bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chaperone-like Activity of High-Mobility Group Box 1 Protein and Its Role in Reducing the Formation of Polyglutamine Aggregates
Authors: Min Hyun Jin , Ko Eun Ae , Wu Jie , Kim Eun Sung , Kwon Min Kyung , Kwak Man Sup , Choi Ji Eun , Lee Jong Eun , Shin Jeon-Soo
Published: January 2013

High-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), which mainly exists in the nucleus, has recently been shown to function as a sentinel molecule for viral nucleic acid sensing and an autophagy regulator in the cytoplasm. In this study, we studied the chaperone-like activity of HMGB1 and found that HMGB1 inhibited the chemically induced aggregation of insulin and lysozyme, as well as the heat-induced aggregation of citrate synthase. HMGB1 also restored the heat-induced suppression of cytoplasmic luciferase activity as a reporter protein in hamster lung fibroblast O23 cells with expression of HMGB1. Next, we demonstrated that HMGB1 inhibited the formation of aggregates and toxicity caused by expanded polyglutamine (polyQ), one of the main causes of Huntington disease. HMGB1 directly interacted with polyQ on immunofluorescence and coimmunoprecipitation assay, whereas the overexpression of HMGB1 or exogenous administration of recombinant HMGB1 protein remarkably reduced polyQ aggregates in SHSY5Y cells and hmgb1−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts upon filter trap and immunofluorescence assay. Finally, overexpressed HMGB1 proteins in mouse embryonic primary striatal neurons also bound to polyQ and decreased the formation of polyQ aggregates. To this end, we have demonstrated that HMGB1 exhibits chaperone-like activity and a possible therapeutic candidate in polyQ disease.
Cutting Edge: Type I IFN Drives Emergency Myelopoiesis and Peripheral Myeloid Expansion during Chronic TLR7 Signaling
Authors: Buechler Matthew B. , Teal Thomas H. , Elkon Keith B. , Hamerman Jessica A.
Published: January 2013

Mice overexpressing TLR7 (TLR7.1 mice) are a model of systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis and exhibit peripheral myeloid expansion. We show that TLR7.1 mice have a dramatic expansion of splenic cells that derive from granulocyte/macrophage progenitors (GMP) compared with wild-type mice. In the bone marrow, TLR7.1 mice exhibited hallmarks of emergency myelopoiesis and contained a discrete population of Sca-1+ GMP, termed emergency GMP, which are more proliferative and superior myeloid precursors than classical Sca-1− GMP. The emergency myelopoiesis and peripheral myeloid expansion in TLR7.1 mice was dependent on type I IFN signaling. TLR7 agonist administration to nontransgenic mice also drove type I IFN–dependent emergency myelopoiesis. TLR7.1 plasmacytoid dendritic cells were cell-intrinsically activated by TLR7 overexpression and constitutively produced type I IFN mRNA. This study shows that type I IFN can act upon myeloid progenitors to promote the development of emergency GMP, which leads to an expansion of their progeny in the periphery.
Abnormalities by pulmonary regions studied with computer tomography and clinical correlation following local-regional radiotherapy for breast cancer
Authors: Bhadra Kallol , Patra Niladri B. , Manna Amitabha , Apurba Kabasi , Pal Jayanta , Sarkar Shyamal K.
Published: January 2013

Background: Adjuvant local-regional radiotherapy (RT) is commonly recommended for breast cancer patients. Postoperative adjuvant RT for breast cancer is associated with pulmonary side effects. This study was undertaken to measure the RT-induced pulmonary radiological changes with computer tomography (CT) scan using a CT-adapted modification of the Arriagada classification system, and to correlate these changes to RT techniques, pulmonary complications, and pulmonary function. The aim of the study is to study pulmonary radiological abnormalities with CT following different RT techniques for breast cancer, and their correlation to pulmonary complications and reduction in forced vital capacity (FVC). Materials and Methods: CT scans of the lungs were performed prior to and 4 months following RT in 53 breast cancer patients treated with local-regional RT. The radiological abnormalities were analyzed with a CT-adapted modification of a classification system originally proposed by Arriagada. The patients were monitored for RT-induced pulmonary complications. FVC was measured prior to and 6 months following RT. Statistical analysis used were that increasing CT scores were correlated with pulmonary complications ( P < 0.001). The correlation between density grade (0-3, 4-9) and pulmonary complications (no complication vs slight/severe) was tested using Chi-square exact test for trend (2-sided). In addition, correlation between CT scores and FVC was done. Results: Increasing CT scores were correlated with pulmonary complications ( P < 0.001). The mean reduction of FVC for patients scoring 4-9 (-220 ml) was larger than for patients scoring 0-3 (-15 ml) (Spearson correlation coefficient significant at 0.01 level 2 tailed). But the mean reduction of FVC with greater volume of lung irradiated was not statistically different than lesser volume of lung irradiated ( P > 0.05). Conclusion: Radiological abnormalities detected on CT images and scored with a modification of Arriagada′s classification system can be used as an objective endpoint for pulmonary side effects in postmastectomy RT.
Particulate nutrient fluxes over a fringing coral reef: Source‐sink dynamics inferred from carbon to nitrogen ratios and stable isotopes
Authors: Wyatt Alex S. J. , Lowe Ryan J. , Humphries Stuart , Waite Anya M.
Published: January 2013

We examined spatial and temporal variations in particulate organic matter (POM) dynamics over a fringing coral reef (Ningaloo Reef) in Western Australia during the austral autumn and spring. Total POM concentrations generally did not differ between seasons or reef zones, but the composition of POM, in terms of carbon isotope ratios (δ13C‐POM), carbon to nitrogen ratios (C : N), and fatty acids, changed consistently in water flowing across the reef. Both δ13C‐POM and C : N increased from the fore reef to the reef flat and lagoon, −23.0‰ to −20.1‰ and 7.31 to 8.34, respectively. Average rates of net POM uptake by the reef community were highest over the reef crest (4 to 30 mmol N m−2 d−1 and 6 to 130 mmol C m−2 d−1), with a Bayesian isotope model confirming independent measurements of high uptake rates of allochthonous POM (oceanic phyto‐ and zooplankton). In contrast, over the reef flat, net release of POM was observed (−4 to −5 mmol N m−2 d−1 and −50 mmol C m−2 d−1), with gross release rates (estimated as −6 to −8 mmol N m−2 d−1 and −30 to −90 mmol C m−2 d−1) indicating that the release of autochthonous POM may be of similar magnitude to allochthonous uptake. Examining POM dynamics in terms of gross fluxes reinforces the dependence of coral reef systems on oceanographic processes for allochthonous POM supply, as well as highlighting the potential for autochthonous POM production to supply nutrients to benthic and pelagic communities downstream.
Immediate Overdenture
Authors: Khanna Tulika S , Gurav Sandeep Vivek
Published: January 2013

The prime focus of dentistry is on preservation of teeth and other oral structures rather than replacing what is lost. An overdenture fulfills this by preserving alveolar ridge integrity and maintaining the proprioceptive ability of the periodontium. An immediate denture replaces the lost teeth and associated structures of the maxillae and mandible at the time of extraction. This case report combines the advantages of both overdenture and immediate denture and shows its stepwise fabrication.

How to cite this article

Khanna TS, Gurav SV, Ram SM, Nandeeshwar DB. Immediate Overdenture. J Contemp Dent 2012;2(3):101-105.
Piezography: An Innovative Technique in Complete Denture Fabrication
Authors: Ghosh Soumitra , Bhattacharyya Jayanta , Goel Preeti , Das Samiran
Published: January 2013

Increasing life expectancy, age-related reduction in adaptability and progressive severe mandibular resorption, all add to the difficulty in achieving prosthetic success. The conventional mandibular denture is usually less retentive than the maxillary one and successful treatment involves the development of lingual retention for the mandibular denture. Several methods taking into account physiologic function with an objective to enhance denture retention and comfort during mastication have been developed since many decades. The present article describes piezography as a method to enhance retention, stability and function for the mandibular denture through a case report.

How to cite this article

Bhattacharyya J, Goel P, Ghosh S, Das S. Piezography: An Innovative Technique in Complete Denture Fabrication. J Contemp Dent 2012;2(3):109-113.
Vapor pressures of substituted polycarboxylic acids are much lower than previously reported
Authors: Huisman A. J. , Krieger U. K. , Zuend A. , Marcolli C. , Peter T.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. The partitioning of compounds between the aerosol and gas phase is a primary focus in the study of the formation and fate of secondary organic aerosol. We present measurements of the vapor pressure of 2-Methylmalonic (isosuccinic) acid, 2-Hydroxymalonic (tartronic) acid, 2-Methylglutaric acid, 3-Hydroxy-3-carboxy-glutaric (citric) acid and 2,3-Dihydroxysuccinic (tartaric) acid which were obtained from the evaporation rate of supersaturated liquid particles levitated in an electrodynamic balance. Our measurements indicate that the pure component liquid vapor pressures at 298.15 K for tartronic, citric and tartaric acids are much lower than the same quantity which was derived from solid state measurements in the only other room temperature measurement of these materials (made by Booth et al., 2010). This strongly suggests that empirical correction terms in vapor pressure estimation models to account for the inexplicably high vapor pressures of these and similar compounds should be revisited, and that due caution should be used when the estimated vapor pressures of these and similar compounds are used as inputs for other studies.
Medium-scale 4-D ionospheric tomography using a dense GPS network
Authors: van de Kamp M. M. J. L.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. The ionosphere above Scandinavia in December 2006 is successfully imaged by 4-dimensional tomography using the software package MIDAS from the University of Bath. The method concentrates on medium-scale structures: between 100 km and 2000 km in horizontal size. The input consists of TEC measurements from the dense GPS network Geotrim in Finland. In order to ensure sufficient vertical resolution of the result, EISCAT incoherent scatter radar data from Tromsø are used as additional input to provide the vertical profile information. The TEC offset of the measurements is unknown, but the inversion procedure is able to determine this automatically. This auto-calibration is shown to work well. Comparisons with EISCAT radar results and with occultation results show that the inversion using EISCAT data for profile information is much better able to resolve vertical profiles of irregular structures than the inversion using built-in profiles. Still, with either method the intensities of irregular structures of sizes near the resolution (about 100 km horizontal size) can be underestimated. Also, the accuracy of the inversion worsens above areas where no receivers are available. The ionosphere over Scandinavia in December 2006 often showed a dense E-layer in early morning hours, which generally disappeared during midday when a dense F-layer was present. On 14 December, a strong coronal mass ejection occurred, and many intense irregularities appeared in the ionosphere, which extended to high altitudes.
Hoar crystal development and disappearance at Dome C, Antarctica: observation by near-infrared photography and passive microwave satellite
Authors: Champollion N. , Picard G. , Arnaud L. , Lefebvre E. , Fily M.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Hoar crystals episodically cover the snow surface in Antarctica and affect the roughness and reflective properties of the air-snow interface. However, little is known about their evolution and the processes responsible for their development and disappearance despite a probable influence on the surface mass balance and energy budget. To investigate hoar evolution, we use continuous observations of the surface by in-situ near-infrared photography and by passive microwave remote sensing at Dome C in Antarctica. From the photography data, we retrieved a daily indicator of the presence/absence of hoar crystals using a texture analysis algorithm. The analysis of this 2-yr long time series shows that Dome C surface is covered almost half of the time by hoar. The development of hoar crystals takes a few days and seems to occur whatever the meteorological conditions. In contrast, the disappearance of hoar is rapid (a few hours) and coincident with either strong winds or with moderate winds associated with a change in wind direction from Southwest (the prevailing direction) to Southeast. From the microwave satellite data, we computed the polarisation ratio (i.e. horizontal over vertical polarised brightness temperatures), an indicator known to be sensitive to hoar in Greenland. Photography data and microwave polarisation ratio are correlated, i.e. high values of polarisation ratio which theoretically correspond to low snow density values near the surface are associated with the presence of hoar crystals in the photography data. Satellite data over nearly ten years (2002–2011) confirm that a strong decrease of the polarisation ratio (i.e. signature of hoar disappearance) is associated with an increase of wind speed or a change in wind direction from the prevailing direction. The photography data provides, in addition, evidence of interactions between hoar and snowfall. Further adding the combined influence of wind speed and wind direction results in a complex picture of the snow-atmosphere interactions in Antarctica which deserves further quantification and modelling.
Real-time Feedback and Electricity Consumption: A Field Experiment Assessing the Potential for Savings and Persistence
Authors: Houde Sebastien , Todd Annika , Sudarshan Anant , Flora June A. , Carrie Armel K.
Published: January 2013

Real-time information feedback delivered via technology has been reported to produce up to 20 percent declines in residential energy consumption. There are however large differences in estimates of the effect of real-time feedback technologies on energy use. In this study, we conduct a field experiment to obtain an estimate of the impact of a real-time feedback technology. Access to feedback leads to an average reduction in household electricity consumption of 5.7percent. Significant declines persist for up to four weeks. In examining time of day reduction effects, we find that the largest reductions were observed initially at all times of the day but as time passes, morning and evening intervals show larger reductions. We find no convincing evidence that household characteristics explain heterogeneity in our treatment effects; we examine demographics, housing characteristics and psychological variables.
How Competitive is Cross-border Trade of Electricity? Theory and Evidence from European Electricity Markets
Authors: Gebhardt Georg , Hffler Felix
Published: January 2013

Integrating national markets is a major policy target in the European energy market. Yet, wholesale prices for electricity still differ significantly. Whether these price differences are caused only by limited interconnector capacities or also by lack of cross-border competition is an open question. To address this question, we develop a new approach to determine to which extent price differences stem from limited participation in cross-border trade. We derive a theoretical integration benchmark, using Grossman’s (1976) notion of a rational expectations equilibrium. We compare the benchmark to data from European electricity markets. The data reject the integration hypothesis and indicate that well informed traders do not engage in cross-border trade.
Emissions Savings from Wind Power Generation in Texas
Authors: Kaffine Daniel T. , McBee Brannin J. , Lieskovsky Jozef
Published: January 2013

Wind power has the potential to reduce emissions associated with conventional electricity generation. Using detailed, systemic hourly data of wind generation and emissions from plants in ERCOT (Texas), we empirically estimate the SO2, NOx and CO2 emissions offset by wind generation. Our estimation strategy implicitly captures both the marginal unit of generation displaced by wind on the electrical grid, and the marginal emissions reduction from that displaced unit. Our results also reveal substantial variation in emissions reductions, which appear to be strongly driven by differences in the generation mix. The environmental benefits from emissions reductions in ERCOT fail to cover government subsidies for wind generation.
Study of the Synthesis of Some Biginelli-type Products Catalyzed by Nano-ZrO2
Authors: Farhadi Asadollah , Takassi Mohammad Ali , Hejazi Leila
Published: January 2013

Nanoparticles of zirconium(IV) oxide catalyze the three-component coupling of aromatic aldehydes, b-diketones and urea to afford the correspo nding 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones (Biginelli compounds) in moderate to good yields under mild conditions.
Synthesis, Raman Spectrum and Single-Crystal Structure of CaBa8[CN2]6O2(N0.5H0.5)
Authors: Reckeweg Olaf , Schulz Armin , DiSalvo Francis J.
Published: January 2013

Colorless, transparent single crystals of CaBa8[CN2]6O2(N0.5H0.5) (R3̄ (no. 148), a = 996.94(4) and c = 1803.18(8) pm, Z = 3) were obtained by the reaction of Ca3N2, Ba2N and NaHCN2 (of which one of the latter two most likely was contaminated with some oxygen impurity) in arcwelded Nb ampoules at 1200 K. The title compound consists of distorted (H/N)Ba6 octahedra which share two of their opposite faces with OBa4 tetrahedra interconnected by [N=C=N]2- units of Ca(N=C=N)6 octahedra with C=N bond lengths of 121.9(6) and 124.3(6) pm and with a bond angle deviating from linearity with (N-C-N) = 175:9(5)°. A Raman spectrum obtained from the crystal used for the structure determination indicates the presence of the [N=C=N]2- unit.
Versatile Humanoid Robots for Theatrical Performances
Authors: Lin Chyi-Yeu , Cheng Li-Chieh , Huang Chun-Chia , Chuang Li-Wen , Teng Wei-Chung , Kuo Chung-Hsien , Gu Hung-Yan , Chung Kuo-Liang , Fahn Chin-Shyurng
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this research is to develop multi-talented humanoid robots, based on technologies featuring high-computing and control abilities, to perform onstage. It has been a worldwide trend in the last decade to apply robot technologies in theatrical performance. The more robot performers resemble human beings, the easier it becomes for the emotions of audiences to be bonded with robotic performances. Although all kinds of robots can be theatrical performers based on programs, humanoid robots are more advantageous for playing a wider range of characters because of their resemblance to human beings. Thus, developing theatrical humanoid robots is becoming very important in the field of the robot theatre. However, theatrical humanoid robots need to possess the same versatile abilities as their human counterparts, instead of merely posing or performing motion demonstrations onstage, otherwise audiences will easily become bored. The four theatrical robots developed for this research have successfully performed in a public performance and participated in five programs. All of them were approved by most audiences.
Impact of Functional Electrical Stimulation of Lower Limbs during Sitting Pivot Transfer Motion for Paraplegic People
Authors: Jovic Jovana , Lengagne Sébastien , Fraisse Philippe , Azevedo-Coste Christine
Published: January 2013

Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), perform Sitting Pivot Transfer (SPT) motion around fifteen times a day using upper extremities. It can lead to upper limbs pain and often shoulder complications. In this paper, we investigate the influence of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) on SPT motion of a paraplegic person. First, we proposed to develop a dynamic optimization method in order to predict SPT motion of an able-bodied subject. This approach has been validated by comparing the computed SPT trajectories with the ones measured during the experiment with an able-bodied subject. Then, we used the optimization tool to analyze the influence of FES on the SPT maneuver of paraplegic persons. Our results suggest that FES can decrease arm participation during the transfer motion of a paraplegic person.
Xpider: Design and Development of a Low Cost VTOL UAV Platform
Authors: Rincon Oscar Higuera , Durán Carlos E. Agüero
Published: January 2013

The main aim of the Xpider project is to analyse, design and develop a low-cost VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) platform in order to provide a common architectural model for both embedded software and GCS (Ground Control Station) software and communications system. This architectural model should be adaptable to any other hardware platforms or sensors. Some of the key points of the project were, on the one hand, the stabilization process using low-cost sensors and all the associated issues with low quality instruments, on the other hand the interface between the stabilization controller and the navigation controller, not forgetting the secure communication protocols. Additionally, as a side effect of the stabilization process analysis, a new metaheuristic optimization search algorithm has been developed to be used in PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) controllercalibration tuning and has been successfully applied in the stabilization controller.
Kinematics of Hex-Piderix - A Six-Legged Robot - Using Screw Theory
Authors: Sandoval-Castro Xochitl Yamile , Garcia-Murillo Mario , Perez-Resendiz Luis Alberto , Castillo-Castañeda Eduardo
Published: January 2013

In this paper the kinematic analysis of a six-legged robot, hereafter named Hex-piderix, is carried out. A three revolute (3R) chain has been chosen for each limb in order to mimic the leg structure of an insect. The rotation matrix, with unitary vectors, and the Denavit-Hartenberg (D-H) conventions are used to find the pose of the thorax. The problem of inverse position is solved by geometrical analysis. The direct and inverse infinitesimal kinematics are obtained by the reciprocal screw theory, considering a suction cup attached to each leg and modelling it as a UP linkage. A numerical example of the thorax pose was made by solving the equations obtained from the direct position analysis. The equations of the inverse position analysis were solved to obtain the angles of the joints. Finally, the velocity values of the thorax obtained from the infinitesimal kinematics were validated by simulating the movements of Hex-piderix using specialized software.
Robotherapy with Dementia Patients
Authors: Martín Francisco , Agüero Carlos E. , Cañas José M. , Valenti Meritxell , Martínez-Martín Pablo
Published: January 2013

Humanoids have increasingly become the focus of attention in robotics research in recent years, especially in service and personal assistance robotics. This paper presents the application developed for humanoid robots in the therapy of dementia patients as a cognitive stimulation tool. The behaviour of the robot during the therapy sessions is visually programmed in a session script that allows music to play, physical movements (dancing, exercises, etc.), speech synthesis and interaction with the human monitor. The application includes the control software on board the robot and some tools like the visual script generator or a monitor to supervise the robot behaviour during the sessions. The robot application's impact on the patient's health has been studied. Experiments with real patients have been performed in collaboration with a centre of research in neurodegenerative diseases. Initial results show a slight or mild improvement in neuropsychiatric symptoms over other traditional therapy methods.
Assembled Nanostructured Architectures Studied by Grazing Incidence X-Ray Scattering
Authors: Altamura Davide , Sibillano Teresa , Siliqi Dritan , Caro Liberato De , Giannini Cinzia
Published: January 2013

In this chapter, we will focus on a specific X-ray-based technique among those employed in surface science and which is especially suitable for the study of self-assembled nanocrystals: Grazing Incidence Small Angle X-ray Scattering (GISAXS). We will first introduce the main field of investigation considered herein, with basic notions of X-ray scattering from surfaces, and then address basic concepts about GISAXS. Finally, we will describe a few relevant examples of studies, of nanostructured architectures, through ex situ and in situ experiments of grazing incidence X-ray scattering. This manuscript is focused on the former, showing that they can be performed by using laboratory instruments. In situ investigations still need synchrotron radiation sources in most cases; therefore, only a few examples selected from the literature are reported here, for the sake of completeness. The experiments described are mainly performed in the small angle range, providing information on the size and shape of nanocrystals, together with their spatial arrangement. Both 2D and 3D architectures are considered. In particular, GISAXS measurements of 2D superlattices of nano-octapods, performed both at a third generation synchrotron beamline and with a table-top set-up, are compared; the employed table-top set-up is described in a dedicated paragraph. Further examples of grazing incidence studies as performed by the authors with a table-top set-up are reported: a GISAXS study of 3D iron oxide nanocrystal superlattices, showing the importance of modelling in order to obtain structural information from data; a combined small/wide angle scattering (GISAXS/GIWAXS) study of 3D PbS nanocrystal superlattices; and a GIWAXS study of P3HT nanofibres, showing how the ordering at the molecular and atomic length scales can be obtained by exploring different angular ranges in the same grazing incidence geometry. Finally, selected examples of in situ GISAXS studies, performed with synchrotron radiation sources, are described.
Photoreactive UV-Crosslinkable Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives Based on Butyl Acrylate and 4-Acryloyloxy Benzophenone Copolymers
Authors: Czech Zbigniew , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Kowalska Jagoda
Published: January 2013

It has been previously shown that copolymers synthesized from n-butyl acrylate and unsaturated photoinitiator 4-acryloyloxy benzophenone can be used as pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA). This paper presents synthesis and application of solvent-borne copolymer system for the preparation of photoreactive UV-crosslinkable acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesives comprising n-butyl acrylate/ benzophenone copolymers, characterized by molecular mass in the range of 180 000 to 480 000 Dalton. These copolymers were tacky but possessed insufficient cohesive strength after UV-crosslinking to be useful as PSA. They resulted in materials having a balance of cohesive and adhesive characteristics required of good PSA. Some of the parameters affecting the pressure-sensitive adhesive properties of the copolymer are: amount of the 4-acryloyloxy benzophenone, molecular mass of the polymeric components, UV-reactivity and properties, such as tack, peel adhesion and shear strength.
Thermal Stability and Rheological Properties of Polyethylene (PE)/Polyvinylchloride (PVC)/Wood Composites
Authors: Wang Xing , Yang Bin , Xia Ru , Miao Ji-Bin , Qian Jia-Sheng , Chen Peng , Deng Shuang-Quan
Published: January 2013

This paper investigated the thermorheological properties, thermal properties and flame retardant properties of wood-plastic composites (WPCs). With the addition of wood flour (WF), the rheological behavior became complexity. The critical frequency of shear-thinning phenomenon of the melt viscosity was shifted toward lower value. The temperature dependence of elastic modulus, loss modulus became more serious with the addition of WF. The Cole-Cole plot indicated the existence of complex multi-phase structure in the WPC melt. The CONE calorimetry results showed that ammonium polyphosphate (APP) had good flame retardancy through promoting the formation of the intumescent carbon layer. The present study will supply good insight into the optimization of WPC formulation.
Effect of Euphorbia Coagulum on Flexural Property of Polyester Banana Fiber Composite
Authors: Rai Bhuvneshwar , Kumar Gulshan , Diwan Rajinder K.
Published: January 2013

Presently composites are being made using either both the binder and the reinforcing fibers are synthetic or either one of the material is natural or synthetic. In the present study coagulum (dried latex) of Euphorbia royleana has been used for replacing polyester resin as a natural binder in polyester banana fiber composite. The influence of addition of different weight fraction of the coagulum n flexural property in the composite is studied. It was observed that with the increase in the coagulum fraction in matrix, the flexural property of the polyester banana fiber composite increases. The flexural strength increased by 25% and flexural modulus by 15% at 40% of coagulum weight fraction. This study presents the possibility of preparation of composites using coagulum of Euphorbia latex. The developed composite may be used in partition walls, roof tiles, interior linings of automobiles, etc as wood substitute.
Utricularia subulata L. (Lentibulariaceae): a new weed record of an Australian native for New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Jobson Richard W. , Conn Barry
Published: January 2013

Utricularia subulata L., commonly called the zig-zag bladderwort because of its flexuose inflorescence axis, is reported as a new naturalised record for New South Wales and has been collected in the Central Coast and South Coast bioregions. The full extent of the New South Wales distribution is not yet known. This is a mainly pan-tropical species that occurs naturally in northern tropical regions of Australia.
Engineering of Graphene Layer Orientation to Attain High Rate Capability and Anisotropic Properties in Li‐Ion Battery Electrodes
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Amartya , Guo Fei , Tokranov Anton , Xiao Xingcheng , Hurt Robert H. , Sheldon Brian W.
Published: January 2013

Novel carbon films with different graphene layer orientations are investigated as electrode materials for Li‐ion batteries. It is demonstrated that engineering the crystallographic orientation with graphene layers oriented perpendicular to the surface substantially alters stress evolution during Li insertion. With this crystallographic orientation the intercalating/de‐intercalating Li‐ions also have direct access to the graphene interlayer spaces, resulting in higher capacity at faster electrochemical cycling, compared to carbon films with graphene layers parallel to the film surface. Electrodes with perpendicular alignment are prepared by supramolecular synthesis using either spin coating or bar coating of chromonic liquid crystal precursors into precursor organic films followed by in situ carbonization. These materials are compared with in situ stress measurements during lithiation/delithiation cycles, and the bar‐coated films exhibit a highly anisotropic stress which is consistent with long‐range alignment of the graphene layers. In contrast, the in‐plane stresses in the spin‐coated films are isotropic, which is consistent with the presence of randomly oriented domains (still with graphene layers oriented perpendicular to the surface). Overall, the use of thin film graphitic materials with controlled crystallographic orientations provides a valuable platform for investigating the impact of graphene structure on the properties of Li‐ion battery electrode materials.
Efficiency Enhancement of Organic Solar Cells by Using Shape‐Dependent Broadband Plasmonic Absorption in Metallic Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Xuanhua , Choy Wallace Chik Ho , Lu Haifei , Sha Wei E. I. , Ho Aaron Ho Pui
Published: January 2013

It is been widely reported that plasmonic effects in metallic nanomaterials can enhance light trapping in organix solar cells (OSCs). However, typical nanoparticles (NP) of high quality (i.e., mono‐dispersive) only possess a single resonant absorption peak, which inevitably limits the power conversion efficiency (PCE) enhancement to a narrow spectral range. Broadband plasmonic absorption is obviously highly desirable. In this paper, a combination of Ag nanomaterials of different shapes, including nanoparticles and nanoprisms, is proposed for this purpose. The nanomaterials are synthesized using a simple wet chemical method. Theoretical and experimental studies show that the origin of the observed PCE enhancement is the simultaneous excitation of many plasmonic low‐ and high‐order resonances modes, which are material‐, shape‐, size‐, and polarization‐dependent. Particularly for the Ag nanoprisms studied here, the high‐order resonances result in higher contribution than low‐order resonances to the absorption enhancement of OSCs through an improved overlap with the active material absorption spectrum. With the incorporation of the mixed nanomaterials into the active layer, a wide‐band absorption improvement is demonstrated and the short‐circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) improves by 17.91%. Finally, PCE is enhanced by 19.44% as compared to pre‐optimized control OSCs. These results suggest a new approach to achieve higher overall enhancement through improving broadband absorption.
Nanoscale Flexoelectricity
Authors: Nguyen Thanh D. , Mao Sheng , Yeh Yao‐Wen , Purohit Prashant K. , McAlpine Michael C.
Published: January 2013

Electromechanical effects are ubiquitous in biological and materials systems. Understanding the fundamentals of these coupling phenomena is critical to devising next‐generation electromechanical transducers. Piezoelectricity has been studied in detail, in both the bulk and at mesoscopic scales. Recently, an increasing amount of attention has been paid to flexoelectricity: electrical polarization induced by a strain gradient. While piezoelectricity requires crystalline structures with no inversion symmetry, flexoelectricity does not carry this requirement, since the effect is caused by inhomogeneous strains. Flexoelectricity explains many interesting electromechanical behaviors in hard crystalline materials and underpins core mechanoelectric transduction phenomena in soft biomaterials. Most excitingly, flexoelectricity is a size‐dependent effect which becomes more significant in nanoscale systems. With increasing interest in nanoscale and nano‐bio hybrid materials, flexoelectricity will continue to gain prominence. This Review summarizes work in this area. First, methods to amplify or manipulate the flexoelectric effect to enhance material properties will be investigated, particularly at nanometer scales. Next, the nature and history of these effects in soft biomaterials will be explored. Finally, some theoretical interpretations for the effect will be presented. Overall, flexoelectricity represents an exciting phenomenon which is expected to become more considerable as materials continue to shrink.
Experimental and Simulation on Enantioselective Extraction in Centrifugal Contactor Separators
Authors: Tang Kewen , Zhang Hui , Liu Yongbing
Published: January 2013

The increasing demand for optically pure compounds stimulates the development of new chiral separation processes on an industrial scale. The enantioselective liquid–liquid extraction (ELLE) of phenylsuccinic acid (PSA) enantiomers using hydrophilic hydroxyphenyl‐β‐CD as extractant (C) was studied experimentally in a countercurrent cascade of 10 centrifugal contactor separators at 293 K. Based on a single‐stage equilibrium model and the law of conservation of mass, a multistage equilibrium model of ELLE was developed to investigate the influence of changes in the process parameterssuch as phase ratios and concentrations on extraction efficiency. The multistage equilibrium model was verified experimentally with a good agreement. The model was applied to predict the symmetrical separation of PSA enantiomers. By modeling, optimal process parameters for the symmetrical separation of PSA enantiomers can beachieved. The minimum number of stages was determined at 22 and 24 for eeeq>98% and eeeq>99%, respectively. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2594–2602, 2013
High yield production and purification of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Wang Jianjian , Ren Jiawen , Liu Xiaohui , Lu Guanzhong , Wang Yanqin
Published: January 2013

Conversion of carbohydrates to 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) will provide a new step toward achieving renewable biomass‐based chemicals and fuels platform. Recently, the excellent yield of HMF (91.0%) in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) catalyzed by sulfonated carbon was demonstrated, but the separation of HMF from the reaction mixture remains challenging because of the high boiling point of DMSO. As a solution, herein, low boiling point solvent tetrahydrofuran (THF) mixed with DMSO was used for the fructose dehydration and high yield of HMF (98.0%) was still obtained. Besides, the stability of the sulfonated carbonaceous catalyst was also confirmed. More importantly, HMF from the reaction solution was successfully separated by using simple extraction method, and high purity of HMF (ca. 96.4%) was obtained. Compared with pure DMSO solvent, the combination of low boiling point THF with DMSO not only gives higher yield of HMF, but also improves the separation efficiency and reduces environmental risk. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2558–2566, 2013
Prediction of particle charging in a dilute pneumatic conveying system
Authors: Bunchatheeravate Poom , Curtis Jennifer , Fujii Yusuke , Matsusaka Shuji
Published: January 2013

When particles are transported in pipelines, they acquire electrostatic charges as they come into contact with the pipe wall. Charged particles can cause problems such as particle agglomeration, blockage, and explosion. Understanding the particle charge can help to prevent these issues. This study investigates a technique for predicting the particle charge in a straight pipe of any given length, as well as the pipe length at which electrostatic equilibrium occurs, through experimentation in a short 1‐m pipe section. Experimentation with five different types of particles and four pipe wall materials at longer pipe lengths were used to validate the technique. This predictive technique is applicable to a range of particle shapes and sizes under the restriction that charge transfer is due to impact charging. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2308–2316, 2013
A novel phenotype characterized by digital abnormalities, intellectual disability, and short stature in a Mexican family maps to Xp11.4–p11.21
Authors: Barboza‐Cerda María C. , Campos‐Acevedo Luis D. , Rangel Roberto , Martínez‐de‐Villarreal Laura E. , Déctor Miguel A.
Published: January 2013

The family observed in this study included affected males and asymptomatic females. The patients shared specific digital abnormalities including postaxial polydactyly, cutaneous syndactyly, and brachydactyly. In addition, the patients exhibited mild‐to‐moderate intellectual disability and short stature coupled with microbrachycephaly, scoliosis, and cerebellar and renal hypoplasia. No chromosomal alterations or copy number variations were found in the index case. The genetic linkage analysis, which focused on the X chromosome, and the haplotype analysis detected a ∼15.74 Mb candidate region located at Xp11.4–p11.21 with a LOD score of 4.8. Additionally, half of the mothers showed skewed X‐inactivation, while the other mothers exhibited random inactivation patterns. The candidate region includes 28 protein‐encoding genes that have not yet been implicated in human disorders. We speculate that the observed phenotype is compatible with a monogenic disorder in which the mutant gene plays a significant role during embryonic development. Based on the patients' clinical features, image studies, pedigree, chromosome location, and X‐inactivation studies in the mothers, we propose that this family has a novel, specific syndrome with an X‐linked recessive mode of inheritance. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Maternal attitudes to newborn screening for fragile X syndrome
Authors: Christie Louise , Wotton Tiffany , Bennetts Bruce , Wiley Veronica , Wilcken Bridget , Rogers Carolyn , Boyle Jackie , Turner Catherine , Hansen Jessica , Hunter Matthew , Goel Himanshu , Field Michael
Published: January 2013

Although fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the commonest cause of inherited intellectual disability the mean age of diagnosis in Australia is 5.5 years. Newborn screening for FXS can provide an early diagnosis, preventing the “diagnostic odyssey”, allowing access to early interventions, and providing reproductive information for parents. Parents of affected children support newborn screening, but few clinical studies have evaluated community attitudes. A pilot study in 2009–2010 was performed in a tertiary hospital to explore feasibility and maternal attitudes. FXS testing of male and female newborns was offered to mothers in addition to routine newborn screening. Mothers were provided with information about FXS, inheritance pattern, carrier status, and associated adult‐onset disorders. One thousand nine hundred seventy‐one of 2,094 mothers (94%) consented to testing of 2,000 newborns. 86% completed the attitudinal survey and 10% provided written comments. Almost all parents (99%) elected to be informed of both premutation and full mutation status and there was little concern about identification of carrier status or associated adult‐onset disorders. Most mothers (96%) were comfortable being approached in the postnatal period and supported testing because no extra blood test was required. Mothers considered an early diagnosis beneficial to help prepare for a child with additional needs (93%) and for reproductive planning (64%). Some were anxious about the potential test results (10%) and others felt their feelings towards their newborn may change if diagnosed with FXS (16%). High participation rates and maternal attitudes indicate a high level of maternal acceptance and voluntary support for newborn screening for FXS. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mitochondrial Diversity and Distribution of African Green Monkeys (Chlorocebus Gray, 1870)
Authors: HAUS TANJA , AKOM EMMANUEL , AGWANDA BERNARD , HOFREITER MICHAEL , ROOS CHRISTIAN , ZINNER DIETMAR
Published: January 2013

African green monkeys (Chlorocebus) represent a widely distributed and morphologically diverse primate genus in sub‐Saharan Africa. Little attention has been paid to their genetic diversity and phylogeny. Based on morphological data, six species are currently recognized, but their taxonomy remains disputed. Here, we aim to characterize the mitochondrial (mt) DNA diversity, biogeography and phylogeny of African green monkeys. We analyzed the complete mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of 126 samples using feces from wild individuals and material from zoo and museum specimens with clear geographical provenance, including several type specimens. We found evidence for nine major mtDNA clades that reflect geographic distributions rather than taxa, implying that the mtDNA diversity of African green monkeys does not conform to existing taxonomic classifications. Phylogenetic relationships among clades could not be resolved suggesting a rapid early divergence of lineages. Several discordances between mtDNA and phenotype indicate that hybridization may have occurred in contact zones among species, including the threatened Bale monkey (Chlorocebus djamdjamensis). Our results provide both valuable data on African green monkeys’ genetic diversity and evolution and a basis for further molecular studies on this genus. Am. J. Primatol. 75:350‐360, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnostic characteristics of sinonasal organizing hematomas: avoiding misdiagnosis
Authors: Wu Arthur W. , Ting Jonathan Y. , Borgie Roderick C. , Busaba Nicolas Y. , Sadow Peter M. , Juliano Amy F. , Gray Stacey T. , Holbrook Eric H.
Published: January 2013

Background

Organizing hematomas of the paranasal sinuses are diagnostic dilemmas clinically and radiographically, mimicking benign or malignant neoplastic processes and causing patients and clinicians undue worry regarding these diagnoses. Diagnostic criteria for correctly identifying these lesions are not well known.

Methods

A retrospective case series of 7 patients with sinonasal organizing hematoma was studied. Radiographic imaging, clinical characteristics, and pathology were reviewed for new insights.

Results

Three patients presented with a primary complaint of epistaxis, 4 had masses visible on nasal endoscopy, and 2 had vascular malformations or small hemangiomas adjacent to the mass found on final pathology. Biopsy of these masses were consistently nondiagnostic prior to complete resection. The most diagnostic findings were “shells” of T2 hypointensity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) surrounding the lobules of each of the masses. These correspond to rims of fibrosis at the periphery of the lobules on pathology. Areas of fresh hemorrhage are located at the center of these lobules.

Conclusion

Sinonasal organizing hematomas are rare lesions of the paranasal sinuses whose clinical characteristics lead to misdiagnoses of benign or malignant neoplasms. Endoscopy, preoperative biopsy, and computed tomography (CT) imaging do not lend helpful information in differentiating these lesions from more worrisome neoplastic processes. However, MRI can lead to positive diagnosis by recognizing the distinct outer rims of T2 hypointensity typically seen in these lesions.
Keimbildung organischer Kristalle aus molekularer Sichtweise
Authors: Davey Roger J. , Schroeder Sven L. M. , ter Horst Joop H.
Published: January 2013

Das Produkt der Synthese kristalliner organischer Materialien hängt stark von den ersten Schritten des molekularen Selbstorganisationswegs ab, ein Vorgang, den wir als Keimbildung von Kristallen kennen. Die Entwicklung neuer experimenteller und rechnerischer Verfahren hat zu verstärktem Interesse an der Aufklärung der molekularen Mechanismen geführt, durch die Keime entstehen und sich zu makroskopischen Kristallen entwickeln. Die Kinetik der beteiligten Vorgänge wird gut von der klassischen Keimbildungstheorie (“classical nucleation theory”, CNT) beschrieben, neu vorgeschlagene Keimbildungstheorien betrachten zusätzlich die Entwicklung der Struktur und die Konkurrenzsituation bei der Kristallisation polymorpher Systeme. Dieser Aufsatz diskutiert, wie weit die CNT und Messungen der Keimbildungsrate Informationen über diese Vorgänge auf molekularer Ebene liefern können, und fasst das aktuelle Wissen über die molekulare Selbstorganisation in keimbildenden Systemen zusammen.
Highly Fluorescent Semiconducting Polymer Dots for Biology and Medicine
Authors: Wu Changfeng , Chiu Daniel T.
Published: January 2013

In recent years, semiconducting polymer nanoparticles have attracted considerable attention because of their outstanding characteristics as fluorescent probes. These nanoparticles, which primarily consist of π‐conjugated polymers and are called polymer dots (Pdots) when they exhibit small particle size and high brightness, have demonstrated utility in a wide range of applications such as fluorescence imaging and biosensing. In this review, we summarize recent findings of the photophysical properties of Pdots which speak to the merits of these entities as fluorescent labels. This review also highlights the surface functionalization and biomolecular conjugation of Pdots, and their applications in cellular labeling, in vivo imaging, single‐particle tracking, biosensing, and drug delivery. We discuss the relationship between the physical properties and performance, and evaluate the merits and limitations of the Pdot probes for certain imaging tasks and fluorescence assays. We also tackle the current challenges of Pdots and share our perspective on the future directions of the field.