bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of analytical techniques for characterization of crystalline clopidogrel forms in patent applications
Authors: Lira Luiz Marcelo , Lourenço Alexandre Lopes , Neves Guilherme Ferreira , Sousa Valéria Pereira de , Rodrigues Carlos Rangel , Cabral Lúcio Mendes
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate two important aspects of patent applications of crystalline forms of drugs: (i) the physicochemical characterization of the crystalline forms; and (ii) the procedure for preparing crystals of the blockbuster drug clopidogrel. To this end, searches were conducted using online patent databases. The results showed that: (i) the majority of patent applications for clopidogrel crystalline forms failed to comply with proposed Brazilian Patent Office guidelines. This was primarily due to insufficient number of analytical techniques evaluating the crystalline phase. In addition, some patent applications lacked assessment of chemical/crystallography purity; (ii) use of more than two analytical techniques is important; and (iii) the crystallization procedure for clopidogrel bisulfate form II were irreproducible based on the procedure given in the patent application.
Evaluation of cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of the benzodiazepine flunitrazepam in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Almeida Igor Vivian de , Domingues Giovana , Soares Lilian Capelari , Düsman Elisângela , Vicentini Veronica Elisa Pimenta
Published: September 2014

Flunitrazepam (FNZ) is a sedative benzodiazepine prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia. However, there are concerns regarding possible carcinogenic or genotoxic effects of this medicine. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic, clastogenic and aneugenic effects of FNZ in hepatoma cells from Rattus norvegicus (HTC) in vitro and in bone marrow cells of Wistar rats in vivo. These effects were examined in vitro following treatment with 0.2, 1.0, 5.0 or 10 μg/mL FNZ using a micronucleus test with a cytokinesis block or in vivo using a chromosomal aberration test following treatment with 7, 15 or 30 μg/mL/kg body weight. The results showed that the benzodiazepine concentrations tested were not cytotoxic, aneugenic or clastogenic. However, considering the adverse effects of using this benzodiazepine, more studies are required.
Sucrose hydrolysis by invertase using a membrane reactor: effect of membrane cut-off on enzyme performance
Authors: Addezio Francesco Di , Yoriyaz Ester Junko , Cantarella Maria , Vitolo Michele
Published: September 2014

Sucrose hydrolysis by invertase [EC.3.2.1.26] produces inverted sugar syrup, an ingredient mainly used in the food industry. To properly catalyze hydrolysis, the enzyme should be reused after this reaction. It is advisable to maintain constant activity over a considerable period. Thus, sucrose hydrolysis was performed in a membrane bioreactor - a continuously stirred tank reactor coupled with an ultrafiltration membrane (UFM) which provides good diffusion and high activity per unit volume. Molecular weight cut-off for soluble invertase UFMs was up to 100kDa. This study focused on the role of UFM invertase cut-off as it is the main element in the process. We demonstrated that both the cut-off and chemical nature of the UFM affected specific invertase activity.
Preparation and scale up of extended-release tablets of bromopride
Authors: Ferreira Guilherme Neves , Silva Marcos Giovani Rodrigues , Fraga Aline Guerra Manssour , Silva Luiz Cláudio Rodrigues Pereira da , Lira Luiz Marcelo , Rodrigues Carlos Rangel , Castro Helena Carla , Sousa Valéria Pereira de , Cabral Lucio Mendes
Published: September 2014

Reproducibility of the tablet manufacturing process and control of its pharmaceutics properties depends on the optimization of formulation aspects and process parameters. Computer simulation such as Design of Experiments (DOE) can be used to scale up the production of this formulation, in particular for obtaining sustained-release tablets. Bromopride formulations are marketed in the form of extended-release pellets, which makes the product more expensive and difficult to manufacture. The aim of this study was to formulate new bromopride sustained release formulations as tablets, and to develop mathematical models to standardize the scale up of this formulation, controlling weight and hardness of the tablets during manufacture according to the USP 34th edition. DOE studies were conducted using Minitab(tm) software. Different excipient combinations were evaluated in order to produce bromopride sustained-release matrix tablets. In the scale-up study, data were collected and variations in tableting machine parameters were measured. Data were processed by Minitab(tm) software, generating mathematical equations used for prediction of powder compaction behavior, according to the settings of the tableting machine suitable for scale-up purposes. Bromopride matrix tablets with appropriate characteristics for sustained release were developed. The scale-up of the formulation with the most suitable sustained release profile was established by using mathematical models, indicating that the formulation can be a substitute for the pellets currently marketed.
Chronic Hepatitis C treatment for genotype 2 or 3 in Brazil: cost effectiveness analysis of peginterferon plus ribavirin as first choice treatment
Authors: Blatt Carine Raquel , Storb Bernd , Mühlberger Nikolai , Farias Mareni Rocha , Siebert Uwe
Published: September 2014

Brazilian Guidelines to HCV treatment (2007) recommended that the first choice treatment for patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and genotype 2 or 3 is interferon alpha (IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) for 24 weeks. The aim of this study is compare the cost and effectiveness to Hepatitis C treatment in patients with genotype 2 or 3 of peginterferon alpha (PEG) as the first choice of treatment within PEG for those that do not respond to IFN. The target population is CHC patients with genotype 2 or 3 in Brazil. The interventions are: PEG-SEC (first IFN plus RBV for 24 weeks, after, for non-responders and relapsers subsequently PEG plus RBV for 48 weeks); PEG-FIRST24 (PEG+RBV for 24 weeks). The type of the study is cost-effectiveness analysis. The data sources are: Effectiveness data from meta-analysis conducted on the Brazilian population. Treatment cost from Brazilian micro costing study is converted into USD (2010). The perspective is the Public Health System. The outcome measurements are Sustained Viral Response (SVR) and costs. PEG-FIRST24 (SVR: 87.8%, costs: USD 8,338.27) was more effective and more costly than PEG-SEC (SVR: 79.2%, costs: USD 5,852.99). The sensitivity analyses are: When SVR rates with IFN was less than 30% PEG-FIRST is dominant. On the other hand, when SVR with IFN was more then 75% PEG-SEC is dominant (SVR=88.2% and costs USD $ 3,753.00). PEG-SEC is also dominant when SVR to PEG24 weeks was less than 54%. In the Brazilian context, PEG-FIRST is more effective and more expensive than PEG-SEC. PEG-SEC could be dominant when rates of IFN therapy are higher than 75% or rates of PEG24 therapy are lower than 54%.
Pharmacovigilance in oncology: pattern of spontaneous notifications, incidence of adverse drug reactions and under-reporting
Authors: Visacri Marília Berlofa , Souza Cinthia Madeira de , Pimentel Rafaela , Barbosa Cristina Rosa , Sato Catarina Miyako Shibata , Granja Silvia , Marialva Mécia de , Lima Carmen Silvia Passos , Mazzola Priscila Gava , Moriel Patrícia
Published: September 2014

The high toxicity and narrow therapeutic window of antineoplastic agents makes pharmacovigilance studies essential in oncology. The objectives of the current study were to analyze the pattern of spontaneous notifications of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in oncology patients and to analyze the incidence of ADRs reported by outpatients on antineoplastic treatment in a tertiary care teaching hospital. To compose the pattern of ADR, the notification forms of reactions in oncology patients in 2010 were reviewed, and the reactions were classified based on the drug involved, mechanism, causality, and severity. To evaluate the incidence of reactions, a questionnaire at the time of chemotherapy was included, and the severity was classified based on the Common Terminology Criteria. The profiles of the 10 responses reported to the Pharmacovigilance Sector were type B, severe, possible, and they were primarily related to platinum compounds and taxanes. When the incidence of reactions was analyzed, it was observed that nausea, alopecia, fatigue, diarrhea, and taste disturbance were the most frequently reported reactions by oncology patients, and the grade 3 and 4 reactions were not reported. Based on this analysis, it is proposed that health professionals should be trained regarding notifications and clinical pharmacists should increasingly be brought on board to reduce under-reporting of ADRs.
Development and validation of a dissolution method using HPLC for diclofenac potassium in oral suspension
Authors: Rubim Alexandre Machado , Rubenick Jaqueline Bandeira , Laporta Luciane Varini , Rolim Clarice Madalena Bueno
Published: September 2014

The present study describes the development and validation of an in vitro dissolution method for evaluation to release diclofenac potassium in oral suspension. The dissolution test was developed and validated according to international guidelines. Parameters like linearity, specificity, precision and accuracy were evaluated, as well as the influence of rotation speed and surfactant concentration on the medium. After selecting the best conditions, the method was validated using apparatus 2 (paddle), 50-rpm rotation speed, 900 mL of water with 0.3% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as dissolution medium at 37.0 ± 0.5°C. Samples were analyzed using the HPLC-UV (PDA) method. The results obtained were satisfactory for the parameters evaluated. The method developed may be useful in routine quality control for pharmaceutical industries that produce oral suspensions containing diclofenac potassium.
Effect of shaft area on ball resistances in soft clays
Authors: Nguyen Tien D. , Chung Sung G.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents the effects of shaft−ball area ratio on penetration resistance and cyclic behaviour of Busan clay. Five balls of different sizes were used at two sites in the Nakdong River delta, South Korea. The cyclic resistance decreased gradually with increasing cycle number. Interestingly, the penetration resistance obtained from relatively large balls in a leached clay layer suddenly dropped to nearly zero after the fifth loading cycle. Test results were also compared with those from two Japanese clays and an existing numerical simulation. Net (or total) ball resistance decreases with decreasing area ratio until the resistance reaches a minimum value, and then increases with further decreasing area ratio. The possibility of soil flow around balls, which have an area ratio smaller or equal to that at the minimum net resistance, is proved through the offset resistance. The increase in net penetration resistance after the minimum point increases approximately linearly with the normalised overburden stress. The area ratio at minimum resistance, ranging from 0·15 to 0·4, tends to decrease with the increase in the normalised shear strength. Thus, balls with an area ratio ≤ 0·15 rather than the generally used 0·10 value are recommended for the three clays.
Performance of cyclic cone penetration tests in chalk
Authors: Diambra A. , Ciavaglia F. , Harman A. , Dimelow C. , Carey J. , Nash D. F. T.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents results from a preliminary testing campaign to explore the feasibility and benefits of performing cyclic cone penetration tests with measurement of pore pressure (CPTu) in chalk. The CPTu's cone is a miniature driven pile and this technique permits the monitoring of degradation of sleeve friction and pore pressure development during cyclic loading. It was found that while consistent degradation of measured sleeve friction takes place within a few cycles, this was not associated with an observed pore pressure build up. However, uncertainties about the pore pressure measurements arose because the remoulded chalk next to the cone was probably unsaturated and also the pore pressure transducer was positioned close to the tip of the cone. Analysis of the results suggests that the technique may have promising potential to increase understanding of the underlying mechanisms and aid the design of axially loaded driven piles in chalk. Nevertheless further validation and development would be necessary in the future.
An improved method for determining dredging source terms
Authors: Middlemiss David , Brett Christopher , Taylor Jonathan
Published: September 2014

The determination of sediment loss rates from dredging activities is important for quantifying the potential impact on the surrounding physical and biological environment. This paper describes an improved method for measuring and analysing data to determine measurable dredging ‘source terms’ using Sediview software and data from two vessel-mounted acoustic Doppler current profiler devices, one of which is mounted with a vertical beam. The methodology is described in detail and an example data set is presented based on measurements undertaken around a working back hoe dredger. The technique described in this paper offers an improvement over the traditional application of the software used to measure dredger source terms (i.e. the use of one vessel-mounted acoustic Doppler current profiler in a Janus configuration). The use of a vertically orientated acoustic beam allows for a greater range (depth) of acoustic backscatter measurements to be acquired, as the data are not contaminated by side-lobe reflections. Although partially dependent upon the dredging methodology, this improvement is important as high suspended sediment concentrations tend to occur near to the bed. Subject to robust calibration, an improved source term can be collected using two acoustic Doppler current profiler instruments and the software allows the determination of suspended sediment flux (kg/s) across an entire survey transect, by using discharge data from one instrument and calibrated concentration data from the other, rather than the use of a series of water column turbidity profiles and subsequent spatial interpolation (an alternative method to the use of the software).
Ontogenetic specialism in predators with multiple niche shifts prevents predator population recovery and establishment
Authors: van Leeuwen A. , Huss M. , Gårdmark A. , de Roos A. M.
Published: September 2014

The effects of ontogenetic niche shifts on community structure and dynamics are underexplored, despite the occurrence of such shifts in the majority of animal species. We studied the form of niche shifts in a predator that exhibits multiple ontogenetic niche shifts, and analyzed how this life history complexity affects the size‐structured predator–prey dynamics in the system. The predator represents either an ontogenetic generalist, exhibiting a partial shift to predation (in which case an alternative resource is also available) or an ontogenetic specialist, exhibiting a complete shift (in which case the predator depends entirely on predation). We showed two effects on community dynamics from accounting for a complete niche shift to predation: (1) occurrence of alternative stable community states (coexistence and a prey‐only community state) and (2) occurrence of deterministic extinction following initially successful invasion (predators can invade an equilibrium with only prey, but are bound to go extinct after a few generations). Both phenomena are due to the match or mismatch in the timing of predators and suitably sized prey and the growth trajectory of the predator, which is plastic, due to the population feedback on available resources. In the case of persistence without invasion (alternative stable community states), slow growth during the pre‐piscivorous life stage is necessary to stay in tune with the prey cycle; in the case of extinction following invasion, slow growth through the pre‐piscivorous life stage causes the predator to reach the completely piscivorous stage when there is no prey available to feed upon. Somatic growth rates are directly coupled to food availability, which, in turn, is the result of density‐dependent feedbacks in the system. Since they primarily determine these density‐dependent feedbacks, the ontogenetic niche shifts in predator life history structure the community to a major extent.
Dissolved organic carbon biolability decreases along with its modernization in fluvial networks in an ancient landscape
Authors: Fellman Jason B. , Spencer Robert G. M. , Raymond Peter A. , Pettit Neil E. , Skrzypek Grzegorz , Hernes Peter J. , Grierson Pauline F.
Published: September 2014

The metabolism of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) along fluvial networks determines what fraction of organic matter is exported to the ocean. Although it is thought fresh rather than older DOC is preferred by bacteria, old DOC can also be highly bioavailable to stream bacterial communities. In strongly seasonal and oligotrophic regions, we argue that groundwater inputs of old DOC may increase the bioavailability of stream organic matter. We sampled 22 streams along a gradient of size (wetted widths from 1 to 60 m) and one groundwater spring in the Kimberley region of northwest Australia to determine how the age and bioavailability of streamwater DOC varied with stream size. Our hypothesis was that stream DOC would become more enriched in 14C (younger) and less bioavailable as streams increased in size and depleted 14C‐DOC was metabolized by stream microbial communities. We also used fluorescence characterization of DOC, ultraviolet absorbance at 254nm (SUVA254), δ13C‐DOC and lignin phenol yields to assess how these indicators of DOC character influenced the bioavailability and age of stream DOC. Stream evaporation/inflow ratios (E/I, used as a proxy for catchment water residence time), determined from changes in stream δ18O along the gradient of stream size, were positively related to DOC concentration and carbon‐normalized lignin yields, while δ13C‐DOC became more depleted with increasing E/I. Stream Δ14C‐DOC varied from −452.1‰ (groundwater) to 48.9‰ and showed progressive enrichment as streams increased in size and accumulated DOC mainly from terrestrial plant material. Older DOC corresponded to higher bioavailability (R2 = 0.67, P < 0.01), suggesting that old bioavailable DOC, which has escaped from subterranean food webs utilizing 14C‐depleted carbon, is common to one of the oldest landscapes on earth. Therefore, rapid biotic uptake of old bioavailable DOC originating in groundwater springs and the accumulation of modern, terrestrially derived DOC work in opposite directions affecting DOC dynamics along fluvial networks. We suggest the metabolism of old DOC along fluvial networks provides a biogeochemical link between non‐contemporary carbon fixation and modern river productivity.
Influences on Grief among Parentally Bereaved Adults
Authors: Carver Kellye S. , Hayslip Bert , Gilley Angela , Watts Justin
Published: September 2014

Although the parent-child relationship is significant throughout life, many changes occur as children grow, particularly during young adulthood. Parental loss and resulting grief during adulthood is likely influenced by many variables, including age, gender, relationship quality, and sex roles. In the present study, parentally bereaved adults completed measures assessing parental involvement, personal grief and adjustment, and sex role preferences. Analyses of covariance indicated that gender of the bereaved child was significant in predicting some aspects of grief, wherein females were more strongly impacted by the loss of a parent, irrespective of that parent's sex. However, the interaction of sex of parent and sex of child was also significant, suggesting that maternal loss may be particularly difficult for daughters. Results suggested that women may have a stronger emotional experience of grief and maintain closer bonds with a deceased mother. This may result from deeper emotional connections, feeling excluded by age peers, or vulnerability for rumination.
Camus and the Denial of Death: Meursault and Caligula
Authors: Scherr Arthur
Published: September 2014

In his works, Caligula and L'Etranger, Albert Camus created two characters. Caligula and Meursault, who rejected the possibility of their mortality. They considered themselves immortal. In accordance with Freud's argument in “Our Attitude Towards Death,” their unconscious denied their death.
Synthesis and antioxidant activity study of pyrazoline carrying arylfuran/thiophene moiety
Authors: Jois Vidyashree , Kalluraya Balakrishna , Girisha K.S.
Published: September 2014

A novel series of N-acetyl-3-aryl-5-(5-(p/o-nitrophenyl)-2-arylfuryl/thienyl)
substituted pyrazoline (3a-o) were synthesized by the reaction of
1-aryl-3-(5-(p/o-nitrophenyl)-2-furyl/thienyl)-2-propene-1-one with hydrazine
hydrate in acetic acid medium. The structures of the newly synthesized
compounds were established by IR, 1H NMR, mass spectra and single crystal
X-ray study. The synthesized compounds were subjected to antioxidant activity
using DPPH scavenging assay. The compounds 3a, 3f, 3h and 3o showed moderate
activity.
Physiological Response of In Vitro Cultured MAGNOLIASP. to Nutrient Medium Composition
Authors: S. Sokolov Rossen , Y. Atanassova Bistra , T. Iakimova Elena
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study was to assess the regeneration response of in vitro cultured Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Alexandrina’ and Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’ to nutrient medium composition. In the primary culture (initiated from dormant axillary buds) combinations of Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal salts with 6-benzylaminopurine and α-naphthaleneacetic acid were tested. The primary explants of cv. ‘Alexandrina’ expressed higher regeneration rate than cv. ‘Nigra’. For both species, the regen eration was most strongly potentiated at addition of 0.25 mg dm−3 of the cytokinin alone. The auxin exerted undesir–able effects. Several basal salts media were applied in proliferation stage and their physiological effects were evaluated in reference to traditionally used MS. At culturing on Chée & Pool C2d Vitis Medium (VM) that is for the first time introduced to magnolia and on MS, M. liliiflora formed more but less elongated shoots than M. soulangeana. However, on VM, substantial increase (25-30%) of the number of axillary shoots and leaves, shoot length and fresh and dry weights over MS was established for both species. This suggested VM as promising composition of nutrients in multiplication stage. Microshoots obtained on MS, VM, Rugini Olive Medium and DKW Juglans Medium were successfully rooted in vitro and subsequently established ex vitro. The findings expand the information on magnolia response to culture conditions and contribute to elaboration of innovative elements of protocols for establishing tissue cultures with high regeneration capacity.
The Influence of Laser Beam and Auxins on Rooting of Leatherleaf Viburnum (VIBURNUM RHYTIDOPHYIIUM Hemsl.) Cuttings
Authors: Szajsner Hanna , Bąbelewski Przemysław
Published: September 2014

The aim of this work is to compare the effect of three- and sixfold irradiation with a semiconductor laser beams of 200 mW power and wavelength equal to 670 nm and the rooting agent on the percentage and quality of rooted cuttings of leatherleaf viburnum. The most effective for root number and root length was threefold irradiation and for fresh root weight threefold irradiation applied together with the rooting agent.
Validation of the Analytical Method for the Determination of Flavonoids in Broccoli
Authors: Tuszyńska Magdalena
Published: September 2014

A simple, accurate and selective HPLC method was developed and validated for determination of quercetin and kaempferol, which are the main flavonols in broccoli. The separation was achieved on a reversed-phase C18 column using a mobile phase composed of methanol/water (60/40) and phosphoric acid 0.2% at a flow rate of 1.0 ml min-1. The detection was carried out on a DAD detector at 370 nm. This method was validated according to the requirements for new methods, which include selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection and limit of quantitation. The current method demonstrates good linearity, with R2 > 0.99. The recovery is within 98.07-102.15% and 97.92-101.83% for quercetin and kaempferol, respectively. The method is selective, in that quercetin and kaempferol are well separated from other compounds of broccoli with good resolution. The low limit of detection and limit of quantitation of quercetin and kaempferol enable the detection and quantitation of these flavonoids in broccoli at low con–centrations.
Beta oscillations and their functional role in movement perception
Authors: Pavlidou Anastasia , Schnitzler Alfons , Lange Joachim
Published: September 2014

Neuronal oscillations refer to periodic changes of neuronal activity. A prominent neuronal oscillation, especially in sensorimotor areas, is the beta-frequency-band (∼ 13–29 Hz). Sensorimotor beta oscillations are predominantly linked to motor-related functions such as preparation and/or execution of movements. In addition, beta oscillations have been suggested to play a role in long-range communication between multiple brain areas. In this review, we assess different studies that show that sensorimotor beta oscillations are additionally involved in the visual perception and imagery of biological movements. We propose that sensorimotor beta oscillations reflect a mechanism of attempted matching to internally stored representations of movements. We additionally, provide evidence that beta oscillations play a role for the integration of visual and sensorimotor areas to a functional network that incorporates perceptual components at specific spatial-temporal profiles and transmits information across different areas.
Does Usage of a Room Air Freshener Affect the Nasal Mucosa?
Authors: Akdag Mehmet , Bakir Salih , Alabalik Ulas , Ozkurt Fazıl Emre , Topcu Ismail
Published: September 2014

Background

Effects of chemicals emitted from the room air freshener sprays (RAFSs) on nasal mucosa are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate effects of RAFSs on the nasal mucosa of rats for different time intervals.

Methods

Twenty-eight rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups: group 1 (n = 7) was the control group and not exposed to RAFS or other chemicals, group 2 (n = 7) was exposed to RAFS for 1 month, group 3 (n = 7) was exposed to RAFS for 2 months, and group 4 (n = 7) was exposed to RAFS for 3 months. Samples from the nasal septum were stained using hematoxylin and eosin solution, examined by a pathologist using a light microscope, and analyzed with Fisher's exact test.

Results

We observed that distinct histopathological differences in the nasal mucosa of exposed rats depends on different time intervals (p < 0.05). Increased congestion was found after the 1st month of exposure (group 2). Although edema and mild inflammatory cell infiltration, including some eosinophils, was seen after the 2nd month (group 3), squamous metaplasia, numerous eosinophils, and intense inflammatory cell infiltration began after 3 months of exposure (group 4).

Conclusion

Our results showed that continuous use of RAFS can cause inflammation d eosinophilic infiltration in rats, which begins after 2 months of exposure and may lead to metaplasia after 3 months. Because of differences in body size, geometry, and physiological responses of rats, the extrapolation of these results to humans is not straightforward. However, any such comparison should be made with caution. Finally, more performance is necessary to clarify this subject.
The Impact of Open Textbooks on Secondary Science Learning Outcomes
Authors: Robinson T. Jared , Fischer Lane , Wiley David , Hilton John
Published: September 2014

Given the increasing costs associated with commercial textbooks and decreasing financial support of public schools, it is important to better understand the impacts of open educational resources on student outcomes. The purpose of this quantitative study is to analyze whether the adoption of open science textbooks significantly affects science learning outcomes for secondary students in earth systems, chemistry, and physics.

This study uses a quantitative quasi-experimental design with propensity score matched groups and multiple regression to examine whether student learning was influenced by the adoption of open textbooks instead of traditional publisher-produced textbooks. Students who used open textbooks scored .65 points higher on end-of-year state standardized science tests than students using traditional textbooks when controlling for the effects of 10 student and teacher covariates. Further analysis revealed statistically significant positive gains for students using the open chemistry textbooks, with no significant difference in student scores for earth systems of physics courses. Although the effect size of the gains were relatively small, and not consistent across all textbooks, the finding that open textbooks can be as effective or even slightly more effective than their traditional counterparts has important considerations in terms of school district policy in a climate of finite educational funding.
Antibodies as an Unlimited Source of Anti-Infective, Anti-Tumour and Immunomodulatory Peptides
Authors: Ciociola Tecla , Magliani Walter , Giovati Laura , Sperindè Martina , Santinoli Claudia , Conti Giorgio , Conti Stefania , Polonelli Luciano
Published: September 2014

Antibodies (Abs) are emerging as an important class of therapeutic agents for the treatment of various human diseases, often conjugated to drugs or toxic substances. In recent years, the incidence of cancer and infectious diseases has increased dramatically, making it imperative to discover new effective therapeutic molecules. Among these, small peptides are arousing great interest. Synthetic peptides, representative of variable and constant region fragments of Abs, were proved to exert in vitro, ex vivo and/or in vivo anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-tumour and/or immunomodulatory activities, mediated by different mechanisms of action and regardless of the specificity and isotype of the Ab. Some of these synthetic peptides possess the ability to spontaneously and reversibly self-assemble in an organised network of fibril-like structure. Ab fragments may represent a novel model of targeted anti-infective and anti-tumour auto-delivering drugs.
Overcoming “The Valley of Death”
Authors: Mcintyre Robin A.
Published: September 2014

On a global level there are major challenges arising from climate change, resource use and changing age demographics. These issues have created a global marketplace for novel innovative products and solutions which can help to combat and overcome these challenges which have created significant commercial opportunities for companies, particularly for small and medium size enterprises or SMEs.

Companies most likely to take advantage of these opportunities will be those which can innovate in a timely manner. Innovation significantly contributes to higher productivity and economic growth, and is core to a company's competitiveness within often challenging marketplaces. However, many factors can stifle innovation. Companies can struggle to identify finance for early-stage development, the returns can be difficult to predict, and the innovation ‘landscape’ is often complex and unclear.

This brief review describes some of the main issues with commercialising innovative ideas and provides guidance with respect to the often complicated funding landscape both on a National and European level.
Carbon Dioxide as a Polymer Feedstock
Authors: Kemp Terence J.
Published: September 2014

This review describes the progress made over the last 45 years since the seminal paper by Inoue's group in Tokyo on the utilisation of CO2 as a component of a polymerising system. This approach, rapidly taken up by others, focused initially on the copolymerisation of CO2 with an epoxide to yield a polycarbonate of high molecular weight. The initial catalysts for this process were based on organozinc compounds; these were extended to zinc phenoxides and then a series of metal-centred compounds, particularly metal porphyrins where the central metal was aluminium, cobalt, chromium, copper, manganese and various lanthanides. Later work developed in the direction of producing stereoregular polymers. The most recent advance has concerned the copolymerisation of CO2 with butadiene via a lactone intermediate; the butadiene and CO2 are initially combined with a Pd-centred catalyst to give the lactone which is then subjected to radical polymerisation. The significance of this work is that it offers a way of utilising what is normally a waste and environmentally hazardous product of many processes to synthesise a useful product.
Remembrances of a UK Scientist in Russia, 1966–67
Authors: Phillips David
Published: September 2014

David Phillips was a post-doctoral fellow on a Fulbright Scholarship at the University of Texas, Austin, where he acted as host and chauffeur to one of the IUPAC representatives, the Soviet delegate, Professor Nikolai N. Kondratiev, then Deputy Director of the Institute of Chemical Physics in Moscow. During the course of ferrying him around, Nikolai asked David about his plans after his two-year stay in Texas, David replied that he had intended to return to Europe, but was looking for one more year as a post-doctoral fellow before seeking an academic position probably back in the UK. Nikolai invited him to spend time in his Institute, and eventually, through the Royal Society/Academy of Sciences Exchange programme, this came to pass. Professor Phillips now describes his experiences, both cultural and scientific, in Russia during 1966–67 where he learned much about the Russian people, and also about himself. He returned with a taste for good music, Russian literature and language, and travel generally, and for taking chances in life.
Café Scientifique
Authors: Grand Ann
Published: September 2014

Every month, in 700 or so bars, cafés, pubs, teahouses, shopping centres, community halls, art galleries, libraries, theatres, museums, bookshops … and a blood donation centre, 40 or so people meet to have a conversation. A conversation that happens to be about science and technology, rather than soap operas or football; this is Café Scientifique.
Effect of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulphur on the growth and seed yield of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)
Authors: Yousuf MN , Brahma S , Kamal MM , Akter S , Chowdhury MEK
Published: September 2014

A field experiment was conducted at the Spices Research Centre, Shibgonj, Bogra, Bangladesh during the rabi seasons of 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 to determine the requirement of N, P, K, and S of coriander (BARI Corinader-1) for achieving satisfactory seed yield of this crop. Different levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 70, and 100 kg/ha), phosphorus (0, 25, 50, and 70 kg/ha), potassium (0, 30, 60, and 90 kg/ha), and sulphur (0, 10, 20, and 30 kg/ha) were distributed in the plot. The experiment was tested in randomized complete block design with three replications. There was positive impact of application of those nutrients on the yield and yield contributing characters of coriander up to a moderate level of N70P50K30S20 kg/ha. The highest seed yield (2.06 t/ha in 2008-2009 and 2.09 t/ha in 2009-2010) was obtained with this moderate application of N, P, K, and S (70, 50, 30, and 20 kg/ha, respectively) and yield was declined with higher doses of these elements. The fertilizer treatment N70P50K30S20 was observed to be the best suitable dose for coriander cultivation on Grey Terrace Soil of Amnura Soil Series under AEZ-25(Level Barind Tract) of Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i2.20433 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(2): 303-309, June 2014
Yield and yield attributes of rapeseed  mustard (Brassica) genotypes grown under late sown condition
Authors: Alam Md Mahbubul , Begum Ferdousi , Roy Pryanka
Published: September 2014

A field experiment was conducted at the Central Research Station of BARI, Gazipur for two consecutive years 2010-11 and 2011-12 with 30 varieties/ genotypes of rapeseed-mustard under three dates of sowing viz., 25 November, 5 December, and 15 December to determine changes in crop phenology, growth and yield of mustard genotypes under late sown condition when the crop faced high temperature. Days to flowering and maturity were different at different planting times. Date of sowing significantly influenced plant height, siliquae/plant, seeds/siliqua, seed yield, and oil content of seed in both the years. The highest seed yield (1310 and 1535 kg/ha) was obtained from the first planting (25 November) in both the years, which was significantly different from two other dates of sowing. Yield and yield attributes of different varieties varied significantly. Among the varieties, BARI Sarisha-16 of Brassica juncea gave significantly the highest seed yield (1495 and 1415 kg/ha), which was statistically identical to BJDH-11, BJDH-12, BJDH-05, BJDH-20, and BARI Sarisha-6 and significantly different from all other varieties. Interaction effect of variety and sowing date significantly influenced plant height, number of siliquae per plant, number of seeds per siliqua, seed yield, and strover yield. The highest seed yield (1758 and 1825 kg/ha) were recorded from BJDH-11 and BARI Sarisha-16 of Brassica juncea at 25 November planting and BJDH-11 produced the highest yield at 15 December in both the years. The maximum strover yield (3758 and 3825 kg/ha) were obtained from BJDH-11 and BARI Sarisha-16 of Brassica juncea at 25 November planting during 2010-11 and 2011-12. The highest oil content of seeds (44.4 % and 45.9%) were obtained from the seed of BARI Sarisha-6 and BARI Sarisha-14 at 25 November planting in both the years. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i2.20434 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(2): 311-336, June 2014
Legal Harvesting, Sustainable Sourcing and Cascaded Use of Wood for Bioenergy: Their Coverage through Existing Certification Frameworks for Sustainable Forest Management
Authors: Sikkema Richard , Junginger Martin , Van Dam Jinke , Stegeman Gerben , Durrant David , Faaij Andre
Published: September 2014

The first objective of this paper was to provide an inventory of developments of certification schemes for sustainable biomass production, following recent EU legislation (both formalized and under development). One main pillar is the EU Timber Regulation for legal harvesting; a second one is the EU’s 2010 recommendations for sustainable woody biomass sourcing for energy; the third one is the EU Waste Directive. The second objective was to benchmark the coverage of this (draft) legislation, when wood product certificates for sustainable forest management (SFM) are used as proof of the related legislative requirements. We studied North America, as it is a major biomass supplier to the EU-28. Together with existing forest legislation in the US and Canada, SFM certificates are actively used to cover the EU’s (draft) legislation. However, North American forests are only partially certified with fibers coming from certified forests; these are referred to as forest management (FM) fibers. Other certified fibers should come from complementary risk assessments downstream in the supply chain (risk based fibers). Our benchmark concludes that: (a) FM fiber certification by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) international standards show the highest level of coverage with EU’s (draft) legislation; (b) There is insufficient coverage for risk based fibers by FSC Controlled Wood (FSC-CW), PEFC Due Diligence (PEFC-DD), or SFI-fiber sourcing (SFI-FS). Other weaknesses identified for elaboration are: (c) Alignment in definitions are needed, such as for primary forest, high carbon stock, and wood waste (cascading); (d) Imperfect mass balance (fiber check downstream) needs to be solved, as non-certified fiber flows are inadequately monitored; (e) Add-on of a GHG calculation tool is needed, as GHG life cycle reporting is not covered by any of the SFM frameworks.
Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effects of the Marine-Derived Compound Comaparvin Isolated from the Crinoid Comanthus bennetti
Authors: Chen Li-Chai , Lin Yen-You , Jean Yen-Hsuan , Lu Yi , Chen Wu-Fu , Yang San-Nan , Wang Hui-Min , Jang Ing-Yang , Chen I-Ming , Su Jui-Hsin , Sung Ping-Jyun , Sheu Jyh-Horng , Wen Zhi-Hong
Published: September 2014

To date, no study has been conducted to explore the bioactivity of the crinoid Comanthus bennetti. Here we report the anti-inflammatory properties of comaparvin (5,8-dihydroxy-10-methoxy-2-propylbenzo[h]chromen-4-one) based on in vivo experiments. Our preliminary screening for anti-inflammatory activity revealed that the crude extract of Comanthus bennetti significantly inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Comaparvin isolated from crinoids significantly decreased the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein and mRNA in LPS-stimulated macrophage cells. Moreover, our results showed that post-treatment with comaparvin significantly inhibited mechanical allodynia, thermal hyperalgesia and weight-bearing deficits in rats with carrageenan-induced inflammation. Comaparvin also attenuated leukocyte infiltration and iNOS protein expression in carrageenan-induced inflamed paws. These results suggest that comaparvin is a potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agent against inflammatory pain.
Chitosan Combined with Molecular Beacon for Mir-155 Detection and Imaging in Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhu Hai-Zhen , An Jiang-Hong , Yao Quan , Han Jing , Li Xue-Tao , Jiang Fei-Long , Chen Guang-Peng , Peng Li-Na , Li Yong-Sheng , Sun Jian-Guo , Chen Zheng-Tang
Published: September 2014

Lung cancer is the major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, thus developing effective methods for its early diagnosis is urgently needed. In recent years, microRNAs (miRNAs, miR) have been reported to play important roles in carcinogenesis and have become potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Molecular beacon (MB) technology is a universal technology to detect DNA/RNA expression in living cells. As a natural polymers, chitosan (CS) nanoparticles could be used as a carrier for safe delivery of nucleic acid. In this study, we developed a probe using nanoparticles of miR-155 MB self assembled with CS (CS-miR-155 MB) to image the expression of miR-155 in cancer cells. Hybridization assay showed that the locked nucleic acid (LAN) modified miR-155 MB could target miR-155 effectively and sensitively. The miR-155 MB self-assembly with CS nanoparticles formed stable complexes at the proper weight ratio. The CS nanoparticles showed higher fluorescence intensity and transfection efficiency than the lipid-based formulation transfection agent by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry analysis. The CS-MB complexes were found to be easily synthesized and exhibited strong enzymatic stability, efficient cellular uptake, high target selectivity and biocompatibility. The CS-MB complexes can also be applied in other cancers just by simply changing for a targeted miRNA highly expressed in those cancer cells. Therefore, it is a promising vehicle used for detecting miRNA expression in living cells.
Hypolipidemic and Antioxidative Effects of Aqueous Enzymatic Extract from Rice Bran in Rats Fed a High-Fat and -Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Wang Yu-Xin , Li Yang , Sun An-Min , Wang Feng-Jiao , Yu Guo-Ping
Published: September 2014

Purpose: The aqueous enzymatic extract from rice bran (AEERB) was rich in protein, γ-oryzanol and tocols. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of AEERB on the regulation of lipid metabolism and the inhibition of oxidative damage. Methods: The antioxidant activity of AEERB in vitro was measured in terms of radical scavenging capacity, ferric reducing ability power (FRAP) and linoleic acid emulsion system-ferric thiocyanate method (FTC). Male Wistar rats were fed with a normal diet and a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet with or without AEERB. After treatment, biochemical assays of serum, liver and feces lipid levels, the antioxidant enzyme activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl were determined. Result: AEERB is completely soluble in water and rich in hydrophilic and lipophilic functional ingredients. AEERB scavenged DPPH• and ABTS•+ and exhibited antioxidant activity slightly lower than that of ascorbic acid in the linoleic acid system. The administration of AEERB reduced serum lipid levels and the atherogenic index compared with those of the hyperlipidemic diet group (HD). The administration of AEERB significantly lowered liver lipid levels, inhibited hepatic 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase activity, and efficiently promoted the fecal excretion of total lipids and total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.05). Dietary AEERB enhanced antioxidant status in the serum, liver and brain by increasing the antioxidant enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and decreasing the content of MDA and protein carbonyl. Conclusions: The results indicated that AEERB might act as a potent hypolipidemic and antioxidant functional food.
Cordyceps militaris Extract Protects Human Dermal Fibroblasts against Oxidative Stress-Induced Apoptosis and Premature Senescence
Authors: Park Jun , Lee Jong , Lee Ki , Ha Suk-Jin , Hong Eock
Published: September 2014

Oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the major cause of degenerative disorders including aging and disease. In this study, we investigated whether Cordyceps militaris extract (CME) has in vitro protective effects on hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Our results showed that the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity of CME was increased in a dose-dependent manner. We found that hydrogen peroxide treatment in HDFs increased ROS generation and cell death as compared with the control. However, CME improved the survival of HDFs against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress via inhibition of intracellular ROS production. CME treatment inhibited hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptotic cell death and apoptotic nuclear condensation in HDFs. In addition, CME prevented hydrogen peroxide-induced SA-β-gal-positive cells suggesting CME could inhibit oxidative stress-induced premature senescence. Therefore, these results suggest that CME might have protective effects against oxidative stress-induced premature senescence via scavenging ROS.