bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPATIAL DIFFERENTIATION OF CHANGES IN THE TOTAL PRODUCTIVITY OF AGRICULTURE IN POLAND IN THE YEARS 2005-2014
Authors: Nowak Anna
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the changes in total productivity of agriculture in 16 regions of Poland after its accession to the European Union, i.e. in the years 2005-2014. The changes were studied using a non-parametric method based on the Malmquist index of productivity supplemented with decomposition into technological changes and changes in technical efficiency. The results showed that in the studied period the average total productivity of agriculture increased by 5%. In particular regions also an increase in the total productivity of this sector was observed. It ranged from 1.8% in Podkarpackie province to 8% in Pomorskie province. The source of improved productivity in all regions was positive technological changes, whereas an increase in technical efficiency contributed to improvement in productivity in 11 regions. In two of the regions technical efficiency did not show any changes (Wielkopolskie, Zachodniopomorskie), and in three of them (Dolny Śląsk, Lubuskie, Podkarpackie) the changes had a destimulating effect on the improvement in total productivity.
THE ROLE OF SUBSIDIES FOR COWS AND OTHER CATTLE
IN THE POLISH SYSTEM DIRECT PAYMENTS IN THE DEVELOPMENT
OF THE DAIRY SECTOR
Authors: Parzonko Andrzej
Published: April 2017

The main objectives of the paper are: 1) to present information on the number and structure of
applications for subsidies for dairy cows and other cattle in 2015 in Poland; 2) economic evaluation of
the system of subsidies for cows and other cattle in Poland; 3) to propose changes in the implemented
system of subsidies to cattle. There were 27 461 farms, which only had 3 cows and applied for payments
to these animals. This was up 16.9% of all farms applying for payments to cows. The proposed limits of
the size of herds deducted subsidies are unclear (they are not supported by any economic arguments) and
do not stimulate the growth of milk production in Poland.
THE METHODS OF FINANCING INNOVATION IN FOOD INDUSTRY
OF PODLASKIE PROVINCE
Authors: Szwacka-Mokrzycka Joanna , Miara Adam
Published: April 2017

The guiding objective of this article was to present the undertaken innovations and sources of their
financing by the food industry from Podlaskie province. Prospects for economic development of the
provinces depend on the capacity to raise the level of innovation in enterprises. Innovation processes
in Poland, is accompanied by considerable variation between regions. The creation of the absorption
innovation processes in the region often require the support of external institutions. They fulfill in this
process a role financier institutions of innovation proinnovative attitudes and actions. The basic instrument
of these institutions in the financing of innovation are grants. The analysis was based on the literature’
review and primary data. As a conclusion could be stated that the level of innovation in food industry
enterprises from the Podlasie province is very high, to what largely contributed the EU funds is very high
what largely contribute EU funds.
INVESTMENT DIFFERENTIATION IN FARMS BELONGING TO MAZOWSZE AND PODLASIE FADN REGION IN THE YEARS 2010-2014
Authors: Zalewski Krzyszof , Bórawski Piotr , Bełdycka-Bórawska Aneta
Published: April 2017

The paper presents the diversity of investments in agricultural holdings belonging to FADN region of Mazowsze and Podlasie in the 2010-2014. To carry out the study the gross and net investment (FADN SE516 and SE521 variable) and the investment subsidies (SE406 variable) were used. The research shows that farms in FADN Mazowsze and Podlasie region have been intensively investing. Their value, however, varied depending on the type of farm and economic size. Field crops (cereals, oilseed and seed crops) reached the highest level of investment in 2010-2014. At the same time, research has confirmed that the economic size of farms directly affects the level of investment in these holdings (higher economic size - higher level of investment).
SOLAR ENERGY IN THE UE – STATE OF THE ART AND DEVELOPMENT
TRENDS
Authors: Gradziuk Piotr
Published: April 2017

The structure of acquisition of energy from renewable sources in the EU shows that till now biomass was of the greatest
importance, it is generally available and may be used for direct combustion (e.g. wood, straw, sewage sludge), processed into
liquid fuels (e.g. rapeseed oil esters, alcohol), or gaseous fuel (e.g. agricultural biogas, biogas from WWTP, dumping site gas).
However, its share declined, with wind and solar energy gaining significance. The main reason was not only to subsidize the
development of these sectors, but also to lower costs and higher energy efficiency, mainly photovoltaic and solar installations.
The purpose of the research was to identify changes and dynamics of development of this energy sector. On the basis of developed
models of development tendencies, which were characterized by the ability to explain the described phenomena, projections
of renewable energy generation in the EU were presented up to 2030. From the presented research it is expected that by 2030
solar power will become the main supplier of renewable energy.
The role of different PI-RADS versions in prostate multiparametric magnetic resonance tomography assessment
Authors: Aliukonis Paulius , Letauta Tadas , Briedienė Rūta , Naruševičiūtė Ieva , Letautienė Simona
Published: April 2017

Background. Standardised Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) guidelines for the assessment of prostate alterations were designed for the assessment of prostate pathology. Published by the ESUR in 2012, PI-RADS v1 was based on the total score of different MRI sequences with subsequent calculation. PI-RADS v2 was published by the American College of Radiology in 2015 and featured different assessment criteria for prostate peripheral and transitory zones.
Aim. To assess the correlations of PI-RADS v1 and PI-RADS v2 with Gleason score values and to define their predictive values of the diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Materials and methods. A  retrospective analysis of 66 patients. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) value and the  Gleason score (GS) were assessed. One the most malignant focal lesion was selected in the peripheral zone of each lobe of the prostate (91 in total). Statistical analysis was carried out applying SPSS software, v.23, p
Individual Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy for palliative cancer patients in Lithuania. A case report
Authors: Sutkevičiūtė Meda , Stančiukaitė Monika , Bulotienė Giedrė
Published: April 2017

Patients with oncological diseases, especially palliative care patients, suffer from physical and psychological difficulties. The quality of life of such patients is bad, they do not have purpose to live and they feel anxiety and distress. In 1959 Victor Frankl wrote the book Man’s Search for Meaning in which he stated that the driving force of human life lay in the ability to discern the  meaning of faith and spirituality. Inspired by Frankl’s ideas, the American psychiatrist William Breitbart with colleagues have developed both an individual and group model of Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy. Studies show that this therapy helps patients to cope with distress, to discover the  meaning of life in palliative care patients, and to find the  strength to look at life positively; also, it relieves the  symptoms of illness. The  Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy is integrated in various countries and has recently been initiated for palliative patients in Lithuania. The individual Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy was used in the case reviewed in this paper.
Tendencias de información de Wikipedia en categoría de Artículos Destacados desde la perspectiva de su obsolescencia
Authors: Tarango Javier , Ascencio-Baca Gerardo , Romo-González José Refugio , Gutiérrez-Balderrama Juan Pablo
Published: April 2017

Este artículo estudia de forma descriptiva las tendencias de comportamiento bibliométrico de la información contenida en Wikipedia, de aquellos documentos en categoría de Artículos Destacados en español, con el objetivo de demostrar la condición de suficiencia en validez científica según su nivel de obsolescencia. Para esto, se accedió durante 2015 a identificar, según su última modificación, un total de 30,524 documentos en 21 temas generales, de las cuales 28,187 (92.34%) fueron alterados por última vez en 2013 y 2,337 unidades (7.66%) experimentaron últimos cambios en 2012. Para su análisis, se aplicó el modelo de crecimiento y envejecimiento de la literatura en ciencia y tecnología, tanto de forma sincrónica (por tema), como asincrónica (usando agrupaciones temáticas por áreas de conocimiento según una clasificación específica); en ambos casos, se midió su comportamiento en cuanto al índice de envejecimiento, vida media y relación de referencias operativas-referencias de archivo de la información identificada.
Écriture des pratiques et remaniements subjectifs de la position professionnelle
Authors: Geffard Patrick , Dubois Arnaud
Published: April 2017

En France comme au Québec, les objectifs de formation des professionnels de l’éducation sont énoncés dans des référentiels de compétences. Le référentiel français s’inspire de la figure du « praticien réflexif » (Schön, 1983). Cet article présente un dispositif de formation insistant sur les interactions entre étudiants par des groupes d’écriture des pratiques, une correspondance inter-étudiants et des « institutions coopératives ». En analysant des matériaux recueillis à fin de recherche durant la formation, sont proposées des hypothèses de compréhension concernant les déplacements subjectifs des étudiants et les capacités du dispositif à favoriser une appropriation adéquate de la position professionnelle.
Appréhender le développement d’un discours d’expérience sur le travail en accompagnement VAE : vers une analyse des mouvements dialogiques, relationnels, contextuels et interprétatifs
Authors: Rémery Vanessa
Published: April 2017

La contribution rend compte des résultats d’une recherche conduite dans un organisme de formation aux métiers socio-éducatifs auprès de plusieurs conseillers en Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience. A partir d’une observation ethnographique, nous nous intéressons à l’activité de ces conseillers au cours des entretiens menés avec les candidats qu’ils accompagnent. Plus spécifiquement, nous cherchons à comprendre comment l’activité qu’ils déploient peut soutenir le développement par le candidat d’un discours d’expérience sur son travail. La recherche s’intéresse à la fois aux transformations des énoncés d’expérience produits par le candidat, mais aussi aux modalités par lesquelles ce qui se dit à propos du travail se transforme dans le dialogue qui s’engage entre le candidat et le conseiller. La question de la contribution du conseiller est centrale pour comprendre le développement du discours d’expérience dans ce contexte. Nous proposons ici des éléments de réponse à cette problématique à partir de l’analyse d’extraits d’entretien en mettant en évidence la façon dont peuvent être repérés différents types de mouvements dans les échanges conseiller/candidat contribuant aux dynamiques développementales en jeu de l’entretien.
Dynamique de positionnement dans les interactions tutorales : une analyse interactionnelle dans le champ de la formation à l’éducation de l’enfance1
Authors: Durand Isabelle
Published: April 2017

Cette contribution rend compte de travaux, conduits dans le cadre d’une recherche sur la formation à l’éducation de l’enfance à Genève, qui visent à éclairer la problématique du positionnement des stagiaires dans les activités auxquelles ils participent sur la place de travail. L’analyse des indices sémiotiques de participation aux interactions met en évidence les fluctuations des positionnements réciproques des participants aux interactions tutorales, et montre la coexistence de deux relations asymétriques inversées, dans une forme de «double asymétrie croisée». Dans ce contexte le positionnement des stagiaires est vulnérable aux événements professionnels qui émergent dans le cours de l’interaction.
Los conceptos kantianos de “facultad” y de “mente” frente a la lectura epigenética
Authors: Falduto Antonino
Published: April 2017

En este artículo voy a estudiar la innovación radical que, en la historia de la filosofía, constituyen de los conceptos kantianos de “facultad” y “mente”. Con este propósito me concentraré en el debate en torno a las facultades que tiene lugar en el siglo XVIII en Europa en general y, en particular, en Alemania. Terminaré mi análisis señalando de qué manera el término “facultad” sólo puede ser interpretado en conexión con la concepción filosófica pura de Kant sobre el concepto de “mente”, la cual será distinguida de un análisis epigenético de tipo empírico acerca de la mente humana
Pensar como operación – Acerca de los presupuestos e implicaciones de la lógica formal moderna
Authors: Gottschlich Max
Published: April 2017

Actualmente se considera a la lógica formal incuestionablemente como la lógica. ¿Quién se atrevería a cuestionar esto sin perder el juicio? Queremos en lo que sigue, emprender con gusto esto. La tesis afirma que, en la lógica formal, el pensar se concibe de modo técnico-práctico, que también en ello reside – bien visto - la necesidad relativa de su punto de vista. Pero una absolutización de esta auto-interpretación de la forma lógica tiene – uno tiene que decirlo drásticamente –, en definitiva, consecuencias mortales para el entorno del mundo humano. Queremos, por eso, aproximarnos al tema lógica formal de un modo completamente no-técnico, a saber, de un modo filosófico, es decir, queremos cuestionarla en sus presupuestos e implicaciones. Pues también la lógica formal tiene sus presupuestos, que quedan a sus espaldas. En un primer paso, actualizaremos las determinaciones más fundamentales en la formulación de la lógica formal. En un segundo paso, queremos profundizar esto con vistas al concepto lógico-formal del “concepto”. Los problemas sistemáticos que trataremos con esto son precisamente aquellos cuya solución hará necesario el paso a la lógica transcendental en el sentido de Kant.
Delay-based Passenger Car Equivalent at Signalized Intersections in Iran
Authors: Nassiri Habibollah , Tabatabaie Sara , Sahebi Sina
Published: April 2017

Due to their different sizes and operational characteristics, vehicles other than passenger cars have a different influence on traffic operations especially at intersections. The passenger car equivalent (PCE) is the parameter that shows how many passenger cars must be substituted for a specific heavy vehicle to represent its influence on traffic operation. PCE is commonly estimated using headway-based methods that consider the excess headway utilized by heavy vehicles. In this research, the PCE was estimated based on the delay parameter at three signalized intersections in Tehran, Iran. The data collected were traffic volume, travel time for each movement, signalization, and geometric design information. These data were analysed and three different models, one for each intersection, were constructed and calibrated using TRAF-NETSIM simulation software for unsaturated traffic conditions. PCE was estimated under different scenarios and the number of approach movements at each intersection. The results showed that for approaches with only one movement, PCE varies from 1.1 to 1.65. Similarly, for approaches with two and three movements, the PCE varies from 1.07 to 1.99 and from 0.76 to 3.6, respectively. In addition, a general model was developed for predicting PCE for intersections with all of the movements considered. The results obtained from this model showed that the average PCE of 1.5 is similar to the value recommended by the HCM (Highway Capacity Manual) 1985. However, the predicted PCE value of 1.9 for saturated threshold is closer to the PCE value of 2 which was recommended by the HCM 2000 and HCM 2010.
Multi-lane Changing Model with Coupling Driving Intention and Inclination
Authors: Wang Jiangfeng , Gao Chang , Zhu Zhouyuan , Yan Xuedong
Published: April 2017

Considering the impact of drivers’ psychology and behaviour, a multi-lane changing model coupling driving intention and inclination is proposed by introducing two quantitative indices of intention: strength of lane changing and risk factor. According to the psychological and behavioural characteristics of aggressive drivers and conservative drivers, the safety conditions for lane changing are designed respectively. The numerical simulations show that the proposed model is suitable for describing the traffic flow with frequent lane changing, which is more consistent with the driving behaviour of drivers in China. Compared with symmetric two-lane cellular automata (STCA) model, the proposed model can improve the average speed of vehicles by 1.04% under different traffic demands when aggressive drivers are in a higher proportion (the threshold of risk factor is 0.4). When the risk factor increases, the average speed shows the polarization phenomenon with the average speed slowing down in big traffic demand. The proposed model can reflect the relationship among density, flow, and speed, and the risk factor has a significant impact on density and flow.
Determination of Observation Weight to Calibrate Freeway Traffic Fundamental Diagram Using Weighted Least Square Method (WLSM)
Authors: Zhang Chunbo , Guo Xiucheng , Xi Zhenping
Published: April 2017

Due to unbalanced speed-density observations, the one-regime traffic fundamental diagram and speed-density relationship models using least square method (LSM) cannot reflect actual conditions under congested/jam traffic. In that case, it is inevitable to adopt the weighted least square method (WLSM). This paper used freeway Georgia State Route 400 observation data and proposed 5 weight determination methods except the LSM to analyse 5 wellknown one-regime speed-density models to determine the best calibrating models. The results indicated that different one-regime speed-density models have different best calibrating models, for Greenberg, it was possible to find a specific weight using LSM, which is similar for Underwood and Northwestern Models, but different for that one known as 3PL model. An interesting case is the Newell's Model which fits well with two distinct calibration weights. This paper can make contribution to calibrating a more precise traffic fundamental diagram.
The Crossing Speed of Elderly Pedestrians
Authors: Trpković Ana , Milenković Marina , Vujanić Milan , Stanić Branimir , Glavić Draženko
Published: April 2017

The population of elderly people is rapidly growing and in terms of safety, senior pedestrians represent one of the most vulnerable group. The pedestrian crossing speed is a significant input parameter in traffic engineering, which can have effect on pedestrians’ safety, especially of older population. The objective of this study was to determine the value of the crossing speed of elderly pedestrians (65+) for different types of urban crossings. The research was conducted at ten intersections in the city of Belgrade, Serbia, using the method of direct observation and a questionnaire for collecting data. The data were analysed in the statistical software package IBM SPSS Statistics. The results showed that elderly pedestrians walk slower and the crossing type significantly influenced the speed of older population. The order of crossing types in relation to the measured speed is ranked as follows, from the lowest to the highest speed value: unsignalized, signalized, signalized with pedestrian countdown display, signalized with pedestrian island and pedestrian countdown display and finally signalized crossing with pedestrian island. According to the questionnaire results, the elderly recognize the importance of implementing pedestrian counters. This indicates the necessity to provide safe street crossing for the elderly using the corresponding engineering measures.
Analysis of Socio-spatial Differentiation in Transport Mode Choice Preferences
Authors: Miletić Geran-Marko , Gašparović Slaven , Carić Tonči
Published: April 2017

Starting from the fact that the transport mode choice is one of those aspects of travel behaviour that, to a great extent, affects the efficiency of the transport system, this paper analyses the factors that contribute to the use of public and car transport. The goals of the analysis were to obtain insight into the preferences for using these two modes of transport in Croatia and find out to which extent the basic demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents affect the usage of car and public transport and the possibility of taking trips by these transport modes. The paper analyses the data collected by surveys on a representative national sample. The results show that in Croatia, the number of people who frequently use public transport is far fewer than the number of frequent users of passenger car transport. However, the comparison has found that the number of frequent public transport users varies significantly among certain categories of respondents. Using binary logistic regression analysis has determined that the preferences towards the frequent use of car or public transport are significantly influenced by the age of the respondents, size of the settlement, accessibility of the destinations by public transport, the number of vehicles in the household and whether the respondent is the main car user in the household.
Rapid evolution of the human mutation spectrum
Authors: Harris Kelley , Pritchard Jonathan K
Published: April 2017

DNA is a remarkably precise medium for copying and storing biological information. This high fidelity results from the action of hundreds of genes involved in replication, proofreading, and damage repair. Evolutionary theory suggests that in such a system, selection has limited ability to remove genetic variants that change mutation rates by small amounts or in specific sequence contexts. Consistent with this, using SNV variation as a proxy for mutational input, we report here that mutational spectra differ substantially among species, human continental groups and even some closely related populations. Close examination of one signal, an increased TCC→TTC mutation rate in Europeans, indicates a burst of mutations from about 15,000 to 2000 years ago, perhaps due to the appearance, drift, and ultimate elimination of a genetic modifier of mutation rate. Our results suggest that mutation rates can evolve markedly over short evolutionary timescales and suggest the possibility of mapping mutational modifiers.
Proteomic mapping of cytosol-facing outer mitochondrial and ER membranes in living human cells by proximity biotinylation
Authors: Hung Victoria , Lam Stephanie S , Udeshi Namrata D , Svinkina Tanya , Guzman Gaelen , Mootha Vamsi K , Carr Steven A , Ting Alice Y
Published: April 2017

The cytosol-facing membranes of cellular organelles contain proteins that enable signal transduction, regulation of morphology and trafficking, protein import and export, and other specialized processes. Discovery of these proteins by traditional biochemical fractionation can be plagued with contaminants and loss of key components. Using peroxidase-mediated proximity biotinylation, we captured and identified endogenous proteins on the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) and endoplasmic reticulum membrane (ERM) of living human fibroblasts. The proteomes of 137 and 634 proteins, respectively, are highly specific and highlight 94 potentially novel mitochondrial or ER proteins. Dataset intersection identified protein candidates potentially localized to mitochondria-ER contact sites. We found that one candidate, the tail-anchored, PDZ-domain-containing OMM protein SYNJ2BP, dramatically increases mitochondrial contacts with rough ER when overexpressed. Immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry identified ribosome-binding protein 1 (RRBP1) as SYNJ2BP’s ERM binding partner. Our results highlight the power of proximity biotinylation to yield insights into the molecular composition and function of intracellular membranes.
An emergency brake for protein synthesis
Authors: Hronová Vladislava , Valášek Leoš Shivaya
Published: April 2017

The integrated stress response is able to rapidly shut down the synthesis of proteins in eukaryotic cells.
Automated Fractional Limb Volume Measurements Improve the Precision of Birth Weight Predictions in Late Third‐Trimester Fetuses
Authors: Mack Lauren M. , Kim Sung Yoon , Lee Sungmin , Sangi‐Haghpeykar Haleh , Lee Wesley
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Fetal soft tissue can be assessed by using fractional limb volume as a proxy for in utero nutritional status. We investigated automated fractional limb volume for rapid estimate fetal weight assessment.

Methods

Pregnant women were prospectively scanned for 2‐ and 3‐dimensional fetal biometric measurements within 4 days of delivery. Performance of birth weight prediction models was compared: (1) Hadlock (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1985; 151:333–337; biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference, and femur diaphysis length); and (2) Lee (Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2009; 34:556–565; biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference, and automated fractional limb volume). Percent differences were calculated: [(estimated birth weight – actual birth weight) ÷ (actual birth weight] × 100. Systematic errors (accuracy) were summarized as signed mean percent differences. Random errors (precision) were calculated as ± 1 SD of percent differences.

Results

Fifty neonates were delivered at 39.4 weeks' gestation. The Hadlock model generated the most accurate birth weight (0.31%) with a mean random error of ±7.9%. Despite systematic underestimations, the most precise results occurred with fractional arm volume (−9.1% ± 5.1%) and fractional thigh (−5.2% ± 5.2%) models. The size and distribution of these prediction errors were improved after correction for systematic errors.

Conclusions

Automated fractional limb volume measurements can improve the precision of weight predictions in third‐trimester fetuses. Correction factors may be necessary to adjust underestimated systematic errors when using automated fractional limb volume with prediction models that are based on manual tracing of fetal limb soft tissue borders.
Generation of wavy structure on lipid membrane by peripheral proteins: a linear elastic analysis
Authors: Mahata Paritosh , Das Sovan Lal
Published: April 2017

We carry out a linear elastic analysis to study wavy structure generation on lipid membrane by peripheral membrane proteins. We model the lipid membrane as linearly elastic and anisotropic material. The hydrophobic insertion by proteins into the lipid membrane has been idealized as penetration of rigid rod‐like inclusions into the membrane and the electrostatic interaction between protein and membrane has been modeled by a distributed surface traction acting on the membrane surface. With the proposed model we study curvature generation by several binding domains of peripheral membrane proteins containing BAR domains and amphipathic alpha‐helices. It is observed that electrostatic interaction is essential for curvature generation by the BAR domains.
Information content of visible and midinfrared radiances for retrieving tropical ice cloud properties
Authors: Chang Kai‐Wei , L'Ecuyer Tristan S. , Kahn Brian H. , Natraj Vijay
Published: April 2017

Hyperspectral instruments such as Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) have spectrally dense observations effective for ice cloud retrievals. However, due to the large number of channels, only a small subset is typically used. It is crucial that this subset of channels be chosen to contain the maximum possible information about the retrieved variables. This study describes an information content analysis designed to select optimal channels for ice cloud retrievals. To account for variations in ice cloud properties, we perform channel selection over an ensemble of cloud regimes, extracted with a clustering algorithm, from a multiyear database at a tropical Atmospheric Radiation Measurement site. Multiple satellite viewing angles over land and ocean surfaces are considered to simulate the variations in observation scenarios. The results suggest that AIRS channels near wavelengths of 14, 10.4, 4.2, and 3.8 μm contain the most information. With an eye toward developing a joint AIRS‐MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) retrieval, the analysis is also applied to combined measurements from both instruments. While application of this method to MODIS yields results consistent with previous channel sensitivity studies, the analysis shows that this combination may yield substantial improvement in cloud retrievals. MODIS provides most information on optical thickness and particle size, aided by a better constraint on cloud vertical placement from AIRS. An alternate scenario where cloud top boundaries are supplied by the active sensors in the A‐train is also explored. The more robust cloud placement afforded by active sensors shifts the optimal channels toward the window region and shortwave infrared, further constraining optical thickness and particle size.
Diacetyl (Butanedione) – Method for the determination of diacetyl in workplace air using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) [Air Monitoring Methods, 2016]
Authors: Schuh C. , Kirchner M. , Hebisch R. , Brock T.H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

This analytical method is a validated measurement procedure for the determination of 2,3‐butanedione (diacetyl) in workplace air in a concentration range of a tenth up to twice the currently valid Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL) or MAK value. Sampling is performed by drawing a defined volume of air through a silica gel tube using a suitable flow‐regulated pump with a volumetric flow rate of 0.33 L/min. For sampling 1 hour or 15 min (checking the short‐term value) can be used. The collected diacetyl is desorbed with acetone containing the internal standard cyclohexanone and then analysed by means of gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). Quantitative evaluation is based on a 10‐point calibration using cyclohexanone as internal standard. The limit of quantification for diacetyl is 0.0034 mg/m
3
based on an air sample volume of approx. 20 L or 0.0137 mg/m
3
based on an air sample volume of approx. 5 L (for short‐term value).

Joint Publication of the Analytical Subcommittee of the Chemistry Board of Experts of the Expert Committee Raw Materials and Chemical Industry of the German Social Accident Insurance and the Working Group “Air Monitoring Methods” of the Permanent Senate Commission of the DFG for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area.
Phthalate – Methode zur Bestimmung von Phthalaten in der Luft am Arbeitsplatz mittels Gaschromatographie‐Massenspektrometrie (GC‐MS) [Air Monitoring Methods in German language, 2017]
Authors: Nitschke L. , Breuer D. , Frenzen A. , Heinrich B. , Hebisch R. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: April 2017

Phthalates – Method for the determination of phthalates in workplace air using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS)

This analytical method is a validated measurement procedure for the determination of several phthalates such as dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, diallyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, benzyl butyl phthalate, dicyclohexyl phthalate, bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate and bis(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate in workplace air. With this measure procedure airborne phthalates in the gaseous state and bound to particles are collected simultaneously. Sampling is performed by drawing a defined volume of air through a sampling system consisting of a glass fibre filter located in a GSP sampling head and an adsorption tube filled with PU foam connected downstream using a suitable pump. The flow rate is set to 1 L/min with a recommended air sample volume of 60 to 120 litres. For sample preparation the collected phthalates are desorbed from the sample carriers with 1,4‐dioxane. The sample solutions are analysed by means of gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). The quantitative determination is based on calibration functions obtained by means of multiple‐point calibrations. The limit of quantification for the individual phthalate lies between 0.015 and 0.096 mg/m
3
.
Addendum to Hexone (Methyl isobutyl ketone) [BAT Value Documentation 2014]
Authors: Nasterlack M. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the BAT value (biological tolerance value) for hexone (methyl isobutyl ketone, MIBK), considering methyl isobutyl ketone in urine to characterise the internal exposure.

In a field study in 36 persons, which were exposed to a mixture of toluene, xylene and MIBK, a linear relationship between MIBK in air and MIBK in urine was obtained. For the present MAK‐value of 20 ml MIBK/m
3
air a corresponding average concentration of 0.7 mg MIBK/l urine ­can be derived. In another field study 27 workers in the furniture industry were exposed to mixtures of solvents. The good linear correlation between the values determined in air and in urine permits an extrapolation to 20 ml/m
3
, which yields a corresponding concentration of 0.60 mg MIBK/l urine.

Based on these studies, a BAT value of 0.7 mg MIBK/l urine was evaluated.

Sampling is performed at the end of exposure or the end of shift.
Di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate [MAK Value Documentation, 2015]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate [53306‐54‐0] considering all toxicological endpoints. Available publications and unpublished study reports are described in detail. Critical effect is the peroxisome proliferating activity in the liver which has also been observed with other phthalates. Di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate is less potent as a peroxisome proliferator than the structurally very similar di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate, which is a rat liver carcinogen. No carcinogenicity study has been performed on di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate but due to the similarity to di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate, liver carcinogenicity cannot be excluded. Therefore, di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate is classified in Category 3B for suspected carcinogens. Di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate is not genotoxic in vitro; in vivo data are missing. Only a 5‐day inhalation study has been performed. Possible long‐term effects on larynx, trachea or goblet cell hyperplasia which are target organs of di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate and of other phthalates cannot be evaluated based on this study. No maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) can be derived. Di(2‐propylheptyl) phthalate shows no developmental toxicity in rats up to an oral dose of 1000 mg/kg body weight and day which is toxic to the dams. Skin contact is not expected to contribute significantly to systemic toxicity. Limited data show no sensitization.
Glycerin [MAK Value Documentation, 2016]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the work place (MAK value) of glycerol [
56‐81‐5
], considering the endpoints irritation of the respiratory tract and developmental toxicity.

Since 2014, the Commission uses an empirical approach to set MAK values for substances with critical effects on the upper respiratory tract or the eyes. However, examination of the study results showed that this approach does not apply for glycerol, because glycerol is not an eye irritant and the minimal to slight metaplasia of the squamous epithelium of the larynx seen in rats at 662 mg/m
3
with glycerol aerosol is not interpreted as adverse. The response does not increase with the exposure duration. Therefore, the MAK value is raised to 200 mg glycerol/m
3
for the inhalable fraction.

Peak Limitation Category I for local effects with an excursion factor of 2 is retained, as the effect is hardly concentration‐dependent, a sensory irritation is not known, and glycerol is, if at all, only slightly irritating to the eye.

After scaling the oral NOAELs for developmental toxicity of 1310, 1280 and 1180 mg/kg body weight and day for rats, mice, and rabbits, respectively, to a concentration at the work place (2293, 1280, and 3442 mg/m
3
), the differences to the MAK value are considered so large, that there is no reason to fear damage to the embryo or foetus when the MAK value is observed. The classification in Pregnancy Risk Group C is therefore retained.
An Approach Toward Numerical Investigation of the Mechanical Behavior of Ceramic Foams during Metal Melt Filtration Processes
Authors: Abendroth Martin , Werzner Eric , Settgast Christoph , Ray Subhashis
Published: April 2017

This article demonstrates an approach for the numerical modeling of open cell ceramic foams, in order to investigate the thermo‐mechanical behavior during metal melt filtration processes. The described methods include the creation of the geometric models, the fluid‐dynamic simulations of the melt flow using the lattice boltzmann method, and finite element simulations of the ceramic foam under general loads. The paper mainly focuses on the representative geometry generation process, such that the modeled geometry replicates the real foam as far as possible, since high quality models are essential for the quantitative analyses to be reliable. The present parametric studies demonstrate the manner, in which the foam properties may be influenced by changing the geometric and the topological properties, in order to improve the behavior during filtration processes.
Multi‐Nonvolatile State Resistive Switching Arising from Ferroelectricity and Oxygen Vacancy Migration
Authors: Lü Weiming , Li Changjian , Zheng Limei , Xiao Juanxiu , Lin Weinan , Li Qiang , Wang Xiao Renshaw , Huang Zhen , Zeng Shengwei , Han Kun , Zhou Wenxiong , Zeng Kaiyang , Chen Jingsheng , Ariando  , Cao Wenwu , Venkatesan Thirumalai
Published: April 2017

Resistive switching phenomena form the basis of competing memory technologies. Among them, resistive switching, originating from oxygen vacancy migration (OVM), and ferroelectric switching offer two promising approaches. OVM in oxide films/heterostructures can exhibit high/low resistive state via conducting filament forming/deforming, while the resistive switching of ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs) arises from barrier height or width variation while ferroelectric polarization reverses between asymmetric electrodes. Here the authors demonstrate a coexistence of OVM and ferroelectric induced resistive switching in a BaTiO3 FTJ by comparing BaTiO3 with SrTiO3 based tunnel junctions. This coexistence results in two distinguishable loops with multi‐nonvolatile resistive states. The primary loop originates from the ferroelectric switching. The second loop emerges at a voltage close to the SrTiO3 switching voltage, showing OVM being its origin. BaTiO3 based devices with controlled oxygen vacancies enable us to combine the benefits of both OVM and ferroelectric tunneling to produce multistate nonvolatile memory devices.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Regioselective C–H Bond Mono‐ and Bis‐Nitration of Aryloxazolines with tert‐Butyl Nitrite as Nitro Source
Authors: Wan Li , Qiao Kai , Yuan Xin , Zheng Ming‐Wei , Fan Bing‐Bing , Di Zhe Chen , Zhang Dong , Fang Zheng , Guo Kai
Published: April 2017

An efficient and regioselective nickel‐catalyzed remote C–H nitration of 2‐aryloxazoline amides using the non‐corrosive tert‐butyl nitrite (TBN) as nitro source has been developed. The protocol makes use of inexpensive nickel salts as catalysts and delivers the corresponding products in excellent yields. Notably, bis‐nitration products were obtained by simply increasing the amount of tert‐butyl nitrite. This reaction proceeds in air and features excellent functional group compatibility, broad substrate scope and is suitable for gram‐scale synthesis.

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Synthesis of Diarylated 4‐Pyridylmethyl Ethers via Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Ablajan Keyume , Panetti Grace B. , Yang Xiaodong , Kim Byeong‐Seon , Walsh Patrick J.
Published: April 2017

The direct arylation of weakly acidic sp3‐hybridized C–H bonds via deprotonated cross‐coupling processes (DCCP) is a challenge. Herein, a palladium(NIXANTPHOS)‐based catalyst for the monoarylation of 4‐pyridylmethyl 2‐aryl ethers to generate diarylated 4‐pyridyl methyl ethers is introduced. Furthermore, under similar conditions, the diarylation of 4‐pyridyl methyl ethers with aryl bromides has been developed. These methods enable the synthesis of new pyridine derivatives, which are common in medicinally active compounds and have applications in materials science.

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Cu, Co‐Embedded N‐Enriched Mesoporous Carbon for Efficient Oxygen Reduction and Hydrogen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Kuang Min , Wang Qihao , Han Peng , Zheng Gengfeng
Published: April 2017

Rational synthesis of hybrid, earth‐abundant materials with efficient electrocatalytic functionalities are critical for sustainable energy applications. Copper is theoretically proposed to exhibit high reduction capability close to Pt, but its high diffusion behavior at elevated fabrication temperatures limits its homogeneous incorporation with carbon. Here, a Cu, Co‐embedded nitrogen‐enriched mesoporous carbon framework (CuCo@NC) is developed using, a facile Cu‐confined thermal conversion strategy of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF‐67) pre‐grown on Cu(OH)2 nanowires. Cu ions formed below 450 °C are homogeneously confined within the pores of ZIF‐67 to avoid self‐aggregation, while the existence of CuN bonds further increases the nitrogen content in carbon frameworks derived from ZIF‐67 at higher pyrolysis temperatures. This CuCo@NC electrocatalyst provides abundant active sites, high nitrogen doping, strong synergetic coupling, and improved mass transfer, thus significantly boosting electrocatalytic performances in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). A high half‐wave potential (0.884 V vs reversible hydrogen potential, RHE) and a large diffusion‐limited current density are achieved for ORR, comparable to or exceeding the best reported earth‐abundant ORR electrocatalysts. In addition, a low overpotential (145 mV vs RHE) at 10 mA cm−2 is demonstrated for HER, further suggesting its great potential as an efficient electrocatalyst for sustainable energy applications.
Ultrafine Metal Nanoparticles/N‐Doped Porous Carbon Hybrids Coated on Carbon Fibers as Flexible and Binder‐Free Water Splitting Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Yongqi , Xia Xinhui , Cao Xun , Zhang Bowei , Tiep Nguyen Huy , He Haiyong , Chen Shi , Huang Yizhong , Fan Hong Jin
Published: April 2017

By employing in situ reduction of metal precursor and metal‐assisted carbon etching process, this study achieves a series of ultrafine transition metal‐based nanoparticles (Ni–Fe, Ni–Mo) embedded in N‐doped carbon, which are found efficient catalysts for electrolytic water splitting. The as‐prepared hybrid materials demonstrate outstanding catalytic activities as non‐noble metal electrodes rendered by the synergistic effect of bimetal elements and N‐dopants, the improved electrical conductivity, and hydrophilism. Ni/Mo2C@N‐doped porous carbon (NiMo‐polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)) and NiFe@N‐doped carbon (NiFe‐PVP) produce low overpotentials of 130 and 297 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 as catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction, respectively. In addition, these binder‐free electrodes show long‐term stability. Overall water splitting is also demonstrated based on the couple of NiMo‐PVP||NiFe‐PVP catalyzer. This represents a simple and effective synthesis method toward a new type of nanometal–carbon hybrid electrodes.
Validating granular segregation rate models
Authors: Liu Siying , McCarthy Joseph J.
Published: April 2017

One significant hindrance to the development of granular segregation rate models is the inherent difficulty of performing the dynamic experiments required for validation. Here, we seek to overcome this experimental hurdle by establishing an “equilibrium” between segregation and flow perturbation in free surface granular flows and use steady‐state—rather than dynamic—measurements for validation. That is, we combine the segregation rate expressions to be tested with a segregation control framework such that the perturbation rate enables us to infer the segregation rate by measuring simply the steady state extent of segregation. We use periodic flow inversions via an axially located baffle in a tumbler‐type mixer to provide the perturbations that ultimately alter the steady‐state distribution of particles. This work examines the efficacy of existing models for binary segregation driven by either size or density differences. For completeness, we test our model validation framework both computationally and experimentally. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3756–3763, 2017
Genome‐wide meta‐analysis identifies a novel susceptibility signal at CACNA2D3 for nicotine dependence
Authors: Yin Xianyong , Bizon Chris , Tilson Jeffrey , Lin Yuan , Gizer Ian R. , Ehlers Cindy L. , Wilhelmsen Kirk C.
Published: April 2017

Nicotine dependence (ND) has a reported heritability of 40–70%. Low‐coverage whole‐genome sequencing was conducted in 1,889 samples from the UCSF Family study. Linear mixed models were used to conduct genome‐wide association (GWA) tests of ND in this and five cohorts obtained from the database of Genotypes and Phenotypes. Fixed‐effect meta‐analysis was carried out separately for European (n = 14,713) and African (n = 3,369) participants, and then in a combined analysis of both ancestral groups. The meta‐analysis of African participants identified a significant and novel susceptibility signal (rs56247223; p = 4.11 × 10−8). Data from the Genotype‐Tissue Expression (GTEx) study suggested the protective allele is associated with reduced mRNA expression of CACNA2D3 in three human brain tissues (p < 4.94 × 10−2). Sequence data from the UCSF Family study suggested that a rare nonsynonymous variant in this gene conferred increased risk for ND (p = 0.01) providing further support for CACNA2D3 involvement in ND. Suggestive associations were observed in six additional regions in both European and merged populations (p < 5.00 × 10−6). The top variants were found to regulate mRNA expression levels of genes in human brains using GTEx data (p < 0.05): HAX1 and CHRNB2 (rs1760803), ADAMTSL1 (rs17198023), PEX2 (rs12680810), GLIS3 (rs12348139), non‐coding RNA for LINC00476 (rs10759883), and GABBR1 (rs56020557 and rs62392942). A gene‐based association test further supported the relation between GABBR1 and ND (p = 6.36 × 10−7). These findings will inform the biological mechanisms and development of therapeutic targets for ND.
Induced Chemical Defense of a Mushroom by a Double‐Bond‐Shifting Polyene Synthase
Authors: Brandt Philip , García‐Altares María , Nett Markus , Hertweck Christian , Hoffmeister Dirk
Published: April 2017

The antilarval mushroom polyenes 18‐methyl‐19‐oxoicosaoctaenoic acid and 20‐methyl‐21‐oxodocosanonaenoic acid appear in response to injury of the mycelium of the stereaceous mushroom BY1. We identified a polyketide synthase (PPS1) which belongs to a hitherto completely uncharacterized clade of polyketide synthases. Expression of the PPS1 gene is massively upregulated following mycelial damage. The synthesis of the above polyenes was reconstituted in the mold Aspergillus niger as a heterologous host. This demonstrates that PPS1 1) synchronously produces branched‐chain polyketides of varied lengths, and 2) catalyzes the unprecedented shift of eight or nine double bonds. This study represents the first characterization of a reducing polyketide synthase from a mushroom. We also show that injury‐induced de novo synthesis of polyketides is a fungal response strategy.