bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ESG Performance, R&D Investment and Financial Performance: A Case Study of Special Equipment Manufacturing Enterprises
Authors: Zhou Xingyu , Wu Yaxin , Huang Jiayin
Published: August 2024

The concept of ESG is a brand-new concept that conforms to the trend of the times and is consistent with the realization of the goals of "carbon peak", "carbon neutrality" and sustainable development. This paper selects the data of special equipment manufacturing enterprises listed in A-share companies from 2018 to 2022 as a sample to explore the effect of ESG performance on the financial performance of enterprises, as well as the moderating role of R&D investment in the relationship between the ESG performance of enterprises and the financial performance of enterprises. It is found that (1) the ESG performance of enterprises and the three dimensions of E(Environmental score), S(Social score) and G(Government score), E has a negative effect on the financial performance of enterprises, and the other dimensions can significantly improve the performance of enterprises. (2) For the listed companies in the special equipment manufacturing industry, the enterprises' enhancing R & D investment can to some extent boost the facilitative role of corporate governance in the enterprise's financial performance.
Classroom Structure Schemes of Teachers and Language Communication Difficulties of Students in Public Secondary Schools
Authors: Alvar Grace L. , Baguio Josephine B.
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the relationship between teachers' classroom structure schemes and secondary students' language communication difficulties in Cluster 13, Division of Davao City. A correlational design was employed to analyze data from 147 public secondary school teachers using universal sampling. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between teachers' classroom structure schemes and students' language communication difficulties, with the latter being frequently manifested. The study further revealed that specific domains of classroom structure significantly influenced students' language communication challenges. To mitigate language communication difficulties, schools should prioritize enhancing classroom structure by establishing clear expectations, promoting accountability, and optimizing resource allocation. Teacher professional development should focus on simplifying instructional materials and incorporating students' native dialects to foster effective communication. These strategies can contribute to improved student outcomes and overall language proficiency.
Impact of Hairy Woodrose (Merremia aegyptia L.) and Poultry Manure on Lettuce Yield
Authors: Mesquita Antônia Adriana da Silva , Linhares Paulo César Ferreira , Carlos Karen Geovana da Silva , Sousa Vitória Eduarda de , Júnior Domingos Severino de Souza , Souza Maria Elisa da Costa , Salvino Bruna da Silva , Oliveira Luciane Karine Guedes de , Pereira Joaquim Odilon , Cardoso Eudes de Almeida , Alves Lunara de Sousa , Rodrigues Walter Martins , Silva Uilma Laurentino da
Published: August 2024

The use of plant resources available in agricultural areas is extremely important for farmers who work in this activity, contributing to an economic return in lettuce production. In view of the above, the objective was to study the Impact of hairy woodrose (Merremia aegyptia L.) and poultry manure on lettuce yield. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with six treatments and four replications. The treatments consisted of six amounts of the hairy woodrose (Merremia aegyptia L.) mixture plus poultry manure (0; 1.4; 2.8; 4.2; 5.6 and 7.0 kg m-2). For the lettuce crop, the cultivar “Babá de Verão”. Twenty-two days after transplanting, the crop was harvested and transported to the Vegetable Post-Harvest Laboratory of the Department of Agronomic and Forestry Sciences at UFERSA, where the following characteristics were analyzed: plant height; number of leaves per plant; fresh lettuce mass; lettuce dry mass. The amount of 7.0 kg m-2 of the mixture of hairy woodrose (Merremia aegyptia L.) plus poultry manure was what promoted the greatest increase in lettuce cultivation, with a maximum value of 237.97 g plant-1. The mixture of alternative fertilizer sources is extremely important in the production of leafy vegetables.
Exploration of Some Wild Food Plants Used by Local People of Kangchup Chingkhong, Senapati District of Manipur, India
Authors: Kikim A. , Singh O. Noyon , Niranjan Ch.
Published: August 2024

The study on wild food plants was carried out to document the wild food plants used by the local people of Kangchup Chingkhong of Senapati District, Manipur. An extensive and intensive field survey was done in March,2022 to April, 2023.Information was obtained from 30 respondent age ranging from 45 to 85 years old individuals who have a good understanding of traditional knowledge of wild edible plants. A total of 30 wild plant species belonging to 23 genera and 17 families have been reported from the area. Zingiberaceae was the dominant family that represented 9 taxa followed by Fabaceae with 3 taxa while Rubiaceae, Verbenaceae and Asteraceae represent 2 taxa each and other 12 families represent 1 taxa each. Trees, Herbs, shrubs and climbers form the habit of these plants. The highest proportion of edible species were herbs, 12 numbers (41%) followed by trees, 10 numbers (31%), shrubs, 5 numbers (17%), creepers, 2 numbers (7%) and climber, 1 number (4%). Among the parts, leaves were mostly used (27%), followed by rhizome (22 %), fruits (13 %), shoots and flower (11% each), bark and whole plants (5% each) and tuber and stem (3 % each).
Harnessing the Power of Insects: A Sustainable Approach to Food and Feed Production
Authors: G. S. Sujatha , Teja Katta Subramanya Sai , Kumar Gadde Anil , Uchai Parikshit , A. P. Hema , M. Mamatha , R Ramya , Devi Dharanikota Lalithambica
Published: August 2024

This study looks at the potential of insects as a sustainable food and feed source in light of the challenges posed by an increasing global population and environmental impacts from conventional livestock farming. It points out that different species of insects are rich in proteins, essential amino acids, healthy fats, and micronutrients which makes them suitable for human consumption as well as animal feed. The paper also discusses environmental benefits associated with insect farming such as reduced land use, lower water usage, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and upcycling of organic waste thus contributing to a circular economy within food production systems. In addition, it talks about scaling up challenges like consumer acceptance or regulatory frameworks around this industry. By examining these aspects, the article hopes to shed some light on how insect farming can improve global food security and sustainability. Finally, it aims at building a holistic understanding of what role could be played by bugs in transforming our dietary system while meeting nutritional needs but minimizing ecological footprints.
Population Dynamics in Groundnut and their Relationship to the Weather Parameters
Authors: Ongolu Shaila , Suluguri Ramesh , V. Divya Rani , Kurapati Sridhar , Nune Nalini , Kumar Parimal , Neeli Priyanka , Sujatha M. , M. Goverdhan
Published: August 2024

Background: Groundnut crop is the most commonly, and widely grown oil seed crop during the Rabi season at Nagarkurnool district of Telangana state. However, insect pests viz., leaf miner (Aproerima modicella), tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura Fab.), thrips (Scritothrips dorsalis) and jassids (Empoasca kerri Pruthi) are the major insect pests accounting major yield losses. The sowing window of the crop during rabi starts from 1st Fortnight of September to 1st FN of November. The insect pest’s incidence on different dates of sowings varied and ultimately reflecting the final yields under farmer fields. By keeping this in view to suggest a best sowing window where the crop would be less effect by the pests with estimated yields, a study has been taken up to observe the best sowing window where the final yields would be less affected by the pests and diseases.
Methods: The population dynamics of major insect pests of groundnut were investigated in five different dates of sowings at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem (PJTSAU), Nagarkurnool District, Telangana, during rabi, 2019-2021. During the study, the major insect pests viz., leaf miner, tobacco caterpillar, thrips, and leafhoppers were observed in all the sowing windows.
Results: The Spodoptera litura population initially appeared during 38th SMW. Among all the sowings, the highest infestation occurred in D3 (41.23%) during 48th SMW. Leaf miner incidence was confined to early stage of the crop which was started at 38th SMW and highest incidence of 5.0 webs/plt during 41st SMW in the D1. The maximum leafhoppers population was noticed at D4 (7.2 leafhoppers/plt) and D5 (7.3 leafhoppers/plt) during 50th and 51st SMW. While the highest thrips damage occurred in D3 (3.4 thrips damaged plt/5 plts) at 47th SMW. S. litura, leaf miner, and thrips showed a positive correlation with TmaxºC, TminºC, RH-I%, and RH-II% during D1 while the leafhoppers exhibited a positive association with Tmax°C, Tmin°C, RH-I% and a negative correlation with RH-II%. Overall, the study revealed that the D2 was the optimal sowing window with the lowest insect pest population and damage caused by them, while D3 showed the highest pest population among all the sowings.
Stimulatory Effect of ZnO Nanoparticles as a Nanofertilizer on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: Sumersinh Gelot , Chuodhary Roshan , Dudwal B. L. , Shivran A. C. , Meena Bolta Ram , Mittal G. K. , Kumhar B. L. , Choudhary Rajesh , Gunjan
Published: August 2024

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2023 at the Agronomy Farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Shri Karn Narendra Agricultural University, Jobner, Jaipur (Rajasthan). The experiment was conducted using randomized complete block design with nine different treatments and three replications. Among different soil and foliar treatments, application of seed priming with 800 ppm nano ZnO for 2 hours and foliar application of 600 ppm nano ZnO has recorded significantly higher growth parameters, grain, stover yield and higher net return of pearl millet which remained statistically at par with seed priming with 800 ppm nano ZnO for 2 hours along with foliar application of 500 ppm nano ZnO. These findings suggest that nano ZnO can be a valuable tool in sustainable agriculture practices, boosting crop productivity and nutritional value. Our results have important implications for improving food security and farm profitability.
Genetic Variability and Correlation of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Accessions for Yield and Related Traits
Authors: R Janaharshini , Velmurugan M. , Rani C. Indu , Venkatachalam S. R. , Saravanan P. A.
Published: August 2024

The study was carried out in Tapioca and Castor Research Station, Yethapur, India to study the Genetic Variability and Correlation of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) accessions for yield and related traits. Observations on quantitative and qualitative traits of cassava were recorded and the analysis of variability and association analysis were carried out. High Genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) were found for LAI, height at first branching, number of leaves per plant, number of tiers, yield of tuber per plant and severity scores of CMD whereas low GCV were found for Chlorophyll content. Phenotypic Coefficients of Variation were higher than Genotypic coefficients of Variation for all the observed characters.  Plant height, number of tiers, internodal length, number of leaves per plant, LAI, height at first branching, length of tubers, dry matter content, severity scores of CMD, tuber yield recorded high heritability with high GAM suggesting that these characters are under the additive gene control and selection for genetic improvement would be successful. Chlorophyll content, girth of tuber and starch content recorded high heritability coupled with moderate GAM whereas stem girth recorded moderate heritability and GAM which offers only less scope for selection that is due to non-additive gene actions. The correlation analysis results showed that yield of tuber per plant had high positive and high significant correlation with plant height, number of tubers per plant, starch content, length of tuber, girth of tuber and weight of tuber. Genetic variability and correlation analysis provides a knowledge which would be helpful in selecting the cassava accessions with greater yield potential.
Integrating Risk Management in Fintech and Traditional Financial Institutions through AI and Machine Learning
Authors: Abikoye Bibitayo Ebunlomo , Adelusi Wunmi , Umeorah Stanley Chidozie , Adelaja Adesola Oluwatosin , Agorbia-Atta Cedrick
Published: August 2024

The rapid evolution of financial technology (fintech) has significantly transformed the financial services landscape, creating opportunities for innovation and introducing new risks. Traditional financial institutions and fintech companies operate under different paradigms, resulting in disparate risk management practices. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework for integrating operations and risk management practices between traditional financial institutions and fintech companies. By leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), the framework aims to ensure consistent and effective risk assessment across the financial sector. The financial services industry is characterized by rapid innovation, primarily driven by fintech companies offering various services that enhance efficiency, accessibility, and customer satisfaction. However, the growth of fintech brings substantial risks, including cyber threats, data privacy concerns, regulatory compliance challenges, and operational vulnerabilities. Traditional financial institutions prioritize stability, security, and compliance within established risk management frameworks. The divergence in operational models and risk management approaches creates a fragmented risk landscape, posing significant challenges to the financial system's stability and security. This paper identifies the critical need for a unified framework integrating the risk management practices of traditional financial institutions and fintech companies. The proposed framework leverages AI and ML to enhance the accuracy and comprehensiveness of risk assessments, utilizing a centralized data repository for real-time risk assessment. Unified risk management policies covering cybersecurity, operational risk, regulatory compliance, financial crime, and real-time monitoring and reporting tools ensure robust risk management protocols and prompt response to potential risks. Aligning with regulatory requirements and incorporating best practices from both sectors, the integrated risk management approach enhances the financial ecosystem's stability, security, and public confidence.
Exploring the Antimicrobial Properties of Lemon: A Comparative Analysis of Peel, Seed, and Pulp
Authors: Sengupta Sudeshna , Pradhan Aheli , Biswas Sayantani , Bhattacharya Malavika
Published: August 2024

Aim: Lemons are a treasure trove in nature, belonging to the Rutaceae family and rich in vitamin C, as well as various macro and micronutrients. They are widely known for boosting immunity and can potentially be used as a natural source of medication. D-limonene is one of the main bioactive compounds present in lemons, and it is responsible for the refreshing fragrance of lemons. The study aims to identify whether the waste from lemons can be used as potential nutraceuticals or functional foods
Study Design: We took five different species for comparative antibacterial studies from Citrus species those are C. aurantifolia, C. limetta, C. sinensis, C.reticulata, and C. maxima.
Place and Duration of Study: Biotechnology lab, Techno India University, Kolkata. The duration of this study was 1 year.
Methodology: In this comparative study, the major parts (pulp, seed, and peel) of a fruit were used for the experiments. It is important to reduce the amount of waste in the environment by creating creative and cost-effective, eco-friendly waste management techniques. The antibacterial potential against E. coli and S. aureus was thoroughly measured using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.
Results: The results show that in the case of E. coli inhibition , the peels of C. reticulate (58.33 ±0.4 mm), the seeds of C. aurantifolia (58.33 ±0.4 mm), and the pulp of C. aurantifolia (55.33 ±2.94 mm)  perform well compared to other samples. In the case of S. aureus inhibition, the peels of C. limetta (51±1.41mm), the seeds of C. aurantiifolia (58.33 ±0.4 mm), and the pulp of C. aurantifolia (49±2.82mm) perform well compared to other samples.
Conclusion: Hence, the results indicate that PEELs can be potential antimicrobial agents and have discovered that various parts of the citrus fruit exhibit a wide range of antimicrobial effects against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
A statistical analysis of Pi2‐band waves in the plasma sheet and their relation to magnetospheric drivers
Authors: Wang G. Q. , Ge Y. S. , Zhang T. L. , Nakamura R. , Volwerk M. , Baumjohann W. , Du A. M. , Lu Q. M.
Published: March 2015

We use the Cluster data from 2001 to 2009 to investigate the occurrence of Pi2‐band waves in the plasma sheet. To study the generation mechanisms of these waves, we examine the association between Pi2‐band waves and dynamic processes in the plasma sheet (fast flows and substorm activity) and the direction of the solar wind velocity. For a total of 80 large‐amplitude Pi2‐band waves in the plasma sheet, we find that Cluster records fast flows during 62 events, 11 waves without fast flows occur during substorm time, 3 events occur when the solar wind velocity significantly changes its direction, and 4 events are not associated with any of the above activities. Most of the observed Pi2‐band waves are predominantly compressional, while 2 events are transverse. Based on this statistical study, we suggest that fast flows maybe the main driver of Pi2‐band waves/oscillations in the plasma sheet, especially considering that most of these waves are compressional. The relatively small number of other events indicates that other mechanisms also play a role in creating Pi2‐band waves/oscillations in the plasma sheet but are relatively rare. In all wave events of this study, the plasma pressure and magnetic pressure vary in antiphase, suggesting that these waves have the slow‐mode feature.
Field‐aligned neutral wind bias correction scheme for global ionospheric modeling at midlatitudes by assimilating FORMOSAT‐3/COSMIC hmF2 data under geomagnetically quiet conditions
Authors: Sun Yang‐Yi , Matsuo Tomoko , Maruyama Naomi , Liu Jann‐Yenq
Published: March 2015

This study demonstrates the usage of a data assimilation procedure, which ingests the FORMOSAT‐3/COSMIC (F3/C) hmF2 observations to correct the model wind biases to enhance the capability of the new global Ionosphere Plasmasphere Electrodynamics (IPE) model under geomagnetically quiet conditions. The IPE model is built upon the field line interhemispheric plasma model with a realistic geomagnetic field model and empirical model drivers. The hmF2 observed by the F3/C radio occultation technique is utilized to adjust global thermospheric field‐aligned neutral winds (i.e., a component of the thermospheric neutral wind parallel to the magnetic field) at midlatitudes according to a linear relationship between time differentials of the field‐aligned wind and hmF2. The adjusted winds are further applied to drive the IPE model. The comparison of the modeled electron density with the observations of F3/C and ground‐based GPS receivers at the 2012 March equinox suggests that the modeled electron density can be significantly improved in the midlatitude regions of the Southern Hemisphere, if the wind correction scheme is applied. Moreover, the F3/C observation, the IPE model, and the wind bias correction scheme are applied to study the 2012 Southern Hemisphere Midlatitude Summer Nighttime Anomaly (southern MSNA)/Weddell Sea Anomaly (WSA) event at December solstice for examining the role of the neutral winds in controlling the longitudinal variation of the southern MSNA/WSA behavior. With the help of the wind bias correction scheme, the IPE model better tracks the F3/C‐observed eastward movement of the southern MSNA/WSA feature. The apparent eastward movement of the southern MSNA/WSA features in the local time coordinate is primarily caused by the longitudinal variation in the declination angle of the geomagnetic field that controls the field‐aligned projection of both geographic meridional and zonal components of the neutral wind. Both the IPE simulations and the F3/C observations show the significant longitudinal variation in the speed of the eastward movement of the southern MSNA/WSA.
Accelerated glacier melt on Snow Dome, Mount Olympus, Washington, USA, due to deposition of black carbon and mineral dust from wildfire
Authors: Kaspari Susan , McKenzie Skiles S. , Delaney Ian , Dixon Daniel , Painter Thomas H.
Published: March 2015

Assessing the potential for black carbon (BC) and dust deposition to reduce albedo and accelerate glacier melt is of interest in Washington because snow and glacier melt are an important source of water resources, and glaciers are retreating. In August 2012 on Snow Dome, Mount Olympus, Washington, we measured snow surface spectral albedo and collected surface snow samples and a 7 m ice core. The snow and ice samples were analyzed for iron (Fe, used as a dust proxy) via inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometry, total impurity content gravimetrically, BC using a single‐particle soot photometer (SP2), and charcoal through microscopy. In the 2012 summer surface snow, BC (54 ± 50 µg/L), Fe (367±236 µg/L) and gravimetric impurity (35 ± 18 mg/L) concentrations were spatially variable, and measured broadband albedo varied between 0.67–0.74. BC and dust concentrations in the ice core 2011 summer horizon were a magnitude higher (BC = 3120 µg/L, Fe = 22000 µg/L, and gravimetric impurity = 1870 mg/L), corresponding to a modeled broadband albedo of 0.45 based on the measured BC and gravimetric impurity concentrations. The Big Hump forest fire is the likely source for the higher concentrations. Modeling constrained by measurements indicates that the all‐sky 12 h daily mean radiative forcings in summer 2012 and 2011 range between 37–53 W m−2 and 112–149 W m−2, respectively, with the greater forcings in 2011 corresponding to a 29–38 mm/d enhancement in snowmelt. The timing of the forest fire impurity deposition is coincident with an increase in observed discharge in the Hoh River, highlighting the potential for BC and dust deposition on glaciers from forest fires to accelerate melt.
Desert dust transported over Europe: Lidar observations and model evaluation of the radiative impact
Authors: Pitari Giovanni , Di Genova Glauco , Coppari Eleonora , De Luca Natalia , Di Carlo Piero , Iarlori Marco , Rizi Vincenzo
Published: March 2015

Three years of measurements of aerosol vertical profiles (2007–2009) made at the lidar station of L'Aquila, a site in central Italy that is part of the European Aerosol Research Lidar Network, are studied by means of well‐tested radiative transfer models to analyze the radiative impact of mineral dust aerosols transported from the Sahara desert. Sixteen major episodes of desert dust transport are considered; the radiative analysis is conducted in terms of diurnal averages of the top‐of‐atmosphere radiative flux changes (TOARFC) with respect to a reference “clean” aerosol profile not perturbed by long‐range transported desert particles. The aerosol size distribution, needed as an input parameter for the Mie scattering program to obtain single‐scattering albedo, asymmetry parameter, and extinction scaling over the whole wavelength spectrum, is obtained from simultaneous surface measurements with a multichannel aerosol spectrometer. The calculated average net TOARFC is +2.3 and +3.0 W/m2 in clear‐ and total‐sky conditions, respectively. Solar, planetary components account for −0.42 and +2.7 W/m2 in clear‐sky conditions and +0.93 and +2.1 W/m2 in total‐sky conditions, respectively. The large effective radius of these coarse mode soil dust particles (reff = 1.5 µm) makes the longwave planetary component of the TOARFC dominant over the solar component, at least for typical continental surface albedo values (0.18 on average, at L'Aquila). The solar component, however, shows a pronounced sensitivity to the surface albedo and becomes dominant over the longwave component for both an ocean albedo (0.07) and a typical surface‐snow albedo (0.4), with TOARFC values of −6.3 and +10.6 W/m2, respectively.
Learning Cities, Systems Change, and Community Engagement Scholarship
Authors: Fitzgerald Hiram E. , Zientek Renee
Published: March 2015

Learning cities/regions, as education systems, require the practice framework of community engagement scholarship that anchors systems change for data‐driven decision making.
Workplace, Organizational, and Societal: Three Domains of Learning for 21st‐Century Cities
Authors: Yorks Lyle , Barto Jody
Published: March 2015

Interconnections between workplace and organizational learning can highlight the ongoing changes taking place that prestage the need for learning cities and regions. The diverse institutions that comprise cities and regions can function as organizational learning mechanisms in the 21st century. Learning cities themselves can also be conceptualized as societal learning organizations.
Cognitive Load in Cross‐Modal Dual‐Task Processing
Authors: Morrison Natalie M. V. , Burnham Denis , Morrison Ben W.
Published: March 2015

Unitary‐resource models posit a collective attentional resource responsible for sustaining information processing across all modalities. In contrast, multiple‐resource models presume a system of modality‐independent resources. The two models predict similar within‐modal performance, but seemingly contradictory cross‐modal performance. Discordant outcomes in past research are here hypothesized to result from inconsistent levels of cognitive load imposed within experimental tasks. Participants monitored two simultaneously presented alphabetic letter arrays consisting of the serial presentation of a target and multiple distractors. The dual‐task design required the identification of targets in within‐modal and cross‐modal trials. Cognitive load was manipulated by altering the presentation rate of the letters. While cross‐modal performance was generally superior and cognitive load was associated with decreasing performance, the cross‐modal advantage prominent at low levels of cognitive load was absent under high cognitive load. Therefore, neither resource model can alone account for dual‐task processing, suggesting the role of a hierarchical resource model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changed Responses Under Cross‐examination: The Role of Anxiety and Individual Differences in Child Witnesses
Authors: Bettenay Caroline , Ridley Anne M. , Henry Lucy A. , Crane Laura
Published: March 2015

The present study explored whether levels of anxiety, and a range of individual differences measures (age, IQ and suggestibility), could predict performance during cross‐examination questioning. Eighty‐three children (aged 4–11 years) witnessed a staged event before being interviewed (3–6 days later) and cross‐examined (10 months later). Results demonstrated that cross‐examination induced a significant rise in anxiety levels. Further, recall of unchallenged details (based on children's initial testimony, which they reviewed prior to cross‐examination) and anxiety levels were the only significant predictors of cross‐examination performance. Further research is needed to explore the interrelationship between anxiety and other individual difference measures on cross‐examination performance, and to determine how to alleviate the anxiety of child witnesses (to enable them to achieve their best evidence in court). Preparation to ensure children understand the importance of attending to the recording of their original evidence may improve children's resilience under cross‐examination and reduce anxiety levels. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental Evaluation of Near‐ and Far‐Transfer Effects of an Adaptive Multicomponent Working Memory Training
Authors: Lange Stefanie , Süß Heinz‐Martin
Published: March 2015

An important question in cognitive science today is whether working memory training leads to transfer effects. Training studies reported no transfer as well as far transfer to untrained abilities (e.g., reasoning), but different methodological problems have not allowed reliable conclusions to be drawn. Furthermore, most samples have consisted of young adults, whereas older adults have rarely been included. This study attempted to address these limitations. Ninety‐one older adults were randomly assigned to a training group or an active or passive control group. Short‐term memory, speed, and reasoning were assessed as far‐transfer criteria. In addition, transfer to everyday life was investigated using an ambulatory assessment method. Although there were significant training effects, no transfer effects were found. Instead, the active control group showed the same increase in the near‐transfer tasks (i.e., working memory) as the experimental group indicating that unspecific factors explain the training gains of older adults. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Presence, Content, and Characteristics of Memories of Individuals with Dental Phobia
Authors: van Houtem Caroline M. H. H. , van Wijk Arjen J. , de Jongh Ad
Published: March 2015

Knowledge about memories of distressing events underlying fears and specific phobias is limited. This study assessed (1) the presence, content, and characteristics of memories of events that initiated or exacerbated dental anxiety levels; and (2) the relationship between dental trait anxiety and some key features of these memories. This study used a semi‐structured interview and included dental phobics (n = 42), subthreshold dental phobics (n = 41), and normal controls (n = 70). Dental phobics were more likely to report a memory underlying their anxiety than the normal controls. Moreover, dental phobics' memories were reported as more vivid, disturbing, and more intensely relived than the memories of the normal controls. Greater severity of dental trait anxiety was significantly associated with greater disturbance of patients' memories. The results suggest that memories of distressing events play a significant role in the development of dental phobia and that their characteristics are associated with severity of dental trait anxiety. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tryptophan C5‐, C6‐ and C7‐Prenylating Enzymes Displaying a Preference for C‐6 of the Indole Ring in the Presence of Unnatural Dimethylallyl Diphosphate Analogues
Authors: Winkelblech Julia , Liebhold Mike , Gunera Jakub , Xie Xiulan , Kolb Peter , Li Shu‐Ming
Published: March 2015

The behavior of four dimethylallyltryptophan synthases (DMATSs) (5‐DMATS and 5‐DMATSSc as tryptophan C5‐prenyltransferases, and 6‐DMATSSa and 6‐DMATSSv as C6‐prenyltransferases) and one L‐tyrosine prenyltransferase with a tryptophan C7‐prenyltransferase activity was investigated in the presence of two unnatural alkyl donors (methylallyl and 2‐pentenyl diphosphate) and one benzyl donor (benzyl diphosphate). Detailed biochemical investigations revealed the acceptance of these dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) analogues by all tested enzymes with different relative activities. Enzyme products with the allyl or benzyl moiety attached to different positions were identified in the reaction mixtures, whereby C‐6 alkylated or benzylated L‐tryptophan was found as one of the main products. This observation demonstrates a preference of the five prenyltransferases toward C‐6 of the indole ring in the presence of unnatural DMAPP derivatives. Molecular dynamics simulation experiments with a homologous model of 5‐DMATS explained well its reactions with methylallyl and 2‐pentenyl diphosphate. Furthermore this study expands significantly the potential usage of tryptophan prenylating enzymes as biocatalysts for Friedel–Crafts alkylation.

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Zinc‐Catalyzed Selective Reduction of Cyclic Imides with Hydrosilanes: Synthesis of ω‐Hydroxylactams
Authors: Ding Guangni , Lu Bin , Li Yuyuan , Wan Jun , Zhang Zhaoguo , Xie Xiaomin
Published: March 2015

Cyclic imides were selectively reduced to the corresponding ω‐hydroxylactams in high yields with (EtO)3SiH (triethoxysilane) or PMHS (polymethylhydrosiloxane) under catalysis of zinc diacetate dehydrate [Zn(OAc)2⋅2 H2O] (10%) and tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) (10%). This catalytic protocol showed good functional group tolerance as well as excellent regioselectivity for unsymmetrical imides bearing coordinating groups adjacent to the carbonyl.

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Copper‐Catalyzed N‐Aryl‐β‐enaminonitrile Synthesis Utilizing Isocyanides as the Nitrogen Source
Authors: Kim Seoksun , Hong Soon Hyeok
Published: March 2015

A novel synthetic protocol for N‐aryl‐β‐enaminonitriles, which are useful building blocks for heterocycle synthesis, was developed using isocyanides as the nitrogen source. Using copper‐catalyzed one‐step reactions between isocyanides and benzyl cyanides under mild conditions, diverse N‐aryl‐β‐enaminonitriles could be synthesized in excellent yields and with high atom‐efficiency. N‐Alkyl‐β‐enaminonitriles were also synthesized in good yields. A mechanism involving an imidoyl‐copper intermediate was proposed based on mechanistic studies and previous reports. In addition, we demonstrated that a synthesized N‐aryl‐β‐enaminonitrile could be utilized for the synthesis of a β‐keto nitrile compound and 3‐aminopyrazole.

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Enantioselective Organocatalyzed Oxa‐Michael–Aldol Cascade Reactions: Construction of Chiral 4H‐Chromenes with a Trifluoromethylated Tetrasubstituted Carbon Stereocenter
Authors: Zhang Jing , Ajitha Manjaly J. , He Lin , Liu Kai , Dai Bin , Huang Kuo‐Wei
Published: March 2015

The first organocatalytic asymmetric synthesis of 4H‐chromenes bearing a trifluoromethylated tetrasubstituted carbon center is presented. Chiral secondary amines promote the oxa‐Michael–aldol cascade reaction between alkynals and 2‐trifluoroacetylphenols via iminium–allenamine activation to produce pharmaceutically important heterocycles with excellent enantioselectivities. The proposed reaction can be scaled‐up easily with maintenance of the excellent enantioselectivity.

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Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Ethers Using Alcohols as Alkylating Reagents
Authors: Liu Yongxiang , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Yanshi , Du Chuan , Shi Hui , Jin Shengfei , Jiang Chongguo , Xiao Jianyong , Cheng Maosheng
Published: March 2015

A microwave‐irradiated alcohol‐protecting strategy based on gold catalysis utilizing benzyl alcohol, tert‐butyl alcohol and triphenylmethanol as alkylating reagents has been developed. This protecting strategy has wide functional group tolerance with satisfactory yields for the majority of the selected alcohols. The mechanism of this transformation was probed with oxygen‐18 isotope labelled alcohols assisted by GC‐MS techniques and chemical kinetic experiments. This strategy provides an efficient, straightforward and alternative approach to the preparation of benzyl, tert‐butyl and trityl ethers in organic synthesis.

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Experimental and linear analysis for the instability of non‐Newtonian liquid jets issuing from a pressurized vibrating nozzle
Authors: Rodríguez‐Rivero Cristina , Del Valle Eva M. M. , Galán Miguel A.
Published: March 2015

The laminar capillary breakup of viscoelastic jets to produce polymeric microcapsules is analyzed experimentally and theoretically. The phenomenon is based on subjecting a capillary jet to controlled disturbances so that it eventually breaks up forming individual droplets. A dispersion relation from a temporal linear analysis to describe and predict the system behavior that includes the Oldroyd‐B constitutive equation to take into account the viscoelasticity of the liquid is obtained. Dispersion curves relating growth rate and wavenumber of the perturbed jets are compared with experimental conditions and the chosen mathematical approach is found that fairly describes the system. The obtained dispersion relation eases the study of the effect of viscosity, elasticity, through relaxation times, and flow rate in the system. The approach allows finding the best conditions to obtain homogeneous droplets and describes the system qualitatively. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 2070–2078, 2015
A model for gas transport in microfractures of shale and tight gas reservoirs
Authors: Wu Keliu , Li Xiangfang , Wang Chenchen , Chen Zhangxin , Yu Wei
Published: March 2015

A model for gas transport in microfractures of shale and tight gas reservoirs is established. Slip flow and Knudsen diffusion are coupled together to describe general gas transport mechanisms, which include continuous flow, slip flow, transitional flow, and Knudsen diffusion. The ratios of the intermolecular collision frequency and the molecule‐wall collision frequency to the total collision frequency are defined as the weight coefficients of slip flow and Knudsen diffusion, respectively. The model is validated by molecular simulation results. The results show that: (1) the model can reasonably describe the process of the mass transform of different gas transport mechanisms; (2) fracture geometry significantly impacts gas transport. Under the same fracture aperture, the higher the aspect ratio is, the stronger the gas transport capacity, and this phenomenon is more pronounced in the cases with higher gas pressure and larger fracture aperture. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 2079–2088, 2015
An old kinetic method for a new polymerization mechanism: Toward photochemically mediated ATRP
Authors: Zhou Yin‐Ning , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: March 2015

With the idea of “an old method for a new mechanism,” a detailed kinetic insight into photochemically mediated atom‐transfer radical polymerization (photo ATRP) was presented through a validated comprehensive model. The simulation mimics the experimental results of the model system using optimized photochemically mediated radical generation rate coefficients. The activator and radical (re)generated from the photo mediated reactions endow the photo ATRP with unique features, such as rapid ATRP equilibrium and quick consumption of initiator with a small amount of residual. The effect of the reaction parameters on ATRP behaviors was also investigated. Results showed that the acceleration of polymerization rate follows the square root law in the following three cases: the overall photochemically mediated radical generation rate coefficients (kr), the free ligand concentration, and the initiator concentration. However, the independence of the apparent propagation rate coefficient (
) on the square root of catalyst concentration might be attributed to the result of the synergy between the activators regenerated by electron‐transfer ATRP and the initiators for continuous activator regeneration ATRP mechanism. The photo ATRP is able to design and prepare various polymers by carefully tuning the conditions using the model‐based optimization approach. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 1947–1958, 2015
Graded index photonic crystals: A review
Authors: Zhu Qingyi , Jin Lei , Fu Yongqi
Published: March 2015

A new type of photonic crystal (PC) named graded index (GRIN) PC was proposed by E. Centeno in 2005. It is obtained by appropriately modifying the parameters of a regular PC, thus resulting in gradual index variation. Many applications are inspired by this notion. This review will introduce different ways of designing GRIN PCs from both theoretical and experimental point of views. Some typical applications based on GRIN PCs are presented, followed by the focusing mechanism of GRIN PC.

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Carbon nanohorn‐graphene nanoplate hybrid: An excellent electrode material for supercapacitor application
Authors: Maiti Sandip , Das Amit Kumar , Karan Sumanta Kumar , Khatua Bhanu B.
Published: March 2015

This study describes the capacitor behavior of carbon nanohorn (CNH)/graphene nanoplate (GNP) hybrid (CNGN). The well‐CNH‐decorated GNP‐plate electrode materials show high capacitance value (≈677 F/g) and can be extensively used in new generation for energy storage. In the hybrid (CNGN), two nanofillers jointly affect the capacitance behavior and increase the capacitance value of the CNGN hybrid. Homogeneous coating of CNH over the GNP plate plays an effective role to enhance the capacitance behavior of the composite. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis of the composite confirmed the CNH coating on the GNP plate. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42118.
Structure–5‐HT Receptor Affinity Relationship in a New Group of 7‐Arylpiperazynylalkyl and 7‐Tetrahydroisoquinolinylalkyl Derivatives of 8‐Amino‐1,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐purine‐2,6(3H,7H)‐dione
Authors: Żmudzki Paweł , Chłoń‐Rzepa Grażyna , Bojarski Andrzej J. , Zygmunt Małgorzata , Kazek Grzegorz , Mordyl Barbara , Pawłowski Maciej
Published: March 2015

In our previous paper, we have reported that some 8‐alkoxy‐1,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐purine‐2,6(3H,7H)‐dione derivatives possessed high affinity and displayed agonistic activity for the serotonin 5‐HT1A receptor. In order to examine the influence of the substituent in the position 8 of the purine moiety on the affinity for the serotonin 5‐HT1A, 5‐HT2A, and 5‐HT7 receptors, a series of 7‐arylpiperazynylalkyl and 7‐tetrahydroisoquinolinylalkyl (THIQ) derivatives of 8‐amino‐1,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐purine‐2,6(3H,7H)‐dione were synthesized. All the final compounds were investigated in in vitro competition binding experiments for serotonin 5‐HT1A, 5‐HT2A, and 5‐HT7 receptors. The structure–affinity relationships for this group of compounds were discussed. For selected compounds, functional assays for the 5‐HT1A receptor were carried out. The results of the assays indicated that these groups of derivatives possessed antagonistic activity for this receptor.
Planned or Emergent Strategy Making? Exploring the Formation of Corporate Sustainability Strategies
Authors: Neugebauer Friederike , Figge Frank , Hahn Tobias
Published: March 2015

In strategy research, there is a consensus that strategy making resides on a continuum from planned to emergent where most strategies are made in a mixed way. Different contingency factors have been suggested to explain the factors that influence strategy making. Sustainability research seems to overlook most of this development and assumes instead that sustainability strategies are made in a purely planned way. We contribute to a better understanding of the role of different strategy making modes for sustainability in three ways. First, we point to the bias towards planned strategy formation in sustainability research. Second, we propose a new contingency factor to help explain sustainability strategy making based on the nature of the problem addressed. Third, we discuss strategy making for different types of sustainability problems. We argue that planned strategy making is expected for salient and non‐wicked problems while emergent strategy making is likely for non‐salient and wicked problems. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Bioprospection of Cytotoxic Compounds in Fungal Strains Recovered from Sediments of the Brazilian Coast
Authors: Rodrigues Bárbara S. F. , Sahm Bianca D. B. , Jimenez Paula C. , Pinto Francisco C. L. , Mafezoli Jair , Mattos Marcos C. , Rodrigues‐Filho Edson , Pfenning Ludwig H. , Abreu Lucas M. , Costa‐Lotufo Letícia V. , Oliveira Maria C. F.
Published: March 2015

The cytotoxic activities of extracts (50 μg/ml) from 48 fungal strains, recovered from sediments of Pecém's offshore port terminal (Northeast coast of Brazil), against HCT‐116 colon cancer cell lines were investigated. The most promising extract was obtained from strain BRF082, identified as Dichotomomyces cejpii by phylogenetic analyses of partial RPB2 gene sequence. Thus, it was selected for bioassay‐guided isolation of the cytotoxic compounds. Large‐scale fermentation of BRF082 in potato dextrose broth, followed by chromatographic purification of the bioactive fractions from the liquid medium, yielded gliotoxin (4) and its derivatives acetylgliotoxin G (3), bis(dethio)bis(methylsulfanyl)gliotoxin (1), acetylgliotoxin (5), 6‐acetylbis(dethio)bis(methylsulfanyl)gliotoxin (2), besides the quinazolinone alkaloid fiscalin B. All isolated compounds were tested for their cytotoxicities against the tumor cell lines HCT‐116, revealing 4 and 3 as the most cytotoxic ones (IC50 0.41 and 1.06 μg/ml, resp.).
A Comparative Study on Hulled Adlay and Unhulled Adlay through Evaluation of Their LPS‐Induced Anti‐Inflammatory Effects, and Isolation of Pure Compounds
Authors: Choi Goeun , Han Ah‐Reum , Lee Joo Hee , Park Ji‐Youn , Kang Unwoo , Hong Jongki , Kim Yeong Shik , Seo Eun‐Kyoung
Published: March 2015

Coicis semen (=the hulled seed of Coix lacryma‐jobi L. var. ma‐yuen (Rom.Caill.) Stapf; Gramineae), commonly known as adlay and Job's tears, is widely used in traditional medicine and as a nutritious food. Bioassay‐guided fractionation of the AcOEt fraction of unhulled adlays, using measurement of nitric oxide (NO) production on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, led to the isolation and identification of two new stereoisomers, (+)‐(7′S,8′R,7″S,8″R)‐guaiacylglycerol β‐O‐4′‐dihydrodisinapyl ether (1) and (+)‐(7′S,8′R,7″R,8″R)‐guaiacylglycerol β‐O‐4′‐dihydrodisinapyl ether (2), together with six known compounds, 3–8. Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited inhibitory activities on LPS‐induced NO production with IC50 values of 1.4 and 3.7 μM, respectively, and suppressed inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein expressions in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Simple high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC/UV) was used to compare the AcOEt fraction of unhulled adlays responsible for the anti‐inflammatory activity in RAW 264.7 cells and the inactive AcOEt fraction of hulled adlays.
From the Sequence to the Conformation of the Unabridged Transmembrane Domains TM1 and TM2 of the cASIC1a Ion Channel – A Parallel Tempering Approach
Authors: Pietra Francesco
Published: March 2015

This work was devised to unravel, along replica‐exchange molecular‐dynamics (REMD) simulations, the conformation in solution of the TM1 and TM2 transmembrane domains of the homotrimeric cASIC1a ion channel. This includes the head of TM1 and tail of TM2 that had previously defied X‐ray diffraction analysis in the crystal. The structure of the open‐channel complex of cASIC1a with psalmotoxin 1 (PcTx1) was chosen here as a basis, although, to make the simulations affordable, the procedure was limited to the missing portions, including a few adjacent α‐helical turns. The latter were held fixed during the simulations. Reassembling the whole subunit, by superimposition of the fixed portions, resulted in diving of both TM1 and TM2 as continuous α‐helices into the cytoplasm. At completion of this work, it appeared, from similar X‐ray diffraction studies, that TM2 for both the complex of cASIC1a with the coral snake MitTx toxin, and the isolated desensitized ion channel, is discontinuous, with the triad G443‐A444‐S445 taking an extended, belt‐like conformation. In this way, a filter ring against hydrated ions is formed by G443 in the trimer. Our REMD examination of this complex revealed a strong resistance by G443, and only that residue, to take dihedral‐angle values compatible with an α‐helical conformation. This suggests that the flexibility of glycine alone does not explain formation of the extended, belt‐like conformation of the triad G443‐A444‐S445. This also requires cooperation in the trimer.