Facile synthesis of the structural hierarchy in chrysanthemum–snowball-like self-organized polyaniline

A facile synthesis of the “chrysanthemum–snowball”-shaped polyaniline (PAni) has been prepared by using self-assembly polymerization of the host–guest monomeric inclusion complex of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) with aniline. The amount of the monomer complex plays a role as a structural regulator during fabrication of the inclusion polymer as chrysanthemum–snowball structure/nanorods via intermolecular interactions such as: hydrogen bonding between β-CD and PAni, π–π interactions and cooperative interaction between PAni with FeCl₃ in an aqueous medium. The microstructure and morphology of the resulting materials were investigated by using various analytical techniques such as Fourier transform infrared, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, small-angle X-ray scattering, field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. After observing the growth process, a tentative mechanism is proposed to elucidate the formation of the PAni hierarchical structures.     

How does cold constrain life cycles of terrestrial plants and animals?

Short summer seasons with low thermal energy input characterise polar ecosystems. Climatic variables and physical isolation of terrestrial habitats act as selective filters which must be passed to allow colonisation, establishment and survival in these extreme environments. Life history studies of the terrestrial biota of such ecosystems give little evidence of adaptive responses to low temperatures having evolved in situ, even though behavioural, ecophysiological and biochemical features allowing tolerance of the likely extremes are well-developed. Observed life history strategies are often consistent with the general predictions of adversity (A) or stress (S) selection. However, biota successful in these extreme environments may be better-grouped by the lack of particular life history features, rather than common possession.