bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Homelessness on Almajiri Children in Zamfara State, Nigeria
Authors: Tume Apityan , Kura Nasiru
Published: April 2024

This paper contributes to the burgeoning debate on the impact of homelessness on children particularly on almajiri children in Zamfara State. The almajiri system in Nigeria which was meant to train children in Qur’anic education has turned into a practice where parents/guardians now abdicate their primary duties of providing the basic needs of life such as food, shelter, medical attention, education to the children. These children do not have where to lay down their heads in the day time or at night. Some sleep on the streets, uncompleted buildings or motor parks. It is based on the foregoing that this paper examines the impact of homelessness on almajiri children in Zamfara state. The sample size of study consisted of 318 almajiri children. Questionnaire was used as the primary instrument of data collection. Data collected was analyzed quantitively using tables and percentages. The findings of the study show that there is high prevalence of homelessness among almajiri children. Poverty, social-cultural practices, parental neglect were the major causes of homelessness among almajiri children. The nature of homelessness showed that almajiri children sleep on the streets, uncompleted buildings and motor parks. Data collected also indicated that majority of the homeless Almajiri children suffer from victimization, had no access to medical services, lack of sleep, isolation from their peers and loss personal belongings. The study recommends that government should ensure that parents who send their children to Almajiri must cater for their welfare and, government and Non-governmental Organizations should persuade parents, religious/traditional rulers and other major stake holders to return to Almajiri model schools built by Federal government during the Goodluck Jonathan’s administration that had all the facilities for a boarding school with the aim of combining Qur’anic education with vocational education for the good of the almajiri children.
Biochemical Aspects of Cell Staining
Authors: Suryowati Trini
Published: April 2024

Aims: to revisited the biochemical aspects of basic, negative and positive staining by dyeing organic materials in the laboratory for the purpose of visualization, identification and even differentiation of object being analyzed.
Discussion: The best analysis for cells is by staining. Staining allows detailed visualization of the part of the cell being examined. In principle, dyes have a chromophore root that will bind to the protein content in cells. This is the basis for discussing negative staining, basic staining and positive staining. Unfortunately, its widespread use also increases the health risks of users.
Conclusion: Biochemical aspect of staining rely on the electric charged of the dye that bind the electronegative properties of proteins that build cell. Basic staining, negative staining and positive staining are widely used staining for research, clinical-laboratory service and also education. Unfortunately, some of these stains are hazardous with the potency of multiple health risk and continuous improvement in handling will prevent such risk to happen.
Design and Implementation of an Iot-Based Safety and Energy Efficient System
Authors: Akolgo Mohammed , Anari Anthony Akanlougrikum , Batowise Bakaweri Emmanuel , Agbedemnab Peter Awonnatemi
Published: April 2024

The paper provides a safe and power-efficient Internet of Things (IoT)-based solution. With the growing concerns about environmental sustainability and the demand for improved safety measures in today’s society, it has become critical to focus on building systems that decrease energy consumption and assure the safety of humans and the environment. The proposed system employs cutting-edge technologies and novel approaches that will result in optimal energy usage with minimal or no human involvement thereby assuring the safety of people. The proposed system leverages on existing IoT technologies and is comprised of smart sensors, energy-efficient gadgets, and a centralized control unit. Therefore, it is able to demonstrate cutting edge power control strategies including power gating and dynamic central power regulation which control the usage of gadgets to operate at optimal power levels vis-a-vis the real-time demand to achieve energy efficiency. The system is also able to collect data on occupancy, lighting, temperature, and power consumption trends which can assist in making data-driven choices that improve the usage of energy. The proposed system provides large energy savings without sacrificing user comfort by dynamically altering lighting, and cooling systems based on occupants and ambient factors. Multiple simulations and real-world trials in homes and institutions’ buildings were used to assess the efficacy of the suggested system. The findings revealed substantial reductions in energy consumption without jeopardizing safety.
Synergistic Benefits of Combined Application of Manures and Chemical Fertilizers: Enhancing Growth and Yield of Rice and Wheat
Authors: Ripta Saleha Khatun , Tonni Rabaya Akter , Parvin Shapla , Nasim Md. Roconuzzaman , Keya Khadija Khatun , Saha Moumita , Sarker Joy , Ashraf S. M. Kamran , Rahman M. Mazibur , Islam Md. Rafiqul
Published: April 2024

The incorporation of compost and manure with chemical fertilizer has become a key concern to sustain soil fertility. Because the nutrients are continuously depleting from the soil and consequently creating a risk to preserving soil health.
Aims: This study assesses the response of different doses of cowdung (CD), municipal solid waste compost (MSWC), oil cake (OC), and poultry manure (PM), incorporated with fertilizers on the growth, yield and protein content of BRRI dhan49 rice and BARI Gom-24.
Study Design:  RCBD with 8 treatments and 3 replications.
Place and Duration of Study: Field experiment and nutrient analysis were carried out at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh. Wheat was grown during the rabi season from October 2018 to March 2019. Again, rice was cultivated during kharif II season from August 2019 to December 2019 on the same field. Then the laboratory analysis was performed till June 2020.
Methodology: Eight treatments i.e., T0 Control (no fertilizer), T1 Recommended Fertilizer Dose, T2 (CD + NPK), T3 (MSWC + NPK), T4 (OC + NPK), T5 (PM + N), T6 (MSWC + N), T7: (CD + OC) were accommodated. Data on the growth parameters including grain and straw yields were documented after the harvest of the fully matured crop simultaneously determining the nitrogen (N) and protein content.
Results: Adoption of various combinations of compost and manures with fertilizer accorded an increase in yield contributing characters as well as the N and protein content. Integrating MSWC @ 10 t ha-1+N projected the highest grain yield (7.11 t ha-1 in rice; 4.84 t ha-1 in wheat) and straw yield (8.8 t ha-1 in rice; 5.55 t ha-1 in wheat). It also promisingly secured the highest protein content compared to all other treatments.
Conclusion: The appliance of MSWC @ 10 t ha-1 with the recommended dose of N may be endorsed for rice and wheat cultivation in the AEZ-9 region and retaining the physicochemical properties of Old Brahmaputra Floodplain soils.
Nutritional Content of Underutilized Vegetable Crops: A Source for Nutritional Security and Human Health
Authors: Marappan Kumaresan , Arumugam Vijai Ananth , Mariyappillai Anbarasu , Subramani Murali
Published: April 2024

Vegetables are essential to a balanced diet and are the primary force behind the achievement of global nutritional security due to their presence of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Vegetable crops classified as underused are those that are neither widely traded nor farmed on a commercial basis. Underutilized crop species have the potential to boost the country's economy but have not received enough attention because of a decline in focus on their production, consumption, and utilization. An examination of the literature found that most underutilized crop species are nutritious, and some even have medicinal properties. Vegetables that are underutilized may be significant locally or regionally, but they are typically not valued or approved nationally. The plant species that are traditionally used for food, fiber, fodder, oil, or medicinal purposes are the underutilized vegetable crops. Nonetheless, such species have untapped potential to provide environmental benefits, economic production, nutrition, health, and food security. Using underused crops improves rural populations' health and contributes to the fight against malnutrition-related problems. Unused vegetables are a rich source of energy, fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals. These nutrients can help prevent and treat a number of illnesses, including hypertension, cancer, kwashiorkor, marasmus, night blindness, anemia, diabetes, and hidden hunger. Important underutilized vegetable crops include kale, broad beans, asparagus, amaranthus, basella, moringa, ivy gourds, globe artichokes, and others. India's soil and climate are ideal for growing a variety of underutilised vegetables. As a result, the Indian government has started to promote the underutilized vegetables. In conclusion, underutilized vegetable production can help address the shortage of per capita consumption availability and address nutritional issues while creating jobs and raising rural residents' incomes, all of which have the potential to boost the national economy.
Cybersecurity and Cryptography: The New Era of Quantum Computing
Authors: Mmaduekwe Ugochukwu , Mmaduekwe Ebuka
Published: April 2024

Aim: This paper aims to examine the concepts of cybersecurity and cryptography with the advent of the current quantum computing.   
Significance of Study: The numerous advantages attached to the use of the hyper-connected paradigm have given an inestimable and unavoidable value to its use. However, there is a need to protect information dissemination between parties to avoid the occurrence of catastrophic events that may come when an unauthorized party accesses this information. Thus, the use of quantum computing to improve the previously used cryptography for cybersecurity is very essential.
Problem Statement: In the past, cryptography was the adopted method to secure information in the cyber world thereby, preventing attack and also disallowing intruders from having access to secret information. However, the advent of quantum computing to improve the efficiency of cryptography has made its application very challenging due to its complex nature.
Discussion: An introduction to cryptography, cyber security, and quantum computing was executed. The mechanisms of cryptography in cyber security together with its transition into quantum cryptography were discussed. Characteristics of quantum information and quantum communication systems regarding typical examples were stated. Post-quantum cryptography as a means of handling the challenges accorded with the use of quantum cryptography was discussed. Finally, consideration was given to the development and applications of the SWOT framework for various kinds of cryptographic algorithms.          
Conclusion: The use of quantum cryptography has found wide applications in cybersecurity. Also, post-quantum cryptography has been proven to be effective in handling issues arising from the use of quantum cryptography in securing information from being accessed by a third party.
Molecular Characterization and Evaluation of Antibiotic Resistance Gene of Bacteria Associated with Gills of Arius heudelotii and Clarias gariepinus
Authors: H. A. Odoemelam, , S. A. Wemedo, , N. P. Akani, , S. I. Douglas,
Published: April 2024

This study was aimed at the isolation and molecular characterization of bacteria associated with catfish from culture and wild environments. Samples of gills of Arius heudelotii and Claris gariepinus fishes of economic value from the New Calabar River Choba and earthen ponds from Aluu in Rivers State were collected and analysed. Characterization of isolates from the gills of the catfish was done using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing method to identify their relationship. The presence of a resistance gene was examined by polymerase chain reaction followed by agarose gel electrophoresis of the amplification products. The mean total heterotrophic bacterial counts was 6.5995±0.947 LogCFU/g for the gills’ samples obtained from the earthen pond Aluu. New Calabar River had 4.5041±1.054 LogCFU/g for the gills’ samples. A total of 12 bacterial flora were isolated from the gills of the sampled catfish: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter spp., Bacillus subtilis, Proteus vulgaris, Streptococcus spp., Shigella spp. Staphylococcus spp., Micrococcus spp., Vibrio spp. and Acinetobacter spp. Vibrio azureus, Aeromonas dhakensis, Proteus vulgaris, Aeromonas hydrophila. Vibrio azureus and Providencia alcalifaciens were found to be carriers of the TEM gene, while Providencia alcalifaciens carried the CTX-M gene.  SHV gene was found in Vibrio azureus, Providencia alcalifacians, Proteus vulgaris, Aeromonas hydrophila, Providencia alcalifacians. However, the Oxa gene was not identified in the bacterial genera. The high probability of transferring them to other microbes to cause antibiotic pollution has become a serious public health challenge. Microbial loads with high or low presence of some potential pathogens call for public concern.
Management Strategies for Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chaudhry Raheel , Mahmood Arhum , Khan Akbar , Mirza Muhammad Sohail S. , Ray Rubela , Asif Kainat , Khan Hasher
Published: April 2024

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection. Fraction is a set of clinical symptoms that raises mortality and morbidity. It should be addressed promptly and appropriately.
Aims: The current systematic review examines management strategies for heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Materials and Methods: PICOS scheme was followed in the development of eligibility criteria. Different databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, etc were searched for the primary studies.
Results: The final sample included 21 studies that were manually selected. This meta-analysis found that beta-blockers and ace inhibitors significantly reduced mortality and hospitalizations as primary outcomes.
Conclusion: To summarize, the study found that beta blockers and ACE inhibitors reduce mortality in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction. However, more research is needed to support this study.
Screening of Varieties Resistant to Sugarcane Smut Disease Caused by Sporosorium scitamineum under Sub- tropical India
Authors: Maurya Shailendra Kumar , Vandana Priyam , Kumar Shubham , Singh Vikas , Kumar Sanjeev , Singh Dinesh
Published: April 2024

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) is an important commercial crop, cultivated across the world in more than 90 countries including India. Diseases in sugarcane are mainly caused by fungi, bacteria, virus, and phytoplasma. Apart from the biotic factors nutritional imbalance is also responsible for various diseases. The major fungal diseases of sugarcane are red rot, smut, and wilt. The Smut of sugarcane is caused by the fungus Ustilago scitamineum. The first report of the disease incidence came from Natal, South Africa in 1877. Severe smut infection affects the sugar recovery as well as yield loss ranging from 10 to 70 per cent. The present study includes genotypes/varieties evaluation against smut disease (Sporisorium scitamineum) of sugarcane in sub-tropical region of India. The experiments were conducted in field condition during 2022-2023. Some total of 71 genotypes, maintained at ICAR-IISR, Lucknow. Three bud setts of each of the test genotypes were inoculated by dipping them in aqueous teliospores suspension (106/ml) for 30 minutes. Based on disease incidence of each genotype, these were categorized in five class intervals i.e., 0-1 (R), 1-10(MR), 10-20(MS), 20-30(S) & >30 % (HS) smut infection. Out of 71 genotypes tested, Forty five (45) genotype were rated as Resistant (R), Eight (8) genotypes were rated as Moderate Resistant (MR), Five (5) genotypes were rated as Moderate Susceptible (MS), and Ten (10) genotypes were rated as Susceptible (S) against smut disease of sugarcane. The genotypes rated resistant against smut of sugarcane can be exploited for development of smut resistant variety of sugarcane whereas rated susceptible genotypes can be exploited as susceptible check for screening against smut of sugarcane.
Dynamic Simulation of the Stability of Annular Flows in Gas Wells
Authors: Joseph Amieibibama , Peters Raphael Afolabi
Published: April 2024

This paper provides a holistic view of the development and progression of multiphase gas-liquid annular flow in gas wells. With the help of a momentum balance, the stability of a fully developed annular flow is defined. The Euler-Euler model was used to model the multiphase flow system, while the Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) model was used to depict a time-dependent solution for a vertical fluid flow system, considering acceleration due to gravity and fluid compressibility. The resultant flow regime was tested for stability by gradually reducing the field velocity of flow and observing the effects using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. The principal parameters considered are the superficial gas velocity and liquid film flow rate. The properties of the region where the flow becomes unstable are documented and related to the incidence of liquid loading in a typical gas well. The effect are critically observed and compared to flow regimes at lower superficial gas velocity. The resultant flow regime configurations are analyzed and compared to the annular flow system. This study will help researchers understand the behaviour of gas wells that have potential in developing liquid loading problems and the movement of liquid film on the wall of the tubing when in annular flow regime.
Beyond Conventional Threat Defense: Implementing Advanced Threat Modeling Techniques, Risk Modeling Frameworks and Contingency Planning in the Healthcare Sector for Enhanced Data Security
Authors: Salami Abidemi Ayodotun , Igwenagu Udochukwu ThankGod Ikechukwu , Mesode Cassandra Esambe , Olaniyi Oluwaseun Oladeji , Oladoyinbo Oluseun Babatunde
Published: April 2024

This research study explores the integration of advanced threat and risk modeling with scenario and contingency planning to enhance security and resilience within healthcare organizations. Given the escalating complexity and frequency of cyber threats targeting the healthcare sector, the study assesses the efficacy of a synergistic cybersecurity approach. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, data were collected through a survey administered to 452 healthcare practitioners, focusing on their perceptions and experiences with cybersecurity threats, risk modeling techniques, and the effectiveness of scenario and contingency planning. The survey incorporated a structured questionnaire utilizing Likert scale closed-ended questions, analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed four hypotheses related to the impact of advanced threat and risk modeling and scenario and contingency planning on the cybersecurity posture and operational resilience of healthcare organizations. Results indicated a significant positive relationship between advanced threat modeling and scenario planning with the cybersecurity posture of healthcare organizations, which, in turn, notably enhances organizational resilience. Specifically, the study found that integrating advanced threat and risk modeling with scenario and contingency planning significantly improves the ability of healthcare organizations to identify, assess, and mitigate cyber threats effectively. Furthermore, the findings suggest that such integration contributes to more informed decision-making, improved information security management practices, and more effective and efficient digital crime investigation processes. The research study concludes that a comprehensive approach integrating advanced threat and risk modeling with scenario and contingency planning significantly enhances healthcare organizations' cybersecurity posture and operational resilience. The study recommends adopting an integrated cybersecurity strategy, continuous cybersecurity education for all organizational members,regular cybersecurity assessments, and fostering collaboration for enhanced cybersecurity intelligence.
Development of a Novel Support Modification for Efficient Lipase Immobilization: Preparation, Characterization, and Application for Bio-flavor Production
Authors: Moentamaria Dwina , Irfin Zakijah , Chumaidi Achmad , Widjaja Arief , Widjaja Tri , Muharja Maktum , Darmayanti Rizki Fitria
Published: April 2024

The low cost and excellent catalytic properties of lipase for industrial processes are highly desirable. A promising new approach involves the support modification of lipase and spacer arm, which enables the enhancement of lipase properties. This study investigates the immobilization of crude lipase from Mucor miehei onto a Polyurethane Foam (PUF) surface using various coating techniques. The PUF matrix was obtained through isocyanate and polyol reactions. Subsequently, the PUF was coated by adsorbing lipase and adding edible support material. The immobilized lipase was then utilized in the hydrolysis of coconut oil to produce fatty acids. Furthermore, the immobilized enzyme was employed in the esterification of fatty acids to produce bio-flavors. The results demonstrate that the attachment reaction using support material, namely lecithin, gelatin, MgCl2, and Polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG), all of which are simple and edible, was able to enhance the stability and reusability of lipase. This immobilization technique increased triglyceride hydrolysis into FFA by 422%. The successful edible support modification of immobilized lipase from M. miehei on PUF, coupled with significantly enhanced enzyme stability and catalytic activity, offers a promising, environmentally friendly solution for diverse applications in the food industry. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
A Facile and Rapid Immobilization Method of Titanium Dioxide-Alginate Composite for The Photocatalytic Removal of Reactive Black-5
Authors: Lam Weng Hoong , Tee Lee Hong , Ban Zhen Hong
Published: April 2024

A facile and rapid approach to immobilize nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO2) using a renewable biopolymer (i.e. alginate) has been successfully demonstrated. TiO2 exhibits a positively charged surface in acidic environment due to the presence of hydroxyl groups. Meanwhile, alginate polymer is negatively charged at any pH due to the presence of carboxylic group in the polymer chain. The negatively charged alginate polymer and positively charged TiO2 formed composite instantaneously when the alginate polymer was introduced into the TiO2 nanoparticles suspension. The TiO2-alginate (TiO2-A) composite photocatalyst was characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that incorporating TiO2 into sodium alginate increases its decomposition temperature due to the stability of TiO2 at elevated temperatures, with the TiO2 content estimated in the composite being 55.6%, lower than the theoretical calculation of 62.8%. FTIR analysis revealed a shift in the peak of the carboxylic group of sodium alginate, suggesting composite formation through electrostatic interactions with TiO2 nanoparticles, while FESEM analysis showed that the TiO2-A composite surface exhibited more pores compared to protonated alginate. The TiO2-A composite was able to remove 90% of the Reactive Black 5 (RB5) in less than 200 min under Ultra-violet (UV) illumination. The optimal pH to remove RB5 was found to be pH 2 due strong electrostatic attraction of negatively charged RB5 on the positive surface of TiO2 nanoparticles. The photocatalyst can be recovered by simple separation method, i.e. gravitational settling, and reused for 10 consecutive cycles with efficiency greater than 90% consistently. The TiO2-A composite is a promising immobilized photocatalyst for practical application in wastewater treatment. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Nanotube–Polymer Composites for Ultrafast Photonics
Authors: Hasan Tawfique , Sun Zhipei , Wang Fengqiu , Bonaccorso Francesco , Tan Ping Heng , Rozhin Aleksey G. , Ferrari Andrea C.
Published: October 2009

Polymer composites are one of the most attractive near‐term means to exploit the unique properties of carbon nanotubes and graphene. This is particularly true for composites aimed at electronics and photonics, where a number of promising applications have already been demonstrated. One such example is nanotube‐based saturable absorbers. These can be used as all‐optical switches, optical amplifier noise suppressors, or mode‐lockers to generate ultrashort laser pulses. Here, we review various aspects of fabrication, characterization, device implementation and operation of nanotube‐polymer composites to be used in photonic applications. We also summarize recent results on graphene‐based saturable absorbers for ultrafast lasers.
Majewski osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPD II) syndrome previously diagnosed as Seckel syndrome: Report of a novel mutation of the PCNT gene
Authors: Piane Maria , Della Monica Matteo , Piatelli Gianluca , Lulli Patrizia , Lonardo Fortunato , Chessa Luciana , Scarano Gioacchino
Published: October 2009

We report on a 3‐year‐old boy with prenatal onset of proportionate dwarfism, postnatal severe microcephaly, high forehead with receded hairline, sparse scalp hair, beaked nose, mild retrognathia and hypotonia diagnosed at birth as Seckel syndrome. At age 3 years, he became paralyzed due to a cerebrovascular malformation. Based on the clinical and radiological features showing evidence of skeletal dysplasia, the diagnosis was revised to Majewski osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPD II) syndrome. Western blot analysis of the patient's lymphoblastoid cell line lysate showed the absence of the protein pericentrin. Subsequent molecular analysis identified a novel homozygous single base insertion (c.1527_1528insA) in exon 10 of the PCNT gene, which leads to a frameshift (Treo510fs) and to premature protein truncation. PCNT mutations must be considered diagnostic of MOPD II syndrome. A possible role of pericentrin in the development of cerebral vessels is suggested. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
X‐linked brachytelephalangic chondrodysplasia punctata: A simple trait that is not so simple
Authors: Casarin Alberto , Rusalen Francesca , Doimo Mara , Trevisson Eva , Carraro Silvia , Clementi Maurizio , Tenconi Romano , Baraldi Eugenio , Salviati Leonardo
Published: October 2009

Brachytelephalangic chondrodysplasia punctata (CDPX1) is an X‐linked recessive disorder caused by mutations in the arylsulfatase E (ARSE) gene, characterized by the presence of stippled epiphyses on radiograms in infancy and early childhood. Other features include hypoplasia of the midface and of the nasal bone, short stature, brachytelephalangy, and ectopic calcifications. Patients display marked clinical variability and there is no clear genotype–phenotype correlation. We report on a 14‐month‐old boy who presented with respiratory stridor due to tracheal calcifications. He had mild midface hypoplasia and brachytelephalangy, but lacked other features of CDPX1, such as short stature and epiphyseal stippling. Analysis of ARSE detected a deletion involving exons 7–10. His maternal grandfather harbored the same defect but lacked any clinical manifestation. These findings underscore two important points. First, the absence of stippled epiphyses on radiograms should not be considered an exclusion criteria for ARSE mutation screening in patients with other features of the disease, especially after the neonatal period. Second, counseling to parents of affected children should be cautious because although the theoretical risk of inheriting the ARSE mutation is 50% for every male child of a carrier mother, it is not possible to determine whether he will develop features of CDPX1 and the eventual severity of symptoms. The actual risk of developing the disease is probably lower than 50%. Conversely, normal prenatal sonography does not rule out potentially severe complications such as tracheal stenosis. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Calvarial doughnut lesions and osteoporosis: A new three‐generation family and review
Authors: Jaakkola E. , Laine C.M. , Mäyränpää M.K. , Falck A. , Ignatius J. , Mäkitie O.
Published: October 2009

Familial calvarial doughnut lesions (CDLs; OMIM 126550) is a rare autosomal dominant low bone density disorder characterized by distinctive X‐ray translucencies of the skull, multiple fractures, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase, and dental caries. Only three families comprising 22 cases and 29 sporadic cases with the disorder have been reported. We describe a three‐generation family consisting of three cases with clinical, radiological, biochemical, and histological findings consistent with this condition. All affected family members presented with childhood onset primary osteoporosis and typical CDLs or hyperostosis of the skull. In addition, the youngest family member was diagnosed with congenital glaucoma and her paternal grandmother with chronic congestive glaucoma. Glaucoma has not been previously described in this disorder. Adult patients also had recurrent cranial nerve palsies. No pathogenic mutations in the genes encoding low density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (LRP5) or type I collagen (COL1A1 or COL1A2) were identified, suggesting that the disorder is caused by another dominant, yet unidentified gene. The literature is reviewed. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetics of Hydride Abstractions from 2‐Arylbenzimidazolines
Authors: Richter Dorothea , Tan Yue , Antipova Anna , Zhu Xiao‐Qing , Mayr Herbert
Published: October 2009

The rates of the hydride abstractions from the 2‐aryl‐1,3‐dimethyl‐benzimidazolines 1a–f by the benzhydrylium tetrafluoroborates 3a–e were determined photometrically by the stopped‐flow method in acetonitrile at 20 °C. The reactions follow second‐order kinetics, and the corresponding rate constants k2 obey the linear free energy relationship log k2(20 °C)= s(N+E), from which the nucleophile‐specific parameters N and s of the 2‐arylbenzimidazolines 1a–c have been derived. With nucleophilicity parameters N around 10, they are among the most reactive neutral CH hydride donors which have so far been parameterized. The poor correlation between the rates of the hydride transfer reactions and the corresponding hydricities (ΔH0) indicates variable intrinsic barriers.
Development of a high resolution daily gridded temperature data set (1969–2005) for the Indian region
Authors: Srivastava A. K. , Rajeevan M. , Kshirsagar S. R.
Published: October 2009

A high resolution daily gridded temperature data set for the Indian region was developed using temperature data of 395 quality controlled stations for the period 1969–2005. A modified version of the Shepard's angular distance weighting algorithm was used for interpolating the station temperature data into 1° latitude × 1° longitude grids. Using the cross validation, errors were estimated and found less than 0.5 °C. The data set was also compared with another high resolution data set and found comparable. Mean frequency of cold and heat waves, temperature anomalies associated with the monsoon breaks have been presented. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Trend analysis of Indian summer monsoon rainfall at different spatial scales
Authors: Ghosh Subimal , Luniya Vishal , Gupta Anant
Published: October 2009

The results obtained from a conventional trend analysis of the Indian summer monsoon rainfall over a larger region are contradicted when analysis is performed at a finer resolution because of spatial variability and heterogeneity in the rainfall pattern. The present study analyzes the trend of summer monsoon rainfall all over India at a finer spatial resolution (1° latitude × 1° longitude) to identify the places that have a significant trend in terms of both rainfall amount and occurrence. The results obtained from this study are compared with those of a recent study by Goswami et al. (2006), where trend analysis is performed over a larger region [Central India (CI); 10° latitude × 12° longitude; assumed to be homogeneous in that study]. The increasing trend of occurrence of heavy rainfall and decreasing trend of occurrence of moderate rainfall, as concluded from that study, are contradicted by the present results for some places in CI. The present analysis shows spatially varying mixed responses of global warming toward rainfall occurrence and amounts all over India. The perception of increase in daily rainfall amount and occurrence due to climate change is found to be not correct for some of the regions in India. The possible reason may be the spatial variability of local changes such as rapid urbanization, industrialization and deforestation. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Terrestrial and airborne non‐bacterial ice nuclei
Authors: Henderson‐Begg S. K. , Hill T. , Thyrhaug R. , Khan M. , Moffett B. F.
Published: October 2009

To freeze above −36.5 °C, water requires the presence of an ice nucleus (IN). These can be inert particles or living or dead biological material. As they are the most efficient, inducing freezing at up to −1.8 °C, bacteria are the most widely studied biological IN. Here, we show that there is a huge repository of IN in lichens which comprise a large biomass and are able to become airborne. The lichen IN are similar to those we have detected in urban air, exhibiting heat sensitivity but resistance to lysozyme. This suggests many airborne IN are non‐bacterial and that eukaryotic IN may be more important to atmospheric processes than previously thought. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Techno‐economic assessment of biomass pre‐conversion processes as a part of biomass‐to‐liquids line‐up
Authors: Magalhães Ana IP , Petrovic′ Dragana , Rodriguez Alex L , Putra Zulfan Adi , Thielemans Geert
Published: October 2009

Pre‐conversion process (PCP) is a technology that can convert biomass into denser energy carriers that ease transportation and handling for biomass‐to‐liquid (BTL) plants. This paper assesses three existing PCP technologies in three location scenarios. The assessed PCP technologies are rotating cone reactor pyrolysis (RCRP), fluidized bed reactor pyrolysis (FBRP) and torrefaction (TOR/TOP) technology. The BTL plant is assumed to be located in the Netherlands, while the PCP plants can be distributed outside of the Netherlands, or centralized in the same complex as the BTL plant. Alternatively, the PCP plants can be centralized in one complex outside of the Netherlands. The assessment considers factors like biomass price, forest yield, transportation distance, capital investment of the PCP and BTL plants, and operating costs of those plants. Furthermore, this work proposes a modification of the existing FBRP technology to avoid the usage of fossil fuels for its energy supply. The original design is called ‘FBRP Non‐green’, while the modified one is called ‘FBRP Green’. The costs of the CO2 avoided for different PCP–BTL plants and corresponding location scenarios were also compared. Based on the assessment, the torrefaction technology with distributed scenario for the production of 1000 MWth synthesis gas (syngas) is the most cost‐effective and the greenest option. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Methodological standards for randomised controlled trials of interventions for preventing recurrence of child physical abuse and neglect
Authors: Tanaka Masako , Jamieson Ellen , Wathen Nadine , MacMillan Harriet L.
Published: October 2009

Despite the significant financial and human resources invested in child protection services (CPS), it is unknown whether these services are effective in preventing recurrence of child physical abuse and neglect. This paper reviews available studies evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions and identifies methodological limitations and factors that may contribute to these limitations. We searched databases to identify randomised controlled trials published in peer‐reviewed journals in the past five decades that evaluated interventions to reduce recurrence of physical abuse and neglect. We outlined ten methodological standards that are important for rigorous testing of psychosocial interventions and applied them in critically appraising identified studies.

Thirteen randomised controlled trials were reviewed. This review identified methodological limitations (e.g. small sample size, lack of standardisations, contamination) that made it difficult to draw reliable conclusions as to the effectiveness of interventions. Field‐specific factors that contributed to methodological limitations (e.g. heterogeneity of sample, multiple family problems, psychosocial nature of interventions) were identified and recommendations were provided for improvement.

It was concluded that it is possible to implement high‐quality trials that are ethical and feasible in the child welfare field. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective Adsorption of Adenosine and Guanosine by a β‐Cyclodextrin/Layered Double Hydroxide Intercalation Compound
Authors: Jin L. , Ni X. , Liu X. , Wei M.
Published: October 2009

A film of carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin‐intercalated Zn–Al layered double hydroxide (CMCD–LDH) was investigated for selective adsorption of the nucleosides adenosine (A) and guanosine (G). The effects of pH value and adsorption time on the adsorption behavior were studied. The CMCD–LDH film shows a higher selectivity for G than A under identical conditions of G and A, which results from the ability of selective recognition of the interlayer CMCD. The kinetic studies show that adsorption of A and G by the CMCD–LDH film can be described satisfactorily by the slab diffusion model. Both the values of diffusion coefficient (D) and adsorption capability (qe) of G by the CMCD–LDH film are larger than those of A, demonstrating the selective adsorption of the CMCD–LDH film for nucleosides. Due to its easy preparation and manipulation, this film is expected to be successfully applied in the field of selective adsorption and separation.
Application of Chaos Analysis for the Investigation of Turbulence in Heterogeneous Bubble Columns
Authors: Nedeltchev S.
Published: October 2009

The Kolmogorov entropy (KE) algorithm was applied to local gas holdup fluctuations for estimating the degree of turbulence (chaos) in a large‐scale bubble column (0.289 m ID and clear liquid height: 1.31 m). The latter was operated with nitrogen and polyalphaolefin liquid (PSS8) in the churn‐turbulent regime (0.117 ≤ Ug ≤ 0.257 m/s) at both high temperature (T = 441–468 K) and pressure (P = 1.8–2.5 MPa). Measurements in four different zones (z = 0.35, 0.67, 1.1 and 1.52 m) were performed. When the bubble coalescence is weak (local gas holdups < transitional gas holdup), the KE exhibits an initial peak (enhanced turbulence) in the first zone, then a sudden drop in the second zone and finally it increases smoothly in the upper zones. In the case of strong bubble coalescence, the KE exhibits alternating maxima and minima, i.e., instable flow patterns. It was found that at z = 1.52 m, the KE values increase with P. At higher values of T, the KE values are lower in all zones.
Ionic Liquids for Propene‐Propane Separation
Authors: Mokrushin V. , Assenbaum D. , Paape N. , Gerhard D. , Mokrushina L. , Wasserscheid P. , Arlt W. , Kistenmacher H. , Neuendorf S. , Göke V.
Published: October 2009

This paper presents an extensive study on the feasibility of ionic liquids (IL) for the extractive distillation of propene‐propane mixtures. A new experimental method for express screening of non‐volatile entrainers was elaborated. A series of ILs and their mixtures were screened at ambient temperature and low pressures. The screening results show that every tested IL turns a low boiler propene into a high boiler and the alkene‐to‐alkane separation factor can be as low as 0.28. The solubility and separation efficiency can be tuned by adjusting the chemical structures of the ions forming the IL. It was found that shortening of the alkyl substituents of the imidazolium ions leads to a decrease in capacity and to an increase in the separation factor. Interestingly, ILs containing nitrile functionalities in either the cation or the anion showed, in our experiments, enhanced separation ability combined with still good capacities. From our thermodynamic measurements, [EMIM][[B(CN)4] was proved to be the most promising candidate. Binary mixtures of ILs were also tested and resulted in separation factors and capacities between the values for the individual ILs. For the most promising candidates, also autoclave measurements at elevated temperatures and pressures were carried out. These experiments indicate that the separation ability decreases with growing temperature and loading. In general, our study definitely proves the high potential of ILs to act as entrainers in the extractive distillation of propene‐propane mixtures or for the separation of any other low‐boiling alkene‐alkane mixture.
Direct Isomerization of Linoleic Acid to Conjugated Linoleic Acids (CLA) using Gold Catalysts
Authors: Bauer P. , Horlacher P. , Claus P.
Published: October 2009

Supported gold catalysts, e.g., Au on Al2O3, Fe2O3, CeO2, MnO2, TiO2, ZrO2, activated carbon, titanium silicalite TS‐1, were prepared and used for the isomerization of linoleic acid (cis‐9,cis‐12‐octadecadienoic acid) to conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) in the presence of hydrogen at 165 °C in a batch reactor. The best results were obtained using a catalyst with 2 wt % Au on TS‐1, which exhibits a high selectivity (78 %) towards CLA. The two biologically active target CLA isomers, i.e., cis‐9,trans‐11‐CLA and trans‐10,cis‐12‐CLA, were the main products. During the isomerization of linoleic acid to CLA, consecutive reactions also took place. These were the hydrogenation of linoleic acid and CLA to monounsaturated octadecenoic acids and the further hydrogenation of monounsaturated acids to stearic acid. Thus, gold catalysts are capable of isomerizing linoleic acid to CLA and hydrogenating their double bonds to an extent that depends on the Au catalyst used.
On the Origin of Reversible Hydrogen Activation by Phosphine–Boranes
Authors: Rajeev Ramanan , Sunoj Raghavan B.
Published: October 2009

Mechanistic insights into the factors responsible for the reversible hydrogen‐activation ability exhibited by an aryl phosphine–borane system ((CH3)2P‐C6F4‐B(CF3)2) are presented. A detailed evaluation of the energies of various intermediates, generated by the addition of molecular hydrogen, and their interconverting barriers have been carried out using ab initio and DFT methods. Several rearrangement possibilities of the H2–phosphino–borane adduct have been investigated so as to unravel the lower energy pathways that convert the initial adduct to a series of other intermediates. The initial adduct formed by the heterolytic addition of a molecular hydrogen across the CB bond is identified to undergo a series of rearrangement reactions until it terminates at the CP end of the molecule. Among the possible 1,n‐migrations (for which n=1–5), 1,2‐proton migrations are found to possess lower energy transition states, whereas 1,2‐hydride (in a zwitterionic intermediate) and 1,4‐proton‐coupled electron transfers exhibited much higher energy transition states. The minimum energy pathway for the transfer of a proton and hydride from the CB bond to the CP bond is found to involve a cascade of 1,2‐proton transfers followed by a 1,2‐hydride migration and finally a 1,4‐proton‐coupled electron transfer. The higher energy pathways identified for the hydride transfer suggest the possibility of a cascade of reversible proton migrations from a thermodynamically stable intermediate (Ma). Possible uptake of two hydrogen molecules by the phosphine–borane system is additionally considered in the present study, in which relatively higher barriers than those with one molecule of hydrogen are observed. The computed thermodynamic parameters are found to be in accordance with the experimental observations, in which the uptake and storage of molecular hydrogen are carried out at lower temperatures whereas the liberation demands elevated temperatures.
Dendron‐Functionalized Core–Shell Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles: Magnetically Recoverable and Reusable Catalysts for Suzuki CC Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Rosario‐Amorin Daniel , Wang Xin , Gaboyard Manuel , Clérac Rodolphe , Nlate Sylvain , Heuzé Karine
Published: October 2009

A metallodendron functionalized with dicyclohexyldiphosphino palladium complex was synthesized. The metallodendron was grafted onto core–shell superparamagnetic nanoparticles (γ‐Fe2O3/polymer, 200–500 nm) to give optimal catalytic reactivity in cross‐coupling reactions. The grafted nanoparticles were used as recoverable and reusable catalysts for Suzuki CC cross‐coupling reactions. They showed remarkable reactivity towards iodo‐ and bromoarenes under mild conditions, and unprecedented reactivity towards chloroarenes. On completion of the catalytic reaction, the catalysts were readily recovered by using a simple magnet to attract the superparamagnetic grafted nanoparticles. Catalysts were recovered more than 25 times with almost no discernable loss of reactivity.
Ferumoxides–protamine sulfate is more effective than ferucarbotran for cell labeling: implications for clinically applicable cell tracking using MRI
Authors: van Buul G. M. , Farrell E. , Kops N. , van Tiel S. T. , Bos P. K. , Weinans H. , Krestin G. P. , van Osch G. J. V. M. , Bernsen M. R.
Published: October 2009

The use of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) for labeling cells holds great promise for clinically applicable cell tracking using magnetic resonance imaging. For clinical application, an effectively and specifically labeled cell preparation is highly desired (i.e. a large amount of intracellular iron and a negligible amount of extracellular iron). In this study we performed a direct comparison of two SPIO labeling strategies that have both been reported as efficient and clinically translatable approaches. These approaches are cell labeling using ferumoxides–protamine complexes or ferucarabotran particles. Cell labeling was performed on primary human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) and chondrocytes. For both cell types ferumoxides–protamine resulted in a higher percentage of labeled cells, a higher total iron load, a larger amount of intracellular iron and a lower amount of extracellular iron aggregates, compared with ferucarbotran. Consequently, hBMSC and chondrocyte labeling with ferumoxides–protamine is more effective and results in more specific cell labeling than ferucarbotran. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.