bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of Chromium(III) Using Synthetic Polymers, Copolymers and their Sulfonated Derivatives as Adsorbents
Authors: Kanwal Farah , Imran Muhammad , Mitu Liviu , Rashid Zeeshan , Razzaq Huma , Qurat-Ul-Ain
Published: March 2012

This study is concerned with the development of some synthetic polymers, copolymers and their sulfonated derivatives as adsorbents. The effectiveness of these adsorbents in removing Cr(III) from aqueous solution was evaluated by batch technique. The influence of different experimental parameters on removal process such as solution pH, contact time, adsorbent dose, Cr(III) concentration and temperature were evaluated. Adsorption equilibrium was achieved in 20 to 30 min. at pH > 5. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin adsorption isotherms were used to elucidate the observed sorption phenomena. The maximum Cr(III)37.8 mg/gram of PS(polystyrene) and 37.2 mg/g of SAN (styrene/acrylonitrile copolymer) was removed as evaluated from Langmuir isotherm while the heat of sorption was in the range 0.21–7.65 kJ/mol as evaluated from Temkin isotherm. It can be concluded that PS developed in this study exhibited considerable adsorption potential for application in removal of Cr(III) from aqueous media as compared to its copolymers and other derivatives used in this study.
Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Activities of Leaf Extracts of Three Popular Terminalia Species
Authors: Arya Aditya , Nyamathulla Shaik , Noordin Mohamed Ibrahim , Mohd Mustafa Ali
Published: March 2012

This study aimed to ascertain the antioxidant and hypoglycemic activity of methanolic extracts of the leaves of Terminalia arjuna, T. bellerica, and T. chebula. Extracts were evaluated for total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content, and in vitro antioxidant potential with DPPH, ORAC, and FRAP assays. The extracts′ hypoglycemic activities were evaluated by hypoglycemic screening and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in normal rats. The methanolic extracts of T. chebula leaves exhibited the highest quantity of total phenolic and flavonoid content, followed by those of T. bellerica and T. arjuna. T. arjuna contained more tannin than T. bellerica did, but less than that of T. chebula. The scavenging capacity of T. chebula for the antioxidant DPPH was the highest of the extracts tested, as it recorded the lowest IC50 value of all 3 extracts. Likewise, the results attributed the T. chebula extract with the highest oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC). In the FRAP assay, the extracts′ ferric reducing antioxidant abilities were T. arjuna > T. chebula > T. bellerica. This correlates the potential of polyphenolic content enriched with antioxidant capabilities and substantiates the results of the hypoglycemic screening and OGTT, which determined that the T. chebula extract had a better hypoglycemic effect in normal and glucose‐induced hyperglycemic rats (p <0.001) than that of T. bellerica and T. arjuna, respectively. The use of these Terminalia species as food supplements may help in reducing oxidative stress and related diabetic complications. The phytoconstituents responsible for the hypoglycemic activity need to be isolated to elucidate the relationship between the extracts′ antioxidant capacity and their hypoglycemic effects.
Cardiovascular Activity of Labdane Diterpenes fromAndrographis paniculatain Isolated Rat Hearts
Authors: Awang Khalijah , Abdullah Nor Hayati , Hadi A. Hamid A. , Su Fong Yew
Published: March 2012

The dichloromethane (DCM) extract ofAndrographis paniculataNees was tested for cardiovascular activity. The extract significantly reduced coronary perfusion pressure by up to24.5±3.0 mm Hg at a 3 mg dose and also reduced heart rate by up to49.5±11.4 beats/minute at this dose. Five labdane diterpenes, 14-deoxy-12-hydroxyandrographolide (1), 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide (2), 14-deoxyandrographolide (3), andrographolide (4), and neoandrographolide (5), were isolated from the aerial parts of this medicinal plant. Bioassay-guided studies using animal model showed that compounds, (2) and (3) were responsible for the coronary vasodilatation. This study also showed that andrographolide (4), the major labdane diterpene in this plant, has minimal effects on the heart.
Development and Validation of a LC/MS/MS Method for the Determination of Duloxetine in Human Plasma and Its Application to Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Reddy D. Chandrapal , Bapuji A. T. , Rao V. Surayanarayana , Himabindu V. , Rama Raju D. , Syedba Syed , Ravikiran H. L. V.
Published: March 2012

A selective, high sensitive and high throughput liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) method has been developed and validated for the chromatographic separation and quantitation of duloxetine in human EDTA plasma using fluoxetine (IS) as an internal standard. Analyte and IS were extracted from human plasma by liquid‐liquid extraction using MTBE‐n Hexane (80:20).The eluted samples were chromatographed on X‐terra RP8 (50 mmx4.6 mm, 5 μm particle size) column by using mixture of 30 mM ammonium formate (pH‐5.0±0.05) and acetonitrile as an isocratic mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.40 mL/min and analyzed by mass spectrometer in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) using the respective m/z 298.08→154.0 for duloxetine and 310.02→148.07 for IS. The linearity of the response/ concentration curve was established in human plasma over the concentration range 0.100‐100.017 ng/mL. The lower detection limit (LOD,S/N>3) was 0.04 ng/mL and the lower limit of quantization (LOQ,S/N>10) was 0.100 ng/mL. This LC‐MS/MS method was validated with Intra‐batch and Inter‐batch precision of 5.21‐7.02. The Intra‐batch and Inter‐batch accuracy was 97.14‐103.50 respectively. Recovery of duloxetine in human plasma is 80.31% and ISTD recovery is 81.09%. The main pharmacokinetic parameters were Tmax (hr) = (7.25±1.581), Cmax (ng/mL) (44.594±18.599), AUC0→t, = (984.702±526.502) and AUC0→∞, (1027.147±572.790) respectively.
Light-Emitting Diode-Based Illumination System forIn VitroPhotodynamic Therapy
Authors: Chen Defu , Zheng Huifen , Huang Zhiyong , Lin Huiyun , Ke Zhidong , Xie Shusen , Li Buhong
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study is to develop a light-emitting diode- (LED-) based illumination system that can be used as an alternative light source forin vitrophotodynamic therapy (PDT). This illumination system includes a red LED array composed of 70 LEDs centered at 643 nm, an air-cooling unit, and a specific-designed case. The irradiance as a function of the irradiation distance between the LED array and the sample, the homogeneity and stability of irradiation, and the effect of long-time irradiation on culture medium temperature were characterized. Furthermore, the survival rate of the CNE1 cells that sensitized with 5-aminolevulinic acid after PDT treatment was evaluated to demonstrate the efficiency of the new LED-based illumination system. The obtained results show that the LED-based illumination system is a promising light source forin vitroPDT that performed in standard multiwell plate.
H4SiW12O40 Catalyzed One‐Pot Synthesis of 12‐Aryl‐8,9,10,12‐tetrahydrobenzo[a] Xanthen‐11‐ones Under Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Hassankhani A. , Mosaddegh E. , Ebrahimipour S. Y.
Published: March 2012

An efficient and environmentally benign protocol for the one‐pot, three‐component synthesis of 12‐aryl‐8,9,10,12‐tetrahydro‐benzo[a]xanthen‐11‐one derivatives by condensation of aryl aldehydes, 2‐naphthol and dimedone using H4SiW12O40 (SiWA) as a reusable catalyst with high catalytic activity was reported. The reaction was carried out at 100 ºC under solvent‐free conditions within 15‐40 min in 82‐91% yield.
Recycling of Different Available Organic Wastes through Vermicomposting
Authors: Karmakar S. , Brahmachari K. , Gangopadhyay A. , Choudhury S. R.
Published: March 2012

Generation of organic wastes has been increased in an unprecedented rate in India with rapid population expansion, leading to disposal problems. These organic wastes can be converted into valuable wealth by applying vermicomposting technology. Vermicompost which provides macro and micro nutrients to the plants, also reduces pollution by providing a valuable substitute for chemical fertilizers. Present paper deals with vermicomposting of organic wastes from seven different sources and evaluation of nutrient in those vermicomposts following chemical analyses. These seven sources include coconut coir, water hyacinth, mixed materials, cabbage, banana pseudostem, cow dung, and rice husk. Three composting species of earthworms e.g. Eisenia. fetida, Eudrilus. eugeniae, and Perionyx excavatus were chosen for the experiment. Chemical analysis of vermicomposts under study clearly showed that the vermicompost from water hyacinth contained maximum amount of organic C, total N, and total K though the phosphorous content was maximum in vermicompost from mixed materials. Lowest nutrient content was observed in vermicompost of coconut coir. Vermicomposts from mixed materials, cabbage, banana pseudostem were at per in their chemical properties. It can be concluded that among the seven sources, vermicompost from water hyacinth is best for its nutrient value.
Mn(III)acetate‐Induced Electron Transfer in Pentaammine Cobalt(III)Complexes of α‐Amino Acids in Micellar Medium
Authors: Udhayavani S. , Subramani K.
Published: March 2012

A micellar catalyzed oxidation of pentaamminecobalt(III) complexes of α‐amino acids by Mn(III)acetate in acidic medium yielding nearly 100% Co(II) and about 100% carbonyl compounds are ultimate products. The unbound amino acids yield about 100% of carbonyl compound in presence of micelles. The effect of variation of sulphuric acid has been carried. The decrease in UV‐Visible absorbance at λ=502 nm for Co(III) complex corresponds to nearly 100% of the initial absorbance. In spite of the stoichiometry of Mn(III) to unbound ligand is 2:1, the ratio of Mn(III) to cobalt(III) complex is 1:1 accounting for about 100% reduction at the cobalt(III) centre. The kinetic and stoichiometric results have been accounted. A suitable mechanism consistent with the experimental findings has been proposed by involving a radical cation intermediate.
Antibacterial Activity and Chemical Composition of Essential Oil of Athamanta sicula L. (Apiaceae) from Algeria
Authors: Labed I. , Chibani S. , Semra Z. , Kabouche A. , Aburjai T. , Touzani R. , Kabouche Z.
Published: March 2012

Essential oil extracted from fresh aerial parts of Athamanta sicula L. (syn. Tingara sicula) was analysed by gas phase chomatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). The main constituents were: germacrene B (88.5%) and apiol (4.9%). Comparing with the tested bacteria, the growth of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae strains was more inhibited by the essential oil of A. sicula.
Indirect Electrochemical Analysis of Crocin in Phytochemical Sample
Authors: Ahmad Dar Riyaz , Brahaman Pradeep Kumar , Tiwari Sweety , Pitre Krishna Sadashiv
Published: March 2012

A new electroanalytical method has been developed for the quantitative determination of crocin in a sample of stigmas of saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Crocin is polarographically inactive. However, cysteine in 0.02 M NaCl, pH=5.2±0.01 produces a well defined wave/peak with E1/2/Ep= –0.47/–0.45 V vs. Ag/AgCl. On recording polarograms of a set of solution containing a fixed concentration of cysteine and varying concentrations of crocin under aforesaid experimental conditions a gradual decrease in peak height/diffusion current and a negative shift in peak potential was observed. Thus, indicating cysteine‐crocin interaction. Amperometric titration indicated crocin to cysteine ratio of 1:2. The above amperometric titration procedure has been used to determine the concentration of crocin in a sample of saffron. Crystallization process was carried out for the extraction of crocin from dried powder of saffron stigmas. The crystallized crocin was identified by UV‐Visible spectrophotometry(at 255 nm and 442 nm) and the quantitative analysis by the developed amperometric method. The concentration of crocin in saffron was found to be 2.13% and purity of isolated crocin 96.81%. The percent recovery varied from 98.56–100.31% and RSD (n=5) of 2.17%.The validation of the proposed procedure for the quantitative assay of crocin was examined via an evaluation of the repeatability, recovery, selectivity and relative standard deviation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Group‐6 Metal Carbonyl Complexes of Aroyl Hydrazone Derivatives
Authors: Saleem Mohd , Sharma Mohita , Mahajan Simpy , Sheikh H. N. , Kalsotra B. L.
Published: March 2012

Carbonyl complexes of Chromium, molybdenum and tungsten of composition, [M(CO)4L‐L], (where M= Cr, Mo or W and L‐L= benzoic acid[1‐(Furan‐2‐yl)methylene]hydrazide (BFMH), benzoic acid[(thiophene‐2‐yl)methylene]hydrazide (BTMH), benzoic acid[1‐(thiophene‐2‐yl)ethylidene] hydrazide (BTEH), benzoic acid (phenylmethylene)hydrazide (BPMH) and benzoic acid[1‐(anisol‐3‐yl)methylene] hydrazide (BAMH) are reported. These have been prepared by refluxing metal carbonyls and the ligands in 1:1molar ratio. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, UV‐vis spectra, 1H NMR, TGA/DTA, conductivity and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The IR bands suggest that in all the complexes the ligands behave as neutral bidentate chelating type coordinating metal through carbonyl oxygen and azomethine nitrogen. The CO force constants and CO‐CO interaction constants for these derivatives have been calculated using Cotton‐Kraihanzel secular equations, which indicate poor π‐bonding ability of the coordinated ligands.
Determination of Energy Characteristic and Microporous Volume by Immersion Calorimetry in Carbon Monoliths
Authors: Moreno-Piraján Juan Carlos , Giraldo Liliana , Vargas Diana P.
Published: March 2012

Activated carbon monoliths disc and honeycomb type were prepared by chemical activation of coconut shell with zinc chloride at different concentrations, without using a binder. The structures were characterized by N2 adsorption at 77 K and immersion calorimetry into benzene. The experimental results showed that the activation with zinc chloride produces a wide microporous development, with micropore volume between 0,38 and 0,79 cm3g-1, apparent BET surface area between 725 and 1523 m2g-1 and immersion enthalpy between 73,5 and 164,2 Jg-1. We compared the experimental enthalpy with calculated enthalpy by equation Stoeckli‐Kraehenbuehl finding a data dispersion from which can infer that the structures are not purely microporous; this fact is ratified with similar behavior that the evidence t the product EoWo.
Pharmacokinetics and Repolarization Effects of Intravenous and Transdermal Granisetron
Authors: Mason Jay W. , Selness Daniel S. , Moon Thomas E. , O'Mahony Bridget , Donachie Peter , Howell Julian
Published: March 2012

Purpose: The need for greater clarity about the effects of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists on cardiac repolarization is apparent in the changing product labeling across this therapeutic class. This study assessed the repolarization effects of granisetron, a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist antiemetic, administered intravenously and by a granisetron transdermal system (GTDS).

Experimental Design: In a parallel four-arm study, healthy subjects were randomized to receive intravenous granisetron, GTDS, placebo, or oral moxifloxacin (active control). The primary endpoint was difference in change from baseline in mean Fridericia-corrected QT interval (QTcF) between GTDS and placebo (ddQTcF) on days 3 and 5.

Results: A total of 240 subjects were enrolled, 60 in each group. Adequate sensitivity for detection of QTc change was shown by a 5.75 ms lower bound of the 90% confidence interval (CI) for moxifloxacin versus placebo at 2 hours postdose on day 3. Day 3 ddQTcF values varied between 0.2 and 1.9 ms for GTDS (maximum upper bound of 90% CI, 6.88 ms), between −1.2 and 1.6 ms for i.v. granisetron (maximum upper bound of 90% CI, 5.86 ms), and between −3.4 and 4.7 ms for moxifloxacin (maximum upper bound of 90% CI, 13.45 ms). Day 5 findings were similar. Pharmacokinetic–ddQTcF modeling showed a minimally positive slope of 0.157 ms/(ng/mL), but a very low correlation (r = 0.090).

Conclusion: GTDS was not associated with statistically or clinically significant effects on QTcF or other electrocardiographic variables. This study provides useful clarification on the effect of granisetron delivered by GTDS on cardiac repolarization. Clin Cancer Res; 18(10); 2913–21. ©2012 AACR.
MAX Mutations Cause Hereditary and Sporadic Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma
Authors: Burnichon Nelly , Cascón Alberto , Schiavi Francesca , Morales Nicole Paes , Comino-Méndez Iñaki , Abermil Nasséra , Inglada-Pérez Lucía , de Cubas Aguirre A. , Amar Laurence , Barontini Marta , de Quirós Sandra Bernaldo , Bertherat Jérôme , Bignon Yves-Jean , Blok Marinus J. , Bobisse Sara , Borrego Salud , Castellano Maurizio , Chanson Philippe , Chiara María-Dolores , Corssmit Eleonora P.M. , Giacchè Mara , de Krijger Ronald R. , Ercolino Tonino , Girerd Xavier , Gómez-García Encarna B. , Gómez-Graña Álvaro , Guilhem Isabelle , Hes Frederik J. , Honrado Emiliano , Korpershoek Esther , Lenders Jacques W.M. , Letón Rocío , Mensenkamp Arjen R. , Merlo Anna , Mori Luigi , Murat Arnaud , Pierre Peggy , Plouin Pierre-François , Prodanov Tamara , Quesada-Charneco Miguel , Qin Nan , Rapizzi Elena , Raymond Victoria , Reisch Nicole , Roncador Giovanna , Ruiz-Ferrer Macarena , Schillo Frank , Stegmann Alexander P.A. , Suarez Carlos , Taschin Elisa , Timmers Henri J.L.M. , Tops Carli M.J. , Urioste Miguel , Beuschlein Felix , Pacak Karel , Mannelli Massimo , Dahia Patricia L. M. , Opocher Giuseppe , Eisenhofer Graeme , Gimenez-Roqueplo Anne-Paule , Robledo Mercedes
Published: March 2012

Purpose: Pheochromocytomas (PCC) and paragangliomas (PGL) are genetically heterogeneous neural crest–derived neoplasms. Recently we identified germline mutations in a new tumor suppressor susceptibility gene, MAX (MYC-associated factor X), which predisposes carriers to PCC. How MAX mutations contribute to PCC/PGL and associated phenotypes remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and associated phenotypic features of germline and somatic MAX mutations in PCC/PGL.

Design: We sequenced MAX in 1,694 patients with PCC or PGL (without mutations in other major susceptibility genes) from 17 independent referral centers. We screened for large deletions/duplications in 1,535 patients using a multiplex PCR-based method. Somatic mutations were searched for in tumors from an additional 245 patients. The frequency and type of MAX mutation was assessed overall and by clinical characteristics.

Results: Sixteen MAX pathogenic mutations were identified in 23 index patients. All had adrenal tumors, including 13 bilateral or multiple PCCs within the same gland (P < 0.001), 15.8% developed additional tumors at thoracoabdominal sites, and 37% had familial antecedents. Age at diagnosis was lower (P = 0.001) in MAX mutation carriers compared with nonmutated cases. Two patients (10.5%) developed metastatic disease. A mutation affecting MAX was found in five tumors, four of them confirmed as somatic (1.65%). MAX tumors were characterized by substantial increases in normetanephrine, associated with normal or minor increases in metanephrine.

Conclusions: Germline mutations in MAX are responsible for 1.12% of PCC/PGL in patients without evidence of other known mutations and should be considered in the genetic work-up of these patients. Clin Cancer Res; 18(10); 2828–37. ©2012 AACR.
Off-Target Function of the Sonic Hedgehog Inhibitor Cyclopamine in Mediating Apoptosis via Nitric Oxide–Dependent Neutral Sphingomyelinase 2/Ceramide Induction
Authors: Meyers-Needham Marisa , Lewis Jocelyn A. , Gencer Salih , Sentelle R. David , Saddoughi Sahar A. , Clarke Christopher J. , Hannun Yusuf A. , Norell Haakan , da Palma Telma Martins , Nishimura Michael , Kraveka Jacqueline M. , Khavandgar Zohreh , Murshed Monzur , Cevik M. Ozgur , Ogretmen Besim
Published: March 2012

Sonic hedgehog (SHh) signaling is important in the pathogenesis of various human cancers, such as medulloblastomas, and it has been identified as a valid target for anticancer therapeutics. The SHh inhibitor cyclopamine induces apoptosis. The bioactive sphingolipid ceramide mediates cell death in response to various chemotherapeutic agents; however, ceramide's roles/mechanisms in cyclopamine-induced apoptosis are unknown. Here, we report that cyclopamine mediates ceramide generation selectively via induction of neutral sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 3, SMPD3 (nSMase2) in Daoy human medulloblastoma cells. Importantly, short interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of nSMase2 prevented cyclopamine-induced ceramide generation and protected Daoy cells from drug-induced apoptosis. Accordingly, ectopic wild-type N-SMase2 caused cell death, compared with controls, which express the catalytically inactive N-SMase2 mutant. Interestingly, knockdown of smoothened (Smo), a target protein for cyclopamine, or Gli1, a downstream signaling transcription factor of Smo, did not affect nSMase2. Mechanistically, our data showed that cyclopamine induced nSMase2 and cell death selectively via increased nitric oxide (NO) generation by neuronal-nitric oxide synthase (n-NOS) induction, in Daoy medulloblastoma, and multiple other human cancer cell lines. Knockdown of n-NOS prevented nSMase2 induction and cell death in response to cyclopamine. Accordingly, N-SMase2 activity-deficient skin fibroblasts isolated from homozygous fro/fro (fragilitas ossium) mice exhibited resistance to NO-induced cell death. Thus, our data suggest a novel off-target function of cyclopamine in inducing apoptosis, at least in part, by n-NOS/NO-dependent induction of N-SMase2/ceramide axis, independent of Smo/Gli inhibition. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(5); 1092–102. ©2012 AACR.
Integrated Analysis of Gene Copy Number, Copy Neutral LOH, and microRNA Profiles in Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ninomiya S. , Tyybäkinoja A. , Borze I. , Räty R. , Saarinen-Pihkala U.M. , Usvasalo A. , Elonen E. , Knuutila S.
Published: March 2012

We adopted an integrated analysis of gene copy number alterations (CNAs), copy number neutral loss of heterozygosity (CNN LOH), and microRNA (miRNA) profiling in 21 adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. This study revealed the most frequent CNAs to be at chromosomes 9p, 7, and 17 and recurrent CNN LOH at 5p, 9p, and Xq. As for the most differentially expressed miRNAs, they included 8 upregulated and 14 downregulated miRNAs, of which miR-148a at 7p15.2, miR-22 at 17p13.3, miR-223 at Xq12, as well as miR-101-2 at 9p24.1 exhibited recurrent CNAs or CNN LOH. miR-101-2 was recurrently downregulated, and although the related CNN LOH was detected only in BCR-ABL1 negative cases (2/14), deletions of miR-101-2 were observed solely in BCR-ABL1 positive cases (4/7). Finally, BCR-ABL1 positive cases, in contrast to negative ones, were characterized by slightly, but still significantly, higher expression levels of miR-29b.
Kinetic Energy Budget for the Madden–Julian Oscillation in a Multiscale Framework
Authors: Zhou Lei , Sobel Adam H. , Murtugudde Raghu
Published: March 2012

A kinetic energy budget for the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) is established in a three-scale framework. The three scales are the zonal mean, the MJO scale with wavenumbers 1–4, and the small scale with wavenumbers larger than 4. In the composite budget, the dominant balance at the MJO scale is between conversion from potential energy and work done by the pressure gradient force (PGF). This balance is consistent with the view that the MJO wind perturbations can be viewed as a quasi-linear response to a slowly varying heat source. A large residual in the upper troposphere suggests that much kinetic energy dissipates there by cumulus friction. Kinetic energy exchange between different scales is not a large component of the composite budget. There is a transfer of kinetic energy from the MJO scale to the small scale; that is, this multiscale interaction appears to damp rather than strengthen the MJO. There is some variation in the relative importance of different terms from one event to the next. In particular, conversion from mean kinetic energy can be important in some events. In a few other events, the influence from the extratropics is pronounced.
Seasonal Variation of the Indonesian Throughflow in Makassar Strait
Authors: Shinoda Toshiaki , Han Weiqing , Metzger E. Joseph , Hurlburt Harley E.
Published: March 2012

The seasonal variation of Indonesian Throughflow (ITF) transport is investigated using ocean general circulation model experiments with the Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM). Twenty-eight years (1981–2008) of ⅓° Indo-Pacific basin HYCOM simulations and three years (2004–06) from a global HYCOM simulation are analyzed. Both models are able to simulate the seasonal variation of upper-ocean currents and the total transport through Makassar Strait measured by International Nusantara Stratification and Transport (INSTANT) moorings reasonably well. The annual cycle of upper-ocean currents is then calculated from the Indo-Pacific HYCOM simulation. The reduction of southward currents at Makassar Strait during April–May and October–November is evident, consistent with the INSTANT observations. Analysis of the upper-ocean currents suggests that the reduction in ITF transport during April–May and October–November results from the wind variation in the tropical Indian Ocean through the generation of a Wyrtki jet and the propagation of coastal Kelvin waves, while the subsequent recovery during January–March originates from upper-ocean variability associated with annual Rossby waves in the Pacific that are enhanced by western Pacific winds. These processes are also found in the global HYCOM simulation during the period of the INSTANT observations. The model experiments forced with annual-mean climatological wind stress in the Pacific and 3-day mean wind stress in the Indian Ocean show the reduction of southward currents at Makassar Strait during October–November but no subsequent recovery during January–March, confirming the relative importance of wind variations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans for the ITF transport in each season.
Readers beware: Provocation, problematization and … problems
Authors: Hardy Cynthia , Grant David
Published: March 2012

In their recent Human Relations article and subsequent rejoinder to three commentators, Alvesson and Kärreman make a number of assertions concerning the development of organizational discourse analysis and the current state of research in this area. We believe their emphasis on provocation results in an unsatisfactory problematization of discourse-based work with the result that there are significant problems with both their analysis of the literature and their solutions to the shortcomings that they believe exist. We discuss a number of reasons why we believe that readers should be wary of what they read about organizational discourse analysis in Alvesson and Kärreman’s work. Drawing on our critique of their article and rejoinder, we propose some ideas that we believe will be more useful in developing studies of organizational discourse than those put forward by these authors.
Who should play a major role in responding to intimate partner violence? A comparison of Chinese and American college students’ preferences
Authors: Li Jessica C.M. , Wu Yuning , Sun Ivan Y.
Published: March 2012

Using survey data collected from 639 students in a Chinese university and an American university, this study assesses students’ preferences for private, parochial, and public responses to intimate partner violence (IPV). The results show that Chinese students are in favor of a parochial approach, whereas American students prefer a criminal justice intervention to IPV. Preferences for different responses to IPV are predicted by locality, respondents’ attitudes toward gender roles, tolerance for violence, and awareness of IPV. Implications for policies and practices to handling IPV in both societies are offered.
Clinical data-mining: Learning from practice in international settings
Authors: Lalayants Marina , Epstein Irwin , Auslander Gail K. , Chan Wallace Chi Ho , Fouché Christa , Giles Ros , Joubert Lynette , Rosenne Hadas , Vertigan Anne
Published: March 2012

This article describes a practice-based, mixed-method research methodology – Clinical Data-Mining (CDM) – as a strategy for engaging international practitioners for describing, evaluating and reflecting upon endogenous forms of practice with the ultimate goal of improving practice and contributing to knowledge (Epstein, 2010). These knowledge contributions are perforce ‘local’, but through conceptual reflection and/or empirical replication they may also be ‘globalized’. More specifically, the article defines, describes, and details CDM methodology; discusses its strengths and limitations; and illustrates international applications in Australia, Hong Kong, Israel, New Zealand, and the United States. It also describes various infra-structural support platforms and CDM’s primary and secondary organizational benefits.
Fishing for development: A question for social work
Authors: Jönsson Jessica H. , Kamali Masoud
Published: March 2012

This study explores the consequences of the European Union’s fishing agreements with a number of African countries for individuals in local communities. The empirical results show that European fishing in African waters has destructive consequences for local fishing communities and leads to increasing migration from fishing communities to Europe, where immigrants are facing increasing discrimination. It is argued that social work should consider new global transformations and build global alliances in order to fight against structural inequalities and improve individual life chances.
Analysis of thermally induced stresses on the core node bonds of a co-cured sandwich panel
Authors: Hodge Andrew , Dambaugh Gabriel
Published: March 2012

During process development testing of the ARES I composite interstage, large regions of node disbonds were observed in the aluminum honeycomb core. The sandwich panels were composed of carbon fiber/epoxy face sheets and one-eighth inch cell size aluminum core co-cured in an autoclave. Node disbonds were initially observed after cure with ultrasonic inspection and subsequently confirmed with X-ray inspection and cross sectioning. A stress analysis was performed on the residual thermal stresses resulting from post-cure cool down. Analysis indicated that the thermal stresses in the aluminum core are a function of foil thickness of the aluminum core. Thermal stresses are relieved through disbonding of the adhesive node. The node disbonds were shown to significantly reduce the shear capability of the sandwich structure. Funding was provided by the ARES I Upper Stage Project.
Synthesis of PA12/functionalized GNP nanocomposite powders for the selective laser sintering process
Authors: Kim Hyo Chan , Hahn H Thomas , Yang Yong Sik
Published: March 2012

In an effort to fabricate prototypes with improved mechanical properties in the selective laser sintering process, functionalized graphite nanoplatelets were added to polyamide-12 powder to produce a nanocomposite powder. The polyamide-12 powder was chosen as the matrix polymer because it has features conducive to laser sintering, such as a low melting temperature and high mechanical properties. As fillers, the graphite nanoplatelets were oxidized through a nitric acid treatment to improve the interfacial bonding. For the syntheses of the nanocomposite solution, intercalation in an autoclave was conducted to obtain good dispersion and manufacturability. The micro/nanostructures of the synthesized nanocomposites were examined through scanning electron microscopy. The distribution of particles was also analyzed to look at the feasibility for the selective laser sintering process. The synthesized nanocomposite powder was layered and sintered by a laser. The mechanical properties for specimens made of neat polyamide-12, polyamide-12/TiO2, and polyamide-12/functionalized graphite nanoplatelet were tested and compared. The results indicate that the functionalization of nanofiller reinforces interfacial bonding force. For this reason, a small amount of nanofiller, which does not influence the thermal and rheological behavior, can improve the material properties.
Does Discounting Work in the Lodging Industry?
Authors: Croes Robertico , Semrad Kelly J.
Published: March 2012

The central intent of this econometric case study analysis is to examine the relationship between discounting room rates and hotel financial performance. The study provides a theoretical framework that investigates the fundamentals of discounting and empirically assesses the efficacy of the discounting process in the lodging industry. The study adopts an error correction model to properly account for the dynamics of the industry. The results indicate that the variables may be modeled as an integrated process and which are linked in the long run and also possess a short-term relationship. The research findings suggest that discounting works both in the short term and the long term only if the discount rate exhibits serial correlation or nonstationary tendencies.
Comparison of the effect of nano ZnO and conventional grade ZnO on the cross-linking densities of NR/BR and NR/SBR blends
Authors: Mottaghi M , Khorasani S Nouri , Esfahany M Nasr , Farzadfar A , Talakesh MM
Published: March 2012

In this research, the effect of nano zinc oxide (ZnO) and conventional ZnO on cross-linking densities of natural rubber (NR)/butadiene rubber (BR) and NR/styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) blends was investigated. The cross-linking densities of blends were determined using swelling behavior technique. Blends of NR/BR and NR/SBR with various concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 5 parts per 100 g of rubber (phr) of nano ZnO and ZnO were prepared. A sheet of each compound was prepared using compression molding method and tests were carried out. The results indicated that the incorporation of nano ZnO instead of conventional rubber grade ZnO resulted in increasing the cross-linking density. The swelling test results show that the compounds containing nano ZnO absorb less solvent, since they had greater cross-link density in comparison with compounds that had conventional ZnO. Nano ZnO provides a more effective surface for the formation of accelerator–sulfur–ZnO complex. As a result, interfacial interaction increased and particles dispersed efficiently into the matrix of the polymer. The swelling ratios of NR/BR blends were increased, while the swelling ratios of NR/SBR blends were decreased by increasing the amount of nano ZnO from 3 to 5 phr.
Cluster Formation by Foreign Firms in Emerging Economies and International Joint Ventures
Authors: Lee In Hyeock (Ian)
Published: March 2012

This study investigates factors that influence the termination of an international joint venture (IJV) and examines how the resulting wholly owned subsidiary’s (WOS) proximity to its previous partner can promote cluster formation in an emerging economy. The author uses a game-theoretic approach with complete information to demonstrate how the post-IJV cluster formation process is based on the cluster type to be formed—symmetrical or asymmetrical. The author also describes conditions under which government subsidies may be necessary to encourage the IJV termination and WOS formation to support cluster formation, as well as conditions where they are not required or could be counterproductive.
Protecting Supply Systems to Mitigate Potential Disaster
Authors: Scaparra Maria Paola , Church Richard
Published: March 2012

Planning to mitigate the impacts of a disaster can be an important activity for both private companies and public agencies. In this article, the authors consider a supply system that provides needed goods or services to a region that may be the subject of some type of disaster, such as an attack by a terrorist or the result of a natural event or accident. The supply system is represented by a set of existing capacitated facilities. The authors assume that the loss of one or more facilities to a disaster will tighten available supply and increase the distances over which the service or good must be delivered, thereby increasing operation costs and reducing service. Such a disaster may even reduce the capacity of the supply/storage to the extent that the goods must be rationed as remaining supply may be outstripped by demand. The authors consider the case where resources may be available to mitigate some of the impacts of a possible disaster by the advanced protection of one or more facilities. The authors show how this problem can be formulated as a “tri-level” optimization model and propose a solution approach based on a tree search strategy. The authors demonstrate the policy implications of this model using a hypothetical planning problem. Through this example, the authors show how the results of our model can be used to inform planners and policy makers in disaster mitigation planning.
UB the director: Utilizing digital book trailers to engage gifted and twice-exceptional students in reading
Authors: Gunter Glenda A. , Kenny Robert F.
Published: March 2012

Attempts to increase motivation in reluctant readers have been the focus of many local, state and federal reading research initiatives. Only recently have researchers and educators come to understand that many of these same issues also face teachers of gifted and talented learners. Frequently, students who are bright and talented but do not perform to their academic ability are categorized as being underachievers or unmotivated. In this article, the authors explore some reasons why gifted students struggle with reading and why they, like those in regular classrooms, are reluctant to read and write. This study uses a computerized version of the Matching Familiar Figures Test as an identifier and predictor of student performance. An instructional intervention (UB the Director Model) is also utilized to determine if these instructional practices help to overcome these students’ reluctance and lack of motivation.
Measurement, analysis and reconstruction of residual stresses
Authors: Faghidian SA , Goudar Dev , Farrahi GH , Smith David J
Published: March 2012

Residual stresses, created in a steel beam by elastic–plastic bending, are predicted using an approximate analysis and the finite element method. The predictions are compared to experimental measurements obtained from the application of incremental centre hole drilling, deep hole drilling and neutron diffraction methods. Finite element simulations of the incremental centre hole drilling and deep hole drilling methods applied to the predicted residual stresses permitted an assessment of their ability to reconstruct the stresses. An analytical reconstruction analysis using an Airy stress function together with boundary and equilibrium conditions is developed and applied to the predictions and measurements. The reconstruction of the predictions enabled a reference case to be developed and used to assess the application of the reconstruction process to experimental data. It is shown that satisfactory through depth residual stress profiles can be obtained, providing the errors are about the same of those found in the measurement techniques.
Involvement of citizens in hazardous waste management and use of recycling centres in the city of Madrid (Spain)
Authors: Díaz María José , Martínez Elvira , Piñeiro Concepción , Palavecinos Mireya , Benayas Javier , Toribio M Angeles
Published: March 2012

In Spain, hazardous household waste management by citizens occurs via fixed recycling centres (FRC) and mobile recycling centres (MRC) which usually depend on local governments. This paper addresses a request by the Madrid City Council, in an attempt to improve the service it provides to the city of Madrid. The aim of the study involved analysing the information people possess in relation to hazardous waste and to the use of available equipment, and conducting a post-evaluation of the effectiveness of an environmental communication campaign conducted by the Madrid City Council and aimed at providing awareness of the existence of new FRCs and MRCs. To this end, a questionnaire was conducted with 5644 inhabitants of the city of Madrid. Qualitative data was categorized using content analysis followed by chi-squared tests, considering some socio-demographic characteristics of the sample, such as age or place of residence (district). Communication campaigns influenced citizen awareness of what constituted hazardous waste, of how to properly separate waste and of the existence of FRCs and MRCs. However, few citizens actually used FRCs or MRC (18% across four districts), a fact that might be related to a lack of knowledge of downstream waste treatment issues, or to self-limiting hindrances to householders, such as distance to recycling centres. It is recommended that future communication campaigns investigate householder needs and pre-conceptions in relation to recycling, as well as tailored education aimed at addressing the barriers, perceived or otherwise, facing citizens.
Theoretical analysis of the kinetic performance of laboratory- and full-scale composting systems
Authors: Baptista Marco , Silveira Ana , Antunes Fernando
Published: March 2012

Composting research at laboratory-scale is critical for the development of optimized full-scale plants. Discrepancies between processes at laboratory-scale and full-scale systems have been investigated in terms of heat balances, but a kinetic analysis of this issue is still missing. In this study, the composting rate at laboratory-scale was, on average, between 1.9 and 5.7 times faster than in full-scale systems for a set of published studies using municipal solid waste, food waste or similar materials. Laboratory-scale performance and full-scale systems were limited to 71 and 46%, respectively, of their maximum potential due to poor management of environmental process conditions far from their optimum. The main limiting environmental factor was found to be moisture content, followed by temperature. Besides environmental factors, waste composition and particle size were identified as factors accounting for kinetic differences between laboratory- and full-scale systems. Overall, this study identifies those factors that affect the kinetics of the composting process most and revealed a significant margin for reducing process time in full-scale composting.
Public–private sector partnership in household waste management as perceived by residents in south-west Nigeria
Authors: Ezebilo Eugene E , Animasaun Emmanuel D
Published: March 2012

In most developing countries public–private sector partnership is becoming increasingly applied in household waste management service delivery especially in urban areas to reduce cost and improve effectiveness. This paper reports a study of householders’ perceptions of public–private sector partnership in provision of household waste management services in Ilorin, south-west Nigeria. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select 224 households for the study. The data generated from the survey were analysed using a binary logit model. The results show that most of the respondents were of the opinion that the public–private partnership has not been able to improve household waste management services. Time taken to visit solid waste collection point, income and marital status negatively influenced their perceptions, while activities of sanitary inspectors, occupation and gender had positive influence. The public–private partnership will be more effective and sustainable if the public sector could pay more attention to performance monitoring and accountability.
Suppressing effect of calcium-based waste on control of bromine flux during the pyrolysis of printed circuit boards
Authors: Jie Guan , Min Xu , Wu Wenjie , Zhang Chenglong , Wang Jingwei , Bai Jianfeng
Published: March 2012

The effect of calcium-based addition on the brominate flux during printed circuit board (PCB) pyrolysis was investigated. It was found that bromine (Br) can be effectively fixed in solid phase during PCB pyrolysis by adding calcium-based waste materials. Phenol and 4-ethylphenol are the major products of pyrolysis. When the two kinds of red mud were used as additive, their content was 85.25 and 84.81%, respectively, which was higher than others. The 2-bromophenol and 2-bromo-4-methyl-benzene are the main Br-containing pyrolysis volatiles. After adding calcium-based additive, these two volatiles were apparently reduced and only small amounts of 2-bromo-4-methyl-benzene were detected in the products, namely 0.71 and 0.86%, respectively for the two kinds of red mud. Hence, no matter from the perspective of product use or simple Br-fixing, the bromine in the three-phase products can be effectively regulated and controlled by adding calcium-based waste residue during PCB pyrolysis. Finally, the Br-fixing mechanism was analysed. As a result, when calcium-based waste materials were added to the PCB pyrolysis it made bromine fix easily in the resident yielding a byproduct that can be further used.
Proposal of a new model to improve the collection of small WEEE: a pilot project for the recovery and recycling of toys
Authors: Solé Miquel , Watson Jenna , Puig Rita , Fullana-i-Palmer Pere
Published: March 2012

A new collection model was designed and tested in Catalonia (Spain) to foster the separate collection and recycling of electrical and electronic toys, with the participation of selected primary and secondary schools, as well as waste collection points and municipalities. This project approach is very original and important because small household WEEE has low rates of collection (16–21% WEEE within the EU or 5–7% WEEE in Spain) and no research on new approaches to enhance the collection of small WEEE is found in the literature. The project was successful in achieving enhanced toys collection and recycling rates, which went up from the national Spanish average of 0.5% toys before the project to 1.9 and 6% toys during the two project years, respectively. The environmental benefits of the campaign were calculated through a life-cycle approach, accounting for the avoided impact afforded by the reuse of the toys and the recycling of the valuable materials contained therein (such as metals, batteries and circuit boards) and subtracting the additional environmental burdens associated with the establishment of the collection campaign.
Current issues on the production and utilization of medium-calorific solid recovered fuel: a case study on SRF for the HOTDISC technology
Authors: Pomberger Roland , Klampfl-Pernold Hannes , Abl Christian
Published: March 2012

The HOTDISC technology allows the use of Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) of a coarse grain size in cement rotary kilns. A suitable medium-calorific SRF is produced by mechanical treatment of mixed municipal and commercial waste that was previously used in fluidized bed incineration systems. Through a modification of the production process the quality of the SRF could be improved and its energetic utilization within a cement kiln with an integrated HOTDISC technology was realized. In course of a material flow analysis changes in quality and mass due to planned process changes were simulated on a theoretical basis. Due to a good agreement of the mass and quality prediction with the real data of the material flow analysis conducted after the system implementation it can be stated that by simulation beforehand the security in planning increases while the economic risk can be significantly reduced. Both the material flow analysis as well as practical operational experience confirms that the industrially produced HOTDISC SRF is applicable and can be produced from mixed municipal and commercial solid waste. An improvement in quality of the produced HOTDISC SRF can be shown by positive changes of essential parameters. From a waste management perspective the production and energetic utilization of HOTDISC SRF is reasonable by all means. This is shown by the conduction of an energy and CO2-balance. A growing international importance of the HOTDISC technology and the increased use of medium-calorific SRF are expected.