the complex impedance change of the sensing layer. The SAW sensors show high sensitivity at a broad humidity range from 0.5%RH to 85%RH with < 1 sec rise time. The simple design and excellent stability of our GO-based SAW humidity sensors, complemented with full humidity range measurement, highlights their potential in a wide range of applications.
UV-Cured Functional Coatings
Authors: Sangermano M. , Roppolo I. , Messori M.
Published: November 2014

This chapter reviews the use of UV-curing technology for the preparation of multifunctional coatings. It is shown that the UV-curing process can be used as a good technique for the preparation of multifunctional coatings that could find advanced and innovative applications in fields such as automotive gloss-coatings, flooring varnish, scratch-resistant coatings, flexible electronics, conductive coatings, light-emitting diodes, lasers, fluorescence sensors, display devices and in heterogeneous photocatalysis. Scratch-resistant UV-cured coatings were achieved either via a top-down or a bottom-up approach while multifunctionality was achieved when antistatic additives were added to the photocurable formulation, obtaining crosslinked films characterized by high scratch resistance and antistatic properties. Conductive UV-cured films were obtained by adding CNTs or functionalized graphene sheets up to percolation thresholds or via the in situ metal nanoparticles formation through a photoreduction process. Photoluminescent UV-cured films were prepared by dispersing photoluminescent clusters Gd2O3:Eu3+ nanorods into a UV-curable acrylic or epoxy resin. Finally, titania, GOx and CNTs were used as photocatalysts showing a good photocatalytic efficiency when dispersed into UV-cured films.
Boron/Phosphorus-Containing Flame-Retardant Photocurable Coatings
Authors: ÇakmakçIı Emrah , Vezir Kahraman Memet
Published: November 2014

The 21st century is the century of advanced technologies, innovations, smart ideas and smart solutions, yet it is still challenging and demanding. From the perspective of material sciences, today there are still several problems that need to be addressed. Fire retardancy is found on top of the list of these challenging problems. Fire retardancy, which has become one of the most wanted requirements for several materials, is not only an issue of today's technology, but also that of the past and future. This chapter will focus on the fire-resistant photocurable materials, especially on phosphorus- or boron-containing photocurable coatings. First, a brief introduction to flame retardancy will be presented and then the recent progress in the development of phosphorus or boron containing flame-retardant photocurable coatings will be reviewed. Phosphorus- or boron-containing monomers and additives used in photocurable coatings will be summarized and their effectiveness will be discussed.
Analytical Methods for Determining Photoinitiators in Food-Contact Materials
Authors: Lago M. A. , Sendón R. , Rodríguez-Bernaldo de Quirós A.
Published: November 2014

In the last decade, European food safety authorities have detected photoinitiators in foodstuffs and packaging. This has led to consumer concerns about the possible risk that these compounds pose to human health. In this context, scientific research groups have developed many different methods for the determination of photoinitiators in food packaging and foodstuffs. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of all such methods and to recommend the best option for determining photoinitiator molecules. It also includes a comprehensive summary of the state-of-the-art systems for the determination of nonintentionally added substances (NIAS) derived from the photoinitiators. In addition, the present challenges and suggest approaches for dealing with this important problem are discussed.
Waste Materials Cured and Modified by Irradiating and their Use in Concrete
Authors: Martínez-Barrera Gonzalo , Gencel Osman
Published: November 2014

In the present chapter we discuss the importance of using gamma radiation as a novel technology for structural and physicochemical modification of waste materials, including PET bottles, Tetra Pak packing containers and tire rubbers, and their use as reinforcements of concrete. As is known, it is not common to incorporate waste materials into concrete due to the incompatibility with the components of the concrete. Nevertheless, in the last decade many efforts by researchers and technicians have proven the capacity of waste and recycled materials when mixed with concrete, since for the construction industry, maintainability and sustainable improvement aims primarily to protect the environment.
Blends of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)
Authors: Ramachandran Hema , Kannusamy Shantini , Huong Kai-Hee , Mathava Rennukka , Amirul A.-A.
Published: November 2014

Biopolymers are renewable materials that can provide a source of sustainable alternatives to petroleum-derived plastics. A variety of biodegradable polymers, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), polylactide (PLA), starch, cellulose and chitosan, are being studied for different applications ranging from industrial to medical applications. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are one of the versatile classes of biodegradable polymers, which constitute a group of microbial biopolyesters with important ecosystem functions and high biotechnological potential. However, their potential applications are hampered due to poor mechanical properties and high production costs. Various PHA blends have been developed over the last decade to overcome the drawback of these polymers. This chapter reviews the recent advances in polymer blends of PHAs, outlining aspects of production, characterisation and potential applications. Features of blends of short-chain-length-PHAs; poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB)], poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) [P(3HB-co-3HV)] and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB-co-4HB)] copolymers with PLA, PCL, starch, cellulose and chitosan will be discussed.
Polyhydroxyalkanoate-based Multiphase Materials
Authors: Khandal Dhriti , Pollet Eric , Avérous Luc
Published: November 2014

This chapter deals with polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)-based multiphase materials, their preparation, properties, and possible applications. After a brief introduction to the different PHAs and their main physical properties, their limitations and weaknesses are exposed and possible solutions arising from PHA-based multiphase systems are introduced. The influence of the architecture and content of the comonomers on PHAs’ properties is discussed since it may allow improvement and tailoring of these properties. The effects of plasticization and various nucleating agents on the crystallization and properties of PHAs are also exposed. Then, PHA biocomposites and nano-biocomposites based, for example, on organomodified clays and cellulose nano-whiskers are discussed and emphasized. These nanofillers allow easier processing conditions for PHAs and also result in the improved thermal and thermo–mechanical stability of the materials. Finally, this chapter discusses the industrial availability of PHAs and their production capacity in various parts of the world followed by a brief discussion on the potential of PHA-based multiphase materials for applications such as biomedical.
Zeolite-supported Molecular Metal Complex Catalysts
Authors: Ogino Isao
Published: November 2014

Structural non-uniformity and complexity of supported metal catalysts used in industry hamper precise determination of the structure of active sites as well as their structure–performance relationships. When metals are atomically dispersed on a high surface area support, non-uniformity of a support causes non-uniformity of the structure of supported metals, leading to diverse catalytic properties. This chapter describes the synthesis, characterization and catalysis of zeolite-supported molecular metal complex catalysts with a high degree of uniformity. Zeolite-supported molecular metal complex catalysts described here is a sub-class of supported metal catalysts and have mono-nuclear transition metal complexes anchored in zeolites. Because zeolites are crystalline and have nearly uniform anchoring sites for metal complexes, they provide the opportunity to synthesize structurally uniform supported metal species. Proper choices of metal complex precursors, zeolites, and a synthesis method are required to form high uniformity of supported species. Such highly uniform supported metal complexes allow one to conduct exact structural determination by spectroscopic characterization, leading to elucidation of their molecular chemistry at an unprecedented level. Deep understanding of molecular chemistry of zeolite-supported metal complex catalysts will shed significant insights into complex chemistry that takes place on industrial catalysts and lead to synthesis of new selective catalysts.
Electrochemical Atomic-level Controlled Syntheses of Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Bliznakov Stoyan , Vukmirovic Miomir , Adzic Radoslav
Published: November 2014

It is becoming apparent that the electrocatalysts consisting of a platinum (Pt) monolayer (ML) shell on a metal, or alloy nanoparticle cores are one of the most promising classes of fuel cell catalysts offering ultra-low Pt content, complete Pt utilization, very high activity and excellent performance stability. In this chapter, the electrochemical strategies for depositing a Pt ML-shell on various nanostructured cores are discussed. The advantages of the electrodeposition techniques over the conventional chemical methods for synthesis of electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction are described. Illustrations include the electrodeposition of Pt ML on mono- and bi-metallic (Pd, PdAu, PdIr, NiW) nanostructures on functionalized carbons that creates highly efficient cathode electrocatalysts for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. These features, and a simple scale-up of this syntheses, make the electrodeposition strategies a viable way of solving the remaining obstacles hindering the fuel cell commercialization.
Preparation and Characterization of Model Catalysts for the HCl Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Kanzler Christian , Over Herbert , Smarsly Bernd M. , Wessel Claas
Published: November 2014

In this chapter we address the corrosive HCl oxidation reaction over RuO2- and CeO2-based model catalysts. Depending on the chosen model system we are able to gain in-depth information of the reaction mechanism, the catalytically active sites and the stability of the catalyst. For instance, the reaction mechanism and the molecular processes of HCl oxidation have been determined on RuO2(110) single crystalline films. The stabilization of the RuO2(110) surface against bulk-chlorination was traced to replacement of bridging surface oxygen by chlorine. Morphological stability of the catalyst has been examined by RuO2-based nanofibers which were synthesized by electrospinning. Here HCl oxidation leads to strong morphological modifications of pure RuO2 fibers, while mixed rutile TiO2–RuO2 nanofibers are shown to be much more stable under HCl oxidation conditions. A promising alternative to RuO2 constitutes CeO2. CeO2 exhibits superb reversible oxidation/reduction between Ce3+ and Ce4+, which facilitates the oxidation of HCl. The morphological stability of CeO2-based catalysts was studied by the use of nanofiber model catalysts. Pure CeO2 nanofibers are morphological unstable, while Zr doping stabilizes CeO2 nanofibers profoundly.
Introduction
Authors: Prohaska Thomas , Zitek Andreas
Published: November 2014

This book aims to guide the reader through the fascinating world of elemental and isotopic mass spectrometry using magnetic sector field devices. Mass spectrometry has been used since its advent as a tool to investigate challenging scientific questions that could not be tackled with conventional analytical methods before in many different scientific disciplines. As a consequence of the steadily growing interest in mass spectrometry, the increasing number of installed instruments and the massive expansion in augmenting numbers of fields of applications, mass spectrometry has developed steadily into a black box for the common user often having little knowledge about what happens between the sample introduction and the final data provided in electronic form. However, a basic understanding of the technical and analytical factors that might significantly influence the measurement and the final result obtained is crucial to avoid misleading and even wrong interpretations. As a consequence, the target readers of this book are ambitioned novices in elemental and isotopic mass spectrometry as well as the advanced scientist. This chapter is an introductory to the book and highlights the success of magnetic sector field mass spectrometry in analytical chemistry as well as describes the major features of this book.
History
Authors: Prohaska Thomas
Published: November 2014

The general principle of the idea of separating our world into the smallest increments possible, atoms, started with Democrit (460–370 BC), the old Greek philosopher, who asked the origin of all questions: “What is that in truth being?” The efforts of scientists have – for a long time - had the goal to visualise these atoms by inventing tools to monitor the material world around us into its smallest possible increments. As a result, scientists involved in spectroscopy have created and established tools to identify the elemental composition of our material world and to measure the weight of atoms by a very special balance: the mass spectrometer. In this chapter, the history of mass spectrometry is described and highlights of the success story are given with a special emphasis on magnetic sector field mass spectrometry and its use in elemental and isotopic analysis. The roots of sector field instruments based on the observation of cathode rays and Kanalstrahlen, the first mass spectrometers and the determination of isotopes, the early commercialisation of mass spectrometry as well as the last 50 years of novel developments of mass separators and ion sources are covered to introduce give insight into the history of mass spectrometry.
General Overview
Authors: Prohaska Thomas
Published: November 2014

The fundamental principles and technical aspects, which are the same or similar for the types of sector field instruments covered in this book (i.e. ICP-MS, GDMS, TIMS, SIMS, IRMS) are described as general conspectus within this section in order to provide an understanding of fundamental principles of elemental and isotopic mass spectrometry. Starting with the basic operation principle of a mass spectrometer covering the generation of ions from a samples, the separation of these ions according to their mass/charge (m/z) ratio to the final detection of these ions, this book section describes the basic operational principles of the respective techniques along with the major differences (i.e. ion sources, vacuum conditions) between the different types of sector field instruments. An overview about the most important advantages and drawbacks of magnetic sector field instruments and a short description of alternative mass analyzers is given. Finally, a schematic of the periodic table of the elements shows the possible element-specific applications of ICP-MS, GDMS, TIMS, SIMS and IRMS, both for elemental and isotopic analysis.
Mass Resolution
Authors: Hanousek Ondrej , Rottmann Lothar , Prohaska Thomas
Published: November 2014

The ability to achieve a high mass resolution is the biggest benefit of a sector field mass spectrometer compared to instruments equipped with other mass analyzers. Therefore, a chapter presenting definitions of mass resolution, achievement of high resolution, typical signal peak shapes for each of mass resolution mode, as well as alternative ways to achieve high mass resolution have a fixed place in a book on magnetic field mass spectrometry. Mass resolution may be defined as an ability to separate two ion signals in a mass spectrum. To increase mass resolution, usually the width of slits is varied. An alteration of a slit width causes a change in ion beam width, and, as a consequence, a change in the shape of a measured signal peak. Therefore, a low resolution peak shape differs from a high resolution peak shape. An edge resolution peak shape is often achieved with multicollector devices. Different ways to calculate a numerical value of the mass resolution are presented.
Chemical Imaging
Authors: Zitek Andreas , Aléon Jérôme , Prohaska Thomas
Published: November 2014

The creation of chemical images as 2- and 3-dimensional representations of the elemental and isotopic distributions in physical and biological structures has gained significant importance for the spatially distinct analysis and interpretation of analytical data. As the principle of ‘chemical imaging’ can be applied across multiple scales combining multiple information levels and multiple commodities, e.g. by combining the information from single cells to higher hierarchical levels, like a complete animal, or by linking single compartments or plant and animal species to landscape information (‘isoscapes’), it is increasingly applied in a wide field of scientific disciplines. This chapter introduces secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-SFMS) as sensitive surface analytical techniques capable of performing direct solid analysis at the micrometre down to the nanometre scale for the production of high-resolution chemical images. The basic analytical background and key elements in the image creation process using SIMS and LA-ICP-MS are described. Software tools supporting data reduction and image production together with selected examples of chemical pictures and case studies are also given.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jakubowski Norbert , Horsky Monika , Roos Peter H. , Vanhaecke Frank , Prohaska Thomas
Published: November 2014

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a mass spectrometric method for detection of ions generated in an atmospheric plasma ion source. It provides multi-elemental detection of most elements of the periodic table combined with high sensitivity and large dynamic range. The method provides quantitative or isotopic information of elements in a sample. Two different types of instruments are found: Single-collector instruments are usually used in a scanning mode of the magnetic field for quantitative elemental analysis of a sample to measure one isotope after the other, whereas multicollector instruments are operated in a static mode of the magnetic field for precise isotope ratio analysis measuring all isotopes of interest simultaneously. In this chapter the “state of the art” of both types of instruments is discussed including fundamentals, special features, components, operation and the performance together with a description of the commercially available instrumentation and a discussion of selected applications.
Conversion of a laboratory-based test for phenylalanine detection to a simple paper-based format and implications for PKU screening in low-resource settings
Authors: Thiessen Gregory , Robinson Robert , De Los Reyes Kim , Monnat Raymond J. , Fu Elain
Published: November 2014

We demonstrated a rapid and easy to use paper-based test for phenylalanine detection that could enable newborn screening for phenylketonuria in places that do not have existing programs.
Isoxazole to oxazole: a mild and unexpected transformation
Authors: Jones Raymond C. F. , Chatterley Alexander , Marty Romain , Owton W. Martin , Elsegood Mark R. J.
Published: November 2014

3-Aryltetrahydrobenzisoxazoles undergo a remarkable base-mediated rearrangement to 2-aryltetrahydrobenzoxazoles. The scope of this facile transformation was probed and a mechanism proposed.
Palladium-catalyzed benzothieno[2,3-b]indole formation via dehydrative–dehydrogenative double C–H sulfuration using sulfur powder, indoles and cyclohexanones
Authors: Liao Yunfeng , Peng Yi , Qi Hongrui , Deng Guo-Jun , Gong Hang , Li Chao-Jun
Published: November 2014

An efficient procedure for benzothieno[2,3-b]indole formation via double C–H sulfuration using sulfur powder is described.
Regio- and stereoselective synthesis of benzothiazolo-pyrimidinones via an NHC-catalyzed Mannich/lactamization domino reaction
Authors: Ni Qijian , Song Xiaoxiao , Xiong Jiawen , Raabe Gerhard , Enders Dieter
Published: November 2014

An NHC-catalyzed regio- and stereoselective Mannich/lactamization domino reaction of N-(benzothiazolyl)imines with α-chloroaldehydes has been developed.
Modulation of physical properties of supramolecular hydrogels based on a hydrophobic core
Authors: Matsumoto Keigo , Shundo Atsuomi , Ohno Masashi , Fujita Shun , Saruhashi Kowichiro , Miyachi Nobuhide , Miyaji Katsuaki , Tanaka Keiji
Published: November 2014

We demonstrate herein the variation in viscoelastic properties of supramolecular hydrogels (SMG) composed of two amphiphiles, N-Palmitoyl-Gly-His (PalGH) and sodium palmitate (PalNa).
Graphene magnetism induced by covalent adsorption of aromatic radicals
Authors: Lin He , Fratesi Guido , Brivio Gian Paolo
Published: November 2014

We show that it is possible to introduce magnetism into graphene by covalent adsorption of an aromatic radical.
Hydrocarbon growth via ion-molecule reactions: computational studies of the isomers of C4H2+, C6H2+ and C6H4+ and their formation paths from acetylene and its fragments
Authors: Bera Partha P. , Peverati Roberto , Head-Gordon Martin , Lee Timothy J.
Published: November 2014

Structures, vibrational and electronic spectra, and AIMD trajectories of formation paths for C4H2+, C6H2+ and C6H4+ from acetylene ion and its fragments are reported in this article.
Carbon nanotubes oxidized by a green method as efficient metal-free catalysts for nitroarene reduction
Authors: Wu Shuchang , Wen Guodong , Schlögl Robert , Su Dang Sheng
Published: November 2014

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) functionalized CNTs exhibited better catalytic performance than nitric acid (HNO3) oxidized samples in the reduction of nitroarenes.
Proton, muon and13C hyperfine coupling constants of C60X and C70X (X = H, Mu)
Authors: Brodovitch Jean-Claude , Addison-Jones Brenda , Ghandi Khashayar , McKenzie Iain , Percival Paul W.
Published: November 2014

Four of the five possible C70H radicals are formed when H atoms add to fullerene C70. Their13C hyperfine constants reveal the extent of their unpaired spin distributions.
Visible-light-mediated oxidative arylation of vinylarenes under aerobic conditions
Authors: Bu Meijie , Niu Teng Fei , Cai Chun
Published: November 2014

A mild and efficient method for the photocatalytic oxidative arylation of vinylarenes to generate 1,2-diarylated ethanones has been developed.
Utilisation of the isobole methodology to study dietary peptide–drug and peptide–peptide interactive effects on dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibition
Authors: Nongonierma Alice B. , FitzGerald Richard J.
Published: November 2014

Peptide and Sitagliptin®/peptide mixtures may enhance DPP-IV inhibition. Food protein-derived peptides may complement the action of antidiabetic drugs.
Silylated organometals: a family of recyclable homogeneous catalysts
Authors: Huang Jian-Lin , Wang Jun-Zhong , Li He-Xing , Guo Haibing , O'Doherty George A.
Published: November 2014

A general and facile approach was developed to synthesize a family of silylated organometals, which were used as homogeneous (chiral) catalysts in THF-, CH2Cl2-, or toluene-medium organic reactions and could be completely recycled by adding pentane and then used repeatedly many times without a significant decrease in catalytic efficiencies.
Light-driven hydrogen evolution with a nickel thiosemicarbazone redox catalyst featuring Ni⋯H interactions under basic conditions
Authors: Jing Xu , Wu Pengyan , Liu Xin , Yang Linlin , He Cheng , Duan Chunying
Published: November 2014

New metal thiosemicarbazone complexes containing phosphine donors were achieved as catalysts for light driven H2 evolution in a homogeneous environment.
Synthesis and antimalarial evaluation of amide and urea derivatives based on the thiaplakortone A natural product scaffold
Authors: Schwartz Brett D. , Skinner-Adams Tina S. , Andrews Katherine T. , Coster Mark J. , Edstein Michael D. , MacKenzie Donna , Charman Susan A. , Koltun Maria , Blundell Scott , Campbell Anna , Pouwer Rebecca H. , Quinn Ronald J. , Beattie Karren D. , Healy Peter C. , Davis Rohan A.
Published: November 2014

A series of amide and urea analogues based on the thiaplakortone A natural product scaffold were synthesised and screened forin vitroantimalarial activity.