bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The “BIM-sustain” experiment – simulation of BIM-supported multi-disciplinary design
Authors: Kovacic Iva , Oberwinter Lars , Müller Christoph , Achammer Christoph
Published: December 2013

Background

The AEC practice using BIM technology in Central European (CE) context is still very young; the previous experiences demonstrated a number of upcoming problems with BIM implementation on technical- (heterogonous data, interfaces, large data volumes) but even more so on process-level (question of responsibilities and work-load distribution, lacking standards or conventions on building-representation and in general lack of experience and knowledge on integrated practice).

The optimal data management, transfer and synchronization within inhomogeneous software context, as is often the case within inter-firm construction projects, require enormous organization, coordination and communication effort in the earliest design-phases. The BIM implementation implies therefore necessity of fundamental rethinking of the conventional design process, which in CE context is still predominantly based on sequential, segmented practice.

Methods

At the Vienna University of Technology a BIM-supported multi-disciplinary planning process with students of architecture, structural engineering and building physics, using several BIM-software tools was simulated. From the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of this BIM-supported multi-disciplinary collaboration will enable the compilation of guidelines for efficient use of BIM in design and planning process for the planners and standardization bodies.

Results

First insights on process-quality, such as team-, process- and technology satisfaction, as well as conflict- and stress levels will be presented in this paper. We were able to identify numerous technical problems related to the data transfer and inconsistencies in translation, which resulted in participant dissatisfaction and significant increasing of work-loads.

Conclusion

The first results imply at the importance of process-organization techniques such as face-to face communication, coordination and work-load allocation between the team-members in order to conduct the efficient BIM-supported process; as well as at urgent need for advancement of the tools in terms of data transfer and exchange. In the next step, using mandatory protocols and timesheets, a detailed statistical analysis of the people-process-technology issues will be conducted, as well as comparison of „Open-Platform-BIM“ to „One-Platform-BIM” model.
A nanobody targeting the F-actin capping protein CapG restrains breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Van Impe Katrien , Bethuyne Jonas , Cool Steven , Impens Francis , Ruano-Gallego David , De Wever Olivier , Vanloo Berlinda , Van Troys Marleen , Lambein Kathleen , Boucherie Ciska , Martens Evelien , Zwaenepoel Olivier , Hassanzadeh-Ghassabeh Gholamreza , Vandekerckhove Joël , Gevaert Kris , Fernández Luis Ángel , Sanders Niek N , Gettemans Jan
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Aberrant turnover of the actin cytoskeleton is intimately associated with cancer cell migration and invasion. Frequently however, evidence is circumstantial, and a reliable assessment of the therapeutic significance of a gene product is offset by lack of inhibitors that target biologic properties of a protein, as most conventional drugs do, instead of the corresponding gene. Proteomic studies have demonstrated overexpression of CapG, a constituent of the actin cytoskeleton, in breast cancer. Indirect evidence suggests that CapG is involved in tumor cell dissemination and metastasis. In this study, we used llama-derived CapG single-domain antibodies or nanobodies in a breast cancer metastasis model to address whether inhibition of CapG activity holds therapeutic merit.

Methods

We raised single-domain antibodies (nanobodies) against human CapG and used these as intrabodies (immunomodulation) after lentiviral transduction of breast cancer cells. Functional characterization of nanobodies was performed to identify which biochemical properties of CapG are perturbed. Orthotopic and tail vein in vivo models of metastasis in nude mice were used to assess cancer cell spreading.

Results

With G-actin and F-actin binding assays, we identified a CapG nanobody that binds with nanomolar affinity to the first CapG domain. Consequently, CapG interaction with actin monomers or actin filaments is blocked. Intracellular delocalization experiments demonstrated that the nanobody interacts with CapG in the cytoplasmic environment. Expression of the nanobody in breast cancer cells restrained cell migration and Matrigel invasion. Notably, the nanobody prevented formation of lung metastatic lesions in orthotopic xenograft and tail-vein models of metastasis in immunodeficient mice. We showed that CapG nanobodies can be delivered into cancer cells by using bacteria harboring a type III protein secretion system (T3SS).

Conclusions

CapG inhibition strongly reduces breast cancer metastasis. A nanobody-based approach offers a fast track for gauging the therapeutic merit of drug targets. Mapping of the nanobody-CapG interface may provide a platform for rational design of pharmacologic compounds.
TRAPID: an efficient online tool for the functional and comparative analysis of de novoRNA-Seq transcriptomes
Authors: Van Bel Michiel , Proost Sebastian , Van Neste Christophe , Deforce Dieter , Van de Peer Yves , Vandepoele Klaas
Published: December 2013

Transcriptome analysis through next-generation sequencing technologies allows the generation of detailed gene catalogs for non-model species, at the cost of new challenges with regards to computational requirements and bioinformatics expertise. Here, we present TRAPID, an online tool for the fast and efficient processing of assembled RNA-Seq transcriptome data, developed to mitigate these challenges. TRAPID offers high-throughput open reading frame detection, frameshift correction and includes a functional, comparative and phylogenetic toolbox, making use of 175 reference proteomes. Benchmarking and comparison against state-of-the-art transcript analysis tools reveals the efficiency and unique features of the TRAPID system. TRAPID is freely available at http://bioinformatics.psb.ugent.be/webtools/trapid/.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells enhance IgE-mediated mast cell responses
Authors: Morales Johanna K , Saleem Sheinei J , Martin Rebecca K , Saunders Bryan L , Barnstein Brian O , Faber Travis W , Pullen Nicholas A , Kolawole Elizabeth Motunrayo , Brooks Keith B , Norton Sarah K , Sturgill Jamie , Graham Laura , Bear Harry D , Urban Joseph F , Lantz Chris S , Conrad Daniel H , Ryan John J
Published: December 2013

Mast cells and MDSCs are increased by parasitic infection and tumor growth. We previously demonstrated that enhanced MDSC development in ADAM10 transgenic mice yielded resistance to Nb infection and that coculturing MDSCs and mast cells enhanced cytokine production. In the current work, we show that MDSC-mast cell coculture selectively enhances IgE-mediated cytokine secretion among mast cells, without increasing MDSC cytokine production. This effect was independent of cell contact and elicited by Ly6C+ and Ly6C/G+ MDSC subsets. These interactions were functionally important. MDSC depletion with the FDA-approved drug gemcitabine exacerbated Nb or Trichinella spiralis infection and reduced mast cell-dependent AHR and lung inflammation. Adoptive transfer of MDSC worsened AHR in WT but not mast cell-deficient Wsh/Wsh mice. These data support the hypothesis that MDSCs enhance mast cell inflammatory responses and demonstrate that this interaction can be altered by an existing chemotherapeutic.
A Novel Method of Synthesizing LiFePO4/C with Excellent Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Wang Juan , Shao Zhongbao , Ru Hongqiang
Published: December 2013

A novel method of high-temperature high-energy ball milling was developed to synthesize LiFePO4/C at a relatively low temperature of 600 °C for a relatively short preparation time of 10 h. X-ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and electrochemical performance tests were utilized to analyze the samples. The results demonstrate that the LiFePO4/C composite shows a mean particle size of 0.5 µm, 152.5 mA h g−1 initial discharge capacity, and 151.8 mA h g−1 reversible capacity after 30 cycle test at 0.1 C.
The beauty of being (label)-free: sample preparation methods for SWATH-MS and next-generation targeted proteomics
Authors: Vowinckel Jakob , Capuano Floriana , Campbell Kate , Deery Michael J. , Lilley Kathryn S. , Ralser Markus
Published: December 2013

The combination of qualitative analysis with label-free quantification has greatly facilitated the throughput and flexibility of novel proteomic techniques. However, such methods rely heavily on robust and reproducible sample preparation procedures. Here, we benchmark a selection of in gel, on filter, and in solution digestion workflows for their application in label-free proteomics. Each procedure was associated with differing advantages and disadvantages. The in gel methods interrogated were cost effective, but were limited in throughput and digest efficiency. Filter-aided sample preparations facilitated reasonable processing times and yielded a balanced representation of membrane proteins, but led to a high signal variation in quantification experiments. Two in solution digest protocols, however, gave optimal performance for label-free proteomics. A protocol based on the detergent RapiGest led to the highest number of detected proteins at second-best signal stability, while a protocol based on acetonitrile-digestion, RapidACN, scored best in throughput and signal stability but came second in protein identification. In addition, we compared label-free data dependent (DDA) and data independent (SWATH) acquisition. While largely similar in protein detection, SWATH outperformed DDA in quantification, reducing signal variation and markedly increasing the number of precisely quantified peptides.
Welfare Effects of Developing the Reverse Mortgage Market in China: An Individual and Social Perspective
Authors: Huang Minan , Chen Bingzheng , Deng Yinglu
Published: December 2013

The increasing aging population and social security insufficiency have become serious problems in China. Some developed countries, such as the U.S., Canada, and Japan, have developed reverse mortgage markets as solutions for the aging problem. In this article, a theoretical analysis of the welfare and asset allocation effects from introducing a reverse mortgage market into China, with the overlapping generation model and parameters from Chinese factors, was carried out. The results show that the introduction of a reverse mortgage market improved individual and social welfare. It provides more income for both the older and the younger generations. For the older generation, this can reduce the burden on social security; for the younger generation, this can smooth out lifetime consumption for the individual. By making comparisons among different scenarios, this article shows that the welfare effects from a reverse mortgage market would increase with the aging level of society.
Inequalities in Firms’ Access to Credit in Latin America
Authors: Makler Harry , Ness Walter L. , Tschoegl Adrian E.
Published: December 2013

A variety of social and economic institutions have contributed to the decline in poverty and inequality in Latin America. We focus on the bank-SME nexus because of the importance of banks as a source of finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and the potential role that SMEs can play as sources of innovation, employment, and in reducing poverty and inequality. Our regression analysis of data from World Bank (WB) surveys of firms in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico shows that firms that are smaller, newer, less technically advanced, and less well-located firms are more likely to report being credit constrained. The factors that did not count are executive characteristics such as gender, education, and experience in the sector, and firm performance or foreign ownership. Firms that worked with several banks, developed affiliations to business groups or were in trade and political associations were less likely to report credit constraint.
Risk factors for unfavorable pregnancy outcome in women with adverse childhood experiences
Authors: Leeners Brigitte , Rath Werner , Block Emina , Görres Gisela , Tschudin Sibil
Published: December 2013

Aims: To explore the association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA), physical abuse, as well as other adverse childhood experiences (ACE), and different obstetrical risk factors/behaviors.

Methods: In this cohort study, obstetrical risk factors and perinatal outcome in 85 women exposed to CSA were compared to 170 matched unexposed women. CSA, physical abuse, and ACE were explored by face-to-face interviews and by questionnaire. Data on perinatal outcome were extracted from medical charts. Fisher’s exact, χ
2-test, and multiple logistic regression were used for statistical analysis.

Results: During pregnancy women with CSA experiences were significantly more often smoking (31.7%/9.4%; P<0.0001), had partners abusing drugs (10.6%/1.2%; P<0.0005), experienced physical (16.5%/0; P<0.0001), sexual (12.9%/0; P<0.0001), and emotional abuse (44.7%/1.7%; P<0.0001), reported depression (24.7%/1.8%; P<0.0001), and suicidal ideation (10.6%/0; P<0.0001) than women without CSA experiences. Differences in risk factors were more often correlated with physical than with sexual abuse during childhood. The probability for premature delivery was associated with CSA, physical abuse and ACE as well as with several of the risk factors investigated.

Conclusion: Women with CSA, physical, and ACE present with a variety of abuse-associated obstetrical risk factors and an increased risk for premature delivery. Therefore, all types of abusive and other ACE should be considered in prenatal care.
Adequabilidade da assistência pré-natal em uma estratégia de saúde da família de Porto Alegre-RS
Authors: Hass Cimone Noal , Teixeira Luciana Barcellos , Beghetto Mariur Gomes
Published: December 2013

O estudo objetivou avaliar a adequabilidade da assistência pré-natal de baixo risco, conforme a recomendação do Ministério da Saúde, quanto ao número mínimo de consultas, e verificar possíveis fatores associados. Avaliou-se a atenção pré-natal de uma coorte histórica de 95 gestantes. Mais de 50% das mulheres fizeram 6 ou mais consultas de pré-natal. O início do pré-natal ocorreu no primeiro trimestre de gestação para 52% das mulheres; 84,2% das mulheres realizaram todos os exames de pré-natal e apenas 16,8% realizaram consulta no puerpério. A assistência pré-natal foi considerada adequada para 2,1% da amostra. Maior número de consultas pré-natal foi observado entre as mulheres com companheiro e com maior número de filhos.Os registros demonstraram baixa adequação à totalidade dos critérios mínimos estabelecidos e poucos fatores parecem explicar esse cenário.
Blogs escolares sobre sexualidade: estudo exploratório documental
Authors: Valli Gabriela Petró , Cogo Ana Luísa Petersen
Published: December 2013

O objetivo foi analisar a estrutura e a utilização do blog escolar por adolescentes, ao abordarem a temática da sexualidade. Trata-se de pesquisa quantitativa exploratória documental, realizada com 11 blogs criados por estudantes que estavam disponíveis online em março de 2012. As informações foram submetidas à análise hipertextual e da estatística descritiva, observando-se os preceitos éticos em pesquisa. Os blogs grupais e educacionais desenvolvidos em escolas portuguesas e brasileiras eram na maioria assinados pelos autores e sofreram poucas atualizações. As publicações escritas mesclaram linguagem científica com informal, apresentavam vídeos e imagens. Informações sobre a quantidade de seguidores, acessos, comentários e contato para dúvidas não foram encontrados na totalidade dos blogs. Entre os assuntos discutidos, destacaram-se métodos contraceptivos e doenças sexualmente transmissíveis (DSTs). Os blogs sãorecurso de educação em saúde que necessitam assumir o seu espaço de discussão ativa e podem contar com a participação de profissionais da saúde.
Estado de saúde percebido e adesão farmacológica em pacientes submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea
Authors: Coelho Mariana , Costa Eliana de Cássia Arantes , Richter Vitor César , Dessotte Carina Aparecida Marosti , Ciol Marcia Aparecida , Schmidt André , Dantas Rosana Aparecida Spadoti , Rossi Lídia Aparecida , Furuya Rejane Kiyomi
Published: December 2013

Os objetivos foram avaliar o estado de saúde percebido e a adesão farmacológica, e verificar a correlação entre essas medidas em pacientes submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea, após alta hospitalar. Trata-se de estudo transversal realizado no período de maio de 2011 a julho de 2012. Utilizaram-se os instrumentos SF-36 e Medida de Adesão aos Tratamentos, com 101 pacientes. Destes, 54 (53,5%) eram homens, a idade média era 59,5±10,3 e 32 (32,7%) haviam passado por tratamento cardíaco prévio. Todos utilizavam medicamentos anti-hipertensivos; 99 (98%) utilizavam antiagregantes plaquetários; 98 (97%), redutores de colesterol e 59 (58,4%), vasodilatadores coronarianos. A média do número de medicamentos utilizados foi 6,8±2,1. A adesão farmacológica foi verificada em 98 (97%) pacientes. Os participantes apresentaram melhor estado de saúde nos componentes "Aspectos sociais" e "Capacidade funcional". Constataram-se correlações positivas e de moderada magnitude entre as medidas de adesão e "Capacidade funcional", "Estado geral de saúde" e "Aspectos sociais". Houve correlação entre adesão farmacológica e estado de saúde percebido.
Prática do enfermeiro no cuidado ao paciente no pré-operatório imediato de cirurgia eletiva
Authors: Sena Adnairdes Cabral de , Nascimento Eliane Regina Pereira do , Maia Ana Rosete Camargo Rodrigues
Published: December 2013

A pesquisa objetivou analisar os cuidados dos enfermeiros com os pacientes, no cotidiano da prática profissional, no período pré-operatório imediato de cirurgia eletiva. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva com abordagem qualitativa, em que participaram 15 enfermeiros das unidades cirúrgicas e dois do centro cirúrgico de um hospital da Região Sul do Brasil. Os dados foram coletados no período de abril a julho de 2011, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. Para análise dos dados, utilizou-se o Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo (DSC). As informações deram origem a três DSCs com as ideias centrais: cuidados administrativos, orientação no pré-operatório e cuidados cirúrgicos no pré-operatório imediato. Os resultados mostram que grande parte dos cuidados se refere à orientação do paciente no pré-operatório. Conclui-se que os cuidados foram direcionados aos aspectos físicos em detrimento do psicológico, em discordância com a metodologia assistencial adotada no hospital, sustentada pela Teoria das Necessidades Humanas Básicas.
Qualidade de vida de pacientes com diabetes utilizando o instrumento Diabetes 39 (D-39)
Authors: Zulian Luana Rosas , Santos Manoel Antônio dos , Veras Vívian Saraiva , Rodrigues Flávia Fernanda Luchetti , Arrelias Clarissa Cordeiro Alves , Zanetti Maria Lucia
Published: December 2013

Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a qualidade de vida específica de pacientes com Diabetes Mellitus. Trata-se de estudo transversal, realizado de 02 a 28 de agosto de 2012, em duas unidades básicas de saúde do interior paulista. A amostra foi constituída por conveniência de 75 pacientes, com idade igual ou maior a 18 anos, de ambos os sexos, em um grupo de automonitorização da glicemia capilar. Utilizou-se o Instrumento de Avaliação de Diabetes 39 (D-39), contendo cinco dimensões: "energia e mobilidade" (15 itens), "controle do diabetes" (12), "ansiedade e preocupação" (4), "sobrecarga social" (5) e "funcionamento sexual" (3). A qualidade de vida se mostrou muito afetada nos itens relacionados à dimensão da sobrecarga social: constrangimento por ter diabetes, ser chamado de diabético e ter o diabetes interferindo em sua vida familiar. A elucidação dos fatores avaliados contribui para o planejamento de programas educativos, na medida em que tais fatores podem dificultar a obtenção do controle metabólico de pacientes com diabetes.
Terapia comunitária integrativa: situações de sofrimento emocional e estratégias de enfrentamento apresentadas por usuários
Authors: Rocha Ianine Alves da , Sá Aralinda Nogueira Pinto de , Braga Lucineide Alves Vieira , Ferreira Filha Maria de Oliveira , Dias Maria Djair
Published: December 2013

A Terapia Comunitária Integrativa (TCI) surge como uma estratégia de apoio à saúde mental dos usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde. O estudo tem como objetivo identificar os principais problemas apresentados pelos usuários da terapia comunitária e identificar as estratégias que utilizam no enfrentamento das situações que provocam sofrimento emocional. Pesquisa do tipo documental realizada na Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, tendo como fontes de informações fichas de organização de dados da TCI. Os resultados demonstraram que o problema mais frequente é o estresse, que a estratégia de enfrentamento mais utilizada é a espiritualidade, e que através dos discursos dos participantes é possível perceber a opinião positiva que eles têm dos encontros. A TCI é um espaço onde as relações construídas transmitem apoio emocional, fortalecem vínculos e diminuem os casos de exclusão social.
Trajetórias afetivo-sexuais de pessoas com feridas crônicas nos membros inferiores: aspectos na escuta terapêutica
Authors: Carvalho Evanilda Souza de Santana , Paiva Mirian Santos , Aparício Elena Casado , Rodrigues Gilmara Ribeiro Santos
Published: December 2013

Estudo qualitativo com o objetivo de discutir as trajetórias de pessoas com feridas crônicas nos membros inferiores, focando as experiências afetivas e sexuais. Participaram 51 adultos atendidos num ambulatório de hospital público em Salvador, Bahia, entre 2008 e 2009. Os dados foram obtidos através do desenho estória-tema e de entrevistas em profundidade, durante a escuta terapêutica. Em seguida foram submetidos à análise de conteúdo temática e à análise de conteúdo para desenhos, respectivamente, surgindo três categorias: "trajetórias solitárias", "fragmentadas" e "lineares ou contínuas". Conclui-se que as limitações corporais impostas pelas feridas influenciam a subjetividade dessas pessoas, conduzindo-as a processos de perda da autoconfiança, autodepreciação e temor quanto a demandas afetivo-sexuais. Torna-se, pois, evidente a necessidade da promoção, não apenas de intervenções curativas para o corpo, mas também da escuta terapêutica e do apoio psicológico durante o cuidado proporcionado a essas pessoas.
Estratégias lúdicas de coleta de dados com crianças com câncer: revisão integrativa
Authors: Sposito Amanda Mota Pacciulio , Sparapani Valéria de Cássia , Pfeifer Luzia Iara , Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia de , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira
Published: December 2013

As crianças são as melhores fontes de informação sobre suas experiências e opiniões; e as pesquisas qualitativas têm privilegiado desenvolver e aplicar técnicas que deem vozes a elas e facilitem a sua aproximação com o pesquisador. Objetivou-se identificar, mediante revisão integrativa da literatura, recursos lúdicos utilizados na coleta de dados de pesquisas qualitativas com crianças com câncer e suas formas de aplicação. Realizaram-se buscas sistematizadas em bases de dados eletrônicas e biblioteca virtual, que, somadas a uma amostra não sistematizada, abrangendo o período de 2000 a 2010, totalizaram 15 estudos. Identificaram-se os recursos de desenho, brinquedo terapêutico, fantoche, fotografia e dinâmicas de criatividade e sensibilidade que, associados ou não à entrevista, mostraram-se facilitadores da coleta de dados, direta ou indiretamente, ampliando a interação com as crianças e permitindo maior expressão de seus sentimentos. São apresentadas vantagens e limitações da utilização desses recursos, contribuindo-se para o planejamento de pesquisas com crianças.
Adding Preoperative Radiotherapy Plus Cetuximab to Perioperative Chemotherapy for Resectable Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: A Single-Center Prospective Phase II Trial
Authors: Ubink Inge , Sluis Pieter , Schipper Marguerite , Reerink Onne , Voest Emile , Borel-Rinkes Inne , Wijrdeman Harm , Vleggaar Frank , Agterof Marriete , Overkleeft Esther , Siersema Peter , Hillegersberg Richard , Lolkema M.P.
Published: December 2013

Background.

Local and systemic recurrence are important sources of treatment failure following surgical resection of esophageal adenocarcinoma. We hypothesized that adding preoperative cetuximab and radiotherapy (cetux-RT) to perioperative chemotherapy would increase treatment efficacy with acceptable toxicity.

Methods.

In this prospective phase II trial, patients were treated with three cycles of epirubicin, cisplatin, and capecitabine (ECX), followed by cetux-RT. After surgery with curative intent, patients received three more cycles of ECX. Primary endpoints were efficacy, determined by histopathological complete response (pCR) rate, and safety, which was assessed with resectability rate.

Results.

Of the 12 patients enrolled in this trial, six received at least one dose of cetux-RT. In five patients, cetux-RT was not started because of adverse events (AEs) related to preoperative chemotherapy; one patient had progressive disease. Addition of cetux-RT was well tolerated and did not interfere with the resectability rate (100%). However, the pCR rate was 0, and 50% of patients experienced serious adverse events (SAEs) postoperatively.

Conclusion.

With 12 patients enrolled, the lack of initial signs of efficacy and a high incidence of postoperative SAEs prompted us to end this study prematurely. Perioperative ECX was associated with considerable toxicity, and further treatment intensification is problematic.
A formaldehyde-free binder for engineered wood products
Authors: Sivasubramanian Shivshankar , Jafferji Khozema , Schmidt Daniel F. , Reynaud Emmanuelle
Published: December 2013

This study aims at evaluating an alternative to petroleum-derived thermosets for engineered wood products from the standpoint of mechanical performance. The chosen system consists of epoxidized linseed oil cross-linked with a polyamine compound; the constituents are chosen for their minimal toxicity profiles. In a first step, the authors report on the optimization of network composition, as assessed by mechanical property measurements and supported by thermal analysis. For a 1:1·8 epoxy to amine hydrogen ratio, the cross-linked network exhibits a maximum Shore D hardness of 81 and a maximum glass transition temperature of 45°C; at the same time, the presence of a thin, soft layer of material is observed on the underside of samples of these networks. To remedy this issue, two families of nanoparticles (montmorillonite clay and hydrotalcite) are added to the bioepoxy formulation; it is found that only the latter family enables reinforcement and enhances homogeneity. In follow-up experiments, wood composites are manufactured with the optimized bioepoxy formulation (with and without hydrotalcite nanoparticles) and are found to possess a higher main relaxation temperature (65°C) and properties on par with commercially available engineered wood products.
Utilization of zeolite industrial wastewater for removal of copper and zinc from copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater
Authors: Sreesai Siranee , Sthiannopkao Suthipong
Published: December 2013

Utilization of zeolite industrial wastewater as a sorbent and (or) precipitant to remove Cu and Zn from copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater was conducted. These wastewaters were sampled and values for pH, temperature, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total solids (TS), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), and heavy metals were determined. In addition, the sorption isotherms of Cu and Zn in copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater onto solids of zeolite industrial wastewater at various dilutions of copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater were explored. The relationship between Cu and Zn concentrations and their removal efficiencies under different conditions of wastewater pH, contact times, and ratios between copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater and zeolite industrial wastewater was examined. Zeolite industrial wastewater contained various carbonate compounds that contributed to high pH and TDS values, and low heavy metals contamination whereas copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater had a low pH value and was contaminated with heavy metals, especially Cu and Zn. Application of zeolite industrial wastewater significantly increased the pH of copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater and consequently removed Cu and Zn. The increase in pH of the wastewater mixture significantly enhanced the heavy metals removal. The Langmuir equation described sorption isotherms of Cu and Zn onto solids of zeolite industrial wastewater at neutral pH (6  –  7) while the Freundlich equation fitted well at pH > 12. The maximum Cu (97%  –  98%) and Zn (92%  –  96%) removal efficiencies occurred at the original pH  12·8 of zeolite industrial wastewater, at the ratio of copper-brass pipe industrial wastewater to zeolite industrial wastewater 3:1 (vol.:vol.) and at 30  min contact time.
Interpreting nonstationary environmental cycles as amplitude-modulated (AM) signals
Authors: Fleming Sean W. , Hudson Peter , Quilty Edward J.
Published: December 2013

Inspired by an analogy to AM radio signals, amplitude modulation (AM) is proposed here as a useful view of nonstationary environmental periodicities, and applied to hydrologic and air quality datasets. Both example time series considered exhibit seasonally evolving diel cycles, with large (small) daily cycle amplitudes in summer (winter). The carrier wave is taken to be a sinusoidal daily cycle; this is multiplied by an information signal consisting of a sinusoidal annual cycle, forming an envelope to the diel variations. Our results suggest that amplitude modulation may offer a novel, compact, and accessible perspective, both qualitatively and quantitatively, on the net phenomenological behaviour arising from highly complex, nonlinear, and diverse environmental process dynamics. Physical interpretations, synergies with common environmental time series processing or analysis methods (Kolmogorov-Zurbenko filtering, classical spectral analysis, and singular systems analysis), and potential future research directions are also explored.
Utilisation des écailles de cacao comme support de biofiltration pour le traitement d’effluents de l’industrie agro-alimentaire (in French)
Authors: Turcotte Véronique , Blais Jean-François , Mercier Guy , Drogui Patrick
Published: December 2013

L’industrie agro-alimentaire produit une quantité importante de résidus, ou co-produits, dont certains sont potentiellement valorisables. Dans cette étude, les écailles de cacao, un résidu de la fabrication du chocolat, ont été étudiées comme support de biomasse dans un biofiltre aérobie à co-courant ascendant. L’influence de divers paramètres (temps de rétention hydraulique (TRH), granulométrie du support, apport de nutriments, pH) a été vérifiée sur la performance d’élimination de la demande chimique (DCO) et biochimique (DBO5) en oxygène. Un support plastique (Kaldnes, K1) a été utilisé comme support contrôle de biomasse. Les écailles de cacao ont démontré un bon potentiel pour le traitement d’effluents agro-alimentaires fortement chargés (DCOtot 3000  –  6000  mg·L−1). Les résultats obtenus montrent que les performances épuratoires des écailles sont inférieures à celles du support plastique. Les écailles de cacao doivent également être remplacées à une fréquence d’environ une fois toutes les 2 à 3 semaines. Toutefois, les boues produites par le traitement, composées d’écailles usées et de biomasse, sont riches en azote et peu contaminées et sont donc potentiellement valorisables en agriculture ou par compostage.
Two-dimensional model for predicting performance of aerated grit chambers
Authors: Munoz Alex , Young Stephanie
Published: December 2013

A two-dimensional model was developed in this study. The model predicts the performance of a full-scale aerated grit chamber for grit removal from wastewater. The model numerically integrates Poisson’s equation, which describes the motion of the liquid induced by the rising air bubbles. The model makes use of finite element algorithms available in Mathcad to solve Poisson’s equation. The model was developed for predicting the velocity field in the chamber. The model was used to perform a sensitivity analysis of the design variables that affect the performance of an existing grit chamber at the Moose Jaw Wastewater Treatment Plant. The results of the sensitivity analysis indicate that predictions of velocity field are highly sensitive to energy transfer efficiency, air flowrate, and particle settling velocity but less sensitive to variations of wastewater flowrate, diffuser depth, and grid spacing.
Analytical model for the capacity of compressive arch action of reinforced concrete sub-assemblages
Authors: Yu Jun , Tan Kang Hai
Published: December 2013

Compressive arch action (CAA) is a favourable structural mechanism to mitigate progressive collapse of reinforced concrete (RC) frames. To quickly and accurately predict the CAA capacity of RC sub-assemblages under a column-missing scenario, an engineering analytical model is proposed. The model considers all the design parameters in beams and the imperfect boundary conditions of sub-assemblages, including partial axial and rotational restraints, and connection gaps at beam ends if any. The proposed model is then validated with experimental results and extended to calculate progressive collapse resistance due to CAA with dynamic increase factors. Finally, the model is employed in parametric studies. It is found that CAA capacity increases with restraint stiffness only in the regime of weak restraints; in the regime of strong restraints, CAA capacity is not sensitive to variation in restraint stiffness. Furthermore, CAA enhances structural resistance more evidently for sub-assemblages with small span-to-depth ratios and low mechanical reinforcement ratios, and RC slabs help to increase the CAA capacities of RC frames.
Genetic Basis of Agronomic Differences between a Modern and a Historical Spring Wheat Cultivar
Authors: Sherman J. D. , Martin J. M. , Blake N. K. , Lanning S. P. , Talbert L. E.
Published: December 2013

Modern spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars are typically of semidwarf growth habit and have higher yield potential than their predecessors. Since the introduction of reduced height alleles, breeders have selected for higher grain yield and improvements in other traits. The objective of this project was to determine the genetic basis for differences between a modern spring wheat cultivar ‘McNeal’ with Rht‐D1b for semidwarf habit and a historically important standard height cultivar ‘Thatcher’. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population with 160 lines, including 80 in each height class, was tested in five environments in Montana. The Rht‐D1 locus explained 90% of the height variation. The Rht‐D1b allele had positive pleiotropic effects on grain yield and productive tiller number, explaining 73 and 33% of the respective variation. Negative pleiotropic effects occurred for grain protein, seed weight, and test weight, as Rht‐D1 explained 42, 24, and 7% of the variation within the RIL. Favorable alleles at quantitative trait loci (QTLs) of lesser effect than Rht‐D1 were more often contributed by McNeal for seed size and test weight than by Thatcher. A total of 17 epistatic interactions were observed, of which nine involved Rht‐D1. Our results indicate that alleles for semidwarf habit explain most of the improvement in grain yield. Selection of favorable alleles at other loci has helped to mitigate negative pleiotropic effects of Rht‐D1b. Our results provide insight into the genetic basis of wheat improvement through breeding.
Yield Determination and Water‐Use Efficiency of Wheat under Water‐Limited Conditions in the U.S. Southern High Plains
Authors: Xue Q. , Rudd J. C. , Liu S. , Jessup K. E. , Devkota R. N. , Mahan J. R.
Published: December 2013

Drought is the most important stress for reducing wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield and water‐use efficiency (WUE) in the U.S. Southern High Plains (SHP). Adoption of cultivars with higher yield and WUE under drought conditions is critical in the area. The objective of this study was to investigate the physiological basis of yield determination and WUE of wheat in the SHP. A 2‐yr field experiment was conducted in 10 genotypes under dryland and irrigated conditions. The newer cultivars or more drought tolerant genotypes had higher yield, biomass, WUE, and water‐use efficiency for biomass (WUEbm) under drought. Genotypes with higher yield had more seeds per spike and higher 1000‐kernel weight (TKW). The WUE or WUEbm was determined by yield or biomass as genotypic differences in evapotranspiration were not significant. Biomass at anthesis significantly contributed to higher yield under drought. Yield, spikes per square meter, TKW, and harvest index were correlated to spike, stem, and total dry weights per unit area at anthesis. Single stem dry weight was linearly related to seeds per spike. For dryland wheat, remobilization of stem C reserves contributed to yield in 1 yr and to seeds per spike and seeds per square meter in both years. The amount of remobilization was linearly related to single stem dry weight at anthesis. The results of this study indicated that stem dry weight at anthesis may be an important trait for high yield in the SHP environment.
Dry Matter Remobilization and Compensatory Effects in Various Internodes of Spring Wheat under Water Stress
Authors: Ma Jian , Huang Gao‐Bao , Yang De‐Long , Chai Qiang
Published: December 2013

Dry matter reserved in vegetative tissues can be remobilized and contribute to crop yields. This study determined the magnitude of dry matter (DM) remobilization from various internodes in spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under different water stresses. We hypothesized that the ability of DM remobilization differed between genotypes. The genotypes LC26 and LC27 were grown in a rain shelter facility under nonstress, moderate stress, and severe water stress during grain filling. Compared with the nonstress check, LC27 remobilized 22 mg plant−1 more preanthesis DM in its upper internodes under moderate stress and 32 mg plant−1 more under severe stress. Remobilization efficiency (percent maximum DM remobilized) increased by 110% in the stem, 137% in the lower internodes, and 33% in the upper internodes, under severe stress. Wheat grain yield was reduced by 21% under moderate stress and by 43% under severe stress compared with the nonstress check, but lost yields were partly compensated by DM remobilization. Remobilized DM from the stem of LC26 contributed 18% to the grain yield under nonstress, 27% under moderate stress, and 39% under severe stress. Dry matter reserved in the stem of LC27 contributed 13% to the grain yield under nonstress, 18% under moderate stress, and 37% under severe stress. The compensation from DM remobilization did not offset the lost yield, and thus, improved practices are required to manage soil water and to minimize yield losses caused by drought stress.
Relating Turfgrass Growth and Quality to Frequently Measured Soil Nitrate
Authors: Geng Xingyuan , Guillard Karl , Morris Thomas F.
Published: December 2013

Currently, there is no soil‐based N test used to guide N fertilizer recommendations for turfgrass. This study was conducted across 3 yr in Connecticut to determine if frequent measurement of soil nitrate–N (NO3–N) could be used to estimate color, density, clippings yield, clippings total N concentration, and clippings N uptake in Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensisL.) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceaSchreb.) lawns. Randomized complete block field experiments were set out on the two species with nine N rates. Soil cores and clippings were collected at 2‐wk intervals from May through October and analyzed for concentrations of NO3–N and total N, respectively. Turfgrass color was measured with chlorophyll and normalized difference vegetative index meters, and shoot count density was measured after the last sampling. Significant (p< 0.001) Cate‐Nelson, linear‐plateau, and quadratic‐plateau models were observed for all relative measures of turfgrass growth and quality as a function of soil NO3–N concentrations. The critical soil NO3–N concentrations for the three models that indicated the beginning of a plateau response or marked the Cate‐Nelson change point between likely or unlikely response ranged from 3.7 and 18.0 mg kg−1for Kentucky bluegrass and from 2.5 and 10.1 mg kg−1for tall fescue. Probability plots indicated a high likelihood of acceptable turfgrass responses at the lower range of the critical concentrations suggested by the Cate‐Nelson model. These results suggest that frequent measurement of soil NO3–N may help to guide N fertilization of Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue when managed as lawns.
Optimal Design of Preliminary Yield Trials with Genome‐Wide Markers
Authors: Endelman Jeffrey B. , Atlin Gary N. , Beyene Yoseph , Semagn Kassa , Zhang Xuecai , Sorrells Mark E. , Jannink Jean‐Luc
Published: December 2013

Previous research on genomic selection (GS) has focused on predicting unphenotyped lines. Genomic selection can also improve the accuracy of phenotyped lines at low heritability, e.g., in a preliminary yield trial (PYT). Our first objective was to estimate this effect within a biparental family, using multilocation yield data for barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and maize (Zea mays L.). We found that accuracy increased with training population size and was higher with an unbalanced design spread across multiple locations than when testing all entries in one location. The latter phenomenon illustrates that when seed is limited, genome‐wide markers enable broader sampling from the target population of environments. Our second objective was to explore the optimum allocation of resources at a fixed budget. When PYT selections are advanced for further testing, we propose a new metric for optimizing genetic gain: Rmax, the expected maximum genotypic value of the selections. For budgets up to 250 yield plot equivalents per family, the optimal design did not involve genotyping more progeny than were phenotyped, even when the cost of creating and genotyping each line was only 0.25 the cost of one yield plot unit (YPU). At a genotyping cost of 0.25 YPU, GS offered up to a 5% increase in genetic gain compared with phenotypic selection. To increase genetic gains further, the training population must be expanded beyond the full‐sib family under selection, using close relatives of the parents as a source of prediction accuracy.
Grain Weight Response to Different Postflowering Source:Sink Ratios in Modern High‐Yielding Argentinean Wheats Differing in Spike Fruiting Efficiency
Authors: González Fernanda G. , Aldabe María L. , Terrile Ignacio I. , Rondanini Deborah P.
Published: December 2013

Improving wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield potential via higher grain number per unit area (GN) may reduce average grain weight and consequently the yield increment would be low. Thirty‐nine high‐yielding modern cultivars differing in spike fruiting efficiency (FE) (number of grains per gram of no‐grain spike) were grown under potential conditions during two temperature‐contrasting years to study the level of source limitation during grain filling and rank the main physiological determinants of potential grain weight (PGW) and actual grain weight. The response of grain weight to a 100% higher source ranged from 0 to 25%, depending on cultivar and year. No general relationship was observed between PGW and FE. The stabilized grain water content, which was partially correlated with the endosperm cell number per grain (r2 = 48%, p < 0.05), was the main variable associated to grain weight variation (r2 = 77%, p < 0.00001) in both temperate and warm years. Genetic improvement focused on increasing the sink strength through higher GN is still an alternative to increase yield potential in modern cultivars as no source limitation during grain filling was observed. The improvement of FE could be used to increase GN and yield as no general negative relationship was observed between PGW and FE.
Measuring Genotypic Variation in Wheat Seed Iron First Requires Stringent Protocols to Minimize Soil Iron Contamination
Authors: Yasmin Zarina , Paltridge Nicholas , Graham Robin , Huynh Bao‐Lam , Stangoulis James
Published: December 2013

Measuring genotypic variation in Fe is an important task for plant breeders trying to biofortify wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), but levels of Fe are often enhanced in wheat seed due to soil derived contamination. Seed Al levels can be used to identify genotypes that are contaminated with Fe. The sources of contamination were identified and removed by milling the wheat grains in a modified Kett mill for 5 s before analysis. Thirty contaminated lines from Australia and 240 contaminated lines from Pakistan were cleaned for the validation of the 5 s milling method. Before cleaning, average Al concentrations were 10 mg kg−1. After cleaning, 183 out of the 240, or 76%, had Al less than 5.0 mg kg−1, and average Al levels were 4.2 mg kg−1. Therefore, the cleaning procedure was highly successful in reducing Al levels in contaminated samples. The ratio between Al removed and Fe removed was fairly consistent and followed a 1:1 relationship across two environments. Twenty genotypes of a wheat population were evaluated for their Fe concentration before and after cleaning and ranking changed significantly and cleaning also improved the precision of quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis, with QTL QGFe.ta‐3B having a logarithm of the odds score of 1.1 before cleaning, which rose to 3.4 after cleaning. The method provides a valuable cleaning procedure for plant breeders wanting to analyze wheat seed and also provides evidence for reducing the influence of soil Fe contamination on seed by simply adjusting the Fe concentrations based on the level of Al in the grain.
Variability for Seed Phytosterols in Sunflower Germplasm
Authors: Fernández‐Cuesta A. , Jan C. C. , Fernández‐Martínez J. M. , Velasco L.
Published: December 2013

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seeds and oils are rich sources of phytosterols, which are important compounds for human nutrition. There is limited information on variability for seed phytosterols in sunflower germplasm. The objective of this research was to evaluate kernel phytosterol content and profile in sunflower germplasm and to confirm phytosterol traits under several environments. Kernel phytosterol content in a collection of 985 accessions ranged from 1319 to 5119 mg kg‐1. Large variation was also observed for the concentrations of campesterol (32 to 197 g kg‐1 phytosterols), stigmasterol (41 to 128 g kg‐1), β‐sitosterol (448 to 755 g kg‐1), and Δ7–stigmastenol (8 to 274 g kg‐1). Seventy‐two accessions selected for high phytosterol content and/or different profiles were evaluated for 2 yr under sib‐pollination. From these, 20 accessions were selected based on phytosterol traits and further evaluated in two replicated field trials. Lines HA 89 and IASP‐18, with conventional and high phytosterol content, respectively, were used as controls. Phytosterol traits such as high phytosterol content (up to 3682 mg kg‐1 compared to 2686 mg kg‐1 in HA 89 and 4957 mg kg‐1 in IASP‐18) as well as high concentrations of campesterol (180 g kg‐1 compared to a maximum of 66 g kg‐1 in control line IASP‐18), stigmasterol (161 g kg‐1 compared to 64 g kg‐1 in HA 89), and Δ7–stigmastenol (300 g kg‐1 compared to 163 g kg‐1 in HA 89) were confirmed. Selected accessions will be of great value for future basic and applied research on phytosterols in sunflower.