bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superior Performance of Dye-Sensitized versus Conventional TiO2 Nanoparticles for Promoting Germination and early Growth of Barley: From Photovoltaic to Biotechnological Application
Authors: Mir Hasan , Ahangar Ahmad Gholamalizadeh , Mir Noshin
Published: October 2015

TiO2 nanoparticle is one of the most fascinating materials for stimulating germination and growth of various seeds. However, the low capacity of these materials in absorbing sunlight is a challenging issue which should be taken into consideration. Sensitization of TiO2 nanoparticles is already a common strategy for improving its visible light absorption and it is mainly used in dye-sensitized solar cells. In this study, a set of experiments were conducted to investigate the influences of dye-sensitized TiO2 nanoparticles on germination and growth of barley seeds (Hordeum vulgare L.). Fluorescein was used as the sensitizer with high extinction coefficient in the visible regions. It was shown that different growth parameters including seedling fresh and dry weights, root and shoot lengths, chlorophyll-a, and chlorophyll-b were increased by 59.2% and 85.7%, 330%, 100%, 45% and 50% relative to the control, respectively. Moreover, the results confirmed that dye-sensitized TiO2 nanoparticles do not have any negative influence on germination parameters and are beneficial for increasing vigor index I.
Tumelo le Moruo
Authors: Vellem Vuyani S.
Published: October 2015

Paleng ya rona batho ba batsho, tumelo ya boKreste e fihlile lefatsheng la rona la Afrika Borwa mmoho le dikgoka tsa ditjhaba tsa boPhirima. BoKreste bo fihlile ka nako ya dintwa tseo mohopolo wa tsona e neng e le ho hapa lefatshe la, batho ba batsho. Ka mantswe amang, rona batho ba batsho, re ile ra qetella re le setjhaba se ileng sa hlolwa, mme lefatshe la rona la nkuwa ka dikgoka. Ka hare ho dikgoka tsena, ho ne ho dutse tumelo ya boKreste. Makgowa a ile are: �A re kwaleng mahlo re rapeleng, rona ra kwala mahlo, mme ha re qeta hore Amen, re bula mahlo, ra fumana lefatshe le nkuwe matsohong a rona ho setse Bibele.� Re ile ra sala le Bibele eo ka yona re lekileng dilemong tse fitileng ho lwana ntwa ya topollo, kapa tokoloho hofihlela selemong sa 1994. Le ha re ile ra fumana tokoloho ka selemo seo, hare so ka re lokoloha ho tsa moruo. E kaba sena se bolela eng mabapi le tumelo ya rona ya boKreste? Segolweng sena re leka ho araba potso ena. Tumelo ke eng ho batho ba sa lokolohang moruong wa naha ya bona? Re lekola pale ya boKreste, tumelo ya batho le maemo a kereke ntlheng ya ho tadimana le tokoloho ka tumelo.Faith and economics. In our history from a black perspective, Christianity arrived through violent conquest from the west. Evidentially, this faith coincided with wars of dispossession and the ultimate defeat of black Africans. It is difficult to separate the violent defeat of black Africans from the arrival of Christian faith. This well-known statement within the circles of black Theology of liberation: When the white man arrived in our land he said, �let us pray and after prayer, when we opened our eyes, our land was taken and only the Bible was left in our hands,� captures the black sentiment of this history. Ironically, it was this Bible that black Africans used to wage their struggle for liberation up to the demise of apartheid in 1994.Nonetheless, political liberation is not enough as the struggle for economic liberation continue in South Africa post 1994. In the light of this history, what then is the role of faith for a people politically liberated without economic liberation? This article examines this history from the perspective of black faith and its role for liberation.
Geen water, geen volheid: Die dringende boodskap van die eksistensie�l-teologiese betekenis van water
Authors: Veldsman Danie
Published: October 2015

Water is no longer only a source of life, but at the same time entails the possibility of death. In this article the question is posed to the theological implications of the statement when God is proclaimed as creator and giver of life, and this very life is now threatened by various human activities (eg. industrialisation) or the lack of activities (eg. no sanitation) in which the availability of fresh water can no longer be taken for granted. Attention is specifically given to the availability and access to fresh water within the South African context from international, national and ecclesial reports. From theological considerations on the significance of water in a biblical context, a strong argument is presented for involvement with this crisis as specialised conversation partner.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of head and neck: A single institutional analysis of 66 patients treated with multi-modality approach
Authors: Gandhi Ajeet Kumar , Roy Soumyajit , Biswas Ahitagni , Bhasker Suman , Sharma Atul , Thakar Alok , Mohanti Bidhu Kalyan
Published: October 2015

Background: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) accounts for 1% of all head and neck (HN) cancers. Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical, treatment, and survival details of 66 patients were collected (1995-2011) and analyzed. Disease-free survival (DFS) was estimated by Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Primary disease sites were sinonasal (n = 27), salivary gland (n = 30), and others (n = 9). Median follow-up was 23 months (range: 12-211 months). Estimated DFS at 2- and 5-year were 75% and 67.2%, respectively. On univariate analysis, intra-cranial extension (ICE) (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.59, P = 0.0071), lymph node involvement (HR: 4.05, P = 0.0065), treatment modality (others vs. surgery plus adjuvant radiotherapy, HR: 2.39, P = 0.0286) and T stage (T3/4 vs. T1/2, HR: 3.27, P = 0.007) had significant impact on DFS. Lymph node involvement (P = 0.038) and ICE (P = 0.038) continued to have significant impact on DFS on multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy remains the treatment of choice for HN ACC. Lymph node involvement and ICE confer poor prognosis.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in technically unresectable carcinoma of external auditory canal
Authors: Joshi Amit , Tandon Nidhi , Noronha Vanita , Dhumal Sachin , Patil Vijay , Arya Supreeta , Juvekar Shashikant , Agarwal Jaiprakash , DCruz Anil , Pai Prathmesh , Prabhash Kumar
Published: October 2015

Background: Carcinoma of external auditory canal (EAC) is a very rare malignancy with surgical resection as the main modality of treatment. The outcomes with nonsurgical modalities are very dismal. We present a retrospective analysis of 4 patients evaluating the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in technically unresectable cancers. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 4 patients from our institute from 2010 to 2014 with carcinoma EAC who were deemed unfit for surgery due to extensive disease involving occipital bone with soft tissue infiltration (n = 2), temporal dura (n = 1), left temporal lobe, and extensive soft tissue involvement (n = 1). All these patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with docetaxel, cisplatin and 5 fluorouracil (n = 3) and paclitaxel and cisplatin (n = 1). Results: Response evaluation showed a partial response (PR) in 3 and stable disease (SD) in 1 patient by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria. All 3 patients who received 3 drug chemotherapy had PR while 1 patient who received 2 drug chemotherapy had SD. Two of these patients underwent surgery, and other 2 underwent definitive chemoradiation. One of 3 patients who achieved PR underwent surgical resection; the other 2 remained unresectable in view of the persistent intradural extension and infratemporal fossa involvement. One patient who had SD could undergo surgery in view of clearance of infraatemporal fossa. Recent follow-up shows that 3 out of these 4 patients are alive. Conclusion: This indicates that there may be a role of induction chemotherapy in converting potentially unresectable tumors to resectable disease that could produce better outcomes in carcinoma EAC.
Clinicopathological pattern of cranial unifocal Langerhans cell histiocytosis: A study at medical college hospital
Authors: Bhat Salma , Nazir Parvez , Bashir Humaira , Reshi Ruby , Sheikh Sheema , Wani Rohi
Published: October 2015

Background: Eosinophilic granuloma (EG) of bone refers to a generally benign form of Langerhans cell histiocytosis localized to the bone. Patients may present with a solitary lesion (monostotic) or multiple sites of involvement (polyostotic). Materials and Methods: This study was done to evaluate the clinicopathological pattern of 6 cases of EGs of the skull diagnosed at a tertiary care hospital. All patients of EG were included with the help of medical records over a 5-year period that is, November 2009 to November 2014. They all had been preoperatively evaluated by skull X-ray and computed tomography. To rule out a multifocal disease scintigraphy was performed in all cases preoperatively. Surgical excision was performed, and EG was diagnosed on histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Results: There was a male predominance. Parietal bone was the most common affected bone. Total excision of the lesion was performed in all cases. No patient received postoperative radiotherapy. The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 3 years. No tumor recurrence was noted. Conclusion: With an unknown etiology, nonspecific clinical and radiological findings with diagnosis possible only on histopathological examination, EG needs to be considered in the differential diagnosis as a skull mass, especially in children.
Breast and gastrointestinal cancer updates from ASCO 2015
Authors: Dawood Shaheenah
Published: October 2015

This review focuses on the updates presented at the ASCO 2015 symposium in breast and gastrointestinal malignancies. Some were practice changing while others gave us an exciting glimpse into what′s to come in the very near future. Immunotherapy was the buzz word this year with data presented on every tumor site. Data on the efficacy of anti PD-1 agents in colorectal, hepatocellular and gastric cancer were presented. In breast cancer we saw data on a new and exciting therapeutic target in the form of androgen receptor among triple receptor negative breast tumors presented. Positive results of the PALOMA 3 trial were presented that has given women with hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer another therapeutic option. Furthermore data on strategies to further improve anti her2 therapy, optimizing of chemotherapy in the early and advanced stage and various strategies to improve endocrine therapy among patients with breast cancer were presented.
Alpha-2-Macroglobulin Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid Pre- and Post-scaling and Root Planing with Adjunctive Tetracycline Fibers in Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chhina Shivjot , Rathore Ajit Singh , Juneja Saurabh
Published: October 2015

Background

This split-mouth clinical study aimed to investigate levels of alpha-2-macroglobulin (α2M) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of chronic periodontitis patients pre- and post-scaling and root planing (SRP) with or without adjunctive use of tetracycline fibers.

Materials and methods

In 30 patients of chronic periodontitis, samples of GCF were collected from the gingival sulcus before SRP. Recording of clinical parameters was conducted. This was followed by local drug delivery (LDD) of tetracycline fibers in test sites. In control sites, no LDD was done. Second samples of GCF were taken 90 days after treatment. Samples of crevicular fluid were analyzed to determine the levels of α2m.

Results

A gain of clinical attachment (CAL) of 3.30 mm for SRP and LDD and for SRP alone was 1.62 mm (p < 0.001). The pocket probing depth was significantly decreased by 2.43 mm for SRP and LDD and for SRP alone was 1.61 mm (p < 0.001) after 90 days. Alpha-2-macroglobulin was significantly reduced in GCF by SRP and SRP and LDD after 90 days (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Clinical and biochemical variables showed a more favorable outcome when SRP was combined with LDD of tetracycline fibers in management of patients suffering from chronic periodontitis.

How to cite this article

Chhina S, Rathore AS, Juneja S. Alpha-2-Macroglobulin Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid Pre- and Post-scaling and Root Planing with Adjunctive Tetracycline Fibers in Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2015;16(6):474-478.
Cyanoacrylate Adhesive as an Alternative Tool for Membrane Fixation in Guided Tissue Regeneration
Authors: de Rezende Maria Lúcia Rubo , de Oliveira Cunha Paula , Damante Carla Andreotti , Santana Adriana CP , Greghi Sebastião LA , Zangrando Mariana SR
Published: October 2015

Aim

To report a well succeeded use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for fixating a resorbable membrane during a guided tissue regeneration procedure (GTR).

Background

The immobilization of membranes in GTR is essential for establishing proper environment for cell differentiation and tissue regeneration. However, some membranes are very difficult to be kept in position by sutures and its fixation by mini screws or pins may be time consuming and expensive.

Case description

A 47-year-old woman presenting a vertical bone defect at the palatal aspect of the left central incisor was treated by GTR using particulate autogenous bone graft associated to a collagen membrane. The membrane was glued to the bone surrounding the defect and to the tooth surface with cyanoacrylate adhesive. The postoperative period was uneventful and 4 years later, excellent results in terms of radiographic filling of the defect and reduction of the probing depth were seen. For illustrative purposes, histological findings obtained during a previous experiment in calvaria of guinea pigs is shown, characterizing a foreign body granuloma and proving that the cyanoacrylate adhesive is a safe tool in GTR.

Conclusion

The use of a membrane glued with cyanoacrylate to immobilize membranes in GTR is viable and safe from both technical and biological standpoints and may be advantageous for clinical and research purposes.

Clinical significance

The alternative method for membrane fixation shown in this case report can contribute to simplify the technique in GTR procedures.

How to cite this article

de Rezende MLR, de Oliveira Cunha P, Damante CA, Santana ACP, Greghi SLA, Zangrando MSR. Cyanoacrylate Adhesive as an Alternative Tool for Membrane Fixation in Guided Tissue Regeneration. J Contemp Dent Pract 2015;16(6):512-518.
A latitudinally banded phytoplankton response to 21st century climate change in the Southern Ocean across the CMIP5 model suite
Authors: Leung S. , Cabré A. , Marinov I.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Changes in Southern Ocean (SO) phytoplankton distributions with future warming have the potential to significantly alter nutrient and carbon cycles as well as higher trophic level productivity both locally and throughout the global ocean. Here we investigate the response of SO phytoplankton productivity and biomass to 21st century climate change across the CMIP5 Earth System Model suite. The models predict a zonally banded pattern of phytoplankton abundance and production changes within four regions: the subtropical (~ 30 to 40° S), transitional (~ 40 to 50° S), subpolar (~ 50 to 65° S) and Antarctic (south of ~ 65° S) bands. We find that shifts in bottom-up variables (nitrate, iron and light availability) drive changes in phytoplankton abundance and production on not only interannual, but also decadal and 100-year timescales – the timescales most relevant to climate change. Spatial patterns in the modelled mechanisms driving these biomass trends qualitatively agree with recent observations, though longer-term records are needed to separate the effects of climate change from those of interannual variability. Because much past observational work has focused on understanding the effects of the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) on biology, future work should attempt to quantify the precise influence of an increasingly positive SAM on SO biology within the CMIP5 models. Continued long-term in situ and satellite measurements of SO biology are clearly needed to confirm model findings.
Photopolarimetric retrievals of snow properties
Authors: Ottaviani M. , van Diedenhoven B. , Cairns B.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Polarimetric observations of snow surfaces, obtained in the 410–2264 nm range with the Research Scanning Polarimeter onboard the NASA ER-2 high-altitude aircraft, are analyzed and presented. These novel measurements are of interest to the remote sensing community because the overwhelming brightness of snow plagues aerosol and cloud retrievals based on airborne and spaceborne total reflection measurements. The spectral signatures of the polarized reflectance of snow are therefore worthwhile investigating in order to provide guidance for the adaptation of algorithms currently employed for the retrieval of aerosol properties over soil and vegetated surfaces. At the same time, the increased information content of polarimetric measurements allows for a meaningful characterization of the snow medium. In our case, the grains are modeled as hexagonal prisms of variable aspect ratios and microscale roughness, yielding retrievals of the grains' scattering asymmetry parameter, shape and size. The results agree with our previous findings based on a more limited data set, with the majority of retrievals leading to moderately rough crystals of extreme aspect ratios, for each scene corresponding to a single value of the asymmetry parameter.
DETERMINATION OF FILLER STRUCTURE IN SILICA-FILLED SBR COMPOUNDS BY MEANS OF SAXS AND AFM
Authors: Otegui Jon , Miccio Luis A. , Arbe Arantxa , Schwartz Gustavo A. , Meyer Mathias , Westermann Stephan
Published: October 2015

The structure of the silica particles network in two different solution styrene–butadiene rubbers (S-SBRs) was studied by means of small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). S-SBR compounds with different silica contents were analyzed in comparison with their oil extended counterparts. A study into the application of SAXS experiments was defined to quantify the structures of silica primary particles and clusters in filled rubber compounds up to very high levels of filler content. We propose a modified structure model that is physically more sound than the widely used Beaucage model and that leads to more robust quantification of the silica structures. In addition, an independent characterization of the filler structure was performed by means of AFM. The cluster and particle sizes deduced from both techniques are in close agreement, supporting the proposed approach. The synergetic application of SAXS and AFM allows a consistent and robust characterization of primary particles and clusters in terms of size and structure. These results were compared and discussed in the framework of previously published works.
“Chippy Bits Periodicals” and the Middlebrow: Holbrook Jackson, T. P.'s Weekly (1902–1916) and To-day (1917–1923)
Authors: Kane Louise
Published: October 2015

This article investigates two early twentieth-century British periodicals, T. P.'s Weekly (1902–16) and To-day (1917–23), through the perspective of the perceived modernism/middlebrow dichotomy and the editorial practices of Holbrook Jackson. Exploring the history of these two diachronically linked periodicals (To-day incorporated T. P.'s Weekly in 1916), I argue that key moments or “intersections” in the editorial history of T. P.'s Weekly and To-day coincide with distinct and definite “branchings” away from the tenets of the middlebrow culture that largely defined T. P.'s Weekly as part of Jackson's objective of creating a thoroughly modernist periodical.
Elección de estudios CTIM y desequilibrios de género
Authors: Rossi Cordero Andrea Estefanía , Barajas Frutos Mario
Published: October 2015

A pesar de su éxito académico, las mujeres siguen poco representadas en los estudios CTIM, principalmente en las ingenierías y tecnologías. Desde un enfoque descriptivo-interpretativo, se realizó un estudio de caso múltiple para analizar la elección de estudios durante el bachillerato, ahondando en los este¬reotipos y la autoeficacia. El análisis se basó en 89 discursos recogidos en entrevistas en profundidad y grupos de discusión, correspondientes a alumnas y alumnos de bachillerato, su profesorado, sus madres y padres, y universitarias de CTIM, profundizando en la comprensión de los elementos individuales, académico-profesionales y contextuales que influyen en la elección de los estudios. Los datos señalan que la autoeficacia en CTIM declarada por las jóvenes fue siempre positiva, siendo muy similares los intereses y las motivacio¬nes del alumnado. Sin embargo, se observa una disparidad entre lo que ellas declaran y lo que finalmente deciden. Se propone una concepción dinámica de autoeficacia, con recomendaciones para diferentes actores y ámbitos de socialización orientados a construir nuevos modelos e identidades de las y los jóvenes.
La evaluación de la resolución de problemas en matemáticas: concepciones y prácticas de los profesores de secundaria.
Authors: Cárdenas Lizarazo Janeth A.
Published: October 2015

La evaluación de la resolución de problemas en matemáticas: concepciones y prácticas de los profesores de secundaria. Asumimos que la evaluación es uno de los organizadores del currículo y como tal debe estar integrada en el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje. Además, entendemos que resolver problemas es un contenido específico que los estudiantes deben trabajar que se refleja en el currículo. Y, por lo tanto, debe ser objeto de evaluación Para trabajar sobre estos aspectos hemos trabajado con un grupo de profesores de matemáticas de secundaria de Bogotá (Colombia). En nuestra investigación hemos desarrollado cuatro instrumentos de investigación: cuestionario sobre evaluación de la resolución de problemas, cuestionario sobre creencias de la evaluación, análisis de las actividades de evaluación facilitadas por los docentes y entrevistas. Hemos realizado la triangulación de resultados con su correspondiente discusión, comentando algunas contradicciones, y constatando ideas similares recogidas a partir de los cuatro instrumentos. Todo ello nos ha llevado a proponer algunas ideas en relación al contenido desarrollado y a la formación de profesores de matemática en secundaria.
Quantifiable differences between phytolith assemblages detected at species level: analysis of the leaves of nine Poa species (Poaceae)
Authors: Lisztes-Szabó Zsuzsa , Kovács Szilvia , Balogh Péter , Daróczi Lajos , Penksza Károly , Pető Ákos
Published: October 2015

The taxonomic value of phytolith assemblages and their degree of variability within different species of the same genus is still an undervalued issue in the botanical range of phytolith studies. However the understanding of grass phytolith variance and its implications to plant systematics is doubtless.

In the present study phytoliths of the lateral shoots (leaves) of nine, globally distributed Poa species (Pooideae – Poaceae) are described. Phytoliths were recovered from Poa specimens by the dry ashing technique. Altogether 6223 disarticulated phytoliths were counted (approximately 500–700 phytoliths per species) in 54 plant samples, which cover six shoots of nine species. Not only the relative frequency of each morphotype was calculated, but measurements were conducted to determine the biogenic silica content of Poa lateral shoots. A phytolith reference collection for the nine selected species of a worldwide importance was also compiled. The description of the most significant phytolith morphotypes and their taxonomic relationships are given here.

Results suggest that the biogenic silica content of the Poa lateral shoots was determined to be relatively high within all nine species. Phytolith assemblage data was subjected to multivariate statistical analyses (e.g., CA and PCA) in order to find differences and similarities among the nine Poa species. Results show that the two closely related Poa of the P. pratensis species group, namely the P. pratensis and P. angustifolia, only slightly differ from the other Poa species if we consider their rondel-trapeziform short cells (SC) phytolith frequencies.
Tracking the Impact of Changes to a Provincial Library Service Model: The Results of Two Satisfaction Surveys
Authors: Hurrell Christie , Powelson Susan E. , Jensen-Ross Christine
Published: October 2015

Abstract: Introduction: Alberta Health Services (AHS) was created in 2009, merging 12 former health regions and three provincial health authorities. Library services that had previously operated independently across the province were amalgamated into a single provincial entity, Knowledge Resource Service (KRS). A survey of library services was conducted in 2011. Subsequent to that survey, the provincial library service underwent major changes, which culminated in the launch of a provincial library website in August 2013. Another survey was conducted in 2014 to determine the impact of these changes. Methods: AHS staff and physicians were surveyed in 2011 and 2014 using an electronic survey tool. The survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the results reported as percentages. Results: This paper addresses the questions that are comparable between the two surveys. There were 1195 responses to the 2011 survey and 721 to the 2014 survey. Respondents in 2014 had less difficulty accessing the library website. Additionally, more respondents reported that using library resources prevented the occurrence of adverse events, from 13% in 2011 to 36% in 2014. Discussion: The drop in respondents reporting difficulties accessing information via the library website suggests that the new service model is effective in removing access barriers, enhancing the effectiveness of information resources for AHS staff and that the easier to find resources are helping to prevent adverse events.
Exploring the Information-Seeking Behaviour of Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) in Saskatchewan.
Authors: Kumaran Maha , Chipanshi Mary
Published: October 2015

Abstract: Introduction: To explore the information seeking behavior of Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) and to investigate their exposure to libraries and library training in both their home countries and after being hired in Saskatchewan. Methods: This two-phase multi-method project was carried out in Saskatchewan, Canada. A questionnaire was developed based on survey instruments used in previously conducted studies on the topic. Librarians in two academic institutions assisted with validation of the survey. In Phase 1, data were collected via an online questionnaire from IENs in three health regions: Saskatoon, Regina, and Sunrise. In Phase 2, the study was expanded to IENs in all the health regions in the province. The same questionnaire from Phase 1 was used during telephone interviews with participants. Results: A total of 17 IENs responded (Phase 1, n = 9, Phase 2, n = 8). Results show that IENs, although interested in looking for information for their practice, are hindered by a lack of knowledge of how and where to seek relevant clinical information as well as a lack of library training. As a result, their main source of information is the Internet (Google). Discusion: Despite barriers such as time to information seeking, results revealed that given the opportunity IENs would like to receive library training to enhance their information seeking skills.
Two new species of Leptanilloides Mann, 1823 (Formicidae: Dorylinae) from the Andes of southern Ecuador
Authors: Delsinne Thibaut , Sonet Gontran , Donoso David A.
Published: October 2015

Two new species of Leptanilloides are described: L. copalinga Delsinne & Donoso sp. nov., and L. prometea Delsinne & Donoso sp. nov., based on workers collected in the leaf litter and soil of the Andes of southern Ecuador. Both species belong to the L. biconstricta species-group (formally diagnosed here). The metatibial gland, considered a synapomorphy for Dorylinae, is observed in L. prometea sp. nov. but seems absent in L. copalinga sp. nov. We provide a COI DNA barcode for both species and a revised key for the worker caste of all known species in the genus. We also describe a single male identified as a potential new Leptanilloides species on the basis of morphology. Furthermore, its mitochondrial COI gene sequence does not match any previously barcoded species. However, we refrain from giving it a specific name because of our lack of knowledge about the worker caste. So far, half of the 14 Leptanilloides species have been discovered above 1500 m in the mountain forests or páramos of the Ecuadorian Andes, confirming, if needed, the biological significance of these threatened habitats.
Pencils and crayons
Authors: Johnson Denise T.
Published: October 2015

Each month this section of the Problem Solvers department discusses the classroom results from using problems presented in previous issues of Teaching Children Mathematics. Find detailed submission guidelines for all departments at www.nctm.org/tcmdepartments.
Sift like Eratosthenes
Authors: Buczynski Sandy , Gorsky Jennifer , McGrath Lynn , Myers Perla
Published: October 2015

The concrete, pictorial, and abstract methods of this lesson give students access to investigate, isolate, define, and use prime numbers.
Competition from native hydrophytes reduces establishment and growth of invasive dense-flowered cordgrass (Spartina densiflora)
Authors: Abbas Ahmed M. , Lambert Adam M. , Rubio-Casal Alfredo E. , De Cires Alfonso , Figueroa Enrique M. , Castillo Jesús M.
Published: October 2015

Experimental studies to determine the nature of ecological interactions between invasive and native species are necessary for conserving and restoring native species in impacted habitats. Theory predicts that species boundaries along environmental gradients are determined by physical factors in stressful environments and by competitive ability in benign environments, but little is known about the mechanisms by which hydrophytes exclude halophytes and the life history stage at which these mechanisms are able to operate. The ongoing invasion of the South AmericanSpartina densiflorain European marshes is causing concern about potential impacts to native plants along the marsh salinity gradient, offering an opportunity to evaluate the mechanisms by which native hydrophytes may limit, or even prevent, the expansion of invasive halophytes. Our study comparedS. densifloraseedling establishment with and without competition withPhragmites australisandTypha domingensis, two hydrophytes differing in clonal architecture. We hypothesized that seedlings of the stress tolerantS. densiflorawould be out-competed by stands ofP. australisandT. domingensis. Growth, survivorship, biomass patterns and foliar nutrient content were recorded in a common garden experiment to determine the effect of matureP. australisandT. domingensison the growth and colonization ofS. densifloraunder fresh water conditions where invasion events are likely to occur. MatureP. australisstands prevented establishment ofS. densifloraseedlings andT. domingensisreducedS. densifloraestablishment by 38%. Seedlings grown withP. australisproduced fewer than five short shoots and all plants died after ca. 2 yrs. Our results showed that direct competition, most likely for subterranean resources, was responsible for decreased growth rate and survivorship ofS. densiflora. The presence of healthy stands ofP. australis, and to some extentT. domingensis, along river channels and in brackish marshes may prevent the invasion ofS. densifloraby stopping the establishment of its seedlings.
Anvi’o: an advanced analysis and visualization platform for ‘omics data
Authors: Eren A. Murat , Esen Özcan C. , Quince Christopher , Vineis Joseph H. , Morrison Hilary G. , Sogin Mitchell L. , Delmont Tom O.
Published: October 2015

Advances in high-throughput sequencing and ‘omics technologies are revolutionizing studies of naturally occurring microbial communities. Comprehensive investigations of microbial lifestyles require the ability to interactively organize and visualize genetic information and to incorporate subtle differences that enable greater resolution of complex data. Here we introduce anvi’o, an advanced analysis and visualization platform that offers automated and human-guided characterization of microbial genomes in metagenomic assemblies, with interactive interfaces that can link ‘omics data from multiple sources into a single, intuitive display. Its extensible visualization approach distills multiple dimensions of information about each contig, offering a dynamic and unified work environment for data exploration, manipulation, and reporting. Using anvi’o, we re-analyzed publicly available datasets and explored temporal genomic changes within naturally occurring microbial populations throughde novocharacterization of single nucleotide variations, and linked cultivar and single-cell genomes with metagenomic and metatranscriptomic data. Anvi’o is an open-source platform that empowers researchers without extensive bioinformatics skills to perform and communicate in-depth analyses on large ‘omics datasets.
Promoting an active form of learning out-of-class via answering online “study questions” leads to higher than expected exam scores in General Biology
Authors: Gibson Susan I.
Published: October 2015

A rising need for workers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields has fueled interest in improving teaching within STEM disciplines. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of active learning approaches on student learning outcomes. However, many of these studies have been conducted in experimental, rather than real-life class, settings. In addition, most of these studies have focused on in-class active learning exercises. This study tested the effects of answering questions outside of class on exam performance for General Biology students at the University of Minnesota. An online database of 1,020 multiple-choice questions covering material from the first half of the course was generated. Students in seven course sections (with an average of ∼265 students per section) were given unlimited access to the online study questions. These students made extensive use of the online questions, with students answering an average of 1,323 questions covering material from the half of the semester for which the questions were available. After students answered a set of questions, they were shown the correct answers for those questions. More specific feedback describing how to arrive at the correct answer was provided for the 73% of the questions for which the correct answers were not deemed to be self-explanatory. The extent to which access to the online study questions improved student learning outcomes was assessed by comparing the performance on exam questions of students in the seven course sections with access to the online study questions with the performance of students in course sections without access to the online study questions. Student performance was analyzed for a total of 89 different exams questions that were not included in the study questions, but that covered the same material covered by the study questions. Each of these 89 questions was used on one to five exams given to students in course sections that had access to the online study questions and on three to 77 exams given to students in sections that lacked such access. Data from over 1,800 students in sections with access to the online study questions show that those students scored a statistically significant average of 6.6% points higher on the exam questions analyzed than students in sections without access to the study questions. This difference was greater than the average amount necessary to raise students’ exam grades by one grade (e.g., from a “B-” to a “B”). In addition, there was a higher correlation between number of questions answered and success on exam questions on material related to the study questions than between number of questions answered and success on exam questions on material unrelated to the study questions. The online study question system required substantial effort to set up, but required minimal effort to maintain and was effective in significantly raising average exam scores for even very large course sections.
Ground magnetic field fluctuations associated with pulsating aurora
Authors: Michell R. G. , Samara M.
Published: October 2015

A case study of an intense pulsating auroral event is presented where the large‐scale (100–200 km) optical intensity variations are anticorrelated with fluctuations in the ground magnetometer data at a frequency of 0.1 Hz. The auroral event occurred over Poker Flat, Alaska, on 1 March 2012 and was imaged optically with several different fields of view and filters. The fluctuations in the magnetometer data were most prominent in the D component and had magnitudes of 1 to 5 nT. The auroral intensity variations had amplitudes of 200 to 400 R, comprising 25% to 50% of the total auroral luminosity at 427.8 nm. The direction of the magnetometer deflections is consistent with a south‐to‐north ionospheric current present when each pulsation is on, thus providing closure for the field‐aligned currents associated with each of the pulsating patches.
Spatial variability of absorption coefficients over a biogeochemical gradient in a large and optically complex shallow lake
Authors: Riddick Caitlin A. L. , Hunter Peter D. , Tyler Andrew N. , Martinez‐Vicente Victor , Horváth Hajnalka , Kovács Attila W. , Vörös Lajos , Preston Tom , Présing Mátyás
Published: October 2015

In order to improve robustness of remote sensing algorithms for lakes, it is vital to understand the variability of inherent optical properties (IOPs) and their mass‐specific representations (SIOPs). In this study, absorption coefficients for particulate and dissolved constituents were measured at 38 stations distributed over a biogeochemical gradient in Lake Balaton, Hungary. There was a large range of phytoplankton absorption (aph(λ)) over blue and red wavelengths (aph(440) = 0.11–4.39 m−1, aph(675) = 0.048–2.52 m−1), while there was less variability in chlorophyll‐specific phytoplankton absorption (a*ph(λ)) in the lake (a*ph(440) = 0.022 ± 0.0046 m2 mg−1, a*ph(675) = 0.010 ± 0.0020 m2 mg−1) and adjoining wetland system, Kis‐Balaton (a*ph(440) = 0.017 ± 0.0015 m2 mg−1, a*ph(675) = 0.0088 ± 0.0017 m2 mg−1). However, in the UV, a*ph(350) significantly increased with increasing distance from the main inflow (Zala River). This was likely due to variable production of photoprotective pigments (e.g., MAAs) in response to the decreasing gradient of colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM). The slope of CDOM absorption (SCDOM) also increased from west to east due to larger terrestrial CDOM input in the western basins. Absorption by nonalgal particles (aNAP(λ)) was highly influenced by inorganic particulates, as a result of the largely mineral sediments in Balaton. The relative contributions to the absorption budget varied more widely than oceans with a greater contribution from NAP (up to 30%), and wind speed affected the proportion attributed to NAP, phytoplankton, or CDOM. Ultimately, these data provide knowledge of the heterogeneity of (S)IOPs in Lake Balaton, suggesting the full range of variability must be considered for future improvement of analytical algorithms for constituent retrieval in inland waters.
On Intensifying Carrier Impurity Scattering to Enhance Thermoelectric Performance in Cr‐Doped CeyCo4Sb12
Authors: Wang Shanyu , Yang Jiong , Wu Lihua , Wei Ping , Zhang Wenqing , Yang Jihui
Published: October 2015

The beneficial effect of impurity scattering on thermoelectric properties has long been disregarded even though possible improvements in power factor have been suggested by Ioffe more than a half century ago. Here it is theoretically and experimentally demonstrated that proper intensification of ionized impurity scattering to charge carriers can benefit the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) by increasing the Seebeck coefficient and decreasing the electronic thermal conductivity. The optimal strength of ionized impurity scattering for maximum ZT depends on the Fermi level and the density of states effective mass. Cr‐doping in CeyCo4Sb12 progressively increases the strength of ionized impurity scattering, and significantly improves the Seebeck coefficient, resulting in high power factors of 45 μW cm−1 K−2 with relatively low electrical conductivity. This effect, combined with the increased Ce‐filling fraction and thus decreased lattice thermal conductivity by charge compensation of Cr‐dopant, gives rise to a maximum ZT of 1.3 at 800 K and a large average ZT of 1.1 between 500 and 850 K, ≈30% and ≈20% enhancements as compared with those of Cr‐free sample, respectively. Furthermore, this study also reveals that carrier scattering parameter can be another fundamental degree of freedom to optimize electrical properties and improve thermal‐to‐electricity conversion efficiencies of thermoelectric materials.
Delayed Dissolution and Small Molecule Release from Atomic Layer Deposition Coated Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Vogel Nancy A. , Williams Philip S. , Brozena Alexandra H. , Sen Dilara , Atanasov Sarah , Parsons Gregory N. , Khan Saad A.
Published: October 2015

Electrospun poly (vinyl alcohol) nanofibers are coated with aluminum oxide using atomic layer deposition (ALD) to control the dissolution rate of the nanofiber mats in high‐humidity and aqueous environments. In this regard, ALD offers an effective method to provide a robust, conformal coating to the entire nanofiber surface without modifying the core material. The thickness of the coating, controlled by varying the number of ALD cycles from 2 to 200, enables tuning of the nanofiber stability in water from a few seconds for an uncoated sample to over 5 weeks for a 200 cycle coated sample. Changing the rate of nanofiber dissolution modulates the release of embedded small molecules within the polymer matrix from minutes to weeks while minimizing the “burst” effect typically associated with nanoscale systems. This simple nanofiber coating technique shows great potential as a method to tune shelf‐life, mat degradation, and small molecule release from highly water‐soluble polymers, hitherto unexplored, in a wide range of fields, including biomedical, agricultural, and packaging.
Novel Synthesis and Characterization of N‐Heterocyclic Azo Dyes with Acrylic Polymer for Thin Film Coatings
Authors: Walekar Balaji J. , Mane Sambhaji R. , Bhosale Popatrao N.
Published: October 2015

Nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic compounds are an important class of compounds in dyeing and textile industries. New nitrogen containing heterocyclic azo compounds have been synthesized by using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as a catalyst having a particle size of 15 nm. AuNPs play an important role in the coupling reaction to produce new heterocyclic azo pigments. These azo pigments were tested to solubility, light fastness, and durability. These synthesized nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic pigments were characterized by melting points, UV–vis, FT‐IR, and 1H NMR spectroscopy for their characteristics and structural features. After analysis, these pigments at lower concentrations were blended with the n‐butyl acrylate–co‐methyl methacrylate (n‐BA‐co‐MMA) polymer. These blended pigments were coated on a simple silica glass surface by following the simple deep and dry method. The coupled azo pigment shows excellent binding strength with poly(n‐BA‐co‐MMA) acrylic polymers.
Investigation of Microstructure, Morphology, Mechanical, and Dielectric Properties of PVA/PbO Nanocomposites
Authors: Pasha S. K. Khadheer , Deshmukh Kalim , Ahamed M. Basheer , Chidambaram K. , Mohanapriya M. K. , Raj N. Arunai Nambi
Published: October 2015

The present article deals with the preparation and characterization of pure and lead oxide (PbO) nanoparticles embedded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films by using a colloidal processing technique. PbO nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using the simple precipitation method. Polymer/ceramic‐based flexible and self‐standing films were obtained and further characterized using various analytical techniques. The mechanical and dielectric properties were also investigated. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) results indicate that the structural characterization of PVA is strongly affected by the incorporation of PbO. Thermal analysis results indicate that the thermal stability of the PbO‐doped PVA film has improved as compared with the neat PVA film. The mechanical property of nanocomposites has improved significantly due to an increase in filler loadings, indicating that a good interaction exists between PbO nanoparticles and PVA matrix. The dielectric constant of PVA/PbO nanocomposites has significantly improved with comparatively low dielectric loss values, indicating that the nanocomposites can be considered as an attractive material for embedded capacitor applications.
Membrane assisted cooling crystallization: Process model, nucleation, metastable zone, and crystal size distribution
Authors: Jiang Xiaobin , Lu Dapeng , Xiao Wu , Ruan Xuehua , Fang Jian , He Gaohong
Published: October 2015

The membrane assisted cooling crystallization was proposed and investigated by the simulation and experiments. The developed process model concerned the supersaturation evolution on the membrane interface, the combined nucleation rate in the crystallizer. The impact of different membrane on reducing the nucleation barrier was investigated by introducing the metastable zone width theory. The influence of membrane distillation conditions on the crystal nucleation and growth kinetic was uncovered based on the simulation and experiments results. The experimental results indicated that membrane assisted cooling mode with optimized profiles did improve the crystal size distribution and crystal habit comparing with conventional cooling mode. Terminal coefficient of variation decreased from 55.4 to 33.9 under similar mean crystal growth rate, 2.27 × 10−7 m s−1 (conventional cooling) and 1.98 × 10−7 m s−1 (membrane assisted cooling). Finally, the brief summary on the advantages and key issues of this propose membrane assisted crystallization operation were concluded. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 829–841, 2016
Heterophasen‐Photokatalysatoren aus wasserlöslichen Polyelektrolyten: ein Beispiel für die Selbstinitiierung unter sichtbarem Licht
Authors: Ghasimi Saman , Prescher Simon , Wang Zi Jun , Landfester Katharina , Yuan Jiayin , Zhang Kai A. I.
Published: October 2015

Ein neues Konzept zur Herstellung stabiler Heterophasen‐Photokatalysatoren, die sowohl als hoch dispergierbare konjugierte Polymernanopartikel wie auch als poröse Monolithe im wässrigen Medium durch Bestrahlung von sichtbarem Licht funktionieren, wird vorgestellt. Beim Aufbau dieser Materialien wird 1‐Alkyl‐3‐vinylimidazoliumbromid, eine typische Einheit der ionischen Flüssigkeiten, in die Seitenketten eines photoaktiven Polymers eingebracht. Diese Strukturkonfiguration ermöglicht neben der Photokatalyse in wässriger Umgebung auch die Herstellung von Nanopartikeln oder porösen Monolithen. Durch die einzigartige Selbstinitiierung und anschließende radikalische Vernetzung wird das wasserlösliche photoaktive Polymer in einen Heterophasen‐System umgewandelt. Die hohe photokatalytische Aktivität und die Wiederverwendbarkeit des Heterophasen‐Systems wurden anhand der Zersetzung organischer Farbstoffe und der Reduktion von CrVI zu CrIII in Wasser unter Bestrahlung mit sichtbarem Licht demonstriert.