bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper Nanoparticle Modified Pencil Graphite Electrode for Electroanalysis of Adenine
Authors: Sharma Vimal Kumar , Trnkova Libuse
Published: July 2016

A pencil graphite electrode (PeGE) modified with copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) was employed for sensitive electrochemical detection of adenine (Ade). The CuNPs were synthesized by the chemical reduction of copper (II) sulphate by borohydride in the presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and immobilized onto the electrode surface by means of physical adsorption. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) results illustrate that the CuNP‐modified PeGE provides at least fivefold increase of Ade oxidation peaks compared to the bare PeGE. The detection limit in CV corresponds to value of 200 nM. The accumulation of Ade through the complex with Cu (I) allows us to introduce the novel biosensor for the determination not only of adenine but also purines capable to form analogical Cu (I) complexes.
Electrochemical Characterization of Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofiber Arrays Prepared by Hole‐mask Colloidal Lithography
Authors: Robinson Jendai E. , Heineman William R. , Sagle Laura B. , Meyyappan M. , Koehne Jessica E.
Published: July 2016

Nanoelectrode arrays consisting of vertically aligned carbon nanofibers were prepared through plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and patterned using hole‐mask colloidal lithography (HCL), a simple fabrication method employed as a cost‐effective patterning alternative to the conventional electron beam lithography. The density of the carbon nanofibers was easily altered by changing the concentration of the polystyrene spheres employed in HCL. Cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry were used to electrochemically characterize the arrays of different density. Results indicate that the density of the carbon nanofibers leads to differences in the macro/micro electroactive surface areas.
Electrode Modification Using Alkyne Manganese Phthalocyanine and Click Chemistry for Electrocatalysis
Authors: O'Donoghue Charles. S. J. N. , Fomo Gertrude , Nyokong Tebello
Published: July 2016

In this work, azidobenzene diazonium salt is grafted onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) followed by clicking of manganese tetrahexynyl phthalocyanine for the electrocatalysis of hydrazine. The GCE was first grafted via the in situ diazotization of a diazonium salt, rendering the GCE surface layered with azide groups. From this point, the 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction, catalyzed by a copper catalyst was utilized to ‘click’ the manganese tetrahexynyl phthalocyanine to the surface of the grafted GCE. This new platform was then characterized using cyclic voltammetry (CV), scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Based on the cyclic voltammetry calibration curve of electrocatalysis for hydrazine, the clicked Mn phthalocyanine electrode proved to be an effective sensor with a sensitivity of 27.38 µA mM−1 and the limit of detection (LoD) of 15.4 pM which is a great improvement compared to other reported sensors for this analyte.
Clinical impact of early recovery of peripheral blood absolute lymphocyte count after frontline autologous stem cell transplantation for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Kim Yundeok , Kim Soo‐Jeong , Cheong June‐Won , Cho Hyunsoo , Chung Haerim , Lee Jung Yeon , Jang Ji Eun , Min Yoo Hong , Kim Jin Seok
Published: July 2016

We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the clinical impact of an early recovery of posttransplant absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) on the outcome of frontline autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We reviewed 65 DLBCL patients who underwent frontline ASCT after primary chemotherapy based on cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut point (0.4 × 109/L) for an ALC at 15 days after ASCT (ALC‐15). Both event‐free survival and overall survival rates of the higher‐ALC‐15 group were significantly better than those of the lower‐ALC‐15 group (event‐free survival, P = .008; overall survival, P = .013). The infused CD34+ cell count was significantly associated with the recovery of ALC‐15 (>0.4 × 109/L) after ASCT (P = .028). A multivariate analysis confirmed that a higher infused CD34+ cell dose (>5.0 × 106 cells/kg) was an independent factor affecting an early recovery of ALC after ASCT (odds ratio, 4.145; 95% confidence interval, 1.106‐15.528; P = .035). In conclusion, an early recovery of ALC after ASCT can be regarded as a good prognostic marker in patients with DLBCL who have undergone frontline ASCT. We found that the infused CD34+ cell dose for ASCT was associated with the recovery of ALC.
A systematic review on the role of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other supplements for the treatment of cachexia in cancer: a European Palliative Care Research Centre cachexia project
Authors: Mochamat  , Cuhls Henning , Marinova Milka , Kaasa Stein , Stieber Christiane , Conrad Rupert , Radbruch Lukas , Mücke Martin
Published: July 2016

We provide a systematic review to support the European Palliative Care Research Collaboration development of clinical guidelines for cancer patients suffering from cachexia. CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, and a selection of cancer journals have been searched up until 15 April 2016. The systematic literature research yielded 4214 publications with 21 of these included in the final evaluation. Regarding minerals, our search identified only one study examining the use of magnesium with no effect on weight loss. As far as vitamins are concerned, vitamin E in combination with omega‐3 fatty acids displayed an effect on survival in a single study, vitamin D showed improvement of muscle weakness in prostate cancer patients, and vitamin C supplementation led to an improvement of various quality of life aspects in a sample with a variety of cancer diagnoses. For proteins, a combination therapy of β‐hydroxy‐β‐methylbutyrate (HMB), arginine, and glutamine showed an increase in lean body mass after 4 weeks in a study of advanced solid tumour patients, whereas the same combination did not show a benefit on lean body mass in a large sample of advanced lung and other cancer patients after 8 weeks. L‐carnitine led to an increase of body mass index and an increase in overall survival in advanced pancreatic cancer patients. Adverse effects of food supplementation were rare and showed mild intensity. There is not enough solid evidence for the use of minerals, vitamins, proteins, or other supplements in cancer. No serious adverse effects have been reported with dietary supplementation.
Traumatic sternal segment dislocation in a 3‐year‐old girl: Sonographic findings
Authors: Murray Nicolas , Rypens Françoise , Trudel Jean‐Sébastien , Cantin Marie‐Andrée , Miron Marie‐Claude
Published: July 2016

Sternal fractures are uncommon in the pediatric population, and sternal segment dislocations are even rarer with only a few cases reported in the literature. Most cases are secondary to direct trauma to the chest, but nontraumatic dislocations have been reported. The diagnosis can be difficult to establish with standard radiographs, while CT is not desirable in the pediatric population due to the associated irradiation. Ultrasound (US) can be used as the first‐line modality to evaluate the sternum. We report the US findings associated with a case of traumatic sternal segment dislocation in a 3‐year‐old girl. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:45–49, 2017
French Pharmaceutical Strategic Clusters: A Hybrid Inducto‐deductive Framework for Visual Analysis of Competitive Spaces
Authors: Rebière Philippe , Mavoori Hareesh
Published: July 2016

A hybrid visualization framework combining multiple approaches offers cross‐validated insights into complex competitive and strategic dynamics of markets for insiders as well as policy‐makers and is transferable across industries.
Maximizing retention in long‐term clinical trials of a weight loss agent: use of a dietitian support team
Authors: Delahanty L. M. , Riggs M. , Klioze S. S. , Chew R. D. , England R. D. , Digenio A.
Published: July 2016

Objective

High‐attrition rates have been observed in long‐term clinical trials of weight loss agents. We evaluated the impact of an innovative retention programme on 1‐year retention.

Methods

Three Phase 3 global multicentre clinical trials evaluated the efficacy and safety of a CB1 receptor antagonist in subjects with BMI ≥ or = 27 kg/m2. The impact of a multifaceted retention programme including a dietitian screening interview, a comprehensive culturally adapted lifestyle modification programme, and a dietitian support system to maximize lifestyle adherence, was evaluated in 4,410 subjects from four subpopulations (non‐US English‐speaking, non‐English‐speaking, US‐without dietitian screening and US‐with dietitian screening) comprising 208 centres from 15 countries.

Results

The median proportion retained over the first year among subjects in three protocols was 82%. Non‐English‐speaking countries showed higher retention rates (89%) compared with the USA (73%) and non‐US English‐speaking (81%) countries. Within the USA, behavioural screening was associated with 29% reduction in dropout rate; for every five monthly teleconferences attended above 11, there was a 32% decrease in dropout rate.

Conclusions

This novel retention programme greatly improved upon reported retention rates of studies conducted with other weight loss agents in long‐term clinical trials. Its effectiveness should be confirmed in future trials.
Recruitment and Retention for a Weight Loss Maintenance Trial Involving Weight Loss Prior to Randomization
Authors: Voils C. I. , Grubber J. M. , McVay M. A. , Olsen M. K. , Bolton J. , Gierisch J. M. , Taylor S. S. , Maciejewski M. L. , Yancy W. S.
Published: July 2016

Objective

A weight loss maintenance trial involving weight loss prior to randomization is challenging to implement due to the potential for dropout and insufficient weight loss. We examined rates and correlates of non‐initiation, dropout, and insufficient weight loss during a weight loss maintenance trial.

Methods

The MAINTAIN trial involved a 16‐week weight loss program followed by randomization among participants losing at least 4 kg. Psychosocial measures were administered during a screening visit. Weight was obtained at the first group session and 16 weeks later to determine eligibility for randomization.

Results

Of 573 patients who screened as eligible, 69 failed to initiate the weight loss program. In adjusted analyses, failure to initiate was associated with lower age, lack of a support person, and less encouragement for making dietary changes. Among participants who initiated, 200 dropped out, 82 lost insufficient weight, and 222 lost sufficient weight for randomization. Compared to losing sufficient weight, dropping out was associated with younger age and tobacco use, whereas losing insufficient weight was associated with non‐White race and controlled motivation for physical activity.

Conclusions

Studies should be conducted to evaluate strategies to maximize recruitment and retention of subgroups that are less likely to initiate and be retained in weight loss maintenance trials.
Novel charged chitosan composite nanofiltration membranes containing chiral mesogenic group
Authors: Mu Tao , Tan Guanglei , Du Guofeng , He Lijie , Li Zhen , Li Xuelei
Published: July 2016

To improve the performance of nanofiltration (NF) membranes, a chiral mesogenic compound, a positively charged compound, and a negatively charged compound were grafted to chitosan, respectively. Series of novel composite NF membranes were prepared by over‐coating the polysulfone ultrafiltration membrane with the mixture of chitosan and modified chitosan. The chiral mesogenic compound, the positively charged compound, the negatively compound and their chitosan derivatives were characterized by infrared spectrophotometer, differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscope; the structure of the membrane was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The performance of composite NF membranes was strictly related to the novel compounds grafted to chitosan and its composition. The rejection reached the maximum of 95.7% for CaCl2 with P2‐7 composite NF membrane, corresponding flux was 3155 Lm−2h−1. The rejection reached the maximum of 93% for Na2SO4 with P3‐5 composite NF membrane, corresponding flux was 3879 Lm−2h−1. Comparing with conventional NF membranes, the membranes were used in low pressure with high flux, especially for the separation of high‐valence ions from solution. The membranes were typical charged NF membranes. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:22–30, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
msVolcano: A flexible web application for visualizing quantitative proteomics data
Authors: Singh Sukhdeep , Hein Marco Y. , Stewart A. Francis
Published: July 2016

We introduce msVolcano, a web application for the visualization of label‐free mass spectrometric data. It is optimized for the output of the MaxQuant data analysis pipeline of interactomics experiments and generates volcano plots with lists of interacting proteins. The user can optimize the cutoff values to find meaningful significant interactors for the tagged protein of interest. Optionally, stoichiometries of interacting proteins can be calculated. Several customization options are provided to the user for flexibility, and publication‐quality outputs can also be downloaded (tabular and graphical). Availability: msVolcano is implemented in R Statistical language using Shiny. It can be accessed freely at http://projects.biotec.tu-dresden.de/msVolcano/
Multiscale Systems‐Pharmacology Pipeline to Assess the Prophylactic Efficacy of NRTIs Against HIV‐1
Authors: Duwal S , Sunkara V , von Kleist M
Published: July 2016

While HIV‐1 continues to spread, the use of antivirals in preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has recently been suggested. Here we present a modular systems pharmacology modeling pipeline, predicting PrEP efficacy of nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) at the scale of reverse transcription, target‐cell, and systemic infection and after repeated viral exposures, akin to clinical trials. We use this pipeline to benchmark the prophylactic efficacy of all currently approved NRTIs in wildtype and mutant viruses. By integrating pharmacokinetic models, we find that intracellular tenofovir‐diphosphate builds up too slowly to halt infection when taken “on demand” and that lamivudine may substitute emtricitabine in PrEP combinations. Lastly, we delineate factors confounding clinical PrEP efficacy estimates and provide a method to overcome these. The presented framework is useful to screen and optimize PrEP candidates and strategies and to understand their clinical efficacy by integrating the diverse scales which determine PrEP efficacy.
Fragility assessment of high‐rise reinforced concrete buildings considering the effects of shear wall contributions
Authors: Sadraddin Hezha Lutfalla , Shao Xiaoyun , Hu Yufeng
Published: July 2016

The effect of shear wall configurations on seismic responses of high‐rise RC buildings is investigated in this paper using fragility analysis method. Four lower high‐rise RC buildings that have the same plan dimensions and height but are different in configurations in lateral force resisting systems, were firstly designed following the standard code procedure. To consider uncertainties in earthquake motions, 16 real ground motion pairs were selected and scaled, then applied orthogonally to the four RC building models during the Incremental Dynamic Analysis (IDA). Fragility relationships were therefore derived based on the IDA results for the three limit states including slight damage, moderate damage and collapse to show the probabilistic comparison of seismic responses among the four buildings in both x and y‐directions. It was observed that generally adding shear walls will improve buildings' seismic performance at all limit states. However, shear wall configuration also plays a significant role in seismic behavior of the lower high‐rise regular RC buildings' and internal shear walls are generally more effective than external shear walls in improving building's seismic resistance. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why Querétaro? The Development of an Aeronautical Manufacturing Cluster in Central Mexico
Authors: Burgos Rodrigo Garza , Johnson Jim
Published: July 2016

In recent years, an aeronautical manufacturing cluster has emerged in Querétaro state, Mexico. In 2013, the aeronautical industry in Querétaro state represented 10% of the state's gross product and employed more than 5,000 people, and further private investments of over US$160 million related to the aeronautical industry were expected (Secretaría de Desarrollo Sustentable, 2014). This article investigates the causes for the development of such a cluster, drawing upon Brenner and Mühlig's (2013) study of 159 industrial clusters, and identifies both the key factors in the development of the cluster and what makes Querétaro attractive to foreign direct investment. The findings indicate areas for further research for potential cluster development in other regions of Mexico. The article concludes with the challenge facing the aeronautical cluster in Querétaro if it is to create a sustainable competitive advantage and compete on a global scale. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is there a Role for Genetic Counselors in Prenatal Paternity Testing? – an Assessment Based on Audit of 13 years of Clinical Experience in South Australia
Authors: Riley Kate E. , Salvemini Hayley , Haan Eric , Fitzgerald Lara , Stallard Kirsty , Borrie Sarah , Pontikinas Electra , Baxendale Anne
Published: July 2016

The role of genetic counselors in prenatal paternity testing has not been widely studied in the genetic counseling literature. In South Australia, the genetic counselors of the State's public sector clinical genetics service are the primary contact point for women seeking information and testing, also coordinating the testing process. This has provided the opportunity to review all prenatal paternity testing performed in the State over a 13 year period and to consider the role played by the genetic counselor. We explored the reasons why women requested prenatal paternity testing and whether the genetic counselor was an appropriate health professional to facilitate this testing for women. The study had two parts, an audit of the clinical genetics files of 160 women who requested prenatal paternity testing between March 2001 and March 2014, and qualitative interviews of genetic counselors, clinical geneticists, obstetricians and social workers with involvement in this area. The audit determined that in 69.9 % of cases the long‐term partner was the father of the pregnancy, for 23.7 % the short‐term or other partner was the father and for 6.4 % the paternity results were not known by the genetic counselor. For 45.5 % of women whose long‐term partner was excluded as the father, the women chose to have a termination of pregnancy. The results of the qualitative interviews yielded five major themes: accessibility of testing, role of the genetic counselor, social and relationship issues, decision making in pregnancy and emotional issues. We conclude that the genetic counselor is an appropriate health professional to facilitate prenatal paternity testing. Genetic counselors did not view their role as significantly different from a request for prenatal testing for another indication.
Front dynamics and entrainment of finite circular gravity currents on an unbounded uniform slope
Authors: Zgheib N. , Ooi A. , Balachandar S.
Published: July 2016

We report on the dynamics of circular finite-release Boussinesq gravity currents on a uniform slope. The study comprises a series of highly resolved direct numerical simulations for a range of slope angles between $5^{\circ }$ and $20^{\circ }$. The simulations were fixed at Reynolds number $Re=5000$ for all slopes considered. The temporal evolution of the front is compared to available experimental data. One of the interesting aspects of this study is the detection of a converging flow towards the centre of the gravity current. This converging flow is a result of the finite volume of the release coupled with the presence of a sloping boundary, which results in a second acceleration phase in the front velocity of the current. The details of the dynamics of this second acceleration and the redistribution of material in the current leading to its development will be discussed. These finite-release currents are invariably dominated by the head where most of the mixing and ambient entrainment occurs. We propose a simple method for defining the head of the current from which we extract various properties including the front Froude number and entrainment coefficient. The Froude number is seen to increase with steeper slopes, whereas the entrainment coefficient is observed to be weakly dependent on the bottom slope.
Further Observations on Nitroso-bacteria
Authors: Fremlin H. S.
Published: July 2016

Interesting results were obtained with cultures in ammonia agar, from them it is evident that the nitroso-bacterium grows readily through this medium whether inoculated on the centre of a plate or when covered with the agar jelly itself. Further, the presence of 5 to 10% of beef broth in the ammonia agar allows of better development.

Potassium phosphate agar containing bouillon gelatine but no free ammonia, on being inoculated with cultures of nitroso-bacteria, also developed nitrification; the organic matter was broken down, ammonia formed, and nitrites built up.

Nitrification in ordinary bouillon agar plates shows that organic matter does not necessarily form a barrier to the process; and further, that two of the cultures had only been fed with inorganic salts for three and four years respectively prior to the inoculation into the plates, is good evidence that gradual additions of organic matter are not absolutely necessary.

Calcium sulphate blocks allowed me to work with a larger amount of very active culture: from these it was found that urine was a very good culture medium indeed. Also that peptone water diluted with water, or peptone beef broth, milk, or blood serum diluted with ammonium sulphate could be used as culture media; sometimes these checked nitrification for a time but it afterwards became well established.

The experiments with undiluted urine were wholly successful and stand as a further proof of nitrification in presence of organic matter.

From these results it is clear that the nitroso-bacterium is a very powerful nitrite-forming micro-organism, that it is not readily destroyed, and that a certain amount of organic matter is essential to its greatest development, but for this a large amount of culture must be used.

In conclusion I have to offer my deepest thanks to Sir William Power for the great help that he has given me and for the kindness that he has always shown; also to others who have most kindly advised me my grateful thanks are due.
An Inquiry into the Relation between Social Status and Cancer Mortality
Authors: Brown J. W. , Lal Mohan
Published: July 2016

Considerable difference of opinion has existed as to whether the incidence of cancer is at all affected by the habits of life of different classes of the community. There is of course no doubt that in certain occupations particular forms of malignant disease are exceptionally prevalent, the case of chimney sweeps being notorious; but the more general question as to the incidence on large groups of occupations has not been so definitely determined. The present research was suggested by the apparently contradictory results obtained by Heron from his study of London statistics, and by Maynard from an analysis of United States data.
An Anomalous Meningococcus
Authors: Canti R. G.
Published: July 2016

(1) An unusual strain of meningococcus has been isolated which produces minute “dew drop” colonies. This character has persisted throughout a large number of successive generations. Every culture, however, has shown lateral off-shoots consisting of colonies which have the size and appearance of those of typical meningococci. In subsequent subcultivations from these colonies the newly acquired size and appearance remain constant.

(2) It is suggested that the strain isolated is a retrograde variety and that the off-shoots are produced by degressive evolution.

(3) It is also suggested that the character which reappears in the degressive step is that of producing a substance beneficial for growth.

It is impossible, however, to offer any satisfactory explanation of the phenomena observed without a more extended series of experiments. This was impracticable at the time owing to pressure of routine work and further observations on the same organism have now become impossible owing to the fact that the small growing strain has died out. Nevertheless the findings seem worth recording in their present state in the hope that they may be of use to others who have met or may meet with similar peculiarities in the course of their work.
Identification of the Meningococcus
Authors: Gordon M. H.
Published: July 2016

During the years 1903 and 1904 while engaged upon an investigation of the micro-organisms present in saliva, I had frequent occasion to make a quantitative bacteriological examination of this material. The object then in view was to define the bacteria that are most numerous in the mouth, so as to see if they could be applied to detect particulate pollution of air by material derived from the upper respiratory passages in a way similar to that in which B. coli is used to detect and measure excremental pollution of water. While certain streptocoeci were found to provide the index in question, particularly S. salivarius (which is constantly present to the extent of 10 to 100 millions per cubic centimetre of normal saliva) it was observed that among other bacteria present in the cultures were certain gram-negative cocci which frequently exceeded 100,000 per c.c. of the saliva of normal individuals.
Diet-induced obesity promotes systemic inflammation and increased susceptibility to murine visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: SARNÁGLIA GLÊNIA DAROS , COVRE LUCIANA POLACO , PEREIRA FAUSTO EDMUNDO LIMA , DE MATOS GUEDES HERBERT LEONEL , FARIA ANA MARIA CAETANO , DIETZE REYNALDO , RODRIGUES RODRIGO RIBEIRO , MAIOLI TATIANI UCELI , GOMES DANIEL CLÁUDIO OLIVIERA
Published: July 2016

Obesity is the main causal factor for metabolic syndrome and chronic systemic inflammation, which impacts on immune function and increases susceptibility to pathogens. Here, we investigated the effect of obesity on the outcome of visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmaniasis infantum chagasi. C57BL/6 mice fed with high-sugar and butter diet (HSB) showed a significant increase in body weight, adiposity index and morphological changes in adipocyte. To investigate the consequences of obesity on the specific immunity against Leishmania, both control and HSB diet groups were infected with 107L. infantum chagasi promastigotes in the eighth-week after diet started and euthanized 4 weeks later. HSB-diet fed mice exhibited a significantly higher parasite burden in both liver and spleen compared with control- diet group. Gonadal adipocyte tissue from HSB-diet mice showed increased TNF-α, IL-6 and leptin and diminished IL-10 production compared with control. Cytokines production analysis in the spleen and liver from these animals also demonstrated higher production of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6 and nitric oxide and diminished production of IL-10 and TGF-β, which correlate with inflammatory foci and the cell hyperplasia observed. Taken together, obesity can interfere with responses to pathogen-derived signals and impair the development of protective anti-Leishmania immunity.
XXX.—Thermal and Electric Conductivity
Authors: Tait
Published: July 2016

The following paper contains the results of an inquiry which has occupied me at intervals for somewhere about ten years. It was carried out in part at the expense of the British Association, and I have already reported results to that body in 1869 and 1871. But these provisional reports referred to very short ranges of temperature only, and the experiments were made with faulty thermometers, for which I had not the corrections which had been carefully determined by Welsh at Kew.

The inquiry arose from my desire to extend to other metals the very beautiful and original method which Principal Forbes devised, and which the state of his health prevented him from applying to any substance but iron. Forbes' experiments gave a result so very remarkable, and (as it seemed to me) so theoretically suggestive, that I wished to extend them to other pure metals, and also, in one or two cases at least, to alloys.

I believe that Principal Forbes had at least two reasons for undertaking his investigations:—(1.) When he commenced his inquiry, there was no really accurate or trustworthy determination of the absolute conductivity of any body whatever for heat. (2.) FORBES had himself, in 1833 and subsequent years, pointed out a very remarkable analogy between the conducting powers of metals for electricity and for heat, and had shown that these were almost precisely proportional to one another—that is to say, that the list of the average relative conductivities of different metals for electricity differed, from that of their relative conductivities with regard to heat, certainly not more than did the several electric lists furnished by different experimenters, and certainly less than the corresponding thermal lists. Hence it was natural to suppose that temperature might have a marked effect on thermal conductivity, as it was known to have such an effect on electric conductivity.
XIV. —Chapters on the Mineralogy of Scotland. Chapter Third.—The Garnets
Authors: Heddle
Published: July 2016

Abundant as are the localities in which garnet is found in Scotland, there are but few which yield specimens such as can be analysed.

This is on account of an intermixture of quartz—for the most part in a granular form—the granules being promiscuously scattered throughout the mass of the crystals. In three localities the intermixture is not promiscuous, but has been governed by some intermittent crystalline action. These localities are Glen Skiag in Ross, where, around a central nucleus of leucitoidal crystals of garnet, translucent quartz is arranged in layers which alternate with those of the garnet, conformably to the figure of its crystal.

The two other localities are the first and third granitic veins to the east of Portsoy; in both of which garnet of a pale brown colour is laced with quartz, which is arranged in a graphic manner, as in the felspar from an adjacent vein. At no other locality do I know of such an occurrence. The appearance of a section of a rhombic dodecahedron is somewhat like the figure.
XIX.—On Some New Bases of the Leucoline Series
Authors: Robinson G. Carr
Published: July 2016

Of the bases of the CnH2n—11N series, obtained from coal-tar and from the “acid-tar” from the distillation of shale, only three are known, viz., Leucoline, C9H7N; Iridoline, C10H9N; and Cryptidine, C11H11N. These are isomeric with the bases obtained by the distillation of cinchonine with caustic potash, and are described by their discoverer, Greville Williams, in “ Trans. Royal Society, Edinburgh,” vol. xxi. The leucoline series of bases, at first thought to be identical with the cinchonine series, Williams has shown to be isomeric, but otherwise having important differences, these differences chiefly being apparent in their boiling points, their slight tendency to form crystallisable salts, and their reaction with iodide of amyl.

The source of the leucoline bases of Greville Williams was “coal-oil of a very high boiling point, and a density greater than that of water;” his process of separation was to treat the oil with sulphuric acid, and distil the acid liquid with lime; that portion of the distillate which sinks in water is treated with nitrite of potash and hydrochloric acid to destroy phenols; the acid liquid is placed in an iron retort and a current of steam passed through it; the residue remaining in the retort, after being treated with caustic potash, is distilled, and the distillate, consisting of the mixed bases, purified by fractional distillation; the bases were then identified by converting the fractions into platinum and other salts. Proceeding in this manner, Greville Williams separated the three bases—leucoline, iridoline, and cryptidine; the last, cryptidine, C11H11N, being found in his highest fraction, that boiling 270°–275° C, and from what I can learn from other authorities, the isolation of the higher members of this series has not been attempted.
XXI.—On the Compounds of Ethyl-, Propyl-, Butyl-, and Amyl- Thetines
Authors: Letts E. A.
Published: July 2016

Compounds of Ethyl-Thetine.—In the course of the investigations, the results of which are recorded in the preceding paper, Professor Crum Brown and I observed that sulphide of ethyl, like sulphide of methyl, forms a crystalline compound with bromacetic acid. This we called hydrobromate of diethylthetine, in conformity with the system of nomenclature we had proposed for such bodies—

Owing, however, to the extremely deliquescent nature of the substance, we did not at the time subject it to a closer examination, but devoted our attention to the methyl compound and its derivatives. The following are the results of an examination which I have since made of the hydrobromate of diethyl-thetine and its derivatives: —

Hydrobromate of Diethyl-Thetine.—50 grms. of sulphide of ethyl and 70 grms. of bromacetic acid were shaken together. The acid slowly dissolved, occasioning a fall of temperature in so doing from 20–14°. After about half an hour's standing, the mixture grew warm, and deposited a slightly brown, oily liquid. The reaction was very much less intense than in the case of the methyl compound, when the sulphide of methyl actually boils and the mixture has to be cooled to prevent loss of product.
XXIV.—On the Discharge of Electricity through Oil of Turpentine
Authors: Macfarlane Alexander , Simpson R. J. S.
Published: July 2016

At the beginning of this session we proceeded to apply the method of measuring large differences of potential described in former papers, to the investigation of the disruptive discharge through liquid dielectrics. We have now obtained some results for oil of turpentine.

A vessel capable of holding the liquid, and at the same time of forming an electrode, was constructed by fixing on a metal plate to one end of a hollow glass cylinder of diameter slightly less than that of the receiver of the air-pump. The vessel was placed on a metallic support, so as to be in conducting connection with the metal parts of the air-pump, and with the earth. The other electrode, which was either a circular disc, a spherical ball, or a conical point, was screwed on to the brass rod passing through the stuffing-box on the top of the receiver, and was thus capable of being adjusted to various heights in the turpentine. The bottom of the vessel is 16·7 centimetres, and the brass disc, which commonly formed the upper electrode, is 10 centimetres in diameter, and 4 millimetres thick.
XXVIII.—On a Method of Determining the Cohesion of Liquids
Authors: Hannay J. B.
Published: July 2016

While working at an investigation (about to be published), relating to the flow of liquid through capillary tubes, it was thought that the cohesion of a liquid might influence the rate of its flow, and a method was sought for, which would enable the cohesion of any liquid to be determined; the ordinary method of calculating the cohesion from observations of the flattening of a drop of the liquid resting upon a plane surface not being applicable to all liquids. The method which seemed most likely to yield results was that of observing the drops of a liquid so arranged that they fell from the end of a column of the same liquid, and accurately measuring the width of the neck of the drop at the instant of breaking, and the weight of the fluid which caused the rupture. It is easily seen that before this could be done a complete knowledge of the nature of drops would be required, and as the phenomenon of dropping has been made the subject of a long investigation by Professor Guthrie, an examination of his results was undertaken. They show that the drop increases in weight as the growth-time decreases, that is, the quicker the rate of flowing the larger the drop. Many experiments were made, which, agreeing with Professor Guthrie's numbers pretty closely, need not be quoted here. While, therefore, his experimental numbers may be taken as quite correct, they do not seem to prove the theory he has put forward in their explanation. The following is from his paper:—“The most prominent fact is that, on the whole, the drops undergo a continuous diminution in weight or size as G.t. increases. To such an extent is this the case, that the most rapidly falling drops of the above table are nearly twice as heavy as the most slowly falling ones. The cause of this is probably to be sought for in the circumstance that when the flowing to the solid is more slow, the latter is covered with a thinner film of liquid, so that, as the drop parts, the solid reclaims by adhesion more of the root of the drop than is the case when the adhesion of the solid to the liquid can satisfy itself from the thicker film which surrounds the drop in the case of a more rapid flow.”
VII.—On Eisenstein's Continued Fractions
Authors: Muir Thomas
Published: July 2016

In Crelle's Journal for 1844, at the end of a paper on Cubic Forms, Eisenstein gives the following results:—

where m is any odd number and ρ a primitive root of the equation zm = 1;

where

No demonstrations are given of these identities; but they are said by the author to be only particular cases of a very general equation, the complete theory connected with which he hoped to give on another occasion.

At p. 193 of the same volume of Crelle he returns to the subject, not however for the purpose of giving the promised theory, but to add several other results similar to those before given.
Astronomy for Developing Countries
Authors: Batten Alan H.
Published: July 2016

Developing countries have many claims on their limited resources and astronomy can expect only a small share of a small “pie”. A useful rule of thumb is that a country’s expenditure on astronomy is likely to be of the same order of magnitude as its per capita Gross National Product multiplied by the number of professional astronomers in the country. In the light of this, we consider how governments of developing countries can help their astronomers, how we can help them and how they can help themselves.
Revitalizing Astronomy in the Philippines
Authors: Celebre Cynthia P. , Soriano Bernardo M.
Published: July 2016

Aware of the possibility that astronomy in the Philippines will remain as lethargic as it has been for a hundred years if drastic changes are not made, various revitalizing activities were planned in 1997 and some have been implemented. These activities were divided into five categories and included the promotion of astronomy throughout the country and the attendance of some personnel of the Atmospheric, Geophysical and Space-Sciences Branch at various international meetings. Project proposals were also prepared and submitted to various local and foreign institutions in order to acquire astronomical equipment. The Philippines also applied for, and received, associate mebership of the International Astronomical Union.
Public Education in Developing Countries on the Occasions of Eclipses
Authors: Pasachoff Jay M.
Published: July 2016

Total solar eclipses will cross southern Africa on June 21, 2001, and on December 4, 2002. Most of Africa will see partial phases. The total phase of the 2001 eclipse will be visible from parts of Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Madagascar. The total phase of the 2002 eclipse will be visible from parts of Angola, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mozambique. Public education must be undertaken to tell the people how to look at the eclipse safely. We can take advantage of having the attention of the people and of news media to teach about not only eclipses but also the rest of astronomy. I am Chair of a “Public Education at Eclipses” subcommission of IAU Commission 46 on the Teaching of Astronomy, and we are able to advise educators and others about materials, procedures and information releases.
Initiatives in Astronomy Education in South Africa
Authors: Rijsdijk Case L.
Published: July 2016

A brief review of the issues affecting the current status of science education in general, and astronomy education in particular, is given. The paper looks at the present situation at primary, secondary and tertiary levels. South Africa has unique educational problems and the initiatives by local observatories and universities at school level are described. The problems encountered by the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Science Education Initiative (SEI) are typical, as is the SEI approach to addressing some of these. The experience of the SEI is described, as are some of the resources developed by them for primary and secondary schools. Finally a brief look is taken at future developments, in particular, ways in which the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) can contribute to astronomy and science education.
A Jump-Start for Astronomy Education in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Wen-Ping
Published: July 2016

Spurred by the leaping developments of research activities (SMA, TAOS, AMIBA), Taiwan is catching up in virtually all aspects of its education in astronomy. The first astronomy research institute was established by the Academia Sinica about 10 years ago, which catalyzed within two years the first graduate school of astronomy, as well as an elaborate astronomy museum. Since then astronomy education at all levels, from colleges to primary schools, has been booming. More than a dozen universities are offering astronomy courses, and two more graduate schools will soon be instituted. Textbooks get written, and books on popular science, either translated or composed by local authors, have mushroomed on the market. I will outline these ongoing activities along with plans on the horizon.
Astronomy in Romanian Universities
Authors: Barbosu Mihail
Published: July 2016

In this work we present characteristics of the Romanian higher education related to the study of Astronomy. In spite of Romanian economic problems, opportunities for Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree (at “Babes-Bolyai” University of Cluj-Napoca) and Ph.D. degree are provided for students enrolled in the Faculties of Mathematics or Physics. General regulations, description of courses, research resources and job opportunities are also described and discussed in this paper.
New Student Laboratory Work about Pulsational Phenomena in Astronomy
Authors: Nuritdinov Salakhutdin N.
Published: July 2016

The pulsation phenomenon is inherent to most types of object and it plays a great role at certain stages in the evolution of objects in the universe. That is why students must study this phenomenon in the framework of laboratory hours. Often the study of these phenomena is reduced to an analysis of some differential equations with variable coefficients. A class of these equations is connected with the stability problem of the oscillations of self-gravitating systems (S. Nuritdinov, Sov. Astron., 1985, 29, 293). In order to carry out this laboratory work every student is required to compose a computer program using the periodical solution stability method and the parameter resonance theory. The program will find the critical amplitude of the pulsation and some dependences between physical parameters.
SALT as an African Facility
Authors: Martinez Peter
Published: July 2016

Over the next five years, South Africa and its international partners will construct the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), a 10-m optical/near-infrared spectroscopic survey telescope. This paper traces the arguments used to justify the construction of such a facility in Africa. The collateral benefits expected from this project are discussed, along with suggestions of how to realize these benefits. SALT has the potential to promote the development of astronomy on the continent. The creation of an African Network for Astronomy Education and Research is proposed as a way to stimulate such development.
Astronomy in Uzbekistan
Authors: Ilyasov Sabit P.
Published: July 2016

Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute (UBAI) of the Uzbek Academy of Sciences is one of the oldest scientific institutions not only in Uzbekistan, but in the whole of Central Asia as well. There are five departments in the institute. The main directions of research are solar physics, young non-stationary and close binary stars in star formation regions, satellite geodynamics, non-linear and non-stationary evolution of galaxies. Helioseismology studies carried out in the frame of the IRIS (International Research on the Interior of the Sun) and TON (Taiwan Oscillation Network) projects. Astrophysical programmes such as a search for periodicity in star-formation regions, study of close binary stars in the same regions, as well as in open clusters, CCD photometry of extra-galactic objects as gravitation lenses have been made at the Maidanak Observatory, which is located in the south-east of Uzbekistan. Monitoring of the seeing at Mt. Maidanak from 1996 to 1999, using ESO Differential Image Motion Monitor, showed that its atmospheric conditions are comparable with the best international observatories. The present status of the main fields of research and prospects are discussed. (Co-author is Shurat A. Ehgamberdiev, Uzbekistan.)
Design of a Small Automated Telescope for Indian Universities
Authors: Anandaram Mandayam N. , Kagali B.A. , Bhatnagar S.P.
Published: July 2016

We have constructed a computer controlled telescope using a 0.36-m f/11 Celestron optical tube assembly for teaching and research applications. We have constructed a heavy duty fork-type equatorial mount fitted with precision machined 24 inch drive disks for both axes. These are friction driven by stepper motors through one inch rollers. We have used an open loop control system triggerable by an ST-4 CCD camera to acquire and track any target object. Our telescope can home in on any target within a range of two arc-minutes. We have employed a commercial stepper motor controller card for which we have written a user friendly pc based telescope control software in C. Photometry using a solid state photometer, and imaging by an ST-6 CCD camera are possible.

We consider that this project is suitable for those wishing to construct some parts of a telescope and understand the principles of operation. A simpler model of this telescope could use DC motors instead of stepper motors. We shall be happy to send our design diagrams and details to those interested. This project was funded by the DST, and was assisted by IUCAA, Pune.
Cultural-Grant Aid in Astronomy for Developing Countries from the Japanese Government
Authors: Kitamura Masatoshi
Published: July 2016

In order to promote education and research in developing countries, the Japanese Government began in 1982 providing high-grade equipment within the scheme of its ODA (Official Development Assistance). Since then, for astronomical development, twelve planetaria have been donated to eleven countries and seven reflecting telescopes, with accessories, have been installed in Asian and Latin-American countries.