bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-ethnic proteomic profiling analysis in Alzheimer’s disease identifies the disparities in dysregulation of proteins and pathogenesis
Authors: Tan Mei Sze , Cheah Phaik-Leng , Chin Ai-Vyrn , Looi Lai-Meng , Chang Siow-Wee
Published: July 2024

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia that affects the elderly population. Lately, blood-based proteomics have been intensively sought in the discovery of AD biomarkers studies due to the capability to link external environmental factors with the development of AD. Demographic differences have been shown to affect the expression of the proteins in different populations which play a vital role in the degeneration of cognitive function.

Method

In this study, a proteomic study focused on Malaysian Chinese and Malay prospects was conducted. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in AD patients and normal controls for Chinese and Malays were identified. Functional enrichment analysis was conducted to further interpret the biological functions and pathways of the DEPs. In addition, a survey investigating behavioural practices among Chinese and Malay participants was conducted to support the results from the proteomic analysis.

Result

The variation of dysregulated proteins identified in Chinese and Malay samples suggested the disparities of pathways involved in this pathological condition for each respective ethnicity. Functional enrichment analysis supported this assumption in understanding the protein-protein interactions of the identified protein signatures and indicate that differentially expressed proteins identified from the Chinese group were significantly enriched with the functional terms related to Aβ/tau protein-related processes, oxidative stress and inflammation whereas neuroinflammation was associated with the Malay group. Besides that, a significant difference in sweet drinks/food intake habits between these two groups implies a relationship between sugar levels and the dysregulation of protein APOA4 in the Malay group. Additional meta-analysis further supported the dysregulation of proteins TF, AHSG, A1BG, APOA4 and C4A among AD groups.

Conclusion

These findings serve as a preliminary understanding in the molecular and demographic studies of AD in a multi-ethnic population.
Exploring the technological dimension of Autonomous sensory meridian response-induced physiological responses
Authors: Seifzadeh Sahar , Kostek Bozena
Published: July 2024

Background

In recent years, the scientific community has been captivated by the intriguing Autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR), a unique phenomenon characterized by tingling sensations originating from the scalp and propagating down the spine. While anecdotal evidence suggests the therapeutic potential of ASMR, the field has witnessed a surge of scientific interest, particularly through the use of neuroimaging techniques including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as well as electroencephalography (EEG) and physiological measures such as eye tracking (Pupil Diameter), heart rate (HR), heartbeat-evoked potential (HEP), blood pressure (BP), pulse rates (PR), finger photoplethysmography (PPG), and skin conductance (SC). This article is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of technology’s contributions to the scientific elucidation of ASMR mechanisms.

Methodology

A meticulous literature review was undertaken to identify studies that have examined ASMR using EEG and physiological measurements. The comprehensive search was conducted across databases such as PUBMED, SCOPUS, and IEEE, using a range of relevant keywords such as ‘ASMR’, ‘Autonomous sensory meridian response’, ‘EEG’, ‘fMRI’, ‘electroencephalography’, ‘physiological measures’, ‘heart rate’, ‘skin conductance’, and ‘eye tracking’. This rigorous process yielded a substantial number of 63 PUBMED and 166 SCOPUS-related articles, ensuring the inclusion of a wide range of high-quality research in this review.

Results

The review uncovered a body of research utilizing EEG and physiological measures to explore ASMR’s effects. EEG studies have revealed distinct patterns of brain activity associated with ASMR experiences, particularly in regions implicated in emotional processing and sensory integration. In physiological measurements, a decrease in HR and an increase in SC and pupil diameter indicate relaxation and increased attention during ASMR-triggered stimuli.

Conclusions

The findings of this review underscore the significance of EEG and physiological measures in unraveling the psychological and physiological effects of ASMR. ASMR experiences have been associated with unique neural signatures, while physiological measures provide valuable insights into the autonomic responses elicited by ASMR stimuli. This review not only highlights the interdisciplinary nature of ASMR research but also emphasizes the need for further investigation to elucidate the mechanisms underlying ASMR and explore its potential therapeutic applications, thereby paving the way for the development of novel therapeutic interventions.
O uso de um aplicativo digital para aprendizagem gamificada no combate a Dengue: AEDESPLAY
Authors: Pinto Marcos Pessoa , Fontoura Jose Roberto de Araújo , Albuquerque Jader Cristiano Magalhaes de , Silva Maribel Costa
Published: July 2024

Este artigo apresenta os resultados de um estudo sobre o uso de um aplicativo do tipo jogo digital ou game, com a finalidade de intervenção para eliminação do foco do mosquito da Dengue implementado como uma ferramenta mediadora na educação básica para favorecer a construção de aprendizagens significativas e o desenvolvimento de habilidades colaborativas de trabalho. A pesquisa foi metodologicamente projetada como um estudo de caso intrínseco focado no trabalho de alunos do Ensino Médio do Colégio Estadual Vitor Soares, uma escola Estadual localizada no Bairro da Ribeira, Salvador-BA. A observação direta, a análise de documentos e as aplicações em dispositivos móveis digitais do tipo tablets foram utilizadas como instrumentos de coleta de dados, o que possibilitou uma reflexão sobre o processo de construção do conhecimento e seus desafios e a intervenção do professor como gestor do ambiente de aprendizagem. Os resultados mostram que a criação de aplicativos para uso em dispositivos móveis digitais (tablets e celulares) promove uma abordagem real ao conhecimento e a possibilidade de criar e compartilhar conhecimento, o que amplia os caminhos de acesso à informação e permite a organização do conhecimento e da comunicação do conhecimento O documento aponta para possíveis linhas de ação, como explorar com maior profundidade o conteúdo digital desenvolvido pelos alunos em relação ao desenvolvimento de habilidades de pensamento crítico e criativo.
Lobby como representação de interesses privados e o exercício da democracia no Congresso Brasileiro
Authors: Gomes Robério Rosa
Published: July 2024

A democracia indireta tem muitas dificuldades. Vive atualmente crise de representatividade. Essa crise faz com que muitos parlamentares se sintam donos dos mandatos, não respeitando na maioria das vezes o voto do eleitor, bem como o próprio eleitor. Porém existe caminhos a ser tomados, dentre eles a regulamentação do lobismo. O lóbi não traz por si, a solução de todos os problemas, mas ajuda a fortalecer o exercício da democracia. Assim como ajuda a melhorar as trocas de ideias, e seu debate. Ganha com a regulamentação do lóbi a sociedade e o parlamentar, o qual receberá assessoria de qualidade. O conhecimento técnico será muito mais aprofundado. Fazendo com que o parlamentar tenha certeza do que se está falando e defendendo.
Constraints of Farmers in Adoption of Improved “Kachai Lemon” Cultivation Practices in Ukhrul District of Manipur, India
Authors: Enah D Koshuo , Bose Dipak Kumar
Published: July 2024

The present study was carried out in Ukhrul district of Manipur during the year 2024 to find out the constraints faced by the farmers in the adoption of recommended cultivation practices of Kachai lemon. Kachai village under LM Block was selected purposively as it is the only place where Kachai lemon is mainly grown. A total of 120 respondents were randomly selected from Kachai village. The primary data was collected using a pre-structured interview schedule. The collected data from the respondents were scored, tabulated and analyzed to calculate frequency and percentage to interpret findings and draw conclusions. The finding inferred that 89.16 % of the respondents faced the constraints lack of proper market, 80% of the respondents had the problem of scarcity of water and 75.83 % had less knowledge about plant protection measures. The respondents also suggested that providing of proper marketing facilities from the concerned department and building of a water conservation tank in the village and more training on rainwater harvesting and plant protection might help overcome the problems faced by the villagers.
Unveiling India’s Export Success: The Remarkable Performance of Gherkins
Authors: Gunadal Narayan Murigeppa , Kerur N. M. , Naik Balachandra K. , Kulkarni Vilas S. , Shashidhar T. R.
Published: July 2024

Aim: As India is a major producer and exporter of gherkins in the world and Karnataka is the largest producer and exporter of gherkins in the country. The study aims to analyze the significant export performance of gherkins (Fresh/chilled, provisionally preserved and provisionally preserved by vinegar) from India, highlighted their remarkable performance in oversea markets. India's horticultural sector has witnessed significant growth, particularly in gherkins production and exports, call attention to its pivotal role in the global market.
Place and Duration of the Study: This study analyzed the export performance of Indian gherkins across three categories viz., fresh/chilled, provisionally preserved and preserved by vinegar, study conducted during the period from 2011-12 to 2022-23.
Methodology: The growth rate of export performance of gherkins were analysed using Compound Annual Growth Rate. The instability in export quantity of gherkins were measured by using Coefficient of Variation and Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index.
Result and Discussion: The export performance of Indian gherkins across various categories, fresh/chilled, provisionally preserved and preserved by vinegar, reveals distinct growth trajectories and market dynamics from 2011-12 to 2022-23. Fresh/chilled gherkins showed a modest Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.06 per cent, indicating gradual but steady expansion, albeit with moderate instability (Cuddy-Della Valle Instability index of 42.35). The United Arab Emirates consistently dominated as the top importer of Indian gherkins. Provisionally preserved gherkins exhibited a stronger growth with a significant CAGR of 4.04 per cent and lower instability (CV of 18.28 %), highlighting stable demand for Indian gherkins in the international market. In contrast, gherkins provisionally preserved by vinegar saw varied trends across countries, with notable growth in markets like the USA and Germany, while others like France experienced declines. These insights underscore strategic imperatives for enhancing competitiveness through quality improvements, competitive pricing strategies and navigating regulatory landscapes to sustain India's global gherkins market presence.
Cognitive control under distressing emotional stimulation in adolescents with conduct disorder
Authors: Euler Felix , Sterzer Philipp , Stadler Christina
Published: October 2013

Aggressive behavior has been linked to deficient processing of emotional stimulation and recent studies indicate that in aggressive juveniles executive functions are impaired when distressing emotional stimulation is being processed. This study examines the interrelation of distressing emotional stimulation and cognitive control in aggressive adolescents and healthy controls. We combined a color‐word Stroop test with pictures from the International Affective Picture System with either neutral or distressing emotional content to assess Stroop interference under neutral and distressing emotional stimulation in 20 male reactive aggressive patients with conduct disorder (CD) and 20 age‐matched male control participants. We found impaired Stroop performance under distressing emotional stimulation in patients compared to healthy controls. No difference was present under neutral emotional stimulation. Our results indicate that cognitive control under distressing emotional stimulation was affected in adolescents with CD but not in healthy controls. We conclude that executive functions in reactive aggressive CD patients are more susceptible to the deleterious effects of distressing emotional stimulation. The results provide a possible explanation for pathologic impulsive‐aggressive behavior under emotional distress in CD patients. Aggr. Behav. 40:109–119, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypervelocity Impact Phenomenon in Bulk Metallic Glasses and Composites**
Authors: Hamill Lee , Roberts Scott , Davidson Marc , Johnson William L. , Nutt Steven , Hofmann Douglas C.
Published: October 2013

Collisions with debris are major cause of concern for spacecraft and satellites. Developing new materials that can combat these threats, while still providing low‐density and sufficient toughness to survive launch loads, is important for future spacecraft design. In the current work, hypervelocity impacts are used to estimate the ballistic limit for bulk metallic glass and their composites and to investigate spalling behavior. The composites are shown to have excellent combinations of hardness and toughness for use as shields.
Diseases attributable to asbestos exposure: Years of potential life lost, United States, 1999–2010
Authors: Bang Ki Moon , Mazurek Jacek M. , Wood John M. , Hendricks Scott A.
Published: October 2013

Background

Although asbestos use has been restricted in recent decades, asbestos‐associated deaths continue to occur in the United States.

Objectives

We evaluated premature mortality and loss of potentially productive years of life attributable to asbestos‐associated diseases.

Methods

Using 1999–2010 National Center for Health Statistics mortality data, we identified decedents aged ≥25 years whose death certificate listed asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma as the underlying cause of death. We computed years of potential life lost to life expectancy (YPLL) and to age 65 (YPLL65).

Results

During 1999–2010, a total of 427,005 YPLL and 55,184 YPLL65 were attributed to asbestosis (56,907 YPLL and 2,167 YPLL65), malignant mesothelioma (370,098 YPPL and 53,017 YPLL65). Overall and disease‐specific asbestos‐attributable total YPLL and YPLL65 and median YPLL and YPLL65 per decedent did not change significantly from 1999 to 2010.

Conclusions

The continuing occurrence of asbestos‐associated diseases and their substantial premature mortality burden underscore the need for maintaining prevention efforts and for ongoing surveillance to monitor temporal trends in these diseases. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:38–48, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The analysis of asbestos count data with “nondetects”: The example of asbestos fiber concentrations in the lungs of brake workers
Authors: Finkelstein Murray M.
Published: October 2013

Objectives

In the analysis of tissue for asbestos fibers, some measurements may be below the analytical detection limit (nondetects). The use of maximum likelihood and survival analysis methods have been recommended to perform comparisons between subjects in the presence of nondetects. When the data consist of “counts” another method is useful. This method is discussed, and illustrated with an analysis of asbestos lung burden data among brake mechanics previously analyzed by other methods.

Methods

Statistical models for count data, namely Poisson and negative binomial regression, were used to compare the asbestos fiber concentrations in the lungs of brake mechanics with those of control subjects. The fit of the models was assessed with an analysis of residuals.

Results

The negative binomial regression models fit the data well. The concentrations of Quebec asbestos fibers in the lungs of the brake mechanics were significantly higher than in the control population.

Conclusions

Helsel recommended the use of maximum likelihood and survival analysis methods to perform comparisons in the presence of nondetects. When analyzing asbestos fiber count data, or other count data arising in occupational or environmental health, the use of models such as the Poisson and negative binomial may be added to the analyst's toolbox. Benefits are that neither of these methods requires the substitution of arbitrary values for the nondetects and that programs for the computation of count data models are contained in popular statistical software packages. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1482–1489, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
3q29 microdeletion syndrome: Cognitive and behavioral phenotype in four patients
Authors: Città Santina , Buono Serafino , Greco Donatella , Barone Concetta , Alfei Enrico , Bulgheroni Sara , Usilla Arianna , Pantaleoni Chiara , Romano Corrado
Published: October 2013

The 3q29 microdeletion syndrome is a rare, recurrent genomic disorder, associated with a variable phenotype, despite the same deletion size, consisting in neurodevelopmental features, such as intellectual disability (ID), schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder, depression and mild facial morphological anomalies/congenital malformations. A thorough neuropsychiatric evaluation has never been reported in patients with such syndrome. We analyzed the clinical phenotype of four individuals with 3q29 microdeletion syndrome, with special emphasis on the cognitive and behavioral assessment, in order to delineate the neuropsychiatric phenotype related to this condition. We assessed these patients with standardized scales or checklists measuring the cognitive (WISC III or LIPS‐R), behavioral (CBCL) and adaptive (VABS) performances. An accurate evaluation in our sample highlights different degrees of ID, variable behavioral disorders, and a preservation of communicative skills among remaining adaptive areas, as the neuropsychiatric hallmark of 3q29 microdeletion syndrome. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐resolution analysis of copy number variants in adults with simple‐to‐moderate congenital heart disease
Authors: Zhao Wei , Niu Guannan , Shen Botao , Zheng Yang , Gong Fangchao , Wang Xianfu , Lee Jiyun , Mulvihill John J. , Chen Xiaohui , Li Shibo
Published: October 2013

As patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) increasingly survive to childbearing age, it becomes important to understand the genetic origins of CHD. In children, CHD is frequently caused by chromosomal imbalances. We searched for submicroscopic imbalances in adults with CHD focusing on simple‐to‐moderate phenotypes, without associated dysmorphic features, a group not previously examined. A total of 100 Han Chinese adults with a diverse range of isolated CHD and 65 ethnically matched controls were screened using whole‐genome array comparative genomic hybridization. Forty‐five large (>100 kb) rare copy number variants (CNVs) were identified in 36/100 patients. These variants were not listed in the Database of Genomic Variants nor found in controls. In three of these genomic imbalances (22q11.2, 18q23, 3q21.3), genes that play an important role in cardiac development were implicated, including CRKL, NFATC1, PLXNA1, the latter has not been associated with human CHD before. This study detected a 0.7 Mb 22q11.2 deletion, which marginally overlapped the common 3 Mb 22q11.2 deletion, in one patient with a perimembranous ventricular septal defect without any extracardiac manifestation. Furthermore, we detected a novel inherited aberration dup (16q23.1). Although a causal relationship with CHD remains to be established, this CNVs profile provides a spectrum of genomic imbalances in this condition, and improves the CNV‐phenotype correlations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fragile X syndrome: From protein function to therapy
Authors: Bagni Claudia , Oostra Ben A.
Published: October 2013

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading monogenic cause of intellectual disability and autism. The FMR1 gene contains a CGG repeat present in the 5′‐untranslated region which can be unstable upon transmission to the next generation. The repeat is up to 55 CGGs long in the normal population. In patients with fragile X syndrome (FXS), a repeat length exceeding 200 CGGs generally leads to methylation of the repeat and the promoter region, which is accompanied by silencing of the FMR1 gene. The disease is a result of lack of expression of the fragile X mental retardation protein leading to severe symptoms, including intellectual disability, hyperactivity, and autistic‐like behavior. The FMR1 protein (FMRP) has a number of functions. The translational dysregulation of a subset of mRNAs targeted by FMRP is probably the major contribution to FXS. FMRP is also involved in mRNA transport to synapses where protein synthesis occurs. For some FMRP‐bound mRNAs, FMRP is a direct modulator of mRNA stability either by sustaining or preventing mRNA decay. Increased knowledge about the role of FMRP has led to the identification of potential treatments for fragile X syndrome that were often tested first in the different animal models. This review gives an overview about the present knowledge of the function of FMRP and the therapeutic strategies in mouse and man. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Controlling photons in a box and exploring the quantum to classical boundary
Authors: Haroche Serge
Published: October 2013

Photons trapped in a superconducting cavity constitute an ideal system to realize some of the thought experiments imagined by the founding fathers of quantum physics. Physics laureate S. Haroche gives a personal account of the experiments performed with this “photon box” at the Ecole Normale Supérieure**.
Synthesis of tertiary aryl amines of various aryl halides and secondary amines using ortho‐palladated complex of tribenzylamine
Authors: Hajipour Abdol R. , Dordahan Fatemeh , Rafiee Fatemeh
Published: October 2013

The activity of dimeric [Pd{C6H4(CH2N(CH2Ph)2)} (μ‐Br)]2 complex as an efficient, air‐ and moisture‐tolerant catalyst was investigated in amination reactions of various aryl halides with secondary amines. Substituted tertiary aryl amines were produced in excellent yields and short reaction times using catalytic amounts of this dimeric complex in DMSO at 120°C. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PLA/lignocellulosic fiber composites: Particle characteristics, interfacial adhesion, and failure mechanism
Authors: Faludi Gábor , Dora Gábor , Imre Balázs , Renner Károly , Móczó János , Pukánszky Béla
Published: October 2013

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites were prepared using six lignocellulosic fibers with widely varying particle characteristics. The composites were characterized by tensile testing, scanning electron (SEM), and polarization optical microscopy (POM). Micromechanical deformation processes during loading were followed by acoustic emission measurements. Interfacial adhesion was estimated by three independent methods. Contrary to most claims published in the literature, interfacial adhesion between PLA and natural fibers was found to be rather strong, a result confirmed by the quantitative estimation of adhesion strength, acoustic emission measurements, and SEM study. Strong interfacial adhesion results in weak dependence of the extent of reinforcement on the particle characteristics of the reinforcing fibers. Both acoustic emission measurements and microscopy indicated that the dominating micromechanical deformation process is the fracture of the fibers and close correlation was found between the initiation stress of fiber fracture, reinforcement, and the ultimate strength of the composites. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39902.
Synthesis, chemical, and thermoelectric properties of n‐type π‐conjugated polymer composed of 1,2,4‐triazole and pyridine rings and its metal complexes
Authors: Yamaguchi Isao , Nagano Tomoyuki
Published: October 2013

A soluble n‐type π‐conjugated polymer (polymer 1) composed of a 1,2,4‐triazole ring substituted by a 4‐n‐octylphenyl subunit at the 4‐position of the 1,2,4‐triazole ring and pyridine‐2,5‐diyl rings was synthesized by Ni(cod)2 (cod = 1,5‐cyclooctadiene) promoted dehalogenation polycondensation of 3,5‐bis(2‐bromopyridyl)‐4‐n‐octylphenyl‐1,2,4‐triazole (monomer 1). A polymer complex (polymer‐BiCl3) was synthesized by the reaction of polymer 1 with BiCl3. The UV–vis spectrum of polymer 1 exhibited an absorption maximum (λmax value) at a longer wavelength than that exhibited by monomer 1 revealing that its π‐conjugation system was expanded along the polymer chain. Polymer 1 was electrochemically active in film, and the electrochemical reaction was accompanied with electrochromism. Thermoelectoric properties of polymer 1 and polymer‐BiCl3 were investigated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39928.
Morphology and properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride)/silicone rubber blends
Authors: Wang Yanpeng , Fang Liming , Xu Chuanhui , Chen Zhonghua , Chen Yukun
Published: October 2013

Blends of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and silicone rubber (SR) were prepared through melt mixing. The morphology, rheology, crystallization behavior, mechanical properties, dynamic mechanical properties and thermal properties of the PVDF/SR blends were investigated. The blend with 9 wt % of SR showed spherical shape of disperse phase whereas the blend with 27 wt % of SR resulted in irregular shape of rubber phase. The rheology showed that the complex viscosity and storage modulus of the blends decreased with increasing the SR content. The mechanical properties of the blends were decreased with increasing the SR content but that were significantly improved after dynamical vulcanization. The crystallization temperature of PVDF phase in PVDF/SR blends was increased. The incorporation of SR improved the thermal stability of PVDF/SR blends, and the temperature at 10% mass loss of the blends increased to about 489°C compared with 478°C of the pure PVDF. The mass of residual char in experiment of the blends was lower than that obtained in theory. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39945.
Paradise Lost: The Cost of Removing Tax and Trade Provisions from the Compact of Free Association
Authors: Brazys Samuel Rueckert
Published: October 2013

Upon implementing the Compact of Free Association between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia, the US Congress unilaterally stripped tax and trade provisions that would have encouraged investment in the Federated States of Micronesia. I quantify what was lost to the Federated States of Micronesia by arguing that the provisions would have made the Federated States of Micronesia an explicitly sanctioned tax haven through empirical estimates of the impact of tax havens on growth and a comparison of performance of similarly situated entities, the American Samoa and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, which did have preferential access to the US market. The estimates suggest that the Federated States of Micronesia lost from $700 million to over $1 billion in gross domestic product from 1986 to 2001.
Thin layer chromatography–densitometric determination of some non‐sedating antihistamines in combination with pseudoephedrine or acetaminophen in synthetic mixtures and in pharmaceutical formulations
Authors: El‐Kommos Michael E. , El‐Gizawy Samia M. , Atia Noha N. , Hosny Noha M.
Published: October 2013

The combination of certain non‐sedating antihistamines (NSA) such as fexofenadine (FXD), ketotifen (KET) and loratadine (LOR) with pseudoephedrine (PSE) or acetaminophen (ACE) is widely used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and chronic urticaria. A rapid, simple, selective and precise densitometric method was developed and validated for simultaneous estimation of six synthetic binary mixtures and their pharmaceutical dosage forms. The method employed thin layer chromatography aluminum plates precoated with silica gel G 60 F254 as the stationary phase. The mobile phases chosen for development gave compact bands for the mixtures FXD–PSE (I), KET–PSE (II), LOR–PSE (III), FXD–ACE (IV), KET–ACE (V) and LOR–ACE (VI) [Retardation factor (Rf) values were (0.20, 0.32), (0.69, 0.34), (0.79, 0.13), (0.36, 0.70), (0.51, 0.30) and (0.76, 0.26), respectively]. Spectrodensitometric scanning integration was performed at 217, 218, 218, 233, 272 and 251 nm for the mixtures I–VI, respectively. The linear regression data for the calibration plots showed an excellent linear relationship. The method was validated for precision, accuracy, robustness and recovery. Limits of detection and quantitation were calculated. Statistical analysis proved that the method is reproducible and selective for the simultaneous estimation of these binary mixtures. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A reversal coarse‐grained analysis with application to an altered functional circuit in depression
Authors: Guo Shuixia , Yu Yun , Zhang Jie , Feng Jianfeng
Published: October 2013

Introduction

When studying brain function using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data containing tens of thousands of voxels, a coarse‐grained approach – dividing the whole brain into regions of interest – is applied frequently to investigate the organization of the functional network on a relatively coarse scale. However, a coarse‐grained scheme may average out the fine details over small spatial scales, thus rendering it difficult to identify the exact locations of functional abnormalities.

Methods

A novel and general approach to reverse the coarse‐grained approach by locating the exact sources of the functional abnormalities is proposed.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 37 matched healthy controls are studied. A circuit comprising the left superior frontal gyrus (SFGdor), right insula (INS), and right putamen (PUT) exhibit the greatest changes between the patients with MDD and controls. A reversal coarse‐grained analysis is applied to this circuit to determine the exact location of functional abnormalities.

Conclusions

The voxel‐wise time series extracted from the reversal coarse‐grained analysis (source) had several advantages over the original coarse‐grained approach: (1) presence of a larger and detectable amplitude of fluctuations, which indicates that neuronal activities in the source are more synchronized; (2) identification of more significant differences between patients and controls in terms of the functional connectivity associated with the sources; and (3) marked improvement in performing discrimination tasks. A software package for pattern classification between controls and patients is available in Supporting Information.
Consumer recycling: An ethical decision‐making process
Authors: Culiberg Barbara , Bajde Domen
Published: October 2013

Although recycling is often experienced as a moral dilemma, studies that systematically approach this issue from an ethical perspective are scarce. Moreover, previous studies have explored recycling by mainly using single ethical constructs, such as moral norms, values or obligations, rarely approaching it as an ethical decision‐making process. Our study takes a more holistic approach and integrates the recycling literature with business ethics theory in order to develop a conceptual model of ethical decision making involved in recycling. The model is based on Jones' issue‐contingent model and its key concept, that is, moral intensity, which we extend by adding altruism as an important personality trait that influences pro‐social behaviour. The data were collected from a sample of 367 adult consumers, representative of the Slovenian population by gender and age. The hypotheses were tested using structural equation modelling. The results of our study confirmed the relationships between three key facets of ethical decision making: moral recognition, moral judgment and moral intention. Higher levels of moral recognition were found to lead to more positive moral judgments, which in turn positively influenced the formation of intentions to recycle. Moreover, moral intensity was found to be a significant predictor of moral recognition and moral judgment, while altruism was found to be a significant predictor of moral recognition. These findings hold important implications for public policy makers and social marketers who have to consider not only the consumer characteristics but also the issue characteristics in seeking to understand and influence consumer recycling. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the interpretation of viscosity data of suspensions of asphaltene nano‐aggregates
Authors: Pal Rajinder , Vargas Francisco
Published: October 2013

The viscous behaviour of suspensions of asphaltene nano‐aggregates is often described in terms of the Pal and Rhodes model (Pal, Rhodes, J. Rheol. 1989, 33, 1021). The model assumes particles to be spherical in shape and takes into account the solvation or hydration of particles. However, the solvation coefficient estimated from the Pal and Rhodes model for asphaltene particles is generally too high to be realistic. Furthermore, the model does not consider the packing limitations (maximum packing volume fraction) of the asphaltene particles. A large body (14 sets) of the available viscosity data for asphaltene suspensions are reinterpreted in terms of the Krieger–Dougherty model. The data analysis indicates that asphaltene nano‐aggregates are non‐spherical disk‐shaped particles with low aspect ratio (ratio of particle thickness to particles diameter). The aspect ratio depends on the nature of the asphaltene/oil system. For a given system, it increases with the increase in the temperature. Interestingly, the maximum packing volume fraction (φm) of asphaltene particles is found to be nearly constant , independent of the nature of the asphaltene/oil system and temperature. Also the values of φm predicted from the viscosity data are in reasonable agreement with the values predicted from a percolation model. Based on the analysis carried out in this work, the following model is proposed for accurate estimation and correlation of the viscosity of asphaltene suspensions: ηr = [1 − (φ/0.37)]−0.37[η], where ηr is the relative viscosity, [η] is the intrinsic viscosity and φ is the volume fraction of asphaltene particles.
Color and architecture in 1970s Sweden
Authors: Ferring Mari
Published: October 2013

The 1970s in Sweden saw a distinct change of attitude concerning color in architecture, from the use of strong primary colors, grey concrete and brick at the beginning of the decade to a lighter, more nuanced palette of pink and yellow toward the end of it. From being a significant token in a broader popular movement with commercial overtones, color, as the decade went on, increasingly demanded a stronger professional approach. The study addresses color in architecture as a cultural phenomenon, amenable to interpretation. In the analysis, color can consequently be used as a vehicle for understanding 1970s architecture within a social context.

The debate on architecture in the 1970s was very much concerned with managing the legacy of discussions in previous decades. During the 1960s, good architecture in professional contexts had generally meant design adapted to modes of production, the handling of large volumes, additive vocabulary, and modular repetition. The reaction against this way of defining good architecture came out into the open during the 1970s. The focus on color in the 1970s, partly driven by the Anthroposophical society, helped to build a bridge and unleash a new discussion on how architecture and habitats should be designed in order to acquire significance in people's lives. The choices of colors underlining the expressions of structure, authenticity, and collective were gradually replaced by a striving for harmonic space, tradition, and individuality. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 39, 492–498, 2014
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of orally administered ruxolitinib (INCB018424 phosphate) in renal and hepatic impairment patients
Authors: Chen Xuejun , Shi Jack G. , Emm Thomas , Scherle Peggy A. , McGee Ryan F. , Lo Yvonne , Landman Robert R. , Punwani Naresh G. , Williams William V. , Yeleswaram Swamy
Published: October 2013

Hepatic and renal impairment studies were conducted with ruxolitinib, a JAK1&2 inhibitor that is cleared predominantly by metabolism. Both studies were open label, single‐dose studies. Ruxolitinib area under the curve (AUC) was increased by 87%, 28%, and 65%, respectively, in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe hepatic impairment compared to healthy subjects with no correlation between exposure of ruxolitinib and the degree of hepatic impairment. The pharmacodynamics (PD) data were consistent with ruxolitinib pharmacokinetics (PK). The renal impairment study showed a surprising finding. While there was no change in ruxolitinib PK with varying degrees of renal impairment, the PD showed increasing pharmacological activity with increased severity of renal impairment. Analysis of the metabolite exposures revealed that active metabolites contributed to the observed incremental increase in PD activity. The recovery of ruxolitinib in dialysate was negligible. The starting dose of ruxolitinib in subjects with any hepatic impairment or moderate or severe renal impairment should be decreased to 10 mg twice daily (BID) if their platelet counts are between 100 × 109/L and 150 × 109/L. Subjects on dialysis should initiate dosing with a single dose of 15 or 20 mg, based on platelet counts, with dosing only on the days of dialysis.
LOX‐1 regulates estrogenesis via intracellular calcium release from bovine granulosa cells
Authors: Weitzel J. M. , Vernunft A. , Krüger B. , Plinski C. , Viergutz T.
Published: October 2013

Estradiol produced by ovarian granulosa cells triggers the luteinizing hormone surge which in turn initiates ovulation in female mammals. Disturbances in estradiol production from granulosa cells are a major reason for reproductive dysfunctions in dairy cows. Endogenous estradiol production might be altered by reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL). Inhibition of lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐1 (LOX‐1), a receptor of ox‐LDL, leads to increased estrogenesis in granulosa cells. This activity is mediated by calcium release from endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐dependent and ER‐independent calcium pools. Inhibition of the LOX‐1 signal transduction pathway is followed by mitochondrial alterations. The membrane potential ΔΨ increases and the ROS production decreases in mitochondria after blocking LOX‐1. Our data indicate that blocking the LOX‐1 receptor signal pathway might be a promising way to improve steroid hormone concentrations in metabolically highly active female mammals and, therefore, to defend against reproductive dysfunctions in humans and animals. © 2013 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
BOD‐LEACH: broadcasting over duty‐cycled radio using LEACH clustering for delay/power efficient dissimilation in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Khiati Mustapha , Djenouri Djamel
Published: October 2013

Broadcasting delay‐sensitive information over a duty‐cycled wireless sensor network is considered, and a cluster‐based protocol is proposed. The proposed protocol, namely Broadcast over Duty‐Cycle and LEACH (BOD‐LEACH), takes advantage of the LEACH's energy‐efficient clustering. This approach shifts the total burden of energy consumption of a single cluster head by rotating the cluster‐head role among all nodes in the network. It also permits the ordinary (member) nodes in a cluster to turn off their radios whenever they enter inactive TDMA slots. However, LEACH does not consider broadcast messages, and the member nodes scheduling is established as a sequence of Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) without any common active period. A broadcast message should then be postponed to the next TDMA schedule and transmitted in a sequence of unicast messages, which is inefficient in terms of latency, bandwidth occupation, and power consumption. The proposed protocol adds new common static and dynamic broadcast periods to support and accelerate broadcasting. The dynamic periods are scheduled following the past arrivals of messages and using a Markov chain model. To our knowledge, this work is the first that proposes the use of clustering to perform simultaneous local broadcasts at several clusters. This reduces broadcast latency and ensures scalability. The protocol has been simulated, numerically analyzed, and compared with LEACH. The results show clear improvement over LEACH with regard to broadcast latency, at a low energy cost. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Authenticated key exchange protocol under computational Diffie–Hellman assumption from trapdoor test technique
Authors: Huang Hai
Published: October 2013

This paper investigates authenticated key exchange (AKE) protocol under computational Diffie–Hellman assumption in the extended Canetti–Krawczyk model. The core technical component of our protocol is the trapdoor test technique, which is originally introduced to remove the gap Diffie–Hellman (GDH) assumption for the public key encryption schemes. Our contributions are twofold.First, we clarify some misunderstandings of the usage of the trapdoor test technique in AKE protocols showing its adaptation to the AKE protocols is not trivial. We point out some errors in some recent work which attempts to make use of the trapdoor test technique to remove GDH assumption.Second, based on trapdoor test technique, we propose an efficient extended Canetti–Krawczyk secure AKE protocol under computational Diffie–Hellman assumption instead of GDH assumption. Additionally, our protocol does not make use of NAXOS trick and has a tight reduction. In comparison with all existing AKE protocols with the properties as previously mentioned, our protocol with only three exponentiations is most efficient. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perceptual narrowing in the context of increased variation: Insights from bilingual infants
Authors: Byers‐Heinlein Krista , Fennell Christopher T.
Published: October 2013

Human infants become native‐language listeners through a process of perceptual narrowing. Monolingual infants are initially sensitive to a wide range of language‐relevant contrasts. However, as they mature and gain native‐language experience, their sensitivity to nonnative contrasts declines. Here, we consider the case of infants growing up bilingual as a window into how increased variation affects early perceptual development. These infants encounter different meaningful contrasts in each of their languages, and must also attend to contrasts that occur between their languages. Bilingual infants share many classic developmental patterns with monolinguals. However, they also show unique developmental patterns in the perception of native distinctions such as U‐shaped trajectories and dose–response relationships, and show some enhanced sensitivity to nonnative distinctions. Analogous developmental patterns can be observed in individuals exposed to two nonlinguistic systems in domains such as music and face perception. Some preliminary evidence suggests that bilingual individuals might retain more sensitivity to nonnative contrasts, reaching a less narrow end state than monolinguals. Nevertheless, bilingual infants do become perceptually specialized native listeners to both of their languages, despite increased variation and differing patterns of perceptual development in comparison to monolinguals. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 274–291, 2014.
5‐(2‐Aminopropyl)indole (5‐IT): a psychoactive substance used for recreational purposes is an inhibitor of human monoamine oxidase (MAO)
Authors: Herraiz Tomás , Brandt Simon D.
Published: October 2013

5‐(2‐Aminopropyl)indole (5‐IT) is a psychoactive compound that has recently been associated with several fatal and non‐fatal intoxications in a number of European countries. There are indications that acute effects may include symptoms of monoaminergic (e.g. serotonin) toxicity and one mechanism involved in the increase of serotonin levels includes the inhibition of monoamine oxidase. This study investigated the effect of 5‐IT on human MAO‐A and ‐B isozymes using kynuramine as the substrate. Substrate conversion to 4‐hydroxyquinoline was monitored by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detection. This method was employed to determine the extent of MAO inhibition (IC50 and Ki) and it was found that 5‐IT was a selective, competitive and reversible inhibitor of MAO‐A. 5‐IT revealed a relatively potent ability to inhibit MAO‐A (IC50 = 1.6 μM and Ki = 0.25 μM) while MAO‐B inhibition was not observed (0–500 μM 5‐IT). Under identical experimental conditions, other established inhibitors of MAO‐A and antidepressants provided the following IC50 values: clorgyline 16 nM, harmaline 20 nM, toloxatone 6.7 μM and moclobemide >500 μM. These data indicated that 5‐IT was less potent than clorgyline and harmaline but more potent than toloxatone and moclobemide under the in‐vitro conditions studied. The inhibition of MAO‐A suggests that 5‐IT by itself or in combination with other substances may be able to potentiate serotonergic/monoaminergic effects and further studies are needed to clarify its relevance to the adverse effects reported for 5‐IT. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of the economics of conversion to compressed natural gas for a municipal bus fleet
Authors: Yang Lin , Tyner Wallace E , Sarica Kemal
Published: October 2013

Domestic natural gas production has increased markedly in the United States, and now compressed natural gas (CNG) has the potential to become a cleaner and less expensive energy source than diesel fuel for use in the public transportation sector, especially for city bus fleets. This paper provides an economic analysis of possible CNG conversion for Lafayette, IN CityBus Corporation. It uses benefit–cost analysis to compare the total cost of three potential options for bus replacement: standard diesel, hybrid diesel‐electric, and CNG. A spreadsheet model was used to estimate the total cost of these three fleet options over a 15‐year project horizon. Results suggest that the CNG option has the lowest net present value (NPV) cost, and that cost savings would be larger if the corporation could obtain a grant for the CNG fueling station or if the project life span could expand to 20 years. From the environmental perspective, the CNG option would reduce greenhouse gas and particulate emissions particularly in comparison with the diesel option. Monte Carlo simulation was used to examine the inherent riskiness of the three fleet options. CNG is always lower cost than hybrid diesel‐electric. Depending on assumptions regarding the underlying price distributions, the CNG option has a 51–100% chance of being lower cost than the standard diesel option.
Adjusted density measurement methods on stairs
Authors: Hoskins Bryan Lawrence
Published: October 2013

Density is calculated on the basis of the number of people per unit area. In order to properly calculate density, the measurements need to match how the space is actually used. Thus, how people space themselves could be dependent on the nature of the egress component. This study compares different methods of calculating densities for people descending stairs based on the different components (treads and landings or just landings) that are observed. The densities on the different components are not found to be equivalent unless factors (adjusted tread depth and adjusted landing area) are applied. When these factors are applied to a second data set that had a different tread configuration, the densities are again equivalent. When the results are applied to a stair where cultural factors could alter the findings, the adjusted landing area needs to be adjusted in accordance with the expected change in behavior. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.