bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Spirinia and Stygodesmodora species (Nematoda, Spiriniinae) from the Southwest Pacific, and a revision of the related genera Spirinia, Chromaspirina and Perspiria
Authors: Leduc Daniel , Verschelde Dominick
Published: April 2015

Two new species of the family Desmodoridae are described from the upper continental slope of New Zealand, Southwest Pacific, and the genera Spirinia, Chromaspirina and Perspiria are revised. Spirinia verecunda sp. nov. is characterised by a short, stout body, cuticle covered in minute, hair-like structures, unispiral amphideal aperture and cryptospiral amphideal fovea, buccal cavity with small dorsal tooth and minute subventral teeth, eight oblong glands surrounding anterior portion of pharynx, large sperm cells, spicules with weak capitulum, and the absence of precloacal supplements. Stygodesmodora confusa sp. nov. is characterised by a relatively short body, spiral amphids with 1.2–1.4 turns, cephalic setae situated at or slightly posterior to mid-level of amphid, and males with four precloacal supplements consisting of short setae on wide bases. Like other species of the genus, S. confusa sp. nov. is characterised by an annulated head region, but in some specimens the cuticle annulations are restricted to the dorsal and ventral sides of the head. S. confusa sp. nov. shows similarities with species of other desmodorid genera (i.e., Echinodesmodora, Bolbonema), but can be differentiated from them by the presence of an annulated head region and amphideal plates. The genera Spirinia, Chromaspirina and Perspiria have very similar morphologies and differ mainly in the size and structure of the buccal cavity (Spirinia vs Chromaspirina) or the shape of the tail and placement of the amphids relative to the cuticle annulations (Spirinia vs Perspiria); their diagnoses are clarified and some nomenclatural changes are proposed to eliminate overlap in the definitions of these genera.
Labels, Lawyers, & Logic
Authors: Pitts Peter J.
Published: April 2015

America deserves access to high-quality health care without avoidable medical errors and complications. This achievable goal begins with harnessing and using the power of information. And that begins with clear, accurate, and usable labeling.The American health care system is undermined, underserved, and undervalued when labeling is written more for corporate liability protection than as a valuable tool for health care providers.Today, labeling includes excessive risk information and exaggerated warnings. And this has set into motion a dangerous dynamic: labeling that does not accurately communicate to either the health care professional or the patient the conditions in which any given product can be used safely and effectively. This is nothing less than a grave menace to the public health. America is suffering from a legal system that is dangerous to its health. Why has this happened? There is, unfortunately, a simple answer - fear of liability. Manufacturers have significant monetary incentives to add dense and confusing legalese because, under current law in most states, they can be found liable for failing to provide "adequate" warnings about therapeutic products. Money, not medicine, is driving this dangerous practice. When it comes to labeling written for lawyers rather than doctors, more is less.
Hvordan sikrer man, at publiceringsdatoen er korrekt?
Authors: Thestrup Jesper Boserup , Frederiksen Niels Erik
Published: April 2015

I forbindelse med tildeling af DOI til de enkelte artikler er det vigtigt, at publiceringsdatoen er korrekt, ellers kan man risikere, at en artikel udgivet i f.eks. 2002 rent faktisk står som udgivet i 2015. Fejlen opstår typisk, når man publicerer tidligere numre (back issues). Hvis man ikke selv registrerer publiceringsåret vælger programmet automatisk dags dato. Fejlinformationen kan også opstå, hvis man anvender QuickSubmit-publiceringsmetoden og ikke husker at registrere publiceringstidspunktet.Men fejlen er let at rette.
Resolution of statin-induced myalgia by correcting vitamin D deficiency: a case report
Authors: Gallelli Luca , Michniewicz Andzelika , Siniscalchi Antonio , De Sarro Giovambattista
Published: April 2015

The onset of myalgia is a well-known side effect of cholesterol-lowering statins. Recent studiesa dvanced the hypothesis that reduced vitamin D levels may play a role in the onset of myalgia in statin users and potentially a vitamin D supplementation may be useful in these cases, as suggested by the present case report.A 52-year-old man with a history of smoke and successfully controlled hypertension presented with chest pain and asthenia. He was diagnosed with stable angina pectoris and discharged on atorvastatin. Due to the onset of myalgia, the dosage of atorvastatin was reduced (from 40 mg daily to 20 mg daily) and then atorvastatin was switched to rosuvastatin without symptoms improvement. Switching from rosuvastatin to ezetimibe resulted in pain improvement, but also in plasma lipids increase beyond the normal range. Ezetimibe was switched to rosuvastatin+ analgesic; in the meanwhile a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed low levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and 1-25-dihydroxy-vitamin D. Therefore, vitamin D3 was added to rosuvastatin, resulting in pain improvement, decrease of plasma lipids and progressive discontinuation of analgesics. During the follow-up, rosuvastatin was switched to atorvastatin + vitamin D3, with a good control of plasma lipid levels and without the onset of myalgia.
Release of human cytomegalovirus from latency by a KAP1/TRIM28 phosphorylation switch
Authors: Rauwel Benjamin , Jang Suk Min , Cassano Marco , Kapopoulou Adamandia , Barde Isabelle , Trono Didier
Published: April 2015

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a highly prevalent pathogen that induces life-long infections notably through the establishment of latency in hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). Bouts of reactivation are normally controlled by the immune system, but can be fatal in immuno-compromised individuals such as organ transplant recipients. Here, we reveal that HCMV latency in human CD34+ HSC reflects the recruitment on the viral genome of KAP1, a master co-repressor, together with HP1 and the SETDB1 histone methyltransferase, which results in transcriptional silencing. During lytic infection, KAP1 is still associated with the viral genome, but its heterochromatin-inducing activity is suppressed by mTOR-mediated phosphorylation. Correspondingly, HCMV can be forced out of latency by KAP1 knockdown or pharmacological induction of KAP1 phosphorylation, and this process can be potentiated by activating NFkB with TNF-α. These results suggest new approaches both to curtail CMV infection and to purge the virus from organ transplants.
Detection of Tyrosine Sulfation on Proteins
Authors: Kanan Yogita , Al Ubaidi Muayyad R.
Published: April 2015

Tyrosine sulfation is a post‐translational modification (PTM) where a sulfate group is added to a tyrosine moiety. This PTM is responsible for strengthening interaction between proteins. One of the drawbacks of studying this PTM is the lack of an antibody that can detect all tyrosine‐sulfated proteins. In addition, due to the labile nature of the tyrosine sulfate, other techniques such as mass spectrometry cannot be used to study this PTM unless special modification procedures are used. This requires considerable skill and knowledge of mass spectrometry. This unit describes an in vitro technique that can be used to study tyrosine‐sulfated proteins by radiolabeling the recombinant protein. The protein is then subject to barium hydroxide hydrolysis and thin‐layer electrophoresis (TLE). Co‐localization of radioactive tyrosine‐sulfate with nonradioactive tyrosine sulfate standard spiked in before TLE analysis identifies a protein as tyrosine‐sulfated protein. The advantage of this technique is that, it identifies all tyrosine‐sulfated proteins without any bias and is the only technique that identifies the tyrosine sulfate residues in the protein. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Preparing Protein Extracts for Quantitative Two‐Dimensional Gel Comparison
Authors: Lelong Cécile , Rabilloud Thierry
Published: April 2015

This unit describes basic protocols for efficient and reproducible protein solubilization from a variety of biological samples, including cultured animal cells and tissues, plant cells and tissues, bacteria, nuclei, other subcellular organelles, plasma, serum, and other biological fluids. The optimized extraction process is strongly sample dependent and cannot be described for every type of sample. Instead, typical protocols are provided as general guidelines and illustrate good starting points for optimization of sample preparation. These solubilization procedures take into account the constraints imposed by two‐dimensional electrophoresis and are thus well suited for proteomic approaches. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Latent Sensitization: A Model for Stress‐Sensitive Chronic Pain
Authors: Marvizon Juan Carlos , Walwyn Wendy , Minasyan Ani , Chen Wenling , Taylor Bradley K.
Published: April 2015

Latent sensitization is a rodent model of chronic pain that reproduces both its episodic nature and its sensitivity to stress. It is triggered by a wide variety of injuries ranging from injection of inflammatory agents to nerve damage. It follows a characteristic time course in which a hyperalgesic phase is followed by a phase of remission. The hyperalgesic phase lasts between a few days to several months, depending on the triggering injury. Injection of μ‐opioid receptor inverse agonists (e.g., naloxone or naltrexone) during the remission phase induces reinstatement of hyperalgesia. This indicates that the remission phase does not represent a return to the normal state, but rather an altered state in which hyperalgesia is masked by constitutive activity of opioid receptors. Importantly, stress also triggers reinstatement. Here we describe in detail procedures for inducing and following latent sensitization in its different phases in rats and mice. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Purification of Recombinant Proteins from Cultured Mammalian Cells by HaloTag Technology
Authors: Ohana Rachel Friedman , Hurst Robin
Published: April 2015

Cultured mammalian cells provide an environment ideal for producing functional recombinant mammalian proteins. However, low expression levels of recombinant proteins present a challenge for their detection and purification. This unit will focus on HaloTag, a protein fusion tag designed to bind selectively and covalently to a chloroalkane ligand that may be attached to a variety of functional groups, allowing both protein detection and immobilization. Detection of HaloTag‐fusion protein is achieved through binding to a fluorescent chloroalkane ligand, enabling rapid optimization of expression levels. HaloTag‐based purification uses covalent capture of the HaloTag fusion onto HaloLink resin coupled with proteolytic cleavage to release the protein of interest from the resin. Covalent binding provides efficient protein capture regardless of expression level and eliminates protein loss during washes of the resin and as a result, offers significant improvements in protein recovery and purity over traditional non‐covalent approaches. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Measurement of Bacterial Ingestion and Killing by Macrophages
Authors: Drevets Douglas A. , Canono Beth P. , Campbell Priscilla A.
Published: April 2015

This unit presents assays that allow accurate measurement of phagocytosis and killing of bacteria by macrophages. The first basic protocol describes how to measure the ability of macrophages to ingest bacteria. Importantly, because macrophage phagocytosis entails separate binding and internalization steps, assays are described here that will also determine the extent to which bacteria bound to the macrophage are in fact internalized. Two effective methods to do this are described in alternate protocols. Both of these alternate protocols rely on enumeration of differentially labeled bacteria by fluorescence microscopy to distinguish intracellular from extracellular bacteria. The unit also presents two protocols to measure the ability of a macrophage to kill bacteria it has internalized. The second basic is a straightforward assay in which bacterial colonies are enumerated before and after a killing period. Bactericidal activity is evidenced by reduced CFU bacteria on agar plates. Because it is critical to remove residual extracellular organisms, the protocol presents two alternative steps to accomplish this: a washing procedure and a more stringent method in which cells are sedimented through sucrose. An alternate protocol describes a way to measure bacterial viability based on bacterial metabolism, in which the ability of bacterial dehydrogenases to mediate the reduction of a tetrazolium salt to purple formazan is monitored by measuring absorbance spectrophotometrically. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
High‐Sensitivity Detection of PNH Red Blood Cells, Red Cell Precursors, and White Blood Cells
Authors: Sutherland D. Robert , Illingworth Andrea , Keeney Michael , Richards Stephen J.
Published: April 2015

Flow cytometry is the method of choice to ‘diagnose’ paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and has led to improved patient management. Most laboratories have limited experience with PNH testing, and many different flow approaches are used. Careful selection and validation of antibody conjugates has allowed the development of reagent cocktails suitable for detection of PNH RBCs, CD71+ reticulocytes, and WBCs in clinical/sub‐clinical PNH samples. A CD235a‐FITC/CD59‐PE assay was developed capable of detecting Type III PNH RBCs at 0.01% sensitivity. A protocol targeting immature CD71+ RBCs can detect PNH reticulocytes at similar sensitivity. Four‐color FLAER‐based neutrophil and monocyte assays were developed to detect PNH phenotypes at a level of 0.01% and 0.04% sensitivity, respectively. For instrumentation with five or more PMTs, a single‐tube 5‐color FLAER/CD157‐based assay to simultaneously detect PNH neutrophils and monocytes is described. Using these standardized approaches, results have demonstrated good intra‐ and inter‐laboratory performance characteristics even in laboratories with little prior experience performing PNH testing. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Flow Cytometry of Murine Spermatocytes
Authors: Gaysinskaya Valeriya , Bortvin Alex
Published: April 2015

Protocols for purification of murine male germ cells by FACS based on Hoechst 33342 (Ho342) dye staining have been reported and optimized. However, the protocols are often challenging to follow, partly due to difficulties related to sample preparation, instrument parameters, data display, and selection strategies. In addition, troubleshooting of flow cytometry experiments usually requires some fluency in technical principles and instrument specifications and settings. This unit describes setup and procedures for analysis and sorting of male meiotic prophase I (MPI) cells and other germ cells. Included are procedures that guide data acquisition, display, gating, and back‐gating critical for optimal data visualization and cell sorting. Additionally, a flow cytometry analysis of spermatogenesis‐defective testis is provided to illustrate the applicability of the technique to the characterization and purification of cells from mutant testis. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Uncovering the geodetic signature of silent slip through repeating earthquakes
Authors: Frank William B. , Radiguet Mathilde , Rousset Baptiste , Shapiro Nikolaï M. , Husker Allen L. , Kostoglodov Vladimir , Cotte Nathalie , Campillo Michel
Published: April 2015

Slow transient slip that releases stress along the deep roots of plate interfaces is most often observed on regional GPS networks installed at the surface. The detection of slow slip is not trivial if the dislocation along the fault at depth does not generate a geodetic signal greater than the observational noise level. Instead of the typical workflow of comparing independently gathered seismic and geodetic observations to study slow slip, we use repeating low‐frequency earthquakes to reveal a previously unobserved slow slip event. By aligning GPS time series with episodes of low‐frequency earthquake activity and stacking, we identify a repeating transient slip event that generates a displacement at the surface that is hidden under noise prior to stacking. Our results suggest that the geodetic investigation of transient slip guided by seismological information is essential in exploring the spectrum of fault slip.
Numerical study of anomalous absorption of O mode waves on magnetic field‐aligned striations
Authors: Eliasson B. , Papadopoulos K.
Published: April 2015

Simple expressions that describe mode conversion and anomalous absorption of ordinary (O) mode waves injected at angles between the vertical and magnetic zenith to upper hybrid (UH) oscillations in the presence of field‐aligned density striations are presented. The absorption takes place in a region above the UH resonance layer where the striations allow trapped eigenmodes, leading to excitation of large‐amplitude UH waves. The derivation of the expressions is guided by dimensional analysis and numerical simulations. The results are relevant in interpreting high‐latitude heating experiments where anomalous absorption due to striations plays a crucial role.
Mechanics of Contacting Surfaces
Authors: Rahnejat Homer , Johns‐Rahnejat Patricia Margaret
Published: April 2015

Many load bearing or power transmitting conjunctions in engine and drivetrain are counterforming concentrated contacts. The mechanics of contact is described by small strain localized deformation, described by Hertzian contact mechanics. Usually, a thin film of lubricant exists in contacts such as in the cam–follower pair, ball and rolling element bearings, and meshing gear teeth pairs. The regime of lubrication is invariably mixed elastohydrodynamics. This chapter provides an introduction to the fundamentals of contact mechanics, Hertzian theory, and elastohydrodynamic regime of lubrication. It also highlights the mechanisms of viscous and boundary friction in concentrated contacts.
Engine/Transmission Matching
Authors: Mariotti Gabriele Virzi'
Published: April 2015

This chapter deals with the forecasting of vehicle performance on the road, according to the installed engine. It begins with Section 1, which shows the calculation of the resistance to motion, that is, the forces that the vehicle must overcome to advance on flat roads and uphill. The calculation excludes accidental resistance in curves because it is not essential for predicting the behavior of the vehicle on the road. Section 2 begins with the power characteristic, the forecast by traction–speed and power–speed diagrams, calculation of gear ratios, and then passing to the limits to the estimated acceleration, feature consumption, and distance. This chapter concludes with a section on the drivability of the vehicle, and sets out the advantages of four‐wheel‐drive vehicles.
Fuels for Engines and the Impact of Fuel Composition on Engine Performance
Authors: Mueller Charles J. , Cannella William J. , Kalghatgi Gautam T.
Published: April 2015

Fuel is required for an engine to produce work. Reciprocating internal combustion engines are classified by the manner by which this fuel is ignited: spark ignition (SI) or compression ignition (CI). The specific effects of changing a given fuel property depend on many detailed parameters of the engine and combustion strategy in which the fuel is used, as well as the conditions over which the engine is operated. SI engines typically perform better with higher volatility fuels that resist autoignition (gasolines), while conventional CI engines tend to perform better with fuels exhibiting the opposite volatility and autoignition characteristics (diesel fuels). Fuels and engine technologies are currently evolving, however, and as a result, these historical fuel distinctions may become less relevant in the future. As such, it is important to understand how the chemical composition of a fuel determines its operational attributes, including autoignition quality and volatility, as well as many others. This chapter provides a broad overview of topics related to the selection and use of fuels for reciprocating internal combustion engines, including the following: petroleum‐based, alternative, and renewable fuel production techniques; the compositional characteristics of liquid‐ and gas‐phase fuels; key physical and chemical properties of fuels; and the specifications that have been developed to ensure that fuels perform as required in their given applications. The chapter concludes with a brief summary and outlook for the future of fuels for reciprocating internal combustion engines.
Automotive Diesel Engine Development Trends
Authors: Tomazic Dean , Koerfer Thomas , Pischinger Stefan
Published: April 2015

Since the invention of the diesel engine by Rudolf Diesel, the diesel technology has evolved to a point where this engine concept can be found in small engines for power generation to automotive applications up to large trucks, large bore ships/locomotives, and other industrial engine applications. With its superior fuel consumption over any other internal reciprocating combustion engine, it has become a prime choice for passenger car and light‐duty trucks all over the world. Despite the introduction of continuously more stringent emissions legislation, the development of new innovative technologies in the area of emissions, controls, sensors, and materials has allowed the diesel engine to remain competitive and maintain its position in the marketplace.

This chapter highlights the historic background and current and future technologies for automotive diesel engine applications focusing on all important aspects such as emissions, fuel economy, fuels, design and materials, combustion system configurations, and fuel injection systems and their relevance to meeting future targets.
Cellular Mobile Networks
Authors: Ramme Friedhelm , Fiege Gero , Rembarz René
Published: April 2015

Being connected while on the move has become a common customer expectation. This expectation goes hand in hand with a change in the observed user behavior. Nowadays, apps and connected devices have become part of people's everyday life. Cellular networks are assumed to provide the required connectivity whenever and wherever needed, which is a big change compared to the situation just two decades ago. A further and society‐impacting trend, with major economic and environmental implications, is caused by the ever‐growing demand for personal and goods mobilities. Steadily raising road traffic levels, particularly in developed or rapidly developing counties, are spurring demands for real‐time traffic information, safety applications, and a broad set of connected car services. Hence, the embedded expectation on ubiquitous cellular connectivity is becoming increasingly important for the mobile society and the just‐in‐time economy landscape. The changing perception on deployed cellular networks and recent technology advancements are leading to difficult arguments for additional large‐scale investments in a dedicated vehicle communication infrastructure for certain driver or passenger services.

Either way, we do not discuss anymore whether cars will become connected in the future—they will! The question is rather: what is the best option to realize tailored connectivity for automotive applications from a technology perspective, considering operational, economic, and timing conditions?

This chapter provides some basic information about cellular communication systems, required to properly address those questions. Major trends in cellular communications and resulting impacts to business and society are discussed in Section 2. The various generations of cellular wireless communication systems, their key characteristics and prime network elements are introduced in Section 3. Section 4 illustrates selected use case procedures and how core network components interact with each other in an integrated system design. Special attention is put on advanced scenarios with particular relevance for automotive communication. Finally, Section 5 provides a short introduction on the standards and regulatory frameworks related to cellular communication.
The ACVRL1 c.314—35A>G polymorphism is associated with organ vascular malformations in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia patients with ENG mutations, but not in patients with ACVRL1 mutations
Authors: Pawlikowska Ludmila , Nelson Jeffrey , Guo Diana E. , McCulloch Charles E. , Lawton Michael T. , Young William L. , Kim Helen , Faughnan Marie E. ,   the Brain Vascular Malformation Consortium HHT Investigator Group
Published: April 2015

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is characterized by vascular malformations (VMs) and caused by mutations in TGFβ/BMP9 pathway genes, most commonly ENG or ACVRL1. Patients with HHT have diverse manifestations related to skin and mucosal telangiectases and organ VMs, including arteriovenous malformations (AVM). The clinical heterogeneity of HHT suggests a role for genetic modifiers. We hypothesized that the ACVRL1 c.314–35A>G and ENG c.207G>A polymorphisms, previously associated with sporadic brain AVM, are associated with organ VM in HHT. We genotyped these variants in 716 patients with HHT and evaluated association of genotype with presence of any organ VM, and specifically with brain VM, liver VM and pulmonary AVM, by multivariate logistic regression analyses stratified by HHT mutation. Among all patients with HHT, neither polymorphism was significantly associated with presence of any organ VM; ACVRL1 c.314–35A>G showed a trend toward association with pulmonary AVM (OR = 1.48, P = 0.062). ACVRL1 c.314–35A>G was significantly associated with any VM among patients with HHT with ENG (OR = 2.66, P = 0.022), but not ACVRL1 (OR = 0.79, P = 0.52) mutations. ACVRL1 c.314–35A>G was also associated with pulmonary AVM and liver VM among ENG mutation heterozygotes. There were no significant associations between ENG c.207G>A and any VM phenotype. These results suggest that common polymorphisms in HHT genes other than the mutated gene modulate phenotype severity of HHT disease, specifically presence of organ VM. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Duplication of HEY2 in cardiac and neurologic development
Authors: Jordan Valerie K. , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Lalani Seema R. , Scott Daryl A.
Published: April 2015

HEY2 is a basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor that plays an important role in the developing mammalian heart and brain. In humans, nonsynonymous mutations in HEY2 have been described in patients with atrial ventricular septal defects, and a subset of individuals with chromosomal deletions involving HEY2 have cardiac defects and cognitive impairment. Less is known about the potential effects of HEY2 overexpression. Here, we describe a female child with tetralogy of Fallot who developed severe right ventricular outflow tract obstruction due to a combination of infundibular and valvular pulmonary stenosis. She was also noted to have hypotonia, lower extremity weakness, fine motor delay and speech delay. A copy number variation (CNV) detection analysis followed by real‐time quantitative PCR analysis revealed a single gene duplication of HEY2. This is the only duplication involving HEY2 identified in our database of over 70,000 individuals referred for CNV analysis. In the developing heart, overexpression of HEY2 is predicted to cause decreased expression of the cardiac transcription factor GATA4 which, in turn, has been shown to cause tetralogy of Fallot. In mice, misexpression of Hey2 in the developing brain leads to inhibition of neurogenesis and promotion of gliogenesis. Hence, duplication of HEY2 may be a contributing factor to both the congenital heart defects and the neurodevelopmental problems evident in our patient. These results suggest that individuals with HEY2 duplications should be screened for congenital heart defects and monitored closely for evidence of developmental delay and/or cognitive impairment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Layered P2‐ and O3‐Type Composite as a High‐Energy Cathode for Rechargeable Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Guo Shaohua , Liu Pan , Yu Haijun , Zhu Yanbei , Chen Mingwei , Ishida Masayoshi , Zhou Haoshen
Published: April 2015

A layered composite with P2 and O3 integration is proposed toward a sodium‐ion battery with high energy density and long cycle life. The integration of P2 and O3 structures in this layered oxide is clearly characterized by XRD refinement, SAED and HAADF and ABF‐STEM at atomic resolution. The biphase synergy in this layered P2+O3 composite is well established during the electrochemical reaction. This layered composite can deliver a high reversible capacity with the largest energy density of 640 mAh g−1, and it also presents good capacity retention over 150 times of sodium extraction and insertion.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Hydrocarboxylation of Alkynes with Formic Acid
Authors: Hou Jing , Xie Jian‐Hua , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: April 2015

A palladium‐catalyzed hydrocarboxylation of alkynes with formic acid has been developed. The method provides acrylic acid and derivatives in good yields with high regioselectivity without the need to handle toxic CO gas.
Synthesis of a new Schiff‐base complex based on Cu and its inference in PVC‐based membrane as an electroactive material
Authors: Swami Babu Lal , Ikram Saiqa
Published: April 2015

A novel Schiff‐base complex based on copper [Cu(L1)2] derived from ligand 2‐[(E)‐(2‐hydroxy naphthalen‐1‐yl)‐methylidene amino] isoindoline‐1, 3‐dione (L1) is reported by the reaction of N‐aminophthalimide with 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthaldehyde in presence of ethanol and hydrazine hydrate and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Proton NMR (1HNMR) and UV–vis spectroscopic techniques. The synthesized Schiff‐base complex [Cu(L1)2] was employed as an electroactive material within poly (vinyl chloride) matrix in order to obtain a membrane by using di‐butyl‐phthalate as plasticizer which demonstrated good transferring of metal ions proposing its application as an ion selective material. © 2015 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Processing and characterization of bio‐based poly (hydroxyalkanoate)/poly(amide) blends: Improved flexibility and impact resistance of PHA‐based plastics
Authors: Yang Shengzhe , Madbouly Samy A. , Schrader James A. , Grewell David , Kessler Michael R. , Graves William R.
Published: April 2015

One of the most significant limitations to widespread industrial implementation of emerging bioplastics such as poly(lactic acid) and poly(hydroxyalkanoate) (PHA) is that they do not match the flexibility and impact resistance of petroleum‐based plastics like poly(propylene) or high‐density poly(ethylene). The basic goal of this research is to identify alternative, affordable, sustainable, biodegradable materials that can replace petroleum‐based polymers in a wide range of industrial applications, with an emphasis on providing a solution for increasing the flexibility of PHA to a level that makes it a superior material for bioplastic nursery‐crop containers. A series of bio‐based PHA/poly(amide) (PA) blends with different concentrations were mechanically melt processed using a twin‐screw extruder and evaluated for physical characteristics. The effects of blending on viscoelastic properties were investigated using small‐amplitude oscillatory shear flow experiments to model the physical character as a function of blend composition and angular frequency. The mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of the blends were investigated using dynamic mechanical analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and tensile tests. The complex viscosity of the blends increased significantly with increasing concentration of PHA and reached a maximum value for 80 wt % PHA blend. In addition, the tensile strength of the blends increased markedly as the content of PHA increased. For blends containing PA at >50 wt %, samples failed only after a very large elongation (up to 465%) without significant decrease in tensile strength. The particle size significantly increased and the blends became more brittle with increasing concentration of PHA. In addition, the concentration of the PA had a substantial effect on the glass relaxation temperature of the resulting blends. Our results demonstrate that the thermomechanical and rheological properties of PHA/PA blends can be tailored for specific applications, and that blends of PHA/PA can fulfill the mechanical properties required for flexible, impact‐resistant bio‐based nursery‐crop containers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42209.
Processing and properties of phthalic anhydride modified soy protein/glycerol plasticized soy protein composite films
Authors: Guo Gaiping , Zhang Chen , Du Zhongjie , Zou Wei , Xiang Aimin , Li Hangquan
Published: April 2015

Phthalic anhydride modified soy protein (PAS)/glycerol plasticized soy protein (GPS) composite films were fabricated by using extrusion and compression‐molding. Modified with phthalic anhydride, the soy protein lost its thermoplastic ability and was used as a filler to reinforce the GPS matrix. Fourier transform infrared spectra, optical transmittance, scanning electron microscope, mechanical tests, water resistance tests, as well as thermo‐gravimetric analysis were carried out to investigate the structure and properties of PAS and the plastic composites. The similar chemical structure of PAS and GPS led to compatibility of the two components resulting in high transparency and enhanced tensile properties of the composites. The water resistance of GPS was also improved by the incorporation of PAS. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42221.
Methods of long chain branching detection in PE by triple‐detector gel permeation chromatography
Authors: Pathaweeisariyakul Thipphaya , Narkchamnan Kanyanut , Thitisuk Boonyakeat , Yau Wallace
Published: April 2015

Long chain branching (LCB) in polyethylene is one of the key microstructures that controls processing and final properties. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) with viscometer (IV) and/or light scattering (LS) has been intensely used to quantify LCB. The widespread method to quantify LCB from GPC with IV or LS is the method of LCB frequency (LCBf) based on the Zimm–Stockmayer (ZS) random branching model. In this work, the conventional approach was compared with the recently developed method, called gpcBR. The comparison of the sensitivity of both methods is made on highly branched polymer, that is, various grades of commercial LDPE and also on polymer with very low level of LCB, that is, a commercial HDPE with no LCB, converted into several branched test samples of gradually increasing LCB by multiple extrusion. Finally, the linkages of LCB quantities from both methods to the rheological data and processing properties are illustrated. The new gpcBR index can access lower LCB level and shows obviously better relationship with both rheological data and processing properties than LCBf from the conventional ZS model. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42222.
Improvement in physical and electrical properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel conductive polymer composites
Authors: Phuchaduek Winatthakan , Jamnongkan Tongsai , Rattanasak Ubolluk , Boonsang Siridech , Kaewpirom Supranee
Published: April 2015

With an aim to develop anti‐electrostatic discharge materials based on biodegradable polymers, poly(vinyl alcohol) films composited with two different conductive fillers (carbon black and aluminium) at various fillers contents (20−60%wt), were manufactured using solvent‐casting technique. The mechanical properties of such the films were investigated through tensile stress‐strain tests. Wettability and morphology of the composite films were performed by water contact angle measurement and SEM, respectively. Young's modulus of the composite films can be increased with the addition of conductive fillers. The surface of the composite films showed non‐homogeneous appearance, in which the phase boundary within the composites was clearly observed and the conductive fillers formed aggregation structure at high filler concentration. In addition, the composite films exhibited better hydrophobicity when higher conductive filler content was added. TGA results suggested that both carbon black and aluminum have proven their efficiency to enhance thermal stability of poly(vinyl alcohol). Investigation of cross‐cut adhesion performance of the prepared composite films revealed that carbon black‐filled composites exhibited excellent adhesion strength. The effect of conductive filler content on surface resistivity of the composite films was also examined. The experimental results confirmed that both the fillers used in this study can improve the electrical conductivity of poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel. The surface resistivity of the composite films was reduced by several orders of magnitude when the filler of its critical concentration was applied. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42234.
Fast space charge behavior in heat‐treated polypropylene films
Authors: Zheng Feihu , Gu Min , Dong Jianxing , An Zhenlian , Lei Qingquan , Zhang Yewen
Published: April 2015

In this study, the characterization of the short‐circuit current within hundreds of nanoseconds is proposed to study the effect of heat treatment on fast space charge behavior in the polarized biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) films. The BOPP films were cooled either quickly or slowly during the sample preparation. The damped oscillating feature was found in the short‐circuit current of all the polarized film samples, but the periods of the oscillating current for the samples prepared by fast cooling rate decrease faster. Bipolar space charge injection in the polarized BOPP films was observed by the thermal pulse (TP) measurement. The variation feature of the short‐circuit current was considered to be associated with the varying fast space charge behavior, which depended on the varying structural traps modified by the heat treatment during the sample preparation. The sample subjected to fast cooling process was with relatively shallow trap level revealed by the thermally stimulated current method, which led to higher mobility of the escaping charge in the sample. The TP measurements were utilized to analyze space charge features in the polarized BOPP films. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42235.
How well does a university perform in comparison with its peers? The use of odds, and odds ratios, for the comparison of institutional citation impact using the Leiden Rankings
Authors: Bornmann Lutz , Mutz Rüdiger
Published: April 2015

This study presents the calculation of odds, and odds ratios, for the comparison of the citation impact of universities in the Leiden Ranking. Odds and odds ratios can be used to measure the performance difference between a selected university and competing institutions, or the average of selected competitors, in a relatively simple but clear way.
Accessibility of graphics in STEM research articles: Analysis and proposals for improvement
Authors: Splendiani Bruno , Ribera Mireia
Published: April 2015

Images convey essential information in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics communication. Current guidelines on publishing recommend making images accessible to all readers. However, academic publishers do not always follow these guidelines and therefore fail to guarantee access by all readers to the visual content of academic articles. People with severe visual impairments cannot access the visual content of images unless a text alternative describing the images is provided. This study investigates the current use of texts commonly related to images in academic articles, such as captions and mentions, in order to assess their suitability as potential text alternatives to the images for readers who are blind or have severe low vision. A sample of 30 academic articles in the fields of biomedicine, computer science, and mathematics was analyzed and quantitative and qualitative data were collected about images and their related texts. We suggest a practical and sustainable solution that can foster the adoption of good accessibility practices by authors and publishers and facilitate their inclusion in regular publishing workflows.
Crystal Engineering with the New Linker Tolanedisulfonic Acid (H2TDS): Helical Chains in Zn(TDS)(DMA)3, Linear Chains in Zn(TDS)(NMP)3, and Complex Anions in [HDMA]2[Zn(TDS)2(DMA)3](DMA)2
Authors: Zitzer Christina , Muesmann Thomas W. T. , Christoffers Jens , Wickleder Mathias S.
Published: April 2015

Reaction of 4,4′‐tolanedisulfonic acid, H2TDS, with zinc hydroxide in dimethylacetamide, DMA, under solvothermal conditions led to the coordination polymer Zn(TDS)(DMA)3 (I). In the crystal structure [trigonal, P3221, Z=3, a=1175.0(1) pm, c=1949.5(1) pm, R1; wR2 (Io> 2σ(Io))=0.0393; 0.0921] the disulfonate anions linked the Zn2+ ions into helical chains according to ∞1[Zn(DMA)3/1(TDS)2/2] (I) causing the chirality of the compound. By using higher concentrations of H2TDS in the starting mixture the compound [HDMA]2[Zn(TDS)2(DMA)3](DMA)2 (II) was formed. The structure [monoclinic, Cc, Z=4, a=1201.5(1) pm, b=1996.0(1) pm, c=2749.2(2) pm, β=101.897(2)°, R1; wR2 (Io> 2σ(Io))=0.0699; 0.2017] displayed the complex anion [Zn(TDS)2(DMA)3]2− which was a perfect cut‐off of the helical chain in I. Charge compensation was achieved by protonated DMA molecules. If N‐methylpyrrolidone, NMP, was chosen as a solvent, the sulfonate Zn(TDS)(NMP)3 (III) [monoclinic, I2/a, Z=4, a=1575.7(1) pm, b=1077.3(1) pm, c=1870.0(1) pm, β=101.189(9)°, R1; wR2 (Io> 2σ(Io))=0.0563; 0.1320] was obtained. Similarly to the findings for I, the formation of chains according to ∞1[Zn(NMP)3/1(TDS)2/2] was observed. However, due to the more bulky NMP molecules these chains were no longer helical but straight instead.
Bemessungsdiagramme für den biegebeanspruchten Stab im Holzbau
Authors: Moosbrugger Thomas , Bogensperger Thomas , Krenn Harald
Published: April 2015

In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden, aufbauend auf die Bemessungsdiagramme für einen Biegeträger einer Dachkonstruktion mit homogenem Stabquerschnitt [1], die Erweiterung um den inhomogenen Stabquerschnitt (geschichteter Verbundquerschnitt) sowie die Implementierung der Schwingungsnachweise gezeigt. Während bei den Bemessungsdiagrammen für den homogenen Stabquerschnitt sowohl die ULS‐ als auch die SLS‐Nachweise von Relevanz waren, treten bei Erweiterung um die Schwingungsnachweise sowie aufgrund der Einflüsse des inhomogenen Querschnittsaufbaues vorrangig die SLS‐Nachweise auf. Das Schwingungsverhalten von Deckentragwerken wird wesentlich durch die Lagerungsbedingungen beeinflusst. Die Einspanneffekte im Bereich des Anschlussdetails Wand‐Decke zufolge der Geschossauflasten werden bei der Bestimmung der Eigenfrequenz berücksichtigt.

Design charts for a single spanned timber beam under bending – Part 2: Floor structures with inhomogeneous beam cross‐section

This paper presents an application of design charts for inhomogeneous cross‐sections (layered composite section) and the implementation of vibration design criteria as extension of the charts for beams with homogeneous cross‐sections in roof‐structures according to selected European Design Standards published in [1]. While ULS and SLS criteria were nearly equally governing for the homogeneous cross‐section, mainly SLS criteria are now governing due to the extension with vibrations and the influences of the inhomogeneous cross‐sections. The vibrational behavior of floors is essentially influenced by the support conditions. Effects of moment restraints at the wall‐floor‐wall detail, activated by wall‐loads from stories above, are systematically being taken into account.
Dynamische Stabwerkmodelle
Authors: Brückner Frank , Weischede Dietger
Published: April 2015

Die Idee, Bewegungsprozesse anhand von Stabwerkmodellen zu analysieren (= dynamische Stabwerkmodelle), basiert auf der Kraftflussanalyse mittels Stabwerkmodellen in der Statik [1, 2] und erweitert die Anwendung auf komplette dynamische Prozesse.

Bei Stabwerkmodellen handelt es sich um eine vektorielle Analyse, die an jedem Knoten eines Systems grafisch durchgeführt wird. Bilden die Vektoren ein geschlossenes Krafteck, ist der betrachtete Knoten im Gleichgewicht und es handelt sich um einen statischen Zustand. Bleibt das Krafteck jedoch offen, treibt die resultierende Kraft den Knoten an, d. h., sie beschleunigt ihn in Abhängigkeit zu seiner Masse.

Im Bauwesen spielen dynamische Prozesse nicht nur bei menscheninduzierten Schwingungen oder Bauwerksschwingungen durch Erdbeben oder Wind eine Rolle. Auch bei dem Tragfähigkeitsverlust einzelner Bauteile eines statisch bestimmten oder überbestimmten Tragwerks oder Tragwerkteils lagern sich die inneren Kräfte um, wodurch das gesamte System oder Teilsysteme kinematisch werden können. Die nachfolgende Bewegung des Systems hält so lange an, bis das Tragwerk mit einer neuen Geometrie ein Gleichgewicht findet und damit wieder statisch bestimmt wird.

Dynamic strut‐and‐tie models – a graphical method to analyse dynamic processes using the exemple of an arc with a tension cable

The idea to analyse processes of movement by means of dynamic strut‐and‐tie models is based on the vectorial force flow analysis of static problems but expands its application to complete dynamic processes. A strut‐and‐tie model is a vectorial analysis of layouts and polygons of forces carried out graphically for each knot of a system. If the layout of the polygon of forces is closed, the knot analysed is in static equilibrium. If the polygon of forces is not closed, the knot will be accelerated by the resulting force depending on its mass.

Analysing dynamic processes in building design does not only play an important role in case of human‐made vibrations or structural vibrations caused by earthquakes or wind. In addition to the usual problems a dynamic analysis may be carried out if the whole construction or individual components of the structure lose stability. If that happens, the internal forces of the structure come into a flow and the whole system or parts of it can possibly become kinematic. The following movement keeps going until the structure comes into a new static equilibrium with a new geometry.
Science engagement at the museum school: teacher perspectives on the contribution of museum pedagogy to science teaching
Authors: Watermeyer Richard
Published: April 2015

This paper explores the accounts of science teachers working within theUK's only ‘museum school’ and what they perceive as the benefits and shortcomings of ‘museum pedagogy’ as a process of object‐based teaching (and learning). Museum pedagogy is in this context considered for its potential in harmonising informal and formal approaches to science education. Discussion focuses on teachers’ use of cultural artefacts as a pedagogical strategy intended both to ignite the imagination and enthusiasm of learners in science and harmonise their social and scientific worlds. Museum pedagogy is concurrently considered for the extent to which it ameliorates teachers’ relational proximity and instructional fluency with their students and enhances their performance as role models and stewards in science.
Näherungsverfahren bei zweiachsiger Biegung mit Normalkraft
Authors: Duţulescu Eugen
Published: April 2015

Die Nachweise der auf schiefe Biegung mit Normalkraft beanspruchten Stahlbetonquerschnitte werden iterativ, durch sukzessive Veränderungen der Stahlfläche, durchgeführt. Ein zweckmäßiges Rechenverfahren für die Bemessung bzw. Ermittlung der Tragfähigkeit wird vorgestellt.

An Approach Method for biaxial Bending with axial Force.

The design of the reinforced concret members subjected to skew bending with axial force is effected iteratively, trough succesive corrections of reinforcement area. An appropriate procedure for the determination of reinforcement respectively the verification of the load capacity is presented.