bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Soil Chemistry following Wood and Grass Biochar Amendments to an Acidic Agricultural Production Soil
Authors: Trippe Kristin M. , Griffith Stephen M. , Banowetz Gary M. , Whitaker Gerald W.
Published: May 2015

The ability of biochars that are produced by biomass gasification to remediate acidic production soils is generally not as well known in comparison to biochars resulting from pyrolysis. A recent characterization of biochar produced from gasification of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) seed screenings (KB) suggested that KB biochar might have utility in remediation of acidic agricultural production soils where aluminum uptake limits wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth. A replicated greenhouse pot study was conducted in which single plants of wheat were grown for 74 d in a Freeman (fine‐silty, mixed, superactive, mesic Aquandic Palexeralf) or Bernhill (fine‐loamy, isotic, mesic Vitrandic Haploxeralf) soil amended with biochars produced by gasification of either KB seed screenings or chipped conifer tree tops. Addition of either biochar to the soils immobilized soil‐Al. Selective binding characteristics of the biochars for some ions, heavy metals, organics, and the capacity to alter acid soil pH suggest a potential utility in acid soil remediation.
Safety of Sequential Fall Methiozolin Applications on Creeping Bentgrass Putting Greens
Authors: Xiong Xi , Moss Justin Q. , Haguewood John B. , Koh Kyungjoon
Published: May 2015

Methiozolin is an herbicide with preemergence (PRE) and postemergence (POST) activities for control of annual bluegrass (AB; Poa annua L.). Previous research reported that fall applications provide better control than spring applications when methiozolin is applied as a POST, and PRE application appears to show a higher degree of efficacy than POST applications. Preemergence application for AB control on creeping bentgrass (CB; Agrostis stolonifera L.) putting greens requires treatment starting in late summer to early fall, when CB greens are likely under summer stress. Three field studies were conducted to evaluate the safety of fall sequential methiozolin applications on CB greens. Treatments consisted of methiozolin at 0.22, 0.45, 0.67, or 0.89 lb a.i./acre applied 1, 2, or 4 weeks apart, totaling 1.78 to 2.01 lb a.i./acre per season. Phytotoxicity was consistently observed in one out of three studies but was at an acceptable level (≥6 on a scale of 1–9) in all evaluations. Methiozolin applications, regardless of rate or application interval, resulted in a consistent AB control up to 95% over the season, compared with the nontreated control. Results suggest that sequential applications of methiozolin in fall with the initial treatment starting in late summer to early fall may provide effective AB control with acceptable safety to CB putting greens.
Dynamic Processes in Capillary Fringes
Authors: Winter Josef , Ippisch Olaf , Vogel Hans-Jörg
Published: May 2015

Processes in capillary fringes (CFs) have a complex nature due to the interactions between the solid, liquid, and gaseous environments. Despite a considerable body of literature on CFs coming from different disciplines, the ongoing processes and their complex interactions are yet only partially understood.
Full abstraction for fair testing in CCS (expanded version)
Authors: Hirschowitz Tom
Published: May 2015

In previous work with Pous, we defined a semantics for CCS which may both be
viewed as an innocent form of presheaf semantics and as a concurrent form of
game semantics. We define in this setting an analogue of fair testing
equivalence, which we prove fully abstract w.r.t. standard fair testing
equivalence. The proof relies on a new algebraic notion called playground,
which represents the `rule of the game'. From any playground, we derive two
languages equipped with labelled transition systems, as well as a strong,
functional bisimulation between them.
Globally Governed Session Semantics
Authors: Kouzapas Dimitrios , Yoshida Nobuko
Published: May 2015

This paper proposes a bisimulation theory based on multiparty session types
where a choreography specification governs the behaviour of session typed
processes and their observer. The bisimulation is defined with the observer
cooperating with the observed process in order to form complete global session
scenarios and usable for proving correctness of optimisations for globally
coordinating threads and processes. The induced bisimulation is strictly more
fine-grained than the standard session bisimulation. The difference between the
governed and standard bisimulations only appears when more than two interleaved
multiparty sessions exist. This distinct feature enables to reason real
scenarios in the large-scale distributed system where multiple choreographic
sessions need to be interleaved. The compositionality of the governed
bisimilarity is proved through the soundness and completeness with respect to
the governed reduction-based congruence. Finally, its usage is demonstrated by
a thread transformation governed under multiple sessions in a real usecase in
the large-scale cyberinfrustracture.
The Power of Priority Channel Systems
Authors: Haase Christoph , Schmitz Sylvain , Schnoebelen Philippe
Published: May 2015

We introduce Priority Channel Systems, a new class of channel systems where
messages carry a numeric priority and where higher-priority messages can
supersede lower-priority messages preceding them in the fifo communication
buffers. The decidability of safety and inevitability properties is shown via
the introduction of a priority embedding, a well-quasi-ordering that has not
previously been used in well-structured systems. We then show how Priority
Channel Systems can compute Fast-Growing functions and prove that the
aforementioned verification problems are
$\mathbf{F}_{\varepsilon_{0}}$-complete.
Kernelizing MSO Properties of Trees of Fixed Height, and Some Consequences
Authors: Gajarsky Jakub , Hlineny Petr
Published: May 2015

Fix an integer h>=1. In the universe of coloured trees of height at most h,
we prove that for any graph decision problem defined by an MSO formula with r
quantifiers, there exists a set of kernels, each of size bounded by an
elementary function of r and the number of colours. This yields two noteworthy
consequences. Consider any graph class G having a one-dimensional MSO
interpretation in the universe of coloured trees of height h (equivalently, G
is a class of shrub-depth h). First, class G admits an MSO model checking
algorithm whose runtime has an elementary dependence on the formula size.
Second, on G the expressive powers of FO and MSO coincide (which extends a 2012
result of Elberfeld, Grohe, and Tantau).
On slowly varying sequences
Authors: Timotic Valentina , Djurcic Dragan , Nikolic Rale
Published: May 2015

In this paper we investigate the connection between the class SVs of slowly
varying sequences (in the sense of Karamata) and the slow equivalence, strong
asymptotic equivalence, selection principles and game theory.
Inactivation of Stigmatella aurantiaca CsgA gene impares rippling formation
Authors: Milosevic-Djeric Ana , Müller Susanne , Schairer Urlich
Published: May 2015

Stigmatella aurantiaca fruiting body development depends on cell-cell
interactions. One type of the signaling molecule stigmolone isolated from S.
aurantiaca cells acts to help cells to stay together in the aggregation
phase. Another gene product involved in intercellular signaling in S.
aurantiaca is the csgA homolog of Myxococcus xanthus. In close relative M.
xanthus C signal the product of the csgA gene is required for rippling,
aggregation and sporulation. Isolation of homologous gene in S. aurantiaca
implicates a probable role of CsgA in intercellular communication.
Inactivation of the gene by insertion mutagenesis caused alterations in S.
aurantiaca fruiting. The motility behavior of the cells during development
was changed as well as their ability to stay more closely together in the
early stages of development. Inactivation of the csgA gene completely
abolished rippling of the cells. This indicates the crucial role of the CsgA
protein in regulating this rhythmic behavior.
A linkage map of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) based on population from ILC3279×ILC588 crosses: Location of genes for time to flowering, seed size and plant height
Authors: Karami Ezzat , Talebi Reza , Kharkesh Mehrab , Saidi Abbas
Published: May 2015

Quantitative traits of seed size, plant height and days to flowering were
studied in a chickpea intraspecific F3:4 lines population derived from a
ILC3279?ILC588 cross. The lines were genotyped with random amplified
polymorphic DNA (RAPD), universal rice primer (URP) and sequence tagged
microsatellite site (STMS) markers, and a genetic map composed of 7 linkage
groups (LGs) covering 285.3 cM was constructed. Quantitative trait loci
(QTLs) for the three characters were detected in LG2, LG3 and LG4. Two QTLs
for days to flowering were detected on LG2 and LG3. These two QTLs accounted
for 58% of the total phenotypic variation for days to flowering. A QTL for
plant height was located in LG3 explaining around 42% of the variation. This
trait was shown to be under a major gene control. For 100-seed weight, a QTL
located in LG4 explained around 37% of the phenotypic variations. This
information can be used to formulate the an efficient breeding strategy for
improvement of time to flowering in short-season temperate environments,
plant height with more reproductive biomass and improved yield with bigger
seed size in chickpea.
Study about yield and cutting’s losses of two tea clone bushes in Iran
Authors: Dadashpour Ahmad , Hassanpour Asil , Hojjat-Ansari Reza , Alinaghipour Behrooz , Hamidoghli Yousef
Published: May 2015

In the first trial, study conducted to compare of yield between two shapes of
pruning (curved and flat) of tea bushes (clone 100). After leaf harvesting,
curved pruning bushes had more yield than flat pruning bushes. Thus curved
pruning method can be advised to gardeners as a reliable and superior pruning
method. In the secondary experiment, study was carried out to investigation
of cutting?s losses in all head-cuttings and comparison between tow types
bush in tea (100 and selective). Results showed that there is significant
difference between 100 and selective clones at p?0.05. It means that obtained
mean cutting?s losses by selective was less than 100 bushes.
Screening of B chromosomes for presence of two genes in yellow-necked mice, Apodemus flavicollis (Mammalia, Rodentia)
Authors: Rajicic Marija , Adnadjevic Tanja , Stamenkovic Gorana , Blagojevic Jelena , Vujosevic Mladen
Published: May 2015

B chromosomes (Bs) are a very heterogeneous group of extra chromosomes. In
various species Bs occur with different nucleotide sequences ranging from
repetitive to protein coding. In yellow-necked field mice, Apodemus
flavicollis Bs are small euchromatic chromosomes and untill now, only few
molecular analyses have been conducted. In this study we examined A.
flavicollis individuals with different number of Bs for presence of two
genes, C-KIT and 18S rRNA. The C-KIT proto-oncogene was found on Bs in three
Canidae species and one Cervidae species. This gene is a coding receptor
critical for proliferation and cell differentiation of hematopoietic,
melanoblast and primordial germ cells, and is highly conserved within
mammals. While using semiquantitative PCR, we did not notice any difference
in the C-KIT band intensity among animals with different number of Bs (0-3).
The presence of only one copy of C- KIT gene was confirmed using real
time-PCR on genomic DNA of A. flavicollis specimens with different number of
Bs. rRNA genes in eukaryotes? genome are organized like units of tandem
repeated sequences. The units form distinct clusters on one to several
chromosome pairs. rRNA genes were found on Bs in different species including
two species of genus Apodemus. One particular sample with 2 Bs showed the
number of 18S rRNA gene about three times that of the calibrator 0 B sample.
This result can indicate the presence of 18S rRNA gene on Bs, but its
confirmation requires the implementation of other methods. Still, we can
neither confirm nor deny the existence of pseudogen of tested target genes,
or lose of exon 1 of C-KIT protooncogen in Bs of A. flavicollis. Our findings
are further discussed.
Potato cv. Romano reaction to primary and secondary infection with potato necrotic strain Y virus (PVYNTN)
Authors: Milosevic Drago , Ristic Danijela , Kuzmanovic Slobodan , Starovic Mira
Published: May 2015

Primary and secondary infections with PVYNTN were investigated on forty
plants of the potato cv. Romano inoculated in a greenhouse in Serbia in 2012
and 2013. PVY isolates were collected from the potato growing region of Cacak
and identified by ELISA and RT-PCR methods. The sequence of the Serbian
isolate 3D (Acc. No. KJ946936) showed 100% match with seven PVY isolates
deposited in GenBank and described as NTN. A significant difference was
detected between PVYNTN symptoms exibited on leaves of the cv. Romano under
primary and secondary infections. The findings are significant because they
are based on symptoms observed, so that it is clear that there are two
distinct types of infection: primary and secondary. Symptoms of primary and
secondary infection were the same on potato tubers and had the form of
necrotic rings.
Endogenous royalty factor in a licensing contract
Authors: Buratto Alessandra , Grosset Luca , Viscolani Bruno
Published: May 2015

The owner of a well known fashion brand grants a manufacturer the rights to
produce and sell a second-line brand against a percentage of the sales called
royalty. To this end, the brand owner and the manufacturer sign a licensing
contract which assigns the owner, who has already determined his advertising
campaign, the right of determining the royalty factor. The manufacturer will
plan her advertising campaign for the licenced product in order to maximize
her profit. The brand owner?s objective is twofold: on the one hand, he wants
to maximize the profit coming from the contract, on the other hand, he wants
to improve the value of the brand at the end of a given planning period. We
model this interaction between the two agents using a Stackelberg game, where
the brand owner is the leader and the manufacturer is the follower. We
characterise the royalty percentage and the licensee?s advertising effort
which constitute the unique Stackelberg equilibrium of the game.
Book-Tax Differences and Future Earnings Changes
Authors: Jackson Mark
Published: May 2015

Prior studies suggest that large book-tax differences (BTDs) are associated with future earnings changes or earnings persistence. The literature has explored a number of potential explanations for this relation, without a clear answer emerging. To integrate the various assertions I divide total BTDs into temporary and permanent categories and hypothesize that temporary BTDs (reflected in deferred taxes) predict future changes in pretax earnings, whereas permanent BTDs predict future changes in tax expense. The results are consistent with these hypotheses. Prior studies also suggest that both types of BTDs are associated with earnings management and tax avoidance. I find evidence that tax avoidance firms have a more positive association between their BTDs and both pretax earnings changes and tax expense changes. However, I find only inconsistent evidence on the influence of earnings management on the association of the components of BTDs and future earnings changes, with results dependent on the research design. Overall, the evidence suggests that while tax avoidance and earnings management may contribute to the association between BTDs and future earnings changes, there are also more fundamental drivers of this association.
The Nature and Meaning of Insulin Pump Use in Emerging Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Hood Donna G. , Duke Gloria
Published: May 2015

Objective. The purpose of this study is to investigate the meaning of living with an insulin pump for the management of type 1 diabetes during the period of emerging adulthood. Through a phenomenological narrative, this study contributes to the reflective understanding of the everyday life experiences of this population.

Methods. A hermeneutic phenomenological design was used for this study of nine emerging adults (aged 19–24 years). Data were generated through face-to-face interviews and analyzed using the phenomenological approach of Max van Manen.

Results. Four themes represent the essence of the day-to-day experiences of these emerging adults: seeking control, becoming responsible, staying connected, and accepting me.

Conclusions. An in-depth understanding of the meaning of daily experiences with insulin pump technology has the potential to promote a developmentally appropriate approach to this age-group. The human understanding gained through this study is essential to the development of evidence-based practice guidelines and resources for this vulnerable population.
Complication analysis in nitinol stent-assisted embolization of 486 intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Johnson Andrew Kelly , Munich Stephan A. , Tan Lee A. , Heiferman Daniel Mark , Keigher Kiffon Marie , Lopes Demetrius Klee
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Stent-assisted embolization (SAE) has broadened the scope of endovascular cerebral aneurysm treatment. The risks associated with stent selection and configuration are poorly defined. In this study, the authors aimed to characterize the risk factors that contribute to complications in SAE of intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

Over a 10-year period, a single surgeon treated 486 aneurysms with SAE in which open-cell Neuroform or closed-cell Enterprise stents were used. Single stents were used in 386 cases, overlapping stents were deployed in 80 cases, and Y-configuration stents were used in the remaining 20 cases. All neurological complications, which included transient deficits, were analyzed; disabling strokes and death were considered major complications. The chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were used to evaluate the influence of aneurysm size and morphology, aneurysm location, stent selection, and stent configuration on complication rates.

RESULTS

There were 7 deaths (1.4%), 9 major strokes (1.9%), and 18 minor neurological complications (3.7%). For all complications, multivariate analysis revealed that large aneurysm size (10–25 mm; p = 0.01), giant aneurysm size (> 25 mm; p = 0.04), fusiform aneurysm morphology (p = 0.03), and using a Y-configuration stent (p = 0.048) were independent risk factors. For the major complications, independent risk factors included an aneurysm in the posterior circulation (p = 0.02), using an overlapping stent configuration (p = 0.03), and using a Y-configuration stent (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, SAE for cerebral aneurysm treatment carried an acceptable complication rate. With continued innovations in techniques and devices and with increased experience, the complication rates associated with SAE may be even lower in the future.
Continuous subcortical motor evoked potential stimulation using the tip of an ultrasonic aspirator for the resection of motor eloquent lesions
Authors: Shiban Ehab , Krieg Sandro M. , Obermueller Thomas , Wostrack Maria , Meyer Bernhard , Ringel Florian
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Resection of a motor eloquent lesion has become safer because of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IOM). Stimulation of subcortical motor evoked potentials (scMEPs) is increasingly used to optimize patient safety. So far, scMEP stimulation has been performed intermittently during resection of eloquently located lesions. Authors of the present study assessed the possibility of using a resection instrument for continuous stimulation of scMEPs.

METHODS

An ultrasonic surgical aspirator was attached to an IOM stimulator and was used as a monopolar subcortical stimulation probe. The effect of the aspirator’s use at different ultrasound power levels (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) on stimulation intensity was examined in a saline bath. Afterward monopolar stimulation with the surgical aspirator was used during the resection of subcortical lesions in the vicinity of the corticospinal tract in 14 patients in comparison with scMEP stimulation via a standard stimulation electrode. During resection, the stimulation current at which an MEP response was still measurable with subcortical stimulation using the surgical aspirator was compared with the corresponding stimulation current needed using a standard monopolar subcortical stimulation probe at the same location.

RESULTS

The use of ultrasound at different energy levels did result in a slight but irrelevant increase in stimulation energy via the tip of the surgical aspirator in the saline bath. Stimulation of scMEPs using the surgical aspirator or monopolar probe was successful and almost identical in all patients. One patient developed a new permanent neurological deficit. Transient new postoperative paresis was observed in 28% (4 of 14) of cases. Gross-total resection was achieved in 64% (9 of 14) cases and subtotal resection (> 80% of tumor mass) in 35% (5 of 14).

CONCLUSIONS

Continuous motor mapping using subcortical stimulation via a surgical aspirator, in comparison with the sequential use of a standard monopolar stimulation probe, is a feasible and safe method without any disadvantages. Compared with the standard probe, the aspirator offers continuous information on the distance to the corticospinal tract.
Intraspinal psammomatous melanotic schwannoma not associated with Carney complex: case report
Authors: Shabani Saman , Fiore Susan M. , Seidman Roberta , Davis Raphael P.
Published: May 2015

The authors present a case of intraspinal malignant psammomatous melanotic schwannoma (PMS) not associated with Carney complex and review all reported cases not associated with this syndrome. The focus of this review paper is on the characteristics of the malignant progression of PMS.

A 54-year-old man had a history of squamous cell carcinoma of the neck and tonsillar carcinoma. The patient’s serial CT scanning study showed a mass in the left C-5 foramen. On presentation he was neurologically intact. After 18 months, the patient developed radiating pain down the left arm with decreased sensation. MRI of the cervical spine showed an enhancing 2.1 × 1.5 × 1.9-cm mass in the left C5–6 foramen. A C5–6 hemilaminectomy was performed with gross-total removal of the tumor. At 3 months postoperatively, the patient developed new-onset pain and weakness. MRI showed a dumbbell-shaped mass in the left C-7 foramen. MRI of the pelvis showed a 1.4 × 1.0-cm lesion on the right ischium and a 1.1 × 2.8-cm lesion on the right inferior pubic ramus. Anterior cervical discectomy of C5–6 and C6–7 with corpectomy of C-6 with subtotal resection of the tumor was completed. PMS should not be considered a benign tumor because in 41.1% of patients, including the patient in this report, the tumor progresses to malignancy. Long-term follow-up is needed in these patients. New surgical treatment plans should be considered.
Production performances of monosex nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus in brackishwater ponds
Authors: Saha SB , Khatun MS
Published: May 2015

Production feasibility of monosex nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus was studied in eight brackish water ponds, where tilapia fries with the average body weight (ABW) of 0.15 g were stocked at a density of 5/m2. Salinity of the ponds varied from 11 ppt to 14 ppt. Fishes was fed with floating feed containing 35% crude protein. After 105 days of culture, production of tilapia was 6334.20- 8099.50 kg/ha with an average mean of 7456.35 ± 589.60 kg/ha. This production was achieved when average body weight and survival of tilapia was 176.50 ± 18.44 g and 84.42 ± 7.23%, respectively. This growth and production tilapia was higher and very much comparable to the production of tilapia reported from freshwater bodies. The study indicates that tilapia can be grown as crop diversification in brackishwater ponds, where stocking of shrimp now become risky due to invasion of diseasesBangladesh J. Zool. 42(2): 261-269, 2014
First record of Chordodes creplin, 1847 (Nematomorpha, Gordioidea) species from a hillstream of Bandarban, Bangladesh
Authors: Naser M Niamul , Hossain Mostafa Ali Reza , Azadi M Ali , Khan M Golam Quader , Alam M Arshad Ul , Sultana Selina
Published: May 2015

Abstract not availableBangladesh J. Zool. 42(2): 301-303, 2014
The Concentrations and Reduction of Airborne Particulate Matter (PM10, PM2.5, PM1) at Shelterbelt Site in Beijing
Authors: Chen Jungang , Yu Xinxiao , Sun Fenbing , Lun Xiaoxiu , Fu Yanlin , Jia Guodong , Zhang Zhengming , Liu Xuhui , Mo Li , Bi Huaxing
Published: May 2015

Particulate matter is a serious source of air pollution in urban areas, where it exerts adverse effects on human health. This article focuses on the study of subduction of shelterbelts for atmospheric particulates. The results suggest that (1) the PM mass concentration is higher in the morning or both morning and noon inside the shelterbelts and lower mass concentrations at other times; (2) the particle mass concentration inside shelterbelt is higher than outside; (3) the particle interception efficiency of the two forest belts over the three months in descending order was PM10 > PM1 > PM2.5; and (4) the two shelterbelts captured air pollutants at rates of 1496.285 and 909.075 kg/month and the major atmospheric pollutant in Beijing city is PM10. Future research directions are to study PM mass concentration variation of shelterbelt with different tree species and different configuration.
Endiandric Acid Derivatives and Other Constituents of Plants from the Genera Beilschmiedia and Endiandra (Lauraceae)
Authors: Lenta Bruno , Chouna Jean , Nkeng-Efouet Pepin , Sewald Norbert
Published: May 2015

Plants of the Lauraceae family are widely used in traditional medicine and are sources of various classes of secondary metabolites. Two genera of this family, Beilschmiedia and Endiandra, have been the subject of numerous investigations over the past decades because of their application in traditional medicine. They are the only source of bioactive endiandric acid derivatives. Noteworthy is that their biosynthesis contains two consecutive non-enzymatic electrocyclic reactions. Several interesting biological activities for this specific class of secondary metabolites and other constituents of the two genera have been reported, including antimicrobial, enzymes inhibitory and cytotoxic properties. This review compiles information on the structures of the compounds described between January 1960 and March 2015, their biological activities and information on endiandric acid biosynthesis, with 104 references being cited.
Minimum Error Entropy Algorithms with Sparsity Penalty Constraints
Authors: Wu Zongze , Peng Siyuan , Ma Wentao , Chen Badong , Principe Jose
Published: May 2015

Recently, sparse adaptive learning algorithms have been developed to exploit system sparsity as well as to mitigate various noise disturbances in many applications. In particular, in sparse channel estimation, the parameter vector with sparsity characteristic can be well estimated from noisy measurements through a sparse adaptive filter. In previous studies, most works use the mean square error (MSE) based cost to develop sparse filters, which is rational under the assumption of Gaussian distributions. However, Gaussian assumption does not always hold in real-world environments. To address this issue, we incorporate in this work an l1-norm or a reweighted l1-norm into the minimum error entropy (MEE) criterion to develop new sparse adaptive filters, which may perform much better than the MSE based methods, especially in heavy-tailed non-Gaussian situations, since the error entropy can capture higher-order statistics of the errors. In addition, a new approximator of l0-norm, based on the correntropy induced metric (CIM), is also used as a sparsity penalty term (SPT). We analyze the mean square convergence of the proposed new sparse adaptive filters. An energy conservation relation is derived and a sufficient condition is obtained, which ensures the mean square convergence. Simulation results confirm the superior performance of the new algorithms.
Graded-Bandgap Solar Cells Using All-Electrodeposited ZnS, CdS and CdTe Thin-Films
Authors: Echendu Obi , Dharmadasa Imyhamy
Published: May 2015

A 3-layer graded-bandgap solar cell with glass/FTO/ZnS/CdS/CdTe/Au structure has been fabricated using all-electrodeposited ZnS, CdS and CdTe thin layers. The three semiconductor layers were electrodeposited using a two-electrode system for process simplification. The incorporation of a wide bandgap amorphous ZnS as a buffer/window layer to form glass/FTO/ZnS/CdS/CdTe/Au solar cell resulted in the formation of this 3-layer graded-bandgap device structure. This has yielded corresponding improvement in all the solar cell parameters resulting in a conversion efficiency >10% under AM1.5 illumination conditions at room temperature, compared to the 8.0% efficiency of a 2-layer glass/FTO/CdS/CdTe/Au reference solar cell structure. These results demonstrate the advantages of the multi-layer graded-bandgap device architecture over the conventional 2-layer structure. In addition, they demonstrate the effective application of the two-electrode system as a simplification to the conventional three-electrode system in the electrodeposition of semiconductors with the elimination of the reference electrode as a possible impurity source.
A Benchmark of Lidar-Based Single Tree Detection Methods Using Heterogeneous Forest Data from the Alpine Space
Authors: Eysn Lothar , Hollaus Markus , Lindberg Eva , Berger Frédéric , Monnet Jean-Matthieu , Dalponte Michele , Kobal Milan , Pellegrini Marco , Lingua Emanuele , Mongus Domen , Pfeifer Norbert
Published: May 2015

In this study, eight airborne laser scanning (ALS)-based single tree detection methods are benchmarked and investigated. The methods were applied to a unique dataset originating from different regions of the Alpine Space covering different study areas, forest types, and structures. This is the first benchmark ever performed for different forests within the Alps. The evaluation of the detection results was carried out in a reproducible way by automatically matching them to precise in situ forest inventory data using a restricted nearest neighbor detection approach. Quantitative statistical parameters such as percentages of correctly matched trees and omission and commission errors are presented. The proposed automated matching procedure presented herein shows an overall accuracy of 97%. Method based analysis, investigations per forest type, and an overall benchmark performance are presented. The best matching rate was obtained for single-layered coniferous forests. Dominated trees were challenging for all methods. The overall performance shows a matching rate of 47%, which is comparable to results of other benchmarks performed in the past. The study provides new insight regarding the potential and limits of tree detection with ALS and underlines some key aspects regarding the choice of method when performing single tree detection for the various forest types encountered in alpine regions.
Quantitative Analysis of the Usage of a Pedagogical Tool Combining Questions Listed as Learning Objectives and Answers Provided as Online Videos
Authors: Laneuville Odette , Sikora Dorota
Published: May 2015

To improve the learning of basic concepts in molecular biology of an undergraduate science class, a pedagogical tool was developed, consisting of learning objectives listed at the end of each lecture and answers to those objectives made available as videos online. The aim of this study was to determine if the pedagogical tool was used by students as instructed, and to explore students’ perception of its usefulness. A combination of quantitative survey data and measures of online viewing was used to evaluate the usage of the pedagogical practice. A total of 77 short videos linked to 11 lectures were made available to 71 students, and 64 completed the survey. Using online tracking tools, a total of 7046 views were recorded. Survey data indicated that most students (73.4%) accessed all videos, and the majority (98.4%) found the videos to be useful in assisting their learning. Interestingly, approximately half of the students (53.1%) always or most of the time used the pedagogical tool as recommended, and consistently answered the learning objectives before watching the videos. While the proposed pedagogical tool was used by the majority of students outside the classroom, only half used it as recommended limiting the impact on students’ involvement in the learning of the material presented in class.
Impulsivity and Reasons for Living Among African American Youth: A Risk-Protection Framework of Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Salami Temilola , Brooks Bianca , Lamis Dorian
Published: May 2015

This study aims to explore the impact of specific facets of impulsivity as measured by the UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale (UPPS), as well as reasons for living in predicting suicidal ideation among African American college-aged students. The incremental validity of each facet of the UPPS interacting with reasons for living, a construct meant to buffer against risk for suicide, was explored in a sample of African American students (N = 130; ages 18–24). Results revealed significant interactions between reasons for living and two factors of impulsivity, (lack of) premeditation and sensation seeking. Higher levels of sensation seeking and lack of premeditation in conjunction with lower reasons for living was associated with increased suicidal ideation. Neither urgency nor (lack of) perseverance significantly interacted with reasons for living in association with suicidal ideation. These results suggest including elements of impulsivity, specifically sensation seeking and (lack of) premeditation, when screening for suicidal ideation among African American youth. Future investigations should continue to integrate factors of both risk and protection when determining risk for suicide.
Heat Waves and Morbidity: Current Knowledge and Further Direction-A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Gu Shaohua , Bi Peng , Yang Jun , Liu Qiyong
Published: May 2015

In the past few decades, several devastating heat wave events have significantly challenged public health. As these events are projected to increase in both severity and frequency in the future, it is important to assess the relationship between heat waves and the health indicators that can be used in the early warning systems to guide the public health response. Yet there is a knowledge gap in the impact of heat waves on morbidity. In this study, a comprehensive review was conducted to assess the relationship between heat waves and different morbidity indicators, and to identify the vulnerable populations. The PubMed and ScienceDirect database were used to retrieve published literature in English from 1985 to 2014 on the relationship between heat waves and morbidity, and the following MeSH terms and keywords were used: heat wave, heat wave, morbidity, hospital admission, hospitalization, emergency call, emergency medical services, and outpatient visit. Thirty-three studies were included in the final analysis. Most studies found a short-term negative health impact of heat waves on morbidity. The elderly, children, and males were more vulnerable during heat waves, and the medical care demand increased for those with existing chronic diseases. Some social factors, such as lower socioeconomic status, can contribute to heat-susceptibility. In terms of study methods and heat wave definitions, there remain inconsistencies and uncertainties. Relevant policies and guidelines need to be developed to protect vulnerable populations. Morbidity indicators should be adopted in heat wave early warning systems in order to guide the effective implementation of public health actions.
Visfatin Mediates SCLC Cells Migration across Brain Endothelial Cells through Upregulation of CCL2
Authors: Liu Tingting , Miao Ziwei , Jiang Jiusheng , Yuan Shuai , Fang Wengang , Li Bo , Chen Yuhua
Published: May 2015

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is characterized as an aggressive tumor with brain metastasis. Although preventing SCLC metastasis to the brain is immensely important for survival, the molecular mechanisms of SCLC cells penetrating the blood–brain barrier (BBB) are largely unknown. Recently, visfatin has been considered as a novel pro-inflammatory adipocytokine involved in various cancers. Herein, we present evidence that elevated levels of visfatin in the serum of SCLC patients were associated with brain metastasis, and visfain was increased in NCI-H446 cells, a SCLC cell line, during interacting with human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC). Using in vitro BBB model, we found that visfatin could promote NCI-H446 cells migration across HBMEC monolayer, while the effect was inhibited by knockdown of visfatin. Furthermore, our findings indicated that CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) was involved in visfatin-mediated NCI-H446 cells transendothelial migtation. Results also showed that the upregulation of CCL2 in the co-culture system was reversed by blockade of visfatin. In particular, visfatin-induced CCL2 was attenuated by specific inhibitor of PI3K/Akt signaling in NCI-H446 cells. Taken together, we demonstrated that visfatin was a prospective target for SCLC metastasis to brain, and understanding the molecular mediators would lead to effective strategies for inhibition of SCLC brain metastasis.
Phenotype-Driven Plasma Biobanking Strategies and Methods
Authors: Bowton Erica , Collier Sarah , Wang Xiaoming , Sutcliffe Cara , Van Driest Sara , Couch Lindsay , Herrera Miguel , Jerome Rebecca , Slebos Robbert , Alborn William , Liebler Daniel , McNaughton Candace , Mernaugh Ray , Wells Quinn , Brown Nancy , Roden Dan , Pulley Jill
Published: May 2015

Biobank development and integration with clinical data from electronic medical record (EMR) databases have enabled recent strides in genomic research and personalized medicine. BioVU, Vanderbilt’s DNA biorepository linked to de-identified clinical EMRs, has proven fruitful in its capacity to extensively appeal to numerous areas of biomedical and clinical research, supporting the discovery of genotype-phenotype interactions. Expanding on experiences in BioVU creation and development, we have recently embarked on a parallel effort to collect plasma in addition to DNA from blood specimens leftover after routine clinical testing at Vanderbilt. This initiative offers expanded utility of BioVU by combining proteomic and metabolomic approaches with genomics and/or clinical outcomes, widening the breadth for potential research and subsequent future impact on clinical care. Here, we describe the considerations and components involved in implementing a plasma biobank program from a feasibility assessment through pilot sample collection.
Wear Performance of UHMWPE and Reinforced UHMWPE Composites in Arthroplasty Applications: A Review
Authors: Baena Juan , Wu Jingping , Peng Zhongxiao
Published: May 2015

As the gold standard material for artificial joints, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) generates wear debris when the material is used in arthroplasty applications. Due to the adverse reactions of UHMWPE wear debris with surrounding tissues, the life time of UHMWPE joints is often limited to 15–20 years. To improve the wear resistance and performance of the material, various attempts have been made in the past decades. This paper reviews existing improvements made to enhance its mechanical properties and wear resistance. They include using gamma irradiation to promote the cross-linked structure and to improve the wear resistance, blending vitamin E to protect the UHMWPE, filler incorporation to improve the mechanical and wear performance, and surface texturing to improve the lubrication condition and to reduce wear. Limitations of existing work and future studies are also identified.
Electrochemical Investigation of the Corrosion of Different Microstructural Phases of X65 Pipeline Steel under Saturated Carbon Dioxide Conditions
Authors: Yang Yuanfeng , Akid Robert
Published: May 2015

The aim of this research was to investigate the influence of metallurgy on the corrosion behaviour of separate weld zone (WZ) and parent plate (PP) regions of X65 pipeline steel in a solution of deionised water saturated with CO2, at two different temperatures (55 °C and 80 °C) and at initial pH~4.0. In addition, a non-electrochemical immersion experiment was also performed at 80 °C in CO2, on a sample portion of X65 pipeline containing part of a weld section, together with adjacent heat affected zones (HAZ) and parent material. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to evaluate the corrosion behaviour of the separate weld and parent plate samples. This study seeks to understand the significance of the different microstructures within the different zones of the welded X65 pipe in CO2 environments on corrosion performance; with particular attention given to the formation of surface scales; and their composition/significance. The results obtained from grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) measurements suggest that, post immersion, the parent plate substrate is scale free, with only features arising from ferrite (α-Fe) and cementite (Fe3C) apparent. In contrast, at 80 °C, GIXRD from the weld zone substrate, and weld zone/heat affected zone of the non-electrochemical sample indicates the presence of siderite (FeCO3) and chukanovite (Fe2CO3(OH)2) phases. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) on this surface confirmed the presence of characteristic discrete cube-shaped crystallites of siderite together with plate-like clusters of chukanovite.
Quantitative Evaluation of Contamination on Dental Zirconia Ceramic by Silicone Disclosing Agents after Different Cleaning Procedures
Authors: Wille Sebastian , Van Broeck Vincent , Strunskus Thomas , Faupel Franz , Kern Matthias
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cleaning procedures for air-abraded zirconia after contamination with two silicone disclosing agents. Air-abraded zirconia ceramic specimens (IPS e.max ZirCAD) were contaminated with either GC Fit Checker white or GC Fit Checker II. Untreated zirconia specimens were used as control. Afterwards the surfaces were cleaned either with waterspray or ultrasonically in 99% isopropanol or using a newly developed cleaning paste (Ivoclean). After cleaning X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was performed and the relative peak intensities of Zr, C and Si were used for a qualitative comparison of the residuals. There was no significant difference between the two different silicone disclosing agents. An additional cleaning step with isopropanol led to a significantly lower amount of residuals on the surface, but an additional cleaning process with Ivoclean did not reduce the amount of carbon residuals in comparison to the isopropanol cleaning. Just the silicone amount on the surface was reduced. None of the investigated cleaning processes removed all residuals from the contaminated surface. Standard cleaning processes do not remove all residuals of the silicone disclosing agent from the surface. This may lead to a failure of the resin-ceramic bonding.
Development and Characterization of Transcription Factor Gene-Derived Microsatellite (TFGM) Markers in Medicago truncatula and Their Transferability in Leguminous and Non-Leguminous Species
Authors: Liu Wenxian , Jia Xitao , Liu Zhimin , Zhang Zhengshe , Wang Yanrong , Liu Zhipeng , Xie Wengang
Published: May 2015

Transcription factors (TFs) are critical adaptor molecules that regulate many plant processes by controlling gene expression. The recent increase in the availability of TF data has made TFs a valuable resource for genic functional microsatellite marker development. In the present study, we developed TF gene-derived microsatellite (TFGM) markers for Medicago truncatula and assessed their cross-species transferability. A total of 203 SSRs were identified from 1467 M. truncatula TF coding sequences, 87.68% of which were trinucleotide repeats, followed by mono- (4.93%) and hexanucleotide repeats (1.48%). Further, 142 TFGM markers showed a high level of transferability to the leguminous (55.63%–85.21%) and non-leguminous (28.17%–50.00%) species. Polymorphisms of 27 TFGM markers were evaluated in 44 alfalfa accessions. The allele number per marker ranged from two to eight with an average of 4.41, and the PIC values ranged from 0.08 to 0.84 with an average of 0.60. Considering the high polymorphism, these TFGM markers developed in our study will be valuable for genetic relationship assessments, marker-assisted selection and comparative genomic studies in leguminous and non-leguminous species.
Design, Synthesis and Antitubercular Activity of Certain Nicotinic Acid Hydrazides
Authors: Eldehna Wagdy , Fares Mohamed , Abdel-Aziz Marwa , Abdel-Aziz Hatem
Published: May 2015

Three series of 6-aryl-2-methylnicotinohydrazides 4a–i, N′-arylidene-6-(4-bromophenyl)-2-methylnicotino hydrazides 7a–f, and N′-(un/substituted 2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-6-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-methylnicotinohydrazides 8a–c were synthesized and evaluated for their potential in vitro antimycobacterial activity against M. tuberculosis. The results showed that isatin hydrazides 8a–c are remarkably more active than the parent hydrazide 4c. Hydrazides 8b and 8c exhibited the highest activity among all the tested compounds (MIC = 12.5 and 6.25 µg/mL, respectively). Compounds 8b and 8c were also devoid of apparent cytotoxicity to HT-29, PC-3, A549, HepG2 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. Besides, 8b and 8c showed good drug-likeness scores of 0.62 and 0.41, respectively. Those two isatin hydrazides could offer an excellent framework for future development to obtain more potent antitubercular agents. The SAR study suggested that lipophilicity of the synthesized derivatives is a crucial element that accounts for their antimycobacterial activity. Finally, a theoretical kinetic study was established to predict the ADME of the active derivatives.
Effect of Extrusion Cooking on Bioactive Compounds in Encapsulated Red Cactus Pear Powder
Authors: Ruiz-Gutiérrez Martha , Amaya-Guerra Carlos , Quintero-Ramos Armando , Pérez-Carrillo Esther , Ruiz-Anchondo Teresita , Báez-González Juan , Meléndez-Pizarro Carmen
Published: May 2015

Red cactus pear has significant antioxidant activity and potential as a colorant in food, due to the presence of betalains. However, the betalains are highly thermolabile, and their application in thermal process, as extrusion cooking, should be evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of extrusion conditions on the chemical components of red cactus pear encapsulated powder. Cornstarch and encapsulated powder (2.5% w/w) were mixed and processed by extrusion at different barrel temperatures (80, 100, 120, 140 °C) and screw speeds (225, 275, 325 rpm) using a twin-screw extruder. Mean residence time (trm), color (L*, a*, b*), antioxidant activity, total polyphenol, betacyanin, and betaxanthin contents were determined on extrudates, and pigment degradation reaction rate constants (k) and activation energies (Ea) were calculated. Increases in barrel temperature and screw speed decreased the trm, and this was associated with better retentions of antioxidant activity, total polyphenol, betalain contents. The betacyanins k values ranged the −0.0188 to −0.0206/s and for betaxanthins ranged of −0.0122 to −0.0167/s, while Ea values were 1.5888 to 6.1815 kJ/mol, respectively. The bioactive compounds retention suggests that encapsulated powder can be used as pigments and to provide antioxidant properties to extruded products.