bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding Insights on the Diversity Climate–Performance Link: The Role of Workgroup Discrimination and Group Size
Authors: Boehm Stephan A. , Dwertmann David J. G. , Kunze Florian , Michaelis Björn , Parks Kizzy M. , McDonald Daniel P.
Published: May 2014

The present study extends knowledge of the performance consequences of workgroup diversity climate. Building upon Kopelman, Brief, and Guzzo's () climate model of productivity, we introduce workgroup discrimination as a behavioral mediator that explains the positive effects of diversity climate on workgroup performance. In addition, we investigate group size as a moderator upon which this mediated relationship depends. We test these moderated‐mediated propositions using a split‐sample design and data from 248 military workgroups comprising 8,707 respondents. Findings from structural equation modeling reveal that diversity climate is consistently positively related to workgroup performance and that this relationship is mediated by discrimination. Results yield a pattern of moderated mediation, in that the indirect relationship between workgroup diversity climate (through perceptions of workgroup discrimination) and group performance was more pronounced in larger than in smaller workgroups. These results illustrate that discrimination and group size represent key factors in determining how a diversity climate is associated with group performance and, thus, have significant implications for research and practice. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Peer acceptance among Chinese adolescents: The role of emotional empathy, cognitive empathy and gender
Authors: Huang Heqing , Su Yanjie
Published: May 2014

Previous studies have found mixed results on the relationship between empathy and peer acceptance. Emotional and cognitive components of empathy were hypothesised to play different roles in peer acceptance, and the relationship between empathy and peer acceptance differed across genders. In this study, 375 Chinese adolescents completed self‐report measures of emotional and cognitive empathy. They also provided peer nominations that allowed for the determination of social preference and social impact scores. The results showed that a boy's cognitive empathy positively correlated with the extent to which he was liked by his male classmates, whereas a girl's cognitive empathy positively correlated with her social impact among her female classmates. This study suggests that empathy does not affect peer acceptance among adolescents uniformly; instead, gender plays a determinative role in the dialectics between social acceptance and empathy.
Functional communication training in the treatment of problem behavior maintained by access to rituals
Authors: Rispoli Mandy , Camargo Síglia , Machalicek Wendy , Lang Russell , Sigafoos Jeff
Published: May 2014

This study evaluated the assessment and treatment of problem behaviors related to rituals for children with autism. After functional analyses, we used a multiple‐probe design to examine the effects of functional communication training (FCT) plus extinction and schedule thinning as a treatment package for problem behavior and appropriate communication for 3 children. Results of the functional analyses suggested that problem behavior was maintained by reinstatement of the interrupted routine for all participants, and the treatment package reduced problem behavior. Generalization across activities was observed for 1 participant.
Evaluating the presence versus absence of the reinforcer during extinction
Authors: Castillo Mariana I. , Borrero John C. , Mendres‐Smith Amber E.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of extinction when the reinforcer was present versus absent. These effects were examined with 2 human operant procedures (i.e., a computer program and a mechanical apparatus) with college students as participants. Discriminable properties of the apparatus appeared to influence responding during extinction. In general, responding during extinction was less likely with the mechanical apparatus when the reinforcer was absent and more likely with the computer program.
Core Binding Factor Beta (Cbfβ) Controls the Balance of Chondrocyte Proliferation and Differentiation by Upregulating Indian hedgehog (Ihh) Expression and Inhibiting Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein Receptor (PPR) Expression in Postnatal Cartilage and Bone Formation
Authors: Tian Fei , Wu Mengrui , Deng Lianfu , Zhu Guochun , Ma Junqing , Gao Bo , Wang Lin , Li Yi-Ping , Chen Wei
Published: May 2014

Core binding factor beta (Cbfβ) is essential for embryonic bone morphogenesis. Yet the mechanisms by which Cbfβ regulates chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation as well as postnatal cartilage and bone formation remain unclear. Hence, using paired-related homeobox transcription factor 1-Cre (Prx1-Cre) mice, mesenchymal stem cell–specific Cbfβ-deficient (Cbfβf/fPrx1-Cre) mice were generated to study the role of Cbfβ in postnatal cartilage and bone development. These mutant mice survived to adulthood but exhibited severe sternum and limb malformations. Sternum ossification was largely delayed in the Cbfβf/fPrx1-Cre mice and the xiphoid process was noncalcified and enlarged. In newborn and 7-day-old Cbfβf/fPrx1-Cre mice, the resting zone was dramatically elongated, the proliferation zone and hypertrophic zone of the growth plates were drastically shortened and disorganized, and trabecular bone formation was reduced. Moreover, in 1-month-old Cbfβf/fPrx1-Cre mice, the growth plates were severely deformed and trabecular bone was almost absent. In addition, Cbfβ deficiency impaired intramembranous bone formation both in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, although the expression of Indian hedgehog (Ihh) was largely reduced, the expression of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) receptor (PPR) was dramatically increased in the Cbfβf/fPrx1-Cre growth plate, indicating that that Cbfβ deficiency disrupted the Ihh-PTHrP negative regulatory loop. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis and promoter luciferase assay demonstrated that the Runx/Cbfβ complex binds putative Runx-binding sites of the Ihh promoter regions, and also the Runx/Cbfβ complex directly upregulates Ihh expression at the transcriptional level. Consistently, the expressions of Ihh target genes, including CyclinD1, Ptc, and Pthlh, were downregulated in Cbfβ-deficient chondrocytes. Taken together, our study reveals not only that Cbfβ is essential for chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation for the growth and maintenance of the skeleton in postnatal mice, but also that it functions in upregulating Ihh expression to promoter chondrocyte proliferation and osteoblast differentiation, and inhibiting PPR expression to enhance chondrocyte differentiation. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Blockade of CD26 Signaling Inhibits Human Osteoclast Development
Authors: Nishida Hiroko , Suzuki Hiroshi , Madokoro Hiroko , Hayashi Mutsumi , Morimoto Chikao , Sakamoto Michiie , Yamada Taketo
Published: May 2014

Bone remodeling is maintained by the delicate balance between osteoblasts (OBs) and osteoclasts (OCs). However, the role of CD26 in regulating bone remodeling has not yet been characterized. We herein show that CD26 is preferentially expressed on normal human OCs and is intensely expressed on activated human OCs in osteolytic bone alterations. Macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and soluble receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (sRANKL) induced human OC differentiation, in association with CD26 expression on monocyte-macrophage lineage cells. CD26 expression was accompanied by increased phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), which is crucial for early human OC differentiation. The humanized anti-CD26 monoclonal antibody, huCD26mAb, impaired the formation and function of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)/CD26 positive multi-nucleated (nuclei > 3) OCs with maturation in the manner of dose-dependency. It was revealed that huCD26mAb inhibits early OC differentiation via the inactivation of MKK3/6, p38 MAPK and subsequent dephosphorylation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (mi/Mitf). These inhibitions occur immediately after RANKL binds to RANK on the human OC precursor cells and were demonstrated using the OC functional assays. huCD26mAb subsequently impaired OC maturation and bone resorption by suppressing the expression of TRAP and OC fusion proteins. In addition, p38 MAPK inhibitor also strongly inhibited OC formation and function. Our results suggest that the blockade of CD26 signaling impairs the development of human functional OCs by inhibiting p38 MAPK-mi/Mitf phosphorylation pathway and that targeting human OCs with huCD26mAb may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of osteolytic lesions following metastasis to alleviate bone destruction and reduce total skeletal-related events (SREs). © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Mechanical Load Increases in Bone Formation via a Sclerostin-Independent Pathway
Authors: Morse Alyson , McDonald Michelle Maree , Kelly Natalie H , Melville Katherine M , Schindeler Aaron , Kramer Ina , Kneissel Michaela , van der Meulen Marjolein CH , Little David Graham
Published: May 2014

Sclerostin, encoded by the Sost gene, is an important negative regulator of bone formation that has been proposed to have a key role in regulating the response to mechanical loading. To investigate the effect of long-term Sclerostin deficiency on mechanotransduction in bone, we performed experiments on unloaded or loaded tibiae of 10 week old female Sost−/− and wild type mice. Unloading was induced via 0.5U botulinum toxin (BTX) injections into the right quadriceps and calf muscles, causing muscle paralysis and limb disuse. On a separate group of mice, increased loading was performed on the left tibiae through unilateral cyclic axial compression of equivalent strains (+1200 µe) at 1200 cycles/day, 5 days/week. Another cohort of mice receiving equivalent loads (−9.0 N) also were assessed. Contralateral tibiae served as normal load controls. Loaded/unloaded and normal load tibiae were assessed at day 14 for bone volume (BV) and formation changes. Loss of BV was seen in the unloaded tibiae of wild type mice, but BV was not different between normal load and unloaded Sost−/− tibiae. An increase in BV was seen in the loaded tibiae of wild type and Sost−/− mice over their normal load controls. The increased BV was associated with significantly increased mid-shaft periosteal mineralizing surface/bone surface (MS/BS), mineral apposition rate (MAR), and bone formation rate/bone surface (BFR/BS), and endosteal MAR and BFR/BS. Notably, loading induced a greater increase in periosteal MAR and BFR/BS in Sost−/− mice than in wild type controls. Thus, long-term Sclerostin deficiency inhibits the bone loss normally induced with decreased mechanical load, but it can augment the increase in bone formation with increased load. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Nuclear Translocation of β‐Catenin Mediates the Parathyroid Hormone‐Induced Endothelial‐to‐Mesenchymal Transition in Human Renal Glomerular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Wu Min , Tang Ri‐Ning , Liu Hong , Ma Kun‐Ling , Lv Lin‐Li , Liu Bi‐Cheng
Published: May 2014

Emerging evidence shows that increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) accelerates endothelial injury and subsequent organ fibrosis. Although the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown, the endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has recently been demonstrated to be a crucial event during fibrotic disorders. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether elevated PTH could induce EndMT in primary human renal glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) and to determine the possible underlying signaling pathway. The expression of EndMT‐related markers was determined by real‐time PCR, Western blotting, and confocal microscopy. The results showed that PTH receptor (PTHR) was expressed in GECs and its expression was decreased by increasing concentration of PTH. Moreover, PTH significantly inhibited the expression of endothelial marker CD31 and increased the expression of mesenchymal markers FSP1 and α‐SMA in concentration‐ and time‐dependent manners. Confocal microscopy revealed an increasing overlap of CD31 with FSP1 in some GECs after PTH treatment. The expression of type I collagen was upregulated by PTH. Furthermore, PTH enhanced the nuclear β‐catenin protein levels, and decreased cytoplasmic β‐catenin expression in GECs was observed. In contrast, DKK1, an inhibitor of β‐catenin nuclear translocation, attenuated such changes in EndMT‐related markers induced by PTH. In summary, these data demonstrated that elevated PTH‐induced EndMT in human GECs might be partially mediated by the nuclear translocation of β‐catenin. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1692–1701, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
20‐O‐β‐d‐Glucopyranosyl‐20(S)‐Protopanaxadiol Suppresses UV‐Induced MMP‐1 Expression Through AMPK‐Mediated mTOR Inhibition as a Downstream of the PKA‐LKB1 Pathway
Authors: Shin Dong Joo , Kim Jong‐Eun , Lim Tae‐Gyu , Jeong Eun Hee , Park Gaeun , Kang Nam Joo , Park Jun‐Seong , Yeom Myeong‐Hun , Oh Deok Kun , Bode Ann M. , Dong Zigang , Lee Hyong Joo , Lee Ki Won
Published: May 2014

Various health effects have been attributed to the ginsenoside metabolite 20‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐20(S)‐protopanaxadiol (GPD); however, its effect on ultraviolet (UV)‐induced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1 expression and the mechanism underlying this effect are unknown. We examined the inhibitory effect of GPD on UV‐induced MMP‐1 expression and its mechanisms in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). GPD attenuated UV‐induced MMP‐1 expression in HDFs and suppressed the UV‐induced phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and p70S6K without inhibiting the activity of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase and Akt, which are well‐known upstream kinases of mTOR. GPD augmented the phosphorylation of liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which are inhibitors of mTOR, to a greater extent than UV treatment alone. Similar to GPD, 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide‐1‐β‐d‐ribofuranosyl 5′‐monophosphate (AICAR), an activator of AMPK, augmented UV‐induced AMPK phosphorylation to a greater extent than UV treatment alone, resulting in the inhibition of MMP‐1 expression. AICAR also decreased the phosphorylation of mTOR and p70S6K. However, compound C, an antagonist of AMPK, increased MMP‐1 expression. In HDF cells with AMPK knock‐down using shRNA, MMP‐1 expression was increased. These results indicate that AMPK activation plays a key role in MMP‐1 suppression. Additionally, the cAMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor, H‐89, antagonized GPD‐mediated MMP‐1 suppression via the inhibition of LKB1. Our results suggest that the suppressive activity of GPD on UV‐induced MMP‐1 expression is due to the activation of AMPK as a downstream of the PKA‐LKB1 pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1702–1711, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The “Connexin” Between Bone Cells and Skeletal Functions
Authors: Zappitelli Tanya , Aubin Jane E.
Published: May 2014

The processes of bone modeling and remodeling are crucial in the skeleton's functions as a supportive and protective structure, a mineral reservoir, and an endocrine organ. The coordination between bone cell activities (bone formation and bone resorption), necessary to maintain the integrity of the skeleton during these processes, is mediated at least in part by cell–cell and cell–environment interactions across gap junctions and hemichannels. The increasing number of genetically engineered Connexin 43 (Cx43) knockout and missense mouse models have provided insight into the complex and critical roles of Cx43‐containing gap junctions and hemichannels in the development and turnover of the skeleton, in differentiation, activity and survival of the bone cell lineages, and in the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Cx43 functions and assists in mediating cellular responses to stimuli in bone. Cx43 may be an important potential therapeutic target, making it crucial that we continue to gain understanding of the multiple and complex roles of Cx43 in bone. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1646–1658, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of UVB and UVC Effects on the DNA Damage‐Response Protein 53BP1 in Human Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Uehara Fuminari , Miwa Shinji , Tome Yasunori , Hiroshima Yukihiko , Yano Shuya , Yamamoto Mako , Efimova Elena , Matsumoto Yasunori , Maehara Hiroki , Bouvet Michael , Kanaya Fuminori , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: May 2014

We have previously demonstrated that ultraviolet (UV) light is effective against a variety of cancer cells expressing fluorescent proteins in vivo as well as in vitro. In the present report, we compared the DNA damage repair (DDR) response of pancreatic cancer cells after UVB or UVC irradiation. The UV‐induced DNA damage repair was imaged with green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused to the DDR‐related chromatin‐binding protein 53BP1 in MiaPaCa‐2 human pancreatic cancer cells growing in 3D Gelfoam® histoculture and in superficial tumors grown in nude mice. 53BP1‐GFP forms foci during DNA damage repair. A clonogenic assay in 2D monolayer culture initially showed that UVC and UVB inhibited MiaPaCa‐2 cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner, with UVC having more efficacy. Three‐dimensional Gelfoam® histocultures and confocal imaging enabled 53BP1‐GFP foci to be observed within 1 h after UV irradiation, indicating the onset of DDR response. UVB‐induced 53BP1‐GFP focus formation was observed up to a depth of 120 µm in MiaPaCa‐2 cells on Gelfoam® compared to 80 µm for UVC. UVB‐induced 53BP1‐GFP focus formation was observed up to a depth of 80 µm in MiaPaCa‐2 cells, implanted within skin flaps in mice, at a significantly greater extent than UVC. MiaPaCa‐2 cells irradiated by UVB or UVC in the skin‐flap mouse model had a significant decrease in tumor growth compared to untreated controls with UVB having more efficacy than UVC. Our results demonstrate that UVB has greater tissue penetration than UVC because of its longer wavelength and has clinical potential for eradicating superficial cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1724–1728, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Metabolism of Arsenic Trioxide in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Khaleghian Ali , Ghaffari Seyed H. , Ahmadian Shahin , Alimoghaddam Kamran , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir
Published: May 2014

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) effectively induces complete clinical and molecular remissions in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) patients and triggers apoptosis in APL cells. The effect induced by As2O3 is also associated with extensive genomic‐wide epigenetic changes with large‐scale alterations in DNA methylation. We investigated the As2O3 metabolism in association with factors involved in the production of its methylated metabolites in APL‐derived cell line, NB4. We used high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique to detect As2O3 metabolites in NB4 cells. The effects of As2O3 on glutathione level, S‐Adenosylmethionine (SAM) and S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) levels were investigated. Also, we studied the expression levels of arsenic methyltransferase (AS3MT) and DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b) by real‐time PCR. Our results show that after As2O3 entry into the cell, it was converted into methylated metabolites, mono‐methylarsenic (MMA) and dimethylarsenic (DMA). The glutathione (GSH) production was increased in parallel with the methylated metabolites formations. As2O3 treatment inhibited DNMTs (DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b) in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners. The SAH levels in As2O3‐treated cells were increased; however, the SAM level was not affected. The present study shows that APL cell is capable of metabolizing As2O3. The continuous formation of intracellular methylated metabolites, the inhibition of DNMTs expression levels and the increase of SAH level by As2O3 biotransformation would probably affect the DNMTs‐methylated DNA methylation in a manner related to the extent of DNA hypomethylation. Production of intracellular methylated metabolites and epigenetic changes of DNA methylation during As2O3 metabolism may contribute to the therapeutic effect of As2O3 in APL. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1729–1739, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Complete degradation of the persistent anti‐depressant sertraline in aqueous solution by solar photo‐Fenton oxidation
Authors: Pliego Gema , Xekoukoulotakis Nikos , Venieri Danae , Zazo Juan A. , Casas Jose A. , . Rodriguez Juan J , Mantzavinos Dionissios
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor sertraline is found to be one of the most persistent pharmaceutical drugs and it has been detected in effluents from wastewater treatment plants. This work evaluates the feasibility of homogeneous solar photo‐Fenton oxidation for treating aqueous solutions containing sertraline.

RESULTS

The influence of iron and H2O2 dosages was studied in order to optimize the reagents consumption. The beneficial role of simulated solar irradiation was noticeable and sertraline was readily oxidized; TOC removal up to 90% was achieved at a hydrogen peroxide dose as low as 40% of the stoichiometric amount for mineralization. Dechlorination was the first step of the proposed reaction pathway giving rise to the formation of by‐products of much lower toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Solar simulated photo‐Fenton allowed reduction of the doses of iron and H2O2 needed, and therefore the main operating cost associated with this process, without compromising the quality of the effluent in terms of ecotoxicity. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Polymer inclusion membranes composed of long alkyl chain alcohols for clean gold (III) recovery
Authors: Núñez Gaytán María Elena , Rodríguez de San Miguel Guerrero Eduardo , de Gyves Marciniak Josefina
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

In addition to monetary and symbolic functions, gold has many practical uses in dentistry, electronics, textile and spacecraft industries, plating, and medicine. Consequently, gold recycling is an important activity. In this work, extraction and transport of gold (III) from concentrated HCl media by long chain alcohols were studied using model systems with octanol, decanol, and dodecanol in a two‐ (liquid and solid extraction) or three‐phase (polymer inclusion membrane, PIM) configurations.

RESULTS

Numerical data analysis revealed HAuCl4 extraction by a solvation mechanism. Regarding polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs), the efficiency factors (permeability, selectivity, and stability) of the systems were determined. Through the analysis of extraction results, permeability profiles as a function of the content of the components, thermal analyses and reported evidence of extractant aggregation, the gold (III) transport mechanism was characterized as flow‐type.

CONCLUSION

Gold (III) extraction and transport was satisfactorily accomplished with excellent separation from Pd(II), Pt(IV), Cu(II) and Fe(III) in the membrane system. Dodecanol‐based PIMs presented the highest stability and permeability (≈ 0.32 cm min‐1). The work extends previous analyses of metal transport mechanisms in PIMs toward systems in which the extremely high extractant/co‐extractant concentrations allow structuration of the media with consequent formation of conducting channels for solute migration. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Investigation of process parameters for removal of bisphenol A (BPA) from water by polymeric adsorbents in adsorption‐ultrafiltration hybrid system
Authors: İpek İdil Yılmaz , Yüksel Suna , Kabay Nalan , Yüksel Mithat
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

The effect of process parameters of a hybrid process integrating adsorption and ultrafiltration in a single system was investigated for bisphenol A (BPA) removal from water. The styrene‐divinylbenzene‐based, macroporous Purolite MN 202 and Dowex Optipore L493 polymeric adsorbents were employed for adsorption of BPA from water while a ZW‐1 model submerged ultrafiltration module was applied in the hybrid system to separate the fine adsorbent particles from treated water.

RESULTS

According to the results obtained using Dowex Optipore L493, the optimum operating conditions to reach minimum BPA concentration in the treated water were found to be: adsorbent concentration 0.5 g‐adsorbent L−1‐solution, replacement rate of saturated and fresh adsorbents 9 mL min−1, permeate flow rate 3 mL min−1, and polymeric adsorbent particle size range 50–100 µm.

CONCLUSION

The adsorption–ultrafiltration hybrid system is considered as a promising treatment process for removal of BPA from water using highly crosslinked polymeric adsorbents Purolite MN 202 and Dowex Optipore L493. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis of quaternary ammonium hydroxide from its halide salt by bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED): effect of molecular structure of ammonium compounds on the process performance
Authors: Shen Jiangnan , Yu Jie , Liu Lifen , Lin Jiuyang , Van der Bruggen Bart
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Conventional methods for synthesis of quaternary ammonium hydroxides, such as the reaction of quaternary ammonium chloride, ion‐exchange and electro‐electrodialysis cannot achieve benign production of QAOH without secondary pollution. The objective of the present study was to develop bipolar membrane electrodialysis with a novel stack configuration as an improved method to prepare high purity quaternary ammonium hydroxide from its halide salt.

RESULTS

To investigate the synthesis of quaternary ammonium hydroxide (QAOH) with high purity by using electrodialysis with bipolar membranes (BMED), four different types of quaternary ammonium hydroxides (tetramethylammonium hydroxide, TMAOH; tetrapropylammonium hydroxide, TPAOH; methyltriethylammonium hydroxide, MTAOH; and benzyltrimethylammonium hydroxide, BTAOH) were chosen as the target products. The effect of the molecular structure of four different types of halide salts (NR4X) on the BMED performance was studied by investigating operating parameters such as current density, feed concentration and feed flow velocity and energy consumption on the basis of ion dimensions and molecular weight, ion electrophoretic mobility and the interaction between ammoniums and membranes. The results indicate that it is feasible to obtain quaternary ammonium hydroxides with high purity (Cl−/Br− content < 500 ppm) by BMED with a novel four‐compartment configuration in view of environmental aspects.

CONCLUSION

For converting higher molecule size halide salts, the process performance was lower, while the energy consumption increased, at similar experimental conditions, which is in line with the theory. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
A comparative study of removal of Cr(VI) by ion exchange resins bearing quaternary ammonium groups
Authors: Kusku Ozge , Rivas Bernabé L. , Urbano Bruno F. , Arda Müşerref , Kabay Nalan , Bryjak Marek
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Ion exchange resins based on poly[(4‐vinylbenzyl) trimethylammonium chloride] P(ClVBTA) and poly[(3‐acrylamidopropyl) trimethyl ammonium chloride] P(ClAPTA) were synthesized by radical polymerization. Metal ion uptake experiments were run with these synthesized resins and compared with the commercially available anion exchange resin Amberlite IRA‐400.

RESULTS

Retention of Cr(VI) was found to be independent of pH and the co‐existence of Cl− and SO42− ions for two resins. The sorption data obtained were evaluated using well‐known kinetic and adsorption isotherm models. The kinetic data obtained for the two resins fitted well to the pseudo‐second‐order model and the Langmuir isotherm. Besides, it was observed that temperature influenced slightly the sorption properties of the ion exchange resins synthesized in this study and commercially available ion exchange resin Amberlite IRA‐400.

CONCLUSIONS

The synthetic resins showed a better sorption performance than a commercially available ion exchange resin. The P(ClVBTA) and P(ClAPTA) resins exhibited greater and faster sorption than Amberlite IRA‐400. Sorption capacities of these ion exchangers were found to be in the order P(ClAPTA) > P(ClVBTA) > Amberlite IRA‐400. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis and characterization of Magnetic Ionic Liquids (MILs) for CO2 separation
Authors: Santos Esther , Albo Jonathan , Rosatella Andreia , Afonso Carlos A.M. , Irabien Ángel
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

The behaviour of a new generation of Ionic Liquids (ILs) containing transition metals, Magnetic Ionic Liquids (MILs), has recently been reported in the literature. Due to the early stage of development of MILs, it is necessary to evaluate their properties in order to develop new applications. In this work, four MILs based on the trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium cation and different magnetic anions ([P66614]2[CoCl4], [P66614][FeCl4], [P66614]2[MnCl4] and [P66614]3[GdCl6]) were synthesized and characterized by measuring magnetic susceptibility, density, viscosity, thermal properties and carbon dioxide solubility for CO2 separation.

RESULTS

The magnetic susceptibility showed a paramagnetic behaviour in all the MILs tested, in good agreement with other MILs reported in the literature. The density and viscosity of MILs were obtained experimentally and correlated using Fitteia software. All MILs studied showed very good thermal stability, with decomposition temperatures higher than 619 K. CO2 solubility in the MILs was lower than in other ILs reported in the literature for CO2 capture under the same operational conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

This work provides further information related to the synthesis and characterization of phosphonium‐based MILs and offers potential for the development of new applications. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Valorisation of Ca and Mg by‐products from mining and seawater desalination brines for water treatment applications
Authors: Casas Sandra , Aladjem Carlos , Larrotcha Enric , Gibert Oriol , Valderrama César , Cortina José Luis
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Brines from the drainage of potash mine tailings and from seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination were previously evaluated as sources of NaCl for the chlor‐alkali industry. Valorisation of NaCl as raw material is required to meet the membrane electrolysis specifications of NaCl saturation and control of interferences (Ca, Mg and sulphate). Brines concentration in NaCl was previously achieved for SWRO brines using electrodialysis (ED). In this work, valorisation of Ca and Mg by‐products via selective recovery was evaluated.

RESULTS

Recovery of Ca(II) and Mg(II) using chemical precipitation with Na2CO3 and NaOH was evaluated at 25°C and 65°C using one single reagent and mixtures of reagents. The excess of reactants needed to achieve the maximum removal efficiency ranged from 0.35 to 14 g L−1 Na2CO3 and 0.85 g L−1 NaOH. Selective concentration of SWRO brines by ED benefited the purification, as it slightly diluted the antiscalants. The increase of temperatures also benefited their removal process.

CONCLUSIONS

Total chemical analysis of Ca and Mg by‐products showed the presence of mixed salts of Ca and Mg when Na2CO3 was used and more pure precipitates of Mg when NaOH was used. In both cases, small amounts of minor traces initially present in the brines were found. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Purification techniques for the recovery of valuable compounds from acid mine drainage and cyanide tailings: application of green engineering principles
Authors: García Verónica , Häyrynen Piia , Landaburu‐Aguirre Junkal , Pirilä Minna , Keiski Riitta L. , Urtiaga Ane
Published: May 2014

The metal mining of certain minerals is associated with the generation of acid mine drainage waters and effluents containing cyanides that can have long‐term negative impacts on waterways and biodiversity. Obtaining valuable components from those effluents would improve the resource efficiency and the environmental performance of mining.

This paper reviews the main separation processes cited in literature for the purification of real acid mine drainage waters and cyanide tailings, and for the recovery of heavy metals and cyanides from those effluents. The processes used are adsorption and membrane technology to obtain valuable compounds from acid mine drainage waters and ion‐exchange, acidification–volatilization–reneutralization, sulphidization–acidification–recycling–thickening and membrane technology from cyanide tailings. Further, the use of the 12 green engineering principles for improving the environmental performance of the purification techniques is debated.

This work indicates that the energy and chemical consumption and the formation of waste are the main environmental disadvantages of the purification and recovery techniques. This paper concludes that the limitations may be overcome by improving the efficiency of the processes and by using renewable energy and material. The benefits of conducting the purification and recovery techniques utilizing hybrid processes are also pointed out. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Removal of zinc from a base‐metal solution using ion exchange at Rustenburg Base Metal Refiners
Authors: Taute Jacob J. , Sole Kathryn C. , Hardwick Edmund
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Changes to the process flowsheet and increasing zinc content of the feed materials to the Anglo American Platinum Rustenburg Base Metals Refinery circuit resulted in increasing deportment of zinc to the nickel product and necessitated a dedicated zinc‐removal circuit to ensure continued consistent quality of the nickel cathode.

RESULTS

The development of an ion‐exchange process for the removal of 0.03 g L−1 Zn from a stream containing 70 g L−1 Ni, 0.2 g L−1 Co is described. Batch testwork compared the di(2‐ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid‐impregnated resin, Lewatit VP OC 1026, with the aminophosphonic acid resin, Purolite S950, and identified the most suitable resin for this application with respect to loading capacity and selectivity. Continuous column testwork then allowed determination of the mass transfer zone length, on which the full‐scale plant design was based.

CONCLUSION

A plant treating 15 m3 h–1 was installed for removal of zinc from the selected process stream using Lewatit VP OC 1026. The zinc content of the nickel cathode was reduced by 40% following commissioning of this ion‐exchange plant, allowing the target product specification to be consistently met. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis of New Macrocyclic Schiff Bases Containing Pyrazole and Triazole as Subcyclic Units
Authors: Chen F. , Liu F‐M.
Published: May 2014

The novel macrocyclic Schiff bases upon which were fused triazole and pyrazole units and containing N, O and S inside the macrocyclic ring as donor atoms were synthesized by condensation of appropriate bis(4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐yl‐sulfanyl)alkanes 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, 2i, 2j, 2k, 2l, 2m, 2n, 2o, 2p, 2q, 2r and pyrazoledialdehyde 3 in refluxing glacial acetic acid. The structural identities of these compounds were confirmed on the basis of spectrum.
Thermal Synthesis of 3‐Bromothieno[3,2‐c]pyridin‐4‐(5H)‐one: A Telescoped Procedure with Tributylamine
Authors: Boros Eric E. , Kaldor Istvan
Published: May 2014

3‐Bromothieno[3,2‐c]pyridine‐4‐(5H)‐one (1) was prepared from (2E)‐3‐(4‐bromo‐2‐thienyl)‐2‐propenoic acid (3) by the Eloy–Deryckere thermal benzo/heteropyridinone synthesis. A telescoped procedure was developed, which reduces some of the risk associated with the classic procedure. Use of tributylamine as an additive in this process was shown to facilitate E/Z‐isomerization of the intermediate vinyl isocyanate and lower the temperature necessary for the overall thermal process.
Diagnostic value of T1 and T2* relaxation times and off‐resonance saturation effects in the evaluation of achilles tendinopathy by MRI at 3T
Authors: Grosse Ulrich , Syha Roland , Hein Tobias , Gatidis Sergios , Grözinger Gerd , Schabel Christoph , Martirosian Petros , Schick Fritz , Springer Fabian
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the diagnostic value of T1, T2* relaxation times and off‐resonance saturation ratios (OSR) in healthy controls and patients with different clinical and morphological stages of Achilles tendinopathy.

Material and Methods

Forty‐two healthy Achilles tendons and 34 tendons of 17 patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic tendinopathy were investigated clinically with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences on a 3T whole‐body MR scanner and a dynamic ultrasound examination. In addition, T1 and T2* relaxation times were assessed using an ultrashort echo time (UTE) imaging sequence with flip angle and echo time variation. For the calculation of OSR values a Gaussian off‐resonance saturation pulse (frequency offset: 750–5000 Hz) was used. The diagnostic value of the derived MR values was assessed and compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

ROC curves demonstrate the highest overall test performance for OSR values at 2000 Hz off‐resonance in differentiating slightly (OSR‐2000 [AUC: 0.930] > T2* [AUC: 0.884] > T1 [AUC: 0.737]) and more severe pathologically altered tendon areas (OSR‐2000 [AUC: 0.964] > T2* [AUC: 0.917] > T1 [AUC: 0.819]) from healthy ones.

Conclusion

OSR values at a frequency offset of 2000 Hz demonstrated a better sensitivity and specificity for detecting mild and severe stages of tendinopathy compared to T2* and particularly when compared to T1 relaxation times. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:964–973. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Digital radiography exposure indices: A review
Authors: Mothiram Ursula , Brennan Patrick C. , Lewis Sarah J. , Moran Bernadette , Robinson John
Published: May 2014

Digital radiography (DR) technologies have the advantage of a wide dynamic range compared to their film‐screen predecessors, however, this poses a potential for increased patient exposure if left unchecked. Manufacturers have developed the exposure index (EI) to counter this, which provides radiographers with feedback on the exposure reaching the detector. As these EIs were manufacturer‐specific, a wide variety of EIs existed. To offset this, the international standardised EI has been developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM). The purpose of this article is to explore the current literature relating to EIs, beginning with the historical development of the EI, the development of the standardised EI and an exploration of common themes and studies as evidenced in the research literature. It is anticipated that this review will provide radiographers with a useful guide to understanding EIs, their application in clinical practice, limitations and suggestions for further research.
How do Medical Radiation Science educators keep up with the [clinical] Joneses?
Authors: Giles Eileen
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Medical radiation science (MRS) disciplines include medical imaging, radiation therapy and nuclear medicine. These allied health fields are technology driven and evolving rapidly with regard to imaging and treatment techniques within the clinical environment. This research aims to identify the activities academics are currently participating in to maintain clinical currency and offer strategies to support academics to connect with an ever‐changing clinical environment.

Methods

A cross‐sectional designed survey was sampled across the nine Australian universities where MRS programmes are offered. The survey targeted academic teaching staff that were working in MRS programmes at the time of distribution (n ≈ 90). Enablers and barriers to maintaining clinical currency as well as support to participate in continuing professional development were rated by the respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, and free‐text comment responses were collated and themed.

Results

There were 38 responses to the survey (42%) and all three disciplines were represented. Responses highlighted activities valued by academics as contributing to their knowledge of current practice and as resources to inform their teaching. Positive elements included participating in clinical work and research, attending clinical sites and training days and attending scientific meetings. Common barriers identified by academics in this area were time constraints, workload allocation and employer/financial support.

Conclusion

This research has identified that Australian MRS academics participate in a broad range of activities to inform their teaching and maintain knowledge of contemporary clinical practice. A connection with the clinical world is valued highly by academics, however, access and support to maintain that link is often a difficulty and as a result for MRS teaching staff keeping up with the clinical [MRS] Joneses is often a challenge.
Analysis of precipitation based on ensembles of regional climate model simulations and observational databases over Ethiopia for the period 1989–2008
Authors: Reda Daniel T. , Engida Agizew N. , Asfaw Dereje H. , Hamdi Rafiq
Published: May 2014

This study examines the performance of multimodel numerical simulations and multiobservational databases focusing on seasonal cycles and spatial variations of precipitation over Ethiopia. Seven regional climate models (RCMs) driven by the European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) Interim reanalysis (ERA‐Interim) and generated in the framework of COordinated Regional climate Downscaling EXperiment (CORDEX) project, and four observational databases computed using different interpolation techniques and blending strategies were evaluated against typical observational database produced by Climate Research Unit (CRU) over Ethiopia on monthly basis. All were produced at 48.8 km grid resolution for the period 1989–2008. The preliminary results showed that ensembles [multimodel ensemble (MME) + multiobservational ensemble (MOE)] were as good as CRU in reproducing the temporal variability and the geographical distribution of precipitation. Comparison of seasonal means and temporal correlation results revealed that there were good agreements between ensembles and CRU at each grid point and in close proximity to each other. Results of rotated principal components (RPCs), rotated empirical orthogonal functions (REOFs), and the associated power spectra showed that every ensemble's element was able to simulate the seasonal cycles and homogeneous precipitation zones of CRU reasonably well. Excessive and deficient rainfall periods, which were seen in every ensemble's RPCs, matched CRU historical records.
Aerosol radiometric properties at Western Spain (Cáceres station)
Authors: Obregón M. A. , Serrano A. , Cancillo M. L. , Cachorro V. E. , Toledano C.
Published: May 2014

This paper analyses the radiometric properties of aerosol column over Western Spain. It is based on 7‐year data series of aerosol parameters at the AERONET Cáceres station (Spain) as measured by CIMEL sun‐photometers. The study period extends along almost 7 years: from July 2005 to June 2012. The paper aims at analysing the temporal evolution, mean values and spectral dependence of some fundamental aerosol parameters such as aerosol optical depth (τ), Ångström parameter (α), single scattering albedo (ω), asymmetry parameter (g) and volume size distribution (dV dlogr−1); and their relationship with the most frequent air masses that arrive at Western Spain. Mean values correspond to aerosols of small size and low concentration (mean τ500 = 0.11; mean α = 1.38). In fact, 50% of days correspond to ‘continental‐clean’ type. However, there is a certain variability of conditions, with more than 25% of medium and high turbidity cases with τ500 higher than 0.20. These episodes of high turbidity occur more frequently in August and September and are usually due to the influence of desert‐dust aerosol, biomass burning, continental aerosol, or a mixture of them. The analysis of the all basic and derived aerosol parameters is explained by the main influences: continental location, exposed to maritime aerosols coming from the Atlantic Ocean, and affected by Saharan dust intrusions.
Snowfall variations in Japan and its linkage with tropical forcing
Authors: Ueda Hiroaki , Kibe Ayumi , Saitoh Mika , Inoue Tomoshige
Published: May 2014

In this study, the causes of inter‐annual variability of wintertime snowfall in the coastal plain facing the Sea of Japan over the past 33 years (1980–2012) are investigated. The observational evidence showed that intensified cold air intrusion from the Eurasian continent towards Japan in combination with anomalous cyclonic circulation favours in situ heavy snowfall. The composite analysis of the tropical convection during the heavy snow winters indicates that enhancement of convection in the vicinity of the Philippines, including the eastern Indian Ocean, is responsible for the emergence of anti‐cyclonic circulation over the Asian continent and subsequent anomalous cyclonic circulation around Japan. Idealized experiments by use of the linear baroclinic model (LBM) were conducted to elucidate the origin of the teleconnection. We put idealized diabatic heating in the LBM under the wintertime atmospheric circulation and examined the heat‐induced response. The experimental results clearly indicated that the intensified convection over the maritime continents and the neighbouring oceans is primarily responsible for the pair of the anti‐cyclonic and cyclonic circulation. Thus, a study of the predictability of the tropical forcing may shed light on the predictable dynamics of snowy winters in Japan.
Tibiofemoral alignment in posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty: Static alignment does not predict dynamic tibial plateau loading
Authors: Miller Emily J. , Pagnano Mark W. , Kaufman Kenton R.
Published: May 2014

For total knee arthroplasty (TKA), neutral mechanical alignment produces balanced static knee loading. Dynamically, knee loading is affected by more than limb static alignment. We compared static and dynamic knee loading following TKA. Fifteen TKA patients were evaluated pre‐operatively and 2 months and 2 years post‐operatively. Tibiofemoral angles and medial tibial plateau loading were calculated. Pre‐operatively, static medial load was greater for varus than valgus knees. Post‐operatively, no relationship existed between tibiofemoral angle and static medial plateau load. Pre‐operatively and post‐operatively, dynamic medial load was not dependent on tibiofemoral angle. While all patients achieved equal static plateau load distributions at 2 years, only 47% had dynamic medial load distributions of 50 ± 10%. Static tibiofemoral alignment alone does not predict dynamic tibial loading. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:???–???, 2014.
Anti‐diabetic effects of the ethanol extract of a functional formula diet in mice fed with a fructose/fat‐rich combination diet
Authors: Cheng Qian , Zhang Xiaofeng , Wang Ou , Liu Jia , Cai Shengbao , Wang Ruojun , Zhou Feng , Ji Baoping
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Rhizoma dioscorea, Lycium barbarum, Prunella vulgaris and hawthorn are well known in both traditional food and folk medicine. Each of these plants reportedly possesses beneficial effects in the treatment of diabetes. In this study an anti‐diabetic health‐promoting diet was formulated by mixing the herbs in a ratio of 6:4:2:3, and the anti‐diabetic effect and underlying mechanism were elucidated in vivo.

RESULTS

Compared with the model control group, the formula, especially its ethanol extract (EF), could improve glucose intolerance and normalize the lipid profile. The mechanisms responsible for the amelioration of glucose and lipid metabolism in mice were an increase in peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity, a decrease in serum free fatty acid level, enhanced hepatic glucokinase activity and glycogen content and improved serum antioxidant activity. Hepatic histopathological examination also showed that EF administration markedly decreased fatty deposits in the liver of mice.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study demonstrated that the prepared functional formula diet is a potent alternative as an anti‐diabetic health‐promoting diet. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry