bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Promise of Bioactive Alkaloid Compound from Catharanthus Roseys: An In-vitro Computational Exploration of their Molecular Docking against a Target Protein for Type-2 Diabetes
Authors: Mariappan A , Jabir PK , Solomon D Alfred , Babu Shyamaladevi , Krishnan Madhan
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Molecular docking facilitates the exploration of interactions between bioactive alkaloid compounds and target proteins, offering insights into potential binding modes and affinity, crucial for drug discovery and understanding molecular mechanisms. Catharanthus roseus (C. roseus), renowned for its bioactive alkaloid compounds, emerges as a promising candidate for novel agents in diabetes management. Aim: To study the computational methods, including in-silico molecular docking, to elucidate the interactions between bioactive alkaloids from C. roseus and a Type-2 diabetic target protein. Materials and Methods: In this in-vitro study conducted in 2022 at the Department of Research, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Tamil Nadu, India. The research took place from July to October 2022. Computational techniques, particularly in-silico molecular docking, were utilised to analyse the binding affinities and potential mechanisms of action of bioactive alkaloids from C. roseus against a target protein associated with Type-2 diabetes. The study employed established computational protocols and software tools to predict and evaluate the binding interactions between the alkaloids and the target protein. Results: The analysis suggests Vinblastine, Ajmalicine, and Vindolinine from C. roseus as potential diabetes therapeutics. Vinblastine binds strongly to Human Pancreatic Alpha-Amylase (HPA), hinting at glucose metabolism regulation. Ajmalicine and Vindolinine also interact significantly with HPA, implying antidiabetic potential. Additionally, the present study findings suggest a potential role of Reserpine in modulating HPA activity and supporting its antihypertensive effects. Conclusion: In conclusion, the analysis highlights the potential of C. roseus compounds like Vinblastine, Ajmalicine, and Vindolinine in managing diabetes by interacting with HPA, indicating their potential as antidiabetic agents. Additionally, Reserpine’s effect on HPA activity suggests a role in hypertension management. These findings emphasise the therapeutic potential of natural compounds from C. roseus for diabetes and related conditions, warranting further clinical investigation.
solation of Salmonella Kentucky from Scrotal Abscess: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Garg Parul , Rai Bani , Mahajan Rakesh Kumar
Published: July 2024

Infections due to Non Typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) are emerging as a major health problem for both humans and animals worldwide including in India. In humans, NTS infections routinely remain restricted to the intestinal tract and may or may not manifest as a clinical illness but in immunocompromised patients systemic involvement may result in frank bacteraemia or focal involvement depending on the site of localisation. A 70-year-old, male presented to the Emergency Department with complaints of pain for about five days, on the right side of the scrotum. A drained pus sample was received at the Department of Microbiology for culture and sensitivity. Salmonella kentucky was identified by standard microbiological techniques. Here the authors present a case of scrotal abscess caused by Salmonella kentucky in an old immunocompromised patient and this possibly appears to be the first case report of scrotal involvement from India. No single diagnostic approach may be able to identify the NTS up to the species level. To determine the identity of organisms in cases where individual labs may not have the necessary capacity to produce the results, it would be extremely sensible from a scientific standpoint to create a network of cooperating labs with varying diagnostic capacities.
An Intricate Case of Pyopneumothorax with Trapped Right Lung Requiring Swift Adaptation and Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Authors: Sharma Vipul , Bhatia Jayant , Raj Preeti
Published: July 2024

Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) is a significant cause of morbidity, especially in patients with underlying health conditions. The present case highlights the complex management in a patient with intricate medical history, marked by tuberculosis, multiple Intercostal Chest Drain (ICD) procedures, and pyopneumothorax with long-standing diabetes mellitus and a history of smoking, adding to the uniqueness of the case. The authors present a case of a 67-year-old male, admitted for a right Pneumonectomy (PE) due to a complex combination of pyopneumothorax, right trapped lung and post-decortication status. However, due to the fragile nature of the tissue and the existence of vascular adhesions, it was decided to choose “physiological lung exclusion” by separating the affected lung from the tracheobronchial tree by cutting the bronchus and tying off the pulmonary artery, without removing any lung tissue, while keeping the pulmonary veins intact. The present report highlights the challenges faced, the multidisciplinary approach employed, and the successful surgical outcome, underscoring the importance of collaborative management.
A Case of Persistent Headache Leading Section to Diagnosis of Lung Adenocarcinoma: An Atypical Presentation
Authors: Harale Manasi , Biju Arun , Yammanuru Bhavya Sri , Yekkaluru Sreevidya
Published: July 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma is a primary type of lung cancer and is classified as a non small cell lung carcinoma. Headache is a rare presentation of lung carcinoma. This case report found that early diagnosis and proper treatment can improve disease outcomes. The case describes a 36-year-old woman presenting with a persistent left-sided headache and non radiating pain. Despite normal vital signs and laboratory results, an Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed multifocal abnormalities in the brain, suggesting neoplastic metastasis. Further investigations, including Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography PET-CT scans, confirmed lung adenocarcinoma with metastases to the brain, bone, and liver. Histopathology revealed an invasive, moderately-differentiated adenocarcinoma. The patient was recommended palliative radiation therapy, and after compliance with treatment, she was discharged. The present case underscores the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluation in unexplained symptoms, leading to the identification of advanced-stage lung adenocarcinoma with multiple metastases.
Empowering Rural Entrepreneurship: The Impact of Tasar Sericulture and Pradan in Jharkhand, India
Authors: Kumari Rinki
Published: July 2024

Tasar sericulture in India, particularly in states like Jharkhand, carries deep cultural significance and substantial potential for rural entrepreneurship and socio-economic development. As the world's second-largest producer of raw silk, India contributed 34,903 metric tons in 2021-22, with tasar silk constituting 4% of the country's total silk exports, producing 1,466 metric tons. This sector employs rural communities extensively, with 76.4% of Tasar silk originating in Jharkhand. NGOs like Pradan, in collaboration with government bodies such as the Central Silk Board, play a crucial role in empowering marginalized groups and fostering entrepreneurship. This extension is helpful to the scientific community, because this will help to easily assess the production data. This paper aims to highlight the significant impact of Tasar sericulture and the endeavours of the Pradan organization in empowering rural entrepreneurs in the state of Jharkhand, India. Despite challenges, the tasar silk industry showcases resilience and adaptability. With continued support and innovation this industry contributes to India's tradition of silk production and the uplifting of rural communities.
Production of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) Cultivars in Nutrient Flim Technique (NFT) System of Hydroponics
Authors: Telgote Ajinkya Ajay , Mishra Saket
Published: July 2024

A study was conducted in 2023-24 at the Department of Horticulture, NAI, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). In the experiment, a total of eight treatments comprising of different levels of macro nutrients were used to investigate the effects of different levels of macro nutrients on growth, yield and quality of strawberry plants (Fragaria x ananassa L.) in a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) System of Hydroponics. The experiment followed a Completely Randomised Design. According to the findings of this study, treatment T7: 23.5 ml NPK [3.5 (30 DAS) +5 (60 DAS) +7 (90 DAS) +8 (120 DAS)] ml was found best with vegetative attributes like [10.28 (30 DAT), 16.15 (60 DAT), 18.44 (90 DAT), 19.42 (120 DAT)] cm plant height, [17.45 (30 DAT), 23.69 (60 DAT), 24.36 (90 DAT), 25.48 (120 DAT)] cm plant spread, [17.45 (30 DAT), 23.69 (60 DAT), 24.36 (90 DAT), 25.48 (120 DAT)] number of leaves per plant, [4.67 (30 DAT), 7.89 (60 DAT), 11.45 (90 DAT), 12.91 (120 DAT)] cm2 leaf area and 28.81 cm root length; flowering attributes like 45.24 total number of flowers per plant, 55.64 days taken to first flowering and 81.64 days taken to first fruit set; yield attributes like .18.45 number of fruits per plant, 50.47 g average fruit weight and 18.63 kg yield per setup and quality attributes like 73.61 mg/100 g of pulp ascorbic acid, 14.32 moisture and dry weight ratio, 9.18 °brix Total Soluble Solids and 1.68 % titrable acidity.
The Determinants for Climate Change Adaptive Capacity and Resilience of Rural Communities in Nigeria
Authors: Okoro Franklin Chimaobi , Knight Jasper
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the relationships between the different sources of climate change vulnerability in rural communities, the interplay between factors of social vulnerability and structural vulnerability, and their influences on climate change adaptive capacity and resilience. The study took place in rural farming communities in Egbema district of Ohaji/Egbema local government area of Imo State, Nigeria between the month of March 21, 2021 to February 6, 2024. Three communities from the district of Egbema were purposively selected based on their social, cultural, and biophysical characteristics that expose them to climate change impacts. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 240 household heads selected using simple random sampling technique. The study considered ten social vulnerability indicators from social, economic, and demographic characteristics of the respondents. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the help of SPSS version 27. The data on social vulnerability indicators were used to calculate Social Vulnerability Index (SoVI) values. The result of the study shows that education had low influence on social vulnerability given that above 60% of the household heads attained at least secondary education level and the SoVI value of 0.18 is considerably low. However, other factors such as sex (0.90), age (0.66), disability (0.90), income (0.88), alternative housing (0.90), and mode of transport (0.40) increased social vulnerability. The finding shows that demographic and economic factors with SoVI values of 0.66 and 0.59 respectively contributed 87.4% of social vulnerability in the study area. The study therefore concludes that social vulnerability is exacerbated by political, socioeconomic and cultural factors. Government needs to improve infrastructure to increase community resilience whilst also facilitating household adaptive capacity on local and regional-scales to reduce climate disaster risk rather than just relying on household actions alone.
Estimation of Rusle Parameters of the Ozat River Basin Using Remote Sensing and GIS
Authors: J. B. Dhodia , H. V. Parmar , H. H Mashru , H.D. Rank , P.A Pandya
Published: July 2024

In India, soil erosion is a major problem that lowers water availability and agricultural land production. Detachment, transportation and deposition of soil particles from one place to another under the influence of wind, water or gravity forces is known as soil erosion. Therefore, Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) with Remote Sensing and GIS study was found easy for estimation of soil loss in river basins. The selected watershed for this study was Ozat river basin is situated in Gujarat, having the catchment area 3410 km2. The rainfall erosivity factor (R) was estimated using monthly and annual rainfall data. Sand, silt, clay and organic matter of soil were used to determine the soil erodibility factor (K). The highest and lowest estimated rainfall erosivity factor were found 144.45 MJ.mm.ha-1.h-1.y-1 to 147.37 MJ.mm.ha-1.h-1.y-1 respectively. The soil erodibility was found in the range of 0.139 tonnes-ha-hr/ha-MJ-mm to 0.172 tonnes-ha-hr/ha-MJ-mm. Soil with higher K values are more vulnerable to soil erosion. However, lower K values are more resistant to soil erosion. Combining the utilization of the Remote Sensing and GIS provides faster and real- time information for studies related to natural resources management and the study of various parameters needed for soil loss. Thus, different soil loss estimation model and tools may be applied extremely effectively and efficiently for the planning of natural resources in watershed and the study of different factors in bigger or smaller basins.
Factors influencing export of dissolved inorganic nitrogen by major rivers: A new, seasonal, spatially explicit, global model
Authors: McCrackin Michelle L. , Harrison John A. , Compton Jana E.
Published: February 2014

Substantial effort has focused on understanding spatial variation in dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) export to the coastal zone and specific basins have been studied in depth. Much less is known, however, about seasonal patterns and controls of coastal DIN delivery across large spatial scales. Understanding seasonal patterns of DIN export is critical to efforts to predict impacts of coastal eutrophication, such as algal blooms and hypoxic areas, which are often seasonal phenomena. Here we describe, test, and apply a global model that predicts seasonal DIN export to coastal regions for >6000 rivers using the Nutrient Export from Watersheds (NEWS2) model. NEWS2‐DIN‐S used spatially explicit, seasonal N inputs and was calibrated with measured DIN yield (kg N km−2season−1) for 77 rivers, distributed globally. Of the characteristics considered, DIN‐transport efficiency was positively related to runoff and negatively related to temperature (r2 = 0.34–0.60, depending on seasonp < 0.0001), likely due to flushing effects and increased retention by plants and soils, respectively. NEWS2‐DIN‐S incorporated these insights and performed well in predicting DIN yield (Nash‐Sutcliffe Efficiency = 0.54–0.65, depending on season). Catchments were effective in retaining DIN and average export rates were lower during the growing season (3–5% of total nitrogen inputs) compared to other seasons (6–10%) for major latitude bands. Model output was insensitive to changes in the magnitude of N inputs, suggesting that refinement of seasonal N input budgets will not substantially improve model performance. Rather, better representation of land‐to‐river N transfers could improve future models because of strong landscape N attenuation.
Strain field analysis on Montserrat (W.I.) as tool for assessing permeable flow paths in the magmatic system of Soufrière Hills Volcano
Authors: Hautmann Stefanie , Witham Fred , Christopher Thomas , Cole Paul , Linde Alan T. , Sacks I. Selwyn , Sparks R. Stephen J.
Published: February 2014

Strain dilatometers have been operated on the volcanic island of Montserrat (West Indies) for more than a decade and have proven to be a powerful technique to approach short‐term dynamics in the deformational field in response to pressure changes in the magmatic system of the andesitic dome‐building Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV). We here demonstrate that magmatic activity in each of the different segments of the SHV magmatic system (shallow dyke‐conduit, upper and lower magma chambers) generates a characteristic strain pattern that allows the identification of operating sources in the plumbing system based on a simple scheme of amplitude ratios. We use this method to evaluate strain data from selected Vulcanian explosions and gas emission events that occurred at SHV between 2003 and 2012. Our results show that the events were initiated by a short phase of contraction of either one or both magma chambers and a simultaneous inflation of the shallow feeder system. The initial phase of the events usually lasted only tens to hundreds of seconds before the explosion/gas emission started and the system recovered. The short duration of this process points at rapid transport of fluids rather than magma ascent to generate the pressure changes. We suggest the propagation of tensile hydraulic fractures as viable mechanism to provide a pathway for fluid migration in the magmatic system at the observed time scale. Fluid mobilization was initiated by a sudden destabilization of large pockets of already segregated fluid in the magma chambers. Our study demonstrates that geodetic observables can provide unprecedented insights into complex dynamic processes within a magmatic system commonly assessed by theoretical modeling and petrologic observations.
Spring soil moisture‐precipitation feedback in the Southern Great Plains: How is it related to large‐scale atmospheric conditions?
Authors: Su Hua , Yang Zong‐Liang , Dickinson Robert E. , Wei Jiangfeng
Published: February 2014

The Southern Great Plains (SGP) has been shown as a region of significant soil moisture‐precipitation (S‐P) coupling. However, how strong evapotranspiration (ET) can affect regional precipitation remains largely unclear, impeding a full grasp of the S‐P feedback in that area. The current study seeks to unravel, in a spring month (April), the potential role played by large‐scale atmospheric conditions in shaping S (ET)‐P feedback. Our regional climate modeling experiments demonstrate that the presence of anomalous low (high) pressure and cyclonic (anticyclonic) flows at the upper/middle troposphere over the relevant areas is associated with strongest (minimum) positive S‐P feedback in the SGP. Their impacts are interpreted in terms of large‐scale atmospheric dynamical disturbance, including the intensity and location of synoptic eddies. Further analyses of the vertical velocity fields corroborate these interpretations. In addition, the relationship between lower tropospheric moisture conditions (including winds) and feedback composites is evaluated.
Electromagnetic ion cyclotron rising tone emissions observed by THEMIS probes outside the plasmapause
Authors: Nakamura Satoko , Omura Yoshiharu , Machida Shinobu , Shoji Masafumi , Nosé Masahito , Angelopoulos Vassilis
Published: February 2014

We report observations of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) triggered emissions observed by the Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) probes outside the plasmasphere. Although these phenomena have recently received much attention because of the possibility of strong interaction with particles, only a few events of EMIC triggered emissions have been reported near the equatorial plasmapause. We performed a survey of the THEMIS probe data and found various types of emissions mainly on the dayside at radial distances of 6–10 RE. We study three distinctive events in detail. The first is a typical event with an obvious rising tone emission in the afternoon sector. The emissions in the second event are simultaneously excited in different frequency bands separated by the cyclotron frequency of helium ions. In the third event, which occurred near local noon, rising tone emissions were excited in an extended region near the equator where the field‐aligned B gradient was much reduced because of compression of the magnetosphere by the solar wind. We compare these events with the nonlinear wave growth theory developed by Omura et al. (2010). In all events, it is found that the observed relationship between the amplitudes and frequencies of the emissions are in good agreement with the theory.
Effect of joint orientation on the hydromechanical behavior of singly jointed sandstone experiencing undrained loading
Authors: Wasantha P. L. P. , Ranjith P. G. , Viete D. R.
Published: February 2014

The hydromechanical behavior of singly jointed sandstone under undrained triaxial conditions was studied. Maximum induced pore water pressure was observed to increase with increasing joint orientation from 0° to 45°, for all confining pressures considered. For a 60° joint orientation, a considerable drop in maximum induced pore water pressure was observed (relative to the neighboring 45° and 75° joint orientations), under 4 and 10 MPa of confinement. At 25 MPa of confinement, the drop in maximum induced pore water pressure for the 60° joint orientation was not so pronounced. These observations were explained in terms of failure mechanism (sliding versus shearing) for the different joint orientations. For sliding failure, pore water pressure at failure did not decrease significantly from the maximum value, whereas a marked pore water pressure decrease (after maximum) was observed in the process of sample loading when failure involved intact material rupture. Peak differential stress values at different joint orientations showed that the critical joint orientation was 60° and increasing confining pressure can reduce the influence of joints on the compressive strength of rock. Volumetric strain data showed that dilation‐related volume increase at or close to failure is significant for joint orientations of 0°, 30°, 45°, and 90°, but not for orientations of 60° and 75° at confining pressures of 4 and 10 MPa. At 25 MPa of confinement, none of the samples showed a considerable dilation‐related volume increase. The results illustrate the major influence of failure mechanisms (as governed by joint orientation, confining pressure, etc.) on the hydromechanical response of jointed rock.
Rifting and magmatism in the northeastern South China Sea from wide‐angle tomography and seismic reflection imaging
Authors: Lester Ryan , Van Avendonk Harm J. A. , McIntosh Kirk , Lavier Luc , Liu C.‐S. , Wang T. K. , Wu F.
Published: February 2014

We present a new travel time tomography velocity model and seismic reflection images that delineate the rift architecture and magmatic features of the rifted margin in the northeastern South China Sea. These data reveal moderately stretched crust ~25 km thick along the continental shelf and thin but laterally variable crustal thickness in the distal margin. Along the continental slope, crust rapidly thins to ~4 km in a basin characterized by tilted fault blocks that sole into a low‐angle detachment. Strain was localized to a degree within the highly stretched basin but failed to progress to breakup and seafloor spreading. Crust in the distal margin is ~12–15 km thick. Few extensional structures are apparent in the distal margin, but seismic velocities are suggestive of highly thinned and magmatically intruded continental crust. The magmatic features we interpret include volcanic zones at the top of the basement that deform or disrupt overlying postrift strata, sills intruded into the postrift sedimentary section, and a high‐velocity (~6.9–7.5 km/s) lower crustal layer that we take to be magmatic underplating or pervasive lower crustal intrusions. These features primarily occur in the distal margin and may have been emplaced during postrift seafloor spreading. The postrift magmatism may have been induced by convective removal of continental lithosphere following breakup and the onset of seafloor spreading in the South China Sea.
Melting phase relations of model carbonated peridotite from 2 to 3 GPa in the system CaO‐MgO‐Al2O3‐SiO2‐CO2 and further indication of possible unmixing between carbonatite and silicate liquids
Authors: Novella Davide , Keshav Shantanu , Gudfinnsson Gudmundur H. , Ghosh Shaunak
Published: February 2014

Melting phase relations of model carbonated peridotite in the system CaO‐MgO‐Al2O3‐SiO2‐CO2 from 2 to 3 GPa are reported. Experimentally produced melts, which are model carbonatites, with approximately 36–40 wt % CaO, 12–17 wt % MgO, 0.2–1.5 wt % Al2O3, 1–4 wt % SiO2, and 40–42 wt % CO2 (carbon dioxide) are present at all pressures investigated. At 2.8 and 3 GPa, carbonatitic melts are seen experimentally at temperatures that are very close to the vapor‐free (CO2) peridotite solidus and are found in equilibrium with forsterite, orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene, and garnet. Solidus phase relations with isobaric and pressure‐temperature invariant points, defining the so‐called carbonated peridotite solidus ledge, are also reported from 2.1 to 3 GPa. A divariant region exists from 2 to 2.6 GPa wherein two, compositionally different melts are present. In this region, these two melts, carbonatitic and silicate in composition, coexist with crystalline phase assemblage and free vapor. The silicate liquid has approximately 30–48 wt % SiO2 and approximately 6 to 20 wt % of dissolved CO2. The presence of carbonatitic and silicate liquids is interpreted to be due to liquid immiscibility. On the basis of melting phase relations reported here, we conclude that (a) the ledge is a feature along which model carbonatitic liquids are produced by reaction of silicates and CO2 vapor and (b) alkali‐free carbonatites and silicate melts can form through melt unmixing at depths of ~60–80 km in the Earth's mantle.
Caspian Sea surface circulation variability inferred from satellite altimeter and sea surface temperature
Authors: Gunduz Murat
Published: February 2014

Multiyear (1993–2007) satellite‐derived Sea Level Anomaly (SLA), Sea Surface Temperature (SST), and model‐derived mean dynamic topography were used together to analyze climatological and interannual variations of the Caspian Sea surface circulation. Constructed geostrophic currents are in good agreement with the known circulation features of the Caspian Sea, obtained from models and verified by some drifter observations. It is shown that the climatological surface circulation of the Middle Caspian Sea (MCS) is dominated by a basin‐wide cyclonic circulation in winter, switching to an anticyclonic circulation in summer. A dipole pattern (an anticyclonic eddy near 39.5°N and a cyclonic one near 38°N) exist in the Southern Caspian Sea (SCS) (stronger from September to January). Evaluation of the multiyear geostrophic velocities shows that the Caspian Sea surface circulation exhibits strong interannual variations, with the location and intensity of the circulation patterns changing from one year to another.
A simple way to improve the diurnal cycle in convective rainfall over land in climate models
Authors: Folkins Ian , Mitovski T. , Pierce J. R.
Published: February 2014

Within the tropics, and during the summer months in midlatitudes, most of the rainfall reaching the surface is generated by moist convection. Over land, the diurnal cycle in moist convective rainfall usually peaks in the late afternoon. In most climate models, the diurnal peak in convective rainfall occurs several hours too early and is often near local solar noon. We argue that this bias partly originates from the methods used in convective parameterizations to calculate the cloud base mass flux. In most convective parameterizations, the initial convective mass flux is determined from the convective available potential energy (CAPE) of an updraft parcel originating from the model layer closest to the surface. In models, the rapid increase in the CAPE of this near‐surface layer following sunrise contributes to a rapid increase in convective precipitation. However, the mass‐weighted CAPE of the boundary layer as a whole responds much more slowly to the increase in downward solar radiation at the surface. Using a recently developed convective parameterization in version 4 of the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM4), we show that the overall accuracy in the diurnal simulation of convective precipitation increases as the number of near‐surface layers from which convective air parcels are permitted to originate increases from one to four. We also show that the simulation of the diurnal cycle in convective precipitation over land can be improved through the introduction of variables which attempt to represent the persistence of subgrid‐scale convective organization within a grid column across model time steps.
Tracking elevated pollution layers with a newly developed hyperspectral Sun/Sky spectrometer (4STAR): Results from the TCAP 2012 and 2013 campaigns
Authors: Segal‐Rosenheimer M. , Russell P. B. , Schmid B. , Redemann J. , Livingston J. M. , Flynn C. J. , Johnson R. R. , Dunagan S. E. , Shinozuka Y. , Herman J. , Cede A. , Abuhassan N. , Comstock J. M. , Hubbe J. M. , Zelenyuk A. , Wilson J.
Published: February 2014

Total columnar water vapor (CWV), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) are derived from a newly developed, hyperspectral airborne Sun‐sky spectrometer (4STAR) for the first time during the two intensive phases of the Two‐Column Aerosol Project (TCAP) in summer 2012 and winter 2013 aboard the DOE G‐1 aircraft. We compare results with coincident measurements. We find 0.045 g/cm2 (4.2%) negative bias and 0.28 g/cm2 (26.3%) root‐mean‐square difference (RMSD) in water vapor layer comparison with an in situ hygrometer and an overall RMSD of 1.28 g/m3 (38%) water vapor amount in profile by profile comparisons, with differences distributed evenly around zero. RMSD for O3 columns average to 3%, with a 1% negative bias for 4STAR compared with the Ozone Measuring Instrument along aircraft flight tracks for 14 flights during both TCAP phases. Ground‐based comparisons with Pandora spectrometers at the Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland, showed excellent agreement between the instruments for both O3 (1% RMSD and 0.1% bias) and NO2 (17.5% RMSD and −8% bias). We apply clustering analysis of the retrieved products as a case study during the TCAP summer campaign to identify variations in atmospheric composition of elevated pollution layers and demonstrate that combined total column measurements of trace gas and aerosols can be used to define different pollution layer sources, by comparing our results with trajectory analysis and in situ airborne miniSPLAT (single‐particle mass spectrometer) measurements. Our analysis represents a first step in linking sparse but intense in situ measurements from suborbital campaigns with total column observations from space.
Future Arctic temperature and ozone: The role of stratospheric composition changes
Authors: Langematz Ulrike , Meul Stefanie , Grunow Katja , Romanowsky Erik , Oberländer Sophie , Abalichin Janna , Kubin Anne
Published: February 2014

Using multidecadal simulations with the European Centre/Hamburg–Modular Earth Submodel System Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC) model, the role of changing concentrations of ozone‐depleting substances (ODSs) and greenhouse gases (GHGs) on Arctic springtime ozone was examined. The focus is on potential changes in the meteorological conditions relevant for Arctic ozone depletion. It is found that with rising GHG levels the lower Arctic stratosphere will cool significantly in early winter, while no significant temperature signal is identified later in winter or spring. A seasonal shift of the lowest polar minimum temperatures from late to early winter in the second part of the 21st century occurs. However, Arctic lower stratosphere temperatures do not seem to decline to new record minima. The future Arctic lower stratosphere vortex will have a longer lifetime, as a result of an earlier formation in autumn. No extended vortex persistence is found in spring due to enhanced dynamical warming by tropospheric wave forcing. Because of the dominant early winter cooling, largest accumulated polar stratospheric cloud (PSC) areas (APSC) are projected for the middle of the 21st century. A further increase of APSC toward the end of the 21st century is prevented by increased dynamical polar warming. EMAC suggests that in the near future, there is a chance of low Arctic springtime ozone in individual years; however, there is no indication of a formation of regular Arctic ozone holes. Toward the end of the 21st century, when ODSs will be close to the 1960 levels, further rising GHG levels will cause increased Arctic springtime ozone.
Martensitic Phase Transformation and Deformation Behavior of Fe–Mn–C–Al Twinning‐Induced Plasticity Steel during High‐Pressure Torsion
Authors: Yan Kun , Bhattacharyya Dhriti , Lian Qi , Kabra Saurabh , Kawasaki Megumi , Carr David G. , Callaghan Mark D. , Avdeev Maxim , Li Huijun , Wang Yanbo , Liao Xiaozhou , Langdon Terence G. , Liss Klaus‐Dieter , Dippenaar Rian J.
Published: February 2014

The transformation between the face centered cubic austenitic and hexagonal close‐packed martensitic phases during high‐pressure torsion processing was observed in a Fe–Mn–C–Al twinning‐induced plasticity steel. This phase transformation was not found in the same material processed by unidirectional compressive and tensile deformation. Initiated by the high‐pressure loading, the martensite phase initially increased with torsional strain but diminished subsequently. Texture evolution of the austenitic phase was compared with the ideal texture distribution of face‐centered cubic materials after shear deformation.
Long‐Term Survival of Allograft Murine Islets Coated via Covalently Stabilized Polymers
Authors: Rengifo Hernán R. , Giraldo Jaime A. , Labrada Irayme , Stabler Cherie L.
Published: February 2014

Clinical islet transplantation (CIT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM); however, the antirejection drug regimen necessary to mitigate allograft islet rejection is undesirable. The use of polymeric coatings to immunocamouflage the transplant from host immune attack has great potential. Alginate and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐based polymers, functionalized with azide and phosphine, respectively, which form spontaneous and chemoselective crosslinks via the bioorthogonal Staudinger ligation scheme, were recently developed. Here, the utility of these polymers to form immunoprotective, ultrathin coatings on murine primary pancreatic islets is explored. Resulting coatings are nontoxic, with unimpaired glucose stimulated insulin secretion. Transplantation of coated BALB/c (H‐2d) islets into streptozotozin‐induced diabetic C57BL/6 (H‐2b) results in prompt achievement of normoglycemia, at a rate comparable to controls. A significant subset of animals receiving coated islets (57%) exhibits long‐term (>100 d) function, with robust islets observed upon explantation. Control islets rejected after 15 d (±9 d). Results illustrate the capacity of chemoselectively functionalized polymers to form coatings on islets, imparting no detrimental effect to the underlying cells, with resulting coatings exhibiting significant protective effects in an allograft murine model.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Direct C‐2 Olefination of Unactivated Indoles Utilizing OH/NH2 as Directing Group
Authors: Tang Chen‐Yu , Tao Yuan , Wu Xin‐Yan , Sha Feng
Published: February 2014

Oxidative C‐2 olefination of indoles/pyrrole via rhodium(III)‐catalyzed direct CH bond activation is reported. Phenolic OH and aniline NH2 units were revealed to be effective chelating groups to activate the aryl CH bond. The reactions proceeded with excellent selectivity and high functional group tolerance, furnishing 2‐vinylindoles/2‐vinylpyrroles in good yields.

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Modified subtotal‐Lothrop procedure for extended frontal sinus and anterior skull‐base access: a case series
Authors: Eloy Jean Anderson , Mady Leila J. , Kanumuri Vivek V. , Svider Peter F. , Liu James K.
Published: February 2014

Background

The endoscopic modified Lothrop procedure (EMLP) is well established for resistant frontal sinus disease and anterior skull base (ASB) exposure. However, this technique may be unnecessarily aggressive by removing avoidable sinonasal structures in select cases. Previously, in a cadaveric study, we proposed a modification of the EMLP, termed the modified subtotal‐Lothrop procedure (MSLP), to access the ASB and to address complex frontal sinus disease, for which access to the bilateral frontal sinus posterior table is required. This study provides a step‐by‐step description of this technique, and presents our experience in 5 patients who underwent this approach.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed at a tertiary referral center on all patients undergoing endoscopic ASB resection and complex frontal sinus surgeries between May 2011 and May 2013. Of 8 patients identified who underwent an MSLP, 5 had at least 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

All patients underwent successful ASB exposure via the MSLP without complications and preservation of one frontal sinus recess. Adequate access to the bilateral posterior frontal sinus table was achieved in all cases. A patent frontal sinus drainage pathway could be assessed endoscopically after a mean follow‐up of 18.6 (range, 12–27) months.

Conclusion

The MSLP is a feasible approach for exposure of the ASB and accessing complex frontal sinus pathology. This modification provides adequate ASB exposure and surgical maneuverability similar to the EMLP, while preserving one frontal sinus recess. This modification was successful in providing adequate exposure and maneuverability as well as maintaining frontal sinus patency in this small cohort.
Synthese eines metallorganischen molekularen Quadrats durch Selbstorganisation phosphorhaltiger Baueinheiten
Authors: Malberg Jennifer , Bodensteiner Michael , Paul Daniel , Wiegand Thomas , Eckert Hellmut , Wolf Robert
Published: February 2014

Molekulare Quadrate gehören zu den bekanntesten Typen von supramolekularen Architekturen. Phosphorhaltige metallorganische Baueinheiten fanden in derartigen Strukturen bisher allerdings keine Verwendung. Hier beschreiben wir die Synthese eines molekularen Quadrats aus vier Gold‐ und vier Cobaltatomen, das durch Selbstorganisation von anionischen 1,3‐Diphosphacyclobutadien‐Komplexen und Gold(I)‐Kationen gebildet wird. Die röntgenkristallographische Bestimmung der Molekülstruktur der Verbindung [Au{Co(P2C2tBu2)2}]4 (1) wird durch 31P‐ und 13C‐NMR‐spektroskopische Untersuchungen im Festkörper komplementiert. DFT‐Rechnungen bestätigen die Zuordnung der 31P‐ und 13C‐NMR‐Signale.
Regioselective Electrosynthesis of Rare 1,2,3,16‐Functionalized [60]Fullerene Derivatives
Authors: Xiao Yang , Zhu San‐E , Liu Ding‐Jia , Suzuki Mitsuaki , Lu Xing , Wang Guan‐Wu
Published: February 2014

Fullerene derivatives with different addition patterns exhibit different physical, chemical, and biological properties, which are important for fullerene applications. Novel and rare 1,2,3,16‐functionalized [60]fullerene derivatives having a five‐membered heterocycle fused to a [5,6]‐junction were obtained with high regioselectivity by electrochemical derivatization of a [60]fulleroindoline. The product structures were determined by spectroscopic data and single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. The obtained high regioselectivity was rationalized using theoretical calculations.
Pinpointing Double Bonds in Lipids by Paternò‐Büchi Reactions and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Ma Xiaoxiao , Xia Yu
Published: February 2014

The positions of double bonds in lipids play critical roles in their biochemical and biophysical properties. In this study, by coupling Paternò–Büchi (P‐B) reaction with tandem mass spectrometry, we developed a novel method that can achieve confident, fast, and sensitive determination of double bond locations within various types of lipids. The P‐B reaction is facilitated by UV irradiation of a nanoelectrospray plume entraining lipids and acetone. Tandem mass spectrometry of the on‐line reaction products via collision activation leads to the rupture of oxetane rings and the formation of diagnostic ions specific to the double bond location.
The effects of solvent polarity and pKa on the absorption of solvents into poly(glutaric acid‐glycerol) films
Authors: Wyatt Victor T.
Published: February 2014

In this study, solvent absorption into the matrices of poly(glutaric acid‐glycerol) films has been evaluated. It was determined that the combined effects of polarity and the size and shape of the solvent molecule, rather than pKa, have the most significant influence on absorption into the films. Polar aprotic solvents (with solvent polarity index values >4) such as 1,4‐dioxane (absorbed 163.8% ± 0.3% [w/w] of the original weight of the polymer), pyridine (200.4% ± 3.5%), and dimethyl sulfoxide (186.0% ± 11.4%) were among the highest absorbed solvents into the polymer matrix. Solvents with polarity index values ≤4.0 were absorbed poorly (≤5.3% ± 1.5%). The polymer films only absorbed ≤26.5% ± 2.1% of their weight of most protic solvents (water and mono‐alcohols) but absorbed 72.6% ± 6.5% of ethylene glycol, a diol. The only high absorbing polar protic solvent was acetic acid (131% ± 13.1%). Except for chloroform, ethyl acetate, and ethanol, all of the solvents examined displayed small increases in absorption (7.8%, on average) when the films were desorbed and used again to absorb solvent. Erosion of the films ranged from 0.0% ± 0.0% to 22.0% ± 3.2% after 2–10 h absorption cycles. Miscible (7.7% ± 2.3% to 15.1% ± 2.2%) and immiscible (12.3% ± 6.4% to 80.0% ± 1.9%) solvents were preferentially absorbed from aqueous solutions. However, up to approximately 5% of those absorption values could be from water absorption. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.† J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40434.
A statistical approach to engineer a biocomposite formulation from biofuel coproduct with balanced properties
Authors: Zarrinbakhsh Nima , Defersha Fantahun M. , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: February 2014

A 32‐full factorial design of experiment (DOE) and regression modeling were implemented together as a practical approach to attain a distillers' grains‐filled biocomposite with balanced mechanical and physical properties. The effects of compatibilizer and lubricant on tensile strength, flexural modulus, impact strength and melt flow index of the biocomposites were studied. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was implemented to develop least square regression models containing statistically significant main effects (linear and quadratic) and interaction effect. The developed models showed good predictability for the new measurements. The statistical approach adopted in this work including overlaying contour plots of the response surfaces in the studied level domain was effective in highlighting an optimized region that leads to balanced mechanical and physical properties. © 2014 The Authors Journal of Applied Polymer Science Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40443.
Retracted: Synthesis and characterization of the core–shell magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles using 2‐(methacrylamido)ethyl methacrylate amide as a novel crosslink agent for controlled release of betamethasone
Authors: Azodi‐Deilami Saman , Abdouss Majid , Kordestani Davood
Published: February 2014

The following article from the Journal of Applied Polymer Science, “Synthesis and characterization of the core–shell magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles using 2‐(methacrylamido)ethyl methacrylate amide as a novel cross‐link agent for controlled release of betamethasone,” by Saman Azodi‐Deilami, Majid Abdouss, and Davood Kordestani, published online on 4 February 2014 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal's editors, and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The retraction has been agreed because of significant, unacknowledged overlap with the author's previously published work (http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10856-013-5118-8). In addition, the crosslinker the authors call novel was first reported by a separate group of authors (http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/ja038961b), albeit this was not known by the authors of the retracted article at the time of publication.
Novel propargylether‐terminated monomers containing pyridine and phenyl pendent group: Synthesis, cure, and properties
Authors: Yang Guang , Zhou Changgeng , Li Bo
Published: February 2014

Two novel propargylether‐terminated resins containing pyridine and bulky phenyl pendent group were prepared from propargyl bromide and different diphenols, and highly thermal stable polymers were obtained by the thermal cure of the monomers. The chemical structures of these novel monomers were well confirmed by FTIR, 1H‐NMR and elemental analysis. Curing and thermal behavior of the resins were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic thermogravimetry in argon atmosphere. DSC curves of these two monomers showed a single endothermic peak corresponding to the conformation of chromene ring and homopolymerization of the chromene ring. The temperature at 5% weight loss (Td5) was higher than 440°C under argon and the highest glass transition temperature (Tg) reached 362°C. The rheological behavior and solubility of the monomer were also investigated. The monomers showed excellent flow‐ability, broad processing window, and great solubility. These results showed that the two resins could be ideal candidates for high‐temperature resistant resins. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40469.
Epoxy resins reinforced with TiO2 generated by nonhydrolytic sol–gel process
Authors: Morselli Davide , Bondioli Federica , Sangermano Marco , Roppolo Ignazio , Messori Massimo
Published: February 2014

Innovative epoxy‐titania nanocomposites were prepared starting from titania nanoparticles suspended in benzyl alcohol (BzOH) generated by nonhydrolytic sol–gel process from TiCl4. The obtained suspensions were mixed with an epoxy resin (bisphenol A diglycidyl ether, DGEBA) and the formulations were cured in the presence of ytterbium(III) trifluoromethanesulfonate as cationic initiator. The thermally activated cationic ring‐opening polymerization produced a three‐dimensional network in which the suspending medium BzOH was covalently linked to the epoxy network according to the “activated monomer” mechanism during the propagation step. The presence of titania nanoparticles resulted in a reinforcing and stiffening effect due to both their hydrodynamic effect and, most important, a significantly higher cross‐linking density of the composite material with respect to the unfilled epoxy resin. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40470.
Synthesis and Characterization of Two Discrete Ln10 Nanoscopic Ladder‐Type Cages: Magnetic Studies Reveal a Significant Cryogenic Magnetocaloric Effect and Slow Magnetic Relaxation
Authors: Adhikary Amit , Jena Himanshu Sekhar , Khatua Sajal , Konar Sanjit
Published: February 2014

Two unique lanthanide‐based cages [Ln10(L)5(μ2‐OH)6(H2O)22](Cl)4⋅7 H2O ([Gd10] and [Dy10]) have been synthesized by using a hydrazone‐based ligand H4L (H4L=2,6‐bis[(3‐methoxysalicylidene)hydrazinecarbonyl]pyridine) and LnCl3⋅x H2O. Structural characterization of [Gd10] reveals an aesthetically pleasing self‐assembly of five L4− and ten Gd3+ ions forming a 2×[1×5] rectangular array. The ladder‐shaped cage consists of three “rungs” and two “rails” that are occupied by five ligands. Six out of ten gadolinium centers act as rung locks. Further analysis revealed that three chloride ions are encapsulated inside each discrete [Gd10] molecule through hydrogen bonding and other noncovalent interactions. Both the complexes ([Gd10] and [Dy10]) were characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis, which shows that they are isostructural in nature. Magnetic investigations reveal that [Gd10] is a good candidate for magnetic refrigeration with a significant entropy change (−ΔSm) of 37.4 J kg−1 K−1 for an applied field of 7 T and at 3 K. Whereas [Dy10] shows single‐molecule‐magnet‐like behavior.