bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the chemical components of essential oil extracted by MAHD and SPME methods from two species of Salvia from Iran
Authors: Rastakhiz N. , Azar P. Aberoomand , Tehrani M. Saber , Moradalizadeh M. , Larijani K.
Published: February 2015

Salvia macrosiphon Boiss. and Salvia rhytidea Benth.  species  of  the  genus  Salvia which are  belong  to the  Lamiaceae  family. At  the  Present  report  deals  with the  analysis comparison of the essential oils from aerial parts of S. macrosiphon  and S. rhytidea  growing wild in Iran obtained by hydrodistillation (HD) , microware assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) and  solid phase micro extraction (SPME) procedures and the collected  essential oils was investigated by GC and GC-MS. The major compounds of essential oil of S. macrosiphon extracted by hydrodistillation were: Linalool(12.6%),Caryophyllene oxide(11.9%) , Octane(8.5%) and β-Eudesmol(7.1%). Also the main compounds of essential oil from S. macrosiphon extracted by microwave assisted hydrodistillation were: Caryophyllene oxide(21.8%) ,Linalool(18.8%) and β-Eudesmol (6.1%). In this study,the gas chromatogram was obtained of injection the essential oil from aerial parts of S.macrosiphon extracted by solid phase micro extraction ,was not helpful.   Chemical composition of volatile compounds from dried aerial parts of   Salvia rhytidea Benth. was extracted, by hydrodistillation and solid phase micro extraction methods but microwave assisted hydrodistillation method was not helpful . The major compounds of essential oil of S.rhytidea extracted by hydrodistillation were:Sabinene(12.8%),Spathulenol(12.4%),Germacren-D (6.7%) , β-Eudesmol (6.3%) and α - Cubebene(5.4%). Also the main compounds of essential oil from S. rhytidea extracted by solid phase micro extraction were: Sabinene (38.5%), Limonene(11.6%) , Myrcene (7.2%) and β-Pinene(5.5%).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12051 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 61-64
Silver nanoparticles loaded on activated carbon as a novels adsorbent for the competitive removal of Malachite green and Methylene blue
Authors: Tavakol Maryam , Azar Parviz Aberoomand , Tehrani Mohammad Saber , Ghaedi Mehrorang
Published: February 2015

In this study silver  nanoparticles by hydroxyl group (AgOH-NP) were synthesized and loaded on activated carbon prepared from Rosa canina tree (AgOH-NP-AC-RC). This new adsorbent was used for the removal of Malachite green and Methylene blue from aqueous medium.The morphological properties of the novel adsorbent were investigated by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FT-IR analysis. The removal both dyes in batch mode was investigated at various operating parameters like; contact time, initial pH, initial dye concentration and amount of adsorbents. The experimental equilibrium data were analyzed by using various models and it was seen that Freundlich isotherm model fitted well with adsorbtion capacity of 105 mg.g-1for Malachite green and 81.43 mg.g-1 for Methylene blue. The adsorption kinetic data followed pseudo second-order kinetics for removal both dyes.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12053 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 75-92
Screening of cellulase producing bacteria from tomato waste materials for lycopene extraction
Authors: Darijani Mojdeh , Kariminik Ashraf
Published: February 2015

Cellulase is one of the industrially important enzymes that has the ability to degrade cellulose. This enzyme is produced by a variety of microorganisms. It has numerous commercial applications like malting, wood processing, and preparation of denim fabrics in textile industries, maceration of protoplasts from plant tissues and de-inking process in recycling of printed papers. The aim of the present study was the isolation, identification and screening of extracellular cellulase producing bacteria with high cellulase activity from tomato waste materials and their identification by phenotypic, biochemical and molecular tests. Cellulose degrading bacteria were isolated after serial dilution preparation from tomato waste matraials and surface culturing on CMC agar medium. 40 bacteria were isolated. Bacteria were further identified by morphological, biochemical and molecular tests. All of the isolates were Gram positive endospore forming rods, thus they were identified as Bacillus sp. The obtained isolates were screened for cellulase production and lycopene extraction in submerged fermentation process. The best isolate was Bacillus axarquiensis strain CHMS1B6 based on molecular analysis. The bacteria was subjected to different optimum conditions include pH, temperature and time of incubation. The highest cellulase activity was obtained in pH 7 and the optimum temperature at 30°C after 72 hours incubation period. Our findings indicate that the tomato waste materials are as attractive sources for the study of novel cellulolytic bacteria and effective enzymes for cellulose biodegradation and lycopene extraction.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12055 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 43-47
Chemical constituents comparison of essential oils of aerial parts of Conium maculatum L. growing wild in Iran by hydrodistillation, microwave assisted hydrodistillation and solid phase microextraction methods
Authors: Rastakhiz N. , Azar P. Aberoomand , Tehrani M. Saber , Moradalizadeh M. , Larijani K.
Published: February 2015

The present report deals with the analysis comparison of the essential oils from aerial parts of Conium maculatum L. growing wild in Iran were obtained by hydrodistillation, microwave assisted hydrodistillation and solid phase microextraction methods and collected essential oils were analyzed by GC and GC-MS. The plant is a member of the Apiaceae family of rhizomal plant which are usually 120-180cm high. C. maculatum which is also called as Poison hemlock is refered to as one of the most toxic plants. The volatiles were isolated from dried aerial parts of the plant. Twenty two compounds were identified representing 73.8% of total volatiles obtained by HD and the major constituents of the essential oil were α-pinene(16.2%), camphene (9.9%), limonen(8.6%) and linalool(5.3%).Sixteen compounds were identified representing 74.6% of total oils obtained by MAHD and the main components were camphene(13.0%) , limonene(8.7%) , linalool(8.4%) and Fenchyl acetate(7.6%) .Nine compounds were identified representing 99.8% of total oils obtained by SPME and the main components were α-pinene(42.1%), sabinene(16.2%0), limonene ( 11.3%),camphene(9.5%) and myrcene(7.9%).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12056 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 48-50
Effect of Excess nickel On the Growth and Germination of Echium Amoenum (Fisch & CA Mey)
Authors: Abolghasemi Rezvan , Rajaei Peyman , Mohamadi Neda
Published: February 2015

Increasing environmental pollutant, especially heavy metals, is due to the industrialization of human societies. Nickel as one of the essential micronutrients in plants is necessary for normal plant growth and development but in high concentrations- As a heavy metal- exhibits toxicity. In this study the effect of different concentrations of Ni (0, 100, 300µM) was studied on germination, growth and some biochemical parameters of echium amouneum under controlled conditions. Based on these results, Ni had no significant effect on germination. In general, there was a decrease in growth parameters such as fresh and dry weights of aerial parts and roots, relative growth rate (RGR).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12060 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 33-38
Time to Evaluate Diabetes and Guide Health Research and Policy Innovation: The Diabetes Evaluation Framework (DEFINE)
Authors: Paquette-Warren Jann , Hayward Mariam Naqshbandi , Tompkins Jordan W. , Harris Stewart B.
Published: February 2015

Abstract: Many investments have been made to help address the rising prevalence and associated costs of diabetes, but there has been minimal evaluation to assess their value. A comprehensive literature review and five expert committee meetings were conducted to iteratively conceptualize and develop a Diabetes Evaluation Framework (DEFINE). Building on existing frameworks, DEFINE provides an evidence-based approach for evaluating diabetes. The framework is focused on guiding evaluation, building robust evidence, and fostering knowledge translation. DEFINE promotes comprehensive evaluation of initiatives targeting diabetes prevention and management, and will facilitate policy innovations to reduce the burden of diabetes.
Les défis de l’évaluation d'un programme d'intervention en contexte carcéral
Authors: Arseneault Catherine , Plourde Chantal , Alain Marc
Published: February 2015

Abstract: For Quebec's government, program evaluation is now regarded as a necessity in order for public organizations to monitor and improve their performance (Lalande, 2010). However, relatively few evaluations are conducted in prison, despite the significant needs (Cortoni & Lafortune, 2009). The numerous challenges facing researchers may partially explain their reluctance. This article deals with the challenges faced by a team of researchers in the evaluation of a specialized addiction program offered in a provincial prison and the strategies implemented to overcome those challenges.
Experimental phase diagram of the V–Si–Ho ternary system
Authors: Luo Hao , Tang Chenghuang , Zhang Bo , Yang Wenchao , Tang Hongqun , Zhan Yongzhong
Published: February 2015

The phase equilibria of the V–Si–Ho ternary system at 973 K were experimentally investigated by using X-ray powder diffraction and backscattered electron imaging with energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The existence of nine binary compounds, namely, V5Si3, V6Si5, VSi2, V3Si, HoSi2−b
, HoSi2−a
, HoSi, Ho5Si3 and Ho5Si4 was confirmed. The phases of HoSi (FeB) and Ho4Si5 were not found at 973 K. No binary compound was found in the V–Ho binary system. No ternary compound was found at 973 K in this system. The homogeneity range of V3Si was determined to be from 22 at.% to 25 at.% Si. The maximum solid solubility of Si in V is about 4 at.%.
Microstructural changes in Cu-5.8 at.% In alloy caused by high pressure torsion
Authors: Korneva Anna
Published: February 2015

Cu-5.8 at.% In alloy annealed at 380 °C for 400 h was subjected to high pressure torsion deformation at room temperature. Detailed microstructural studies were performed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as X-ray diffraction. High pressure torsion resulted in strong grain refinement of the Cu matrix (to the nm range), while there was no refinement or dissolution of δ-phase (Cu7In3). The volume fraction of δ-phase after straining remained almost unchanged, thus indicating its strong stability under high pressure torsion.
Rapid synthesis of Ag nanoparticles and Ag@SiO2 core–shells
Authors: Karimipour Masoud , Shabani Elahe , Molaei Mehdi
Published: February 2015

Ag nanoparticles were synthesized using microwave irradiation. Oleylamine was used as a stabilizer and capping agent, dimethylformamide as a reducing agent, and deionized water as a solvent. The subsequent use of functionalized Ag nanoparticles for microwave irradiation obtained Ag@SiO2 core–shell nanoparticles. UV–Vis spectroscopy shows a characteristic plasmon peak at 407 nm and 430 nm for Ag nanoparticles and Ag@SiO2 core–shells. Transmission electron microscope images show that Ag nanoparticles have an average size of 15 nm. It is also shown that the core–shell structure was formed with an average size of 100 nm for Ag core and 25 nm SiO2 shell thickness.
Evaluation of AASHTO Default Values for Pullout Friction Factor, F*, for Steel Grid Mat Reinforcement
Authors: Lawson William D. , Jayawickrama Priyantha W. , Wood Timothy A. , Surles James G.
Published: February 2015

This paper presents an evaluation of default AASHTO values for pullout friction factor, F*, for steel grid reinforcement versus measured pullout behavior determined from a laboratory program of 397 pullout tests on welded steel grid mats of various geometries. Within the context of internal stability analyses associated with mechanically stabilized earth wall design, the laboratory test program for this study established pullout friction factors for grid mats relative to several independent variables including backfill type, overburden pressure, reinforcement length, bar size, and grid geometry that included both transverse and longitudinal bar spacing. Appropriate statistical analyses were used to interpret the pullout test data relative to published AASHTO design guidance for inextensible reinforcements. As expected, the results show that pullout capacities for steel grid mats in properly compacted sandy and gravelly backfill are conservative compared with the default pullout friction factors provided by AASHTO. The data suggest that current AASHTO equations for pullout friction factor for steel grid reinforcement may not adequately capture the influence of transverse bar spacing, longitudinal bar spacing, and backfill particle size.
Strength and Creep Characteristics of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement–Sand Blend Backfill in Mechanically Stabilized Earth Walls
Authors: Bleakley Albert M. , Cosentino Paul J. , Kalajian Edward H. , Patel Mehul J.
Published: February 2015

Using reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) as a backfill for mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls provides both environmental and economic benefits by allowing in situ recycling for road widening projects. RAP, a well-drained granular material, has lower reinforcing strip pullout strength than A-3 sand and creeps under constant load. The objective of this research was to determine whether blending RAP with A-3 sand would improve RAP's performance in MSE applications. Laboratory specimens of 100% RAP, 100% A-3 sand, and 50% RAP–50% sand blends were compacted by the modified Proctor method and tested for vertical creep with one-dimensional oedometer compression tests at three stress levels to simulate different depths behind an MSE wall. Large-scale test pit testing was performed to determine reinforcing strip ultimate lateral pullout strength; pullout creep at 25%, 50%, and 75% of ultimate pullout; and vertical creep at the three overburden stress levels used in laboratory testing. RAP–sand blends had higher density, friction factors, and pullout strength and developed ultimate pullout strength at lower displacements than either 100% sand or 100% RAP. The RAP–sand blends exhibited more horizontal and vertical creep than 100% sand but significantly less creep than 100% RAP.
Field Test and Three-Dimensional Numerical Analysis of Soil–Steel Tunnel during Backfilling
Authors: Kunecki Bartlomiej
Published: February 2015

Flexible corrugated steel culverts have been used in engineering for many years, with the first application in 1931. Since then, the popularity of these structures has been increasing enormously. Soil–steel bridges are being more commonly used as road and railway tunnels, and the fire protection of such structures is becoming increasingly important. During summer 2012, a tunnel built of the steel corrugated sheets was constructed in the city of Karpacz in Poland. The structure served as a road tunnel under a ski slope. The 100-m-long tunnel is a metal open arch with a span of 11.15 m and a rise of 6.50 m. This paper presents the results of field measurements and numerical computations of the metal tunnel during the backfilling process. The main goal of the study was to evaluate the behavior of the structure subjected to an asymmetrical geostatic load during backfilling. The results of the field tests constituted the basis for assessing the accuracy of the numerical model. The experimental and numerical results are shown in the tables and graphs. Plans for future research connected with this type of structure are presented.
Long-Term Evaluation of Geosynthetic Reinforcement of Flexible Pavements Constructed over Thick Organic Soil Deposits
Authors: Greene James , Nazef Abdenour , Choubane Bouzid , Horhota David
Published: February 2015

Many regions throughout Florida have thick deposits of organic soil. Roadways built over these deposits often exhibit differential settlement, significant rut depths, and extensive cracks in a relatively short period of time. The Florida Department of Transportation constructed an experimental project on a realigned portion of State Road 15 on the southeastern shore of Lake Okeechobee in Palm Beach County to evaluate the effect of geosynthetic reinforcement on pavement performance. This roadway traverses farmlands with deep layers of organic material just beneath the surface and has a history of poor performance. The experimental project included four 500-ft sections with combinations of geogrids and geotextiles placed below the base and above the organic material. A fifth section of similar length was constructed with no geosynthetic reinforcement and served as a control. In addition to geosynthetic reinforcement, the alignment was surcharged before construction. The investigation showed that surcharging alone significantly improved the pavement performance compared with historical pavement condition and rehabilitation records. Geosynthetic reinforcement doubled the equivalent single-axle loads allowed on the unreinforced section. A rigid geogrid or woven geotextile placed below the base appeared to provide a slightly stiffer and better-performing pavement than a flexible geogrid. This paper documents the research program and provides details on the improvement resulting from surcharging and geosynthetic reinforcement.
Comparison of Full-Depth Reclamation with Foamed Asphalt and Full-Depth Reclamation with No Stabilizer in Accelerated Loading Test
Authors: Jones David , Wu Rongzong , Louw Stefan
Published: February 2015

Full-depth reclamation (FDR) with foamed asphalt has been successfully used as a rehabilitation strategy in California since 2001. Long-term field monitoring on several projects and a comprehensive laboratory study resulted in the preparation of guidelines and specification language in 2008. However, the design criteria were essentially empirical, in line with California design procedures for this level of rehabilitation project. Recently, there has been growing interest in the use of cement, engineered emulsion, and no-stabilizer full-depth reclamation strategies in addition to foamed asphalt and in the use of mechanistic design in rehabilitation projects. Consequently, the research initiative was extended to a second phase to include accelerated load testing on an instrumented test track constructed with these four FDR strategies to gather data for the development of performance models that can be included in mechanistic–empirical rehabilitation design procedures. This paper summarizes the results of the first two tests in this accelerated loading study, which compared no stabilizer and foamed asphalt–cement strategies. The foamed asphalt section outperformed the unstabilized section in all measured aspects. The most notable observation was in rutting performance: the unstabilized section reached a terminal rut depth of 13 mm after approximately 490,000 equivalent standard-axle loads had been applied, compared with the foamed asphalt and cement section, which had a rut depth of only 4.3 mm after more than 17.7 million equivalent standard-axle loads. No cracking was observed on either section. The advantages of using foamed asphalt with cement over unstabilized pulverized material are clearly evident from the results.
Effect of age and height position on physical and mechanical properties of rubber wood (Hevea brasiliensis) of Bangladesh
Authors: Majumdar MSM , Das AK , Shams MI , Chowdhury MQ
Published: February 2015

The physical and mechanical properties of rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) wood of Bangladesh of 20, 25 and 30-year age groups were studied. The moisture content of rubber wood was 63% and volumetric shrinkage was 7.43%. The green density and air-dry (12% moisture content) density of rubber wood from 30 years age class was 570 and 590 l.c./m3. Significant difference in moisture content, shrinkage and density was found among the different age classes and height positions. However, longitudinal shrinkage did not vary among the age classes. The MOE and MOR values (air dried) of rubber wood from 30 years age class was 9200 and 65.33 MPa. In most conditions, significant difference with age class and height positions was observed for mechanical properties. The maximum values were found at the bottom position of 30 years age group. On the other hand, the lowest values were observed in the top position of 20 years age group. The strength properties were lower than teak (Tectona grandis), but some strength properties were higher than mahogany (Switenia macrophylla). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22000 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 79-84, 2014
Flotation study on low-grade antimony ore of qilla abdullah, Balochistan, Pakistan
Authors: Bhatti MA , Kazmi KR , Mehmood A , Mehmood R , Ahad A , Akram A
Published: February 2015

A low-gradeantimony deposit originating from district Qilla Abdullah, Balochistan Province of Pakistan, containing stibnite as an economical mineral was beneficiated by froth flotation technique. Flotation parameters such as particle size of the feed, pulp density, pH of the pulp, agitation speed, type and dose of reagents (i.e. collector, frother, activator, regulator and modifier) and the conditioning time were studied on the basis of single-factor variation experiment in order to get the optimum grade and recovery. Regrinding of the rougher concentrate followed by cleaning andrecleaning of rougher concentrateensured a final concentrate grade of 65.12% Sb@ 85.79% recovery. This concentrate is suitable for the extraction of metal and production of chemicals. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22003 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 95-102, 2014
Angle resolver X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis of the passive film of the corrosion-resistant W-32Zr alloy in 12 M HCl solution
Authors: Bhattarai Jagadeesh
Published: February 2015

The sputter-deposited amorphous W-32Zr alloy was passivated spontaneously and showed a fairly high corrosion resistance in 12 M HCl solution in open air at 30°C. The average corrosion rate of the W-32Zr alloy (i.e., 5.2 × 10-3 mm/y) was found to be lower than those of alloy-constituting tungsten and zirconium elements. Such synergistic effects of simultaneous addition of tungsten and zirconium in the W32Zr alloy was investigated by corrosion tests, electrochemical measurements and angle resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (ARXPS) analyses. High corrosion resistance of the binary W32Zr alloy is mostly due to the formation of homogeneous passive oxyhydroxide film consisting of Wox and Zr4+ cations with a small concentration gradient indepth from ARXPS analysis. Consequently, zirconium metal acts synergistically with tungsten in enhancing the anodic passivity as well as the corrosion resistance properties of the sputterdeposited W32Zr alloy in 12 M HCl solution open to air at 30°C. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22004 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 103-110, 2014
Adsorption of remazol red RR onto chitosan from aqueous solution
Authors: Kabir Md Pabel , Islam Md Manuarul , Masum Shah Md , Hossain Md Mufazzal
Published: February 2015

Chitosan has been used as an adsorbent to remove remazol red RR from aqueous solution by adsorption. The experiments have been conducted to study the effects of initial concentration of adsorbate, temperature, pH and particle size on dye adsorption. The kinetic data obtained have been examined using pseudo first- and pseudo second-order equations. The equilibrium adsorption data have been studied by using Freundlich and Langmuir models. The best results have been achieved with the pseudo second-order kinetic model and with the Langmuir equilibrium isotherm model. The equilibrium adsorption capacity (qe) of chitosan increases with increasing the initial concentration of dye, temperature and with decreasing particle size. However, the highest adsorption capacity has been found at a pH about 5.4. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity, qe = 155.72 mg/g has been found at the optimum conditions. The activation energy (Ea) of sorption kinetics is about 9.25 kJ/mol. Thermodynamic parameters such as change in free energy (?G), enthalpy (?H) and entropy (?S) have also been evaluated. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22005 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 111-118, 2014
Efficacy of Trichoderma spp. and fungicides against Lasiodiplodia theobromae
Authors: Bhadra Mousumi , Khair Abul , Hossain Md Anawar , Sikder Md Maniruzzaman
Published: February 2015

Experiments were carried out to find out the bio-efficacy of four Trichoderma species, viz. Trichoderma harzianum, T.koningii, T.viride (green strain), T.viride (yellow strain) against canker pathogen Lasiodiplodia theobromae. Bioassay of antagonist against test pathogens conducted by dual culture techniques at different temperatures; volatile, non volatile and naturally untreated metabolites of isolates were examined. T. koningii and T.viride (yellow strain) exhibited maximum inhibition in controlling the pathogens. Fungicides, viz. Bavistin and Dithane M-45 used where Bavistin found little effective but Dithane M-45 showed no effects on pathogen. Trichoderma viride showed better performance to control Lasiodiplodia theobromae than commercial fungicides used during present investigation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22008 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 125-130, 2014
The role of continuing training motivation for work ability and the desire to work past retirement age
Authors: Büsch Victoria , Brusch Michael , Thieme Paula
Published: February 2015

Germany, relying on a pay-as-you-go pension system has increased regular retirement age to 67 due to its ageing population caused by decreasing birth rates and increasing life expectancy. Using data from the nationally representative 'Survey on continuing in employment in pensionable age', we investigate the relevance of training motivation for work ability and the desire to work past retirement age and whether differences between social groups reflect inequalities in training participation. Results show significant positive correlations between continuing training motivation and work ability and desire to work past retirement age. Differentiated for selected respondent groups the level of qualification has a significant influence. This effect was stronger than any differences with regard to gender or employment participation. Results imply external conditions only partly explain older workers' work ability or desire to work past retirement age. Compared to inequalities in training participation, motivation for continuing training is high across analysed subgroups.
The Newly Found Petroglyphs in the Western Kermanshah
Authors: Lahafian Jamal
Published: February 2015

Recent field works have shown a great potential of rock art in western Iran, particularly in Kermanshah province. This paper has been prepared based on recent fieldwork, which has resulted in identifying new clusters of petroglyphs at the western part of Kermanshah province. Several rock art sites have been identified in Bi-Ravas, Havar Poinrhis in north of Paveh, the rock art to the west of Paveh and the petroglyphs of Ryjab or Ryjav village. The depictions include anthropomorphs, zoomorphs, geometric forms and cupules. A remarkable characteristic of the rock art in the region is the considerable number of cupules, which were identified in Bi-Ravas, North of Paveh and Ryjab village. Only one specimen of a purported hunting scene has been recognized in Biravas, where a primary chronology could be made with regard to the depiction of a horse-like animal, which has been illustrated with a harness. More fieldwork will be required in order to shed more light on the rock art of western Kermanshah.
A Long-Range Foresight for the Medical Application of Apoptosis Specifically Induced by Dd-MRP4, Dictyostelium Mitochondrial Ribosomal Protein S4, to Cancer Therapy
Authors: Maeda Yasuo
Published: February 2015

Apoptosis (programmed cell death) is regarded as ultimate differentiation of the cell. We have recently demonstrated that a targeted delivery of Dd-MRP4 (Dictyostelium mitochondrial ribosomal protein S4) suppresses specifically the proliferation of the human cancer cells, by inducing their apoptotic cell death (Chida et al., 2014, doi:10.1186/1475-2867-14-56). This amazing fact was discovered, simply based on the finding that Dd-MRP4 expression is absolutely required for transition of Dictyostelium cells from growth to differentiation (Chida et al., 2008, doi:10.1186/1471-2156-9-25; Maeda et al., 2013, doi:10.3390/biom3040943). Dd-MRP4 protein has quite unique structural characters, in that it is highly basic (pI: about 11.5) and interestingly has several nuclear-localization signals within the molecule. In this review, we introduce briefly the efficacy of several apoptosis-inducing substances reported thus far for cancer therapy, and speculate the possible mechanisms, by which apoptosis is specifically induced by Dd-MRP4, on the basis of its structural uniqueness. We also discuss several issues to be solved for the medical application of ectopically expressed Dd-MRP4 in human cancer cells.
Complex of MUC1, CIN85 and Cbl in Colon Cancer Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Cascio Sandra , Finn Olivera
Published: February 2015

We previously reported that CIN85, an 85 KDa protein known to be involved in tumor cell migration and metastasis through its interaction with Cbl, associates with MUC1 in tumor cells. MUC1/CIN85 complex also regulates migration and invasion of tumor cells in vitro. Here, we examined specifically human colon carcinoma tissue microarrays (TMA) by immunohistochemistry for the expression of MUC1 and CIN85 and their potential role in cancer progression and metastasis. We detected a significant increase in expression of both MUC1 and CIN85 associated with advanced tumor stage and lymph node metastasis. We further investigated if Cbl could also be present in the MUC1/CIN85 complex. Co-immunoprecipitation assay showed that Cbl co-localized both with CIN85 and with MUC1 in a human colon cancer cell line. To begin to investigate the in vivo relevance of MUC1 overexpression and association with CIN85 and Cbl in cancer development and progression, we used human MUC1 transgenic mice that express MUC1 on the colonic epithelial cells, treated with azoxymethane to initiate and dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS) to promote colorectal carcinogenesis. MUC1.Tg mice showed higher tumor incidence and decreased survival when compared with wild-type mice. Consistent with the in vitro data, the association of MUC1, CIN85 and Cbl was detected in colon tissues of AOM/DSS-treated MUC1 transgenic mice. MUC1/CIN85/Cbl complex appears to contribute to promotion and progression of colon cancer and thus increased expression of MUC1, CIN85 and Cbl in early stage colon cancer might be predictive of poor prognosis.
The Association of Weather Variability and Under Five Malaria Mortality in KEMRI/CDC HDSS in Western Kenya 2003 to 2008: A Time Series Analysis
Authors: Sewe Maquins , Rocklöv Joacim , Williamson John , Hamel Mary , Nyaguara Amek , Odhiambo Frank , Laserson Kayla
Published: February 2015

Malaria is among the leading causes of mortality in the younger under-five group of children zero to four years of age. This study aims at describing the relationship between rainfall and temperature on under-five malaria or anaemia mortality in Kenya Medical Research Institute and United States Centers for Disease Control (KEMRI/CDC) Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS). This study was conducted through the ongoing KEMRI and CDC collaboration. A general additive model with a Poisson link function was fit to model the weekly association of lagged cumulative rainfall and average temperature on malaria/anemia mortality in KEMRI/CDC HDSS for the period 2003 to 2008. A trend function was included in the model to control for time trends and seasonality not explained by weather fluctuations. 95% confidence intervals was presented with estimates. Malaria or anemia mortality was found to be associated with changes in temperature and rainfall in the KEMRI HDSS, with a delay up to 16 weeks. The empirical estimates of associations describe established biological relationships well. This information, and particularly, the strength of the relationships over longer lead times can highlight the possibility of developing a predictive forecast with lead times up to 16 weeks in order to enhance preparedness to high transmission episodes.
Method for Aluminum Oxide Thin Films Prepared through Low Temperature Atomic Layer Deposition for Encapsulating Organic Electroluminescent Devices
Authors: Li Hui-Ying , Liu Yun-Fei , Duan Yu , Yang Yong-Qiang , Lu Yi-Nan
Published: February 2015

Preparation of dense alumina (Al2O3) thin film through atomic layer deposition (ALD) provides a pathway to achieve the encapsulation of organic light emitting devices (OLED). Unlike traditional ALD which is usually executed at higher reaction n temperatures that may affect the performance of OLED, this application discusses the development on preparation of ALD thin film at a low temperature. One concern of ALD is the suppressing effect of ambient temperature on uniformity of thin film. To mitigate this issue, the pumping time in each reaction cycle was increased during the preparation process, which removed reaction byproducts and inhibited the formation of vacancies. As a result, the obtained thin film had both high uniformity and density properties, which provided an excellent encapsulation performance. The results from microstructure morphology analysis, water vapor transmission rate, and lifetime test showed that the difference in uniformity between thin films prepared at low temperatures, with increased pumping time, and high temperatures was small and there was no obvious influence of increased pumping time on light emitting performance. Meanwhile, the permeability for water vapor of the thin film prepared at a low temperature was found to reach as low as 1.5 × 10−4 g/(m2·day) under ambient conditions of 25 °C and 60% relative humidity, indicating a potential extension in the lifetime for the OLED.
Al2O3/ZrO2/Y3Al5O12 Composites: A High-Temperature Mechanical Characterization
Authors: Palmero Paola , Pulci Giovanni , Marra Francesco , Valente Teodoro , Montanaro Laura
Published: February 2015

An Al2O3/5 vol%·ZrO2/5 vol%·Y3Al5O12 (YAG) tri-phase composite was manufactured by surface modification of an alumina powder with inorganic precursors of the second phases. The bulk materials were produced by die-pressing and pressureless sintering at 1500 °C, obtaining fully dense, homogenous samples, with ultra-fine ZrO2 and YAG grains dispersed in a sub-micronic alumina matrix. The high temperature mechanical properties were investigated by four-point bending tests up to 1500 °C, and the grain size stability was assessed by observing the microstructural evolution of the samples heat treated up to 1700 °C. Dynamic indentation measures were performed on as-sintered and heat-treated Al2O3/ZrO2/YAG samples in order to evaluate the micro-hardness and elastic modulus as a function of re-heating temperature. The high temperature bending tests highlighted a transition from brittle to plastic behavior comprised between 1350 and 1400 °C and a considerable flexural strength reduction at temperatures higher than 1400 °C; moreover, the microstructural investigations carried out on the re-heated samples showed a very limited grain growth up to 1650 °C.
New Insights on the Terpenome of the Red Seaweed Laurencia dendroidea (Florideophyceae, Rhodophyta)
Authors: De Oliveira Louisi , Tschoeke Diogo , De Oliveira Aline , Hill Lilian , Paradas Wladimir , Salgado Leonardo , Thompson Cristiane , Pereira Renato , Thompson Fabiano
Published: February 2015

The red seaweeds belonging to the genus Laurencia are well known as halogenated secondary metabolites producers, mainly terpenoids and acetogennins. Several of these chemicals exhibit important ecological roles and biotechnological applications. However, knowledge regarding the genes involved in the biosynthesis of these compounds is still very limited. We detected 20 different genes involved in the biosynthesis of terpenoid precursors, and 21 different genes coding for terpene synthases that are responsible for the chemical modifications of the terpenoid precursors, resulting in a high diversity of carbon chemical skeletons. In addition, we demonstrate through molecular and cytochemical approaches the occurrence of the mevalonate pathway involved in the biosynthesis of terpenes in L. dendroidea. This is the first report on terpene synthase genes in seaweeds, enabling further studies on possible heterologous biosynthesis of terpenes from L. dendroidea exhibiting ecological or biotechnological interest.
Ring-Opening Polymerization of ε-Caprolactone Initiated by Ganciclovir (GCV) for the Preparation of GCV-Tagged Polymeric Micelles
Authors: Sawdon Alicia , Peng Ching-An
Published: February 2015

Ganciclovir (GCV) is a nucleoside analogue with antiviral activity against herpes viral infections, and the most widely used antiviral to treat cytomegalovirus infections. However, the low bioavailability and short half-life of GCV necessitate the development of a carrier for sustained delivery. In this study, guanosine-based GCV was used as the initiator directly in ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone (ε-CL) to form hydrophobic GCV-poly(caprolactone) (GCV-PCL) which was then grafted with hydrophilic chitosan to form amphiphilic copolymers for the preparation of stable micellar nanoparticles. Successful synthesis of GCV-PCL and GCV-PCL-chitosan were verified by 1H-NMR analysis. Self-assembled micellar nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering and zetasizer with an average size of 117 nm and a positive charge of 24.2 mV. The drug release kinetics of GCV was investigated and cytotoxicity assay demonstrated that GCV-tagged polymeric micelles were non-toxic. Our results showed that GCV could be used directly in the initiation of ring-opening polymerization of ε-CL and non-toxic polymeric micelles for GCV delivery can be formed.
Regional Equivalent Water Thickness Modeling from Remote Sensing across a Tree Cover/LAI Gradient in Mediterranean Forests of Northern Tunisia
Authors: Chakroun Hedia , Mouillot Florent , Hamdi Abdelaziz
Published: February 2015

The performance of vegetation indexes derived from moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensors is explored for drought monitoring in the forests of Northern Tunisia; representing a transition zone between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert. We investigated the suitability of biomass and moisture vegetation indexes for vegetation water content expressed by the equivalent water thickness (EWT) in a Mediterranean forest ecosystem with contrasted water budgets and desiccation rates. We proposed a revised EWT at canopy level (EWTCAN) based on weekly field measurements of fuel moisture in seven species during the 2010 dry period; considering the mixture of plant functional types for water use (trees; shrubs and herbaceous layers) and a varying vegetation cover. MODIS vegetation indexes computed and smoothed over the dry season were highly correlated with the EWTCAN. The performances of moisture indexes (Normalized Difference Infrared Index (NDII6 and NDII7); and Global Moisture Vegetation Index (GVMI6 and GVMI7)) were comparable; whereas; for biomass vegetation indexes; Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI); Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI) and Adjusted Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (ANDVI) performed better than Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI). We also identified the effect of Leaf Area Index (LAI) on EWTCAN monitoring at the regional scale under the tree cover/LAI gradient of the region from relatively dense to open forest. Statistical analysis revealed a significant decreasing linear relationship; indicating that for LAI less than two; the greater the LAI; the less responsive are the vegetation indexes to changes in EWTCAN; whereas for higher LAI; its influence becomes less significant and was not considered in the inversion models based on vegetation indexes. The EWTCAN time-course from LAI-adapted inversion models; based on significantly-related vegetation indexes to EWTCAN; showed close profiles resulting from the inversion models using NDVI; ANDVI; MSAVI and NDII6 applied during the dry season. The developed EWTCAN model from MODIS vegetation indexes for the study region was finally tested for its ability to capture the topo-climatic effects on the seasonal and the spatial patterns of desiccation/rewetting for keystone periods of Mediterranean vegetation functioning. Implications for further use in scientific developments or management are discussed.
The Effects of Parental Divorce on the Intergenerational Transmission of Crime
Authors: Van de Weijer Steve , Thornberry Terence , Bijleveld Catrien , Blokland Arjan
Published: February 2015

This study first examines the effects of parental divorce and paternal crime on offspring offending. Then, it tests whether parental divorce moderates the intergenerational transmission of crime. Diversity within the offending population is taken into account by examining whether effects are different for fathers who commit crimes at different points of the life-course and by distinguishing between violent and non-violent offending. A sample of 2374 individuals from three consecutive generations from 198 Dutch families was used. The results show that parental divorce increases offspring non-violent offending, but does not increase offspring violence after controlling for parental violence. Moreover, the intergenerational transmission of violence is moderated by parental divorce: empirical evidence for intergenerational transmission of violence is only found for children who did not experience parental divorce during their youth. This moderating effect of parental divorce is even stronger if the father committed violent crimes during the child’s youth. The moderating influence of parental divorce on the intergenerational transmission of non-violent crime is less clear, and the effects are overall stronger for violent crime than for non-violent crime. These results suggest that social learning mechanisms play an important role in the intergenerational transmission of violent crime, although genetic influences cannot be ruled out.
Negative Emotional Energy: A Theory of the “Dark-Side” of Interaction Ritual Chains
Authors: Boyns David , Luery Sarah
Published: February 2015

Randall Collins’ theory of interaction ritual chains is widely cited, but has been subject to little theoretical elaboration. One reason for the modest expansion of the theory is the underdevelopment of the concept of emotional energy. This paper examines emotional energy, related particularly to the dynamics of negative experiences. It asks whether or not negative emotions produce emotional energies that are qualitatively distinct from their positive counterparts. The analysis begins by tracing the development of Interaction Ritual Theory, and summarizes its core propositions. Next, it moves to a conceptualization of a “valenced” emotional energy and describes both “positive” and “negative” dimensions. Six propositions outline the central dynamics of negative emotional energy. The role of groups in the formation of positive and negative emotional energy are considered, as well as how these energies are significant sources of sociological motivation.
What Is a Friend? An Exploratory Typology of the Meanings of Friendship
Authors: Policarpo Verónica
Published: February 2015

In this article I explore the contemporary normative meanings of friendship, unpacking the subject through two different questions: “what is a good friend?” and “what is an intimate friend?” Drawing on survey data from a national representative sample (n = 1142), the topic is explored in the context of a southern European country (Portugal) that represents an interesting case study, for its characteristics of late, though abrupt, entrance into late modernity. Statistical analysis of the results enabled the construction of an exploratory typology of representations of friendship, according to the meanings ascribed to friends: family-oriented; trust-oriented; self-oriented; and presence-oriented. Results inspire a two-folded interpretation. On the one hand, they point to a pervasiveness of hegemonic representations such as friendship as trust and self-disclosure, namely among the younger and more educated. On the other hand, they highlight the pervasiveness of kinship ties in the definition of friendship, namely among the elderly and less educated. This suggests that patterns of suffusion may not only refer to more individualized and plural arrangements of personal life, but also to the persistence of more traditional representations and practices, characterized by an ideological commitment to the family in its more institutional forms.
A Stepwise, Participatory Approach to Design and Implement Community Based Adaptation to Drought in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Lasage Ralph , Muis Sanne , Sardella Carolina , Van Drunen Michiel , Verburg Peter , Aerts Jeroen
Published: February 2015

The livelihoods of people in the Andes are expected to be affected by climate change due to their dependence on glacier water. The observed decrease in glacier volume over the last few decades is likely to accelerate during the current century, which will affect water availability in the region. This paper presents an approach for participatory development of community-based adaptation measures to cope with the projected impacts of climate change. It combines in an innovative manner participatory design with physical measurements, modeling and a vulnerability analysis. Vulnerability to drought is made operational for households in a catchment of the Ocoña River basin in Peru. On the basis of a household survey (n = 94) we explore how a vulnerability index (risk divided by response efficacy) can be used to assess the distribution of vulnerability over households, and how socio-economic factors determine this vulnerability. Water entitlement, area of irrigated land, income and education are all significantly correlated with vulnerability to drought. The research showed that the main source of spring water is local rainwater, and that water use efficiency is low. The selected adaptation measures aimed to increase water availability close to farmland, and increase water use efficiency of farmers and households.
Further Characterization of Glycine-Containing Microcystins from the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica
Authors: Puddick Jonathan , Prinsep Michèle , Wood Susanna , Cary Stephen , Hamilton David , Holland Patrick
Published: February 2015

Microcystins are hepatotoxic cyclic peptides produced by several cyanobacterial genera worldwide. In 2008, our research group identified eight new glycine-containing microcystin congeners in two hydro-terrestrial mat samples from the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Eastern Antarctica. During the present study, high-resolution mass spectrometry, amino acid analysis and micro-scale thiol derivatization were used to further elucidate their structures. The Antarctic microcystin congeners contained the rare substitution of the position-1 ᴅ-alanine for glycine, as well as the acetyl desmethyl modification of the position-5 Adda moiety (3S-amino-9S-methoxy-2S,6,8S-trimethyl-10-phenyldeca-4E,6E-dienoic acid). Amino acid analysis was used to determine the stereochemistry of several of the amino acids and conclusively demonstrated the presence of glycine in the microcystins. A recently developed thiol derivatization technique showed that each microcystin contained dehydrobutyrine in position-7 instead of the commonly observed N-methyl dehydroalanine.