bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
One step Purification and Characterisation of Abrin Toxin from Abrus Precatorius Seeds
Authors: Banger Swati , Singh Rita , Tripathi Nagesh , Pal Vijai , Goel Ajay Kumar 
Published: February 2020

Abrin is a plant toxin obtained from Abrus precatorius seeds. It belongs to the type II ribosomal inactivating proteins (RIPs) consisting of two chains namely, catalytically active A chain and sugar binding B chain linked by a single disulphide bond. Due to high toxicity of abrin, its exposure or consumption can lead to serious public health problems. In the present work, we have extracted and purified the abrin toxin from Abrus precatorius seeds. The toxin was purified using a single step anion exchange chromatography. The purified protein was characterized by SDS-PAGE and MALDI- TOF to confirm its purity. The toxicity of purified abrin toxin was also confirmed by injecting the toxin in mice. The purified protein was further used to raise antibodies in mice and characterized by indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. The results of present study established the use of single step ion exchange chromatography to purify abrin toxin for further development of its detection system.
A study on the GA-BP neural network model for surface roughness of basswood-veneered medium-density fiberboard
Authors: Wu Xizhi , Niu Han , Li Xian-Jun , Wu Yiqiang 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Roughness is an important property of wood surface and has a significant influence on the interface bonding strength and surface coating quality. However, there are no theoretical models for basswood-veneered medium-density fiberboard (MDF) by fine sanding from existing research work. In this paper, the basswood-veneered MDF was fine sanded with an air drum. Orthogonal experiment was implemented to study the effects of abrasive granularity, feed rate, belt speed, air drum deformation and air drum pressure on the surface roughness of basswood-veneered MDF. The simulation models of the parallel-grain roughness and the vertical-grain roughness of the sanded surface were conducted based on the BP (error back propagation) neural network, which was optimized by a genetic algorithm (GA) (GA-BP neural network), and these models were verified by extensive experimental data. The results showed that the influence of sanding parameters on parallel-grain roughness was similar to that on vertical-grain roughness. The order of influence was that: abrasive granularity > belt speed > feed speed > air drum deformation and air drum pressure. Based on the work, the parallel-grain roughness and vertical-grain roughness of basswood-veneered MDF could be well predicted by the GA-BP neural network. The average relative errors on parallel-grain roughness and vertical-grain roughness were 3.4% and 1.9%, respectively.
Lyapunov Stability of a Fractionally Damped Oscillator with Linear (Anti-)Damping
Authors: Hinze Matthias , Schmidt André , Leine Remco I. 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
In this paper, we develop a Lyapunov stability framework for fractionally damped mechanical systems. In particular, we study the asymptotic stability of a linear single degree-of-freedom oscillator with viscous and fractional damping. We prove that the total mechanical energy, including the stored energy in the fractional element, is a Lyapunov functional with which one can prove stability of the equilibrium. Furthermore, we develop a strict Lyapunov functional for asymptotic stability, thereby opening the way to a nonlinear stability analysis beyond an eigenvalue analysis. A key result of the paper is a Lyapunov stability condition for systems having negative viscous damping but a sufficient amount of positive fractional damping. This result forms the stepping stone to the study of Hopf bifurcations in fractionally damped mechanical systems. The theory is demonstrated on a stick-slip oscillator with Stribeck friction law leading to an effective negative viscous damping.
A Vygotskian approach to mediating learner intercultural competence during study abroad
Authors: Poehner Matthew E. , Pasterick Michelle L. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThis study examines learner interaction with mediating resources designed to promote their intercultural competence (Byram, 2009; Deardorff, 2009) during study abroad that were made available to them through an online instructional space. In this way, the project offers a response to the challenges of students attempting to navigate a new cultural context without affordances characteristic of formal learning environments (i. e. an instructor, assigned readings, organized discussions). Undergraduate learners from a U. S. university foreign language program were enrolled in an online course organized according to principles of Vygotskian theory (2012), specifically the importance of abstract concepts and models for mediating thinking. Selected readings introduced learners to an intercultural communicative framework and discussions guided learners to reflect upon and interpret their experiences in light of ideas presented in the readings. Analysis of participant reflections and discussions reveal participant intercultural competence and ways in which it was mediated through the online course.
Influence of different surface treatment techniques on properties of rice husk incorporated polymer composites
Authors: Ezenkwa Obinna Emmanuel , Hassan Azman , Samsudin Sani Amril 
Published: February 2020

AbstractRice husk natural fiber remains a highly abundant, eco-friendly and low-cost reinforcement filler for plastic composites fabrication. Hampered by its low aspect ratio and incompatibility with non-polar polymers, its utilization in reinforcing polymer composites often results in decreased composite properties such as decreased tensile strength, impact strength, percentage elongation, and flexural strength. However, stiffness increases. Various surface treatment techniques such as mercerization, compatibilization, acetylation, electron beam irradiation and plasma surface modification have been employed to improve its compatibility with non-polar matrix polymers. This article critically reviews the influence of these surface modification techniques on the resulting composite properties. Based on the analysis of reinforcing efficiencies of these techniques, their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, the authors, therefore, project plasma treatment as the most efficient and eco-friendly technique with prospects for high technological application of rice husk plastic composites.
High-performance pervaporation chitosan-based membranes: new insights and perspectives
Authors: Castro-Muñoz Roberto , González-Valdez José , Ahmad M. Zamidi 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Today, the need of replacing synthetic polymers in the membrane preparation for diverse pervaporation (PV) applications has been recognized collectively and scientifically. Chitosan (CS), a bio-polymer, has been studied and proposed to achieve this goal especially in specific azeotropic water-organic, organic-water, and organic-organic separations, as well as in assisting specific processes (e.g. seawater desalination and chemical reactions). Different concepts of CS-based membranes have been developed, which include material blending and composite and mixed matrix membranes which have been tested for different separations. Hereby, the goal of this review is to provide a critical overview of the ongoing CS-based membrane developments, paying a special attention to the most relevant findings and results in the field. Furthermore, future trends of CS-based membranes in PV technology are presented, as well as concluding remarks and suggested strategies for the new scientist in the field.
La fórmula de rechazo¡Vete a … !en español peninsular. Una propuesta de análisis desde la Metalengua Semántica Natural (NSM)
Authors: Aznárez-Mauleón Mónica 
Published: February 2020

ResumenEn este trabajo se analizan 19 fórmulas rutinarias del español peninsular que comparten un mismo esquema sintáctico (Vete a+sintagma nominal oVete a+sintagma verbal) y que se describen en los diccionarios como expresiones “de rechazo” hacia el interlocutor. Con base en las clasificaciones existentes, estas expresiones podrían considerarse fórmulas “subjetivas”, “afectivas” o “expresivas actitudinales”, ya que sirven para mostrar la actitud y las emociones del hablante. Sin embargo, conceptos complejos como “expresión afectiva”, “actitudinal” o “de rechazo” no resultan muy esclarecedores a la hora de explicar el significado de este tipo de expresiones a hablantes de otras lenguas o de otras variedades del español. Por otro lado, dado que el español peninsular cuenta con al menos 19 expresiones de este tipo, es razonable pensar que entre ellas puedan existir algunas diferencias de significado. El presente estudio pretende dar respuesta a estas dos cuestiones mediante la aplicación de la Metalengua Semántica Natural (NSM) al análisis semántico-pragmático de estas unidades. Este trabajo ofrece un primer acercamiento a este tipo de expresiones mediante la elaboración de explicaciones semántico-pragmáticas para los diferentes grupos de fórmulas que, con base en los ejemplos encontrados, se han establecido en el estudio.
Identification of tuliposide G, a novel glucoside ester-type tuliposide, and its distribution in tulip
Authors: Nomura Taiji , Kato Yasuo 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Tuliposides (Pos) are major defensive secondary metabolites in tulip (genus Tulipa), having 4-hydroxy-2-methylenebutanoyl and/or (3S)-3,4-dihydroxy-2-methylenebutanoyl groups at the C-1 and/or C-6 positions of d-glucose. The acyl group at the C-6 position is converted to antimicrobial lactones, tulipalins, by tuliposide-converting enzymes (TCEs). In the course of a survey of tulip tissue extracts to identify novel Pos, we found a minute high-performance liquid chromatography peak that disappeared following the action of a TCE, and whose retention time differed from those of known Pos. Spectroscopic analyses of the purified compound, as well as its enzymatic degradation products, revealed its structure as 5″-O-(6-O-(4′-hydroxy-2′-methylenebutanoyl))-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(2″R)-2″-hydroxymethyl-4″-butyrolactone, which is a novel glucoside ester-type Pos. We gave this compound the trivial name ‘tuliposide G’ (PosG). PosG accumulated in bulbs, at markedly lower levels than 6-PosA (the major Pos in bulbs), but was not found in any other tissues. Quantification of PosG in bulbs of 52 types of tulip, including 30 cultivars (Tulipa gesneriana) and 22 wild Tulipa spp., resulted in the detection of PosG in 28 cultivars, while PosG was present only in three wild species belonging to the subgenus Tulipa, the same subgenus to which tulip cultivars belong, suggesting the potential usefulness of PosG as a chemotaxonomic marker in tulip.
Facile Synthesis of Novel Carboxymethyl-Chitosan/Sodium Alginate Grafted with Amino-Carbamate Moiety/Bentonite Clay Composite for Effective Biosorption of Ni (II) from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Shehzad Hamza , Ahmed Ejaz , Din Muhammad Imran , Farooqi Zahoor H. , Arshad Muhammad , Sharif Ahsan , Zhou Limin , Yun Wang , Umer Rumaisa 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
In the present study, a novel biosorbent clay composite, based on carboxymethyl-chitosan/sodium alginate grafted with amino-carbamate moiety/bentonite clay (CA-CMC/Bt) was prepared. The produced sorbent was conditioned in the form of hydrogel beads by ionotropic gelation with Ca(II) ions, and thoroughly characterized using FTIR, XRF, XRD, SEM and zeta potential measurements. FTIR and SEM confirmed the successful grafting and intercalation of clay mineral into modified biopolymer. Hydrogel beads were observed to be very integrated and stable under a wide pH working range (from 2.0 to 12.0). CA-CMC/Bt was employed for adsorptive remediation of Ni(II) from aqueous media. Sorption process was found as a function of various parameters such as sorbent dosage, contact time, pH and initial concentration. Kinetic data could be well explained by pseudo second order rate equation (PSORE), suggesting that complexation or valence forces are playing significant role in the uptake of Ni(II) ions. Isothermal sorption data was analysed using different sorption models such as Langmuir, Freundlich and Sips. Data was well fitted with Langmuir and Sips model, maximum monolayer sorption capacity (qm) was calculated (by non-linear fitting of data) as 159 mg/g at 298 K and pH 5.5. Separation factor (RL) was found as 0 < RL < 1 which indicated favourable sorption. Thermodynamic parameters i.e. ΔGo, ΔHo and ΔSo were quantified and patterned the sorption process as exothermic, spontaneous with increase in system entropy. CA-CMC/Bt was found cost-effective, efficient and reusable material in Ni(II) competitive recovery.
Normal Reference Intervals for Cardiac Dimensions and Function for Use in Echocardiographic Practice: A Guideline from the British Society of Echocardiography
Authors: Harkness Allan , Ring Liam , Augustine Daniel X. , Oxborough David , Robinson Shaun , Sharma Vishal 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
This guideline presents reference limits for use in echocardiographic practice, updating previous guidance from the British Society of Echocardiography. The rationale for change is discussed, in addition to how the reference intervals were defined and the current limitations to their use. The importance of interpretation of echocardiographic parameters within the clinical context is explored, as is grading of abnormality. Each of the following echo parameters are discussed and updated in turn: left ventricular linear dimensions and LV mass; left ventricular volumes; left ventricular ejection fraction; left atrial size; right heart parameters; aortic dimensions; and tissue Doppler imaging. There are several important conceptual changes to the assessment of the heart’s structure and function within this guideline. New terminology for left ventricular function and left atrial size are introduced. The British Society of Echocardiography has advocated a new approach to the assessment of the aortic root, the right heart, and clarified the optimal methodology for assessment of LA size. The British Society of Echocardiography has emphasized a preference to use, where feasible, indexed measures over absolute values for any chamber size.
Maternal Drinking and Child Emotional and Behavior Problems
Authors: Lund Ingunn Olea , Moen Eilertsen Espen , Gjerde Line C. , Ask Torvik Fartein , Røysamb Espen , Reichborn-Kjennerud Ted , Ystrom Eivind 
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:Maternal drinking is associated with child emotional and behavior problems. There is, however, a lack of studies that properly account for confounding. Our objective was to estimate the association between at-risk drinking in mothers of young children and child emotional and behavior problems, taking into account the passive transmission of familial risk.METHODS:This population-based sample consists of 34 039 children nested within 21 911 nuclear families and 18 158 extended families from the Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort Study. Participants were recruited between 1999 and 2009 during routine ultrasound examinations. Data were collected during the 17th and 30th gestational week and when the children were 1.5, 3, and 5 years old. We applied a multilevel structural equation model that accounted for unobserved familial risks.RESULTS:Children of mothers with at-risk drinking had a higher likelihood of behavior problems (β = 3.53; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.01 to 4.05) than children of mothers with low alcohol consumption. This association was reduced after adjusting for factors in the extended family (β = 1.93; 95% CI 1.16 to 2.71) and the nuclear family (β = 1.20; 95% CI 0.39 to 2.01). Maternal at-risk drinking had a smaller association with child emotional problems (β = 1.80; 95% CI 1.26 to 2.34). This association was reduced after adjusting for factors in the extended family (β = 0.67; 95% CI −0.12 to 1.46) and the nuclear family (β = 0.58; 95% CI −0.31 to 1.48).CONCLUSIONS:The results suggest an association between maternal at-risk drinking and child behavior problems. A reduction in maternal drinking may improve outcomes for children with such symptoms.
Designing an Effective Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in Egypt: A Qualitative Study of Perceptions of Egyptian Primary Care Physicians and Specialists
Authors: Brand Bateman Lori , Khamess Somaia , Abdelmoneim Salah-Eldin , Arafat Waleed , Fouad Mona N. , Khamis Yomna , Omar Abbas , Abdelmoneim Randa Salah , Scarinci Isabel 
Published: February 2020

Abstract

Background
In Egypt more than one-third of colorectal cancer (CRC) cases occur in individuals aged 40 years and younger, and are diagnosed at advanced stages; currently, CRC screening is not done as a routine part of preventive care. To lay the foundation for the development of a CRC multilevel screening program in Egypt, this qualitative study aimed to explore the perspectives of Egyptian physicians.

Materials and Methods
The PRECEDE-PROCEED model, which focuses on predisposing (intrapersonal), reinforcing (interpersonal), and enabling (structural) factors inherent in health behaviors, served as our theoretical framework. Primary health care physicians, oncologists, and gastroenterologists practicing in Alexandria, Egypt, participated in 1 one-hour semistructured interview. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, translated into English, and analyzed by thematic analysis.

Results
Seventeen physicians participated (n = 8 specialists and n = 9 primary care physicians). Barriers to CRC screening included socioeconomic status, a lack of emphasis on prevention, fear, and cost (predisposing); a belief that only high risk patients should be screened and a lack of confidence in providers to perform and interpret screening tests appropriately (reinforcing); and cost, lack of availability of the tests, and inadequate training for laboratory technicians and providers (enabling). Potential facilitators included implementing a media campaign emphasizing early detection, curability and prevention (predisposing); educating physicians and eliciting physician engagement (reinforcing); and decreasing costs, making screening tests widely available, and providing well-trained providers (enabling).

Conclusion
A CRC screening program is needed in Egypt, and to be successful it would likely need to address barriers at multiple levels.
Dijital Ortamda Kurum İçi İletişim: İşletmelere Yönelik Bir Araştırma
Authors: BALTA PELTEKOĞLU Filiz , DEMİR ASKEROĞLU Emel 
Published: February 2020

Kurumsal verimlilik, kurumsal bağlılık, kurumsal imaj ve itibar gibi nedenlerle işletmeler açısından bir gereklilik olan kurum içi iletişim, çalışanlar açısından da bir haktır. Bu nedenle çağdaş yönetim yaklaşımıyla işletmeler sadece dış hedef kitleleriyle değil, aynı zamanda iç hedef kitleleriyle de etkili iletişimi gerçekleştirmek zorundadır. Her iletişim aracının en kısa zamanda Halkla İlişkiler araç ve yöntemi haline geldiği gerçeği, dijital iletişim teknolojilerinin de işletmelerin Halkla İlişkiler stratejilerine dahil olmasının bir nedenidir. Ancak, işletmelerin yapısı ile yararlanılan halkla ilişkiler araç ve yöntemleri arasında bir ilişkiden söz edilebilir. Bu çalışmada, Çerkezköy’de faaliyet göstermekte olan farklı büyüklüklerdeki 70 işletmenin insan kaynakları birimiyle bir saha araştırması gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çalışmanın amacı, iletişim teknolojilerinde yaşanan değişimin kurum içi iletişime etkisi ile dijital iletişimin kurum içi iletişimde kullanım yaygınlığını ortaya çıkararak işletmelerin büyüklüğü ile kullanılan iletişim aracı/yöntemi arasındaki ilişkiyi anlamaya yöneliktir. Çalışmada nitel ve nicel araştırma yöntemleri kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen bulgular ışığında işletmelerin kurum içi iletişim uygulamalarında dijital iletişimi kullandığı, sosyal medya yöntemlerinin ise işletmelerin büyüklüklerine göre farklılıklar gösterdiği görülmüştür.
Proceso de embrionamiento y eclosión de Ascaris suum
Authors: Polo Gamboa Jaime Abelardo , Alva Sevilla Juan Miguel 
Published: February 2020

Se presenta la siguiente secuencia fotográfica del proceso de embrionamiento de A. suum, la cual se llevó a cabo luego de la obtención de hembras adultas extraídas de los intestinos de cerdos infectados sacrificados en un matadero local de la ciudad de Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú. Los huevos al ser extraídos del útero de las hembras fueron decorticados con hidróxido de sodio al 0,1 N por 15 minutos para luego ser lavados con solución salina fisiológica y luego colocados en viales con agua destilada estéril a 25° C, para seguir la secuencia de embrionamiento. Las siguientes imágenes fueron tomadas en el Laboratorio de Microbiología y Parasitología de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Cesar Vallejo, usando el microscopio Leica ICC50 con cámara integrada.
TEACHERS’ FAMILIARITY AND PRACTICES OF DYSLEXIA ASSOCIATED WITH WEAK WORKING MEMORY IN SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Alqarni Turki 
Published: February 2020

Purpose of the Study: The present study investigates teachers’ familiarity and practices of dyslexia related to weak working memory.
Methodology: A quantitative approach was used to collect data from teachers of learning disabilities. This paper presents the findings of a survey design research by a set of questionnaires carried out in southern regions of Saudi Arabia (n=90)out of 114 male teachers and 99 female teachers.
Results: The main findings indicated that teachers are familiar with information and practices related to dyslexia associated with poor working memory, and there are a significant prediction and relationship between the teachers’ familiarity and practices of this disorder.
Applications of this study: This study provides beneficial ideas and insights to reform the special education systems in Saudi Arabia regarding dyslexia associated with weak working memory. The results emphasized on increasing the familiarity of teachers to support their practices. This can be applied through the teacher's training, the strength of multidisciplinary teams, and dyslexia awareness.
Novelty/Originality of this study: The literature showed that there is an association between dyslexia and weak working memory. However, there is no study examined teachers' familiarity and practices of this association. This study attempt to fill in the gap by identifying the best variable predicting the teachers' familiarity and the practices of dyslexia associated with weak working memory.
La Amazonía colombiana como sujeto de derechos: caracterización del conflicto ambiental que llevó a su reconocimiento
Authors: Vargas-Chaves Iván , Luna-Galván Mauricio , Torres-Pérez Katy 
Published: February 2020

A través de la aplicación de un instrumento metodológico de caracterización de conflictos ambientales, en el presente artículo se lleva a cabo un ejercicio descriptivo de los antecedentes del conflicto que llevó al reconocimiento de la Amazonía colombiana como sujeto de derechos por parte de la Corte Suprema de Justicia. Adicional a lo anterior, y con el propósito de estructurar este estudio de caso, se relacionan las posturas de los actores principales y secundarios, además de los aspectos sociales, económicos y ambientales identificados en la acción de tutela mediante la aplicación de un instrumento de caracterización de conflictos, en el que se examinan los principales actores y factores sociales, gubernamentales, económicos y geográficos que desencadenaron la problemática ambiental y que permiten desde diferentes ópticas su comprensión. Por último, se presentan a manera de conclusiones las consideraciones que desde el biocentrismo le permitieron a la Corte fundamentar esta novedosa visión.