bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Plyometric Training versus Swiss Ball Training on Core Strength, Agility and Dynamic Balance in Recreational Badminton Players: A Research Protocol
Authors: Shedge Saylee Sunil , Ramteke Swapnil Ulhas
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Badminton is a recreational, versatile, explosive sprint sport. The player needs core strength, agility, and dynamic balance. Resistance training used in plyometric activities helps to improve the athlete’s strength and fitness. Swiss ball training, a widely embraced method of functional exercise, enhances balance, core stability, flexibility, and overall strength. Need for the study: This study fills a gap in knowledge by exploring the effects of plyometric training and Swiss ball training on core strength, agility, and dynamic balance in recreational badminton players. It seeks to enhance on-court performance and prevent injuries by determining, which method is more effective. Tailored training programs can then be developed further based on individual responses to these methods. By providing evidence-based data, the study aims to support and guide the strength and conditioning coaches, trainers, and players in making appropriate decision about training approaches, ensuring optimal results and minimising injury risks in badminton. Aim: To find out the effect of Plyometric training versus Swiss Ball training on core strength, agility, and dynamic balance in recreational badminton players. Methodology: A non-blinded, randomised controlled parallelgroup trial will be conducted for a period of one year from January 2024 to December 2024. Participants will be recruited from Wardha’s District Badminton Stadium and will sign a consent form after meeting inclusion or exclusion criteria. They will be randomly divided into Group-A- Plyometric training and Group-B-Swiss ball training by the primary researcher. Outcome measures will be assessed pre and post-intervention. The analysis will be conducted using the free version of R-software. Significance in mean baseline variables will be assessed using either the t-test or Mann-Whitney test for the two assessment periods. Pairwise comparisons between the two groups for significant differences will be conducted using either the paired t-test or Wilcoxon test. The p-value will be evaluated at a 5% level of significance (p≤0.05).
Wernicke Encephalopathy in a Patient of Acute Gastroenteritis: A Case Report
Authors: Dhadwad Jagannath , Chitnis Anish , Kadiwala Ramiz , Modi Kunal
Published: July 2024

An acute neurological disease known as Wernicke Encephalopathy (WE) is characterised by the clinical triad of symptoms: ophthalmoparesis with nystagmus, ataxia, and disorientation. Thiamine deficiency is the underlying cause of this potentially fatal condition, which mainly affects the central and peripheral nervous systems. Hereby, the authors present a case of a 47-year-old male who presented with multiple episodes of loose stools and altered consciousness to the emergency ward. He had hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis suspected to be due to acute gastroenteritis, which may have caused his altered consciousness. Despite correction of his metabolic acidosis, his sensorium did not improve. Later, he was diagnosed with WE using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain findings, which showed symmetrical subtle hyperintensities in the medial part of the thalami and periaqueductal grey matter, suggestive of WE; his consciousness improved after thiamine supplementation. There should be a high suspicion of WE for timely diagnosis and treatment. Prompt treatment would be rewarding as WE is reversible, if treated in time.
Review of Consumer Purchasing Patterns for Milk Products in Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: N Venkatesa Palanichamy , M Kalpana , N Balakrishnan, , M Rajavel , M Divya
Published: July 2024

Milk and milk products play a vital role in fast moving consumer goods (FMCG). Milk products have very low shelf life and are prone to deterges, if proper care is not taken while pasteurizing, processing, packaging and handling. Hence, consumers desire local brand milk products than national brands or others, due to its more availability, less preservatives and longer shelf time. It is a well-known fact that most of the consumers still prefer traditional ways for the consumption of milk and milk products. So, the awareness about packed milk products is lower in these days as these products are mostly restricted with urban consumers. Whereas, many consumers feel packed milk products are not safe to consume. So, the main focus of this review was to analyze the buying behavior of consumers towards Aroma milk products. The review was to done to determine the perception and attitude of consumers towards buying Aroma milk products which helped to understand the value of the product in consumer’s point of view.
Amino Acid Profile and Mineral Content Variations in Gastropod Species (Archachatina marginata, Achatina achatina, Tympanotanus fuscatus, and Pachymelania aurita): Implications for Dietary Enrichment
Authors: Etukudo Owoidihe M. , Ekerette Ekerette E. , John Umoyen A. , Luka Thomas T. , Samuel Bassey N. , Friday Robinson U. , Raymond Ntuen U.
Published: July 2024

The global population surge increases the demand for daily protein requirements, emphasizing the need for cost-effective and readily available protein sources. The study investigated the amino acid, proximate, and mineral compositions of meat powders from four gastropod species (Archachatina marginata, Achatina achatina, Tympanotanus fuscatus, and Pachymelania aurita) procured from Offiong Market in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The samples were removed from their shells, and washed with deionized water and dilute acid. The meats were then dried at 65 – 70°C for 24 hours, ground into fine powder, and sieved to achieve uniformity in particle size. Amino acid, proximate, and mineral analyses were conducted. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in amino acid, proximate, and mineral compositions among the meat powders of the studied gastropod species. Most essential amino acids such as Leucine, histidine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, threonine, methionine, lysine, and valine were present. Proximate analysis revealed high protein and carbohydrate, and low fat and fibre contents among the gastropod species. Mineral analysis indicated high levels of Ca, P, Mg, K, and N, while Zn and Fe were significantly low across all species. The high protein and low fat and fiber contents suggest that gastropod meat powder could be used as additives for food fortification to meet the global demand for protein.
Mixture Effect of Rock Phosphate and Triple Superphosphate on Maize Yield in Acid Soils of Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kouassi Akissibah Leticia , Ettien Djétchi Jean Baptiste , Bouadou Oi Bouadou Félix
Published: July 2024

Aims: Determine the optimum rock phosphate (RP) / Triple superphosphate (TSP) ratio for improved maize yield
Study Design:  The experimental design was of random blocks with 3 replications.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in central Cote d'Ivoire, in a savannah area over 3 consecutive years 2019, 2020 and 2021.
Methodology: Eight treatments were tested: control T0, T0r (100 Kg urea ha-1 + 200 Kg NPK          ha-1), T1 (300 Kg RP ha-1), T2 (270Kg RP ha-1 + 19,6 Kg TSP ha-1), T3 (240 Kg RP + 39,2 Kg TSP ha-1 ), T4 (180 Kg RP ha-1 + 78,4 Kg TSP ha-1), T5 (60 Kg  RP ha-1 + 156,8 Kg TSP ha-1 ), T6 (196 Kg TSP ha-1 ). For maintenance, 200 Kg NPK ha-1 and 100 Kg urea ha-1 were added to all treatments except control. After harvest, yields were calculated, pH levels were measured at the beginning, after three months and at the end of the trial.
Results: the effect of the RP/TSP combination was effective in the second year. Ratio T3 obtained the best yield (5.71 t ha-1) and was more efficient than the treatment used for maize extension in Côte d'Ivoire (T0r). At the same time, the soil pH has become neutral, contributing to an improvement in soil fertility due to the gradual bioavailability of phosphorus from the solubilized phosphate rock.
Conclusion: Mixing RP and TSP in proportions of T3 (240 Kg RP + 39,2 Kg TSP ha-1) is effective in improving maize yields.
Study of the Effect of Using Soybean Oil on Air Emissions Realised from Diesel Engine Performance
Authors: Adegbola A.A. , Adeoye O.O. , Oladapo S.D. , Popoola F.D.
Published: July 2024

Fossil fuel contributes 80% of the word’s energy needs. Whereas, the emission produced by the emission of fossil fuels contribute to air pollution and global warming. Biodiesel as one promising alternative to fossil fuel for diesel engines has become increasingly important due to environmental consequences of petroleum-fuelled diesel engines and the decreasing petrol resources. The aim of the current study is to investigate the effect of Soyabean oil blended with “Diesel fuel” on the existing engine emissions. In this study, biodiesel was produced by transesterification of soyabean oil with methanol using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as catalyst which was blended with diesel. The ratio of diesel to soyabean oil that was used were; 80% diesel-20% soyabean oil (B20), 60% diesel-40% soyabean oil (B40), and 100%diesel-0% soyabean oil (B0). The study revealed that soyabean oil can be processed into biodiesel through transesterification. Soyabean biodiesel blends produced lower CO, HC, and CO2 emission than diesel fuel while emission of NOx from soyabean biodiesel fuel were found higher than NOx emitted from diesel fuel.
Recent Innovation in Precision Agriculture and their Impact on Crop and Soil Health: A Compressive Review
Authors: Kumari Niru , Kumar Mukul , Singh Ashutosh , Pandey Amit Kumar
Published: July 2024

The maintenance of soil fertility and on-farm research or demonstrations might be enhanced by precision agricultural technologies. Using state-of-the-art technology, precision agriculture boosts agricultural output without negatively affecting the environment. Utilising cutting-edge technology and data analysis, precision agriculture aims to boost production, minimise waste, and maximise crop yields. This might be a viable approach to addressing some of the main problems facing modern agriculture, such feeding an expanding global population while lessening its impact on the environment. The application of precision agriculture starts with the collection of real-time data from various sources, such as satellite imagery, remote sensing, global positioning systems, geographic information systems, drones, soil sensors, and weather stations. Precision agriculture has become essential in addressing the challenges posed by a growing global population, climate change, and resource constraints. Recognising within-field variability and providing chances for differentiating treatment of sections within a field or industrial unit are what fuel demand for precision agriculture. Precision agriculture technology plays an important part in sustainable soil and crop management in modern agriculture by lowering crop production inputs and managing lands in an ecologically responsible way.
How to distinguish between kink and sausage modes in flapping oscillations?
Authors: Kubyshkina D. I. , Sormakov D. A. , Sergeev V. A. , Semenov V. S. , Erkaev N. V. , Kubyshkin I. V. , Ganushkina N. Yu. , Dubyagin S. V.
Published: April 2014

Flapping waves are most noticeable large‐scale perturbations of the magnetotail current sheet, whose nature is still under discussion. They represent rather slow (an order of magnitude less than typical Alfven speed) waves propagating from the center of the sheet to its flanks with a typical speed of 20–60 km/s, amplitude of 1–2 Re and quasiperiod of 2–10 min. The double‐gradient MHD model, which was elaborated in Erkaev et al. (2007) predicts two (kink and sausage) modes of the flapping waves with differences in their geometry and propagation velocity, but the mode structure is hard to resolve observationally. We investigate the possibility of mode identification by observing the rotation of magnetic field and plasma velocity vectors from a single spacecraft. We test theoretical results by analyzing the flapping oscillations observed by Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms spacecraft and confirm that character of observed rotation is consistent with kink mode determination made by using multispacecraft methods. Also, we checked how the existence of some obstructive conditions, such as noise, combined modes, and multiple sources of the flapping oscillations, can affect on the possibility of the modes separation with suggested method.
Nonmigrating tidal modulation of the equatorial thermosphere and ionosphere anomaly
Authors: Lei Jiuhou , Thayer Jeffrey P. , Wang Wenbin , Yue Jia , Dou Xiankang
Published: April 2014

The modulation of nonmigrating tides on both the ionospheric equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) and the equatorial thermosphere anomaly (ETA) is investigated on the basis of simulations from the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIME‐GCM). Our simulations demonstrate the distinct features of the EIA and ETA seen in observations after the inclusion of field‐aligned ion drag in the model. Both the EIA and the ETA in the constant local time frame display an obvious zonal wave‐4 structure associated with the modulation of nonmigrating tides. However, the modeled EIA and ETA show a primary zonal wave‐1 structure when only the migrating tides are specified at the model lower boundary. Our simulations reveal that the zonal wave‐4 structure of the ETA under both low and high solar activity conditions is mainly caused by the direct response of the upper thermosphere to the diurnal eastward wave number 3 and semidiurnal eastward wave number 2 nonmigrating tides from the lower atmosphere. There is a minor contribution from the ion‐neutral coupling. The zonal wave‐4 structure of the EIA is also caused by these nonmigrating tides but through the modulation of the neutral wind dynamo.
Direct measurement of subsurface mass change using the variable baseline gravity gradient method
Authors: Kennedy Jeffrey , Ferré Ty P. A. , Güntner Andreas , Abe Maiko , Creutzfeldt Benjamin
Published: April 2014

Time‐lapse gravity data provide a direct, nondestructive method to monitor mass changes at scales from centimeter to kilometer. But, the effectively infinite spatial sensitivity of gravity measurements can make it difficult to isolate the signal of interest. The variable baseline gravity gradient method, based on the difference of measurements between two gravimeters, is an alternative to the conventional approach of individually modeling all sources of mass and elevation changes. This approach can improve the signal‐to‐noise ratio for many applications by removing the contributions of Earth tides, loading, and other signals that have the same effect on both gravimeters. At the same time, this approach can focus the support volume within a relatively small user‐defined region of the subsurface. The method is demonstrated using paired superconducting gravimeters to make for the first time a large‐scale, noninvasive measurement of infiltration wetting front velocity and change in water content above the wetting front.
Role and origin of the poleward Alfvénic arc
Authors: Haerendel G. , Frey H. U.
Published: April 2014

Alfvénic arcs are often found adjacent to the poleward border of the substorm bulge. They are created by precipitating narrow electron beams with a broad energy distribution, mainly below 1 keV, and dominated by Alfvénic structures of small scales and frequencies in the 1 Hz range. They are also associated with transverse ion heating. A balanced field‐aligned current system accompanying the poleward Alfvénic arc reveals its underlying structure being a broad channel of primary energy inflow of several tens of kilometers width. The associated magnetic shear stresses drive a flow along the poleward side of the substorm current wedge. Polar cap convection passes through this channel before entering the substorm bulge. The small‐scale electromagnetic structures are developing from the primary energy inflow by scale breaking and multiple reflections in the ionospheric Alfvén resonator. By their parallel electric field components these structures decouple effectively from the ionosphere. Their energy content is converted into kinetic energy of auroral particles in the topside ionosphere. A selected data set from FAST, DE 2, and Cluster is presented for characterizing the energetic and electromagnetic properties of the Alfvénic arc. Its function in the substorm can be summarized as a preconditioning of the polar cap plasma and magnetic field for entry into the magnetosphere through the poleward arc. This occurs under substantial density depletion.
How I got Started: Drawn Into the Life of Crime: Learning from, by, and for Child Victims and Witnesses
Authors: Lamb Michael E.
Published: April 2014

In this paper, the author describes the origins of a research programme focused on children's testimony, noting that it was prompted initially by a focus on the effects of abuse. Growing evidence of failed communication between researchers and investigative interviewers led his research group to develop a detailed guide, based on extensive research, which forensic interviewers could use to structure their interactions with alleged victims, offenders and witnesses. Considerable research has since documented the value of that tool, and it has also been instrumental in research exploring children's communicative and cognitive development. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SF3B1 mutations in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes: The mutation is stable during disease evolution
Authors: Lin Chien‐Chin , Hou Hsin‐An , Chou Wen‐Chien , Kuo Yuan‐Yeh , Wu Shang‐Ju , Liu Chieh‐Yu , Chen Chien‐Yuan , Tseng Mei‐Hsuan , Huang Chi‐Fei , Lee Fen‐Yu , Liu Ming‐Chih , Liu Chia‐Wen , Tang Jih‐Luh , Yao Ming , Huang Shang‐Yi , Hsu Szu‐Chun , Ko Bor‐Sheng , Tsay Woei , Chen Yao‐Chang , Tien Hwei‐Fang
Published: April 2014

The SF3B1 mutation can be detected in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), but the report regarding the association of this mutation with other genetic alterations and its stability during disease progression is limited. In this study, SF3B1 mutations were identified in 10% of total cohort of 479 MDS patients and 61.8% of 34 patients with refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts (RARS). SF3B1 mutations were closely associated with older age, higher platelet counts, lower lactate dehydrogenase levels, good‐risk cytogenetics, and mutations of DNMT3A, but inversely related to ASXL1 mutations. Most SF3B1‐mutated patients had concurrent other genetic alterations, including DNMT3A and RUNX1 mutations. There was no prognostic difference between patients with SF3B1 mutations and those without. Sequential studies in 417 samples from 142 patients demonstrated that all SF3B1‐mutated patients retained the same mutations during disease evolution with the exception of two patients who lost the mutation after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, whereas none of the SF3B1‐wild patients acquired a novel mutation during clinical follow‐ups. In conclusion, the patients with SF3B1 mutations had distinct clinic‐biologic features. SF3B1 mutations, accompanied with other genetic alterations, especially DNMT3A mutations, may play a role in the development of MDS, but have little role in disease progression. Am. J. Hematol. 89:E109–E115, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of comorbid gastroesophageal reflux disease on endoscopic sinus surgery quality‐of‐life outcomes
Authors: DeConde Adam S. , Mace Jess C. , Smith Timothy L.
Published: April 2014

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are common entities that overlap in patient demographics. The pathophysiologic role of GERD has yet to be elucidated, but it is postulated that extraesophageal reflux may contribute to worsening symptoms of CRS. This study seeks to investigate whether patients with CRS with and without a history of GERD experience comparable quality‐of‐life (QOL) improvement after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Methods

An adult cohort (n = 229) with medically refractory CRS was prospectively assessed following ESS using 3 disease‐specific QOL constructs. A patient subset with a history of comorbid GERD was retrospectively identified (n = 72) and preoperative and postoperative QOL were compared to patients without GERD (n = 157).

Results

Patients with comorbid GERD and CRS were comparable across all baseline patient characteristics (p > 0.050) with the exception of patients with a history of GERD; those patients were less likely to have undergone allergy testing (p < 0.002) and were older (53.8 years vs 47.6; p < 0.002). Similarly, baseline objective and subjective measures of disease were comparable between patients with CRS with and without GERD (p > 0.050). Both groups experienced significant QOL improvement across all QOL constructs (p ≤ 0.021), and no difference was detected in the magnitude of that improvement between patients with and without a history of GERD (p > 0.050). Similarly, patients on active medical therapy for GERD (n = 49) had QOL gains comparable to patients not reporting GERD medical therapy (p > 0.050).

Conclusion

Patients electing ESS for CRS with and without comorbid GERD have comparable baseline characteristics and QOL outcomes following surgery.
Effects of acid treatments on bamboo cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Zhang Peng Peng , Tong Dong Shen , Lin Chun Xiang , Yang Hui Min , Zhong Zhe Ke , Yu Wei Hua , Wang Hao , Zhou Chun Hui
Published: April 2014

The production of nanocellulose with controlled structure from plant sources with easy availability and good sustainability is very important in science and engineering. In this work, the isolation of cellulose from bamboo and the effects of the hydrolysis of different acids on the morphology, structure, and properties of the resultant cellulose and cellulose nanocrystals were investigated. Bamboo cellulose (PHC) was first isolated from raw bamboo powder by alkali and consecutive bleaching treatments. Cellulose crystallites were then prepared by the controlled hydrolysis of PHC in acid solutions. The samples were characterized by using thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, laser particle size analyzer, Scanning electron microscopy, and Transmission electron microscopy. Cellulose nanocrystals prepared from the hydrolysis of the isolated bamboo cellulose in the sulfate acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, or acetic acid solution had the length of 3–200 nm, 20–85 nm, 20–40 nm, and 6.5–20 nm, respectively. Nanocrystals made by the uses of sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid possessed higher crystallinity and lower thermal stability than those by the uses of hydrochloric acid and a mixture of acetic acid and nitric acid. Results suggested the type of acids significantly influenced the structure, morphology, and thermal stability of cellulose crystallites. The anions in the acid solution also contributed to those differences because they affected the swelling of cellulose chains and breakage of hydrogen bonds in cellulose. The findings indicate that a judicious choice of pretreatment of the cellulose and its moieties can be used for the production of different cellulose nanocrystals. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel method to prepare magnetic polymer‐based anion exchangers and their application
Authors: Lin Yu‐Zong , Wang Tzu‐Hsien , Lin Yu‐Sheng , Kuan Wei‐Chih , Lee Wen‐Chien
Published: April 2014

Magnetic microspheres with ion‐exchange features were prepared by applying a swelling and penetration process using polystyrene–divinylbenzene‐based anion‐exchange resins as starting materials. The polymeric anion‐exchange particles were swollen with an aqueous solution of N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone, followed by incubation with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles to allow them to penetrate into the swollen particles. The pH value in the solution of magnetic nanoparticles could significantly influence the uptake of magnetic nanoparticles by the swollen anion‐exchange particles. Higher amounts of magnetic nanoparticles entrapped within anion exchangers could be achieved at pH 10–12. An increase in the concentration of magnetic nanoparticles led to a higher density of magnetic nanoparticles entrapped within the interior of anion exchangers and, thus, higher magnetization of the magnetic anion exchangers. Loading of the magnetic nanoparticles onto the exchanger had no effect on anion‐exchange functionality. The utility of the resulting magnetic anion‐exchange resins was demonstrated for the isolation of plasmid pEGFP‐C1 from Escherichia coli cell lysates. The magnetic anion‐exchange microspheres could be easily collected within a few seconds in a magnetic field. Thus, automation of the protocol for DNA isolation using these magnetic anion‐exchange resins has a high potential. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40725.
Preparation of multifunctional thiol‐ and acrylate‐terminated polyurethane: A comparative study on their properties in UV curable coatings
Authors: Wu Jianbing , Ma Guozhang , Li Ping , Ling Lixia , Wang Baojun
Published: April 2014

The multifunctional thiol‐ and acrylate‐terminated polyurethane (PU) has been successfully prepared for using as the main resin in the UV curable coatings. The structure and molecule weight of prepared PUs were analyzed by fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gel permeation chromatography, respectively. The results showed that the different terminal multifunctional groups have been grafted onto the PU and their difference in molecule weight was significant. Used as the main resin in coatings, the curing kinetic and percentage conversion of the different UV curing coatings system were investigated by real‐time FTIR method, and the effects of terminal functional groups and photoinitiator on the final conversion percentage and conversion rate were also compared. It is observed that the thiol‐terminated PU had higher conversion speed and final conversion percentage due to the remarkable effect of mercapto groups on reducing oxygen inhibition during UV curing process. The shrinkage, viscosity, and adhesion of UV curable coatings with thiol‐ and acrylate‐terminated PUs were also investigated and compared, and the results indicated that the former exhibited lower shrinkage and higher adhesion performances than the latter, along with the lower viscosity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40740.
Accelerating the degradation of polyolefins through additives and blending
Authors: Liu Xingxun , Gao Chengcheng , Sangwan Parveen , Yu Long , Tong Zhen
Published: April 2014

Polyolefins are popular because of their low price, useful properties, broad supply chains, and mature processing facilities, but they do not easily degrade in the natural environment, and hence, the development of degradable polyolefins has attracted increasing interest. Oxidative degradation and blending with natural polymers can accelerate the degradation of polyolefins in natural environments. In this article, we review the research and developments in the acceleration of the degradation of polyolefin blends and composites, including both the fundamental science, such as the degradation mechanisms and characterizations, and application techniques, such as the processing conditions and formulations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40750.
Synthesis and aqueous solution properties of hydrophobically modified polyacrylamide
Authors: Lu Cuige , Li Wenbo , Tan Ying , Liu Chang , Li Pengchong , Xu Kun , Wang Pixin
Published: April 2014

Hydrophobically modified polyacrylamide (HMPAM) is synthesized by a free radical micellar polymerization method with low amounts of anionic long‐chain alkyl, sodium 9‐(and 10)‐acrylamidostearate (NaAAS), which is derived from a renewable resource material, oleic acid. In this progress, the molar ratio of Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to NaAAS is adjusted, so polymers with different lengths of the hydrophobic blocks (NH = 3 and NH = 6) are obtained. The copolymers are characterized by 1H NMR, and the polymer weight and polydispersity are determined by gel permeation chromatography. The solution behaviors of the copolymers are studied as functions of concentrations, pH, and added electrolytes by steady‐flow and oscillatory experiments. The viscosities of these HMPAMs increase enormously above the critical concentration (c*). The sample with longer hydrophobic blocks exhibits better thickening effect. The rheological behaviors of aqueous solutions of HMPAMs are also investigated at different pH and brine environments. Low pH or the presence of brine promotes the intramolecular associating of hydrophobes for the both copolymers in semidilute solutions. The introduction of ionizable carboxylic group on the long hydrophobic side chain significantly influences the aggregation behaviors of the copolymers, leading to unique solution behaviors of the poly(AAm/NaAAS) copolymers. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40754.
Mechanical properties of PLA/PBS foamed composites reinforced by organophilic montmorillonite
Authors: Zhou Jintang , Yao Zhengjun , Zhou Chang , Wei Dongbo , Li Shuqin
Published: April 2014

Porous materials have specific properties, such as high surface area, high permeability, lightweight, and low thermal conductivity. In foaming process of thermoplastics, high melt viscosity is indispensable. Neither poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nor poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) has sufficient melt viscosity. In this manuscript, Organophilic montmorillonite (OMMT) was employed to improve the foaming performance PLA/PBS blends. Mechanical tests were undertaken to compare the performance change of PLA/PBS foams before and after reinforcement of OMMT. The compression feature of PLA/PBS foams was discussed. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopes were performed to investigate the interaction between OMMT and PLA/PBS foams and the influence of OMMT on cell structure. The results indicated that OMMT can improve the effect of foaming markedly. With 3 wt % OMMT, The compressive strength, flexural strength, and impact strength raised up to 9.2 MPa, 14.0 MPa, and 31.2 kJ/m2, respectively, and the average size of cells changed from 475.6 to 261.4 µm. FT‐IR, TGA, and XRD analysis suggested that CTAC has inserted into the Na‐MMT platelets and OMMT platelets are more likely to be intercalated or completely separated in PLA/PBS matrix. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40773.
Preparation of thiourea functionalized polyvinyl alcohol‐coated magnetic nanoparticles and their application in Pb2+ ions adsorption
Authors: Xiong Wubin , Guan Yueping , Guo Chen , Yang Mingzhu , Xia Tingting , Zhao Shen
Published: April 2014

We have prepared a novel kind of magnetic nanoparticle with high adsorption capacity and good selectivity for Pb2+ ions by modifying the magnetic nanoparticles with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and thiourea. The resultant magnetic nanoparticles were used to adsorb Pb2+ ions from aqueous solution. The influence of the solution pH, the adsorption time, the adsorption temperature, coexisting ions, and the initial concentration of Pb2+ ions on the adsorption of Pb2+ ions were investigated. The results indicated that Pb2+ ions adsorption was an endothermic reaction, and adsorption equilibrium was achieved within 30 min. The optimal pH for the adsorption of Pb2+ ions was pH 5.5, and the maximum adsorption capacity of Pb2+ ions was found to be 220 mg/g. Moreover, the coexisting cations such as Ca2+, Co2+, and Ni2+ had little effect on adsorption of Pb2+ ions. The regeneration studies showed that thiourea functionalized PVA‐coated magnetic nanoparticles could be reused for the adsorption of Pb2+ ions from aqueous solutions over five cycles without remarkable change in the adsorption capacity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40777.
Measuring direct and indirect authorial influence in historical corpora
Authors: Koppel Moshe , Schweitzer Nadav
Published: April 2014

We show how automatically extracted citations in historical corpora can be used to measure the direct and indirect influence of authors on each other. These measures can in turn be used to determine an author's overall prominence in the corpus and to identify distinct schools of thought. We apply our methods to two major historical corpora. Using scholarly consensus as a gold standard, we demonstrate empirically the superiority of indirect influence over direct influence as a basis for various measures of authorial impact.
On allocating redundancies to k‐out‐of‐ n reliability systems
Authors: You Yinping , Li Xiaohu
Published: April 2014

For two components in series and one redundancy with their lifetimes following the proportional hazard models, we build the likelihood ratio order and the hazard rate order for lifetimes of the redundant systems. Also, for k‐out‐of‐ n system with components’ lifetimes having the arrangement increasing joint density and the redundancies having identically distributed lifetimes, allocating more redundancies to weaker components is shown to help improve the system's reliability. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new and highly sensitive resonance Rayleigh scattering assay for lysozyme using aptamer–nanogold as a probe
Authors: Ma Lu , Zhang Xinghui , Liang Aihui , Liu Qingye , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: April 2014

Gold nanoparticles (GN), 10 nm in size, were modified by using lysozyme aptamer (Apt) to obtain a stable Apt–GN probe in pH 8.05 Tris/HCl buffer solutions containing 0.04 mol/L NaCl. Upon addition of lysozyme (LYS), it reacted with the Apt of the probe to form a very stable Apt–LYS complex and to release GNs, which aggregated to form large clusters with a resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS) peak at 368 nm. The enhanced peak intensity, ΔI, was linear to the LYS concentration in the range 0.2–5.2 nmol/L, with a detection limit of 0.05 nmol/L. The influence of foreign substance was tested, and the results showed that this RRS method has high selectivity. This Apt–GN RRS method was applied to the analysis of LYS in a real sample, with satisfactory results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of trapping parameters of γ‐rays irradiated Dy3+‐doped LaPO4 phosphors
Authors: Pimpalshende D. M. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: April 2014

Thermoluminescence (TL) materials are widely used in radiation measurements. The best‐known applications of TL materials are in the dosimetry of ionizing radiation, and in CTV screen phosphors, scintillators, X‐ray laser materials, etc. The TL glow curve and its kinetic parameters for annealed LaPO4 at different constant temperatures and for Dy3+‐doped LaPO4 phosphors irradiated by gamma‐rays are reported here. The samples were irradiated using a 60Co gamma‐ray source at a dose of 10 Gy and the heating rate used for TL measurements was 5ºC/s. The samples were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared, transmission electron microscopy and TL techniques. The XRD pattern shows that the prepared phosphor has a good crystalline structure with an average crystallite size of ~ 18 nm. The samples show good TL peaks for 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 mole % doping concentrations of Dy3+ ions and anneal above 400ºC. The TL glow curve characteristics of annealed LaPO4 and Dy3+‐doped LaPO4 were analyzed and trapping parameters calculated using various methods. All TL glow curves obey the second‐order kinetics with a single glow peak, which reveals that only one set of trapping parameter is set for a particular temperature. The TL sensitivity was found to depend upon the annealing temperature and Dy3+ doping concentration. The prepared sample may be a new nano phosphor and be useful in TL dosimetry. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectrofluorimetric determination of amisulpride and bumidazone in raw materials and tablets
Authors: Walash M. I. , Belal F. , Tolba M. M. , Halawa M. I.
Published: April 2014

A highly sensitive, simple and rapid spectrofluorimetric method was developed for the determination of amisulpride (AMS) and bumidazone (BUM) in tablet form. The proposed method is based on measuring the native fluorescence of the studied drugs in methanol at 360 and 344 nm after excitation at 276 and 232 nm for AMS and BUM, respectively. The fluorescence–concentration plots were rectilinear over the ranges of 5.0–60.0 ng/mL for AMS and 0.5–5.0 µg/mL for BUM. The lower detection limits were 0.70 ng/mL and 0.06 µg/mL, and the lower quantification limits were 2.0 ng/mL and 0.18 µg/mL for AMS and BUM, respectively. The method was successfully applied for the analysis of AMS and BUM in commercial tablets. Statistical evaluation and comparison of the data obtained using the proposed and comparison methods revealed good accuracy and precision for the proposed method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of deletion and overexpression of tryptophan metabolism genes on growth and fermentation capacity at low temperature in wine yeast
Authors: López‐Malo María , García‐Rios Estefani , Chiva Rosana , Guillamon José Manuel , Martí‐Raga María
Published: April 2014

Low‐temperature fermentations produce wines with greater aromatic complexity, but the success of these fermentations greatly depends on the adaptation of yeast cells to cold. Tryptophan has been previously reported to be a limiting amino acid during Saccharomyces cerevisiae growth at low temperature. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of the tryptophan metabolism on growth and fermentation performance during low‐temperature wine fermentation. To this end, we constructed the deletion mutants of the TRP1 and TAT2 genes in a derivative haploid of a commercial wine strain, and the TAT2 gene was overexpressed in the prototroph and auxotroph (Δtrp1) backgrounds. Then we characterized growth and fermentation activity during wine fermentation at low and optimum temperatures. Our results partially support the role of this amino acid in cold yeast growth. Although deletion of TRP1 impaired amino acid uptake and the growth rate at low temperature in synthetic must, this growth impairment did not affect the fermentation rate. Deletion of TAT2 endorsed this strain with the highest nitrogen consumption capacity and the greatest fermentation activity at low temperature. Our results also evidenced reduced ammonium consumption in all the strains at low temperature. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 30:776–783, 2014
A New Bifunctional Chelator Enables Facile Biocoupling and Radiolabeling as the Basis for a Bioconjugation Kit
Authors: Barandov Ali , Grünstein Dan , Apostolova Ivalaya , Buchert Ralph , Roger Michel , Brenner Winfried , Abram Ulrich , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: April 2014

A new tridentate bifunctional chelator, N‐(‐2‐picolyl)(‐4‐hydroxy)(‐3‐amino)benzoic acid (PHAB), was designed to efficiently coordinate the [99mTc(CO)3]+ core and facilitate coupling reactions to biomolecules. The chelator can be procured in the form of the corresponding benzotriazole ester (PHAB‐OBT), which can be stored and used as a bioconjugation kit. PHAB‐OBT reacts with modified carbohydrates with high selectivity and efficiency in a single step in both aqueous and organic media. As is desirable for a kit, no complicated chemical bench work is required. Glycoconjugate postlabeling resulted in neutral radiolabeled glycans with high radiochemical yields. Prelabeling approaches were assessed by successive reaction of PHAB‐OBT with the [99mTc(CO)3]+ core and a modified galactose model. The radiolabeled galactose was obtained in 84 % yield as defined by HPLC analysis. Biodistribution of the radioactive 99mTc‐labeled chelator, as well as the glycoconjugates, were examined in mice. Noticeably different biodistribution patterns were observed that reflect trends in the uptake of carbohydrate analogues by various organs.
How to Modulate Catalytic Properties in Nanosystems: The Case of Iron–Ruthenium Nanoparticles
Authors: Kelsen Vinciane , Meffre Anca , Fazzini Pier‐Francesco , Lecante Pierre , Chaudret Bruno
Published: April 2014

Ultrasmall FeRu bimetallic nanoparticles were prepared by co‐decomposition of two organometallic precursors, {Fe[N(Si(CH3)3)2]2}2 and (η4‐1,5‐cyclooctadiene)(η6‐1,3,5‐cyclooctatriene)ruthenium(0) (Ru(COD)(COT)), under dihydrogen at 150 °C in mesitylene. A series of FeRu nanoparticles of sizes of approximately 1.8 nm and incorporating different ratios of iron to ruthenium were synthesized by varying the quantity of the ruthenium complex introduced (Fe/Ru=1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.2, and 1:0.1). FeRu nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, high‐resolution TEM, and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering analyses. Their surface was studied by hydride titration and IR spectroscopy after CO adsorption and their magnetic properties were analyzed by using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). The FeRu nanoparticles were used as catalysts in the hydrogenation of styrene and 2‐butanone. The results indicate that the selectivity of the nanoparticle catalysts can be modulated according to their composition and therefore represent a case study on fine‐tuning the reactivity of nanocatalysts and adjusting their selectivity in a given reaction.
A Copper‐Catalyzed Variant of the Michaelis–Arbuzov Reaction
Authors: Ballester Jorge , Gatignol Jérémie , Schmidt Guntram , Alayrac Carole , Gaumont Annie‐Claude , Taillefer Marc
Published: April 2014

As part of our studies on copper‐catalyzed arylation of nucleophiles, we report on Michaelis–Arbuzov reactions with a novel catalytic system, featuring a copper(I) salt as precatalyst without any additional ligand. This procedure is an interesting alternative to the use of expensive and toxic transition metals (nickel, palladium) traditionally used as catalysts in Michaelis–Arbuzov reactions. Our approach allows the synthesis from triethylphosphite, diethyl aryl phosphonite, and diaryl ethylphosphinite of various aryl phosphonates, aryl phosphinates, and aryl phosphine oxides, respectively. These families of compounds are essential owing to their respective importance in bioorganic and medical chemistry, their applicability as flame retardants, and their usability in coordination chemistry and catalysis.
Design of Maleimide‐Functionalised Electrodes for Covalent Attachment of Proteins through Free Surface Cysteine Groups
Authors: Wright Emma J. , Sosna Maciej , Bloodworth Sally , Kilburn Jeremy D. , Bartlett Philip N.
Published: April 2014

Mixed two‐component monolayers on glassy carbon are prepared by electrochemical oxidation of N‐(2‐aminoethyl)acetamide and mono‐N‐Boc‐hexamethylenediamine in mixed solution. Subsequent N‐deprotection, amide coupling and solid‐phase synthetic steps lead to electrode‐surface functionalisation with maleimide, with controlled partial coverage of this cysteine‐binding group at appropriate dilution for covalent immobilisation of a model redox‐active protein, cytochrome c, with high coverage (≈7.5 pmol cm−2).
Harnessing neurogenesis for the possible treatment of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lamm Omri , Ganz Javier , Melamed Eldad , Offen Daniel
Published: April 2014

The discovery of neurogenesis in the adult brain has created new possibilities for therapeutics in neurodegenerative diseases. Neural precursor cells, which have been found in various parts of the brain, e.g., the subventricular zone (SVZ) and substantia nigra (SN), have promising potential to replace the extensive loss of neurons occurring in neurodegenerative disorders. In Parkinson's disease (PD) the degeneration of nigral dopaminergic neurons and consequently the nigrostriatal pathway, which has been found to innervate proximally to the SVZ, causes motor and cognitive impairments. There is strong evidence that neurogenesis is impaired in PD, which has been related to the nonmotor symptoms of the disease. Recent evidence supports that this impairment in neurogenesis is partially caused by the lack of dopamine in one of the adult neurogenic niches, the SVZ. Thus, restoring the dopaminergic pathway in PD patients may have implications not only for motor function improvement, but for other cognitive and autonomic symptoms. Currently, there are no effective treatments that can stop or reverse the neurodegeneration process in the brain. Here we review the neurogenic process and observed alterations found in PD animal models and postmortem brains of PD patients. Finally, we review several attempts to stimulate the neurogenic process for nigral and/or striatal dopaminergic restoration by transgenic expression, exercise, or cell therapy. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:2817–2830, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Creating a gateway that enables large‐scale science coopetition
Authors: Crivelli Silvia , Dooley Rion , Holmes Raquell , Mock Stephen ,   The WeFold Community
Published: April 2014

This paper describes the WeFold gateway that provides a social and technical environment for the first large‐scale attempt at collaboration within the context of the Critical Assessment of techniques for protein Structure Prediction (CASP) competition. CASP is a biennial worldwide experiment created 20 years ago to advance the field of protein folding, one of the grand challenges in modern science. The WeFold experiment was started in CASP10 (the 10th CASP) to bring together scientists from different disciplines to brainstorm online, share ideas and codes, and synergistically develop new methodologies. The goal is to positively shake up the field to stimulate breakthrough advances. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The utility of nonequilibrium statistical mechanics, specifically transport theory, for modeling cohort data
Authors: Rajaram Rajeev , Castellani Brian
Published: April 2014

This article introduces a new case‐based density approach to modeling big data longitudinally, which uses ordinary differential equations and the linear advection partial differential equations (PDE) to treat macroscopic, dynamical change as a transport issue of aggregate cases across continuous time. The novelty of this approach comes from its unique data‐driven treatment of cases: which are K dimensional vectors; where the velocity vector for each case is computed according to its particular measurements on some set of empirically defined social, psychological, or biological variables. The three main strengths of this approach are its ability to: (1) translate the data driven, nonlinear trajectories of microscopic constituents (cases) into the linear movement of macroscopic trajectories, which take the form of densities; (2) detect the presence of multiple, complex steady state behaviors, including sinks, spiraling sources, saddles, periodic orbits, and attractor points; and (3) predict the motion of novel cases and time instances. To demonstrate the utility of this approach, we used it to model a recognized cohort dynamic: the longitudinal relationship between a country's per capita gross domestic product (GDP) and its longevity rates. Data for the model came from the widely used Gapminder dataset. Empirical results, including the strength of the model's fit and the novelty of its results (particularly on a topic of such extensive study) support the utility of our new approach. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 20: 45–57, 2015