bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reverse micelles‐mediated transport of lipase in liquid emulsion membrane for downstream processing
Authors: Bhavya S. G. , Priyanka B. S. , Rastogi Navin K.
Published: September 2012

This work deals with the downstream processing of lipase (EC 3.1.1.3, from Aspergillus niger) using liquid emulsion membrane (LEM) containing reverse micelles for the first time. The membrane phase consisted of surfactants [cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and Span 80] and cosolvents (isooctane and paraffin light oil). The various process parameters for the extraction of lipase from aqueous feed were optimized to maximize activity recovery and purification fold. The mechanism of lipase transport through LEM consisted of three steps namely solubilization of lipase in reverse micelles, transportation of reverse micelles loaded with lipase through the liquid membrane, and release of the lipase into internal aqueous phase. The results showed that the optimum conditions for activity recovery (78.6%) and purification (3.14‐fold) were feed phase ionic strength 0.10 M NaCl and pH 9.0, surfactants concentration (Span 80 0.18 M and CTAB 0.1 M), volume ratio of organic phase to internal aqueous phase 0.9, ratio of membrane emulsion to feed volume 1.0, internal aqueous phase concentration 1.0 M KCl and pH 7.0, stirring speed 450 rpm, and contact time 15 min. This work indicated the feasibility of LEM for the downstream processing of lipase. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
One‐Pot Sol–Gel Preparation for Efficient Cobalt–Molybdenum–Titania Hydrotreating Catalysts
Authors: Nguyen D. L. , Gillot S. , Souza D. O. , Blanchard P. , Lamonier C. , Berrier E. , Kotbagi T. V. , Dongare M. K. , Umbarkar S. B. , Cristol S. , Payen E. , Lancelot C.
Published: September 2012

Titania‐based hydrodesulfurization catalysts were prepared by using a one‐pot sol–gel method with the titanium peroxo complex as titanium precursor and molybdenum and cobalt precursors dissolved in the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution used during synthesis. Catalysts with MoO3 loadings varying from 5 to 40 wt % and a Co/Mo atomic ratio of 0.5 were prepared. Solids with molybdenum loadings below 20 wt % MoO3 demonstrated poor hydrodesulfurization activity for the model compound thiophene. This was attributed to the presence of a large amount of embedded cobalt and molybdenum species in the titania matrix. A significant increase in the catalytic activity was observed for solids containing 20 and 25 wt % of MoO3 on which active species appeared to be accessible on the titania surface. Furthermore, the highest conversion obtained on these sol–gel solids was superior to the highest conversion obtained on reference catalysts prepared through the impregnation of ammonium heptamolybdate and cobalt nitrate on commercial titania.
Boosting Lewis Acid Catalysis in Water‐in‐Oil Metallomicroemulsions
Authors: Méndez‐Pérez María , García‐Río Luis , Pérez‐Lorenzo Moisés
Published: September 2012

A study on the effect of sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate‐based metallomicroemulsions on the Lewis acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the ester 2,4‐dinitrophenylpicolinate is reported. For a given amount of metal (Ni2+), the presence of these colloidal systems increases the catalytic efficiency of the Lewis acid approximately 1000 % over that found in bulk water. This finding is justified on the basis of the highly localized confinement of the catalyst at the aqueous interface of the microemulsion. In addition, the obtained results indicate that the encounter of the ester with the metal catalyst is significantly favored in the presence of this metallo‐functionalized microreactor. The mathematical model developed herein also allows an accurate determination and prediction of the influence of the metallomicroemulsion composition on the catalytic effect on the reaction rate. The results obtained lead to the development of similar reaction systems involving the application of metal Lewis acid catalysts such as carbon–carbon bond‐forming reactions.
Photoinduced Electron Transfer in an Amine–Corrole–Perylene Bisimide Assembly: Charge Separation over Terminal Components Favoured by Solvent Polarity
Authors: Voloshchuk Roman , Gryko Daniel T. , Chotkowski Maciej , Ciuciu Adina I. , Flamigni Lucia
Published: September 2012

An assembly has been synthesised that consists of four units: a meso‐substituted corrole (C3), perylene bisimide (PI), and two electron‐rich triphenylamine (DPA) units. PI is connected through a 1,4‐phenylene bridge to C3, whereas the two DPA units are linked to C3 through a diphenyl ether linkage, which is used for the first time to connect the various moieties. Various synthetic strategies were elaborated, and the chosen one afforded the final system in six steps in an overall yield of 6 %. The resulting assembly, made of three different units, was named a “triad”. Excitation of the corrole (C3) or perylene bisimide (PI) units led to the charge‐separated state DPA‐C3+‐PI− with a rate k>1011 s−1 in benzonitrile and dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) or with k of the order of 1010 s−1 in toluene. The latter charge‐separated state decayed to the ground state with a rate k=1.8×109 s−1 in toluene. In the polar solvents benzonitrile and dichloromethane, recombination to the ground state competes with a charge shift to form the distal charge‐separated state, DPA+‐C3‐PI−, the formation of which occurs with a yield of 50 %. Recombination to the ground state of DPA+‐C3‐PI− occurs with a rate k=5×107 s−1 in CH2Cl2 and k=2×107 s−1 in benzonitrile.
Adsorption of Two Taste and Odor Compounds IPMP and IBMP by Granular Activated Carbon in Water
Authors: An Na , Xie Hui‐hui , Gao Nai‐yun , Deng Yang , Chu Wen‐hai , Jiang Jin
Published: September 2012

Granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorption of two representative taste and odor (T & O) compounds, 2‐isopropyl‐3‐methoxy pyrazine (IPMP), and 2‐isobutyl‐3‐methoxy pyrazine (IBMP), in drinking water was investigated. Results show that the modified Freundlich equation best fit the experimental data during the adsorption isotherm tests, and the pseudo first‐order kinetics and intra‐particle diffusion kinetics well described the adsorption kinetics pattern. The calculated thermodynamic parameters (ΔH0, ΔS0, and ΔG0) indicated a spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process. Factors affecting the treatment efficiency were carefully evaluated. Acidic and alkaline conditions both favored GAC adsorption of IPMP and IBMP, especially the former. With the GAC dosage increasing, the first order adsorption rates increased, while the intra‐particle adsorption rates decreased. Within 12 h, 200 mg/L GAC could remove >90% of 150 µg/L IPMP and IBMP via adsorption at pH 3–11. Therefore, GAC is a promising treatment technology to control the T & O compounds associated water pollution.
Development of an intelligent lighting system using LED ceiling lights into an actual office
Authors: Ono Keiko , Miki Mitsunori , Yoshimi Masato , Nishimoto Tatsuo , Omi Tetsuya , Adachi Hiroshi , Akita Masatoshi , Kasahara Yoshihiro
Published: September 2012

As a demonstration, our proposed system has been introduced into actual offices in Tokyo. It consists of fluorescent lighting fixtures, light control units, microprocessors, illuminance sensors, and distributed optimization software. The lower control limit of a fluorescent light fixture is between 20% and 30%. We measured the relationship between the color temperature and the dimming range for the illuminance. The experimental results showed that the dimming range for the illuminance was narrow. To provide each worker's desired illuminance and color temperature, an LED ceiling light which can control the luminance between 0% and 100% is preferable. However, LED ceiling lights for office use have not been developed so far. The two leading light equipment makers have prototyped LED ceiling lights. We developed an intelligent lighting system using these lights and verified its effectiveness. The experimental results showed that the proposed system could provide the required illuminance and color temperature, and could achieve an energy savings of 60 to 80%. The intelligent system has a high affinity for LED lights. From the point of view of effective utilization of energy, the intelligent lighting system using LED ceiling lights showed good performance. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(10): 54–63, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10395
Template matching robust to intensity variations and noise using eigen‐decomposed templates
Authors: Koutaki Gou , Uchimura Keiichi
Published: September 2012

This paper proposes improved eigen‐decomposition template matching. Eigen‐decomposition template matching is a method of detecting the displacement and the rotational angle more accurately than traditional rotational correlation matching methods such as the cross‐correlation method. The proposed method calculates the correlation by matching images determined by eigen‐decomposition of the template image to the input image instead of matching the template image to the input image directly. This paper also proposes a method of detecting the displacement and rotational angle even if the input image includes large translation displacements and intensity variations. The experimental results show that the proposed method can detect the displacement and rotational angle more accurately than the previous method for images with noise and illumination variance. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(10): 27–36, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11389
Optical design and receiving characteristics of two‐lens visible light communication system
Authors: Matsumoto Yoshinori , Nakada Hiromichi
Published: September 2012

This paper describes the optical design of a two‐lens visible light communication system to reduce background noise. The system is composed of an image sensor, a receiving element, and control software. The selected area for the receiving element was calculated by considering the chip size, the focal length of the lens, and the pitch between the image sensor and the receiving element on the PCB board. The communication length is expected to be proportional to the focal length of the lens. LED sources were modulated by subcarrier 4‐bit pulse position modulation of visible light ID at the carrier frequency of 28.8 kHz. The communication length of the system using a commercialized high‐sensitivity phototransistor was measured at up to 16.5 m for a focal length of 12 mm. In the phototransistor array system, the brightness and illuminant size from the image sensor were used to identify the signal source. The system separates the data from multiple signal sources by selecting an arbitrary receiving element. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(10): 9–16, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11402
Characterizing differential responses of benthic macroinvertebrate communities to floods and droughts in three different stream types using a Self‐Organizing Map
Authors: Bae Mi‐Jung , Chon Tae‐Soo , Park Young‐Seuk
Published: September 2012

We investigated the spatial and temporal changes of benthic macroinvertebrate communities in response to floods and droughts in three different stream types: perennial, intermittent, and ephemeral. Benthic macroinvertebrates were collected monthly (or biweekly) at six different sampling sites from July 2006 to January 2008. Species richness and abundance were extremely low at all sampling sites during the flooding period, but the communities subsequently recovered rapidly within 1 month. The effects of floods and droughts on benthic macroinvertebrates manifested differently among the three different stream types. Species richness and abundance had a negative relationship with the amount of precipitation in the perennial stream type, whereas no significant relationship was observed in the ephemeral stream type. A Self‐Organizing Map, an unsupervised artificial neural network, classified the samples into four clusters based on the similarities of community composition, reflecting the different effects of floods and droughts on the different stream types. Our results suggest that floods and droughts are the defining characteristics of streams, spatial heterogeneity (i.e. the perennial stream type) can decrease the effect of temporal heterogeneity, and both spatial and temporal heterogeneities are important for structuring the environmental condition and benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suppression of higher harmonics resonance in a distribution system
Authors: Sugimura Shouji , Naitoh Tadashi , Toyama Atsushi , Ohta Fumihiko
Published: September 2012

There are many PWM control devices, which are higher harmonics current sources, in distribution systems, and higher harmonics cause overcurrents by parallel resonance. To avoid overcurrents, it is necessary to suppress resonance. In this paper, a new suppression method, which uses the effect of source connected points in resonance circuits, is proposed. First it shows that the optimal point, which gives a minimum current amplification degree, is orthogonal to the static condenser voltage. Then, using the eigenvector of the state equation, the participation factor is defined. When the participation factor is zero, the orthogonality condition is introduced. Therefore, the optimal point is obtained with the participation factor. Finally, numerical investigation shows that multiple optimal points usually exist. Therefore, we can choose the most advantageous point as a source‐connected node. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 182(1): 18–29, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22307
Astrocytic Fas ligand expression is required to induce T‐cell apoptosis and recovery from experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Wang Xu , Haroon Fahad , Karray Saoussen , Martina Deckert  , Schlüter Dirk
Published: September 2012

In T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune diseases of the CNS, apoptosis of Fas+ T cells by FasL contributes to resolution of disease. However, the apoptosis‐inducing cell population still remains to be identified. To address the role of astrocytic FasL in the regulation of T‐cell apoptosis in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, we immunized C57BL/6 glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP)‐Cre FasLfl/fl mice selectively lacking FasL in astrocytes with MOG35–55 peptide. GFAP‐Cre FasLfl/fl mice were unable to resolve EAE and suffered from persisting demyelination and paralysis, while FasLfl/fl control mice recovered. In contrast to FasLfl/fl mice, GFAP‐Cre FasLfl/fl mice failed to induce apoptosis of Fas+ activated CD4+ T cells and to increase numbers of Foxp3+ Treg cells beyond day 15 post immunization, the time point of maximal clinical disease in control mice. The persistence of activated and GM‐CSF‐producing CD4+ T cells in GFAP‐Cre FasLfl/fl mice also resulted in an increased IL‐17, IFN‐γ, TNF, and GM‐CSF mRNA expression in the CNS. In vitro, FasL+ but not FasL− astrocytes induced caspase‐3 expression and apoptosis of activated T cells. In conclusion, FasL expression of astrocytes plays an important role in the control and elimination of autoimmune T cells from the CNS, thereby determining recovery from EAE.
Core–shell designed scaffolds of alginate/alpha‐tricalcium phosphate for the loading and delivery of biological proteins
Authors: Perez Roman A. , Kim Hae‐Won
Published: September 2012

Development of scaffolds to load and deliver therapeutic molecules like growth factors greatly enhances tissue regenerative capacity. Here, we report the core–shell design of fibrous scaffolds made of alginate and α‐tricalcium phosphate (Alg/α‐TCP) for in situ protein loading and controllable delivery. Direct deposition of Alg/α‐TCP solution through designed coconcentric nozzle in CaCl2 bath allowed the generation of fibrous scaffolds. Through the process, in situ protein loading was possible and the core and shell composition was controlled. Feasibility of the designed scaffolds in loading and release of biological model protein cytochrome C (cyt C) was investigated. Scaffolding formed in CaCl2 led to a considerable loss of cyt C in a crosslinking time‐dependent manner, and the change in hardening conditions (Alg concentration, CaCl2 concentration, and Alg/α‐TCP ratio) was not as effective in reducing the protein loss. Subsequent release of cyt C from Alg scaffolds displayed a marked initial burst depending on crosslinking conditions, and shortening crosslinking time and decreasing CaCl2 concentration lowered the initial burst. The α‐TCP addition (up to 75%) resulted in more continual and sustainable release patterns. Composition change (α‐TCP content) in core or shell significantly altered the release profiles, suggesting the possible designing core–shell configuration for target release patterns, such as dual‐protein delivery. Additionally, the α‐TCP incorporation significantly increased the mechanical stiffness to values much closer to those of hard tissues. Results indicate that coaxial deposited α‐TCP/Alg fibrous scaffolds may be useful for designing proper growth factor delivery systems in hard tissue engineering. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Yellow‐pigmented Cupriavidus sp., a novel bacterium capable of utilizing glycerine pitch for the sustainable production of P(3HB‐co‐4HB)
Authors: Ramachandran Hema , Amirul A.A.
Published: September 2012

Background

Development of bacterial strains that can utilize cheap and renewable carbon substrate will make the prices of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB‐co‐4HB)] competitive with synthetic plastics. Disposal of glycerine pitch, which is a scheduled waste from the oleochemicals industry, has raised awareness among communities as burning the waste literally means producing acrolein which is well known for its toxicity and adverse effects. Therefore, discovering potential application of glycerine pitch as carbon substrate is believed to overcome the waste management problem and reduce the P(3HB‐co‐4HB) production cost.

Results

Cupriavidus sp. USMAHM13, a novel yellow‐pigmented bacterium produced the highest 4HB composition (43 mol%) with cell dry weight and PHA content of 6.0 g L‐1 and 49 wt%, respectively, through combination of glycerine pitch (5 g L‐1) and 1,4‐butanediol (5 g L‐1) via one‐stage cultivation. The yellow pigment extracts were analyzed using UV–VIS spectrophotometry and high performance liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS), which revealed that the yellow pigment might represent a new compound in the carotenoid group.

Conclusion

Biosynthesis of P(3HB‐co‐4HB) by a novel yellow‐pigmented Cupriavidus sp. using glycerine pitch together with 1,4‐butanediol enhanced cost efficiency and sustainability in the production of P(3HB‐co‐4HB).
The reliability and validity of visuospatial inattention tests with stroke patients
Authors: Sea Mei‐Jin Chen , Henderson Anne
Published: September 2012

Visuospatial inattention is one of the deficits which can have a negative effect on activities in daily living performance in stroke patients. Four cancellation tests were administered to 43 stroke patients (34 right lesion and 9 left lesion) to determine the reliability and validity in measuring visuospatial inattention deficit. For the total group, test–re‐test reliabilities on the Albert Test, the Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test (SLBT) cancellation, the Structured Chinese Word Cancellation Test (SCWCT) and the Random Chinese Word Cancellation Test (RCWCT) ranged from 0.79 to 0.96. Among the four cancellation tests, the RCWCT had the highest reliability (0.96). Reliability coefficients were also calculated for the subgroup with right brain lesion with similar results. High intercorrelation coefficients showed that the four tests evaluate the same construct at a significant level. The correlation (r) was used to estimate the size of the effect of the linear relationship between lesion side and omission scores of the tests. The results showed moderate‐to‐large effect sizes of the side of lesion on the performance and indicated that the RCWCT, the SCWCT, the SLBT and the Albert Test could all be used to discriminate right brain lesion from the left. In addition to showing excellent reliability and construct validity, the RCWCT was the most difficult of the tests, and so the most likely to identify inattention in Chinese individuals.
Cognitive‐behavioral treatment of chronic recurrent pain
Authors: Engel Joyce M.
Published: September 2012

Pain is a primary reason for seeking health care. The effect of a cognitive‐behavioral treatment program on complaints of chronic, recurrent, non‐malignant pain was evaluated. The treatment procedure consisted of a combination of a psychoeducational approach, and relaxation and attention diversion techniques, positive coping self‐statements and homework assignments. Decreased pain complaints and improved mood were reported after completion of the program. These data support the use of the cognitive‐behavioral frame of reference to alleviate adult pain complaints and suffering.
Construct validity of the tseng teacher handwriting checklist
Authors: Tseng Mei‐Hui
Published: September 2012

Handwriting problems in Chinese elementary school students have rarely been researched. Efforts to examine handwriting difficulties in school‐aged children have been hampered by the lack of a reliable and valid instrument. The present study was designed to examine the construct validity of the Tseng Teacher Handwriting Checklist (TTHC), which consists of 24 items that assess handwriting problems in Chinese elementary school students. Factor analysis was performed on the items of the TTHC with a sample of 214 school‐aged children from grades 3 to 5 who had handwriting problems. Results replicated a previous study. Factor loadings were all sufficiently strong to regard the six factors as distinct, well‐defined constructs. These factors were construction, sequencing, behaviour, accuracy, motor and directionality.
Sensory functions of institutionalized Romanian infants: A pilot study
Authors: Haradon Gale , Bascom Barbara , Dragomir Cristiana , Scripcaru Virginia
Published: September 2012

Infants living in an orphanage (n = 22) in Romania were assessed on the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants (TSFI). Testing of the institutionalized infants was done before and 6 months after an enriched caregiver intervention program. Results showed significant changes in areas of reactivity to tactile deep pressure, visual‐tactile integration, oculomotor control, reactivity to vestibular stimulation and total test responses. No significant changes occurred in the area of adaptive motor functions. Effects of sensory deprivation resulting from institutional settings and changes that can occur from enriched caregiver environments are discussed.
Configuration of occupational therapy, professionalism and experiential learning — An integrated introductory course
Authors: Raveh Michal
Published: September 2012

The professional obligations of an occupational therapy faculty include the need to provide students with means to develop a sound professional identity and facilitate a positive and coherent professional socialisation process. This article proposes that, through calculated construction of an introductory occupational therapy course, one can relate to these issues. It suggests basing the course content on Mosey's concept of ‘the configuration of occupational therapy’, in answer to possible problems in professional identity, and at the same time working to develop the basic professional socialisation dimensions — knowledge, skills and art of therapy. It uses experiential learning theory, both as an instrument for the examination of students learning styles and for choosing teaching methods.
Vestibular‐proprioceptive abilities in children experiencing recurrent headaches
Authors: Engel Joyce M. , Wincent M. Marget
Published: September 2012

The role of the occupational therapist in pediatric pain management is emerging. Whatever intervention methods are used, effective management of pain and associated symptoms depends upon accurate assessment. The use of the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) for identifying vestibular‐proprioceptive abilities in children experiencing recurrent migraine or mixed headaches was investigated. Most of the subjects showed significantly high postrotary nystagmus scores and strengths in the areas of sensory processing and praxis. These data suggest the SIPT may be helpful in determining cortical versus brain‐stem processing dysfunction in children with recurrent headaches to assist with treatment intervention.
Male occupational therapists: A profile of job satisfaction and work environment variables
Authors: Brown G. Ted
Published: September 2012

Occupational therapy is a female‐dominated profession with only 4% of all clinicians in Canada being men. Traditionally, occupational therapy training programmes have had limited success recruiting men into their educational programmes and those men who do qualify as therapists tend to work only in the profession for short periods of time. The purpose of this study was to identify work‐related factors that impact on male occupational therapists. Specifically, five job satisfaction factors (work, pay, co‐workers, supervision and promotional opportunities), work environment traits and the demographic characteristics of male occupational therapists in Canada were examined. A mailed survey questionnaire was sent to all male therapists who were members of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (n = 199) during the 1990–1991 membership year; 83% of the sample responded. In terms of job satisfaction, male occupational therapists indicated that they were relatively dissatisfied with their work, pay, promotional opportunities, supervision and co‐workers as a group. However, they characterised their work environments as being above average in terms of supervisor support, autonomy and physical comfort, whereas they obtained a well below‐average score for the control dimension. Further research is needed to explore the issue of job satisfaction among occupational therapy personnel and to identify what factors impact on the job retention of male occupational practitioners.
Computer‐assisted cognitive rehabilitation for adults with traumatic brain damage: Four case studies
Authors: Larsson Asa , Nyström Christina , Vikström Sofia , Walfridsson Tertu , Söderback Ingrid
Published: September 2012

The purpose of the study was to investigate the value of computer‐assisted activities for four individuals with brain damage. Individuals were trained in cognitive functions in their homes to compensate for cognitive impairment, assisted in work activities and helped in leisure time occupations. The four people received individually adapted computers and peripheral equipment, and the environment was changed to accommodate their needs. Each person received guidance and instruction from an occupational therapist once or twice a week for 12–18 weeks. The goals for each person were achieved according to evaluation with Goal Attainment Scaling.
Attitudes of occupational therapy students toward older people in Hong Kong
Authors: Chung Jenny Ching‐Ching
Published: September 2012

The main objectives of this survey were to examine the attitudes of Hong Kong occupational therapy students toward older people and their perception of working with older clients. A questionnaire, with 23 statements related to these two areas, was designed and distributed to all three‐year occupational therapy students during the first week of the academic year. Results found that the third year students were more positive in perceiving older people and showed greater interest in working with older clients (F=7.681, p<0.001; and F=8.05, p<0.005 respectively). Similar results were also obtained in those students who had clinical experiences with older clients in the above two areas (t=2.40, p<0.01; and t=2.47, p<0.01). Hence, a positive relationship between the education programme (including subjects taught and fieldwork experience) and students' perception of older people was confirmed. However, the feedback mechanism of these two components in the teaching curriculum requires further research.
Stem cell transplantation as a therapy for cardiac fibrosis
Authors: Elnakish Mohammad T , Kuppusamy Periannan , Khan Mahmood
Published: September 2012

Cardiac fibrosis is a fundamental constituent of most cardiac pathologies and represents the upshot of nearly all types of cardiac injury. Generally, fibrosis is a scarring process, characterized by accumulation of fibroblasts and deposition of increasing amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the myocardium. Therapeutic approaches that control fibroblast activity and evade maladaptive processes could represent a potential strategy to attenuate progression towards heart failure. Currently, cell therapy is actively perceived as an alternative to traditional pharmacological management of myocardial infarction (MI). The majority of the studies applying stem cell therapy following MI have demonstrated a decline in fibrosis. However, it was not clearly recognized whether the decline in cardiac fibrosis was due to replacement of dead cardiomyocytes or because of the direct effects of paracrine factors released from the transplanted stem cells on the ECM. Therefore, the main focus of this review is to discuss the impact of different types of stem cells on cardiac fibrosis and associated cardiac remodelling in a variety of experimental models of heart failure, particularly MI.
The effect of recycled polymer addition on the thermorheological behavior of modified lubricating greases
Authors: Martín‐Alfonso J.E. , Valencia C. , Sánchez M.C. , Franco J.M. , Gallegos C.
Published: September 2012

This article deals with the influence of temperature on the rheological behavior of lithium lubricating greases modified with three different types of recycled polymers, high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), low‐density polyethylene, and polypropylene (PP), all deriving from waste plastic recycling plants. Grease formulations containing diverse polymers were manufactured and rheologically characterized. Small‐amplitude oscillatory shear and viscous flow measurements over a temperature range of 25–175°C were carried out. The experimental results obtained suggest that a blend of HDPE and PP could be considered a suitable potential viscosity modifier for lithium lubricating greases in a wide range of in‐service temperature. Thus, the lubricating greases studied modified by HDPE or PP show quite promising results at low or high temperature, respectively. In addition, thermomechanical reversibility has been studied by applying different combined stress–temperature protocols. Lubricating greases containing any of the recycled polymers studied show a significant irreversible structural breakdown when the sample is submitted to temperatures and stresses higher than 75°C and 200 Pa, respectively. Regarding lubricating grease viscous flow behavior, a minimum in the shear stress versus shear rate plots appeared at temperatures above 50°C, more pronounced as temperature increased, resulting from material flow instabilities. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Crystal growth and equilibrium crystal shapes of silicon in the melt
Authors: Yang Xinbo , Fujiwara K. , Maeda K. , Nozawa J. , Koizumi H. , Uda S.
Published: September 2012

The crystal growth shape (CGS) and equilibrium crystal shape (ECS) of silicon in Si melt are observed using in situ observation. Fully faceted silicon CGSs, which are dominated by the {111} facets, are observed from the {112} and {110} orientation. Silicon CGS in three‐dimensional in Si melt is octahedral in shape, bounded by {111} facets. Silicon ECSs in the melt are obtained by the relaxation from the CGSs and exhibit the {111} facets separated by curved interface. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrochemical fluorescence switching properties of conjugated polymers composed of triphenylamine, fluorene, and cyclic urea moieties
Authors: Kuo Cheng‐Po , Lin You‐Shiang , Leung Man‐kit
Published: September 2012

The study of the electrochemical fluorescence switching properties of the conjugated copolymers containing fluorene, triphenylamine, and 1,3‐diphenylimidazolidin‐2‐one moieties is reported. The polymers show high fluorescence quantum yields, excellent thermal stability, and good solubility in polar organic solvents. While the polymer emits blue light under UV irradiation, the fluorescence intensity is quenched upon electrochemical oxidation. The fluorescent behavior can be reversibly switched between nonfluorescent (oxidized) state and strong fluorescence (neutral) state with a high contrast ratio (If/If0) of 16.3. The role of the electrochemical oxidation of the triphenylamine moieties is to generate the corresponding radical cations that lead to fluorescence quenching in the solid matrix. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Synthesis and characterization of perfluoro quaternary ammonium anion exchange membranes
Authors: Vandiver Melissa A. , Horan James L. , Yang Yuan , Tansey Emily T. , Seifert Söenke , Liberatore Matthew W. , Herring Andrew M.
Published: September 2012

In this study, new alkaline exchange membranes were prepared from the perfluorinated 3M ionomer with various quaternary ammonium cations attached with sulfonamide linkage. The degree of functionalization varied depending on the cation species, resulting in different ion exchange capacities (IECs), 0.33–0.72 meq g−1. There was evidence of polymer degradation when the films were exposed to hydroxide, and hence all membrane characterization was performed in the chloride form. Conductivity was dependent on cation species and IEC, Ea = 36–59 kJ mol−1. Diffusion of water through the membrane was relatively high 1.6 × 10−5 cm2 s−1 and indicated restriction over a range of diffusion times, 6–700 ms. Water uptake (WU) in the membranes was generally low and the hydration level varied based on cation species, λ = 6–11. Small‐angle scattering experiments suggested ionic aggregation, 37–42 Å, independent of cation species but slight differences in long‐range order with cation species. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1761–1769, 2013
Hydrogen production via solid electrolytic routes
Authors: Badwal Sukhvinder P.S. , Giddey Sarbjit , Munnings Christopher
Published: September 2012

Hydrogen is considered as a sustainable fuel, especially for transport applications, if it is generated using renewable energy sources. Currently, most of the hydrogen is generated from fossil fuels for use in ammonia and fertilizer production, and petrochemical and metallurgical industries with very little use as an energy carrier. In future, the use of hydrogen as a transport fuel in fuel cell or internal combustion engine vehicles is likely to increase stemming from concern over potential oil shortage and greenhouse gas and other pollutant emissions. Electrolysis of water is one of the key technologies to generate hydrogen both at small (distributed productions at end‐use sites) and large scale. Solid electrolytic routes have been under consideration for many years with low‐temperature systems mainly based around polymer electrolyte membranes now reaching commercialization status. High‐temperature solid electrolyte systems can take advantage of utilizing the waste heat from nuclear or coal‐fired power plants or other chemical processes to reduce the electrical energy required, thus boosting the overall system efficiency for steam electrolysis. An overview of various solid electrolytic routes for hydrogen production, materials used, performance, and technology status is given.

This article is categorized under:

Fuel Cells and Hydrogen > Science and Materials

Fuel Cells and Hydrogen > Systems and Infrastructure

Energy Research & Innovation > Science and Materials
The gluino-glue particle and finite size effects in supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory
Authors: Bergner G. , Berheide T. , Münster G. , Özugurel U. D. , Sandbrink D. , Montvay I.
Published: September 2012

Abstract

The spectrum of particles in supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory is expected to contain a spin 1/2 bound state of gluons and gluinos, the gluino-glue particle. We study the mass of this particle in softly broken supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on a lattice by means of numerical simulations. The main focus is the estimation of finite size effects. We extrapolate the mass first to the infinite volume and then to the limit of a vanishing gluino mass. The results indicate that finite size effects are tolerable on lattices of moderate size, and that remaining deviations from supersymmetry are probably due to finite lattice spacing effects.
Traditional preparations used as uterotonics in Sub‐Saharan Africa and their pharmacologic effects
Authors: Tripathi Vandana , Stanton Cynthia , Anderson Frank W.J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Little is known about the use of traditional preparations for uterotonic effects at or near delivery in Sub‐Saharan Africa.

Objective

To describe (1) use of traditional preparations in Sub‐Saharan Africa intended to have uterotonic effects at or near birth; and (2) results of pharmacologic investigations of the uterotonic properties of such preparations.

Search strategy

Structured review of 13 databases.

Selection criteria

Articles describing use of traditional preparations in Sub‐Saharan Africa with primary data, published in English between January 1, 1980 and June 30, 2010.

Data collection and analysis

Full‐text review using standard spreadsheet templates.

Main results

Objective 1 analysis identified 208 plant species used for uterotonic effects at or near delivery. The most common use was labor induction/augmentation (n = 185). Other uses were to expel the placenta, shorten the third stage of labor, manage retained placenta (n = 61), and prevent/manage postpartum hemorrhage (n = 20). Objective 2 analysis identified 82 species with uterotonic activity confirmed through pharmacologic evaluation. Studies also identified potentiating/inhibiting effects of extracts on pharmaceutical uterotonics.

Conclusion

Numerous plants are used for uterotonic effects in Sub‐Saharan Africa; uterotonic activity has been confirmed in many through pharmacologic evaluation. Such use may increase the risk of adverse outcomes. Further research is needed on the uterotonic efficacy of traditional preparations and on interventions to address use during labor.
W.V. Quine on Analyticity: “Two Dogmas of Empiricism” in Context
Authors: Lugg Andrew
Published: September 2012

ABSTRACT: It is not W.V. Quine’s aim in “Two Dogmas of Empiricism” to prove against all-comers that the analytic/synthetic distinction is untenable or to provide a novel conception of our knowledge. He aims to undermine the empiricist’s appeal to the distinction and show what empiricism unencumbered by dogma comes to. Focusing on §§1-3 and §6, I argue that his treatment of analyticity is framed by important philosophical assumptions and the conception of knowledge he defends is one to which he had long been committed. “Two Dogmas” is less easily dismissed when read in the context of Quine’s early lectures on Carnap.
Hippocampal volume as marker of daily life stress sensitivity in psychosis
Authors: Collip D. , Habets P. , Marcelis M. , Gronenschild E. , Lataster T. , Lardinois M. , Nicolson N. A. , Myin-Germeys I.
Published: September 2012

Background

Reduced hippocampal size and increased stress sensitivity are associated with psychotic disorder and familial risk for psychosis. However, to what degree the hippocampus is implicated in daily life stress reactivity has not yet been examined. The current study investigated (i) whether familial risk (the contrast between controls, patients and siblings of patients) moderated the relationship between hippocampal volume (HV) and emotional daily stress reactivity and (ii) whether familial risk (the contrast between controls and siblings of patients) moderated the relationship between HV and cortisol daily stress reactivity.

Method

T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were acquired from 20 patients with schizophrenia, 37 healthy siblings with familial risk for schizophrenia and 32 controls. Freesurfer 5.0.0 was used to measure HV. The experience sampling method (ESM), a structured momentary assessment technique, was used to assess emotional stress reactivity, that is the effect of momentary stress on momentary negative affect (NA). In addition, in the control and sibling groups, cortisol stress reactivity was assessed using momentary cortisol levels extracted from saliva.

Results

Multilevel linear regression analyses revealed a significant three-way interaction between group, HV and momentary stress in both the model of NA and the model of cortisol. Increased emotional stress reactivity was associated with smaller left HV in patients and larger total HV in controls. In line with the results in patients, siblings with small HV demonstrated increased emotional and cortisol stress reactivity compared to those with large HV.

Conclusions

HV may index risk and possibly disease-related mechanisms underlying daily life stress reactivity in psychotic disorder.
The semiotic ecology and linguistic complexity of an online game world
Authors: Thorne Steven L. , Fischer Ingrid , Lu Xiaofei
Published: September 2012

Multiplayer online games form complex semiotic ecologies that include game-generated texts, player-to-player communication and collaboration, and associated websites that support in-game play. This article describes an exploratory study of the massively multiplayer online game (MMO)World of Warcraft(WoW), with specific attention to its qualities as a setting for second language (L2) use and development. This empirical study seeks to answer the following question: What is the nature of the linguistic ecology thatWoWplayers are exposed to? Many studies have described the developmental opportunities presented by commercially available gaming environments (e.g., Gee, 2003, 2007), their value as sites of literacy development (e.g., Squire, 2008a; Steinkuehler, 2008), and their potential as venues for second language (L2) use and learning (e.g., Peterson, 2010; Thorne, Black, & Sykes, 2009; Thorne & Fischer, 2012; Zheng, Young, Wagner & Brewer, 2009). There are, however, numerous outstanding questions regarding the quality and complexity of the linguistic environments associated with online commercially available games. This primarily descriptive research addresses this issue and aims to finely characterize the linguistic complexity of game-presented texts (or ‘quest texts’) as well as player generated game-external informational and strategy websites that form the expansive semiotic ecology ofWoWgame play. Questionnaires and interviews with Dutch and American gamers helped to identify a variety of widely used game-external websites. This information then informed the selection of texts that were analyzed for their linguistic complexity. By analysing the linguistic complexity of the texts that players regularly engage with, this study aims to empirically assess the resources and limitations of a representative and widely played MMO as an environment for L2 development.
A VERY SHORT ESSAY ON RELIGION
Authors: Blackburn Simon
Published: September 2012

My impression is that the fire-breathing atheists about whom we hear so much – the celebrated quartet of Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris, and Dan Dennett – think of religious commitments in terms of mistaken or at least hopelessly improbable and therefore irrational ontology. Believers think that something exists, but the overwhelmingly probable truth is that it does not. I may be wrong that this is what they think, but whether they do so or not, I am sure others do. Yet this interpretation of the issue is itself mistaken, and indeed doubly so. It is mistaken, or perhaps it would be better to say unimaginative or off-key to think of religious frames of mind primarily in terms of belief. And it is similarly misdirected to think that the belief component primarily concerns the existence of anything. I read both these insights into Hume's celebrated works on the philosophy of religion, but their lesson seems never to have been properly absorbed. Even Wittgenstein, I think, although he came close and certainly flirted with more adequate views, failed to take their measure properly, although I will be unable to substantiate that opinion here.
THERAPEUTIC CLONING – CAN WE ALL AGREE?
Authors: Clarke David
Published: September 2012

There is ongoing debate about whether it is ethically acceptable to allow the creation of cloned embryos in order to produce human stem cells. A cloned embryo is created through a process called somatic-cell nuclear transfer, often known as ‘therapeutic’ cloning. The value of stem cells lies in their capacity to become any sort of cell in the human body. This capacity is particularly useful for treating medical conditions where stem cells can be used to repair or replace damaged tissue. The value of a cloned embryo is that the DNA from a person who needs stem cell treatment can be used to create the clone and thereby minimise the likelihood that any inserted stem cells will be rejected. Research on the use of cloned stem cells is in its earliest stage.
THE IMMORALITY OF PROCREATION
Authors: Licon Jimmy Alfonso
Published: September 2012

Many people hold that procreation is morally obligatory; one ought to bring children into existence because they benefit by being brought into existence. Often this line of thinking stems from the notion that procreation is intrinsically valuable; procreation should be pursued for its own sake. Other philosophers hold procreation is immoral because of the great harm it causes as a result of climate change, overpopulation, mental illness, and so forth. If current population growth continues, there will be an ever-shrinking supply of fresh water and food, leading to the suffering of future generations.
DYING
Authors: Velleman J. David
Published: September 2012

Some people hope to die in their sleep. Not me. I don't regret having been oblivious at my birth, but I don't want death to catch me napping.
Photophysiology and albedo-changing potential of the ice algal community on the surface of the Greenland ice sheet
Authors: Yallop Marian L , Anesio Alexandre M , Perkins Rupert G , Cook Joseph , Telling Jon , Fagan Daniel , MacFarlane James , Stibal Marek , Barker Gary , Bellas Chris , Hodson Andy , Tranter Martyn , Wadham Jemma , Roberts Nicholas W
Published: September 2012

Darkening of parts of the Greenland ice sheet surface during the summer months leads to reduced albedo and increased melting. Here we show that heavily pigmented, actively photosynthesising microalgae and cyanobacteria are present on the bare ice. We demonstrate the widespread abundance of green algae in the Zygnematophyceae on the ice sheet surface in Southwest Greenland. Photophysiological measurements (variable chlorophyll fluorescence) indicate that the ice algae likely use screening mechanisms to downregulate photosynthesis when exposed to high intensities of visible and ultraviolet radiation, rather than non-photochemical quenching or cell movement. Using imaging microspectrophotometry, we demonstrate that intact cells and filaments absorb light with characteristic spectral profiles across ultraviolet and visible wavelengths, whereas inorganic dust particles typical for these areas display little absorption. Our results indicate that the phototrophic community growing directly on the bare ice, through their photophysiology, most likely have an important role in changing albedo, and subsequently may impact melt rates on the ice sheet.
The muraminomicin biosynthetic gene cluster and enzymatic formation of the 2-deoxyaminoribosyl appendage
Authors: Chi Xiuling , Baba Satoshi , Tibrewal Nidhi , Funabashi Masanori , Nonaka Koichi , Van Lanen Steven G.
Published: September 2012

The biosynthetic genes for muraminomicin F were uncovered, and the enzymatic synthesis of the unusual aminoribosyl appendage was delineated.