bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation Dynamics of Flonicamid Insecticide Residues in Rice Crop and Soil in Southern Kerala and Its Dietary Risk Assessment
Authors: T Sakthiselvi , George Thomas , S Visal Kumar , B Rani , K N Anith , B Aparna , Priya Gowri
Published: July 2024

Flonicamid is extensively used to manage rice crop from sucking insect pests owing to its high efficacy and relatively non-hazardous nature. Frequent sprayings over the course of the crop season elevate concerns regarding the possibility of residues on crops and soils. The study aimed to investigate the dissipation of foliar-applied flonicamid in rice ecosystem after single, double and triple application frequencies using a modified QuEChERS method combined with UHPLC-MS/MS. Recoveries of 74.34-116.36% were obtained for flonicamid in rice and soil matrices with relative standard deviation less than 7 and Horwitz ratio within 0.3. In the field experiment, flonicamid had half-lives of 2.75 to 3.15 days in leaves and 9.01 days in grains. No significant differences in residues were found after each application frequency owing to the similar environmental conditions prevailed during the growing season. A waiting period of 25 days is recommended for flonicamid when considering crop use for fodder purposes. In soil, no residues were detected regardless of the frequency of application. Upon harvest, residues were detected only in grains treated three times with flonicamid. Dietary risk assessment indicated that risk quotient values were below 1, suggesting no associated risks.
Determination of the Coefficients "a" and "b" of the K-R Relationship for Accurate Measurement of Water Quantity Using Cellular Links in Burkina Faso
Authors: Bonkoungou Ratagskiégré Joseph , Doumounia Ali , Djibo Moumouni , Sanou Serge Roland , Zougmoré François
Published: July 2024

Electromagnetic waves emitted between antennas interact with the atmosphere, undergoing absorption, scattering, and emission processes. Previous studies have shown that the relationship between specific attenuation (K) due to rain of these microwaves and the precipitation rate (R) can be modeled by an empirical power law. The coefficients "a" and "b" of this relationship, linking microwave signal attenuation to precipitation rate, vary depending on frequency, temperature, raindrop size distribution, and other parameters. Thus, it is crucial to obtain data adapted to specific geographical and environmental conditions for accurate rainfall rate assessment.
In this study, we determined for the first time in Burkina Faso, the values of "a" and "b" using data from a disdrometer installed in Nazinga. These Data were collected from October 1, 2016, to September 26, 2017, over a period of about one year. These values were used in the relationship to determine rainfall rates. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the different series of values of the rain is over 0.9.  A comparison of the cumulative rainfall rates determined with the data from a rain gauge at Bobo Dioulasso airport was made. There is a perfect correlation between the values determined in Nazinga and those of Doumounia et al., 2019 with bias values ranging between -3,31 and 0.61 depending on the frequency value and its polarization. The discrepancy between the series of values and those of the rain gauge highlights the need to take local conditions into account when determining the values of "a" and "b" for a better determination of rainfall rates.
A Review of the Impact of Impounded Rivers in KSA and as an Assessment of their Potential for Hydroelectric Power Generation
Authors: Nashrey Ahmed Al
Published: July 2024

As an alternative to fossil fuels-based power generation, hydropower offers cheap operating and maintenance costs, a clean, and sustainable domestic energy source. Currently, hydro resources account for about more than 15% of the global electricity, with renewables accounting for 70% of the total. While 150 countries produce hydropower, the kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has around 559 dams that could have the capacity for hydropower energy production. KSA can meet its internal demand, produce an excess for export, and create jobs for its people by utilising its renewable resource. Therefore, this paper reviews KSA’s current dams and assesses their environmental and socioeconomic impacts and then, it is conducted out technical feasibility study if is sustainable to retrofit Hydroelectric Power (HEP) to existing dams.
Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Sun Flower (Tithonia diversifolia) on the Prevention of Coccidiosis in Broiler Chickens on Natural Infestation
Authors: O.A. Alade , I.B. Osho , A.O. Ayeni , C.O. Durojaye,
Published: July 2024

Aims: The use of antibiotics in animal feed has been restricted and banned in many countries due to its effect on health and the resultant resistance against drugs, this pave way for the use of plants phytochemicals as alternatives to synthesized drugs in the treatment of bacterial diseases. Similarly, observation in coccidiosis infection in poultry have attracted concern where resistance development to anticoccidial drug either incooperated into feed or use as therapy. This study focused on the use of sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) extracted with ethanol on the management and treatment of coccidiosis in broiler chickens.
Study Design: Completely Randomised Design was used for the study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Technology, Akure between April 2023 and November 2023.
Methodology: 120 day old chicks were randomly distributed to four (4) treatment for the prophylactic T1 (2g of Tithonia diversifolia extract), T2 (4g of Tithonia diversifolia), T3 (8g of Tithonia diversifolia), T4 (commercial drug) and T5 (no drug no extract) with three (3) replicates per treatment and 8 chicks per replicate. Parameters evaluated include growth performance, organ and carcass weights, presence and treatment of coccidiosis.
Results: The growth performance reveals highest weight gain (p<0.05) at 28 days in T2 (568.30g) and lowest in T1 (617.95g) when compared to the standard T4 (604.20g). T2 (1319.20g) had the highest feed consumed and lowest in T3 (1300.25g). At the end of 56 days, T3 (1966.90g) had the highest weight gain and lowest in T2 (1740g), highest feed consumed was observed in T2 (5498.25g) with T3 (5465.55g) as the lowest of those taking the extract. T1 had the highest thigh weight 161.80g and lowest in T3 with 159.85g (p<0.05), back weight was high at T1 (166.32g) and lowest in T3 (159.62g), wing weight was high at T2 (104.58g) and low in T1 (102.56g) of those taking the extract when compared with the standard. T1 (163.34g) had the highest intestinal weight and lowest in T2 (141.59g), heart weight was high in T1 (7.66g) and low in T3 (5.97g), spleen weight was high in T2 (1.95g) and low in T1 (1.57g). T3 (77850 Oocyst) had the highest oocyst count after the first prophylactic treatment (day 11) with lowest in T2 (7200 Oocyst per gram) of the extract given, Day 25 and 49 reveals an effective reduction of oocyst counts and its maintenance on those that took the extract. It was observed that Tithonia diversifolia work effectively on reducing the multiplication of coccidian Oocyst accumulation which could have resulted into full bloom infection with no significance difference when compared to the standard.
Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of sunflower at 8g/kg has the potential to eradicate coccidiosis in broiler chickens.
Seasonal Incidence of Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella) in Okra
Authors: Chaudhary Diplal , Chauhan Saroj , Kumar Ritesh , Singh Jatin Kumar
Published: July 2024

The present investigation carried out during the Kharif season 2023 at Deeksha Bhawan Entomology Field, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, (Uttar Pradesh).  During the investigation it has been revealed that the infestation of the shoot and fruit borer, Earias vitella on shoots of okra commenced in the 4th week of August which gradually increased and peaked in the last week of September. The infestation of pests on fruits started in the last week of August which gradually increased and peaked in the 43rd standard metrological week. The correlation studies showed that the maximum temperature, minimum temperatures, relative humidity morning, and relative humidity evening had a non-significant positive correlation while rainfall showed a negative non-significant effect on shoot infestation. However, the infestation of E. vitella on fruits of okra showed a negative non-significant correlation with maximum temperature, relative humidity morning and rainfall while minimum temperature and relative humidity evening had a negative significant correlation.
Formulation and Quality Assessment of Value-added Karonda (Carissa congesta Linn) Squash
Authors: Vikram Balaji , Awashthi Priya , Singh Subhash Chandra , Srivastava Akhilesh Kumar , Gautam Dharmendra Kumar
Published: July 2024

Karonda fruits are abundant in ascorbic acid, pectin, citric acid, calcium and phosphorous, making them a highly nutritious choice. When ripe, these fruits have a delightful sub-acidic sweetness and a distinct aroma. They can be enjoyed as a dessert on their own or used to create delectable value-added products like jelly, sauce, Carissa cream, or jellied salad. For those seeking refreshing beverages, nectar, squash and syrup can be prepared from the ripe karonda fruits. To enhance the beverage's taste and health benefits, nine treatments were devised, incorporating sugar and herbs such as Cardamom and Clove. Different levels of Cardamom and Clove were added as herbal additives and compared to a control group. To ensure quality, the prepared beverages were stored in 250 ml transparent pre-sterilized glass bottles and subjected to a heat treatment at 96°C for 20 minutes. The treated Squash samples were evaluated immediately after preparation and at 60, 120 days and up to 4 months of storage for physiochemical analysis and sensory evaluation. The herbal treatments outperformed the control regarding Total Soluble Solids (TSS), Acidity, ascorbic acid and Iron content. Particularly, treatment T5 (40% TSS + 30% Juice + 2.0% Cardamom extract) exhibited the highest mean TSS (40.13%), Ascorbic acid content (4.23%) and Iron (0.928mg/100g). Additionally, the sensory evaluation, which considered Color, Texture, Flavor and Taste, yielded the highest score of 8.42 in T5 (40% TSS + 30% Juice + 2.0% Cardamom extract).
Unveiling the Economic Dynamics of Rice (Oryza sativa l.) Cultivation: An Experimental Study of Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Deepak Yekula , Renukadevi A. , Porpavai S. , Harika K. Lakshmi , Teja M. Sai Venkata Ravi
Published: July 2024

An experiment on rice treatments to improve soil fertility and sustainable crop productivity was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India during the rabi season, 2021-2022 with an objective to assess the economic dynamics of rice crop in combination to green manure crops. The experiment consists of ten treatments of rice which were sown on 9th September 2021 after harvesting of kharif crop in sandy loam soils. The results revealed that incorporating green manure crops along with rice yielded higher paddy output compared to the traditional rice-only practice. The highest test weight (24.1 g) was recorded under the treatment T3-Rice+Dhaincha (5:1) which was statistically on par with T4-Rice+Dhaincha (10:1). The Harvest index recorded highest (0.45) for the treatments T3-Rice+Dhaincha (5:1) and T8-Rice (Co 52). The economics of the experiment were worked and the cost of cultivation (Rs. 51500), gross income (Rs. 123487), net income (Rs. 71987), and benefit-cost ratio (2.40) were recorded highest in T3-Rice+Dhaincha (5:1) variety. Additionally, the results unveiled a substantial correlation between grain yield and economic indicators. Notably, grain yield demonstrated a significant association, reaching a significance level of 95%, with both gross income and net income. Furthermore, an impressive positive correlation, significant at the 99% level, was identified between grain yield and two essential yield traits: test weight and harvest index. These findings underscore the potential of incorporating green manure crops in rice farming to enhance soil fertility, boost crop productivity, and ensure economic viability, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Experimental Multi-dimensional Study on Corrosion Resistance of Inorganic Phosphate Coatings on 17-4PH Stainless Steel
Authors: Guo Shuaihui , Yan Zhangming
Published: July 2024

The multidimensional corrosion resistance of chromium-molybdenum heat-resistant alloy steel was studied by using TW-7 and AHP inorganic phosphate as coatings. TW-7, AHP inorganic phosphate coatings are both water-based high temperature resistant coatings, which are composed of a bottom coating and sealing coating.
The main component of the sealing paint is a mixture of water, chromate, and phosphate. The single dry hot air resistance, resistance to continuously sprayed synthetic sea water, and composite heat resistance/synthetic sea water salt spray conditions were tested. The corrosion resistance of TW-7 and AHP inorganic phosphate coatings was studied. The results of the dry/hot air test showed that the TW-7 coating on the AHP cannot endure long-term high temperature corrosion from small to large degrees at 600 °C. The synthetic seawater spray test showed that the TW-7 coating had the least amount of corrosion. No obvious corrosion spreading or shedding of the two coatings was observed under the combined conditions of heat resistance and sea water salt spray. The results show that the cyclic resistance of the two coatings to heat-resistant/synthetic seawater salt spray is consistent.
Resilience and Recovery Mechanisms for Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Cloud Networks
Authors: Akinola Oluwaseun Ibrahim , Olaniyi Oluwaseun Oladeji , Ogungbemi Olumide Samuel , Oladoyinbo Oluseun Babatunde , Olisa Anthony Obulor
Published: July 2024

This research examines the vulnerabilities and resilience mechanisms of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and cloud networks, with a specific focus on controller failures and security attacks. The study leverages both simulated and real-world data to assess how these vulnerabilities impact network performance metrics including downtime, packet loss, latency, and throughput. A significant observation from the study is that the nature and impact of network disruptions vary significantly depending on the type of failure or attack, highlighting the need for tailored resilience strategies. Machine learning techniques, notably Support Vector Machines (SVMs), are employed to classify these disruptions with high accuracy, suggesting a promising direction for proactive network management. The research proposes a novel framework that combines the dynamic control capabilities of SDN with machine learning and automation to improve the networks’ fault tolerance and recovery mechanisms. The effectiveness of this framework is demonstrated through enhanced resilience and reduced performance degradation during network disruptions. This study contributes to the field by outlining a scalable and efficient approach to mitigating vulnerabilities in SDN and cloud networks, thereby enhancing overall network stability and reliability.
Influence of the Water Content of Foreshore Sediments in the Tidal Morphological Construction Process: Coarse Sand and Fine Sand Facies in Port-bouët and Assouinde Coastal Sectors Case, Cote-d'ivoire
Authors: Mathurin Saimon Aby Atsé , Mamadou Toure , Blandine Egoran Akissi , Edith-Thérèse Kouabena Kossia
Published: July 2024

The erosion of sandy coasts has become a major concern for coastal populations, private investors and governments. In Côte d'Ivoire, several studies have been carried out to better understand the mechanisms of this hazard on coastal morphologies. So our knowledge of tidal shoreline morphologies on microtidal coasts such as those of Côte d'Ivoire reveals two trends: erosion of the foreshore near high tide, and a deepening near low tide, or a deepening near high tide and an erosion near low tide, depending on the part of the foreshore. The contribution of hydrodynamic parameters, in particular significant swell height and theoretical tide, explains these trends, although not exhaustively. Water content in sediment was analyzed to understand its impact on shoreline morphologies resulting from the action of hydrodynamic forcing. To this end, two altimetric surveys synchronized with sedimentological monitoring of the submerged foreshore in coarse and fine sand facies were carried out at Port Bouët and Assouindé on the Ivorian coast. These studies showed that erosion occurs at times of high water content, when saturation in the sediment is reached. This observation was clearly evident on coarse sand facies, but less so on fine sand facies. The fine sand facies has a greater capacity to absorb water and therefore remains less vulnerable to foreshore erosion. Granulometry is therefore a parameter that influences the morphological response of beaches.
Fabrication and Evaluation of Luliconazole Loaded Leciplex against Candidiasis
Authors: Telang Gaurirani Anil , Monde Ashish Ashok , Ashtekar Kiran Sadashiv , Bagul Uddhav Suresh
Published: July 2024

Background: Fungal infections pose a significant public health concern due to the extended duration of treatment needed and the frequent reoccurrence of the disease.
Objectives: This study was aimed to enhance the permeability of luliconazole with sustain release for prolonged period for the effective treatment of fungal infection by incorporating it into lipid based nanocarrier system.
Methods: Luliconazole loaded leciplex were prepared by one step fabrication method using phospholipid, Dimethyldidodecyl ammonium bromide and transcutol P. The prepared leciplex were optimized by using Box Behnken statistical design. Furthermore, luliconazole loaded leciplex were incorporated into carbopol gel system and evaluated for various parameters.
Results: The luliconazole loaded leciplex showed high entrapment efficiency (98.8% ± 1.2) and size were recorded around 428.11 nm with a polydispersity index value of 0.35 ± 0.12, along with zeta potential of +26.30 mV.  The Transmission Electron Microscopy studies revealed the spherical morphology of the leciplex. The developed leciplex gel was evaluated for its pH, viscosity, spreadability, hardness and adhesiveness. Furthermore, in vitro and ex vivo release kinetics demonstrated the sustained drug release pattern. Moreover, histopathology studies conducted on the rat skin revealed that the prepared formulation was non - irritant and non – toxic. The antifungal assay of developed formulations (containing only 0.3 % w/v luliconazole) showed significantly greater antifungal activity against Candida albicans as compared to marketed formulation (containing 1 % w/v luliconazole).
Conclusion: By taking all the results in to account it can be concluded that luliconazole loaded leciplex formulation is simple to prepare and showed excellent activity in against Candida albicans.
Development of Active - Passive Combination of Tillage Implement Suitable for Mini Tractor
Authors: Babu T. Mahesh , Kumar A. Ashok , Reddy K.V.S Rami , Kumar H.V. Hema
Published: July 2024

An experimental tillage tool, which integrates active - passive implements (cultivator tines in the front and a rotavator in the rear), was evaluated in the field. The forward-rotating active elements produced a negative draft, significantly reducing the overall draft requirements of the tool. When compared to a tool with four passive elements, a combination machine equipped with two active and two passive elements experienced an 87 per cent less draft and draft power, despite having similar total power. According to estimates of power transmission efficiency, a combination machine would use 34 per cent less energy than a similar passive tillage tool. The tillage performance parameters, including draft force, fuel consumption, wheel slip, and power requirement, were measured using a digital dynamometer at different operating depths. The drawbar power needed for the combination tillage implement was determined. During field test, the draft force of the rotavator with tines was observed to be 0.46 kw, 1.7 kw, and 3.5 kw at forward speeds of 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 km h-1, respectively.
Logistics Challenges in Distributing Crop Protection Chemicals (CPCs)
Authors: Sahoo Truptimayee , Radhika P. , Srilatha Ch. , Supriya K.
Published: July 2024

The secondary distribution network refers to the comprehensive set of activities involved in the management and execution of the post-production supply chain, encompassing storage, transportation and distribution. Secondary distribution involves the coordination of various elements, such as inventory management, order fulfillment and transportation, to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods to end-users. Efficient distribution network ensures timely availability of these products, enabling farmers to address pest infestations promptly and prevent significant crop losses. This manuscript on examining the issues faced by supply chain partners in the secondary distribution network for Crop Protection Chemicals (CPCs) is highly significant for the scientific community. It sheds light on crucial aspects of logistics management, secondary distribution networks and supply chain challenges in the agricultural sector. The use of the Garett Ranking Technique for analysis adds a methodological strength to the study. Overall, this manuscript provides valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals in the field of agrochemicals and agricultural supply chains. Based on the results, the issues faced by supply chain partners are identified and ranked on the basis of Garett Ranking Technique. Implementing barcode scanners, negotiating transportation rates and automating customer notifications can significantly reduce operational costs and improve accuracy.
Optimizing Input Management Practices for Sustainable Maize Production
Authors: Patel Pritam Kumar , Choudhury Suborna Roy , Gupta Sanjeev Kumar , Das Anupam , Pathak Sushil Kumar , Kumar Devashish , Panda Chandan Kumar
Published: July 2024

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different input management practices on the growth, biomass production and yield of maize. The study was carried out during the rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23 at the Agricultural Research Farm, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. Seven nutrient management practices were tested in combination with pest management practices. The treatments included a 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) through inorganic sources, 50% RDF through inorganic and 50% through organic sources, SPAD-based nitrogen management, and the addition of insecticide application. The results showed that the treatment with SPAD-based nitrogen management and insecticide application (N6) resulted in the highest plant height (200.3 cm at 120 DAS), leaf area index (4.5 at 90 DAS), biomass production (19,156 kg ha-1 at harvest) and crop growth rate (24.2 g m-2 day-1 at 90-120 DAS). This treatment also recorded the maximum total biomass (19,538.33 kg ha-1), stover yield (7,103.33 kg ha-1), grain yield (9,896.67 kg ha-1), and harvest index (49.65%), which were significantly superior to the farmer's practice (N7). In conclusion, the nutrient management practice with SPAD-based nitrogen management and insecticide application can be an effective tool for maximizing the productivity of the maize crop.
Surface energy budget of landfast sea ice during the transitions from winter to snowmelt and melt pond onset: The importance of net longwave radiation and cyclone forcings
Authors: Else B. G. T. , Papakyriakou T. N. , Raddatz R. , Galley R. J. , Mundy C. J. , Barber D. G. , Swystun K. , Rysgaard S.
Published: May 2014

Relatively few sea ice energy balance studies have successfully captured the transition season of warming, snowmelt, and melt pond formation. In this paper, we report a surface energy budget for landfast sea ice that captures this important period. The study was conducted in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago from 10 May to 20 June 2010. Over the first 20 days of the study, we found that short periods (1–3 days) of increased net radiation associated with low longwave loss provided most of the energy required to warm the snowpack from winter conditions. An extended period of low longwave loss (5 days) combined with the seasonal increase in incoming shortwave radiation then triggered snowmelt onset. Melt progressed with a rapid reduction in albedo and attendant increases in shortwave energy absorption, resulting in melt pond formation 8 days later. The key role of longwave radiation in initiating melt onset supports past findings, and confirms the importance of clouds and water vapor associated with synoptic weather systems. However, we also observed a period of strong turbulent energy exchange associated with the passage of a cyclone. The cyclone event occurred shortly after melt pond formation, but it delivered enough energy to significantly hasten melt onset had it occurred earlier in the season. Changes in the frequency, duration, and timing of synoptic‐scale weather events that deliver clouds and/or strong turbulent heat fluxes may be important in explaining observed changes in sea ice melt onset timing.
Large plasma density enhancements occurring in the northern polar region during the 6 April 2000 superstorm
Authors: Horvath Ildiko , Lovell Brian C.
Published: May 2014

We focus on the ionospheric response of northern high‐latitude region to the 6 April 2000 superstorm and aim to investigate how the storm‐enhanced density (SED) plume plasma became distributed in the regions of auroral zone and polar cap plus to study the resultant ionospheric features and their development. Multi‐instrument observational results combined with model‐generated, two‐cell convection maps permitted identifying the high‐density plasma's origin and the underlying plasma transportation processes. Results show the plasma density feature of polar cap enhancement (PCE; ~600 × 103 i+/cm3) appearing for 7 h during the main phase and characterized by increases reaching up to 6 times of the quiet time values. Meanwhile, strong westward convections (~17,500 m/s) created low plasma densities in a wider region of the dusk cell. Oppositely, small (~750 m/s) but rigorous westward drifts drove the SED plume plasma through the auroral zone, wherein plasma densities doubled. As the SED plume plasma traveled along the convection streamlines and entered the polar cap, a continuous enhancement of the tongue of ionization (TOI) developed under steady convection conditions. However, convection changes caused slow convections and flow stagnations and thus segmented the TOI feature by locally depleting the plasma in the affected regions of the auroral zone and polar cap. From the strong correspondence of polar cap potential drop and subauroral polarization stream (SAPS), we conclude that the SAPS E‐field strength remained strong, and under its prolonged influence, the SED plume provided a continuous supply of downward flowing high‐density plasma for the development and maintenance of PCEs.
Observations of surface waves interacting with ice using stereo imaging
Authors: Campbell Alexander J. , Bechle Adam J. , Wu Chin H.
Published: May 2014

A powerful Automated Trinocular Stereo Imaging System (ATSIS) is used to remotely measure waves interacting with three distinct ice types: brash, frazil, and pancake. ATSIS is improved with a phase‐only correlation matching algorithm and parallel computation to provide high spatial and temporal resolution 3‐D profiles of the water/ice surface, from which the wavelength, frequency, and energy flux are calculated. Alongshore spatial frequency distributions show that pancake and frazil ices differentially attenuate at a greater rate for higher‐frequency waves, causing a decrease in mean frequency. In contrast, wave propagation through brash ice causes a rapid increase in the dominant wave frequency, which may be caused by nonlinear energy transfer to higher frequencies due to collisions between the brash ice particles. Consistent to the results in frequency, the wavelengths in pancake and frazil ices increase but decrease in brash ice. The total wave energy fluxes decrease exponentially in both pancake and frazil ice, whereas the overall energy flux remain constant in the brash ice due to thin layer thickness. The spatial energy flux distributions also reveal that wave reflection occurs at the boundary of each ice layer, with reflection coefficient decaying exponentially away from the ice interface. Reflection is the strongest at the pancake/ice‐free and frazil/brash interfaces and the weakest at the brash/ice‐free interface. These high resolution observations measured by ATSIS demonstrate the spatially variable nature of waves propagating through ice.
Harnessing Multiple Folding Mechanisms in Soft Periodic Structures for Tunable Control of Elastic Waves
Authors: Shan Sicong , Kang Sung H. , Wang Pai , Qu Cangyu , Shian Samuel , Chen Elizabeth R. , Bertoldi Katia
Published: May 2014

Mechanical instabilities in periodic porous elastic structures may lead to the formation of homogeneous patterns, opening avenues for a wide range of applications that are related to the geometry of the system. This study focuses on an elastomeric porous structure comprising a triangular array of circular holes, and shows that by controlling the loading direction, multiple pattern transformations can be induced by buckling. Interestingly, these different pattern transformations can be exploited to design materials with highly tunable properties. In particular, these results indicate that they can be effectively used to tune the propagation of elastic waves in phononic crystals, enhancing the tunability of the dynamic response of the system. Using a combination of finite element simulations and experiments, a proof‐of‐concept of the novel material is demonstrated. Since the proposed mechanism is induced by elastic instability, it is reversible, repeatable, and scale‐independent, opening avenues for the design of highly tunable materials and devices over a wide range of length scales.
Respiratory problems in patients with ectodermal dysplasia syndromes
Authors: Fete Timothy
Published: May 2014

The ectodermal dysplasias (EDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by a deficiency of ectoderm‐ and mesoderm‐derived tissues and appendages, particularly hair, skin, teeth, and nails. Many of these disorders are associated with a greater risk of respiratory disease than found in the general population. There are no published papers that comprehensively describe these findings and the possible etiologies. Patients have been reported with dramatic decrease in mucous glands in the respiratory tract. Anatomic defects, including cleft palate, that predispose to respiratory infection, are associated with several of the ED syndromes. Atopy and immune deficiencies have been shown to have a higher prevalence in ED syndromes. Clinicians who care for patients affected by ED syndromes should be aware of the potential respiratory complications, and consider evaluation for structural anomalies, atopy and immunodeficiency in individuals with recurrent or chronic respiratory symptoms. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Two deletions overlapping a distant FOXF1 enhancer unravel the role of lncRNA LINC01081 in etiology of alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins
Authors: Szafranski Przemyslaw , Dharmadhikari Avinash V. , Wambach Jennifer A. , Towe Chris T. , White Frances V. , Grady R. Mark , Eghtesady Pirooz , Cole F. Sessions , Deutsch Gail , Sen Partha , Stankiewicz Paweł
Published: May 2014

Position effects due to disruption of distant cis‐regulatory regions have been reported for over 40 human gene loci; however, the underlying mechanisms of long‐range gene regulation remain largely unknown. We report on two patients with alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins (ACDMPV) caused by overlapping genomic deletions that included a distant FOXF1 transcriptional enhancer mapping 0.3 Mb upstream to FOXF1 on 16q24.1. In one patient with atypical late‐onset ACDMPV, a ∼1.5 Mb deletion removed the proximal 43% of this enhancer, leaving the lung‐specific long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) gene LINC01081 intact. In the second patient with severe neonatal‐onset ACDMPV, an overlapping ∼194 kb deletion disrupted LINC01081. Both deletions arose de novo on maternal copy of the chromosome 16, supporting the notion that FOXF1 is paternally imprinted in the human lungs. RNAi‐mediated knock‐down of LINC01081 in normal fetal lung fibroblasts showed that this lncRNA positively regulates FOXF1 transcript level, further indicating that decrease in LINC01081 expression can contribute to development of ACDMPV. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Severe presentation of WDR62 mutation: Is there a role for modifying genetic factors?
Authors: Poulton Cathryn J. , Schot Rachel , Seufert Katja , Lequin Maarten H. , Accogli Andrea , Annunzio Giuseppe D' , Villard Laurent , Philip Nicole , de Coo René , Catsman‐Berrevoets Coriene , Grasshoff Ute , Kattentidt‐Mouravieva Anja , Calf Hans , de Vreugt‐Gronloh Erika , van Unen Leontine , Verheijen Frans W. , Galjart Niels , Morris‐Rosendahl Deborah J. , Mancini Grazia M. S.
Published: May 2014

Mutations in WDR62 are associated with primary microcephaly; however, they have been reported with wide phenotypic variability. We report on six individuals with novel WDR62 mutations who illustrate this variability and describe three in greater detail. Of the three, one lacks neuromotor development and has severe pachygyria on MRI, another has only delayed speech and motor development and moderate polymicrogyria, and the third has an intermediate phenotype. We observed a rare copy number change of unknown significance, a 17q25qter duplication, in the first severely affected individual. The 17q25 duplication included an interesting candidate gene, tubulin cofactor D (TBCD), crucial in microtubule assembly and disassembly. Sequencing of the non‐duplicated allele showed a TBCD missense mutation, predicted to cause a deleterious p.Phe1121Val substitution. Sequencing of a cohort of five patients with WDR62 mutations, including one with an identical mutation and different phenotype, plus 12 individuals with diagnosis of microlissencephaly and another individual with mild intellectual disability (ID) and a 17q25 duplication, did not reveal TBCD mutations. However, immunostaining with tubulin antibodies of cells from patients with both WDR62 and TBCD mutation showed abnormal tubulin network when compared to controls and cells with only the WDR62 mutation. Therefore, we propose that genetic factors contribute to modify the severity of the WDR62 phenotype and, although based on suggestive evidence, TBCD could function as one of such factors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Technical Note: Calcium and carbon stable isotope ratios as paleodietary indicators
Authors: Melin Amanda D. , Crowley Brooke E. , Brown Shaun T. , Wheatley Patrick V. , Moritz Gillian L. , Yit Yu Fred Tuh , Bernard Henry , DePaolo Donald J. , Jacobson Andrew D. , Dominy Nathaniel J.
Published: May 2014

Calcium stable isotope ratios are hypothesized to vary as a function of trophic level. This premise raises the possibility of using calcium stable isotope ratios to study the dietary behaviors of fossil taxa and to test competing hypotheses on the adaptive origins of euprimates. To explore this concept, we measured the stable isotope composition of contemporary mammals in northern Borneo and northwestern Costa Rica, two communities with functional or phylogenetic relevance to primate origins. We found that bone collagen δ13C and δ15N values could differentiate trophic levels in each assemblage, a result that justifies the use of these systems to test the predicted inverse relationship between bioapatite δ13C and δ44Ca values. As expected, taxonomic carnivores (felids) showed a combination of high δ13C and low δ44Ca values; however, the δ44Ca values of other faunivores were indistinguishable from those of primary consumers. We suggest that the trophic insensitivity of most bioapatite δ44Ca values is attributable to the negligible calcium content of arthropod prey. Although the present results are inconclusive, the tandem analysis of δ44Ca and δ13C values in fossils continues to hold promise for informing paleodietary studies and we highlight this potential by drawing attention to the stable isotope composition of the Early Eocene primate Cantius. Am J Phys Anthropol 154:633–643, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Birth is but our death begun: A bioarchaeological assessment of skeletal emaciation in immature human skeletons in the context of environmental, social, and subsistence transition
Authors: Schug Gwen Robbins , Goldman Haviva M.
Published: May 2014

The second millennium BC was a period of significant social and environmental changes in prehistoric India. After the disintegration of the Indus civilization, in a phase known as the Early Jorwe (1400–1000 BC), hundreds of agrarian villages flourished in the Deccan region of west‐central India. Environmental degradation, combined with unsustainable agricultural practices, contributed to the abandonment of many communities around 1000 BC. Inamgaon was one of a handful of villages to persist into the Late Jorwe phase (1000–700 BC), wherein reliance on dry‐plough agricultural production declined. Previous research demonstrated a significant decline in body size (stature and body mass index) through time, which is often used to infer increased levels of biocultural stress in bioarchaeology. This article assesses evidence for growth disruption in the immature human skeletal remains from Inamgaon by correlating measures of whole bone morphology with midshaft femur compact bone geometry and histology. Growth derangement is observable in immature archaeological femora as an alteration in the expected amount and distribution of bone mass and porosity in the midshaft cross‐section. Cross‐section shape matched expectations for older infants with the acquisition of bipedal locomotion. These results support the hypothesis that small body size was related to disruptions in homeostasis and high levels of biocultural stress in the Late Jorwe at Inamgaon. Further, the combined use of geometric properties and histological details provides a method for teasing apart the complex interactions among activity and “health,” demonstrating how biocultural stressors affect the acquisition and quality of bone mass. Am J Phys Anthropol 155:243–259, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Rapidly Reversible Chemical Dimerizer System to Study Lipid Signaling in Living Cells
Authors: Feng Suihan , Laketa Vibor , Stein Frank , Rutkowska Anna , MacNamara Aidan , Depner Sofia , Klingmüller Ursula , Saez‐Rodriguez Julio , Schultz Carsten
Published: May 2014

Chemical dimerizers are powerful tools for non‐invasive manipulation of enzyme activities in intact cells. Here we introduce the first rapidly reversible small‐molecule‐based dimerization system and demonstrate a sufficiently fast switch‐off to determine kinetics of lipid metabolizing enzymes in living cells. We applied this new method to induce and stop phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) activity, allowing us to quantitatively measure the turnover of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5‐trisphosphate (PIP3) and its downstream effectors by confocal fluorescence microscopy as well as standard biochemical methods.
A Smart Library of Epoxide Hydrolase Variants and the Top Hits for Synthesis of (S)‐β‐Blocker Precursors
Authors: Kong Xu‐Dong , Ma Qian , Zhou Jiahai , Zeng Bu‐Bing , Xu Jian‐He
Published: May 2014

Microtuning of the enzyme active pocket has led to a smart library of epoxide hydrolase variants with an expanded substrate spectrum covering a series of typical β‐blocker precursors. Improved activities of 6‐ to 430‐fold were achieved by redesigning the active site at two predicted hot spots. This study represents a breakthrough in protein engineering of epoxide hydrolases and resulted in enhanced activity toward bulky substrates.
Covalent Grafting of Carbon Nanotubes with a Biomimetic Heme Model Compound To Enhance Oxygen Reduction Reactions
Authors: Wei Ping‐Jie , Yu Guo‐Qiang , Naruta Yoshinori , Liu Jin‐Gang
Published: May 2014

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one of the most important reactions in both life processes and energy conversion systems. The replacement of noble‐metal Pt‐based ORR electrocatalysts by nonprecious‐metal catalysts is crucial for the large‐scale commercialization of automotive fuel cells. Inspired by the mechanisms of dioxygen activation by metalloenzymes, herein we report a structurally well‐defined, bio‐inspired ORR catalyst that consists of a biomimetic model compound—an axial imidazole‐coordinated porphyrin—covalently attached to multiwalled carbon nanotubes. Without pyrolysis, this bio‐inspired electrocatalyst demonstrates superior ORR activity and stability compared to those of the state‐of‐the‐art Pt/C catalyst in both acidic and alkaline solutions, thus making it a promising alternative as an ORR electrocatalyst for application in fuel‐cell technology.
Dynamic Diselenide Bonds: Exchange Reaction Induced by Visible Light without Catalysis
Authors: Ji Shaobo , Cao Wei , Yu Ying , Xu Huaping
Published: May 2014

Dynamic covalent bonds are extensively employed in dynamic combinatorial chemistry. The metathesis reaction of disulfide bonds is widely used, but requires catalysis or irradiation with ultraviolet (UV) light. It was found that diselenide bonds are dynamic covalent bonds and undergo dynamic exchange reactions under mild conditions for diselenide metathesis. This reaction is induced by irradiation with visible light and stops in the dark. The exchange is assumed to proceed through a radical mechanism, and experiments with 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yloxyl (TEMPO) support this assumption. Furthermore, the reaction can be conducted in different solvents, including protic solvents. Diselenide metathesis can also be used to synthesize diselenide‐containing asymmetric block copolymers. This work thus entails the use of diselenide bonds as dynamic covalent bonds, the development of a dynamic exchange reaction under mild conditions, and an extension of selenium‐related dynamic chemistry.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity of a Uranium(VI) Carbene Imido Oxo Complex
Authors: Lu Erli , Cooper Oliver J. , McMaster Jonathan , Tuna Floriana , McInnes Eric J. L. , Lewis William , Blake Alexander J. , Liddle Stephen T.
Published: May 2014

We report the uranium(VI) carbene imido oxo complex [U(BIPMTMS)(NMes)(O)(DMAP)2] (5, BIPMTMS=C(PPh2NSiMe3)2; Mes=2,4,6‐Me3C6H2; DMAP=4‐(dimethylamino)pyridine) which exhibits the unprecedented arrangement of three formal multiply bonded ligands to one metal center where the coordinated heteroatoms derive from different element groups. This complex was prepared by incorporation of carbene, imido, and then oxo groups at the uranium center by salt elimination, protonolysis, and two‐electron oxidation, respectively. The oxo and imido groups adopt axial positions in a T‐shaped motif with respect to the carbene, which is consistent with an inverse trans‐influence. Complex 5 reacts with tert‐butylisocyanate at the imido rather than carbene group to afford the uranyl(VI) carbene complex [U(BIPMTMS)(O)2(DMAP)2] (6).
Cooperative Activation with Chiral Nucleophilic Catalysts and N‐Haloimides: Enantioselective Iodolactonization of 4‐Arylmethyl‐4‐pentenoic Acids
Authors: Nakatsuji Hidefumi , Sawamura Yasuhiro , Sakakura Akira , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: May 2014

Chiral triaryl phosphates promote the enantioselective iodolactonization of 4‐substituted 4‐pentenoic acids to give the corresponding iodolactones in high yields with high enantioselectivity. N‐Chlorophthalimide (NCP) is employed as a Lewis acidic activator and oxidant of I2 for the present iodolactonization. In combination with 1.5 equivalents of NCP, only 0.5 equivalents of I2 are sufficient to generate the iodinating reagent.
Supramolecular Inhibition of Amyloid Fibrillation by Cucurbit[7]uril
Authors: Lee Hong Hee , Choi Tae Su , Lee Shin Jung C. , Lee Jong Wha , Park Junghong , Ko Young Ho , Kim Won Jong , Kim Kimoon , Kim Hugh I.
Published: May 2014

Amyloid fibrils are insoluble protein aggregates comprised of highly ordered β‐sheet structures and they are involved in the pathology of amyloidoses, such as Alzheimer’s disease. A supramolecular strategy is presented for inhibiting amyloid fibrillation by using cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]). CB[7] prevents the fibrillation of insulin and β‐amyloid by capturing phenylalanine (Phe) residues, which are crucial to the hydrophobic interactions formed during amyloid fibrillation. These results suggest that the Phe‐specific binding of CB[7] can modulate the intermolecular interaction of amyloid proteins and prevent the transition from monomeric to multimeric states. CB[7] thus has potential for the development of a therapeutic strategy for amyloidosis.
Redox‐Triggered Reversible Interconversion of a Monocyclic and a Bicyclic Phosphorus Heterocycle
Authors: Heift Dominikus , Benkő Zoltán , Grützmacher Hansjörg
Published: May 2014

Molecules which change their structures significantly and reversibly upon an oxidation or reduction process have potential as future components of smart materials. A prerequisite for such an application is that the molecules should undergo the redox‐coupled transformation within a reasonable electrochemical window and lock into stable redox states. Sodium phosphaethynolate reacts with two equivalents of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) to yield an anionic, imino‐functionalized 1,3,5‐diazaphosphinane [3 a]−. The oxidation of this anion with elemental iodine causes an intramolecular rearrangement reaction to give a bicyclic 1,3,2‐diazaphospholenium cation [6]+. This umpolung of electronic properties from non‐aromatic to highly aromatic is reversible, and the cation [6]+ is reduced with elemental magnesium to reform the 1,3,5‐diazaphosphinanide anion [3 a]−. Theoretical calculations suggest that phosphinidene species are involved in the rearrangement processes.
Conjugated poly(pyridinium salt)s as fluorescence light‐up probes for heparin sensing
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Yandong , Sun Jingfen , Lu Yan , Sun Yujiao , Cheng Dandan , Li Chenxi
Published: May 2014

Because of its interaction with diverse proteins, heparin plays an important role in the regulation of various normal physiological and pathological processes. However, heparin overdose can induce some complications such as hemorrhages and thrombocytopenia. Therefore, it is critical to detect and quantify heparin accurately and quickly. Recently, conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs)‐based fluorescent probes for heparin sensing have attracted considerable interests. Unfortunately, only few kinds of CPEs such as polyfluorenes derivatives, polythiophene derivatives, are reported and effective in fluorescent assays of heparin by now. This contribution aims to develop a new kind of polyelectrolytes based on poly(pyridinium salt)s derivatives for heparin detection with a light‐up signature. An alternative conjugated poly(pyridinium salt)s (P1) containing carbazole segments in the main chain was designed and synthesized, which are weakly emissive in solution but highly luminescent upon binding with heparin. Fluorescence light‐up probes for heparin detection based on P1 were developed with high selectivity. P1 shows the similar fluorescence response toward heparin both in a broad pH range of about 3–12 and in the presence of various competing anions. Heparin quantification with a practical calibration range (0–14 µM) covering the whole therapeutic dosing levels (0.2–1.2 U mL−1, 1.7–10 µM) is realized based on the polymer probe. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40933.