bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Conservative Management of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in a Patient with Posteromedial Knee Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Dewan Mansi , Tyagi Deepak , Sharma Nitin , Raj Harsh
Published: September 2024

Over the world, knee discomfort is a major problem. Since this discomfort is mostly associated with muscular dysfunction, it has been suggested that early in the rehabilitation process, efforts should be made to reduce muscle inhibition as this can postpone functional recovery. Studies have shown that a patient may only suffer knee pain in some circumstances, if a more proximal structure such as the hip or sacroiliac joint is impacted. This necessitates assessing pain referral from a proximal structure. The purpose of the present case study was to assess whether conservative treatment for sacroiliac joint improves the muscular dysfunction and functional abilities at the knee joint. A case study of a 27-year-old male who experienced excruciating knee pain during squats and runs is documented. Antalgic gait and decreased left SI hypomobility were seen throughout the examination accompanied by muscular imbalance. The patient reported a significant improvement in knee discomfort after the SI manipulation (VAS-4/10). The deep squat pain subsided and the gait showed signs of recovery. These symptoms improved in the ensuing sessions. When the LEFS was administered on the tenth day of the rehabilitation, the findings showed a significant improvement (LEFS 41 to 56). This case study discusses the connection between sacroiliac joint dysfunction and knee function. The present case study serves as additional evidence of the importance of a thorough regional assessment in preserving the equilibrium between the proximal and distal portions of the kinetic chain. Therefore, sacroiliac joint exams can be beneficial for patients and therapists when performed on individuals who are having knee pain.
Emotional Competence and Cognitive Abilities: A Comparative Survey Study of Active and Sedentary College Students
Authors: Choudhary S , Siwach P , Choudhury A , Verma S , Sehrawat H
Published: September 2024

Introduction: College students are prone to physical inactivity resulting in sedentary behaviour which may closely linked to their lower levels of cognitive function and emotional intelligence. The purpose is to compare the cognitive function and emotional intelligence among physically active versus sedentary college students. As physical activity is crucial for physical as well as psychological health of students that can help students to achieve better academically. Aim: To compare the cognitive function and emotional competence in college students. Materials and Methods: A total of 400 college students, aged 18- 30 years of either gender, were included in this questionnaire-based survey. The subjects were asked to fill google form regarding their activity level on Sedentary Behaviour Questionnaire, The Cognitive Assessment Questionnaire for cognitive competency and Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale for Emotional Intelligence. Participants were grouped into Group A (Sedentary) and Group B (Active), findings of both groups were compared. Results: Mean with SD for cognitive competency were 47.83±17.3 for Group A and 35.59±19.36 for Group B. Mean with SD for Emotional Intelligence four sub-domain SEA, ROE, UOE and OEA (Group A: 4.07±1.3, 4.29±1.3, 4.11±1.3, 4.08±1.3) (Group B: 4.75±1.7, 4.82±1.6, 4.71±1.6, 4.58±1.6) respectively. Results of Cognitive and Emotional Intelligence of Group B were found highly significant with p-value <0.05 than inactive subjects. Conclusion: Physical activity can help in better cognition and emotional intelligence among collegiate students. Implications: Some amount of physical activity is necessary to improve one’s emotional competence and cognitive function.
Understanding the Influence of 21st Century Diverse Mathematics Educators on Secondary School Student Outcomes in Mathematics in Mezam Division, Cameroon
Authors: Beyoh Dieudone Nkepah
Published: September 2024

This study explores the influence of 21st-century diverse mathematics educators on student outcomes in secondary school mathematics within Mezam Division, Cameroon. Employing an ex-post facto research design, the study assesses how gender, cultural diversity, and pedagogical diversity among mathematics teachers affect students' academic outcomes. The sample consisted of 518 students from 16 public and private high schools, who had completed their General Certificate of Education (GCE) Ordinary Level exams and were transitioning to Lower Sixth. Data were collected via a self-designed questionnaire, which evaluated perceptions of the impacts of teacher gender diversity, cultural diversity, and pedagogical diversity. Statistical analyses, including one-sample t-tests, revealed that male mathematics teachers had a significant positive impact on student outcomes compared to female teachers. Furthermore, cultural diversity among teachers significantly enhanced students' mathematics outcomes, and pedagogical diversity had a substantial positive effect as well. The findings underscore the importance of balancing gender representation, fostering cultural diversity, and embracing various pedagogical approaches to improve educational outcomes in mathematics. Recommendations include implementing policies for gender-balanced recruitment, supporting cultural inclusivity, and promoting diverse teaching methods to optimize student performance in mathematics.
Molecular Insights into the Adaptability and Pathogenicity of Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus
Authors: Kadi Ajay S. , Gunnaiah Raghavendra , Karthik C S , K C Venugopal , Ramanna Manjunath
Published: September 2024

Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus (ToLCNDV), a highly destructive begomovirus, poses a significant threat to vegetable crops, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. First identified in tomato, ToLCNDV has expanded its host range to include cucurbits and other economically important crops. Transmitted by the whitefly vector Bemisia tabaci, the virus follows a persistent transmission mode, allowing its rapid spread across diverse agro-ecosystems. Despite efforts to control ToLCNDV, its adaptability and broad host range have made effective management challenging. This study explores the molecular mechanisms underlying ToLCNDV’s transmission and host adaptability, focusing on specific viral genetic features, such as the 36-nucleotide duplication in the DNA-B component, which may enhance its ability to manipulate host defenses. The research also highlights the virus’s interactions with satellite molecules like betasatellites, which suppress host gene silencing, further contributing to its virulence. Through comparative genome analysis using BLAST and phylogenetic methods, this study examines genetic diversity among ToLCNDV isolates. Findings demonstrate evolutionary adaptations that have facilitated the virus's spread and persistence across different crops and geographical regions. The study underscores the importance of developing integrated pest management strategies, breeding virus-resistant plant varieties, and identifying genetic markers associated with host resistance. By understanding ToLCNDV's genomic features and transmission dynamics, this research aims to inform strategies for mitigating its impact on global agricultural systems. Our research demonstrated that ToLCNDV infection disrupts key physiological processes in tomatoes, leading to stunted growth, leaf curling, and yield reduction. Furthermore, we observed that whiteflies retained the virus for up to two weeks, supporting its high transmission efficiency. These findings underscore the need for more targeted control strategies to mitigate the virus's impact on global agriculture.
Ground‐based High Spectral Resolution Lidar observation of aerosol vertical distribution in the summertime Southeast United States
Authors: Reid Jeffrey S. , Kuehn Ralph E. , Holz Robert E. , Eloranta Edwin W. , Kaku Kathleen C. , Kuang Shi , Newchurch Michael J. , Thompson Anne M. , Trepte Charles R. , Zhang Jianglong , Atwood Samuel A. , Hand Jenny L. , Holben Brent N. , Minnis Patrick , Posselt Derek J.
Published: January 2017

As part of the Southeast United States‐based Studies of Emissions and Atmospheric Composition, Clouds and Climate Coupling by Regional Surveys (SEAC4RS), and collinear with part of the Southeast Atmosphere Study, the University of Wisconsin High Spectral Resolution Lidar system was deployed to the University of Alabama from 19 June to 4 November 2013. With a collocated Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) sun photometer, a nearby Chemical Speciation Network (PM2.5) measurement station, and near daily ozonesonde releases for the August–September SEAC4RS campaign, the site allowed the region's first comprehensive diurnal monitoring of aerosol particle vertical structure. A 532 nm lidar ratio of 55 sr provided good closure between aerosol backscatter and AERONET (aerosol optical thickness, AOT). A principle component analysis was performed to identify key modes of variability in aerosol backscatter. “Fair weather” days exhibited classic planetary boundary layer structure of a mixed layer accounting for ~50% of AOT and an entrainment zone providing another 25%. An additional 5–15% of variance is gained from the lower free troposphere from either convective detrainment or frequent intrusions of western United States biomass burning smoke. Generally, aerosol particles were contained below the 0°C level, a common level of stability in convective regimes. However, occasional strong injections of smoke to the upper troposphere were also observed, accounting for the remaining 10–15% variability in AOT. Examples of these common modes of variability in frontal and convective regimes are presented, demonstrating why AOT often has only a weak relationship to surface PM2.5 concentration.
Incorporating a prognostic representation of marine nitrogen fixers into the global ocean biogeochemical model HAMOCC
Authors: Paulsen Hanna , Ilyina Tatiana , Six Katharina D. , Stemmler Irene
Published: January 2017

Nitrogen (N2) fixation is a major source of bioavailable nitrogen to the euphotic zone, thereby exerting an important control on ocean biogeochemical cycling. This paper presents the incorporation of prognostic N2 fixers into the HAMburg Ocean Carbon Cycle model (HAMOCC), a component of the Max Planck Institute Earth System Model (MPI‐ESM). Growth dynamics of N2 fixers in the model are based on physiological characteristics of the cyanobacterium Trichodesmium. The applied temperature dependency confines diazotrophic growth and N2 fixation to the tropical and subtropical ocean roughly between 40°S and 40°N. Simulated large‐scale spatial patterns compare well with observations, and the global N2 fixation rate of 135.6 Tg N yr−1 is within the range of current estimates. The vertical distribution of N2 fixation also matches well the observations, with a major fraction of about 85% occurring in the upper 20 m. The observed seasonal variability at the stations BATS and ALOHA is reasonably reproduced, with highest fixation rates in northern summer/fall. Iron limitation was found to be an important factor in controlling the simulated distribution of N2 fixation, especially in the Pacific Ocean. The new model component considerably improves the representation of present‐day N2 fixation in HAMOCC. It provides the basis for further studies on the role of diazotrophs in global biogeochemical cycles, as well as on the response of N2 fixation to changing environmental conditions.
Method for the determination of chlorinated hydrocarbons in workplace air using gas chromatography [Air Monitoring Methods, 2016]
Authors: Krämer W. , Brock T.H. , Hebisch R. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: January 2017

This analytical procedure is a validated measurement method for the determination of chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs) such as tetrachloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride, 1,1,1‐trichloroethane, 1,1,2‐trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, and trichloromethane and for monitoring their Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) or MAK values in workplace air. Sampling is performed by drawing a defined volume of air through an adsorption tube filled with activated charcoal using a flow‐regulated pump. The flow rate is set to 50 L/min with a recommended air sample volume of approx. 24 L at a sampling duration of 8 hours. The collected CHCs are desorbed with carbon disulphide containing n‐tetradecane as internal standard and analysed by means of gas chromatography fitted with flame ionisation detectors (FID) using two capillary columns of different polarity connected in parallel with the injector. The quantitative evaluation is based on calibration functions obtained by means of 6‐point calibrations with equidistant values in the lower working range. The limits of quantification (LOQs) are between 0.04 and 0.24 µg/m
3
for the individual CHC with an expanded uncertainty between 15 and 17%.

Joint Publication of the Analytical Subcommittee of the Chemistry Board of Experts of the Expert Committee Raw Materials and Chemical Industry of the German Social Accident Insurance and the Working Group “Air Monitoring Methods” of the Permanent Senate Commission of the DFG for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area.
Method for the determination of chlorinated hydrocarbons in workplace air using gas chromatography after thermal desorption [Air Monitoring Methods, 2016]
Authors: Tschickardt M. , Brock T.H. , Hebisch R. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: January 2017

This analytical procedure is a validated measurement method for the determination of chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs) such as dichloromethane, tetrachloroethylene, 1,1,1‐trichloroethane and trichloroethylene and for monitoring their Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) or MAK values in workplace air. Sampling is performed by drawing a defined volume of air through an adsorption tube filled with Chromosorb 106 using a flow‐regulated pump. The flow rate is set to 5 mL/min with a recommended air sample volume of 200 mL. The collected chlorinated hydrocarbons are thermally desorbed and analysed by means of gas chromatography fitted with two detectors, a flame ionisation detectors (FID) for quantification and a mass selective detector (MSD) for identification and quantification. The quantitative determination is based on calibration functions obtained by means of 10‐point calibrations. The limits of quantification (LOQs) are determined on the basis of aliquots from 1 to 10 mL of the calibration gases in the lower concentration range. The LOQs ranged from 0.85 to 4.3 mg/m
3
based on air sample volumes of 200 mL. The expanded uncertainties ranged from 13 to 23% over the entire measuring range.

Joint Publication of the Analytical Subcommittee of the Chemistry Board of Experts of the Expert Committee Raw Materials and Chemical Industry of the German Social Accident Insurance and the Working Group “Air Monitoring Methods” of the Permanent Senate Commission of the DFG for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area.
Boric acid and tetraborates [BAT Value Documentation, 2017]
Authors: Bolt H. M. , Golka K. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: January 2017

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated boric acid and tetraborates. Available publications are described in detail.

MAK values for boric acid and tetraborates of 10 mg boric acid/m
3
I (1.8 mg boron/m
3
) or 5 mg disodium tetraborate pentahydrate/m
3
I (0.75 mg boron/m
3
; also valid for other tetraborates and their hydrates) were established on the basis of the acute irritation effect to the respiratory tract. Additionally a potentially relevant systemic effect is a possible reproductive damage (effect on male fertility and embryotoxicity), only to be expected at concentrations above about 30 mg boron/m
3
. Exposures at such high levels have not been described even under worst case occupational hygienic conditions.

Due to the main local irritant effect the biological threshold values can only be derived from a correlation with the air concentration. There is a quantitatively comparable relationship between the total boron intake and its urinary excretion. The boron excretion caused by background exposure is subject to considerable variations, therefore the occupational exposure is obtained from the difference in boron excretion between post‐shift and pre‐shift urine. From this, for an exposure at the level of the MAK values, 8.5 mg boron/g creatinine is obtained as shift increment for urinary boron excretion in the case of boric acid and 4 mg boron/g creatinine in the case of borates. These values refer to the individually determined difference between the boron concentration in post‐shift and pre‐shift urine. Owing to the fact that local irritation is the main effect and that there is no systemic toxicity at this concentration, no biological tolerance value (BAT value) was derived.
Trichloroethene, 1,1,1‐trichloroethane, 1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane and tetrachloroethene – Determination of trichloroacetic acid in urine using headspace‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry [Biomonitoring Methods, 2017]
Authors: Will W. , Bader M. , Berger‐Preiss E. , Göen T. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: January 2017

Trichloroacetic acid is a metabolite of several chlorinated hydrocarbons which are often used as solvents, such as 1,1,1‐trichloroethane, 1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane, tetrachloroethene and above all trichloroethene.

The described method enables the determination of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in urine and is based on the quantitative, thermolytic degradation of TCA into carbon dioxide and chloroform (trichloromethane) in an aqueous solution. The analyte is chloroform, which can be quantified using headspace‐gas chromatography and a mass selective detector in the Selected‐Ion‐Monitoring‐mode. For quantitation, a calibration is carried out using standard solutions in pooled urine or water which are processed and analysed in the same way as the samples. The validation of the procedure showed a precision in the range of 4.0 to 5.5%. Mean accuracy ranged from 95 to 118%. LOQ was found to be 0.03 mg TCA per liter urine.
Bernsteinsäure [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig Andrea ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: January 2017

Succinic acid [butanedioic acid]

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated succinic acid to derive a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value), considering all toxicity endpoints.

The critical effect is severe local irritation as shown with the Draize test in the rabbit eye. Inhalation studies are not available, however, effects on the respiratory tract have to be assumed. Systemic toxicity in rats in the form of reduced body weight gain occurred at 1900 mg/kg body weight/day given in drinking water. After gavage administration, blood urea nitrogen was increased in female rats from 1000 mg/kg body weight/day and urinary protein was increased in males from 300 mg/kg body weight/day. The lower LOAEL in the gavage study as compared with the drinking water study suggests adverse effects on the kidney presumably due to the bolus application.

After comparing succinic acid with other solid acids, a MAK value of 2 mg succinic acid/m3I has been set in analogy to phosphoric acid, which is considered to be the worst‐case.

As the critical effect is local, succinic acid is assigned to Peak Limitation Category I. In analogy to phosphoric acid an excursion factor of 2 is set.

There is no reason to fear damage to the embryo or foetus when the MAK value is observed; thus, the substance is classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C.

Succinic acid is not genotoxic and not carcinogenic. No contact sensitizing effects have been observed. Skin contact is not expected to contribute significantly to systemic toxicity.
Dimethylsulfoxid [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig Andrea ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: January 2017

Dimethyl sulfoxide [methylsulfinylmethane]

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated the possibility to add the indication “prerequisite for Pregnancy Risk Group C” to the classification of Pregnancy Risk Group B for dimethyl sulfoxide at the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of 50 ml/m
3
. The lowest NOAEL for developmental toxicity in rabbits is 300 mg/kg body weight/day, which after toxicokinetic scaling corresponds to a concentration of 268 ml/m
3
at the workplace. Liquid dimethyl sulfoxide penetrates the skin at the same rate as dimethylformamide. In addition to the amount taken up via the lung, it has to be assumed that the same amount of dimethyl sulfoxide is taken up via the skin from the gas phase as was shown with dimethylformamide in volunteers. Therefore, damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely at the concentration of 12 ml/m
3
and less. An exposure not higher than this concentration would be the prerequisite for an assignment to Pregnancy Risk Group C.
Tantal (alveolengängige Fraktion) [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig Andrea ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: January 2017

Tantalum (respirable Fraction)

Tantalum is a biopersistent granular dust of a high density. Tantalum is not systemically distributed and accumulates only locally in the lungs. On the basis of current knowledge it cannot be estimated to what extent the high density of the tantalum particles has an influence on the burden of macrophages and the transport of the particles by the macrophages. Therefore, a MAK value in analogy to the biopersistent granular dusts cannot be established. Consequently, the respirable fraction of tantalum dust is classified in Carcinogen Category 3R and remains a candidate for Carcinogen Category 4.

Since no MAK value can be established, neither a peak limitation category nor a pregnancy risk group can be determined for tantalum. Tantalum is not designated with either “Sa” or “Sh” or “H”.
Alkylamine, C11–14‐verzweigte, Monohexyl‐ und Dihexylphosphate [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig Andrea ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: January 2017

Alkyl amines, C11–14‐branched, monohexyl and dihexyl phosphates

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated alkyl amines, C11‐14‐branched, monohexyl and dihexyl phosphates to derive a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value), considering all toxicity endpoints. In a screening study according to OECD Test Guideline 422, inflammation in the lymph nodes and the adrenals was seen at the lowest dose of 10 mg/kg body weight and day after gavage administration to rats. The mixture is irritating to skin and eyes but an inhalation study to address possible irritation potential in the respiratory tract is lacking. For this reason and as no systemic NOAEL was obtained, a MAK value could not be derived and the substance is assigned to Section II b of the List of MAK and BAT Values. In the screening study, no adverse effects on fertility of the parental animals or on development of the progeny were observed up to the highest dose of 100 mg/kg body weight and day. The substance is not genotoxic in vitro and studies in vivo as well as carcinogenicity studies are not available. There are no clinical results on contact sensitization in humans and no unequivocally positive sensitization tests in animals. The amount of skin absorption was not investigated and could not be calculated.
Di‐n‐butylphthalat [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig Andrea ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: January 2017

Di‐n‐butyl phthalate [dibutyl benzene‐1,2‐dicarboxylate]

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the developmental toxicity of di‐n‐butyl phthalate. Available publications are described in detail. In prenatal developmental toxicity studies in rats, the most sensitive endpoint was altered morphometry (size and organization) of the seminiferous cords, the precursor of the seminiferous tubules, at 50 mg/kg body weight and day and above; the NOAEL was 30 mg/kg body weight and day. In rats, teratogenic effects like hypospadia and underdeveloped or absent epididymides were observed at 250 mg/kg KG body weight and day and above; the NOAEL was 100 mg/kg body weight and day.

In a two‐generation reproduction toxicity study in rats, a LOAEL of 52 mg/kg body weight and day, the lowest dose, could be derived for foetotoxicity and decreased birth weight in the male animals. In rats, the NOAEL for behavioural toxicity is 291 mg/kg body weight and day in male pups. From a one‐generation reproduction toxicity study in mice, a NOAEL of 1410 mg/kg body weight and day could be derived for foetotoxicity and decreased number of live pups. The NOAEL/LOAEL for developmental toxicity and foetotoxicity can be scaled to concentrations of 32/107 and 84/252 mg/m3, respectively, at the workplace. Thus, damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely when the MAK value of 0.58 mg/m3is observed, and the classification in Pregnancy Risk Group C is confirmed.
Erhöhtes Atemvolumen am Arbeitsplatz – Bedeutung für die MAK‐Wert‐Ableitung bei Stoffen mit systemischer Wirkung [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig Andrea ,   MAK‐Kommission
Published: January 2017

Increased respiratory volume at the workplace – Significance for the derivation of the MAK value

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated whether MAK values which are derived from systemic effects in inhalation experiments in animals or in volunteers at rest should reflect that the respiratory volume at the workplace, and therefore the amount taken up, is higher than under these experimental conditions.

Assuming that the same external concentration in the air leads to the same internal exposure in all species at rest, it is taken into account when extrapolating data from inhalation studies in animals to humans that in the case of systemic effects the body burden (related to kg body weight) of the worker at the workplace, with an assumed respiratory volume of 10 m
3
in 8 hours, is about twice as high as that of the experimental animal in the usual 6‐hour experiment. The equivalent external concentration at the workplace is, therefore, half of that used in the experiment. This extrapolation applies only for gases and vapours with a blood:air distribution coefficient of > 5 and for aerosols, provided that the effect is the product of c×t. If it can be shown that the critical effect depends more on the concentration than the product of c×t and that the steady state was reached within the duration of the experiment, the equivalent concentration at the workplace is two thirds of the concentration used in the experiment, as then extrapolation of the usual 6‐hour exposure in animal experiments to the 8‐hour exposure at the workplace is no longer necessary.

When deriving MAK values for systemic effects from studies with volunteers at rest, the MAK value is established at half of the concentration used in the volunteer study, which is calculated from the ratio of the respiratory volume of workers to that of persons at rest. Gases and vapours with a blood:air distribution coefficient of < 5 represent an exception. In addition, the results are extrapolated to the longer daily exposure at the workplace, unless there are toxicokinetic data available that show this to be unnecessary. If there are valid PBPK models of exposure with the relevant metabolites in humans and animals, these are used for extrapolation from the experimental animal to persons at the workplace.
Boron Trifluoride‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 3‐Alkylidene‐3H‐indole N‐Oxides via Tandem Reaction of Propargylic Alcohols and Nitrosobenzenes
Authors: Muthusamy Sengodagounder , Balasubramani Alagesan , Suresh Eringathodi
Published: January 2017

An atom‐economical synthesis of 3‐alkylidene‐3H‐indole N‐oxides has been developed via a tandem reaction of propargylic alcohols and nitrosobenzenes in the presence of boron trifluoride etherate (BF3⋅Et2O) as catalyst. This method offers great potential for the synthesis of biologically important 3‐alkylidene‐3H‐indole N‐oxides and related derivatives.

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Numerical modeling of adhesive particle mixing
Authors: Tamadondar Mohammad R. , Rasmuson Anders , Thalberg Kyrre , Niklasson Björn Ingela
Published: January 2017

The discrete element method is used to investigate adhesive particle mixing in a system that includes large carrier particles and fine particle agglomerates in a Couette mixer. The simulation starts with 200 carriers and 10 agglomerates with 1000 fine particles each. During mixing, the agglomerates are broken, fractions adhere to the carriers, and there is continuous redistribution of fines between carriers. The focus is to obtain information on the quantity and quality of fine particles adhered to carriers by postprocessing the simulation data. Variation in the structure of agglomerates due to shearing is studied over mixing time. Findings indicate that major fraction of fine particles are dispersed evenly onto the surface of carriers and the rest are in form of free debris. A time‐dependent index is introduced to predict the degree of mixing. Finally, the adhesion force between carriers and coated layers is observed to have a peak at 1 nN. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 2599–2609, 2017
Estimation of spatial alumina concentration in an aluminum reduction cell using a multilevel state observer
Authors: Yao Yuchen , Cheung Cheuk‐Yi , Bao Jie , Skyllas‐Kazacos Maria , Welch Barry J. , Akhmetov Sergey
Published: January 2017

In the Hall‐Héroult process, spatial variations in alumina concentration are very difficult to measure and impossible to estimate from the conventionally monitored line amperage and cell voltage. This article presents an approach to estimate in real time the alumina concentration distribution in an aluminum reduction cell based on individual anode current measurements. One of the key difficulties is that the localized mass transfer rates are unknown. To overcome this issue, a multilevel state observer is developed based on the robust extended Kalman filter. The approach utilizes a dynamic model of a reduction cell that is discretized subsequently level by level, where the estimated variables at each level are used to estimate more detailed alumina concentration spatial distribution at the next level. The proposed approach is validated in an experimental study using an industrial cell. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 2806–2818, 2017
Selective Luminescent Labeling of DNA and RNA Quadruplexes by π‐Extended Ruthenium Light‐Up Probes
Authors: Saadallah Dounia , Bellakhal Mehdi , Amor Souheila , Lefebvre Jean‐François , Chavarot‐Kerlidou Murielle , Baussanne Isabelle , Moucheron Cécile , Demeunynck Martine , Monchaud David
Published: January 2017

A series of RuII complexes exhibiting π‐extended, acridine‐based ancillary chelating heterocycles display high affinity and selectivity for DNA and RNA quadruplexes. The most promising candidates (3, 4) possess remarkable light‐up luminophore properties (up to 330‐fold luminescence enhancement upon interaction with quadruplexes), enabling them to discriminate quadruplexes from genomic DNA owing to a photochemical mechanism involving DNA protection against non‐radiative decay (DAND), thus deviating from the other complexes of this series of ligands that exhibit an excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) that quenches their luminescence. The in vitro and preliminary in cellulo results shown here confirm the interest of this new family of fluorophores as invaluable molecular tools to detect G‐quadruplexes in cells.
A Versatile and Highly Selective Colorimetric Sensor for the Detection of Amines
Authors: Diaz Yvonne J. , Page Zachariah A. , Knight Abigail S. , Treat Nicolas J. , Hemmer James R. , Hawker Craig J. , Read de Alaniz Javier
Published: January 2017

The utility of Meldrum's activated furan (MAF) for the colorimetric detection of sub ppm levels of amines in solution, on solid supports, and as vapors is reported. MAF is synthesized in one step from inexpensive and commercially available starting materials and exhibits high selectivity for primary and secondary amines in the presence of competing nucleophiles. The reaction between activated furans and amines results in a distinct color change, discernable by the naked eye. UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy was utilized to monitor reactions in solution and determine detection limits. Additionally, solutions of MAF were useful as stains for thin layer chromatography and for monitoring solid‐phase synthesis of peptides and peptidomimetics. Finally, MAF was used to detect volatile amines released from fish samples, demonstrating potential for food spoilage applications.
Design of High Quality Chemical XOR Gates with Noise Reduction
Authors: Wood Mackenna L. , Domanskyi Sergii , Privman Vladimir
Published: January 2017

We describe a chemical XOR gate design that realizes gate‐response function with filtering properties. Such gate‐response function is flat (has small gradients) at and in the vicinity of all the four binary‐input logic points, resulting in analog noise suppression. The gate functioning involves cross‐reaction of the inputs represented by pairs of chemicals to produce a practically zero output when both are present and nearly equal. This cross‐reaction processing step is also designed to result in filtering at low output intensities by canceling out the inputs if one of the latter has low intensity compared with the other. The remaining inputs, which were not reacted away, are processed to produce the output XOR signal by chemical steps that result in filtering at large output signal intensities. We analyze the tradeoff resulting from filtering, which involves loss of signal intensity. We also discuss practical aspects of realizations of such XOR gates.
Indirect exposure to client trauma and the impact on trainee clinical psychologists: Secondary traumatic stress or vicarious traumatization?
Authors: Makadia Rakhee , Sabin‐Farrell Rachel , Turpin Graham
Published: January 2017

Objectives

The study investigated the relationship between exposure to trauma work and well‐being (general psychological distress, trauma symptoms, and disrupted beliefs) in trainee clinical psychologists. It also assessed the contribution of individual and situational factors to well‐being.

Design

A Web‐based survey was employed.

Methods

The survey comprised the General Health Questionnaire, Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale, Trauma and Attachment Belief Scale, Trauma Screening Questionnaire, and specific questions about exposure to trauma work and other individual and situational factors. The link to the online survey was sent via email to trainee clinical psychologists attending courses throughout the UK

Results

Five hundred sixty‐four trainee clinical psychologists participated. Most trainees had a caseload of one to two trauma cases in the previous 6 months; the most common trauma being sexual abuse. Exposure to trauma work was not related to general psychological distress or disrupted beliefs but was a significant predictor of trauma symptoms. Situational factors contributed to the variance in trauma symptoms; level of stress of clinical work and quality of trauma training were significant predictors of trauma symptoms. Individual and situational factors were also found to be significant predictors of general psychological distress and disrupted beliefs.

Conclusions

This study provides support for secondary traumatic stress but lacks evidence to support belief changes in vicarious traumatization or a relationship between exposure to trauma work and general psychological distress. The measurement and validity of vicarious traumatization is discussed along with clinical, theoretical implications, and suggestions for future research.

Practitioner Points

Secondary traumatic stress is a potential risk for trainee clinical psychologists.

Training courses should (a) focus on quality of trauma training as it may be protective; (b) advocate coping strategies to reduce stress of clinical work, as the level of stress of clinical work may contribute to trauma symptoms.

Limitations include

Exposure to trauma work only uniquely explained a small proportion of variance in trauma symptoms.

The study was cross‐sectional in nature therefore cannot imply causality.
BEfree: A new psychological program for binge eating that integrates psychoeducation, mindfulness, and compassion
Authors: Pinto‐Gouveia José , Carvalho Sérgio A. , Palmeira Lara , Castilho Paula , Duarte Cristiana , Ferreira Cláudia , Duarte Joana , Cunha Marina , Matos Marcela , Costa Joana
Published: January 2017

Background

Binge eating disorder (BED) is associated with several psychological and medical problems, such as obesity. Approximately 30% of individuals seeking weight loss treatments present binge eating symptomatology. Moreover, current treatments for BED lack efficacy at follow‐up assessments. Developing mindfulness and self‐compassion seem to be beneficial in treating BED, although there is still room for improvement, which may include integrating these different but complimentary approaches. BEfree is the first program integrating psychoeducation‐, mindfulness‐, and compassion‐based components for treating women with binge eating and obesity.

Objective

To test the acceptability and efficacy up to 6‐month postintervention of a psychological program based on psychoeducation, mindfulness, and self‐compassion for obese or overweight women with BED.

Design

A controlled longitudinal design was followed in order to compare results between BEfree (n = 19) and waiting list group (WL;n = 17) from preintervention to postintervention. Results from BEfree were compared from preintervention to 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

BEfree was effective in eliminating BED; in diminishing eating psychopathology, depression, shame and self‐criticism, body‐image psychological inflexibility, and body‐image cognitive fusion; and in improving obesity‐related quality of life and self‐compassion when compared to a WL control group. Results were maintained at 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up. Finally, participants rated BEfree helpful for dealing with impulses and negative internal experiences.

Conclusions

These results seem to suggest the efficacy of BEfree and the benefit of integrating different components such as psychoeducation, mindfulness, and self‐compassion when treating BED in obese or overweight women.

Key Practitioner Message

The current study provides evidence of the acceptability of a psychoeducation, mindfulness, and compassion program for binge eating in obesity (BEfree);

Developing mindfulness and self‐compassionate skills is an effective way of diminishing binge eating, eating psychopathology and depression, and increasing quality of life in women with obesity;

Integrating psychoeducation, mindfulness, and compassion seem to be effective in diminishing binge eating, with results maintained up to 6‐month postintervention.
A Simple Zinc Catalyst for Carbamate Synthesis Directly from CO2
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Yuan Hao‐Yu , Fukaya Norihisa , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Choi Jun‐Chul
Published: January 2017

Several zinc salts were employed as catalysts for the synthesis of carbamates directly from aromatic amines, CO2, and silicate esters. Zn(OAc)2 offered the best performance among the salts tested. The addition of an N‐donor ligand such as 1,10‐phenanthroline increased the yield. The best catalytic performance of Zn(OAc)2 can be explained by carboxylate‐assisted proton activation. The interaction between the substrate and the catalyst can be observed by chemical shifts in 1H and 15N NMR spectra. Isocyanate was a key intermediate, which was generated from amine and CO2. Silicate ester was finally converted to siloxane, which was determined by 29Si NMR. The commercially available catalyst system could be reused. The yield of isolated carbamate could reach up to 96 % with various substrates, and the catalytic reaction was amine‐selective in the presence of other functional groups.
Synthesis of Furandicarboxylic Acid Esters From Nonfood Feedstocks Without Concomitant Levulinic Acid Formation
Authors: van der Klis Frits , van Haveren Jacco , van Es Daan S. , Bitter Johannes H.
Published: January 2017

5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a versatile intermediate in biomass conversion pathways. However, the notoriously unstable nature of HMF imposes challenges to design selective routes to chemicals such as furan‐2,5‐dicarboxylic acid (FDCA). Here, a new strategy for obtaining furans is presented, bypassing the formation of the unstable HMF. Instead of starting with glucose/fructose and thus forming HMF as an intermediate, the new route starts from uronic acids, which are abundantly present in many agro residues such as sugar beet pulp, potato pulp, and citrus peels. Conversion of uronic acids, via ketoaldonic acids, to the intermediate formylfuroic acid (FFA) esters, and subsequently to FDCA esters, proceeds without formation of levulinic acid or insoluble humins. This new route provides an attractive strategy to valorize agricultural waste streams and a route to furanic building blocks without the co‐production of levulinic acid or humins.
Power optimization using optimal small cell arrangements in different deployment scenarios
Authors: Gupta Akhil , Jha Rakesh Kumar
Published: January 2017

For smooth transition from 4G to 5G, there is a need for optimizing the power in the wireless communication. In 5G, it is expected that the number of users will increase drastically that correspondingly increase the utilization of power in the transmitter and receiver sides. So researchers and academicians are now finding ways to optimize the power. Some optimizing methods like convex optimization are very helpful for optimized algorithm design. In this paper, a proposed mathematical approach for deployment of small cell access point is used for optimizing the power consumption in the massive multiple input and multiple output and small cell scenario. The new proposed mathematical approach will also help in deciding the optimal number of small cell access points and optimal location of these small cell access points for the particular deployment scenario like urban macro heterogeneous deployment scenario in the 3GPP LTE standard and different macro deployment scenario in the ITU‐R M.2135 standard like urban macro, suburban macro, and rural macro, for optimizing the power.
Cross‐layer technique for boosting base‐station anonymity in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Alsemairi Sami , Younis Mohamed
Published: January 2017

A wireless sensor network (WSN) principally is composed of many sensor nodes and a single in situ base station (BS), which are randomly distributed in a given area of interest. These sensor nodes transmit their measurements to the BS over multihop wireless paths. In addition to collecting and processing the sensed data, the BS performs network management operations. Because of the importance of the BS to the WSN, it is the most attractive target of attacks for an adversary. Basically, the adversary opts to locate the BS and target it with denial‐of‐service attack to temporarily or indefinitely disrupt the WSN operation. The adversary can intercept the data packet transmissions and use traffic analysis techniques such as evidence theory to uncover the routing topology. To counter such an attack, this paper presents a novel technique for boosting the BS anonymity by grouping nodes into clusters and creating multiple mesh‐based routing topologies among the cluster heads (CHs). By applying the closed space‐filling curves such as the Moore curve, for forming a mesh, the CHs are offered a number of choices for disseminating aggregated data to the BS through inter‐CH paths. Then, the BS forwards the aggregated data as well so that it appears as one of the CHs. The simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed technique in boosting the anonymity of the BS.
Spelling and Morphology in Dyslexia: A Developmental Study Across the School Years
Authors: Schiff Rachel , Levie Ronit
Published: January 2017

The current study examined the effect of morphological knowledge on spelling development in Hebrew‐speaking schoolchildren, adolescents and adults with dyslexia, compared with typically developing (TD) peers. Participants were 238 Hebrew‐speaking readers of five grade levels of whom 139 were TD and 99 had developmental dyslexia (DD). Participants were tested on a function letter spelling task, a phonological awareness task and a morphological awareness task. The overall picture that emerged from the results is that performance on all measures increased with grade level, with TD participants always scoring higher than peers with DD. Moreover, the higher the morphological complexity in spelling and irregularity in noun inflection, the higher the differences between the DD and TD participants. Finally, performance on the morphological awareness task contributed to spelling morphologically more complex spelling items in the TD, but not in the DD group. From clinical and educational perspectives, these results strongly suggest that rigorous morphological instruction is necessary in teaching children and adolescents with dyslexia to identify and use morphological cues in spoken and written Hebrew. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crack willow changing riverine landscapes in Patagonia
Authors: Datri L. , Faggi A. , Gallo L.
Published: January 2017

In Patagonia (Argentina) in recent decades, the exotic species and hybrids of Salix alba–Salix fragilis complex has spread over wide areas along watercourses, taking advantage of it is sexually and vegetatively propagation. It outcompetes with native vegetation, facilitated by stochastic events related to large floods of long‐lasting duration higher than the average maximum of 186 m3/s for more than a day. We analysed the exotic willow's increase along the braiding Azul River, and the hydrological regime between 1966 and 2012. We evaluated the links between regime and tree density over time using dendrochronological data. Results showed an increase of the forest's cover from 2.1% to 70.8% over the last 46 years. The densities of exotic willows grew exponentially between 1966 and 1973, during a period which was free of higher floods. The initial native populations declined as willow's population increased. Up to 1973, there was an increase in the native populations too. Then from 1974 on, the willow showed a gradual growth coupled with a decline in the native trees. Up to 1977, the willow expansion could be linked to an extreme flood that reached 392 m3/s (210.75%) greater than the average of the maximum flows). We concluded that plant succession in the Azul River follows a “Red Queen” effect whereby the exotic willow and native trees repeatedly reorganized the system after pulses and periods of extreme flooding events.