bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Satisfação no Atendimento: Um Estudo na Empresa JM Alarmes em Guarapuava/PR
Authors: De Oliveira Machado Roseli , Sachser Angnes Juliane , Bordinhão Pimentel Marcela Elise , Mazur Luciano
Published: June 2015

Diante da competitividade imposta pelo mercado, a satisfação no atendimento torna-se um dos aspectos essenciais para o sucesso dos negócios, e por isso, grande parte das empresas visa ampliar a qualidade na oferta dos produtos e serviços. Focado nesta concepção, este estudo apresenta resultados parciais de uma pesquisa realizada no ano de 2011 para o trabalho de conclusão no curso de Secretariado Executivo e que se propôs a identificar a satisfação no atendimento prestado pela empresa JM Alarmes, localizada na cidade de Guarapuava - Paraná. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de campo exploratória que utilizou a pesquisa bibliográfica, o questionário em formato likert, a pesquisa documental, a observação participante e o diário como principais técnicas de pesquisa. O questionário de pesquisa foi aplicado em uma amostra composta por 71 clientes no período de 1 a 30 de setembro de 2011, visando diagnosticar o nível de satisfação em relação ao atendimento prestado pela empresa. Desta forma, foi possível avaliar as percepções dos clientes, apontando deficiências em relação ao atendimento prestado, ao mesmo tempo em que demonstrou aos colaboradores a relevância em se desenvolver um atendimento voltado às necessidades dos clientes e não apenas o cumprimento de metas.DOI: 10.7769/gesec.v4i2.182
Profissionalismo e Secretariado: História da Consolidação da Profissão
Authors: Nogueira Rosana Maria César Del Picchia de Araujo , Oliveira Joyce de Souza Ferreira de
Published: June 2015

Com o objetivo de ampliar a compreensão do processo de consolidação do secretariado como profissão no Brasil, o presente artigo realiza dois movimentos de revisão. Trata-se, no primeiro, dos mecanismos que a sociologia das profissões tem apontado como legitimadores das práticas ocupacionais. Aborda-se, em seguida, a história do secretariado no Brasil, com foco nas conquistas alcançadas pelos movimentos da categoria em busca da legitimação da profissão e da reserva de mercado de trabalho para os legitimados. Conclui-se que, conquanto o secretariado tenha passado pelas mesmas etapas de consolidação de profissões já tradicionalmente estabelecidas no mercado brasileiro, a inexistência de um órgão regulador e disciplinador, em forma de conselho, dificulta a garantia de mercado exclusivo aos profissionais já credenciados.DOI:10.7769/gesec.v4i2.209
Seletividade de herbicidas residuais e da mistura com glyphosate aplicados após a poda da mandioca ‘Fécula Branca’
Authors: Costa Neumarcio Vilanova da , Arrúa Milciades Melgarejo , Sontag Daniel Adriano , Andrade Devair Carlos de , Duarte Junior José Barbosa
Published: June 2015

As variedades de mandioca (Manihot esculenta L. Crantz) destinadas para a indústria de fecularia geralmente são podadas no período de repouso fisiológico das plantas, sendo necessária a adoção de práticas de manejo das plantas daninhas para evitar a competição no segundo ciclo de desenvolvimento da cultura. Diante do exposto, o objetivo foi avaliar a seletividade de herbicidas pré-emergentes e da mistura destes com glyphosate em aplicações após a poda da mandioca 'Fécula Branca'. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos avaliados foram: glyphosate (720 g ha-1), carfentrazone (25 g ha-1), chlorimuron-ethyl (10 g ha-1), clomazone (1.080 g ha-1), flumioxazin (83 g ha-1), metribuzin (480 g ha-1) metsulfuron-methyl (2,4 g ha-1), glyphosate + carfentrazone (720 + 25 g ha-1), glyphosate + chlorimuron-ethyl (720 + 10 g ha-1), glyphosate + clomazone (720 + 1.080 g ha-1), glyphosate + flumioxazin (720 + 83 g ha-1), glyphosate + metribuzin (720 + 480 g ha-1), glyphosate + metsulfuron-methyl (720 + 2,4 g ha-1), além de uma testemunha sem aplicação. Avaliou-se a porcentagem de fitointoxicação, altura de planta, produtividade de raízes e o teor de fécula da mandioca.  Os herbicidas aplicados isolados e em mistura não causaram sintomas de fitointoxicação nas plantas de mandioca após a aplicação. Os herbicidas aplicados isolados e em mistura não reduziram a altura de planta, produtividade de raízes e o teor de fécula da mandioca em relação à testemunha sem aplicação. Conclui-se que a aplicação isolada dos herbicidas residuais e da mistura com glyphosate apresentaram-se seletivos, quando aplicados após a poda das plantas de mandioca 'Fécula Branca'.
O milho RR2 e o glyphosate: Uma revisão
Authors: Albrecht Alfredo Junior Paiola , Albrecht Leandro Paiola , Barroso Arthur Arrobas Martins , Victória Filho Ricardo
Published: June 2015

Os benefícios resultantes da tecnologia Roundup Ready são expressivos, e a aceitação desta tecnologia pelos produtores rurais é inegável, dando suporte para o rápido crescimento das áreas de milho RR2. Ao mesmo tempo resultados de pesquisas recentes indicam que o glyphosate aplicado em pós-emergência, em milho RR2, pode, em algumas situações, causar danos ao desenvolvimento das plantas. Porém, persistem muitas especulações e dúvidas que precisam ser melhores elucidadas, no âmbito científico e técnico. Em virtude deste fato, faz-se necessária a busca de informações que permitam diagnosticar as reais consequências do uso do glyphosate nesta cultura. E assim, fomentar o posicionamento mais seguro e sustentável desta nova tecnologia, proporcionando aos agricultores benefícios relacionados ao manejo adequado de plantas daninhas nos diversos agroecossistemas.
Sharp mantle transition from cratons to Cordillera in southwestern Canada
Authors: Gu Yu Jeffrey , Zhang Yuanyin , Sacchi Mauricio D. , Chen Yunfeng , Contenti Sean
Published: June 2015

The Western Canada Sedimentary Basin marks the transition from the old North American continental lithosphere to young accreted terranes. Earlier studies in this region have suggested a large number of intricate basement domains as well as major seismic velocity gradients in the mantle. To investigate the effect of the accretion and subduction on the mantle structure beneath the western margin of the North American Craton, we analyze P‐to‐S converted waves from upper mantle discontinuities from the Canadian Rockies and Alberta Network, a regional broadband seismic array based in Alberta, Canada. The depths of the 410 and 660 km seismic discontinuities are correlated and, on average, are 9 km and 7 km greater than their respective global estimates. The largest depression is observed beneath the Rocky Mountain foreland belt in southern Alberta, which highlights a steep southward/westward structural gradient from the cratons to Cordillera at lithospheric mantle depths. The severity of the depressions, especially in the southernmost Alberta, may be triggered by diffuse partial melt or increased water content above the 410 km discontinuity. This result is corroborated by locally increased impedance contrast across the 410 km discontinuity and a strongly depressed 660 km discontinuity. A relic Mesozoic slab fragment may be partially responsible for the deep olivine phase boundary at the base of the upper mantle.
Toward a seasonal precipitation prediction system for West Africa: Performance of CFSv2 and high‐resolution dynamical downscaling
Authors: Siegmund Jonatan , Bliefernicht Jan , Laux Patrick , Kunstmann Harald
Published: June 2015

Seasonal precipitation forecasts are important sources of information for early drought and famine warnings in West Africa. This study presents an assessment of the monthly precipitation forecast of the Climate Forecast System version 2 (CFSv2) for three agroecological zones (Sudan‐Sahel, Sudan, and Guinean zone) of the Volta Basin. The CFSv2 performance is evaluated for the Sahel drought 1983 and for all August months of the reforecast period (1982–2009) with lead times up to 8 months using a quantile‐quantile transformation for bias correction. In addition, an operational experiment is performed for the rainy season 2013 to analyze the performance of a dynamical downscaling approach for this region. Twenty‐two CFSv2 ensemble members initialized in February 2013 are transferred to a resolution of 10 km × 10 km using the Weather and Research Forecasting (WRF) model. Since the uncorrected CFSv2 precipitation forecasts are characterized by a high uncertainty (up to 175% of the observed variability), the quantile‐quantile transformation can clearly reduce this overestimation with the potential to provide skillful and valuable early warnings of precipitation deficits and excess up to 6 months in ahead, particularly for the Sudan‐Sahel zone. The operational experiment illustrates that CFSv2‐WRF can reduce the CFSv2 uncertainty (up to 69%) for monthly precipitation and the onset of the rainy season but has still strong deficits regarding the northward progression of the rain belt. Further studies are necessary for a more robust assessment of the techniques applied in this study to confirm these promising outcomes.
Traffic‐related air quality trends in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Pérez‐Martínez Pedro José , de Fátima Andrade María , de Miranda Regina Maura
Published: June 2015

The urban population of South America has grown at 1.05%/yr, greater urbanization increasing problems related to air pollution. In most large cities in South America, there has been no continuous long‐term measurement of regulated pollutants. One exception is São Paulo, Brazil, where an air quality monitoring network has been in place since the 1970s. In this paper, we used an air quality‐based approach to determine pollutant trends for emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), and coarse particulate matter (PM10), mostly from mobile sources, in the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo for the 2000–2013 period. Mobile sources included light‐duty vehicles (LDVs, comprising gasoline‐ or ethanol‐powered cars and motorcycles) and heavy‐duty vehicles (HDVs, comprising diesel‐powered trucks and buses). Pollutant concentrations for mobile source emissions were measured and correlated with fuel sales by the emission factors. Over the 2000–2013 period, concentrations of NOx, CO, and PM10 decreased by 0.65, 0.37, and 0.71% month−1, respectively, whereas sales of gasoline, ethanol, and diesel increased by 0.26, 1.96, and 0.38% month−1, respectively. LDVs were the major mobile source of CO, whereas LDVs were the major source of NOx and PM10. Increases in fuel sales and in the corresponding traffic volume were partially offset by decreases in pollutant concentrations. Between 2000 and 2013, there was a sharp (−5 ppb month−1) decrease in the concentrations of LDV‐emitted CO, together with (less dramatic) decreases in the concentrations of HDV‐emitted NOx and PM10 (−0.25 and −0.09 ppb month−1, respectively). Variability was greater for HDV‐emitted NOx and PM10 (R = −0.47 and −0.41, respectively) than for LDV‐emitted CO (R = −0.72). We draw the following conclusions: the observed concentrations of LDV‐emitted CO decreased at a sharper rate than did those of HDV‐emitted NOx and PM10; mobile source contributions to O3 formation varied significantly, LDVs making a greater contribution during the 2000–2008 period, whereas HDVs made a greater contribution during the 2009–2013 period, and decreases in NOx emissions resulted in increases in O3 observations.
Computational modeling of dissipation and regeneration of fluvial sand dunes under variable discharges
Authors: Nabi M. , Kimura I. , Hsu S. M. , Giri S. , Shimizu Y.
Published: June 2015

It is observed, during flood events, that bed forms initially grow in height and make the riverbed rougher. But later, under high discharge, the bed forms grow longer with the opposite effect of making the riverbed smoother. After the discharge drops to a lower value, new bed forms regenerate on top of the elongated bed forms. This mechanism leads to a significant variation in the bed roughness and the water stage and hence determines the behavior of floods and the risk of flood disasters. This work presents detailed modeling of bed forms under discharge hydrographs and simulates the conditions under which the bed is flattened out in the upper plane bed regime. The flow was simulated by large‐eddy simulation, and the sediments were considered as rigid spheres and modeled in a Lagrangian framework. The bed morphodynamics were the result of entrainment and deposition of sediment particles. We examined several discharge hydrographs. In the first case, we increased the discharge linearly and then kept it constant after reaching the upper plane bed condition. The dunes were generated and grew during the rising stage of discharge. When the flow conditions reached the upper plane bed regime, high‐frequency ripples were generated and helped to flatten the bed. The results also showed that in contrast with mechanisms in the dune regime, the flattening of the bed was associated with a distinct pattern of sediment transport which deposited sediment mainly in the lee side of the dunes and led to flattening of the bed. After flattening, the sediments were mainly transported in suspension mode. As long as flow conditions stayed in the upper plane bed regime, the bed remained flat with small high‐frequency ripples. We also examined two other scenarios: one with an immediate falling stage of discharge after the rising stage and the other with a period of constant discharge between the rising and falling stages. Dunes were regenerated during the falling stage of discharge for both cases. In the first case, the dunes were regenerated before the bed was flattened because of a time lag between the flow and the bed deformation. Bed flattening was followed by dune regeneration in the second case. Moreover, a significant reduction in the form drag coefficient was observed after the flattening in the second case. The reduction in form drag led to a reduction in the flood intensity. The model showed its ability to reproduce the key phenomena of the development of subaqueous dunes under conditions of a passing flood wave.
Aeolian creeping mass of different grain sizes over sand beds of varying length
Authors: Cheng Hong , Liu Chenchen , Zou Xueyong , Li Jifeng , He Jiajia , Liu Bo , Wu Yongqiu , Kang Liqiang , Fang Yi
Published: June 2015

Creep is an important mode of aeolian sand transport, but it has received little attention in previous studies due to experimental difficulties and insufficient theory. In this study, we conducted 116 groups of experiments with three repeats for each group in a wind tunnel to measure the creeping mass of four different mean grain sizes (152, 257, 321, and 382 µm) over six bed lengths (2.0, 3.5, 5.0, 6.5, 8.0, and 10.0 m) at six different friction velocities (0.23, 0.35, 0.41, 0.47, 0.55, and 0.61 m/s). We attempted to develop a comprehensive model of the aeolian creeping mass by analyzing the effect of wind velocity, the particle size, and the sand bed length based on the experimental data. The primary conclusions are as follows: (1) the complex relationship among the wind velocity, the grain size, the length of the bed, and the surface shape determines sand creep. There was no unified formula to express the effect of particle sizes and the sand bed length on aeolian creeping masses, and their effects appeared to depend on each other and wind velocity, whereas the creeping mass increases with increasing wind velocity for any particle size with any length of sand bed. (2) This paper presented a predicting model to determine the aeolian creeping mass, whose calculating results can match to experimental data with correlation coefficients (R2) of 0.94 or higher. (3) The effect of grain size on creeping mass can be classified into three categories: the creeping mass increases with increasing grain size, the creeping mass initially decreases and subsequently increases with increasing grain size, and the creeping mass fluctuates with the grain size. (4) The effect of increasing bed length appears to depend on the grain size. For mean grain sizes of 152, 257, and 321 µm, creep initially increases with increasing bed length before decreasing above a certain value, while for a mean grain size of 382 µm, the creeping mass gradually increased with increasing bed length. The results help to elucidate aeolian creep and provide an intense foundation for advanced study.
AMISR‐14: Observations of equatorial spread F
Authors: Rodrigues F. S. , Nicolls M. J. , Milla M. A. , Smith J. M. , Varney R. H. , Strømme A. , Martinis C. , Arratia J. F.
Published: June 2015

A new, 14‐panel Advanced Modular Incoherent Scatter Radar (AMISR‐14) system was recently deployed at the Jicamarca Radio Observatory. We present results of the first coherent backscatter radar observations of equatorial spread F(ESF) irregularities made with the system. Colocation with the 50 MHz Jicamarca Unattended Long‐term studies of the Ionosphere and Atmosphere (JULIA) radar allowed unique simultaneous observations of meter and submeter irregularities. Observations from both systems produced similar Range‐Time‐Intensity maps during bottom‐type and bottomside ESF events. We were also able to use the electronic beam steering capability of AMISR‐14 to “image” scattering structures in the magnetic equatorial plane and track their appearance, evolution, and decay with a much larger field of view than previously possible at Jicamarca. The results suggest zonal variations in the instability conditions leading to irregularities and demonstrate the dynamic behavior of F region scattering structures as they evolve and drift across the radar beams.
Long‐term trend and variability of soil moisture over East Asia
Authors: Cheng Shanjun , Guan Xiaodan , Huang Jianping , Ji Fei , Guo Ruixia
Published: June 2015

The variability of soil moisture over East Asia was analyzed using a long‐term data set from the Global Land Data Assimilation System. Overall, a clear decreasing trend occurred over a period of 63 years, with pronounced drying over northeast China, north China, part of Mongolia, and Russia near lake Baikal. Statistical analyses show that decreasing precipitation and global warming have different effects on the decrease in soil moisture. The qualitative analysis and quantitative contributions illustrated that soil drying is driven primarily by decreasing precipitation and is enhanced almost twofold by increasing temperatures. As soil moisture decreases, the positive feedback between soil moisture and temperature may result in future water shortages. Following the Representative Concentration Pathways 8.5 (RCP8.5) and 4.5 (RCP4.5) simulation scenarios of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5, the model‐predicted soil moisture demonstrated a continuously decreasing trend during the 21st century.
Suppression of Photonic Bandgap Reflection by Localized Surface Plasmons in Self‐Assembled Plasmonic–Photonic Crystals
Authors: Lin Ti‐Li , Lin Jiun‐Hong , Guo Jun‐Ting , Kan Hung‐Chih
Published: June 2015

Plasmonic–photonic crystals that consist of SiO2 nanosphere opals decorated with ≈100 nm wide silver caps are fabricated by self‐assembly methods. Optical measurements of the samples show anomalous suppression of reflectivity in the spectral range of the photonic bandgap of the opal structure, which results in an inverted reflection spectrum compared to that of the bare opal structure. This suppression occurs over a range of incident angles and for opal structures with different lattice constants. The experimental observations suggest that the suppression results from the excitation of localized surface plasmon on Ag nanocaps. Results of numerical simulations with rigorous coupled wave analysis and the finite difference time domain method suggest that the coupling between the excitation of Ag‐cap surface plasmon and the scattering of the incident light inside the opal lead to the suppression of the opal reflection at the photonic bandgap wavelengths.
Nickel‐ or Cobalt‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Arylsulfonic Acid Salts with Grignard Reagents
Authors: Malapit Christian A. , Visco Michael D. , Reeves Jonathan T. , Busacca Carl A. , Howell Amy R. , Senanayake Chris H.
Published: June 2015

The use of arylsulfonic acid salts as electrophiles in a nickel‐ or cobalt‐catalyzed cross‐coupling with Grignard reagents is described. Bis(tricyclohexylphosphine)nickel dichloride [NiCl2(PCy3)2] was found to be the optimal catalyst, and reactions with this catalyst proceeded in most cases at room temperature. The analogous cobalt catalyst [CoCl2(PCy3)2] was also found to promote the cross‐coupling reaction at higher temperature (60 °C).

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Direct Observation of Li‐Ion Transport in Electrodes under Nonequilibrium Conditions Using Neutron Depth Profiling
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Verhallen Tomas W. , Labohm Freek , Wagemaker Marnix
Published: June 2015

One of the key challenges of Li‐ion electrodes is enhancement of (dis)charge rates. This is severely hindered by the absence of a technique that allows direct and nondestructive observation of lithium ions in operating batteries. Direct observation of the Li‐ion concentration profiles using operando neutron depth profiling reveals that the rate‐limiting step is depended not only on the electrode morphology but also on the cycling rate itself. In the LiFePO4 electrodes phase nucleation limits the charge transport at the lowest cycling rates, whereas electronic conductivity is rate limiting at intermediate rates, and only at the highest rates ionic transport through the electrode is rate limiting. These novel insights into electrode kinetics are imperative for the improvement of Li‐ion batteries and show the large value of in situ NDP in Li‐ion battery research and development.
Liver iron concentration measurements by MRI in chronically transfused children with sickle cell anemia: baseline results from the TWiTCH trial
Authors: Wood John C. , Pressel Sara , Rogers Zora R. , Odame Isaac , Kwiatkowski Janet L. , Lee Margaret T. , Owen William C. , Cohen Alan R. , St. Pierre Timothy , Heeney Matthew M. , Schultz William H. , Davis Barry R. , Ware Russell E. ,   for the TWiTCH Investigators
Published: June 2015

Noninvasive, quantitative, and accurate assessment of liver iron concentration (LIC) by MRI is useful for patients receiving transfusions, but R2 and R2* MRI techniques have not been systematically compared in sickle cell anemia (SCA). We report baseline LIC results from the TWiTCH trial, which compares hydroxyurea with blood transfusion treatment for primary stroke prophylaxis assessed by transcranial Doppler sonography in pediatric SCA patients. Liver R2 was collected and processed using a FDA‐approved commercial process (FerriScan®), while liver R2* quality control and processing were performed by a Core Laboratory blinded to clinical site and patient data. Baseline LIC studies using both MRI techniques were available for 120 participants. LICR2* and LICR2 results were highly correlated (r2 = 0.93). A proportional bias of LIC(R2*)/LIC(R2), decreasing with average LIC, was observed. Systematic differences between LICR2* and LICR2 were also observed by MRI manufacturer. Importantly, LICR2* and LICR2 estimates had broad 95% limits of agreement with respect to each other. We recommend LICR2 and LICR2* not be used interchangeably in SCA patients to follow individual patient trends in iron burden.Am. J. Hematol. 90:806–810, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic significance of high hyperdiploid and triploid/tetraploid adult acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lazarevic Vladimir , Rosso Aldana , Juliusson Gunnar , Antunovic Petar , Rangert‐Derolf Åsa , Lehmann Sören , Möllgård Lars , Uggla Bertil , Wennström Lovisa , Wahlin Anders , Höglund Martin , Johansson Bertil
Published: June 2015

To ascertain the clinical implications of high hyperdiploid (HH; 49–65 chromosomes) and triploid/tetraploid (TT; >65 chromosomes) adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML), all such cases were retrieved from the Swedish AML Registry. Of the 3,654 cytogenetically informative cases diagnosed between January 1997 and May 2014, 68 (1.9%) were HH (n = 50)/TT (n = 18). Patients with HH/TT were older than those with intermediate risk (IR) AML (median 71 years vs. 67 years; P = 0.042) and less often had de novo AML (63% vs. 79%; P = 0.004); no such differences were observed between HH/TT and complex karyotype (CK) AML. The overall survival (OS) was similar between patients with HH/TT and CK AML (median 0.9 years vs. 0.6 years; P = 0.082), whereas OS was significantly longer (median 1.6 years; P = 0.028) for IR AML. The OS was shorter for cases with HH than with TT (median 0.6 years vs. 1.4 years; P = 0.032) and for HH/TT AMLs with adverse abnormalities (median 0.8 years vs. 1.1 years; P = 0.044). In conclusion, HH/TT AML is associated with a poor outcome, but chromosome numbers >65 and absence of adverse aberrations seem to translate into a more favorable prognosis. Thus, HH/TT AMLs are clinically heterogeneous and should not automatically be grouped as high risk.Am. J. Hematol. 90:800–805, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of locus D9S1120 and its genetic admixture correlation in seven argentina native american ethnic groups
Authors: Caputo Mariela , Corach Daniel
Published: June 2015

Objective

Genetic data have complemented archaeological and linguistic investigations for understanding the peopling of the Americas. Aiming to investigate the Native South American genetic background in Argentina, seven Amerindian and one urban population were selected. The analysis focused on locus D9S1120 due to its potential anthropological information about Native American origins.

Methods

The sample set included 603 individuals belonging to nine isolated Argentinean aboriginal communities from seven tribes (N = 296), 100 individuals living in Buenos Aires city, and three potentially parental population references samples (N = 207). We computed allele and genotype frequency distributions, genetic distances, and pairwise differences among and within them. Admixture proportion was determined by means of typing 13 autosomal short tandem repeats plus D9S1120 in all populations, and comparing the data with those from three parental groups including Native American, European and Sub Saharan West African.

Results

The Native American‐specific allele 9RA was found at an average frequency of 0.26 in aboriginal groups. Statistically significant differences were observed among the Native American groups when compared with the Buenos Aires urban population using analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) (Fst = 0.05669; P < 0.0001). Admixture analysis denoted different results between the cohorts of Amerindian samples displaying the specific 9RA allele, compared with those lacking it. A linear correlation was established between positive 9RA and Native American ancestry.

Conclusions

Autosomal‐based genetic admixture showed that the studied communities have considerable European and Native America contributions. Our results concerning D9S1120 further contribute to a better understanding of the admixture process between Sub Saharan African, Native American, and European individuals that shaped the genetic background of Argentinean extant population. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:57–66, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hemoglobin levels and blood pressure are associated in rural black africans
Authors: Rasmussen Jon B. , Mwaniki David L. , Kaduka Lydia U. , Boit Mike K. , Borch‐Johnsen Knut , Friis Henrik , Christensen Dirk L.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The association between blood levels of hemoglobin (B‐hgb) and blood pressure (BP) has been widely investigated in Caucasians and Asians but there is a paucity of data in rural black Africans. The objective was to investigate the association between B‐hgb and BP in a rural black African population.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in three districts in Kenya (Bondo, Kitui, and Transmara) with the inclusion of participants aged ≥17 years. Background information, anthropometry, BP, B‐hgb, hepatic insulin resistance (HOMA2‐IR), standard lipid profile, and oral glucose tolerance test were obtained in each participant.

Results

Background characteristics among 1,167 participants showed that anemic and non‐anemic participants differed significantly from each other as there were more women, lower body mass index and waist circumference (WC), lower degree of hepatic insulin resistance and plasma cholesterols among the anemic participants. Furthermore, anemic participants had significantly lower systolic and diastolic BP (P < 0.01) but not a significantly different prevalence of hypertension (P = 0.08). Multivariate linear regression models adjusted for—age, sex, plasma total‐cholesterol, WC, Log2(HOMA2‐IR), ethnicity, and smoking status—revealed that B‐hgb (per mmol/l increment) was significantly associated with systolic BP (estimate: 1.18 (0.37–1.98)) and diastolic BP (estimate: 1.06 (0.54–1.57)) (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

B‐hgb is associated with BP in rural black Africans. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:145–148, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stimulatory effects of histamine on migration of nasal fibroblasts
Authors: Hong Sung‐Moon , Park Il‐Ho , Um Ji‐Young , Shin Jae‐Min , Lee Heung‐Man
Published: June 2015

Background

Fibroblast migration is crucial for normal wound repair after sinonasal surgery. Histamine is known to be involved in wound healing by its effects on cell proliferation and migration. This study aimed to determine whether histamine affects the migration of nasal fibroblasts and to investigate the mechanism of action of histamine on nasal fibroblasts.

Methods

Primary cultures of nasal fibroblasts were established from inferior turbinate samples. Fibroblast migration was evaluated with scratch assays. Cells were treated with histamine and/or histamine receptor‐selective antagonists. U‐73122 and pertussis toxin, which are selective inhibitors of the lower signaling pathway of H1R and H4R, were used to confirm the modulation of nasal fibroblast migration by histamine. Fibroblast cytoskeletal structures were visualized with immunocytochemistry.

Results

Histamine significantly stimulated the migration of nasal fibroblasts. Antagonists selective for HR1 and HR4 significantly reduced nasal fibroblast migration. In immunocytochemical staining, histamine treatment increased membrane ruffling and pyrilamine, diphenhydramine, fexofenadine, and JNJ7777120 decreased histamine‐induced membrane ruffling. U‐73122 and pertussis toxin also decreased histamine‐induced migration of fibroblasts. Histamine maintains its stimulatory effects on fibroblast migration in the presence of mitomycin C, which blocks proliferation of cells.

Conclusion

We showed that histamine stimulates fibroblast migration in nasal fibroblasts. This effect appeared to be mediated by HR1 and HR4. However, because fibroblast migration also can be involved in scaring and fibrosis, more research is necessary to determine the effects of antihistamine on wound healing after sinus surgery.
Evaluation of olfactory function in adults with primary hypothyroidism
Authors: Günbey Emre , Karlı Rıfat , Gökosmanoğlu Feyzi , Düzgün Berkan , Ayhan Emre , Atmaca Hulusi , Ünal Recep
Published: June 2015

Background

Sufficient clinical data are not available on the effect of hypothyroidism on olfactory function in adults. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the olfactory function of adult patients diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism.

Methods

Forty‐five patients aged between 18 and 60 years who were diagnosed with clinical primary hypothyroidism and 45 healthy controls who had normal thyroid function tests were included in the study. Sniffin’ Sticks olfactory test results of the 2 groups were compared. The relationships between thyroid function tests and olfactory parameters were evaluated.

Results

Odor threshold, identification, and discrimination scores of the hypothyroid group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was detected between free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels and odor threshold, identification, and discrimination scores (p < 0.001). There was no significant relationship between thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) or free thyroxine (FT4) levels and olfactory parameters.

Conclusion

Our study revealed diminished olfactory function in adults with hypothyroidism. FT3 levels were found to have a more significant relationship with olfactory parameters than TSH or FT4 levels.
Copper‐Catalyzed (2+1) Annulation of Acetophenones with Maleimides: Direct Synthesis of Cyclopropanes
Authors: Manna Srimanta , Antonchick Andrey P.
Published: June 2015

A practical copper‐catalyzed direct oxidative cyclopropanation of electron‐deficient alkenes with acetophenone derivatives is reported. The dehydrogenative annulation involves a double CH bond functionalization at the α‐position of the ketone using di‐tert‐butyl peroxide as oxidant. The broad scope of the reaction and excellent functional‐group tolerance is demonstrated for the stereoselective synthesis of fused cyclopropanes. The developed transformation revealed an unprecedented reactivity for copper‐catalyzed processes.
1,2‐Azaborine: The Boron‐Nitrogen Derivative of ortho‐Benzyne
Authors: Edel Klara , Brough Sarah A. , Lamm Ashley N. , Liu Shih‐Yuan , Bettinger Holger F.
Published: June 2015

The BN analogue of ortho‐benzyne, 1,2‐azaborine, is generated by flash vacuum pyrolysis, trapped under cryogenic conditions, and studied by direct spectroscopic techniques. The parent BN aryne spontaneously binds N2 and CO2, thus demonstrating its highly reactive nature. The interaction with N2 is photochemically reversible. The CO2 adduct of 1,2‐azaborine is a cyclic carbamate which undergoes photocleavage, thus resulting in overall CO2 splitting.
Recombinant Expression and Phenotypic Screening of a Bioactive Cyclotide Against α‐Synuclein‐Induced Cytotoxicity in Baker′s Yeast
Authors: Jagadish Krishnappa , Gould Andrew , Borra Radhika , Majumder Subhabrata , Mushtaq Zahid , Shekhtman Alexander , Camarero Julio A.
Published: June 2015

We report for the first time the recombinant expression of fully folded bioactive cyclotides inside live yeast cells by using intracellular protein trans‐splicing in combination with a highly efficient split‐intein. This approach was successfully used to produce the naturally occurring cyclotide MCoTI‐I and the engineered bioactive cyclotide MCoCP4. Cyclotide MCoCP4 was shown to reduce the toxicity of human α‐synuclein in live yeast cells. Cyclotide MCoCP4 was selected by phenotypic screening from cells transformed with a mixture of plasmids encoding MCoCP4 and inactive cyclotide MCoTI‐I in a ratio of 1:5×104. This demonstrates the potential for using yeast to perform phenotypic screening of genetically encoded cyclotide‐based libraries in eukaryotic cells.
Reversible Modulation of Surface Plasmons in Gold Nanoparticles Enabled by Surface Redox Chemistry
Authors: Li Zheng , Foley Jonathan J. , Peng Sheng , Sun Cheng‐Jun , Ren Yang , Wiederrecht Gary P. , Gray Stephen K. , Sun Yugang
Published: June 2015

Switchable surface redox chemistry is demonstrated in gold@iron/iron oxide core–shell nanoparticles with ambient oxidation and plasmon‐mediated reduction to modulate the oxidation state of shell layers. The iron shell can be oxidized to iron oxide through ambient oxidation, leading to an enhancement and red‐shift of the gold surface plasmon resonance (SPR). This enhanced gold SPR can drive reduction of the iron oxide shell under broadband illumination to reversibly blue‐shift and significantly dampen gold SPR absorption. The observed phenomena provide a unique mechanism for controlling the plasmonic properties and surface chemistry of small metal nanoparticles.
Observation of a Thermally Induced Bora‐Nazarov Cyclization at a Phosphole Framework
Authors: Möbus Juri , Kehr Gerald , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Erker Gerhard
Published: June 2015

The reaction of the bis(enynyl)phosphanes 6 a,b with the electrophilic borane reagents RB(C6F5)2 (R=C6F5, CH2CH2Ph, CH3) gave phospholes cleanly in a 1,1‐carboboration reaction sequence. Depending on the steric bulk, the resulting 2,5‐alkenylphospholes underwent a thermally induced bora‐Nazarov type cyclization. The equilibrium situation of these examples of a bora‐Nazarov type cyclization was investigated in detail by NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray crystal structure analysis, and DFT calculations.
On the use of tris(nonylphenyl) phosphite as a chain extender in melt‐blended poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate)/clay nanocomposites: Morphology, thermal stability, and mechanical properties
Authors: González‐Ausejo Jennifer , Sánchez‐Safont Estefania , Gámez‐Pérez José , Cabedo Luis
Published: June 2015

The influence of the incorporation of tris(nonylphenyl) phosphite (TNPP) as a chain extender on the morphology and thermal stability of poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/clay nanocomposites obtained by melt mixing has been studied. Two different clays have been used: a laminar organomodified montmorillonite (Cloisite® 30B) and a tubular unmodified halloysite (HNT). The morphology of the so‐obtained nanocomposites has been assessed by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and wide angle X‐ray diffraction, showing a partially exfoliated structure for PHBV/Cloisite® 30B nanocomposites, as well as a good dispersion of the HNT in the PHBV matrix. The crystallinity of the resulting nanocomposites, determined by DSC, does not change when clays or TNPP are added. An increase in the onset temperature of thermal degradation of PHBV has been obtained with the addition of TNPP, as determined by TGA. With regard to the effect of the nanoclays on the thermal stability of PHBV, the onset temperature of the PHBV/HNT nanocomposites is higher than that of the pure PHBV, while this trend is not observed for the nanocomposites containing Cloisite® 30B. The addition of TNPP to the PHBV/Cloisite® 30B nanocomposites resulted in an improved thermal stability; however, for the HNT nanocomposites, the TNPP does not seem to have a significant effect. For all studied systems, it was shown that the variation of mechanical properties of the nanocomposites is due to the reinforcing effect of the nanoclays on the PHBV matrix. In the case of TNPP, it is due to the increased molecular weight and formation of a long‐chain branching structure. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 42390.
Nanoparticle‐loaded UV‐blocking contact lenses
Authors: Gause Samuel , Chauhan Anuj
Published: June 2015

We have developed a novel approach of incorporating UV‐blocking features into contact lenses by dispersing nanoparticles into the lenses. The nanoparticles are prepared by controlling polymerization dynamics using chain terminating and chain transfer agents. A theoretical model is developed to predict the effect of various formulation parameters on the particle size. This approach can produce UV‐blocking nanoparticles of controlled size below 10 nm in diameter with close to 10% conversion. The model predictions for the mean size are in reasonable agreement with the experimental data. The nanoparticles are cleaned and loaded in silicone hydrogel contact lenses by soaking the lenses in a solution of particles in ethanol and acetone. Lenses loaded with about 6% particles w/w in the hydrated lens block sufficient UV light to be classified as Class 1 blockers. The nanoparticles are retained in the lens during soaking in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and are stable to sterilization by autoclaving. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42495.
Striking a Balance; the Contribution of Forensic Psychotherapy to Imprisoned Women and their Environment
Authors: McGauley Gillian , Bartlett Annie
Published: June 2015

In the UK forensic psychotherapy, with its roots in psychoanalytic thinking and practice, has developed mainly within the National Health System. Consequently its application and potential contribution to the treatment and care of imprisoned women is an under‐investigated area. This paper describes characteristics of the population of women in prison, the extent of their health and social care needs and sets this against societal representations of women offenders. Dynamic psychotherapy in women's prisons must maintain an awareness of the women's issues and the social life of the prison. Drawing on work in the 2 largest women's prisons in the UK we focus on the contribution forensic psychotherapy, as one component of the health care service, can make to the care of these women and to their environment. We describe how the external world of the criminal justice system and prison environment and the internal world of the women can interact, either resonating with or habituating to each other. We propose that, when working to help imprisoned women understand their minds and the actions that flow from their psychic states, the forensic psychotherapist needs to strike a balance between helping patients integrate split off mental states and experiences that are traumatic while ensuring that these experiences do not overwhelm the mind of the patient, staff and institution. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Rationally Designed Thymidine‐Based Self‐Assembled Monolayer on a Gold Electrode for Electroanalytical Applications
Authors: Datta Dhrubajyoti , Bera Raj Kumar , Jana Saibal , Manna Bhaskar , Roy Debayan , Anoop Anakuthil , Raj C. Retna , Pathak Tanmaya
Published: June 2015

A self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) of 1‐(3,5‐epidithio‐2,3,5‐trideoxy‐β‐d‐threo‐pentofuranosyl)thymine (EFT) on a gold electrode was prepared and characterized by Raman spectral and electrochemical measurements. Voltammetric and electrochemical impedance measurements show that the SAM of EFT on a Au electrode impedes the electron‐transfer reaction. The SAM of EFT was successfully used for the voltammetric sensing of urate in neutral solution. The coexisting ascorbate anion does not interfere and therefore the EFT‐based electrode was able to quantify urate at the micromolar level in the presence of a large excess amount of ascorbate. To demonstrate the practical applications, the amount of urate in two different human serum samples was quantified by using the EFT‐based electrode; the results are in good agreement with those determined by the clinical method. DFT calculations show that both ascorbate and urate have noncovalent interactions including hydrogen‐bonding interactions with EFT.
Selective Growth and Structural Analysis of Regular MnO Nanooctapods Bearing Multiple High‐Index Surface Facets
Authors: Shin Dongwoo , Kim Mijong , Song Hyunjoon
Published: June 2015

Although numerous morphologies of MnO nanostructures have been reported, an exact structural analysis and mechanistic study has been lacking. In the present study, the formation of regular MnO octapods was demonstrated in a simple procedure, comprising the thermal decomposition of manganese oleate. Because of their structural uniformity, an ideal three‐dimensional model was successfully constructed. The eight arms protruded from the cubic center with tip angles of 38° and surface facets of {311} and {533} with rounded edges. The concentrations of oleate and chloride ions were the determining factors for the octapod formation. Selective coordination of the oleate ions to the {100} faces led to edge growth along the <111> direction, which was then limited by the chloride ions bound to the high‐index surface facets. These structural and mechanistic analyses should be helpful for understanding the complex nanostructures and for tuning their structure‐related properties.
Capturing C90 Isomers as CF3 Derivatives: C90(30)(CF3)14, C90(35)(CF3)16/18, and C90(45)(CF3)16/18
Authors: Tamm Nadezhda B. , Troyanov Sergey I.
Published: June 2015

High‐temperature trifluoromethylation of a C90 isomeric mixture with CF3I followed by HPLC separation of C90(CF3)n isomers resulted in the isolation of several individual C90(CF3)14−18 compounds. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction with the use of synchrotron radiation resulted in the structure determination of C90(30)(CF3)14, C90(35)(CF3)16/18, and C90(45)(CF3)16/18. Their addition patterns are discussed and compared with the known isomers C90(30)(CF3)18 and C90(35)(CF3)14, respectively. The presence of the most stable C90 isomer, C90(45), in the fullerene soot has been confirmed for the first time.
Review backbone N‐modified peptides: How to meet the challenge of secondary amine acylation
Authors: Fernández‐Llamazares Ana I. , Spengler Jan , Albericio Fernando
Published: June 2015

Backbone N‐substitution of peptides (N‐Me and N‐alkyl) has become of special interest as a chemical tool for peptide lead modification, either to improve biological activity or to optimize key pharmacokinetic characteristics. For the synthesis of backbone N‐methylated peptides, many protocols have been developed already, yet some effort often has to be made to find appropriate conditions for the acylation of N‐Me residues. Fewer examples are reported of peptides with other backbone N‐substituents different than N‐Me, and their synthesis is frequently reported as difficult. The synthesis of such peptides becomes more difficult as the size of the N‐substituent increases. Coupling methods that work for the synthesis of N‐methylated peptides were often found to fail when applied to peptides with larger N‐substituents. This review addresses the challenges of the synthesis of backbone N‐modified peptides, focusing on N‐substituents larger than the N‐Me group. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 104: 435–452, 2015.
Aortic aneurysm screening
Authors: van Rij A M , Jones G T
Published: June 2015

Still needs refining
Validity of a cross-specialty test in basic laparoscopic techniques (TABLT)
Authors: Thinggaard E , Bjerrum F , Strandbygaard J , Gögenur I , Konge L
Published: June 2015

Background

Box trainer systems have been developed that include advanced skills such as suturing. There is still a need for a portable, cheap training and testing system for basic laparoscopic techniques that can be used across different specialties before performing supervised surgery on patients. The aim of this study was to establish validity evidence for the Training and Assessment of Basic Laparoscopic Techniques (TABLT) test, a tablet-based training system.

Methods

Laparoscopic surgeons and trainees were recruited from departments of general surgery, gynaecology and urology. Participants included novice, intermediate and experienced surgeons. All participants performed the TABLT test. Performance scores were calculated based on time taken and errors made. Evidence of validity was explored using a contemporary framework of validity.

Results

Some 60 individuals participated. The TABLT was shown to be reliable, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0·99 (P < 0·001). ANOVA showed a difference between the groups with different level of experience (P < 0·001). The Bonferroni correction was used to confirm this finding. A Pearson's r value of 0·73 (P < 0·001) signified a good positive correlation between the level of laparoscopic experience and performance score. A reasonable pass–fail standard was established using contrasting groups methods.

Conclusion

TABLT can be used for the assessment of basic laparoscopic skills and can help novice surgical trainees in different specialties gain basic laparoscopic competencies.