bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable Photodynamic Switching of DArE@PAF‐1 for Carbon Capture
Authors: Lyndon Richelle , Konstas Kristina , Evans Richard A. , Keddie Daniel J. , Hill Matthew R. , Ladewig Bradley P.
Published: June 2015

A new type of photodynamic carbon capture material with up to 26 wt% CO2 desorption capacity is synthesized via incorporation of diarylethene (DArE) as guest molecules in porous aromatic framework‐1 (PAF‐1). In these host–guest complexes, the carboxylic acid groups featured in DArE allow multiple noncovalent interactions to exist. DArE loadings ranging from 1 to 50 wt% are incorporated in PAF‐1 and the complexes characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, FT‐IR spectroscopy, CO2, and N2 adsorption. Successful inclusion of DArE in PAF‐1 is indicated by the reduction of pore size distributions and an optimum loading of 5 wt% is determined by comparing the percentage photo­response and CO2 uptake capacity at 1 bar. Mechanistic studies suggest that photoswitching modulates the binding affinity between DArE and CO2 toward the host, triggering carbon capture and release. This is the first known example of photodynamic carbon capture and release in a PAF.
An Advanced Lithium‐Ion Sulfur Battery for High Energy Storage
Authors: Agostini Marco , Scrosati Bruno , Hassoun Jusef
Published: June 2015

A lithium‐ion battery is reported using a sulfur–carbon composite cathode, a graphite anode, and a dimethoxyethane‐dioxolane‐lithium bis‐(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (DOL‐DME‐LiTFSI) electrolyte advantageously added by lithium nitrate (LiNO3) and a selected polysulfide (Li2S8). The suppressed sulfur dissolution, due to the Li2S8 buffer action, as well as reduced shuttle reactions by the film‐forming properties of the LiNO3 positively affect the lithium‐ion cell behavior in terms of delivered capacity, coulombic efficiency, and cycle life. The lithium–sulfur cell shows a stable capacity of 750 mAh g−1 for over 200 cycles with an enhanced cycling efficiency. Furthermore, the full lithium‐ion sulfur battery using a graphite‐based anode shows a working voltage of about 2 V and delivers a stable capacity of 500 mAh g−1. The full cell has enhanced safety content, due to the replacement of the lithium metal anode by suitable intercalation electrode, and shows a theoretical energy density as high as 1000 Wh kg−1 at high current rate of 1 C. The remarkable safety level, low materials cost, and high practical energy density, expected to exceed 300 Wh kg−1, suggest the battery reported is a suitable energy storage system for future applications.
Heterozygous mutations in ERF cause syndromic craniosynostosis with multiple suture involvement
Authors: Chaudhry Ayeshah , Sabatini Peter , Han Liping , Ray Peter N. , Forrest Christopher , Bowdin Sarah
Published: June 2015

Craniosynostosis is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous condition. Knowledge of the specific genetic diagnosis in patients presenting with this condition is important for surgical and medical management. The most common single gene causes of syndromic craniosynostosis are mutations in FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, TWIST1, and EFNB1. Recently, a new single gene cause of craniosynostosis was published, together with phenotype data that highlight the clinical importance of making this specific molecular diagnosis. Phenotypic features of “ERF‐related craniosynostosis” include sagittal or multiple‐suture synostosis, Chiari malformation, and language delay. In order to determine the contribution of ERF mutations to genetically undiagnosed patients with craniosynostosis, we sequenced the coding regions of ERF in 40 patients with multi‐suture or sagittal suture synostosis. We identified heterozygous ERF mutations in two individuals (5%). One mutation positive individual had pansynostosis, while the second had bilateral coronal and metopic synostosis. Both presented in infancy or childhood (age 3 months, and 6 years 9 months, respectively). One had CNS abnormalities including Chiari I malformation. Dysmorphic features included hypertelorism, proptosis, depressed nasal bridge, and retrognathia, in keeping with previously reported cases. The individuals did not require repeated cranial surgeries. ERF‐related craniosynostosis should be suspected in patients presenting with multiple suture or sagittal synostosis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of carbon black and nanoclay on mechanical and thermal properties of ABS–PANI/ABS–PPy blends
Authors: Debnath Narayan , Panwar Vinay , Bag Souvik , Saha Mitali , Pal Kaushik
Published: June 2015

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)–polyaniline (PANI) and ABS–polypyrrole (PPy) blends exhibit poor mechanical and thermal properties due to their weak interfacial adhesion and inhomogeneous mixing. The properties have been improved by addition of carbon black (CB) and nanoclay (NC). Composites are prepared by mixing CB and NC with ABS–PANI and ABS–PPY blends. The morphology and crystalline characteristics are studied using field emission scanning electron spectroscopy (FESEM) and X‐ray diffraction, respectively. In addition, all the composites have been analyzed for their mechanical and thermal performance. The tensile strength of ABS–PANI has been increased by 7.18% and 65.83% with addition of CB and a combination of CB–NC, respectively. FESEM images are found supportive with these trends and show homogeneous dispersion of CB in the polymer matrix, assisted by NC. Dynamic mechanical analysis results also show slight improvement of glass transition temperature (Tg) with addition of fillers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42577.
Interactions Between Amino Acid–Defined Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II Variants and Smoking in Seropositive Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kim Kwangwoo , Jiang Xia , Cui Jing , Lu Bing , Costenbader Karen H. , Sparks Jeffrey A. , Bang So‐Young , Lee Hye‐Soon , Okada Yukinori , Raychaudhuri Soumya , Alfredsson Lars , Bae Sang‐Cheol , Klareskog Lars , Karlson Elizabeth W.
Published: June 2015

Objective

To define the interaction between cigarette smoking and HLA polymorphisms in seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA), in the context of a recently identified amino acid–based HLA model for RA susceptibility.

Methods

We imputed Immunochip data on HLA amino acids and classical alleles from 3 case–control studies (the Swedish Epidemiological Investigation of Rheumatoid Arthritis [EIRA] study [1,654 cases and 1,934 controls], the Nurses' Health Study [NHS] [229 cases and 360 controls], and the Korean RA Cohort Study [1,390 cases and 735 controls]). We examined the interaction effects of heavy smoking (>10 pack‐years) and the genetic risk score (GRS) of multiple RA‐associated amino acid positions (positions 11, 13, 71, and 74 in HLA–DRβ1, position 9 in HLA–B, and position 9 in HLA–DPβ1), as well as the interaction effects of heavy smoking and the GRS of HLA–DRβ1 4–amino acid haplotypes (assessed via attributable proportion due to interaction [AP] using the additive interaction model).

Results

Heavy smoking and all investigated HLA amino acid positions and haplotypes were associated with RA susceptibility in the 3 populations. In the interaction analysis, we found a significant deviation from the expected additive joint effect between heavy smoking and the HLA–DRβ1 4–amino acid haplotype (AP 0.416, 0.467, and 0.796, in the EIRA, NHS, and Korean studies, respectively). We further identified the key interacting variants as being located at HLA–DRβ1 amino acid positions 11 and 13 but not at any of the other RA risk–associated amino acid positions. For residues in positions 11 and 13, there were similar patterns between RA risk effects and interaction effects.

Conclusion

Our findings of significant gene–environment interaction effects indicate that a physical interaction between citrullinated autoantigens produced by smoking and HLA–DR molecules is characterized by the HLA–DRβ1 4–amino acid haplotype, primarily by positions 11 and 13.
Life‐cycle impacts of soybean and algae biodiesel: Case study of US marine vessels
Authors: Tsang Michael , Fox‐Lent Cate , Wallace Sean , Welp Tim , Bates Matthew , Linkov Igor
Published: June 2015

The push to find alternatives to fossil fuels has driven research and consumption of biofuels. Recent actions in the United States have placed an emphasis on the use of renewable fuels for improved sustainability of government operations. In 2013, the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) measured atmospheric emissions from two navigation vessels consuming three different fuel types and found that biofuels have the potential to lower atmospheric emissions. These fuels have widely different production processes, however, and a full life‐cycle assessment is necessary to provide a complete picture of these biofuels. The goal of this study was to identify whether transitioning navigation vessels to operate on biodiesel would have the potential to lower human health and environmental impacts. This study focuses on the complete life cycle of these fuels in USACE marine vessels by employing a well‐to‐wheels life‐cycle assessment comparing the impacts of a 100% soy‐based biodiesel and an algal‐based biodiesel blend to a conventional diesel. Overall, soybean‐based biodiesel had lower impacts compared to algal‐based biodiesel. Impacts from conventional diesel were generally lower than algal‐based biodiesel, but impacts between conventional diesel and soybean‐based biodiesel were mixed. While greenhouse gas emissions during the use phase were reduced for the biofuels (after considering only the non‐biogenic fraction of carbon emission), a complete look at the life‐cycle resulted in cases where emissions could be greater than conventional diesel. Biodiesel impacts depended greatly on modeling assumptions made in the life‐cycle system boundaries and inventory such as allocation method and assumptions about feedstock growth and harvesting. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Interactive computer for teaching biot poroelasticity modeling in civil engineering
Authors: Zhou Xiang‐Lian , Wang Jian‐Hua
Published: June 2015

The utilization of interactive computer to teaching and learning Biot Poroelasticity Modeling is becoming an important aspect of the implementation of a more advanced approach to teaching in Civil Engineering. As part of the learning method, an interactive computer‐based instructional assistance is specifically developed to help students to build, run, and analyze the output from a commercially software‐ COMSOL for Biot poroelasticity equations. The Biot poroelasticity equations and constitutive relation of fluid flow are input as partial differential equations into a customizable finite element software package. Several numerical simulations such as vertical effective stress and pore pressure, are presented to illustrate the validity and usefulness of the fully coupled approach, which is verified in the Biot poroelasticity modeling formulation. The assessment of instructor tools include: homework, term project, small group discussions, which assists to assess the student's degree of understanding for Biot poroelasticity theory. The survey finds that most students feel they could complete the project with minimum supervision, and have a basic understanding of variation of pore pressure as a result of the activity. On the other hand, almost of students feel that the COMSOL software aid helpful and easy to follow. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput. Appl. Eng. Educ. 24:5–15, 2016; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21662
Die Kerze
Authors: Luerßen Bjoern , Peppler Klaus , Ries Marc , Janek Jürgen , Over Herbert
Published: June 2015

In diesem Artikel wurden die wesentlichen physikalisch‐chemischen Prozesse in einer brennenden Kerze diskutiert. Diese umfassen thermodynamische‐, chemisch‐kinetische‐ und Transportprozesse sowie die Quantenchemie und ‐physik. In einer Kerze sind alle vier Aggregatzustände vertreten (fest, flüssig, Gas, Plasma). Die abgestrahlte Wärme der Flamme verflüssigt das feste Wachs um den Docht herum, der dann das flüssige Wachs per Kapillarkraft in das Innere der Flamme transportiert, wo es verdampft und entzündet wird. Ohne weitere Verwirbelung in der Flamme kann Sauerstoff aus der umgebenden Atmosphäre nicht tief in die Flamme eindringen, so dass chemisch reduzierende Bedingungen im Innern der Flamme vorherrschen. Die Wachsmoleküle werden bei ca. 800 °C pyrolisiert, also unter Sauerstoffausschluss in kleine Molekülfragmente zerlegt. Aus diesen Molekülfragmenten werden polyaromatische Ringe aufgebaut. Bei einer Temperatur von 1200 °C werden daraus schließlich die Rußpartikel durch Nukleation gebildet. Die heiße aufsteigende Luft (Konvektion) erzeugt die typische Mandelform der Kerzenflamme.

Die Kerzenflamme stellt einen Flussreaktor mit Leuchteffekten dar, bei dem das Wachs mit Sauerstoff nahezu vollständig zu CO2 und Wasser umgesetzt wird. Nur ein sehr geringer Teil der dabei freigesetzten Reaktionswärme (0,5 %) wird in sichtbares Licht umgewandelt, so dass die Kerze als äußerst ineffizientes, dennoch romantisches Leuchtmittel angesehen werden muss.
Transcriptome response to infraorbital nerve transection in the gonadally intact male rat barrel cortex: RNA‐seq
Authors: Orczyk John J. , Sethia Rishabh , Doster Dominique , Garraghty Preston E.
Published: June 2015

The effects of infraorbital nerve (ION) transection on gene expression in the adult male rat barrel cortex were investigated using RNA sequencing. After a 24‐hour survival duration, 98 genes were differentially regulated by ION transection. Differentially expressed genes suggest changes in neuronal activity, excitability, and morphology. The production of mRNA for neurotrophins, including brain‐derived neurotrophin factor (BNDF), was decreased following ION transection. Several potassium channels showed decreased mRNA production, whereas a sodium channel (NaVβ4) associated with burst firing showed increased mRNA production. The results may have important implications for phantom‐limb pain and complex regional pain syndrome. Future experiments should determine the extent to which changes in RNA result in changes in protein expression, in addition to utilizing laser capture microdissection techniques to differentiate between neuronal and glial cells. J. Comp. Neurol. 524:152–159, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nature of Noncovalent Carbon‐Bonding Interactions Derived from Experimental Charge‐Density Analysis
Authors: Escudero‐Adán Eduardo C. , Bauzá Antonio , Frontera Antonio , Ballester Pablo
Published: June 2015

In an effort to better understand the nature of noncovalent carbon‐bonding interactions, we undertook accurate high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction analysis of single crystals of 1,1,2,2‐tetracyanocyclopropane. We selected this compound to study the fundamental characteristics of carbon‐bonding interactions, because it provides accessible σ holes. The study required extremely accurate experimental diffraction data, because the interaction of interest is weak. The electron‐density distribution around the carbon nuclei, as shown by the experimental maps of the electrophilic bowl defined by a (CN)2CC(CN)2unit, was assigned as the origin of the interaction. This fact was also evidenced by plotting the Δ2ρ(r) distribution. Taken together, the obtained results clearly indicate that noncovalent carbon bonding can be explained as an interaction between confronted oppositely polarized regions. The interaction is, thus electrophilic–nucleophilic (electrostatic) in nature and unambiguously considered as attractive.
High‐Performance Aqueous/Organic Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells Based on Sensitizers Containing Triethylene Oxide Methyl Ether
Authors: Lin Ryan Yeh‐Yung , Wu Feng‐Ling , Li Chun‐Ting , Chen Pei‐Yu , Ho Kuo‐Chuan , Lin Jiann T.
Published: June 2015

Metal‐free dyes (EO1 to EO4) containing the hydrophilic triethylene oxide methyl ether (TEOME) unit in the spacer have been synthesized and used in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Efficient lithium‐ion trapping by TEOME results in improved open‐circuit voltage (VOC), leading to excellent conversion efficiency of the cells, ranging from 9.02 to 9.98 % with I−/I3− electrolyte in acetonitrile under AM 1.5 illumination. The TEOME unit also enhances the wettability of the dye molecules for application in aqueous‐based DSSCs. Aqueous‐based DSSCs with a dual TEMPO/iodide electrolyte exhibit high VOC values (0.80–0.88 V) and very promising cell performances of up to 5.97 %.
The Role of Engos in Environmental Litigation: A French case study
Authors: Bentata Pierre , Faure Michael
Published: June 2015

Both lawyers and economists are enthusiastic about the role of environmental non‐governmental organizations (ENGOs). However, when dealing with ENGOs, most academic studies focus only on their actions as interest/pressure groups and no systematic empirical research exists addressing the question of how ENGOs use environmental litigation and courts to fill their goals. In this article, we try to observe whether ENGOs have specific goals and specific strategies in trials. We do this on the basis of a unique database consisting of the entire set of environmental cases judged by the French Supreme Court during 1956–2010. We conclude that ENGOs' legal actions encourage compliance with regulation and help solve civil liability failures, especially causal uncertainty and victims' apathy. Finally, we observe that ENGOs act as latent interest groups that become active only under specific circumstances to ask for more stringent regulation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Stepwise Synthesis of Siloxane‐Substituted Oligoarsanes and Structural Investigation of Alkaline Earth Metal Derivatives
Authors: Clobes Christian , Jerabek Paul , Nußbruch Isabell , Frenking Gernot , von Hänisch Carsten
Published: June 2015

The reaction between [Li(dme)AsH2] and (ClSiiPr2)2O gives a mixture of two products: the primary diarsanyldisiloxan (H2AsSiiPr2)2O (5) and the cyclic diarsanylsiloxane (HAsSiiPr2)2O (6). Through metallation of the mixture, the deprotonated species of both compounds could be obtained and isolated. Further reactions between the two metallated cyclic diarsanylsiloxanes (compounds 9 and 10) and (ClSiiPr2)2O both lead to the bicyclic compound As2[(iPr2Si)2O]2 (11). Subsequent oxidative coupling of 9 or 10 with C2H4Br2 as reagent leads to intermolecular As–As bond formation, yielding the quite remarkable compound As6[(iPr2Si)2O]3 (12), which features two siloxane‐bridged As3 rings. Compounds 5–12 were characterized by NMR, elemental analysis and X‐ray crystallography. Quantum chemical calculations were carried out to investigate the formation of the different products when arsenic (compound 12) is substituted by phosphorus (compound 4) in the final oxidation reaction of the cyclic compounds (HESiiPr2)2O. The calculations suggest a reaction path leading to 4 that is in agreement with experimental observations. The theoretical data also provide information that explains the experimental finding that two different products for E = P and E = As are formed under the same oxidative reaction conditions.
Arsenical C‐Glucoside Derivatives with Promising Antitumor Activity
Authors: D'Orazio Giuseppe , Parisi Gelsomina , Policano Claudia , Mechelli Rosella , Codacci Pisanelli Giovanni , Pitaro Michele , Ristori Giovanni , Salvetti Marco , Nicotra Francesco , La Ferla Barbara
Published: June 2015

C‐Glucoside derivatives covalently linked to the arsenic atom in different oxidation states have been synthesized by avoiding protection‐deprotection steps. While compound 1, bearing an AsV atom, did not show any significant biological activity, compound 2, in which the glucose moiety is linked to the arsenic atom as dithioarsenical (AsIII), showed promising antiproliferative activity on a cell line of neuroblastoma (SK‐N‐BE).
Electrochemical method for wet removal of phosphine
Authors: Qu Guangfei , Zhang Jian , Lin Yilu , Li Junyan , Ning Ping , Yu Yongtao
Published: June 2015

The removal of phosphine (PH3) was studied with an electrochemical approach using a Ti/SnO2 anode. The effects of the current density, O2 content, gas flow rate, temperature, and type of electrolyte on the PH3 removal were investigated. The liquid phase reaction products were detected by ion chromatography. It was observed that PH3 was effectively removed in the electrochemical reactor and phosphate (PO43−) existed in solution after reaction. Increasing current density, oxygen content and reaction temperature can enhance the removal of PH3. 0ver 85% PH3 was removed with an operation condition of current density of 53.05 mA/dm2, 65°C, 4.6 vol % O2 and gas flow rate of 200 mL/min in 0.1 mol/L Na2SO4 aqueous solution. Chosen Na2SO4 as electrolyte, removal efficiency remained stability and it would be conducive to the recovery of phosphate (PO43‐). The gas flow rate influence is remarkably clear in the reactor where it was evident that the most efficient gas flow rate toward a 90% PH3 removal was reached at 50 mL/min. Electrochemical oxidation will be a potential method for the PH3 removal because of its low cost, long duration removal efficiency and the valuable hydrogen byproduct produced. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1640–1646, 2015
Integrating anaerobic digestion and hydrothermal liquefaction for renewable energy production: An experimental investigation
Authors: Eboibi Blessing E. , Lewis David M. , Ashman Peter J. , Chinnasamy Senthil
Published: June 2015

The combination of anaerobic digestion and hydrothermal liquefaction can provide enhanced energy production from animal wastes such as cow manure. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of anaerobic digestate is a novel approach for waste management to recover residual carbon Anaerobic digestion of cow manure was conducted at room temperature with different hydraulic retention times (HRT) viz. 10, 18, 28, 38, 50 and 60 days. The digested cow manure (16%w/w dry weight solids) obtained from various HRTs was subjected to hydrothermal liquefaction at 350°C, 18MPa for a fixed reaction time of 30 min in the presence of 5 wt % Na2CO3. The results showed cumulative biogas production in the range of 3.9–22.6 m3/kgVSadded. HTL of the resultant digestates led to ∼20–42 wt % biocrude yield. The biocrude has a higher heating value (HHV) of 28.4–31.2 MJ/kg. About 76% energy, ∼51–83% carbon and ∼2–4% nitrogen was recovered in the biocrude following HTL of the digestates. A positive energy balance was achieved for the products derived from the combination of anaerobic digestion and hydrothermal liquefaction. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1662–1673, 2015
Enhanced decolorization efficiency of acid orange 7 by electric field granular‐activated carbon combined system and its statistical optimization by response surface methodology
Authors: Jung Kyung‐Won , Park Dae‐Sun , Ahn Kyu‐Hong
Published: June 2015

In this study, the decolorization of Acid Orange 7 (AO‐7), a model pollutant, was experimentally investigated by combining granular‐activated carbon (GAC) in an electrochemical treatment system, which in this investigation is called an EF‐GACC (Electric Field and Granular Activated Carbon‐Combined) system. The results of preliminary testing showed that the EF‐GACC system exhibited a greatly higher decolorization performance for AO‐7 than did either the individual electric field or GAC adsorption system. This is mainly due to the dual action of GAC in the system as adsorbent and moving conductor. Subsequently, to statistically optimize the key parameters (applied voltage, GAC concentration, initial pH, and reaction time) in the EF‐GACC system and thereby maximize the decolorization efficiency, a response surface methodology with a Box‐Behnken design was used. In terms of the results, the overall performance revealed that the decolorization was well fitted by a quadratic regression model developed in this study and that the selected independent variables had significant interactive effect on the decolorization efficiency. Through numerical optimization, the complete decolorization and destruction of the parent molecule were obtained under statistically optimized conditions: an applied voltage of 28 V, a GAC concentration of 30 g/L, an initial pH of 5.0, and a reaction time of 40 min. The scale‐up and semicontinuous sequencing batch reactor system was satisfactorily tested and found to have an average decolorization of 99.7% ± 0.3%. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1674–1682, 2015
Removal of phenol and cyanide in multi‐substrate system using copper impregnated activated carbon (Cu‐GAC)
Authors: Agarwal Bhumica , Balomajumder Chandrajit
Published: June 2015

This study studies the process of removal of phenol and cyanide in multi‐substrate system using copper impregnated Granular Activated Carbon (Cu‐GAC). Effects of various process parameters on removal were taken into consideration. It was observed that under optimum conditions of pH 9, temperature 30°C, adsorbent dose 10 g/L, initial concentration 200 mg/L phenol and 20 mg/L cyanide and contact time 18 h, ∼91% removal of phenol and 94% removal of cyanide takes place. Among equilibrium models, Extended Freundlich model was found suitable for description of adsorption of both phenol and cyanide. The maximum adsorption capacity for phenol and cyanide, calculated by Extended Langmuir model, was 292.95 and 3.21 mg/g of Cu‐GAC, respectively. It was observed that phenol and cyanide show synergism in the process of adsorption from wastewater. Kinetic modeling of experimental data on adsorption of phenol and cyanide established the suitability of pseudo‐first and ‐second order model for adsorption of phenol and cyanide on Cu‐GAC, respectively. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1714–1723, 2015
How Do Surficial Lithic Assemblages Weather in Arid Environments? A Case Study from the Atacama Desert, Northern Chile
Authors: Ugalde Paula C. , Santoro Calogero M. , Gayo Eugenia M. , Latorre Claudio , Maldonado Sebastián , De Pol‐Holz Ricardo , Jackson Donald
Published: June 2015

Archaeological sites composed only of surficial lithics are widespread in arid environments. Numerical dating of such sites is challenging, however, and even establishing a relative chronology can be daunting. One potentially helpful method for assigning relative chronologies is to use lithic weathering, on the assumption that the most weathered artifacts are also the oldest. Yet, few studies have systematically assessed how local environmental processes affect weathering of surficial lithics. Using macroscopic analyses, we compared the weathering of surficial lithic assemblages from seven mid‐to‐late Holocene archaeological sites sampled from four different microenvironments in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile. Changes in polish, texture, shine, and color were used to establish significant differences in weathering between two kinds of locations: interfluves and canyon sites. Lithics from interfluve sites were moderately to highly weathered by wind and possessed a dark coating, whereas canyon lithics were mildly weathered despite greater exposure to moisture, often lacked indications of eolian abrasion, and lacked dark coatings. Our results show that lithic weathering can be used as a proxy for relative age, but only after considering local environmental factors. The power of such chronologies can be improved by combining archaeological, paleoenvironmental, geomorphological, and taphonomic data.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) – Viable Alternative?
Authors: Cozier Muriel
Published: June 2015

Environmental protection is high on the list of all those advocating and backing the development and deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS). But not everyone is in agreement that the technology will have the positive impact on the environment that is hoped for or is indeed a technology worth investing in. Here Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology looks at the positions taken by a number of non‐governmental organisation (NGOs) on the issue of CCS. It is clear that amongst the environmentally focused organisations there is plenty of room for debate on the matter.© 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Au/NaYF4 : Yb,Er Binary Superparticles: Synthesis and Optical Properties
Authors: Zhao Junwei , Wu Jian , Xue Junfei , Zhu Qiannan , Ni Weihai
Published: June 2015

Colloidal superparticles (SPs) are nanoparticle (NP) assemblies in the form of colloidal particles. Assembling nanoscopic objects into mesoscopic or macroscopic composite architectures allows for the bottom‐up fabrication of functional nanomaterials. In this study, a method for single‐step self‐assembly synthesis of Au/NaYF4 : Yb,Er SPs was developed using oil‐in‐water (O/W) microemulsions to simultaneously encapsulate gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and NaYF4 : Yb,Er upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) via evaporation at room temperature. The synthesized Au/NaYF4 : Yb,Er SPs possess good dispersibility and stability. When the number of AuNPs added is increased, the SPs exhibit decreased upconversion luminescence, which can be ascribed to the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from the NaYF4 : Yb,Er UCNPs to the AuNPs. Time‐resolved measurements of the green emission further confirm the existence of a new decay route corresponding to the FRET process. Our research provides a facile and versatile strategy for the synthesis of novel multifunctional nanocomposites with tunable upconversion luminescence properties, which can be of great significance in biological applications.
Efficient Electron Transfer Processes and Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity of Cobalt(II) Porphyrin Anchored on Graphene Oxide
Authors: Cho Sung , Lim Jong Min , You Jung‐Min , Jeon Seungwon , Kim Dongho
Published: June 2015

We investigated the electronic perturbation between graphene oxide and cobalt porphyrin to reveal the origin of the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of a hybrid complex using time‐resolved spectroscopic measurements and theoretical calculations. The impulsively generated charge‐separated state, GO−‐(CoIIAPFP)+, undergoes fast charge recombination (<10 ps) between GO− and (CoIIAPFP)+ moieties. This fast charge recombination is directly related to the quick neutralization of (CoIIAPFP)+, which shortens the dead time of inactive CoIIIAPFP after the electrocatalytic reduction reaction. The fast transformation of inactive CoIIIAPFP to active CoIIAPFP is an important factor in the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of the hybrid complex.
Biphasic decline of β‐cell function with age in euglycemic nonobese diabetic mice parallels diabetes onset
Authors: Cechin Sirlene R. , Lopez‐Ocejo Omar , Karpinsky‐Semper Darla , Buchwald Peter
Published: June 2015

A gradual decline in insulin response is known to precede the onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D). To track age‐related changes in the β‐cell function of nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice, the most commonly used animal model for T1D, and to establish differences between those who do and do not become hyperglycemic, we performed a long‐term longitudinal oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) study (10–42 weeks) in combination with immunofluorescence imaging of islet morphology and cell proliferation. We observed a clear biphasic decline in insulin secretion (AUC0–30 min) even in euglycemic animals. A first phase (10–28 weeks) consisted of a relatively rapid decline and paralleled diabetes development in the same cohort of animals. This was followed by a second phase (29–42 weeks) during which insulin secretion declined much slower while no additional animals became diabetic. Blood glucose profiles showed a corresponding, but less pronounced change: the area under the concentration curve (AUC0–150 min) increased with age, and fit with a bilinear model indicated a rate‐change in the trendline around 28 weeks. In control NOD scids, no such changes were observed. Islet morphology also changed with age as islets become surrounded by mononuclear infiltrates, and, in all mice, islets with immune cell infiltration around them showed increased β‐cell proliferation. In conclusion, insulin secretion declines in a biphasic manner in all NOD mice. This trend, as well as increased β‐cell proliferation, is present even in the NODs that never become diabetic, whereas, it is absent in control NOD scid mice. © 2015 IUBMB Life, 67(8):634–644, 2015
Electromagnetic stirring in a microbioreactor with non‐conventional chamber morphology and implementation of multiplexed mixing
Authors: Tan Christabel KL , Davies Matthew J , McCluskey Daniel K , Munro Ian R , Nweke Mauryn C , Tracey Mark C , Szita Nicolas
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Microbioreactors have emerged as novel tools for early bioprocess development. Mixing lies at the heart of bioreactor operation (at all scales). The successful implementation of micro‐stirring methods is thus central to the further advancement of microbioreactor technology. The aim of this study was to develop a micro‐stirring method that aids robust microbioreactor operation and facilitates cost‐effective parallelization.

RESULTS

A microbioreactor was developed with a novel micro‐stirring method involving the movement of a magnetic bead by sequenced activation of a ring of electromagnets. The micro‐stirring method offers flexibility in chamber designs, and mixing is demonstrated in cylindrical, diamond and triangular shaped reactor chambers. Mixing was analyzed for different electromagnet on/off sequences; mixing times of 4.5 s, 2.9 s, and 2.5 s were achieved for cylindrical, diamond and triangular shaped chambers, respectively. Ease of micro‐bubble free priming, a typical challenge of cylindrical shaped microbioreactor chambers, was obtained with a diamond‐shaped chamber. Consistent mixing behavior was observed between the constituent reactors in a duplex system.

CONCLUSION

A novel stirring method using electromagnetic actuation offering rapid mixing and easy integration with microbioreactors was characterized. The design flexibility gained enables fabrication of chambers suitable for microfluidic operation, and a duplex demonstrator highlights potential for cost‐effective parallelization. Combined with a previously published cassette‐like fabrication of microbioreactors, these advances will facilitate the development of robust and parallelized microbioreactors. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Long‐term and perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic versus open liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma with propensity score matching: a multi‐institutional Japanese study
Authors: Takahara Takeshi , Wakabayashi Go , Beppu Toru , Aihara Arihiro , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Gotohda Naoto , Hatano Etsuro , Tanahashi Yoshinao , Mizuguchi Toru , Kamiyama Toshiya , Ikeda Tetsuo , Tanaka Shogo , Taniai Nobuhiko , Baba Hideo , Tanabe Minoru , Kokudo Norihiro , Konishi Masaru , Uemoto Shinji , Sugioka Atsushi , Hirata Koichi , Taketomi Akinobu , Maehara Yoshihiko , Kubo Shoji , Uchida Eiji , Miyata Hiroaki , Nakamura Masafumi , Kaneko Hironori , Yamaue Hiroki , Miyazaki Masaru , Takada Tadahiro
Published: June 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the long‐term outcomes and perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) with those of open liver resection (OLR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) between well‐matched patient groups.

Methods

Hepatocellular carcinoma patients underwent primary liver resection between 2000 and 2010, were collected from 31 participating institutions in Japan and were divided into LLR (n = 436) and OLR (n = 2969) groups. A one‐to‐one propensity case‐matched analysis was used with covariates of baseline characteristics, including tumor characteristics and surgical procedures of hepatic resections. Long‐term and short‐term outcomes were compared between the matched two groups.

Results

The two groups were well balanced by propensity score matching and 387 patients were matched. There were no significant differences in overall survival and disease‐free survival between LLR and OLR. The median blood loss (158 g vs. 400 g, P < 0.001) was significantly less with LLR, and the median postoperative hospital stay (13 days vs. 16 days, P < 0.001) was significantly shorter for LLR. Complication rate (6.7% vs. 13.0%, P = 0.003) was significantly less in LLR.

Conclusion

Compared with OLR, LLR in selected patients with HCC showed similar long‐term outcomes, associated with less blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and fewer postoperative complications.
Studies on the Chemical Transformations of 6‐Methylchromone‐3‐carbonitrile under Nucleophilic Conditions
Authors: Ibrahim Magdy A. , El‐Gohary Nasser M.
Published: June 2015

The chemical reactivity of 6‐methylchromone‐3‐carbonitrile (1) was studied towards some nucleophilic reagents. Reaction of carbonitrile 1 with malononitrile dimer and N′‐[(4‐methoxyphenyl)methylidene]‐2‐cyanoacetohydrazide (5) gave the unexpected chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridine 2 and benzoxocine‐3‐carbohydrazide 6, respectively. Reaction of carbonitrile 1 with 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole, 2‐aminobenzimidazole, 7‐chloro‐4‐hydrazinoquinoline and 3‐hydrazino‐5,6‐diphenyl‐1,2,4‐triazine proceeds via γ‐pyrone ring opening followed by cycloaddition onto the nitrile function leading to a variety of heterocyclic systems. Structures of the new synthesized products were deduced on the basis of their analytical and spectral data.
Benefits and drawbacks of molecular techniques for diagnosis of viral respiratory infections. Experience with two multiplex PCR assays
Authors: García‐Arroyo Laura , Prim Núria , Martí Neus , Roig Maria Carme , Navarro Ferran , Rabella Núria
Published: June 2015

Molecular techniques have represented a major step forward in the diagnosis of viral respiratory infections. They are considered highly sensitive and specific compared to conventional techniques. In this study two nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) were compared to conventional methods (immunofluorescence and viral culture). The aim of this work was to discuss the clinical interpretation of the results obtained by NAATs on the basis of the two‐decade experience of our group and the literature. Eighty nasopharyngeal aspirates were collected from children under six years attended for acute respiratory illness at the pediatric emergency room of a third level Hospital. Both NAATs tested (Seeplex® and Clart®) showed an overall higher performance regarding sensitivity (76% and 90%, respectively). Compared to Seeplex®, the Clart® system tripled the number of multiple detections (8 by Seeplex® vs. 25 by Clart®). In some specimens both NAATs detected different viruses. Given these discrepancies and the fact that detection of viral nucleic acids is not necessarily related to the current clinical syndrome, the interpretation of molecular results may not always be so straightforward. The pros and cons of NAATs should always be taken into account when giving a result. J. Med. Virol. 88:45–50, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rhinovirus‐C detection in children presenting with acute respiratory infection to hospital in Brazil
Authors: Fawkner‐Corbett David W. , Khoo Siew Kim , Duarte Carminha M. , Bezerra Patricia G.M. , Bochkov Yury A. , Gern James E. , Le Souef Peter N. , McNamara Paul S.
Published: June 2015

Human rhinovirus (RV) is a common cause of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in children. We aimed to characterize the clinical and demographic features associated with different RV species detected in children attending hospital with ARI, from low‐income families in North‐east Brazil. Nasopharyngeal aspirates were collected from 630 children <5 years with ARI. Clinical diagnosis and disease severity were also recorded. Samples were analyzed by multiplex PCR for 18 viral and atypical bacterial pathogens; RV positive samples underwent partial sequencing to determine species and type. RV was the fourth commonest pathogen accounting for 18.7% of pathogens detected. RV was commonly detected in children with bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma/episodic viral wheeze (EVW). Species and type were assigned in 112 cases (73% RV‐A; 27% RV‐C; 0% RV‐B). Generally, there were no differences in clinical or demographic characteristics between those infected with RV‐A and RV‐C. However, in children with asthma/EVW, RV‐C was detected relatively more frequently than RV‐A (23% vs. 5%; P = 0.04). Our findings highlight RV as a potentially important pathogen in this setting. Generally, clinical and demographic features were similar in children in whom RV‐A and C species were detected. However, RV‐C was more frequently found in children with asthma/EVW than RV‐A. J. Med. Virol. 88:58–63, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tremor in the elderly: Essential and aging‐related tremor
Authors: Deuschl Günther , Petersen Inge , Lorenz Delia , Christensen Kaare
Published: June 2015

Background

Isolated tremor in the elderly is commonly diagnosed as essential tremor (ET). The prevalence of tremor increases steeply with increasing age, whereas hereditary tremor is becoming less common. Moreover, late‐manifesting tremor seems to be associated with dementia and earlier mortality. We hypothesize that different entities underlie tremor in the elderly.

Methods

Two thousand four hundred forty‐eight subjects from the Longitudinal Study of Aging Danish Twins older than 70 y answered screening questions for ET in 2001. Two thousand fifty‐six (84%) participants drew Archimedes spirals to measure their tremor severity, and classical aging phenotypes were assessed. A subgroup of 276 individuals fulfilling either screening criteria for ET or being controls were personally assessed. Medications and mortality data are available.

Results

The spiral score increased with age. The spiral score correlated with tremor severity. For the whole cohort, mortality was significantly correlated with the spiral score, and higher spiral scores were associated with lower physical and cognitive functioning. Multivariate analysis identified higher spiral scores as an independent risk factor for mortality. In contrast, the ET patients did not show an increased but rather a lower mortality rate although it was not statistically significant. Consistent with a slower than normal aging, they were also physically and cognitively better functioning than controls.

Conclusions

Because incident tremors beyond 70 y of age show worse aging parameters and mortality than controls and ET, we propose to label it ‘aging‐related tremor’ (ART). This tremor starts later in life and is accompanied by subtle signs of aging both cognitively and physically. More detailed clinical features and pathogenesis warrant further assessment. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Skeletal muscle interleukin‐6 regulates metabolic factors in iWAT during HFD and exercise training
Authors: Knudsen Jakob G. , Bertholdt Lærke , Joensen Ella , Lassen Signe B. , Hidalgo Juan , Pilegaard Henriette
Published: June 2015

Objective

To investigate the role of skeletal muscle (SkM) interleukin (IL)‐6 in the regulation of adipose tissue metabolism.

Methods

Muscle‐specific IL‐6 knockout (IL‐6 MKO) and IL‐6loxP/loxP (Floxed) mice were subjected to standard rodent diet (Chow), high‐fat diet (HFD), or HFD in combination with exercise training (HFD ExTr) for 16 weeks.

Results

Total fat mass increased (P < 0.05) in both genotypes with HFD. However, HFD IL‐6 MKO mice had lower (P < 0.05) inguinal adipose tissue (iWAT) mass than HFD Floxed mice. Accordingly, iWAT glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) protein content, 5′AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK)Thr172 phosphorylation, and fatty acid synthase (FAS) mRNA content were lower (P < 0.05) in IL‐6 MKO than Floxed mice on Chow. In addition, iWAT AMPKThr172 and hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL)Ser565 phosphorylation as well as perilipin protein content was higher (P < 0.05) in HFD IL‐6 MKO than HFD Floxed mice, and pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α (PDH‐E1α) protein content was higher (P < 0.05) in HFD ExTr IL‐6 MKO than HFD ExTr Floxed mice.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that SkM IL‐6 affects iWAT mass through regulation of glucose uptake capacity as well as lipogenic and lipolytic factors.
Transmission parameters optimization and receiver architectures for DVB‐S2X systems
Authors: Cioni Stefano , Colavolpe Giulio , Mignone Vittoria , Modenini Andrea , Morello Alberto , Ricciulli Michelangelo , Ugolini Alessandro , Zanettini Yuri
Published: June 2015

The second‐generation specification of the digital video broadcasting for satellite (DVB‐S2) was developed in 2003 with the aim of improving the existent broadcasting standard DVB‐S. The main new features introduced by DVB‐S2 included increased baud rates, higher cardinality constellations (up to 32 points), and more efficient binary codes. The extension to DVB‐S2, approved in 2014 with the name DVB‐S2X, together with continuous technological evolution, moves further steps in this direction, with the use of constellations with cardinality up to 256 points, improved granularity of modulation and coding schemes, and the possibility to increase the baud rate. In this scenario, it is important to be able to ascertain what is the best transceiver structure, starting from the choice of the shaping pulse and the baud rate of the transmitted signals and ending with the most promising receiver architectures, with the aim of maximizing the spectral efficiency. In this paper, we will discuss some of the aspects of this investigation, namely, the optimization of transmission parameters and the description of an efficient receiver. We will then assess the performance of the proposed scheme in comparison with a classical DVB‐S2 architecture. Some synchronization aspects will also be discussed, to account for the impairments introduced by the channel. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improving gel formation of rice starch added with cross‐linked resistant starch prepared from rice starch
Authors: Yu Mengying , Shin Malshick
Published: June 2015

The gel formation properties of non‐waxy rice starch with cross‐linked resistant starch with phosphate (RS4, 10, 20, and 30% based on rice starch) prepared from three rice varieties with different amylose (AM) content were investigated to increase dietary fiber content, improve gel structure, and reduce the glycemic index of rice products. The AM contents of rice starches were 1.71% in Hanganchal1, 22.47% in Nampyeong, and 33.39% in Goamy. All RS4 showed A‐type crystallinity and their RS levels were 46.91, 54.54, and 66.01%, respectively. The initial pasting temperatures of RS4 added rice starches increased as RS4 contents increased, but peak and breakdown viscosities and enthalpy change (△H) reduced. The RS4 addition improved gel shape and texture properties including hardness, cohesiveness, and gumminess, except the 30% Goamy RS4 added gel. The 20% RS4 addition was appropriate to form rice starch gels. The network structure of RS4 added gel formed more regular and firmer than that of control, because RS4 granules were entrapped within the gel matrix like observed by light microscope and scanning electron microscopy. It is suggested that RS4 not only assist in forming a rigid network structure but also increasing a dietary fiber content.
Connectivism and the Use of Technology/Media in Collaborative Teaching and Learning
Authors: Thota Neena
Published: June 2015

This chapter explores the ways in which a relational understanding of the education process and the use of collaborative technologies in the connectivist tradition might inform and transform university teaching.