bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into In Vitro Binding of Parecoxib to Human Serum Albumin by Spectroscopic Methods
Authors: Shang Shujun , Liu Qingling , Gao Jiandong , Zhu Yulin , Liu Jingying , Wang Kaiyan , Shao Wei , Zhang Shudong
Published: June 2014

Herein, we report the effect of parecoxib on the structure and function of human serum albumin (HSA) by using fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), three‐dimensional (3D) fluorescence spectroscopy, and molecular docking techniques. The Stern–Volmer quenching constants KSV and the corresponding thermodynamic parameters ΔH, ΔG, and ΔS have been estimated by the fluorescence quenching method. The results indicated that parecoxib binds spontaneously with HSA through van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds with binding constant of 3.45 × 104 M−1 at 298 K. It can be seen from far‐UV CD spectra that the α‐helical network of HSA is disrupted and its content decreases from 60.5% to 49.6% at drug:protein = 10:1. Protein tertiary structural alterations induced by parecoxib were also confirmed by FTIR and 3D fluorescence spectroscopy. The molecular docking study indicated that parecoxib is embedded into the hydrophobic pocket of HSA.
Business Pitfalls in Relying on IT
Authors: Le Guyader Louis P.
Published: June 2014

Everyone knows that modern business depends on information technology (IT). But have we overlooked some basic problems?
Pilot‐scale electrochemical oxidation combined with constructed wetland system for unconventional surface water treatment
Authors: Wang Chunrong , Zhang Mengru , Ye Min , Wang Jie , Li Guiwei
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

Wenyu River is a typical unconventional surface water due to receiving effluent from wastewater treatment plants. Its water is of poor biodegradability and low carbon–nitrogen ratio, thus it is difficult to meet III Grade of Surface Water Quality Standard of China using conventional biological treatment technology for its remediation. In addition, total nitrogen is strictly required to be less than 15 mg L−1.

RESULTS

A novel pilot‐scale hybrid system, electrochemical oxidation and constructed wetland, has been developed for nitrogen and carbon removal from Wenyu River, focusing on NH4+‐N, TN, COD and BOD5 removal operation over 162 days with average effluent value of 0.44, 10.37, 18.3 and 4.0 mg L−1, respectively. Average value of BOD5/TN and BOD5/COD was enhanced from 0.65 to 0.97 and from 0.36 to 0.52, respectively, by electrochemical oxidation, NH4+‐N removal mainly contributed to indirect oxidation of chlorine ion in the unit. Meanwhile, based on data at a voltage of 6 V, the operating cost of this hybrid system was estimated to be 0.89 RMB m−3 with an energy consumption of 38.4 kWh kg−1COD in the pretreatment unit.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible to apply the hybrid system for unconventional surface water treatment and to achieve acceptable effluent quality and steady process performance. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Teaching Creativity in Engineering Courses
Authors: Daly Shanna R. , Mosyjowski Erika A. , Seifert Colleen M.
Published: June 2014

Background

The ability to engage in a creative process to solve a problem or to design a novel artifact is essential to engineering as a profession. Research indicates a need for curricula that enhance students' creative skills in engineering.

Purpose

Our purpose was to document current practices in engineering pedagogy with regard to opportunities for students' creative growth by examining learning goals, instructional methods, and assessments focused on cognitive creative skills.

Design/Method

We conducted a critical case study of engineering pedagogy at a single university with seven engineering courses where instructors stated the goal of fostering creativity. Data included instructor and student interviews, student surveys, and course materials. For qualitative analysis, we used frameworks by Treffinger, Young, Selby, and Shepardson and by Wiggins and McTighe.

Results

One aspect of creativity, convergent thinking (including analysis and evaluation), was well represented in the engineering courses in our case study. However, instruction on generating ideas and openness to exploring ideas was less often evident. For many of the creative skills, especially those related to divergent thinking and idea exploration, assessments were lacking.

Conclusions

An analysis of pedagogy focused on goals, instruction, and assessments in the engineering curriculum revealed opportunities for growth in students' creative skill development. Designing assessments that motivate students to improve their creative skills and to become more aware of their own creative process is a key need in engineering pedagogy.
Validation of the Teaching Engineering Self‐Efficacy Scale for K‐12 Teachers: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Yoon Yoon So , Evans Miles G. , Strobel Johannes
Published: June 2014

Background

Teacher self‐efficacy has received attention because of its direct relationship with teachers' classroom behaviors. Since engineering has been increasingly introduced in K‐12 (precollege) education, development of an instrument to measure teachers' self‐efficacy in the context of teaching engineering has been needed.

Purpose (Hypothesis)

This study reports the development and validation of the Teaching Engineering Self‐Efficacy Scale (TESS) for K‐12 teachers.

Design/Method

The items for the TESS were constructed through a comprehensive review of the literature regarding K‐12 engineering education, the development of teachers' self‐efficacy instruments in STEM areas, and K‐12 teachers' reflections on integrating engineering into their classrooms. During the content and face validity process, we used structural equation modeling to identify and confirm the factor structure of the TESS, and used item‐analyses for reliability evidence.

Results

With data from 434 teachers in 19 states, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses using structural equation modeling resulted in the TESS consisting of 23 items loading across four factors: engineering pedagogical content knowledge, engineering engagement, engineering disciplinary self‐efficacy, and outcome expectancy. Cronbach's α ranged from 0.89 to 0.96 and exhibited high internal consistency reliability coefficients for the TESS.

Conclusions

Teacher self‐efficacy is a situation‐specific construct because teachers' efficacy beliefs depend on the content area and teaching environment. Use of the TESS, as an instrument tailored for the engineering teaching context, can contribute to the literature on K‐12 engineering education and improve the teaching of precollege engineering.
Hydrogen sulfide treatment induces angiogenesis after cerebral ischemia
Authors: Jang Hyunduk , Oh Mi‐Young , Kim Young‐Ju , Choi In‐Young , Yang Hye sung , Ryu Wi‐Sun , Lee Seung‐Hoon , Yoon Byung‐Woo
Published: June 2014

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a potent vasodilator and regulates cardiovascular homeostasis. Furthermore, H2S has a crucial role in ischemia−reperfusion injuries, especially of the heart, liver, and kidneys. This study indicates that treatment with hydrogen sulfide is able to restore neurological function after ischemic stroke by promoting angiogenesis. Treatment with H2S augments angiogenesis in the peri‐infarct area, and it significantly improves functional outcomes after 2 weeks in a rat MCAO model. H2S promotes the phosphorylation of AKT and ERK and increases the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin‐1 (Ang‐1). H2S‐treated rats showed more newly synthesized endothelial cells in the ischemic lesion (2.31‐fold, P < 0.01). H2S‐treated astrocytes increased VEGF and Ang‐1 expression, and the inhibition of phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling by LY294002 significantly reduced H2S‐induced VEGF and Ang‐1 expression in astrocytes. Finally, H2S stimulated endothelial cell migration (3.92‐fold increase in wound healing assay) and tube formation (3.69‐fold increase, P < 0.001) through PI3K/AKT signaling. In conclusion, treatment with H2S promotes angiogenesis and thereby contributes to improvement of functional outcome after cerebral ischemia. Our findings strongly suggest that H2S may be of value in regenerative recovery after stroke. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Empirical Analysis of Synthesizing the Effects of Festival Quality, Emotion, Festival Image and Festival Satisfaction on Festival Loyalty: A Case Study of Macau Food Festival
Authors: Wong Jose , Wu Hung‐Che , Cheng Ching‐Chan
Published: June 2014

This study aims to examine the interrelationships among the festival quality dimensions, festival quality, emotion, festival image, festival satisfaction and festival loyalty. Analysis of data from 454 attendees in the 12th Macau Food Festival indicates that the proposed model fits the data. The result of this study will assist festival management in developing and implementing market‐orientated service strategies to increase quality and image, and enhance the emotion and satisfaction of attendees in order to attain their loyalty toward food festivals. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cost‐effectiveness of the endoscopic versus microscopic approach for pituitary adenoma resection
Authors: Rudmik Luke , Starreveld Yves P. , Vandergrift William A. , Banglawala Sarfaraz M. , Soler Zachary M.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of an endoscopic versus microscopic approach to pituitary adenoma resection.

Study Design

Markov decision tree economic evaluation.

Methods

An economic evaluation using a Markov decision tree model was performed. The economic perspective was that of the healthcare third‐party payer. Effectiveness and probability data were obtained from a single meta‐analysis of 38 studies. Costs were obtained from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database and wholesale pharmaceutical pricing. Multiple sensitivity analyses were performed including a probabilistic sensitivity analysis. Comparative treatment groups were: 1) endoscopic approach and 2) microscopic approach to pituitary adenoma resection. The primary outcome was cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY). The time horizon was 25 years, and costs were discounted at a rate of 3.5%.

Results

The endoscopic approach cost a total of $17,244.63 and produced a total of 24.30 QALYs. The microscopic approach cost a total of $23,756.60 and produced a total of 24.20 QALYs. In the reference case, the endoscopic approach was a dominant intervention (both less costly and more effective); therefore, an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was not calculated. The sensitivity analysis demonstrated 79% certainty that the endoscopic approach is the cost‐effective decision, at a willingness to pay threshold of $50,000 per QALY.

Conclusions

This economic evaluation suggests that the endoscopic approach is the more cost‐effective intervention compared to the microscopic approach for patients requiring a pituitary adenoma resection.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:16–24, 2015
Incremental and comparative health care expenditures for head and neck cancer in the United States
Authors: Dwojak Sunshine M. , Bhattacharyya Neil
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Determine the incremental costs associated with head and neck cancer (HNCa) and compare the costs with other common cancers.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of a healthcare expenditure database.

Methods

The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey is a national survey of US households. All cases of HNCa were extracted for 2006, 2008, and 2010. The incremental expenditures associated with HNCa were determined by comparing the healthcare expenditures of individuals with HNCa to the population without cancer, controlling for age, sex, education, insurance status, marital status, geographic region, and comorbidities. Healthcare expenditures for HNCa were then compared to individuals with lung cancer and colon cancer to determine relative healthcare expenditures.

Results

An estimated 264,713 patients (annualized) with HNCa were identified. The mean annual healthcare expenditures per individual for HNCa were $23,408 ± $3,397 versus $3,860 ± $52 for those without cancer. The mean adjusted incremental cost associated with HNCa was $15,852 ± $3,297 per individual (P < .001). Within this incremental cost, there was an increased incremental outpatient services cost of $3,495 ± $1,044 (P = .001) and an increased incremental hospital inpatient cost of $6,783 ± $2,894 (P = .020) associated with HNCa. The annual healthcare expenditures per individual fell in between those for lung cancer ($25,267 ± $2,375, P = .607) and colon cancer ($16,975 ± $1,291, P = .055).

Conclusions

Despite its lower relative incidence, HNCa is associated with a significant incremental increase in annual healthcare expenditures per individual, which is comparable to or higher than other common cancers. In aggregate, the estimated annual costs associated with HNCa are $4.20 billion.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope 124:2305–2308, 2014
Synthesis of triblock and multiblock methacrylate polymers and self‐assembly of stimuli responsive triblock polymers
Authors: Chin Stacey M. , He Hongkun , Konkolewicz Dominik , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: June 2014

Multisegmented poly(methacrylate)s were synthesized using one pot reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. Initially, a series of triblock copolymers were synthesized with different ratios of trimethylsilyl methacrylate, di(ethylene oxide) methacrylate, and oligo(ethylene oxide) methacrylate, and different total polymer molecular weights. Additionally, a polymer containing seven distinct blocks of methacrylic monomers was synthesized in one pot. For the triblock copolymers, the trimethylsilyl group was subsequently hydrolyzed, and the self‐assembly of the triblock copolymer was studied in water, under different pH and thermal conditions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 2548–2555
Relationships among attention function, exercise, and body mass index: a comparison between young breast cancer survivors and acquaintance controls
Authors: Pradhan Kamnesh R. , Stump Timothy E. , Monahan Patrick , Champion Victoria
Published: June 2014

Objective

Although regular physical activity is associated with lower all‐cause and disease‐specific mortality among breast cancer survivors (BCS), most BCS do not meet its recommended guidelines. Attention function, a domain of cognition, is essential for daily tasks such as exercising, a form of planned physical activity. We tested the hypotheses that lower self‐reported attention function in BCS would be associated with less exercise and higher body mass index (BMI) by comparing a group of 505 young BCS (45 years or younger at diagnosis and 3–8 years post‐treatment) with 466 acquaintance controls (AC).

Methods

The groups were compared on self‐reported physical and psychological outcomes. Mplus software was used to perform confirmatory structural equation modeling with a robust maximum likelihood estimator to evaluate hypothesized relationships among variables. The criteria for good model fit were having root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) < 0.06, comparative fit index (CFI) > 0.95, and standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) < 0.08. Modification indices were used to better fit the model.

Results

The final model demonstrated good fit, with RMSEA = 0.05, CFI = 0.98, and SRMR = 0.03. After controlling for demographics, parameter estimates revealed that, compared with AC, young BCS reported worse attention function (p < 0.001), more depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), and more fatigue (p < 0.001). Controlling for fatigue, depression, and anxiety, better attention function was associated with a greater likelihood of exercise in the past 3 months (p = 0.039), which in turn was associated with a lower BMI (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The significant association between attention function and physical activity, if confirmed in a longitudinal study, will provide new targets for interventions aimed at improving physical activity and decreasing BMI among BCS. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of Active Cap Materials for Metal Retention in Sediments
Authors: Knox Anna Sophia , Paller Michael Huntz , Dixon Kenneth Lamar
Published: June 2014

This study evaluated chemically active amendments used to construct active caps for remediating contaminated sediments. Three experiments assessed the effects of apatite, organoclay, zeolite, and biopolymers (chitosan and xanthan) on metal mobility, retention, and speciation. The first showed that the amendments individually and in mixtures (2 percent dry weight) reduced the concentrations of Cr, Co, Ni, and Pb in water extracts from reduced sediment. The second experiment, which used sequential extraction procedures to evaluate the effects of the amendments on metal speciation, showed that the amendments reduced the potentially mobile fractions of Pb, Zn, Ni, Cr, and Cd that are likely to be bioavailable. Last, column studies showed that active caps composed of the amendments prevented the diffusive transport of metals from contaminated sediment over six months. In addition, there was a “zone of influence” beneath the caps in which water extractable concentrations of metals declined substantially compared with untreated sediment. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of Performance Models in Restoration Projects
Authors: Dawson Gaynor , McKeon Tom
Published: June 2014

Environmental restoration projects can benefit from using performance models tied to monitoring plans and closure/exit strategies. Theoretical aspects are discussed and a case study is provided to illustrate how models can be developed and applied. Recognizing that site characterization cannot remove all uncertainty, most performance models cannot be narrowly developed (e.g., specific concentrations expected over time). Instead they must define threshold values at which performance data indicate the remedy is failing, or at least is not operating at the required level to achieve objectives within a reasonable timeframe. Ultimately, the performance model should be transformed to a closure model. The closure model is intended to document how closure was achieved and what measures remain in place to ensure protection of human health and the environment. In this context, the performance model is an intermediate step in the sequence starting from a conceptual site model and ending as the closure model. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Environmental Effects Monitoring in Sydney Harbor During Remediation of One of Canada's Most Polluted Sites: A Review and Lessons Learned
Authors: Walker Tony R.
Published: June 2014

This article reviews a comprehensive marine environmental effects monitoring program (MEEMP) comprised of components capable of detecting changes in the marine environment over short or extended temporal scales during remediation of one of Canada's most polluted sites at the Sydney Tar Ponds. The monitoring components included: water and sediment quality, amphipod toxicity testing, mussel tissue, crab hepatopancreas tissue, and benthic community assessments. The MEEMP was designed to verify the impact predictions for the remediation project (i.e., no immediate damage to the marine ecosystem through remediation activities). Some components were capable of providing conclusive data (e.g., sediment and water quality), while others only yielded data that were inconclusive or difficult to attribute to remediation activities (e.g., intertidal community assessments and amphipod toxicity testing). Components that provided only inconclusive results or were difficult to attribute to remediation activities were discontinued, resulting in substantial cost savings during the project, but without compromising the overall objectives of the program, which was to monitor for potential adverse environmental effects of remediation on the marine environment in Sydney Harbor and to verify environmental effects predictions made in the Environmental Impact Statement for the project. The rationale for discontinuing certain MEEMP components and discussion of conclusive results are incorporated into “lessons learned” for environmental remediation practitioners and regulators working on similar large‐scale multiyear remediation projects. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Statistical analysis with missing exposure data measured by proxy respondents: a misclassification problem within a missing‐data problem
Authors: Shardell Michelle , Hicks Gregory E.
Published: June 2014

In studies of older adults, researchers often recruit proxy respondents, such as relatives or caregivers, when study participants cannot provide self‐reports (e.g., because of illness). Proxies are usually only sought to report on behalf of participants with missing self‐reports; thus, either a participant self‐report or proxy report, but not both, is available for each participant. Furthermore, the missing‐data mechanism for participant self‐reports is not identifiable and may be nonignorable. When exposures are binary and participant self‐reports are conceptualized as the gold standard, substituting error‐prone proxy reports for missing participant self‐reports may produce biased estimates of outcome means. Researchers can handle this data structure by treating the problem as one of misclassification within the stratum of participants with missing self‐reports. Most methods for addressing exposure misclassification require validation data, replicate data, or an assumption of nondifferential misclassification; other methods may result in an exposure misclassification model that is incompatible with the analysis model. We propose a model that makes none of the aforementioned requirements and still preserves model compatibility. Two user‐specified tuning parameters encode the exposure misclassification model. Two proposed approaches estimate outcome means standardized for (potentially) high‐dimensional covariates using multiple imputation followed by propensity score methods. The first method is parametric and uses maximum likelihood to estimate the exposure misclassification model (i.e., the imputation model) and the propensity score model (i.e., the analysis model); the second method is nonparametric and uses boosted classification and regression trees to estimate both models. We apply both methods to a study of elderly hip fracture patients. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Classification of Mill Scale Defects
Authors: Lechwar Szymon , Rauch Łukasz , Pietrzyk Maciej
Published: June 2014

The subject of the work was to design and implement classification model for various kinds of mill scales recognition at typical hot rolling mill (HRM). Input data were measured by the automatic surface inspection system, which provided numerous features describing single image, considered as a defect. The data were analyzed by using feature selection methods. Afterwards, determined most important subsets of features, were applied to build scale classification models. The most efficient model and its key variables were used to distinguish different kinds of scales. Implementation of the model in production system allowed to show a gain of overall mill scales classification accuracy. In the paper, the main attention is put on the research methodology and artificial intelligence (AI) methods used to classify scale defects.
Further investigation of transverse stresses and bursting forces in post‐tensioned anchorage zones
Authors: Zhou Lin‐Yun , Liu Zhao , He Zhi‐Qi
Published: June 2014

In the post‐tensioned anchorage zone, the load transfer path of an anchor force can be visualized by an infinite number of isostatic lines of compression (ILCs). The method was initially proposed by Guyon and recently attracted significant interest from a number of researchers. Based on the work of these predecessors, an updated mathematical model has been proposed in order to analyse the bursting forces and the distribution of transverse stresses in the anchorage zone. Compared with the results of a finite element analysis, the updated equations are more accurate than the previous ones. Based on the observation that the sixth‐order polynomial expression is better than the fourth‐order one, as far as the solution of bursting stresses is concerned, it can be reasonably postulated that a de facto function of the ILCs must exist. Additionally, it is equally interesting that the bursting forces derived with the updated analytical model are the same as those obtained with the formula in the current AASHTO‐LRFD Bridge Design Specifications based on numerical stress analyses.
Second generation Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics
Authors: Kühne Thomas D.
Published: June 2014

Computer simulation methods, such as Monte Carlo or molecular dynamics, are very powerful theoretical techniques to provide detailed and essentially exact informations on rather complex classical many‐body problems. With the advent of ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), where finite‐temperature dynamical trajectories are generated using interatomic forces which are calculated on the fly using accurate electronic structure calculations, the scope of computational research has been greatly extended. This review is intended to outline the basic principles as well as being a survey of the field. Beginning with the derivation of Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics, the Car–Parrinello method and the recently devised Car–Parrinello‐like approach to Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics, which unifies the best of both schemes are discussed. The predictive power of the latter second‐generation Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics approach is demonstrated by several applications ranging from liquid metals to semiconductors and water. This development allows for ab initio simulations on much larger length and timescales than previously thought feasible.

This article is categorized under:

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Reaction Dynamics and Kinetics
Bayesian structural equation model
Authors: Lee Sik‐Yum , Song Xin‐Yuan
Published: June 2014

Latent variables that should be measured by multiple observed variable are common in substantive research. Structural equation models (SEMs), which can be regarded as regression models with observed and latent variables, are useful models to assess interrelationships among these variables and have been widely applied to many fields. When applied with data augmentation and recent techniques in statistical computing, the Bayesian approach has been found to be a powerful tool for analysing many important extensions of the basic SEMs. Here, we introduce the basic SEM, present a brief discussion on the Bayesian approach and illustrate it with a simulation study, and review some recent extension, such as two‐level SEMs, transformation SEMs, and nonparametric SEMs. WIREs Comput Stat 2014, 6:276–287. doi: 10.1002/wics.1311

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Bayesian Methods and Theory
Association of sociodemographic and clinical factors with the self-image and self-esteem of individuals with intestinal stoma
Authors: Salomé Geraldo Magela , de Almeida Sergio Aguinaldo
Published: June 2014

Objective To evaluate the clinical and sociodemographic factors and correlate them to the self-image and self-esteem.

Methods A study conducted at Ostomy Pole of PousoAlegre. The data were collected between December 2012 and May 2013. This was a non-probabilistic, by convenience, sample. For data collection, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale/UNIFESP-EPM and Body Investment Scale were used. For statistical analysis, chi-squared test, Kruskal–Wallis test and Spearman correlation were used. Levels of significance of 5% (p
≤ 0.05) were considered.

Results Participants had a mean score of 10.81 in the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale/UNIFESP. Regarding Body Investment Scale results, the mean total score was 38.79; the mean in the domain of body image was 7.74, and for personal touch, 21.31. When comparing data related to the stoma and sociodemographic profiles with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale/UNIFESP and Body Investment Scale, we realize that all patients demonstrated a decrease in self-esteem and self-image. Individuals were over 60 years old, male, retired, married and were not participants in support group/association. With regard to the characteristics of the stoma, those permanent colostomized had as causes of stoma implementation inflammatory disease and neoplasia; stomata measured between 20 and 40 mm; these people used two-piece devices. People who have not been notified that would be subjected to the stoma and in whom no demarcation was done showed worsening in self-esteem and self-image in relation to other features related to injury and sociodemographic data.

Conclusion Patients who participated in this study had low self-image and self-esteem in all characteristics of the stoma and in sociodemographic data, meaning that these individuals had negative feelings about their own bodies.
PROSPECTING CYANOBACTERIA-FORTIFIED COMPOSTS AS PLANT GROWTH PROMOTING AND BIOCONTROL AGENTS IN COTTON
Authors: PRASANNA RADHA , BABU SANTOSH , BIDYARANI NGANGOM , KUMAR ARUN , TRIVENI SODIMALLA , MONGA DILIP , MUKHERJEE ARUP KUMAR , KRANTHI SANDHYA , GOKTE-NARKHEDKAR NANDINI , ADAK ANURUP , YADAV KULDEEP , NAIN LATA , SAXENA ANIL KUMAR
Published: June 2014

The potential of cyanobacteria-based compost formulations was evaluated in cotton crop at two agro-ecological locations (Nagpur and Sirsa) as plant growth promoting (PGP) and biocontrol agents. Compost-based formulations fortified withCalothrixsp. orAnabaenasp. enhanced germination and fresh weight of plants, and microbiological activity by 10–15%, besides increased available nitrogen (by 20–50%) in soil at Nagpur. In the fungi-infected fields at Sirsa,Anabaena–T. viridebiofilmed formulation performed the best, recording 11.1% lower plant mortality than commercialTrichodermaformulation. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the colonisation of inoculated cyanobacteria/biofilms on roots. Significant correlation between mortality, increased activity of hydrolytic enzymes and fresh weight of plant roots were recorded.Calothrixsp. andAnabaenasp. proved promising as both PGP and biocontrol agents, while biofilmed formulations substantially reduced mortality of cotton plants in sick plots. This study illustrates the promise of cyanobacteria as viable inoculation option for integrated nutrient and pest management strategies of cotton.
The reproductive biology of the grey triggerfish Balistes capriscus (Pisces: Balistidae) in the Gulf of Gabès (south-eastern Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Kacem Hichem , Neifar Lassâd
Published: June 2014

Fundamental information on the reproductive biology of the grey triggerfish Balistes capriscus from the Gulf of Gabès (south-eastern Mediterranean Sea) is based on 751 specimens, collected between June 2005 and May 2010, from commercial catches at different fishing ports at Chebba (34°14′N 11°06′E), Kerkennah (34°45′N 11°17′E) and Zarzis (33°41′N 11°48′E). The species were caught in this area using pelagic trawl nets. The calculation of the gonadosomatic index suggested that the spawning season of grey triggerfish occurred mainly between July and mid-September with a peak in July, coinciding with summer time. The first maturation occurred at 20.26 cm fork length for females and 21.3 cm fork length for males. The monthly values of hepatosomatic index and condition factor (K) indicated that the liver was the most severely stressed organ in the reproduction process of energy transfer. The absolute fecundity (F) ranged from 290,120 to 984,990 eggs per female. The fecundity of the species was determined by the size and weight of the individuals.
On a find of a Preboreal domestic dog (Canis familiaris L.) from Star Carr, Yorkshire, with remarks on other Mesolithic dogs
Authors: Degerbøl Magnus
Published: June 2014

The acquisition of domestic animals was an epoch-making event in cultural evolution. When did man arrive at such a cultural standard that he was able to live in fairly peaceful coexistence with wild animals, and start the process of taming which finally produced genuine tame or domestic animals? It appears that for hundreds of thousands of years man lived as food-gatherer, hunter or fisherman without domestic animals of any kind. At least the presence of domestic animals was not shown in any of the many palaeolithic settlements known today, nor from the palaeolithic cave-drawings. Only from the Mesolithic is there the first certain, but weak evidence of any domestic animal and the finds show that the dog was among the first animals to be domesticated and attached to human settlements.

Among the oldest and best-known skeletal material of the domestic dog are the Danish finds from the Maglemosian settlements from the bogs at Mullerup, Svaerdborg, Holmegaard, Lundby and Aamosen near Halleby river, all in Zealand. Very few dog bones were found, although tens of thousands of bones have been excavated from these settlements. The dog bones, like those of other animals used for food, were very fragmentary, and several showed marks where they had been cut.

The Maglemosian settlements date from the Boreal period, pollen zones V and VI, i.e. they go back to the time when Denmark was covered with vast pine forests and was part of the European continent.
Assessment of aggression in inpatient settings
Authors: McDermott Barbara E. , Holoyda Brian J.
Published: June 2014

The threat of violence is a major concern for all individuals working or receiving treatment in an inpatient psychiatric setting. One major focus in forensic psychology and psychiatry over the past several decades has been the development of risk assessments to aid in the identification of those individuals most at risk of exhibiting violent behavior. So-called second- and third-generation risk assessments were developed to improve the accuracy of decision making. While these instruments were developed for use in the community, many have proven to be effective in identifying patients more likely to exhibit institutional aggression. Because the purpose of risk assessment is the reduction of violence, dynamic factors were included in third-generation risk instruments to provide opportunities for intervention and methods for measuring change. Research with these instruments indicates that both static factors (second-generation) and dynamic factors (third-generation) are important in identifying those patients most likely to engage in institutional aggression, especially when the aggression is categorized by type (impulsive/reactive, organized/predatory/instrumental, psychotic). Recent research has indicated that developing a typology of aggressive incidents may provide insight both into precipitants to assaults as well as appropriate interventions to reduce such aggression. The extant literature suggests that both static and dynamic risk factors are important, but may be differentially related to the type of aggression exhibited and the characteristics of the individuals exhibiting the aggression.
Upregulation of store‐operated Ca2+ entry in the naïve CD4+ T cells with aberrant cytokine releasing in active rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Liu Shuang , Watanabe Shohei , Shudou Masachika , Kuno Miyuki , Miura Hiromasa , Maeyama Kazutaka
Published: June 2014

The regulated control of Ca2+ influx is essential for the activation and function of the adaptive immune response, as Ca2+ is a key regulator of important transcription factors. To determine whether Ca2+ release‐activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels contribute to the abnormal behaviour of T cells in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), we performed a cross‐sectional study to characterize the expression and functional status of CRACM1 channels in RA patients. Peripheral blood was obtained from 50 RA patients, 50 osteoarthritis (OA) patients and healthy donors. We measured Ca2+ influx and CRAC currents in naïve and memory CD4+ T cells. CRACM1 expression was evaluated in T cells from each of the three groups. These cells were further characterized by flow cytometric analysis of interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), IL‐17, interferon‐γ and tumour necrosis factor‐α. These cytokines were also measured in naïve CD4+ T cells following the lentivirus‐mediated silencing of CRACM1.There was a significant positive correlation between Ca2+ influx in naïve T cells and RA activity. Functionally aberrant naïve CD4+ T cells from patients with active RA showed the different cytokine release pattern and exhibited increased Ca2+ influx as well as increased CRACM1 protein expression and function. Specific lentiviral‐induced gene silencing of CRACM1 reversed the alterations in T‐cell cytokine production. The data presented here indicate that an upregulation of CRACM1 expression and function may be responsible for the abnormal cytokine release of naïve CD4+ T cells in RA patients. CRACM1 might therefore represent a new molecular target for RA therapies.
Evidence for global cooling in the Late Cretaceous
Authors: Linnert Christian , Robinson Stuart A. , Lees Jackie A. , Bown Paul R. , Pérez-Rodríguez Irene , Petrizzo Maria Rose , Falzoni Francesca , Littler Kate , Arz José Antonio , Russell Ernest E.
Published: June 2014

The Late Cretaceous ‘greenhouse’ world witnessed a transition from one of the warmest climates of the past 140 million years to cooler conditions, yet still without significant continental ice. Low-latitude sea surface temperature (SST) records are a vital piece of evidence required to unravel the cause of Late Cretaceous cooling, but high-quality data remain illusive. Here, using an organic geochemical palaeothermometer (TEX86), we present a record of SSTs for the Campanian–Maastrichtian interval (~83–66 Ma) from hemipelagic sediments deposited on the western North Atlantic shelf. Our record reveals that the North Atlantic at 35 °N was relatively warm in the earliest Campanian, with maximum SSTs of ~35 °C, but experienced significant cooling (~7 °C) after this to <~28 °C during the Maastrichtian. The overall stratigraphic trend is remarkably similar to records of high-latitude SSTs and bottom-water temperatures, suggesting that the cooling pattern was global rather than regional and, therefore, driven predominantly by declining atmospheric pCO2 levels.
Cyclone-induced rapid creation of extreme Antarctic sea ice conditions
Authors: Wang Zhaomin , Turner John , Sun Bo , Li Bingrui , Liu Chengyan
Published: June 2014

Two polar vessels, Akademik Shokalskiy and Xuelong, were trapped by thick sea ice in the Antarctic coastal region just to the west of 144°E and between 66.5°S and 67°S in late December 2013. This event demonstrated the rapid establishment of extreme Antarctic sea ice conditions on synoptic time scales. The event was associated with cyclones that developed at lower latitudes. Near the event site, cyclone-enhanced strong southeasterly katabatic winds drove large westward drifts of ice floes. In addition, the cyclones also gave southward ice drift. The arrival and grounding of Iceberg B9B in Commonwealth Bay in March 2011 led to the growth of fast ice around it, forming a northward protruding barrier. This barrier blocked the westward ice drift and hence aided sea ice consolidation on its eastern side. Similar cyclone-induced events have occurred at this site in the past after the grounding of Iceberg B9B. Future events may be predictable on synoptic time scales, if cyclone-induced strong wind events can be predicted.
Possible intermediates of Cu(phen)-catalyzed C–O cross-coupling of phenol with an aryl bromide by in situ ESI-MS and EPR studies
Authors: Chen Hong-Jie , Hsu I-Jui , Tseng Mei-Chun , Shyu Shin-Guang
Published: June 2014

Cu(phen) complexes were observed in the copper(i)-catalyzed C–O coupling reaction using K2CO3 as the base and phen as the ligand under the catalytic reaction conditions by in situ electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and EPR analysis.
Structural variability, topological analysis and photocatalytic properties of neoteric Cd(ii) coordination polymers based on semirigid bis(thiazolylbenzimidazole) and different types of carboxylic acid linkers
Authors: Liu Lu , Ding Jie , Li Ming , Lv Xiaofeng , Wu Jie , Hou Hongwei , Fan Yaoting
Published: June 2014

Six interesting architectures with different structural and topological motifs have been obtained. 3, 4 and 6 exhibit good photocatalytic activities for methylene blue degradation.
Structural and magnetic properties of some lanthanide (Ln = Eu(iii), Gd(iii) and Nd(iii)) cyanoacetate polymers: field-induced slow magnetic relaxation in the Gd and Nd substitutions
Authors: Arauzo A. , Lazarescu A. , Shova S. , Bartolomé E. , Cases R. , Luzón J. , Bartolomé J. , Turta C.
Published: June 2014

The cyanoacetate complexes, {[Ln2(CNCH2COO)6(H2O)4]·2H2O}n, with Ln = Gd, Nd, show field-induced slow relaxation: resonant phonon trapping and Orbach process for Gd, and Orbach and direct processes for Nd.
Direct oxidative esterification of alcohols
Authors: Tang Shan , Yuan Jiwen , Liu Chao , Lei Aiwen
Published: June 2014

Recent progress in the direct esterification of alcohols from readily available materials under oxidative conditions is discussed in this perspective.
Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of like- and unlike-configured tetrahydro-2-benzazepines with the α-substituted benzyl moiety in the 5-position
Authors: Hasebein Peer , Frehland Bastian , Lehmkuhl Kirstin , Fröhlich Roland , Schepmann Dirk , Wünsch Bernhard
Published: June 2014

5-Substituted tetrahydro-2-benzazepines were prepared and the relationship between the structure, in particular the stereochemistry, and the σ1 affinity was analyzed.
One-pot native chemical ligation of peptide hydrazides enables total synthesis of modified histones
Authors: Li Jiabin , Li Yuanyuan , He Qiaoqiao , Li Yiming , Li Haitao , Liu Lei
Published: June 2014

One of the rising demands in the field of protein chemical synthesis is the development of facile strategies that yield the protein in workable quantities and homogeneity, with fewer handling steps.
Palladium-catalyzed oxidative carbonylative coupling of arylboronic acids with terminal alkynes to alkynones
Authors: Natte Kishore , Chen Jianbin , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: June 2014

The first example of palladium-catalyzed oxidative carbonylation of arylboronic acids with terminal alkynes has been developed. By an appropriate combination of a palladium salt, a ligand, and an oxidant, the desired alkynones were isolated in moderate to good yields.
Fast conversion of terminal thiocarbonylthio groups of RAFT polymers to “clickable” thiol groups via versatile sodium azide
Authors: Wu Yang , Zhou Yanyan , Zhu Jian , Zhang Wei , Pan Xiangqiang , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhu Xiulin
Published: June 2014

A facile and fast way of converting thiocarbonylthio end groups of RAFT polymers to thiol groups was demonstrated.
Highly efficient homogeneous and heterogenized ruthenium catalysts for transfer hydrogenation of carbonyl compounds
Authors: Ganesamoorthy S. , Jerome P. , Shanmugasundaram K. , Karvembu R.
Published: June 2014

[Ru(acac)2(CH3CN)2] and its SiO2 immobilized form were found to be efficient catalysts for the transfer hydrogenation of carbonyl compounds.
Preparation of polydopamine-functionalized graphene–Fe3O4magnetic composites with high adsorption capacities
Authors: Han Xiaofang , Zhang Ling , Li Chunzhong
Published: June 2014

Polydopamine-functionalized graphene–Fe3O4(DGF) nanocomposites have been prepared by a simple solution mixing method. The obtained DGF has high adsorption capacity of 365.39 mg g−1and easy separation ability.
Random room mobility model and extra‐wireless body area network communication in hospital buildings
Authors: Misra Sudip , Mahapatro Judhistir , Mahadevappa Manjunatha , Islam Nabiul
Published: June 2014

Wireless body area networks (WBANs) can help in enabling efficient patient monitoring solution for ubiquitous healthcare. Communication in WBANs is undertaken in two phases: intra‐WBAN and extra‐WBAN. The prevailing WBANs use cellular network or WiFi in the extra‐WBAN phase involving communication between the on‐body coordinator and access points (APs) connected to the medical server through the internet. The medical applications of the WBANs have stringent requirements of low end‐to‐end delay and high packet delivery ratio. The authors evaluate the performance of extra‐WBAN communication in the network of WBANs which is deployed within a building environment. They proposed a mobility model named random room mobility (RRM), which is used to capture the dynamics of WBAN user mobility within the building. They studied the performance of extra‐WBAN communication using the proposed mobility model and a random waypoint mobility model. The metrics used in evaluating the performance are packet drop ratio, average node‐to‐AP delay and average residual energy per node. The authors show that with an increase in the number of WBANs, the traffic generation rate and the payload size have high impact on the packet loss in the network. They studied the performance of extra‐WBAN communication using the priority mode available in IEEE 802.11 for provisioning quality‐of‐service (QoS). We show that it is suitable for medical applications, when the size of network consisting of WBANs, including the QoS‐enabled WBANs, is small.
Adaptive noise suppression filter based integrated voltage and frequency controller for two‐winding single‐phase self‐excited induction generator
Authors: Kalla Ujjwal Kumar , Singh Bhim , Murthy S.S.
Published: June 2014

In this study, an adaptive noise suppression filter based control algorithm is proposed for integrated voltage and frequency controller (IVFC) of a speed governor‐free hydro turbine driven single‐phase self‐excited induction generator (SEIG). A voltage source converter (VSC) is employed to control the terminal voltage of SEIG with adjustable reactive power. It also mitigates the harmonics injected by non‐linear loads in the SEIG system. A resistive dump load with a chopper is connected at dc‐bus of VSC. The dump load is controlled to regulate the system frequency at varying loads and mechanical power input to the unregulated micro hydro turbine during seasonal changes. The frequency estimation and phase shifting technique is used for frequency estimation and for generation of quadrature signal of point of common coupling voltage. The proposed IVFC is designed, developed and implemented using a digital signal processor for a two‐winding single‐phase SEIG of 5 kW rating and test results are presented to demonstrate its performance under steady state and dynamic conditions.
Key network approach reveals new insight into Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Schluesener Jan K. , Zhu Xiaomei , Schluesener Hermann J. , Wang Gao‐Wei , Ao Ping
Published: June 2014

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder without curative treatment. Extensive data on pathological molecular processes have been accumulated over the last years. These data combined allows a systems biology approach to identify key regulatory elements of AD and to establish a model descriptive of the disease process which can be used for the development of therapeutic agents. In this study, the authors propose a closed network that uses a set of nodes (amyloid beta, tau, beta‐secretase, glutamate, cyclin‐dependent kinase 5, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase and hypoxia‐induced factor 1 alpha) as key elements of importance to the pathogenesis of AD. The proposed network, in total 39 nodes, is able to become a novel tool capable of providing new insights into AD, such as feedback loops. Further, it highlights interconnections between pathways and identifies their combination for therapy of AD.