bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The value of reflection on the process of teaching or learning mathematics with regard to Grade 7 learners in an impoverished rural school.
Authors: Van der Walt Marthie S.
Published: November 2012

When studying learners’ performance in mathematics, it is important to investigate more than just their cognitive performance in the subject. The purpose of this study was to investigate, identify and reflect on the strong and weak points of 23 grade 7 learners in respect of their study orientation (i.e. confidence in mathematics, study attitude and study habits in mathematics), as well as their knowledge of basic mathematics and their basic vocabulary in mathematics. The 23 learners came from Setswana, English, isiXhosa and Afrikaans home language backgrounds and were taught through medium of English and Afrikaans. Three standardised questionnaires or tests, triMATHS (BM[P], MV[P] and SOM[P]), were administered on the same day with ten-minute breaks in between the questionnaire ortests. The results of the data confirmed that these learners could do basic mathematics (BM[P]), and knew the basic vocabulary of mathematics (MV[P]). However, their confidence in mathematics, their study attitude and study habits in mathematics (SOM[P]) varied mostly from unsure to inadequate. Profiles were drawn of the individual learners’ performance in triMATHS, as well as those of the group, and these were analysed to identify those who might need assistance, support or remediation. The systematic analysis and interpretation of the results from the three questionnaires or tests helped the researcher and the teacher to better understand learners’ backgrounds, their feelings, attitudes and habits (study orientation in mathematics), their knowledge of basic mathematics, as well as their basic vocabulary in mathematics. (The latter was further probed during the in-depth interview with the mathematics teacher.) No intervention, however, was developed to remediate, support or develop these learners’ inadequate study orientation because their school was permanently closed after 2010.
Optimization-Based String Method for Finding Minimum Energy Path
Authors: Samanta Amit , E Weinan
Published: November 2012

We present an efficient algorithm for calculating the minimum energy path (MEP) and energy barriers between local minima on a multidimensional potential energy surface (PES). Such paths play a central role in the understanding of transition pathways between metastable states. Our method relies on the original formulation of the string method [Phys. Rev. B, 66,052301 (2002)], i.e. to evolve a smooth curve along a direction normal to the curve. The algorithm works by performing minimization steps on hyperplanes normal to the curve. Therefore the problem of finding MEP on the PES is remodeled as a set of constrained minimization problems. This provides the flexibility of using minimization algorithms faster than the steepest descent method used in the simplified string method [J. Chem. Phys., 126(16), 164103 (2007)]. At the same time, it provides a more direct analog of the finite temperature string method. The applicability of the algorithm is demonstrated using various examples.
On Arbitrary-Lagrangian-Eulerian One-Step WENO Schemes for Stiff Hyperbolic Balance Laws
Authors: Dumbser Michael , Uuriintsetseg Ariunaa , Zanotti Olindo
Published: November 2012

In this article we present a new family of high order accurate Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian one-step WENO finite volume schemes for the solution of stiff hyperbolic balance laws. High order accuracy in space is obtained with a standard WENO reconstruction algorithm and high order in time is obtained using the local space-time discontinuous Galerkin method recently proposed in [20]. In the Lagrangian framework considered here, the local space-time DG predictor is based on a weak formulation of the governing PDE on a moving space-time element. For the space-time basis and test functions we use Lagrange interpolation polynomials defined by tensor-product Gauss-Legendre quadrature points. The moving space-time elements are mapped to a reference element using an isoparametric approach, i.e. the space-time mapping is defined by the same basis functions as the weak solution of the PDE. We show some computational examples in one space-dimension for non-stiff and for stiff balance laws, in particular for the Euler equations of compressible gas dynamics, for the resistive relativistic MHD equations, and for the relativistic radiation hydrodynamics equations. Numerical convergence results are presented for the stiff case up to sixth order of accuracy in space and time and for the non-stiff case up to eighth order of accuracy in space and time.
The measurement of phytoplankton biomass using flow‐cytometric sorting and elemental analysis of carbon
Authors: Graff Jason R. , Milligan Allen J. , Behrenfeld Michael J.
Published: November 2012

Phytoplankton are one of a multitude of particle types in the marine environment that contribute to the particulate organic carbon pool. Current methods for estimating phytoplankton carbon (Cphyto) in the field rely on proxy measurements, such as chlorophyll or cell biovolume conversions. Other means of estimating Cphyto include remote‐sensing applications that convert optical properties, such as chlorophyll fluorescence or particulate backscattering, into biomass. These values, however, are not well constrained due to the variability of phytoplankton physiology (i.e., internal pigment concentrations) and the lack of field data for validating Cphyto retrievals. Here we introduce a method that uses flow cytometry to isolate phytoplankton from the total particle field. Phytoplankton samples are then analyzed for total carbon content. Analyses of laboratory cultures of Synechococcus, Micromonas pusilla, and Thalassiosira pseudonana indicate that this method allows elemental analysis of phytoplankton cells in the absence of unwanted particles. Tests of field samples show that the structure of the natural community is retained in a sorted sample. The acquisition of Cphyto data using this method will 1) benefit remote‐sensing applications by allowing more thorough validation of phytoplankton carbon estimates from space, 2) improve our knowledge of phytoplankton stoichiometry, and 3) provide a better understanding of phytoplankton physiological responses to environmental forces.
A method for cloud detection and opacity classification based on ground based sky imagery
Authors: Ghonima M. S. , Urquhart B. , Chow C. W. , Shields J. E. , Cazorla A. , Kleissl J.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Digital images of the sky obtained using a total sky imager (TSI) are classified pixel by pixel into clear sky, optically thin and optically thick clouds. A new classification algorithm was developed that compares the pixel red-blue ratio (RBR) to the RBR of a clear sky library (CSL) generated from images captured on clear days. The difference, rather than the ratio, between pixel RBR and CSL RBR resulted in more accurate cloud classification. High correlation between TSI image RBR and aerosol optical depth (AOD) measured by an AERONET photometer was observed and motivated the addition of a haze correction factor (HCF) to the classification model to account for variations in AOD. Thresholds for clear and thick clouds were chosen based on a training image set and validated with set of manually annotated images. Misclassifications of clear and thick clouds into the opposite category were less than 1%. Thin clouds were classified with an accuracy of 60%. Accurate cloud detection and opacity classification techniques will improve the accuracy of short-term solar power forecasting.
Factors that Affect the Adhesion of Probiotics Bacteria to Resist Rice Starch
Authors: Eswai Ghalia Salem M. , Hassan Zaiton , Abubakr Maryam A. S.
Published: November 2012

Prebiotics such as resistant starch can be included with probiotics to increase their survival during processing. In this study lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from several sources (yoghurt, banana, and human breast milk) were screened for their probiotic properties. Ten species of bacteria overcame the stress to pH 3 and 0.3% bile.   The adhesion properties of these LABs to resistant rice starch (RRS) were investigated. All 10 species of bacteria adhered to RRS within 60 min of exposure. Isolates Bn1 and HM2 were highly adhered to RRS with a total of 79% and 77% of the cells adhering, respectively.  Moderate adherent was observed by isolates, YN(70%), CY(48%), FY(55%), HM1(61,5%), HM3(65%), and HM4(50,5%),  while isolate YD and Bn2 were poorly adhered to RRS (< 40%adherent). Bacteria adhesion to RRS was positively correlated to time but not to concentration. 37 °C was the ideal temperature for adhesion and Living cells are important for the adhesion.
Method Development and Validation of Darifenacin in Rat Plasma by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry: Application to a Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Karavadi Thejomoorthy , Challa B. R.
Published: November 2012

A selective, sensitive, and high-throughput liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) method has been developed and validated for the quantitation of darifenacin in rat plasma. Sample clean up involved liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and used 100 μL of rat plasma. Zorbax, SB C18, 4.6×75 mm, 3.5 μm particle size analytical column using 10 mM ammonium acetate buffer (pH 5) and methanol (10 : 90, v/v) as the mobile phase was used. The parent → product ion transitions for the drug (m/z 427.3 → 147.3) and IS (m/z 431.4 → 151.2) were monitored on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, operating in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and positive ion mode. The method was validated over the concentration range of 10.00–20000.00 pg/mL for darifenacin. The method was successfully applied into a pharmacokinetic study in rat plasma under fasting conditions.
New Data on Activity Coefficients of Potassium, Nitrate, and Chloride Ions in Aqueous Solutions of KNO3 and KCl by Ion Selective Electrodes
Authors: Dash Debasmita , Kumar Shekhar , Mallika C. , Mudali U. Kamachi
Published: November 2012

Ion selective electrodes (ISEs) are used to measure the single-ion activity coefficients in aqueous solutions of KNO3 and KCl at 298.15 K against a double-junction reference electrode. The EMF responses of ISEs up to 0.01 m are plotted to obtain the slope and intercept values. The obtained slopes and intercepts are used in Nernst equation for higher concentrated solutions for calculation of individual ion activity coefficient. The mean ionic activity coefficients are estimated from single ion activity coefficient, and the obtained results are compared with the literature values.
Biodegradable In Situ Gel-Forming Controlled Drug Delivery System Based on Thermosensitive Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Poly(ethylene glycol)-Poly(ε-caprolactone) Hydrogel
Authors: Khodaverdi Elham , Golmohammadian Ali , Mohajeri Seyed Ahmad , Zohuri Gholamhossein , Mirzazadeh Tekie Farnaz Sadat , Hadizadeh Farzin
Published: November 2012

Traditional drug delivery systems which are based on multiple dosing regimens usually pose many disadvantages such as poor compliance of patients and drug plasma level variation. To overcome the obstacles of traditional drug formulations, novel drug delivery system PCL-PEG-PCL hydrogels have been purposed in this study. Copolymers were synthesized by rapid microwave-assisted and conventional synthesis methods. Polymer characterizations were done using gel permeation chromatography and 1H-NMR. Phase transition behavior was evaluated by inverting tube method and in vitro drug release profile was determined using naltrexone hydrochloride and vitamin B12 as drug models. The results indicated that loaded drug structure and copolymer concentration play critical roles in release profile of drugs from these hydrogels. This study also confirmed that synthesis of copolymer using microwave is the most effective method for synthesis of this kind of copolymer.
Development of Biological Oxygen Demand Biosensor for Monitoring the Fermentation Industry Effluent
Authors: Verma Neelam , Singh Ashish Kumar
Published: November 2012

A biosensor was developed for the determination of BOD value of fermentation industry effluent. The developed biosensor was fabricated by immobilizing the microbial consortium on cellulose acetate (CA) membrane in close proximity to a DO probe electrode. The microbial consortium was harvested from the fermentation industry effluent. The BOD biosensor was calibrated by using a solution containing the equivalent amount of glucose/glutamic acid (GGA) as a standard sample solution. The response time was optimized by immobilizing different concentrations of cell biomass on CA membrane. Once the response time was optimized, it was used for determination of BOD of fermentation industry effluent. For analysis of fermentation industry effluent, the response time was observed 7 minutes with detection limit 1 mg/L. Good linear range with GGA standard solution was observed, 0.99 with relative standard deviation (RSD) <%. The observed BOD value by biosensor showed a good comparison with the conventional method for the determination of BOD.
Pitfalls and potential of particle swarm optimization for contemporary spatial forest planning
Authors: Shan Y. , Bettinger P. , Cieszewski C. , Wang W.
Published: November 2012

We describe here an example of applying particle swarm optimization (PSO) — a population-based heuristic technique — to maximize the net present value of a contemporary southern United States forest plan that includes spatial constraints (green-up and adjacency) and wood flow constraints. When initiated with randomly defined feasible initial conditions, and tuned with some appropriate modifications, the PSO algorithm gradually converged upon its final solution and provided reasonable objective function values. However, only 86% of the global optimal value could be achieved using the modified PSO heuristic. The results of this study suggest that under random-start initial population conditions the PSO heuristic may have rather limited application to forest planning problems with economic objectives, wood-flow constraints, and spatial considerations. Pitfalls include the need to modify the structure of PSO to both address spatial constraints and to repair particles, and the need to modify some of the basic assumptions of PSO to better address contemporary forest planning problems. Our results, and hence our contributions, are contrary to earlier work that illustrated the impressive potential of PSO when applied to stand-level forest planning problems or when applied to a high quality initial population.
A NEW DENOISING APPROACH FOR THE REMOVAL OF IMPULSE NOISE FROM COLOR IMAGES AND VIDEO SEQUENCES
Authors: Arumugham Rajamani , Vellingiri Krishnaveni , Habeebrakuman Wassim Ferose , Mohan Kalaikamal
Published: November 2012

In this paper a novel Lone Diagonal Sorting (LDS) algorithm for denoising color images and videos co-rrupted with salt and pepper noise is proposed. The proposed lone diagonal sorting algorithm uses diagonal sorting alone for denoising of impulse noise. The algorithm has been implemented and tested for various color images and video signals and appreciable performance in terms of PSNR, MSE and SSIM is obtained. Our algorithm has been compared with other standard algorithms. A drastic improvement in the computational time has been achieved without compromising much on the visual quality after reconstruction.
A new species of Gyrodactylus (Monogenea, Gyrodactylidae), an ectoparasite from the endemic Iranocichla hormuzensis (Teleostei, Cichlidae), the only Iranian cichlid
Authors: Vanhove Maarten P.M. , Boeger Walter A. , Muterezi Bukinga Fidel , Volckaert Filip A.M. , Huyse Tine , Pariselle Antoine
Published: November 2012

Iranocichla hormuzensis occupies a biogeographically peculiar position. This endemic of southern Iran is the only Iranian cichlid. While it is phylogenetically related to African oreochromine members of the cichlid family, it remains unclear how it has dispersed into its current range. It is one of the many lasting enigmas of cichlid biogeography. Monogenean fish parasites may provide useful additional information in such cases. Therefore, I. hormuzensis was examined for these flatworms. A gyrodactylid parasite is reported and compared to congeners from the Palearctic and from cichlids. In this way, we verify whether it shows affinities to parasites from fishes that are either biogeographically or phylogenetically close to Iranocichla hormuzensis. The species is new to science and described as Gyrodactylus jalalii sp. nov. This is the first description of a parasite infecting I. hormuzensis. Because of the fixation method or age of the material, DNA could not be isolated. Due to the lack of genetic data, no conclusions can be drawn on its phylogenetic positioning. Indeed, Gyrodactylus phylogeny cannot be inferred from morphological characteristics alone. Moreover, the congeners phenotypically reminiscent of the new species belong to a Gyrodactylus clade which is highly diverse in geographic range and host choice. Hence, there is no evidence linking the new species to an exclusively African or cichlid-bound Gyrodactylus lineage.
Angiogenic Dysfunction in Bone Marrow-Derived Early Outgrowth Cells from Diabetic Animals Is Attenuated by SIRT1 Activation
Authors: Yuen Darren A. , Zhang Yanling , Thai Kerri , Spring Christopher , Chan Lauren , Guo Xiaoxin , Advani Andrew , Sivak Jeremy M. , Gilbert Richard E.
Published: November 2012

Impaired endothelial repair is a key contributor to microvascular rarefaction and consequent end-organ dysfunction in diabetes. Recent studies suggest an important role for bone marrow-derived early outgrowth cells (EOCs) in mediating endothelial repair, but the function of these cells is impaired in diabetes, as in advanced age. We sought to determine whether diabetes-associated EOC dysfunction might be attenuated by pharmacological activation of silent information regulator protein 1 (SIRT1), a lysine deacetylase implicated in nutrient-dependent life span extension in mammals. Despite being cultured in normal (5.5 mM) glucose for 7 days, EOCs from diabetic rats expressed less SIRT1 mRNA, induced less endothelial tube formation in vitro and neovascularization in vivo, and secreted less of the proangiogenic ELR+ CXC chemokines CXCL1, CXCL3, and CXCL5. Ex vivo SIRT1 activation restored EOC chemokine secretion and increased the in vitro and in vivo angiogenic activity of EOC conditioned medium derived from diabetic animals to levels similar to that derived from control animals. These findings suggest a pivotal role for SIRT1 in diabetes-induced EOC dysfunction and that its pharmacologic activation may provide a new strategy for the restoration of EOC-mediated repair mechanisms.
Creative Learning Enrichment for Math Appreciation through Time: An Exploratory Pedagogy
Authors: Limjuco Renan P.
Published: November 2012

This study examined an exploratory pedagogy designed to promote mathematics appreciation through time.  It involved an infusion of some creative learning enrichment activities into the traditional approach of teaching, a process believed to heighten the interest of learners to study mathematics.  Employing a descriptive method, specifically the longitudinal approach of developmental study, and involving fifteen Electronics Engineering students from a cohesive group, the researcher probed how the unusual non-traditional approaches to mathematics instruction could affect their appreciation for mathematics after 2-year exposure to the pedagogy. Findings revealed that the growth of knowledge precedes the increasing level of mathematics appreciation. Furthermore, learning appreciation maturation is a function of time and exposure to meaningful classroom activities.  This study also found that regardless of students’ learning styles, supplementary activities elevate the appreciation of mathematics concepts and improve the analytical skills of the students.   Keywords: creative learning enrichment, math appreciation, maturation, pedagogy
A new combination in Australian Costaceae
Authors: Harrington Mark
Published: November 2012

short communication
A new species of Utricularia (Lentibulariaceae) from northern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Jobson Richard W
Published: November 2012

Utricularia blackmanii R.W.Jobson from igneous regions in northern Queensland (Australia) is described as new and is considered to be a member of Utricularia subg. Polypompholyx section Pleiochasia. The distribution and habitat preferences of this species are described and the morphological differences between U. blackmanii and species with which it was confused previously are discussed. Specifically, this new species is distinguished from U. dichotoma Labill., U. hamiltonii F.Lloyd, U. fistulosa P.Taylor, U. singeriana F.Muell., U. terrae-reginae P.Taylor, U. triflora P.Taylor, and U. tubulata F.Muell. by means of a diagnostic key.
Prevalence of Fibromyalgia: A Population‐Based Study in Olmsted County, Minnesota, Utilizing the Rochester Epidemiology Project
Authors: Vincent Ann , Lahr Brian D. , Wolfe Frederick , Clauw Daniel J. , Whipple Mary O. , Oh Terry H. , Barton Debra L. , St. Sauver Jennifer
Published: November 2012

Objective

To estimate and compare the prevalence of fibromyalgia by 2 different methods in Olmsted County, Minnesota.

Methods

The first method was a retrospective review of medical records of potential cases of fibromyalgia in Olmsted County using the Rochester Epidemiology Project (from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2009) to estimate the prevalence of diagnosed fibromyalgia in clinical practice. The second method was a random survey of adults in Olmsted County using the fibromyalgia research survey criteria to estimate the percentage of responders who met the fibromyalgia research survey criteria.

Results

Of the 3,410 potential patients identified by the first method, 1,115 had a fibromyalgia diagnosis documented in the medical record by a health care provider. The age‐ and sex‐adjusted prevalence of diagnosed fibromyalgia by this method was 1.1%. By the second method, of the 2,994 people who received the survey by mail, 830 (27.6%) responded and 44 (5.3%) met the fibromyalgia research survey criteria. The age‐ and sex‐adjusted prevalence of fibromyalgia in the general population of Olmsted County by this method was estimated at 6.4%.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the rate at which fibromyalgia is being diagnosed in a community. This is also the first report of prevalence as assessed by the fibromyalgia research survey criteria. Our results suggest that patients, particularly men, who meet the fibromyalgia research survey criteria are unlikely to have been given a diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
Antibody‐Functionalized Porous Silicon Nanoparticles for Vectorization of Hydrophobic Drugs
Authors: Secret Emilie , Smith Kevin , Dubljevic Valentina , Moore Eli , Macardle Peter , Delalat Bahman , Rogers Mary‐Louise , Johns Terrance G. , Durand Jean‐Olivier , Cunin Frédérique , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: November 2012

We describe the preparation of biodegradable porous silicon nanoparticles (pSiNP) functionalized with cancer cell targeting antibodies and loaded with the hydrophobic anti‐cancer drug camptothecin. Orientated immobilization of the antibody on the pSiNP is achieved using novel semicarbazide based bioconjugate chemistry. To demonstrate the generality of this targeting approach, the three antibodies MLR2, mAb528 and Rituximab are used, which target neuroblastoma, glioblastoma and B lymphoma cells, respectively. Successful targeting is demonstrated by means of flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry both with cell lines and primary cells. Cell viability assays after incubation with pSiNPs show selective killing of cells expressing the receptor corresponding to the antibody attached on the pSiNP.
Down‐regulation of interferon signature in systemic lupus erythematosus patients by active immunization with interferon α–kinoid
Authors: Lauwerys Bernard R. , Hachulla Eric , Spertini François , Lazaro Estibaliz , Jorgensen Christian , Mariette Xavier , Haelterman Edwige , Grouard‐Vogel Géraldine , Fanget Bernard , Dhellin Olivier , Vandepapelière Pierre , Houssiau Frédéric A.
Published: November 2012

Objective

We developed interferon‐α–kinoid (IFN‐K), a drug composed of inactivated IFNα coupled to a carrier protein, keyhole limpet hemocyanin. In human IFNα–transgenic mice, IFN‐K induces polyclonal antibodies that neutralize all 13 subtypes of human IFNα. We also previously demonstrated that IFN‐K slows disease progression in a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study was undertaken to examine the safety, immunogenicity, and biologic effects of active immunization with IFN‐K in patients with SLE.

Methods

We performed a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase I/II dose‐escalation study comparing 3 or 4 doses of 30 μg, 60 μg, 120 μg, or 240 μg of IFN‐K or placebo in 28 women with mild to moderate SLE.

Results

IFN‐K was well tolerated. Two SLE flares were reported as serious adverse events, one in the placebo group and the other in a patient who concomitantly stopped corticosteroids 2 days after the first IFN‐K dose, due to mild fever not related to infection. Transcriptome analysis was used to separate patients at baseline into IFN signature–positive and –negative groups, based on the spontaneous expression of IFN‐induced genes. IFN‐K induced anti‐IFNα antibodies in all immunized patients. Notably, significantly higher anti‐IFNα titers were found in signature‐positive patients than in signature‐negative patients. In IFN signature–positive patients, IFN‐K significantly reduced the expression of IFN‐induced genes. The decrease in IFN score correlated with the anti‐IFNα antibody titer. Serum complement C3 levels were significantly increased in patients with high anti‐IFNα antibody titers.

Conclusion

These results show that IFN‐K is well tolerated, immunogenic, and significantly improves disease biomarkers in SLE patients, indicating that further studies of its clinical efficacy are warranted.
Therapeutic efficacy of Tyro3, Axl, and Mer tyrosine kinase agonists in collagen‐induced arthritis
Authors: van den Brand B. T. , Abdollahi‐Roodsaz S. , Vermeij E. A. , Bennink M. B. , Arntz O. J. , Rothlin C. V. , van den Berg W. B. , van de Loo F. A. J.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Hyperactivation of innate immunity by Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) can contribute to the development of autoinflammatory or autoimmune diseases. This study evaluated the activation of Tyro3, Axl, Mer (TAM) receptors, physiologic negative regulators of TLRs, by their agonists, growth arrest–specific protein 6 (GAS‐6) and protein S, in the prevention of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA).

Methods

Adenoviruses overexpressing GAS‐6 and protein S were injected intravenously or intraarticularly into mice during CIA. Splenic T helper cell subsets from intravenously injected mice were studied by flow cytometry, and the knee joints of mice injected intravenously and intraarticularly were assessed histologically. Synovium from mice injected intraarticularly was evaluated for cytokine and suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) expression.

Results

Protein S significantly reduced ankle joint swelling when overexpressed systemically. Further analysis of knee joints revealed a moderate reduction in pathologic changes in the joint and a significant reduction in the number of splenic Th1 cells when protein S was overexpressed systemically. Local overexpression of GAS‐6 decreased joint inflammation and joint pathology. Protein S treatment showed a similar trend of protection. Consistently, GAS‐6 and protein S reduced cytokine production in the synovium. Moreover, levels of messenger RNA for interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) and IL‐23 were reduced by GAS‐6 and protein S treatment, with a corresponding decrease in the production of interferon‐γ and IL‐17. TAM ligand overexpression was associated with an increase in SOCS‐3 levels, which likely contributed to the amelioration of arthritis.

Conclusion

This study provides the first evidence that TAM receptor stimulation by GAS‐6 and protein S can be used to ameliorate arthritis when applied systemically or locally. TAM receptor stimulation limits proinflammatory signaling and adaptive immunity. This pathway provides a novel strategy by which to combat rheumatoid arthritis.
Füttern und gefüttert werden. Versorgungskreisläufe und Nahrungsregimes im Königlich Preußischen Institut für experimentelle Therapie, ca. 1900 bis 1910
Authors: Hüntelmann Axel C.
Published: November 2012

Feeding and Being Fed. Supply Cycles and Nutrition Regimes at the Royal Prussian Institute for Experimental Therapy, 1900 to 1910.The article explores the everyday life and especially the feeding practices in the laboratories of the Institute for Experimental Therapy and the Georg Speyer House in Frankfurt, Germany, in the decade after 1900. The text focuses on the experimental animals and their entangled relationship to humans in the two institutes where life‐scientists tested the therapeutic effect of chemicals and dyestuffs on pathogens and tumors. For this purpose countless animal experiments were conducted in the fields of chemotherapy and cancer research. The article focuses on the importance of animal feeding and feeding practices in the experimental processes and serum testing procedures. The behaviour of the animals, their health status, their appetite and weight were constantly monitored and deemed fundamental to the outcome of the experiment. Animal feeding was therefore an important factor within the epistemological process of knowledge production. Animal feeding was both orientated towards the needs of the experiments and governed by economic needs. Within their economic (life) cycles, the ontological status of the animals changed: they became vectors of pathogens and information, economic resources, objects of exchange, living resources and life stock for ongoing experiments, patients, and sometimes even food for other animals. Overall, feeding experimental animals played an important role in the research process.
Wissens‐Hunger im Stall: Die Entstehung von Knochen‐Schafen als Versuchstiere in der Unfallchirurgie
Authors: Schlünder Martina
Published: November 2012

Epistemic‐Hunger in the Stable: The Genesis of Bone‐Sheep as Experimental Animals in Orthopedic Surgery. The text explores the coming‐into‐being of bone‐sheep as experimental animals in the field of orthopedic surgery from the 1960s onwards. Sheep replaced dogs – mainly for emotional reasons – as test subjects for newly developed implants like plates and screws, which were used for fracture care in humans and in pet animals. Utilizing a praxeographic approach in the framework of material semiotics, the history of bone‐sheep is examined more closely in order to explore how different sheep ontologies (e.g. bone‐sheep and meat‐sheep) are intertwined. Ontologies are understood as specific modes of existence: a set of simultaneous multiple realities which are coproduced by animals and humans and which do not align into a single coherent reality. Materiality is not understood as pre‐given but rather as an effect of practices of relating, connecting and cutting – thus producing – heterogeneities like bone‐sheep. Those practices can be understood as a form of ’ontological politics', which describes the interactions between different ontological realities. By paying specific attention to the phenomenon of hunger and practices of feeding, the text examines the ontological politics of synchronization between the epistemic hunger – the data‐collection or scientific hunger of the researchers – and the ontological hunger of the sheep themselves, which can be seen as crucial in the materialization of bone‐sheep.
Cakes und Candies – Zur Geschichte der Ernährung von Versuchstieren
Authors: Schlünder Martina , Reiß Christian , Hüntelmann Axel C. , Bauer Susanne
Published: November 2012

Cakes and Candies: Historicizing the Feeding Practices of Experimental Animals. This special issue explores the history of experimental animals by studying the history of their feeding practices and nutritional regimes. Revisiting the literature of current historiographies of animals and drawing on new integrative approaches in the history of science, science and technology studies, and food history, we outline how historical ontologies and a praxeological approach in material semiotics can address the lack of research on experimental animals without reproducing the all too familiar nature/culture and subject/object binaries.
Kommentar: Verteilte Handlungsmacht im Experiment – Von der Epistemologie zu multiplen Ontologien
Authors: Bauer Susanne
Published: November 2012

Distributed Agency in Experimental Practice: Moving from Epistemology to Multiple Ontologies (Commentary). Food and feeding practices are hybrids that cut across nature/culture divides. Approaches of material semiotics and multiple ontologies offer new tools to move beyond nature/culture binaries and to historicize everyday experimental practices. Exploring distributed agency in feeding practices of experimental animals brings to the fore the hybrid epistemologies, metabolic relations, and multiple synchronizations at work in everyday research practices.
Efficient BiVO4 Thin Film Photoanodes Modified with Cobalt Phosphate Catalyst and W‐doping
Authors: Abdi Fatwa F. , Firet Nienke , van de Krol Roel
Published: November 2012

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) thin film photoanodes for light‐induced water oxidation are deposited by a low‐cost and scalable spray pyrolysis method. The resulting films are of high quality, as indicated by an internal quantum efficiency close to 100 % between 360 and 450 nm. However, its performance under AM1.5 illumination is limited by slow water oxidation kinetics. This can be addressed by using cobalt phosphate (Co‐Pi) as a water oxidation co‐catalyst. Electrodeposition of 30 nm Co‐Pi catalyst on the surface of BiVO4 increases the water oxidation efficiency from ≈30 % to more than 90 % at potentials higher than 1.2 V vs. a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Once the surface catalysis limitation is removed, the performance of the photoanode is limited by low charge separation efficiency; more than 60 % of the electron‐hole pairs recombine before reaching the respective interfaces. Slow electron transport is shown to be the main cause of this low efficiency. We show that this can be remedied by introducing W as a donor type dopant in BiVO4, resulting in an AM1.5 photocurrent of ≈2.3 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE for 1 % W‐doped Co‐Pi‐catalyzed BiVO4.
Carbon‐Supported Gold Nanocatalysts: Shape Effect in the Selective Glycerol Oxidation
Authors: Wang Di , Villa Alberto , Su Dangsheng , Prati Laura , Schlögl Robert
Published: November 2012

Gold nanoparticles were supported on two types of carbon nanofibres with different degree of graphitisation. The investigation of these materials with an aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscope showed that the degree of the surface graphitisation strongly influences the structures of the supported gold particles. The more ordered graphitic layers of the carbon nanofibre surface led to Au particles more preferred to immobilise on their {1 1 1} plane, exhibiting more facet area. In contrast, disordered carbon nanofibre surfaces led to random orientation of supported particles. The different shape of similarly sized Au nanoparticles allowed determining the effect of support surface structures on the selectivity of the catalyst in the liquid‐phase oxidation of glycerol, highlighting the higher C3 product selectivity on the {1 1 1} surface. Based on these results, we could also gain new insight in the effect of Au nanoparticle size on the selectivity in the liquid‐phase oxidation of glycerol, that is, larger particles were more selective toward C3 products than the smaller ones.
Facile Low‐Temperature Synthesis of Ultralong Monodisperse ZnSe Quantum Wires with the Assistance of Ag2S
Authors: Huang Zhipeng , Pan Lei , Zhong Peng , Li Maoying , Tian Feng , Zhang Chi
Published: November 2012

A facile method for the low‐cost and large‐scale production of ultralong Ag2S (or Ag2Se)ZnSe quantum wires has been developed. ZnSe quantum wires (diameter≈4 nm) with high uniformity in their crystal structure and diameter can be synthesized by using a catalyst‐assisted growth approach with Ag2S nanoparticles as a catalyst. The influence of the growth temperature, time, and type of catalytic particle on the morphology of the ZnSe quantum wires was systematically explored. Besides Ag2S, Ag2Se nanoparticles can also be adopted as the catalyst for the growth of ZnSe wires. This method can also be applied to the fabrication of uniform CdSe nanorods. This method is convenient for the controllable fabrication of metal selenides and is of importance for exploring fundamental nanoscale semiconductor physics, as well as for affording technological devices with optimized characteristics.
Catalytic Enantioselective Desymmetrisation as a Tool for the Synthesis of Hodgkinsine and Hodgkinsine B
Authors: Snell Robert H. , Durbin Matthew J. , Woodward Robert L. , Willis Michael C.
Published: November 2012

Two palladium‐catalysed amination protocols are deployed in the desymmetrisation of the complex dimeric alkaloid meso‐chimonanthine. The power of these transformations is showcased in an efficient formal and total synthesis of the natural products hodgkinsine and hodgkinsine B, respectively.
Matrix Infrared Spectroscopy and Quantum‐Chemical Calculations for the Coinage‐Metal Fluorides: Comparisons of ArAuF, NeAuF, and Molecules MF2 and MF3
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Andrews Lester , Brosi Felix , Riedel Sebastian
Published: November 2012

The reactions of laser‐ablated Au, Ag, and Cu atoms with F2 in excess argon and neon gave new absorptions in the MF stretching region of their IR spectra, which were assigned to metal‐fluoride species. For gold, a NgAuF bond was identified in mixed neon/argon samples. However, this bonding was much weaker with AgF and CuF. Molecules MF2 and MF3 (M=Au, Ag, Cu) were identified from the isotopic distribution of the Cu and Ag atoms, comparison of the frequencies for three metal fluorides, and theoretical frequency calculations. The AuF5 molecule was characterized by its strongest stretching mode and theoretical frequency calculations. Additional evidence was observed for the formation of the Au2F6 molecule.
Magnetic Helical Micromachines
Authors: Peyer Kathrin E. , Tottori Soichiro , Qiu Famin , Zhang Li , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: November 2012

Helical microrobots have the potential to be used in a variety of application areas, such as in medical procedures, cell biology, or lab‐on‐a‐chip. They are powered and steered wirelessly using low‐strength rotating magnetic fields. The helical shape of the device allows propulsion through numerous types of materials and fluids, from tissue to different types of bodily fluids. Helical propulsion is suitable for pipe flow conditions or for 3D swimming in open fluidic environments.
A Highly Efficient, Clean‐Surface, Porous Platinum Electrocatalyst and the Inhibition Effect of Surfactants on Catalytic Activity
Authors: Wang Shaozhen , Kuai Long , Huang Yucheng , Yu Xue , Liu Yadong , Li Wenzheng , Chen Lu , Geng Baoyou
Published: November 2012

Herein we report a gentle seedless and surfactant‐free method for the preparation of clean‐surface porous platinum nanoparticles. In terms of electrocatalytic CH3OH oxidation, the clean‐surface porous platinum exhibited better performance than platinum nanoparticles and a commercial Pt/C catalyst. The porous nanostructures exhibited 2.26‐fold higher mass activity and 2.8‐fold greater specific activity than the Pt/C catalyst. More importantly, three typical surfactants, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide/chloride (CTAB/C), poly(vinylpyrrolidone), and sodium dodecyl sulfate, were chosen to study the inhibition effect of surfactants on electrocatalytic performance. It was observed that the surfactants led to a clear selective decrease in electrocatalytic performance. CTAB/C inhibited the catalytic activity the most due to the stronger interaction between the OH‐enriched platinum surface and the positively charged molecules. Thus, this work indicates that these clean‐surface porous platinum nanoparticles may be used as efficient catalysts for direct methanol fuel cells and provides a greater understanding of the inhibition effects of surfactants on catalytic activity.
Study of gas–solids flow in a short CFB riser by statistical and chaotic deterministic analysis of optical fibre probe signals
Authors: de Castilho Guilherme José , Cremasco Marco Aurélio
Published: November 2012

In this work, a short CFB riser with a height of 2.42 m and an ID of 82 mm was operated under different dilute operating conditions to study the fluid dynamics of FCC catalyst particles (dp = 80 µm, ρp = 902 kg/m3) in air. The electrical signals from the optical fibre probe were sampled at a frequency of 1000 Hz for a period of 30 s and were obtained at different positions along the radius and height of the riser. Data were analysed using both statistical methods (time average, standard deviation and frequency distribution) and chaos methods (construction of attractors; correlation dimension, DML; and Kolmogorov entropy, KML). Some results on solids holdup deduced from the electrical signal are also presented for the developed zone of the riser. It was verified that for very dilute conditions, increasing gas velocity produces more complex and less predictable fluctuations in solids concentration, while increasing solids flux generally reduces complexity and increases predictability. However, results for the most dilute condition used shows that for the radial position where solids holdup is higher (near the wall), the increase in solids concentration does not affect the mean free path of the particles, resulting in higher values of DML than in the dilute region (core). © 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
The Electrochemical Properties of Nanocomposite Films Obtained by Chemical In Situ Polymerization of Aniline and Carbon Nanostructures
Authors: Plonska‐Brzezinska Marta E. , Breczko Joanna , Palys Barbara , Echegoyen Luis
Published: November 2012

Interactions between the π bonds in the aromatic rings of polyaniline (PANI) with carbon nanostructures (CNs) facilitate charge transfer between the two components. Different types of phenyleneamine‐terminated CNs, including carbon nano‐onions (CNOs) and single‐walled and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs and MWNTs, respectively), were prepared as templates, and the CN/PANI nanocomposites were easily prepared with uniform core–shell structures. By varying the ratio of the aniline monomers relative to the CNs in the in situ chemical polymerization process, the thickness of the PANI layers was effectively controlled. The morphological and electrical properties of the nanocomposite were determined and compared. The thickness and structure of the PANI films on the CNs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and infrared spectroscopy. TEM and SEM revealed that the composite films consisted of nanoporous networks of CNs coated with polymeric aniline. The electrochemical properties of the composites were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. These studies showed that the CN/PANI composite films had lower resistance than pure polymeric films of PANI, and the presence of CNs much improved the mechanical stability. The specific electrochemical capacitance of the CNO/PANI composite films was significantly larger than for pure PANI.
Progress in membrane gas–liquid reactors
Authors: Jia Zhiqian
Published: November 2012

Gas–liquid reactions are crucially important in chemical synthesis and industries. In recent years, membrane gas–liquid reactors have attracted great attentions due to their high selectivity, productivity and efficiency, and easy process control and scale‐up. Membrane gas–liquid reactors can be divided into three categories: dispersive membrane reactor, non‐dispersive membrane reactor and pore flowthrough reactor. The progress in membrane gas–liquid reactors, including features, applications, advantages and limits, is briefly reviewed. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Hydrodynamics of a packed bed biofilm reactor (PBBR) for the removal of Hg2+ ion – RTD experiments with biotic and characteristically similar abiotic films and axial dispersion model
Authors: De Riju , Chowdhury Ranjana
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Packed bed biofilm reactors (PBBR) are gaining interest for the bioremediation of wastewater contaminated with heavy metals. The study of both hydrodynamics and microbial growth kinetics are equally important for assessment of the overall bioremediation efficiency of a PBBR.

RESULTS

Hydrodynamics of a Bacillus cereus (JUBT1) based biofilm reactor of diameter 45 mm and length 460 mm undergoing removal of Hg2+ ions up to a conversion efficiency of 90% have been determined using both actual and Ca‐alginate based artificial biofilms. The Peclet numbers obtained using biotic and abiotic biofilms have been determined to be 9.74 and 8.8, respectively. The micrographs of the biofilm with the variation of aging period suggest its stability up to 150 days of operation. A mathematical model has been developed and validated incorporating both the dispersion parameter and microbial growth kinetics.

CONCLUSION

This work demonstrates that in order to carry out hydrodynamic studies of a PBBR, the use of abiotic films rather than biotic films is much more beneficial and time efficient as it does not require strict biochemical precautions. Moreover, using lower inlet concentrations of Hg2+ ions, the exit conversion of the PBBR is found to be maximum. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Seasonal Changes and Regulation of the Glucocorticoid Receptor in the Testis of the Toad Rhinella arenarum
Authors: Regueira Eleonora , Sassone Alina Grisel , Scaia María Florencia , Volonteri María Clara , Ceballos Nora Raquel
Published: November 2012

Several studies indicate that wild free‐living vertebrates seasonally regulate plasma glucocorticoids. However, not only glucocorticoids but also the amount of receptors is important in determining biological responses. In this context, seasonal regulation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is crucial to modulate the response to glucocorticoids. Rhinella arenarum is an anuran exhibiting seasonal variations in plasma glucocorticoids and also in the number of binding sites (Bmax) of the testicular cytosolic GR. In this work, we evaluated if the annual pattern of GR protein in the testis varies seasonally and, by an in vitro approach, the role of glucocorticoids, androgens, and melatonin in the regulation of the GR Bmax and protein level. For this purpose, testes were treated with two physiological concentrations of melatonin (40 and 200 pg/ml), with or without luzindole (melatonin‐receptor antagonist); with testosterone, cyanoketone (inhibitor of steroidogenesis) or casodex (androgen‐receptor antagonist); or with dexamethasone or RU486 (GR antagonist). After treatments, Bmax and protein level were determined by the binding of [3H]dexamethasone and Western blot, respectively. Results showed that GR protein decreases in the winter. The in vitro treatment with melatonin produced a biphasic effect on the Bmax with the lowest concentration decreasing this parameter by a receptor‐mediated mechanism. However, melatonin had no effect on the GR protein level. Conversely, a high concentration of dexamethasone up‐regulated the GR protein and androgens neither changed the Bmax nor the protein level. These findings suggest that seasonal changes in plasma melatonin and glucocorticoids modulate the effect of glucocorticoids in the testis of R. arenarum. J. Exp. Zool. 319A:39–52, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.