bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quels éléments de différenciation pour les sites web marchands ? Une approche par l'image transmise
Authors: Bèzes Christophe , Belvaux Bertrand
Published: February 2013

Résumé Le marché du e-commerce continue son essor, mais la concurrence s’intensifie. Cette recherche propose de différencier les différents acteurs électroniques en recourant au concept d’image, adapté des travaux sur les magasins. L’analyse de l’image transmise de 94 sites web marchands montre qu’aujourd’hui, les sites se différencient surtout sur des critères d’offre produits-services et par leur image institutionnelle. L’organisation de l’offre et la dimension utilitaire et économique des sites web ont une influence positive sur le nombre de visiteurs et le nombre de pages vues.
Les chemins d'accès à l'expérience de flow : le cas des jeux vidéo
Authors: Hamdi-Kidar Linda , Maubisson Laurent
Published: February 2013

Résumé Cette recherche exploratoire propose d’examiner les facteurs d’influence de l’expérience de flow dans un environnement virtuel à partir du cas des jeux vidéo. Une étude qualitative multi-méthodes a été menée auprès de joueurs de haut niveau et de professionnels de cette industrie. Les résultats présentent huit facteurs d’influence nous permettant de proposer un cadre conceptuel de l’expérience de flow qui met en relief les leviers d’action destinés aux praticiens.
Les agents des parcs nationaux au Sénégal : soldats de la participation ?
Authors: Ségalini Céline
Published: February 2013

Résumé Au Sénégal, la gestion des aires protégées s’inscrit dans une longue tradition paramilitaire. Depuis les années 1990, cette culture professionnelle est concurrencée par l’approche participative devenue incontournable dans le champ local de la conservation. Mais sur le terrain, ce nouveau modèle de conservation peine à s’imposer et supplanter la culture militaire qui continue de trouver des appuis dans le processus de professionnalisation et d’encadrement des agents des parcs. L’inertie liée à l’histoire laisse ainsi perdurer les barrières du modèle passé de « conservation forteresse ».
« Le roi est mort, vive le roi » : Meles Zenawi règne, mais ne gouverne plus
Authors: Bach Jean-Nicolas
Published: February 2013

Résumé Le Premier ministre éthiopien Meles Zenawi est décédé en août 2012, privant le FDRPE – à la tête de l’État depuis 1991 – de son leader historique. Fruit d’un compromis, la nomination du protégé de Meles Zenawi, Hailémariam Dessalegn, marque la poursuite de son œuvre. La continuité du régime ne saurait néanmoins cacher des tensions plus profondes : celles liées à la survie de toute une classe politique à la tête d’un pays dont la stabilité à moyen terme dépend désormais de la réalisation des promesses faites par l’ancien Premier ministre avant sa mort.
Mantle cell lymphoma relapsing at the lymphedematous arm.
Authors: Massini Giuseppina , Hohaus Stefan , D'Alo' Francesco , Bozzoli Valentina , Vannata Barbara , Larocca Luigi Maria , Teofili Luciana
Published: February 2013

Lymphedema (LE) is a chronic medical condition characterized by lymphatic fluid retention, resulting in tissue swelling. Cancer treatments involving lymph nodes can damage lymph drainage routes, causing accumulation of lymph fluid in the interstitial tissue of related limbs and body areas and secondary LE.  Basically, the LE has a negative impact on physical and mental quality of life. Moreover, 0.07-0.04% of long term survivors (most patients undergone mastectomy) can develop the Stewart-Treves syndrome,  a rare and aggressive multifocal lymphangiosarcoma arising within the LE region. Here we describe a   45-year-old woman  with a massive LE of the left arm,  as a consequence of previous breast cancer,  who  was diagnosed after 4 years  of stage IV mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) . The patient after obtaining complete remission with chemotherapy and ABMT  relapsed of MCL in lymphedema site.
Stroke in a patient with tuberculous meningitis and HIV infection
Authors: Pasticci Maria Bruna , Paciaroni Maurizio , Floridi Piero , Cecchini Enisia , Baldelli Franco
Published: February 2013

Abstract. Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a devastating disease. TBM occurs more commonly in HIV infected patients. The influence of HIV co-infection on clinical manifestations and outcome of TBM is not well defined. Yet, some differences have been observed and stroke has been recorded to occur more frequently. This study reports on an HIV infected Caucasian female with lung, meningeal tuberculosis and stroke due to a cortical sub-cortical ischemic lesion.TBM was documented in the absence of neurologic symptoms. At the same time, miliary lung TB caused by multi-susceptible Mycobacterium tuberculosis was diagnosed. Anti-TB therapy consisting of a combination of four drugs was administered. The patient improved and was discharged five weeks later. In conclusion, TBM and multiple underling pathologies including HIV infection, as well as other risk factors can lead to a greater risk of stroke. Moreover, drug interactions and their side effects add levels of complexity. TBM must be included in the differential diagnosis of HIV infected patients with stroke and TBM treatment needs be started as soon as possible before the onset of vasculopathy.
Onshore and offshore geohazards of the Fraser River delta
Authors: Mosher D C , Christian H A , Hunter J A , Luternauer J L
Published: February 2013

The Greater Vancouver Regional District of southwestern British Columbia is a highly urbanized and industrialized area that lies in Canadamp;gt;'s most seismically active region, overlying the Cascadia subduction zone. The Fraser River delta is the most
seismically vulnerable area within this region. A significant effort has been made to identify potential geohazards and refine assessments of earthquake ground-surface responses to an earthquake on the delta, both on- and offshore. These studies involve state-of-the-art
geological, geophysical, and geotechnical techniques including coring, drilling, geotechnical and geophysical boring, and electromagnetic, seismic reflection, refraction, and shear-wave surveying. This research has led to the identification of numerous failure features, possibly related to past
earthquakes, and to the prediction that the top 10 to 20mof sediment over much of the delta, on- and offshore, are susceptible to seismic liquefaction and possible flowsliding. Ground-surface response modelling should take into account threedimensional ground-motion-amplification
effects.
Urban environment and human health in the Lower Mainland
Authors: Hertzman C
Published: February 2013

Three important population health issues for the Lower Mainland area are discussed. Variations in health status found across the Lower Mainland are outlined and given in greater detail within the City of Vancouver. Using a case study, issues in the quality of
civic community in the Lower Mainland are addressed. The region's principal pollution-related public health issues are summarized. Two health problems associated with the chemical environment of the modern city have been demonstrated to pose large-scale threats to human health: lead exposures among
children and threats to respiratory health from particulate air pollution. The paper argues that a willingness to respond to socio-economic disparities in health status in a constructive way, the level of awareness of significant local issues, and a willingness to tackle an issue (particulate air
pollution) which imposes a significant health constraint on urban development are all tests of the quality of our civic community, and improving the quality of civic community should be an objective of urban development.
Tidal marshes of the Fraser River estuary: composition, structure, and a history of marsh creation efforts to 1997
Authors: Adams MA , Williams G L
Published: February 2013

Tidal marshes support important habitat for the fish and wildlife of the Fraser River estuary. The presence and distribution of plant species within these marshes are governed by salinity and tidal inundation. These parameters are in turn related to the location
of the salt wedge within the estuary. Distinct salt-, brackish-, and fresh-marsh species assemblages occur throughout the estuary as a result of these influences.

Past human activities have resulted in the net loss of tidal marsh, impacting the estuary's ability to sustain fish and wildlife.

Tidal-marsh creation is a technical tool to achieve environmentally sustainable development within the estuary. Early marsh-creation efforts achieved limited success. Deficiencies in project performance were primarily a result of poor quality assurance and control during site preparation and
planting. Recent efforts have achieved excellent success in establishing tidal marshes through an intense focus on compliance with sound design criteria.
Biogeochemistry of the intertidal area of the Fraser River estuary
Authors: Bendell-Young L , Yin K , Thomas C , Harrison P J , Feeney T , Arvai J L , Levings C
D , Ross L
Published: February 2013

The Fraser River estuary provides vital habitat for a wide range of wildlife as well as serving as an important agricultural, industrial, and urban area. The input of contaminants (i.e. inorganics, organics, nutrients) at any point along the river is of concern,
as they can eventually be transported downriver and deposited in the estuarine sediments. Sturgeon Bank was the site of a direct sewage outfall from the Iona
Island sewage treatment plant from 1963 to 1988. In 1988, sewage was redirected to discharge directly into the Strait of Georgia. This study integrates previous studies directed at assessing the recovery of the Fraser River estuary intertidal region, and presents baseline information on the state of
this intertidal region. Four biogeochemical processes that occur within the Fraser River estuary intertidal region were assessed: 1) deposition and erodibility of sediments within the Sturgeon Bank intertidal region; 2) intertidal pore-water and sediment geochemistry; 3) nutrient cycling and benthic
microalgal biomass; and 4) secondary productivity.
Laws, the legal system, and the conservation and protection of the Fraser River estuary
Authors: Paisley R K
Published: February 2013

This paper has two objectives: first, to describe the legal framework for Fraser River estuary governance, and second, to analyze the role of laws and the legal system in the conservation and protection of the natural resources of the Fraser River estuary. For
illustrative purposes, this paper will focus specifically on the factors which, from a legal perspective, govern the conservation and protection of the Pacific salmon resource in the Fraser River estuary.

This paper comprises sections dealing with the constitutional framework for environmental laws in Canada, an overview of federal and provincial environmental legislation, basic common-law principles and environmental issues, First Nations and the environment, and environmental law enforcement. It
concludes with thoughts for the future and the observation that further evolution in environmental law and law enforcement is required if the resources of the Fraser River estuary are going to be sustainable in the twenty-first century.
Future of sustainability
Authors: Woollard R , Rees W
Published: February 2013

The role of science in addressing the fundamental issues confronting society is being increasingly challenged. The optimism that placed humans on the moon is being eroded by an evolving concern that science and technology are at best distractions and at worst
root causes of some of the threats to our sustaining ecosystems. This bulletin represents some of the best science and thinking available addressing the issue of sustainability in the lower Fraser River basin region of British Columbia. What remains unclear is how this thinking and knowledge might
be used to address the future of the basin ecosystems. Will current patterns of human activity be modified in a way that enhances the long-term health of the valley? Can we change to reduce our impacts and dependence on distant 'elsewheres'? Can the academic community contribute to such an outcome?
This paper addresses the prospect for such an outcome.
Electric potential differences across auroral generator interfaces
Authors: De Keyser J. , Echim M.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. Strong localized high-altitude auroral electric fields, such as those observed by Cluster, are often associated with magnetospheric interfaces. The type of high-altitude electric field profile (monopolar, bipolar, or more complicated) depends on the properties of the plasmas on either side of the interface, as well as on the total electric potential difference across the structure. The present paper explores the role of this cross-field electric potential difference in the situation where the interface is a tangential discontinuity. A self-consistent Vlasov description is used to determine the equilibrium configuration for different values of the transverse potential difference. A major observation is that there exist limits to the potential difference, beyond which no equilibrium configuration of the interface can be sustained. It is further demonstrated how the plasma densities and temperatures affect the type of electric field profile in the transition, with monopolar electric fields appearing primarily when the temperature contrast is large. These findings strongly support the observed association of monopolar fields with the plasma sheet boundary. The role of shear flow tangent to the interface is also examined.
Electric solar wind sail mass budget model
Authors: Janhunen P. , Quarta A. A. , Mengali G.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. The electric solar wind sail (E-sail) is a new type of propellantless propulsion system for Solar System transportation, which uses the natural solar wind to produce spacecraft propulsion. The E-sail consists of thin centrifugally stretched tethers that are kept charged by an onboard electron gun and, as such, experience Coulomb drag through the high-speed solar wind plasma stream. This paper discusses a mass breakdown and a performance model for an E-sail spacecraft that hosts a mission-specific payload of prescribed mass. In particular, the model is able to estimate the total spacecraft mass and its propulsive acceleration as a function of various design parameters such as the number of tethers and their length. A number of subsystem masses are calculated assuming existing or near-term E-sail technology. In light of the obtained performance estimates, an E-sail represents a promising propulsion system for a variety of transportation needs in the Solar System.
A tri-stage cluster identification model for accurate analysis of seismic catalogs
Authors: Nanda S. J. , Tiampo K. F. , Panda G. , Mansinha L. , Cho N. , Mignan A.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. In this paper we propose a tri-stage cluster identification model that is a combination of a simple single iteration distance algorithm and an iterative K-means algorithm. In this study of earthquake seismicity, the model considers event location, time and magnitude information from earthquake catalog data to efficiently classify events as either background or mainshock and aftershock sequences. Tests on a synthetic seismicity catalog demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed model in terms of accuracy percentage (94.81% for background and 89.46% for aftershocks). The close agreement between lambda and cumulative plots for the ideal synthetic catalog and that generated by the proposed model also supports the accuracy of the proposed technique. There is flexibility in the model design to allow for proper selection of location and magnitude ranges, depending upon the nature of the mainshocks present in the catalog. The effectiveness of the proposed model also is evaluated by the classification of events in three historic catalogs: California, Japan and Indonesia. As expected, for both synthetic and historic catalog analysis it is observed that the density of events classified as background is almost uniform throughout the region, whereas the density of aftershock events are higher near the mainshocks.
Observations of water masses and circulation with focus on the Eurasian Basin of the Arctic Ocean from the 1990s to the late 2000s
Authors: Rudels B. , Schauer U. , Björk G. , Korhonen M. , Pisarev S. , Rabe B. , Wisotzki A.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. The circulation and water mass properties in the Eurasian Basin are discussed based on a review of previous research and an examination of observations made in recent years within, or parallel to, DAMOCLES (Developing Arctic Modeling and Observational Capabilities for Long-term Environmental Studies). The discussion is strongly biased towards observations made from icebreakers and particularly from the cruise with R/V Polarstern 2007 during the International Polar Year (IPY). Focus is on the Barents Sea inflow branch and its mixing with the Fram Strait inflow branch. It is proposed that the Barents Sea branch contributes not just intermediate water but also most of the water to the Atlantic layer in the Amundsen Basin and also in the Makarov and Canada basins. Only occasionally would high temperature pulses originating from the Fram Strait branch penetrate along the Laptev Sea slope across the Gakkel Ridge into the Amundsen Basin. Interactions between the Barents Sea and the Fram Strait branches lead to formation of intrusive layers, in the Atlantic layer and in the intermediate waters. The intrusion characteristics found downstream, north of the Laptev Sea are similar to those observed in the northern Nansen Basin and over the Gakkel Ridge, suggesting a flow from the Laptev Sea towards Fram Strait. The formation mechanisms for the intrusions at the continental slope, or in the interior of the basins if they are reformed there, have not been identified. The temperature of the deep water of the Eurasian Basin has increased in the last 10 yr rather more than expected from geothermal heating. That geothermal heating does influence the deep water column was obvious from 2007 Polarstern observations made close to a hydrothermal vent in the Gakkel Ridge, where the temperature minimum usually found above the 600–800 m thick homogenous bottom layer was absent. However, heat entrained from the Atlantic water into descending, saline boundary plumes may also contribute to the warming of the deeper layers.
Dead People Don’t Eat: Food Governmentenomics and Conflicts-of-Interest in the USDA and FDA
Authors: Steier Gabriela
Published: February 2013

Conflicts of interest permeate the governance of the federal advisory committees that issue recommendations to consumer protection agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and therefore, American consumers need a federal solution to protect their health from biased recommendations. In order to promote a business-friendly food pyramid, agribusinesses and food industrialists lobby for dietary guidelines that boost their sales. The resulting guidelines cause great damage to public health, spur environmental pollution, and result in a loss of democratic freedoms. As a result, the FDA and USDA's bifurcated task of protecting both food producers and consumers, creates a conflict of interest within the agencies that often favor the food industry over consumer protection.This paper describes the problems embedded within the FDA and USDA's conflict of interest and the resulting revolving door of the heavily invested lobbyists, and finally, suggests statutory amendments to solve this problem. The proposed amendments will dispense with ineffective disclosure requirements and eliminate the possibility of waiving conflicts of interest for advisory committee members. By rebalancing the composition of the advisory committees and the scientific basis for the dietary recommendations, the proposed amendments will close the loopholes that large food industrialists currently abuse. As a result, consumer protection agencies, such as the FDA and USDA, are empowered to police the federal advisory committees issuing the dietary recommendations and prevent government officials from breaching their fiduciary duties to American consumers.
Estrous Cycle Alters Micturition Pattern in Conscious Rat
Authors: Patra Phani B.
Published: February 2013

Background

The present study aims to investigate the influence of estrous cycle on micturition pattern in conscious spontaneously hypertensive rat.

Methods

Micturition pattern was evaluated by measuring void volume, void interval and void pressure in each stage of the estrous cycle by cystometry.

Results

A higher bladder capacity and a decrease in the frequency of micturition occurred in the pro-estrus and estrus stage, while a lower bladder capacity and an increase in the frequency of micturition occurred in the diestrus stage.

Conclusions

It is suggested that these remarkable variations in the physiology of the micturition pattern during different stages of the estrous cycle might be due to the effects of estrogen and progesterone because the level of these hormones fluctuate during each stage of the cycle. Therefore, monitoring the estrous cycle prior to any cystometry experiment in conscious rat is recommended for a better understanding of the effects of these hormones on bladder function.
Glomerular Disease in Patients with Infectious Processes Developing Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies
Authors: Konstantinov Konstantin N. , Emil Suzanne N. , Barry Marc , Kellie Susan , Tzamaloukas Antonios H.
Published: February 2013

To identify differences in treatment and outcome of various types of glomerulonephritis developing in the course of infections triggering antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) formation, we analyzed published reports of 50 patients. Immunosuppressives were added to antibiotics in 22 of 23 patients with pauci-immune glomerulonephritis. Improvement was noted in 85% of 20 patients with information on outcomes. Death rate was 13%. Corticosteroids were added to antibiotics in about 50% of 19 patients with postinfectious glomerulonephritis. Improvement rate was 74%, and death rate was 26%. Two patients with mixed histological features were analyzed under both pauci-immune and post-infectious glomerulonephritis categories. In 9 patients with other renal histology, treatment consisted of antibiotics alone (7 patients), antibiotics plus immunosuppressives (1 patient), or immunosuppressives alone (1 patient). Improvement rate was 67%, permanent renal failure rate was 22%, and death rate was 11%. One patient with antiglomerular basement disease glomerulonephritis required maintenance hemodialysis. Glomerulonephritis developing in patients who became ANCA-positive during the course of an infection is associated with significant mortality. The histological type of the glomerulonephritis guides the choice of treatment. Pauci-immune glomerulonephritis is usually treated with addition of immunosuppressives to antibiotics.
Grandeurs et misères du calvaire de Shipshaw
Authors: Huot Pascal
Published: February 2013

Témoins d’une ferveur religieuse populaire, les croix de chemin et calvaires signent le paysage du Québec. Vestiges d’une époque, ils ont subi pour plusieurs les contrecoups du temps. Mais certains jouissent encore aujourd’hui de la dévotion de fidèles. À cet égard, le calvaire de Shipshaw dans la ville de Saguenay, vieux de plus de 61 ans, mérite considération. D’abord et avant tout, témoin d’une histoire humaine, sa survie et sa revitalisation sont tributaires des efforts d’une dame, Charlotte Mercier-Bouchard. Cet article retrace la chronologie de ce calvaire, son édification, ses épreuves ainsi que les actions posées pour en assurer la revitalisation et la pérennité.
Industrial and Household Solid Waste Management Practices and their Relationship to Public Health
Authors: Nuqui Alvin V. , Cruz Reynaldo C.
Published: February 2013

Essentially, the industrial and household solid waste management practices in Calumpit, the types, origin, and volume of wastes and the effects of the solid waste management practices to public health were assessed to develop a solid waste management plan for the local government unit of Calumpit. This study made use of descriptive survey of research that utilized locally constructed questionnaire as primary data gathering tool, substantiated by extensive documentary analysis. Solid waste management practices of households in Calumpit were partially implemented in terms of recycling, re-use, reduce, and prevention. Burning of wastes practices in the household level and partial implementation of composting was deduced from the study. Composting practices were not practiced among industries in Calumpit. Most of the household solid wastes were biodegradable, followed by recyclable, residual, and special wastes. Majority of industrial wastes were in the form of metals, textiles, and fiber glasses. Mortality and morbidity rates showed death rates and disease incidences that are caused by a deficiency in the functioning of the cardiopulmonary system. These incidences are associated to their waste management practices. Hence, backyard composting, vermiculture activities, and provision of intensive information and education campaigns involving the children are necessary. Keywords - Ecology, Industrial waste, household waste, Waste management practices, Public health, Mortality, Morbidity, Calumpit, Bulacan, Philippines
Rationally Designed Hierarchical TiO2@Fe2O3 Hollow Nanostructures for Improved Lithium Ion Storage
Authors: Luo Jingshan , Xia Xinhui , Luo Yongsong , Guan Cao , Liu Jilei , Qi Xiaoying , Ng Chin Fan , Yu Ting , Zhang Hua , Fan Hong Jin
Published: February 2013

Hollow and hierarchical nanostructures have received wide attention in new‐generation, high‐performance, lithium ion battery (LIB) applications. Both TiO2 and Fe2O3 are under current investigation because of their high structural stability (TiO2) and high capacity (Fe2O3), and their low cost. Here, we demonstrate a simple strategy for the fabrication of hierarchical hollow TiO2@Fe2O3 nanostructures for the application as LIB anodes. Using atomic layer deposition (ALD) and sacrificial template‐assisted hydrolysis, the resulting nanostructure combines a large surface area with a hollow interior and robust structure. As a result, such rationally designed LIB anodes exhibit a high reversible capacity (initial value 840 mAh g−1), improved cycle stability (530 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at the current density of 200 mA g−1), as well as outstanding rate capability. This ALD‐assisted fabrication strategy can be extended to other hierarchical hollow metal oxide nanostructures for favorable applications in electrochemical and optoelectronic devices.
Safety and outcomes following hybrid balloon and balloon‐only procedures using a multifunction, multisinus balloon dilation tool
Authors: Brodner David , Nachlas Nathan , Mock Presley , Truitt Theodore , Armstrong Michael , Pasha Raza , Jung Christopher , Atkins James
Published: February 2013

Background

A multicenter prospective study was conducted to assess the safety and sustained effectiveness of a new instrument possessing multifunctionality as an ostium seeker, suction‐irrigator, and malleable balloon‐dilator indicated for treating multiple sinuses.

Methods

Endoscopic balloon‐only and hybrid‐balloon procedures involving dilation of the frontal recesses, maxillary ostia, and/or sphenoid sinus ostia were performed in 175 patients. One‐month follow‐up was required for all patients. The first 50 patients enrolled also consented to a 1‐year follow‐up. Complications and sinus symptom severity were assessed at the 1‐month visit. Symptom severity and ostial patency of the treated sinuses were evaluated at the 1‐year visit.

Results

A total of 497 balloon dilations (279 frontal, 138 sphenoid, and 80 maxillary) were attempted in 175 patients. Over 96% (479/497) of the attempted sinus dilations were successfully completed, while 18 dilations were converted to traditional dissection due to an inability to access or dilate the targeted anatomy. Two (1.1%) nonserious adverse events were reported following hybrid‐balloon dilation and both were unrelated to the device or the procedure. Forty‐four of 50 patients in the extended follow‐up cohort completed the 1‐year follow‐up. Sinus symptom improvement in this group improved significantly from an average severity of 1.9 ± 1.1 to 0.8 ± 0.7 (p < 0.0001) and 1‐year ostial patency was 91.6% (76/83). One revision surgery (2.3%) was performed.

Conclusion

These results indicate that a multifunctional, malleable, balloon‐dilating device can be safely and successfully used to treat multiple sinuses with sustained ostial patency and symptom improvement for at least 1 year.
The effect of formaldehyde/phenol (F/P) molar ratios on function and curing kinetics of high‐solid resol phenolic resins
Authors: Ma Yufeng , Zhang Wei , Wang Chunpeng , Xu Yuzhi , Chu Fuxiang
Published: February 2013

A series of high‐solid resol phenolic resins (HSRPRs) were synthesized with different molar ratios (1.6, 1.8, 2.0, 2.2, and 2.4) of formaldehyde to phenol using calcium oxide and sodium hydroxide as catalyst. The effects of F/P molar ratios on physical properties, free formaldehyde and phenol, activity, structure, and thermally resistant properties of HSRPRs were fully investigated by chemical assays, liquid and solid 13C‐NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The curing kinetics of different F/P molar ratios were explored with differential scanning calorimeter at four different heating rates (5, 10, 15, 20°C/min) from 35 to 200°C. Overall, HSRPRs with F/P = 2.0 had excellent comprehensive properties. The study was significant in solving the wastewater problem during the process of industry‐scale preparation of HSRPRs. We believed that the experimental findings would provide a new avenue for further study and application of HSRPRs. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Copolymerization of ethylene/5‐ethylidene‐2‐norbornene with bis (2‐phenylindenyl) zirconium dichloride catalyst: I. Optimization of the operating conditions by response surface methodology
Authors: Arabi Hassan , Mobarakeh Hamid Salehi , Balzadeh Zahra , Nejabat Gholam‐Reza
Published: February 2013

In this study, the copolymerization of ethylene with nonconjugated diene (5‐ethylidene‐2‐norbornene) was carried out with a bis(2‐PhInd) ZrCl2 metallocene catalyst. Some polymerization factors that were considered affective on the catalyst activity, including comonomer content in the feed, ethylene pressure, and polymerization temperature, were investigated via response surface methodology to determine the optimum polymerization conditions. We found that the comonomer content in the feedstock had no enormous effect on the catalyst activity depression. Also, the polymerization temperature increment through the scrutinized range decreased the copolymerization activity. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Linguistic evidence supports date for Homeric epics
Authors: Altschuler Eric Lewin , Calude Andreea S. , Meade Andrew , Pagel Mark
Published: February 2013

The Homeric epics are among the greatest masterpieces of literature, but when they were produced is not known with certainty. Here we apply evolutionary‐linguistic phylogenetic statistical methods to differences in Homeric, Modern Greek and ancient Hittite vocabulary items to estimate a date of approximately 710–760 BCE for these great works. Our analysis compared a common set of vocabulary items among the three pairs of languages, recording for each item whether the words in the two languages were cognate – derived from a shared ancestral word – or not. We then used a likelihood‐based Markov chain Monte Carlo procedure to estimate the most probable times in years separating these languages given the percentage of words they shared, combined with knowledge of the rates at which different words change. Our date for the epics is in close agreement with historians' and classicists' beliefs derived from historical and archaeological sources.
New Pyran‐2‐ones from Alkalophilic Actinomycete, Nocardiopsis alkaliphila sp. Nov. YIM‐80379
Authors: Wang Zhiying , Fu Peng , Liu Peipei , Wang Pei , Hou Jiabo , Li Wenjun , Zhu Weiming
Published: February 2013

Two new pyran‐2‐ones, nocardiopyrones A and B (1 and 2, resp.), along with four known compounds, pyridinols 3–5, and 1‐acetyl‐β‐carboline (6) were isolated from the alkalophilic actinomycete Nocardiopsis alkaliphila sp. nov. YIM‐80379. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, CD spectra, and the quantum‐chemical ECD calculation. Pyridinols 3–5 were isolated from a natural source for the first time. Compounds 1 and 2 showed weak antibacterial activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Escherichia coli with MIC values of 20–48 μM. Compound 2 showed weak antimicrobial activities against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus with MIC values of 24 and 48 μM, respectively.
On‐Line Activity Screening for Radical Scavengers from Baccharis chilco
Authors: Argoti Juan C. , Linares‐Palomino Pablo J. , Salido Sofía , Ramírez Bernardo , Insuasty Braulio , Altarejos Joaquín
Published: February 2013

Baccharis plants have been used since ancient times in American traditional medicine. Baccharis chilco is a perennial shrub of temperate regions of South America that grows well in rainfall forests of Colombia. Neither chemical composition nor biological studies of this plant have ever been reported. Two caffeoylquinic acid (CQA) derivatives, 5‐O‐[(E)‐caffeoyl]quinic acid (1) and 3,5‐di‐O‐[(E)‐caffeoyl]quinic acid (3), and rosmarinic acid (2) have been isolated from B. chilco growing wild in Colombia, using the on‐line HPLC‐DAD‐DPPH radical‐scavenging detection technique as guidance. In the course of the purification work, L‐chiro‐inositol (4) was also isolated. Structures of the four isolated compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods. Antioxidants 2 and 3 exhibited high antiradical activities evaluated by the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH.) assay, although somewhat lower than that of the reference compound ascorbic acid. The on‐line HPLC‐DAD‐DPPH technique allowed a rapid pinpointing of antioxidants in the studied EtOH extract, and the facile guided isolation of the target molecules.
Reactive Distillation for Multiple Reaction Systems
Authors: Keller Tobias , Holtbrügge Johannes , Niesbach Alexander , Górak Andrzej
Published: February 2013

Die Reaktivdestillation (RD) wird gegenwärtig vor allem zur Umsatzsteigerung in gleichgewichtslimitierten Reaktionssystemen verwendet, die häufig nur eine Hauptreaktion aufweisen. Diese Arbeit hingegen beschäftigt sich mit dem Einsatz der RD in chemischen Systemen mit mehr als einer Hauptreaktion. In solchen Multi‐Reaktionssystemen ist nicht nur der Umsatz der Edukte, sondern auch die Selektivität des Zielprodukts durch das chemische Gleichgewicht begrenzt. Ungeachtet, ob das Zielprodukt als Zwischenprodukt oder nach mehreren aufeinanderfolgenden Reaktionen gebildet wird, kann die RD zur Überwindung solcher Selektivitätslimitierungen beitragen. Dieses Potenzial wird am Beispiel der konsekutiven Umesterung von Dimethylcarbonat mit Ethanol untersucht. Die Ergebnisse umfassender experimenteller Studien in einer Technikumskolonne werden präsentiert, um den Einfluss entscheidender Betriebsparameter auf das Prozessverhalten zu untersuchen.
Visible‐Light‐Active Elemental Photocatalysts
Authors: Liu Gang , Niu Ping , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: February 2013

Seeking visible‐light‐active photocatalysts for efficient solar‐energy conversion has become an intensifying endeavor worldwide. In this concept paper, general requirements for finding new visible‐light‐active photocatalysts are briefly introduced, and recent progress in exploring elemental photocatalysts for clean‐energy generation and environmental remediation are reviewed. Finally, opportunities and challenges facing elemental photocatalysts are discussed.
Graphene Oxide‐Dispersed Pristine CNTs Support for MnO2 Nanorods as High Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: You Bo , Li Na , Zhu Hongying , Zhu Xiaolan , Yang Jun
Published: February 2013

A MnO2–CNT–graphene oxide (MCGO) nanocomposite is fabricated using graphene oxide (GO) as a surfactant to directly disperse pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for the subsequent deposition of MnO2 nanorods. The resulting MCGO nanocomposite is used as a supercapacitor electrode that shows ideal capacitive behavior (i.e., rectangular‐shaped cyclic voltammograms), large specific capacitance (4.7 times higher than that of free MnO2) even at high mass loading (3.0 mg cm−2), high energy density (30.4–14.2 Wh kg−1), large power density (2.6–50.5 kW kg−1), and still retains approximately 94 % of the initial specific capacitance after 1000 cycles. The advanced capacity, rate capability, and cycling stability may be attributed to the unique architecture, excellent ion wettability of GO with enriched oxygen‐containing functional groups, high conductivity of CNTs, and their synergistic effects when combined with the other components. The results suggest that the MnO2–CNT–GO hybrid nanocomposite architecture is very promising for next generation high‐performance energy storage devices.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Dirhodium(II) Complexes as Catalysts for Allylic and Benzylic Oxidations
Authors: Coelho Jaime A. S. , Trindade Alexandre F. , Wanke Riccardo , Rocha Bruno G. M. , Veiros Luis F. , Gois Pedro M. P. , Pombeiro Armando J. L. , Afonso Carlos A. M.
Published: February 2013

The experimental conditions (solvent, base, temperature and oxidant) for allylic and benzylic oxidation reactions catalyzed by dirhodium(II)/N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes were optimized for the first time in this work. The oxidations of cyclohexene and fluorene were used as model reactions. Two optimized experimental conditions for both types of oxidations were found, which resulted in their ketone [aerobic conditions, 40 °C, 1 equiv. tBuOOH (TBHP)] or tert‐butyl peroxide derivatives (anaerobic conditions, 25 °C, 2 equiv. TBHP). The dirhodium(II) complexes undergo a single‐electron reversible oxidation by cyclic voltammetry in CH2Cl2, which is assigned to the Rh24+/Rh25+ redox couple at an oxidation potential that is lowered upon sequential axial coordination of further ligands to the Rh–Rh centre. The oxidation potential is discussed in terms of the electron‐donor character of the NHC ligand, which was shown to act as an effective electron‐releaser to the Rh24+ centre, and the electrochemical behaviour is compared to the observed catalytic activity.
NavMol 2.0 – A Molecular Structure Navigator/Editor for Blind and Visually Impaired Users
Authors: Fartaria Rui P. S. , Pereira Florbela , Bonifácio Vasco D. B. , Mata Paulina , Aires‐de‐Sousa João , Lobo Ana M.
Published: February 2013

The NavMol 2.0 program, a software that enables the navigation of molecular structures and chemical reactions by blind and visually impaired (BVI) users, is presented. The software enables BVI users to interpret and edit molecular structures by making use of common accessibility tools. NavMol 2.0 uses voice synthesizers and time clock polar type coordinates to communicate with the blind user and, at the same time, displays a conventional chemical sketch on the screen for sighted users. The new version of the program is based on the Chemistry Development Kit (CDK) that provides a chemoinformatics infrastructure. In order to help the navigation, automatic perception of structural features and their location were implemented, including functional groups, rings, and reaction centers. The editing features enable the building of chemical structures that can be exported and subsequently utilized in other software packages. This software is especially suited to be used by BVI researchers or in “inclusive classrooms”, providing BVI students equal opportunities, greatly enhancing the communication between BVI and fellow sighted students, as well as teachers.
New Potentiometric Sensors for Picrate Determination Using Flow‐Through System: Application to Kinetic Assessment of Se(IV)
Authors: Hassan Saad S. M. , Badr Ibrahim H. A. , Kamel Ayman H. , Mohamed Mona S.
Published: February 2013

Two new selective and sensitive poly(vinyl chloride) membrane sensors are developed for measuring picrate ions based on the use of nitron picrate [(Nit)(Pic)] and iron(II)‐bathophenanthroline picrate [Fe(bphen)3)(Pic)2] ion pairs in plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) membrane. The sensors display Nernstian response with slopes of −57.2±0.8 and −58.8±0.5 mV decade−1 over the range of 3.0×10−5 to −1.0×10−2 and 4.6×10−6–1.0×10−2 mol L−1 and detection limits of 7.4×10−6 and 3.07×10−6 mol L−1 for [(Nit)(Pic)] and [Fe(bphen)3)(Pic)2] membrane‐based sensors, respectively. The sensors exhibit long life‐span, long term potential stability, high reproducibility, fast response and good discrimination ability towards picrate ions in comparison with many other anions. A tubular detector based on [Fe(bphen)3][Pic]2 was further developed and coupled to a flow‐injection system for picrate (Pic) determination. Under optimized conditions, the linearity range is 1.0×10−5–1.0×10−1 mol L−1, with a slope of −47.9±0.1 mV decade−1 and a reproducibility of ±0.3 mV (n=5). The sensor is utilized for a kinetic quantification of selenium in pharmaceutical preparations. The alkaline solution of picrate is allowed to react in a batch system with Na2S, in the presence of selenium(IV) as a catalyst. The changes in potential, resulting from the decrease of the picrate anions are monitored with the picrate sensor. The calibration curve of Se is linear in the concentration range 0.14–0.7 µg mL−1, with a lower limit of detection of 1.0 ng mL−1.
Hydrophobically modified quaternized celluloses as new dynamic coatings in CE for basic protein separation
Authors: Zhao Lingguo , Zhou Jinping , Zhou Haitao , Yang Qin , Zhou Ping
Published: February 2013

Hydrophobically modified quaternized celluloses (HMQCs), containing the quaternary ammonium groups and hexadecyl groups, were homogeneously synthesized as novel dynamic coatings for CE. Compared with quaternized cellulose coating, HMQC coating is able to generate stronger reversed EOF (ca. 10% increase) and has better efficiency in suppressing protein adsorption. The effects of the polymer concentration, the degree of hydrophobic substitution, and the buffer pH on the EOF mobility as well as on the separation of basic proteins were investigated in detail. It was shown that the use of HMQC coating could obviously improve the separation performance of basic proteins within a broad pH range. Five basic proteins (lysozyme, ribonuclease A, cytochrome c, bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor, and chymotrypsinogen) could be completely separated at pH 8.0. The successful performance of HMQC was further demonstrated by the analyses of lysozyme in tear and urine samples.
Information‐theoretic model‐averaged benchmark dose analysis in environmental risk assessment
Authors: Piegorsch Walter W. , An Lingling , Wickens Alissa A. , Webster West R. , Peña Edsel A. , Wu Wensong
Published: February 2013

An important objective in environmental risk assessment is estimation of minimum exposure levels, called benchmark doses (BMDs), that induce a pre‐specified benchmark response in a dose–response experiment. In such settings, representations of the risk are traditionally based on a specified parametric model. It is a well‐known concern, however, that existing parametric estimation techniques are sensitive to the form used for modeling the dose response. If the chosen parametric model is in fact misspecified, this can lead to inaccurate low‐dose inferences. Indeed, avoiding the impact of model selection was one early motivating issue behind the development of the BMD technology. Here, we apply a frequentist model averaging approach for estimating BMDs, on the basis of information‐theoretic weights. We explore how the strategy can be used to build one‐sided lower confidence limits on the BMD, and we study the confidence limits' small‐sample properties via a simulation study. An example from environmental carcinogenicity testing illustrates the calculations. It is seen that application of this information‐theoretic, model averaging methodology to benchmark analysis can improve environmental health planning and risk regulation when dealing with low‐level exposures to hazardous agents. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Natural gas matters: Gas to liquids coming on strong in United States
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: February 2013

There has been a robust debate over the use of the nation's natural gas abundance to support liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. As has been explained here before, and as the Department of Energy appears to recognize, the value of stable, growing demand such as LNG destined for international markets is essential to stabilizing the course of development of the major shale gas plays.
Gene silencing of the BDNF/TrkB axis in multiple myeloma blocks bone destruction and tumor burden in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Ai Li‐Sha , Sun Chun‐Yan , Wang Ya‐Dan , Zhang Lu , Chu Zhang‐Bo , Qin You , Gao Fei , Yan Han , Guo Tao , Chen Lei , Yang Di , Hu Yu
Published: February 2013

Osteolytic bone diseases are a prominent feature of multiple myeloma (MM), resulting from aberrant osteoclastic bone resorption that is uncoupled from osteoblastic bone formation. Myeloma stimulates osteoclastogenesis, which is largely dependent on an increase in receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) and a decrease in osteoprotegerin (OPG) within the bone marrow milieu. Recently, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was identified as a MM‐derived factor that correlates with increased RANKL levels and contributes to osteolytic bone destruction in myeloma patients. Because tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB), the receptor of BDNF, is abundantly expressed in osteoblasts, we sought to evaluate the role of BDNF/TrkB in myeloma–osteoblast interactions and the effect of this pathway on the RANKL/OPG ratio and osteoclastogenesis. Coculture systems constructed with noncontact transwells revealed that, in vitro, MM‐derived BDNF increased RANKL and decreased OPG production in osteoblasts in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. These effects were completely abolished by a specific small interfering RNA for TrkB. BDNF regulates RANKL/OPG expression in osteoblasts through the TrkB/ERK pathway. To investigate the biological effects of BDNF on myeloma in vivo, a SCID‐RPMI8226 mice model was constructed using lentiviral short hairpin RNA‐transfected RPMI8226 cells. In this system, stable knockdown of BDNF in MM cells significantly restored the RANKL/OPG homostasis, inhibited osteolytic bone destruction and reduced angiogenesis and tumor burden. Our studies provide further support for the potential osteoclastogenic effects of BDNF, which mediates stroma–myeloma interactions to disrupt the balance of RANKL/OPG expression, ultimately increasing osteoclastogenesis in MM.
Dynamic Combinatorial Libraries of Macrocyclic Imines and Their Applications
Authors: Fischmann Svenja , Lüning Ulrich
Published: February 2013

The reversibility of imine formation from amines and carbonyl compounds, such as aldehydes and ketones, allows the generation of dynamic combinatorial libraries (DCLs). By applying templates to these DCLs, members matching these templates can be amplified. Starting from the very same DCLs, the addition of different templates allows the synthesis of different products. The nature of the template alone determines which product is amplified. The template can also protect the imine bond from hydrolysis. Thus, imines can be generated in the presence of water. In mixtures of water and hydrophobic layers, transport has been observed. In contrast to most transport experiments, in which suitable ion carriers have to be added, in the systems described here, the ions act as templates for the formation of their own carriers.