bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Heat Treatment on Consistency Coefficient of Dairy Cream
Authors: Vekariya Yogeshkumar , Deep Ankit , Kathiriya Mital , Tellabati Rajashekhar , Rathwa Rachana
Published: March 2024

The experiment aimed to collect consistency coefficient data for dairy cream subjected to various heat treatments and subsequent temperature variations. Each sample of dairy cream with fat content of 10%, 20%, 30% 40%, 50% & 60% was subjected to different heat treatments i.e., 80°C/No hold, 85°C/No hold, 90°C/No hold & 95C°/No hold. The consistency of such heat-treated samples was evaluated at every 10°C upon cooling from 80°C or 70°C as the case may be till 10°C at 250 S-1 shear rate using rheometer. At a specified measurement temperature, the fat content of cream exhibited a notable (p<0.05) impact on the consistency coefficient. However, the heat treatment applied to the cream and their interaction displayed no significant (p>0.05) variation in the consistency coefficient. Both the fat content of the cream and the heat treatment demonstrated a positive correlation with the consistency coefficient, whereas the measurement temperature showed a negative correlation. These data are useful to dairy equipment designer for selection of proper sizing of equipment.
Assessment of Digital Risk of Senior Care in Shandong Province: A Focus on the Digital Divide
Authors: Yen Tsaifa TF
Published: March 2024

Aging of the population has implications for the elderly, family care, social welfare and labor, and government finances in China. Moreover, there is a gap between the elderly and others in the use of digital tools. It is difficult and inconvenient to obtain digital information and use digital information, thus forming the phenomenon of digital divide. Under the background of digital divide, the elderly is faced with many digital risk problems, and how to deal with these problems has become a very important research topic. The purpose of this study is to explore the use of digital tools by the elderly, to analyze the digital risks they faced, and to provide the research suggestions. The data were obtained through in-depth interviews with 17 respondents and 332 valid questionnaires. The results show that elderly is more likely to own smartphones and use them to make calls and pay for daily purchases. In addition, common digital risks for the elderly include online shopping risk, time risk, privacy risk, financial risk and psychological risk. The study suggested that the government should strengthen publicity on online shopping precautions and cooperate with universities or research institutions to raise and prevent digital risk awareness among the elderly.
Adaptation and Actualization of Bugis Migrants in North Kalimantan
Authors: Latang  , Suardi  , Gaffar Fatmawati
Published: March 2024

Aims: The adaptability, integration, and self-actualization of Bugis migrants in North Kalimantan, The Bugis migrants can adapt themselves and their social environment to maintain themselves as part of the community. It was conducted in North Kalimantan using in-depth interviews and focus group discussion techniques. It was carried out for one month and the informants were captured in the data collection process. based on their place and domicile in North Kalimantan.
Methodology: The informants were 5 informants, each of whom had a different job. The result of the research is the ability of Bugis migrants:  1) to integrate into the community and can contribute to the North Kalimantan government in increasing regional income, 2) contributes to the development of science, especially in the field of social sciences.
Results: Based on the results of this study, it is concluded that Bugis migrants can interact optimally with the Javanese, Banjar, Tidung, and Tator tribes who live in North Kalimantan and Bugis migrants can actualize themselves to increase harmony in shared life and can improve the welfare of life, as the Bugis migrants do not try to return to their original area, they even feel alienated from their original area, because their close family and inheritance are mostly no longer there.
Conclusion: Bugis migrants manifest themselves as a process of actualization and can accept to live and settle as a community in Kalimantan.
Unveiling the Benefits of Infusing Gita's Educational Philosophy into the School Curriculum for Nurturing Student Holistic Development
Authors: Kunwar Rajendra , Pokhrel Rajendra Kumar , Adhikari Sapana
Published: March 2024

This study explores the benefits of integrating the educational philosophy of the Gita into the school curriculum on holistic student development. It aims to shed light on the key aspects of student development that can be fostered through the integration of Gita teachings into the curriculum. The study adopts a critical content analysis method based on themes that metaphorically align with the moral and ethical values, mental health, and social well-being of students in the present context. The findings reveal that the Gita emphasizes the importance of self-realization, self-discipline, and selfless action, which have the potential to contribute to holistic student development. The Gita promotes a comprehensive understanding of education that encompasses intellectual, moral, emotional, and spiritual aspects. This study examines how studying the Gita fosters purpose, resilience, and ethical values in students to promote holistic development. The Gita's teachings also offer guidance on cultivating qualities such as self-control, focus, determination, and compassion, which can enhance students' personal and academic achievements. Additionally, the Gita's emphasis on mindfulness and self-reflection can contribute to students' emotional well-being and mental health. The study concludes that integrating Gita teachings into the school curriculum has the potential to foster holistic student development across various dimensions. These findings provide insights for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers interested in incorporating Gita's educational philosophy into the school system. Further research and practical implementations are warranted to explore the effectiveness and challenges associated with integrating Gita teachings into the curriculum and to assess their benefits on student outcomes.
Relationship between Food and Iron Intake and Hemoglobin Levels among Medical Students: A Cross-sectional Study at Indonesian Christian University, Class of 2021
Authors: Luhulima Danny Ernest Jonas , Prihantini Nur Nunu , Amelia Ria , Natalia Wanda Ezhara
Published: March 2024

Background: Lack of protein intake will result in hampered iron transport and reduce the formation of hemoglobin (Hb). Hemoglobin is a protein compound found in red blood cells and is useful for transporting oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide CO2 in the body. The level of protein consumption is closely related to hemoglobin, where the protein binds to iron in the body. If iron intake is lacking, it can cause red blood cell production to be disrupted and cause anemia. The world's population with anemia is around 30% or 2.20 billion people and the global prevalence of anemia is around 51%. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between iron intake and hemoglobin (Hb) levels.
Aims: This research was conducted to determine the relationship between food or iron intake and hemoglobin (Hb) levels.
Methodology: This research uses a descriptive-analytical research design with a cross-sectional approach and uses primary data as a research instrument, which was obtained from the results of blood sampling from students from the Faculty of Medicine, Indonesian Christian University Class of 2021 for laboratory examination using the Hematology Analyzer method and a 2x24 hour Food Recall form. The purposive sampling method was used to obtain 72 samples in this study.
Results: The study showed 59 students (81.9%) were not anemic, and 13 (18.1%) were anemic. A total of 12 students (16.7%) had a low iron adequacy score, and 60 students (83.3%) had a sufficient iron adequacy score. There is a relationship between food/iron intake and hemoglobin levels (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: there is a significant relationship between iron intake and hemoglobin levels.
Comparison of Nutrient Concentration in Leaves of Healthy and Leaf Margin Affected Banana Gardens of Hiriyur Taluk, Chitradurga District, Karnataka, India
Authors: Lamani Hanumanta D. , Ashok L. B.  , Shaziya, K. L.  , Vinutha, B. B.
Published: March 2024

Banana leaves have been traditionally utilized in various parts of India for serving food, wrapping food items and for religious as well as cultural purposes. Despite their extensive use, there is limited scientific data available on the nutrient composition of banana leaves, particularly in the Hiriyur Taluk of Chitradurga District, Karnataka. This study aimed to analyse and compare the nutrient composition of banana leaves from healthy and margin-affected gardens in different locations. Samples of banana leaves were collected from Babbur Farm, Chillhalli, Venakalgudda, KC Roppa, Goguddu, Gudihalli, Biranhalli, Gounahalli, Vadadhalli, and Bagganadu Villages in Hiriyur Taluk. The leaves were analysed for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur and micronutrients. The proximate analysis revealed that in margin-affected gardens, these nutrients were found to be in the ranges of 2.24-3.25%, 0.14-0.34%, 2.31-3.48%, 0.70-1.08% 0.35-0.58% and 0.24-0.41%, respectively, and in healthy gardens ranged from 2.86-3.26%, 0.31-0.53%, 2.86-3.49%, 0.87-1.08%, 0.45-0.56% and 0.30-0.36%, respectively. Micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, B and Cl) content were also reported high in healthy banana gardens compared to leaf margin affected gardens. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences in the nutrient composition of banana leaves. The differences in nutrient composition observed among the banana gardens in Hiriyur Taluk could be attributed to various factors, including soil quality and different agricultural practices.
Impact of Different Doses of Herbicides on Weed Density and Weed Control Efficiency in Maize
Authors: Singh Shivendra , Yadav Ram Ashish , Prajapati Sunil Kumar , Kumar Pradeep , Yadav Praveen Kumar , Khan Naushad , Sachan Prashun
Published: March 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during Kharif season of 2021. To evaluate the effect of different doses of Mesotrione 2.27% w/w + Atrazine 22.7% w/w SC on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was laid down in the Randomized block design with ten treatments which was replicated three times. Experimental Field was infested with Echinochloa colona, Digitaria sanguinalis, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Commelina benghalensis, Trianthema and Cyperus rotundus. Ready-mix herbicide, Mesotrione 2.27% w/w + Atrazine 22.7% w/w SC (Calaris Xtra) manufactured by Syngenta was used in the experiment. Among the herbicidal treatments, the application of Mesotrione 2.27% w/w + Atrazine 22.7% w/w SC @ 1.750 kg a.i. ha-1 recorded the lowest weed density and highest weed control efficiency (approx. 90%) at every growth stage of maize. However, among herbicidal treatments, grain yield of maize was maximum with the application of Mesotrione 2.27% w/w + Atrazine 22.7% w/w SC @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1(T4) which might be due do toxicity effect of herbicide.
Seed Coating Treatments and Foliar Spray of Micronutrients Enhance Quality of Harvested Seeds in Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Vinay  , Sharma Rajender , Dilta BS , Sharma Shivani , Thakur Ankita
Published: March 2024

To study the effect of different seed coating treatments and foliar application of micronutrients on quality seed production in pea, analysis of harvested seed was done at laboratory of the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP). Seeds from field experiment were harvested and were evaluated in the laboratory conditions based on the different parameters. In field experiment, there were seven different treatments comprising, seed coating with Rhizobium, Phosphate solubilizing bacteria, iron, zinc, carbendazim along with control and foliar application of micronutrients. From the investigation, it was observed that seed coating with Rhizobium @ 30 g + PSB @ 30 ml kg-1 seed and two foliar sprays of ZnSO4 @ 0.3 % + FeSO4 @ 0.3 % at 50 per cent flowering and 15 days later, significantly improved the germination (96.00 %), seedling length (19.29 cm), seedling dry weight (34.80 mg), SVI-I (1851.62), SVI-II (3341.38), germination in accelerated ageing test and in cold test (77.75 % and 80 %, respectively) and resulted in the lowest EC (16.75 μS cm-1) of harvested seeds. Hence, it was concluded that seed coating with Rhizobium @ 30 g + PSB @ 30 ml kg-1 seed and two foliar sprays of ZnSO4 @ 0.3 % + FeSO4 @ 0.3 % performed best among all the treatments tested for quality seed production and it could be recommended for getting quality seeds in garden pea.
In vitro Antioxidant, In vivo Bioavailability, and Immunomodulatory Effects of a Polyherbal Formulation (Storg B) Induced by Cyclophosphamide in an Experimental Animal Model
Authors: Firoz H M  , Sadashiva C T  , Sahana C V
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The immunomodulatory properties of plants are being extensively explored these days as they contain a wide range of bioactive compounds that can treat immunomodulatory disorders. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the efficacy of the standardized polyherbal formulation (Storg-B). The Storg-B combines Psidium guajava, Mangifera indica, and Citrus limon.
Methods: The aqueous extract of the Storg B was investigated for DPPH radical scavenging activity to determine antioxidant activity. SD rats were selected for the evaluation of the immunomodulatory activity of Storg-B. The haemagglutination and hematology methods were used to evaluate the immunomodulatory studies. For the pharmacokinetic studies, the LC-MS/MS technique is employed to quantify Storg B.
Results: The percentage inhibition of DPPH radial IC50 values of standard BHT and Storg-B were 60.52 and 68.35µg/ml, respectively. In the in vivo animal studies, Storg-B showed significant immunomodulatory activity by increasing the primary and secondary antibody titer values by 6.58 and 8.25 mg/mL, respectively, for the SRBC antigen at a dose of 100 mg/kg. There’s also an increase in the neutrophil adhesion percentage at the testing doses. Results of hematological parameters revealed that Storg-B restored all the levels of blood components at a 100 mg/kg dose. A Storg-B showed greater potency in the bioavailability studies.
Conclusion: Thus, the Storg-B used as an efficient and secure formulation in the treatment of immune deficiency by improving the immune response.
Redefining Sustainable Agriculture for the 21st Century by Vertical Farming
Authors: Singh Nitesh Kumar , Rai Avinash Kumar
Published: March 2024

In the face of a rapidly growing global population, increasing urbanization, and the threats posed by climate change, traditional agricultural practices are becoming increasingly unsustainable. Vertical farming, a method of growing crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled environments, offers a promising solution to these challenges. This review paper explores the potential of vertical farming to redefine sustainable agriculture in the 21st century. It examines the key advantages of vertical farming, including efficient land use, reduced water consumption, year-round crop production, and reduced transportation costs. The paper also discusses the technological advancements that have made vertical farming feasible, such as LED lighting, hydroponic and aeroponic systems, and automation. Furthermore, it highlights the economic viability and potential for vertical farming to contribute to food security in urban areas. The review concludes by addressing the challenges and limitations of vertical farming and outlining future research directions to fully realize its potential as a sustainable agricultural practice.
A Review on Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Chemical Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Dioecious Cucurbits
Authors: Nayak Debi Archana , Mohanty Sukirti , Jena Subhendu
Published: March 2024

No vegetable group in India is as diverse as the cucurbits. They are adapted to diverse soil and climate condition and contribute significantly to total vegetable production. Dioecious cucurbits cultivation merge with trellising, staking, mulching, application of biofertilizers and growth regulators hold immense potential and promise for future vegetable production and market in our country. Biofertilizer can be defined as a substance which contains living organisms which, when applied to seed, plant surface, or soil, colonize the rhizosphere or interior of the plant, and promote growth by increasing the supply or availability of primary nutrients to the host plant. Biofertilizers are an chief component of integrated nutrient management system for sustainable agriculture and along with chemical fertilizers. Studies suggest that cultivation of dioecious cucurbits along with chemical and organic fertilizers gives immense result on account of yield and productivity. Our country possesses a rich diversity like spine gourd, ivy gourd, bitter gourd, sweet gourd, pointed gourd and has ideal climate and soil to cultivate these cucurbits. Mostly these miner cucurbits are largely grown or wild gathered and sold in the market by small and marginal farmers. Hence promotion of these cucurbits holds key to ensuring livelihood security and income generation for to the tribal’s, marginal and small farmers in remote rural regions. Dioecious cucurbits mainly possess different important chemical compounds which can be used in nutraceuticals industries. These cucurbits has the potential to act as a source of income generation for rural farmers as they have immense market potential. These cucurbits need strong research support for better production and utilization.
The Socio-Economic Factors Affecting Farmers Access to Agricultural Information
Authors: Yadav Smriti , Yadav Vijay Kumar
Published: March 2024

The aim of study was to examine the factors of socio-economic characteristics which effects the farmers of Lakhimpur-kheri on their access to agricultural information. The role of information in agricultural development is very important. It is an essential component for increasing agricultural production and improving marketing and distribution strategies. 200 participants were selected from the farmers of Lakhimpur-Kheri, Uttar Pradesh. Data were collected with the help of a pre-tested and validated questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as simple frequencies, percentages, mean etc. were used. Results showed that print media, mobile phones and fellow farmers were the main sources of information for farmers. The results further indicated that education and landholding size had a significant positive association with access to agricultural information while age and agricultural experience had a non-significant association.
Effect of hydrodynamic multiplicity on trickle bed reactor performance
Authors: van der Merwe Werner , Nicol Willie , Al‐Dahhan Muthanna H.
Published: November 2007

Multiple hydrodynamic states in trickle bed reactors have been the subject of numerous hydrodynamic investigations. The extent of variation in the hydrodynamic parameters (like holdup and pressure drop) is large and this variation can be expected to have a significant impact on the conversion in a reaction system. This study presents reaction data for α‐methyl styrene hydrogenation in a trickle bed reactor over a range of conditions that include gas and liquid limitations. It is seen that liquid flow rate variation induced hysteresis has a large impact on the conversion. For gas‐limited reactions, the upper branch of the pressure drop hysteresis loop has a higher conversion than the lower branch at the same linear fluid velocities and catalyst weight, while for liquid‐limited reactions the lower branch has a higher conversion than the upper branch (the difference in productivity being up to 20%). These trends cannot be explained by differences in wetting efficiency. Instead, it is proposed that for this system the gas–liquid mass transfer rate is the limiting step in gas‐limited reactions, while the liquid–solid mass transfer rate is the limiting step in liquid‐limited reactions. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Simple and safe synthesis of microporous aluminophosphate molecular sieves by ionothermal approach
Authors: Han Lijun , Wang Yibo , Li Cuixia , Zhang Suojiang , Lu Xingmei , Cao Meijuan
Published: November 2007

Pure and transition metal (Co, Fe) containing aluminophosphate molecular sieves were synthesized ionothermally by using a series of imidazolium‐based ionic liquids as both solvent and structure‐directing agent. Adopting this novel method, a large number of volatile organic solvents can be avoided, and the synthesis can be operated at near atmospheric pressure. Thus, the preparation becomes simple and safe compared with hydrothermal and solvothermal method. And, the recycling of ionic liquid can make the industrial synthesis process more efficient and environmental. The powder XRD patterns and FT‐IR spectra displayed that all the synthesized samples were with sodalite structure. Crystal data for Co‐substituted analogue: cubic, Pm‐3n, a = 9.0192 Å, and magnetic property analysis showed weak antiferromagnetic interactions between Co ions. The influences of synthesis conditions such as P2O5/Al2O3 ratio, crystallization temperature, and the variety of ionic liquids on the character of the products were systematically investigated. In addition, the recycling of ionic liquid was studied based on the NMR and TGA. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Miniemulsification in high‐pressure homogenizers
Authors: Manea Mihaela , Chemtob Abraham , Paulis María , de la Cal José C. , Barandiaran María J. , Asua José M.
Published: November 2007

The mechanisms involved in the formation of high solids content composite polymer–monomer waterborne miniemulsions in a high‐pressure homogenizer were investigated combining experimental results and a mathematical model for the process. It was found that the final droplet size was the result of two consecutive processes: droplet break‐up and coagulation. The final droplet size was determined by the mechanism giving the largest droplet size © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders among a cohort of women employed in poultry processing
Authors: Lipscomb Hester , Kucera Kristen , Epling Carol , Dement John
Published: November 2007

Background

We evaluated musculoskeletal problems among women employed in poultry processing in rural northeastern North Carolina. Poultry processing is the largest single employer of women in this economically depressed region with a black majority population.

Methods

Data were collected from a cohort of 291 women through interviews and physical exams conducted at 6‐month intervals over 3 years. An index of cumulative exposure, based on departmental rankings and work history, was the primary exposure variable. Other variables of interest included work organization factors, other medical conditions, depressive symptoms, children in the home, and hand intensive home activities. Poisson regression with generalized estimating equations was used to evaluate factors associated with occurrences of upper extremity symptoms and incidence of disorders at follow‐up.

Results

Symptoms making it difficult to maintain work speed or quality and depressive symptoms at baseline were associated with symptoms at follow‐up; age, being overweight, and job insecurity at baseline were associated with incident disorders. After considering these factors, the exposure response pattern was J‐shaped with risk decreasing in the second quartile of cumulative exposure and then going steadily up; the effect was stronger for disorders.

Conclusions

The pattern of risk is consistent with onset of early musculoskeletal problems among women new to the industry followed by a later increase with continued exposure. Among this highly exposed population, the effects of depressive symptoms and work organization factors were diminished when cumulative exposure was considered, illustrating the contextual nature of the complex relationships between physical work exposures and psychosocial factors. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:24–36, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nonisothermal crystallization of polyamide 66/poly(phenylene sulfide) blends
Authors: Zhang Richao , Huang Yigang , Min Min , Gao Yong , Lu Ai , Lu Zhongyuan
Published: November 2007

The crystalline morphologies of isothermally and nonisothermally crystallized poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) and its blend with polyamide 66 (PA66) were investigated by polarized optical microscopy with a hot stage. The spherulite superstructure of PPS was greatly affected by crystallizable PA66; a Maltese cross was not clear, and the impingement between spherulites disappeared. This could be ascribed to the formation of small crystals of PA66, which filled in the PPS lamellae. The nonisothermal crystallization behavior was also measured by differential scanning calorimetry. The presence of PA66 changed the nonisothermal crystallization process of PPS. The maximum crystallization temperature of the PPS phase in the blend was higher that that of neat PPS, and this indicated that PA66 acted as a nucleus for PPS. Also, the compatibilizer poly(ethylene‐stat‐methacrylate) (EMA) was added to modify the interfacial interplay of the PA66/PPS blend system. The addition of EMA greatly influenced the nonisothermal crystallization process of the PPS phase in the blend system. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Hygrothermal ageing of an epoxy adhesive used in FRP strengthening of concrete
Authors: Yang Quan , Xian Guijun , Karbhari Vistasp M.
Published: November 2007

The efficiency of strengthening of deteriorating concrete through the external bonding of prefabricated fiber reinforced composite strips to the concrete substrate depends on the durability of the adhesive. In this application, adhesives can be exposed to water and salt water, as well as alkali solution resulting from the permeation of water through concrete. This paper presents the results of a durability program designed to study the effects of ageing and environment on the durability of a typical adhesive used in external bonding, through characterization of moisture uptake and cure and investigation by dynamic thermal mechanical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and tensile testing. It is seen that the adhesive shows two‐stage diffusion with primary deterioration taking place in the first phase. Exposure to moisture is seen to cause plasticization and decreases in performance characteristics. The decrease in glass transition temperature due to hygrothermal ageing is such that the level is very close to the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) recommended value of the wet glass transition temperature being at least 30°F higher than the maximum operation temperature. Overall, the effect of salt solution exposure is seen to have the least effect, whereas exposure to concrete based alkali solution has the greatest deteriorative effect. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Water remaining properties of nonwoven fabrics treated with the polyurethane polymers containing carboxylic acid group and the thermal and structural characterization of the polymers
Authors: Suen Maw‐Cherng , Lee Hsun‐Tsing , Chen Hung‐En , Chen Cheng‐Chi
Published: November 2007

Three low‐molecular‐weight polyurethanes (LMWPU) containing various amounts of carboxylic acid were synthesized and applied on the nonwoven fabric for the improvement of water remaining property. The chemical structure of the LMWPUs was confirmed with 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR. The molecular weights of those three LMWPUs ranged from 3100 to 4200 g/mol. The results showed that the add‐on values were increased with the increasing of the content of 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid in LMWPU at a same resin concentration in padding bath. However, the water remaining values were decreased with the increasing of the content of 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid in LMWPU for a given add‐on value. The thermal properties, such as thermo‐degradation and the values of Tg and Tm of the polymers, could not affect the water remaining property of the treated fabrics. The analyses of X‐ray diffraction patterns and polarizing microscope observations showed that LMWPU with higher content of polytetramethyleneglycol had higher amorphous region. This phenomenon clearly supported that the values of water remaining were strongly affected by the amorphous region of the LMWPU polymers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Molecular stability of chitosan in acid solutions stored at various conditions
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thanh Binh , Hein San , Ng Chuen‐How , Stevens Willem F.
Published: November 2007

The stability of chitosan with a degree of deacetylation (DD) of 88 and 81% was investigated in solution during storage for 60 days at various temperatures (60, 28, and 5°C) and acid concentrations (0.8M, 0.2M, and 0.1M). The first‐order rate constant of chain hydrolysis of 88%DD chitosan at 60°C was about 1.4 times higher than that of the 81%DD sample. At 28°C, the rates of hydrolysis for both chitosan samples were four to five times lower than those at 60°C and are similar. At 5°C, chain degradation was not significant. Although acetic acid caused significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) chain scission than formic acid, no significant difference of rate change was observed among three different acid concentrations. Reprecipitation of dissolved chitosan was applied for its purification and to transfer dissolved chitosan to the solvent used to measure its molecular weight. Reprecipitation resulted in slightly lower molecular weight (P ≤ 0.05) for both 88%DD and 81%DD samples. The molecular weight of chitosan before and after reprecipitation had good linear relationship (r2 > 0.9). © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis of a magnesium/aluminum/iron layered double hydroxide and its flammability characteristics in halogen‐free, flame‐retardant ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer composites
Authors: Jiao Chuan‐Mei , Wang Zheng‐Zhou , Chen Xi‐Lei , Hu Yuan‐
Published: November 2007

Mg–Al–Fe ternary hydrotalcites were synthesized by a coprecipitation method and characterized with powder X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The flame‐retardant effects of Mg/Al–CO3 layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and Mg/Al/Fe–CO3 LDHs in an ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) were studied with the limited oxygen index (LOI), the UL‐94 test, and the cone calorimeter test (CCT), and the thermal degradation behavior of the composites was examined by thermogravimetric analysis. The results showed that the LOI values of the EVA/(Mg/Al/Fe–CO3 LDH) composites were basically higher than those of the EVA/(Mg/Al–CO3 LDH) composites at the same additive level. In the UL‐94 test, there was no rating for the EVA/(Mg/Al–CO3 LDH) composite at the 50% additive level, and a dripping phenomenon occurred. However, the EVA/(Mg/Al/Fe–CO3 LDH) composites at the same loading level of LDHs containing a suitable amount of Fe3+ ion reached the V‐0 rating, the dripping phenomenon disappearing. The CCTs indicated that the heat release rate (HRR) of the EVA composites with Mg/Al/Fe–CO3 LDHs containing a suitable amount of Fe3+ decreased greatly in comparison with that of the composites with Mg/Al–CO3 LDHs. The introduction of a given amount of Fe3+ ion into Mg/Al–CO3 LDHs resulted in an increase in the LOI, a decrease in the HRR, and the achievement of the UL‐94 V‐0 rating. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Copolymerization kinetics of poly(acrylonitrile‐ran‐2‐ethenyl‐pyridine) and its degradation apparent activation energy
Authors: Hou Chen , Qu Rongjun , Wang Chunhua , Ji Chunnuan , Sun Changmei , Ying Liang
Published: November 2007

2‐Ethenyl‐pyridine (EPD) was first used to successfully copolymerize with acrylonitrile (AN) in a H2O/dimethyl formamide (DMF) mixture by using azobisisobutyronitrile as the initiator. Kinetics of copolymerization and degradation of poly(AN‐ran‐EPD) were discussed. The kinetic equation of copolymerization and the apparent activation energy of degradation of poly(AN‐ran‐EPD) were obtained. In H2O‐rich reaction medium, copolymerization followed the suspension polymerization more, but in DMF‐rich reaction medium, copolymerization followed the solution polymerization more. Increase in DMF concentration in the solvent mixture lead to a rapid increase in the degradation apparent activation energy. The apparent activation energy decreased quickly with an increase in EPD concentration, and such a change became less prominent as the molar ratio of EPD/AN went beyond 3/100. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Geographic information technologies, structuration theory, and the world trade center crisis
Authors: Harrison Teresa M. , Pardo Theresa , Gil–Garcia J. Ramon , Thompson Fiona , Juraga Dubravka
Published: November 2007

Advocates of geographic information technologies (GIT) have long claimed significant advantages to bringing a spatially oriented perspective to bear on organizational and policy decision making, however, for a variety of reasons, these advantages have been more difficult to realize in practice than might be supposed. In this article, we argue that awareness and appreciation of the potential value of GIT changed dramatically as a result of the World Trade Center (WTC) attacks on September 11, 2001. We use a structurationist theoretical perspective to show that GITs were “enacted” in a variety of novel ways by social actors thrust together by the demands of the crisis to form interorganizational systems, and we illustrate this process through three extended examples of GIT adaptation and innovation during the crisis. One lasting consequence of this episode is that GITs have moved from serving as a relatively static reference tool to a dynamic decision‐making tool for emergency situations. We conclude by suggesting that the crisis was a catalyst for change in the use of GIT and, reciprocally, in the social structures in which GIT will be deployed in the future.
You be the examiner!
Authors: Farley Peter C. , Magan Natisha , Charron Cynthia L. , Broomfield Nicholas I. , Farley A. Fay
Published: November 2007

“You be the examiner!” is an online approach to providing students with immediate, readily accessible, and nonthreatening feedback on their understanding of key biochemical concepts. The feedback aims to affirm correct understanding and, where further study appears necessary, direct the student to the relevant sections of their textbook and/or lecturer‐provided study notes. Rather than providing model answers to previous examination questions, “You be the examiner” asks the students to evaluate typical “student” answers to such questions. Instead of a single “correct” answer, students encounter a range of answers that they must assess for accuracy and appropriateness.
Conjugation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Phornphisutthimas Somkiat , Thamchaipenet Arinthip , Panijpan Bhinyo
Published: November 2007

Bacterial conjugation is a genetic transfer that involves cell‐to‐cell between donor and recipient cells. With the current method used to teach students in genetic courses at the undergraduate level, the transconjugants are identified using bacterial physiology and/or antibiotic resistance. Using physiology, however, is difficult for both first‐year undergraduates and special science students at the high school levels, who do not have the basic knowledge. We have developed a laboratory exercise that comprises a simple and rapid technique for transferring bacterial DNA by conjugation and examining the transconjuants using only antibiotic resistance on agar. The identity of the right transconjuants is confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis. This exercise is designed to help students understand how horizontal gene transfer occurs in bacteria by conjugation using Escherichia coli as a hands‐on learning model. Students should be able to draw concept maps of three DNA transfer methods on their own after carrying out the experiment and getting some additional information.
Teaching biochemistry at Lisbon University—Facing the challenge of the Bologna Declaration in the 25th anniversary of the biochemistry course
Authors: Farinha Carlos M. , Freire Ana Ponces
Published: November 2007

The biochemistry degree has been taught at Lisbon University for 25 years. Since its creation, the curriculum is characterized for being widely eclectic and multidisciplinary. The adoption of the concepts proposed in Europe by the Declaration of Bologna and incorporation of these ideas at Lisbon University is discussed here for the biochemistry degree.
Audio podcasting in a tablet PC‐enhanced biochemistry course
Authors: Lyles Heather , Robertson Brian , Mangino Michael , Cox James R.
Published: November 2007

This report describes the effects of making audio podcasts of all lectures in a large, basic biochemistry course promptly available to students. The audio podcasts complement a previously described approach in which a tablet PC is used to annotate PowerPoint slides with digital ink to produce electronic notes that can be archived. The fundamentals of this approach are described, and data from student attitudinal and informational surveys are presented. The survey data suggest that the students have a positive attitude toward the combination of tablet‐based instruction and audio podcasting. In addition, three students provide testimonials on how these technological tools allowed them to utilize their preferred learning styles to succeed in the course. Possible negative consequences of this approach, in terms of class attendance and note taking, are also analyzed and discussed.
Introducing DNA concepts to Swiss high school students based on a Brazilian educational game
Authors: da S. Cardona Tânia , Spiegel Carolina N. , Alves Gutemberg G. , Ducommun Jacques , Henriques‐Pons Andrea , Araújo‐Jorge Tania C.
Published: November 2007

Subjects such as techniques for genetic diagnosis, cloning, sequencing, and gene therapy are now part of our lives and raise important questions about ethics, future medical diagnosis, and such. Students from different countries observe this explosion of biotechnological applications regardless of their social, academic, or cultural backgrounds, although they are not usually familiar with their theoretical genetic bases. To introduce some molecular biology concepts for high school students, we developed a new problem for the Brazilian board game “Discovering the cell” (“Célula Adentro©” in Portuguese), a pedagogic tool based on inquiry‐, cooperative‐, and problem‐based learning. This problem (Case) is based on the forensic DNA, which represents an interesting theme for students, as it recurrently appears on newspapers and television series. In this work, we tested this game with secondary students and teachers from Switzerland. Our results indicate that the game “Discovering the cell” is well accepted by both students and teachers and may represent a good pedagogical approach to help teaching complex themes in molecular biology, even with students from different socioeconomical, cultural, and academic backgrounds.
The discovery of biological enantioselectivity: Louis Pasteur and the fermentation of tartaric acid, 1857—A review and analysis 150 yr later
Authors: Gal Joseph
Published: November 2007

Nearly a decade after discovering molecular chirality in 1848, Louis Pasteur changed research direction and began investigating fermentations. Conflicting explanations have been given for this switch to microbiology, but the evidence strongly suggests that Pasteur's appointment in 1854 to the University of Lille—an agricultural‐industrial region where fermentation‐based manufacturing was of great importance—and an appeal for help in 1856 by a local manufacturer experiencing problems in his beetroot‐fermentation‐based alcohol production played a significant role. Thus began, in late 1856, Pasteur's pioneering studies of lactic and alcoholic fermentations. In 1857, reportedly as a result of a laboratory mishap, he found that in incubations of ammonium (±)‐tartrate with unidentified microorganisms (+)‐tartaric acid was consumed with considerable preference over (−)‐tartaric acid. In 1860, he demonstrated a similar enantioselectivity in the metabolism of tartaric acid by Penicillium glaucum, a common mold. Chance likely played a significant role both in Pasteur's shift to microbiology and his discovery of enantioselective tartrate fermentations, but he rejected pure serendipity as a significant factor in experimental science and in his own career. Pasteur's milestone discovery of biological enantioselectivity began the process that in the long run established the fundamental importance of molecular chirality in biology. biology. Chirality, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel Properties of Photochromic Spirooxazine Nanoparticles
Authors: LIU Yuan‐Yuan , FAN Mei‐Gong , ZHANG Chang‐Rui , SHENG Xiao‐Hai , YAO Jian‐Nian
Published: November 2007

The nanoparticles of a spirooxazine (SPO) and its photomerocyanine (PMC) were prepared through the reprecipitation method. Two distinct features were observed. One is that the decaying lifetime for PMC nanoparticles was 600 times of that for the dispersed molecules, and the other is that the fluorescence intensity of SPO nanoparticles was enhanced by 240 times of that of the dispersed monomer.
Role of Mononuclear Rare Earth Metal Complexes in Promoting the Hydrolysis of 2‐Hydroxypropyl p‐Nitrophenyl Phosphate
Authors: WANG Rui , LIN Hai , LIN Hua‐Kuan
Published: November 2007

Two long‐chain multidentate ligands: 2,9‐di‐(n‐2′,5′,8′‐triazanonyl)‐1,10‐phenanthroline (L1) and 2,9‐di‐ (n‐4′,7′,10′‐triazaundecyl)‐1,10‐phenanthroline (L2) were synthesized. The hydrolytic kinetics of 2‐hydroxypropyl p‐nitrophenyl phosphate (HPNP) catalyzed by the complexes of L1 or L2 with La(III) or Gd(III) have been studied in aqueous solution at (298.2±0.1) K, I=0.10 mol·dm−3 KNO3 in pH 7.5–9.1, respectively, finding that the catalytic effect of GdL1 was the best among the four complexes for hydrolysis of HPNP. Its kLnLH−1, kLnL and pKa are 0.047 mol−1·L·s−1, 0.000074 mol−1·L·s−1 and 8.90, respectively. This paper expounded the studied result with the structure of the ligands and the properties of the metal ions, and deduced the catalysis mechanism.
An Ionic Liquid Bulk‐Modified Carbon Paste Electrode and Its Electrocatalytic Activity toward p‐Aminophenol
Authors: ZHANG Ya , ZHENG Jian‐Bin
Published: November 2007

An ionic liquid bulk‐modified carbon paste electrode (M‐CPE) has been fabricated by using 1‐heptyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide as a modifier. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were used to evaluate the electrocatalytic activity of the proposed electrode by choosing p‐aminophenol (p‐AP) as a model compound. Both at a bare carbon paste electrode (CPE) and the M‐CPE, p‐AP yielded a pair of redox peaks in 0.1 mol·L−1 phosphate buffer solution (PBS, pH 7.0). At the CPE, the peak‐to‐peak potential separation (ΔEp) was 0.233 V, while at the M‐CPE the ΔEp was decreased to 0.105 V. Furthermore, the current response to p‐AP at the M‐CPE was 10.2 times of that at the CPE by DPV. The electron transfer rate constant (ks) of p‐AP at the M‐CPE was 13.3 times of that at the CPE. Under the optimal condition, a linear dependence of the catalytic current versus p‐AP concentration was obtained in the range of 2.0×10−6 to 3.0×10−4 mol·L−1 with a detection limit of 6.0×10−7 mol·L−1 by DPV. In addition, compared to other modified method the proposed electrode exhibited distinct advantages of simple prapartion, surface renewal, good reproducibility and good stability. It has been used to determine p‐AP in simulated wastewater samples.
Comparative Analysis of Indoor Levels of Suspended Particulates and Nitrogen Dioxide a Few Hours later after an Asthmatic Attack
Authors: UKPEBOR Emmanuel Ehiabhi , OKUO James Majebi , EKANEM Victor James , UKPEBOR Justina Ebehirieme
Published: November 2007

Suspended particulates (TSP) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are known respiratory irritants linked to asthma aggravation. This pilot study was designed to investigate the role of these pollutants on the frequency of asthmatic attack on two of the inhabitants of a household. The surveillance of TSP and NO2 in this household commenced a few hours later, after one of the occupants suffered an attack. The TSP load determination was done using a High Volume Gravimetric sampler and a light scattering method via a Haz‐Dust 10 µm particulate monitor. Palmes Diffusion tubes for NO2 and a portable Crowcon Gasman toxic gas detector were utilized for NO2 screening. In the first day of monitoring in the living room, the in situ particulate sampler (Haz‐Dust) recorded a mean TSP level of 26,000 µg·m−3. A confirmatory test with the eight hour average Gravimetric sampler gave 25,833 µg·m−3. With the use of the Gasman toxic gas detector for NO2, the NO2 concentration for the first few hours of sampling was lower than 188 µg·m−3, the detection limit of this instrument. However, the exact NO2 concentrations for the 7 day monitoring after the attack were 27.50 µg·m−3 (kitchen) and 12.03 µg·m−3 (living room) as recorded by the Palmes diffusion tubes.
Sulphamic Acid (H2NSO3H)‐Catalyzed Multicomponent Reaction of β ‐Naphthol: An Expeditious Synthesis of Amidoalkyl Naphthols
Authors: NAGAWADE Rahul R. , SHINDE Devanand B.
Published: November 2007

Sulphamic acid (H2NSO3H) was found to be an efficient catalyst for the multicomponent condensation reaction of β‐naphthol, aromatic aldehydes and urea or amides to afford the corresponding α‐amidoalkyl‐β‐naphthols in good yields. The remarkable features of this new procedure are high conversions, short reaction time, clean reaction profiles and simple experimental and work‐up procedures.
Alkaloids from Fritillaria Hupehensis
Authors: ZHANG Yong‐Hui , YANG Xi‐Liang , ZHOU Xue‐Feng , RUAN Han‐Li , PI Hui‐Fang , WU Ji‐Zhou , SUN Han‐Dong
Published: November 2007

Phytochemical investigation of the bulbs of Fritillaria hupehensis resulted in the isolation and structural elucidation of a new highly conjugated alkaloid of veratramine type identified as 3β,23β‐dihydroxy‐7,12(14)‐dien‐5α‐veratramin‐6‐one (1), together with two known alkaloids, ebeinine (2) and zhebeinine (3), which were isolated for the first time from F. hupehensis. The structures of alkaloids 1–3 were established by extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectral analyses.
Synthesis and in vitro Property Study of Polyaspartamides
Authors: YAN Guo‐Ping , WANG Xiao‐Yan , WANG Xu‐Li , HUANG Shi‐Wen , ZHUO Ren‐Xi
Published: November 2007

Cationic polyaspartamides including poly‐α,β‐[N′‐(2‐aminoethy1)‐L‐aspartamide] (PAEA), poly‐α,β‐[N′‐(4‐aminobutyl)‐L‐aspartamide] (PABA), poly‐α,β‐[N′‐(6‐aminohexyl)‐L‐aspartamide] (PAHA), poly‐α,β‐[N′‐(5‐amino‐3‐azapentyl)‐L‐aspartamide] (PAAPA) and poly‐α,β‐[N′‐(8‐amino‐3,6‐diazaoctyl)‐L‐aspartamide] (PADAOA) were synthesized from polysuccinimide. Their properties were evaluated by 1H NMR, IR, GPC, fluorescence measurement and in vitro cytotoxicity assays. The molecular weights per primary amine charge group of PAEA(1) (Mn=2229), PAAPA and PADAOA are 212, 279, and 226. Polyaspartamides including PAEA(1), PAAPA, PADAOA and low molecular weight PAHA are markedly less toxic than poly(ethyleneimine) and poly(L‐lysine), however, PABA and higher molecular weight PAHA are slightly less toxic than poly(L‐lysine). Cell cytotoxicity of PAHA was seen to decrease with increasing molecular weight of PAHA, due to water solubility reduction. The negatively charged plasmid DNA has been found to be completely neutralized and complexed by the cationic polyaspartamides at an N/P ratio of 5:1 to 10:1, forming self‐assembled polyplexes via ionic interactions. These polyaspartamide/DNA complexes possess stable zeta potentials and mean particle diameters of about 180 nm for PAEA (1)/DNA and PAAPA/DNA complexes and 280 nm for PADAOA/DNA complexes.