bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low Molecular Weight Dextran Sulfate Binds to Human Myoblasts and Improves their Survival after Transplantation in Mice
Authors: Laumonier Thomas , Pradier Amandine , Hoffmeyer Pierre , Kindler Vincent , Menetrey Jacques
Published: October 2012

Myoblast transplantation represents a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of several genetic muscular disorders including Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Nevertheless, such an approach is impaired by the rapid death, limited migration, and rejection of transplanted myoblasts by the host. Low molecular weight dextran sulfate (DXS), a sulfated polysaccharide, has been reported to act as a cytoprotectant for various cell types. Therefore, we investigated whether DXS could act as a “myoblast protectant” either in vitro or in vivo after transplantation in immunodeficient mice. In vitro, DXS bound human myoblasts in a dose dependent manner and significantly inhibited staurosporine-mediated apoptosis and necrosis. DXS pretreatment also protected human myoblasts from natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity. When human myoblasts engineered to express the renilla luciferase transgene were transplanted in immunodeficient mice, bioluminescence imaging analysis revealed that the proportion of surviving myoblasts 1 and 3 days after transplantation was two times higher when cells were preincubated with DXS compared to control (77.9 ± 10.1% vs. 39.4 ± 4.9%, p = 0.0009 and 38.1 ± 8.5% vs. 15.1 ± 3.4%, p = 0.01, respectively). Taken together, we provide evidence that DXS acts as a myoblast protectant in vitro and is able in vivo to prevent the early death of transplanted myoblasts.
FORMATION OF METHODOLOGY TO MODEL REGIONAL AIRSPACE WITH REFERENCE TO TRAFFIC FLOWS
Authors: Stankūnas Jonas , Kondroška Vaidotas
Published: October 2012

As the number of flights increases, the ATM system, which forms the basis for air navigation services, has to ensure that those flights are not only safe but also effective. Considering the growing impact of traffic flows and taking into account the not-always-satisfactory indicators of the efficiency of the ATM system, the current ATM system needs changes. Airspace is currently fragmented along national borders, which limits opportunities or even completely prevents the possibility to improve the efficiency of flights, i.e. to perform flights of optimal trajectories and to avoid delays. One of the conditions allowing the current ATM system to become more effective is the amalgamation of the airspace parts or blocks within which (currently in the airspace along national boarders) air navigation services are organised. Comparisons between the ATM systems functioning in different regions of the world show that the less fragmentation there is, the more efficient flights are. One of the main tasks remains, i.e. to establish airspace blocks that meet the expectations of the airspace users.
Present activity and seismogenic potential of Himalayan sub‐parallel thrust faults in Delhi: inferences from remote sensing, GPR, gravity data and seismicity
Authors: Dubey C.S. , Shukla D.P. , Singh R.P. , Sharma M. , Ningthoujam P.S. , Bhola A.M.
Published: October 2012

The National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi and its environs have been jolted by earthquakes from a far‐field seismic source in the Himalayas. Thus the seismo‐tectonic activity in this region can be related to thrust faults sub‐parallel to the Himalayan thrusts system trending NW‐SE. In this present research work various techniques like Remote Sensing (RS), GPR (Ground‐Penetrating Radar) and Bouguer gravity anomaly analysis were executed in the Delhi region to identify seismogenic faults sub‐parallel to Himalayan thrust systems.

The straightening of the Yamuna River and other drainages, separation of the North Delhi ridge from the Central Delhi ridge, shifting of the North Delhi ridge in the north‐western direction and linear alignment of vegetation helped in delineating the probable NW‐SE faults using satellite image and DEM (Digital Elevation Model) data. These NW‐SE faults/thrusts were also identified by GPR (Ground‐Penetrating Radar) surveys, using 200 MHz and 100 MHz antennas, carried out at 8 areas. Nearly 200 GPR profiles were taken and the best results were obtained near the Timarpur, Vasant Vihar, Mehrauli and Faridabad areas. The radar profiles were processed using low‐ and high‐pass Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filters, for noise removal and Automatic Gain Control (AGC) for amplitude correction to enhance the data. The Bouguer gravity anomaly analysis confirms the presence of two NW‐SE trending faults viz. the Yamuna‐Timarpur‐Sonepat fault passing from the northern portion and the Faridabad‐Mehrauli‐Rohtak fault in the southern portion cutting across the city, thus implying the in‐between area as a graben. Moreover the fault plane solutions of the majority of the seismic events show orientation in a NW‐SE direction along the Delhi Sargodha ridge (DSR). These faults are sub‐parallel to Himalayan thrust systems and have reverse fault characteristics. Hence, the possibility of finding more hidden faults beneath the Indo‐Gangetic alluvium, sub‐parallel to the regional strike of the Himalayan fault system cannot be ruled out.
EDZ characterization with surface wave analysis: an experimental and numerical study for defining feasibility in the context of the Tournemire platform (France)
Authors: Leparoux Donatienne , Côte Philippe , Gélis Céline
Published: October 2012

The assessment of an Excavating Damaged Zone (EDZ) due to underground works is important in the context of radioactive waste disposal within a geological formation. Seismic surveys can provide, in a non‐destructive manner, information directly related to the mechanical properties of this damaged zone. However, the classical refraction method is unusable for galleries where a concrete layer caps the top surface. Moreover, other possible seismic methods like surface wave analysis can become complex to implement in such a context since guided waves are present and pass through a high‐velocity concrete layer. For these reasons, the present paper will focus on an experimental feasibility study of the MASW (Multi Channel Analysis of Surface Waves) method for assessing an EDZ below a concrete layer in the specific context of the Tournemire experimental platform, which was drilled into an argillaceous formation in the Aveyron department of central France. This facility is operated by IRSN (French institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety). This experimental study has been conducted in conjunction with a modelling results analysis. During an initial stage, the measurements carried out in situ are analysed and it is demonstrated that a receiving profile longer than 8 m is required to distinguish the various modes. Moreover, the comparison of a hammer source and a sweep signal generated by a vibrator source shows that the latter is more appropriate when building the dispersion diagram, particularly for fundamental and first higher mode curves. A second stage shows that according to the analysis of theoretical curves for profiles with similar seismic velocities of the Tournemire platform medium, the dispersion curves are sensitive to EDZ characteristics. In the paper‐s final part, the dispersion curves obtained from the experimental seismic data are inverted using a global approach. Results of the inversion of the fundamental mode only and of both the fundamental mode and the first higher mode are commented upon, evidencing an improved quality for this last approach.
Adora2b Adenosine Receptor Signaling Protects during Acute Kidney Injury via Inhibition of Neutrophil-Dependent TNF-α Release
Authors: Grenz Almut , Kim Jae-Hwan , Bauerle Jessica D. , Tak Eunyoung , Eltzschig Holger K. , Clambey Eric T.
Published: October 2012

Renal ischemia is among the leading causes of acute kidney injury (AKI). Previous studies have shown that extracellular adenosine is a prominent tissue-protective cue elicited during ischemia, including signaling events through the adenosine receptor 2b (Adora2b). To investigate the functional role of Adora2b signaling in cytokine-mediated inflammatory pathways, we screened wild-type and Adora2b-deficient mice undergoing renal ischemia for expression of a range of inflammatory cytokines. These studies demonstrated a selective and robust increase of TNF-α levels in Adora2b-deficient mice following renal ischemia and reperfusion. Based on these findings, we next sought to understand the contribution of TNF-α on ischemic AKI through a combination of loss- and gain-of-function studies. Loss of TNF-α, through either Ab blockade or study of Tnf-α–deficient animals, resulted in significantly attenuated tissue injury and improved kidney function following renal ischemia. Conversely, transgenic mice with overexpression of TNF-α had significantly pronounced susceptibility to AKI. Furthermore, neutrophil depletion or reconstitution of Adora2b−/− mice with Tnf-α–deficient neutrophils rescued their phenotype. In total, these data demonstrate a critical role of adenosine signaling in constraining neutrophil-dependent production of TNF-α and implicate therapies targeting TNF-α in the treatment of ischemic AKI.
Occurrence of Japanese Encephalitis Virus Mosquito Vectors in Relation to Urban Pig Holdings
Authors: Lindahl Johanna , Chirico Jan , Boqvist Sofia , Thu Ho Thi Viet , Magnusson Ulf
Published: October 2012

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is transmitted to humans from pigs or birds by mosquitoes. In this study, the association between urban pig keeping and mosquito vectors was analyzed. A total of 7, 419 mosquitoes were collected overnight in urban households with and without pigs in Can Tho City, Vietnam. The most prevalent vectors were Culex tritaeniorhynchus (36%), Cx. gelidus (24%), and Cx. quinquefasciatus (15%), which were present in all parts of the city. Pigs were associated with increased numbers of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus. Traps close to pigs had higher numbers of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus and Cx. gelidus than traps close to humans. Increased number of persons in the household was associated with increased numbers of Cx. quinquefasciatus. We demonstrate that JEV vector species are present at urban households with and without pigs, and show that keeping pigs in an urban area increase the number of mosquitoes competent as vectors for JEV.
Valuation of Spouse and Survivor Benefits In a Defined Benefit Retirement Plan
Authors: Strangways Raymond , Rubin Bruce L. , Zugelder Michael
Published: October 2012

A search of the forensic economic literature fails to disclose any discussion of the proper methodology for valuing the loss of survivor benefits in a defined benefit retirement plan when a wrongful death event occurs. A first approximation, which might be used to calculate a widow's loss of retirement benefits resulting from the wrongful death of her spouse, is the retiree's benefit payments minus his personal consumption (or maintenance allowance) minus the widow's survivor benefit, if there is one.

Economic analysis reveals that while the actual payment to the retiree includes the spouse's benefit if the retiree does survive, it fails to include the spouse's expected survivor benefit in the event that the retiree does not survive. This omitted benefit is significant and should be included in valuing the spouse's expected benefit from the total retirement plan and the widow's loss.

Legal analysis reveals that the widow's benefit is essentially the same as proceeds from privately purchased life insurance, which in common law would be considered a collateral source and protected from disclosure at trial or offset against an award. However, tort reform efforts over the past 30 years have led many states to modify or even repeal the traditional collateral source rules. Therefore, the widow's benefit may or may not be considered in valuing the loss of retirement, depending on the jurisdiction, the cause of death (e.g., medical malpractice), and even the interpretation of the collateral source rules by the trial judge.

If it is determined that the collateral source rule excludes introduction of the survivor benefit, a reasonable alternative for the plaintiff would be to claim the loss as the retiree's gross benefit minus his personal consumption weighted by the joint probability of survival.
A Test of the Increment-Decrement Method of Calculating Worklife Expectancies of Older Females
Authors: Wessels Walter
Published: October 2012

Using longitudinal data, the actual worklife of older females is compared to predicted worklife derived with the Increment-Decrement (ID) method. The findings show that the ID method underestimates the worklife of actives, but the error is neither sizable nor significant. On the other hand, the ID method significantly and sizably overestimates the worklives of inactives. This paper finds that actives (those in the labor force) tend to remain more active than implied by their most recent labor force experience and that inactives tend to remain more inactive. This rejects the usual Markov model used in ID analysis for older inactive females and likely explains the errors in the ID estimates of worklives. In addition, it was found that older women in the labor force tend to live longer than those out of the labor force, in contrast to the usual assumption that all have an equal chance of survival.
The Risk and Reward of Investing a Lost Earnings Award: A Comparison of Stocks, Bonds, and Bills
Authors: Nieswiadomy Michael L.
Published: October 2012

This note analyzes the risk and reward of investing the present value of a 40-year worklife of lost earnings (of $10,000 per year), discounted using rates of returns on various portfolios. Eight portfolios are examined: 100% in Treasury bills; 100% in intermediate-term government bonds; 100% in corporate bonds; four mixtures of the S&P 500, intermediate-term government bonds, and Treasury bills; and 100% in the S&P 500. The rates of return on the portfolios and the growth rate in hourly earnings are randomly selected from a year in the 1965–2010 period. The results of 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations indicate that a 40-year portfolio will face “ruin” roughly 51% to 52% of the time for all portfolios. However, the portfolios differ greatly in the median year of ruin (if ruin occurs), ranging from a high of the 38th year for a 100% Treasury bills portfolio, to the 22nd year for a 100% S&P 500 portfolio. The percent of time that the award greatly enriches (with an ending balance over $1,000,000) the plaintiff varies greatly as well. A 100% S&P 500 portfolio enriches the plaintiff 36.8% of the time; a portfolio of 30% S&P 500, 30% intermediate government bonds, and 40% Treasury bills enriches 14.5% of the time; while a 100% Treasury bills portfolio will virtually never enrich.
The Comprehensive Guide to Lost Profits Damages for Experts and Attorneys, 2011 Edition
Authors: Polhemus Jennifer L.
Published: October 2012

This volume has chapters by 26 authors, all CPAs or attorneys, and covers numerous lost profits topics. With content driven largely by legal decisions, the book has a practical focus. Financial experts with limited experience working on commercial damages assignments will find this volume quite helpful. Experienced practitioners can benefit from the chapters addressing special situations such as physician's practices and government contracts.
CO2(ν2)-O quenching rate coefficient derived from coincidental SABER/TIMED and Fort Collins lidar observations of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere
Authors: Feofilov A. G. , Kutepov A. A. , She C.-Y. , Smith A. K. , Pesnell W. D. , Goldberg R. A.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. Among the processes governing the energy balance in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT), the quenching of CO2(ν2) vibrational levels by collisions with O atoms plays an important role. However, there is a factor of 3–4 discrepancy between the laboratory measurements of the CO2-O quenching rate coefficient, kVT, and its value estimated from the atmospheric observations. In this study, we retrieve kVT in the altitude region 85–105 km from the coincident SABER/TIMED and Fort Collins sodium lidar observations by minimizing the difference between measured and simulated broadband limb 15 μm radiation. The averaged kVT value obtained in this work is 6.5 ± 1.5 × 10−12 cm3 s−1 that is close to other estimates of this coefficient from the atmospheric observations. However, the retrieved kVT also shows altitude dependence and varies from 5.5 ± 1.1 × 10−12 cm3 s−1 at 90 km to 7.9 ± 1.2 × 10−12 cm3 s−1 at 105 km. Obtained results demonstrate the deficiency in current non-LTE modeling of the atmospheric 15 μm radiation, based on the application of the CO2-O quenching and excitation rates, which are linked by the detailed balance relation. We discuss the possible model improvements, among them accounting for the interaction of the "non-thermal" oxygen atoms with CO2 molecules.
Simulating the growth of supraglacial lakes at the western margin of the Greenland ice sheet
Authors: Leeson A. A. , Shepherd A. , Palmer S. , Sundal A. , Fettweis X.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. We present a new method of modelling the growth of supraglacial lakes at the western margin of the Greenland ice sheet, based on routing runoff estimated by a regional climate model across a digital elevation model (DEM) of the ice sheet surface. Using data acquired during the 2003 melt season, we demonstrate that the model is 19 times more likely to correctly predict the presence (or absence) of lakes than it is to make incorrect predictions, within an elevation range of 1100 to 1700 metres above sea level (m a.s.l.), when compared with MODIS satellite imagery. Of the 66% of observed lake locations which the model correctly reproduces, the simulated lake onset day is found to be correlated with that observed with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.76. Our model accurately simulates maximum cumulative lake area with only a 1.5% overestimate. However, because our model does not simulate processes leading to lake stagnation or decay, such as refreezing or drainage, at present we do not simulate absolute daily lake area. We find that the maximum potential lake-covered ice sheet area is limited by topography to 6.4%. We estimate that this corresponds to a volume of 1.49 km3, 12% of the runoff produced in 2003. This can be taken as an upper bound given uncertainty in the DEM. This study has proved a good first step towards capturing the variability of supraglacial lake evolution with a numerical model. These initial results are promising and suggest that the model is a useful tool for use in analysing the behaviour of supraglacial lakes on the Greenland ice sheet in the present day and potentially beyond.
Urinary Incontinence after Radical Prostatectomy. Neurophysiological and Urodynamic Diagnosis
Authors: Ventimiglia Bernardo , Tsirgiotis Andreas , Panzone Irene , Coco Tiziana , Privitera Salvatore
Published: October 2012

Objectives.

Urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy presents different clinical features. We propose to clarify the etiology and the therapeutic approaches.

Methods.

51 patients with urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy underwent urodynamics, perineal EMG, perineal EMG frequency analysis and study of computerized sensory pudendal somatosensory evoked potentials.

Results.

18 patients (35%) were suffering from urinary incontinence secondary to overactive bladder, 14 patients (28%) had both an overactive bladder and a sphincter failure associated with Wallerian degenerative axonal neuropathy or segmental demyelination, 3 patients (6%) showed no significant urodynamics alterations but had signs of an incompetent sphincter neurapraxia, while 16 patients (31%) had urinary incontinence secondary to a degenerative neuropathy.

Conclusions.

Urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy shows an etiologic diversification and therefore requires different therapeutic approaches.
Systemic Mycosis in Three Dogs from Nonendemic Regions
Authors: Pratt Carmela L. , Sellon Rance K. , Spencer Erick S. , Johnson Ty W. , Righter Daniel J.
Published: October 2012

Three dogs were examined for clinical signs ultimately attributed to systemic fungal infections. One dog was evaluated for chronic, ulcerated dermal lesions and lymphadenomegaly; one dog was examined for acute onset of unilateral blepharospasm; and one dog had diarrhea and hematochezia. Two of the dogs were diagnosed with blastomycosis (one with disseminated disease and the other with the disease localized to the left eye). The third dog was diagnosed with disseminated histoplasmosis. None of the dogs originated from, or had traveled to, typical regions endemic for these fungal diseases. All diagnoses were established from histopathology and either polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or cytology and culture. The two dogs diagnosed with blastomycosis were treated with either itraconazole or ketoconazole with apparent resolution of the infections. The dog with ocular involvement had an enucleation prior to beginning therapy. The dog diagnosed with histoplasmosis was euthanized without treatment. In patients with characteristic clinical features, systemic fungal infections should still be considered as differential diagnoses regardless of their travel history.
CROs in Modern-day China
Authors: Ma Steven S
Published: October 2012

Contract research organization (CRO) outsourcing has become a critical strategy for multinational biopharmaceutical companies looking to reduce costs, time-to-market and expanding their pipelines as blockbuster patents expire. Much of the growth in the CRO industry is coming from emerging markets, such as China and India. China's CRO industry began in 1996 and is still relatively young and fragmented. However, it is growing quickly at an annual rate of 30%. Global CRO giants such as Quintiles, PPD, Covance, Parexel and ICON have invested in facilities in China and some Chinese CROs have grown to become global players. This paper will provide a detailed analysis on CROs in China, including the characterization of companies and services provided, recent IPO/M&A deal activity, trends in the sector, and intellectual property and regulatory issues to consider. Readers will be able to obtain a clear picture of China's CRO landscape. This paper should serve as a guide for companies considering outsourcing R&D to China and investors looking for opportunities in China's CRO industry.Â
ELLs and Group Work: It Can Be Done Well
Authors: Zahner William C.
Published: October 2012

Principles for using groups in linguistically diverse classrooms are illustrated with a task about measurement and proportionality.
Non-insertive Acupuncture and Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: a Case Series from an Inner-city Safety Net Hospital
Authors: Filippelli Amanda C. , White Laura F. , Spellman Lisa W. , Broderick Maria , Highfield Ellen Silver , Sommers Elizabeth , Gardiner Paula
Published: October 2012

Objective:

We report on the safety of non-insertive acupuncture (NIA) in 54 newborns diagnosed with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in a busy inner-city hospital.

Methods:

For this case series, a retrospective chart review was conducted. Data on participant demographics, number of NIA treatments, provider referrals, and outcomes of interest (sleeping, feeding, and adverse events) were collected.

Results:

Of the 54 newborns receiving NIA, 86% were non-Hispanic white; 87% were on Medicaid, and gestational age ranged from 33.2 to 42.1 weeks. Out of 54 chart reviews, a total of 92 NIA sessions were documented ranging from 1 to 6 sessions per infant. Of the total number of treatments (n = 92), 73% were requested by a physician. Chart reviews reported that restless infants calmed down during NIA, babies slept through or fell asleep immediately following NIA, and better feeding was noted following NIA. There were no adverse events noted in the medical records.

Conclusions:

This retrospective chart review shows potential for the use of NIA as an adjunctive treatment in newborns with NAS symptoms during hospitalization. More research is necessary to study whether the incorporation of NIA can result in positive outcomes in newborns withdrawing from narcotics.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Fitzgerald Kara , Hyman Mark , Hyman Mark , Swift Kathie
Published: October 2012

Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are chronic, often debilitating and potentially life-threatening conditions that collectively affect up to 23.5 million Americans, and their incidence is rising.1 They are heterogeneous in pathology but share common etiopathogenic factors such as intestinal hyperpermeability.2 Although up to 100 ADs have been identified, there are likely more.1 Genetics plays a clear role in the predisposition for the development and phenotype of AD, but various combinations of factors, such as toxins, endogenous hormone imbalances, microbes (including of GI origin), infections, stress and food antigens, are involved in disease expression.2—5 Standard treatments include NSAIDs, steroids, anti-neoplastic agents and tumor necrosis factor-alpha antagonists. These tools have potentially devastating side effects and are often applied regardless of the diagnosis. Frequently, they are only modestly effective in relieving symptoms and limiting the advancing disease process. Direct healthcare costs of AD are estimated at around 100 billion dollars per year in the United States. By comparison, cancer care costs about 57 billion dollars per year.1 The rising incidence of this debilitating and costly group of conditions dictates that safe, alternative approaches to treatment be considered now.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Fitzgerald Kara , Hyman Mark , Hyman Mark , Swift Kathie
Published: October 2012

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are collectively the most commonly diagnosed pediatric neurodevelopmental condition. ASDs include autism, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Rett syndrome and Asperger disorder. ASD is characterized by impaired communication and social interaction and may involve developmental delays and seizure disorders. Recent parent-reported diagnosis of ASD in the United States put it at higher levels (1:91) than previously thought, with its diagnosis in boys occurring 4 to 5 times more frequently than in girls (1:58).1 CDC estimates are currently 1:110;1 up from 1:150 in 2007.2 Annual medical expenditures for those affected are generally four to six times greater than for those without ASD.1 While twin studies demonstrate that genetics play a significant role in ASD, the impact of environment should not be underestimated, given the approximate 20-fold increase in incidence over the last 20 years.3
Minimizing immunogenicity of biopharmaceuticals by controlling critical quality attributes of proteins
Authors: van Beers Miranda M. C. , Bardor Muriel
Published: October 2012

Adverse immune responses severely hamper the success of biopharmaceutical therapies. Possible clinical consequences include anaphylaxis, reduced drug half‐life and neutralization of the therapeutic protein as well as the endogenous human homologue. Controlling potential triggers of the immune system helps to minimize the immunogenicity of biopharmaceuticals, a crucial consideration in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. This review summarizes the latest advancements that have been made towards insight into the impact of structural characteristics on the immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins. Examples are given to illustrate the role of critical quality attributes, such as protein conformation, glycosylation, chemical modifications and aggregation, in immunogenicity. During the development of biopharmaceutical products, it is important to not just assess the risk for immunogenicity in clinical trials, but to ensure product quality throughout drug design, cell‐line selection, upstream and downstream processing, all the way to to the final product.
Foamlike Porous Spinel MnxCo3−xO4 Material Derived from Mn3[Co(CN)6]2⋅nH2O Nanocubes: A Highly Efficient Anode Material for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Hu Lin , Zhang Ping , Zhong Hao , Zheng Xinrui , Yan Nan , Chen Qianwang
Published: October 2012

A new facile strategy has been designed to fabricate spinel MnxCo3−xO4 porous nanocubes, which involves a morphology‐conserved and pyrolysis‐induced transformation of Prussian Blue Analogue Mn3[Co(CN)6]2⋅nH2O perfect nanocubes. Owing to the release of CO2 and NxOy in the process of interdiffusion, this strategy can overcome to a large extent the disadvantage of the traditional ceramic route for synthesis of spinels, and MnxCo3−xO4 with foamlike porous nanostructure is effectively obtained. Importantly, when evaluated as an electrode material for lithium‐ion batteries, the foamlike MnxCo3−xO4 porous nanocubes display high specific discharge capacity and excellent rate capability. The improved electrochemical performance is attributed to the beneficial features of the particular foamlike porous nanostructure and large surface area, which reduce the diffusion length for Li+ ions and enhance the structural integrity with sufficient void space for buffering the volume variation during the Li+ insertion/extraction.
Electron Transfer in Dye‐Sensitised Semiconductors Modified with Molecular Cobalt Catalysts: Photoreduction of Aqueous Protons
Authors: Lakadamyali Fezile , Reynal Anna , Kato Masaru , Durrant James R. , Reisner Erwin
Published: October 2012

A visible‐light driven H2 evolution system comprising of a RuII dye (RuP) and CoIII proton reduction catalysts (CoP) immobilised on TiO2 nanoparticles and mesoporous films is presented. The heterogeneous system evolves H2 efficiently during visible‐light irradiation in a pH‐neutral aqueous solution at 25 °C in the presence of a hole scavenger. Photodegradation of the self‐assembled system occurs at the ligand framework of CoP, which can be readily repaired by addition of fresh ligand, resulting in turnover numbers above 300 mol H2 (mol CoP)−1 and above 200,000 mol H2 (mol TiO2 nanoparticles)−1 in water. Our studies support that a molecular Co species, rather than metallic Co or a Co‐oxide precipitate, is responsible for H2 formation on TiO2. Electron transfer in this system was studied by transient absorption spectroscopy and time‐correlated single photon counting techniques. Essentially quantitative electron injection takes place from RuP into TiO2 in approximately 180 ps. Thereby, upon dye regeneration by the sacrificial electron donor, a long‐lived TiO2 conduction band electron is formed with a half‐lifetime of approximately 0.8 s. Electron transfer from the TiO2 conduction band to the CoP catalysts occurs quantitatively on a 10 μs timescale and is about a hundred times faster than charge‐recombination with the oxidised RuP. This study provides a benchmark for future investigations in photocatalytic fuel generation with molecular catalysts integrated in semiconductors.
Sulfate‐Selective Binding and Sensing of a Fluorescent [3]Rotaxane Host System
Authors: Langton Matthew J. , Beer Paul D.
Published: October 2012

The chloride‐templated synthesis of a novel [3]rotaxane, capable of binding anionic guests, and incorporating a naphthalene group for fluorescence sensing is reported. Extensive 1H NMR titration studies were used to probe the anion binding selectivity of the system. The rotaxane selectively recognises sulfate, undergoing an induced conformational change upon sulfate binding to form a 1:1 stoichiometric sandwich‐type complex, concomitant with significant quenching of the fluorescence. Binding of mono‐anionic guests results in the formation of a 2:1 stoichiometric guest–host complex, and a modest enhancement of the emission. Addition of an excess of sulfate in non‐competitive solvent also results in a 2:1 emissive complex.
Functionalized Periodic Mesoporous Organosilica: A Highly Enantioselective Catalyst for the Michael Addition of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds to Nitroalkenes
Authors: Liu Ketang , Jin Ronghua , Cheng Tanyu , Xu Xiangming , Gao Fei , Liu Guohua , Li Hexing
Published: October 2012

A functionalized periodic mesoporous organosilica with incorporated chiral bis(cyclohexyldiamine)‐based NiII complexes within the silica framework was developed by the co‐condensation of (1R,2R)‐cyclohexyldiamine‐derived silane and ethylene‐bridge silane, followed by the complexation of NiBr2 in the presence of (1R,2R)‐N,N′‐dibenzylcyclohexyldiamine. Structural characterization by XRD, nitrogen sorption, and TEM disclosed its orderly mesostructure, and FTIR and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy demonstrated the incorporation of well‐defined single‐site bis(cyclohexyldiamine)‐based NiII active centers within periodic mesoporous organosilica. As a chiral heterogeneous catalyst, this functionalized periodic mesoporous organosilica showed high catalytic activity and excellent enantioselectivity in the asymmetric Michael addition of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds to nitroalkenes, comparable to those with homogeneous catalysts. In particular, this heterogeneous catalyst could be recovered easily and reused repeatedly up to nine times without obviously affecting its enantioselectivity, thus showing good potential for industrial applications.
Synthesis of Amino, Azido, Nitro, and Nitrogen‐Rich Azole‐Substituted Derivatives of 1H‐Benzotriazole for High‐Energy Materials Applications
Authors: Srinivas Dharavath , Ghule Vikas D. , Tewari Surya P. , Muralidharan Krishnamurthi
Published: October 2012

The amino, azido, nitro, and nitrogen‐rich azole substituted derivatives of 1H‐benzotriazole have been synthesized for energetic material applications. The synthesized compounds were fully characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, IR, MS, and elemental analysis. 5‐Chloro‐4‐nitro‐1H‐benzo[1,2,3]triazole (2) and 5‐azido‐4,6‐dinitro‐1H‐benzo[1,2,3]triazole (7) crystallize in the Pca21 (orthorhombic) and P21/c (monoclinic) space group, respectively, as determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Their densities are 1.71 and 1.77 g cm−3, respectively. The calculated densities of the other compounds range between 1.61 and 1.98 g cm−3. The detonation velocity (D) values calculated for these synthesized compounds range from 5.45 to 8.06 km s−1, and the detonation pressure (P) ranges from 12.35 to 28 GPa.
Calix[4]pyrrole‐Based Heteroditopic Ion‐Pair Receptor That Displays Anion‐Modulated, Cation‐Binding Behavior
Authors: Park In‐Won , Yoo Jaeduk , Adhikari Suman , Park Jung Su , Sessler Jonathan L. , Lee Chang‐Hee
Published: October 2012

A new ditopic ion‐pair receptor 1 was designed, synthesized, and characterized. Detailed binding studies served to confirm that this receptor binds fluoride and chloride ions (studied as their tetraalkylammonium salts) and forms stable 1:1 complexes in CDCl3. Treatment of the halide‐ion complexes of 1 with Group I and II metal ions (Li+, Na+, K+, Cs+, Mg2+, and Ca2+; studied as their perchlorate salts in CD3CN) revealed unique interactions that were found to depend on both the choice of the added cation and the precomplexed anion. In the case of the fluoride complex [1⋅F]− (preformed as the tetrabutylammonium (TBA+) complex), little evidence of interaction with the K+ ion was seen. In contrast, when this same complex (i.e., [1⋅F]− as the TBA+ salt) was treated with the Li+ or Na+ ions, complete decomplexation of the receptor‐bound fluoride ion was observed. In sharp contrast to what was seen with Li+, Na+, and K+, treating complex [1⋅F]− with the Cs+ ion gave rise to a stable, receptor‐bound ion‐pair complex [Cs⋅1⋅F] that contains the Cs+ ion complexed within the cup‐like cavity of the calix[4]pyrrole, which in turn was stabilized in its cone conformation. Different complexation behavior was observed in the case of the chloride complex [1⋅Cl]−. In this case, no appreciable interaction was observed with Na+ or K+. In addition, treating [1⋅Cl]− with Li+ produces a tightly hydrated dimeric ion‐pair complex [1⋅LiCl(H2O)]2 in which two Li+ ions are bound to the crown moiety of the two receptors. In analogy to what was seen in the case of [1⋅F]−, exposure of [1⋅Cl]− to the Cs+ ion gives rise to an ion‐pair complex [Cs⋅1⋅Cl] in which the cation is bound within the cup of the calix[4]pyrrole. Different complexation modes were also observed when the binding of the fluoride ion was studied by using the tetramethylammonium and tetraethylammonium salts.
Borverbindungen im Schulexperiment
Authors: Lühken Arnim , von der Lahr Linn‐Malena
Published: October 2012

Nach Gesetzesänderungen ist eine Neu‐Kategorisierung verschiedener Borverbindungen vorgenommen worden, die auch für Experimente im Chemieunterricht relevant sind. Im Besonderen sind dies die häufig verwendeten Verbindungen Borsäure, Dibortrioxid und Borax. Aus Unsicherheit führen Lehrkräfte Versuche mit diesen Chemikalien nun oftmals nicht mehr durch. In diesem Beitrag werden an fünf beispielhaften Schulexperimenten die Möglichkeiten, Grenzen und Alternativen aufgezeigt, wie mit Borverbindungen weiter gearbeitet werden kann und welche Ausweichsubstanzen zur Verfügung stehen.
Nafion‐1,2,3‐Triazole Blend Membranes for High Temperature PEMFCs
Authors: Kim J.‐D. , Jun M.‐S. , Di Vona M. L.
Published: October 2012

Nafion‐1,2,3‐triazole blend membranes were prepared by autoclave (AC) solution processing mixing of Nafion® solution (5% solution in 1‐ and 2‐propanol and H2O) and 1,2,3‐triazole. The blend membranes were very flexible, transparent, homogeneous, and stable even after boiling in water and treatment in 1 M H2SO4. FTIR and NMR results suggested that 1‐ and 2‐propanol of Nafion solution reacted with 1,2,3‐triazole under the catalytic effect of the Nafion's acid side chain. I–V performance of blend membranes was tested using a single membrane electrode assembly (MEA) cell. The cell performance of Nafion‐5 wt.% 1,2,3‐triazole blend membrane was higher than that of the Nafion 112 at cell temperatures over 100 °C indicating that it is possible to use Nafion‐1,2,3‐triazole blend membrane as an electrolyte for high temperature PEMFCs.
Nanoporous PdNi/C Electrocatalyst Prepared by Dealloying High‐Ni‐content PdNi Alloy for Formic Acid Oxidation
Authors: Wang Wei , Ji Shan , Wang Hui , Wang Rongfang
Published: October 2012

To improve the electrochemical performance of Pd‐based catalysts for formic acid oxidation, a carbon supported nanoporous PdNi catalyst is prepared by dealloying high‐Ni‐content PdNi alloy nanoparticles in acid solution. The structure of nanoporous PdNi/C catalyst is characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrocatalytic results show that the activity of the nanoporous PdNi/C catalyst is higher than that of nonporous Pd/C catalyst. The results demonstrate that the carbon‐supported nanoporous PdNi catalyst has a potential for application in direct formic acid fuel cells.
Performance Analysis of a Stationary Fuel Cell Thermoelectric Cogeneration System
Authors: Kuo J.‐K. , Hwang J.‐J. , Lin C.‐H.
Published: October 2012

The main purpose of our study was to use an experimental method and system dynamic simulation technology to examine a proton exchange membrane fuel cell thermoelectric cogeneration system that provides both high‐quality electric power and heated water. In the second part of our study, we experimentally verified the development of key components of the fuel cell and conducted a comprehensive analysis of the subsystems, including the fuel cell module, hydrogen supply subsystem, air supply subsystem, humidifier subsystem, and heat recovery subsystem. Finally, we integrated all of the subsystems into a PEM fuel cell thermoelectric cogeneration system and performed efficiency tests and analysis of power generation, heat recovery, and thermoelectric cogeneration. After comparing this system's efficiency results using simulation and experimentation, we determined that the accuracy of the simulation values when compared to the experimental values was >95%, showing that this system's simulation nearly approached the efficiency of the actual experiment, including more than 53% for power generation efficiency, more than 39% for heat recovery efficiency, and more than 93% for thermoelectric cogeneration combined efficiency.
NATM – from a construction method to a system / NÖT – von der Bauweise zum System
Authors: Schubert Wulf , Lauffer Harald
Published: October 2012

The term NATM was introduced by Rabcewicz during a lecture at the Geomechanics Colloquium in 1962. In this lecture, he summarizes the development of tunnelling methods and insight into mechanical processes in the ground over the last decades, and points out the positive experience made with a combination of shotcrete and rock bolts instead of the traditional timber or steel supports. Building on experience and development around the world, it has been Austrian engineers who have systematically developed and applied the method. In the beginning technological questions played a major role, but it was also clear that traditional design methods were no longer applicable. Thus it was still unavoidable to rely heavily on experience and observation. The importance of measurements for observing the system behaviour has been acknowledged, and techniques have been developed considerably further since then. Parallel to gaining more experience with the method in all kinds of ground conditions, contractual practices have also been further developed with the aim of establishing rules, which allow fair compensation of the contractor in spite of all the inherent uncertainties. In Austria, tunnel design practice has been standardized by the introduction of a guideline.

Some of the factors contributing to the success of the method are the awareness of the client of his responsibilities, appropriate site organization, qualified engineers and miners, practically oriented research and education, as well as extensive exchange of experience.

Der Begriff NÖT wurde von Rabcewicz geschaffen, der ihn erstmalig beim Geomechanik Kolloquium 1962 verwendete. In seinem damaligen Beitrag fasst er die während der letzten Dekaden entwickelten Tunnelbaumethoden und die Vorstellungen über die Mechanik der Vorgänge im Gebirge zusammen. Aufbauend auf vorliegenden Erfahrungen und Erkenntnisse haben überwiegend österreichische Ingenieure diese Methode entwickelt und umgesetzt. Standen anfänglich Probleme einer praktischen Umsetzung im Vordergrund, so war doch klar, dass die traditionellen Planungsgrundsätze der Vergangenheit angehörten. Deswegen musste man sich noch überwiegend auf Erfahrungen und Beobachtungen stützen. Von Anfang an wurde die Bedeutung von Messungen zur ingenieurmäßigen Erfassung des Gebirgsverhaltens erkannt und deren Weiterentwicklung laufend vorangetrieben. Parallel zur erfolgreichen Anwendung der Methode in allen Gebirgsarten wurden auch Vertragsmodelle entwickelt, die eine faire Vergütung bei wechselhaftem und unvorhersehbarem Gebirgsverhalten ermöglichen.

Zur Gewährleistung einer strukturieren geotechnischen Planung wurde eine eigene Richtlinie erarbeitet. Für den Erfolg der Methode sind entscheidungswillige und sachkundige Auftraggeber, eine entsprechende Baustellenorganisation, qualifizierte Ingenieure und Mineure, eine praxisorientiere Forschung und Ausbildung und schlussendlich ein intensiver Erfahrungsaustausch notwendig.
Estimating the Contributions of Rare and Common Genetic Variations and Clinical Measures to a Model Trait: Adiponectin
Authors: An S. Sandy , Palmer Nicholette D. , Hanley Anthony J. G. , Ziegler Julie T. , Brown W. Mark , Haffner Steven M. , Norris Jill M. , Rotter Jerome I. , Guo Xiuqing , Chen Y.‐D. Ida , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Langefeld Carl D. , Bowden Donald W.
Published: October 2012

Common genetic variation frequently accounts for only a modest amount of interindividual variation in quantitative traits and complex disease susceptibility. Circulating adiponectin, an adipocytokine implicated in metabolic disease, is a model for assessing the contribution of genetic and clinical factors to quantitative trait variation. The adiponectin locus, ADIPOQ, is the primary source of genetically mediated variation in plasma adiponectin levels. This study sought to define the genetic architecture of ADIPOQ in the comprehensively phenotyped Hispanic (n = 1,151) and African American (n = 574) participants from the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Family Study (IRASFS). Through resequencing and bioinformatic analysis, rare/low frequency (<5% MAF) and common variants (>5% MAF) in ADIPOQ were identified. Genetic variants and clinical variables were assessed for association with adiponectin levels and contribution to adiponectin variance in the Hispanic and African American cohorts. Clinical traits accounted for the greatest proportion of variance (POV) at 31% (P = 1.16 × 10−47) and 47% (P = 5.82 × 10−20), respectively. Rare/low frequency variants contributed more than common variants to variance in Hispanics: POV = 18% (P = 6.40 × 10−15) and POV = 5% (P = 0.19), respectively. In African Americans, rare/low frequency and common variants both contributed approximately equally to variance: POV = 6% (P = 5.44 × 10−12) and POV = 9% (P = 1.44 × 10−10), respectively. Importantly, single low frequency alleles in each ethnic group were as important as, or more important than, common variants in explaining variation in adiponectin. Cumulatively, these clinical and ethnicity‐specific genetic contributors explained half or more of the variance in Hispanic and African Americans and provide new insight into the sources of variation for this important adipocytokine.
Testing Genetic Association With Rare Variants in Admixed Populations
Authors: Mao Xianyun , Li Yun , Liu Yichuan , Lange Leslie , Li Mingyao
Published: October 2012

Recent studies suggest that rare variants play an important role in the etiology of many traits. Although a number of methods have been developed for genetic association analysis of rare variants, they all assume a relatively homogeneous population under study. Such an assumption may not be valid for samples collected from admixed populations such asAfricanAmericans andHispanicAmericans as there is a great extent of local variation in ancestry in these populations. To ensure valid and more powerful rare variant association tests performed in admixed populations, we have developed a local ancestry‐based weighted dosage test, which is able to take into account local ancestry of rare alleles, uncertainties in rare variant imputation when imputed data are included, and the direction of effect that rare variants exert on phenotypic outcome. We used simulated sequence data to show that our proposed test has controlled typeIerror rates, whereas naïve application of existing rare variants tests and tests that adjust for global ancestry lead to inflated type I error rates. We showed that our test has higher power than tests without proper adjustment of ancestry. We also applied the proposed method to a candidate gene study on low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Our results suggest that it is important to appropriately control for potential population stratification induced by local ancestry difference in the analysis of rare variants in admixed populations.
Anxiety Disorders and the Quality of Relationships With Friends, Relatives, and Romantic Partners
Authors: Priest Jacob B.
Published: October 2012

Objectives

Though research suggests support for the association between marital quality and anxiety disorders, less is known about relationship quality with relatives and friends and anxiety disorders.

Method

Using data from the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology Surveys (n = 9912; mean age 44.8; 52.2% female), the association between relationship quality with relatives, friends, and romantic partners and anxiety disorders is examined for those who are divorced, single, or married.

Results

For those who are single or divorced, relationship quality with relatives and friends was associated with many anxiety disorders including agoraphobia, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder. For those who are married, relationship quality with relatives and partners was associated with generalized anxiety disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder.

Conclusion

Given that those with anxiety disorders have higher rates of divorce and are more likely to be single, examining the relationship quality with relatives and friends, in addition to romantic partners, may be important for understanding the onset and course of anxiety disorders.