bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The XY gene hypothesis of psychosis: Origins and current status
Authors: Crow Timothy J.
Published: October 2013

Sex differences in psychosis and their interaction with laterality (systematic departures from 50:50 left‐right symmetry across the antero‐posterior neural axis) are reviewed in the context of the X‐Y gene hypothesis. Aspects of laterality (handedness/cerebral asymmetry/the torque) predict (1) verbal and non‐verbal ability in childhood and across adult life and (2) anatomical, physiological, and linguistic variation relating to psychosis. Neuropsychological and MRI evidence from individuals with sex chromosome aneuploidies indicates that laterality is associated with an X‐Y homologous gene pair. Within each mammalian species the complement of such X‐Y gene pairs reflects their potential to account for taxon‐specific sexual dimorphisms. As a consequence of the mechanism of meiotic suppression of unpaired chromosomes  such X‐Y gene pairs generate epigenetic variation around a species defining motif that is carried to the zygote with potential to initiate embryonic gene expression in XX or XY format. The Protocadherin11XY (PCDH11XY) gene pair in Xq21.3/Yp11.2 in probable coordination with a gene or genes within PAR2 (the second pseudo‐autosomal region) is the prime candidate in relation to cerebral asymmetry and psychosis in Homo sapiens. The lately‐described pattern of sequence variation associated with psychosis on the autosomes may reflect a component of the human genome's adjustment to selective pressures generated by the sexually dimorphic mate recognition system. © 2013 The Authors. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics Published by John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genetic variation and major depressive disorder prognosis: A five‐year prospective cohort study of primary care attendees
Authors: Bousman Chad A. , Potiriadis Maria , Everall Ian P. , Gunn Jane M.
Published: October 2013

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genetic variation has been associated with the diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) but no study to date has examined the effect MTHFR variation has on MDD prognosis. We sought to examine the prospective effects of two common MTHFR variants (C677T and A1298C) as well as seven haplotype‐tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (htSNPs) on MDD prognosis over a 5‐year (60‐month) period. Participants were 147 depressed primary care attendees enrolled in the Diagnosis, Management and Outcomes of Depression in Primary Care (diamond) prospective cohort study. Prognosis of MDD was measured using three methods: (1) DSM‐IV criteria, (2) Primary Care Evaluation of Mental Disorders Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9), and (3) Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD). DSM‐IV criteria for MDD was assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview at baseline and 24, 36, 48, and 60 months post‐baseline; whereas, PHQ‐9 and CESD measures were employed at baseline and 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months post‐baseline. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed that PHQ‐9 symptom severity trajectories differed by C677T genotype (F = 3.34, df = 2,144, P = 0.038), with 677CC genotype showing the most severe symptom severity course over the 60 months of observation. Neither the A1298C polymorphism nor any of the htSNPs were associated with MDD prognosis regardless of measure used. Our results suggest that the MTHFR C677T polymorphism may serve as a marker for MDD prognosis pending independent replication. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Copper‐Catalyzed N‐Alkynylation of N‐tert‐Butyloxycarbonyl (Boc)‐Protected Indoles
Authors: Song Jiahui , Wang Qingbo , Fu Haixing , Fu Songlin , Li Shaobin , Shi Feng , Wu Chunrui
Published: October 2013

N‐Boc indoles undergo Cu‐catalyzed N‐alkynylation with alkynyl bromides after in situ deprotection. Potassium tert‐butoxide was used for the deprotection of substrates and as the base during the cross‐coupling stage. For substrates that contain a 2‐pyridyl group or similar, a phenathroline ligand was not needed. This serves as an alternative protocol for N‐alkynylation of indoles with a broader scope of substrates.
An Efficient Synthesis of Dibenzo[b,f]oxepins by Ring‐Closing Metathesis
Authors: Bharath Yada , Thirupathi Barla , Ranjit Gurram , Mohapatra Debendra K.
Published: October 2013

Dibenzo[b,f]oxepin scaffolds, which have been found in the Bauhinia plant family and have potent medicinal properties, have been prepared efficiently by a two‐step protocol that involves Ullmann‐type coupling and ring‐closing metathesis reactions.
Synthesis and Fluorescence Properties of Isatin‐Based Spiro Compounds: Switch off Chemosensing of Copper(II) Ions
Authors: Kundu Ashis , Pathak Sudipta , Pramanik Animesh
Published: October 2013

A series of isatin‐based spiro compounds 2′,7′‐diamino‐2‐oxo‐1′,4′‐dihydrospiro[indoline‐3,4′‐quinoline]‐3′‐carbonitriles have been synthesized by heating mixtures of isatins, malononitrile, and meta‐phenylenediamine to reflux in ethanol. Some of the compounds have high fluorescence quantum yields (ΦF=ca. 0.8) and long fluorescence lifetimes (τ=ca. 9.0 ns) in the polar solvent acetone. The value of ΦF decreases with increasing polarity of the solvents in the sequence acetone, CH3CN, N,N‐dimethylformamide, and MeOH. All of the compounds fluoresce in a weak basic medium, such as triethylamine, but do not emit in acetic acid. Efficient and selective fluorescence quenching occurs for Cu2+ ions in solution through complexation, which can be used for detection of Cu2+ ions in the presence of several other metal ions. Preliminary studies show that these isatin‐based spiro compounds can be used as fluorescence probe for bioimaging of human squamous epithelium and peripheral blood mononuclear (PBM) cells and also for detecting Cu2+ ions in living cells.
Amination of meso‐Bromoporphyrins and 9‐Haloanthracenes with Diarylamines Catalyzed by a Palladium–PEPPSI Complex
Authors: Suzuki Yuko , Fukui Norihito , Murakami Kei , Yorimitsu Hideki , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: October 2013

Palladium‐catalyzed aminations of bulky aryl halides such as meso‐bromoporphyrins and 9‐haloanthracenes with diarylamines provided efficient syntheses of meso‐aminoporphyrins and 9‐aminoanthracenes. Commercially available and air‐stable Pd‐PEPPSI complexes that have N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) as ligands have the highest catalytic activities. The scope of diarylamines is wide enough to use diphenylamine, phenoxazine, phenothiazine, 9,10‐dihydroacrydine, and carbazole.
Human behavior and opportunities for parasite transmission in communities surrounding long‐tailed macaque populations in Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Lane‐deGraaf Kelly E. , Putra I.G.A. Arta , Wandia I. Nengah , Rompis Aida , Hollocher Hope , Fuentes Agustin
Published: October 2013

Spatial overlap and shared resources between humans and wildlife can exacerbate parasite transmission dynamics. In Bali, Indonesia, an agricultural‐religious temple system provides sanctuaries for long‐tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), concentrating them in areas in close proximity to humans. In this study, we interviewed individuals in communities surrounding 13 macaque populations about their willingness to participate in behaviors that would put them at risk of exposure to gastrointestinal parasites to understand if age, education level, or occupation are significant determinants of exposure behaviors. These exposure risk behaviors and attitudes include fear of macaques, direct contact with macaques, owning pet macaques, hunting and eating macaques, and overlapping water uses. We find that willingness to participate in exposure risk behaviors are correlated with an individual's occupation, age, and/or education level. We also found that because the actual risk of infection varies across populations, activities such as direct macaque contact and pet ownership, could be putting individuals at real risk in certain contexts. Thus, we show that human demographics and social structure can influence willingness to participate in behaviors putting them at increased risk for exposure to parasites. Am. J. Primatol. 76:159–167, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Body signals during social play in free‐ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta): A systematic analysis
Authors: Yanagi Akie , Berman Carol M.
Published: October 2013

Social play involves one of the most sophisticated types of communication, that is, the use of play signals. Most primate research on play signals has focused on the use of the play face. However, some species appear to exhibit a variety of play signals. For example, rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) have been reported to use body movements or postures that might have signal value during social play, in addition to the play face. However, it is not clear whether these body signals actually meet several criteria necessary to label them as “play signals.” Here we examine the forms and possible functions of seven candidate signals that we observed exclusively during social play contexts among free‐ranging rhesus monkeys on Cayo Santiago. We aim to (1) distinguish them from actual play behavior (play involving contact or chasing) using loglinear analysis and (2) determine whether they predict playful behavior using modified PC‐MC methods. Two candidate signals did not resemble any behaviors used in actual play. The other five signals contained elements that lasted longer or increased their conspicuousness over similar play behaviors, suggesting ritualized characteristics. Youngsters were likely to initiate contact or chasing play significantly sooner after candidate signals than in their absence. Thus, these candidate signals appear to meet critical criteria of signals that promote, moderate or facilitate play. As such, these findings open the door to questions about why multiple play signals have evolved. Am. J. Primatol. 76:168–179, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brief communication: Cranial nonmetric trait database on the internet
Authors: Ossenberg Nancy Suzanne
Published: October 2013

This brief note announces the publication of a nonmetric cranial trait database as a freely available resource on the Internet at: http://library.queensu.ca/webdoc/ssdc/cntd. The files were constructed in the program Excel, and are available also in comma‐delimited format. These one‐observer data on 38 traits were recorded in 1963–2003 in skeletal collections curated at many museums. The 8,016 crania represent individuals from a broad geographic and temporal range of recent human populations, with regions best represented being the Arctic and northwestern North America. Am J Phys Anthropol 152:551‐553, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment and outcomes of chronic rhinosinusitis in children with primary ciliary dyskinesia: where is the evidence? A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Mener David J. , Lin Sandra Y. , Ishman Stacey L. , Boss Emily F.
Published: October 2013

Background

Consensus on treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in children with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is limited. We sought to synthesize the best available evidence pertaining to treatment and outcomes of CRS in children with PCD.

Methods

This work is a systematic review of PubMed and EMBASE for studies pertaining to treatment and outcomes of CRS in children with PCD in a 20‐year period. Two reviewers independently extracted information on study design, setting, medical or surgical therapy for CRS, and treatment outcomes.

Results

Twelve studies from 8 countries were included for analysis: (3 retrospective cohorts, 2 prospective cohorts, 2 cross‐sectional, 1 case series, and 4 case reports). The number of patients with PCD ranged from 1 to 78. Medical treatment included oral antibiotics, intranasal steroids, and oral steroids. Surgical treatment was mentioned in 8 studies, with endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) described in 3 of 8. Outcome measures were rarely defined but included the 20‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐20) questionnaire (1/12), symptom questionnaire (1/12), decreased recurrent pneumonia (1/12), and subjective report of CRS symptoms. No randomized, controlled, or long‐term prospective cohort studies were identified, and no study employed a disease‐specific, pediatric‐validated instrument to measure outcomes of therapy.

Conclusion

There is a paucity of evidence pertaining to CRS treatment or outcomes in children with PCD. Given the rare prevalence of PCD and the insufficient evidence pertaining to treatment effectiveness for CRS, we propose an international, multicenter database to prospectively track data pertaining to diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of CRS for children with PCD. This effort would encourage implementation of validated and standardized outcome measures.
The effect of intranasal fluticasone propionate irrigations on salivary cortisol, intraocular pressure, and posterior subcapsular cataracts in postsurgical chronic rhinosinusitis patients
Authors: Man Li‐Xing , Farhood Zachary , Luong Amber , Fakhri Samer , Feldman Robert M. , Orlander Philip R. , Citardi Martin J.
Published: October 2013

Background

Intranasal corticosteroid irrigations, especially budesonide, are used increasingly in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis. In post–endoscopic sinus surgery patients, irrigations may offer improved delivery at higher doses to the paranasal sinuses than intranasal spray preparations. Fluticasone propionate may have higher potency and lower systemic bioavailability than budesonide, but there is little data on its effects as an intranasal irrigation on the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis or on ocular findings.

Methods

Adult patients who had previously undergone bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery and had not taken systemic corticosteroids in the last 6 months were prospectively enrolled. Subjects irrigated with 3 mg of fluticasone propionate in 240 mL saline solution twice daily. Salivary cortisol, intraocular pressure, and the presence of posterior subcapsular cataracts were measured before drug administration and after 6 weeks of continuous use.

Results

Twenty‐three subjects completed the study. No subjects had salivary cortisol levels below the normal range before or after therapy, and there was no statistical difference in mean salivary cortisol levels pretreatment and posttreatment (0.294 vs 0.392 μg/dL; p = 0.27). There was no clinical or statistical difference in mean intraocular pressure before or after therapy (13.3 vs 13.3 mmHg; p = 0.86). No subjects developed a posterior subcapsular cataract.

Conclusion

Fluticasone propionate irrigations did not suppress salivary cortisol levels or result in ocular changes. Irrigation with fluticasone propionate 3 mg in 240 mL saline twice daily may be a safe alternative to other intranasal or systemic corticosteroid treatments for chronic rhinosinusitis patients.
The α2B‐adrenergic receptor is mutant in cortical myoclonus and epilepsy
Authors: De Fusco Maurizio , Vago Riccardo , Striano Pasquale , Di Bonaventura Carlo , Zara Federico , Mei Davide , Kim Min Seuk , Muallem Shmuel , Chen Yunjia , Wang Qin , Guerrini Renzo , Casari Giorgio
Published: October 2013

Objective

Autosomal dominant cortical myoclonus and epilepsy (ADCME) is characterized by distal, fairly rhythmic myoclonus and epilepsy with variable severity. We have previously mapped the disease locus on chromosome 2p11.1‐q12.2 by genome‐wide linkage analysis. Additional pedigrees affected by similar forms of epilepsy have been associated with chromosomes 8q, 5p, and 3q, but none of the causing genes has been identified. We aim to identify the mutant gene responsible for this form of epilepsy.

Methods

Genes included in the ADCME critical region were directly sequenced. Coimmunoprecipitation, immunofluorescent, and electrophysiologic approaches to transfected human cells have been utilized for testing the functional significance of the identified mutation.

Results

Here we show that mutation in the α2‐adrenergic receptor subtype B (α2B‐AR) is associated with ADCME by identifying a novel in‐frame insertion/deletion in 2 Italian families. The mutation alters several conserved residues of the third intracellular loop, hampering neither the α2B‐AR plasma membrane localization nor the arrestin‐mediated internalization capacity, but altering the binding with the scaffolding protein spinophilin upon neurotransmitter activation. Spinophilin, in turn, regulates interaction of G protein coupled receptors with regulator of G protein signaling proteins. Accordingly, the mutant α2B‐AR increases the epinephrine‐stimulated calcium signaling.

Interpretation

The identified mutation is responsible for ADCME, as the loss of α2B‐AR/spinophilin interaction causes a gain of function effect. This work implicates for the first time the α‐adrenergic system in human epilepsy and opens new ways of understanding the molecular pathway of epileptogenesis, widening the spectrum of possible therapeutic targets. ANN NEUROL 2014;75:77–87
β‐Amyloid is transmitted via neuronal connections along axonal membranes
Authors: Song Ha‐Lim , Shim Sungbo , Kim Dong‐Hou , Won Se‐Hoon , Joo Segyeong , Kim Sudong , Jeon Noo Li , Yoon Seung‐Yong
Published: October 2013

Objective

β‐amyloid plaque is a critical pathological feature of Alzheimer disease. Pathologic studies suggest that neurodegeneration may occur in a retrograde fashion from axon terminals near β‐amyloid plaques, and that plaque may spread through brain regions. However, there is no direct experimental evidence to show transmission of β‐amyloid.

Methods

Microscopic imaging data of β‐amyloid transmission was acquired in cortical neuron cultures from Sprague‐Dawley rat embryos using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic culture chambers and in brain sections from in vivo β‐amyloid injection.

Results

We present direct imaging evidence in cultured cortical neurons, using PDMS microfluidic culture chambers, that β‐amyloid is readily absorbed by axonal processes and retrogradely transported to neuronal cell bodies. Transmission of β‐amyloid via neuronal connections was also confirmed in mouse brain. β‐Amyloid absorbed by distal axons accumulates in axonal swellings, mitochondria, and lysosomes of the cell bodies. Interestingly, dynasore, an inhibitor of dynamin, which is a protein indispensable for endocytosis, did not prevent retrograde transport of β‐amyloid, indicating that β‐amyloid is absorbed onto axonal membranes and transmitted via them to the cell body. Dynasore did decrease the transneuronal transmission of β‐amyloid, suggesting that this requires the internalization and secretion of β‐amyloid.

Interpretation

Our findings provide direct in vitro and in vivo evidence for spreading of β‐amyloid through neuronal connections, and suggest possible therapeutic approaches to blocking this spread. Ann Neurol 2014;75:88–97
A CFD simulation study to evaluate the flow and catalytic hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate in a packed bed, a two‐stage fluidized bed, and a circulating fluidized bed
Authors: Zhu Ya‐Ping , Xiao Fang‐Zhi , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: October 2013

Hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate (DMO) can be operated in various reactors, such as the packed bed (PB), two‐stage fluidized bed (TSFB), and circulating fluidized bed (CFB) reactors. Fluid dynamic behaviors in these reactors are different and can lead to different transport and reaction behaviors. Recent advances in the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique show its great potential in advancing current understanding of fluid dynamics and its interactions with chemical reaction dynamics. In this study, CFD models for the simulations of flow and hydrogenation of Diethyl Oxalate (DEO) in PB, TSFB, and CFB reactors were developed. The CFD model for the PB reactor was validated using experimental data. The models were then used to predict flow and hydrogenation behaviors in the other two reactors. Various critical issues to be considered in choosing a reactor and how CFD modeling can be utilized to reduce uncertainties associated with this are discussed in details. The approach, models, and results presented here will be useful for understanding the complex flow dynamics and its interaction with the reaction dynamics of DMO hydrogenation in various types of reactors. © 2013 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SiO2 reinforced HDPE hybrid materials obtained by the sol–gel method
Authors: Ma Wenzhong , Gong Fanghong , Liu Chunlin , Tao Guoliang , Xu Jianping , Jiang Bibiao
Published: October 2013

Novel high density polyethylene (HDPE)/SiO2 hybrid materials were prepared by the sol–gel process using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS). HDPE and synthesized HDPE‐g‐vinyl trimethoxysilane (VTMS) through melt grafting method was used as the raw material. The structure and thermal, mechanical properties of hybrid materials were investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), simultaneous thermogravimetric (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and tensile tests, respectively. Silica phase in the HDPE‐g‐VTMS hybrids showed a network structure and nano‐scale size. The covalent bonds between organic and inorganic phases were introduced by the HDPE‐g‐VTMS bearing trimethoxysilyl groups, which underwent hydrolytic polycondensation with TEOS. The thermal stability and mechanical properties of HDPE‐g‐VTMS hybrids were obviously improved by embedded silica networks. It was found that the silica content in the HDPE‐g‐VTMS hybrid material was linearly increased with the TEOS dosage. The formation of the HDPE‐g‐VTMS hybrid was beneficial for enhanced mechanical strength and thermal stability, in comparison with the neat HDPE. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 39891.
The study of char forming on OPS/PC and DOPO‐POSS/PC composites
Authors: Cheng Baofa , Zhang Wenchao , Li Xiangmei , Yang Rongjie
Published: October 2013

Polyhedral oligomeric octaphenyl silsesquioxane (OPS) and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane containing 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO‐POSS) with polycarbonate (PC) were each prepared by twin screw extrusion. Their flammability was studied by cone calorimetry under different heat fluxes (35 and 50 kW/m2). In the cone calorimeter testing, thermocouples were used to measure the temperature at the top and bottom of the composites. Compared to the DOPO‐POSS/PC composite, the char layer of the OPS/PC composite is better for preventing heat transfer, the temperature change indicates that OPS/PC composite has a longer period of char formation, and the organization of their char materials are different. The DOPO‐POSS/PC composite has a harder char layer than the OPS/PC composite, but the OPS/PC composite char layer is more compact. The char layer macrostructure was studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDS, which indicated that there are many bubbles and pores in the DOPO‐POSS/PC composite. EDS showed that there was some Si content in the exterior and interior char for the DOPO‐POSS/PC composite; there is a greater Si content in the exterior OPS/PC char residue than in the interior. The storage modulus of OPS/PC composite was higher than the PC control and DOPO‐POSS/PC composite at low frequencies. The values of η* of the OPS/PC composite were higher than the PC control and DOPO‐POSS/PC composite at low frequencies; also, the PC control exhibits a quasi‐Newtonian regime, but the OPS/PC and DOPO‐POSS/PC composites exhibit typical shear‐thinning behavior. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39892.
Simultaneous adsorption of aniline and Cr(VI) ion by activated carbon/chitosan composite
Authors: Huang Ruihua , Yang Bingchao , Liu Qian , Liu Yanping
Published: October 2013

Activated carbon/chitosan composite has been used as an adsorbent to remove aniline and Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solutions simultaneously. The effects of preparation conditions such as the ratio of activated carbon to chitosan, crosslinking reagents, crosslinking time, and adsorption conditions including adsorbent dosage, pH value of solution, and contact time on simultaneous adsorption of aniline and Cr(VI) ion were investigated. Experimental results showed that epichlorohydrin was the proper crosslinking reagent, and the ratio of activated carbon to chitosan was kept at 1. When the adsorbent dosage was 4.0 g/L, and the concentrations of aniline and Cr(VI) were lower than 50 and 100 mg/L, respectively, both aniline and Cr(VI) were simultaneously removed at natural pH with high removals (>95%). The presence of Cr(VI) enhanced the adsorption of aniline, while the presence of aniline almost had no influence on the adsorption of Cr(VI). The adsorption processes of both aniline and Cr(VI) followed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model, but the sorption of Cr(VI) was preferential to that of aniline by this composite. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39903.
Online monitoring of reaction temperature during cationic ring opening polymerization of epichlorohydrin in presence of BF3 and 1,4‐butanediol
Authors: Su Kim Jeong , Ohk Kweon Jeong , Tae Noh Si
Published: October 2013

This work introduces cationic ring opening polymerization of polyepichlorohydrin (PECH) produced under various reaction conditions (set temperature: −10 to 40°C, [C]/[I] ratio: 0.1–1, monomer feed rate: 1–4 mL/min). In addition, a correlation between the exothermic reaction temperature and the performance of the PECH was obtained by utilizing a reaction temperature monitoring system, GPC, 1H‐NMR, and FTIR. During the polymerization, an induction period which affects the polydispersity was observed below 10°C. At lower temperatures and lower [C]/[I] ratios, a higher induction period was observed. The monomer feed rate did not affect the induction period but it highly affected the polydispersity when the induction period occurred. The total molecular weight of PECH increased with decreasing set temperature even though the amount of low molecular weight cyclic oligomer increased. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39912.
Effect of solid‐state shear milling on structure and properties of HDPE/UHMWPE blends
Authors: Chen Yang , Li Yi , Zou Huawei , Liang Mei
Published: October 2013

The structure and properties of HDPE/UHMWPE blends prepared through a pan‐milling reactor in solid state at ambient temperature were compared with the blends made by melt mixing. The changes of structure and properties of the blends were investigated by FTIR, melt flow index, mechanical properties, dynamic rheological measurement, DSC, and WAXD. DSC measurement illustrated that after pan‐milling treatment, the half‐width of the melting temperature became smaller. The more content of UHMWPE added in the blend, the more evident change was observed. Combined with the dynamic rheological analysis, it was proved that, the pan‐milling treatment can improve the compatibility of the HDPE/UHMWPE blends. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that after pan‐milling treatment some ordered structure could be induced, but after heat treatment, the induced crystalline structure disappeared. The tensile properties of pan‐milled HDPE/UHMWPE blends also achieved improvement after pan milling treatment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39916.
Measuring the residence time distribution in a twin screw extruder with the use of NIR‐spectroscopy
Authors: Laske Stephan , Witschnigg Andreas , Selvasankar Ramesh Kumar , Holzer Clemens
Published: October 2013

The mean residence time (MRT) and the residence time distribution (RTD) of polypropylene in a twin‐screw extruder was determined directly in‐line with the help of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and the use of an UV‐absorber as tracer. Different experiment alignments such as screw speed, mass throughput, back pressure as well as tracer content and their influence on MRT and RTD have been investigated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 39919.
Upcycling waste plastics into carbon nanomaterials: A review
Authors: Zhuo Chuanwei , Levendis Yiannis A.
Published: October 2013

Polymer production and utilization are currently widespread and have greatly improved people's standards of living. However, due to their stable and nonbiodegradable nature, postconsumer polymers pose challenging issues to the environment and ecosystems. Efforts are being made not only to contain the generation of polymer wastes and associated littering but, also, to find ways of utilizing them sustainably. Aside from mechanical recycling, which turns postconsumer polymers into new polymer products, and thermal recycling, which releases the thermal energy contained within waste plastics through combustion, chemical recycling converts waste polymers into feedstock for chemicals/materials/fuels production. This manuscript reviews prior work on a special application of the particular chemical recycling route that converts polymers into carbon‐based nanomaterials. These materials feature extraordinary physical and chemical properties with tremendous applications potential. However, their production processes are both resource‐ and energy‐intensive. Yet, by taking advantage of the high carbon content of waste polymers, as well as of their high energy content, a cost‐effective, environmentally‐friendly, and self‐sustaining production of carbon nanomaterials can be achieved. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39931.
Hydrogen‐bonded supramolecular polymers as self‐healing hydrogels: Effect of a bulky adamantyl substituent in the ureido‐pyrimidinone monomer
Authors: Chirila Traian V. , Lee Hui Hui , Oddon Mathieu , Nieuwenhuizen Marko M. L. , Blakey Idriss , Nicholson Timothy M.
Published: October 2013

In an attempt to generate supramolecular assemblies able to function as self‐healing hydrogels, a novel ureido‐pyrimidinone (UPy) monomer, 2‐(N ′‐methacryloyloxyethylureido)‐6‐(1‐adamantyl)‐4[1H]‐pyrimidinone, was synthesized and then copolymerized with N,N‐dimethylacrylamide at four different feed compositions, using a solution of lithium chloride in N,N‐dimethylacetamide as the polymerization medium. The assembling process in the resulting copolymers is based on crosslinking through the reversible quadruple hydrogen bonding between side‐chain UPy modules. The adamantyl substituent was introduced in order to create a “hydrophobic pocket” that may protect the hydrogen bonds against the disruptive effect of water molecules. Upon hydration to equilibrium, all copolymers generated typical hydrogels when their concentration in the hydrated system was at least 15%. The small‐deformation rheometry showed that all hydrated copolymers were hydrogels that maintained a solid‐like behavior, and that their extrusion through a syringe needle did not affect significantly this behavior, suggesting a self‐healing capacity in these materials. An application as injectable substitutes for the eye's vitreous humor was proposed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39932.
Polymeric hydrogels obtained using a redox initiator: Application in Cu(II) ions removal from aqueous solutions
Authors: Morán‐Quiroz José Luis , Orozco‐Guareño Eulogio , Manríquez Ricardo , Carbajal‐Arízaga Gregorio G. , de la Cruz Wencel , Gomez‐Salazar Sergio
Published: October 2013

Poly(acrylic acid‐co‐acrylamide) hydrogels were prepared via free‐radical solution polymerization, crosslinked with ethylene‐glycol‐dimethacrylate, potassium persulfate/ammonium bisulfite as the initiator, and applied in the removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions. Molar ratios of acrylamide/acrylic acid moieties and the amount of crosslinking agent were varied to determine the swelling capacities of hydrogels and maximum metal uptake. Polymerization kinetics was investigated by 1H‐NMR. Hydrogel physicochemical properties were characterized by nitrogen sorption measurements, elemental analysis, FTIR, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Swelling results indicated that hydrogels were swollen up to 27,500%. Hydrogels showed equilibrium Cu(II) adsorption capacities of 211.7 mg g−1 and fast kinetics (∼20 min). Langmuir isotherm fitted adsorption equilibrium data. FTIR and XPS results helped in elucidating the presence of monodentate copper complex on the surface of hydrogels. A simple synthesis route of hydrogels using the redox initiator suggests the potential application in the removal of toxic metals from aqueous streams. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39933.
Adhesion behavior of different annealed polyphenylquinoxaline foils treated using low pressure plasma
Authors: Anagreh Nabil , Dweiri Radwan
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the adhesion behavior of polyphenylquinoxaline (PPQ) foils. PPQ foils were initially produced and then annealed in vacuum furnace at different temperatures. The surface of PPQ was activated with GHz‐low pressure plasma (lp‐plasma) using oxidative (O2) and noble (Ar, Ar/He) gases. An epoxy adhesive was used to glue the PPQ foil with a sheet of steel. The adhesions of foils were examined using 90°‐peel test. Observations from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) in addition to the gravimetry measurements were used to interpretate the effects of plasma treatment of adhesion of foils. The results showed that the peeling resistance values were significantly dependent on plasma treatment time and power as well as annealing conditions. In case of PPQ foils where the adhesion was significantly enhanced, it was observed that the fracture changed from adhesion mode at the interface between the adhesive layer and the PPQ foil to cohesive mode, which was seen either in the layer nearby the PPQ surfaces or in the foil itself. Furthermore, furrowed structures were observed at the fracture surface and they were oriented transversely to the peeling direction. SEM and AFM graphs showed that the surface roughness of PPQ foils increased significantly with increasing plasma treatment time and it was more pronounced when using oxidative than noble gas. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39949.
Thermotropic glazings for overheating protection. I. Material preselection, formulation, and light‐shielding efficiency
Authors: Weber Andreas , Resch Katharina
Published: October 2013

This article presents a systematic strategy for formulation and optimization of thermotropic layers for overheating protection purposes. Specifically, thermotropic systems with fixed domains (TSFD) which consist of a thermotropic additive finely dispersed in a matrix material are considered. Based on systematic material (component) preselection regarding thermoanalytical characteristics and refractive indices, numerous thermotropic layers were formulated. TSFD with thermoplastic matrix were produced by compounding and compression molding. TSFD with resin matrix were produced by UV curing. The thermotropic layers were analyzed as to solar optical properties, threshold temperature, switching process and residual transmittance in the opaque state applying UV/Vis/NIR spectrometry equipped with a heating stage. Best performing materials exhibited solar hemispheric transmittance in the range of 72.2–84.5% and between 59.6 and 83.7% in the clear and opaque state, respectively. Threshold temperatures between 45 and 75°C were realized. Refractive index difference between matrix and additive and solar hemispheric transmittance displayed a close correlation. Hence, refractometry was shown to be an appropriate tool for material preselection. Furthermore, investigations revealed a close correlation of thermal transitions of thermotropic additives recorded by differential scanning calorimetry and threshold temperatures of thermotropic layers formulated therewith. However, thermotropic layers formulated so far have to be optimized with respect to light‐shielding performance for efficient overheating protection. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39950.
Improved thermal and mechanical properties of poly(butylene succinate) by polymer blending with a thermotropic liquid crystalline polyester
Authors: Yang Qun , Hirata Masayuki , Hsu Yu‐I , Lu Danian , Kimura Yoshiharu
Published: October 2013

A novel polymer blending system consisting of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and a thermotropic liquid crystalline polyester [LCP: a poly(4‐hydroxybenzoate)‐based polymer] was investigated in the presence and absence of a polycarbodiimide (PCD) and/or 1,1′‐carbonyl biscaprolactam (CBC) as chain extenders. Although the LCP was immiscible with PBS, it formed elongated fibrous domains having an orientation in the flowing direction when an extensional flow was applied during the processing. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the injection‐molded polymer blends supported the distribution of micro fibrils of LCP in the PBS matrix by which the efficient toughening was provided. These blend specimens showed highly improved mechanical properties along with retaining high dynamic storage‐moduli (E′) up to the melting temperature of PBS. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39952.
Synthesis of palm oil‐based polyester polyol for polyurethane adhesive production
Authors: Ang Khoon Poh , Lee Choy Sin , Cheng Sit Foon , Chuah Cheng Hock
Published: October 2013

Palm oil‐based polyester polyol is synthesized by ring opening reaction on epoxidized palm olein by phthalic acid. The reaction is carried out in a solvent free and noncatalyzed condition with the optimal reaction condition at 175°C for 5 h reaction time. The physical state of the product is a clear bright yellowish liquid with low viscosity value of 5700–6700 cP at 25°C and pour point of 15°C. The chemical structure and molecular weight of the polyester polyol were characterized by FTIR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and GPC. The optimal polyol with molecular weight of 36,308 dalton and hydroxyl value of 78.17 mg KOH/g sample was reacted with polymeric 4,4′‐methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI) at isocyanate index of 1.3 to produce polyurethane adhesive. The lap shear strength of the polyurethane adhesive showed two times higher than the commercial wood adhesives. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 39967.
Grafting of poly[styrene‐co‐N‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)‐N,N‐diethylamine] polymer film onto the surface of silica microspheres and their application as an effective sorbent for lead ions
Authors: Tang Jianxin , Sun Jingjing , Xu Jianxiong , Li Wen
Published: October 2013

Amino containing polymer of poly[styrene‐co‐N‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)‐N,N‐diethylamine] (PS‐co‐PVEA) was successfully grafted onto the surface of silica microspheres via the seed dispersion polymerization of styrene and N‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)‐N,N‐diethylamine in the presence of divinylbenzene employing the 3‐(methacryloxy)propyltrimethoxysilane activated silica microspheres as the seed. The polymerization led to thin chelating polymer films (30 nm) coated silica microspheres (silica@polymer) as determined by transmission electron microscopy. The synthesized silica@polymer composites were used as sorbents for lead ions (Pb2+). The adsorption properties, such as the pH effect, the adsorption kinetic, adsorption isotherm as well as the reuse of the silica@polymer sorbent were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the optimized adsorption condition was under neutral and the silica@polymer sorbent was efficient since it showed higher adsorption amounts (8.0 mg/g) and shorter adsorption equilibrium time (8 h) than that of the PS‐co‐PVEA microspheres and the pristine silica microspheres. Moreover, the silica@polymer sorbent was reusable even after four cycles of adsorption. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 39973.
Preparation of highly uniform self‐standing submicrometer polyimide films and an investigation of their antibulging capabilities
Authors: Sun Qingrong , Chen Tianxiang , Hu Wei , Chen Yong , Qi Shengli , Wu Dezhen , Jin Riguang
Published: October 2013

Aiming for X‐ray astronomy applications, we prepared large‐area submicrometer polyimide (PI) films [diameter (Φ) = 8 cm] with great thickness uniformity via the spin‐coating technique by using a PI precursor, poly(amic acid) (PAA) derived from 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride, and p‐phenylenediamine as the starting materials. The effects of the spinning speed, apparent viscosity of the PAA solution (η), and spinning time on the PI film thickness and its uniformity, as characterized by the measurement of the film thickness every 0.5 cm along the diameter direction, were investigated. By optimizing the spin‐coating conditions, we prepared final submicrometer PI films with average thicknesses in the range of 200–850 nm and with film thickness fluctuations of less than 1.3%. The pressure bulge test results indicate that at a thickness of 805 nm and an inside test aperture diameter of 2.64 cm, the prepared PI films reached a final burst pressure of 20.2 KPa; this suggested excellent mechanical performances in the self‐standing submicrometer PI film. This study makes a contribution by providing a typical example and opening the way for the preparation of robust self‐standing submicrometer PI films with great thickness uniformities for X‐ray astronomy applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 39977.
The effect of surface treatment on graphite nanoplatelets used in fiber reinforced composites
Authors: Zaldivar Rafael J. , Nokes James P. , Kim Hyun I.
Published: October 2013

Atmospheric plasma treatment (APT) was used to surface‐activate graphite nanoplatelets (GnP) as well as highly graphitic P100 fibers used to manufacture composites. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed an increase in the O/C ratio of the treated surfaces when using either CO or O2 as the active gas, whereas CO exhibited less damage to the treated reinforcement carbon material. APT of P100 fibers resulted in a 75% increase in composite tensile strength when compared to composites using untreated fibers. Surface treatment of GnPs also resulted in GnP/epoxy composites with significantly higher glass transition temperatures (Tg's) and 50% higher flexural strengths than those with no surface treatment because of stronger particle‐to‐resin coupling, which was also evidenced by the fracture surfaces. The effect of GnP loading concentration and plasma treatment duration was also evaluated on the tensile strength of fiber‐reinforced composites. The addition of untreated GnP filler resulted in a decrease in strength up to the 1% loading. However, higher loading conditions resulted in a 20% improvement because of GnP orientation effects. Fracture surfaces suggest that the fibers provided a mechanism for the GnPs to orient themselves parallel to the fiber axis, developing an oriented matrix microstructure that contributes to added crack deflection. Incorporating surface‐treated GnPs in these composites resulted in tensile strengths that were as high as 50% stronger than the untreated systems for all loading conditions. Increased GnP‐to‐matrix bonding as well as enhanced orientation of the GnPs resulted in multifunctional composites with improved mechanical performance. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2014, 131, 39994.
The World Bank and China: Future Prospects
Authors: Huenemann Ralph W.
Published: October 2013

The time has come (is arguably long overdue) to develop a new basis for the World Bank's work in China. For nearly two decades, the Bank and China have been engaged in a mutual game of ‘let's pretend’, because the annual increments to China's foreign exchange reserves have been larger than the Bank's annual loans to China since about 1994. Now China's national income per capita measured on the purchasing power parity basis is rapidly approaching the high‐income level at which China will ‘graduate’ (receive no further World Bank loans). In this context, two alternatives may usefully be discussed. First possibility: shift the qualification for Bank lending from national units to subunits like provinces. Second possibility: continue the Bank's analytical and advisory activities even after the lending ceases.
Oedipus in Midian: Analyzing Ancient Israel
Authors: Propp William H. C.
Published: October 2013

This study tests the existence of the Oedipus complex in ancient Israel by examining biblical texts. We find in various passages two key themes associated with Freud's theory: father‐son competition for a mother's affection and a man's fear of castration.

The most striking case is Exodus 4:24–26. In the manner of an initiation or a dream, the episode of the “Bridegroom of Bloodshed” clearly articulates the anxieties of the Oedipus complex. Exodus 4:24–26 is analyzed through two psychological‐anthropological creative writing exercises: first as an ethnographer's description of an Israelite initiation ritual, then as a mock dream analysis by Freud. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unconscious and Game Theory
Authors: Flabbi Luca , Pediconi Maria Gabriella
Published: October 2013

The paper compares psychoanalysis and non‐cooperative Game Theory and asks if the concepts used in Game Theory are compatible with and add to the knowledge about human thinking and human actions provided by psychoanalysis. We propose a common and novel ground in which this interdisciplinary comparison can be articulated: both Game Theory and the unconscious posit a Law. Our main result is that the law of satisfaction describing the Freudian unconscious and the law of strategic interaction implied by Game Theory are not simply incompatible but in frontal opposition to each other; they create a crossroad at which the imputable individual has the possibility to choose either one law or the other. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Utility of rostra in the identification of Australian sawfishes (Chondrichthyes: Pristidae)
Authors: Whitty Jeff M. , Phillips Nicole M. , Thorburn Dean C. , Simpfendorfer Colin A. , Field Iain , Peverell Stirling C. , Morgan David L.
Published: October 2013

Effective management of critically endangered sawfishes can be a difficult task, in part due to interspecies misidentification. Current methods for identifying sawfishes can be impractical as they are based on morphological features that are often unobservable. Further exploration is required to develop a more reliable means of identification.

This study explored the utility of sawfish rostra in determining the species, size and sex of sawfishes, as rostra are commonly the only feature of a sawfish observed by fishers or present in public and private collections.

A morphometric and meristic database consisting of over 1100 narrow sawfish (Anoxypristis cuspidata), dwarf sawfish (Pristis clavata), largetooth (or freshwater) sawfish (Pristis pristis; formerly Pristis microdon) and green sawfish (Pristis zijsron) rostra from Australian waters, was statistically analysed.

Identification of sawfishes was found to be possible through the use of the variables: inter‐tooth spacing, standard rostrum width/standard rostrum length, standard rostrum length/total rostrum length, rostrum tip width/standard rostrum length, and/or rostral tooth count range, although the distinguishing variables were species‐dependent.

The relationship between standard rostrum length and total length was also observed to vary substantially between most species. Models for estimating total length from standard rostrum length are provided.

This study has provided a tool that can be used to identify accurately the species and size of sawfishes by their rostra, and therefore can assist in clarifying historical and contemporary sawfish records, nomenclature and distributions. A better understanding of these issues should allow sawfish conservation strategies to become more focused, and thus more effective.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.