bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insect Prey Foraging Strategies inCallicebus oenanthein NorthernPeru
Authors: DELUYCKER* ANNEKE M.
Published: February 2012

Titi monkeys (genusCallicebus) are small‐bodied platyrrhines that supplement their predominantly frugivorous diet with variable amounts of leaves, seeds, and/or arthropod prey. Notable interspecific variation in the amount of insect prey in the diet has been observed inCallicebus, ranging from 0% to 20%. In this study, I investigate the degree and type of prey foraging in a little‐known species,Callicebus oenantheinhabiting a fragmented, secondary forest on the foothills of theAndes in northernPeru. I present data on prey type, prey search and capture techniques, substrate/vegetation use, foraging height, prey capture efficiency, and seasonal variation of insect prey foraging in one group ofC. oenantheobserved from January to August 2005. Insect prey accounted for 22% of the diet, the highest amount reported for anyCallicebusspecies to date, and insects from at least six different orders were included.C. oenanthewas mainly an investigative forager of hidden prey, manipulating easy‐to‐open substrates such as rolled up leaves, and hunted ant swarms and larger insects opportunistically. Insect foraging was predominant during the dry season (26%) and decreased during the wet season (13%). The study group foraged mostly in the understory (2–6 m) within vine‐laden shrubs and trees, which may conform to an anti‐predator strategy of crypticity. Overall the group had an 83% insect capture success rate. These data suggest that insect prey is an important part of the diet ofC. oenantheand may be especially notable during periods of resource scarcity. This study adds to the knowledge concerning insect prey foraging inCallicebus, which can have an important role in defining ecological strategies in the selection of secondary protein food resources within a given ecosystem. Am. J. Primatol. 74:450‐461, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spin excitations in Co2NiGa under pressure from a theoretical approach
Authors: Olivos E. , Miranda A.L. , Singh N. , Arroyave R. , Romero A.H.
Published: February 2012

The Heisenberg exchange parameters for the Heusler compound Co2NiGa with L21 structure were calculated using the Korringa–Kohn–Rostoker method and by employing the magnetic‐force theorem to obtain the total energy changes associated with the local rotation of magnetization direction. The crystal structure was subjected to pressure and the corresponding dependence of the magnetic exchange couplings were determined. Curie temperatures obtained by applying mean field theory (MFT) reveals a slightly nonlinear decrease with pressure and it is related to the changes of the magnetic moment and the electronic density of states. Further investigation of the pressure dependence of the Curie temperature and magnetization suggests that this particular compound is a weak itinerant ferromagnet. Analysis of the magnetic properties of the Co2NiGa compound using Monte Carlo simulations reveals a significant effect of pressure on the magnetization and magnetic susceptibility of the structure. The spin dynamics was modeled by applying the Landau‐Lifshitz‐Ginzburg equation to a Heisenberg Hamiltonian. The magnon spectra along the [100] direction is obtained through the Fourier transform of the dynamic correlation function for the predefined set of exchange parameters and pressure. We find a large dependence of the magnon dispersion relation with pressure and in particular of the magnetic excitations gap.
Processing, structure, and properties of multiwalled carbon nanotube/poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐valerate) biopolymer nanocomposites
Authors: Ma Yanxuan , Zheng Yudong , Wei Guangye , Song Wenhui , Hu Te , Yang Huai , Xue Rundong
Published: February 2012

Biopolymer nanocomposites of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which reinforced poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐valerate) (PHBV) were developed. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes were modified by an acid oxidation treatment (A‐MWCNTs) to improve their dispersal in the polymer. The thermal properties, crystallization behavior, microstructure, and cross‐sectional morphology of the composites were investigated. Their mechanical properties and surface contact angles were tested. The cytotoxicity of the composites to murine fibroblast L929 cells was also evaluated. The results show that A‐MWCNTs are homogeneously dispersed in PHBV which demonstrate strong heterogeneous nucleation on the dynamics and kinetics of crystallization of PHBV. With the addition of A‐MWCNTs, the crystallization temperature, heat of crystallization, and thermal stability of the composites increase. Consequently, the mechanical properties of the composites have been substantially improved. The composites become hydrophilic and have no obvious toxicity to the murine fibroblast L929 cells when the content of A‐MWCNTs is below 1.5 wt %. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Removal of toxic metal ions by using composite cation‐exchange material
Authors: Nabi S. A. , Bushra Rani , Shahadat Mohammad
Published: February 2012

Polyanilinezirconium(IV) arsenate composite cation exchange material was synthesized under different experimental conditions by the incorporation of polyaniline into the matrices of inorganic precipitate (zirconium(IV)arsenate). The experimental parameters such as concentration, mixing volume ratio, and pH were established for the synthesis of the material. Ion‐exchange material that was synthesized at pH 1.0 showed an ion exchange capacity of 1.33 meq g−1 for Na+ ions. The composite material exhibits improved ion‐exchange capacity along with chemical and thermal stability. The exchanger was characterized based on FTIR, TGA, XRD, and SEM analysis. The X‐ray diffraction study shows semi‐crystalline nature of the material. The distribution coefficient studies (Kd) of metal ions on the material were performed in diverse solvent systems. Based on Kd values the material was found to be selective for Pb(II) and Hg(II) ions. Some analytically important binary separations of metal ions in synthetic mixtures viz. Ba2+‐Pb2+, Pb2+‐Ni2+, Cd2+‐Hg2+, Ni2+‐Hg2+, Zn2+‐Pb2+, Ca2+‐Bi3+, Al3+‐Hg2+, and Ca2+‐Pb2+ were achieved on the columns of polyanilinezirconium(IV) arsenate cation exchanger. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Adsorption recovery of rhodium(III) in acidic chloride solutions by amine‐modified tannin gel
Authors: Morisada Shintaro , Rin Tetsuzen , Ogata Takeshi , Kim Yoen‐Ho , Nakano Yoshio
Published: February 2012

A tannin gel (TG), synthesized from condensed tannin molecules, has the remarkable ability to adsorb various metal ions in aqueous solutions. In the present study, the adsorption behavior of rhodium ion [Rh(III)] in acidic chloride solutions was investigated using an amine‐modified tannin gel (ATG) prepared by the ammonia treatment of a TG. The ATG was able to adsorb Rh(III) in strong hydrochloric acid solutions, whereas the TG failed to adsorb it. This is because the amino group in the ATG can form a stable complex with Rh(III) compared to the hydroxy group. With increasing chloride ion concentration, the adsorption amount of Rh(III) onto the ATG decreased somewhat, while the number of chloride ligands in the Rh(III) complex was expected to increase. This suggests that the Rh(III) complexes with fewer chloride ligands are more favorable for adsorption onto the ATG. Also, the Rh(III) adsorbability of the ATG decreased significantly with decreasing initial pH because of the protonation of the hydroxy and amino groups in the ATG. The results obtained here indicate that in the Rh(III) adsorption onto the ATG, the solution pH is more influential than the chloride ion concentration. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Thermal energy storage by poly(styrene‐co‐p‐stearoylstyrene) copolymers produced by the modification of polystyrene
Authors: Alkan Cemil , Sarı Ahmet , Biçer Alper
Published: February 2012

A series of poly(styrene‐co‐p‐stearoyl styrene) copolymers as novel polymeric solid–solid phase‐change materials (SSPCMs) were synthesized by the modification of polystyrene with stearoyl chloride. The chemical structure and crystalline morphology of the synthesized copolymers were determined with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and polarized optical microscopy, respectively. The thermal energy storage properties and thermal stability of the SSPCMs were investigated with differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the SSPCMs was measured with a thermal property analyzer. Moreover, thermal cycling tests showed that the copolymers had good thermal reliability and chemical stability after being subjected to 5000 heating/cooling cycles. The synthesized poly(styrene‐co‐stearoyl styrene) copolymers as novel SSPCMs have considerable potential for thermal energy storage and temperature‐control applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Repeat percutaneous coronary revascularization: Indications and outcomes in a “Real World” cohort
Authors: Adlam David , Evans Nicholas , Malhotra Aneil , Midha Disha , Rowley Felicity , Hutchings David , Shin Mirae , Mole Guy , Stockenhuber Alexander , Lumb Mark , Wordsworth Jonathan , Frantal Sophie , Forfar J. Colin
Published: February 2012

Objectives: To investigate rates of and reasons for second and subsequent stent procedures in an unselected, “real‐world” population. Background: Repeat stenting is the primary difference reported in clinical trials of alternative revascularization strategies. The incidence, indication, and outcome for repeat stenting in contemporary practice outside the more selective populations of trials and registries has not been described. Method: All patients undergoing a first percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedure with stenting from January 2001 to August 2009 (10,509) from a large UK tertiary referral and district general hospital were identified. Mortality and the incidence, timing, and indication for repeat revascularization in this population were investigated from patient records. Results: Of 10,509 patients undergoing a first PCI and stent implant 23.5% underwent repeat angiography of which 11.2% required repeat PCI and 2% coronary artery bypass grafting (median follow‐up of 3.8 years). A total of 1.3% went on to a third PCI. The commonest indication for repeat stenting was disease progression remote from the original stent (46%) and planned staged PCI (23%); 21% had a stent‐related indication. Functional assessment before repeat stenting was used in one‐third of stable patients. Mortality was 2.5% per annum. Conclusions: In contemporary practice, patients undergoing a first stenting procedure have a low subsequent mortality, and the substantial majority (86.4%) requires no further revascularization over a median 3.8 year follow‐up. For those who do require repeat stenting, this is most commonly at a site remote from the first stent. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alcohol septal ablation after transaortic valve implantation: The dynamic nature of left outflow tract obstruction
Authors: Sorajja Paul , Booker Jeff D. , Rihal Charanjit S.
Published: February 2012

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a less invasive and potentially high efficacious procedure for the treatment of high‐risk patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis. Appropriate patient selection for TAVI is a key component to ultimate clinical success. Herein, we describe a patient with left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction that became apparent only following relief of aortic stenosis with TAVI. This report highlights the dynamic nature of LVOT obstruction, which was successfully treated in our patient with catheter‐based alcohol septal ablation. The potential to unmask dynamic LVOT obstruction with TAVI should be an important consideration in patient selection for the procedure, and the postoperative assessment of these patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CO2 Separation by Carbonate Looping Including Additional Power Generation with a CO2‐H2O Steam Turbine
Authors: Strelow M. , Schlitzberger C. , Röder F. , Magda S. , Leithner R.
Published: February 2012

Usually the separation of CO2 from the flue gas in power plants is connected with high efficiency losses, independent of separation technology. The reason is that the separation processes of the pre‐ or post‐combustion capture or using an oxy‐fuel process as proposed today result in additional energy consumption. But there are also sorbents, e.g., lime, that form carbonates and release heat at a temperature level of about 600 °C and will be calcinated at higher temperatures (about 900 °C). Integration of these processes in the design of a conventional power plant and production of additional power output by integration of another Rankine cycle using the separated CO2 and steam minimizes efficiency losses. The simulation and the results of such a CO2 capture process are described in this paper.
Development and Testing of an Interconnected Fluidized‐Bed System for Chemical Looping Combustion
Authors: Ding N. , Zheng Y. , Wang W. R. , Luo C. , Fu P. F. , Zheng C. G.
Published: February 2012

Chemical looping combustion (CLC) is a novel combustion method for CO2 capture. A cold model of an interconnected fluidized‐bed system for CLC was designed and operated, in which the loop seal was used to balance the pressure difference and prevent gas mixing between the fuel reactor (FR) and air reactor (AR). The effects of the operating parameters on solid circulation rate, pressure profiles, and solid distribution are investigated. The experimental results indicate that high solid circulation rates between the FR and AR can be achieved and provide a wide range of stable operating conditions. No gas leakages between the FR and AR are detected. The suitable operating conditions are optimized for the cold model of CLC which could pave the way for further design, improvement, and operation of the hot prototype.
Meilenstein Salicylsäuresynthese
Authors: Kleemann Axel , Offermanns Heribert
Published: February 2012

In frühchristlicher Zeit wurden Bemühungen, Krankheiten zu heilen häufig als Eingriff in die göttliche Schöpfung, ja als Gotteslästerungen eingestuft (“Pfuscht dem Herrgott nicht ins Handwerk!” [9]). Der Mensch hat aber gelernt, Krankheiten nicht als gottgegeben hinzunehmen, sondern zu bekämpfen. Über Tausende von Jahren standen der Heilkunde aber nur die Schätze der Natur (Heilpflanzen, tierische Produkte und anorganische Stoffe) zur Verfügung. Erst zu Anfang des 19. Jahrhunderts gelang es, aus den Stoffgemischen der Drogen reine Naturstoffe zu isolieren, zu charakterisieren sowie sie zur Optimierung von Verträglichkeit und Resorption durch Partialsynthese zu modifizieren und therapeutisch zu nutzen. Am 2. Januar 1874 schlug die Geburtsstunde der industriellen chemischen Wirkstoffsynthese und die Wiege stand in der Villa Adolpha in Dresden, wo Hermann Kolbe und seine Schüler Rudolph Schmitt und Friedrich von Heyden den Wirkstoff Salicylsäure, der bis dahin nur aus Weidenrinde oder der Spirapflanze gewonnen werden konnte, mit rein chemischen Methoden synthetisierten. Heute kann man sowohl alle Naturstoffe durch Totalsynthese gewinnen als auch am “Reißbrett” konzipierte Moleküle synthetisieren. Bio‐ und Gentechnologie erweitern heute die Möglichkeiten, neue Therapeutika zu gewinnen.
Mehr als nur ein Längenrekord
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: February 2012

Einen neuen Längenrekord für Kohlenstoffbindungen in Alkanen hat Peter Schreiner aus Gießen aufgestellt. Vor allem aber belegt er, wie wichtig der Anteil anziehender intramolekularer Wechselwirkungen für die Stabilität eines Moleküls ist.
Coordination Environment of Highly Concentrated Solutions of CuII in Ionic Liquids through a Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Caporali Stefano , Chiappe Cinzia , Ghilardi Tiziana , Pomelli Christian Silvio , Pinzino Calogero
Published: February 2012

The coordination environment around CuII in highly concentrated solutions of copper(II) salts (CuCl2 and Cu(Tf2N)2) in two pure ionic liquids bearing the same anion, namely, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([bmim][Tf2N]) and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([bmim]Cl), is investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV/Vis spectroscopy, EPR spectroscopy and DFT calculations. Moreover, the electrochemical behavior of these mixtures is studied. Whereas reversible reduction of CuII to copper metal can be observed in the 1:1 [bmim][Tf2N]:Cu(Tf2N)2 solution, 2:1 and 1:1 [bmim]Cl:CuCl2 mixtures showed one‐electron reduction of CuII to CuI with formation of a permanent deposit of CuCl. XPS, UV/Vis and EPR spectra as well as DFT calculations suggest the formation in [bmim]Cl of dynamic coordination complexes arising from the interaction between CuCl2 and [bmim]+Cl− . The two long‐lived situations are probably trigonal and deformed tetrahedral copper(II) chloride coordination complexes ([CuCl3]− and [CuCl4]2−, respectively).
Protein kinase D isoforms are dispensable for integrin‐mediated lymphocyte adhesion and homing to lymphoid tissues
Authors: Matthews Sharon A. , San Lek Hwee , Morrison Vicky L. , Mackenzie Matthew G. , Zarrouk Marouan , Cantrell Doreen , Fagerholm Susanna C.
Published: February 2012

Leukocyte function‐associated antigen‐1 (LFA‐1) and very late antigen‐4 (VLA‐4) integrins are essential for lymphocyte adhesion, trafficking and effector functions. Protein kinase D (PKD) has previously been implicated in lymphocyte integrin regulation through regulation of Rap1 activity. However, the true role of PKD in integrin regulation in primary lymphocytes has not previously been investigated. The major PKD isoform in lymphocytes is PKD2. Here we employed PKD2‐deficient mice, a specific PKD kinase inhibitor, as well as PKD‐null DT40 B cells to investigate the role of PKD in integrin regulation in lymphocytes. We report that PKD2‐deficient lymphocytes bound normally to integrin ligands in static and shear flow adhesion assays. They also homed normally to lymphoid organs after adoptive transfer into wild‐type mice. DT40 B cells devoid of any PKD isoforms and primary lymphocytes pretreated with a specific PKD inhibitor bound normally to integrin ligands, indicating that multiple PKD isoforms do not redundantly regulate lymphocyte integrins. In addition, PKD2‐deficient lymphocytes, as well as DT40 cells devoid of any PKD isoforms, could activate Rap1 in response to B‐cell receptor ligation or phorbol ester treatment. Together, these results show that the PKD family does not play a critical role in lymphocyte integrin‐mediated cell adhesion or lymphocyte trafficking in vivo.
PTA‐Stabilized Ruthenium and Platinum Nanoparticles: Characterization and Investigation in Aqueous Biphasic Hydrogenation Catalysis
Authors: Debouttière Pierre‐Jean , Coppel Yannick , Denicourt‐Nowicki Audrey , Roucoux Alain , Chaudret Bruno , Philippot Karine
Published: February 2012

Very small ruthenium and platinum nanoparticles have been prepared from organometallic complexes by using 1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane (PTA) as stabilizer, which allowed their easy dispersion into water. These nanoparticles were fully characterized by different techniques. In particular, the coordination of PTA to the surfaces of the particles was studied by NMR spectroscopy. The potential of these nanoparticles as catalysts was investigated in aqueous biphasic catalysis; olefins and arene derivatives were hydrogenated under mild conditions of temperature and pressure with interesting conversions and selectivities despite the change of environment they underwent after their dissolution in water.
Conjugation to Biocompatible Dendrimers Increases Lanthanide T2 Relaxivity of Hydroxypyridinone Complexes for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Klemm Piper J. , Floyd III William C. , Andolina Christopher M. , Fréchet Jean M. J. , Raymond Kenneth N.
Published: February 2012

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents represent a worldwide billion‐dollar market annually. While T1 relaxivity enhancement contrast agents receive greater attention and a significantly larger market share, the commercial potential for T2 relaxivity enhancing contrast agents remains a viable diagnostic option because of their increased relaxivity at high field strengths. Improvement of the contrast and biocompatibility of T2 MRI probes may enable new diagnostic prospects for MRI. Paramagnetic lanthanides have the potential to decrease T1 and T2 proton relaxation times, but are not commercially used in MRI diagnostics as T2 agents. In this article, oxygen donor chelates (hydroxypyridinone, HOPO, and terephthalamide, TAM) of various lanthanides are demonstrated as biocompatible macromolecular dendrimer conjugates for the development of T2 MRI probes. These conjugates have relaxivities of up to 374 mM–1 s–1 per dendrimer, high bioavailability, and low in vitro toxicity.
Synthesis of a Photochromic Fused 2H‐Chromene Capable of Generating a Single Coloured Species
Authors: Sousa Céu M. , Pina João , Seixas de Melo João , Berthet Jerome , Delbaere Stephanie , Coelho Paulo J.
Published: February 2012

A new photochromic fused 2H‐chromene that has a dehydropyran bridge between the pyran double bond and the benzene ring was prepared. Unlike standard 2H‐chromenes that give rise to two coloured species (one short‐ and one long‐lived) under UV irradiation, flash photolysis studies on this particular 2H‐chromene show that the opening of the pyran ring led to the formation of a single, coloured, open species that bleaches to the uncoloured initial form in <1 ms. The design of this fused 2H‐chromene avoids the formation of the undesirable long‐lived, transoid–trans, coloured, open form; therefore, the colour fades very quickly, according to monoexponential kinetics, without the persistence of any residual colour commonly observed in 2H‐chromenes. Acid treatment of 4‐[(ethoxycarbonyl)methyl]‐2H‐chromenes led to the formation of lactones.
Asymmetric Michael Addition Reactions between 3‐Substituted Benzofuran‐2(3H)‐ones and 1,1‐Bis(phenylsulfonyl)ethylene Catalyzed by Bifunctional Catalysts Containing Tertiary Amine and Thiourea Groups
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Yue‐Yan , Xue Xiao‐Song , Jin Jia‐Lu , Tan Bo‐Xuan , Liu Cong , Dong Nan , Cheng Jin‐Pei
Published: February 2012

Highly enantioselective catalytic conjugate additions of 3‐substituted benzofuran‐2(3H)‐ones to 1,1‐bis(phenylsulfonyl)ethylene in the presence of catalysts based on Cinchona alkaloids and containing tertiary amine and thiourea groups have been developed. Good to excellent stereoselectivities (up to 99 % ee) could be achieved. An interesting effect of substituent positions on stereoselectivities was observed, and a theoretical study to explain this phenomenon was undertaken.
Emotions in context: Anger causes ethnic bias but not gender bias in men but not women
Authors: Kuppens Toon , Pollet Thomas V. , Teixeira Cátia P. , Demoulin Stéphanie , Craig Roberts S. , Little Anthony C.
Published: February 2012

Emotions influence information processing because they are assumed to carry valuable information. We predict that induced anger will increase ethnic but not gender intergroup bias because anger is related to conflicts for resources, and ethnic groups typically compete for resources, whereas gender groups typically engage in relations of positive interdependence. Furthermore, we also predict that this increased ethnic intergroup bias should only be observed among men because men show more group‐based reactions to intergroup conflict than women do. Two studies, with 65 and 120 participants, respectively, indeed show that anger induction increases ethnic but not gender intergroup bias and only for men. Intergroup bias was measured with an implicit measure. In Study 2, we additionally predict (and find) that fear induction does not change ethnic or gender intergroup bias because intergroup bias is a psychological preparation for collective action and fear is not associated with taking action against out‐groups. We conclude that the effect of anger depends on its specific informational potential in a particular intergroup context. These results highlight that gender groups differ on a crucial point from ethnic groups and call for more attention to the effect of people's gender in intergroup relations research. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study on Platinum and Copper Nanosheets Alloys Supported on Mesoporous Titanium Dioxide Doped with Carbon Black as Electrocatalysts in PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Lei Yijie , Li Tong , Gu Jun , Yu Tao , Liu Jianguo , Zou Zhigang
Published: February 2012

Platinum and copper nanosheets alloys (Pt1–xCux nanosheets), prepared by the seed‐mediated growth method, are deposited on mesoporous titanium dioxide (TiO2) doped with carbon black by ultrasonic dispersion. The Pt5Cu nanosheet/carbon‐TiO2 (Pt5Cu NS/C‐TiO2) used for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) catalyst shows higher electrochemical surface area and exhibits better fuel cell performance than that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst. The Pt5Cu NS/C‐TiO2 also shows better stability than that of the commercial Pt/C when it is employed as the cathode catalyst in a single‐cell fuel cell.
Nanomaterials Based Electrochemical Sensing Applications for Safety and Security
Authors: Marín Sergio , Merkoçi Arben
Published: February 2012

Nanomaterials based sensing systems provide a new class of rapid and low cost detection alternatives with interest in the field of safety and security applications. In this review we report the recent trends in the use of various nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, nanowires and graphene to detect different safety and security related analytes (i.e. microorganisms, toxins, pesticides and explosives). Nanomaterials are used either as modifiers of the electrochemical transducers or as labels with the objective to enhance the electrochemical signal, improve the stability and in general the performance of the detection systems including their cost‐efficiency. Most of the developed systems are shown to bring excellent improvements while being used in the laboratory. Their application in real sample and during in‐field monitoring still needs a long way while issues such as the reproducibility, stability, mass production capability of the designed devices etc. shouldn’t still yet be resolved.
Simultaneous Voltammetric Determination of Ascorbic Acid and Sulfite in Beverages Employing a Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with Carbon Nanotubes within a Poly(Allylamine Hydrochloride) Film
Authors: Sartori Elen Romão , Fatibello‐Filho Orlando
Published: February 2012

A glassy carbon electrode modified with functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes within a poly(allylamine hydrochloride) film was used for the simultaneous voltammetric determination of ascorbic acid and sulfite. The anodic peak potentials of ascorbic acid and sulfite oxidation at a MWCNTs‐PAH/GCE were found to be 0.005 V and 0.327 V (vs. Ag/AgCl (3.0 M KCl)), respectively by cyclic voltammetry, whereas at a GCE were 0.278 V and 0.722 V. Using linear sweep voltammetric technique, the obtained analytical curves were linear in the ascorbic acid and sulfite concentration range from 5.0 to 200.0 µM, with detection limits of 3.0 and 3.5 µM for ascorbic acid and sulfite, respectively. The proposed method was successfully used for the simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid and sulfite in fruit juices.
Nonlocal period parameters of frequency content characterization for near‐fault ground motions
Authors: Yang Dixiong , Wang Wei
Published: February 2012

This paper focuses on the frequency property analysis of near‐fault ground motions with and without distinct pulses, separately from the Chi‐Chi and Northridge earthquakes. Ten scalar period parameters of ground motions, especially several nonlocal period parameters, are considered. Two new nonlocal parameters, namely the mean period of Hilbert marginal spectrum (Tmh) and the improved characteristic period (Tgi), are suggested. Moreover, comprehensive comparison and analysis indicate that Tmh, Tgi and Tavg (average spectral period) can distinguish the low‐frequency components of near‐fault ground motions; Tm (mean period of Fourier amplitude spectrum) and To (smoothed spectral predominant period) represent the moderate‐ and high‐frequency components, respectively. The variance coefficient of predominant instantaneous frequency of Hilbert spectrum (Hcov) can be regarded as an alternative index to measure the non‐stationary degree of near‐fault ground motions. Finally, the velocity pulses and earthquake magnitude remarkably affect the frequency parameters of near‐fault ground motions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene–Environment Interactions on Growth Trajectories
Authors: Wang Shuang , Xiong Wei , Ma Weiping , Chanock Stephen , Jedrychowski Wieslaw , Wu Rongling , Perera Frederica P.
Published: February 2012

It has been suggested that children with larger brains tend to perform better on IQ tests or cognitive function tests. Prenatal head growth and head growth in infancy are two crucial periods for subsequent intelligence. Studies have shown that environmental exposure to air pollutants during pregnancy is associated with fetal growth reduction, developmental delay, and reduced IQ. Meanwhile, genetic polymorphisms may modify the effect of environment on head growth. However, studies on gene–environment or gene–gene interactions on growth trajectories have been quite limited partly due to the difficulty to quantitatively measure interactions on growth trajectories. Moreover, it is known that assessing the significance of gene–environment or gene–gene interactions on cross‐sectional outcomes empirically using the permutation procedures may bring substantial errors in the tests. We proposed a score that quantitatively measures interactions on growth trajectories and developed an algorithm with a parametric bootstrap procedure to empirically assess the significance of the interactions on growth trajectories under the likelihood framework. We also derived a Wald statistic to test for interactions on growth trajectories and compared it to the proposed parametric bootstrap procedure. Through extensive simulation studies, we demonstrated the feasibility and power of the proposed testing procedures. We applied our method to a real dataset with head circumference measures from birth to age 7 on a cohort currently being conducted by the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health (CCCEH) in Krakow, Poland, and identified several significant gene–environment interactions on head circumference growth trajectories.
Second, third, and fourth head and neck tumors. A progressive decrease in survival
Authors: León Xavier , Martínez Vicenç , López Montserrat , García Jacinto , Venegas María del Prado , Esteller Eduard , Quer Miquel
Published: February 2012

Background

Patients with a first head and neck carcinoma have a high risk of successive neoplasms, many of which appear again in the head and neck. Second head and neck tumors have a poorer prognosis than first tumors, but data about the prognosis of third and fourth tumors in the head and neck are lacking.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective study of 4298 patients with a primary head and neck carcinoma. Survival and the characteristics of the first tumor, second tumor, and any successive tumors in the head and neck were analyzed.

Results

Second and successive tumors showed a tendency to appear more frequently in the oral cavity and oropharynx and had a lower stage than that of index tumors. Five‐year survival rates after a first, second, third, and fourth tumors in the head and neck were 67.6%, 56.1%, 45.0%, and 32.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

Survival decreased progressively with every new head and neck tumor. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Parapharyngeal space tumors: Another consideration for otalgia and temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Grosskopf Courtney C. , Kuperstein Arthur S. , O'Malley Bert W. , Sollecito Thomas P.
Published: February 2012

Background

Parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors are rare, accounting for 0.5% of all head and neck neoplasms. PPS tumors are difficult to diagnose due to limited presenting signs and symptoms and because of their location deep within the neck.

Methods and Results

A 60‐year‐old woman presented with complaints of otalgia, which appeared to be consistent with a temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Due to disproportionate symptoms, an MRI of the temporomandibular joints was ordered. The MRI revealed a mass within the PPS, which was later diagnosed as a mucoepidermoid carcinoma. A literature search failed to reveal otalgia, and facial pain, thought to be related to a TMD, as the primary presenting symptoms of a PPS neoplasm.

Conclusion

Patients presenting with disproportionate signs and symptoms of a TMD should be evaluated with advanced imaging to rule out occult pathology. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Up‐front neck dissection followed by concurrent chemoradiation in patients with regionally advanced head and neck cancer
Authors: Paximadis Peter A. , Christensen Michael E. , Dyson Greg , Kamdar Dev P. , Sukari Ammar , Lin Ho‐Sheng , Yoo George H. , Kim Harold E.
Published: February 2012

Background

The appropriate management of the neck in patients with regionally advanced head and neck cancer remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze our institutional experience with up‐front neck dissection followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

Fifty‐five patients with radiographic evidence of large or necrotic lymph nodes underwent up‐front neck dissection followed by definitive chemoradiation.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) rates were estimated at 71.3% and 64.7%, respectively. There were 2 failures in the dissected neck, for a control rate of 96.7%. There were 7 locoregional failures and 12 distant failures, for locoregional and distant control rates of 87.3% and 78.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Up‐front neck dissection followed by chemoradiotherapy resulted in excellent locoregional control, OS, and PFS. Utilization of this strategy should be considered in carefully selected patients with regionally advanced head and neck cancer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Prognostic value of 18F‐FDG PET/CT in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil: Comparisons of volume‐based metabolic parameters
Authors: Moon Seung Hwan , Choi Joon Young , Lee Hwan Joo , Son Young‐Ik , Baek Chung‐Hwan , Ahn Yong Chan , Park Keunchil , Lee Kyung‐Han , Kim Byung‐Tae
Published: February 2012

Background

The prognostic significance of volume‐based metabolic parameters measured by 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT (18F‐FDG PET/CT) is not established. We evaluated the prognostic value of metabolic parameters in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tonsil.

Methods

We enrolled a total of 69 patients with SCC of the tonsil who underwent pretreatment 18F‐FDG PET/CT. We measured maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and asymmetry indices (of SUVmax, MTV, and TLG). The prognostic significance of these parameters and clinical variables was assessed by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

Results

Multivariate analyses with adjustments for age, sex, and American Joint Committee on Cancer stage showed that only TLG (hazard ratio = 1.020, 95% confidence interval 1.003–1.037, p = .023) was an independent predictive factor associated with decreased overall survival.

Conclusion

TLG is a significant independent metabolic prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with SCC of the tonsil. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Time and cost efficient biodegradation of diesel in a continuous‐upflow packed bed biofilm reactor and effect of surfactant GAELE
Authors: Campos‐Pineda Mixtli , Acuna‐Askar Karim , Martinez‐Guel Jesus Alberto , Mas‐Trevino Marcela , Tijerina‐Menchaca Rolando , Martinez Luz Maria , Videa Marcelo , Parra‐Saldivar Roberto
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Biodegradation of diesel hydrocarbons using bioreactors has been proposed as an alternative for diesel contaminated sites remediation. To make this alternative feasible, several factors must be optimized or improved: reducing hydraulic retention times (HRT) and applying design methods to enhance the access of the microorganisms to low soluble and recalcitrant compounds like hydrocarbon fuels. In the present work a time and cost efficient continuous‐flow packed bed bioreactor at low HRT was designed and evaluated. The effect of non‐previously studied anionic surfactant GAELE (glycolic acid ethoxylate lauryl ether) was also investigated.

RESULTS: A continuous‐upflow packed bed bioreactor (CPR) was built using an inexpensive support made of volcanic and alluvial stones. The biodegradation experiments conducted with a 12‐month‐old biofilm at a fixed HRT of 0.5 h, recorded removal of up to 97.9% at a diesel concentration of 1120 mg L−1 with GAELE. A first‐order rate constant of 0.10 h−1 was calculated. Kinetic analysis using Arvin's model, which introduces mass transfer to the biofilm, showed statistical differences in the kinetic rate parameters (P < 0.001). Moreover, GAELE significantly increased biodegradability at high concentrations, with BOD5 and COD removals up to 90.8 and 80.7%, respectively. Putative hydrocarbon degrading bacteria responsible for the degradation under nitrate‐reducing conditions were positively identified.

CONCLUSIONS: The continuous‐upflow packed bed reactor was capable of high percentage diesel biodegradation at short HRTs. The use of GAELE increased diesel availability and thus enhanced hydrocarbon removal. Therefore, CPR packed with volcanic and alluvial stones combined with GAELE showed potential for the remediation of diesel‐impacted sites. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Drinking in Snakes: Resolving a Biomechanical Puzzle
Authors: CUNDALL DAVID , BRAINERD ELIZABETH L. , CONSTANTINO JOSEPH , DEUFEL ALEXANDRA , GRAPSKI DOUGLAS , KLEY NATHAN J.
Published: February 2012

Snakes have long been thought to drink with a two‐phase buccal‐pump mechanism, but observations that some snakes can drink without sealing the margins of their mouths suggest that buccal pumping may not be the only drinking mechanism used by snakes. Here, we report that some snakes appear to drink using sponge‐like qualities of specific regions of the oropharyngeal and esophageal mucosa and sponge‐compressing functions of certain muscles and bones of the head. The resulting mechanism allows them to transport water upward against the effects of gravity using movements much slower than those of many other vertebrates. To arrive at this model, drinking was examined in three snake species using synchronized ciné and electromyographic recordings of muscle activity and in a fourth species using synchronized video and pressure recordings. Functional data were correlated with a variety of anatomical features to test specific predictions of the buccal‐pump model. The anatomical data suggest explanations for the lack of conformity between a buccal‐pump model of drinking and the performance of the drinking apparatus in many species. Electromyographic data show that many muscles with major functions in feeding play minor roles in drinking and, conversely, some muscles with minor roles in feeding play major roles in drinking. Mouth sealing by either the tongue or mental scale, previously considered critical to drinking in snakes, is incidental to drinking performance in some species. The sponge mechanism of drinking may represent a macrostomatan exaptation of mucosal folds, the evolution of which was driven primarily by the demands of feeding. J. Exp. Zool. 317:152–172, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Juvenile Development, Ecdysteroids and Hemolymph Level of Metabolites in the Spider Brachypelma albopilosum (Theraphosidae)
Authors: TRABALON MARIE , BLAIS CATHERINE
Published: February 2012

In the present work, juvenile development and physiological state of mygalomorph Brachypelma albopilosum were investigated by means of individual rearing under controlled conditions. Males required 4–5 years for development from first juvenile instar to adulthood, passing through 8 to 12 juvenile molts. Females developed to adults in 5–6 years with a variable juvenile molt number from 9 to 13. The development and growth of males and females took place in a similar way until the last juvenile molt leading to subadults. Ecdysteroids, total lipid, cholesterol, and protein concentrations increased along with the different development instars in both males and females. After the last juvenile molt, spiders presented morphological and biochemical sex differences. Subadult and adulthood males were smaller in size and weight than females; hemolymph levels of ecdysteroids, total lipids, cholesterol, and glucose were higher in males. These physiological and biochemical differences can be correlated to the different sexual development between males and females. J. Exp. Zool. 317:236–247, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous liquid–liquid extraction of dibenzyl disulfide, 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐p‐cresol, and 1,2,3‐benzotriazole from power transformer oil prior to GC and HPLC determination
Authors: Jaber Abdul Muttaleb Yousef , Mehanna Nemr Ahmed , Abulkibash Abdalla Mahmoud
Published: February 2012

2,6‐Di‐tert‐butyl‐p‐cresol (DBPC), dibenzyl disulfide (DBDS), and 1,2,3‐benzotriazole (BTA) are additives that may be found concomitantly in the oil matrix of power transformer. DBPC and DBDS act as antioxidants while, BTA is a corrosion inhibitor that protects copper conductors inside the transformer unit from corrosion. A powerful analytical method is, therefore, required to determine these additives at trace levels in the transformer oil. This work describes a unique single liquid–liquid extraction pretreatment step prior to the determination of the components by gas chromatography (GC) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques. The optimum volume ratio used in the pretreatment step was determined as 5:2:5 for mineral oil/n‐hexane/acetonitrile, respectively. Relatively, the method is simple and quick with a minimal use of solvents. Analytical results indicate that the method is relatively sensitive, accurate, and precise for each of the three components in fresh and used mineral oil. The calibration curves for the three components demonstrate a significant increase in sensitivities. Detection limits found were, 100 mg L−1 (0.01% w/v), 0.80 mg L−1, and 2.04 mg L−1 for DBPC, DBDS, and BTA, respectively. The Student's t values determined at 95% confidence level indicate that there is no significant difference between the experimental means obtained by this method and the standard method for each component.
Interseasonal movements of greater sage‐grouse, migratory behavior, and an assessment of the core regions concept in Wyoming
Authors: Fedy Bradley C. , Aldridge Cameron L. , Doherty Kevin E. , O'Donnell Micheal , Beck Jeffrey L. , Bedrosian Bryan , Holloran Matthew J. , Johnson Gregory D. , Kaczor Nicholas W. , Kirol Christopher P. , Mandich Cheryl A. , Marshall David , McKee Gwyn , Olson Chad , Swanson Christopher C. , Walker Brett L.
Published: February 2012

Animals can require different habitat types throughout their annual cycles. When considering habitat prioritization, we need to explicitly consider habitat requirements throughout the annual cycle, particularly for species of conservation concern. Understanding annual habitat requirements begins with quantifying how far individuals move across landscapes between key life stages to access required habitats. We quantified individual interseasonal movements for greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; hereafter sage‐grouse) using radio‐telemetry spanning the majority of the species distribution in Wyoming. Sage‐grouse are currently a candidate for listing under the United States Endangered Species Act and Wyoming is predicted to remain a stronghold for the species. Sage‐grouse use distinct seasonal habitats throughout their annual cycle for breeding, brood rearing, and wintering. Average movement distances in Wyoming from nest sites to summer‐late brood‐rearing locations were 8.1 km (SE = 0.3 km; n = 828 individuals) and the average subsequent distances moved from summer sites to winter locations were 17.3 km (SE = 0.5 km; n = 607 individuals). Average nest‐to‐winter movements were 14.4 km (SE = 0.6 km; n = 434 individuals). We documented remarkable variation in the extent of movement distances both within and among sites across Wyoming, with some individuals remaining year‐round in the same vicinity and others moving over 50 km between life stages. Our results suggest defining any of our populations as migratory or non‐migratory is innappropriate as individual strategies vary widely. We compared movement distances of birds marked using Global Positioning System (GPS) and very high frequency (VHF) radio marking techniques and found no evidence that the heavier GPS radios limited movement. Furthermore, we examined the capacity of the sage‐grouse core regions concept to capture seasonal locations. As expected, we found the core regions approach, which was developed based on lek data, was generally better at capturing the nesting locations than summer or winter locations. However, across Wyoming the sage‐grouse breeding core regions still contained a relatively high percentage of summer and winter locations and seem to be a reasonable surrogate for non‐breeding habitat when no other information exists. We suggest that conservation efforts for greater sage‐grouse implicitly incorporate seasonal habitat needs because of high variation in the amount of overlap among breeding core regions and non‐breeding habitat. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Variation in demographic patterns and population structure of raccoons across an urban landscape
Authors: Graser William H. , Gehrt Stanley D. , Hungerford Laura L. , Anchor Chris
Published: February 2012

Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are considered synanthropic, with high densities reported from urban landscapes. However, little information is available on population density and demography within the urban matrix. To better understand how urban land‐use patterns influence raccoon density and demographic patterns, we sampled raccoons at multiple, replicated sites across an urban landscape. Density differed by land‐use type (F2,17 = 4.66, P = 0.027): urbanized sites, ${\bar {x}}$ = 4.96 ± 2.64 raccoons/km2, range = 1.25–10.00 raccoons/km2; urban open sites, ${\bar {x}}$ = 14.84 ± 6.35 raccoons/km2, range = 3.00–29.25 raccoons/km2; rural open sites, ${\bar {x}}$ = 15.50 ± 4.66 raccoons/km2, range = 13.00–20.25. Although we found no clear patterns in sex ratio, reproductive condition, or body condition, we observed differences in age structure among urban open, rural open, and urbanized sites. The most striking difference was the absence of older animals at urbanized sites and relatively low numbers of young individuals at urban open sites. Raccoons were the dominant mesocarnivore in open fragments, but less so in the urban matrix. Spatial variation in density across urban landscapes is likely influenced by site level differences in abundance of anthropogenic resources and differences in habitat quality. Furthermore, the association between changes in land‐use and population age structure may have reflected different mortality sources across the landscape. Our results illustrate that wildlife species considered synanthropic may have complex relationships with urban landscapes. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.