bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Travel time controls the magnitude of nitrate discharge in groundwater bypassing the riparian zone to a stream on Virginia's coastal plain
Authors: Flewelling Samuel A. , Herman Janet S. , Hornberger George M. , Mills Aaron L.
Published: July 2011

Groundwater that bypasses the riparian zone by travelling along deep flow paths may deliver high concentrations of fertilizer‐derived NO3− to streams, or it may be impacted by the NO3− removal process of denitrification in streambed sediments. In a study of a small agricultural catchment on the Atlantic coastal plain of Virginia's eastern shore, we used seepage meters deployed in the streambed to measure specific discharge of groundwater and its solute concentrations for various locations and dates. We used values of Cl− concentration to discriminate between bypass water recharged distal to the stream and that contained high NO3− but low Cl− concentrations and riparian‐influenced water recharged proximal to the stream that contained low NO3− and high Cl− concentrations. The travel time required for bypass water to transit the 30‐cm‐thick, microbially active denitrifying zone in the streambed determined the extent of NO3− removal, and hydraulic conductivity determined travel time through the streambed sediments. At all travel times greater than 2 days, NO3− removal was virtually complete. Comparison of the timescales for reaction and transport through the streambed sediments in this system confirmed that the predominant control on nitrate flux was travel time rather than denitrification rate coefficients. We conclude that extensive denitrification can occur in groundwater that bypasses the riparian zone, but a residence time in biologically active streambed sediments sufficient to remove a large fraction of the NO3− is only achieved in relatively low‐conductivity porous media. Instead of viewing them as separate, the streambed and riparian zone should be considered an integrated NO3− removal unit. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A probabilistic model for real‐time flood warning based on deterministic flood inundation mapping
Authors: Jang Jiun‐Huei , Yu Pao‐Shan , Yeh Sen‐Hai , Fu Jin‐Cheng , Huang Chen‐Jia
Published: July 2011

Deterministic flood inundation mapping is valuable for the investigation of detailed flood depth and extent. However, when these data are used for real‐time flood warning, uncertainty arises while encountering the difficulties of timely response, message interpretation and performance evaluation that makes statistical analysis necessary. By incorporating deterministic flood inundation map outputs statistically by means of logistic regression, this paper presents a probabilistic real‐time flood warning model determining region‐based flood probability directly from rainfall, being efficient in computation, clear in message, and valid in physical meaning. The calibration and validation of the probabilistic model show a satisfactory overall correctness rate, with the hit rate far surpassing the false alarm rate in issuing flood warning for historical events. Further analyses show that the probabilistic model is effective in evaluating the level of uncertainty lying within flood warning which can be reduced by several techniques proposed in order to improve warning performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An intravenous exposure mouse model for prediction of potential drug‐sensitization using reporter antigens popliteal lymph node assay
Authors: Lin Mingbao , Sun Wei , Wang Yingchao , Li Xiang , Jin Yecheng , Gong Wan , Fan Xiaohui , Wang Yi
Published: July 2011

Immune‐mediated drug hypersensitivity is a particularly concerning health‐safety issue among clinicians given its unpredictability and potentially life‐threatening effects, especially with exposure to intravenous drugs. Therefore, the development of intravenous drug‐exposure models for drug‐hazard assessments has garnered increasing interest in recent years. In this study, we used reporter antigens popliteal lymph node assay to investigate the potential value of intravenous exposure to a selected variety of allergenic compounds, including ovalbumin (OVA), concanavalin A (ConA) and diclofenac. The trinitrophenyl (TNP)‐specific antibody‐forming cells were used to assess the systemic immune responses to a bystander antigen. Mice were subsequently sensitized by TNP–OVA, and then intravenous exposure to one of the selective compounds. As expected, all positive compounds induced significant popliteal lymph node (PLN) proliferation compared with the control. OVA significantly increased Cluster of Differentiation 4 receptors (CD4)+ interleukin‐4 (IL‐4)+ T‐helper 2 (Th2) cells and, consequently, increased the ratios of IL‐4/interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) antibody‐forming cells (AFCs) in PLNs, while bringing about a dose‐dependent increase in immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) AFCs; these findings indicate that a Th2 hypersensitivity response was induced. A Th2 response was also observed in diclofenac sodium‐treated groups, and for ConA, a more mixed Th1/Th2 immune response appeared to be induced. In addition, there was no marked reaction with the negative compound. Together, it seems likely that the intravenous exposure model may be useful for drug‐induced systemic hypersensitivity assessments. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy applied to early (ca. 1746–1754) English steatitic porcelains: a tentative study of compositions
Authors: Jay W. H. , Orwa J. O.
Published: July 2011

Two pieces of unmarked English porcelainware, a vase and a coffee cup, were examined by Raman spectroscopy. The presence of both forsterite and enstatite was identified in the vase, and enstatite and diopside in the coffee cup, indicating that both articles contained magnesium. The glazes on the two objects were found to be different in chemical composition, as were the compositions of their on‐glaze enamels used for their decoration. Residues of an organic binder were observed in the turquoise on‐glaze enamels used to decorate both objects, indicating that either this colour was cold‐painted onto these, or, more likely, a lead‐based glaze fired at very low temperature was employed. From the data generated, together with the supporting historical information, it is now proposed that the two objects were decorated in different factories, most likely between ca. 1746 and 1754. The vase has been attributed to manufacture and decoration at Worcester during ca. 1753–1754, and the coffee cup is presently attributed to Bow manufacture and decoration in ca. 1746. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering in the study of human rotator cuff tissues after shock wave treatment
Authors: Cárcamo J. J. , Aliaga A. E. , Clavijo E. , Brañes M. , Campos‐Vallette M. M.
Published: July 2011

Important improvements of diseases of the rotator cuff supraspinatus tendons are seen after shock wave (SW) treatment. Neo‐angiogenesis stimulation and hypercellularization result from short periods of treatment. The present work is an attempt to provide a first approach to these bioprocesses, most likely associated with structural aspects resulting from biochemical changes brought about by the SW. Immunohistochemical data indicate that collagen areas in the tissues are influenced the most by the SW. Presence of additional collagens I and III by the SW treatment is inferred from an observed increase of the tissue's tinctorial properties. The tools selected for our studies are Raman spectroscopy and the ultrasensitive surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Here we extract information from 1016 SERS spectra of 52 biopsies of human tendon tissues on Ag nanoparticles before and after the SW treatment. The spectral information is analyzed on the basis of Raman and SERS data of collagen types I and III and their most abundant amino acid components. SERS spectra of tissues reveal the presence of characteristic modes related mainly to amino acids. It has been found that the main differences between both tissue samples could be correlated with the structural conformational aspects of collagen. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antifreeze glycoprotein agents: structural requirements for activity
Authors: Carvajal‐Rondanelli Patricio A , Marshall Sergio H , Guzman Fanny
Published: July 2011

Antifreeze glycoproteins (AFGPs) are considered to be the most efficient means to reduce ice damage to cell tissues since they are able to inhibit growth and crystallization of ice. The key element of antifreeze proteins is to act in a non‐colligative manner which allows them to function at concentrations 300–500 times lowers than other dissolved solutes. During the past decade, AFGPs have demonstrated tremendous potential for many pharmaceutical and food applications. Presently, the only route to obtain AFGPs involves the time consuming and expensive process of isolation and purification from deep‐sea polar fishes. Unfortunately, it is not amenable to mass production and commercial applications. The lack of understanding of the mechanism through which the AFGPs inhibit ice growth has also hampered the realization of industrial and biotechnological applications. Here we report the structural motifs that are essential for antifreeze activity of AFGPs, and propose a unified mechanism based on both recent studies of short alanine peptides and structure activity relationship of synthesized AFGPs. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
The potential reuse of soybean husk as feedstock of Eudrilus eugeniae in vermicomposting
Authors: Lim Pei Nie , Wu Ta Yeong , Shyang Sim Edwin Yih , Lim Su Lin
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: Soybean (Glycine max L.) is one the most commonly consumed legumes worldwide, with 200 million metric tons produced per year. However, the inedible soy husk would usually be removed during the process and the continuous generation of soybean husk may represent a major disposal problem for soybean processing industries. Thus, the main aim of the present study was to investigate the possibility to convert soybean husk (S) amended with market‐rejected papaya (P) into vermicompost using Eudrilus eugeniae.

RESULTS: Soybean husk was mixed with market‐rejected papaya in different ratios to produce five different treatments (1P:1S, 2P:1S, 1P:2S, S only and P only) for laboratory screening of solid wastes. Generally, the application of E. eugeniae permitted a significant increase in Ca (42.3–91.6%), K (93.8–235%), Mg (25.4–84.6%) and P (37.1–129%) but a decrease in the C:N ratio (21.4–52.8%) after 9 weeks of vermicomposting. Among all the treatments investigated, soybean husk which was mixed with an equal amount of market‐rejected papaya (1P:1S) showed superior quality vermicompost. Waste mixtures also encouraged the growth of E. eugeniae except the treatments with soybean husk alone as well as soybean husk which was mixed with market‐rejected papaya in 1P:2S ratio.

CONCLUSION: Vermicomposting could be used as an efficient technology to convert soybean husk into nutrient‐rich organic fertiliser if it was mixed with market‐rejected papaya in appropriate ratio. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Hydrolysable tannins of tropical almond show antifibrotic effects in TGF‐β1‐induced hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Chuang Hsin‐Ying , Ng Lean‐Teik , Lin Liang‐Tzung , Chang Jung‐San , Chen Jen‐Yang , Lin Ta‐Chen , Lin Chun‐Ching
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: Persistent activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC‐T6) has been known to cause liver fibrosis. In this study, our objective was to investigate the effects of chebulagic acid and chebulinic acid, two hydrolysable tannins of tropical almond (Terminalia chebula) fruits, on collagen synthesis and signal transduction in transforming growth factor‐β1‐stimulated HSC‐T6 cells. The expression of Smad2, Smad3, Smad4, collagen I(α1)/III, and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI‐1) mRNAs was determined by reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and their protein levels were assessed by western blotting.

RESULTS: Results showed that chebulagic acid and chebulinic acid at 20 µmol L−1 exhibited cytotoxic and anti‐proliferative effects on HSC‐T6 cells. They also significantly decreased the expression of Smd2, Smad3 and Smad4, and the synthesis of collagen, procollagen I (α1) and III, as well as suppressing the activation of PAI‐1; these events consequently facilitated the resolution of fibrosis.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that both chebulagic acid and chebulinic acid possess antifibrotic activity, and their mechanism of action could be through the inhibition of the Smad pathway. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Aroma volatile compositions of high‐ and low‐aromatic guava varieties
Authors: Porat Ron , Tietel Zipora , Zippori Isaac , Dag Arnon
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: The traditional guava variety cultivated in Israel, ‘Ben Dov’, emits a very strong odour, whereas some newly bred varieties have a mild odour. In this study the aroma profile composition of the high‐aromatic ‘Ben Dov’ variety was compared with those of four new low‐aromatic varieties.

RESULTS: Overall, using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, a total of 30 aroma volatiles were detected in fresh ripe guava fruit: 15 of them were specifically detected only in the high‐aromatic ‘Ben Dov’ variety, 13 were detected in both the high‐ and low‐aromatic varieties and two were detected only in the new low‐aromatic varieties. Interestingly, 11 out of the 15 volatiles specifically detected in ‘Ben Dov’ were esters that contribute sweet, tropical and fruity notes. In contrast, ten out of 13 detected terpenes and two detected aldehydes, contributing green, spicy, herbal and woody notes, were common to both the high‐ and low‐aromatic varieties.

CONCLUSION: Based on these findings, it is concluded that accumulation of esters is the main reason why the traditional ‘Ben Dov’ guava variety emits such a strong tropical fruity odour. In contrast, the newly bred low‐aromatic guava varieties did not synthesise esters at all and thus lacked fruity aromatic notes. Overall, the results of this study point out the important role of esters in forming tropical fruity guava odours. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous detection of Ponceat 4R and tartrazine in food using adsorptive stripping voltammetry on an acetylene black nanoparticle‐modified electrode
Authors: Yang Xiaofeng , Qin Haibin , Gao Miaomiao , Zhang Huajie
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: Ponceau 4R and tartrazine have been widely used in foodstuffs. However, they are pathogenic if they are excessively consumed. Therefore, the detection of Ponceat 4R and tartrazine is quite important.

RESULTS: A sensitive and rapid electrochemical method was developed for the simultaneous detection of Ponceat 4R and tartrazine using anodic adsorptive stripping voltammetry and based on the strong enhancement effect of acetylene black nanoparticle. For Ponceat 4R, the linear range was from 0.05 to 4 mg kg−1, and the limit of detection was 0.03 mg kg−1. For tartrazine, the linear range was from 0.15 to 18 mg kg−1, and the limit of detection was 0.1 mg kg−1. The relative standard deviation was 3.8% and 4.7% for 10 successive measurements of 1 mg kg−1 Ponceau 4R and tartrazine. The method was used to determine Ponceat 4R and tartrazine in soft drinks, and recovery was in the range of 92.4–104.8%.

CONCLUSION: At the acetylene black nanoparticle‐modified electrode, the oxidation current signal of Ponceau 4R and tartrazine greatly increase. This new method is sensitive, rapid, simple and feasible. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Extruded aquafeeds containing distillers dried grains with solubles: effects on extrudate properties and processing behaviour
Authors: Mjoun Kamal , Rosentrater Kurt A
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: The tremendous supply and low cost of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) make it an attractive feedstuff for aquaculture diets. Also, several studies have shown that DDGS can be successfully fed to various finfish. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of inclusion rate of DDGS (0, 250, 500 g kg−1), feed moisture content (350, 450 g kg−1) and die opening area (die A = 18.85 mm2, die B = 3988.45 mm2) on the properties of the extrudates and on processing behaviour using a single‐screw extruder.

RESULTS: Increasing the inclusion rate of DDGS resulted in extrudates with lower unit density, bulk density, expansion ratio, water solubility index and brightness (Hunter L) but higher redness (Hunter a) and yellowness (Hunter b). The increase in moisture content affected the extrudate properties in different ways: it increased bulk density, Hunter L, Hunter b and mass flow rate, whereas specific mechanical energy decreased at high moisture content. Increasing the die opening area primarily decreased expansion ratio of extrudates, power consumption and barrel temperatures but increased mass flow rate.

CONCLUSION: Extrudates from all treatments exhibited high durability and floatability, and less energy was required to produce extrudates when DDGS was used compared with soybean meal‐based diets. The aquaculture industry can use this information to develop high‐quality feeds at low cost. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous determination of cyadox and its metabolites in plasma by high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: He Limin , Liu Kaiyong , Su Yijuan , Zhang Jiahui , Liu Yahong , Zeng Zhenling , Fang Binghu , Zhang Guijun
Published: July 2011

Cyadox is a novel antimicrobial growth‐promoter of the quinoxalines. For food safety and pharmacokinetic studies, a convenient, sensitive and reproducible LC‐ESI‐MS/MS method was developed for the simultaneous determination of cyadox and its major metabolites, quinoxaline‐2‐carboxylic acid, 1,4‐bisdesoxycyadox, cyadox‐1‐monoxide and cyadox‐4‐monoxide in chicken plasma. Plasma sample was subjected to a simple deproteinisation with acetonitrile. Analysis was performed on a C18 column by detection with mass spectrometry in multiple reaction monitoring mode. A gradient elution program with 0.2% formic acid, methanol and acetonitrile was performed at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min. The decision limits (CCαs) of five analytes in plasma ranged from 1.0 to 4.0 μg/L, and the detection capabilities (CCβs) were <10 μg/L. Acceptable precision and accuracy were obtained for concentrations over the standard curve range. The extraction recoveries of five analytes were between 87.4 and 93.9% in plasma at the spiked levels of 5 (10)–200 μg/L with the relative standard deviations <10% for each analyte. The developed method demonstrated a satisfactory applicability in real plasma samples.
Computational study of the relationship between the flow resistance and the microscopic structure of polymer monoliths
Authors: Deridder Sander , Eeltink Sebastiaan , Desmet Gert
Published: July 2011

The present article reports on a numerical study of the permeability and flow resistance of ordered and random‐structured polymer monolith mimics with different structures. Comparing the permeability of the different monolith structures with the same domain size and the same external porosity, it is found that the larger the degree of globule clustering, the lower is the resulting permeability. More or less independently of the external porosity, a 40% decrease in permeability is observed when comparing a purely cylindrical branch‐type skeleton with a strongly clustered globular skeleton with the same external porosity. Correlations allowing to estimate the flow resistance as a function of the external porosity are presented for each considered degree of globule clustering.
Fabrication of Polyaniline: Nail/Spindle‐Shaped Morphology
Authors: Leng Wenguang , Zhou Shuxue , Wu Limin
Published: July 2011

Nail/spindle‐shaped polyaniline is synthesized by chemically oxidizing aniline with ammonium persulfate in a near‐neutral aqueous medium using PVP as the stabilizing agent. The type of dispersing agent, APS content and aniline concentration have obvious impacts on the morphology of the resulting polyaniline. Typically, in the concentration ranges of 1.5–6 × 10−4 M PVP and 0.02–0.05 M aniline and for molar ratios [APS]:[aniline] of 0.4:1 to 0.8:1, nail/spindle‐shaped polyaniline can be obtained. A possible mechanism is proposed to elucidate the formation process.

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Dextran‐Based Polycations: Thermodynamic Interaction with Water as Compared With Unsubstituted Dextran, 2 – Flory/Huggins Interaction Parameter
Authors: Bercea Maria , Nichifor Marieta , Eckelt John , Wolf Bernhard A.
Published: July 2011

The Flory‐Huggins interaction parameterχis determined as a function of volume fraction of polymerφby vapor‐pressure measurements at 25, 37.5 and 50 °C for five dextran samples that differ inf, the fraction of randomly distributed charged monomer units. The functionχ(φ) has a minimum that is shifted towards lowerχvalues asfincreases. The higher the temperature, the more the individual curves fan out. The heats of dilution at high polymer concentrations change from exothermal to endothermal asfincreases. The results can be well modeled by an approach accounting explicitly for chain connectivity and conformational changes. A smooth transition of the solution properties upon the random introduction of charged units into dextran is observed.

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A Supramolecular Polymer of Nitroxide Radicals via Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Nakajima Satoshi , Kato Eisuke , Minatozaki Masayuki , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: July 2011

Summary: 2,2,6,6‐Tetramethylpiperidinyl‐N‐oxy (TEMPO) is a robust nitroxide radical molecule under ambient conditions. We found that the TEMPO derivatives act as a proton acceptor to form an intermolecular hydrogen‐bonding complex with many kinds of phenol or urea derivatives. ORTEP analysis of the crystals of TEMPO with the phenol derivatives indicated that hydrogen bonding could be formed between the oxygen of the nitroxide and the phenolic proton and the NO bond of the hydrogen‐bonded TEMPO was lengthened in comparison to that of the free NO bond. The formation constant of the hydrogen‐bonding complex of TEMPO with the phenol or urea derivatives in a chloroform solution was spectroscopically determined by IR to be 10–100 M−1. Hydrogen bonding of the thelechelic bis‐TEMPO derivatives with thelechelic bis‐phenol or bis‐urea derivatives provided a supramolecular structure. The estimated molecular weights of the supramolecules in the chloroform solution, based on DOSY‐NMR spectroscopy, were 3000–4000. The potential of the nitroxide radical's supramolecule as a new functional material is also described.
Polymer‐Metal Nanoparticle Complexes for Improving the Performance of Liquid Crystal Displays
Authors: Toshima Naoki
Published: July 2011

Summary: Here we applied metal nanoparticles as a dopant of liquid crystals. Since liquid crystal molecules are self‐assembled, it is not so easy to disperse metal nanoparticles in liquid crystal media. We first prepared metal nanoparticles protected by liquid crystal molecules by reduction of metal ions in the presence of liquid crystal molecules. This liquid crystal molecule‐protected metal nanoparticles can be easily dispersed in liquid crystal media to fabricate liquid crystal sol containing metal nanoparticles. A simple liquid crystal molecule, 4′‐pentylbiphenyl‐4‐carbonitrile (abbreviated as 5CB) was used in the present experiments at first. 5CB sol containing metal nanoparticles could construct novel twisted nematic liquid crystal devices (TN‐LCDs), which revealed the electrooptic properties depending on the kind of metal of nanoparticles. During the experiments we discovered that 5CB‐protected metal nanoparticles could move in liquid crystal media by applying the voltage. This phenomenon is inconvenient for liquid crystal displays, especially those driven by a matrix of thin‐film transistors (TFTs). In order to avoid this phenomenon, we prepared polymer‐protected metal nanoparticles and applied them to liquid crystal devices, which provided good performance as the devices, i.e., low driving voltage, rapid response at low temperature, and so on.
Further Studies on Homo‐ and Copolymerization of Styrene through Metallocenic Initiator Systems
Authors: Rabagliati Franco M. , Pérez Mónica A. , Rodríguez Francisco J. , Cancino Rodrigo A. , Crispel Nocolas , Mardones Gabriela A. , Muñoz Héctor E. , Saavedra Marcela A. , Vidal Manuel , Muñoz Lisa A.
Published: July 2011

Summary: Binary metallocene‐MAO and ternary diphenylzinc‐metallocene‐MAO initiator systems have been tested as initiators in the homopolymerization of styrene and also in its copolymerization with several diverse comonomers including substituted styrenes, styrene derivatives, α‐olefins and dienes. Various titanocenes and zirconocenes and some exploratory experiment with hafnocene were carried out. The results indicate that titanocenes were more effective than zirconocenes in the homopolymerization of styrene while zirconocenes did better in α‐olefin polymerization. It was found that titanocenes generated mainly syndiotactic polystyrene, s‐PS, while zirconocenes yielded atactic polystyrene or, depending on the zirconocene, a low percentage of s‐PS. For these types of initiators the polymerization process depends largely on the inductive effect of the substituents linked to the benzene ring of styrene and on its position (ortho, meta or para). Substituent multiplicity reduced markedly the effectiveness of these initiator systems. Styrene/isoprene polymerization was also studied using binary zirconocene‐MAO initiator systems that yielded low conversions and also low molecular weight polymers.
Metal Ion Removal Properties of Water‐Insoluble Functional Polymers
Authors: Rivas Bernabé L. , Muñoz Carla
Published: July 2011

Summary: Resins containing sulfonic acid groups by radical polymerization were synthesized. The metal ion retention properties were studied by batch and column methods for the polluting metal ions Cd(II), Pb(II), and Hg(II).

pH exercises an important effect on the retention: the metal ion sorption increases with increases in the pH. The maximum retention capacity was determined after three contacts at optimum pH. Resin R1 obtained the highest value 1.207 mmol/g resin for Cd(II). Different eluent reagents were used to recover the resin. Resin R1 loaded with Pb(II) was completely recovered using 4 M HCl as stripping reagent.
Complexes of Water‐Soluble Polymers with Cu2+ and Ag+ as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Rivas Bernabé L. , Pereira Eduardo , Guzmán Catherine , Maureira Antonio
Published: July 2011

Summary: The potential application of polymers in the biomedical area is huge, especially as antimicrobial agent. We studied the recovery of metal ions (silver and copper) with a known antibacterial activity. Using the liquid‐phase polymer‐based retention, LPR, technique it was generated the polymer‐metal complexes from these metal ions. Their antibacterial activity was studied for gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. The results indicated that the anionic polymers easily yield polymer‐metal complexes with increased antibacterial activity with respect to their polymers. Cationic polymers demonstrated efficient antibacterial activity, and the polymer metal‐complexes, PMC, showed similar antibacterial results. Neither system presented a genotoxic effect.
[Cu(H2btec)(bipy)]∞: Reusable Metal Organic Polymer Catalyst for Epoxidation Reactions
Authors: Aguirre Pedro , Brown Kareen , Venegas‐Yazigi Diego , Paredes‐García Verónica , Spodine Evgenia
Published: July 2011

Summary: The search of new inorganic materials with better catalytic properties is an important field of research. Reusability, efficiency and atom economy correspond to the main parameters to characterize a catalyst. In this work, we inform the effectiveness of [Cu(H2btec)(bipy)]∞ (H4btec = 1,2,4,5‐benzenetetracarboxylic acid) as an heterogeneous coordination polymer catalyst for the oxidation of olefins. The catalyst exhibits good atom economy, high turnover numbers and good selectivity for a ratio of 4000/1 substrate/catalyst for cyclohexene and styrene oxidation. Furthermore, the catalyst was recycled and reused for seven consecutive cycles, retaining the structural integrity and effectiveness as catalyst in all the performed experiments.
A Novel Coordination Polymer Based on Decavanadate Units Linked by Copper(II) Ethylenediamine Complexes
Authors: Venegas‐Yazigi Diego , Hermosilla‐Ibáñez Patricio , Costamagna Juan , Spodine Evgenia , Vega Andrés , Paredes‐García Verónica , Le Fur Eric
Published: July 2011

Summary: A novel coordination polymer[{Cu(en)2}(V10O28)]n · 2n[Cu(en)2(H2O)] · 2n(H3BO3) ·  2n(H2O) was obtained by hydrothermal reaction. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system, in the C2/c space group, with a = 26.490 (3) Å; b = 11.6558 (11) Å; c = 19.8426 (19) Å; β = 124.011 (1)°; V = 5078.6(8) Å3. The solid structure is formed by polymeric chains, [Cu(en)2(H2O)]2+ cations, and boric acid and water solvate molecules, stabilized through a multiple hydrogen bond network.
Redox‐Responsive Metallo‐Supramolecular Polymers and Gels Containing bis‐Terpyridine Appended Cyclam Ligand
Authors: Gasnier Aurélien , Bucher Christophe , Moutet Jean‐Claude , Royal Guy , Saint‐Aman Eric , Terech Pierre
Published: July 2011

Summary: Soluble coordination polymers and gels built from a polytopic ligand containing two terpyridine units linked by a azamacrocyclic group are presented. This system originally incorporates two different types of metal complexes in the same polymer chain which induces remarkable electrochromic properties and a rare redox triggered reversible sol‐gel transition.
Characterization of PVC‐Tetraruthenated Metalloporphyrins Modified Electrodes: Application as Electrocatalyst in the Nitrite Reduction
Authors: Calfumán Karla , Dreyse Paulina , García Camilo , Aguirre Maria J. , Beltrán Tomás , Guillamón Eva , Sorribes Iván , Vicent Cristian , Llusar Rosa , Isaacs Mauricio
Published: July 2011

Summary: This paper describes the electrochemical reduction of nitrite ion in 0.1 M NaClO4, on glassy carbon or ITO electrodes modified with mixtures PVC‐ tetraruthenated metalloporphyrins. This electrode is able to keep the extraordinary electrocatalytic properties of the macrocycle allowing multielectronic transfers and a great stability as a consequence of the inclusion of the macrocycles into a polymeric support such as PVC. On the other hand, the electrochemical reduction of nitrite ion on these modified electrodes studied by cyclic voltammetry shows an enhancement in the current values and lower overpotential compared with the activity of the bare glassy carbon electrode. Controlled potential electrolysis experiments verify the production of ammonia, hydrazine and hydroxylamine, showing the electrocatalytic character and the stability of this modified electrode.
Effect of Perylene as Electron Acceptor and poly(tetrabromo‐p‐phenylene Diselenide) as “Buffer Layer” on Heterojunction Solar Cells Performances
Authors: Godoy Alicia , Cattin Linda , Bernède Jean Christian , Díaz Fernando , del Valle Mará Angélica
Published: July 2011

Summary: Perylene derivatives, that behave as liquid crystal and might be used as electron acceptors, and poly(tetrabromo‐p‐phenylenediselenide) (PTBrPDSe) were synthesized with the purpose of using the polymer as buffer layer in solar cells. It was demonstrated that perylene compounds of N,N′‐diheptyl‐3,4,9,10‐perylentetracarboxyldiimide (PTCDI‐C7) and N,N′‐diundecyl‐3,4,9,10‐perylentetracarboxyldiimide (PTCDI‐C11) enabled obtaining photovoltaic effect when coupled with copper phthalocyanine (CuPc). The power conversion efficiency of the cells prepared from these perylenes is similar, whatever the x value. However this efficiency is smaller than the one achieved when the couple CuPc/C60 (fullerene) is used. More precisely, the best efficiency was obtained when a PTBrPDSe/Au buffer layer is introduced between the ITO anode and the CuPc. It was established that the presence of the thin PTBrPDSe layer allows improving the shunt resistance and consequently the cells performance.
Complexing Polymer Films in The Preparation of Modified Electrodes for Detection of Metal Ions
Authors: Pereira Eduardo , Rivas Bernabé L. , Heitzman Marie , Moutet Jean‐Claude , Bucher Christophe , Royal Guy , Aman Eric Saint
Published: July 2011

Summary: The complexing properties of poly (3‐(pyrrol‐1‐yl)propylmalonic acid) (poly1) and poly(N,N′‐ethylenebis[N‐[(3‐(pyrrole‐1‐yl)propyl) carbamoyl) methyl]‐glycine (poly2) coated electrodes (C|poly1 and C|poly2) towards Cu(II), Pb(II), Hg(II) and Cd(II) cations using the open circuit chemical preconcentration‐anodic stripping technique were studied. Sorption process of metal cations onto complexing surfaces was readily investigated through the combination of a chemical pre‐concentration‐anodic stripping technique with a Langmuir isotherm model. The modified electrodes were used for the voltammetric determination of Cu(II), Pb(II), Hg(II) and Cd(II) ions, giving low detection limits for Cu(II) (5 × 10−9 mol L−1) and Pb(II) (5 × 10−10 mol L−1). The ability of the modified electrodes to analyze Cu(II) ions in natural sample has been demonstrated by the analysis of a tap water sample. The results of the preconcentration process under competitive conditions clearly shows that the selectivity of complexing molecular electrode materials can be subtly tuned upon playing on the accumulation time, polymer thickness and/or memory effect of the binding polymers, opening up new avenues towards evolutive and efficient smart sensing materials.
A Comprehensive Decision Approach for Rubber Tree Planting Management in Africa
Authors: Diaby Moussa , Ferrer Hélène , Valognes Fabrice , Clement‐Demange André
Published: July 2011

The main objective of this study is to settle a rigorous field of decision analysis for rubber tree clones selection. Nowadays, there does not exist any process based upon a rigorous method to select the best clone to be plant in order to get the highest return on investment. The only known selection method is to use the experience of different protagonists acting in the plantation. So, we need a tool that takes into account very important criteria in order to achieve the main objective. This goal is achieved by using multicriterion analysis methods to the clone selection. The ranking procedure uses Elimination and Choice Expressing the Reality (ELECTRE III). For each criterion, indifference and preference thresholds are determined after establishing the relative importance of each criterion including rubber tapping, cumulative production during 15 years, cumulative production between 15 and 25 years, wind resistance, disease resistance, physiological resistance, grafting and quality of the rubber. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Personality Composition and Decision‐making Processes on Change Preferences of Self‐managing Teams
Authors: Muehlfeld Katrin , van Doorn Jenny , van Witteloostuijn Arjen
Published: July 2011

Team decision‐making on organizational and strategic changes is pervasive. Yet, little is known about determinants of teams' change preferences. We analyze how composition with respect to personality traits associated with (pro‐)active behavior (locus of control and type‐A/B behavior) influences self‐managing teams' preferences for the likelihood and magnitude of changes, and whether participative decision‐making and team monitoring as core features of group decision‐making counteract or reinforce change tendencies. Results from a business simulation with 42 teams largely support predictions. Stronger type‐A orientation increases the likelihood of (drastic) changes. Teams dominated by internal locus of control members are highly responsive to performance feedback in their change preferences. Participative decision‐making encourages, whereas team monitoring restricts tendencies towards extreme magnitudes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Correlation between the temperature dependence of intrinsic MR parameters and thermal dose measured by a rapid chemical shift imaging technique
Authors: Taylor B. A. , Elliott A. M. , Hwang K. P. , Hazle J. D. , Stafford R. J.
Published: July 2011

In order to investigate simultaneous MR temperature imaging and direct validation of tissue damage during thermal therapy, temperature‐dependent signal changes in proton resonance frequency (PRF) shifts, R2* values, and T1‐weighted amplitudes are measured from one technique in ex vivo tissue. Using a multigradient echo acquisition and the Stieglitz‐McBride algorithm, the temperature sensitivity coefficients of these parameters are measured in each tissue at high spatiotemporal resolutions (1.6x1.6x4mm3, ≤ 5sec) at the range of 25‐61 °C. Non‐linear changes in MR parameters are examined and correlated with an Arrhenius rate dose model of thermal damage. Using logistic regression, the probability of changes in these parameters is calculated as a function of thermal dose to determine if changes correspond to thermal damage. Temperature sensitivity of R2* and, in some cases, T1‐weighted amplitudes are statistically different before and after thermal damage occurred. Significant changes in the slopes of R2* as a function of temperature are observed. Logistic regression analysis shows that these changes could be accurately predicted using the Arrhenius rate dose model (Ω = 1.01 ± 0.03), thereby showing that the changes in R2* could be direct markers of protein denaturation. Overall, by using a chemical shift imaging technique with simultaneous temperature estimation, R2* mapping and T1‐W imaging, it is shown that changes in the sensitivity of R2* and, to a lesser degree, T1‐W amplitudes are measured in ex vivo tissue when thermal damage is expected to occur. These changes could possibly be used for direct validation of thermal damage in contrast to model‐based predictions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prescription of teriparatide in the UK — a nationwide register study from 2004 to 2008
Authors: Abhishek Abhishek , Pande Ira , Hubbard Richard B
Published: July 2011

Introduction

The objectives were to ascertain the incidence of teriparatide prescription in the UK stratified by region and sex, examine the association between National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) and European Medicines Agency approval and geographic variation in teriparatide prescription, and compare the regional rates of teriparatide and oral bisphosphonate use.

Methods

Healthcare at Home provided anonymized information on age, sex, year, and treating hospital for all UK residents commenced on teriparatide between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2008. The crude and age‐ and sex‐adjusted rates of teriparatide prescription were calculated for each region. Rates of teriparatide prescription for each region, in the year before and in the year after approval by NICE and European Medicines Agency, were compared in a multiplicative model (likelihood‐ratio test) for women and men, respectively. The number of patients on oral bisphosphonates in each region was estimated from quantity of oral bisphosphonates dispensed in 2007.

Results

Compared with that in England, the incidence of teriparatide prescription was 54% and 50% higher in Wales and in Scotland, respectively. The Northeast and East of England had lowest rate of teriparatide use. There was significant geographic variation in increase in teriparatide prescription in women after favorable NICE recommendation (p = 0.0001). In contrast, prescription rates in men increased uniformly across the UK (p = 0.15). Geographic variation in oral bisphosphonate prescription did not mirror that of teriparatide.

Conclusion

We report wide geographic variation in teriparatide prescription rates within the UK. In a country with government‐funded health care, reasons for this inequality need to be identified. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prescription patterns of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia in mental hospitals in Tashkent/Uzbekistan and in four German cities
Authors: Mundt Adrian P. , Aichberger Marion C. , Fakhriddinov Sardor , Fayzirahmanova Maria , Grohmann Renate , Heinz Andreas , Ivens Sebastian , Magzumova Shakhnoza , Sartorius Norman , Ströhle Andreas
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Little is known about psychopharmacological prescription practice in low‐income countries. The present study aimed for an analysis of pharmacological treatment strategies for inpatients with schizophrenia in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, facing a low‐income situation as compared with four German cities in a high‐income Western situation.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional quantitative survey of age, gender, diagnoses, and psychotropic medication of 845 urban psychiatric inpatients of the Tashkent psychiatric hospital and of 922 urban psychiatric inpatients in four German cities on 1 day in October 2008. We compared the current treatment strategies for specific diagnostic categories between the two settings.

Results

In Tashkent, patients diagnosed with schizophrenia were treated with clozapine (66%), haloperidol (62%), or both (44%). More than one‐third of the patients treated for schizophrenia were prescribed amitriptyline. The usual treatment strategy for schizophrenia was the combination of two or more antipsychotics (67%). In German cities, the preferred antipsychotics for the treatment of schizophrenia were olanzapine (21%), clozapine (20%), quetiapine (17%), risperidone (17%), and haloperidol (14%); the most common treatment strategy for patients with schizophrenia was the combination of antipsychotics and benzodiazepines; 44% of the patients were treated with two or more antipsychotics at a time.

Conclusions

In both settings, psychotropic combination treatments are common for the treatment of schizophrenia contrasting current guideline recommendations. Its rationale and effectiveness needs to be tested in further studies. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Die Versuchung bunter Bilder
Authors: Vollmer Michael , Möllmann Klaus‐Peter , Pinno Frank
Published: July 2011

Gebäudethermographie mit Infrarotkameras wird immer populärer, da eine gute thermische Isolation der Häuser zunehmend gefragt ist. Ihre bunten Falschfarbenbilder sind aussagekräftig, führen aber bei fehlender Fachkenntnis zu massiven Fehlinterpretationen. Infrarotkameras erfassen nur einen Ausschnitt aus dem Infrarotspektrum strahlender Körper. Grundsätzlich muss man das Emissionsverhalten der aufgenommenen Körper und das Absorptionsverhalten der Luft zwischen diesen und der Kamera kennen. Eine richtige Bildinterpretation erfordert zudem Kenntnisse über den Standort, Abschattungen, das Wetter und die Aufheizung sonnenbeschienener Flächen in den Tagen zuvor. In der Regel sind Innenaufnahmen eher aussagekräftig. Neben der Beurteilung der Wärmeisolation eignet sich die Thermographie auch, um verborgene Strukturen wie etwa verputztes Fachwerk oder Heizungsrohre sichtbar zu machen.
Licht im Schneckentempo
Authors: Horn Wolfgang , Denz Cornelia
Published: July 2011

Langsames Licht verspricht in vielen Bereichen der Photonik und optischen Datenkommunikation Vorteile. Es kann in verschiedenen Systemen wie etwa Quantengasen, bei Streuprozessen und in optischen Filtern auftreten. Entscheidend ist eine spektrale Änderung des imaginären Brechungsindexes durch starke Dispersion für das Licht. Bisher konnten jedoch nicht alle wichtigen Faktoren in einem System vereint werden, die für eine Anwendung benötigt werden. Kurze Lichtpulse, wie sie attraktiv für die Datenverarbeitung sind, erfordern zum Beispiel eine sehr hohe Bandbreite. Hinzu kommen die Miniaturisierung, Durchstimmbarkeit und möglichst geringe Dämpfung des Systems.
Logik aus atomaren Spins
Authors: Wiebe Jens , Khajetoorians Alexander Ako , Chilian Bruno , Wiesendanger Roland
Published: July 2011

Die Nano‐Spintronik verfolgt das Ziel, den Elektronenspin in Atomen oder Molekülen nutzbar zu machen, um Bauelemente der Informationstechnologie kleiner, schneller, energieeffizienter, und kompatibel mit nichtflüchtigen Speichern zu gestalten. Unserer Forschungsgruppe an der Universität Hamburg ist es gelungen, ein logisches Gatter zu bauen, das aus nur elf atomaren Spins besteht. Damit wurde ein vielversprechendes Konzept für zukünftige Nano‐Spintronik‐Bauteile demonstriert.
Von Bällen und Schlägern
Authors: Vollmer Michael , Möllmann Klaus‐Peter
Published: July 2011

Bälle sind eines der beliebtesten Spielzeuge von Kindern und Erwachsenen. Aus physikalischer Sicht haben alle Ballspiele eines gemeinsam: mehr oder minder stark deformierbare Bälle kollidieren mit Oberflächen. Die Physik vollständig elastischer Kollisionen beinhaltet zwar nur recht elementare Physik. In der Praxis sind Kollisionen jedoch praktisch nie hundertprozentig elastisch, und außerdem laufen die Prozesse so schnell ab, dass Details nur mit Hochgeschwindigkeitsaufnahmen sichtbar werden.
Jetzt geht's um die Wurst
Authors: Vilgis Thomas
Published: July 2011

Während der Grillsaison haben Bockwurst, Wiener, Frankfurter und Bratwurst Hochsaison. Als Beigut landen diese Fleischprodukte auf Grills oder in dampfenden Wurstkesseln. Diesen Produkten sind zwei Eigenschaften gemein: Ihre quasi zylinderähnliche Form und ihr Aufplatzen in Form eines länglichen Spannungsrisses – sofern deren Gartemperatur zu hoch wird. Die “Kesselformel” für zylinderförmige, dünnwandige Kessel erklärt das universelle Platzen.
An individual‐based versus group‐based exercise and counselling intervention for improving quality of life in breast cancer survivors. A feasibility and efficacy study
Authors: Naumann Fiona , Munro Aime , Martin Eric , Magrani Paula , Buchan Jena , Smith Cathie , Piggott Ben , Philpott Martin
Published: July 2011

Background

Cancer and its treatments produce lingering side‐effects that undermine the quality of life (QOL) of survivors. Exercise and psycho‐therapies increase QOL among survivors, however, research is needed to identify intervention characteristics most associated with such improvements.

Objective

This research aimed to assess the feasibility of a 9 week individual or group based exercise and counselling program, and to examine if a group based intervention is as effective at improving the QOL of breast cancer survivors as an individual‐based intervention.

Methods

A three group design was implemented to compare the efficacy of a 9 week individual (IEC n = 12) and group based exercise and counselling (GEC n = 14) intervention to a usual care (UsC n = 10) group on QOL of thirty‐six breast cancer survivors.

Results

Across all groups, 90% of participants completed the interventions, with no adverse effects documented. At the completion of the intervention, there was a significant difference between groups for change in global QOL across time (p < 0.023), with IEC improving significantly more (15.0 points) than the UsC group (1.8 points). The effect size was moderate (0.70). Although the GEC improved QOL by almost 10.0 points, this increase did not reach significance. Both increases were above the minimally important difference of 7–8 points.

Conclusion

These preliminary results suggest a combined exercise and psychological counseling program is both a feasible and acceptable intervention for breast cancer survivors. Whilst both the individual and group interventions improved QOL above the clinically important difference, only the individual based intervention was significant when compared to UsC.Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Fluorine Substitution of Aniline Ring on Pulsed Plasma Polymer Growth and Structure
Authors: Mérian Tiphaine , Debarnot Dominique , Poncin‐Epaillard Fabienne
Published: July 2011

The pulsed plasma polymerization of 3‐fluoroaniline is investigated. The resulting polymer is characterized in terms of growth kinetics and chemical structure using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, profilometry and quartz crystal microgravimetry. The characteristics of plasma polyfluoroaniline are compared with those of plasma polyaniline. The doping mechanism of these two plasma polymers is also examined. The results showed that the substitution of the aniline ring in meta position by a fluorine atom results in obtaining a more linear polymer structure. However, the doping is more efficient for polyaniline than for polyfluoroaniline. Moreover, discharge power and on‐time are the major determinants of the growing and the structure of the polymer.

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