bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure of Longissimus Lumborum Muscle and Meat Quality of Native Polish Pig Breeds: Złotnicka Sp Otted and Puławska
Authors: Bogucka Joanna , Kapelański Wojciech
Published: June 2016

In 50 fattening pigs representing two Polish native breeds: 24 Złotnicka Spotted, 10 Puławska and 16 F1 ♀ (Polish Large White × Polish Landrace) × F1 ♂ (Duroc × Pietrain) crosses microstructure of muscle, carcass and meat quality were studied. Puławska pigs had the thickest backfat, but the loin eye area was smaller only in comparison to crossbreds. Compared to the Puławska breed, the meat of Złotnicka Spotted pigs was darker, which was associated with a greater percentage of type I fibres and a smaller percentage of type IIB fibres. Puławska pigs distinguished themselves from the other groups under study by the greatest density of fibres per mm2. Smaller diameter of type IIA and IIB fibres and higher total number of fibres were found in Puławska breed pigs compared to Złotnicka Spotted, despite the absence of differences in the loin eye area. Smaller thickness of the fibres favourably affects meat quality, and might be considered an indicator of a delicate structure of meat.
Feed additives regulating calcium homeostasis in the bones of poultry – a review
Authors: Kwiatkowska Katarzyna , Winiarska-Mieczan Anna , Kwiecień Małgorzata
Published: June 2016

The strength of leg bones is not only genetically determined but it also depends on the gender, age, health condition and nutrition of slaughter birds. Calcium ions deficit in bones results in the deterioration of skeleton structure and reduction of bone strength. The presented work compiles the results of studies concerning the effect of feed additives on the level of calcium in the bones of broiler chickens, published during the past 10 years. From the analysis of available literature it follows that some additives had a positive effect on the accumulation of calcium (e.g. vitamin D, probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics), some were not very explicit (e.g. ascorbic acid and phytase), while others did not have a significant effect on the accumulation of calcium in bones (e.g. herbs and chelates). It is concluded from our collected information that the use of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics offers the best advantages for poultry. These additives, apart from stimulating the accumulation of calcium in bones, also benefit animal health.
Effects of Different Sources of Fat in the Diet of Pigs on the Liver Transcriptome Estimated by RNA-Seq
Authors: Oczkowicz Maria , Świątkiewicz Małgorzata , Ropka-Molik Katarzyna , Gurgul Artur , Żukowski Kacper
Published: June 2016

In this study, we have attempted to analyse the impact of dietary fats on the liver transcriptome in pigs. Four nutritional groups were created. The animals’ diets differed among groups in terms of the presence of corn dried distillers’ grains with solubles (DDGS) (group I - no DDGS, groups II, III, IV - 20% DDGS) as well as the type of fat (rapeseed oil - groups I and II, beef tallow - group III, coconut oil - group IV) used. Using the RNA-Seq method we identified 39 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) as a result of Cuffdiff analysis of the differences among all groups. Analysis of these genes with Panther Gene Classification System revealed that among identified DEGs, genes responsible for lipid and fatty acids metabolism are overrepresented as well as the genes engaged in oxidoreductase and catalytic activity. The article presents for the first time the RNAseq analysis of the liver transcriptome in pigs fed with different sources of fats. The results may be useful for the elaboration of new therapies for cardiovascular diseases in humans as well as for the preparation of new nutrition strategies in animals.
Nutritional Value of Yarrowia Lipolytica Yeast and its Effect on Growth Performance Indicators n Piglets
Authors: Czech Anna , Smolczyk Aleksandra , Ognik Katarzyna , Kiesz Martyna
Published: June 2016

Yarrowia lipolytica yeast can be a valuable component of feed compounds due to its high content of protein and essential amino acids, as well as minerals. The objective of the study was to verify the research hypothesis that Yarrowia lipolytica (YL) yeast, having a more valuable chemical composition than Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), can improve growth performance in piglets. An attempt was made to determine what proportion of YL yeast in a compound feed for piglets would produce measurable effects in terms of production and health. The experiment was carried out on 46-dayold piglets receiving experimental mixtures for 39 days. The piglets in the experimental groups were fed the same mixture as the control, but with 3% or 6% fodder yeast of the strain Yarrowia lipolytica A-101 in place of soybean meal. The YL fodder yeast had significantly higher content of alanine (by about 50%), lysine, isoleucine and tryptophan (over 30%), leucine, valine, glycine and glutamic acid (over 20%), and tyrosine (by about 17%) in comparison with SC yeast. Content of crude fat was three times higher than in SC yeast. YL yeast had significantly higher content of Na+, K+, Ca+2, Mn+2, S, Mg+2 and Zn+2 than SC, as well as significantly higher content of vitamins B2 and E. Yarrowia lipolytica fodder yeast introduced to compound feed in the amount of just 3% improved growth performance (an increase in daily weight gain and a decrease in feed conversion per kg weight gain). These results indicate that YL in the amount of 3% in compound feed can be successfully used in the diet of piglets in place of the commonly used SC.
Forschungsdatenmanagement an der Universität Münster
Authors: Tröger Beate
Published: June 2016

Forschungsdatenmanagement ist eine der großen aktuellen Herausforderungen für Universitäten, liegen Kenntnisstand und aktuelles Handeln in vielen Fachkontexten doch noch entfernt von den Anforderungen etwa der Drittmittelgeber. Eine umfangreiche Befragung diente an der Universität Münster zur Herausarbeitung von entsprechenden Handlungsbedarfen im Umgang mit der sehr komplexen Materie.
On prefermentative maceration techniques: statistical analysis of sensory descriptors in Sangiovese wine
Authors: Magrini Alessandro , Pantani Ottorino L. , Bartolini Alessandra Biondi , Stefanini Federico M.
Published: June 2016

The analysis of wine sensory descriptors is a fundamental step in the improvement of wine making, because the procedures are judged just before bottled wine is ready for consumption. Despite several contributions in the literature, traditional analysis of variance methods are not adequate to analyse sensory descriptors, because they are defined on ordinal scales. In this paper, we exploit cumulative link mixed models in a three-way full factorial design to assess the effect of prefermentative maceration, temperature and saignée on wine sensory descriptors. Using cumulative link mixed models, the bias introduced by assessors’ judgement and the ordinal scale of sensory descriptors are taken into account. The results were the following: the application of prefermentative maceration techniques did not lead to an improvement in the sensory profile of wines after a year from bottling; wines treated with saignée showed greater intensity in olfactive descriptors; and higher fermentation temperatures resulted in wines that were generally more concentrated.
The comparison of three models applied to the analysis of a three-factor trial on hybrid maize (Zea mays L.) cultivars
Authors: Szulc Piotr , Mejza Iwona , Ambroży-Deręgowska Katarzyna , Nowosad Kamila , Bocianowski Jan
Published: June 2016

The aim of this paper is to present the comparison of three models applied to the analysis of a one-year study of protein yield for two types of hybrid maize cultivars under different forms of nitrogen fertilizer and doses of magnesium. The field trial was conducted in 2010 at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Swadzim (Poland). The results obtained were analyzed in terms of three randomization-derived models of observations. Consideration was given to three mixed systems, which are combinations of split-plot design, split-block design and randomized complete block design. The relative efficiency of the designs with respect to estimation of some comparisons among treatment combination effects was examined. Particular attention was paid to the interaction between cultivars and nitrogen fertilization.
Extraordinary biological properties of a new calcium hydroxyapatite/poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-based scaffold confirmed by in vivo investigation
Authors: Jokanović Vukoman , Čolović Božana , Marković Dejan , Petrović Milan , Soldatović Ivan , Antonijević Djordje , Milosavljević Petar , Sjerobabin Nikola , Sopta Jelena
Published: June 2016

This study examined the potential of a new porous calcium hydroxyapatite scaffold covered with poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) as a bone substitute, identifying its advantages over Geistlich Bio-Oss®, considered the gold standard, in in vivo biofunctionality investigations. Structural and morphological properties of the new scaffold were analyzed by scanning electron and atomic force microscopy. The biofunctionality assays were performed on New Zealand white rabbits using new scaffold for filling full-thickness defects of critical size. The evaluated parameters were: the presence of macrophages, giant cells, monoocytes, plasma cells, granulocytes, neoangiogenesis, fibroplasia, and the percentage of mineralization. Parallel biofunctionality assays were performed using Geistlich Bio-Oss®. The appearance of bone defects 12 weeks after the new scaffold implantation showed the presence of a small number of typical immune response cells. Furthermore, significantly reduced number of capillary buds, low intensity of fibroplasia and high degree of mineralization in a lamellar pattern indicated that the inflammation process has been almost completely overcome and that the new bone formed was in the final phase of remodeling. All biofunctionality assays proved the new scaffold’s suitability as a bone substitute for applications in maxillofacial surgery. It showed numerous biological advantages over Geistlich Bio-Oss® which was reflected mainly as a lower number of giant cells surrounding implanted material and higher degree of mineralization in new formed bone.
Mechanical properties of contemporary orthodontic adhesives used for lingual fixed retention
Authors: Sifakakis Iosif , Zinelis Spiros , Patcas Raphael , Eliades Theodore
Published: June 2016

Objective:

The aim of the present study was to test the mechanical properties of different adhesives used in orthodontics for fixed retainers and to investigate their possible interrelations.

Materials and methods:

Specimens of six different adhesive resins were prepared: Transbond XT, Transbond LR and an experimental BPA-free orthodontic adhesive, as well as IPS Empress Direct (IPS-ED), ZNano and Accolade. The mechanical properties tested were Martens hardness (HM), indentation modulus (EIT), the ratio of elastic to total work, commonly known as elastic index (ηIT) and Vickers hardness (HV). These properties were determined using instrumented indentation testing according to ISO 14577-2002. The results of the aforementioned properties were statistically compared with one-way ANOVA-test and Student-Newman-Keuls multiple comparison test at a=0.05, while possible correlations among the properties tested were analyzed by Pearson correlation.

Results:

Significant differences were identified among all the materials tested for HM, with Transbond LR presenting the highest value. This resin presented the highest EIT too. Significant EIT differences were identified among the materials and only ZNano and IPS-ED showed no significant differences for this property. Transbond LR and ZNano showed higher HV values. ZNano demonstrated the highest elastic index. Pearson analysis showed a strong positive correlation between HM and EIT (0.970), HM and HV (0.837), and EIT and HV (0.695), while a weak negative correlation was found between EIT and elastic index (-0.505).

Conclusions:

The materials tested demonstrated significant differences in their mechanical properties, and thus differences in their clinical performance are anticipated.
The history of hysteria and what’s next…
Authors: Hłodzik Klemens , Dziwota Ewelina , Karakuła-Juchnowicz Hanna , Olajossy Marcin
Published: June 2016

From the ancient times up till now hysteria has been a mysterious and intriguing issue. The authors of this article using mainly the work of Etienne Trillat of the same title, present the most important facts from the history of hysteria. Our work shows how notions of hysteria known initially as uterine dyspnoea, which was the term used by Hippocrates in the seventh tome of his “Collected Works” evolved step by step. At the end of 1st century AD a newcomer to Rome, Soranus of Ephesus, as an experienced anatomist in his “Treatise on midwifery and the diseases of women” moved away from the old ideas of Plato and Hippocrates equating uterus to an animal. How did views on hysteria develop throughout Middle Ages, Renaissance or World Wars period? In this article the authors are trying to determine the nature of hysteria as well as what remained from hysteria in the contemporary times, depicting hysteria’s elusiveness as a disease, many difficulties with its definition and connection with many shocking events in history of mankind. From the ancient sages, through Kramer, Sprenger, Wier, Harvey, Willis, Sydenham, Blackmore up until Mesmer, Freud and many others. From hysteric witches, beings suffering from vapors, through sensitive, fragile and musing women up until mythomaniacs, nymphomaniacs and what we define today as histrionic personality disorder. In the words of French neurologist and a creator of psychiatry – Charcot – hysteria existed forever, everywhere and all-time. Why did it vanish though? Authors of this article will address this problem in the final part, trying to determine the cause.
Raynaud’s phenomenon in a newborn: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zampetti Anna , Atzori Sebastiana , Linder Michael D. , Cataldi Luigi
Published: June 2016

Raynaud’s phenomenon is a paroxysmal and recurrent vasospasm phenomenon characterized by tricolour changes in extremities, commonly hands and feet, triggered by exposure to cold. When isolated it is described as primary, and secondary when associated with other medical conditions. It is usually more common in young adults and is rare in children and very rare in infants. Here, we report a case of Raynaud phenomenon in the immediate postnatal period and review the medical literature on this subject.
Higher Education Students’ Perceptions of Environmental Issues and Media Coverage
Authors: Keinonen Tuula , Palmberg Irmeli , Kukkonen Jari , Yli-Panula Eija , Persson Christel , Vilkonis Rytis
Published: June 2016

This study aims to find higher education students’ perceptions about environmental issues and how the perceptions are related to perceptions of media coverage. This study investigates higher education students’ perceptions of the seriousness of environmental issues and their relation to perceptions of media coverage. Higher education students perceived a global problem, lack of clean water, as most serious environmental problem. Media has had an effect on students’ perceptions on environmental issues: when students perceived the problem as serious they also perceived the information in media concerning it appropriate. Students perceived that the media underestimate and obscure some environmental problems such as biological diversity and global warming. It was concluded that higher education educators need more knowledge of students’, future decision makers’ concerns and perceptions about environmental issues to develop more effective teaching practices in higher education. Through education environmental issues literacy, which is a precursor for engaged protection of the environment, can be fostered. This study offers some insights into higher education students’ perceptions of the media’s role in environmental issues.
Using Photovoice to Explore Environmental Sustainability Across Languages and Cultures
Authors: Cook Kristin , Brown Alan , Ballard Genny
Published: June 2016

Though work in the area of photovoice (in which students take photos to structure a dialogue that can serve to advance social action as the community responds to the participants’ perspectives and locates them in solution-generation) has been conducted in science education research to focus on learner’s experiences, little has been done to showcase community members’ perspectives resulting from the photovoice experience—though it is here that photovoice holds the most potential to effect positive change locally. The research presented here, conducted during a study abroad course taught in Costa Rica, seeks to understand the ways in which the experience of photovoice stimulated an understanding of and connection to local sustainability issues and to those for whom these issues are most pressing. The study involves a cross-cultural and cross-linguistic exchange of ideas regarding sustainable crop development between study abroad students and community members in a rural mountain town in Costa Rica. Results indicated that the experience of photovoice broadened and enriched all participants’ understanding of environmental sustainability—university students and local residents—as well as inspired critique of socio-scientific issues of personal relevance and impact. Photovoice is thus presented as a rich and engaging instructional technique that also serves as a community participation tool with potential for connecting students and communities from distinct cultures and languages.
The Spiritual Dimension of Education – Addressing Issues of Identity and Belonging
Authors: de Souza Marian
Published: June 2016

In a shrinking world where events across the globe become relevant for the lives of masses of people regardless of the distances that divide them, some serious issues have arisen which have particular significance for education policies and practice. Too many children are growing up against a backdrop of polarised views and attitudes which is a cause for concern in many countries where societies are characterized by racial, cultural and religious diversity.

This article explores some critical concepts that are pertinent to contemporary Australia and uses research findings and content analysis to problematize the issue. It argues that there is clear evidence that the health and wellbeing of children and young people is being affected by exposure to prejudicial attitudes which can be linked to the diversity that has become a sustaining feature of many contemporary societies and it has had serious consequences for their identity and sense of belonging. It proposes that one way of addressing these issues is through education that addresses the relational dimension of students’ lives which is expressed through their connectedness to all others, that is, their spiritual natures. Finally, it identifies some features of such an educational system.
External Segment Reporting in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Obradović Vladimir , Karapavlović Nemanja
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the research in this paper is to examine the regulation and practices of external segment reporting in the Republic of Serbia. The importance of research stems from a great potential usefulness of segment information for investors and creditors. The analysis of regulation suggests that the Republic of Serbia has high-quality and internationally recognized basis of external segment reporting – IFRS 8. However, there is a room for improvement of IFRS 8. The analysis of practices, conducted on a sample of 500 companies, shows that companies in the Republic of Serbia, in general, do not attach great importance to the disclosure of segment information in financial statements. The practices are quite miscellaneous, which is a consequence of the flexibility of IFRS 8, but also an incomplete compliance with IFRS 8. By applying statistical techniques we have examined whether the practices of external segment reporting are related to characteristics of companies, which makes the originality of the paper. We have found that financial institutions disclose more extensive quantitative segment information in relation to other companies in the Republic of Serbia, and that companies with higher assets disclose more extensive segment information. The research indicates that there is a significant room for improving the practices of external segment reporting in the Republic of Serbia. The research results may be useful for regulators of financial reporting and preparers and auditors of financial statements.
On Ostrowski type inequalities
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P. , Luo Min-Jie , Raina R.K.
Published: June 2016

In this paper, new forms of Ostrowski type inequalities are established for a general class of fractional integral operators. The main results are used to derive Ostrowski type inequalities involving the familiar Riemann-Liouville fractional integral operators and other important integral operators. We further obtain similar types of inequalities for the integral operators whose kernels are the Fox-Wright generalized hypergeometric function. Several consequences and special cases of some of the results including applications to Stolarsky’s means are also pointed out.
Entire and meromorphic solutions of linear difference equations
Authors: Dyavanal Renukadevi S. , Mathai Madhura M.
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we shall investigate the existence of finite order entire and meromorphic solutions of linear difference equation of the form

$$f^n (z) + p(z)f^{n - 2} (z) + L(z,f) = h(z)$$

where L(z, f) is linear difference polynomial in f(z), p(z) is non-zero polynomial and h(z) is a meromorphic function of finite order. We also consider finite order entire solution of linear difference equation of the form

$$f^n (z) + p(z)L(z,f) = r(z)e^{q(z)}$$

where r(z) and q(z) are polynomials.
Ulam-Hyers stability theorem by tripled fixed point theorem
Authors: Gupta Animesh
Published: June 2016

This paper deals with tripled fixed point theorem, and the approach is based on Perov-type fixed point theorem for contractions in metric spaces endowed with vector-valued metrics. We are also study Ulam-Hyers stability results for the tripled fixed points of a triple of contractive type single-valued and respectively multi-valued operators on complete metric spaces.
More on weak δs-continuity in topological spaces
Authors: Jafari S. , Noiri T.
Published: June 2016

The notion of weakly δs-continuous functions is introduced by Ekici in [6]. In this paper, we further investigate some more properties of weakly δs-continuous functions. This type of continuity is a generalization of super continuity [16].
On second order nonlocal boundary value problem at resonance
Authors: Szymańska-Dębowska Katarzyna
Published: June 2016

This work is devoted to the existence of solutions for a system of nonlocal resonant boundary value problem

$$\matrix{{x'' = f(t,x),} \hfill & {x'(0) = 0,} \hfill & {x'(1) = {\int_0^1 {x(s)dg(s)},} }} $$

where f : [0, 1] × ℝk → ℝk is continuous and g : [0, 1] → ℝk is a function of bounded variation.
Improved oscillation criteria for second order nonlinear delay difference equations with non-positive neutral term
Authors: Thandapani E. , Selvarangam S. , Rama R. , Madhan M.
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we present some oscillation criteria for second order nonlinear delay difference equation with non-positive neutral term of the form$$\Delta (a_n (\Delta z_n )^\alpha ) + q_n f(x_{n - \sigma } ) = 0,\;\;\;n \ge n_0 > 0,$$wherezn=xn−pnxn−τ, andαis a ratio of odd positive integers. Examples are provided to illustrate the results. The results obtained in this paper improve and complement to some of the existing results.
Tissue disinfection for preparation of Dendrobium in vitro culture
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Winarto Budi , Dobránszki Judit , Cardoso Jean Carlos , Zeng Songjun
Published: June 2016

Establishing an aseptic in vitro culture for Dendrobium, or for any plant in fact, is the most important step towards developing an effective in vitro tissue culture including micropropagation protocol. Success in initial aseptic culture will contribute to the successful production of in vitro cultures that may involve the initiation or formation of callus and/or protocorm-like bodies (PLBs), the induction, regeneration or multiplication of shoots, and the preparation and proliferation of plantlets suitable for acclimatization. The initiation of an aseptic culture is closely related to the appropriate selection of an explant source and its preparation, including its (in vivo) pre-treatment if necessary and subsequent disinfection procedures. Care in the choice of explant and the application of an appropriate disinfection protocol can successfully reduce, or eliminate, contamination in in vitro cultures while reducing the negative impact on plant tissues and plantlet regeneration. Many unique aseptic culture procedures for Dendrobium genus have been reported in the literature, very often specific to particular tissues or genotypes, and this review not only highlights the details of such protocols, but also provides practical advice for novice – and even seasoned – orchidologists who wish to research Dendrobium in vitro, although it is cautioned that there is currently no universal aseptic culture procedure that can be applied to all conditions, all explants or all genotypes.
Regularity estimates in weighted Orlicz spaces for Calderón–Zygmund type singular integral operators
Authors: Yao Fengping
Published: June 2016

In this paper we obtain regularity estimates in weighted Orlicz spaces for the Calderón–Zygmund singular integral operators under certain optimal conditions.
Tree stems from terrestrial laser scanner measurements
Authors: Kuusk Andres , Lang Mait , Märdla Silja , Pisek Jan
Published: June 2016

Terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) measurements were carried out in mature birch, pine, and spruce stands in Järvselja, Estonia. The structure of stands has been previously studied. A simple special clustering procedure is developed for automatic detection of stem positions and estimation of tree stem dimensions from the TLS point cloud. Tree stem diameter at breast height (DBH), vertical profile of stem and size distribution of DBH is estimated with high precision in the pine stand where the second growth tree layer is almost missing. The presence of second growth limits estimating stem dimensions accurately in the birch stand, and the procedure fails in the dense spruce stand of rich undergrowth and low dead branches. In such stands the TLS measurements should be done in dense grid with short-range sounding setup only. The developed procedure is undemanding for computers and can be applied on simple PC-s.
Why do we need a research and demonstration area of forest management planning at Järvselja?
Authors: Korjus Henn , Põllumäe Priit , Kangur Ahto
Published: June 2016

Changes in the society have created a need for a systematic approach in forestry combining forest management, timber harvest analysis, research and demonstration of new technologies. A research and demonstration area is an option for explaining and visualising frameworks of forest design, modelling and planning in the real nature. A research and demonstration area of forest management planning can be defined as a forested landscape that combines various forest uses and aims to ensure and explain forest management strategies as well as conservation of ecosystems and natural resources. A suitable area for creating the research and demonstration area of forest management planning is at Järvselja Training and Experimental Forest Centre in Estonia. It has naturally diverse forests and these include also habitats of several rare and endangered species and already comprise different sets of nature conservation areas. The centre has been used for forestry higher education and research for over 90 years and therefore all essential infrastructure has been developed including dormitories and lecture rooms for field training as well as different nature paths, old field experiments (e.g. initial spacing and thinning experiments) and new modern research facilities. Forest management plans and inventory data since 1922 still exist for the area. The area at Järvselja is expected to demonstrate present studies and research work in the most comprehensive way as well as the implications to forest management and the newest technologies in forest management and planning. Different systems and techniques of forest management can be studied and demonstrated to the wider public by establishing the research and demonstration area of forest management planning at Järvselja.
Mathematical aspects of the kriging applied on landslide in Halenkovice (Czech Republic)
Authors: Zůvala Robert , Fišerová Eva , Marek Lukáš
Published: June 2016

Kriging is one of the geostatistical techniques for spatial data analysis that is usually used for a modelling of natural phenomena or a creation of digital elevation models. In this paper, we introduce kriging methods in the context of a landslide modelling in time. The proposed procedure, as well as most of the statistical methods, is designed for complete data sets,
Adsorption of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) on chemically aged biochars
Authors: Ghaffar Abdul , Abbas Ghulam
Published: June 2016

Biochar offers not only agro-economic advantages, but it is also a low-cost alternative sorbent to remove water pollutants. With the passage of time and environmental exposure, biochar undergoes different biogeochemical transformations causing changes in their surface properties and composition. However, the changes in the adsorption behavior of aged biochars, under environmental conditions and efficacy of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are still not clear. The biochar samples were prepared at two temperatures (300°C and 500°C) from peanut-shell biomass and their aging was simulated by chemical oxidation (with H2SO4/HNO3 mixture). The characteristics of the peanut-shell derived primary biochars and oxidized biochars were examined by CHN elemental analyzer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier-transformed (DRIFT) spectroscopy and the Brunauer-Emmet-Teller method. The oxidation introduced various functional groups to biochar surfaces, but inhibited adsorption due to the formation of three dimensional water clusters. The adsorption of PAEs on biochar was a cumulative influence of hydrophobic interactions and surface chemistry. Biochars obtained at 300°C and 500°C were distinct in their molecular structure and thus anticipated to pose different sorbent characteristics. The results suggested that exposure to different environments could cause imminent aging and influence the biochars regarding sorption properties.
Dynamic organization of the mitochondrial protein import machinery
Authors: Straub Sebastian P. , Stiller Sebastian B. , Wiedemann Nils , Pfanner Nikolaus
Published: June 2016

Mitochondria contain elaborate machineries for the import of precursor proteins from the cytosol. The translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane (TOM) performs the initial import of precursor proteins and transfers the precursors to downstream translocases, including the presequence translocase and the carrier translocase of the inner membrane, the mitochondrial import and assembly machinery of the intermembrane space, and the sorting and assembly machinery of the outer membrane. Although the protein translocases can function as separate entities in vitro, recent studies revealed a close and dynamic cooperation of the protein import machineries to facilitate efficient transfer of precursor proteins in vivo. In addition, protein translocases were found to transiently interact with distinct machineries that function in the respiratory chain or in the maintenance of mitochondrial membrane architecture. Mitochondrial protein import is embedded in a regulatory network that ensures protein biogenesis, membrane dynamics, bioenergetic activity and quality control.
A computational analysis of the genetic and transcript diversity at the kallikrein locus
Authors: Lai John , An Jiyuan , Srinivasan Srilakshmi , Clements Judith A. , Batra Jyotsna
Published: June 2016

The kallikrein related peptidase gene family (KLKs) comprises 15 genes located between 19q13.3-13.4. KLKs have chymotrypsin and/or trypsin like activity, but the tissue/organ expression profile of each KLK varies considerably. Thus, the role of KLKs in human biology is also very diverse, and the deregulation of their function results in a wide-range of diseases. Here, we have cataloged the transcript (variants and fusions) and genetic (single nucleotide polymorphisms, small insertions/deletions, copy number variations (CNVs), and short tandem repeats) diversity at the KLK locus, providing a data set for researchers to explore the mechanisms through which KLK function may be deregulated. We reveal that the KLK locus hosts 85 fusion transcripts, and 80 variant transcripts. Interestingly, some fusion transcripts comprise up to 6 KLK genes. Our analysis of genetic variations of 2504 individuals from the 1000 Genome Project indicated that the KLK locus is rich in genetic diversity, with some fusion transcripts harboring over 1000 single nucleotide variations. We also found evidence from the literature linking 2387 KLK genetic variants with many types of diseases. Finally, genotyping data from the 131 KLK genetic variants in the NCI-60 cancer cell lines is provided as a resource for the cancer and KLK field.
Categorization of Korean Language Collections Level of North American Research Universities
Authors: Cho Jane
Published: June 2016

As a result of increased interest in the international status and culture of Korea, Koreanology is growing among research universities in the North American region. Though the number of Korean language collections is increasing, it is still at a level of one-seventh and one-fourth of Sinology and Japanology, respectively. Taking the overall view of the status of Korean language collections operated by research universities in the North American region through statistical analysis, this study pinpointed the library clusters that the Korean government needs to support strategically by categorizing their advancement forms. As a result, it was found that there are universities which have a high potential for Koreanology to advance as the setup level of the major is high, but they have low library operation levels, and in such clusters there is no librarian specialized in Koreanology.
Understanding Chinese Undergraduates’ Continuance Intention to Use Mobile Book-Reading Apps: An Integrated Model and Empirical Study
Authors: Hu Jiming , Zhang Yin
Published: June 2016

Most existing research on usage behaviour of mobile book-reading applications (apps) has focused on exploring users’ initial acceptance; there has been a lack of understanding of the factors that affect user loyalty towards mobile book-reading apps that would reveal Chinese undergraduates’ behaviour patterns in using mobile apps. This study was designed to fill this gap by investigating Chinese undergraduates’ continuance intentions towards mobile book-reading apps. The study employed the expectation-confirmation model and technology acceptance model in conjunction with the perception of experiential value to derive an integrated model, followed by an empirical study to validate the model and better understand usage intention of the users of mobile book-reading apps. Survey data were collected from 390 Chinese undergraduates who had previous experience with mobile book-reading apps. The research model was examined using the SmartPLS 2.0 software. Structural equation modelling was used for hypotheses testing and path analysis was used to present the analytical results. The results of this study suggest that perceived usefulness and satisfaction directly influence continuance intention. User satisfaction plays a crucial intervening role in continuance intention from perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and confirmation of users’ expectations. User satisfaction is significantly influenced by expectation confirmation and perceived usefulness, as well as the perceived experiential values. The integrated model in this study successfully establishes the key factors that contribute to continuance intention towards mobile book-reading apps; the model offers a lens for understanding Chinese undergraduates’ apps use behaviour that has practical applications for developing better and more sustainable mobile book-reading apps among this user group.
Intra- and Inter-institutional Collaborative Pairing Trends of LIS Field in South Korea
Authors: Park Ji-Hong , Nam Eunkyung
Published: June 2016

This study investigates the collaborative pairing patterns of the library and information science (LIS) field in South Korea at both intra- and inter-institutional levels. It is necessary to examine this timely topic considering the recent increasing trend of research collaboration in Korea. The network comes from the articles published in eight Korean LIS journals from 2008 to 2012. The network consists of one large component, nine small components with more than two nodes, and five isolated nodes having intra-institutional co-authorship. The largest component is a small world network but the density is low due to many low degree nodes. Central institutions were analysed using the centrality measure of social network analysis and tended to have co-authorship with various institutions and collaborative partnerships with other institutions in the network. It can be concluded that the distribution of intra- and inter-institutional co-authorship, institution type, regional features and core collaborative authors are influential factors in collaborative pairing. Institutions that have a high degree of centrality and betweenness centrality affect other institutions in their collaborative pairing. The result can be used to analyse co-authorship from diverse perspectives and facilitate active co-authorship at an institutional level.
A class of tridiagonal operators associated to some subshifts
Authors: Hernández-Becerra Christian , Itzá-Ortiz Benjamín A.
Published: June 2016

We consider a class of tridiagonal operators induced by not necessary pseudoergodic biinfinite sequences. Using only elementary techniques we prove that the numerical range of such operators is contained in the convex hull of the union of the numerical ranges of the operators corresponding to the constant biinfinite sequences; whilst the other inclusion is shown to hold when the constant sequences belong to the subshift generated by the given biinfinite sequence. Applying recent results by S. N. Chandler-Wilde et al. and R. Hagger, which rely on limit operator techniques, we are able to provide more general results although the closure of the numerical range needs to be taken.
Analysis of X-ray structure, dielectric properties and AC conductivity of (4E)-2-amino-3-cyanobenzo[b]oxocin-6-one
Authors: Ali H.A.M. , Ibrahim Magdy A.
Published: June 2016

The crystal structure of (4E)-2-amino-3-cyanobenzo[b]oxocin-6-one, denoted as 4(E)-ACBO, was analyzed using X-ray diffraction technique. The dielectric and AC electrical conductivity measurements of the bulk 4(E)-ACBO in the form of pellet were studied in the range of frequency 42 Hz to 5 MHz and the temperature range of 303 K to 373 K. The temperature and frequency dependence of dielectric constant (∊1), dielectric loss (∊2) and AC electrical conductivity (σAC) were investigated. The relaxation time (τ) for electrons to hop over a barrier of height WHwas calculated at different temperatures. The AC activation energy was determined from the temperature dependence of σACat different frequencies.
Deciphering lead and cadmium stripping peaks for porous antimony deposited electrodes
Authors: Taimoor Aqeel Ahmad
Published: June 2016

Cadmium and lead are generally taken as model heavy metal ions in water to scale the detection limit of various electrode sensors, using electrochemical sensing techniques. These ions interact with the electrochemically deposited antimony electrodes depending on the diffusion limitations. The phenomenon acts differently for thein-situandex-situdeposition as well as for porous and non-porous electrodes. A method has been adopted in this study to discourage the stripping and deposition of the working ions (antimony) to understand the principle of heavy metal ion detection. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique was used to establish the interaction between the working and dissolved ions. In addition to the distinct peaks for each analyte, researchers also observed a shoulder peak. A possible reason for the presence of this peak was provided. Different electrochemical tests were performed to ascertain the theory on the basis of the experimental observations.
Copercolating Networks: An Approach for Realizing High-Performance Transparent Conductors using Multicomponent Nanostructured Networks
Authors: Das Suprem R. , Sadeque Sajia , Jeong Changwook , Chen Ruiyi , Alam Muhammad A. , Janes David B.
Published: June 2016

Although transparent conductive oxides such as indium tin oxide (ITO) are widely employed as transparent conducting electrodes (TCEs) for applications such as touch screens and displays, new nanostructured TCEs are of interest for future applications, including emerging transparent and flexible electronics. A number of twodimensional networks of nanostructured elements have been reported, including metallic nanowire networks consisting of silver nanowires, metallic carbon nanotubes (m-CNTs), copper nanowires or gold nanowires, and metallic mesh structures. In these single-component systems, it has generally been difficult to achieve sheet resistances that are comparable to ITO at a given broadband optical transparency. A relatively new third category of TCEs consisting of networks of 1D-1D and 1D-2D nanocomposites (such as silver nanowires and CNTs, silver nanowires and polycrystalline graphene, silver nanowires and reduced graphene oxide) have demonstrated TCE performance comparable to, or better than, ITO. In such hybrid networks, copercolation between the two components can lead to relatively low sheet resistances at nanowire densities corresponding to high optical transmittance. This review provides an overview of reported hybrid networks, including a comparison of the performance regimes achievable with those of ITO and single-component nanostructured networks. The performance is compared to that expected from bulk thin films and analyzed in terms of the copercolation model. In addition, performance characteristics relevant for flexible and transparent applications are discussed. The new TCEs are promising, but significant work must be done to ensure earth abundance, stability, and reliability so that they can eventually replace traditional ITO-based transparent conductors.
The crystal structure of diaqua-(N-(2-hydroxy-5-nitrobenzyl)iminodiacetato-κ4-N,O,O′,O′′)chromium(III) based on synchrotron data, C11H13CrN2O9
Authors: Xie Ling , Feng Sisi , Lu Liping , Zhu Miaoli
Published: June 2016

C11H13CrN2O9, orthorhombic, Pbca (no. 61), a = 6.7740(14) Å, b = 12.309(3) Å, c = 32.776(7) Å, V = 2732.9(10) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0302, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0867, T = 100(2) K.
Considering the Statistical Distribution of Dynamic Fracture Toughness Data and the Actual Loading Rate at Fracture Initiation When Applying ASTM E1921 at Elevated Loading Rates
Authors: Mayer U.
Published: June 2016

ASTM E1921-15a describes the determination of the reference temperature T0,X for the loading rate X for ferritic steels in the transition range, where X is the order of magnitude of the average loading rate of the tests evaluated. Because this rate is defined for the linear-elastic part of a test only, the definition of the loading rate, valid for tests showing not only linear-elastic but also plastic behavior, is important. In a research project investigating the correlation of dynamic crack initiation and crack arrest funded by the German government, tests at −20°C on specimens of 22 NiMoCr 3 7 steel (A 508 Cl.2) were performed with different specimen geometry and loading devices in the range from 105 MPa√m s−1 to 3 × 106 MPa√m s−1. Evaluation according to ASTM E1921 shows differences of up to 30 K in T0,X obtained from linear-elastic test series and T0,X obtained from elastic-plastic test series with comparable dK/dt. New results were obtained in the current follow-up joint IWM-MPA project from test series at a loading rate of 5 × 105 MPa√m s−1. Results from tests with 1T C(T)-specimen at various test temperatures in the transition region are presented, analyzed, and reference temperature T0,5 is evaluated. The statistical distribution of the determined dynamic fracture toughness values KId resp., KJc,d and the determination of the characteristic loading rate in the case of elastic-plastic tests is discussed. This analysis shows the need of modifications of the standard evaluation method in ASTM E1921, if used for tests at elevated loading rate. The assumed statistical distribution has to be adapted and the actual loading rate at fracture initiation has to be taken into account. Suggestions for the considerations and requirements for the evaluation of data determined at elevated loading rates are presented.
Statistical Modeling of High Cycle Fatigue with Censored Data
Authors: Harlow D. G. , Cao H. , Schmidt P.
Published: June 2016

Characterization and prognosis of materials subjected to very high cycle fatigue is an important aspect of life cycle design and management for structural components. This procedure is even more critical for components in devices that are implanted into humans because of the lack of opportunities for periodic inspection and the severe consequences of failure. The primary structural component of a commercially available heart valve consists of highly-resilient, cold-worked Elgiloy wire, a cobalt-chromium based alloy. In order to be assured of sufficiently high reliability for the component, an extensive high cycle fatigue testing program was conducted. According to one medical device regulatory guidance, the structural component is expected to have a fatigue life in excess of 600 million cycles under worst case physiologic conditions. Using basic principles for fatigue life evaluation, a constant lifeline for mean stress versus stress amplitude was statistically established. The fundamental model for the analysis was a generalized Weibull distribution for which the parameters were stress-dependent. The model was optimized using maximum likelihood methods and confirmed by chi-squared goodness-of-fit evaluation. The methodology used for this investigation, well established in fatigue engineering, was shown to be equally effective when applied to life science problems, with the potential for benefit to patients.