bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in soil quality after converting Pinus to Eucalyptus plantations in southern China
Authors: Zhang K. , Zheng H. , Chen F. L. , Ouyang Z. Y. , Wang Y. , Wu Y. F. , Lan J. , Fu M. , Xiang X. W.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Vegetation plays a key role in maintaining soil quality, but long-term changes in soil quality due to plant species change and successive planting are rarely reported. Using the space-for-time substitution method, adjacent plantations of Pinus and first, second, third and fourth generations of Eucalyptus in Guangxi, China were used to study changes in soil quality caused by converting Pinus to Eucalyptus and successive Eucalyptus planting. Soil chemical and biological properties were measured and a soil quality index was calculated using principal component analysis. Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, alkaline hydrolytic nitrogen, microbial biomass carbon, microbial biomass nitrogen, cellobiosidase, phenol oxidase, peroxidase and acid phosphatase activities were significantly lower in the first and second generations of Eucalyptus plantations compared with Pinus plantation, but they were significantly higher in the third and fourth generations than in the first and second generations and significantly lower than in Pinus plantation. Soil total and available potassium were significantly lower in Eucalyptus plantations (1.8–2.5 g kg−1 and 26–66 mg kg−1) compared to the Pinus plantation (14.3 g kg−1 and 92 mg kg−1), but total phosphorus was significantly higher in Eucalyptus plantations (0.9–1.1 g kg−1) compared to the Pinus plantation (0.4 g kg−1). As an integrated indicator, soil quality index was highest in the Pinus plantation (0.92) and lowest in the first and second generations of Eucalyptus plantations (0.24 and 0.13). Soil quality index in the third and fourth generations (0.36 and 0.38) was between that in Pinus plantation and in first and second generations of Eucalyptus plantations. Changing tree species, reclamation and fertilization may have contributed to the change observed in soil quality during conversion of Pinus to Eucalyptus and successive Eucalyptus planting. Litter retention, keeping understorey coverage, and reducing soil disturbance during logging and subsequent establishment of the next rotation should be considered to help improving soil quality.
The globalization of medical education
Authors: Crone Robert K. , Samaan Jenny S.
Published: February 2015

Healthcare providers are moving more freely across borders than at any time in our history, and healthcare and academic institutions are establishing clinical facilities around the world. A new kind of migration is emerging, due to rising cost and other factors, in which students from developed countries are seeking education and training opportunities abroad. Medical education is undergoing rapid globalization, with several well-known United States institutions establishing programs and facilities around the world. A generation of 20 to 30 year-olds in the United States, referred to as the “First Globals,” see themselves as citizens of the world and seek to train anywhere and live anywhere. Consequently, there are methods under development to benchmark physician competence at a much more granular level, regardless of where the student is trained and practices.
Three global adaptations of the American medical education model
Authors: Sheikh Javaid I. , Badr Kamal F. , Kamei Robert K. , Arayssi Thurayya
Published: February 2015

Following the movement toward globalization by patients, providers, and healthcare institutions, the era of borderless medical education programs has finally arrived. Some well-known United States medical schools recently have established medical education programs overseas, while several others are currently being planned. This article describes three adaptations of the standard American medical education model outside the United States. The reports from these institutions demonstrate that such adaptation into diverse cultures has been successful and that they are currently graduating medical doctors meeting highest international standards. While methodology and innovations of these institutions differ, they share common objectives of producing high quality graduates comparable to United States medical graduates based on standardized assessments.
Patterns of inborn errors of metabolism: A 12 year single-center hospital-based study in Libya
Authors: AlObaidy Hanna
Published: February 2015

Background: Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are mostly transmitted as autosomal recessive disorders and are therefore more frequent in countries with high consanguinity rates such as in the Arab world. Objective: To study the socio-demographic characteristics and the clinical presentation of IEM in Libyan children and to shed light on our experience in dealing with these disorders. Methods: This is a descriptive case series hospital-based study of 107 children attending the Metabolic Unit at El-Khadra Teaching Hospital (MUKH) in Tripoli, Libya. The study took place between January 2001 and December 2012. Information was collected from caregivers and from all available hospital records on the following variables: age, sex, birth order, place of residence, age at onset, presenting complaints and family history of the same illness. Results: During the 12-year study period, there were 55,422 live births at El-Khadra Teaching Hospital and 107 children were diagnosed with 46 different metabolic disorders. A significantly high consanguinity rate was observed (86.9%) among parents of the affected children. Family history of previous affected children was noted in 63.5% of cases. Male to female ratio was 1.18:1. The most frequent IEM cases were amino acids disorders (25%), carbohydrate disorders (14.9%), lysosomal storage diseases (14%), organic aciduria and energy metabolic defects (9.3% each). The main clinical presentations were jaundice, hepatomegaly and seizures. Most children presented between one and six months of age (43.4%); whereas the median age at diagnosis was eight months. Thirty-eight children (35.5%) were born at El-Khadra Hospital with IEM giving a birth prevalence of 1:1458 live births, (1:6158 for aminoaciduria and 1:6927 for carbohydrate disorders). Conclusion: IEM disorders are common in Libya. Efforts to enhance awareness among pediatricians and primary healthcare providers should be supported and encouraged as many diseases are still undiagnosed. It is very important to consider IEM among all children when they present any worrying or suspicious symptoms or signs which do not respond to conventional treatment. Although our findings are preliminary, and probably the first to be conducted in Libya, they suggest ideas for decision makers to plan services including newborn screening programs and country-wide research of IEM diseases.
Human Relationship in Contemporary Muslim Bioethics
Authors: Hamdy Sherine
Published: February 2015

In this paper I discuss contemporary examples of bioethical debates in which some Muslims have objected to new medical interventions on the grounds that they dubiously change God’s creation (khalq Allah) or that such medical interventions trespass on the human body as God’s property (milk Allah). In closely scrutinizing these examples, it becomes apparent that such stances about the proper human-God relationship are in fact shaped and predetermined by ideas about social relationships between humans and the power inequalities that lie therein. For example, Shaykh Sha’rawi in Egypt famously objected to organ transplantation on the grounds that the body “belonged to God.” But why was this particular medical intervention singled out while others that clearly intervene in “God’s property” were not? Why is the large number of medically unnecessary Caesarean sections in Egyptian hospitals, in contrast, a widespread practice that poses avoidable risks and harms to both mothers and babies, not an object of bioethical or religious debate, on the ground of unnecessary interference and harm to “God’s creation”? By analyzing case studies about organ transplantation, reproductive technologies, and sex change surgery and the religious and medical debates they stirred in Egypt, it becomes clear that we need more explicit analysis about how arguments couched in language about the human-God relationship can further perpetuate, on the one hand, gender and class inequalities, or even challenge them on the basis that only the merciful Creator can act justly and prudently toward His creation.
Qur’an of Nature: Cosmos as Divine Manifestation in Qur’an and Islamic Spirituality
Authors: Safi Omid
Published: February 2015

In this paper I examine the significance of “water symbolism” in the Quran and in Islamic Mysticism. God has entrusted humanity with the care of all creation. Within the Islamic tradition, both scripture and the natural cosmos are recognized as the Signs (ayāt) of God. Therefore, it is our eco-spiritual calling to fulfill this trust towards all of creation as we would care for scripture. This trusteeship and this spiritual concern for God’s creation begin with an awareness of our existing interconnectivity: the oneness of all existence. It is the transformation of poisoned water to sweet drink that symbolizes the transformative power of God’s mercy.
Recuperando espacios y resignificando el concepto patrimonio desde los movimientos sociales. El caso del CSOA La Higuera (Cádiz, Andalucía)
Authors: Jover Báez Jaime , Almisas Cruz Sergio
Published: February 2015

Las relaciones entre patrimonio histórico, sociedad civil y Estado en las ciudades históricas son de elevado interés y su estudio requiere de una visión multidisciplinar desde las ciencias sociales. Existen contradicciones entre el destino público del patrimonio garantizado por el Estado y las formas en las que la conservación y gestión del mismo se llevan a cabo, en tanto tienden a marginar iniciativas que provienen de la ciudadanía, de los movimientos sociales, y potencian aquellas orientadas a la tematización y mercantilización del mismo. Se argumenta que en estos procesos juegan un papel importante los intereses de sectores privados, que buscan su propio beneficio y se oponen al modelo social de patrimonio histórico o cultural. Frente a esta situación, se evalúa la capacidad de proyectos radicales ciudadanos en la lucha práctica frente a la neoliberalización de la ciudad histórica y sus repercusiones en el discurso teórico patrimonial a través de un ejemplo en Cádiz.
Agrupació i segregació espacial de la població de nacionalitat marroquina a Tarragona, 2004-2012
Authors: Achebak Hicham , Alberich González Joan
Published: February 2015

La ciutat de Tarragona es caracteritza per ser un dels principals pols d’assentament de la població de nacionalitat marroquina a Catalunya. Des d’inicis del segle XXI, aquesta població ha protagonitzat un important creixement que la situa a la capçalera del rànquing de nacionalitats estrangeres del municipi. Paral·lelament a l’augment del nombre d’efectius, el col·lectiu ha experimentat canvis substancials en la seva distribució espacial. L’objectiu d’aquest treball és precisament analitzar l’evolució de les pautes d’assentament i els nivells de segregació residencial de la comunitat marroquina a l’interior de l’espai urbà tarragoní corresponents al període temporal 2004-2012 a partir de les dades del Padró Municipal d’habitants.
Sonen les trompetes: discurs demodistòpic en el tercer mil·lenni
Authors: Domingo Andreu
Published: February 2015

Amb el nou mil·lenni, els textos, les enunciacions i les declaracions de caire distòpic sobre la població s’han multiplicat i han ultrapassat el camp de la ficció literària. En el present article es planteja una exploració hermenèutica de diferents textos pertanyents tant al camp polític com al científic, on s’identifiquen els principals discursos sobre la població que poden considerar-se distòpics posant un èmfasi especial en els produïts a partir de la crisi econòmica. Es parteix de tres hipòtesis: 1) que les diferents formes d’enunciació, literària (o artística en general), científica o política, deriven d’un mateix imaginari social i s’influeixen mútuament; 2) que la forma distòpica utilitzada per al discurs sobre la població demostra que aquesta continua sent la fi i l’instrument del govern; i, 3) que a partir de la crisi econòmica s’ha precipitat un canvi en el discurs neoliberal sobre la governabilitat que pren precisament la distopia com a marc de referència i reelabora el concepte de resiliència.
Percepción y valoración del proceso de revegetación por los actores del territorio: un estudio preliminar en el Sistema Ibérico
Authors: Lasanta Teodoro , Pascual Bellido Nuria Esther
Published: February 2015

Se estudia la percepción que tienen los actores (stakeholders) de Cameros Viejo (Sistema Ibérico) del proceso de revegetación, sus causas, consecuencias socioeconómicas e impactos en el medio natural. Se realizaron 25 entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los resultados muestran que perciben claramente que se ha producido un proceso de revegetación durante las últimas décadas, si bien difieren en las características de dicho proceso. Las respuestas son heterogéneas respecto a las causas, consecuencias e impactos que implica la revegetación. La población residente tiene una percepción más realista que la población foránea de los cambios en el medio natural. Se discute sobre el grado de correspondencia entre los cambios en el medio natural y la percepción que la sociedad tiene de ellos.
Evans, Ruth i Holt, Louise (eds.) (2014). Diverse spaces of childhood and youth: gender and other socio-cultural differences
Authors: Luque Garrofé Montse
Published: February 2015

Evans, Ruth i Holt, Louise (eds.) (2014)Diverse spaces of childhood and youth: gender and other socio-cultural differencesOxon: Routledge, 208 p.ISBN 978-0-415-83437-7
Dextre, Juan Carlos; Hughes, Mike y Bech, Lotte (2013). Cyclists & Cycling Around the World. Creating Liveable & Bikeable Cities
Authors: Cebollada Àngel
Published: February 2015

Dextre, Juan Carlos; Hughes, Mike y Bech, Lotte (2013)Cyclists & Cycling Around the World. Creating Liveable & Bikeable CitiesLima: Fondo Editorial de la Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, 334 p.ISBN 978-612-4146-55-8
Las protestas de los ciudadanos. Características y peculiaridades de la movilización territorial en el Véneto
Authors: Fregolent Laura
Published: February 2015

Este trabajo presenta los resultados de una investigación en la que se destaca el gran número y variedad de conflictos relacionados con las transformaciones territoriales que hoy existen en el Véneto. El elevado número de conflictos y comités activos indica un interés constante por las cuestiones medioambientales y además pone de relieve el importante rol que han jugado las dinámicas de desarrollo y uso del territorio —surgidas en esta región en las últimas décadas— en el fenómeno que ahora se va manifestando.Esta conflictividad se debe interpretar no sólo como la demanda de los ciudadanos para participar y estar más implicados en los procesos de transformación territorial —que repercuten directamente en ellos y en la calidad de vida—, sino también como su declarada falta de confianza en una clase política a menudo incapaz de manejar los conflictos y por tanto «débil» para planificar y hacerse cargo de situaciones conflictivas.
HRIS- An Effective Knowledge Management Solution
Authors: Z. Kazmi S. Asiya , Naaranoja Marja
Published: February 2015

This paper proposes an evaluation that how in a small business scenario, the bits and pieces of knowledge can be seen scattered at different work locations and how the management can strategically arrange and manage a viable data resource in the form of existing knowledge base to be retrieved as and when required. In the current research study, the authors tried to prove the logic by taking an example of an organizational scenario (i.e., Medicare Hospital) by displaying the positive effects of implementing an organizational knowledge management technique - i.e., HRIS, to not only streamline the effective data storage but to eliminate the redundant organizational activities associated with the duplication of knowledge collection as well as unwanted management operations and excessive storage of record keeping work processes. Current study confirmed the worth of information and communication technologies (ICT) supported human resource information system (HRIS). The findings of the study confirmed organizational control over existing work knowledge with speed, efficiency, economy and accuracy at the crucial times for the best organizational strategic decision making in line with sustainable corporate competitiveness.
Anti-Keynesian Views: Fiscal and Monetary Guidelines
Authors: Hiç-Birol Özlen , Hiç-Gencer Ayşen
Published: February 2015

In this article, we will cover the main anti-Keynesian views and macroeconomic systems that arose in the post Keynes period as well as their fiscal and monetary policy guidelines. As is known, the early Classical economists introduced a macroeconomic system based on the Quantity Theory and Say’s Law resulting in automatic full-employment equilibrium; and finally after 1929-1934 Great World Depression, the Keynesian System was introduced as a “revolution” (Keynesian Revolution) in theory and practice. As a result of the Keynesian policies implemented, European countries and the United States not only got over the Great World Depression but also in the years following the World War II, they have observed a fast and stable growth for a long time. Moreover, cyclical fluctuations have been controlled to a great extent. Even so, at the stage when the Keynesian System was introduced, anti-Keynesian views and macroeconomic systems were immediately introduced. Intense academic discussions between advocates of these views and the Keynesian economists have continued up until today. Meanwhile, many economists such as J.R. Hicks, R.F. Harrod, N. Kaldor, M. Kalesci, A.W. Philips, A. Hansen, P.A. Samuelson, E. Domar, J. Tobin, R. Solow, A.M. Okun, W. Helier, G. Ackler, F. Modigliani, and R. Musgrave and many others have developed and defended the Keynesian System from different aspects. We can characterize significant anti-Keynesian views and macroeconomic systems as the “Counter-Revolution”.
Inhalation Toxicology Methods: The Generation and Characterization of Exposure Atmospheres and Inhalational Exposures
Authors: Chen Lung‐Chi , Lippmann Morton
Published: February 2015

In this unit, the need for laboratory‐based inhalation toxicology studies, the historical background on adverse health effects of airborne toxicants, and the benefits of advance planning for the building of analytic options into the study design to maximize the scientific gains to be derived from the investments in the study are outlined. The following methods are described: (1) the generation and characterization of exposure atmospheres for inhalation exposures in humans and laboratory animals; (2) the delivery and distribution into and within whole‐body exposure chambers, head‐only exposure chambers, face‐masks, and mouthpieces or nasal catheters; (3) options for on‐line functional assays during and between exposures; and (4) options for serial non‐invasive assays of response. In doing so, a description beyond exposures to single agents and simple mixtures is presented, and included are methods for evaluating biological responses to complex environmental mixtures. It is also emphasized that great care should be taken in the design and execution of such studies so that the scientific returns can be maximized both initially, and in follow‐up utilization of archived samples of the exposure atmospheres, excreta, and tissues collected for histology. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Plasmatrough exohiss waves observed by Van Allen Probes: Evidence for leakage from plasmasphere and resonant scattering of radiation belt electrons
Authors: Zhu Hui , Su Zhenpeng , Xiao Fuliang , Zheng Huinan , Wang Yuming , Shen Chao , Xian Tao , Wang Shui , Kletzing C. A. , Kurth W. S. , Hospodarsky G. B. , Spence H. E. , Reeves G. D. , Funsten H. O. , Blake J. B. , Baker D. N.
Published: February 2015

Exohiss waves are whistler mode hiss observed in the plasmatrough region. We present a case study of exohiss waves and the corresponding background plasma distributions observed by the Van Allen Probes in the dayside low‐latitude region. The analysis of wave Poynting fluxes, suprathermal electron fluxes, and cold electron densities supports the scenario that exohiss leaks from the plasmasphere into the plasmatrough. Quasilinear calculations further reveal that exohiss can potentially cause the resonant scattering loss of radiation belt electrons ∼<MeV on a comparable time scale to that associated with the storm time plasmaspheric hiss. These results clearly illustrate that exohiss may need to be taken into account in future radiation belt models.
Possible evidence for a methane source in Enceladus' ocean
Authors: Bouquet Alexis , Mousis Olivier , Waite J. Hunter , Picaud Sylvain
Published: February 2015

The internal ocean of Enceladus can be expected to present conditions favorable to the trapping of volatiles in clathrates. This process could influence the eventual composition of the ocean and therefore of the plumes emitted by the south polar region. Here we used a statistical thermodynamic model to assess which species detected in the plumes by the Cassini‐Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer experiment are trapped in clathrates. We treated Enceladus' internal ocean as a terrestrial subglacial lake with a mixture of dissolved volatiles indicated by plume gas measurements. We find that the conditions for clathrate formation are met in this ocean, except above 20 km or in hypothetical hot spots. The formation of multiple guest clathrates depletes methane below plume levels, suggesting that clathrates eventually dissociate (releasing methane) in the fissure that connects the ocean to the surface or that another mechanism (such as hydrothermal reactions) is compensating by adding methane into the ocean.
Tracing the strength of the southwest monsoon using boron isotopes in the eastern Arabian Sea
Authors: Naik Sushant S. , Divakar Naidu P. , Foster Gavin L. , Martínez‐Botí Miguel A.
Published: February 2015

Here we present the first boron isotope‐based pCO2sw (pCO2 of seawater) reconstruction from the eastern Arabian Sea using the planktic foraminifera species Globigerinoides ruber. Our results from sediment core AAS9/21 show that pCO2sw varied between ~160 and 300 µatm during the last 23 kyr. The ΔpCO2, the sea‐air pCO2 difference, is relatively small during the last glacial maximum and becomes more negative toward the Holocene, with the exception of a significant excess during the last deglaciation centered on the Bølling‐Ållerød. Throughout the record, ΔpCO2 is predominantly negative, probably as a result of enhanced biological productivity (and higher nutrient and carbon utilization) during the southwest monsoon. A reduction in ΔpCO2 during the last glacial maximum is therefore consistent with a reduction in the strength of this monsoon system.
Streptococcus pneumoniae Supragenome Hybridization Arrays for Profiling of Genetic Content and Gene Expression
Authors: Kadam Anagha , Janto Benjamin , Eutsey Rory , Earl Joshua P. , Powell Evan , Dahlgren Margaret E. , Hu Fen Z. , Ehrlich Garth D. , Hiller N. Luisa
Published: February 2015

There is extensive genomic diversity among Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates. Approximately half of the comprehensive set of genes in the species (the supragenome or pangenome) is present in all the isolates (core set), and the remaining is unevenly distributed among strains (distributed set). The Streptococcus pneumoniae Supragenome Hybridization (SpSGH) array provides coverage for an extensive set of genes and polymorphisms encountered within this species, capturing this genomic diversity. Further, the capture is quantitative. In this manner, the SpSGH array allows for both genomic and transcriptomic analyses of diverse S. pneumoniae isolates on a single platform. In this unit, we present the SpSGH array, and describe in detail its design and implementation for both genomic and transcriptomic analyses. The methodology can be applied to construction and modification of SpSGH array platforms, as well to other bacterial species as long as multiple whole‐genome sequences are available that collectively capture the vast majority of the species supragenome.
IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF TWO PHOSPHOLIPID HYDROPEROXIDE GLUTATHIONE PEROXIDASE GENES FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN SPECIES OF THE WHITEFLY Bemisia tabaci COMPLEX
Authors: Jiu Min , Li Jun‐Min , Gao Xian‐Long , Wang Lun‐Ji , Wang Xiao‐Wei , Liu Shu‐Sheng
Published: February 2015

Phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidases (PHGPXs) are essential enzymes of the cellular antioxidant defense system during insect–plant interactions. However, little attention has been devoted to the functional characterization of PHGXPs in the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. Here, we report the identification and characterization of two PHGPX genes, designated as BtQ‐PHGPX1 and BtQ‐PHGPX2 from the Mediterranean species of the B. tabaci complex. Sequence analysis indicated that the length of BtQ‐PHGPX1 is of 942 bp with a 729 bp open‐reading frame (ORF) encoding 242 amino acids, and BtQ‐PHGPX2 is of 699 bp with a 567 bp ORF encoding 188 amino acids. Sequence alignment analysis showed that BtQ‐PHGPX1 and BtQ‐PHGPX2 shared high similarity with other known PHGPXs. The NVASXCGXT, FPCNQFXXQEPG, and IKWNFXKFLV surrounded the reactive cysteine, glutamine, and tryptophan residues, respectively. Recombinant BtQ‐PHGPX1 and BtQ‐PHGPX2 were overexpressed in Escherichia coli and purified. quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) analysis with whiteflies of different development stages showed that the mRNA levels of BtQ‐PHGPX2 were significantly higher in larvae than in other stages. The mRNA levels of BtQ‐PHGPX2 were significantly higher than BtQ‐PHGPX1 during all the developmental stages. The mRNA levels of BtQ‐PHGPX1 and BtQ‐PHGPX2 in female adults were relatively higher than in male adults. The expression of BtQ‐PHGPX1 and BtQ‐PHGPX2 was induced by the insecticide imidacloprid. These results suggest that BtQ‐PHGPX1 and BtQ‐PHGPX2 may participate in detoxification of oxidative hazards in B. tabaci.
“Look who's talking!” Gaze Patterns for Implicit and Explicit Audio‐Visual Speech Synchrony Detection in Children With High‐Functioning Autism
Authors: Grossman Ruth B. , Steinhart Erin , Mitchell Teresa , McIlvane William
Published: January 2015

Conversation requires integration of information from faces and voices to fully understand the speaker's message. To detect auditory‐visual asynchrony of speech, listeners must integrate visual movements of the face, particularly the mouth, with auditory speech information. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder may be less successful at such multisensory integration, despite their demonstrated preference for looking at the mouth region of a speaker. We showed participants (individuals with and without high‐functioning autism (HFA) aged 8–19) a split‐screen video of two identical individuals speaking side by side. Only one of the speakers was in synchrony with the corresponding audio track and synchrony switched between the two speakers every few seconds. Participants were asked to watch the video without further instructions (implicit condition) or to specifically watch the in‐synch speaker (explicit condition). We recorded which part of the screen and face their eyes targeted. Both groups looked at the in‐synch video significantly more with explicit instructions. However, participants with HFA looked at the in‐synch video less than typically developing (TD) peers and did not increase their gaze time as much as TD participants in the explicit task. Importantly, the HFA group looked significantly less at the mouth than their TD peers, and significantly more at non‐face regions of the image. There were no between‐group differences for eye‐directed gaze. Overall, individuals with HFA spend less time looking at the crucially important mouth region of the face during auditory‐visual speech integration, which is maladaptive gaze behavior for this type of task. Autism Res 2015, 8: 307–316. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploring Perceived Social Support from Peer Facilitators in an HIV Treatment Adherence Intervention for African American Patients: A Content Analysis of Participant Perspectives
Authors: Houston Eric , Osborn Amanda , Lyons Thomas , Masvawure Tsitsi , Raja Sheela
Published: February 2015

HIV treatment adherence interventions increasingly rely on peer facilitators to promote treatment adherence and improve patient retention, yet little is known about how participants perceive the role performed by peer facilitators. The present study examined participant perceptions in terms of the social support from peer facilitators in a hospital‐based intervention in Chicago. Content analysis was conducted with reference to four types of social support (instrumental, informational, emotional and affiliational) on exit interviews with 11 participants enrolled in the intervention that targeted African‐American patients living with HIV/AIDS. We examined how the type of social support perceived by participants was related to their self‐reported behaviours in three domains: adherence, sexual safety and general coping. Our analysis revealed that most participants perceived informational and emotional support from their peer facilitators, followed by instrumental support. Affiliational support was the least frequently perceived type of social support. We found that perceived informational support from peer facilitators with regard to adherence had greater impact and credibility amongst participants than the same type of support from medical providers. Informational support was cited most frequently with regard to influencing adherence and sexual safety behaviours, whereas perceived emotional support was cited primarily with helping participants cope with HIV. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Efficient and Sustainable Pyrolysis and Gasification of Biomass by Catalytic Processes
Authors: Tong Xinli , Chen Hui , Hu Jianli , Bi Yadong , Sun Zhe , Fan Wenyuan
Published: February 2015

The biomass thermochemical conversion process includes two major approaches: pyrolysis and gasification. The advantages of pyrolysis and gasification of biomass feedstock in the presence of various catalyst systems are critically reviewed. The role of a catalyst in pyrolysis of biomass and its major components cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin is investigated. The discussion is focused on elucidating the reaction mechanisms involved in the formation of aromatics and phenols during catalytic pyrolysis. The pyrolysis performance of two major catalyst systems, metal‐containing catalysts and zeolite catalysts, is analyzed. The impact of the catalyst on the deoxygenation efficiency is ascertained. In the catalytic gasification process, two major catalyst systems including alkali metals and noble metal catalysts are employed. This review illustrates the function of the catalyst in improving the yields of syngas and hydrogen and the mechanistic aspects of the reduction of tar and char formed during gasification. Ultimately, the review is intended to introduce the state of art in the biomass thermochemical conversion with an emphasis on the importance of the catalyst in producing value‐added products.
The Uptake of Trehalose Glycolipids by Macrophages Is Independent of Mincle
Authors: Kodar Kristel , Eising Selma , Khan Ashna A. , Steiger Stefanie , Harper Jacquie L. , Timmer Mattie S. M. , Stocker Bridget L.
Published: February 2015

Trehalose glycolipids play an important role in the pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and are used as adjuvants for vaccines; however, much still remains unanswered about the mechanisms through which these glycolipids exert their immunomodulatory potential. Recently, the macrophage‐inducible C‐type lectin Mincle was determined to be the receptor for trehalose glycolipids, yet the role played by Mincle in glycolipid uptake is unknown. Accordingly, we developed several fluorescent trehalose glycolipid reporter systems that can be used to study the uptake of soluble trehalose glycolipids and glycolipid‐coated particles by macrophages. Our studies revealed that, although Mincle is essential for the activation of macrophages by trehalose glycolipids, the receptor does not play a role in the uptake of these glycolipids or of glycolipid‐coated particles.
A safe and simpler diagnosis of gastric schwannomas
Authors: Charepoo Rambod , Palanisamy Arun P. , Shetty Jayakara , Kurtzman Scott H.
Published: February 2015

Key Clinical Message

Although gastric schwannomas usually are nonmalignant, these tumors can undergo malignant transformation. For diagnosis, endoluminal routes are believed to decrease the chance of cancerous cell dissemination. We present a case where a percutaneous route was utilized with supporting evidence for the safe use of this method for diagnosis.
Late onset hemopericardium with cardiac tamponade from minor blunt chest trauma – a case report
Authors: Tabansi Petronilla N. , Otaigbe Barbara E.
Published: February 2015

Key Clinical Message

Hemopericardium with cardiac tamponade following minor blunt trauma is a rare, life‐threatening condition in children. Without high index of suspicion, diagnosis and intervention may be delayed as the link between the trauma and illness may be missed. We present a 12‐year‐old female in Nigeria, and highlight challenges in diagnosis.
Selective Enzymatic Synthesis of the Grapefruit Flavor (+)‐Nootkatone
Authors: Schulz Sebastian , Girhard Marco , Gaßmeyer Sarah K. , Jäger Vera D. , Schwarze Daniel , Vogel Andreas , Urlacher Vlada B.
Published: February 2015

(+)‐Nootkatone is a high‐value sesquiterpenoid known for its grapefruit‐odor impression. Its isolation from natural plant sources suffers from low yields, and chemical syntheses involve carcinogenic or hazardous compounds. Herein, a biocatalytic route for the synthesis of (+)‐nootkatone that combines two enzymes in one pot is presented. In the first step, a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase catalyzes the selective allylic hydroxylation of the sesquiterpene (+)‐valencene to the intermediate alcohol nootkatol. In the second step, nootkatol is further oxidized to (+)‐nootkatone by an alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). The challenging task of finding a suitable cofactor regeneration system was solved by careful selection of an appropriate cosubstrate for the ADH, which works in a dual‐functional mode. After reaction optimization, involving cosolvent and cosubstrate screening, (+)‐nootkatone concentrations of up to 360 mg L−1 and a space‐time yield of 18 mg L−1 h−1 were achieved.
Polyvinyl Alcohol–Borax Slime as Promising Polyelectrolyte for High‐Performance, Easy‐to‐Make Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Alesanco Yolanda , Palenzuela Jesús , Viñuales Ana , Cabañero Germán , Grande Hans J. , Odriozola Ibon
Published: February 2015

The front cover artwork is provided by the Materials Division at IK4‐CIDETEC (Spain). The image tries to associate the electrochromic device (ECD) based on PVA–borax slime with characters from HE‐MAN and MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE. Thus, Violoman (viologen) is attacked by the villain Skelectrode (electrodes) by pouring a slime (PVA–borax polyelectrolyte slime) and electric discharges on him. Find out more by reading the full Article at 10.1002/celc.201402265.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Desymmetrization of meso‐Alkynyl Diols and Kinetic Resolution of the Corresponding dl‐Diols: Effects of Celite Filtration and Silver Salts
Authors: Sota Yumi , Yamamoto Masaaki , Murai Masato , Uenishi Jun'ichi , Uemura Motokazu
Published: February 2015

The asymmetric desymmetrization of meso‐2‐alkynylbenzenediols through the use of a combination of axially chiral diphosphine(AuCl)2 precatalysts and silver salt co‐catalysts gave optically active isochromene compounds with high enantioselectivities in good yields. The corresponding dl‐diol isomers underwent efficient kinetic resolution to give the cyclized isochromenes and recovered diols with high enantioselectivities under similar conditions. The high reactivity and selectivity in the desymmetrization of the meso‐diols is independent of the combination of axially chiral diphosphine(AuCl)2 precatalyst and silver salt co‐catalyst, whereas the corresponding tricarbonylchromium complexes of alkynylbenzenediols were affected by the combination of the diphosphine(AuCl)2 and silver salt. The reactivity was largely dependent on the nature of the gold(I) species.
Energieeffizienz und Klimaschutz mittels Materialeffizienz. Energy Efficiency and Climate Protection by Material Efficiency Measures
Authors: Schmidt Mario
Published: February 2015

Bei betrieblichen Maßnahmen zur Energieeffizienz und zum Klimaschutz wird meist nur auf die direkten Einsparpotenziale, d. h. den verringerten Energieeinsatz oder die reduzierten Treibhausgasemissionen, geachtet. Doch auch Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Materialeffizienz tragen erheblich zur geringeren Energieverbräuchen und Emissionen bei. Da der Anteil von Materialien an den Kosten im Unternehmen deutlich höher ist als der Anteil von Energie, und weil dort noch erhebliche Einsparpotenziale existieren, können damit indirekt auch der Energiebedarf und Treibhausgasemissionen verringert werden.
Crosscultural comparison of color terms and preference of persimmon‐dyed fabric, Galchon
Authors: Yi Eunjou , Shamey Renzo
Published: January 2015

This crosscultural study was aimed at correlating color emotions and preference for persimmon‐dyed cotton fabrics known as Galchon. Cotton fabrics were dyed with persimmon powder, in a range of shades, and in some cases were also iron mordanted. Textile and fashion students from Jeju National University in Korea and North Carolina State University (NCSU) in USA participated in the visual assessment of dyed samples and were asked to scale their visual experience and state their emotion and preference for the terms “Bright,” “Heavy,” “Soft,” “Strong,” “Deep,” and “Like.” Korean observers used “Strong” for iron‐mordanted Galchon, and American observers did not associate “Bright” or “Deep” with weakly dyed fabrics. In addition to the subjective terms described, the color preference for samples was quantified using their CIE colorimetric attributes. For Korean observers, the results indicate a correlation between L* and “Bright,” whereas for Americans a stronger correlation was obtained against “Soft.” American observers' results also show a relationship between C* and the term “Warm,” especially for dyeings of Galchon at high concentrations. It was also found that iron mordanting affected responses from both groups but only influenced the color preference of Korean observers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 40, 592–604, 2015
Euler angles and crystal symmetry
Authors: Nolze Gert
Published: February 2015

For the description of (single) crystal orientations, e.g. as measured by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) & X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Euler angles are still generally used to import and export data. However, because of the lack of standard definitions for the unit cell reference settings and specimen axes, several transformation descriptions exist which produce different sets of Euler angles for the same orientation. There is also no recommended region within the minimal Euler orientation space into which orientations should be placed. This is the reason why different sets of Euler angles for the same orientation are generated by the available software packages for indexing EBSD patterns. These issues are reviewed and addressed.

The influence of crystal symmetry in form of chiral (enantiomorphic) groups is discussed, as well as how multiple, but symmetry‐equivalent sets of Euler angles can be reduced in order to deliver a unique orientation description. The Euler coloring algorithms applied to EBSD map data is critically discussed. The specific case of cubic symmetry, especially the effect of the three‐fold rotation on the Euler space is investigated in more detail for the highest‐symmetric chiral group 432. Recommendations for standard settings of the unit cell to orthogonal coordinate system transformation are given which exploit inherent symmetry.
An electrolytic capacitor‐less LED driver with interleaving flyback topology
Authors: Zhang Taizhi , Qian Qinsong , Xu Shen , Lu Shengli , Sun Weifeng
Published: February 2015

Here, we propose a single‐stage alternating current/direct current electrolytic capacitor‐less light‐emitting diode (LED) driver, which applies interleaving flyback topology to reduce the peak‐to‐average ratio of LED driving current. With this approach, the peak current through LEDs is reduced, so the lifetime requirement of LEDs can be satisfied for an electrolytic capacitor‐less LED driver. A new transformer with two interleaving auxiliary windings is applied to this driver. Based on this approach, compared with other electrolytic capacitor‐less LED drivers, an important advantage of this driver is that it can be easily created, without additional control circuits. We will explain the operation principle and control strategy of the proposed driver in detail and will use experimental results taken from a 24‐V 350‐mA prototype to demonstrate its performance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quercetin Induces Antiproliferative Activity Against Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HepG2) Cells by Suppressing Specificity Protein 1 (Sp1)
Authors: Lee Ra Ham , Cho Jin Hyoung , Jeon Young‐Joo , Bang Woong , Cho Jung‐Jae , Choi Nag‐Jin , Seo Kang Seok , Shim Jung‐Hyun , Chae Jung‐Il
Published: January 2015

Preclinical Research

Quercetin, found in red onions and red apple skin can induce apoptosis insome malignant cells. However, the apoptotic effect of quercetin in hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells via regulation of specificity protein 1 (Sp1) has not been studied. Here, we demonstrated that quercetin decreased cell growth and induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells via suppression of Sp1 using 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay, 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) staining, Annexin V, and Western blot analysis, an effect that was dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Treatment of HepG2 cells with quercetin reduced cell growth and induced apoptosis, followed by regulation of Sp1 and Sp1 regulatory protein. Taken together, the results suggest that quercetin can induce apoptotic cell death by regulating cell cycle and suppressing antiapoptotic proteins. Therefore, quercetin may be useful for cancer prevention. Drug Dev Res 76 : 9–16, 2015
The Role of Potassium Channels in the Vasodilatation Induced by Resveratrol and Naringenin in Isolated Human Umbilical Vein
Authors: Protić Dragana , Radunović Nebojša , Spremović‐Rađenović Svetlana , Živanović Vladimir , Heinle Helmut , Petrović Aleksandar , Gojković‐Bukarica Ljiljana
Published: January 2015

Preclinical Research

Potassium (K+) channels have a key role in the maintenance of smooth muscle tone; a variety of agonists can modify the tone by altering K+‐channel activity. The aim of this study was assess the effects of the phenols, resveratrol, and naringenin on K+‐channels of the vascular smooth muscle. Segments of human umbilical vein (HUV) without endothelium were precontracted using serotonin (100 μM) or 100 mM K+ to derive cumulative concentration‐response curves using increasing concentrations of resveratrol or naringenin. K+‐channel inhibitors were added in the bath before resveratrol (1–100 μM) or naringenin (0.01–1 mM) in assess the role of K+‐channels in their effects on HUV precontracted by serotonin. 4‐Aminopiridine (4‐AP; 1 mM), a nonselective blocker of voltage‐dependent, tetraethylammonium (TEA; 1 mM) and barium chloride (1 mM), a nonselective blocker of Ca2+ ‐dependent and inward rectifier K+‐channels (respectively) induced significant shifts to the right (P < 0.05) of resveratrol. concentration‐response curves. The effect of naringenin was antagonized by 4‐AP (1 mM). 4‐AP‐, TEA‐, and barium chloride‐sensitive K+‐channels are probably involved in the resveratrol vasodilatatory effect, while naringenin seems to affect 4‐AP‐sensitive K+‐channels. However, other mechanisms of vasodilation induced by polyphenols could not be excluded. Drug Dev Res 76 : 17–23, 2015
Thalidomide Inhibits Adhesion Molecules in Experimental Acute Pancreatitis‐Associated Lung Injury
Authors: Lv Peng , Li Hong‐Yun , Ji Shu‐Sheng , Li Wen , Fan Li‐Juan
Published: January 2015

Preclinical Research

The study evaluated the effect of thalidomide on adhesion molecule expression in acute pancreatitis‐associated lung injury in rats. Acute pancreatitis was induced in rats by retrograde infusion of 5% sodium taurocholate into the bile‐pancreatic duct, and thalidomide (100 mg/kg) was given daily by intragastric route for 8 days before this treatment. Serum lipase (LPS), protein levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in lung were measured. Compared with the acute pancreatitis‐ group, lung histopathology, serum LPS, protein levels in BALF, SOD, GSHpx, and MDA levels, and the expression levels of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 and E‐selectin mRNA and protein in rats given thalidomide were improved (P < 0.01). Thus, thalidomide may reduce the expression of adhesion molecules via inhibition of oxidative stress to alleviate acute pancreatitis‐associated lung injury in a rat model. Drug Dev Res 76 : 24–30, 2015
5‐HT2B Receptor Antagonists Reduce Nerve Injury‐Induced Tactile Allodynia and Expression of 5‐HT2B Receptors
Authors: Pineda‐Farias Jorge B. , Velázquez‐Lagunas Isabel , Barragán‐Iglesias Paulino , Cervantes‐Durán Claudia , Granados‐Soto Vinicio
Published: January 2015

Preclinical Research

This work was performed to assess the effects of intrathecal serotonin 2B (5‐HT2B) receptor antagonists in rats with neuropathic pain. With RS‐127445, its effect was also determined on 5‐HT2B receptor expression. Neuropathic pain was induced by L5/L6 spinal nerve ligation. Western blotting was used to determine 5‐HT2B receptor expression. Dose‐response curves with the 5‐HT2B receptor antagonists 2‐amino‐4‐(4‐fluoronaphth‐1‐yl)‐6‐isopropylpyridine (RS‐127445, 1–100 nmol) and 1‐[(2‐chloro‐3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)methyl]‐2,3,4,9‐tetrahydro‐6‐methyl‐1H‐pyrido[3,4‐b]indole hydrochloride (LY‐266097, 1–100 nmol) were performed in rats. Tactile allodynia of the left hind paw (ipsilateral) was assessed for 8 h after compound administration. Intrathecal injection of the 5‐HT2B receptor antagonists RS‐127445 and LY‐266097 diminished spinal nerve ligation‐induced allodynia. In contrast, intrathecal injection of the 5‐HT2 receptor agonist (±)‐2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐iodoamphetamine hydrochloride (DOI, 10 nmol) did not modify tactile allodynia induced by nerve ligation. L5/L6 nerve ligation increased expression of the 5‐HT2B receptors in the ipsilateral, but not contralateral, dorsal root ganglia. Furthermore, nerve injury also enhanced 5‐HT2B receptor expression in the ipsilateral dorsal part of the spinal cord. Intrathecal treatment with RS‐127445 (100 nmol) diminished spinal nerve injury‐induced increased expression of 5‐HT2B receptors in dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord. Our results imply that spinal 5‐HT2B receptors are present on sites related to nociception and participate in neuropathic pain. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc Drug Dev Res 76 : 31–39, 2015