bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Dielectric Properties of Pure and Zinc Oxide-Doped Barium Titanate
Authors: Hasan M. M. , Shorowordi K. M.
Published: June 2013

The effects of zinc oxide addition and sintering parameters on the structure and dielectric properties of barium titanate are observed. Different percentage of ZnO ranging from 0.30 to 1 wt. % is doped in barium titanate. Both the doped and undoped samples are sintered at temperatures ranging from 1250°C to 1325°C at different soaking times. The amount of densification of the doped and undoped samples is measured in terms of percentage theoretical density. Grain size and microstructural analysis is performed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Lattice parameters and tetragonality of doped and undoped barium titanate are calculated from x-ray diffraction pattern obtained from x-ray diffractometer (XRD) test. Dielectric properties of the samples are measured by an impedance analyzer. It is found that all the doped samples obtain their maximum percentage theoretical density at a lower sintering temperature compared to the undoped sample. SEM study reveals that the doped samples always show smaller grains compared to the undoped sample. Significant grain growth is observed in all of the samples at sintering temperatures above 1300°C. The evidence of surface melting is observed in 1 wt. % ZnO-doped sample soaked at 1325°C for 2 h. The presence of liquid at that sintering condition is explained by the doping mechanism of Zn2+ in BaTiO3. Correlation among the grain size, tetragonality, and dielectric properties of the doped and undoped samples are also discussed.
Unexpected Role for Dosage Compensation in the Control of Dauer Arrest, Insulin-Like Signaling, and FoxO Transcription Factor Activity inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Dumas Kathleen J , Delaney Colin E , Flibotte Stephane , Moerman Donald G , Csankovszki Gyorgyi , Hu Patrick J
Published: June 2013

During embryogenesis, an essential process known as dosage compensation is initiated to equalize gene expression from sex chromosomes. Although much is known about how dosage compensation is established, the consequences of modulating the stability of dosage compensation postembryonically are not known. Here we define a role for the Caenorhabditis elegans dosage compensation complex (DCC) in the regulation of DAF-2 insulin-like signaling. In a screen for dauer regulatory genes that control the activity of the FoxO transcription factor DAF-16, we isolated three mutant alleles of dpy-21, which encodes a conserved DCC component. Knockdown of multiple DCC components in hermaphrodite and male animals indicates that the dauer suppression phenotype of dpy-21 mutants is due to a defect in dosage compensation per se. In dpy-21 mutants, expression of several X-linked genes that promote dauer bypass is elevated, including four genes encoding components of the DAF-2 insulin-like pathway that antagonize DAF-16/FoxO activity. Accordingly, dpy-21 mutation reduced the expression of DAF-16/FoxO target genes by promoting the exclusion of DAF-16/FoxO from nuclei. Thus, dosage compensation enhances dauer arrest by repressing X-linked genes that promote reproductive development through the inhibition of DAF-16/FoxO nuclear translocation. This work is the first to establish a specific postembryonic function for dosage compensation in any organism. The influence of dosage compensation on dauer arrest, a larval developmental fate governed by the integration of multiple environmental inputs and signaling outputs, suggests that the dosage compensation machinery may respond to external cues by modulating signaling pathways through chromosome-wide regulation of gene expression.
Rates and Genomic Consequences of Spontaneous Mutational Events inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Schrider Daniel R , Houle David , Lynch Michael , Hahn Matthew W
Published: June 2013

Because spontaneous mutation is the source of all genetic diversity, measuring mutation rates can reveal how natural selection drives patterns of variation within and between species. We sequenced eight genomes produced by a mutation-accumulation experiment in Drosophila melanogaster. Our analysis reveals that point mutation and small indel rates vary significantly between the two different genetic backgrounds examined. We also find evidence that ∼2% of mutational events affect multiple closely spaced nucleotides. Unlike previous similar experiments, we were able to estimate genome-wide rates of large deletions and tandem duplications. These results suggest that, at least in inbred lines like those examined here, mutational pressures may result in net growth rather than contraction of the Drosophila genome. By comparing our mutation rate estimates to polymorphism data, we are able to estimate the fraction of new mutations that are eliminated by purifying selection. These results suggest that ∼99% of duplications and deletions are deleterious—making them 10 times more likely to be removed by selection than nonsynonymous mutations. Our results illuminate not only the rates of new small- and large-scale mutations, but also the selective forces that they encounter once they arise.
Religious Exemptions for Immunization and Risk of Pertussis in New York State, 2000–2011
Authors: Imdad Aamer , Tserenpuntsag Boldtsetseg , Blog Debra S. , Halsey Neal A. , Easton Delia E. , Shaw Jana
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this study was to describe rates of religious vaccination exemptions over time and the association with pertussis in New York State (NYS).

METHODS:

Religious vaccination exemptions reported via school surveys of the NYS Department of Health from 2000 through 2011 were reviewed by county, and the changes were assessed against incidence rates of pertussis among children reported to the NYS Department of Health Communicable Disease Electronic Surveillance System.

RESULTS:

The overall annual state mean prevalence (± SD) of religious exemptions for ≥1 vaccines in 2000–2011 was 0.4% ± 0.08% and increased significantly from 0.23% in 2000 to 0.45% in 2011 (P = .001). The prevalence of religious exemptions varied greatly among counties and increased by >100% in 34 counties during the study period. Counties with mean exemption prevalence rates of ≥1% reported a higher incidence of pertussis, 33 per 100 000 than counties with lower exemption rates, 20 per 100 000, P < .001. In addition, the risk of pertussis among vaccinated children living in counties with high exemption rate increased with increase of exemption rate among exempted children (P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS:

The prevalence of religious exemptions varies among NYS counties and increased during the past decade. Counties with higher exemption rates had higher rates of reported pertussis among exempted and vaccinated children when compared with the low-exemption counties. More studies are needed to characterize differences in the process of obtaining exemptions among NYS schools, and education is needed regarding the risks to the community of individuals opting out from recommended vaccinations.
Trends in Bronchiolitis Hospitalizations in the United States, 2000–2009
Authors: Hasegawa Kohei , Tsugawa Yusuke , Brown David F.M. , Mansbach Jonathan M. , Camargo Carlos A.
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To examine temporal trend in the national incidence of bronchiolitis hospitalizations, use of mechanical ventilation, and hospital charges between 2000 and 2009.

METHODS:

We performed a serial, cross-sectional analysis of a nationally representative sample of children hospitalized with bronchiolitis. The Kids Inpatient Database was used to identify children <2 years of age with bronchiolitis by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 466.1. Primary outcome measures were incidence of bronchiolitis hospitalizations, mechanical ventilation (noninvasive or invasive) use, and hospital charges. Temporal trends were evaluated accounting for sampling weights.

RESULTS:

The 4 separated years (2000, 2003, 2006, and 2009) of national discharge data included 544 828 weighted discharges with bronchiolitis. Between 2000 and 2009, the incidence of bronchiolitis hospitalization decreased from 17.9 to 14.9 per 1000 person-years among all US children aged <2 years (17% decrease; Ptrend < .001). By contrast, there was an increase in children with high-risk medical conditions (5.9%–7.9%; 34% increase; Ptrend < .001) and use of mechanical ventilation (1.9%–2.3%; 21% increase; Ptrend = .008). Nationwide hospital charges increased from $1.34 billion to $1.73 billion (30% increase; Ptrend < .001); this increase was driven by a rise in the geometric mean of hospital charges per case from $6380 to $8530 (34% increase; Ptrend < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Between 2000 and 2009, we found a significant decline in bronchiolitis hospitalizations among US children. By contrast, use of mechanical ventilation and hospital charges for bronchiolitis significantly increased over this same period.
Growth of Carbon Nanotubes on Mesoporous Silica Coated Planar and Three-Dimensional Surfaces
Authors: Staggemeier Katrina , Ke Jin , Downard Alison , Golovko Vladimir , Chopra Nitin , Bakker Martin G.
Published: June 2013

Well ordered arrays of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are of interest for a broad range of potential applications including energy storage and as catalyst supports. On some substrates such as copper and nickel, CNTs do not grow well or at all. We have previously shown that mesoporous silica thin films can be deposited onto metal substrates including copper and nickel, and that, after removal of the templating surfactant, the mesoporous silica film can be used as template for the electrodeposition of metals to give metal nanostructures.[Campbell et. al., Micro. Meso. Mater., 97, 114-121 (2006)] The size of the metal nanostructures makes them attractive as seeds for growth of CNTs. We have found that under appropriate conditions nickel deposited into mesoporous silica can act as catalyst for CNT growth on a number of different substrates including copper coated silicon wafers, and nickel foam. Using three different furnaces and different feed streams it was found that the growth is sensitive to carbon source; acetylene and ethylene both produced CNTs whereas attempts to produce CNTs using xylene have so far been unsuccessful.

Well ordered mesoporous silica thin films could potentially give arrays of nanorod seeds, leading to well ordered arrays of CNTs, SEM images of some of our samples show dense CNT arrays, but do not indicate significant ordering.
A Model Dielectric Function for Graphene from the Infrared to the Ultraviolet
Authors: Boosalis A. , Elmquist R. , Real M. , Nguyen N. , Schubert M. , Hofmann T.
Published: June 2013

A modified critical point model dielectric function for graphene is derived here and used to analyze spectroscopic ellipsometry data obtained over a wide spectral range from 3 to 9 eV. Critical point and exciton resonance energies are extracted and discussed. Our findings indicate that epitaxial graphene on SiC to exhibits equivalent exciton behavior to that of suspended graphene. We further apply our model dielectric function to evaluate dielectric function data for highly oriented pyrolytic graphite reported in the literature. Excellent agreement is found between the critical point model developed here and the literature data even for the low energy spectral range up to 1 eV.
Gas-phase Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for Plasmonic Biosensors
Authors: Sotiriou Georgios A. , Blattmann Christoph O. , Pratsinis Sotiris E.
Published: June 2013

Silver (Ag) nanoparticles dispersed in an amorphous silica (SiO2) matrix or coated by a SiO2 layer were synthesized by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP). The coated nanoparticles were produced by using a modified enclosed FSP setup, in which the SiO2 precursor was injected through a ring above the FSP nozzle at various burner-ring-distances (BRDs), after the core Ag nanoparticles had been formed. The produced nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, BET, TEM and UV/vis analysis. The Ag particle size was possible to be controlled by tuning the FSP parameters. For the SiO2 coated nanoparticles, larger Ag core sizes were obtained for higher BRDs. All the produced nanoparticles exhibited the characteristic plasmon resonance frequency of Ag nanoparticles.
Steady-state and transient electron transport within bulk wurtzite zinc oxide and the resultant electron device performance
Authors: Hadi Walid A. , Shur Michael S. , O’Leary Stephen K.
Published: June 2013

We review some recent results related to the steady-state and transient electron transport that occurs within bulk wurtzite zinc oxide. We employ three-valley Monte Carlo simulations of the electron transport within this material for the purposes of this analysis. Using these results, we devise a means of rendering transparent the electron drift velocity enhancement offered by transient electron transport over steady-state electron transport. A comparison, with results corresponding to gallium nitride, indium nitride, and aluminum nitride, is provided. The device implications of these results are then presented.
3 Dimensional Carbon Nanostructures for Li-ion Battery Anode
Authors: Kang Chiwon , Baskaran Rangasamy , Kim Won-Gi , Sun Yang-Kook , Choi Wonbong
Published: June 2013

Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) have been thoroughly investigated as potential anode materials in Li-ion battery owing to their exceptional properties such as the higher surface area to mass ratio, electrical conductivity and mechanical toughness. However, one of the major limitations of nano carbon materials is lower mass loading density. To address this issue, we have developed a novel anode system composed of CNFs directly grown on 3D Cu mesh current collector (hereafter mentioned as 3D CNFs) using a thermal catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Compared to CNF-based anodes on 2D Cu current collector, active The active material loading amount of the 3D CNFs has been found to be 400 % higher while comparing with 2D CNF. Owing to an increase of the active surface area, 3D CNFs demonstrated enhanced electrochemical performance of Li-ion battery in terms of charge capacity (50% improvement), rate capability and cycling life. Interfacial contact between the CNFs and Cu could play a crucial role in promoting the electrochemical properties. The intermediate TiC thin layer, formed at high temperature 750°C, could function as an efficient electric conducting pathway and a strong bonding bridge between the CNFs and Cu. In order to improve the pristine 3D CNF redox reactions, the amorphous Si (a-Si)/3D CNF has been sputter deposited to produce Si wrapped 3D CNF hybrid anode material. It has been found that the electrochemical properties of the a-Si/3D CNF yields superior specific capacity (Cdis 549 mAhg-1, LiC4.1) and cycling stability than that of pristine 3D CNF (461 mAhg-1, LiC4.8).
Thermal Expansion-Recovery Microscopy (ThERM) for microstructural characterization
Authors: Domené Esteban A. , Mingolo Nélida , Martínez Oscar E.
Published: June 2013

In this work we compare two different detection schemes that are sensitive to the focus shift of a probe beam due to induced surface curvature. The technique on which both detection schemes are based is called ThERM (Thermal Expansion-Recovery Microscopy) and allows the retrieval of the thermal diffusivity at microscopic levels, hence mapping such magnitude over a sample surface. The induced thermal expansion defocuses the probe beam due to the surface deformation (curvature). The dependence of the defocusing with the pump modulation frequency yields the thermal diffusivity of the sample at the impinging location. The explored depth is controlled by the pump beam size. By scanning both beams, a complete map of the thermal diffusivity can be retrieved.
Improved Yellow Light Emission in the Achievement of Dichromatic White Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Si Zhao , Wei Tongbo , Ma Jun , Zhang Ning , Liu Zhe , Wei Xuecheng , Wang Xiaodong , Lu Hongxi , Wang Junxi , Li Jinmin
Published: June 2013

A study about the achievement of dichromatic white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) was performed. A series of dual wavelength LEDs with different last quantum-well (LQW) structure were fabricated. The bottom seven blue light QWs (close to n-GaN layer) of the four samples were the same. The LQW of sample A was 3 nm, and that of sample B, C and D were 6 nm, a special high In content ultra-thin layer was inserted in the middle of the LQW of sample C and on top of that of sample D. XRD results showed In concentration fluctuation and good interface quality of the four samples. PL measurements showed dual wavelength emitting, the blue light peak position of the four samples were almost the same, sample A with a narrower LQW showed an emission wavelength much shorter than that of sample B, C, D. EL measurement was done at an injection current of 100 mA. Sample A only showed LQW emission due to holes distribution. Because of wider LQW, the emission wavelength of sample B, C and D was longer and peak intensity was weaker. Sample D with insert layer on top of LQW showed strongest yellow light emission with a blue peak. As the injection current increased, sample A showed highest output light power due to narrower LQW. Of the other three samples with wider LQW, sample D showed highest output power. Effective yellow light emission has always been an obstacle to the achievement of dichromatic white LED. Sample D with insert layer close to p-GaN can confine the hole distribution more effectively hence the recombination of holes and electrons was enhanced, the yellow light emission was improved and dichromatic white LED was achieved.
A Novel Technique for Growth of Lithium-free ZnO Single Crystals
Authors: Wang Shaoping , Kopec Aneta , Timmerman Andrew G.
Published: June 2013

A ZnO single crystal is a native substrate for epitaxial growth of high-quality thin films of ZnO-based Group II-oxides (e.g. ZnO, ZnMgO, ZnCdO) for variety of devices, such as UV and visible-light emitting diodes (LEDs), UV laser diodes and solar-blind UV detectors. Currently, commercially available ZnO single crystal wafers are produced using a hydrothermal technique. The main drawback of hydrothermal growth technique is that the ZnO crystals contain large amounts of alkaline metals, such as Li and K. These alkaline metals are electrically active and hence can be detrimental to device performances. In this paper, results from a recently developed novel growth technique for ZnO single crystal boules are presented. Lithium-free ZnO single crystal boules of up to 1 inch in diameter was demonstrated using the novel technique. Results from crystal growth and materials characterization will be discussed.
Socio-demographic characteristics and quality of life of elderly patients with systemic arterial hypertension who live in rural areas: the importance of nurses' role
Authors: Tavares Darlene Mara dos Santos , Paiva Mariana Mapelli de , Dias Flavia Aparecida , Diniz Marina Aleixo , Martins Nayara Paula Fernandes
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: To describe the socio-demographic characteristics and quality of life of elderly patients with systemic arterial hypertension; to correlate the quality of life with the time of diagnosis and number of medication, as well as to compare the quality of life with the type of medication. METHOD: In this cross sectional home survey design, 460 elderly people from rural areas were involved. The data was collected with the use of the following instruments: World Health Organization Quality of Life-bref and World Health Organization Quality of Life Olders. A descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation and t-Student test (p<0.05) were undertaken. RESULTS: Predominant patient characteristics were: women between the age of 60 and 70, married, four to eight years of formal education, income of one minimum wage, living with their partners. The time of diagnosis was associated with lower quality of life in the physical domain. Elderly patients who used Inhibitors and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme and who did not use AT1 blocker had lower scores in relation to functioning of the senses. Those who used calcium channel blocker scored higher in relation to autonomy. CONCLUSION: there is a need for actions to control systemic arterial hypertension and its associated complications, with the purpose of improving quality of life.
Living with intestinal stoma: the construction of autonomy for care
Authors: Poletto Débora , Silva Denise Maria Guerreiro Vieira da
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: to investigate the care undertaken in the health services for people with intestinal stoma, from the perspective of articulating the actions proposed in the Amplified and Shared Clinic, with a view to promoting autonomy. METHOD: qualitative study. Participants: 10 people who received a stoma, and their family members. Data was collected between 10th January and 30th June 2011, through two semi-structured interviews. Analysis was through the stages: anxiety, synthesis, theorization and recontextualization. RESULTS: presented in the categories: (1) the need to carry out stoma care; (2) receiving health support and care after discharge from hospital; (3) returning to daily activities and social reinsertion. CONCLUSION: the study identified common factors which influence the process of development of autonomy and the relationship which health professionals have with this achievement.
Family network of children with special health needs: implications for Nursing
Authors: Neves Eliane Tatsch , Cabral Ivone Evangelista , Silveira Andressa da
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: to describe appropriate sources and resources for caregivers of children with special health needs in the community. METHOD: A qualitative study that used the creativity and sensitivity dynamics speaking map, part of the sensitive creative method, involving 11 caregivers of children with special health needs who are assisted in a university hospital located in the South of Brazil. RESULTS: the maps graphically represented through the genogram and ecomap showed that the caregiving women consistently and regularly use the resources of the internal and external family network; they eventually and irregularly access the community social network for physical and psychological support. CONCLUSION: the reclusive nature of care for these children inside the family circle contributes to their social invisibility. Based on this new information, it is recommended that Nursing participate in the care that is focused on these children's families, with particular attention to their socio-cultural conditions.
Health vulnerabilities in adolescence: socioeconomic conditions, social networks, drugs and violence
Authors: Reis Dener Carlos dos , Almeida Thiara Amanda Corrêa de , Miranda Mariane Mendes , Alves Rodrigo Henrique , Madeira Anézia Moreira Faria
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the health vulnerabilities in adolescence associated with socioeconomic conditions, social networks, drugs and violence from the perspective of students. METHOD: cross-sectional study with 678 students between 14-15 years old in Contagem, Brazil. A self-administered questionnaire divided into modules by subject was used. Quantitative, descriptive and stratified analyses were performed by sex. RESULTS: high percentage of adolescents (40.4%) were beneficiaries of Government financial support called "Bolsa Família" and 14.6% had a job, 57.1% and 23.6% had tried alcohol and tobacco, respectively. We identified 15% of aggression and 26.7% of bullying. The majority informed they never/rarely talk to parents about the daily difficulties (64.5%) and 22% reported insomnia and/or feelings of loneliness. CONCLUSION: the results indicated that there is a need to intensify educational activities that seek to develop cognitive, affective and social skills aimed at improving the way adolescents face the vulnerabilities, in these activities, nursing has a fundamental role.
Cultural adaptation and internal consistency analysis of the MISSCARE Survey for use in Brazil
Authors: Siqueira Lillian Dias Castilho , Caliri Maria Helena Larcher , Kalisch Beatrice , Dantas Rosana Aparecida Spadoti
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this methodological research were to culturally adapt the MISSCARE Survey instrument to Brazil and analyze the internal consistency of the adapted version. METHOD: The instrument consists of 41 items, presented in two parts. Part A contains 24 items listing elements of missed nursing care. Part B is comprised of 17 items, related to the reasons for not delivering care. The research received ethics committee approval and was undertaken in two phases. The first was the cultural adaptation process, in which a committee of five experts verified the face and content validity, in compliance with the steps recommended in the literature. The second was aimed at analyzing the internal consistency of the instrument, involving 60 nursing team professionals at a public teaching hospital. RESULTS: According to the experts, the instrument demonstrated face and content validity. Cronbach's alpha coefficients for parts A and B surpassed 0.70 and were considered appropriate. CONCLUSION: The adapted version of the MISSCARE Survey demonstrated satisfactory face validity and internal consistency for the study sample.
A thermomechanical study of elastomeric collagen-based fibers in the wet state
Authors: Torres Fernando G. , Troncoso Omar P. , Ruiz Valeria
Published: June 2013

Mussel byssus is a biopolymer fiber that allows byssus to attach to rocks. The authors have used mussel byssus from Aulacomya ater to study the mechanical behavior of hydrated byssus and the influence of temperature on such behavior. The mechanical properties of byssal fibers were studied by means of uniaxial tensile tests carried out with samples immersed in water at five different temperatures. Thermal analysis was used to assess the thermal transitions of the threads and the influence of the water content on their thermal behavior. The authors found that the Young’s modulus of threads is determined by the temperature at which the test is performed. Samples tested at 40, 55 and 70°C exhibited higher modulus than the samples tested at 10 and 25°C. By contrast, no dependence with the temperature of the test was found for the ultimate tensile strength and maximum strain. A peak associated to thermal denaturation of the collagen present in mussel byssus was observed in the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests. A second peak related to the thermal degradation of the samples was also found. The tensile tests results have confirmed the entropic nature of the deformation in mussel byssus, whereas DSC tests showed that thermal transitions did not depend on water content.
Government Public Housing Health Needs Assessment: Focus on Race, Ethnicity, and the Older Adult: Background, Methods, and Demographics
Authors: Lascher Steven , Tasir-Rodriguez Wesley , Moon Grace , Irizzary Maria , Baney Matthew , Kellogg F. Russell
Published: June 2013

St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Centers of New York initiated a study in 2009 to assess the health needs of residents of New York City (NYC) municipal housing at the Robert Fulton public housing complex in Manhattan. The aim of this project was to provide valid data on perceived health services needs of the residents of a NYC housing project. These data may also be used to support hospital and community collaborative strategic decisions for developing resident-appropriate health and social services and would be valuable for use in formulating policies and programs by other interested nonprofit health and social services organizations and government. We designed a 28-item instrument and pilot tested it with our research team and members of the population under study.

The English and Spanish surveys were designed as an inperson surveyor-administered instruments addressing four domains: demographics, access and barriers to health care services, risk behaviors, and perceived health needs. The sampling was an apartment-level stratified random sampling. A 20%, 188 apartment sample was drawn from the population of 944 housing units. Our response rate was 92% (173/188 apartments).

Background, methods, and demographic results are reported in this article. A second article will report on the needs assessment results.
Cotton Yield and Canopy Closure in North Carolina as Influenced by Row Width, Plant Population, and Leaf Morphology
Authors: Riar Ranjit , Wells Randy , Edmisten Keith , Jordan David , Bacheler Jack
Published: June 2013

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) yield is partly determined by crop geometry, which is a function of row width and plant population. Field experiments were conducted in North Carolina during 2007 and 2008 to test the hypothesis that row width will be the determining factor in attaining canopy closure and hence greater fiber yield in North Carolina. The influences of both plant population and leaf morphology on the row width effects were also examined. Okra‐leaf (FiberMax 800 BR) and normal‐leaf (FiberMax 960 BR) cultivars were planted at 38‐ and 97‐cm row widths at populations of 7, 12, and 18 plants m−2. Cotton grown at 38‐cm row width yielded more than cotton grown at 97‐cm rows in some but not all environments. The percentage of canopy closure and the percentage of photosynthetically active radiation interception showed a close relationship over row width, leaf morphology, plant population, and environment (r2 = 0.84, P < 0.001). Higher plant population increased light interception and canopy closure early in the season. However, with time, these differences were reduced and were absent by the last observations. Row width was an important cause of greater canopy closure but this did not consistently translate into yield differences and yields were more closely affected by cumulative rainfall. Economic analysis found no loss of profit in the lowest plant population in either row width indicating that seed costs could be reduced without decreasing yield.
Identification of Stably Expressed Quantitative Trait Loci for Grain Yield and Protein Content Using Recombinant Inbred Line and Reciprocal Introgression Line Populations in Rice
Authors: Cheng Lirui , Xu Qin , Zheng Tianqing , Ye Guoyou , Luo Chenggang , Xu Jianlong , Li Zhikang
Published: June 2013

Improvements of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain yield and protein content are important breeding objectives. Two hundred forty recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between japonica cultivar Xiushui09 and indica breeding line IR2061‐520‐6‐9 were used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting grain yield per plant (GYP) and protein content (PC) in rice. A total of five main‐effect QTLs (M‐QTLs) were identified on chromosomes 2, 4, 7, 10, and 12, which collectively explained 50.06% of the total phenotypic variance. As for PC, a total of four M‐QTLs were identified on chromosomes 2, 5, 10, and 11, which explained 41.44% of the total phenotypic variance. A total six pairs of epistatic QTLs (E‐QTLs) were identified. Furthermore, the M‐QTLs for GYP and PC detected in the RIL population were confirmed by two sets of BC2F6 reciprocal introgression lines (ILs) derived from the same parents and tested in Sanya and Hangzhou. The results indicated that four M‐QTLs (qGYP‐7 and qGYP‐12 for GYP and qPC‐10 and qPC‐11 for PC) showed stable expressions and consistent pyramiding effects across different environments under different genetic backgrounds. The ILs with pyramided nonallelic alleles at M‐QTLs for GYP from Xiushui09 in IR2061‐520‐6‐9 genetic background or the alleles of M‐QTLs for PC from IR2061‐520‐6‐9 in Xiushui09 genetic background provided some useful information on marker‐assisted selection (MAS) for developing either higher GYP or higher PC cultivars. Two lines, XS‐198 and IR146, with favorable alleles at four M‐QTLs from the two parents showed high GYP and PC and thus could be directly used in production.
Soil Geochemistry of Loess Landscapes, Shawnee Hills, Southern Illinois, United States
Authors: Wilson M. A. , Indorante S. J. , Lee B. D. , Follmer L. R. , Williams D. R. , Fitch B. C. , McCauley W. M. , Bathgate J. D. , Kabrick J. M.
Published: June 2013

A study was initiated in soils of two southern Illinois loess‐derived landscapes to investigate the distribution of selected trace and major elements. The objective of the research was to link the distribution of elements in different landscape positions to important soil and landscape processes. Seventeen pedons (representing different geomorphic hillslope positions) at the Morgan Pond (MP) and Bean Ridge (BR) sites were sampled by horizon. Data were evaluated by grouping selected horizons (A, Bt) by site (MP and BR) as well as by geomorphic hillslope position. Results show that relative concentrations of total As, Cr, Cu, V, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn between these two sites were impacted by differences in inherent particle size distribution of the parent material. These elements were also greater in Bt versus A horizons within each site, suggesting that select elements were redistributed by clay illuviation processes. Barium, Ca, Cd, Hg, and Pb were all significantly elevated in A relative to Bt horizons at the BR site and were strongly correlated with total C, suggesting biocycling and trace element bioaccumulation were important in landscape positions of this site. The MP site lacked this same concentration of elements in surface horizons, demonstrating the effect of accelerated erosion due to more intensive cropping history. When grouping data by landscape position, elemental distribution and Bt/A clay ratios showed that landscape stability was greatest in summit positions relative to other positions (summit > shoulder > backslope positions), confirming that relative amount of soil erosion was also related to landscape position among these sites.
Homotopy analysis method for solving Abel differential equation of fractional order
Authors: Jafari Hossein , Sayevand Khosro , Tajadodi Haleh , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: June 2013

In this study, the homotopy analysis method is used for solving the Abel differential equation with fractional order within the Caputo sense. Stabilityand convergence of the proposed approach is investigated. The numerical results demonstrate that the homotopy analysis method is accurate and readily implemented.
General formula for stability testing of linear systems with fractional-delay characteristic equation
Authors: Merrikh-Bayat Farshad
Published: June 2013

In some applications (especially in the filed of control theory) the characteristic equation of system contains fractional powers of the Laplace variable s possibly in combination with exponentials of fractional powers of s. The aim of this paper is to propose an easy-to-use and effective formula for bounded-input boundedoutput (BIBO) stability testing of a linear time-invariant system with fractional-delay characteristic equation in the general form of $$\Delta \left( s \right) = P_0 \left( s \right) + \sum\nolimits_{i = 1}^N {P_i \left( s \right)\exp ( - \zeta _i s^{\beta _i } ) = 0}$$, where P i(s) (i = 0,...,N) are the so-called fractional-order polynomials and ξ i and β i are positive real constants. The proposed formula determines the number of the roots of such a characteristic equation in the right half-plane of the first Riemann sheet by applying Rouche’s theorem. Numerical simulations are also presented to confirm the efficiency of the proposed formula.
The protective effect of crocin on the amyloid fibril formation of aβ42 peptide in vitro
Authors: Ghahghaei Arezou , Bathaie S. , Kheirkhah Hoda , Bahraminejad Elmira
Published: June 2013

Aβ is the main constituent of the amyloid plaque found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. There are two common isoforms of Aβ: the more common form, Aβ40, and the less common but more amyloidogenic form, Aβ42. Crocin is a carotenoid from the stigma of the saffron flower and it has many medicinal properties, including antioxidant effects. In this study, we examined the potential of crocin as a drug candidate against Aβ42 amyloid formation. The thioflavin T-binding assay and electron microscopy were used to examine the effects of crocin on the extension and disruption of Aβ42 amyloids. To further investigate the relationship between crocin and Aβ42 structure, we analyzed peptide conformation using the ANS-binding assay and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. An increase in the thioflavin T fluorescence intensity upon incubation revealed amyloid formation in Aβ42. It was found that crocin has the ability to prevent amyloid formation by decreasing the fluorescence intensity. Electron microscopy data also indicated that crocin decreased the amyloid fibril content of Aβ. The ANS-binding assay showed that crocin decreased the hydrophobic area in incubated Aβ42. CD spectroscopy results also showed that the peptide undergoes a structural change to α-helical and β-turn. Our study shows that the anti-amyloidogenic effect of crocin may be exerted not only by the inhibition of Aβ amyloid formation but also by the disruption of amyloid aggregates. Therefore, crocin could be essential in the search for therapies inhibiting aggregation or disrupting aggregation.
Chinese speech audiometry material
Authors: Ma Xiaoran , McPherson Bradley , Ma Lian
Published: June 2013

Speech audiometry plays an important role in the assessment of hearing abilities, as it may more accurately reflect auditory function in the daily communication environment of listeners than other auditory assessment measures. Speech perception tests have been developed for over a century in Western countries, and they are commonly used procedures in North America and Europe, as well as Australia. The course of history and scientific progress has influenced speech audiometry in both its clinical and research aspects. Test materials developed from syllables and words to phases and sentences, and test protocols have evolved from using only simple speech stimuli in quiet to hearing-in-noise tests. In the early years, the purpose of speech audiometry was primarily to evaluate telecommunication systems. Today, speech tests are more often applied to assess speech perception abilities for individuals with hearing impairment. In addition to aiding diagnosis of the location of peripheral auditory pathology and measuring (central) auditory processing abilities, with the development of auditory amplification devices speech tests are also utilized to assess the outcomes of hearing aid and cochlear implant rehabilitation. Compared to the well documented speech test materials of Western countries, development in this field in China has been relatively delayed. A lack of material standardization, few test versions for the numerous Chinese dialect groups or for non-Chinese language minority populations, and insufficient test materials for children, have obstructed the development of speech audiometry in China. This review highlights key research milestones in the development of Chinese speech audiometry material, including work conducted in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, and suggests priorities for future research in this field in China.
Comparison of Volunteered Geographic Information Data Contributions and Community Development for Selected World Regions
Authors: Neis Pascal , Zielstra Dennis , Zipf Alexander
Published: June 2013

Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) projects and their crowdsourced data have been the focus of a number of scientific analyses and investigations in recent years. Oftentimes the results show that the collaboratively collected geodata of one of the most popular VGI projects, OpenStreetMap (OSM), provides good coverage in urban areas when considering particular completeness factors. However, results can potentially vary significantly for different world regions. In this article, we conduct an analysis to determine similarities and differences in data contributions and community development in OSM between 12 selected urban areas of the world. Our findings showed significantly different results in data collection efforts and local OSM community sizes. European cities provide quantitatively larger amounts of geodata and number of contributors in OSM, resulting in a better representation of the real world in the dataset. Although the number of volunteers does not necessarily correlate with the general population density of the urban areas, similarities could be detected while comparing the percentage of different contributor groups and the number of changes they made to the OSM project. Further analyses show that socio-economic factors, such as income, can have an impact on the number of active contributors and the data provided in the analyzed areas. Furthermore, the results showed significant data contributions by members whose main territory of interest lies more than one thousand kilometers from the tested areas.
Geodynamic Reconstructions of the Australides—2: Mesozoic–Cainozoic
Authors: Vérard Christian , Stampfli Gérard
Published: June 2013

The present work, derived from a full global geodynamic reconstruction model over 600 Ma and based on a large database, focuses herein on the interaction between the Pacific, Australian and Antarctic plates since 200 Ma, and proposes integrated solutions for a coherent, physically consistent scenario. The evolution of the Australia–Antarctica–West Pacific plate system is dependent on the Gondwana fit chosen for the reconstruction. Our fit, as defined for the latest Triassic, implies an original scenario for the evolution of the region, in particular for the “early” opening history of the Tasman Sea. The interaction with the Pacific, moreover, is characterised by many magmatic arc migrations and ocean openings, which are stopped by arc–arc collision, arc–spreading axis collision, or arc–oceanic plateau collision, and subduction reversals. Mid-Pacific oceanic plateaus created in the model are much wider than they are on present-day maps, and although they were subducted to a large extent, they were able to stop subduction. We also suggest that adduction processes (i.e., re-emergence of subducted material) may have played an important role, in particular along the plate limit now represented by the Alpine Fault in New Zealand.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) Survey on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Selected Schools in Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa
Authors: Sibiya Jerry , Gumbo Jabulani
Published: June 2013

This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of learners on issues related to water, sanitation and hygiene in selected schools in Vhembe District, South Africa. The methodology relied on a questionnaire, an inspection of sanitary facilities and discussion with the school authorities. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science. The study revealed that the level of knowledge about waterborne diseases was relatively high (76.7 ± 1.75%), but knowledge on transmission routes was inadequate. The majority of the respondents had no knowledge when it comes to water-based diseases and their prevention (78.4 ± 1.71%).The attitude and practice on hygiene was also found to be high (91.40 ± 1.16%). Some schools from the urban area had proper handwashing facilities, but there was no soap available. The borehole water quality for rural schools appeared clear, but the microbial quality was unknown. The water supply and sanitation facilities were inadequate in rural schools, with no handwashing areas and no sanitary bins for girls. Some schools had toilets with broken doors which did not offer privacy. The only water tap, located at the centre of the school premises, was not enough for the whole school community.
Myricetin-Mediated Lifespan Extension in Caenorhabditis elegans Is Modulated by DAF-16
Authors: Büchter Christian , Ackermann Daniela , Havermann Susannah , Honnen Sebastian , Chovolou Yvonni , Fritz Gerhard , Kampkötter Andreas , Wätjen Wim
Published: June 2013

Myricetin is a naturally occurring flavonol found in many plant based food sources. It increases the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans, but the molecular mechanisms are not yet fully understood. We have investigated the impact of this flavonoid on the transcription factors DAF-16 (C. elegans FoxO homologue) and SKN-1 (Nrf2 homologue), which have crucial functions in the regulation of ageing. Myricetin is rapidly assimilated by the nematode, causes a nuclear translocation of DAF-16 but not of SKN-1, and finally prolongs the mean adult lifespan of C. elegans by 32.9%. The lifespan prolongation was associated with a decrease in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) detected by DCF. Myricetin also decreases the formation of lipofuscin, a pigment consisting of highly oxidized and cross-linked proteins that is considered as a biomarker of ageing in diverse species. The lifespan extension was completely abolished in a daf-16 loss-of-function mutant strain (CF1038). Consistently with this result, myricetin was also not able to diminish stress-induced ROS accumulation in the mutant. These results strongly indicate that the pro-longevity effect of myricetin is dependent on DAF-16 and not on direct anti-oxidative effects of the flavonoid.
Individual and Joint Impacts of Ethanol Use, BMI, Age and Gender on Serum Gamma-Glutamyltransferase Levels in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Danielsson Joanna , Kangastupa Päivikki , Laatikainen Tiina , Aalto Mauri , Niemelä Onni
Published: June 2013

Excessive ethanol consumption, obesity and increasing age may all lead to increased serum levels of gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) enzyme, which plays a key role in the metabolism of extracellular reduced glutathione. However, as yet, the interactions between the various modulators of GGT activities have remained poorly defined. We analyzed data from 15,617 apparently healthy individuals (7254 men and 8363 women, mean age 46 ± 13 years, range 25–74 years) who participated in a national cross-sectional health survey in Finland between 1997 and 2007. All subjects underwent detailed clinical examinations and interviews, including the amount of ethanol use and smoking habits. GGT levels were measured from all participants, and the individual and joint impacts of the different study variables on GGT levels were assessed. Significant individual effects were noted for ethanol use (p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), age (p < 0.001) and smoking (p < 0.001). In men, significant two-factor interactions occurred between ethanol use and age (p < 0.020). Among those over 40 years of age, ethanol consumption was found to be a stronger determinant of increased GGT levels than in men below 40 years, whereas in the latter age group, BMI was found to predominate. In women, a significant two-factor interaction occurred between ethanol and BMI (p = 0.010), whereas it did not with ethanol use and age. The data underscores the role of ethanol consumption and age as major determinants of increased GGT levels in men, whereas in women, a relatively stronger impact was noted for ethanol intake and BMI. In light of the ability of GGT enzyme to modulate crucial redox-sensitive functions, the present findings also support the use of GGT as a biomarker of oxidative stress.