bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kunnskapsoppsummering og klassifisering av tiltaket: Grønne tanker - glade barn (2. utg.)
Authors: Eng Helene , Ulvund Stein Erik
Published: August 2024

Bakgrunn: Denne artikkelen er en kunnskapsoppsummering for effektene av tiltaket Grønne tanker- glade barn. Artikkelen er en revisjon av en tidligere beskrivelse av samme tiltaket i Ungsinn (Eng & Ulvund, 2015), men videreutviklet i henhold til Ungsinn sine nye prosedyrer og kriterier. Grønne tanker – glade barn er en materiellpakke som kan brukes i barnehagen for å stimulere barns tanke- og følelsesbevissthet. Det skal hjelpe barna med å forstå egne og andres følelsesreaksjoner, å bli bedre i stand til å regulere egne følelser og gjennom dette også bidra til et godt psykososialt miljø. Tiltaket kan brukes universelt med mål om å styrke psykosial utvikling for alle barn. Samtidig legges det opp til at en kan bruke materiellet i en styrket innsats for barn som har større utfordringer enn andre med engstelse, sinne eller tristhet. Organisasjonen Voksne for Barn er ansvarlig for implementering av tiltaket i Norge, og de tilbyr også opplæring. Formålet med denne artikkelen er å undersøke om Grønne tanker – glade barn kan antas å være virksomt benyttet i vanlig praksis i Norge.
Metode: Denne kunnskapsoppsummeringen bygger på et systematisk litteratursøk i databasene Embase, Medline og Psykinfo, NORART Cochrane, Cristin, NORA, SCOPUS og SweMed samt informasjon gitt fra tiltakseier i Norge.
Resultater: Resultatene omfatter en oppsummering av tiltakets beskrivelse, foreliggende effektstudier, forskningsmetodisk kvalitet og implementeringskvalitet. Tiltakets bakgrunn, innhold og metoder er godt beskrevet i tiltakets materiell og gjennom to fagartikler. Tiltaket har også god teoretisk og empirisk forankring gjennom kognitiv atferdsterapi, men det foreligger ingen studier der tiltakets effekt er undersøkt. Tiltaket er fritt tilgjengelig, og utover en kort opplæring tilbys det lite implementeringsstøtte. Det finnes heller ikke systemer som sikrer at tiltaket implementeres med god kvalitet. Det er grunn til å tro at tiltaket utøves svært ulikt i forskjellige barnehager, noe som sannsynligvis har betydning for effektene av tiltaket.
Konklusjon: Grønne tanker – glade barn er et tilfredsstillende beskrevet tiltak som åpenbart treffer et behov i folkehelsearbeidet, og som er tilpasset barnehagenes rammeplan. Studier på tiltakets effekter og hvordan tiltaket best utøves for å oppnå eventuelle effekter, er nødvendig for å vite om tiltaket er virksomt.  Gjennomføring av en god effektstudie vil imidlertid forutsette en bedre presisering av tiltakets konkrete målsetninger. En god teoretisk forankring styrker sannsynligheten for at tiltaket kan fremme god psykisk helse og redusere vansker for barn i tidlig alder.
Grønne tanker – glade barn klassifiseres på evidensnivå 2 – Teoretisk begrunnede tiltak.
Enhanced analysis of large-scale news text data using the bidirectional-Kmeans-LSTM-CNN model
Authors: Zeng Qingxiang
Published: August 2024

Traditional methods may be inefficient when processing large-scale data in the field of text mining, often struggling to identify and cluster relevant information accurately and efficiently. Additionally, capturing nuanced sentiment and emotional context within news text is challenging with conventional techniques. To address these issues, this article introduces an improved bidirectional-Kmeans-long short-term memory network-convolutional neural network (BiK-LSTM-CNN) model that incorporates emotional semantic analysis for high-dimensional news text visual extraction and media hotspot mining. The BiK-LSTM-CNN model comprises four modules: news text preprocessing, news text clustering, sentiment semantic analysis, and the BiK-LSTM-CNN model itself. By combining these components, the model effectively identifies common features within the input data, clusters similar news articles, and accurately analyzes the emotional semantics of the text. This comprehensive approach enhances both the accuracy and efficiency of visual extraction and hotspot mining. Experimental results demonstrate that compared to models such as Transformer, AdvLSTM, and NewRNN, BiK-LSTM-CNN achieves improvements in macro accuracy by 0.50%, 0.91%, and 1.34%, respectively. Similarly, macro recall rates increase by 0.51%, 1.24%, and 1.26%, while macro F1 scores improve by 0.52%, 1.23%, and 1.92%. Additionally, the BiK-LSTM-CNN model shows significant improvements in time efficiency, further establishing its potential as a more effective approach for processing and analyzing large-scale text data
Comparative Study of Mulching Practices and Biofertilizers on Yield Attributes of Finger Millet (Variety- VL Mandua 379)
Authors: Basar Karge , Doruk Kasinam , Bose K. Subhash Chandra , Rina Lipi , Akli Nabam , Lida Sanchung , Mibang Anki , M Karthikeyan
Published: August 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Himalayan University farm, Jullang, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, during the kharif season of 2023 with 8 treatments replicated thrice in randomized block design, to determine the effect of different types of mulching and biofertilizer on yield of finger millet (Eleusine coracana.). The available nutrient status showed high nitrogen (N), low phosphorus (P), and medium potassium (K) levels. The experiment included the following treatments T1-Control, T2- Karanj leaf mould at + Azotobacter, T3-Karanj leaf mould + PSB, T4- Neem leaf mould + Azotobacter, T5-Paddy straw + jute bag + Rhizobium, T6-Paddy straw + PSB, T7-Black polythene + Azotobacter and T8-Saw dust + Rhizobium. The highest finger length (cm) recorded was 5.92 cm at harvest, highest test weight (g) recorded was 3.06 g at harvest, highest grain yield (t ha-1) recorded was 4.05 t ha-1 at harvest, highest straw yield (t ha-1) recorded was 7.92 t ha-1 at harvest and harvest index (%) of 34.66 % at harvest were observed with treatment T5 - Paddy straw + jute bag + Rhizobium.
A Review of Structural Seismic Vulnerability Research Based on Endurance Time Method
Authors: Li Yao
Published: August 2024

This paper reviews the application of endurance time method in seismic design and evaluation of structures and its importance in seismic vulnerability analysis. The traditional methods such as static elastoplastic method and response spectrum method have low accuracy in the face of complex structures and structural nonlinear effects, while the incremental dynamic time history method has high accuracy but low efficiency. In contrast, endurance time method synthesizes multiple endurance time curves for nonlinear dynamic analysis of structures, which can more accurately simulate the real response of structures under earthquake action, and is especially suitable for seismic performance evaluation of complex structures. This method can significantly improve work efficiency while ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the results. At the same time, this paper also introduces the application of endurance time method in structural seismic vulnerability analysis and broad prospects. In summary, endurance time method, as an emerging structural dynamic analysis method, not only improves the accuracy and reliability of structural design, but also provides powerful technical tools and methodological support for seismic performance assessment and seismic vulnerability analysis of engineering structures.
Influence of Auxin on Flowering, Fruit Set and Yield Performance of Yard Long Bean (Vigna unguiculata var. sesquipedalis)
Authors: Nahid Ridwana Afrin , Das Banalata , Parvez Md. Nahid , Akter Thamina , Uddain Jasim
Published: August 2024

The field experiment was conducted at the Horticultural Farm, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, to study the effects of different levels of nutrient management and the growth regulator Auxin on the growth and yield of yard-long bean. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) consisted with two factors.  Factor A: four levels of nutrient management; i) N0: control (N0, P0, K0) Kg/ha; ii) N1: (N12 P18 K22) Kg/ha; iii) N2: (N18 P27 K33) Kg/ha; iv) N3: (N24 P36 K44) Kg/ha. Factor B: three levels of auxin (indole acetic acid); i) I0: control (0 ppm); ii) I1: 20 ppm; iii) I2: 40 ppm. The variety of yard long bean was BARI borboti-1. The All treatments were replicated three times. The results revealed that nutrient management and auxin significantly affected the plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, number of flowers, number of pods per plant, and pod yield per hectare. In the case of nutrient management, the maximum yield (14.5 t/ha) was observed in the N2 treatment, and the minimum yield (9.61 t/ha) was observed in the N0 treatment. For auxin, the highest yield (12.57 t/ha) was observed from the I2 treatment, and the minimum yield (9.83 t/ha) was observed from the control treatment I0. For the combined effect, the N2I2 treatment combination gave the maximum yield (16.64 t/ha), and the lowest yield (6.37 t/ha) was obtained from the N0I0 combination treatment. So, from the result, it may be concluded that applying 18 kg N/ha, 27 kg P/ha, and 33 kg K/ha with 40 ppm auxin is the best for growth and a higher yield of Yard Long Bean.
Competence as a Moderating Influence of Remuneration and Training on Employee Performance: Study at the Poltekkes Kemenkes Malang, Indonesia
Authors: Prasetyo Andry , Orbaningsih Dwi , Wijayanti Tri Cicik
Published: August 2024

Employee performance problems in higher education can be influenced by several factors such as lack of motivation caused by inappropriate remuneration practices, competency mismatch, and lack of development opportunities. This study aims to find empirical evidence for the concept of competence as a moderator, providing insight for organizational leaders in designing more effective remuneration and human resource development strategies to achieve good performance for employees. This research method is quantitative, the sample in this study was 100 respondents who met the criteria, with a total population of 621 education personnel at Polkesma. Data analysis was carried out using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method using SmartPLS software version 3. Hypothesis testing uses the statistical value then for alpha 5% by comparing t count with t table. The results showed that there was an influence between remuneration on employee performance with at statistics value of 3.076, there was an influence between training on employee performance with at statistics value of 3.981. Then in the third hypothesis shows there is an effect of remuneration on employee performance which is strengthened by competence with a t statistics value of 2.715. And there is no significant effect on training on employee performance which is weakened by competence with at statistics value of 1.645. This study contributes significantly to the field of human resource management by demonstrating the critical role of remuneration  and training in enhancing employee performance. The findings underscore the necessity for organizations to invest in appropriate remuneration strategies and effective training programs to optimize employee output. Additionally, the moderating role of competence provides  valuable insights into how individual capabilities can influence the efficacy of these interventions, offering a nuanced understanding of performance improvement mechanisms in educational institutions.
The Relationship of Tofu Coagulants and Irritant Contact Dermatitis in Tofu Maker at Serang Banten Indonesia
Authors: Desdiani Desdiani , Estuningtyas Ari , Hakim Amalia Fitri
Published: August 2024

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is the second most prevalent occupational ailment, following musculoskeletal disease. This condition occurs due to direct exposure to irritants, either acutely or persistently. The primary irritants responsible for contact dermatitis are acids or bases. The individuals most susceptible to contact dermatitis are the staff working in the tofu sector. This is because coagulants come into direct touch with personnel during the tofu production process. The study design is an observational analytic approach utilizing the cross-sectional method, which involves a questionnaire. According to this research, the prevalence of ICD among tofu makers in Serang is 59.8%. 85.9% of the workers in this industry are male. The study found that 79.3% of workers had an ICD, 16.3% had a history of atopic conditions, 6.5% always used Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), 93.5% had adequate personal hygiene, and 55.4% had a strong awareness of the ICD. The chi-square data analysis revealed that exposure to tofu coagulants is a causative factor instead of the protective factor for ICD, with a p-value of less than 0.001 and an odds ratio of 0.164. There is a correlation between the coagulants used in tofu production and the incidence of ICD in tofu manufacturers in Serang city.
Proximate, Selected Elements and Bioactive Compounds in Jatropha tanjorensis and Bryophyllum pinnatum Leaves
Authors: Bennett Victoria , Amos-Tautua Bamidele Martin , Ebong Christopher Unyime
Published: August 2024

A comparative research was performed on two medicinal leaves: Jatropha tanjorensis and Bryophyllum pinnatum collected from Angalabiri community, Nigeria, to ascertain the proximate content, mineral composition, and secondary metabolite profiling in the leaves. The proximate analyses of the leaves of J. tanjorensis and B. pinnatum revealed: moisture (84.87%, 92.66%), ash (7.91%, 1.11%), protein (6.20%, 1.30%), fat (14.54%, 8.40%), fibre (14.67%, 21.31%) and carbohydrate (54.28 %, 24.78%) respectively. Mineral analyses showed: potassium (0.018%, 0.060%), iron (0.134%, 0.003%), manganese (0.001%, 0.0002%), calcium (1.47%, 1.30%) and phosphorus (1.47%, 0.170%) separately. Examining methanolic extracts obtained from J. tanjorensis and B. pinnatum leaves through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) uncovered fifteen and six bioactive constituents, respectively. Fascinatingly, GC-MS findings unveiled the existence of distinct active biological compounds in both leaves: benzyl 1-[(1-hydroxy-4-oxo-1-phenyltetrahydroquinolin-3-yl)carbamoyl] cyclohexane-1-carboxylate, cycloheptanehexol, and ginsenoside Rh2, at different percentage concentrations. All identified bioactives are stated to demonstrate anti-tumorigenic properties, antibacterial, anticancer and anti-irritant properties. Undoubtedly, the bioactive compounds in Jatropha tanjorensis and Bryophyllum pinnatum leaves, affirm their use in ethnomedicine.
Comparison of Physico-Chemical and Sensory Attributes in Plant-Based Meat Analogue Patties and Chicken Patties
Authors: Tahseen Aaliya , T Sathu. , Muthupalani Muthukumar , V. N Vasudevan. , A Irshad. , John Preethy , Raji K.
Published: August 2024

Aim: This study aims to elucidate the differences between PBMA and chicken meat patties by comparing their physico-chemical and sensory attributes.
Study Design and Methodology: The plant-based meat analogue (PBMA) market is expanding rapidly alongside the burgeoning alternative protein sector. To enhance marketability, the sensory and textural attributes of PBMA must closely mimic those of traditional meat products. Commercial PBMA patties from three brands and chicken patties from two brands available in the Indian market were analysed. The frozen samples were thawed at refrigeration temperature (4±1℃) before laboratory analysis of various physico-chemical and sensory properties.
Results: Qualitative analysis indicated that PBMA patties had lower moisture content but higher fat, crude fiber and total ash content compared to chicken patties. Notably, the cholesterol content of PBMA patties was negligible. Linoleic acid was the most abundant fatty acid in PBMA samples, with significant amounts of oleic and palmitic acids also present. The predominant saturated fatty acid (SFA) in all samples was palmitic acid (C16:0). Sensory evaluation revealed that chicken patties scored higher for overall acceptability than PBMA patties.
Conclusion: Overall, the study demonstrates significant differences in proximate composition, texture and sensory qualities between PBMA and traditional meat patties, highlighting the distinct characteristics of PBMA as an alternative protein source. The texture and sensory evaluations showed that PBMA patties, while promising, still fall short in replicating the sensory qualities of chicken patties, particularly in appearance and flavour. The PBMA patties can be a good alternative to meat patties in terms of nutritional composition.
Enhancing Cake Nutrition with Lepidiota mansueta Flour
Authors: Borah Rahul , Bhagawati Sudhansu , Sarmah Kasturi , Sarmah Kritideepan , Manpoong Nang Sena
Published: August 2024

The incorporation of white grub (Lepidiota mansueta) flour into cakes was explored to assess its impact on both nutritional composition and sensory attributes. Cakes were prepared with varying ratios of white grub flour to whole wheat flour, ranging from 10% to 30% substitution. Results indicated a progressive increase in moisture, crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash and energy content with higher concentrations of white grub flour, while carbohydrate content exhibited a decreasing trend. Mineral analysis revealed increased levels of sodium, potassium, manganese, zinc, and copper with the increase in white grub flour incorporation. Sensory evaluation demonstrated that cakes with pure wheat flour and those with 10% white grub flour substitution garnered the highest overall acceptability scores, whereas acceptability declined when the white grub flour concentration was increased. These findings revealed the potentiality of white grub flour as a nutritious ingredient which could be explored in different baked products maintaining the organoleptic quality.
Beyond Bugs: Exploring Various Role of Insects
Authors: S Krishna Kumar , Vakayil Sreejith , Gopi S , Arvindbhai Patel Hardikkumar , K C Arpitha , Gupta Devansh , Ranjan Surya Kant , Behera Himanshu Sekhar
Published: August 2024

This comprehensive review ventures beyond the conventional realm of insect research, unveiling the potential of insects as catalysts for innovation in medicinal and industrial plant applications. Insects have evolved intricate relationships with plants, fostering the development of unique biomolecules and adaptations. By exploring these interactions, researchers can uncover novel compounds and strategies for drug discovery, crop protection, and sustainable production. From the antimicrobial peptides derived from beetle intestines to the vibrant pigments extracted from butterfly wings, insects offer a vast, uncharted territory for plant-based solutions. The review delves into the realm of entomophagy, where insects are consumed as a source of nutrition, and explores their potential in developing sustainable food systems. Furthermore, the article examines the role of insects in pollination, pest control, and soil health, highlighting their significance in maintaining ecosystem balance. The authors also discuss the challenges and opportunities in harnessing insect-plant interactions, including the development of insect-inspired biomimetic approaches and the need for conservation efforts to protect insect diversity. By bridging the gap between entomology, botany, and biotechnology, this review opens doors to ground breaking advancements in medicine, agriculture, and industry. As the global community seeks sustainable solutions to pressing challenges, "Beyond Bugs" illuminates the vast potential of insects in unlocking innovative plant applications, inspiring future research and collaboration across disciplines.
Impact of Shrimp Farming and Government Policy Implications on Rice Production in Navsari District of Gujarat, India
Authors: Patil Dhruv , R Prajapati Mahesh. , Dedaniya Akshay
Published: August 2024

Aquaculture, especially shrimp farming, is rapidly expanding and crucial for meeting global seafood demand. In 2022, shrimp production hit 9.4 million tons. This industry provides significant employment and income, notably in India, where it supports over 14 million people. However, shrimp farming has environmental impacts, including mangrove degradation and freshwater depletion. In Andhra Pradesh, converting paddy fields to shrimp farms has led to soil salinization and reduced freshwater availability. The study "Assessing the Influence of Shrimp Farming on Rice Growers and Analyzing Policy Implications in Navsari District of Gujarat" examined rice growers' socioeconomic profiles, shrimp farming's impact on them, and policy implications. Data from 60 farmers revealed that most shrimp farmers are aged 31-40, own small land parcels, and have secondary education. Sixty-five percent reported increased soil and groundwater salinity, affecting crop productivity and environmental health. Policy analysis highlighted issues with subsidy access and untreated water discharge. Effective training schemes exist, but larger farms often neglect effluent treatment, causing environmental harm. Improved subsidy access, stricter effluent regulations, and sustainable practices are needed to balance economic benefits with environmental protection.
Impact of quality control of satellite soil moisture data on their assimilation into land surface model
Authors: Yin Jifu , Zhan Xiwu , Zheng Youfei , Liu Jicheng , Hain Christopher R. , Fang Li
Published: July 2014

A global Soil Moisture Operational Product System (SMOPS) has been developed to process satellite soil moisture observational data at the NOAA National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service for improving numerical weather prediction (NWP) models at the NOAA National Weather Service (NWS). A few studies have shown the benefits of assimilating satellite soil moisture data in land surface models (LSMs), which are the components of most NWP models. In this study, synthetic experiments are conducted to determine how soil moisture data quality control may impact the benefit of their assimilation into LSMs. It is found that using green vegetation fraction to quality control the SMOPS soil moisture product may significantly increase the benefit of assimilating it into Noah LSM in terms of increasing the agreement of Noah LSM surface and root zone soil moisture simulations with the corresponding in situ measurements. The quality control procedures and parameters are suggested for the assimilation of SMOPS data into NWS NWP models.
Zonal momentum budget along the equator in the Indian Ocean from a high‐resolution ocean general circulation model
Authors: Nagura Motoki , McPhaden Michael J.
Published: July 2014

This study examines the zonal momentum budget along the equator in the Indian Ocean in a high‐resolution ocean general circulation model. Wyrtki Jets, wind‐driven eastward flows in the upper 100 m that appear typically twice per year in boreal spring and fall, are a prominent feature of the ocean circulation in this region. Our results indicate that nonlinearity associated with these jets is an important element of the zonal momentum budget, with wind driven eastward momentum advected downward into the thermocline. This advection results in annually averaged zonal currents that flow against the zonal pressure gradient in the upper 200 m, such that there is no mean subsurface undercurrent in the Indian Ocean as there is in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Zonal momentum is further distributed along the equator by zonal advection, with eastward flow substantially enhanced in the eastern basin relative to the western basin. Meridional advection, though generally weak, tends to decelerate surface eastward flow along the equator. These results contrast with those from previous idealized wind‐forced model experiments that primarily emphasized the importance of vertical momentum advection. Also, beyond semiannual period fluctuations, significant momentum advection results from a broad range of interacting processes, spanning intraseasonal to interannual time scales. We conclude that proper simulation of zonal flows along the equator in the Indian Ocean, including their climatically relevant impacts on the mass and heat balance, requires accurate representation of nonlinearities that derive from a broad range of time and space scales.
Modeling intersite dependence for regional frequency analysis of extreme marine events
Authors: Weiss Jérôme , Bernardara Pietro , Benoit Michel
Published: July 2014

The duration of observation at a site of interest is generally too low to reliably estimate marine extremes. Regional frequency analysis (RFA), by exploiting the similarity between sites, can help to reduce uncertainties inherent to local analyses. Extreme observations in a homogeneous region are especially assumed to follow a common regional distribution, up to a local index. The regional pooling method, by gathering observations from different sites into a regional sample, can be employed to estimate the regional distribution. However, such a procedure may be highly affected by intersite dependence in the regional sample. This paper derives a theoretical model of intersite dependence, dedicated to the regional pooling method in a “peaks over threshold” framework. This model expresses the tendency of sites to display a similar behavior during a storm generating extreme observations, by describing both the storm propagation in the region and the storm intensity. The proposed model allows the assessment of (i) the regional effective duration of the regional sample and (ii) different regional hazards, e.g., return periods of storms. An application to the estimation of extreme significant wave heights from the numerical sea‐state database ANEMOC‐2 is provided, where different patterns of regional dependence are highlighted.
Solute transport in aquifers of arbitrary variability: A time‐domain random walk formulation
Authors: Cvetkovic Vladimir , Fiori Aldo , Dagan Gedeon
Published: July 2014

Solute transport in three‐dimensional aquifers, with spatially varying hydraulic conductivity of arbitrary point distribution is investigated. The basis of our study is a multiindicator model (MIM) representation of the heterogeneity, combined with a self‐consistent approximation for groundwater flow and particle transport. A time‐domain random walk (TDRW) approach is presented for computing the expected mass arrival along the longitudinal transport direction that is simple and honors the hydrodynamics of flow for any variability. Using hydraulic conductivity measurements at the MADE site and the MIM, it is shown that the travel time distribution for large variability, cannot be well reproduced by the common distributions used for modeling hydrological transport, such as the log‐normal distribution, or the inverse‐Gaussian distribution. The proposed TDRW approach directly relates to the Lagrangian trajectory formulation and is appropriate for applications where occurrence of negative flow velocities is small. These results open new possibilities for modeling solute transport in aquifers of arbitrary variability by the time‐domain random walk that can readily account for a wide range of mass transfer reactions.
College students' behavioral reactions upon witnessing relational peer aggression
Authors: You Ji‐In , Bellmore Amy
Published: July 2014

With a sample of 228 college students (82.5% females) from the Midwestern United States, individual factors that contribute to emerging adults' behavioral responses when witnessing relational aggression among their peers were explored. The experience of witnessing relational aggression was found to be systematically associated with college students' behavioral responses to relational aggression through two social cognitive processes: normative beliefs about relational aggression and susceptibility to peer influence. The experience of witnessing relational aggression was associated with defending behavior through normative beliefs about relational aggression and both assisting and reinforcing behavior through normative beliefs about relational aggression and susceptibility to peer influence. The experience of witnessing relational aggression was also associated with onlooking behavior through normative beliefs about relational aggression. The findings indicate that exposure to relational aggression as a witness may influence witness responses because of the way such exposure may shape specific social cognitions. The potential for using the study findings for promoting effective witness interventions among college students is discussed. Aggr. Behav. 40:397–408, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interface‐Driven Plasticity: The Presence of an Interface Affected Zone in Metallic Lamellar Composites
Authors: Carpenter John S. , McCabe Rodney J. , Mayeur Jason R. , Mara Nathan A. , Beyerlein Irene J.
Published: July 2014

Large strain deformation is used to make fine nanolayered two‐phase composites from stacks of conventional polycrystalline sheets. The final materials made by this technique possess a crystallographically highly oriented structure containing nearly atomically perfect interfaces prevailing ubiquitously throughout the material. How this ordered structure evolves with strain from the coarser, more disordered state is not known. Here, using microstructural analysis and computational modeling, we discover a local interface‐affected zone (IAZ) possessing the same crystallographically sharp structure in coarse layered composites as the final nanolayered composites. This means that this strongly oriented interface “zone” survives the mechanical work and overtakes the structure as it refines to the nanoscale. In essence, through the formation of this interface zone, the crossover to a highly oriented nanostructure occurs. Using microstructural analysis and crystal plasticity simulations, we show that the IAZ is a consequence of slip accommodation at the interface. This insight is valuable for developing processing strategies for superior interface‐dominated materials.
Haplotype and nucleotide variation in the exon 3‐VNTR of the DRD4 gene from indigenous and urban populations of Mexico
Authors: Aguirre‐Samudio Ana Julia , Cruz‐Fuentes Carlos Sabás , González‐Sobrino Blanca Zoila , Gutiérrez‐Pérez Verónica , Medrano‐González Luis
Published: July 2014

Objective

To describe the population structure of the 48‐bp variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR), located in exon 3 of the dopamine receptor D4 gene (DRD4), in 41 Tarahumara from northern Mexico, 20 Mixe from southern Mexico, and 169 people from Mexico City.

Methods

Genotypes for the DRD4‐VNTR were determined, from which 15 Tarahumara, eight Mixe, and 37 urban homozygous individuals were sequenced. Repeat‐allele frequencies were compared with other world populations.

Results

The DRD4‐VNTR variation in Mexico City appeared similar to the world mean. For the Mixe and Maya, DRD4‐VNTR diversity appeared closer to South American groups whereas the Tarahumara were similar to North American groups. People from Mexico City and the Mixe exhibited attributes of a large and admixed population and an isolated population, respectively. The Tarahumara showed endogamy associated with a substructure as suggested by a preliminary regional differentiation. For the DRD4‐VNTR and/or the adjacent 5′‐173 bp sequence, the three populations exhibited negative Tajima's D. Two new VNTR haplotypes were discovered: one in Mexico City and another among the Tarahumara.

Conclusions

A differentiation in the DRD4‐VNTR of global relevance occurs between northern and southern populations of Mexico suggesting that the Mexican Trans‐volcanic Belt has been a major frontier for human dispersion in the Americas. Ancient trespass of this barrier appears thus related to a major change in the population structure of the DRD4‐VNTR. Distinctive and independent patterns of DRD4‐VNTR diversity occur among the two Mexican indigenous populations by a still undefined combination of drift and selection. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:682–689, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Light‐Controlled Chemical Reactions and Their Applications in Biological Systems
Authors: Lee Jeeyeon
Published: July 2014

Light has long been used as an external signal to control biological systems. The ability to control chemical reactions with a light stimulus has led to advances in the use of optical techniques for the precise control of biological systems. In particular, light can be used to reversibly control biological processes via photoisomerization of light‐responsive molecules. This Focus Review discusses recent developments of novel light‐controlled compounds including photoresponsive drugs, red light‐shifted azobenzene photoswitches, and synthetic chromophores of fluorescent proteins with new spectroscopic characteristics.
A genetic comparison of two alleged subspecies of Philippine cynomolgus macaques
Authors: Smith David Glenn , Ng Jillian , George Debra , Trask Jessica Satkoski , Houghton Paul , Singh Balbir , Villano Jason , Kanthaswamy Sreetharan
Published: July 2014

Two subspecies of cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) are alleged to co‐exist in the Philippines, M. f. philippensis in the north and M. f. fascicularis in the south. However, genetic differences between the cynomolgus macaques in the two regions have never been studied to document the propriety of their subspecies status. We genotyped samples of cynomolgus macaques from Batangas in southwestern Luzon and Zamboanga in southwestern Mindanao for 15 short tandem repeat (STR) loci and sequenced an 835 bp fragment of the mtDNA of these animals. The STR genotypes were compared with those of cynomolgus macaques from southern Sumatra, Singapore, Mauritius and Cambodia, and the mtDNA sequences of both Philippine populations were compared with those of cynomolgus macaques from southern Sumatra, Indonesia and Sarawak, Malaysia. We conducted STRUCTURE and PCA analyses based on the STRs and constructed a median joining network based on the mtDNA sequences. The Philippine population from Batangas exhibited much less genetic diversity and greater genetic divergence from all other populations, including the Philippine population from Zamboanga. Sequences from both Batangas and Zamboanga were most closely related to two different mtDNA haplotypes from Sarawak from which they are apparently derived. Those from Zamboanga were more recently derived than those from Batangas, consistent with their later arrival in the Philippines. However, clustering analyses do not support a sufficient genetic distinction of cynomolgus macaques from Batangas from other regional populations assigned to subspecies M. f. fascicularis to warrant the subspecies distinction M. f. philippensis. Am J Phys Anthropol 155:136–148, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alkene–Tetrazine Ligation for Imaging Cellular DNA
Authors: Rieder Ulrike , Luedtke Nathan W.
Published: July 2014

5‐Vinyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (VdU) is the first reported metabolic probe for cellular DNA synthesis that can be visualized by using an inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reaction with a fluorescent tetrazine. VdU is incorporated by endogenous enzymes into the genomes of replicating cells, where it exhibits reduced genotoxicity compared to 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU). The VdU–tetrazine ligation reaction is rapid (k≈0.02 M−1 s−1) and chemically orthogonal to the alkyne–azide “click” reaction of EdU‐modified DNA. Alkene–tetrazine ligation reactions provide the first alternative to azide–alkyne click reactions for the bioorthogonal chemical labeling of nucleic acids in cells and facilitate time‐resolved, multicolor labeling of DNA synthesis.
Genome‐Wide DNA Methylation Study Identifies Significant Epigenomic Changes in Osteoarthritic Cartilage
Authors: Jeffries Matlock A. , Donica Madison , Baker Lyle W. , Stevenson Michael E. , Annan Anand C. , Humphrey Mary Beth , James Judith A. , Sawalha Amr H.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To perform a genome‐wide DNA methylation study to identify DNA methylation changes in osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage tissue.

Methods

The contribution of differentially methylated genes to OA pathogenesis was assessed by bioinformatic analysis, gene expression analysis, and histopathologic severity correlation. Genome‐wide DNA methylation profiling of >485,000 methylation sites was performed on eroded and intact cartilage from within the same joint of 24 patients undergoing hip arthroplasty for OA. Genes with differentially methylated CpG sites were analyzed to identify overrepresented gene ontologies, pathways, and upstream regulators. The messenger RNA expression of a subset of differentially methylated genes was analyzed by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Histopathology was graded by modified Mankin score and correlated with DNA methylation.

Results

We identified 550 differentially methylated sites in OA. Most (69%) were hypomethylated and enriched among gene enhancers. We found differential methylation in genes with prior links to OA, including RUNX1, RUNX2, DLX5, FURIN, HTRA1, FGFR2, NFATC1, SNCAIP, and COL11A2. Among these, RUNX1, HTRA1, FGFR2, and COL11A2 were also differentially expressed. Furthermore, we found differential methylation in approximately one‐third of known OA susceptibility genes. Among differentially methylated genes, upstream regulator analysis showed enrichment of TGFB1 (P = 4.40 × 10−5) and several microRNAs including miR‐128 (P = 4.48 × 10−13), miR‐27a (P = 4.15 × 10−12), and miR‐9 (P = 9.20 × 10−10). Finally, we identified strong correlations between 20 CpG sites and the histologic Mankin score in OA.

Conclusion

Our data implicate epigenetic dysregulation of a host of genes and pathways in OA, including a number of OA susceptibility genes. Furthermore, we identified correlations between CpG methylation and histologic severity in OA.
Brief Report: A Novel Application of Buccal Micronucleus Cytome Assay in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Al‐Rawi Ziad S. , Gorial Faiq I. , Tawfiq Rana Fawzi , Mohammed Ahmed Khaled , Al‐Naaimi Ahmed S. , Al'aadhmi Mohammed A. , Hayyawi Ali A.
Published: July 2014

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease, and both genetic and environmental factors are implicated in its pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to assess cellular and nuclear morphology of SLE using a buccal micronucleus cytome assay.

Methods

This study included 58 SLE patients and 58 healthy age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Patients' baseline characteristics were recorded, and a buccal micronucleus cytome assay was used to measure cellular and nuclear abnormalities in both groups.

Results

Significantly higher frequencies of micronuclei, nuclear buds, binucleated cells, basal cells, condensed chromatin cells, karyorrhectic cells, pyknotic cells, and karyolytic cells were seen in SLE patients as compared to controls. A buccal micronucleus cytome assay score of ≥4 had the highest accuracy (93.1%), almost perfect positive predictive value (98.1% at 50% pretest probability and 99.8% at 90% pretest probability), 87.9% sensitivity, and 98.3% specificity for the diagnosis of SLE.

Conclusion

Biomarkers of DNA damage, proliferative potential, and cell death were significantly increased in SLE patients. The buccal micronucleus cytome assay was a valid and easy way for clinicians to assess individuals at high risk of developing SLE.
Assessing additional benefit in noninferiority trials
Authors: Kieser Meinhard , Stucke Kathrin
Published: July 2014

A method for simultaneously assessing noninferiority with respect to efficacy and superiority with respect to another endpoint in two‐arm noninferiority trials is presented. The procedure controls both the average type I error rate for the intersection‐union test problem and the frequentist type I error rate for the noninferiority test by α while allowing an increased level for the superiority test. For normally distributed outcomes, two methods are presented to deal with the uncertainty about the correlation between the endpoints which defines the adjusted levels. The operating characteristics of these procedures are investigated. Furthermore, the sample size required when applying the proposed method is compared with that of alternative procedures. Application of the method in the situation of binary endpoints and mixed normal and binary endpoints, respectively, is sketched. An illustrative example is provided demonstrating implementation of the proposed approach in a clinical trial.
A Protein in the palm of your hand through augmented reality
Authors: Berry Colin , Board Jason
Published: July 2014

Understanding of proteins and other biological macromolecules must be based on an appreciation of their 3‐dimensional shape and the fine details of their structure. Conveying these details in a clear and stimulating fashion can present challenges using conventional approaches and 2‐dimensional monitors and projectors. Here we describe a method for the production of 3‐D interactive images of protein structures that can be manipulated in real time through the use of augmented reality software. Users first see a real‐time image of themselves using the computer's camera, then, when they hold up a trigger image, a model of a molecule appears automatically in the video. This model rotates and translates in space in response to movements of the trigger card. The system described has been optimized to allow customization for the display of user‐selected structures to create engaging, educational visualizations to explore 3‐D structures. © 2014 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 42(5):446–449, 2014.
Decorating Tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) with Fluorinated Phenyls through Sulfur Bridges: Facile Synthesis, Properties, and Aggregation through Fluorine Interactions
Authors: Lu Xiaofeng , Sun Jibin , Liu Yu , Shao Jiafeng , Ma Longfei , Zhang Shangxi , Zhao Jinlian , Shao Yongliang , Zhang Hao‐Li , Wang Zhaohui , Shao Xiangfeng
Published: July 2014

Tetrathiafulvalene derivatives (TTF1–TTF9) bearing fluorinated phenyl groups attached through the sulfur bridges have been synthesized by employing a copper‐mediated C–S coupling reaction of C6H5−xFxI (x=1, 2, 5) and a zinc‐thiolate complex, (TBA)2[Zn(DMIT)2] (TBA=tetrabutyl ammonium, DMIT=1,3‐dithiole‐2‐thione‐4,5‐dithiolate), as the key step. Particularly, the selective synthesis of C6F5‐substituted (TTF8) and C6F4‐fused (TTF9) TTFs from C6F5I is disclosed. The physicochemical properties and crystal structures of these TTFs are fully investigated by UV/Vis absorption spectra, cyclic voltammetry, molecular orbital calculation, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The exchange of hydrogen versus fluorine on the peripheral phenyl groups show a notable influence on both the electronic and crystallographic natures of the resulting TTFs: 1) lowering both the HOMO and the LUMO energy levels, 2) modulating the electrochemical properties by regioselective and/or the degree of fluorination, 3) enhancing the driving forces of stacking by multiple fluorine interactions (F⋅⋅⋅S, CF⋅⋅⋅π/πF, CF⋅⋅⋅FC, and CF⋅⋅⋅H). This work indicates that the decoration with fluorinated phenyls holds promise to produce functional TTFs with novel electronic and aggregation features.
When values (do not) converge: Cultural diversity and value convergence in work groups
Authors: Meeussen Loes , Schaafsma Juliette , Phalet Karen
Published: July 2014

Culturally diverse work groups do not always reach their full potential compared with less diverse groups. As shared values facilitate group functioning, we examined whether constructing shared values among group members is constrained by high degrees of cultural diversity. Following 33 real‐life work groups, we investigated how members influenced each other's achievement and relational values over time. Although low and high diversity groups did not differ in initial value similarity between members, they differed in the process of value convergence. In low diversity groups, members developed shared values by influencing each other's values towards consensus. In high diversity groups, however, members did not influence each other's values towards consensus. Low diversity groups also performed better than high diversity groups. These findings extend earlier findings establishing value convergence in culturally homogenous groups and reveal the distinctive processes in highly diverse groups as a focus for interventions to promote diverse group functioning. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Highly Sensitive and Selective Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes/Nafion/Au Microarrays Electrode for Dopamine Determination
Authors: Samseya J. , Srinivasan R. , Arulraj A. Daniel , Vasantha V. S.
Published: July 2014

This work presents the fabrication of Nafion (Nf) or Nafion/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (Nf/MWCNTs) modified gold microarray (Au‐µA) and macro‐(Au‐M)electrode biosensors. The surface morphologies of the above electrodes were examined using SEM. The catalytic properties of the above electrodes towards dopamine were tested using square wave voltammetric technique. The Nf/MWCNT/Au‐µA electrode exhibited a wide range (0.1–1000 nM) of linearity among the other electrodes. The LOD of Nf/MWCNT/Au‐µA electrode was 50 pM for dopamine in the presence of 5000 µM ascorbic acid. Therefore, the Nf/MWCNT/Au‐µA biosensor was applied for the determination of dopamine in human serum.
The study of polyoxometalates formation using capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Zdanov Artem A. , Shuvaeva Olga V.
Published: July 2014

The formation process of polyoxometalates [PMo12O40]3− and [PMo12 − xVxO40]−3−x has been studied in aqueous solutions of 0.1 M malonate buffer at pH 2.8–3.0 using CZE. Two different approaches, pre‐capillary and in‐capillary, were examined and compared. In precapillary mode, the reaction mixture of the reactants and reaction products was injected into the capillary followed by the separation procedure. In in‐capillary mode, the sequential input of the reagents and running electrolyte into the capillary and the species separation occurs simultaneously. The optimal parameters of in‐capillary separation were established as functions of applied voltage and the length of the intermediate buffer zone between the reagents in the capillary. As a result the best‐compromise conditions for the separation of the mixtures containing the reactants, intermediates, and reaction products, in order to achieve the best efficiency, symmetry, and peak areas, were achieved at −18 kV and the input parameter of 900 mbar·s. It was also shown that in‐capillary mode is more informative than pre‐capillary mode for studying the complex compound formation process.
Next‐generation sequencing approach to epigenetic‐based tissue source attribution
Authors: Bartling Craig M. , Hester Mark E. , Bartz Julianne , Heizer Esley , Faith Seth A.
Published: July 2014

The ability to determine the tissue source of biological materials from evidence samples can be highly informative for interpreting forensic data. In this study, a previously published CE‐based method to probe locus‐specific DNA methylation was modified to accommodate detection using next‐generation sequencing (NGS) to perform tissue source attribution. DNA samples (1 ng) from each of four different tissue types were digested with the methylation sensitive restriction endonuclease Hha1 and PCR was used to amplify an optimized subset of ten methylated loci, including positive and negative control loci. The products were prepared as NGS libraries, pooled in a multiplex assay with sample‐specific barcodes, sequenced with an Illumina MiSeq, and analyzed using a k‐Nearest Neighbor algorithm. With this initial effort a concordance rate of 15/16 was demonstrated from samples of varying types: semen, saliva, skin epidermis, and blood. This method also was designed to be compatible with the workflows published to date for NGS of STRs. Thus, the methylation approach described here is highly accurate and upon further validation and testing may be potentially used in practice as a confirmatory test in conjunction with other NGS protocols used in forensic laboratories.