bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relative importance of different types of rewards for employee motivation and commitment in South Africa
Authors: Nujjoo Aleeshah , Meyer Ines
Published: November 2012

Orientation: Employees’ perceptions of rewards are related to their affective commitment and intrinsic motivation, which have been associated with staff turnover.Research purpose: The study sought to establish the relationship between intrinsic and different extrinsic rewards with intrinsic motivation and affective commitment.Motivation for the study: South African organisations are grappling with employee retention. Literature shows that employees who are more motivated and committed to their organisation are less likely to quit. Rewards management strategies serve to create a motivated and committed workforce. Using the correct types of rewards can thus provide a competitive advantage.Research design, approach and method: A cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted. Questionnaire data of 399 South African employees were analysed using bivariate correlations and multiple regression.Main findings: Three main findings emerged. Firstly, there is a relationship between all types of rewards investigated and the two outcome variables. Secondly, this relationship is stronger for intrinsic than for extrinsic rewards and thirdly, monetary rewards do not account for the variance in intrinsic motivation above that of non-monetary rewards.Practical/managerial implications: Rewards management strategies should focus on job characteristics and designs to increase staff intrinsic rewards and include non-monetary rewards, such as supportive leadership, to encourage employees’ intrinsic motivation and affective commitment.Contribution/value-add: This research demonstrated the important role different rewards, particularly intrinsic non-monetary rewards, play in creating a committed and motivated workforce. The insights gained from this study can promote organisational effectiveness. Suggestions of how to expand on and refine the current study are addressed.
Dynamics of one-resonant biholomorphisms
Authors: Bracci Filippo , Zaitsev Dmitri
Published: November 2012

Our first main result is a construction of a simple formal normal form for holomorphic diffeomorphisms in

\mathbb C^n

whose differentials have one-dimensional family of resonances in the first

m

eigenvalues,

m\leq n

(but more resonances are allowed for other eigenvalues). Next, we provide invariants and give conditions for the existence of basins of attraction. Finally, we give applications and examples demonstrating the sharpness of our conditions.
Quasi-periodic solutions with Sobolev regularity of NLS on $\mathbb T^d$ with a multiplicative potential
Authors: Berti Massimiliano , Bolle Philippe
Published: November 2012

We prove the existence of quasi-periodic solutions for Schrödinger equations with a
multiplicative
potential on

\mathbb T^d, d \geq 1

, finitely
differentiable
nonlinearities, and tangential frequencies constrained along a
pre-assigned
direction. The solutions have only Sobolev regularity both in time and space. If the nonlinearity and the potential are

C^{\infty}

then the solutions are

C^{\infty}

. The proofs are based on an improved Nash-Moser iterative scheme, which assumes the weakest tame estimates for the inverse linearized operators ("Green functions") along scales of Sobolev spaces. The key off-diagonal decay estimates of the Green functions are proved via a new multiscale inductive analysis. The main novelty concerns the measure and "complexity" estimates.
Update of mercury emissions from China's primary zinc, lead and copper smelters, 2000–2010
Authors: Wu Q. R. , Wang S. X. , Zhang L. , Song J. X. , Yang H. , Meng Y.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. China is the largest anthropogenic mercury emitter in the world, where primary nonferrous metal smelting is regarded as one of the most significant emission sources. In this study, atmospheric mercury emissions from primary zinc, lead and copper smelters in China between 2000–2010 were estimated using a technology-based methodology with comprehensive consideration of mercury concentration in concentrates, smelting processes, mercury removal efficiencies of air pollution control devices (APCDs) and the application percentage of a certain type of APCD combinations. Our study indicated that atmospheric mercury emissions from nonferrous metal smelters in 2000, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2010 were 67.6, 100.1, 86.7, 80.6 and 72.5 t, respectively. In 2010, the amounts of mercury emitted into atmosphere were 39.4 ± 31.5, 30.6 ± 29.1, and 2.5 ± 1.1 t from primary zinc, lead and copper smelters, respectively. The largest amount of mercury was emitted from the Gansu province, followed by Henan, Yunnan, Hunan, Inner Mongolia and Shaanxi provinces. Hg2+, Hg0 and Hgp emissions from zinc smelters were 25.6, 11.8 and 1.97 t, respectively. The emissions percentages of Hg2+ and Hg0 were almost the same from lead and copper smelters. The average mercury removal efficiency was 90.5 ± 52.5%, 71.2 ± 63.7% and 91.8 ± 40.7% in zinc, lead, and copper smelters, respectively.
Retrieval of MetOp-A/IASI CO profiles and validation with MOZAIC data
Authors: De Wachter E. , Barret B. , Le Flochmoën E. , Pavelin E. , Matricardi M. , Clerbaux C. , Hadji-Lazaro J. , George M. , Hurtmans D. , Coheur P.-F. , Nedelec P. , Cammas J. P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The IASI (Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer) nadir-looking thermal infrared sounder onboard MetOp-A enables the monitoring of atmospheric constituents on a global scale. This paper presents a quality assessment of IASI CO profiles retrieved by the two different retrieval algorithms SOFRID and FORLI, by an intercomparison with airborne in-situ CO profiles from the MOZAIC program for the 2008–2009 period. Lower (surface–480 hPa) and upper tropospheric partial column (480–225 hPa) comparisons as well as profile comparisons are made. The retrieval errors of the IASI products are less than 21% in the lower troposphere and less than 10% in the upper troposphere. A statistical analysis shows similar correlation coefficients for the two retrieval algorithms and smoothed MOZAIC of r ~ 0.8 and r ~ 0.7 in the lower and upper troposphere respectively. Comparison with smoothed MOZAIC data of the temporal variation of the CO profiles at the airports of Frankfurt and Windhoek demonstrates that the IASI products are able to capture the seasonal variability at these sites. At Frankfurt SOFRID (respectively FORLI) is positively biased by 10.5% (13.0%) compared to smoothed MOZAIC in the upper (lower) troposphere, and the limited sensitivity of the IASI instrument to the boundary layer when thermal contrast is low is identified. At Windhoek, the impact of the vegetation fires in Southern Africa from July to November is captured by both SOFRID and FORLI, with an overestimation of the CO background values (fire maxima) by SOFRID (FORLI) by 12.8% (10%). Profile comparisons at Frankfurt and Windhoek show that the largest discrepancies are found between the two IASI products and MOZAIC for the nighttime retrievals.
An overview of chemosynthetic symbioses in bivalves from the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Duperron S. , Gaudron S. M. , Rodrigues C. F. , Cunha M. R. , Decker C. , Olu K.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Deep-sea bivalves found at hydrothermal vents, cold seeps and organic falls are sustained by chemosynthetic bacteria which ensure part or all of their carbon nutrition. These symbioses are of prime importance for the functioning of the ecosystems. Similar symbioses occur in other bivalve species living in shallow and coastal reduced habitats worldwide. In recent years, several deep-sea species have been investigated from continental margins around Europe, West Africa, East America, the Gulf of Mexico, and from hydrothermal vents on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. In parallel, numerous more easily accessible shallow marine species were studied. We here provide a summary of the current knowledge available on chemosymbiotic bivalves in the area ranging west-to-east from the Gulf of Mexico to Marmara Sea, and north-to-south from the Arctic to the Gulf of Guinea. Characteristics of symbioses in 51 species from the area are summarized for each of the five bivalve families documented to harbor chemosynthetic symbionts (Mytilidae, Vesicomyidae, Solemyidae, Thyasiridae and Lucinidae), and compared among families with special emphasis on ecology, life cycle, and connectivity. Chemosynthetic symbioses are a major adaptation to ecosystems and habitats exposed to reducing conditions, yet relatively little is known regarding their diversity and functioning apart from a few "model species" on which effort has focused over the last 30 yr. In the context of increasing concern about biodiversity and ecosystems, and increasing anthropogenic pressure on Oceans, we advocate for a better assessment of bivalve symbioses diversity in order to evaluate the capacities of these remarkable ecological and evolutionary units to withstand environmental change
Depositional dynamics in the El'gygytgyn Crater margin: implications for the 3.6 Ma old sediment archive
Authors: Schwamborn G. , Fedorov G. , Ostanin N. , Schirrmeister L. , Andreev A. ,   the El'gygytgyn Scientific Party
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The combination of permafrost history and dynamics, lake level changes and the tectonical framework is considered to play a crucial role for sediment delivery to El'gygytgyn Crater Lake, NE Russian Arctic. The purpose of this study is to propose a depositional framework based on analyses of the core strata from the lake margin and historical reconstructions from various studies at the site. A sedimentological program has been conducted using frozen core samples from the 141.5 m long El'gygytgyn 5011-3 permafrost well. The drill site is located in sedimentary permafrost west of the lake that partly fills the El'gygytgyn Crater. The total core sequence is interpreted as strata building up a progradational alluvial fan delta. Four macroscopically distinct sedimentary units are identified. Unit 1 (141.5–117.0 m) is comprised of ice-cemented, matrix-supported sandy gravel and intercalated sandy layers. Sandy layers represent sediments which rained out as particles in the deeper part of the water column under highly energetic conditions. Unit 2 (117.0–24.25 m) is dominated by ice-cemented, matrix-supported sandy gravel with individual gravel layers. Most of the Unit 2 diamicton is understood to result from alluvial wash and subsequent gravitational sliding of coarse-grained (sandy gravel) material on the basin slope. Unit 3 (24.25–8.5 m) has ice-cemented, matrix-supported sandy gravel that is interrupted by sand beds. These sandy beds are associated with flooding events and represent near-shore sandy shoals. Unit 4 (8.5–0.0 m) is ice-cemented, matrix-supported sandy gravel with varying ice content, mostly higher than below. It consists of slope material and creek fill deposits. The uppermost metre is the active layer (i.e. the top layer of soil with seasonal freeze and thaw) into which modern soil organic matter has been incorporated. The nature of the progradational sediment transport taking place from the western and northern crater margins may be related to the complementary occurrence of frequent turbiditic layers in the central lake basin, as is known from the lake sediment record. Slope processes such as gravitational sliding and sheet flooding occur especially during spring melt and promote mass wasting into the basin. Tectonics are inferred to have initiated the fan accumulation in the first place and possibly the off-centre displacement of the crater lake.
Modeling the Caspian Sea and its catchment area using a coupled regional atmosphere-ocean model (RegCM-ROMS): model design and preliminary results
Authors: Turuncoglu U. U. , Giuliani G. , Elguindi N. , Giorgi F.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. We describe the development of a coupled regional atmosphere-ocean model (RegCM-ROMS) and its implementation over the Caspian Sea basin. The coupled model is run for the period 1999–2008 (after a spin up of 4 yr) and it is compared to corresponding stand alone model simulations and a simulation in which a distributed 1d lake model is run for the Caspian Sea. All model versions show a good performance in reproducing the climatology of the Caspian Sea basin, with relatively minor differences across them. The coupled ROMS produces realistic, although somewhat overestimated, lake surface temperatures (LSTs), with a considerable improvement compared to the use of the simpler coupled lake model. Simulated near surface salinity and sea currents are also realistic, although the upwelling over the eastern coastal regions is underestimated. The distribution of sea ice over the shallow northern shelf of the Caspian Sea and its seasonal evolution are well reproduced. ROMS also calculates the Caspian Sea Level (CSL), showing that for the present experiment excessive evaporation over the lake area leads to a drift in estimated CSL. Despite this problem which requires further analysis due to many uncertainties in the estimation of CSL, overall the coupled RegCM-ROMS system shows encouraging results in reproducing both the climatology of the region and the basic characteristics of the Caspian Sea.
Octanoylated Ghrelin Inhibits the Activation of the Palmitic Acid-Induced TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway in THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Liu S. P. , Li X. Y. , Li Z. , He L. N. , Xiao Y. , Yan K. , Zhou Z. G.
Published: November 2012

To investigate the effect of acylated ghrelin on the activation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway induced by palmitic acid in human monocyte-derived (THP-1) macrophages, THP-1 macrophages were cultured for 12 h by palmitic acid with various concentrations. The THP-1 macrophages was pretreated by acylated ghrelin at different doses for 4 h before cultivated by palmitic acid (200 μmol/L) for 12 h. We observed the level of TLR4, NF-κB p65 phosphorylation in THP-1 macrophages and TNF-α, IL-1β in culture supernatant. TLR4 mRNA was measured by real-time PCR. TLR4 protein and NF-κB p65 phosphorylation was measured by western blotting. The expression of TNF-α and IL-1β was detected by ELISA. Compared to the THP-1 macrophages without palmitic acid, the level of TLR4 mRNA protein and NF-κB p65 phosphorylation and the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β increased after treatment by palmitic acid in a dose-dependent fashion (P<0.05). Compared to the THP-1 macrophages with palmitic acid (200 μmol/L), the level of the pervious substances decreased after preadministration by acylated ghrelin in a dose-dependent fashion. So, we make a conclusion that acylated ghrelin can regulate the activation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines in THP-1 macrophages which are stimulated by palmitic acid in a dose-dependent fashion.
The Natural Antioxidants, Pomegranate Extract and Soy Isoflavones, Favourably Modulate Canine Endothelial Cell Function
Authors: Baumgartner-Parzer Sabina M. , Waldenberger Ferdinand Rudolf , Freudenthaler Angelika , Ginouvès-Guerdoux Amandine , McGahie David , Gatto Hugues
Published: November 2012

Cardiovascular disease, preceded by vascular endothelial dysfunction, is a prominent cause of death in dogs. L-carnitine and taurine, well known for their antioxidative capacity, beneficially affect cardiovascular disease as well as certain dog cardiomyopathies. It is well established that vascular endothelial dysfunction precedes cardiovascular disease and that “vasoprotective factors” (NO and antioxidants) prevent apoptosis, whereas “risk factors” such as oxidized LDL, hyperglycemia, and free fatty acids trigger it in cultured human vascular endothelial cells. Whereas human vascular cell in vitro models are widely established and used for the characterisation of potential vasoprotective substances, such models are not available for canine endothelial cells. In the present study we therefore developed an in vitro model, which allows the testing of the effects of different substances on proliferation and apoptosis in canine aortic endothelial cells. This model was used to test L-carnitine, taurine, pomegranate extract, and Soy Isoflavones in comparison to reference substances (glutathione and pioglitazone) previously shown to modulate human endothelial cell function. L-carnitine and taurine neither exhibited antiproliferative nor antiapoptotic activities in the context of this study. However extracts from pomegranate and soy isoflavones dramatically reduced proliferation and apoptosis in a dose dependent fashion, being in line with a vasoprotective activity in dogs.
Implication of DNA Methylation Profiling in Oral Epithelium for
Lung Cancer Screening
Authors: Harada Hiroaki , Miyamoto Kazuaki , Yamashita Yoshinori , Nakano Kikuo , Taniyama Kiyomi , Kimura Masami , Miyata Yoshihiro , Ohdan Hideki , Okada Morihito
Published: November 2012

In lung cancer, the roles of molecular alterations in blood, sputum, bronchial brushing, and exhaled gas samples, which are relatively easy to obtain, have been evaluated for clinical availability. This study was based on the hypothesis that similar molecular alterations occur in the lung and oral cavity because both are exposed to the same environmental or tobacco-derived carcinogens. Because epigenetic alterations due to exposure to carcinogens are thought to play a major role in the development of lung cancer, the DNA methylation status of 11 genes in the oral epithelium was analyzed in lung cancer patients (n=16) and control individuals without lung cancer (n=32). DNA methylation profiling revealed that GDNF, RARB, and HS3ST2 were methylated more frequently in cancer patients than in the control participants (P=0.0017, 0.0062, and 0.0193, resp.). Combined analysesindicatedthat 6 of 16 cancer patients (37.5%), but only 1 of 32 control individuals (3.1%) showed DNA methylation in 2-3 of these 3 genes (P=0.0015). These combined analyses showed the high specificity and positive predictive value in total and subgroup analyses. Our data suggest that DNA methylation profiling using oral epithelium may help in the identification of individuals with a high risk of lung cancer.
Multiple Congenital Anomalies after Assisted Reproductive Technology in Japan (between 2004 and 2009)
Authors: Ooki Syuichi
Published: November 2012

Multiple congenital anomalies (MCAs) are defined as two or more unrelated major structural malformations that cannot be explained by an underlying syndrome or sequence. The percentage and combination patterns of MCAs were analyzed using the European surveillance of congenital anomalies computer algorithms for nationwide data on congenital anomalies after assisted reproductive technology between 2004 and 2009 in Japan. There were a total of 177,548 pregnancies and 124,846 live births. About 7% (96/1,324) were MCAs. Although most maternal/neonatal outcomes between the isolated cases group and the MCAs group were similar, higher early neonatal death rate was observed in the MCAs group than in the isolated cases group (9.8% versus 3.7%, resp.). Regarding the major organ system subcategory in ICD-10, the rate of MCAs was around 30% in “congenital malformations of eye, ear, face, and neck,” “congenital malformations of the respiratory system,” and “congenital malformations of genital organs.” On the other hand, the rate of MCAs was less than 10% in “congenital malformations of the circulatory system.” The combination patterns of diseases were widely varied. Of them, two or three diseases of the circulatory system, the digestive system, and the musculoskeletal system tended to co-occur in the same individuals.
Scan Quality and Entrance Skin Dose in Thoracic CT: A Comparison between Bismuth Breast Shield and Posteriorly Centered Partial CT Scans
Authors: Tappouni Rafel , Mathers Bradley
Published: November 2012

Objectives. To compare the effectiveness of the bismuth breast shield and partial CT scan in reducing entrance skin dose and to evaluate the effect of the breast shield on image quality (IQ). Methods. Nanodots were placed on an adult anthropomorphic phantom. Standard chest CT, CT with shield, and partial CT were performed. Nanodot readings and effective doses were recorded. 50 patients with chest CTs obtained both with and without breast shields were reviewed. IQ was evaluated by two radiologists and by measuring Hounsfield units (HUs) and standard deviation (SD) of HU in anterior subcutaneous region. Results. Breast shield and the partial CT scans reduced radiation to the anterior chest by 38% and 16%, respectively. Partial CT increased dose to the posterior chest by 37% and effective dose by 8%. Change in IQ in shield CT was observed in the anterior chest wall. Significant change in IQ was observed in 5/50 cases. The shield caused an increase of 20 HU () and a 1.86 reduction in SD of HU () in the anterior compared to posterior subcutaneous regions. Summary. Bismuth breast shield is more effective than the partial CT in reducing entrance skin dose while maintaining image quality.
Food uses of ferns in China: a review
Authors: Liu Yujing , Wujisguleng Wujisguleng , Long Chunlin
Published: November 2012

Edible ferns are some of the most important wild vegetables in China. This paper reviews their food uses. The history of eating ferns in China may go back as far as 3000 years. An ethnobotanical inventory of edible ferns was created, with 52 species (including 4 varieties), which were traditionally used. The potential species number of edible ferns was estimated as 144 species (including 4 varieties). The cuisines, products and chemical components of ferns were also summarized. The most commonly eaten fern, Pteridium aquilinum var. latiusculum, was discussed in terms of its toxicity, massive productivity and development strategies. Suggestions and recommendations were proposed for the future development of edible ferns in China.
Media Clips: The Worst Day of the Year? – Chopsticks
Authors: Vennebush G. Patrick , Mata Diana
Published: November 2012

Students analyze items from the media to answer mathematical questions related to the article. This month's clips discuss misrepresented formulas.
Rate Problems: Thinking across the Curriculum
Authors: Kimani Patrick , Engelke Nicole
Published: November 2012

In a new approach, rate problems—the bane of students—can connect to higher-level concepts.
Gaming the Law of Large Numbers
Authors: Hoffman Thomas R. , Snapp Bart
Published: November 2012

A dice game makes understanding the connection between relative frequency and probability easier for students.
Every Day Is Mathematical
Authors: Barger Rita H. , Jarrah Adeeb M.
Published: November 2012

To reinforce students' understanding of numbers and their properties, ask them to look at the calendar.
Secondary Mathematics Inclusion: Merging with Special Education
Authors: Dieker Lisa A. , Stephan Michelle , Smith Jennifer
Published: November 2012

A conceptual framework can show a general education and a special education teacher how to team teach so that a range of students can learn together in today's classroom.
Multidimensional Assessment of CCSSM
Authors: Bleiler Sarah K. , Thompson Denisse R.
Published: November 2012

Measuring student understanding of math concepts in this manner offers insight into the robustness of their knowledge, particularly of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics.
Engaging Reluctant Problem Solvers
Authors: Holbert Sydney M. , Barlow Angela T.
Published: November 2012

To support all students in meeting the Common Core's Standards for Mathematical Practice, consider the key features of tasks without words.
L’appareil analytique et ses modèles
Authors: Gauthier Yvon
Published: November 2012

Cet article propose une notion constructiviste de modèle dans la théorie physique applicable à la théorie scientifique en général, c’est-à-dire aussi bien dans les sciences exactes que dans les sciences sociales et humaines. La distinction entre appareil analytique et appareil expérimental par la médiation des modèles permet en effet de généraliser une notion qui est d’abord apparue dans les fondements de la physique chez David Hilbert et John von Neumann. Si l’on consent à inverser les flèches ou homomorphismes qui vont de l’appareil analytique, ensemble des structures logicomathématiques, à l’appareil expérimental, ensemble des données empiriques et des procédures expérimentales, on peut remonter par la modélisation des données jusqu’à l’appareil analytique qui assure la consistance ou cohérence logique de la théorie scientifique, qu’elle relève des sciences exactes ou des sciences sociales.

Une telle articulation des savoirs peut apparaître formelle, mais elle a l’avantage de rassembler les entreprises scientifiques dans un schème unificateur qui jette une lumière nouvelle sur le débat majeur en philosophie des sciences contemporaine, la confrontation du réalisme et de l’antiréalisme, qui a des répercussions tant en philosophie de la physique qu’en philosophie du langage et en philosophie de la logique, ou encore en philosophie des sciences sociales, si l’on en croit Jürgen Habermas ou les tenants du contructionnisme appelé jadis constructivisme social ou socioconstructivisme.

L’article conclut sur la distinction qu’il faut opérer entre le constructivisme logicomathématique et le contructionnisme, comme le dénomme Ian Hacking, pour bien marquer la distance qui sépare les postures fondationnelles ou les options philosophiques dans ce qu’il faut bien appeler « logique de la science », selon l’expression du grand philosophe pragmatiste Charles Sanders Peirce reprise par des empiristes logiques comme Rudolf Carnap.
Palindromic Structure in the “Pardoner's Tale”
Authors: TREANOR LUCIA
Published: November 2012

This paper explains the medieval writing process known as palindromic structure, a face of anagogy that, as far as we can determine, has largely been ignored in literary criticism. It begins by examining the “little verses” of Augustine of Dacia that were a staple of schoolboy studies, and demonstrates how the verses were used to teach the creative process to students of Latin composition. Then, after introducing Mary Douglas's criteria for identifying the structure, it sets forth Chaucer's “Pardoner's Tale” as a well-balanced palindrome, arguing for authorial intentionality by referencing a section of the “Parson's Tale.” It offers John Dryden's observations about Chaucer's characters—which he has written in palindromic structure—to show that later British authors were aware of Chaucer's method, and concludes by giving evidence that Chaucer knew some Greek.
Conductive PANi/PEGDA Macroporous Hydrogels For Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Guarino Vincenzo , Alvarez‐Perez Marco Antonio , Borriello Anna , Napolitano Teresa , Ambrosio Luigi
Published: November 2012

Only recently polymers with intrinsic conductive properties have been studied in relation to their incorporation into bioactive scaffolds for use in tissue engineering. The reason for this interest is that such scaffolds could electrically stimulate cells and thus regulate specific cellular activities, and by this means influence the process of regeneration of those tissues that respond to electrical impulses. In our work, macroporous hydrogels are developed with controlled pore morphology and conductive properties to enable sufficient cell signaling to supply events inherent to nerve regeneration. A hybrid material has been prepared by in situ precipitation of polyaniline (PANi) in polyethyleneglycol diacrylate (PEGDA) solution, followed by crosslinking via UV irradiation. A porous architecture, characterized by macropores from 136 μm to 158 μm in size, has been achieved by sodium chloride particle leaching. In this work, we demonstrate that PANi synthesis and hydrogel crosslinking combine to enable the design of materials with suitable conductive behaviour. The presence of PANi evidently increased the electrical conductivity of the hybrid material from (1.1 ± 0.5) × 10−3 mS/cm with a PANi content of 3wt%. The hydrophilic nature of PANi also enhanced water retention/proton conductivity by more than one order of magnitude. In vitro studies confirmed that 3 wt% PANi also improve the biological response of PC12 and hMSC cells. Hybrid PANi/PEGDA macroporous hydrogels supplement new functionalities in terms of morphological and conductive properties, both of which are essential prerequisites to drive nerve cells in regenerative processes.
Towards Smart Tattoos: Implantable Biosensors for Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Heo Yun Jung , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: November 2012

Diabetes can strike at any age, from childhood to adulthood, and lasts a lifetime. Thus, it is important to find ways to increase the quality of life for diabetic patients through intensive, continuous care of blood glucose concentrations. Glucose biosensors that are implanted under the skin are promising for continuous glucose monitoring because they can constantly read blood glucose concentrations and signal a warning in case of hypo‐ or hyperglycemia. The demand for subcutaneous glucose biosensors has led to the development of many glucose‐sensing principles and sensor designs. This Review covers the effort to develop subcutaneous glucose biosensors, including the glucose‐sensing principles, and discusses their current status for in vivo monitoring. In addition, the Review examines the future prospects for intensive diabetes care.
Catechol‐Based Biomimetic Functional Materials
Authors: Sedó Josep , Saiz‐Poseu Javier , Busqué Felix , Ruiz‐Molina Daniel
Published: November 2012

Catechols are found in nature taking part in a remarkably broad scope of biochemical processes and functions. Though not exclusively, such versatility may be traced back to several properties uniquely found together in the o‐dihydroxyaryl chemical function; namely, its ability to establish reversible equilibria at moderate redox potentials and pHs and to irreversibly cross‐link through complex oxidation mechanisms; its excellent chelating properties, greatly exemplified by, but by no means exclusive, to the binding of Fe3+; and the diverse modes of interaction of the vicinal hydroxyl groups with all kinds of surfaces of remarkably different chemical and physical nature. Thanks to this diversity, catechols can be found either as simple molecular systems, forming part of supramolacular structures, coordinated to different metal ions or as macromolecules mostly arising from polymerization mechanisms through covalent bonds. Such versatility has allowed catechols to participate in several natural processes and functions that range from the adhesive properties of marine organisms to the storage of some transition metal ions.

 As a result of such an astonishing range of functionalities, catechol‐based systems have in recent years been subject to intense research, aimed at mimicking these natural systems in order to develop new functional materials and coatings. A comprehensive review of these studies is discussed in this paper.
Solvated Graphenes: An Emerging Class of Functional Soft Materials
Authors: Cheng Chi , Li Dan
Published: November 2012

From a materials science point of view, graphene is essentially a polymer having a giant, two‐dimensional molecular configuration. In this Progress Report, solvated graphene and its derivatives are illustrated from the perspective of soft matter. Firstly, the key appealing features of graphene as a molecular building block for assembling bulk soft materials are highlighed. It is then demonstrated how the intersheet interactions in solution are correlated with the molecular structure of graphene, and how a combination of the unique molecular structure and colloidal interactions can lead to simple, solution‐phase approaches for assembling graphenes into a variety of macroscopic nanoarchitectures. A number of new exciting functions and applications are also highlighted, which are enabled by the solvation effect and in particular, it is discussed why and how solvated graphenes can offer exciting functions that are unattainable with the dried, hard counterpart. The discussion is concluded with some personal perspectives on the future directions in which this emerging class of functional soft materials could be pursued.
Highly‐Tunable Nickel Cobalt Oxide as a Low‐Temperature P‐Type Contact in Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Ndione Paul F. , Garcia Andres , Widjonarko N. Edwin , Sigdel Ajaya K. , Steirer K. Xerxes , Olson Dana C. , Parilla Philip A. , Ginley David S. , Armstong Neal R. , Richards Robin E. , Ratcliff Erin L. , Berry Joseph J.
Published: November 2012

We report on the investigation of nickel cobalt oxide (NixCo3−xO4) thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition as hole‐transport interlayers (HTL) in organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices. Films of 7 nm thickness were grown under various oxygen deposition pressures (pO2) in the range of 2–200 mTorr. We explore both bulk and surface properties of these thin films. The workfunction (ϕ) for each of the films was statistically similar (∼4.7 eV), regardless of pO2. There was not a strong dependence of the power conversion efficiency (η) on the conductivities of the HTLs varying between 0.009 ‐ 10 S/cm. The observed differences in OPV efficiencies (ranging from 1.16 to 2.46%) were correlated to the near surface chemical composition of the NixCo3−xO4 HTL, as observed by differences in the relative surface hydroxyl concentration. The critical role of the near‐surface composition of the HTL at the HTL/organic interface was further explored by modifying the hydroxyl concentration using an oxygen plasma treatment. This treatment mitigated the impact of surface hydroxyl coverage, demonstrating either identical or increased values for ϕ and η, regardless of initial pO2 in the creation of the NixCo3−xO4 HTL. To further explore this we also employed a phosphonic acid surface modification agent on the HTL, increasing ϕ to 5.2 eV producing the best η value of 3.4%, equivalent to the PEDOT:PSS control devices. These results indicate that nickel cobalt oxide is a promising p‐type oxide for carrier‐selective interlayers in organic solar cells; however, for this to be fully realized the specific surface chemistry at the oxide/polymer interface must be controlled to increase ϕ and optimize device performance.
Interspecific Interactions between Primates, Birds, Bats, and Squirrels May Affect Community Composition on Borneo
Authors: BEAUDROT LYDIA , STRUEBIG MATTHEW J. , MEIJAARD ERIK , VAN BALEN SEBASTIANUS , HUSSON SIMON , YOUNG CARSON F. , MARSHALL ANDREW J.
Published: November 2012

For several decades, primatologists have been interested in understanding how sympatric primate species are able to coexist. Most of our understanding of primate community ecology derives from the assumption that these animals interact predominantly with other primates. In this study, we investigate to what extent multiple community assembly hypotheses consistent with this assumption are supported when tested with communities of primates in isolation versus with communities of primates, birds, bats, and squirrels together. We focus on vertebrate communities on the island of Borneo, where we examine the determinants of presence or absence of species, and how these communities are structured. We test for checkerboard distributions, guild proportionality, and Fox's assembly rule for favored states, and predict that statistical signals reflecting interactions between ecologically similar species will be stronger when nonprimate taxa are included in analyses. We found strong support for checkerboard distributions in several communities, particularly when taxonomic groups were combined, and after controlling for habitat effects. We found evidence of guild proportionality in some communities, but did not find significant support for Fox's assembly rule in any of the communities examined. These results demonstrate the presence of vertebrate community structure that is ecologically determined rather than randomly generated, which is a finding consistent with the interpretation that interactions within and between these taxonomic groups may have shaped species composition in these communities. This research highlights the importance of considering the broader vertebrate communities with which primates co‐occur, and so we urge primatologists to explicitly consider nonprimate taxa in the study of primate ecology. Am. J. Primatol. 75:170‐185, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Proximate Factors Underpinning Receiver Responses to Deceptive False Alarm Calls in Wild Tufted Capuchin Monkeys: Is It Counterdeception?
Authors: WHEELER BRANDON C. , HAMMERSCHMIDT KURT
Published: November 2012

Previous research demonstrates that tufted capuchin monkeys use terrestrial predator alarm calls in a functionally deceptive manner to distract conspecifics when feeding on contestable resources, although the success of this tactic is limited because listeners frequently ignore these calls when given in such situations. While this decreased response rate is suggestive of a counterstrategy to deception by receivers, the proximate factors underpinning the behavior are unclear. The current study aims to test if the decreased response rate to alarm calls in competitive contexts is better explained by the perception of subtle acoustic differences between predator‐elicited and deceptive false alarms, or by receivers varying their responses based on the context in which the signal is received. This was tested by first examining the acoustic structure of predator‐elicited and deceptive false alarms for any potentially perceptible acoustic differences, and second by comparing the responses of capuchins to playbacks of each of predator‐elicited and false alarms, played back in noncompetitive contexts. The results indicate that deceptive false alarms and predator‐elicited alarms show, at best, minimal acoustic differences based on the structural features measured. Likewise, playbacks of deceptive false alarms elicited antipredator reactions at the same rate as did predator‐elicited alarms, although there was a nonsignificant tendency for false alarms to be more likely to elicit escape reactions. The lack of robust acoustic differences together with the high response rate to false alarms in noncompetitive contexts suggests that the context in which the signal is received best explains receiver responses. It remains unclear, however, if listeners ascribe different meanings to the calls based on context, or if they generally ignore all signals in competitive contexts. Whether or not the decreased response rate of receivers directly stems from the deceptive use of the calls cannot be determined until these latter possibilities are rigorously tested. Am. J. Primatol. 75:715‐725, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intakes of vitamin C and carotenoids and risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Pooled results from 5 cohort studies
Authors: Fitzgerald Kathryn C. , O'Reilly Éilis J. , Fondell Elinor , Falcone Guido J. , McCullough Marjorie L. , Park Yikyung , Kolonel Laurence N. , Ascherio Alberto
Published: November 2012

Objective

Prior research has suggested the possible role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Prospective data examining dietary antioxidants such carotenoids and vitamin C are limited.

Methods

Risk of ALS associated with carotenoid and vitamin C intake was investigated in 5 prospective cohorts: the National Institutes of Health–Association of American Retired Persons Diet and Health Study, the Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort, the Multiethnic Cohort, the Health Professionals Follow‐up Study (HPFS), and the Nurses Health Study (NHS). ALS deaths were documented using the National Death Index, and confirmed nonfatal ALS cases were included from HPFS and NHS. A total of 1,153 ALS deaths occurred among 1,100,910 participants (562,942 men; 537,968 women). Participants were categorized into cohort‐specific quintiles of intake for dietary variables. We applied Cox proportional hazards regression to calculate cohort‐specific risk ratios (RRs), and pooled results using random‐effects methods.

Results

A greater total major carotenoids intake was associated with a reduced risk of ALS (pooled, multivariate‐adjusted RR for the highest to the lowest quintile = 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.61–0.91, p for trend = 0.004). Individually, higher dietary intakes of β‐carotene and lutein were inversely associated with ALS risk. The pooled multivariate RRs comparing the highest to the lowest quintile for β‐carotene and lutein were 0.85 (95% CI = 0.64–1.13, p for trend = 0.03) and 0.79 (95% CI = 0.64–0.96, p for trend = 0.01), respectively. Lycopene, β‐cryptoxanthin, and vitamin C were not associated with reduced risk of ALS.

Interpretation

Consumption of foods high in carotenoids may help prevent or delay onset of ALS. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:236–245
Effect of epoxidized natural rubber on the properties of rectorite/carbon black/natural rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Lei , Xiang Pu‐Yu , Zhang Li‐Qun , Wu You‐Ping
Published: November 2012

Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) was introduced into rectorite (REC)/carbon black/natural rubber (NR) nanocomposites by two ways: (1) the direct incorporation of ENR and (b) the incorporation of a spray‐dried REC/ENR compound. Transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the REC layers presented a nanodispersion structure in the REC/ENR compound. The vulcanization characteristics indicated that ENR increased the crosslinking density of the composites. The stronger reaction between the REC layers and ENR was verified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in the spray‐dried REC/ENR compound blended with NR versus that in the REC/NR master batch blended with ENR. As a result, the physical properties, such as the mechanical properties, cutting and chipping resistance, and abrasion resistance, of the composites were greatly increased by the addition of the REC/ENR compound. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Effect of PLA crystallization on the structure of biomimetic composites of PLA and clay
Authors: Boesel Luciano F. , de Geus Matthijs , Thöny‐Meyer Linda
Published: November 2012

Composites of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and organoclays with clay loadings of up to 80% were prepared as self‐supporting films using a doctor‐blading approach. Depending on the properties of the used organoclay, either intercalated nanocomposites or conventional composites were obtained. The incorporation of such high amounts of clay resulted in up to 10‐fold decrease in the water vapor transmission rate when compared to the pristine polymer. The effect of clay platelets on the crystallization of PLA chains was also studied; it was found that high amounts of clay hinder only the melt crystallization of the polymer, whereas cold crystallization proceeds as usual. On the other hand, the crystallization of PLA also influenced the composite structure by increasing the extent of intercalation of polymer between clay layers. This study thus shows that the change in the extent of clay‐polymer interactions is also an important factor in controlling nanocomposite structure, especially for high loading. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
The dominant role of polymer erosion in paclitaxel release from folate‐modified poly(ether‐anhydride) nanocarrier
Authors: Liu Xipan , Pan Dan , Guo Qian , Zhao Yanjun , Wang Zheng
Published: November 2012

This study designed a photo‐crosslinkable poly(ether‐anhydride) nanocarrier with folate modification to achieve both biodegradability and active targeting. The nanocarrier consists of a hydrophobic polymer core and a shell of folate and hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol). Nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to verify the synthesis and relevant intermediate products. The nanocarrier was characterized in terms of morphology and diameter using transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The results showed that the size of spherical nanocarriers located within 200–400 nm. The cellular uptake profile of nanocarriers in HeLa cells was examined using fluorescence microscope with the help of a fluorescent molecule and the folate‐modified nanocarrier exhibited an enhanced uptake compared to that without modification. The nanocarrier degradation at physiological temperature was investigated gravimetrically and the in vitro release of model drug, paclitaxel (PTX) was examined via the dialysis method. The erosion rate of poly(ether‐anhydride) network was controlled by the crosslinking density and the hydrolytic susceptibility; the folate modification slightly slowed the degradation process. The time scale of PTX release perfectly matched with that of nanocarrier erosion; after 6 h more than 50% weight loss of nanocarrier was observed and meanwhile the drug release profile got plateaued, indicating the dominant role of polymer erosion in the release of the active agent from the nanocarriers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Preparation and ionic conductive properties of all‐solid polymer electrolytes based on multiarm star block polymers
Authors: Ren Shitong , Chang Hefei , He Lijuan , Dang Xiaofei , Fang Yanyan , Zhang Liaoyun , Li Huayi , Hu Youliang , Lin Yuan
Published: November 2012

A series of star block polymers with a hyperbranched core and 26 arms are successfully synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization of styrene (St), and poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate from a hyperbranched polystyrene (HBPS) multifunctional initiator. All‐solid polymer electrolytes composed of these multiarm star polymers and lithium salts are prepared. The influences of polyoxyethylene (PEO) side‐chain length, PEO content, lithium salt concentration and type, and the structure of polymer on ionic conductivity are systematically investigated. The resulting polymer electrolyte with the longest PEO side chains exhibits the best ionic conductive properties. The maximum conductivity is 0.8 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 25°C with EO/Li = 30. All the prepared multiarm star block polymers possess good thermal stability. The mechanical property is greatly improved owing to the existence of polystyrene blocks in the multiarm star polymer molecules, and flexible films can be obtained by solution‐casting technique. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
An easy method for the preparation of anion exchange membranes: Graft‐polymerization of ionic liquids in porous supports
Authors: Merle Géraldine , Chairuna Annisa , Ven Erik Van de , Nijmeijer Kitty
Published: November 2012

A novel way for anion exchange membrane (AEM) preparation has been investigated, avoiding the use of expensive and toxic chemicals. This new synthetic approach to prepare AEMs was based on the use of a porous polybenzylimidazole membrane as support in which functionalized ILs were introduced and subsequently grafted on the polymer backbone. These new AEMs were prepared and their chemical structures and properties including morphology, thermal stability, and ionic conductivity were characterized. The hydroxyl ionic conductivity of the synthesized membranes can reach values upto 6.62 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 20°C. Although the ionic conductivity is not very high yet, the work shows the strength of the concept. Membrane properties can be easily tailored toward specific applications by choosing the proper chemistry, i.e., porous polymer support, ionic liquid, and method of initiation and polymerization. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013