bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome amongst Undergraduate Medical Students: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Phaneendra DS Jagannadha , Arige Geervani , Sirivelu Bhavya , Lakshmi GNS Sangeetha
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is a cluster of interconnected metabolic abnormalities involving glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, elevated Blood Pressure (BP), and central obesity. It increases the risk of type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. Medical students during the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic were forced to remain indoors with minimal physical activity, improper sleep patterns, and long sessions of online classes. All these factors may cause various metabolic disturbances, posing them at risk for developing MS. Aim: To study the prevalence of MS among undergraduate (UG) medical students and assess the predictive risk factors for MS among them. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana, India, from June 2022 to August 2022. A total of 170 UG medical students, aged between 18-24 years of both genders, were included in the study. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria were used for diagnosing MS. Data for anthropometric measurements (height, weight, Waist Circumference (WC), Body Mass Index (BMI), and BP were collected. Blood samples were collected to analyse Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Triglyceride (TG), and High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL). Unpaired t-test was used to compare two groups. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to assess the association between different components of MS and anthropometric parameters. Results: Amongst the total sample of 170 undergraduate medical students, the prevalence of MS was 7.6% (n=13) of the sample population, almost equivocal among males 7 (9.7%) and females 6 (6.1%). Increased WC was seen in 75 (44.1%), raised Systolic BP was found in 24 (14.1%), raised Diastolic BP was found in 15 (20.8%), raised TG was found in 10 (5.9%), decreased HDL was found in 43 (25.3%), and increased FBS was found in 17 (10%) students. Regression analysis showed that high BMI, WC, and impaired FBS were the most critical predictive risk factors of MS. Conclusion: In the present study, the prevalence of MS in medical UG students was found to be 7.6%, and factors such as BMI, WC, and impaired FBS can be used to predict the risk of MS in them.
Effect of Green Manuring and Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Banana CV. Grand Nain
Authors: Patel Bhoomika , Ahlawat T. R. , Jadhav Sheetal , Pandey A. K.
Published: April 2024

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of green manuring and nutrient management on growth and yield of banana cv. Grand Nain during 2021-22 and 2022-23 at Instructional Farm of ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat). The experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design with three replications, which included 12 treatment combinations viz., Main Plot (T): Different green manuring, T1 - Control, T2 - Single green manuring by dhaincha, T3 - Double green manuring by dhaincha and T4 - Triple green manuring by dhaincha; Sub Plot (N): Nutrient management, N1 - 100 % RDF (FYM: 10 kg plant-1, NPK: 300:90:200 g plant-1 year-1), N2   - 80 % RDF + N 20 % from Bio-compost, N3 - 60 % RDF + N 40 % from Bio-compost. The results revealed that soil application of triple green manuring by dhaincha was found superior with respect to vegetative characters like plant height, girth and number of leaves and yield characteristics like minimum days required for flower initiation and highest bunch weight, number of hands per bunch, weight of third hand, number of fingers per third hand, finger length and girth of third hand and fruit yield. While, 100 % RDF (FYM: 10 kg plant-1, NPK: 300:90:200 g plant-1year-1) treatment induced early flowering and gave the maximum values for vegetative and yield attributing characters. However, in case of interaction, triple green manuring by dhaincha and 100 % RDF (FYM: 10 kg plant-1, NPK: 300:90:200 g plant-1 year-1) resulted in the maximum plant girth, bunch weight, weight of third hand and fruit yield. It is therefore concluded that earlier and higher yield from banana could be obtained by incorporating triple green manuring by dhaincha along with 100 % RDF or 80 % RDF in combination with N 20 % from bio-compost.
Pigeonpea Productivity and Soil Health as Influenced by Phosphorus Levels and AM Fungi under Different Planting Methods
Authors: Yadahalli G. S. , Doddamani B. M. , Yadahalli Vidyavathi G.
Published: April 2024

A field experiment was conducted at ARS, Bheemarayarnagudi, Karnataka to study the effect of phosphorus graded levels and inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi under different establishment techniques in pigeonpea during kharif season of three years (2010-13) in Upper Krishna Project command area of Karnataka. The treatment consists of   phosphorus graded levels (0, 12.5, 25, 37.5 and 50kg ha-1) with inoculation VAM fungi under two establishment techniques (Transplanted and dibbled) with randomized block design.  Three-year pooled data indicated that, Application of 50 kg P + VAM under transplanting technique recorded significantly higher pigeonpea yield (1510 kg ha-1) and it was on par with application 37.5 kg P + VAM under transplanting method over rest of the treatment. The economics and nutrient uptake also noticed similar trend. It proved that pigeonpea could be successfully transplanted in the UKP command area of Karnataka by applying 37.5 kg of phosphorus ha-1 in conjunction with VAM fungus inoculation. This boosted crop productivity, nutrient availability, and net returns.
The Method of the Probability Analysis of Area with Dissolved Gases in Power Transformer Insulating Oil
Authors: Lin Ming-Jong
Published: April 2024

Transformer insulating oil plays an extremely important role in power transformers and is used for insulation, arc suppression, cooling and other purposes. However, its other focus is on dissolved gases analysis in the oil to monitor internal operating conditions, which is the responsibility of preventive maintenance. This paper uses the normal distribution theory and the American National Standard Specification (hereinafter referred to as ANSI/IEEE C57.104) to reorganize as a diagnostic tool. The range of each gas from three stages of the specification - normal, caution, and abnormal are incorporated to a stage of abnormal, which divide into equal different values of 1000 as the maternal body of a qualitative normal distribution. Then the benchmark is been calculated from those parameters of a qualitative normal distribution. The data of detection has to pass through "Gas chromatography” to generate dissolved gases.  At last, the benchmark value compares with dissolved gases to find the abnormal probability value as a diagnostic tool in maintenance evaluation of equipment. This method was developed using EXCEL application software, and repeatedly tested and verified with examples to confirm its feasibility and high accuracy. In addition, 10 cases accident data were extracted from the literature [11], and compared with the actual maintenance results. The accuracy was 80% for ANSI/IEEE C57.104 and 90% for this probability method. Therefore, this diagnostic method can replace the traditional multi-stage judgment and be represented by a single probability value to show.  Based on technology sharing, the development process is specially written into a technical article as reference by scholars and electrical maintenance personnel in the field of power engineering.

Design Methods: Making a qualitative normal distribution employs EXCEL software and the discriminative rule of ANSI/IEEE C57.104.  Design Purpose: As a diagnostic tool with dissolved gases in insulating oil.  Design Effectiveness: Probability Method is better than traditional; it has those efficacies - the accuracy and feasibly and compete with tried and tested actual case.
Portable Air Quality Detector Using DSM501A Dust Sensor and Arduino Uno
Authors: Mullick Iftekhar Uddin , Faisal Khan Atik , Nishat Tarikul Islam , Bhuyan Muhibul Haque
Published: April 2024

Aims: The primary feature of this research is to design a circuit that can analyze the air around the system and determine the quality of the air.

Study Design: This paper reports on the design and implementation of a portable air pollution analyzer using Arduino Uno, DSM501A dust sensor, LCD, switches, buzzer, and multiple LEDs. The air pollution analyzer system was designed using a combination of hardware and software techniques to measure air pollution properly.

Place and Period of Study: The research was accomplished by the authors in a group of two students under the grasp of a professor as a part of one of his course capstone projects for the Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree at the American International University Bangladesh (AIUB), Dhaka, Bangladesh. The authors performed their investigative tasks at AIUB from September 2023 to February 2024.

Methodology: The air pollution analyzer was implemented using an Arduino Uno and dust sensor to generate and determine accurate air quality based on specific air contents. The system that was developed used a PM10 detection system that identified the amount of dust particles in the area. Based on PM10 readings, the air quality was identified. Moreover, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was determined using the PM10 readings. The LCD, buzzer, and multiple LEDs were used to display and indicate the air quality condition and levels.

Results: The portable air pollution analyzer was successfully tested and found to be accurate and reliable in determining air quality. To indicate different hazardous states of air, red, green, and yellow color LEDs are used. The test outcomes were very satisfactory.

Conclusion: This system demonstrates the use of a microcontroller in building a simple yet effective portable air quality detector. It can be scaled up for commercial production.
Diagnosis of Acute Bulbar Palsy Plus Syndrome: A Rare Variant of Guillain–barre Syndrome
Authors: Sharma Stuti , Rajpal Neha
Published: April 2024

Presenting case of a 11-year-old girl with sudden cranial nerve weakness, universal areflexia but without limb pain or weakness. NCV showed subclinical axonal involvement in limbs. A diagnosis of acute bulbar palsy plus–GBS was made and child was started on Iv Immunoglobulins which showed significant improvement. This report is for raising awareness about this variant of GBS.
Effect of Foliar Application of Nano and Non-Nano Fertilizers on Growth and Nutrient Use Efficiency of Indian Mustard [Brassica Juncea (L.) Czern and Coss]
Authors: Verma Sandeep Kumar , Rana N. S. , Verma Aparna , Roy Shalini , Shukla Aditya , Kumar Ajay
Published: April 2024

An experiment was conducted during rabi 2020-21 at the SVPUA&T, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, to study the Effect of foliar application of nano and non-nano fertilizers on growth and nutrient use efficiency of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]. The investigation was carried out in randomized block design with three replications and 12 treatments of nutrient management practices viz., Control, N-P-K & S (120-40-40 & 20 kg/ha), 100% NPK & S + Zn 5 kg/ha, 100% NPK & S + Bio-stimulants, 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn, 75% NPK & S + NPK Consortia seed treatment, 75% NPK & S + Nano N, 75% NPK & S + Nano N + Nano Zn, 75% NPK & S + NPK Consortia seed treatment + Nano Zn, 75% NPKS + NPK (18:18:18), 75% NPKS + NPK (18:18:18) + Bio-stimulants and 75% NPK & S + Zn 5 kg/ha + Bio-stimulants + Nano N + Nano Zn. The highest growth parameter viz., plant height (216.16 cm), dry matter accumulation (102.7 g/plant) were recorded with treatment 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn whereas, the highest nutrient use efficiency was recorded with treatment 75% NPK & S + Zn 5 kg/ha + Bio-stimulants + Nano N + Nano Zn.
Marxismo e meio Ambiente
Authors: Câmara Antônio da Silva , Silva Filho Cláudio Almeida
Published: April 2024

O artigo trata da questão do meio ambiente/natureza em Marx e alguns marxistas contemporâneos. Inicialmente retoma Marx e como a natureza é vista como parte integrante do próprio ser humano. Em seguida, analisamos as contribuições contemporâneas de Adorno e Horkheimer na relação de subordinação da natureza pelo homem moderno, que lhes aparece como exterioridade e de sua própria natureza. Por fim, as contribuições de Mészaros e de Harvey sobre a crise ecológica contemporânea e a proposta de Lowy em lutar por um ecossocialismo. Esta última abordagem visa tornar a luta socialista ativa em relação à crise ecológica que põe em risco a sobrevivência da humanidade em nosso planeta. Portanto, o estudo tem como intuito levantar reflexões sobre o debate teórico a respeito da questão ambiental em autores clássicos e contemporâneos, assim, evidenciando em cada pensador aspectos que influenciaram nos rumos do debate ecológico.
“A gente tá vivendo uma vida sem paz”
Authors: Sa Santos Thaise , Kolling Marie
Published: April 2024

Este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa que buscou entender como moradoras de uma periferia de Salvador, marcada pela pobreza urbana, lidaram com a vida em quarentena durante os primeiros seis meses da pandemia da covid-19. Baseada numa pesquisa antropológica conduzida desde 2012 entre mulheres negras, mães de família, elas foram entrevistadas no mês de agosto de 2020. A partir dos dados coletados, ficou evidente que as condições de vida e moradia tornaram a experiência da quarentena ainda mais difícil para essas mulheres e suas famílias. Todas tiveram seu meio de sustento afetado, o que, para a maioria delas, transitava entre trabalhos informais e subempregos, e consequentemente passaram a depender de auxílios financeiros e de outras ordens, provenientes dos governos. Sobrecarga de trabalhos domésticos, estresse, ansiedade, insegurança e medo de um futuro próximo quando o auxílio financeiro acabasse marcaram a vida dessas pessoas, que ficou ainda mais insegura do que antes. Mais que medo do coronavírus em si, as mulheres temiam a pobreza extrema e as outras epidemias que estavam impactando a vida na periferia de Salvador.
Transformative learning theory
Authors: Taylor Edward W.
Published: September 2008

This chapter updates transformative learning theory through discussing emerging alternative theoretical conceptions, current research findings, and implications for practice.
Spirituality and adult learning
Authors: Tisdell Elizabeth J.
Published: September 2008

The role of spirituality in adult education and adult learning is discussed by defining spirituality and exploring how spiritual experience facilitates spiritual development.
Learning through the body
Authors: Freiler Tammy J.
Published: September 2008

Learning through the body is discussed in this chapter as a valued, alternative way of knowing that reconnects the mind and body.
Narrative learning in adulthood
Authors: Clark M. Carolyn , Rossiter Marsha
Published: September 2008

Narrative is not only a method for fostering learning; it is also a way to conceptualize the learning process. In this chapter, we describe the essential features of narrative learning and discuss why this is such an effective way to teach adults.
Non‐Western perspectives on learning and knowing
Authors: Merriam Sharan B. , Kim Young Sek
Published: September 2008

Non‐Western perspectives emphasizing community, lifelong learning, and holistic conceptions of learning are expanding our understanding of adult learning.
Adult learning theory for the twenty‐first century
Authors: Merriam Sharan B.
Published: September 2008

Drawing from previous chapters in this volume, this final chapter proposes that adult learning theory is attending more to the various contexts where learning takes place and to its multidimensional nature.
Antenatal and postnatal evidence of periventricular leukomalacia as a further indication of vascular disruption in Adams–Oliver syndrome
Authors: Papadopoulou Eleftheria , Sifakis Stavros , Raissaki Maria , Germanakis Ioannis , Kalmanti Maria
Published: September 2008

We describe a new family with Adams–Oliver syndrome (AOS). The propositus is a 14‐month‐old boy presenting with aplasia cutis congenita, distal limb transverse defects, growth retardation, and a wide atrial septal defect. Central nervous system abnormalities included central hypotonia, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings consistent with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). Fetal MRI at 26 weeks' gestation had shown bilateral dilatation of lateral ventricles and periventricular cysts at the site of postnatal lesions. The patient's father and paternal grandfather also had manifestations indicative of AOS. Antenatal and postnatal MRI findings suggest that our patient's PVL represents an unusual congenital feature of AOS, possibly due to vascular disruption and decreased perfusion during critical periods of fetal brain development. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polymorphisms in the CBS gene and homocysteine, folate and vitamin B12 levels: Association with polymorphisms in the MTHFR and MTRR genes in Brazilian children
Authors: Aléssio Ana C.M. , Siqueira Lúcia H. , Bydlowski Sérgio P. , Höehr Nelci F. , Annichino‐Bizzacchi Joyce M.
Published: September 2008

Polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) and cystathionine β‐synthase (CBS) genes, involved in the intracellular metabolism of homocysteine (Hcy), can result in hyperhomocysteinemia. The objective of this study was to evaluate prevalence estimates of CBS T833C, G919A and the insertion of 68‐bp (844ins68) polymorphisms and their correlation with Hcy, folate and B12 in 220 children previously genotyped for MTHFR C677T, A1298C, and MTRR A66G. The prevalence of heterozygote children for 844ins68 was 19.5%. The T833C CBS mutation was identified in association with 844ins68 in all the carriers of the insertion. Genotyping for CBS G919A mutation showed that all the children presented the GG genotype. Analysis of Hcy, B12 and folate, according to the combination of the different genotypes of the C677T and A1298C MTHFR, A66G MTRR, and 844ins68 CBS showed that the 677TT/1298AA/68WW genotype is associated with an increase in Hcy, when compared to the 677CC/1298AC/68WW (P = 0.033) and the 677CT/1298AA/68WW genotypes (P = 0.034). Since B12 and folate were not different between these groups, a genetic interaction between diverse polymorphisms probably influences Hcy. Our results emphasize the role of genetic interactions in Hcy levels. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detailed analysis of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) shows no association with bipolar disorder in the Northern Swedish population
Authors: Alaerts Maaike , Ceulemans Shana , Forero Diego , Moens Lotte N. , De Zutter Sonia , Heyrman Lien , Lenaerts An‐Sofie , Norrback Karl‐Fredrik , Goossens Dirk , De Rijk Peter , Nilsson Lars‐Göran , Adolfsson Rolf , Del‐Favero Jurgen
Published: September 2008

Through active reuptake of serotonin into presynaptic neurons, the serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) plays an important role in regulating serotonin concentrations in the brain, and it is the site of binding for tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Therefore it has been hypothesized that this transporter is involved in the etiology of bipolar (BP) disorder. Inconsistent association study results for the SLC6A4 gene encoding 5‐HTT reported in literature emphasize the need for more systematic and detailed analyses of this candidate gene. We performed an extensive analysis of SLC6A4 on DNA of 254 BPI patients and 364 control individuals from a Northern Swedish isolated population. This analysis consisted of a HapMap LD‐based association study including three widely investigated polymorphisms (5‐HTTVNTR, 5‐HTTLPR, and rs3813034), a copy‐number variation (CNV) analysis and a mutation analysis of the complete coding sequence and the 3′‐UTR of SLC6A4. No single marker showed statistically significant association with BPI, nor did any of the haplotypes. In the mutation analysis 13 novel variants were detected, including 2 amino acid substitutions M389V and I587L, but these are probably not implicated in risk for BP. No deletions or duplications were detected in the CNV analysis. We conclude that variation in the SLC6A4 gene or its regulatory regions does not contribute to the susceptibility for BP disorder in the Northern Swedish population. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Efficient asymmetric addition of diethylzinc to aldehydes using 3‐hydroxyazetidine derivatives as chiral ligands
Authors: Liu Ruochen , Bai Xuemei , Zhang Zhanbin , Zi Guofu
Published: September 2008

A new series of chiral 3‐hydroxyazetidines has been prepared from (S)‐1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)ethylamine. These ligands have shown excellent catalytic activities and enantiomeric selectivities in asymmetric addition of diethylzinc to aromatic aldehydes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Slot die coating of dilute suspensions
Authors: Lin Yi‐Tsun , Chu Wen‐Bing , Liu Ta‐Jo
Published: September 2008

An experimental study was carried out to investigate slot die coating of dilute suspensions. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) particles of different sizes were added to glycerol solutions as test fluids. The coating flow experiment was performed on a lab coater. The operating window, which is a domain in which only a stable and uniform coating solution is possible, was determined experimentally. It was found that adding particles has little effect on the physical properties of glycerol solutions, as only the fluid viscosity increases slightly. Two coating defects are commonly observed; ribbing which is caused by flow instability refers to lateral waves on the coated surface, and air entrainment which implies that air bubbles are trapped in the coating solution. Adding particles has little effect on the operating window if the coating defect is ribbing. However, the operating window can be expanded substantially if the coating defect is air entrainment. Higher the particle concentration, or the smaller the particle size, more significant is the expansion of the operating window. The maximum coating speed may increase to 80% for high suspension particle density number. A previous study reported that there exists an optimal particle size which has the largest operating window for a given pure solution; this was not found in the present work. Copyright © 2008 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Undesirable effects of heating on hydrogels
Authors: Kabiri K. , Mirzadeh H. , Zohuriaan‐Mehr M. J.
Published: September 2008

Heating is the most conventional drying method for removing water from as‐synthesized hydrogels in laboratory and industry. In this article, the effects of the heating temperature (60–200°C) and time (10 min–24 h) on swelling properties of highly absorbent hydrogels based on 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), acrylic acid (AA), potassium acrylate (KA), and acrylamide (AM) were studied. Crosslinkers methylene bisacrylamide (MBA) and poly(ethyleneglycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) were used in the syntheses. Depending on the hydrogel structural composition and its drying temperature and time, the swelling capacities were extremely changed. Generally, AA‐, KA‐, and AM‐based hydrogels showed more hydrolytic‐thermal stability than the corresponding AMPS‐based hydrogels. MBA‐crosslinked hydrogels generally exhibited higher vulnerability against heating. Swelling of PEGDMA‐crosslinked poly(AM‐KA‐AA) hydrogel was greatly increased after heating, whereas its analogousAM‐free sample exhibited huge loss of swelling. PEGDMA‐crosslinked poly(AMPS) samples also exhibited swelling reduction after drying. Rheological studies showed that the storage modulus was highly reduced (∼ 5200 Pa) after heating of MBA‐crosslinked poly(AMPS) hydrogels, which reconfirmed the crosslink cleavage. Mechanistic discussions were proposed for the thermal‐induced swelling changes. It was concluded that the chemical nature of both crosslinker and monomer must be taken into consideration to choose the temperature and time of the hydrogel drying. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Mechanical properties of poly(styrene‐co‐acrylonitrile)‐modified epoxy resin/glass fiber composites
Authors: Hameed Nishar , Sreekumar P. A. , Thomas P. Selvin , Jyotishkumar P. , Thomas Sabu
Published: September 2008

Poly(styrene‐co‐acylonitrile) was used to modify diglycedyl ether of bisphenol‐A type epoxy resin cured with diamino diphenyl sulfone and the modified epoxy resin was used as the matrix for fiber‐reinforced composites (FRPs) to get improved mechanical properties. E‐glass fiber was used as fiber reinforcement. The tensile, flexural, and impact properties of the blends and composites were investigated. The blends exhibited considerable improvement in mechanical properties. The scanning electron micrographs of the fractured surfaces of the blends and tensile fractured surfaces of the composites were also analyzed. The micrographs showed the influence of morphology on the properties of blends. Results showed that the mechanical properties of glass FRPs increased gradually upon fiber loading. Predictive models were applied using various equations to compare the mechanical data obtained theoretically and experimentally. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Thermodynamic study of a water–dimethylformamide–polyacrylonitrile ternary system
Authors: Tan Lianjiang , Pan Ding , Pan Ning
Published: September 2008

Experimental cloud‐point data were obtained by cloud‐point titration. The phase diagram for a ternary system of water–dimethylformamide–polyacrylonitrile was determined by numerical calculation on the basis of the extended Flory–Huggins theory and was found to agree well with the cloud‐point data. To construct the theoretical phase diagram, three binary interaction parameters were obtained with different methods. The ternary phase diagram was used to investigate the mechanism of fiber formation. The skin–core structure and fingerlike pores in polyacrylonitrile fiber may be effectively eliminated if the composition of the spinning solution is properly chosen, and consequently, homogeneous polyacrylonitrile fiber with a bicontinuous structure and good mechanical properties can be obtained through the spinning process. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation of novel microspherical MgCl2‐based titanium catalyst for propylene polymerization
Authors: Ling Yongtai , Chen Wei , Xie Lunjia , Liu Yuexiang , Zheng Gang
Published: September 2008

Lowering the particle size of support is one of methods to reduce breakage of supported catalyst during polymerization, which may cause serious problems for fine polymer particles from those broken catalysts. Microspheric MgCl2 support could be obtained by emulsion way, but we found that they easily aggregated after emulsification and they are difficult to keep good spherical morphology. Up until now, hardly paper on the morphology improvement of micro size supports has been published. With the addition of an amount of Poly(propylene glycol)(PPG), microspheric MgCl2 supports with good morphology were obtained. 1, 3, 15, 35, 80% PPG were added, respectively, and the results of SEM study on obtained particles showed that appropriate addition of PPG obviously improved the morphology of supports. The optimist dosage was 3% in our experiment and the activity of catalyst supported on obtained support was 32.3 kg PP/g cat h. The function of PPG was explored preliminarily. In spite of the improvement of morphology the activity of supported catalyst was decreased gradually compared to those without PPG. So the further XRD and IR analysis were carried out to find reasons. The results indicated that PPG might plug pores of support and interfere with the reaction between supports and TiCl4. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Continuous polymerization of ε‐caprolactone initiated by titanium phenoxide in a twin‐screw extruder
Authors: Machado A. V. , Bounor‐Legare V. , Gonçalves N. D. , Melis F. , Cassagnau P. , Michel A.
Published: September 2008

The continuous polymerization of ε‐caprolactone initiated by titanium phenoxide was carried out in both an internal mixer and a twin‐screw extruder. The polymerization was performed under different processing conditions, including various temperatures and screw speeds. To perform a kinetic study, samples were collected along the time axis (internal mixer) and along the screw axis (extruder). Size exclusion chromatography and proton nuclear magnetic resonance were used to study the evolution of the conversion degree with mixing time and with the extruder. The rheological behavior was also characterized. Temperature had a strong effect on conversion in the internal mixer, whereas in the twin‐screw extruder, both temperature and screw speed played major roles. The specificity of the titanium phenoxide to lead to high‐molar‐mass poly(ε‐caprolactone) under these processing conditions was also confirmed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Specific interactions in poly(styrene‐co‐2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate)/poly(styrene‐co‐N,N‐dimethylacrylamide) systems
Authors: Bouzouia Fatiha , Djadoun Said
Published: September 2008

Amphiphilic copolymers of poly(styrene‐co‐2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) (SHEA) and poly(styrene‐co‐N, N‐dimethylacrylamide) (SAD) of different compositions were prepared by free radical copolymerization and characterized by different techniques. Depending on the nature of the solvent and the densities of interacting species incorporated within the polystyrene matrices, novel materials as blends or interpolymer complexes with properties different from those of their constituents were elaborated when these copolymers are mixed together. The specific interpolymer interactions of hydrogen bonding type and the phase behavior of the elaborated materials were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy (FTIR). The specific interactions of hydrogen bonding type that occurred within the SHEA and within their blends with the SAD were evidenced by FTIR qualitatively by the appearance of a new band at 1626 cm−1 and quantitatively using appropriate spectral curve fitting in the carbonyl and amide regions. The variation of the glass transition temperature with the blend composition behaved differently with the densities of interacting species. The thermal degradation behavior of the materials was studied by thermogravimetry. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Evaluation of adhesion strength, flammability, and degradation of HBCD‐containing polyurethane adhesives
Authors: Amrollahi M. , Sadeghi G. Mir Mohamad
Published: September 2008

In this work, moisture curable flame retardant HTPB‐based polyurethane adhesives were synthesized. The influence of HBCD (Hexabromocyclododecane) as flame retardant on adhesion, degradation and change in flammability of synthesized HTPB‐based polyurethane has been studied. Relationship between phase separation in hard and soft domains and adhesion has also been investigated. FTIR analysis was used to determine phase separation in synthesized adhesives. Lap shear test was used to determine adhesion properties of adhesives applied on aluminum and glass substrates. Thermal Gravimetry analysis and Limited Oxygen Index (LOI) tests were carried out on flame retardant adhesives to evaluate effect of HBCD on degradation and flammability. Addition of HBCD to adhesives leads to reduction of thermal stability and lap shear strength for all substrates, in spite of flame retardant adhesives show higher LOI value. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Development of a predictive model for polymer/solvent diffusion coefficient calculations
Authors: Perioto F. R. , Alvarez M. E. T. , Araujo W. A. , Wolf‐Maciel M. R. , Maciel Filho R.
Published: September 2008

A new calculation procedure for free‐volume parameters is considered in this work by using viscosity prediction methods and the Levenberg‐Marquardt calculation scheme. All parameters used in the Vrentas–Duda free‐volume theory can be estimated from pure component properties. The prediction results are compared with experimental data for some polymer/solvent systems. The diffusion coefficient calculated by Vrentas–Duda theory can be used in the modeling of membrane separation processes. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Bifunctional oligoetherols with carbazole ring
Authors: Lubczak Renata
Published: September 2008

A new synthetic method for bifunctional oligoetherols with carbazole ring was presented. 9‐(2,3‐Epoxypropyl)carbazole was obtained from carbazole and epichlorohydrine. The epoxide ring opening occurred upon the consecutive reaction with ethylene glycol to give the semiproduct well soluble in ethylene oxide and propylene oxide and reactive toward these epoxides at temperatures above 60–90°C to form oligoetherols. Structure of these oligoetherols and their physical properties and application for synthesis of linear polyurethanes were studied in details. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Physicochemical characterization of carrageenans—A critical reinvestigation
Authors: Berth Gisela , Vukovic Jasna , Lechner M. Dieter
Published: September 2008

Kappa‐, iota‐, and lambda‐carrageenan (food grade) were analyzed by static light scattering (MALS in batch mode) in 0.1M NaNO3 at 25 and 60°C, earlier heated up to 90°C or not. At 25°C, there was a strong tendency for a concentration‐dependent aggregation in the order lambda < kappa < iota. At 60°C, all samples were molecularly dispersed. The strongly temperature‐dependent refractive index increments (equilibrium dialysis) differ. Data interpretation in terms of the wormlike chain model using the Skolnik‐Odijk‐Fixman approach led to an intrinsic persistence length around 3 to 4 nm and expansion factors as high as 1.5 and above in a thermodynamically good solvent for all three types. Triple‐detector HPSEC (DRI, MALS, viscometry) on the three commercial samples plus a degraded (by acidic hydrolysis) kappa‐carrageenan in the same solvent/eluant at 60°C yielded a uniform and slightly curved [η]‐M relationship for 5 × 103 ≤ M/(g mol) ≤ 3 × 106 and a nearly identical molar mass dependence of the radius of gyration. HPSEC at 25°C on kappa‐carrageenan confirmed formation of soluble aggregates. Special emphasis was put on analytical and methodological aspects. The reliability of the experimental data was demonstrated by analogous measurements on dextran calibration standards. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Biodegradation of low‐density polyethylene‐banana starch films
Authors: Torres Apolonio Vargas , Zamudio‐Flores Paul Baruk , Salgado‐Delgado René , Bello‐Pérez Luís Arturo
Published: September 2008

Films were prepared by extrusion using acetylated and oxidized banana starches at different concentrations mixed with low‐density polyethylene, and their biodegradation (buried in soil) at different storage times was studied. Morphological, thermal, and mechanical characteristics of the films after degradation were tested. Films made of acetylated banana starch degraded most rapidly and those prepared with oxidized starch had the slowest degradation time. The type of chemically modified starch plays an important role in degradation of film. Burying the films produced a decrease in degradation temperature at the longest storage time, and there was a longer interval in the films prepared with native banana starch, followed by those made of acetylated starch. The buried in soil films had a broad phase transition and, consequently, an increase in enthalpy. This is due to degradation of amorphous starch zones with an increase in the crystallinity. Electron scanning microscopy analysis revealed greater degradation at longer storage time and a more marked effect in the films made of modified banana starch. Mechanical properties of the films were affected by degradation, and these varied depending on the modified banana starch used. The use of biodegradable polymers such as chemically modified banana starch might be feasible for making films with a high rate of degradation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation and in vitro release of D,L‐tetrahydropalmatine‐loaded graft copolymer nanoparticles
Authors: Zhai Yinglei , Qiao Yong , Xie Chaopeng , Lin Xiaona , Ma Yongzheng , Dong Anjie , Deng Liandong
Published: September 2008

D,L‐tetrahydropalmatine (THP)‐loaded poly{[α‐maleic anhydride‐ω‐methoxy‐poly(ethylene glycol)]‐co‐(ethy cyanoacrylate)} (PEGECA) amphiphilic graft copolymer nanoparticles (PEGECAT NPs) were prepared by the nanoprecipitation technique. The effects of solvent property, temperature, copolymer composition, and drug feeding on the drug‐loaded amount and size of PEGECAT NPs were investigated. The morphological structure of PEGECAT NPs was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and the size was measured by laser particle size analyzer (LPSA). In vitro release behaviors of drug from PEGECAT NPs were examined by high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results demonstrate that PEGECAT NPs take on a spherical morphology with an inner core and outer shell before and after in vitro release. THP can be incorporated into the hydrophobic core of PEGECAT NPs and the drug‐loaded amount is higher than 5%. The release of THP from PEGECAT NPs is initially fast and then slows down. The accumulated release is lower than 40% after 48 h. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
The Hydrogenation/Transfer Hydrogenation Network in Asymmetric Reduction of Ketones Catalyzed by [RuCl2(binap)(pica)] Complexes
Authors: Sandoval Christian A. , Li Yuehui , Ding Kuiling , Noyori Ryoji
Published: September 2008

Chiral binap/pica‐RuII complexes (binap=(S)‐ or (R)‐2,2′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl; pica=α‐picolylamine) catalyze both asymmetric hydrogenation (AH) of ketones using H2 and asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) using non‐tertiary alcohols under basic conditions. The AH and ATH catalytic cycles are linked by the metal–ligand bifunctional mechanism. Asymmetric reduction of pinacolone is best achieved in ethanol containing the Ru catalyst and base under an H2 atmosphere at ambient temperature, giving the chiral alcohol in 97–98 % ee. The reaction utilizes only H2 as a hydride source with alcohol acting as a proton source. On the other hand, asymmetric reduction of acetophenone is attained with both H2 (ambient temperature) and 2‐propanol (>60 °C) with relatively low enantioselectivity. The degree of contribution of the AH and ATH cycles is highly dependent on the ketone substrates, solvent, and reaction parameters (H2 pressure, temperature, basicity, substrate concentration, H/D difference, etc.).
Mobile phone exposure and spatial memory
Authors: Wiholm Clairy , Lowden Arne , Kuster Niels , Hillert Lena , Arnetz Bengt B. , Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Moffat Scott D.
Published: September 2008

Radiofrequency (RF) emission during mobile phone use has been suggested to impair cognitive functions, that is, working memory. This study investigated the effects of a 2 1/2 h RF exposure (884 MHz) on spatial memory and learning, using a double‐blind repeated measures design. The exposure was designed to mimic that experienced during a real‐life mobile phone conversation. The design maximized the exposure to the left hemisphere. The average exposure was peak spatial specific absorption rate (psSAR10g) of 1.4 W/kg. The primary outcome measure was a “virtual” spatial navigation task modeled after the commonly used and validated Morris Water Maze. The distance traveled on each trial and the amount of improvement across trials (i.e., learning) were used as dependent variables. The participants were daily mobile phone users, with and without symptoms attributed to regular mobile phone use. Results revealed a main effect of RF exposure and a significant RF exposure by group effect on distance traveled during the trials. The symptomatic group improved their performance during RF exposure while there was no such effect in the non‐symptomatic group. Until this new finding is further investigated, we can only speculate about the cause. Bioelectromagnetics 30:59–65, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The effects of general‐case training and behavioral skills training on the generalization of parents' use of discrete‐trial teaching, child correct responses, and child maladaptive behavior
Authors: Ward‐Horner John , Sturmey Peter
Published: September 2008

One concern with training discrete‐trial teaching (DTT) is the generalization of teaching skills. This study employed behavioral skills and general‐case training to train three parents to conduct DTT. A multiple‐baseline‐across‐participants‐experimental design assessed the effects of parent training on the generalization of parents' DTT to non‐trained programs and on child behavior. Following training, generalization of parent DTT skills occurred, but the effects on child behavior were variable. Implications of programming for generalization and the effects of parent training on child performance are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The anatomical variations of the extensor tendons to the dorsum of the hand
Authors: Celik Servet , Bilge Okan , Pinar Yelda , Govsa Figen
Published: September 2008

To lead a quality life, tendon repair must be performed in a trauma causing damage to the extensor tendon of the hand. The aim of this study is to study the structures that can be used as donor tendons. Fifty‐four dissected adult hands were examined to study the pattern of the extensor tendons on the dorsum of the hand. The most common distribution patterns of the extensor tendons of the fingers were as follows: a single extensor indicis proprius (EIP) tendon which inserted ulnar to the extensor digitorum (ED)‐index; a single ED‐index; a single ED‐middle; a single ED‐ring; an absent ED‐little; a double extensor digiti minimi (EDM), and a single ED‐ring to the little finger. The frequency of the number of tendons is as follows: a single (87.03%) EIP, a single ED‐index (100%), a single (92.6%) ED‐middle, a single (75.9%) ED‐ring, and an absent (68.5%) or a single (24.1%) ED‐little. A double (88.9%) EDM tendons were seen. The thickest type of juncturae tendinum (JT) is found primarily between the ring and little fingers (90%). Suitable excessive tendon and the thickest JT as donor tendon were found in the fourth intermetacarpal space. The present findings, especially the fourth intermetacarpal space, may explain why incisions on the dorsum of the hand should be large and performed with particular care. It is necessary to have a thorough understanding of the arrangements of the multiple extensor muscles and their junctural connections of the hand when tenoplasty or tendon transfer is required. Clin. Anat. 21:652–659, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Examination of the accessory tendons of extensor hallucis longus muscle in fetuses
Authors: Aktekin Mustafa , Uzmansel Deniz , Kurtoglu Zeliha , Sanli Emine Cigdem , Kara Alev Bobus
Published: September 2008

There are various data about the incidence of accessory tendons (AT) of extensor hallucis longus (EHL) muscle; however, their function is unknown. This study aimed to determine the incidence and morphometric features of the AT of EHL muscle in fetuses in order to provide more information to discuss its possible function. Forty‐five fetuses (26 female and 19 male) were used in this study. Fetuses were grouped as Group A (16–21weeks), Group B (22–27 weeks), and Group C (28–34 weeks) according to their age. In 23 (51%) out of 45 fetuses, there were AT. These were bilateral in 15 fetuses (65%) and unilateral in eight fetuses (35%). Fifty‐two percent of the fetuses in group A, 43% in group B, and 67% in group C had AT. AT were observed in 14 female (54%) and 9 male (47%) fetuses. In all cases, the AT were always diverging to the medial side of the main EHL tendons and attached to the metatarsophalangeal joint capsule distal to the joint space. Significant correlations were observed in this study between EHL and AT widths as well as between EHL width and EHL‐AT distance on both sides. The present study is the first to provide morphometric data about the AT of EHL muscle in fetuses which will be of use in understanding their function, particularly in biomechanics of the great toe. Clin. Anat. 21:713–717, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Using transcripts in analyses: Directions and opportunities
Authors: Hagedorn Linda Serra , Kress Anne M.
Published: September 2008

This chapter offers practical lessons about the research methodology of transcript analysis and details the benefits and usefulness of tracking student progress through transcript data.
Using student tracking data from an institutional perspective
Authors: Bashford Joanne
Published: September 2008

This chapter describes several examples of institutional use of state‐ and college‐level tracking data to benchmark performance, improve student success, and enhance program effectiveness.
Using state student unit record data to increase community college student success
Authors: Ewell Peter , Jenkins Davis
Published: September 2008

This chapter examines lessons learned by states that are using student unit record (SUR) data to improve outcomes for community college students and recommends steps states can take to strengthen their use of SUR databases to benefit students and communities.
Conclusion and the future
Authors: Bers Trudy H.
Published: September 2008

This brief concluding chapter offers final observations and potential new developments in tracking community college students.
Unexpected rearrangement of enantiomerically pure 3‐aminoquinuclidine as a simple way of preparing diastereomeric octahydropyrrolo[2,3‐c]pyridine derivatives
Authors: Goljer Igor , Molinari Albert , He Yanan , Nogle Lisa , Sun Weilin , Campbell Brandon , McConnell Oliver
Published: September 2008

Reaction of (S)‐ or (R)‐3‐aminoquinuclidine with 2‐chloropyrimidine or 2‐bromopyrimidine led to an unexpected formation of both cis‐ and trans‐octahydropyrrolo [2,3]pyridine derivatives. A single‐step synthesis of two of the four stereoisomers of these octahydropyrrolo[2,3]pyridine derivatives provides a convenient way of generating stereochemically defined isomers. Optimization of reaction conditions was carried out by 1H NMR monitoring. The relative and absolute stereochemistry of all four stereoisomers was determined by a combination of 1H, 13C, and 15N NMR spectroscopy and vibrational circular dichroism spectroscopy. Chirality, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression and alternative splicing of N‐RAP during mouse skeletal muscle development
Authors: Lu Shajia , Borst Diane E. , Horowits Robert
Published: September 2008

N‐RAP alternative splicing and protein localization were studied in developing skeletal muscle tissue from pre‐ and postnatal mice and in fusing primary myotubes in culture. Messages encoding N‐RAP‐s and N‐RAP‐c, the predominant isoforms of N‐RAP detected in adult skeletal muscle and heart, respectively, were present in a 5:1 ratio in skeletal muscle isolated from E16.5 embryos. N‐RAP‐s mRNA levels increased three‐fold over the first 3 weeks of postnatal development, while N‐RAP‐c mRNA levels remained low. N‐RAP alternative splicing during myotube differentiation in culture was similar to the pattern observed in embryonic and neonatal muscle, with N‐RAP‐s expression increasing and N‐RAP‐c mRNA levels remaining low. In both developing skeletal muscle and cultured myotubes, N‐RAP protein was primarily associated with developing myofibrillar structures containing α‐actinin, but was not present in mature myofibrils. The results establish that N‐RAP‐s is the predominant spliced form of N‐RAP present throughout skeletal muscle development. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2008. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.