bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fertilidad del suelo con prácticas agroecológicas y manejo convencional en el cultivo de café
Authors: Larios-González Roberto C. , Salmerón-Miranda Francisco , García-Centeno Leonardo
Published: June 2016

Las prácticas agroecológicas en plantaciones de café (Coffea arabica L.), son necesarias para el mantenimiento y aumento de la fertilidad de los suelos y el manejo sostenible de las plantaciones. Este estudio se realizó de junio de 2009 a enero de 2010 en el Jardín Botánico y en el Centro Experimental Campos Azules, en Masatepe, Nicaragua. El propósito fue evaluar dos prácticas agroecológicas y un manejo convencional en el cultivo de café y su influencia en la fertilidad física, química y biológica del suelo. Se utilizó un arreglo unifactorial en diseño bloques completo al azar (BCA) con tres repeticiones. Las variables fueron densidad aparente, porosidad, retención de agua, materia orgánica, nitrógeno total, carbono orgánico, pH, capacidad de intercambio catiónico y cuantificación de bacterias y hongos. No existen diferencias entre los componentes de la fertilidad física y química del suelo, sin embargo, los sistemas con prácticas agroecológicas registran mayor porosidad y retención de humedad, y menor densidad aparente; así como valores más altos de materia orgánica, capacidad de intercambio catiónico, carbono orgánico, nitrógeno total y pH. No se registra diferencia en las poblaciones de bacterias, pero sí de hongos en el período lluvioso. El rendimiento acumulado de café no difiere pero existe una tendencia en los sistemas agroecológicos al aumento. Los resultados sugieren que la implementación de prácticas agroecológicas contribuye de manera sustancial con la fertilidad global del suelo.La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.67-75
Optimización de los componentes de un sistema de bombeo para comunidades rurales impulsado con energía solar
Authors: Querol Daniel , Nieto Félix , Valiente Rubén , Erlach Reinaldo
Published: June 2016

Los sistemas de generación de energía eléctrica a partir de paneles fotovoltaicos son una alternativa para zonas rurales aisladas. Se analizaron los elementos y variables que componen un sistema de bombeo impulsado por energía solar en base a las características técnicas y especificaciones de los diferentes componentes y su interacción, para determinar y poder proponer, asociando esta información a características de costos, robustez y disponibilidad, las mejores opciones el bombeo de agua desde un punto de vista de costo/ eficiencia. La solución óptima es la conversión directa a 110 voltios en corriente alterna a partir de la corriente directa almacenada en el mínimo de baterías, con un banco de paneles que corresponda al amperaje a ser consumido por el motor. La bomba periférica tiene un consumo menor de energía por litro bombeado, mientras la altura total de bombeo no rebase los 20 m. Se diseñó y probó un sistema de bombeo abastecido por paneles solares, con un costo de inversión de 2330 US, que bombea entre 6 y 10 m3 de agua al día.La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.76-83
Composición florística del bosque ripario en la microcuenca La Laguneta, municipio de Pueblo Nuevo, Estelí
Authors: Pérez-Castellón Emilio , Bonilla-Zúñiga Glenda , Díaz-Rivera Elvin Santiago
Published: June 2016

Este estudio se deriva del proyecto UNA/CARE/MARENA-PIMCHAS y se realizó en la microcuenca La Laguneta, sitio ubicado en el municipio de Pueblo Nuevo, departamento de Estelí El propósito fue evaluar la composición florística, del bosque ripario. La investigación se realizó en tres etapas, la primera comprende el reconocimiento del área de estudio, la segunda, el inventario forestal en el bosque ripario y la tercera corresponde el análisis de la información recopilada. El levantamiento de la información se realizó a través de un inventario sistemático en parcelas de 10 m2 con un transecto paralelo a la ribera del rio. El total de parcelas fueron 23 y en cada una se seleccionaron los árboles mayores a los 10 cm de diámetro a la altura del pecho y se ubicó una subparcela de un m2 para inventariar todas las plantas menores a los 10 cm de diámetro. Se calcularon los índices de diversidad de Shannon y Simpson para la parte alta, media y baja de la microcuenca. El estudio demuestra mayor diversidad en la parte alta y menor en la parte baja del sitio. En el inventario de árboles mayores de 10 cm de diámetro se registraron 31 especies representadas en 21 familias botánicas, sobresaliendo la Mimosácea (seis), para la regeneración natural, se contabilizaron 12 especies representadas en ocho familias botánicas. En total se encontraron 300 árboles por hectárea, de los cuales la mayoría pertenecen a las clases diamétrica 10-19.9 cm, que son las más representativas y 27.0915 m2 ha-1 de área basal, registrándose en mayor concentración en las categorías de 50-59.9 y >60 cm. Existe deterioro ambiental por deforestación en la parte baja debido a la actividad agrícola y menos afectación por la misma actividad en la parte alta.La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.84-88
Aporte de la meliponicultura a la economía familiar en El Pochote, El Arenal y Nuevo Amanecer, Masatepe, Masaya, 2013
Authors: Montenegro Joel David , Balmaceda Luis , Lacayo Ligia
Published: June 2016

Las meliponas son abejas sin aguijón, nativas de América, utilizadas por muchas familias en el medio rural mesoamericano para la obtención de miel y cera, pero también por los múltiples servicios que estos insectos prestan, entre ellos polinización y monitoreo ambiental. El estudio valora el aporte de meliponicultura a la economía familiar en las comunidades de El Pochote, El Arenal y Nuevo Amanecer, del municipio de Masatepe, Masaya. Esta investigación es de tipo cualitativa, para recolectar la información se aplicaron entrevistas, grupos focales y estudios de casos con productores y técnicos. Los resultados reflejaron 14 familias que en su conjunto suman 64 colmenas, de las cuales 41% utilizan cajas racionales. La meliponicultura está enfocada únicamente en la producción de miel, con un rendimiento de 0.78 litros por productor. Los ingresos de la venta de miel no cubren las necesidades para la familia, es una actividad incipiente y los conocimientos de manejo productivo son rudimentarios. Los resultados del análisis de margen bruto de Meliponicultura representó un rango de -1.02 % a 7 % del total de ingresos de los productores y contribuye a la economía del 57% de las familias. Actualmente los productores agregan valor a través de la utilización de envases de 35 ml., con lo que mejoran el precio de venta. El acompañamiento técnico de Alianza Comunitaria y su metodología inclusiva y de consenso, centró su trabajo en la formación de capacidades en las personas, con lo que fortalecieron su incidencia en la toma de decisiones, autogestión, y organización por iniciativa propia del grupo de “Meliponicultores Tamagás”. Actualmente el desarrollo comunitario en las comunidades de incidencia es incipiente y los lazos entre organizaciones locales afines a Meliponicultura son débiles, sin embargo, la necesidad en mejorar los niveles técnicos coadyuva a que este esfuerzo sea asumido en colaboración y reciprocidad.La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.89-95
Impactos multifactoriales del cambio climático en Nicaragua y estrategias de adaptación
Authors: Salazar-Centeno Dennis José
Published: June 2016

La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.96-104
Análisis crítico de la función de producción agregada
Authors: Franklin-Sam Oslund Raius , Reyes-Blanco Otilio
Published: June 2016

En el presente artículo se estudia la controversia sobre la validez teórica de la función de producción agregada. Se realiza un análisis crítico de los fundamentos filosóficos de la teoría neoclásica y las bases teóricas de la función de producción agregada y de cada uno de sus componentes. En este trabajo, se pretende dar cuenta de las implicaciones del uso de la función de producción agregada en las investigaciones sobre crecimiento y la distribución del ingreso. La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.105-108
Identificación de peligros microbiológicos en vegetales frescos
Authors: De Oca Nivian Montes
Published: June 2016

La Calera Vol.14 No.23, 2014, pp.109-110
Retos y desafíos en la escritura de artículos científicos de estudiantes de posgrado
Authors: Canales Maritza , Ochoa Vilma
Published: June 2016

Revista Portal de la Ciencia, No. 9, diciembre 2015, pp.15-21
Diagnóstico del uso de las TIC en la educación de la UNAH-TEC Danlí, 2014
Authors: Fiallos Gonzales Pedro Martín , Paredes Heller Jacobo
Published: June 2016

La presente investigación se realizó en el centro universitario UNAH-TEC Danlí en el departamento de El Paraíso, en el cual parte de su visión es la educación con orientación tecnológica. Se consideró para esta investigación como objetivo general, diagnosticar el uso de las tecnológicas de la información y la comunicación (TIC), mediante un análisis de las condiciones del contexto educativo universitario para el tercer periodo académico del año 2014, cuyas dimensiones con relación a estas tecnologías son los roles del profesor y estudiantes, satisfacción estudiantil, capacitación docente y estado de los recurso tecnológicos.El enfoque de investigación es de tipo mixto (cuali-cuantitativo) combinando: lo cuantitativo que manipula datos porcentuales, anclado a la técnica de la observación, el cual suma el carácter cualitativo enfocado en el área tecnológica. Los instrumentos usados son de tipo encuesta, que fueron aplicadas a 44 profesores y 274 estudiantes, incluyendo la muestra elementos de las tres especialidades ofertadas en el centro. Por lo anterior y como característica del método mixto, se realizó la observación directa de los recursos tecnológicos existentes como apoyo a la investigación, cuyo propósito es la descripción de las condiciones actuales en las que se encuentran, describiendo sus características técnicas.Se puede considerar que el resultado obtenido muestra que existe un desaprovechamiento de los recursos que brindan las TIC, lo que refleja una baja frecuencia de uso con 72.03 % y 74.64 % para estudiantes y profesores respectivamente. También se observa un nivel bajo de competencias de parte de los profesores, con un 58.96 % percibido por los estudiantes, así como bajo apoyo al proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje; no obstante, se muestra un porcentaje del 73 % aceptable de actitud positiva ante el uso de nuevas tecnologías educativas por parte de las poblaciones estudiadas. Aunado al análisis de la investigación se definió la perspectiva del uso de las TIC, identificando un bajo porcentaje en cuanto a su aplicabilidad en el contexto universitario, ya que las asignaciones ligadas a estas es de 55.33 %. Se busca con dichos resultados la base fundamental para el establecimiento de recomendaciones orientadas a superar las debilidades encontradas en el uso de la TIC, proporcionando a las autoridades un plan de acción como punto de apoyo orientado a la toma de decisiones. Se espera, además, despertar con este artículo el interés de las autoridades locales y de la ciudad universitaria.Revista Portal de la Ciencia, No. 9, diciembre 2015, pp.119-143
The advantages and limitations of echocardiography in a unique presentation of double-sided endocarditis from intravenous drug use
Authors: Alencherry Ben , Sullivan Claire , Hoit Brian
Published: June 2016

A 25-year-old female intravenous drug user presented with a three-week-history of fever and myalgias and was found to have infective endocarditis affecting the mitral and tricuspid valves.  Blood cultures grew methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Computed tomography showed emboli in multiple organs.  Transthoracic echocardiogram revealed large vegetations on the mitral valve with moderate valvular regurgitation and a transesophageal echocardiogram identified a posterior mitral leaflet perforation.  The patient underwent urgent surgical intervention after developing respiratory distress from worsening congestive heart failure.  Intraoperative findings in addition to those found on echocardiography included a large abscess in the posterior wall of the left atrium.  The patient underwent mitral and tricuspid valve replacement due to valve damage.  This case shows a unique presentation of valvular involvement of infective endocarditis and the capabilities and limitations of echocardiography in assessing the extent of disease in this condition.
Application of Learner Corpora to Second Language Learning and Teaching: An Overview
Authors: Xu Qi
Published: June 2016

The paper gives an overview of learner corpora and their application to second language learning and teaching. It is proposed that there are four core components in learner corpus research, namely, corpus linguistics expertise, a good background in linguistic theory, knowledge of SLA theory, and a good understanding of foreign language teaching issues (Granger, 2009). Based on the above components, the present paper first introduces learner corpora, then reviews literature concerning the application of corpus linguistics to SLA by means of contrastive interlanguage analysis, and at last discusses the relationship between learner corpora and foreign language teaching.
The Role of Heritage and Authenticity in the Value Creation of Fashion Brand
Authors: Boccardi Andrea , Ciappei Cristiano , Zollo Lamberto , Laudano Maria Carmen
Published: June 2016

This paper builds on traditional and recent marketing research concerning the constituents of brand authenticity, particularly investigating consumers’ experience in the context of fashion industry. Specifically, we attempt to unpack the dimensions underlying the concept of brand authenticity by, first, correlating the role of heritage and ‘mythopoesis’ – the creation of a myth through repetitive narrative –  and, second, by applying our proposed theoretical framework to four Italian luxury fashion brands, namely Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Lous Vuitton, and Stefano Ricci. Thanks to the positioning of such fashion brands according to different levels of heritage and authenticity, it emerges how mythopoesis allow brand marketers to transfer brand heritage from past to both present and future. In this way, the risk of brand fixation in the celebration of the past may be overcome. Managerial implications are finally discussed, showing how marketers may foster or hinder brand authenticity, and how such an aspect affects consumer experience and attitude toward the brand.
Board Profile and its Influence on the Stock Value of Oil Companies and Gas
Authors: Pinto Savio De Luna , De Andrade Aline Alves , Borges Roselaine Cristina , Machado Jr. Celso
Published: June 2016

This article identifies the profile of the boards of the ten largest companies in the Oil and Gas industry on NASDAQ and the variation of their stocks. The research contributes to the study developed by Andrade (2009) which established the relationship between corporate governance and market value in Brazil. Additionally, Connell and Cramer (2010) studied the advice of Ireland companies, point out the importance of analyzing the board's composition and its influence on the organization's performance in the stock market in different segments. The method was a qualitative analysis of the board, and the correlation of the board with the variation and point that studies in a number of other countries generally fail to report any significant association between board composition and firm performance. The research information shows that the best performing companies have common characteristics: advice with fewer members; age diversity of members and specifically trained in master. These characteristics capable of being incorporated by the companies and that give power to favorable conditions for companies, for shareholders and for society in general.
Board Profile and its Influence on the Stock Value of Oil Companies and Gas
Authors: Pinto Savio De Luna , Andrade Aline Alves de , Borges Roselaine Cristina , Jr. Celso Machado
Published: June 2016

This article identifies the profile of the boards of the ten largest companies in the Oil and Gas industry on NASDAQ and the variation of their stocks. The research contributes to the study developed by Andrade (2009) which established the relationship between corporate governance and market value in Brazil. Additionally, Connell and Cramer (2010) studied the advice of Ireland companies, point out the importance of analyzing the board's composition and its influence on the organization's performance in the stock market in different segments. The method was a qualitative analysis of the board, and the correlation of the board with the variation and point that studies in a number of other countries generally fail to report any significant association between board composition and firm performance. The research information shows that the best performing companies have common characteristics: advice with fewer members; age diversity of members and specifically trained in master. These characteristics capable of being incorporated by the companies and that give power to favorable conditions for companies, for shareholders and for society in general.
The Effects of Corporate Entrepreneurship and Organizational Knowledge Creation on Firm Second-order Competences: Exploratory Evidence from Knowledge-intensive Sectors
Authors: Kokash Rasmi , Fayolle Alain , Guedri Zied
Published: June 2016

While corporate entrepreneurship (CE) is viewed to influence firm competences, their relationship, along with organizational knowledge creation, remains largely unexplored. This paper examines whether and how CE associates with second-order R&D and marketing competences. Building on resource-based view of the firm (RBV), in our developed model; we propose that firm second-order R&D and marketing competences are differently influenced by variations of CE and organizational knowledge creation. Regression modeling, used to analyze data collected from various firms in knowledge-intensive sectors, supports our main arguments. Important and novel theoretical and managerial implications emerge from this study.
Effect of Mobile Phase Variation and Purification on Chromatogram View by Using Fruits and Rose Extracts and HPLC Method
Authors: Cetin Gulten , Turak Fatma
Published: June 2016

In this study extracts obtained from fruits of bluebery and cranberry and rose leaves were chromatografied by using mobile phase variation and DAD detector. The chromatograms were evaluated under different mobile phase systems such as isocratic and gradient elutions following purification procedure. The best separation conditions of pigments of anthocyanin in extracts and efficiency of purification procedure were searched by using mobile phases in the elution of isocratic and gradient modes. The chromatogram views have shown existence of anthocyanin constituents in the all fruits and rose extracts involving separation and qualitation. The effect of purification for separation and removal of pigments has been investigated.
Differentiation of Pigment in Eggs Using Carbon (13C/12C) and Nitrogen (15N/14N) Stable Isotopes
Authors: Sun Feng M , Shi Guang Y , Wang Hui W
Published: June 2016

Consumers prefer natural and healthy food, but artificial pigments are often abused in egg products. The study aimed at differentiating the origin of pigments in eggs by applying the technique of carbon (13C/12C) and nitrogen (15N/14N) stable isotope analysis. Five hundred sixty laying hens were randomly distributed into 14 treatments, which were divided into four groups: maize, carophyll red pigment, carophyll yellow pigment, and a mixture of carophyll red and yellow pigments. Eggs were collected and pretreated to determe the values of the Roche Yolk Color Fan (RCF), δ13C, and δ15N. With increasing maize content, the RCF and δ13C values of yolks increased. Moreover, the RCF values in the three pigment groups were significantly influenced by the artificial colors, but δ13C values were not significantly different, regardless of the existence of pigment. The δ15N values in all treatments did not vary as regularly as the carbon stable isotope. A strong positive correlation was found between RCF and δ13C in the maize group, but no such correlation was be observed in the pigment groups. It is concluded that carbon stable isotope ratio analysis (δ13C) of the yolk can be used to differentiate the origin of the pigment added to eggs.
Application of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy for Rapid Detection of Fumonisin B2 in Raisins
Authors: Heperkan Dilek , Gökmen Ece
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of FTIR spectroscopy as a rapid screening method to detect fumonisin produced by Aspergillus niger. A. niger spore suspensions isolated from raisins were inoculated in Petri dishes prepared with sultana raisin or black raisin extracts containing agar and malt extract agar (MEA). After 9 days of incubation at 25°C, fumonisin B2 (FB2) production on each agar plate was determined by subjecting the agar plugs to IR spectroscopy. The presence of amino group (at 1636–1639 cm−1) was especially indicative of fumonisin production in MEA and the raisin extracts containing agar. The results were confirmed by HPLC analysis of the agar sample extracts after immunoaffinity column cleanup. It was determined that A. niger produced more FB2 in sultana raisins than in MEA, with no FB2 being produced in black raisin extract agar. This study demonstrated that proper sample preparation procedure followed by FTIR analysis is a useful technique for identifying toxigenic molds and their mycotoxin production in agricultural commodities.
O Lugar da Mulher e do Negro no Mercado de Trabalho no Pará
Authors: Castro Edna , Acevedo Rosa
Published: June 2016

O perfil do mercado de trabalho do Estado do Pará mostra alterações nas duas últimas décadas, decorrentes sobretudo da implantação de empreendimentos industriais de grande e médio porte, estimuladores de número expressivo de pequenas empresas prestadoras de serviços. Todavia a expansão decorrente desses novos investimentos e as flutuações do mercado, podem ser acompanhadas apenas através de dados estatísticos aproximativos. Para a Região Metropolitana de Belém (RMB), a qualidade das informações modificou-se positivamente com a realização da Pesquisa de Emprego & Desemprego1. Os dados levantados estão organizados de forma agregada, inclusive totalizando informações de natureza diferente - grupos de cor - o que dificulta uma análise mais refinada desse material. Permitem, porém, identificar tendências e explorar algumas hipóteses que contribuiriam para esclarecermudanças ou permanências de alguns padrões de organização e de reestruturação do mercado de trabalho. As informações qualitatitivas e com corte por ramos - a exemplo de setores industriais como alimentação, construção civil e serviços - ajudariam a ampliar o conhecimento sobre a estrutura e a dinâmica do setor analisado e do mercado. Neste artigo procuramos abordar, com base em fontes sobre emprego, censos demográficos e observações de campo em pesquisas anteriores sobre o perfil do emprego por setores de atividade e mais amplamente, sobre o mundo do trabalho nas empresas estudadas, dois ângulos do perfil ocupacional do Estado do Pará e da Região Metropolitana de Belém - o gênero e a raça2. Sob essa perspectiva buscamos compreender os mecanismos de dominação e as hierarquias presentes na sociedade e que são reproduzidas no mercado de trabalho.
Polarization-dependent coupling between a polarization-independent high-index-contrast subwavelength grating and waveguides
Authors: Katayama Takeo , Ito Jun , Kawaguchi Hitoshi
Published: June 2016

We investigated the optical coupling between a polarization-independent high-index-contrast subwavelength grating (HCG) and two orthogonal in-plane waveguides. We fabricated the HCG with waveguides on a silicon-on-insulator substrate and demonstrated that a waveguide with a strong output is switched by changing the polarization of light injected into the HCG. The light coupled more strongly to the waveguide in the direction perpendicular to the polarization of the incident light than to that in the parallel direction. If this waveguide-coupled HCG is incorporated into a polarization bistable vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), the output waveguide can be switched by changing the lasing polarization of the VCSEL.
Experimental method research on transverse flexoelectric response of poly(vinylidene fluoride)
Authors: Zhang Shuwen , Xu Minglong , Ma Guoliang , Liang Xu , Shen Shengping
Published: June 2016

Flexoelectricity describes the strain-gradient-induced electric polarization existing in dielectric materials. The coefficient that exists between the strain-gradient and the induced electric polarization defines the flexoelectric coefficient tensor. It is necessary to analyze different experimental methods to evaluate the procedure of measuring the transverse flexoelectric coefficient tensor component. In this work, the transverse flexoelectric coefficient tensor component of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is studied using three different experimental methods and the effects of the mentioned methods are evaluated. The results presented in this work are helpful for the design of experiments of different dielectric materials, including ceramics and polymers on flexoelectricity.
Wall thickness measurement using resonant phenomena of circumferential Lamb waves generated by plural transducer elements located evenly on girth
Authors: Nishino Hideo , Iwata Kodai , Ishikawa Masashi
Published: June 2016

We present a novel method of measuring the pipe wall thickness using the resonance of the circumferential (C-) Lamb wave generated by a piezoelectric ring-shaped sensor (PS). The PS is a special device for an axially propagating torsional wave; however, the C-Lamb waves are generated simultaneously as spurious signals owing to the structure of the PS. Particularly under resonant conditions, the C-Lamb waves are dominantly generated, distorting the axially propagating wave. In this method, these troublesome spurious signals are used effectively for the measurement of the wall thickness under the PS location that is a dead zone of the PS itself. The method can compensate for its drawback, namely, the dead zone problem, without using additional instruments. In this study, the mechanisms of the generation and resonance of the C-Lamb waves were first explained. Secondly, the principle of the wall thickness estimation utilizing the resonance of the C-Lamb waves was proposed. Finally, experimental verifications were carried out. The estimated wall thicknesses agreed very well (maximum 1.5% error) with those measured by a micrometer caliper under suitable resonant conditions.
50 kHz bottom backscattering measurements from two types of artificially roughened sandy bottoms
Authors: Son Su-Uk , Cho Sungho , Choi Jee Woong
Published: June 2016

Laboratory measurements of 50 kHz bottom backscattering strengths as a function of grazing angle were performed on the sandy bottom of a water tank; two types of bottom roughnesses, a relatively smooth interface and a rough interface, were created on the bottom surface. The roughness profiles of the two interface types were measured directly using an ultrasound arrival time difference of 5 MHz and then were Fourier transformed to obtain the roughness power spectra. The measured backscattering strengths increased from −29 to 0 dB with increasing grazing angle from 35 to 86°, which were compared to theoretical backscattering model predictions. The comparison results implied that bottom roughness is a key factor in accurately predicting bottom scattering for a sandy bottom.
Development of a cost-effective metabarcoding strategy for analysis of the marine phytoplankton community
Authors: Yoon Tae-Ho , Kang Hye-Eun , Kang Chang-Keun , Lee Sang Heon , Ahn Do-Hwan , Park Hyun , Kim Hyun-Woo
Published: June 2016

We developed a cost-effective metabarcoding strategy to analyze phytoplankton community structure using the Illumina MiSeq system. The amplicons (404--411 bp) obtained by end-pairing of two reads were sufficiently long to distinguish algal species and provided barcode data equivalent to those generated with the Roche 454 system, but at less than 1/20th of the cost. The original universal primer sequences targeting the 23S rDNA region and the PCR strategy were both modified, and this resulted in higher numbers of eukaryotic algal sequences by excluding non-photosynthetic proteobacterial sequences supporting effectiveness of this strategy. The novel strategy was used to analyze the phytoplankton community structure of six water samples from the East/Japan Sea: surface and 50 m depths at coastal and open-sea sites, with collections in May and July 2014. In total, 345 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified, which covered most of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic algal phyla, including Dinophyta, Rhodophyta, Ochrophyta, Chlorophyta, Streptophyta, Cryptophyta, Haptophyta, and Cyanophyta. This highlights the importance of plastid 23S primers, which perform better than the currently used 16S primers for phytoplankton community surveys. The findings also revealed that more efforts should be made to update 23S rDNA sequences as well as those of 16S in the databases. Analysis of algal proportions in the six samples showed that community structure differed depending on location, depth and season. Across the six samples evaluated, the numbers of OTUs in each phylum were similar but their relative proportions varied. This novel strategy would allow laboratories to analyze large numbers of samples at reasonable expense, whereas this has not been possible to date due to cost and time. In addition, we expect that this strategy will generate a large amount of novel data that could potentially change established methods and tools that are currently used in the realms of oceanography and marine ecology.
Early Evaluation of Relative Changes in Tumor Stiffness by Shear Wave Elastography Predicts the Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Jing Hui , Cheng Wen , Li Zi-Yao , Ying Liu , Wang Qiu-Cheng , Wu Tong , Tian Jia-Wei
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy plays an important role in comprehensive therapy for breast cancer, but response prediction is imperfect. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is a novel technique that can quantitatively evaluate tissue stiffness. In this study, we sought to investigate the application value of SWE for early prediction of the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated tumor stiffness in 62 patients with breast cancer using SWE, which was performed at baseline and after the second cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. After chemotherapy, all of the patients underwent surgery. We investigated the correlations between the relative changes in tumor stiffness (Δ stiffness) after 2 cycles of chemotherapy and the pathologic response to the therapy.

Results

Compared with baseline values, tumor stiffness after 2 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy was significantly decreased in responders (P < .001) but not in nonresponders (P = .172). The Δstiffness was significantly higher in responders (−42.194%) than in nonresponders (−23.593%; P = .001). As determined at either the baseline or after the second cycle of chemotherapy, tumor stiffness was significantly lower in responders than in nonresponders (P = .033 and .009, respectively). The Δ stiffness threshold for distinguishing between responders and nonresponders was −36.1% (72.92% sensitivity and 85.71% specificity). Furthermore, correlating Δ stiffness with clinical and pathologic characteristics, we found that estrogen and progesterone receptor expression showed statistically significant correlations with Δ stiffness (estrogen receptor, P = .008; progesterone receptor, P = .023).

Conclusions

Early evaluation of relative changes in tumor stiffness using SWE could effectively predict the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer and might indicate better therapeutic strategies on a timelier basis.
Sonographic‐Pathologic Correlation for Punctate Echogenic Reflectors in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Tahvildari Ali M. , Pan Lorraine , Kong Christina S. , Desser Terry
Published: June 2016

Objectives

It is commonly held that punctate nonshadowing echogenic foci on sonography, often termed microcalcifications, represent psammoma bodies. We aimed to determine the validity of this supposition by correlating the presence of punctate echogenic foci on sonography with their presence at histopathologic examination.

Methods

We examined 51 nodules (surgically proven papillary thyroid carcinoma) by sonography and histopathologic examination. On the latter, nodules were examined for evidence of psammomatous calcifications, dystrophic calcifications, and colloid. Two subspecialty‐trained radiologists with 2 and 25 years of experience in sonography, respectively, reviewed the sonograms for the presence and distribution of punctate echogenic foci.

Results

All nodules contained colloid at histologic examination. Twenty of the papillary carcinomas lacked any calcification at pathologic examination. In the remaining 31 nodules with calcifications, 13 had psammomatous calcifications only; 6 had both coarse and psammomatous calcifications; and 12 had only coarse calcifications. The presence of punctate echogenic foci on sonography was 74% sensitive, was 46% to 53% specific, and had a positive predictive value of only 45% to 48% for the presence of psammomatous calcifications. The computed 2‐tailed P value indicated that the punctate echogenic foci‐to‐psammoma body correlation was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The sonographic signature commonly referred to as “microcalcifications” may represent a variety of entities, including psammomatous calcifications, dystrophic calcifications, and eosinophilic colloid; for this reason, “punctate echogenic foci” would be a more accurate term.
Comparison of Drainage, Delayed Pits Excision, and Closure With Excision and Secondary Healing in Pilonidal Sinus Abscess Cases
Authors: Sözen Selim , Aziret Mehmet , Bali İlhan , Yıldırım Ali Cihat
Published: June 2016

A pilonidal abscess is an emergency situation which requires immediate drainage and is usually seen in young men. We aimed to compare incision and draining (I&D) of acute pilonidal abscess (PSA) and healing by secondary intention with I&D and subsequent delayed pits excision and closure (PE/PC). A total of 62 patients admitted with PSA were randomized to undergo either I&D and healing by secondary intention (group 1, n = 33) or I&D and PE/PC (group 2, n = 29). Demographic characteristics of the patients, abscess depth and location, duration and healing times of the symptoms, time required to return to work, and ratio of chronic pilonidal sinus (PNS) development were recorded, and the two methods were compared. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in relation to sex, age, and preoperative findings, including discharge, infection, pain, and length and depth of abscess. There was no difference in length of hospital stay between the groups, and no statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of complication rate (P = 0.298). A statistically significant difference (P = 0.033) was, however, found between the two groups in the recurrence rate of a pilonidal abscess (9.09% in group 1 versus 3.44% in group 2). A statistically significant difference was also observed between the groups in terms of development of chronic PNS (P = 0.020). According to the results of our study, I&D and PE/PC should be the primary procedure used, as opposed to skin incision, curettage, and secondary healing for the treatment of PSA.
A new perspective on global mean sea level (GMSL) acceleration
Authors: Watson Phil J.
Published: June 2016

The vast body of contemporary climate change science is largely underpinned by the premise of a measured acceleration from anthropogenic forcings evident in key climate change proxies—greenhouse gas emissions, temperature, and mean sea level. By virtue, over recent years, the issue of whether or not there is a measurable acceleration in global mean sea level has resulted in fierce, widespread professional, social, and political debate. Attempts to measure acceleration in global mean sea level (GMSL) have often used comparatively crude analysis techniques providing little temporal instruction on these key questions. This work proposes improved techniques to measure real‐time velocity and acceleration based on five GMSL reconstructions spanning the time frame from 1807 to 2014 with substantially improved temporal resolution. While this analysis highlights key differences between the respective reconstructions, there is now more robust, convincing evidence of recent acceleration in the trend of GMSL.
A high‐resolution record of Greenland mass balance
Authors: McMillan Malcolm , Leeson Amber , Shepherd Andrew , Briggs Kate , Armitage Thomas W. K. , Hogg Anna , Kuipers Munneke Peter , van den Broeke Michiel , Noël Brice , van de Berg Willem Jan , Ligtenberg Stefan , Horwath Martin , Groh Andreas , Muir Alan , Gilbert Lin
Published: June 2016

We map recent Greenland Ice Sheet elevation change at high spatial (5 km) and temporal (monthly) resolution using CryoSat‐2 altimetry. After correcting for the impact of changing snowpack properties associated with unprecedented surface melting in 2012, we find good agreement (3 cm/yr bias) with airborne measurements. With the aid of regional climate and firn modeling, we compute high spatial and temporal resolution records of Greenland mass evolution, which correlate (R = 0.96) with monthly satellite gravimetry and reveal glacier dynamic imbalance. During 2011–2014, Greenland mass loss averaged 269 ± 51 Gt/yr. Atmospherically driven losses were widespread, with surface melt variability driving large fluctuations in the annual mass deficit. Terminus regions of five dynamically thinning glaciers, which constitute less than 1% of Greenland's area, contributed more than 12% of the net ice loss. This high‐resolution record demonstrates that mass deficits extending over small spatial and temporal scales have made a relatively large contribution to recent ice sheet imbalance.
High‐Speed Surface Structuring of Polycarbonate Using Direct Laser Interference Patterning: Toward 1 m2 min−1 Fabrication Speed Barrier
Authors: Lang Valentin , Roch Teja , Lasagni Andrés Fabián
Published: June 2016

Periodic structures with micro‐ or sub‐micrometer resolution can be used to improve the mechanical, biological, or optical properties of surfaces. Direct laser interference patterning combines high resolution (sub‐micrometer feature sizes) with high fabrication speed. New processing heads for high‐speed laser interference patterning of polycarbonate are introduced, which provide effective patterning speeds up to 0.9 m2 min–1. The surface topography of the processed polymer is analyzed by confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Focused ion beam is used to create cross‐sections to determine the structuring mechanism. Finally, high‐speed interference patterning is compared to conventional direct laser writing.
Magnetic Nanoparticles‐Supported Chiral Catalyst with an Imidazolium Ionic Moiety: An Efficient and Recyclable Catalyst for Asymmetric Michael and Aldol Reactions
Authors: Ying Anguo , Liu Shuo , Li Zhifeng , Chen Gang , Yang Jianguo , Yan Hua , Xu Songlin
Published: June 2016

A magnetic nanoparticles‐supported chiral aminocyclohexane in combination with sulfamide, which was modified by an imidazolium ionic moiety, was prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), thermal gravimetric (TG) analysis and elementary analysis. The catalyst was successfully applied not only in the enantioselective Michael addition but also in the asymmetric aldol condensation to afford good to excellent yields (70–94%) and satisfactory stereoselectivity (ee: 92–100%, dr: 91:9–99:1).The role of the ionic moiety was verified by comparison of the catalyst with an ionic moiety‐free counterpart. The heterogeneous catalyst was easily separated and recovered using external magnetic force and can be used for up to five times without obvious loss in its catalytic activity.

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Recyclable Enantioselective Catalysts Based on Copper(II) Complexes of 2‐(Pyridine‐2‐yl)imidazolidine‐4‐thione: Their Application in Asymmetric Henry Reactions
Authors: Nováková Gabriela , Drabina Pavel , Frumarová Božena , Sedlák Miloš
Published: June 2016

This paper describes the preparation of enantioselective catalysts based on derivatives of imidazolidine‐4‐thione and their subsequent anchoring by means of a sulfur atom on a polymeric carrier. First, we verified the catalytic activity and enantioselectivity in the Henry reaction of the homogeneous variants of the catalysts, i.e., the copper(II) complexes of 2‐(pyridine‐2‐yl)imidazolidine‐4‐thiones and 4‐benzylsufanyl‐2‐(pyridine‐2‐yl)imidazolines themselves. It was found that these catalysts exhibit high enantioselectivity (up to 98% ee). Subsequently, the imidazolidine‐4‐thione catalysts were immobilized by anchoring to polymeric carriers based on a copolymer of styrene and 4‐vinylbenzyl chloride. These heterogeneous catalysts were analogously tested with regard to their catalytic activity and enantioselectivity in the Henry reaction, and moreover, the possibility of their separation and reuse was studied. It was found that all the prepared immobilized catalysts are highly enantioselective (up to 97% ee). Their recycling ability was tested in Henry reaction of 2‐methoxybenzaldehyde with nitromethane. It was found that they can be recycled more than ten times without any decrease of their enantioselectivity. Therefore, they present a better means of catalysis than the original copper(II) complexes of imidazolidine‐4‐ones from both economic as well as ecological points of view. Thus, such immobilized catalysts exhibit high application potential for the asymmetric Henry reaction.

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Gait characteristics and spatio‐temporal variables of climbing in bonobos (Pan paniscus)
Authors: Schoonaert Kirsten , D'Août Kristiaan , Samuel Diana , Talloen Willem , Nauwelaerts Sandra , Kivell Tracy L. , Aerts Peter
Published: June 2016

Although much is known about the terrestrial locomotion of great apes, their arboreal locomotion has been studied less extensively. This study investigates arboreal locomotion in bonobos (Pan paniscus), focusing on the gait characteristics and spatio‐temporal variables associated with locomotion on a pole. These features are compared across different substrate inclinations (0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°), and horizontal quadrupedal walking is compared between an arboreal and a terrestrial substrate. Our results show greater variation in footfall patterns with increasing incline, resulting in more lateral gait sequences. During climbing on arboreal inclines, smaller steps and strides but higher stride frequencies and duty factors are found compared to horizontal arboreal walking. This may facilitate better balance control and dynamic stability on the arboreal substrate. We found no gradual change in spatio‐temporal variables with increasing incline; instead, the results for all inclines were clustered together. Bonobos take larger strides at lower stride frequencies and lower duty factors on a horizontal arboreal substrate than on a flat terrestrial substrate. We suggest that these changes are the result of the better grip of the grasping feet on an arboreal substrate. Speed modulation of the spatio‐temporal variables is similar across substrate inclinations and between substrate types, suggesting a comparable underlying motor control. Finally, we contrast these variables of arboreal inclined climbing with those of terrestrial bipedal locomotion, and briefly discuss the results with respect to the origin of habitual bipedalism. Am. J. Primatol. 78:1165–1177, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neue Ansätze für die Synthese von Metallcarbenen
Authors: Jia Minqiang , Ma Shengming
Published: June 2016

Metallcarbene sind vielseitige Verbindungen, deren Reaktivität sowohl durch das Metall als auch den Liganden gesteuert werden kann. Zur Synthese von Metallcarbenen nutzt man im Allgemeinen die Stickstoff‐Eliminierung von Diazoverbindungen, die allerdings häufig instabil, explosiv und toxisch sind, was ihren Einsatz in großskaligen Synthesen einschränkt. Demzufolge gibt es eine intensive Suche nach nachhaltigen und ungefährlichen Ersatzsubstraten für die zuverlässige Herstellung von Metallcarbenen. In diesem Aufsatz fassen wir die wichtigsten Fortschritte bei der Erzeugung, katalytischen Reaktionen und der Selektivitätskontrolle von Metallcarbenen zusammen, die nicht aus Diazoverbindungen gebildet wurden.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed N‐Desulfonylative Amination versus N‐to‐O 1,5‐Sulfonyl Migration: A Versatile Approach to 1‐Azabicycloalkanes
Authors: Miaskiewicz Solène , Gaillard Boris , Kern Nicolas , Weibel Jean‐Marc , Pale Patrick , Blanc Aurélien
Published: June 2016

Valuable 1‐azabicycloalkane derivatives have been synthesized through a novel gold(I)‐catalyzed desulfonylative cyclization strategy. An ammoniumation reaction of ynones substituted at the 1‐position with an N‐sulfonyl azacycle took place in the presence of a gold cation by intramolecular cyclization of the disubstituted sulfonamide moiety onto the triple bond. Depending on the size of the heterocyclic ring and substitution of the substrates, two unprecedented forms of nucleophilic attack on the sulfonyl group were exploited, that is, a N‐desulfonylation in the presence of an external protic O nucleophile (37–87 %, 10 examples) and a unique N‐to‐O 1,5‐sulfonyl migration (60–98 %, 9 examples).
The role of carbonaceous aerosols on short‐term variations of precipitation over North Africa
Authors: Yoon Jin‐Ho , Rasch Philip J. , Wang Hailong , Vinoj V. , Ganguly Dilip
Published: June 2016

Subtropical North Africa has been subject to extensive droughts in the late 20th century, linked to changes in the sea surface temperature (SST). However, climate models forced by observed SSTs cannot reproduce the magnitude of the observed rainfall reduction. Here, we propose aerosol indirect effects (AIE) as an important positive feedback mechanism. Model results are presented using two sets of sensitivity experiments designed to distinguish the role of aerosol direct/semi‐direct and indirect effects on regional precipitation. Changes in cloud properties due to the presence of carbonaceous aerosols are proposed as a key mechanism to explain the reduced rainfall over subtropical North Africa.