bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of Brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dou Ran , Jiang Jian
Published: June 2024

Background

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (n-AMD) through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Materials and Methods

Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were comprehensively searched for relevant studies. Stata and RevMan5.4 were applied for meta-analysis and risk of bias assessment. Data on the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CSFT), presence of intraretinal fluid (IRF) and/or subretinal fluid (SRF), participants with ≥1 serious adverse events, and participants with ≥1 adverse events were analyzed.

Results

Six studies were finally included. Meta-analysis showed statistical differences in BCVA [SMD = −0.65, 95% CI [−0.17 to −0.23], P < 0.05], the presence of IRF and/or SRF [RR = 0.67, 95% CI [0.56–0.79], P < 0.05], and the safety of participants with ≥1 serious adverse events [RR = 0.57, 95% CI [0.39–0.84], P < 0.05] between the experimental group and the control group. However, no statistical differences were observed in CSFT [SMD = −1.16, 95% CI [−2.79 to 0.47], P > 0.05] or the safety of participants with ≥1 adverse events [RR = 1.07, 95% CI [0.97–1.17], P > 0.05].

Conclusions

Compared to other anti-VEGF drugs such as Aflibercept and Ranibizumab, intravitreal injection of 6 mg Brolucizumab is more effective and safer for n-AMD, especially in the presence of IRF and/or SRF, and for participants with ≥1 serious adverse events.
Myoepithelioma of Right Buccal Mucosa: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Sawant Vaishnavi , Sakhariya Samkit , Aditya Amita , Waknis Pushkar , Khatoon Farha
Published: June 2024

Myoepithelioma is a rare benign salivary gland tumour that has been reported sporadically. It is most often seen to be associated with the parotid gland, and the involvement of minor salivary glands remains a rarity. Amongst the minor salivary glands, myoepithelioma has been reported to occur most commonly in the palate, most commonly, followed by the tongue and upper lips. Its occurrence in the buccal mucosa is an extremely rare phenomenon and to date, only a few cases have been reported. This is a rare case of myoepithelioma of the minor salivary gland of the right buccal mucosa, adding to the list. Hereby, the authors present a case report of a 40-year-old female who visited with a complaint of tooth decay and an asymptomatic, long-standing tissue growth was noted in the right buccal mucosa. What was initially and provisionally diagnosed as irritational hyperplasia and was turned out to be rare benign tumour, i.e., myoepithelioma, on detailed investigation. It was successfully managed with surgical excision, and no recurrence has been reported to date.
Assessment of Glu504 Lys Genotype and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Exon 12 and 13 of ALDH2 Gene in Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis patients in Northern Karnataka,India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Biradar Siddanagouda M , Reddy Y Sethu , Bulagouda Rudragouda S , Kadakol Gurushantappa S
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD) is one of the most significant issues affecting the world today and is the principal cause of atleast 60 of the most significant forms of systemic disorders. The metabolic breakdown of alcohol into acetaldehydes is catalysed by Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ALDH). Aim: To find out the Glu504 Lys genotype and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in the exon 12 and 13 of ALDH2 gene in alcoholic liver cirrhosis patients. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of General Medicine and Genetics Laboratory of the BLDE (Deemed to be University) Shri BM Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre (SBMPMC), Vijayapura, Karnataka, India. The study period was from January 2021 to June 2022. ALD patients were recruited. For the present study, 32 patients with ALD symptoms were recruited, and a total of 32 age- and sex-matched controls were included. Patients with existing or past co-infections with Hepatitis B or C and other causes of chronic liver disease were excluded. Blood samples were collected from all patients and subjected to genetic analysis; Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) products were then analysed using Sanger-based Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) sequencing. Results: The mean age of all patients and controls in the present study was 44.06 and 52.09 years, respectively. Out of 32 cases, two mutations were found in exon 13: g.47794 A>T (heterozygous) and g.47854 T>G (heterozygous). These mutations occurred in patients who were younger (mean age 29.5 years) and consumed less alcohol (108 g/day) for a shorter duration (5.5 years) compared to the remaining cases. No SNPs were found in exon 12 of the ALDH2 gene. Conclusion: Mutations in the exon 13 regions of the ALDH2 gene may be responsible for early predisposition to the disease. Early genetic analysis in selected populations to identify these mutations may help prevent the occurrence of the disease. An association study of the ALDH2 gene with ALD will be conducted in larger samples, along with biochemical and other clinical investigations, to determine the association of these gene polymorphisms.
Intratubular Penetration and Push-out Bond Strength of AH Plus, GuttaFlow 2 and GuttaFlow Bioseal Sealers: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Madakwade Sangham , Makade Chetana Sachin , Shenoi Pratima , Gunwal Mohit , Gupta Simran
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The root canal obturating material provides a three-dimensional fluid-impervious seal. Root canal sealers play a major role in providing a seal between the core material and the tooth for the long-term success of endodontic treatment. Aim: To evaluate the intratubular penetration and Bond Strength (BS) and push-out BS of AH Plus, GuttaFlow 2, and GuttaFlow Bioseal sealers. Materials and Methods: The in-vitro study was conducted in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics at Ranjeet Deshmukh Dental College and Research Centre, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, from October 2019 to April 2021. A total of 75 human mandibular first premolars were decoronated at the Cemento-enamel Junction (CEJ) with a standardised length of 16 mm. The root canal was prepared using the crown-down technique with HyFlex Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) rotary files and divided into three groups: Group-I: AH Plus, Group-II: GuttaFlow 2, and Group-III: GuttaFlow Bioseal. 0.1% Rhodamine B dye was added to the sealer and obturated using the single cone technique. These samples were transversely sectioned into beams at the middle third of the root. A confocal laser scanning microscope was used to evaluate the depth of sealer penetration in the dentinal tubule, and a Universal Testing Machine was utilised to measure the push-out BS (MPa). The recorded data were subjected to statistical analysis {one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test, Tukey’s post-hoc test, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient}. Results: The results obtained indicated that there was a significant difference in the depth of penetration and push-out BS of AH Plus and GuttaFlow 2 sealers (p <0.0001). However, there was no significant difference found between AH Plus and GuttaFlow Bioseal sealers (p=0.206). In addition, there was no significant difference in the correlation between intratubular penetration and push-out BS of the sealers (negative correlation). Conclusion: Considering the results, the GuttaFlow Bioseal sealer was found to have comparable clinical performance with AH Plus sealer; hence, it can be used as an acceptable root canal sealer.
Study on the Cost of Cultivation, Returns, and Benefit-Cost Ratio of Betel Vine Farmers in Different Farm Groups in Bankura District, India
Authors: Mukherjee Sambuddha , Kumar Sanjay
Published: June 2024

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy and plays a crucial role in the social and economic fabric of the country. It not only contributes to national income, food security, and employment generation but also fosters cultural unity and economic cohesion within society. This study focuses on betel vine cultivation in the Taldangra Block of Bankura district, West Bengal, where commercial betel cultivation is prevalent. Hence the study area was selected using purposive and convenient sampling methods to ensure representation of the dominant betel cultivation practices. To minimize recall biases, researchers established personal rapports with farmers before conducting surveys and collecting data. The study was conducted during the agricultural year 2023-24, with primary data collected from 120 farmers in seven randomly selected villages. The data collected aimed to assess the cost of establishing and maintaining betel orchards, total cultivation costs, returns, and the benefit-cost ratio for farmers. A semi-structured and pretested schedule, utilizing Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) techniques, was employed for data collection and farm economic evaluation. The results revealed that the total cultivation costs for marginal, small, semi-medium, medium, and large farmers were ₹457,943 ; ₹441,850; ₹430,115; ₹425,828 and ₹419,168, respectively. The cost-benefit ratios for these categories of farmers were 2.4, 2.5, 2.44, 2.2, and 2.7, respectively. Large farmers had a higher benefit-cost ratio of 2.7, while semi-medium farmers had a lower ratio of 2.2.
Exploring the Impact of Work-related Stress in the Nigerian Petroleum Industry
Authors: Esitikot Esang Lazarus , Ekong Akaninyene Edet , Okeke Gerald Ndubuisi , Umoh Mary Ubong , Obadimu Clement O. , Ogunbanwo Babatunde Michael
Published: June 2024

For decades, work-related stress has been a global menace impacting workers and Organizations. Work-related stress also adversely affects workers’ health and productivity. Organizational leaders face the challenge of eliminating work-related stress to enhance profitability.
The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore the impact of work-related stress in the petroleum industry, Niger Delta region, Nigeria. The study methodology was qualitative in nature and adopted multiple case study design. Participants were six supervisors who have successfully used strategies to reduce work-related stress in the Nigerian petroleum industry. Purposive sampling technique in qualitative research was adopted to reach participants. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews and internal company documents relevant to reducing work-related stress and analyzed using thematic analysis.
The responses of the research participants to the interview questions demonstrated a strong awareness of the negative impact of work-related stress. Work related stress leads to fatigue/ burnout, negative workers’ health and reduced profitability. Financial motivation, reduction of long working hours and excess workload; collaboration among the workers, supervisors, organizational leaders, and clients or customers and training on work life were suggested as a way forward.
Navigating the National Qualifying Examination for School Heads: Insights from a Multiple Case Study Analysis
Authors: Paglinawan Alan, Jr. J. , Bauyot Marleonie M.
Published: June 2024

This qualitative multiple case study investigates the experiences and strategies of National Qualifying Examination for School Heads (NQESH) passers in their preparation for, administration of, and coping with challenges before, during, and after the exam. The study addresses three research questions: (1) What are the experiences of NQESH passers in the preparation and administration of the examination? (2) How do the NQESH passers cope with the challenges they encountered before and during the examination? (3) What insights and recommendations can the NQESH passers share with aspiring school leaders who plan to take the examination in the future? This study used a qualitative multiple-case study design with three cases of teachers, school heads, and academic heads, utilizing interviews for data collection. The cross-case analysis identified several themes: Comprehensive and Structured Preparation, Balancing Multiple Responsibilities, and Support Systems and Motivation. Passers emphasized setting priorities and time management, seeking social support and encouragement, and mental and emotional resilience. Structured preparation and time management, understanding strengths, continuous learning and professional development, and commitment, patience, and self-motivation were crucial. The study contributes to educational leadership by providing practical recommendations for aspiring school leaders, such as structured preparation, continuous learning, and fostering commitment and self-motivation, to enhance their readiness for the NQESH examination.
Impact of Nanofertilizers on Soil Microbial Populations
Authors: N Pruthviraj , K N Geetha
Published: June 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, GKVK, Bengaluru during 2019 and 2020 to know the Impact of Nanofertilizers on Soil Microbial Populations. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (Factorial concept) with two factors [Factor I -Seed treatment) [Factor II (F- foliar application of nutrients at ray floret stage) with two control C1 : Recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) only and C2 : Recommended package of practices (RPP) treatments replicated thrice. In this experiment treatment seed priming with 1500 ppm nano boron nitride (Green synthesized particle) + foliar application of 600 ppm nano sulphur (GsP) + 1500 ppm nano boron nitride (Green synthesized particle) significantly recorded higher dehydrogenase enzyme (2.61 µ g TPF g-1 h-1), microbial population (13.1×105, 22.4×103, 12.5×103, 12.0×104 and 8.8×104 cfu/g of soil of bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, azotobacter and PSB, respectively) but azospirillum population was found to be non significant. The same treatment also recorded higher nitrogen uptake (114.9 kg ha-1), phosphorus uptake (34.30 kg ha-1), potassium uptake (79.20 kg ha-1) plant height (270.6 cm at harvest stage) and seed yield (3588 kg ha-1) compared to other treatments.
Comparative Evaluation of Apical Microleakage in Root Canals Containing Separated Endodontic Files: An In vitro Study
Authors: Sandhu Roohan Malhar , Bhullar Kanwalpreet Kaur , Handa Aashish , Sran Sukhman Singh
Published: June 2024

Aims: The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate apical seal in the root canals containing separated instrument (Hand k files, Hyflex CM and Reciprocation Neoendo file) using dye penetration method.
Study Design:  An In vitro study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics, SGRD Institute of Dental Sciences, Amritsar, Punjab, India between Feb 2022 and Nov 2023.
Methodology: In this study 3 different file systems were used for root canal preparation of 90 teeth. The files were intentionally separated (n=20 each) at the apical third and tooth was obturated using lateral condensation method along with 2 control groups (n=5 each) and the analysis of microleakage was done using dye penetration method under stereomicroscope.
Results: The highest mean microleakage was observed in Hyflex CM (5.49mm) group followed by Hand K file (3.338 mm) whereas least microleakage was observed in samples containing separated Reciprocation file Neoendo (3.220 mm).
Conclusion: Maximum microleakage was observed in Hyflex CM files and least in Reciprocation File Neoendo group.
Screening of Fennel Varieties/ Germplasm against Fusarium solani and Meloidogyne javanica
Authors: Kumawat Kiran , Goyal S. K. , Chandrawat B. S. , Kumawat G. L. , Yadav Sushila , Kansotia Kavita , Sharma Pinki , Meena Dinesh Kumar , Brijesh
Published: June 2024

Aims: To find out the resistance varieties/germplasm against Fusarium solani and Meloidogyne javanica in fennel.
Study Design: The experiment was carried out in CRD design with three replications.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Pathology, SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner during rabi season 2021-22.
Methodology: An experiment was conducted on screening of 30 fennel varieties/germplasm to find out the source of resistance against Fusarium solani and Meloidogyne javanica in fennel. Plants were uprooted 60 days after sowing and the observation was recorded on per cent root rot incidence and root-knot index.
Results: Among the thirty screened varieties/germplasm, the highest root rot incidence was recorded in RF-125 (70.00 %) and UF-33 (70.00 %) and minimum (20.0 %) root rot incidence was recorded in RF-101 and RF-205. In reference to root-galls incidence data showed that minimum number of nematode galls were found in RF-101 (7.67) and maximum number of galls were found in UF-23 (35.34).
Conclusion: Among the screened varieties/germplasm of fennel, only four varieties (RF-101, RF-145, RF-157 and RF-143) showed resistant reaction, whereases, 21 varieties/germplasm showed moderately resistant reaction and five varieties/germplasm showed susceptible reaction.
Cationic Hybrid Hydrogels from Amino‐Acid‐Based Poly(ester amide): Fabrication, Characterization, and Biological Properties
Authors: Wu Jun , Wu Dequn , Mutschler Martha A. , Chu Chih‐Chang
Published: June 2012

A family of biodegradable, biocompatible, water soluble cationic polymer precursor, arginine‐based unsaturated poly (ester amide) (Arg‐UPEA), is reported. Its incorporation into conventional Pluronic diacrylate (Pluronic‐DA) to form hybrid hydrogels for a significant improvement of the biological performance of current synthetic hydrogels is shown. The gel fraction (Gf), equilibrium swelling ratio (Qeq), compressive modulus, and interior morphology of the hybrid hydrogels as well as their interactions with human fibroblasts and bovine endothelial cells are fully investigated. It is found that the incorporation of Arg‐UPEA into Pluronic‐DA hydrogels significantly changes their Qeq, mechanical strength, and interior morphology. The structure–property relationship of the newly fabricated hybrid hydrogels is studied in terms of the chemical structure of the Arg‐UPEA precursor, i.e., the number of methylene groups in the Arg‐UPEA repeating unit. The results indicate that increasing methylene groups in the Arg‐UPEA repeating unit increases Qeq and decreases the compressive modulus of hydrogels. When compared with a pure Pluronic hydrogel, the cationic Arg‐UPEAs/Pluronic hybrid hydrogels greatly improve the attachment and proliferation of human fibroblasts on hydrogel surfaces. A bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) viability test in the interior of the hydrogels shows that the positively charged hybrid hydrogels can significantly improve the viability of the encapsulated endothelial cell over a 2 week study period when compared with a pure Pluronic hydrogel.
Large AuAg Alloy Nanoparticles Synthesized in Organic Media Using a One‐Pot Reaction: Their Applications for High‐Performance Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Hsieh‐Chih , Chou Shang‐Wei , Tseng Wei‐Hsuan , Chen I‐Wen P. , Liu Chi‐Chang , Liu Chun , Liu Chien‐Liang , Chen Chun‐hsien , Wu Chih‐I , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: June 2012

A one‐pot synthesis of large size and high quality AuAg alloy nanoparticles (NPs) with well controlled compositions via hot organic media is demonstrated. Amid the synthesis, complexation between trioctylphosphine (TOP) and metal precursors is found, which slows down the rate of nucleation and leads to the growth of large‐size AuAg nanoalloys. The wavelength and relative intensities of the resulting plasmon bands are readily fine‐tuned during the synthetic process using different Au/Ag precursors molar ratios. In the polymer solar cells, a key step in achieving high efficiency is the utilization of 1% Au11Ag89 alloy NPs embedded in the active layer to promote the power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 4.73%, which outperforms the reference device based on the control standard device of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT):phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC61BM) under identical conditions. Corresponding increases in short‐circuit current density (Jsc), open‐circuit voltage (Voc), fill factor (FF), and incident photon‐to‐current efficiency (IPCE) enable 31% PCE improvement due to the enhancement of the light‐trapping and the improvement of charge transport in the active layer. The findings advance the fundamental understanding and point to the superiority of Au11Ag89 nanoalloys as a promising metallic additive over Au, Ag, and Au28Ag72 alloy NPs to boost the solar cell performance.
Modular Ligation of Thioamide Functional Peptides onto Solid Cellulose Substrates
Authors: Tischer Thomas , Goldmann Anja S. , Linkert Katharina , Trouillet Vanessa , Börner Hans G. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: June 2012

Hetero Diels‐Alder (HDA) cycloaddition – as an effective modular conjugation approach – is employed to graft thioamide endfunctional oligopeptides onto solid cyclopentadienyl (Cp) functional cellulose substrates generating cellulose‐peptide hybrid materials. The highly reactive Cp moieties serve as diene functionality in the consecutive HDA reaction on the biosubstrate surface. Oligopeptides (i.e., the model peptide Gly‐Gly‐Arg‐Phe‐Pro‐Trp‐Trp‐Gly and the antimicrobial peptide tritrpticin) are functionalized at their N‐termini employing strongly electron deficient thiocarbonyl thio compounds resulting in biomacromolecules bearing a thioamide endgroup. The dienophile‐ functional peptides readily undergo HDA reactions at ambient temperature and under mild conditions in solution with synthetic polymers as well as on solid (bio)substrates. An in‐depth investigation is provided of the influence of the temperature, the Lewis acid catalysis and the side group exchange of thioamide functional oligopeptides reacting with Cp terminated poly(methyl methacrylate) (Mn = 2100 g·mol−1, PDI = 1.1) in homogenous solution as well as Cp functionalized cellulose in a heterogeneous system. To assess the success of the grafting reaction, the soluble samples were subjected to characterization methods such as size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and SEC‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (SEC‐ESI‐MS). The heterogeneous “grafting‐to” reactions were monitored using high resolution attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared microscopy (HR‐FTIRM) imaging, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and elemental analysis. Evaluation via elemental analysis leads to quantitative peptide cellulose surface loading capacities.
Hexahistidine‐Tagged Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes (His6‐tagSWNTs): A Multifunctional Hard Template for Hierarchical Directed Self‐Assembly and Nanocomposite Construction
Authors: Baati Rachid , Ihiawakrim Dris , Mafouana Rodrigue R. , Ersen Ovidiu , Dietlin Céline , Duportail Guy
Published: June 2012

While a hexahistidine affinity tag can be introduced at protein termini or internal sites by standard molecular biology procedures for purification, immobilization, or labeling of proteins, here the versatility of this concept is exploited for the chemical preparation of novel hexahistidine‐tagged single‐walled carbon nanotubes (His6‐tagSWNTs), a novel hard template useful for solubilizing, assembling, processing, and interfacing SWNTs in aqueous conditions. Water‐soluble and exfoliated His6‐tagSWNTs are prepared and fully characterized. This functional molecular module is able to interact via robust physisorption (π−π stacking) with the sidewall of SWNTs and combines the versatility of small, water‐soluble reporters (His6) for hierarchical directed self‐assembly (HDSA) and construction of nanocomposites. It is demonstrated that metal coordination bonds with Ni(II) can be used for the supramolecular self assembly of His6‐tagSWNTs, generating complex reticulated networks and architectures. The His6‐tagSWNTs hard template nanohybrid is further utilized for directed self‐assembly with silica nanoparticles. The versatility of the novel hybrids opens a new era for the rational design, smart (bio)functionalization, processing, interfacing, and self assembling of carbon nanotubes for the construction of multicomposites and more complex systems with controllable spatial organization and programmable properties for a wide range of applications in biology, nanoelectronics, and catalysis.
High Efficiency Semiconductor‐Liquid Junction Solar Cells based on Cu/Cu2O
Authors: Shao Fang , Sun Jing , Gao Lian , Luo Jianqiang , Liu Yangqiao , Yang Songwang
Published: June 2012

Cu/Cu2O photoelectrodes are synthesized by a simple electrodepositing process at low temperature. The values of the electrolyte pH have great influence on the morphology and the compositions of the obtained films, and thus affect the performance of the electrodes. The best device based on Cu/Cu2O and I−/I3− electrolyte gives a high conversion efficiency of 3.13% under simulated AM1.5G illumination. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest efficiency reported for solar cells based on electrodeposited Cu2O. For comparison purposes, pure Cu2O films are also synthesized. The performance of the solar cells based on pure Cu2O is very poor, as low as 0.013%. In addition, the Cu/Cu2O films are perfectly compatible with the lightweight plastic substrates and yielded a power conversion efficiency of 1.44%.
Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence from a Phenyleneethynylene Derivative and its Ultrasensitive Immunosensing Application Using a Nanotubular Mesoporous Pt–Ag Alloy for Signal Amplification
Authors: Yan Mei , Ge Lei , Gao Weiqiang , Yu Jinghua , Song Xianrang , Ge Shenguang , Jia Zhiyong , Chu Chengchao
Published: June 2012

Electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) of a novel phenyleneethynylene derivatives [4,4’‐(2,5‐dimethoxy‐1,4‐phenylene)bis(ethyne‐2,1‐diyl) dibenzoic acid; P‐acid] possessing carboxylic acid groups at the para positions in aqueous solutions and its first immunosensing application are studied. Nanotubular mesoporous Pt–Ag alloy nanoparticles are first used to fabricate the ECL immunosensor as a signal amplification carrier. Absorption, photoluminescence, cyclic voltammetry, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are used as powerful tools to characterize P‐acid, Pt–Ag alloy nanoparticles, and the fabrication process of the immunosensor. P‐acid exhibits two ECL peaks at –1.07 (ECL‐1) and 0.64 (ECL‐2) V in air‐saturated pH 7.4, 0.1 M PBS containing 0.1 M KCl during the cyclic sweep between 1.51 and –2.67 V at 0.1 V s−1; the ECL mechanism of these two ECL peaks is demonstrated. The electron‐transfer reaction between electrochemically oxidized P‐acid and tri‐n‐propylamine (TPrA) radical cation is also demonstrated to produce high ECL emissions and used to develop an ultrasensitive ECL immunosensor. In addition, a Pt–Ag alloy nanoparticles amplification carrier for protein ECL analysis is applied for improvement of the detection sensitivity. Thus, this ECL immunosensor exhibits high sensitivity, good reproducibility, rapid response, and long‐term stability.
Materials Science and Materials Chemistry for Large Scale Electrochemical Energy Storage: From Transportation to Electrical Grid
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhang Ji‐Guang , Yang Zhenguo , Lemmon John P. , Imhoff Carl , Graff Gordon L. , Li Liyu , Hu Jianzhi , Wang Chongmin , Xiao Jie , Xia Gordon , Viswanathan Vilayanur V. , Baskaran Suresh , Sprenkle Vincent , Li Xiaolin , Shao Yuyan , Schwenzer Birgit
Published: June 2012

Large‐scale electrical energy storage has become more important than ever for reducing fossil energy consumption in transportation and for the widespread deployment of intermittent renewable energy in electric grid. However, significant challenges exist for its applications. Here, the status and challenges are reviewed from the perspective of materials science and materials chemistry in electrochemical energy storage technologies, such as Li‐ion batteries, sodium (sulfur and metal halide) batteries, Pb‐acid battery, redox flow batteries, and supercapacitors. Perspectives and approaches are introduced for emerging battery designs and new chemistry combinations to reduce the cost of energy storage devices.
Silk Fibroin in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kasoju Naresh , Bora Utpal
Published: June 2012

Tissue engineering (TE) is a multidisciplinary field that aims at the in vitro engineering of tissues and organs by integrating science and technology of cells, materials and biochemical factors. Mimicking the natural extracellular matrix is one of the critical and challenging technological barriers, for which scaffold engineering has become a prime focus of research within the field of TE. Amongst the variety of materials tested, silk fibroin (SF) is increasingly being recognized as a promising material for scaffold fabrication. Ease of processing, excellent biocompatibility, remarkable mechanical properties and tailorable degradability of SF has been explored for fabrication of various articles such as films, porous matrices, hydrogels, nonwoven mats, etc., and has been investigated for use in various TE applications, including bone, tendon, ligament, cartilage, skin, liver, trachea, nerve, cornea, eardrum, dental, bladder, etc. The current review extensively covers the progress made in the SF‐based in vitro engineering and regeneration of various human tissues and identifies opportunities for further development of this field.
Li‐Redox Flow Batteries Based on Hybrid Electrolytes: At the Cross Road between Li‐ion and Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Wang Yarong , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen
Published: June 2012

By moving beyond the classical intercalation chemistry and the conventional redox flow batteries, a variety of new approaches toward high energy density storage are under intensive development. Among them, Li‐redox flow batteries stand out as one that combines the existing knowledge of Li‐ion batteries with the advantage of redox flow systems, and steps further toward functioning as fuel cells by fueling the cell with an external chemical agent. Following a brief recount of the features of Li‐ion and redox flow battery systems, the concept of a Li‐redox flow battery, which emerged from a synergy of the two battery systems, is presented.
Market Dynamics in Food Supply Chains: The Impact of Globalization and Consolidation on Firms’ Market Power
Authors: Kaditi Eleni A.
Published: June 2012

The author examines whether ownership and increased competitive pressure affect food retailers’ market power, analyzing whether all actors involved in the food supply chain deviate from the pricing behavior that exists under perfect competition. A method proposed by Roeger () is used to estimate monopoly and monopsony market power, relaxing the assumptions of perfect competition and constant returns to scale, and avoiding any endogeneity issues. The results obtained indicate that foreign investments and consolidation have a positive and significant impact on food processors’ and retailers’ mark‐ups. Food processors, agricultural producers, and wholesalers have lower price‐cost margins than retailers, whereas retailers exert monopsonistic power in the upstream food market as well. The results are robust for various estimation techniques and specifications.
Chirality Transfer and Memory of Chirality in Gold‐Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Patil Nitin T.
Published: June 2012

Over the last few years, gold‐catalyzed reactions that involved chirality transfer and memory of chirality (MOC) have emerged as a powerful tool in enantioselective synthesis. This technique has allowed for the single‐step synthesis of enantioenriched compounds from readily available starting materials. This Focus Review discusses this emerging field with an emphasis on mechanistic aspects and their applications in synthetic organic chemistry.
Centre Catholique de Formation et de Production à Léogâne (CCFPL) – République d'Haïti
Authors: Groll Franz , Wolf Klaus
Published: June 2012

Bei dem Erdbeben in Haiti im Januar 2010 kamen rund 316 000 Menschen ums Leben, weitere 310 000 Personen wurden verletzt und geschätzte 1,85 Millionen Menschen wurden obdachlos. Nach Einschätzungen der Regierung wurden ca. 250 000 Wohnungen und 30 000 Geschäfte zerstört. Der nachfolgende Bericht geht darauf ein, wie der Verein Pro Haiti e.V. das Projekt zur Unterstützung der wirtschaftlichen Entwicklung und des Wiederaufbaus in Haiti konzipierte, plante und realisierte. Nach Erläuterung der Ausgangssituation in Haiti und insbesondere in der Region westlich von Port‐au‐Prince erfolgt eine Vorstellung des Konzepts und eine Projektbeschreibung. In dem Ausbildungszentrum wird eine praxisorientierte Ausbildung von verschiedenen Handwerksberufen wie z. B. Zimmerer, Maurer, Schreiner, etc. angeboten, wobei im praktischen Teil nicht nur ausgebildet, sondern auch produziert und gebaut wird, sodass aus dem Erlös ein Großteil der Ausbildungskosten abgedeckt werden kann. Bei der Tragwerksplanung des Ausbildungszentrums wurde eine Konstruktion entworfen, die hinsichtlich des Lastfalls “Erdbeben” eine ausreichende Sicherheit gewährleistet und unter Berücksichtigung der lokalen Gegebenheiten wirtschaftlich hergestellt werden kann.

Establishment of a training centre including production plant in a country destroyed by the earthquake

Thru the earthquake in Haiti in January 2010 died approximately 316 000 people, further 310 000 people were injured and estimated 1.85 million people were left homeless. According to the government, about 250 000 homes and 30 000 shops were destroyed. The subsequent report describes, how the club Pro Haiti e.V. conceived, planned and realized the project to support the economic development and reconstruction in Haiti.

After a statement of the situation in Haiti, particularly of the region West of Port au Prince, follows an introduction to the concept and a project description. The training centre offers a practice‐oriented education teaching different crafting professions such as e.g. carpenters, masons, cabinet makers, etc. Here, people are not only trained in the practical part, but they also produce and build, so that a large part of training costs can be covered by the proceeds. The structural engineering of the training centre was especially designed: A construction that takes into account the local circumstances and therefore can be produced economically while ensuring a sufficient security in terms of the load case “earthquake”.
Stahlbetonbauteile aus klima‐ und ressourcenschonendem Ökobeton
Authors: Proske Tilo , Hainer Stefan , Jakob Mathias , Garrecht Harald , Graubner Carl‐Alexander
Published: June 2012

Der vorliegende Beitrag präsentiert am Institut für Massivbau der TU Darmstadt durchgeführte Forschungsarbeiten zu klima‐ und ressourcenschonenden Ökobetonen mit reduziertem Zementklinkergehalt. Es wird gezeigt, dass zur Herstellung von Betonen mit mittlerer Festigkeitsklasse (C20/25–C25/30) der Zementgehalt gegenüber konventionellen Mischungszusammensetzungen auf unter 150 kg/m3 verringert werden kann. Bei Stahlbetonbauteilen, die einem moderaten chemischen und physikalischen Angriff ausgesetzt sind (C30/37, Expositionsklasse XC4, XF1 und XA1), ist es technisch möglich, Betone mit einem Zementgehalt von weniger als 200 kg/m3 zu verwenden. Da die Mischungszusammensetzungen der entwickelten Ökobetone die normativ vorgegebenen Mindestzementgehalte (DIN 1045‐2:2008‐08) unterschreiten sowie die maximalen Wasserzementwerte überschreiten, wurden umfangreiche Untersuchungen zur Leistungsfähigkeit der Ökobetone durchgeführt. Dabei wurden alle bemessungsrelevanten mechanischen Eigenschaften und die für die Dauerhaftigkeit relevanten Materialkenngrößen der Betone ermittelt. Weiterhin wurde die Eignung der Betone für die industrielle Fertigung bei den Forschungspartnern überprüft. Abschließend wurden mit den Kooperationspartnern aus der Betonfertigteil‐ und Transportbetonindustrie die baupraktische Anwendbarkeit und die Sichtbetoneigenschaften an großformatigen Bauteilen sowie das Tragverhalten von Bauteilen aus Ökobeton analysiert.

Eco‐friendly Concrete for Reinforced Concrete Structures – Technical Innovation for Sustainable Buildings

This paper presents the results of studies at the Institut für Massivbau of the TU Darmstadt focused on the development of clinker reduced Green Concretes. The research results showed, that concrete with a cement content lower than 150 kg/m3 can be used for interior structures (C20/25–C25/30, exposure class XC1). It is also possible to use concrete for exterior structures (C30/37, exposure class XC4, XF1 and XA1) with less than 200 kg/m3 cement.

The cement content of the developed concretes is below the minimum content according to DIN 1045‐2:2008‐08 and the water‐cement ratio exceeds the normative limit value. This requires extensive investigations on the performance of the Green Concretes. In the conducted test all mechanical design‐relevant parameters and a number of durability properties of the concrete were determined. The suitability of the concrete during the industrial production has been verified. Full‐scale samples were produced for the evaluation of the surface quality and the analyses of the load bearing capacity.
Sicherheitsreserven und Konservativitäten in der normgerechten Erdbebenauslegung von Stahlbetonbauwerken
Authors: Sadegh‐Azar Hamid , Hartmann Hans‐Georg , Wörndle Pierre
Published: June 2012

Die Erdbebenauslegung von Bauwerken in Deutschland wie auch in den meisten anderen Ländern der Welt erfolgt deterministisch für ein in der jeweils geltenden Erdbebennorm definiertes Bemessungserdbeben. Das Bemessungsziel ist im Allgemeinen der Nachweis der Standsicherheit und damit der Ausschluss einer Gefährdung von Leib und Leben durch Tragwerksversagen. Hier stellt sich die Frage, was bei einem denkbaren auslegungsüberschreitenden Erdbeben oder bei größeren Nachbeben passieren kann. Die bisherige Erfahrung zeigt, dass im Allgemeinen eine Aktualisierung der Erdbebennorm zu einer Erhöhung des anzusetzenden Bemessungserdbebens führt. Ist somit für vorhandene Stahlbetonbauwerke direkt Gefahr im Verzug und ist ein Versagen der bestehenden ingenieurmäßig errichteten Strukturen unter Erdbebeneinwirkung anzunehmen? Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, einige der in der Erdbebenauslegung von Stahlbetonbauwerken vorhandenen Auslegungsreserven zu identifizieren und anhand eines typischen steifen und eines flexiblen Stahlbetongebäudes zu quantifizieren. Es werden im Wesentlichen die Einflüsse der Erdbebenenergie, der Boden‐Bauwerk‐Wechselwirkung, der Rissbildung und des nichtlinearen Materialverhaltens bei Erdbeben untersucht.

Safety margins and conservatisms in the seismic design of reinforced concrete buildings

The seismic design of buildings in Germany and in most other countries of the world is a deterministic approach using a single code specified design earthquake. The design objective is generally to prevent loss of life by structural collapse. The question is, what will happen in case of a probable earthquake exceeding the design earthquake or in case of possible aftershocks. The past shows, that in most cases the evolution and update of seismic codes is associated with higher earthquakes to be used for design. Now, is there an imminent danger for the existing buildings designed according to a previous code? The objective of this paper is to identify and quantify some of the safety margins inherent in the seismic design of reinforced concrete buildings. In particular, the influences of earthquake energy, soil‐structure interaction and cracking and nonlinear material behavior of buildings during earthquake are investigated.
VLDL triglycerides inhibit HDL‐associated paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity: in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Rosenblat Mira , Ward Sarah , Volkova Nina , Hayek Tony , Aviram Michael
Published: June 2012

We analyzed, for the first time, both in vitro and in vivo, the effect of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), or of pure triglycerides, on high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐associated paraoxonase1 (PON1) catalytic activities. Incubation of serum or HDL from healthy subjects with VLDL (0–330 μg protein/mL) significantly decreased serum PON1 lactonase or arylesterase activities by up to 11% or 24%, and HDL‐associated PON1 lactonase or arylesterase activities by up to 32% or 46%, respectively, in a VLDL dose‐dependent manner. VLDL (0–660μg protein/mL) also inhibited recombinant PON1 (rePON1) lactonase or arylesterase activities by up to 20% or 42%, respectively. Similar inhibitory effect was noted upon rePON1 incubation with pure triglyceride emulsion. Bezafibrate therapy to three hypertriglyceridemic patients (400 mg/day, for one month) significantly decreased serum triglyceride concentration by 67%, and increased serum HDL cholesterol levels by 48%. PON1 arylesterase or paraoxonase activities in the patients' HDL fractions after drug therapy were significantly increased by 86–88%, as compared to PON1 activities before treatment. Similarly, HDL‐PON1 protein levels significantly increased after bezafibrate therapy. Finally, bezafibrate therapy improved HDL biological activity, as HDL obtained after drug therapy showed increased ability to induce cholesterol efflux from J774A.1 macrophages, by 19%, as compared to HDL derived before therapy. We thus conclude that VLDL triglycerides inhibit PON1 catalytic activities, and bezafibrate therapy significantly improved HDL‐PON1 catalytic and biological activities. © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Biologically produced nanosilver: Current state and future perspectives
Authors: Sintubin Liesje , Verstraete Willy , Boon Nico
Published: June 2012

Silver nanoparticles are one of the most commercialized nanomaterials. They are widely applied as biocides for their strong antimicrobial activity, but also their conductive, optic and catalytic properties make them wanted in many applications. The chemical and physical processes which are used to synthesize silver nanoparticles generally have many disadvantages and are not eco‐friendly. In this review, we will discuss biological alternatives that have been developed using microorganisms or plants to produce biogenic silver. Until now, only their antimicrobial activity has been studied more into detail. In contrast, a wide range of practical applications as biocide, biosensor, and catalyst are still unexplored. The shape, size, and functionalization of the nanoparticles is defined by the biological system used to produce the nanoparticles, hence for every application a specific biological production process needs to be chosen. On the other hand, biogenic silver needs to compete with chemically produced nanosilver on the market. Large scale production generating inexpensive nanoparticles is needed. This can only be achieved when the biological production system is chosen in function of the yield. Hence, the true challenge for biogenic silver is finding the balance between scalability, price, and applicability. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109: 2422–2436. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pharmacological evidence that D‐aspartate activates a current distinct from ionotropic glutamate receptor currents in Aplysia californica
Authors: Carlson Stephen L. , Kempsell Andrew T. , Fieber Lynne A.
Published: June 2012

D‐Aspartate (D‐Asp) activates a nonspecific cation current of unknown identity independent of L‐glutamate (L‐Glu) in neurons of Aplysia californica. Whole‐cell voltage clamp studies were conducted using primary cultures of Aplysia buccal S cluster (BSC) neurons to characterize these receptor channels pharmacologically. The N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) coagonist glycine potentiated D‐Asp currents only at −30 mV, while D‐serine did not potentiate D‐Asp currents at any amplitude. Portions of D‐Asp currents were blocked by the L‐Glu antagonists kynurenate, DL‐2‐amino‐5‐phosphonopentanoic acid (APV), (2S,3R)‐1‐(phenanthren‐2‐carbonyl)piperazine‐2,3‐dicarboxylic acid (PPDA), and 1,3‐dihydro‐5‐[3‐[4‐(phenylmethyl)‐1–2H‐benzimidazol‐2‐one (TCS46b), suggesting that L‐Glu channels, particularly NMDAR‐like channels, may partially contribute to D‐Asp whole‐cell currents. In contrast, L‐Glu currents were unaffected by APV, and showed greater block by kynurenate, suggesting that D‐Asp and L‐Glu act, in part, at different sites. The excitatory amino acid transport blocker DL‐threo‐b‐Benzyloxyaspartic acid (TBOA) blocked a fraction of D‐Asp currents, suggesting that currents associated with these transporters also contribute. Non‐NMDA L‐GluR antagonists that preferentially block alpha‐amino‐3‐hydroxyl‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole‐propionic acid (AMPA)/kainate receptors significantly increased D‐Asp currents, suggesting a possible allosteric potentiating effect of these antagonists on D‐Asp receptors. L‐Glu‐induced currents were significantly reduced in the presence of bath‐applied D‐Asp, whereas bath‐applied L‐Glu had no effect on D‐Asp‐induced currents. The mixed effects of these agents on D‐Asp‐induced currents in Aplysia illustrate that the underlying channels are not uniformly characteristic of any known agonist associated channel type.
Emphasizing the role of Wnt5a protein expression to predict favorable outcome after radical prostatectomy in patients with low‐grade prostate cancer
Authors: Khaja Azharuddin Sajid Syed , Egevad Lars , Helczynski Leszek , Wiklund Peter , Andersson Tommy , Bjartell Anders
Published: June 2012

Wnt5a, a member of non‐canonical wingless‐related MMTV integration site family is a secreted glycoprotein that plays important roles in development and disease. Recent studies have shown that Wnt5a protein levels are up‐regulated in prostate cancer, but contrasting reports exist on the role of Wnt5a to predict outcome after radical prostatectomy in patients with localized prostate cancer. Our group has recently shown that preserved high protein expression of Wnt5a in prostate cancer is associated with longer relapse‐free time after radical prostatectomy. The present tissue microarray study emphasizes the role of Wnt5a protein expression in a different, well‐defined, and independent cohort consisting of 312 prostate cancer patients. Kaplan–Meier curves plotted between Wnt5a expression and time to biochemical recurrence revealed that in low‐grade prostate cancer, patients with preserved high‐Wnt5a protein levels in their tumor cells have a lower risk of recurrence after radical prostatectomy compared to patients with low‐Wnt5a protein expression. When Wnt5a protein expression was added to a Cox regression multivariate analysis, both Wnt5a protein expression and surgical margin status independently predict biochemical free survival. Herein we confirm Wnt5a positivity as a prognostic factor and show that preserved overexpression of Wnt5a protein is associated with increased time to biochemical recurrence in localized low‐grade prostate cancer patients after radical prostatectomy. Our results emphasize that Wnt5a can be used as a predictive biomarker, and favoring the view of Wnt5a as a future therapeutic target in prostate cancer patients with tumor cells displaying low expression of Wnt5a.
NDR1/STK38 potentiates NF‐κB activation by its kinase activity
Authors: Shi Dan‐Dan , Shi Hu , Lu Dan , Li Rui , Zhang Yu , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2012

Human NDR1/STK38 belongs to the nuclear‐Dbf2‐related (NDR) family of Ser/Thr kinases. It has been implicated to function in centrosome duplication, control of cell cycle and apoptosis. However, the mechanism of NDR1 signaling pathway remains largely elusive. Here, we report a novel role of NDR1 in NF‐κB activation. By overexpression, NDR1 potentiates NF‐κB activation induced by TNFα, whereas knockdown of NDR1 expression inhibits NF‐κB activation induced by TNFα. Coimmunoprecipitation shows that NDR1 interacts with multiple signal components except p65 in NF‐κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, both phosphorylation and kinase dead mutants of NDR1 lose their synergistic effects on TNFα‐induced NF‐κB activation. siRNA oligo against NDR1 and kinase dead mutant as well mainly block the NF‐κB activation induced by TRAF2 but not RIP1. Furthermore, kinase dead mutant of NDR1 fails to interact with TRAF2. Taken together, our findings suggest an unknown function of NDR1, which may regulate NF‐κB activation by its kinase activity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.