bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetic Modeling Application to 18 F-fluoroethylcholine Positron Emission Tomography in Patients with Primary and Recurrent Prostate Cancer Using Two-tissue Compartmental Model
Authors: Takesh Mustafa
Published: July 2014

Although 18 F-fludeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (PET) is the most applied diagnostic method in tumor staging, its role in prostate cancer (PCA) is limited because glucose metabolism tends to be low unless PCA has high Gleason score. Alternatively, choline PET was introduced as a valuable imaging method. Kinetic analysis of PET acquisition has increasingly gained momentum as an investigative tool because it provides a non-invasive approach to obtain kinetic and metabolic data from tissues of interest including transport and metabolism of the administered material. In this regard, we sought to apply it in 18 F-fluoroethylcholine (FECH)-PET/computed tomography (CT) in patients with PCA. 64 patients, the mean age 69 (range: 47-87 years) with primary/recurrent PCA were encompassed. They underwent 18 F-FECH-PET started with a dynamic acquisition using a 20-frame each 30 s over the prostate region and followed at 1 h post-injection by a static whole body imaging. The kinetic evaluation of the data was performed using the software package PMOD (PMOD Technologies Ltd., Zürich, Switzerland). Significant increase in mean values for K1, K3, FD, standardized uptake value (SUV) and global influx in tumor tissue versus normal tissue (P < 0.05). Moderate but significant correlation (r: 0.28, P = 0.023) between SUV and K1. By contrast, no correlation between SUV and K3 (r: −0.08, P = 0.79). In patients with recurrent tumors, there is no significant difference in all kinetic parameters and SUV (P > 0.1) between the different types of recurrences. The kinetic analysis of dynamic FECH-PET provides a novel method in primary PCA diagnosis and could be of potential value in the delineation of tumor focus.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunting: Laparoscopically assisted versus conventional open surgical approaches
Authors: Nigim Fares , Thomas Ajith , Papavassiliou Efstathios , Schneider Benjamin , Critchlow Jonathan , Chen Clark , Siracuse Jeffrey , Zinn Pascal , Kasper Ekkehard
Published: July 2014

Objectives: Ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS) is a mainstay of hydrocephalus therapy, but carries a significant risk of device malfunctioning. This study aims to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic ventriculoperitoneal shunting versus open ventriculoperitoneal shunting (OVPS) VPS-placement and reviews our findings in the pertinent context of the literature from 1993 to 2012. Materials and Methods: Between 2003 and 2012, a total of 232 patients underwent first time VPS placement at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Of those, 155 were laparoscopically guided and 77 were done conventionally. We analyzed independent variables (age, gender, medical history, clinical presentation, indication for surgery and surgical technique) and dependent variables (operative time, post-operative complications, length of stay in the hospital) and occurrence of shunt failure. Results: Mean operative time was 43.7 min (18.0-102.0) in the laparoscopic group versus 63.0 min (30.0-151.0) in the open group, (P < 0.05). Length of stay was similar, 5 days in the laparoscopic and in the open group, (P = 0.945). The incidence of shunt failure during the entire follow-up period was not statistically different between the two groups, occurring in 14.1% in the laparoscopic group and 16.9% in the open group, (P = 0.601). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated no difference in shunt survival between the two groups (P = 0.868), with functionality in 85% at 6-months and 78.5% at 1-year. Conclusion: According to our study, LVPS-placement results compare similarly to OVPS placement in most aspects. Since laparoscopic placement is not routinely indicated, we suggest a prospective study to assess its value as an alternate technique especially suitable in obese patients and patients with previous abdominal operations.
Intradural spinal granular cell tumor
Authors: Vaghasiya Viren , Nasit Jitendra , Parikh Pinki , Trivedi Priti
Published: July 2014

Granular cell tumor is a rare, usually benign tumor with classical histomorphology. Location of tumor varies widely within body, but spine is distinctly a rare location for this tumor. We report a rare case of granular cell tumor involving intradural extramedullary portion of lumbar region of spinal cord. Knowledge of which is important as subsequent prognosis differs from other tumor at same location.
Q192R Paraoxonase (PON)1 Polymorphism, Insulin Sensitivity, and Endothelial Function in Essential Hypertensive Men
Authors: Dell'omo Giulia , Penno Giuseppe , Pucci Laura , Lucchesi Daniela , Del Prato Stefano , Pedrinelli Roberto
Published: July 2014

Aims

Essential hypertension is characterized by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation harmful for insulin sensitivity and nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasomotor function, a noxious effect that paraoxonase ( PON)l, an antioxidant circulating high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-bound esterase, may counteract. The PON 1 gene contains several polymorphisms including a glutamine (Q_) to arginine (R) transition at position 192 encoding circulating allozymes with higher antioxidant activity that might influence both parameters.

Methods

Q192R was determined by polymerase chain reaction in 72 never-treated, glucose-tolerant, uncomplicated essential hypertensive men. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) and endothelial function by forearm vasodilation (strain-gage venous plethysmography) to intra-arterial acetylcholine (ACH) with sodium nitroprusside (NIP) as a NO-independent control. Additional evaluation variables included 24-hour blood pressure (BP), lipids, BMI, smoking status, and metabolic syndrome (MetS) by Adult Treatment Panel (ATP)-III criteria. R192 was considered as the rare allele, and its associations analyzed by dominant models (Q/Qvs. Q/R + R/R).

Results

Genotype frequencies were consistent with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. HOMA was lower and insulin resistance (the upper fourth of HOMA values distribution) less prevalent in Q/R + R/R carriers in whom ACH-mediated vasodilatation was greater and endothelial dysfunction (the bottom fourth of ACHAUCvalues distribution) less frequent than in Q/Q homozygotes. Q192R polymorphism and MetS were unrelated parameters despite their common association with insulin resistance. 24-hour BP, BMI, lipids, and smoking habits were homogeneously distributed across genotypes.

Conclusions

Q192R polymorphism associates differentially with insulin sensitivity and endothelial function in essential hypertensive men.
Regulation of Human PAX6 Expression by miR-7
Authors: Needhamsen Maria , White Robert B. , Giles Keith M. , Dunlop Sarah A. , Thomas Meghan G.
Published: July 2014

The paired box gene 6 ( PAX6) is a powerful mediator of eye and brain organogenesis whose spatiotemporal expression is exquisitely controlled by multiple mechanisms, including post-transcriptional regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs). In the present study, we use bioinformatic predictions to identify three candidate microRNA-7 (miR-7) target sites in the human PAX6 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) and demonstrate that two of them are functionally active in a human cell line. Furthermore, transient transfection of cells with synthetic miR-7 inhibits PAX6 protein expression but does not alter levels of PAX6 mRNA, suggesting that miR-7 induces translational repression of PAX6. Finally, a comparison of PAX6 3′-UTRs across species reveals that one of the functional miR-7 target sites is conserved, whereas the second functional target site is found only in primates. Thus, the interaction between PAX6 and miR-7 appears to be highly conserved; however, the precise number of sites through which this interaction occurs may have expanded throughout evolution.
Observations of a phytoplankton spring bloom onset triggered by a density front in NW Mediterranean
Authors: Olita A. , Sparnocchia S. , Cusí S. , Fazioli L. , Sorgente R. , Tintoré J. , Ribotti A.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Phytoplankton blooms in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea are seasonal events that mainly occur in a specific area comprising the Gulf of Lion and the Provençal basin, where they are promoted by a general cyclonic circulation, strong wind-driven mixing and subsequent re-stratification of the water column. At the southern boundary of this area, a persistent density front known as the north Balearic front can be found. The front is presumed to cause an early phytoplankton bloom in its vicinity because (a) it enhances the transport of nutrients into the euphotic layer and (b) it promotes the speedy re-stratification of the water column (through frontal instabilities). In February and March 2013, a glider, equipped with a CTD (conductivity, temperature, and depth device) and a fluorometer, was deployed on a mission that took it from the Balearic Islands to Sardinia and back. The frontal zone was crossed twice, once during the outbound leg and the once on the return leg. The data provided by the glider clearly showed the onset of a bloom soon after a decrease in wind-driven turbulent convection and mixing. The in situ observations were supported and confirmed by satellite imagery. It is shown that frontal dynamics play a key role in the promotion and acceleration of re-stratification, which is a necessary pre-conditioning factor for the onset of blooms much like other relevant processes such as an enhanced biological pump. Swift re-stratification stimulates new production by inhibiting mixing. Finally, viewing the blooming phenomenon from a regional perspective, it seems that Sverdrup's critical depth model applies in the northern well-mixed area whereas, in the south, front-related re-stratification seems to be the principal cause.
Geotechnical properties of compacted clays as buffer and backfill
Authors: Gadeikis Saulius , Dundulis Kastytis , Gadeikytė Sonata , Urbaitis Donatas , Gribulis Domas
Published: July 2014

The purpose of the investigation is to assess local clay soils of different composition, physical state and mechanical properties as a base and construction material for establishment of landfills for radioactive waste. The investigations have been carried out for three clay soil types of different age and origin in order to assess the potential of this clay to be used for the establishment of engineering barriers, as well as the base and slopes of landfills. The investigations have been performed by laboratory and field methods for both the natural as well as the disturbed and compacted soils. In order to assess the soil to be used for fill-ins (aggregate), field investigations have been performed at a special test site. Changes in geotechnical features of the soils were observed at the test site in autumn and spring. Seasonal investigations enabled to assess the compacted clay soils according to changes of their features over time.
Sorrow as the Longest Memory of Neglect
Authors: Frankowski Alfred
Published: July 2014

African American history and the history of antiblack violence in this country have been plagued with different modes of forgetting and outright neglect. As a result, absence, silence, and breakages mark a particular layer and structure of memory that contextualizes this form of neglect. In this article, I use the work of Billie Holiday, W. E. B. Du Bois, and Walter Benjamin to argue that the more we have objects of memory of the African American past, the more antipathy toward present antiblack violence grows. I show that African American memory of antiblack violence has been marked by an aesthetic of sorrow just as much as it has been an intrusion into the public space. I further argue that it is important to critique the function of neglect and to reenvision the political power of allegorical modes of memory not only to provide a context for what is neglected but to emphasize that this neglect is a symptom of a newly unfolding crisis.
Four Paradoxes of Self-Reference: The Being of the Universal
Authors: Moss Gregory S.
Published: July 2014

Herein I investigate how four dogmas underpinning the traditional concepts of universality, the genus, class, and abstract universal, generate four paradoxes of self-reference. The four dogmas are the following: (1) that contradiction entails the total absence of determinacy, (2) the necessary finitude of the concept, (3) the separation of principles of universality and particularity, and (4) the necessity of appealing to foundations. I show how these dogmas underpin the paradoxes of self-reference and how one cannot make progress on these paradoxes as long as these four dogmas are in place. Corresponding to the abovementioned dogmas are the four paradoxes of self-reference: (1a) the problem of the differentia, (2b) the problem of psychologism, (3c) the problem of participation, and (4d) the problem of ontotheology.
The Sense of the Transcendental Field: Deleuze, Sartre, and Husserl
Authors: Dejanovic Sanja
Published: July 2014

There are two ways in which sense has been approached in contemporary philosophy. The dividing line is between those who interpret sense as abiding with models of recognition and those who determine sense as arising with paradox. In The Logic of Sense, Gilles Deleuze puts forth a paradoxical constitution of sense in order to render that which is new in being something untimely, the always new in being. In placing paradox at the center of the constitution of sense, Deleuze effectively works to displace the two aspects of doxa, good sense and common sense. Such a conception of sense comes into direct tension with Husserl's theory of sense. By outlining the fundamentals of Husserl's position, I intend to show on what points the two part ways. This distinction will create the context in which we can posit the relationship of transcendental and formal logic in Deleuze's philosophy via Sartre's essay “The Transcendence of the Ego.” My aim is to show that the doubling of sense does not reinforce the act of recognition, which Husserl realizes in the two-leveled predicative process.
The detection of thermophilous forest hotspots in Poland using geostatistical interpolation of plant richness
Authors: Kiedrzyński Marcin , Jakubowska-Gabara Janina
Published: July 2014

Attempts to study biodiversity hotspots on a regional scale should combine compositional and functionalist criteria. The detection of hotspots in this study uses one ecologically similar group of high conservation value species as hotspot indicators, as well as focal habitat indicators, to detect the distribution of suitable environmental conditions. The method is assessed with reference to thermophilous forests in Poland – key habitats for many rare and relict species. Twenty-six high conservation priority species were used as hotspot indicators, and ten plant taxa characteristic of the Quercetalia pubescenti-petraeae phytosociological order were used as focal habitat indicators. Species distribution data was based on a 10 × 10 km grid. The number of species per grid square was interpolated by the ordinary kriging geostatistical method. Our analysis largely determined the distribution of areas with concentration of thermophilous forest flora, but also regional disjunctions and geographical barriers. Indicator species richness can be interpreted as a reflection of the actual state of habitat conditions. It can also be used to determine the location of potential species refugia and possible past and future migration routes.
Bacterial Load and Antimicrobial Profile of Escherichia coli and Listeria spp. Isolates from Muscle Tissues of Slaughtered Cattle at a Major Abattoir in Ibadan, South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Victoria O. Adetunji  , Hezekiah K. Adesokan  , Charity A. Agada  , Tajudeen O. Isola
Published: July 2014

Meat is prone to contamination by pathogenic organisms during slaughter and processing due to unhygienic practices in Nigeria. In recent times, there has been an increase in the prevalence of antibiotic resistant foodborne pathogens due to increased drug misuse in livestock industry. We assessed the level of microbial contamination of fresh muscle tissues from cattle slaughtered in a major abattoir in Ibadan immediately after slaughter and also determined the antibiogram of Escherichia coli and Listeria spp isolates from the muscle tissues. These were done using standard plate and Bauer-Kirby disc diffusion techniques for bacteriological assay and antibiotic sensitivity testing, respectively. We found that the muscle tissues from the slaughtered cattle were highly contaminated, with the Total Aerobic (6.59±0.94 log cfu/g), coliform (6.43±0.67 log cfu/g) and Listeria (6.96±0.32 log cfu/g) counts being higher than the acceptable international standards. Isolated E. coli and Listeria spp demonstrated 100% resistance to all tested antibiotics. We thus recommend further studies to be carried out on the molecular characteristics of antibiotic resistant genes responsible for transferability of bacterial resistance among foodborne pathogens in Nigeria.
A Pooled Analysis of Two Phase 3 Clinical Trials of Dalfampridine in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Goodman Andrew D. , Brown Theodore R. , Schapiro Randall T. , Klingler Michael , Cohen Ron , Blight Andrew R.
Published: July 2014

Background: Two phase 3 clinical trials demonstrated that dalfampridine extended-release 10-mg tablets (D-ER), twice daily, significantly improved walking relative to placebo in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of D-ER in patients with MS using pooled data from the two phase 3 trials.

Methods: Data were pooled from the two trials, and D-ER was compared with placebo for timed-walk responder rate, changes in walking speed, and the 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12). Response rates were evaluated with respect to demographic and clinical characteristics.

Results: D-ER had a significantly higher proportion of timed-walk responders relative to placebo (37.6% vs. 8.9%; P < .0001). The responder rate was independent of age, gender, race, body-mass index, type of MS, duration of MS, baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale score, baseline walking speed, and concomitant use of immunomodulatory therapies. Significant improvements were observed in walking speed and in MSWS-12 score for the pooled D-ER group compared with placebo. The safety profile was consistent with the individual studies; no new safety or tolerability concerns were identified.

Conclusions: D-ER demonstrated efficacy for the improvement of walking in patients with MS; response was independent of demographic and clinical characteristics.
Effects of Functional Electrical Stimulation on Gait Function and Quality of Life for People with Multiple Sclerosis Taking Dalfampridine
Authors: Mayer Lori , Warring Tina , Agrella Stephanie , Rogers Helen L. , Fox Edward J.
Published: July 2014

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) can adversely affect gait, causing gait slowing, loss of balance, decreased functional mobility, and gait deficits, such as footdrop. Current treatments for gait dysfunction due to MS are pharmacologic, using dalfampridine, or orthotic, using an ankle-foot orthosis. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) to the fibular nerve stimulates active dorsiflexion and provides an alternative treatment for gait dysfunction caused by footdrop. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of FES on gait function and the impact of MS on walking and quality of life for people with MS taking a stable dalfampridine dose.

Methods: Participants demonstrating gait slowing and footdrop completed the Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW) test, 6-Minute Walk (6MW) test, GaitRite Functional Ambulation Profile, 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12), and 36-item Short Form Health Status Survey (SF-36) at screening without FES; the measures were repeated with FES at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months.

Results: Twenty participants (8 men and 12 women) completed this unblinded case series study. The mean age, duration of MS, and time taking dalfampridine were 51.7, 15.8, and 1.4 years, respectively. Changes from screening to baseline and screening to 3 months were analyzed. Significant improvement was noted from screening to baseline for the MSWS-12 (P = .024) and SF-36 Physical Function domain (P = .028) and from screening to 3 months for the T25FW (P = .015), MSWS-12 (P = .003), and SF-36 Physical Function (P = .032) and Role Limitation–Physical Health (P = .012) domains.

Conclusions: Improvements above those induced pharmacologically suggest that FES can augment pharmacologic intervention and significantly improve gait function, decrease the impact of MS on walking, and improve quality of life for people with MS.
Change in Perceived Health Insurance Coverage Among People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Pozniak Alyssa , Hadden Louise , Rhodes William , Minden Sarah
Published: July 2014

Background: Previous research suggests that most people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the United States have health insurance. However, little is known about their coverage or how it differs between public and private insurance. We examined whether the perceived change in health insurance coverage from the previous year differs between individuals with MS who are privately insured compared with those who are publicly insured.

Methods: We present descriptive statistics and odds ratios (ORs) from a multivariate logistic regression using data from the 2009 wave of the Sonya Slifka Longitudinal Multiple Sclerosis Study.

Results: We found that individuals with Medicare were significantly less likely to perceive worse coverage compared with those with private health insurance (OR = 0.53; P < .01). Individuals aged 55 to 64 years were more likely to perceive worse coverage than those aged 18 to 34 years (OR = 2.5; P < .05), while the odds of perceiving worse coverage were significantly lower for individuals who had been diagnosed more than 15 years previously relative to those diagnosed in the past 2 years (OR = 0.48; P < .05).

Conclusions: Individuals with MS and other chronic illnesses who can choose between public and private insurance should be aware that there are important differences in perceptions of health insurance coverage between publicly and privately insured individuals.
Nucleus reuniens of the thalamus contains head direction cells
Authors: Jankowski Maciej M , Islam Md Nurul , Wright Nicholas F , Vann Seralynne D , Erichsen Jonathan T , Aggleton John P , O'Mara Shane M
Published: July 2014

Discrete populations of brain cells signal heading direction, rather like a compass. These ‘head direction’ cells are largely confined to a closely-connected network of sites. We describe, for the first time, a population of head direction cells in nucleus reuniens of the thalamus in the freely-moving rat. This novel subcortical head direction signal potentially modulates the hippocampal CA fields directly and, thus, informs spatial processing and memory.
Synthesis of CaOZnO Nanoparticles Catalyst and Its Application in Transesterification of Refined Palm Oil
Authors: Yulianti Cicik Herlina , Ediati Ratna , Hartanto Djoko , Purbaningtias Tri Esti , Chisaki Yoshifumi , Abdul Jalil Aishah , Che Ku Hitam Che Ku Nor Liana , Prasetyoko Didik
Published: July 2014

The CaOZnO nanoparticle catalysts with Ca to Zn atomic ratios of 0.08 and 0.25 have been successfully synthesized by co-precipitation method. The catalyst was characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis provided with Rietica and Maud software, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and its properties was compared with bare CaO and ZnO catalysts. The phase composition estimated by Rietica software revealed that the CaO catalyst consists of CaO and CaCO3 phases. The estimation of the particle size by Maud software, showed that the particle size of all catalysts increased by the following order: ZnO. © 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Phototreatment of Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) over Cu/TiO2 Photocatalyst
Authors: Ng Kim Hoong , Deraman Mohd. Rizauddin , Ang Chun How , Chong Soo Kee , Kong Zi Ying , Khan Maksudur R. , Cheng Chin Kui
Published: July 2014

The current work reported on the use of different formulations of Cu/TiO2 photocatalysts for the UV-irradiation of palm oil mills effluent (POME). Different copper loadings, viz. 2 wt%, 5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt%, 20 wt% and 25 wt% were doped onto titania. XRD pattern confirmed the presence of anatase TiO2 as primary phase due to mild calcination temperature (573 K). Photo-decomposition of POME over 20 wt% Cu/TiO2 exhibited the highest conversion (27.0%) attributed to its large pore diameter (20.0 nm). In addition, optimum loading was 0.83 g/l. © 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Ethanol Production from Non-Food Tubers of Iles-iles (Amorphophallus campanulatus) by Using Separated Hydrolysis and Fermentation
Authors: Kusmiyati Kusmiyati
Published: July 2014

The decrease in production and the raise in needs have led to the rise in oil prices. This work investigated the possibility of Iles-iles (Amorphophallus campanulatus) tuber flour, which is rich in carbohydrate con-tent, as a raw material to produce bioethanol. To obtain the maximum ethanol concentration, several parameters had been studied, such as: the concentration of α-amylase and β-amylase in liquefaction and sac-charification processes, respectively, the type of S. cerevisiae enzyme (pure, dry, wet and instant) and weight of Diammonium phosphate (DAP) as a nutrient for S. cerevisiae in fermentation. The result shows that the highest reducing sugar content (12.5%) was achieved when 3.2 ml α-amylase/kg flour and 6.4 ml β-amylase/kg flour were used during liquefaction and saccharification processes. Since the concentration of α- and β-amylase increased, the reducing sugar obtained also increased. The higher sugar content resulted the higher the ethanol concentration in the fermentation broth. Furthermore, the highest concentration of ethanol (9 %v/v) was obtained at 72 h fermentation using the dry S. cerevisiae, at 3.2 ml and 6.4 ml /kg flour of α-amylase and β-amylase enzymes, respectively. From the study of the effect of S. cerevisiae type, it was shown that dry S. cereviseae produced the highest ethanol concentration 10.2% (v/v) at 72 h fermentation. The DAP was used as a nitrogen supply required by S. cerevisiae to growth and as a results can increase the ethanol concentration. The addition of DAP in the fermentation proved that 8.45% (v/v) of ethanol was obtained. This result shows that the proposed tuber flour has the potential a raw material for bioethanol production. © 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Kinetic Studies on the Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohols in Organic Medium under Phase Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Bijudas K. , Bashpa P. , Radhakrishnan Nair T. D.
Published: July 2014

Kinetic studies on the oxidation of benzyl alcohol and substituted benzyl alcohols in benzene as the reaction medium have been studied by using potassium dichromate under phase transfer catalysis (PTC). The phase transfer catalysts (PT catalysts) used were tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) and tetrabutylphosphonium bromide (TBPB).  Benzyl alcohols were selectively oxidised to corresponding benzaldehydes in good yield (above 90%).  The order of reactivity among the studied benzyl alcohols is p - OCH3 > p - CH3 > - H > p - Cl.  Plots of log k2 versus Hammett's substituent constant (s) has been found to be curve shaped and this suggests that there should be a continuous change in transition state with changes in substituent present in the substrate from electron donating to electron withdrawing. A suitable mechanism has been suggested in which the rate determining step involves both C - H bond cleavage and C - O bond formations in concerted manner.  © 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Solvent-Free Biginelli Condensation using Tungstate Sulfuric Acid: a Powerful and Reusable Catalyst for Selective Synthesis
Authors: Nasab Rezvan Rezaee , Karami Bahador , Khodabakhshi Saeed
Published: July 2014

Tungstate sulfuric acid (TSA) has been prepared and used as a recyclable catalyst for the Biginelli syn-thesis of some biologically active quinazolinones/thiones under solvent-free conditions. This method has advantages such as the avoidance of organic solvents, high yield of pure products, short reaction times, and operational simplicity. © 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Corrigendum to: Characterization of Industrial Pt-Sn/Al2O3 Catalyst and Transient Product Formations during Propane Dehydrogenation [8(1), (2013), 77-82]
Authors: Ho Kah Sing , Chye Joanna Jo Ean , Chin Sim Yee , Cheng Chin Kui
Published: July 2014

Corrigendum to: Kah, S.H., Joanna Jo, E.C., Sim, Y.C., Chin, K.C. (2013). Bulletin of Chemical Reaction Engineering & Catalysis, 8(1): 77-82. (doi:10.9767/bcrec.8.1.4569.77-82). In Abstract, typed as: “….. Due to information paucity, the physicochemical characteristics of the commercially obtained regener-ated Pt-Sn/Al2O3 catalyst (operated in moving bed reactor) and coke formation at different tempera-tures of reaction were discussed…..”In the Abstract, the phrase of “(operated in moving bed reactor)” should be deleted.Erratum: Kah, S.H., Joanna Jo, E.C., Sim, Y.C., Chin, K.C. (2013). Bulletin of Chemical Reaction Engineering & Catalysis, 8(1): 77-82. (doi:10.9767/bcrec.8.1.4569.77-82).In Abstract section, the phrase of “(operated in moving bed reactor)” was deleted.Therefore, the sentence in the Abstract was corrected to: “….. Due to information paucity, the physico-chemical characteristics of the commercially obtained regenerated Pt-Sn/Al2O3 catalyst and coke for-mation at different temperatures of reaction were discussed…..”.© 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Study of solid/gas phase photocatalytic reactions by electron ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Nuño Manuel , Ball Richard J. , Bowen Chris R.
Published: July 2014

This paper describes a novel methodology for the real‐time study of solid–gas phase photocatalytic reactions in situ. A novel reaction chamber has been designed and developed to facilitate the investigation of photoactive materials under different gas compositions. UV irradiation in the wavelength of ranges 376–387 and 381–392 nm was provided using specially designed high efficiency light emitting diode arrays. The experiments used air containing 190 ppm NO2 in a moist environment with a relative humidity of 0.1%. Photocatalytic samples consisting of pressed pellets of rutile and anatase crystalline forms of TiO2 were monitored over a period of 150 min. An ultra‐high vacuum right angled bleed valve allowed a controlled flow of gas from the main reaction chamber at atmospheric pressure to a residual gas analyser operating at a vacuum of 10−5 mbar. The apparatus and methodology have been demonstrated to provide high sensitivity (ppb). The rate of degradation of NO2 attributed to reaction at the TiO2 surface was sensitive to both crystal structures (anatase or rutile) and wavelength of irradiation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tautomerism and proton transfer in photoionized acetaldehyde and acetaldehyde–water clusters
Authors: Di Palma Tonia M. , Bende Attila
Published: July 2014

Understanding the gas‐phase chemistry of acetaldehyde can be challenging because the molecule can assume several tautomeric forms, namely keto, enol and carbene. The two last forms are the most stable ionic forms. Here, insight into the gas‐phase cluster ion chemistry of homogeneous acetaldehyde and mixed water–acetaldehyde clusters is provided by mass spectrometry/vacuum ultraviolet photoionization combined with density functional theory calculations. (AA)nH+ clusters (AA = acetaldehyde) and mixed (AA)nH3O+ clusters were detected using tunable vacuum ultraviolet photoionization. Barrierless proton transfers were observed during the geometry optimization of the most stable dimer structures and helped to explain the cluster ion chemistry induced by photoionization, namely the formation of deprotonated tautomers and protonated keto tautomers. Water was found to catalyze the keto–enol and keto–carbene isomerizations and facilitate the proton transfer from the ionized enol or carbene part of the cluster to the neutral keto part, resulting in protonated keto structures. The production of protonated keto structures was identified to be the main fragmentation channel following ionization of the homogeneous acetaldehyde cluster and a channel for ionized mixed clusters as well.

These findings are significant for a broad range of fields, including current atmospheric models, because acetaldehyde is one of the most prominent organic species in the troposphere and ions play a crucial role in aerosol formation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New Finding of Sillmanite in Sapphirine-bearing Granulites from Pedapalli, NE Part of the Eastern Dharwar Craton, India
Authors: Prakash D. , Singh P. Chandra
Published: July 2014

We report the occurrence of sillimanite in sapphirine-bearing granulites near Pedapalli town in the north eastern part of the Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC). The sapphirine-bearing granulites of the Pedapalli area display evidence of metamorphic reactions involved in the formation of diverse mineral assemblages documented in different types of reaction textures. The common stable assemblage contains sapphirine-spinel-orthopyroxene-cordierite-plagioclage-corundum-sillimanite. The P-T evolution of these sapphirine granulites has been constrained by using the TWEEQU program. Temperature of formation of sapphirine-spinel assemblages is high, around 800 °C, and pressure ca. 8 kbar. The assemblage reported in this study has important bearing on the high-temperature metamorphism and exhumation history of the EDC.
Shell Microstructure of Late Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) Oysters from Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Jaitly Anand K. , Mishra Sanjay K. , Sen Shrinjana
Published: July 2014

The micro-morphological shell characters (both in optical microscope and SEM) have been used to discriminate in between oyster’s sub-families Pycnodonteinae Stenzel 1959, Exogyrinae Vyalov 1936, Ostreinae Refinesque 1815 and Lophinae Vyalov 1936. These sub-families are represented by six constituent genera Phygraea (Phygarea) vesicularis (Lamarck 1806), Hyotissa semiplana (Sowerby1813), Curvostrea rouvellei (Coquand 1862), Ceratostreon pliciferum (Dujardin 1837), Agerostrea ungulata (Schlotheim 1813) and Rastellum (Arctostrea) pectinatum (Lamarck 1810) in the late Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) sediments of the Ariyalur area of Tamil Nadu, south India. The optical microscopic observations and SEM studies of the shells of these six genera clearly indicate that all the four sub-families consist of distinctive set of shell-microstructures. Sub-family Pycnodonteinae is characterized by predominance of vesicular, exogyrinae by prismatic, Ostreinae by cross foliated and Lophinae by foliated shell microstructures. Besides their characteristic shell microstructures, some additional microstructures are also visible in the shells of some of the genera of these four sub-families.
Landslide Susceptibility Zonation Mapping Using Logistic Regression and its Validation in Hashtchin Region, Northwest of Iran
Authors: Talaei Reza
Published: July 2014

Landslide susceptibility zonation mapping assists researchers greatly to understand the spatial distribution of slope failure probability in a region. Being extremely useful in reducing landslide hazards, such maps could simply be produced using both qualitative and quantitative methods. In the present study, a multivariate statistical method called ‘logistic regression’ was used to assess landslide susceptibility in Hashtchin region, situated in west of Alborz Mountains-northwest of Iran. In this study, two independent variables, categorical (predictor) and continuous, were drawn on together in the model. To identify the region’s landslides use was made of aerial photographs, field studies and topographic maps. To prepare the database of factors affecting the region’s landslides and to determine landslide zones, geographic information system (GIS) was used. Using such information, landslide susceptibility modeling was accomplished. The data related to factors causing landslides were extracted as independent variables in each cell (in 50 m×50 m cells). Then, the whole data were input into the SPSS, Version 18. The prepared database was later analyzed using logistic regression, the forward stepwise method and based on maximum likelihood estimation. Regression equation was determined using obtained constants and coefficients and the landslide susceptibility of the area in grid-cells (pixels) was computed between 0 and 0.9954. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the accuracy of the logistic regression model. The predicting ability of the model was 84.1% given the area under ROC curve. Finally, the degree of success of landslide susceptibility zonation mapping was estimated to be 79%.
Diagenetic Model of Carbonate Rocks of Guri Member of Mishan Formation (Lower to Middle Miocene) SE Zagros Basin, Iran
Authors: Heidari Akbar , Gonzalez Luis A. , Mahboubi Asadollah , Moussavi-Harami Reza , Ludvigson Greg A. , Chakrapani Govind J.
Published: July 2014

In order to understand the post-depositional history of carbonate rocks of Guri Member (Lower to Middle Miocene), three stratigraphic sections were selected in north Bandar-Abbas in southeast of Iran. Sampling was carried out, analyzed for selective parameters such as oxygen and carbon isotopic compositions (δ18O and δ13C) and interpreted in the present study. We recognized several diagenetic processes including micritization, cementation, neomorphism, compaction, dissolution, silicification, dolomitization, fracturing and vein filling. Some of the diagenetic processes occurred at different conditions, so in order to achieve precise interpretation, samples from different carbonate components such as, micrite, fracture cement, solution pore cement, intergranular cement, and some biotic allochems were analyzed. In this study micrite samples were subdivided into two groups including micro-spary and micrite. They were recognized under Cathodoluminescence microscope. In addition, micrite samples were classified into five groups based on their depositional environments: supratidal, lagoon, coral bar, open sea, and open basin. There were minor changes in stable isotope ratios based on the sedimentary environments, stratigraphy successions, and micro-spary or micrite properties. In this study, similar calcite cements in petrography studies were differentiated by stable isotope data. Those calcite cements have formed in different diagenetic environments such as meteoric and burial cements. Paragenetic sequence of carbonate rocks were interpreted by integration of petrographic and isotopic studies. We have reconstructed diagenetic models of Guri Member into four stages including marine, meteoric, burial, and uplifting.
Widespread white matter degeneration preceding the onset of dementia
Authors: Maier-Hein Klaus H. , Westin Carl-Fredrik , Shenton Martha E. , Weiner Michael W. , Raj Ashish , Thomann Philipp , Kikinis Ron , Stieltjes Bram , Pasternak Ofer
Published: July 2014

Background

Brain atrophy in subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) introduces partial volume effects, limiting the sensitivity of diffusion tensor imaging to white matter microstructural degeneration. Appropriate correction isolates microstructural effects in MCI that might be precursors of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Forty‐eight participants (18 MCI, 15 AD, and 15 healthy controls) had magnetic resonance imaging scans and clinical evaluations at baseline and follow‐up after 36 months. Ten MCI subjects were diagnosed with AD at follow‐up and eight remained MCI. Free‐water (FW) corrected measures on the white matter skeleton were compared between groups.

Results

FW corrected radial diffusivity, but not uncorrected radial diffusivity, was increased across the brain of the converted group compared with the nonconverted group (P < .05). The extent of increases was similar to that found comparing AD with controls.

Conclusion

Partial volume elimination reveals microstructural alterations preceding dementia. These alterations may prove to be an effective and feasible early biomarker of AD.
Marsh benthic Foraminifera response to estuarine hydrological balance driven by climate variability over the last 2000 yr (Minho estuary, NW Portugal)
Authors: Moreno João , Fatela Francisco , Leorri Eduardo , De la Rosa José M. , Pereira Inês , Araújo M. Fátima , Freitas M. Conceição , Corbett D. Reide , Medeiros Ana
Published: July 2014

A high-resolution study of a marsh sedimentary sequence from the Minho estuary provides a new palaeoenvironmental reconstruction from NW Iberian based on geological proxies supported by historical and instrumental climatic records. A low-salinity tidal flat, dominated by Trochamminita salsa, Haplophragmoides spp. and Cribrostomoides spp., prevailed from AD 140–1360 (Roman Warm Period, Dark Ages, Medieval Climatic Anomaly). This sheltered environment was affected by high hydrodynamic episodes, marked by the increase in silt/clay ratio, decrease of organic matter, and poor and weakly preserved foraminiferal assemblages, suggesting enhanced river runoff. The establishment of low marsh began at AD 1380. This low-salinity environment, marked by colder and wet conditions, persisted from AD 1410–1770 (Little Ice Age), when foraminiferal density increased significantly. Haplophragmoides manilaensis and Trochamminita salsa mark the transition from low to high marsh at AD 1730. Since AD 1780 the abundances of salt marsh species (Jadammina macrescens, Trochammina inflata) increased, accompanied by a decrease in foraminiferal density, reflecting climate instability, when droughts alternate with severe floods. SW Europe marsh foraminifera respond to the hydrological balance, controlled by climatic variability modes (e.g., NAO) and solar activity, thus contributing to the understanding of NE Atlantic climate dynamics.
John Skylitzes: A Synopsis of Byzantine History, 811–1057
Authors: Skylitzes John , Wortley John
Published: July 2014

This book was first published in 2010. John Skylitzes' extraordinary Middle Byzantine chronicle covers the reigns of the Byzantine emperors from the death of Nicephorus I in 811 to the deposition of Michael VI in 1057, and provides the only surviving continuous narrative of the late tenth and early eleventh centuries. A high official living in the late eleventh century, Skylitzes used a number of existing Greek histories (some of them no longer extant) to create a digest of the previous three centuries. It is without question the major historical source for the period and is cited constantly in modern scholarship. This edition features introductions by Jean-Claude Cheynet and Bernard Flusin, along with extensive notes. It will be an essential and exciting addition to the libraries of all historians of the Byzantine age.
The Emperor and the World
Authors: Walker Alicia
Published: July 2014

Byzantine imperial imagery is commonly perceived as a static system. In contrast to this common portrayal, this book draws attention to its openness and responsiveness to other artistic traditions. Through a close examination of significant objects and monuments created over a 350-year period, from the ninth to the thirteenth century, Alicia Walker shows how the visual articulation of Byzantine imperial power not only maintained a visual vocabulary inherited from Greco-Roman antiquity and the Judeo-Christian tradition, but also innovated on these artistic precedents by incorporating styles and forms from contemporary foreign cultures, specifically the Sasanian, Chinese and Islamic worlds. In addition to art and architecture, this book explores historical accounts and literary works as well as records of ceremonial practices, thereby demonstrating how texts, ritual and images operated as integrated agents of imperial power. Walker offers new ways to think about cross-cultural interaction in the Middle Ages and explores the diverse ways in which imperial images employed foreign elements in order to express particularly Byzantine meanings.
The Politics of Justice and Human Rights
Authors: Langlois Anthony J.
Published: July 2014

This book, first published in 2001, makes a major contribution to the theory and practice of human rights, engaging in particular with the 'Asian values' debates of the 1990s. It is especially concerned with the tension between a universal regime of human rights and its ability to accommodate diversity. Incorporating original fieldwork from Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, the book also draws out the significance of Southeast Asian developments for international human rights discourse. The book advances beyond the stalemate that the 'Asian values' debate has reached, developing an intermediary stance between the competing claims of universalism and relativism. Drawing on the work of Cass Sustein and Chantal Mouffe, the theoretical contribution of the book will ensure its interest to readers with an interest in human rights. This book is a definitive account of contemporary political discussions of human rights in Southeast Asia and an important contribution to the development of human rights.
On the Education of the People of India
Authors: Trevelyan Charles Edward
Published: July 2014

Charles Edward Trevelyan (1807–1886) published Education of the People of India in 1838. The work is a rigorous defence of the educational reforms that took place in colonial India during the 1830s, which led to a western-based curriculum replacing traditional Indian learning. The work is a response to the arguments of orientalists such as H. H. Wilson (1786–1860), recently retired from government office in India, but still advocating an orientalist educational policy. In this work Trevelyan puts forward his arguments for the moral and intellectual advantages of English as the principle language of instruction and defends the government's resolution of March 1835 that specified that Indians should be educated by the study of European literature, culture and science. It was one of the most influential Anglicist tracts of the Indian educational debates, and it gives valuable insight into the ideas behind what became standard government educational policy.
Defending the Correspondence Theory of Truth
Authors: Rasmussen Joshua
Published: July 2014

The correspondence theory of truth is a precise and innovative account of how the truth of a proposition depends upon that proposition's connection to a piece of reality. Joshua Rasmussen refines and defends the correspondence theory of truth, proposing new accounts of facts, propositions, and the correspondence between them. With these theories in hand, he then offers original solutions to the toughest objections facing correspondence theorists. Addressing the Problem of Funny Facts, Liar Paradoxes, and traditional epistemological questions concerning how our minds can access reality, he challenges recent objections, and defends what has traditionally been the most popular theory of truth. Written with clarity, precision, and sensitivity to a range of philosophical backgrounds, his book will appeal to advanced students and scholars seeking a deeper understanding of the relationship between truth and reality.