bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análise do Solver Twoliquid Mixing Foam para simulação de uma mistura
Authors: Ivanski Rogério , Silva Raquel da Cunha Ribeiro da
Published: August 2024

A simulação numérica de escoamentos de fluidos é uma ferramenta essencial na engenharia e nas ciências aplicadas, permitindo a análise detalhada de fenômenos complexos, difíceis de estudar experimentalmente. Este trabalho investiga o comportamento de uma mistura de dois líquidos imiscíveis em uma cavidade, utilizando o solver TwoLiquidMixingFoam do software OpenFOAM. A motivação para este estudo está na importância da dinâmica de misturas de líquidos em diversas aplicações industriais, como na engenharia química, processamento de alimentos e tratamento de águas residuais. A metodologia incluiu a definição da geometria do domínio de simulação, a especificação das propriedades físicas dos fluidos e a análise de malha para garantir resolução espacial adequada. Condições iniciais e de contorno foram estabelecidas com base em cenários típicos da literatura. O solver TwoLiquidMixingFoam utilizou o método de Volume of Fluid (VOF) para capturar a interface entre os líquidos, proporcionando uma representação precisa do comportamento interfacial. Os resultados foram analisados com foco na convergência dos resíduos e na visualização dos campos de velocidade. Os gráficos de convergência mostraram uma tendência decrescente dos resíduos ao longo do tempo, indicando que a simulação atingiu um estado estável. As visualizações 2D e 3D dos vetores de velocidade e linhas de corrente revelaram padrões de escoamento característicos, proporcionando uma compreensão detalhada dos fenômenos dinâmicos envolvidos. Conclui-se que o solver TwoLiquidMixingFoam do OpenFOAM é eficaz na simulação de misturas de líquidos imiscíveis, capturando detalhadamente as dinâmicas complexas da interação entre os líquidos.
Piper nigrum Leaf Extract Mediated Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles and their Antimicrobial Activity Against Soil Phytopathogens
Authors: E.S Krishnapriya , Vijayaraghavan Reshmy , Varghese Sible George , M. S. Smitha , K. Smitha John,
Published: August 2024

The bio-inspired synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using Piper nigrum leaf extract (BP-CuONPs) is reported in this study. The rapid reduction of copper (Cu2+) ions was preliminarily confirmed using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer with peak formation at 270 nm. Further-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the crystalline phase of copper oxide with a monoclinic crystal structure. Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of the nanoparticles revealed the presence of various functional groups, including alcohol, phenols, carboxylic acids, and amide containing alkaloids such as piperine, which serve as reducing and capping agents for the metal nanoparticles and indicate the presence of metal oxide nanoparticles. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy revealed that the weight percentage of copper was approximately 68.29%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the formation of spherical BP-CuONP NPs with an average particle size of 5 nm- 24.5 nm. BP-CuONPs exhibited complete inhibition against four soil-borne fungal phytopathogens at 1500ppm.
Analytical Thinking and Mathematics Performance: Insights from Mezam Division, Cameroon
Authors: Nkepah Beyoh Dieudone
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze the impact of students' analytical thinking abilities on their mathematics performance in Mezam Division, Cameroon. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach. The study was carried out using seven functional public secondary schools in Mezam Division for the 2023/2024 academic year, with first cycle students (Forms 1 to 5) constituting the population of the study. With the help of the Krejcie and Morgan Table, a sample of 368 students was drawn from an accessible population 8813 first cycle students. The proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to select this sample for the collection of quantitative data. On the other hand, 14 respondents were purposively sampled from all the schools to participate in the semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data was collected using a questionnaire while qualitative data was collected using interview prompts. The questionnaire was vetted by three experts and its test-retest reliability index established as .93.  The quantitative data collected were analysed using frequency counts, means, one sample t-test and regression analysis aided by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. The qualitative analysis was done using the thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that students in Mezam Division exhibit significantly low analytical thinking abilities. They also revealed that there is a strong positive correlation (.850) between students' analytical thinking abilities and their mathematics academic performance. Furthermore, the regression analysis indicated that approximately 72.3% of the variations in students' mathematics academic performance can be accounted for or predicted by their analytical thinking abilities. Conclusively, the study highlights the essential importance of boosting students' analytical thinking skills to notably enhance their performance in mathematics, emphasizing the need for focused educational strategies. It was recommended that educators and policymakers need to focus on nurturing, developing and fostering students' analytical thinking abilities through targeted interventions and teaching strategies.
Trend Analysis of Rainfall in Mahabubnagar District of Telangana State, India
Authors: Ch Preethi , A Meena , S Rathod , B Balaji naik
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze the trend analysis of long-term monthly, seasonal and annual rainfall patterns in Mahabubnagar district, Telangana state. Monthly rainfall data from January 1980 to December 2023 was collected from the IMD website. The linear regression trend line and non-parametric tests, such as the Mann-Kendall test, Modified Mann-Kendall test and Innovative Trend Analysis tests were used to understand the trends in the rainfall data. The Wallis and Moore test was applied to assess the randomness of the rainfall data. The linear regression trend method revealed both increasing and decreasing trends in rainfall data for Mahabubnagar district. A significant increasing trend was observed in May, while the remaining months showed non-significant trends according to the Modified Mann-Kendall test. The pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon periods also exhibited non-significant trends in the rainfall pattern in Mahabubnagar district. The annual rainfall of Telangana showed a non-significant trend pattern based on the Modified Mann-Kendall test. The Innovative Trend Analysis approach indicated a significant increase in rainfall in February and a significant decrease in rainfall in November and December. Accurate identification of rainfall patterns in the area can help create appropriate policy measures in advance to plan for future climate uncertainties.
Assessing the Impact and Causes of Rice Panicle Necrosis in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Pierre Brissé Labré , Daniel Kra Kouamé , Y Toualy Marie Noel , Regis Kouakou Yadom Yao François
Published: August 2024

Rice is a staple food for millions of people around the world, particularly in Côte d'Ivoire. Its production is subject to numerous biotic constraints, including rice panicle necrosis. Rice panicle necrosis, previously neglected, has taken on worrying proportions in Côte d'Ivoire's rice-growing basins over the past half decade. The aim of this study is to diagnose rice panicle necrosis in Côte d'Ivoire. A phytosanitary survey was conducted in rice-growing basins across three agroecological zones of Côte d'Ivoire in order to describe the symptoms of rice panicle necrosis and assess its importance. The fungi responsible for rice panicle necrosis were identified. Rice panicle necrosis is characterized by the development of grain necrosis and the development of thin, empty grains on the panicles. Rice panicle necrosis was found in all agroecological zones, with the highest prevalence (58.49 to 72.21%), severity index (72.32 to 85.27%), and production loss (48.70 to 54.75%) in the Divo and Gagnoa rice-growing basins. Three species of Fusarium, including Fusarium fujikuroi, Fusarium verticillioides, and Fusarium proliferatum, are responsible for rice panicle necrosis in Côte d'Ivoire. It is important to assess the impact of these fungi on rice production in order to design a program to manage rice panicle necrosis.
Screening of Sesamum (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes Against Powdery Mildew Disease
Authors: Soniya K , Rani K. Jhansi , Padmaja D. , Balram N. , Yadav Praduman
Published: August 2024

An investigation was conducted to screen twentyseven genotypes to identify the source of resistance to powdery mildew disease. All the twenty seven genotypes were raised during summer 2024 at RARS, Jagtial under unprotected field conditions, following infector row technique with Swetha as susceptible check. After 50-60 DAS,the genotypes were scored for powdery mildew using 0-9 scale.  Among the genotypes screened,seven genotypes viz., BRT-04, JCS 2454 × BRT-04, JCS 1020 × BRT-04, Rajeshwari × JCS 1020, JCS 1020 × ES-139-2-84, Rajeshwari × ES-139-2-84, Swetha × ES-139-2-84 were found resistant with PDI score ranging from 1-30 %. Seventeen genotypes were found moderately resistant with PDI ranging from 30%-50% and two genotypes viz., Rajeshwari and JCS DT 26 exhibited PDI score between 50-100% was found to be susceptible. None of the genotypes were found to be immune in response.The identified resistant genotypes can be further utilized for development of resistant varieties and also aids in identification of marker through molecular breeding.
Evaluating the Trade-offs between Wireless Security and Performance in IoT Networks: A Case Study of Web Applications in AI-Driven Home Appliances
Authors: Asonze Christopher Uzoma , Ogungbemi Olumide Samuel , Ezeugwa Favour Amarachi , Olisa Anthony Obulor , Akinola Oluwaseun Ibrahim , Olaniyi Oluwaseun Oladeji
Published: August 2024

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) with artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming home appliances into smarter, more responsive tools that enhance daily living. However, this technological fusion introduces significant security challenges, necessitating a careful balance between security and performance within IoT networks. First, the study answers the question of the trade-offs between security measures and performance metrics in web applications for AI-driven home appliances, and second, how can these trade-offs be optimized to ensure both robust security and high system performance? Using qualitative content analysis, the study identified key security flaws in web application architectures, while quantitative analysis assessed the impact of security protocols on system performance metrics such as latency, throughput, and CPU usage. Atlas.ti and Cisco’s Packet Tracer were utilized for thematic coding and network simulation, respectively, and multivariate regression analysis quantified the influences of security protocols. The results revealed that enhanced security protocols, such as encryption and authentication, significantly impact performance, with encryption increasing latency by an average of 50 milliseconds and reducing throughput by 10% under peak loads. Additionally, CPU usage increased by up to 75% in high-threat scenarios. The proposed security-performance optimization framework dynamically adjusts security measures based on current threat assessments and operational demands, aiming to sustain high performance while ensuring robust security. These findings have real-world applications in the design and implementation of AI-driven home appliances, offering a roadmap for manufacturers to enhance device security without compromising performance. By adopting adaptive security measures and leveraging edge computing, the framework can improve user satisfaction and trust in smart home technologies.
Local Climate Adaptation Strategies in Emerging Nigerian Cities: Addressing Environmental and Climate-Related Disasters
Authors: B.I Odoh, , E. E. Onuchukwu, , A. O. Njoku, , H. C. Anozie, , C. V. Ahaneku, , C. C. Anumaka, , A. C. Odinye, , F. M. Madu, , U.F Elomba,
Published: August 2024

Climate change, characterized by gradual and abrupt alterations in weather and climate patterns, has emerged as a significant global concern. The world faces rising temperatures, leading to heatwaves, ice melting, wildfires, and flooding. Torrential rains cause flooding, farmland destruction, erosion, and landslides, impacting food security and increasing global food prices. Severe infrastructure damage, dam collapses, power outages, and energy crises are also reported. In extreme regions, volcanic and magmatic activities have resumed due to unprecedented heat. Nigerian cities, particularly in Anambra State, face unique challenges from climate change. Government efforts include various laws and policies on climate mitigation. However, local actions are hindered by rising populations, a lack of population control policies, and increasing rural-to-urban migration. Notably, 28,800 trees have been planted in ecologically endangered zones within these cities. This research reveals that despite the efforts of the Government, the negative impact of Climate Change remains a concern as climate related disasters remain a challenge within the city – an evidence that the efforts of Government though has helped but have not completely solved the problem as more work needs to be done.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Non-Adherence to Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation among Women for Antenatal Care at Mwembeladu Hospital, Zanzibar
Authors: Okafor Chukwuma J. , Bayard Rodolfo Isidro Bosch , Martin Diane Millo , Mahmoud Salma , Yusuf Said A. , Lilian Minja T. , Adejumo E N , Hilal Nibras M. , Khamis Tarik A. , Haji Asila M. , Ali Rayan J.
Published: August 2024

Background:  Daily iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) during pregnancy reduces the risk of all types of maternal anaemia and iron deficiency anaemia at term; despite the WHO recommendations, pregnant women are still vulnerable because the use of Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation is still low in many countries including Tanzania. Therefore, the study aims to comprehensively understand the prevalence and factors associated with non-adherence to Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation among pregnant women attending Antenatal Care at Mwembeladu Hospital. Achieving this objective will contribute to developing effective strategies to improve IFAS adherence.
Methodology: The study was cross-sectional and ANC-based, using questionnaires. Questionnaires were distributed to the 260 pregnant women attending ANC at Mwembeladu Hospital. Data were analyzed using SPSS computer software version 22.
Results: Our study showed that 52.7% had more than 4 ANC visits. Based on self-reported adherence, about (61.9%) of pregnant women were taking IFAS supplementation, and (38.1%) were not taking IFAS completely. Among those taking IFAS, (60.2%) out of 161 pregnant women were taking four tablets per week as recommended by WHO, and (39.8%) out of 161 were not following the WHO recommendations. Therefore, out of 260, zero adherence was 38.1%, poor adherence was 24.6%, and good adherence was 37.3%. Hence, 62.7% were non-adherent to IFAS supplementation as recommended by WHO. Also, the result showed that the major factors militating against pregnant women taking IFAS are lack of knowledge of IFAS (22.1%), side effects of IFAS (19%), forgetfulness (18.4%), and lack of understanding of anaemia (12.3%).
Conclusion: Overall, the adherence to IFAS among pregnant women was low and did not meet the WHO recommendations for preventing and treating anaemia during pregnancy. Socio-demographic factors, including occupation and education level, maternal characteristics, parity, and gestation age, are not significantly associated with adherence to IFAS. Factors associated with poor adherence to IFAS include side effects, failure to access IFAS, forgetfulness, and knowledge about anaemia and IFAS. Healthcare facilities and providers should strengthen the system to create community awareness of IFAS, its benefits, and side effects, as this will help increase adherence to IFAS among pregnant women.
Optimization of Operational Parameters on Harvesting Efficiency of Lathyrus Harvester Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Tuteja H. S. , Naik R. K. , Pandey Shubham
Published: August 2024

Lathyrus crop [Lathyrus sativus (L.)]  or grass pea is the third most important cool-season pulse crop of India, occupying an area of 0.58 million ha with an annual production of 0.43 million tonnes. The productivity is fluctuates between 369 to 605kg/ha. Traditionally, farmers harvest lathyrus by either hand-pulling or using a sickle, methods that are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and cause significant discomfort to farmers. Till date, the traditional method (manually hand plucking/sickle) is the prevailing practice in Chhattisgarh. Due to rising labor costs, labor scarcity during peak seasons, and unpredictable weather, manual harvesting has become uneconomical. There is an urgent need of introducing modern practices for harvesting of the crop. Traditional testing and statistical analysis methods used in most existing studies are limited by complex test processes, their time-consuming nature, high costs, and poor prediction accuracy. To address these problems Response surface methodology (RSM) was used for optimizing the performance parameters. Effects of various parameters viz. reel speed, cutter bar speed and height of cut which is considered as the heart of harvesting machine was evaluated to get optimum harvesting efficiency of developed tractor operated lathyrus harvester. The optimum harvesting efficiency of 90% was found at 30 mm height of cut, 250 rpm cutter bar speed and 12.5 rpm respectively.
Subregional‐scale groundwater depletion detected by GRACE for both shallow and deep aquifers in North China Plain
Authors: Huang Zhiyong , Pan Yun , Gong Huili , Yeh Pat J.‐F. , Li Xiaojuan , Zhou Demin , Zhao Wenji
Published: February 2015

This study explores the capability of Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) to detect heterogeneous groundwater storage (GWS) variations in two subregions of the North China Plain: the Piedmont Plain (PP, ~54,000 km2, mainly exploiting shallow groundwater) and East Central Plain (ECP, ~86,000 km2, mainly exploiting deep groundwater). Results show that the GWS anomalies estimated from GRACE data (2003–2013) agree well with those estimated from in situ observations (2005–2010) for both PP (R2 = 0.91) and ECP (R2 = 0.75). The shallow GWS (2003–2013) in PP declines faster (−46.5 ± 6.8 mm/yr) than the deep GWS in ECP (−16.9 ± 1.9 mm/yr). However, the shallow GWS in PP recovered more quickly especially during the 2008–2011 drought period. Despite its lower magnitude, the GRACE‐derived GWS depletion in ECP reveals the overexploitation of deep GWS. This study demonstrated that the heterogeneous GWS variations can potentially be detected by GRACE at the subregional scale smaller than the typical GRACE footprint (200,000 km2).
Receiver functions and crustal structure of the northwestern Andean region, Colombia
Authors: Poveda Esteban , Monsalve Gaspar , Vargas Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2015

We used the receiver function technique to deduce crustal thickness beneath the northwestern Andean system, using data from the permanent seismic network of Colombia, combined with some of the IRIS and CTBTO stations in Colombia and Ecuador. The estimation of crustal thickness was made using the primaryPtosconversion and crustal reverberations. The bulk crustalVP/VSratio was constrained using a crustal thickness versusVP/VSstacking method, in addition to estimations using a time to depth conversion technique based on results of a modified Wadati diagram analysis. We observed a wide range of crustal thicknesses, including values around 17 km beneath the Malpelo Island on the Pacific Ocean, 20 to 30 km at the coastal Pacific and Caribbean plains of Colombia, 25 to 40 km beneath the eastern plains and foothills, 35 km beneath the Western Cordillera, 45 km at the Magdalena River intermountain valley, 52 to 58 km under the northern Central Cordillera, and reaching almost 60 km beneath some of the volcanoes of the Southern Cordilleran system of Colombia; crustal thickness can be slightly greater than 60 km beneath the plateau of the Eastern Cordillera. The values ofVP/VSare particularly high for some of the stations on the volcanic centers, reaching values above 1.79, probably related to the addition of mafic materials to the lower crust, and in the plateau of the Eastern Cordillera near Bogota, where we speculate about the possibility of crustal seismic anisotropy associated with shear zones.
Uplift histories of Africa and Australia from linear inverse modeling of drainage inventories
Authors: Rudge John F. , Roberts Gareth G. , White Nicky J. , Richardson Christopher N.
Published: February 2015

We describe and apply a linear inverse model which calculates spatial and temporal patterns of uplift rate by minimizing the misfit between inventories of observed and predicted longitudinal river profiles. Our approach builds upon a more general, nonlinear, optimization model, which suggests that shapes of river profiles are dominantly controlled by upstream advection of kinematic waves of incision produced by spatial and temporal changes in regional uplift rate. Here we use the method of characteristics to solve a version of this problem. A damped, nonnegative, least squares approach is developed that permits river profiles to be inverted as a function of uplift rate. An important benefit of a linearized treatment is low computational cost. We have tested our algorithm by inverting 957 river profiles from both Africa and Australia. For each continent, the drainage network was constructed from a digital elevation model. The fidelity of river profiles extracted from this network was carefully checked using satellite imagery. River profiles were inverted many times to systematically investigate the trade‐off between model misfit and smoothness. Spatial and temporal patterns of both uplift rate and cumulative uplift were calibrated using independent geologic and geophysical observations. Uplift patterns suggest that the topography of Africa and Australia grew in Cenozoic times. Inverse modeling of large inventories of river profiles demonstrates that drainage networks contain coherent signals that record the regional growth of elevation.
Electrostatic reconnection in the ionosphere
Authors: Huba J. D. , Wu T.‐W. , Makela J. J.
Published: February 2015

Postsunset equatorial plasma bubble merging is examined using the National Research Laboratory code SAMI3/equatorial spread F. It is found that bubbles merge through an “electrostatic reconnection” process. As multiple bubbles develop, the electrostatic potential associated with one bubble can connect with that of a neighboring bubble: this provides a pathway for the low‐density plasma in one bubble to flow into the adjoining bubble and merge with it. Additionally, high‐speed plasma channels (approximately greater than hundreds of meters per second) can develop during the merging process. Optical data is presented of equatorial plasma bubble evolution that suggests bubble merging occurs in the nighttime equatorial ionosphere.
Mathematical modeling of polyethylene terephthalate pyrolysis in a spouted bed
Authors: Niksiar Arezou , Faramarzi Amir Hasan , Sohrabi Morteza
Published: February 2015

A model has been developed for pyrolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in a spouted bed reactor based on the conservation equations for heat, mass, and momentum transports. A spouted bed has been constructed and the kinetic parameters have been obtained within the temperature range of 723–833 K, using two particle size ranges, (0.1–1.0) × 10−3 and (1.0–3.0) × 10−3 m. The model' predictions for the radial distributions of temperature and concentration confirm the excellent mixing of particles. Thus, spouted beds are appropriate equipments for performing kinetic studies of PET pyrolysis. The inlet gas temperature and the mass of PET highly affect PET conversion. The amount of inert particles has a negligible effect on the conversion and it can be reduced as far as a stable spouting is preserved. The gas flow suffices to eliminate the external heat and mass‐transfer limitations. It can be reduced to the minimum value to decrease the energy consumption. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 1900–1911, 2015
Workers’ compensation claims for musculoskeletal disorders and injuries of the upper extremity and knee among union carpenters in Washington State, 1989–2008
Authors: Lipscomb Hester J. , Schoenfisch Ashley L. , Cameron Wilfrid , Kucera Kristen L. , Adams Darrin , Silverstein Barbara A.
Published: February 2015

Background

Numerous aspects of construction place workers at risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries (MSDIs). Work organization and the nature of MSDIs create surveillance challenges.

Methods

By linking union records with workers’ compensation claims, we examined 20‐year patterns of MSDIs involving the upper extremity (UE) and the knee among a large carpenter cohort.

Results

MSDIs were common and accounted for a disproportionate share of paid lost work time (PLT) claims; UE MSDIs were three times more common than those of the knee. Rates declined markedly over time and were most pronounced for MSDIs of the knee with PLT. Patterns of risk varied by extremity, as well as by age, gender, union tenure, and predominant work. Carpenters in drywall installation accounted for the greatest public health burden.

Conclusions

A combination of factors likely account for the patterns observed over time and across worker characteristics. Drywall installers are an intervention priority. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:428–436, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brain–computer interface boosts motor imagery practice during stroke recovery
Authors: Pichiorri Floriana , Morone Giovanni , Petti Manuela , Toppi Jlenia , Pisotta Iolanda , Molinari Marco , Paolucci Stefano , Inghilleri Maurizio , Astolfi Laura , Cincotti Febo , Mattia Donatella
Published: February 2015

Objective

Motor imagery (MI) is assumed to enhance poststroke motor recovery, yet its benefits are debatable. Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) can provide instantaneous and quantitative measure of cerebral functions modulated by MI. The efficacy of BCI‐monitored MI practice as add‐on intervention to usual rehabilitation care was evaluated in a randomized controlled pilot study in subacute stroke patients.

Methods

Twenty‐eight hospitalized subacute stroke patients with severe motor deficits were randomized into 2 intervention groups: 1‐month BCI‐supported MI training (BCI group, n = 14) and 1‐month MI training without BCI support (control group; n = 14). Functional and neurophysiological assessments were performed before and after the interventions, including evaluation of the upper limbs by Fugl–Meyer Assessment (FMA; primary outcome measure) and analysis of oscillatory activity and connectivity at rest, based on high‐density electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings.

Results

Better functional outcome was observed in the BCI group, including a significantly higher probability of achieving a clinically relevant increase in the FMA score (p < 0.03). Post‐BCI training changes in EEG sensorimotor power spectra (ie, stronger desynchronization in the alpha and beta bands) occurred with greater involvement of the ipsilesional hemisphere in response to MI of the paralyzed trained hand. Also, FMA improvements (effectiveness of FMA) correlated with the changes (ie, post‐training increase) at rest in ipsilesional intrahemispheric connectivity in the same bands (p < 0.05).

Interpretation

The introduction of BCI technology in assisting MI practice demonstrates the rehabilitative potential of MI, contributing to significantly better motor functional outcomes in subacute stroke patients with severe motor impairments. Ann Neurol 2015;77:851–865
Influences of feeding strategies on AA and MAA carboxylated latexes
Authors: Ocepek Martin , Berce Peter , Razboršek Tina , Zabret Jožefa , Meng Lei , Soucek Mark D.
Published: February 2015

Semibatch, power feed, and shot‐addition feeding strategies were employed to synthesize carboxylated latex under acidic conditions, using emulsion polymerization. As a source of carboxyl groups, acrylic (AA) or methacrylic acid (MAA) was used. The distribution of carboxyl groups between feeding strategies were investigated using rheology, potentiometric/conductometric titrations, transmission electron microscopy, and FT‐IR spectroscopy. Upon alkalization, particle swelling was observed using dynamic light scattering. With increasing pH, both the AA‐ and MAA‐based latexes showed significant increase in hydrodynamic diameter as a consequence of the dissociation state of carboxyl groups. However, only MAA‐based latexes exhibit very pronounced increase in viscosity and storage modulus, and were therefore characterized as gels. The effect of feeding strategies was found to be more pronounced with the MAA functionalized latexes. By employing mentioned three procedures, significant differences in the rheological behavior of the neutralized dispersions were detected. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42062.
Exploring relationships between personality and anatomy performance
Authors: Finn Gabrielle M. , Walker Simon J. , Carter Madeline , Cox David R. , Hewitson Ruth , Smith Claire F.
Published: February 2015

There is increasing recognition in medicine of the importance of noncognitive factors, including personality, for performance, and for good medical practice. The personality domain of conscientiousness is a well‐established predictor of performance in workplace and academic settings. This study investigates the relationships between the “Big Five” personality domains, the facets of conscientiousness and performance in a practical anatomy examination. First‐ and second‐year undergraduate medical students (n = 85) completed a paper‐based questionnaire, which included a 50‐item measure of the Big Five personality domains (neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness) and a 60‐item measure of the six conscientiousness facets (orderliness, dutifulness, achievement‐striving, self‐discipline, self‐efficacy, and cautiousness) from the International Personality Item Pool (IPIP). In addition, routinely‐collected academic performance scores from the end of semester anatomy practical examinations (spotters) were obtained. Anatomy examination performance correlated moderately with conscientiousness (r = 0.24, P = 0.03). Of the six facets of conscientiousness, a positive relationship was observed between anatomy examination performance and achievement striving (r = 0.22, P = 0.05). In conclusion, this study found that performance in an anatomy examination was related to higher levels of conscientiousness and, more specifically, to higher levels of achievement striving. The results have implications for selection and assessment in medicine. Anat Sci Educ 8: 547–554. © 2015 American Association of Anatomists.
Energetic Oxygen‐Containing Tetrazole Salts Based on 3,4‐Diaminotriazole
Authors: Wu Jin‐Ting , Zhang Jian‐Guo , Yin Xin , Wu Kun
Published: February 2015

Energetic mono‐ and dicationic 3,4‐diaminotriazolium salts have been prepared by combining stoichiometric amounts (1:1 or 2:1 molar ratio) of 3,4‐diaminotriazole with various oxygen‐containing tetrazoles, and the structures have been confirmed by single‐crystal XRD for the first time. All structures are dominated by a strong hydrogen‐bond network owing to both amino groups and oxygen in the molecule. All salts, except 7, exhibit excellent thermal stabilities with decomposition temperatures over 200 °C. Based on experimental densities and theoretical calculations carried out by using the Gaussian 03 suite of programs, all salts have calculated detonation pressures (20.3–33.9 GPa) and velocities (7095–8642 m s−1).
Quantifying the strength of land–atmosphere coupling in the 2004 North American monsoon
Authors: Feng Xia , Houser Paul
Published: February 2015

This study examines the land–atmosphere coupling strength during the 2004 North American monsoon (NAM) using the ΔΩ index from ensemble model simulations. The strength of coupling varies geographically over different monsoon phases. The coupling strength over the entire monsoon period is primarily attributed to the monsoon mature phase with strong signal of coupling in the eastern NAM region. A decomposition of the land–atmosphere coupling suggests that land segment contributes to the strong coupling during the monsoon onset, mature phase and the overall monsoon season, while the atmospheric segment dominates the strong coupling during the decay phase.
Association and Promoter Analysis of AVPR1A in Finnish Autism Families
Authors: Kantojärvi Katri , Oikkonen Jaana , Kotala Ilona , Kallela Jenni , Vanhala Raija , Onkamo Päivi , Järvelä Irma
Published: February 2015

The arginine vasopressin receptor 1A gene (AVPR1A) is known to affect social communication and has been reported to associate with autism in several studies. Given that the microsatellite RS1 and a few SNPs in the promoter region of the AVPR1A have repeatedly associated with several traits, including autism it is rather surprising that the molecular explanation for these associations has remained unknown, although it has been reported that the allele length of the AVPR1A microsatellites might affect disease risk. Here we carried out an extended association analysis of three microsatellites and 12 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in and around the AVPR1A gene in 205 Finnish families followed by promoter analysis. FBAT version v2.0.3 was used for family‐based genetic association analyses of AVPR1A microsatellites and SNPs. The nearby microsatellite RS1 was found to harbor the best association. Interestingly, there are two potentially relevant transcription factor (TF) binding sites at RS1: for MEF2C and PBX, predicted with the Match algorithm in the TRANSFAC® database. Sequence variations changing the affinity of these TFs might partly explain the AVPR1A promoter region associations shown in autism. Autism Res 2015, 8: 634–639. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The curriculum prerequisite network: Modeling the curriculum as a complex system
Authors: Aldrich Preston R.
Published: February 2015

This article advances the prerequisite network as a means to visualize the hidden structure in an academic curriculum. Networks have been used to represent a variety of complex systems ranging from social systems to biochemical pathways and protein interactions. Here, I treat the academic curriculum as a complex system with nodes representing courses and links between nodes the course prerequisites as readily obtained from a course catalogue. I show that the catalogue data can be rendered as a directed acyclic graph, which has certain desirable analytical features. Using metrics developed in mathematical graph theory, I characterize the overall structure of the undergraduate curriculum of Benedictine University along with that of its Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program. The latter program is shown to contain hidden community structure that crosses disciplinary boundaries. The overall curriculum is seen as partitioned into numerous isolated course groupings, the size of the groups varying considerably. Individual courses serve different roles in the organization, such as information sources, hubs, and bridges. The curriculum prerequisite network represents the intrinsic, hard‐wired constraints on the flow of information in a curriculum, and is the organizational context within which learning occurs. I explore some applications for advising and curriculum reform. © 2015 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 43(3):168–180, 2015.
Identification of absorbed constituents and metabolites in rat plasma after oral administration of Shen‐Song‐Yang‐Xin using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Shi Tao , Yao Zhihong , Qin Zifei , Ding Bo , Dai Yi , Yao Xinsheng
Published: February 2015

In this study, a rapid and sensitive method by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, and MetabolynxTMsoftware with mass defect filter technique was developed for screening and identification of the metabolites in rat plasma after oral administration of Shen‐Song‐Yang‐Xin capsule (SSYX). A total of 92 SSYX‐related xenobiotics were identified or characterized, including 45 prototypes and 47 metabolites. The results indicated that the absorbed constituents and metabolites mainly came from benzocyclooctadiene lignans, tanshinones, isoquinoline alkaloids and triterpenic acids, while phase I reactions (e.g. hydrogenation, hydroxylation, demethylation) and phase II reaction (glucuronidation) were the main metabolic pathways of these ingredients in SSYX. This is the first study on metabolic profiling of SSYX in rat plasma after oral administration. Furthermore, these findings provide useful information on the potential bioactive compounds, and enhance our understanding of the action mechanism of SSYX. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Percutaneous transcatheter closure of a large systemic to pulmonary venous fistulae in an adult patient after extracardiac fontan
Authors: Healan Steven , Varga Peter , Shah Atman P.
Published: February 2015

Vascular fistulae are frequent complications in patients who have undergone a Fontan operation for palliation of single ventricle physiology. Fistulae involving the pulmonary vasculature may result in progressive hypoxemia, pulmonary hemorrhage, and clinical symptoms. These are commonly managed by percutaneous transcatheter embolization utilizing coils, and more recently, vascular plugs and septal occluders. We present a clinical case of an adult patient who underwent an extracardiac Fontan procedure in childhood for univentricular physiology and presented with symptoms of systemic desaturation 10 years after his surgery. The patient was found to have a large fistula from the inferior vena cava to the right inferior pulmonary vein. The fistula was attempted to be closed with a 12 mm Amplatzer Septal Occluder (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN). Angiography showed continued flow across the fistula, which was then successfully occluded with an 18 mm Amplatzer “Cribriform” Septal Occluder (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN). The patient experienced immediate improvement in his systemic saturation, and demonstrates continued resolution of his symptomatic hypoxia on follow‐up. This case illustrates an uncommon systemic to pulmonary vein fistula after Fontan, and a unique, successful embolization with two septal occluders, resulting in sustained symptomatic improvement. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Group Contribution Methods for Estimation of Ionic Liquid Heat Capacities: Critical Evaluation and Extension
Authors: Nancarrow Paul , Lewis Moira , AbouChacra Lamis
Published: February 2015

Recently, new group contribution method (GCM) models have been developed for ionic liquids (ILs). However, difficulty arises in choosing an appropriate GCM for a given property estimation due to the fact that the reported accuracies do not enable meaningful comparison since they have been tested against different and limited datasets. Furthermore, many GCMs lack the parameters necessary to predict heat capacities for many new ILs. To overcome these problems, an extensive database of IL heat capacity data as a function of temperature was compiled and used to evaluate two different GCM approaches, analogously named the Meccano and Lego approaches, based on the nature of the fundamental building blocks used in each model. Although the Meccano approach was found to be slightly more accurate, the Lego approach has much broader applicability and is compatible with process simulation and IL design.
Host–Guest Chemistry of a Bis‐Calix[4]pyrrole Derivative Containing a trans/cis‐Switchable Azobenzene Unit with Several Aliphatic Bis‐Carboxylates
Authors: Cafeo Grazia , Kohnke Franz H. , Mezzatesta Giovanni , Profumo Aldo , Rosano Camillo , Villari Antonino , White Andrew J. P.
Published: February 2015

The azobenzene unit used as a photochemically and thermally switchable linker in the assembly of a bis‐calix[4]pyrrole receptor provides a means to modulate the binding of bis‐carboxylates of significant biological importance in cancer research. Conversely, the complexation of different bis‐anionic guests has significant kinetic effects on both the photochemical and thermal trans/cis isomerization of the azobenzene unit.
ChemInform Abstract: Linear Metal Chains in Ca2M2X (M: Pd, Pt; X: Al, Ge): Origin of the Pairwise Distortion and Its Role in the Structure Stability.
Authors: Doverbratt Isa , Ponou Simeon , Zhang Yuemei , Lidin Sven , Miller Gordon J.
Published: February 2015

The new compounds Ca2Pd2Ge (I), Ca2Pt2Ge (II), Ca2Pd2Al (III), and Ca2Pt2Al (IV) are prepared by melting and annealing mixtures of the elements (Ta ampules in evacuated silica tubes, 1.
ChemInform Abstract: Lanthanide‐Activated Na5Gd9F32 Nanocrystals Precipitated from a Borosilicate Glass: Phase‐Separation‐Controlled Crystallization and Optical Property.
Authors: Chen Daqin , Wan Zhongyi , Zhou Yang , Chen Yan , Yu Hua , Lu Hongwei , Ji Zhenguo , Huang Ping
Published: February 2015

Transparent oxyfluoride glass ceramics containing cubic Na5Gd9F32 nanocrystals are prepared from precursor glasses obtained from melts of 68SiO2/10B2O3/8AlF3/5NaF/ 9GdF3 (alumina crucible, 1600 °C, 30 min).
ChemInform Abstract: Room‐Temperature Polar Ferromagnet ScFeO3 Transformed from a High‐Pressure Orthorhombic Perovskite Phase.
Authors: Fujita Koji , et al. et al.
Published: February 2015

A LiNbO3‐type ScFeO3 metastable phase is prepared by high pressure/high temperature treatment (Kawai‐type apparatus, 15 GPa, 1450 °C, 30 min) of the orthorhombic perovskite prepared by solid state reaction of stoichiometric amounts of Sc2O3 and Fe2O3 (1400 °C, 24 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Reversible Topochemical Exsolution of Iron in BaFe2+2(PO4)2.
Authors: David Renald , Kabbour Houria , Filimonov Dmitry , Huve Marielle , Pautrat Alain , Mentre Olivier
Published: February 2015

Both long‐term air exposure of BaFe2(PO4)2 and moderate temperature of <375 °C leads to topochemical oxidation yielding iron‐depleted compounds BaFe2‐x(PO4)2 with mixed FeII/FeIII valence.
ChemInform Abstract: A New Route to Metal Azides.
Authors: Mueller Thomas G. , Karau Friedrich , Schnick Wolfgang , Kraus Florian
Published: February 2015

Mn(N3)2, Sn(N3)2, Eu(N3)2, Zn(N3)2, and their NH3 complexes are prepared through a low‐temperature method using a stoichiometric reaction of dissolved metals with AgN3 in absolutely H2O‐free NH3 (‐40 °C, 9‐10 d; yields given in gram) following NH3 removal by heating under high vacuum (1.
ChemInform Abstract: NaIn3S5, a New Compound from the CaS—In2S3/NaBr System.
Authors: Zeng Hui‐Yi , Zhang Ming‐Jian , Liu Bin‐Wen , Ye Ning , Zhao Zhong‐Yan , Zheng Fa‐Kun , Guo Guo‐Cong , Huang Jin‐Shun
Published: February 2015

The new title compound is prepared from a mixture of In2S3 and CaS in the molar ratio of 3:2 using NaBr as a reactive flux (950 °C, 120 h, <75% yield).
ChemInform Abstract: Rich Structural Chemistry in New Alkali Metal Yttrium Tellurites: Three‐Dimensional Frameworks of NaYTe4O10, KY(TeO3)2, RbY(TeO3)2, and a Novel Variant of Hexagonal Tungsten Bronze, CsYTe3O8.
Authors: Kim Youngkwon , Lee Dong Woo , Ok Kang Min
Published: February 2015

The new compounds (IV), (VI), and (VIII) are characterized by powder and single crystal XRD, SEM, IR, and UV/VIS diffuse reflectance spectroscopy.
ChemInform Abstract: Sb‐Triggered β‐to‐α Transition: Solvothermal Synthesis of Metastable α‐Cu2Se.
Authors: Jia Feng , Zhang Shu , Zhang Xiaokun , Peng Xiaoli , Zhang Haitao , Xiang Yong
Published: February 2015

Monoclinic α‐Cu2Se and cubic β‐Cu2Se are solvothermally synthesized by reaction of CuCl2 and Se powder in en in the presence, and absence of SbCl3, respectively (autoclave, 200 °C, 14 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Probing the Evolution of an Ar‐BINMOL‐Derived Salen—Co(III) Complex for Asymmetric Henry Reactions of Aromatic Aldehydes: Salan—Cu(II) versus Salen—Co(III) Catalysis.
Authors: Wei Yun‐Long , Yang Ke‐Fang , Li Fei , Zheng Zhan‐Jiang , Xu Zheng , Xu Li‐Wen
Published: February 2015

The asymmetric Henry reaction of aromatic aldehydes and nitromethane catalyzed by an aryl‐BINMOL‐derived salen‐Co(III) complex (BSC) proceeds with high yields and excellent enantioselectivities.
ChemInform Abstract: A Theoretically‐Guided Optimization of a New Family of Modular P,S‐Ligands for Iridium‐Catalyzed Hydrogenation of Minimally Functionalized Olefins.
Authors: Margalef Jessica , Caldentey Xisco , Karlsson Erik A. , Coll Merce , Mazuela Javier , Pamies Oscar , Dieguez Montserrat , Pericas Miquel A.
Published: February 2015

A library of novel modular iridium complexes derived from thioether‐phosphite/phosphinite ligands are synthesized and evaluated in the asymmetric hydrogenation of minimally functionalized olefins.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereoselective Synthesis of Enantiopure Cycloalkylglycines by 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of a Chiral Nitrone to Cycloalkenes.
Authors: Abda Heithem , Aouadi Kaiss , Perrin Lionel , Msaddek Moncef , Praly Jean‐Pierre , Vidal Sebastien
Published: February 2015

Cyclic analogs of 4‐hydroxyisoleucine are synthesized in three simple steps from the methone‐based chiral nitrone (I).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthetic Studies Toward Harringtonolide.
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang , Cheng Bin , Zhai Hongbin
Published: February 2015

Compound (IV), a potentially useful intermediate for the synthesis of harringtonolide, is synthesized via a [4+3] cycloaddition key step.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydroalumination‐Triggered Cyclization of Silylated 1,3‐Dien‐5‐ynes to Polysubstituted Benzenes.
Authors: Kinoshita Hidenori , Tohjima Takayuki , Miura Katsukiyo
Published: February 2015

In the case of 4‐tert‐butyl‐1,3‐Dien‐5‐yne (IX) a dephenylative aromatization towards (X) is observed.
ChemInform Abstract: Tetraphenylporphyrin‐Catalyzed Tandem Photooxygenation of Polyenes and 1,4‐Dienes: Multiple and Diverse Oxyfunctionalizations.
Authors: Griesbeck Axel G. , de Kiff Alan , Kleczka Margarethe
Published: February 2015

Two tandem approaches for singlet oxygen reactions of the 1,3,5‐triene esters (I) and the 1,4‐diene (IX) are discussed in detail to provide a variety of oxyfunctionalized products.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of α,α‐Difluoromethylene Alkynes by Palladium‐Catalyzed gem‐Difluoropropargylation of Aryl and Alkenyl Boron Reagents.
Authors: Yu Yan‐Bo , He Guo‐Zhen , Zhang Xingang
Published: February 2015

The Pd‐catalyzed coupling of difluoropropargyl bromides (I) and (IV) with arylboronic acids (II) is reported for the first time.
ChemInform Abstract: Photoredox α‐Vinylation of α‐Amino Acids and N‐Aryl Amines.
Authors: Noble Adam , MacMillan David W. C.
Published: February 2015

The synthetic utility of this new vinylation protocol is demonstrated in the racemic syntheses of natural products like norruspoline (XVII).
ChemInform Abstract: Regioselective Dihalohydration Reactions of Propargylic Alcohols: Gold‐Catalyzed and Noncatalyzed Reactions.
Authors: D'Oyley Jarryl M. , Aliev Abil E. , Sheppard Tom D.
Published: February 2015

Various α,α‐dihalo‐β‐hydroxyketones are prepared via highly regioselective diiodohydration and dichlorohydration reactions of propargylic alcohols.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydroaminomethylation of Olefins with Aminomethyltrifluoroborate by Photoredox Catalysis.
Authors: Miyazawa Kazuki , Koike Takashi , Akita Munetaka
Published: February 2015

The title reaction allows the introduction of a primary aminomethyl group onto electron‐deficient C=C bonds.