bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work‐related musculoskeletal disorders among Irish farm operators
Authors: Osborne Aoife , Blake Catherine , Meredith David , Kinsella Anne , Phelan James , McNamara John , Cunningham Caitriona
Published: July 2012

Background

To establish prevalence, risk factors, and impact of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among farmers in Ireland.

Methods

In summer 2009, a questionnaire was appended to the Teagasc (Irish Agricultural and Food Development Authority) National Farm Survey (n = 1,110) to obtain data on the prevalence, risk factors and impact of WMSDs amongst farm operators in Ireland. Data were collected by trained recorders and analyzed using chi‐square tests, t‐tests, Mann–Whitney's U‐tests and logistic regression models.

Results

The prevalence of WMSDs in the previous year was 9.4% (n = 103), with the most commonly affected body region being the low back 31% (n = 32). Nearly 60% (n = 57) of farmers reported missing at least a full day's work as a consequence of their WMSD. Personal factors evaluated using binary regression analysis, were found not to influence whether or not a farmer experienced a WMSD. However, work‐related factors such as larger European Size Units (ESUs, OR: 1.007, CI: 1.002–1.012), greater number of hectares farmed (OR: 2.501, CI: 1.208–4.920), higher income (OR: 1.859, CI: 1.088–3.177), dairy enterprise (OR: 1.734, CI: 1.081–2.781), and working on a full‐time farm (OR: 2.156, CI: 1.399–3.321) increased the likelihood of experiencing a WMSD. Working on a full‐time farm was the only factor found to independently predict WMSDs in the multiple regression analyses.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the prevalence of WMSDs can be reduced by the application of improved farm management practices. A more detailed examination of the risk factors associated with WMSDs is required to establish causality and develop effective interventions. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:235–242, 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Meta‐analysis of early nonmotor features and risk factors for Parkinson disease
Authors: Noyce Alastair J. , Bestwick Jonathan P. , Silveira‐Moriyama Laura , Hawkes Christopher H. , Giovannoni Gavin , Lees Andrew J. , Schrag Anette
Published: July 2012

Objective:

To evaluate the association between diagnosis of Parkinson disease (PD) and risk factors or early symptoms amenable to population‐based screening.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of risk factors for PD.

Results:

The strongest associations with later diagnosis of PD were found for having a first‐degree or any relative with PD (odds ratio [OR], 3.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.65–3.93 and OR, 4.45; 95% CI, 3.39–5.83) or any relative with tremor (OR, 2.74; 95% CI, 2.10–3.57), constipation (relative risk [RR], 2.34; 95% CI, 1.55–3.53), or lack of smoking history (current vs never: RR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.39–0.50), each at least doubling the risk of PD. Further positive significant associations were found for history of anxiety or depression, pesticide exposure, head injury, rural living, beta‐blockers, farming occupation, and well‐water drinking, and negative significant associations were found for coffee drinking, hypertension, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, calcium channel blockers, and alcohol, but not for diabetes mellitus, cancer, oral contraceptive pill use, surgical menopause, hormone replacement therapy, statins, acetaminophen/paracetamol, aspirin, tea drinking, history of general anesthesia, or gastric ulcers. In the systematic review, additional associations included negative associations with raised serum urate, and single studies or studies with conflicting results.

Interpretation:

The strongest risk factors associated with later PD diagnosis are having a family history of PD or tremor, a history of constipation, and lack of smoking history. Further factors also but less strongly contribute to risk of PD diagnosis or, as some premotor symptoms, require further standardized studies to demonstrate the magnitude of risk associated with them. ANN NEUROL 2012
Preparation, water absorbency, and enzyme degradability of novel chitin‐ and cellulose/chitin‐based superabsorbent hydrogels
Authors: Kono Hiroyuki , Zakimi Morito
Published: July 2012

Superabsorbent hydrogels were prepared from chitin dissolved in lithium chloride and N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone by esterification crosslinking with 1,2,3,4‐butanetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTCA). The absorbency of the chitin hydrogel was strongly dependent on the ratio of BTCA feed to chitin. The hydrogel prepared at the feed ratio of 5 showed the highest absorbency (345 g/g‐polymer), and the hydrogel was composed of 0.65 molecules of BTCA per monomer unit of chitin. The hydrogels exhibited good biodegradability by chitinase with a maximum degradation of 91% within 7 days. This method for obtaining the chitin hydrogel was also applicable to cellulose and chitin mixtures, and 1 : 1 cellulose/chitin hybrid hydrogels could be obtained by the esterification crosslinking of a mixture with a 1 : 1 molar ratio of cellulose and chitin. The optimal BTCA feed ratio of 5 resulted in the cellulose/chitin hydrogel with the highest water absorbency (329 g/g‐polymer), and the hydrogel contained 0.65 molecules of BTCA per polysaccharide monomer unit. In addition, the hybrid hydrogels were degraded by cellulase as well as chitinase. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Characterization of rigid polyurethane foams containing microencapsulted phase change materials: Microcapsules type effect
Authors: Borreguero Ana M. , Rodríguez Juan F. , Valverde José L. , Peijs Ton , Carmona Manuel
Published: July 2012

Rigid polyurethane (RPU) foams were synthesized incorporating up to 18 wt % of two different kinds of thermo‐regulating microcapsules having a different shell material consisting of polystyrene or poly(methyl methacrylate), named as mSP‐(PS‐RT27) and Micronal®DS 5001X, respectively. The type of microcapsules and their content affected the final foam height, which decreased with the content and particle size. However, the foam rising curve shape was not dependent on the microcapsules type or content and was successfully predicted by means of a model of reaction curve of four tanks in series. Thermal energy storage (TES) capacity of PU foams was improved by incorporating both, mSP‐(PS‐RT27) or Micronal®DS 5001X, with the values close to those reported in the literature (16 J/g) for the highest content. Nevertheless, the highest particle size of the microcapsules from PS and the agglomeration of the microcapsules from poly(methyl methacrylate), promoted by their additive SiO2, led to the strut rupture, damaging the final mechanical properties. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Facile fabrication of conductive ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene fibers via mussel‐inspired deposition
Authors: Hu Weiwei , Zeng Zhixiang , Wang Zongbao , Liu Chenyang , Wu Xuedong , Gu Qun
Published: July 2012

The conductive ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene fibers are fabricated by electroless silver plating. The extremely inert and smooth surfaces of fibers are first activated by dopamine self‐polymerization. Then, metallic silver layers are deposited on the surface via electroless silver plating. The chemical composition, surface topography, and crystal structure of fibers are studied by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The XPS spectra certify the existence of polydopamine layer on surface. The XPS spectra and the XRD spectra prove that the silver particles deposited on the surface are pure in zero‐value state and of high crystallinity. The resistance of the silver‐coated fibers is 0.15 Ω/cm per bundle measured by two‐point method. These conductive fibers with high conductivity are expected to use as the electrical wires. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Enhancement of pro‐degradant performance in polyethylene/starch blends as a function of distribution
Authors: Yu Long , Liu Xingxun , Petinakis Eustathios , Bateman Stuart , Sangwan Parveen , Ammala Anne , Dean Katherine , Wong‐Holmes Susan , Yuan Qiang , Siew Chee Kiong , Samsudin Farid , Ahamid Zulkifli
Published: July 2012

The effect of pro‐degradant distribution in polyethylene (PE)/starch blends on ultraviolet (UV) photo‐oxidative degradation was investigated. Two kinds of pro‐degradants, Fe and Co‐based, were used in this study. The distribution of pro‐degradants in the different phases was varied by a dual step process using a side‐feed on a reactive extruder. The variation in mechanical properties and evaluation of carbonyl groups by FTIR were conducted to investigate the effect of degradation following exposure to UV photo‐oxidative degradation. It was found that the variation in mechanical properties was higher when the pro‐degradants were distributed in the PE phase. The concentration of carbonyl groups increased as a function of UV exposure, and the concentration of carbonyl groups was higher when the pro‐degradants were distributed in the PE phase. Micro‐cracking was observed on the interface between starch and PE after adding the pro‐degradants. When the pro‐degradants were distributed in high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) phase, the micro‐cracks mainly appeared in HDPE matrix, and the density of micro‐crack was higher. In general, the function of the pro‐degradants in PE/starch blends was enhanced when their distribution was varied within HDPE phase. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Recent advances in targeted genome engineering in mammalian systems
Authors: Sun Ning , Abil Zhanar , Zhao Huimin
Published: July 2012

Targeted genome engineering enables researchers to disrupt, insert, or replace a genomic sequence precisely at a predetermined locus. One well‐established technology to edit a mammalian genome is known as gene targeting, which is based on the homologous recombination (HR) mechanism. However, the low HR frequency in mammalian cells (except for mice) prevents its wide application. To address this limitation, a custom‐designed nuclease is used to introduce a site‐specific DNA double‐strand break (DSB) on the chromosome and the subsequent repair of the DSB by the HR mechanism or the non‐homologous end joining mechanism results in efficient targeted genome modifications. Engineered homing endonucleases (also called meganucleases), zinc finger nucleases, and transcription activator‐like effector nucleases represent the three major classes of custom‐designed nucleases that have been successfully applied in many different organisms for targeted genome engineering. This article reviews the recent developments of these genome engineering tools and highlights a few representative applications in mammalian systems. Recent advances in gene delivery strategies of these custom‐designed nucleases are also briefly discussed.
Wound‐healing evaluation of entrapped active agents into protein microspheres over cellulosic gauzes
Authors: Silva Raquel , Ferreira Helena , Matamá Teresa , Gomes Andreia C. , Cavaco‐Paulo Artur
Published: July 2012

The use of active ingredients in wound management have evolved alongside the pharmaceutical agents and dressings used to deliver them. However, the development of gauzes, dressings with specific properties, still remains a challenge for several medical applications. A new methodology for the controlled release of active components for the healing of burn wounds is proposed herein. Cotton and non‐woven bandages have been cationised to promote the attachment of protein microspheres. The active agents, piroxicam and vegetable oil, were entrapped into the microspheres using ultrasound energy. Active agents were released from the microspheres by a change in pH. Wound healing was assessed through the use of standardised burn wounds induced by a cautery in human full‐thickness skin equivalents (EpidermFT). The best re‐epithelialisation and fastest wound closure was observed in wounds treated with proteinaceous microspheres attached to gauzes, after six days of healing, in comparison with commercial collagen dressing and other controls. Furthermore, the ability of these materials to reduce the inflammation process, together with healing improvement, makes these biomaterials suitable for wound‐dressing applications.
Solvent‐dependent conformation of a regioselective amylose carbamate: Amylose‐2‐acetyl‐3,6‐bis(phenylcarbamate)
Authors: Tsuda Maiko , Terao Ken , Kitamura Shinichi , Sato Takahiro
Published: July 2012

Six amylose‐2‐acetyl‐3,6‐bis(phenylcarbamate) (AAPC) samples ranging in weight‐average molar mass Mw from 1.8 × 104 g mol−1 to 1.1 × 106 g mol−1 have been prepared from enzymatically synthesized amylose samples. Static light scattering, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, sedimentation equilibrium, and viscosity measurements were made for the samples in 1,4‐dioxane (DIOX), 2‐ethoxyethanol (2EE), and 2‐butanone (MEK) all at 25°C to determine particle scattering functions, z‐average radii of gyration, intrinsic viscosities, as well as Mw. The data were analyzed in terms of the wormlike cylinder model mainly to yield the helix pitch per residue h and the Kuhn segment length λ−1, which corresponds to twice of the persistence length. The latter parameters (λ−1) in 2EE (11 nm) and MEK (12 nm) are quite smaller than those for amylose tris(phenylcarbamate) (ATPC) in the same solvent (16 nm in 2EE and 18 nm in MEK) whereas those for AAPC (21 nm) and ATPC (22 nm) in DIOX are essentially the same as each other. This indicates that the chain stiffness of AAPC is more strongly influenced by the solvents since the number of intramolecular H‐bonds of AAPC is more changeable than that for ATPC. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97:1010–1017, 2012.
Computationally designed β‐turn foldamers of γ‐peptides based on 2‐(aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid
Authors: Kang, Young Kee , Byun Byung Jin
Published: July 2012

The γ‐peptide β‐turn structures have been designed computationally by the combination of chirospecific γ2, 3‐residues of 2‐(aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid (γAmc6) with a cyclohexyl constraint on the Cα−Cβ bond using density functional methods in water. The chirospecific γAmc6 dipeptide with the (2S,3S)‐(2R,3R) configurations forms a stable turn structure in water, resembling a type II′ turn of α‐peptides, which can be used as a β‐turn motif in β‐hairpins of Ala‐based α‐peptides. The γAmc6 dipeptide with homochiral (2S,3S)‐(2S,3S) configurations but different cyclohexyl puckerings shows the capability to be incorporated into one of two β‐turn motifs of gramicidin S. The overall structure of this gramicidin S analogue is quite similar to the native gramicidin S with the same patterns and geometries of hydrogen bonds. Our calculated results and the recently observed results may imply the wider applicability of chirospecific γ‐peptides with a cyclohexyl constraint on the backbone to form various peptide foldamers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97:1018–1025, 2012.
Recruiting patients into randomized clinical trials in surgery (Br J Surg 2012; 99: 307–308)
Authors: Jacobs W C H , Kruyt M C , Oner F C
Published: July 2012

The Editors welcome topical correspondence from readers relating to articles published in the Journal. Responses should be sent electronically via the BJS website (http://www.bjs.co.uk). All letters will be reviewed and, if approved, appear on the website. A selection of these will be edited and published in the Journal. Letters must be no more than 250 words in length.
Sustainability and Earth Resources: Life Cycle Assessment Modeling
Authors: O'Shea T. , Golden J. S. , Olander L.
Published: July 2012

Corporations are facing increasing risks associated with ecosystems from both natural drivers, such as climate change, as well as institutional drivers resulting from retailers and brands, increasingly making supplier decisions based on life cycle reporting and indexing. These efforts reflect a transition from traditional firm sustainability to a more quantitative product focus, within which the importance and weight of earth resources and ecosystems is dramatically increasing. This paper provides an overview of the limitations traditional life cycle assessment (LCA) methods and presents emerging developments to improve on LCA for resources and ecosystems. This includes LCA efforts to account for spatial relevance, indices of stress, stocks and flows and integrated valuation of services and trade‐offs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Need for touch and information processing strategies: An empirical examination
Authors: Yazdanparast Atefeh , Spears Nancy
Published: July 2012

Drawing from literatures on haptic modality and information processing, direct measures of information processing strategy are developed and applied to investigate whether touch search is a form of analytical processing. Applying two distinct approaches in the two studies, evidence of the processing style of those high in need for touch, compared with those low in need for touch, is gathered and tested in an online context where touch is not available. Cumulatively, the findings indicate that high‐need‐for‐touch consumers follow an analytical, feature‐by‐feature processing strategy, whereas those low in need for touch rely more on a relational processing strategy. Theoretical and managerial implications are provided. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methanol‐to‐Olefin Conversion Catalyzed by Low‐Silica AlPO‐34 with Traces of Brønsted Acid Sites: Combined Catalytic and Spectroscopic Investigations
Authors: Dai Weili , Wang Xin , Wu Guanjun , Li Landong , Guan Naijia , Hunger Michael
Published: July 2012

The reasons for the high activity and long catalyst lifetime of AlPO‐34 with a very low molar silicon content [nSi/(nAl+nP+nSi)=0.01] in the methanol‐to‐olefin (MTO) conversion were studied by using in situ FTIR spectroscopy, in situ UV/Vis spectroscopy, and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy. The MTO activity of the low‐silica AlPO‐34 is explained by traces of accessible Brønsted acid sites existing in an isolated manner and characterized by a turnover frequency of 7.0 s−1 after a time‐on‐stream (TOS) of 1 h at 673 K. A contribution of Lewis acid sites to the MTO reaction over low‐silica AlPO‐34 could be excluded. The high selectivity of low‐silica AlPO‐34 to light olefins owes to a hydrocarbon pool consisting of benzene‐type carbenium ions, as well as dienes. The very few Brønsted acid sites on low‐silica AlPO‐34 produce a much lower total coke content compared with SAPO‐34, leading to an extended catalyst lifetime of the former material.
Pore Morphology Control of Mesostructured SO42−/ZrO2‐Based Hybrid Catalysts Functionalized by Alkyl‐Bridged Organosilica Moieties for Biodiesel Production From Non‐Edible Oil
Authors: Li Wei , Ma Fengyan , Su Fang , Ma Ling , Zhang Shengqu , Guo Yihang
Published: July 2012

A series of mesostructured SO42−/ZrO2‐based hybrid materials functionalized with alkyl‐bridged organosilica species, forming SO42−/ZrO2‐SiO2(Ph/Et), were developed by using a single step co‐condensation technique with hydrothermal treatment in the presence of triblock copolymer surfactants. By tuning the molar ratios of the starting precursors, the types of surfactant and the preparation conditions, as‐prepared SO42−/ZrO2‐SiO2(Ph/Et) exhibited 2 D hexagonal p6mm, 3 D cubic Im3m and 3 D interconnected, worm‐hole‐like pore geometries. The mesostructure, morphology, porosity, and composition, as well as acid property of as‐prepared materials were characterized. As a novel, reusable, solid acid catalyst, the hybrid materials were applied for the biodiesel production from a non‐edible oil (Eruca sativa Gars. oil) under mild conditions; considerably high catalytic activity and stability were observed. Special attention was paid to the influences of the textural properties on the activity of SO42−/ZrO2‐SiO2(Ph/Et) materials to the target reaction.
Interfacial Synthesis and Functionality of Self‐Stabilized Polydiaminonaphthalene Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Xin‐Gui , Zhang Jia‐Li , Huang Mei‐Rong
Published: July 2012

A simple and effective template‐free synthesis method for nanosized conducting polymers with self‐stability and functionality is a main challenge. Herein, a strategy is reported for the facile synthesis of poly(1,5‐diaminonaphthalene) nanospherical particles by an interfacial miniemulsion oxidative polymerization of 1,5‐diaminonaphthalene at mobile microinterfaces between a stirred biphase without external emulsifiers. The size of the nanospheres was carefully optimized by controlling the polymerization conditions. Formation and self‐stabilization mechanisms of the nanoparticles are proposed. The constantly movable and refreshed microinterface is a key to successful synthesis of the nanospheres, for significantly suppressing secondary growth leading to agglomerated particles because vigorous stirring makes as‐formed self‐stabilized nanospheres instantly leave the microinterfaces. The resulting nanospheres possess several advantages: clean surface, self‐stability, redispersibility, semiconductivity, electroactivity, and fluorescence emission. The fluorescence emission can be quenched by specific quenchers, thus enabling low‐cost, high‐performance chemosensors to be obtained for the sensitive detection of ZnII ions in a wide linear concentration range of more than five orders of magnitude with a superior detection limit down to 1 nM.
Establishing a Flow Process to Coumarin‐8‐Carbaldehydes as Important Synthetic Scaffolds
Authors: Zak Jaroslav , Ron David , Riva Elena , Harding Heather P. , Cross Benedict C. S. , Baxendale Ian R.
Published: July 2012

Despite their usefulness as fluorophores and synthetic precursors, efficient and reliable routes to coumarin‐8‐carbaldehydes are lacking. We describe here a high‐yielding continuous flow synthesis that requires no manual intermediate purification or work‐up, giving access to multigram quantities of the aldehyde product.
Synthesis of Spin‐Crossover Nano‐ and Micro‐objects in Homogeneous Media
Authors: Gural'skiy Il'ya A. , Quintero Carlos M. , Molnár Gábor , Fritsky Igor O. , Salmon Lionel , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: July 2012

New methods are proposed for the synthesis of spin‐crossover nano‐ and micro‐objects. Several nano‐objects that are based upon the spin‐crossover complex [Fe(hptrz)3](OTs)2 (hptrz=4‐heptyl‐1,2,4‐triazole, Ts=para‐toluenesulfonyl) were prepared in homogeneous media. The use of various reagents (Triton X‐100, PVP, TOPO, and PEGs of different molecular weights) as stabilizing agents yielded materials of different size (6 nm–2 μm) and morphology (nanorods, nanoplates, small spherical particles, and nano‐ and micro‐crystals). In particular, when Triton X‐100 was used, a variation in the morphology from nanorods to nanoplates was observed by changing the nature of the solvent. Interestingly, the preparation of the nanorods and nanoplates was always accompanied by the formation of small spherical particles. Alternatively, when PEG was used, 200–400 nm crystals of the complex were obtained. In addition, a very promising polymer‐free synthetic method is discussed that was based on the preparation of relatively stable FeII–triazole oligomers in CHCl3. Their specific treatment led to micro‐crystals, small nanoparticles, or gels. The size and morphology of all of these objects were characterized by TEM and by dynamic light scattering (DLS) where possible. Their spin‐crossover behavior was studied by optical and magnetic measurements. The spin‐transition features for large particles (>100 nm) were very similar to that of the bulk material, that is, close to room temperature with a hysteresis width of up to 8 K. The effects of the matrix and/or size‐reduction led to modification of the transition temperature and an abruptness of the spin transition for oligomeric solutions and small nanoparticles of 6 nm in size.
Very Efficient Generation of Quinone Methides through Excited State Intramolecular Proton Transfer to a Carbon Atom
Authors: Basarić Nikola , Došlić Nađa , Ivković Jakov , Wang Yu‐Hsuan , Mališ Momir , Wan Peter
Published: July 2012

Irradiation of 2‐phenyl‐1‐naphthol (6) in CH3CN/D2O (3:1) leads to very efficient incorporation of deuterium at the ortho‐positions of the adjacent phenyl ring (overall Φ=0.73±0.07), along with minor incorporation at the naphthalene positions 5 and 8. These finding are explained by excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) from the phenolic OH group to the corresponding carbon atoms, the main pathway giving rise to quinone methide (QM) 7, which has been characterized by LFP (τ≈20 ns; 460 nm). The ESIPT reaction paths have been explored with the second order approximate coupled cluster (CC2) method. In nonprotic solvents the ESIPT from the naphthol O‐H to the ortho‐position of the phenyl ring proceeds in a barrierless manner along the 1La energy surface via a conical intersection with the S0 state, delivering 7. In aqueous solvent, clusters with H2O are formed wherein proton transfer (PT) to solvent and a H2O‐mediated relay mechanism gives rise to naphtholates and QMs. The results are compared with 2‐phenylphenol (3) that also undergoes barrierless ESIPT giving a QM via a conical intersection. However, due to an unfavorable conformation in the ground state, the quantum efficiency for ESIPT of 3 is significantly lower (Φ for D‐exchange=0.041). These results show that ESIPT from phenol to carbon need not be an intrinsically inefficient process.
Simultaneous Enantiomeric Determination of Propranolol, Metoprolol, Pindolol, and Atenolol in Natural Waters by HPLC on New Polysaccharide‐Based Stationary Phase using a Highly Selective Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Extraction
Authors: Morante‐Zarcero Sonia , Sierra Isabel
Published: July 2012

A simple high performance liquid chromatography method HPLC‐UV for simultaneous enantiomeric determination of propranolol, metoprolol, pindolol, and atenolol in natural water samples was developed and validated, using a molecularly imprinted polymer solid‐phase extraction. To achieve this purpose, Lux® Cellulose‐1/Sepapak‐1 (cellulose tris‐(3,5‐dymethylphenylcarbamate)) (Phenomenex, Madrid, Spain) chiral stationary phase was used in gradient elution and normal phase mode at ambient temperature. The gradient elution program optimized consisted of a progressive change of the mobile phase polarity from n‐hex/EtOH/DEA 90/10/0.5 (v/v/v) to 60/40/0.5 (v/v/v) in 13 min, delivered at a flow rate of 1.3 ml/min and a sudden change of flow rate to 2.3 ml/min in 1 min. Critical steps in any molecularly imprinted polymer extraction protocol such as the flow rate to load the water sample in the cartridges and the breakthrough volume were optimized to obtain the higher extraction recoveries for all compounds. In optimal conditions (100 ml breakthrough volume loaded at 2.0 ml/min), extraction recoveries for the four pairs of β‐blockers were near 100%. The MIP‐SPE‐HPLC‐UV method developed demonstrates good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.99), precision, selectivity, and sensitivity. Method limit detection was 3.0 µg/l for propranolol and pindolol enantiomers and 20.0 and 22.0 µg/l for metoprolol and atenolol enantiomers, respectively. The proposed methodology should be suitable for routine control of these emerging pollutants in natural waters for a better understanding of the environmental impact and fate. Chirality 24:860–866, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of mesh morphing and mapping techniques in patient specific modeling of the human pelvis
Authors: Salo Zoryana , Beek Maarten , Whyne Cari Marisa
Published: July 2012

Robust generation of pelvic finite element models is necessary to understand the variation in mechanical behaviour resulting from differences in gender, aging, disease and injury. The objective of this study was to apply and evaluate mesh morphing and mapping techniques to facilitate the creation and structural analysis of specimen‐specific finite element (FE) models of the pelvis. A specimen‐specific pelvic FE model (source mesh) was generated following a traditional user‐intensive meshing scheme. The source mesh was morphed onto a computed tomography scan generated target surface of a second pelvis using a landmarked‐based approach, in which exterior source nodes were shifted to target surface vertices, while constrained along a normal. A second copy of the morphed model was further refined through mesh mapping, in which surface nodes of the initial morphed model were selected in patches and remapped onto the surfaces of the target model. Computed tomography intensity based material properties were assigned to each model. The source, target, morphed and mapped models were analyzed under axial compression using linear static FE analysis and their strain distributions evaluated. Morphing and mapping techniques were effectively applied to generate good quality geometrically complex specimen‐specific pelvic FE models. Mapping significantly improved strain concurrence with the target pelvis FE model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interfacial Electron Transfer from CdSe/ZnS Quantum Dots to TiO2 Nanoparticles: Size Dependence at the Single‐Molecule Level
Authors: Chang Chun‐Li , Tsai Po‐Yu , Chang Yu‐pin , Lin King‐Chuen
Published: July 2012

Electron transfer (ET) kinetics of CdSe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (QDs) on bare coverslips and a TiO2 nanoparticle‐coated thin film has been investigated at the single‐molecule level. The QDs prepared have three different diameters of 3.6, 4.6, and 6.4 nm. The trajectories of fluorescence intensity are acquired with respect to the arrival time. The on‐time events and subsequent fluorescence lifetimes are shorter with decreasing size. Given the lifetime measurements for QDs on glass and TiO2, the rate constant of ET from QDs to TiO2 may be determined to be 1.3×107, 6.0×106, and 4.7×106 s−1 for the increasing sizes of the QDs. The plot of on‐time probability density versus arrival time is characterized by power‐law statistics in the short time region and a bending tail in the long time region. Marcus’s ET model is employed to satisfactorily fit the bending tail behavior and to further calculate the ET rate constants. The theoretical counterparts for the different sizes are 1.4×107, 6.4×106, and 1.9×106 s−1, showing good agreement with the experimental results.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Sulfoxidation of Alkanes in the Presence of Titania
Authors: Parrino Francesco , Ramakrishnan Ayyappan , Damm Cornelia , Kisch Horst
Published: July 2012

The first catalytic photosulfoxidation of alkanes is accomplished in the presence of titanium dioxide and visible light (λ≥400 nm) under an atmosphere of SO2/O2. For n‐heptane and cyclohexane the reaction is performed in the neat liquid, for adamantane in glacial acetic acid. Charge‐transfer (CT) complexation of sulfur dioxide by the titania surface generates a CT band at 400–420 nm responsible for the visible‐light activity of otherwise only UV light absorbing titania. The primary charges generated upon optical electron transfer produce alkyl radicals by dissociative electron transfer from the alkane and by hydrogen abstraction by OH radicals produced from oxygen reduction. Once formed, the alkyl radicals initiate a radical chain reaction as known from the classical UV‐induced sulfoxidation in the absence of a catalyst. The reaction exhibits features characteristic for product inhibition by strong adsorption. Accordingly, the initial photocatalytic activity is fully restored after washing the catalyst with methanol. Time‐resolved photovoltage measurements indicate that photocatalyst deactivation is connected with a change from n‐type to p‐type titanium dioxide. Small amounts of water and radical scavengers inhibit product formation. The reaction proceeds with high chemoselectivity because only traces of expected by‐products like sulfates, ketones, and alcohols are formed. Thus, in addition to its basic role in visible‐light‐induced charge generation, the surface of titania enables also a chemoselective CS bond formation.
Surveying Employee Attitudes on Corporate Social Responsibility at the Frontline Level of an Energy Transportation Company
Authors: Michailides Theophilos P. , Lipsett Michael G.
Published: July 2012

As large companies embrace and integrate the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) into their business practices, company personnel are expected to show actions that are connected to communicated corporate values and related policies. To enhance the likelihood that employees at the frontline level will accept these principles and become engaged with these values, it is in the firm's best interests to quantify and understand employee attitudes toward the social responsibility construct itself.

The present work considers whether the variables of work climate perception, education level, and age directly influence one's social responsibility perspective at work, extending the Marz model to understand what may impact frontline CSR attitudes. A case study is presented, based on a survey of frontline personnel employed by a North American energy transportation company. This investigation uses an updated survey tool and method for polling a sample population. Survey development is described, analysis methods are explained, and results are presented with statistical measures to verify hypotheses related to employee engagement in CSR. Some potential implications of the results for corporate strategy are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Product Evaluation: The Moderating Role of Brand Familiarity
Authors: Perera Liyanage Chamila Roshani , Chaminda Jayawickrama Withanage Dushan
Published: July 2012

This study investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and product evaluation and the role of brand familiarity in moderating the relationship between CSR and product evaluation. Using different levels of brand familiarity (high versus low) and CSR initiatives (high versus low), a between‐subjects experiment was carried out. The study finds that CSR has a positive impact on product evaluation and this positive impact is greater for products with high brand familiarity than products with low brand familiarity. The level of brand familiarity moderates the relationship between CSR and product evaluation. The study also reveals that the higher the CSR commitment and the brand familiarity, the more positive the product evaluation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
The CD8+HLA‐DR+ T cells expanded in HIV‐1 infection are qualitatively identical to those from healthy controls
Authors: Imamichi Hiromi , Lempicki Richard A. , Adelsberger Joseph W. , Hasley Rebecca B. , Rosenberg Alice , Roby Gregg , Rehm Catherine A. , Nelson Amy , Krishnan Sonya , Pavlick Mark , Woods Christian J. , Baseler Michael W. , Lane H. Clifford
Published: July 2012

HIV‐induced immune activation leads to expansion of a subset of human CD8+ T cells expressing HLA‐DR antigens. Expansion of CD8+HLA‐DR+ T cells can be also observed in non‐HIV settings including several autoimmune diseases and aging. Although these cells are felt to represent “immune exhaustion” and/or to be anergic, their precise role in host defense has remained unclear. Here, we report that this subset of cells exhibits a restricted repertoire, shows evidence of multiple rounds of division, but lacks markers of recent TCR engagement. Detailed cell cycle analysis revealed that compared with their CD8+HLA‐DR− counterpart, the CD8+HLA‐DR+ T‐cell pool contained an increased fraction of cells in S‐phase with elevated levels of the G2/M regulators: cyclin A2, CDC25C, Cdc2 (CDK1), indicating that these cells are not truly anergic but rather experiencing proliferation in vivo. Together, these data support a hypothesis that antigen stimulation leads to the initial expansion of a CD8+ pool of cells in vivo that undergo further expansion independent of ongoing TCR engagement. No qualitative differences were noted between CD8+HLA‐DR+ cells from HIV+ and HIV− donors, indicating that the generation of CD8+HLA‐DR+ T cells is a part of normal immune regulation that is exaggerated in the setting of HIV‐1 infection.
Identification of novel glycolipid ligands activating a sulfatide‐reactive, CD1d‐restricted, type II natural killer T lymphocyte
Authors: Rhost Sara , Löfbom Linda , Rynmark Britt‐Marie , Pei Bo , Månsson Jan‐Eric , Teneberg Susann , Blomqvist Maria , Cardell Susanna L.
Published: July 2012

Sulfatide‐reactive CD1d‐restricted natural killer T (NKT) lymphocytes belong to the type II NKT cell subset with diverse TCRs, and have been found to regulate experimental auto‐immune encephalomyelitis, tumor immunity, and experimental hepatitis in murine models. NKT cells can be activated by self‐lipids presented by CD1d, manifested as autoreactivity. The identity of most of these self‐lipids remains unknown. By isolating lipids from a CD1d‐expressing, highly stimulatory antigen presenting cell, we identified isoforms of β‐glucosylceramide (GlcCer), with sphingosine and fatty acid chain lengths of C24:0 and C16:0, that activated a sulfatide‐reactive type II NKT cell hybridoma. A screen of structurally related glycosphingolipids demonstrated β‐galactosylceramide (GalCer) as another ligand, and further, that the lysoforms were the most potent isoform of the glycosphingo‐lipid ligands, followed by isoforms with a long fatty acid chain of C24. Thus, the same type II NKT cell was activated by several ligands, namely sulfatide, GlcCer, and GalCer. However, CD1d‐dependent reactivity to antigen presenting cells lacking all GlcCer‐based glycosphingolipids, or all glycosphingolipids, was maintained. This suggests that other endogenous, nonglycosphingolipid, lipid ligands contribute to steady‐state autoreactivity by type II NKT cells.
The vaccine adjuvant alum inhibits IL‐12 by promoting PI3 kinase signaling while chitosan does not inhibit IL‐12 and enhances Th1 and Th17 responses
Authors: Mori Andres , Oleszycka Ewa , Sharp Fiona A. , Coleman Michelle , Ozasa Yuki , Singh Manmohan , O'Hagan Derek T. , Tajber Lidia , Corrigan Owen I. , McNeela Edel A. , Lavelle Ed C.
Published: July 2012

Alum is the principal vaccine adjuvant for clinical applications but it is a poor inducer of cellular immunity and is not an optimal adjuvant for vaccines where Th1 responses are required for protection. The mechanism underlying the inefficiency of alum in promoting Th1 responses is not fully understood. We show that aluminium hydroxide, aluminium phosphate, and calcium phosphate adjuvants inhibit the secretion of the Th1 polarizing cytokine, IL‐12 by dendritic cells (DCs). Alum selectively inhibited DC expression of the IL‐12p35 subunit and the inhibitory effect results from adjuvant‐induced PI3 kinase signaling. To develop a more effective adjuvant for promoting cell‐mediated immunity, we investigated alternative particulates and found that in contrast to alum, the cationic polysaccharide chitosan did not inhibit IL‐12 secretion. A combination of chitosan and the TLR9 agonist CpG activated the NLRP3 inflammasome and enhanced secretion of IL‐12 and the other key Th1 and Th17‐cell polarizing cytokines. When used as an adjuvant, CpG‐chitosan induced NLRP3‐dependent antigen‐specific Th1 and Th17 responses. A combination of alum and CpG also enhanced Th1 and Th17 responses but was less effective than CpG‐chitosan. Therefore, chitosan is an attractive alternative to alum in adjuvants for vaccines where potent cell‐mediated immunity is required.
Autoimmunity‐mediated antitumor immunity: Tumor as an immunoprivileged self
Authors: Miska Jason , Bas Esperanza , Devarajan Priyadharshini , Chen Zhibin
Published: July 2012

The association of autoimmunity with antitumor immunity challenges a paradigm of selective surveillance against tumors. Aided with well‐characterized models of robust autoimmunity, we show that self‐antigen‐specific effector T (Teff) cell clones could eradicate tumor cells. However, a tumor microenvironment reinforced by Treg cells and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) presented a barrier to the autoimmune effectors, more so in tumors than in healthy tissues. This barrier required optimal CTLA4 expression in Teff cells. In a spontaneous model of breast cancer, subtle reductions in CTLA4 expression impeded tumor onset and progression, providing the first direct evidence that CTLA4 inhibits spontaneous tumor development. In an adoptive therapy model of lymphoma, self‐antigen‐specific Teff cells were potentiated by even a modest reduction of CTLA4. A subtle reduction of CTLA4 did not curtail Treg‐cell suppression. Thus, Teff cells had an exquisite sensitivity to physiological levels of CTLA4 variations. However, both Treg and Teff cells were impacted by anti‐CTLA4 antibody blockade. Therefore, whether CTLA4 impacts through Treg cells or Teff cells depends on its expression level. Overall, the results suggest that the tumor microenvironment represents an “immunoprivileged self” that could be overcome practically and at least partially by RNAi silencing of CTLA4 in Teff cells.
Exploiting intercontact time for routing in delay tolerant networks
Authors: Luo Guangchun , Zhang Junbao , Huang Haojun , Qin Ke , Sun Haifeng
Published: July 2012

Because of the dynamic nature of delay tolerant networks (DTNs), many replication‐based routing schemes were proposed to increase the probability of delivery by making multiple copies of each message. In such schemes, one concern is how many replicas of a message should be distributed in the network. In this paper, we propose a routing scheme for DTNs, called adaptive spraying based on the intercontact time (ASBIT). The scheme is based on the idea of that each node dynamically chooses the right number of message copies disseminated to respond to the current conditions of the network. When forwarding, ASBIT selects the node with a higher centrality as the next hop, and utilises the multi‐attribute decision making theory for the division of the replication number between two nodes. Simulation results show that ASBIT achieves comparable delivery ratio and delivery delay while maintaining lower overhead compared with some well‐known routing schemes in sparse scenarios. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sparse channel estimation for wavelet‐based underwater acoustic communications
Authors: Qi Chenhao , Wu Lenan
Published: July 2012

In this paper, concerning underwater acoustic (UWA) communications, we propose a wavelet filter bank system as the extension of orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing system. We exploit the convolutional structure of a UWA channel and formulate the pilot‐assisted channel estimation as a sparse recovery problem. Then, we investigate the restricted isometry property of the measurement matrix via eigenvalue analysis and Gershgorin circle theorem. The sparse recovery problem is proven to satisfy the restricted isometry property. Moreover, we also propose a low‐complexity complex‐field homotopy algorithm for sparse channel estimation, regarding the fact that the channel taps of each path are usually complex valued in practice. Simulation results show that the wavelet filter bank system achieves more accurate UWA channel estimation performance than orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing system under the same conditions of bandwidth, duration, data rate and channel profile. The proposed complex homotopy algorithm outperforms orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) and stagewise OMP in both systems, whereas its computational complexity is similar to OMP. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fire resistance of walls made of soil‐cement and Kraftterra compressed earth blocks
Authors: Buson Márcio , Lopes Nuno , Varum Humberto , Sposto Rosa Maria , Real Paulo Vila
Published: July 2012

This study presents the results of fire resistance tests on walls made of soil‐cement and Kraftterra compressed earth blocks (CEBs). The purpose of this work was to evaluate and compare the fire resistance of CEB walls with and without cellulose pulp derived from the recycling of cement sacks. This article describes the Kraftterra mixture and its production processes as well as the fire resistance test campaign. The fire resistance performance of CEB walls produced with Kraftterra and soil‐cement blocks is analysed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetric Autocatalysis Triggered by Chiral Crystals Formed from Achiral Compounds and Chiral Isotopomers
Authors: Kawasaki Tsuneomi , Soai Kenso
Published: July 2012

Asymmetric autocatalysis with amplification of enantiomeric excess is found in the enantioselective addition of diisopropylzinc to pyrimidine‐5‐carbaldehyde using pyrimidyl alkanol as an asymmetric autocatalyst. Asymmetric autocatalysis has been employed as a method for clarifying the origin of homochirality. Circularly polarized light, inorganic chiral crystals and statistical fluctuation of enantiomeric imbalance act as chiral initiators in asymmetric autocatalysis to afford highly enantioenriched products. We have investigated asymmetric autocatalysis using chiral crystals formed from achiral and racemic compounds as an origin of chirality. Absolute control of the crystal chirality of cytosine was achieved by the removal of crystal water. Enantioselective carbon‐carbon bond formation at the enantiotopic crystal face of aldehydes was established using diisopropylzinc vapor. In addition, asymmetric autocatalysis triggered by chiral compounds arising from H, C and O isotope substitution has been achieved.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks as Single‐Site Solid Catalysts for Asymmetric Reactions
Authors: Falkowski Joseph M. , Liu Sophie , Lin Wenbin
Published: July 2012

This review documents the evolution of chiral MOF catalysts from simple Lewis acid and Lewis base catalysts that afford limited selectivity to more recent advancements that exhibit high stereo‐ and regioselectivities. MOF‐based catalysts provide unprecedented opportunities for interrogating structure‐activity relationships at high structural precision and for controlling catalytic activity by using external stimuli. The most notable disadvantage of MOF‐based catalysts has been the inherent instability of the materials. This hurdle, which effectively limits the reaction scope of MOF catalysts, is slowly being overcome by the advent of new binding moieties and secondary building units.
FINANCIAL SYSTEM SOPHISTICATION AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN INDUSTRIAL COUNTRIES
Authors: Feldmann Horst
Published: July 2012

By using data on 21 industrial countries from 1984 to 2006 and a large number of controls, this paper studies the unemployment effects of one major characteristic of the financial system: its level of sophistication, that is, the variety of financial institutions and instruments available to the economy. The paper finds that a higher level of sophistication is likely to reduce unemployment among the total labour force as well as among high‐skilled workers. The magnitude of both effects appears to be modest. By contrast, financial system sophistication does not appear to affect unemployment among low‐skilled workers. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.