bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investment Analysis of Medium Scale Private Forest Plantation Development in Oyo State
Authors: Fasoro Oyinlola Abiodun
Published: June 2019

Forest and non-forest products are becoming scarce in Nigeria due to insatiable want of the resources by the people. The performance of public sector forest plantation development in Nigeria has fallen short of expectation of various stakeholders, hence, the need for investment in Private Forest Plantation Development (PFPD), fostered towards increasing wood supply and reducing the pressure on natural forest. In this study, investment analysis of medium scale PFPD was investigated to show its feasibility.  Measures such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Annual Equivalent Value (AEV), Land Expected Value (LEV), Return on Investment (ROI) and Discounted Payback Period (DPBP) were used to analyse the cash flow statement of the investment.

The study showed that medium scale of Tectona grandis, Gmelina arborea, with few Terminalia spp. plantation of 20ha with 18 year rotation had NPV of ₦1,504,841.70, BCR of 1.35, IRR of 24.03%, AEV of ₦316,016.76ha-1, LEV of ₦2,186,997.89ha-1, ROI of 35% and DPBP of 17.7years.  The results showed that the investment is feasible based on economic returns indices. It is recommended that PFPD should incorporate multiple land use systems and apply appropriate silvicultural techniques in order to maximize the net return.
The Effect of High Temperature on the Growth Performance of Hybrid Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus X Oreochromis aureus Juveniles Reared in a Recycling System
Authors: Ibáñez Ana Laura , Torres-Vázquez Tanahiri , Álvarez-Hernández Sergio Humberto
Published: June 2019

Tilapia juveniles live in littoral regions of freshwater ecosystems which have temperatures that may reach critical values for growth, especially in face of the onslaught of climate change. This study analyzes the effect of temperature (25, 30, 35, 40°C) on the growth and survival of hybrid tilapia juveniles in a re-circulating system. Duplicate groups of 30 juveniles were stocked in 200 L tanks in a closed, re-circulating system. Automatic heaters were used to establish the water temperatures, commercial food was supplied at 5% of their weight as daily ration. Fish were weighed and measured at 15-day intervals for a period of 3 months. Water temperature and dissolved oxygen were monitored daily. Ammonia, nitrates and dissolved reactive phosphorus were monitored every third day. Fish responses were estimated through variations in length, weight and inter-circuli space of fish scales. Average initial and final weight and length, Specific growth rate (SGR), Fulton Index (FI), Length-weight relationship and survival were used to assess tilapia growth performance. Weight, length, SGR and FI were significantly affected (P < 0.05) by water temperature. Growth of the fish reared at 30oC was almost one third greater than that at 25°C and one sixth greater than that at 35°C. Except for fish reared at 40°C, the other treatments showed a positive allometric growth, with the better results recorded for the 30 and 35°C treatments. The fish reared at 40°C survived only two weeks while the survival rate of 98, 90 and 88.3% for 25, 30 and 35°C, respectively.
Growth and Instability in Area, Production and Productivity of Barley in Haryana vis-à-vis India
Authors: Nimbrayan Parveen Kumar , Bhatia Sunita, Jitender Kumar , . Heena
Published: June 2019

The present study has made an attempt to examine the instability in the area, production and productivity of barley crop in India and Haryana during three phases i.e. pre-green revolution, green revolution and post green revolution period. The study is based on secondary data and used three analytical methods.  The results showed that in case of area, the instability is more in the post-green revolution than pre-green revolution period as the focus of the green revolution was mainly on other crops like rice and wheat. In case of production, instability showed a decreasing trend from pre- to post-green revolution period due to the adoption of new technology and good quality seeds during the green revolution. A same decreasing trend was observed in yield instability also. In case of growth pattern, the area in Haryana and India both shows a negative growth trend in the pre-green revolution. In case of production, in Haryana, negative growth trends were observed in the green revolution period but in the post-green revolution, it was positive growth; while in India as a whole growth rate was negative. In case of yield, the growth rate was positive in both Haryana and India.
Effectiveness of Adaptation Strategies among Coastal Communities in Ghana: The Case of Dansoman in the Greater Accra Region
Authors: Sarfo Isaac , Bortey Otchwemah Henry , Kumara Terney Pradeep
Published: June 2019

Global climate action plans risk resulting to climate maladaptation and shocks when prudent measures are inapt. Adaptation strategies require multidisciplinary approach from all sectors with periodic monitoring and evaluation which are carefully planned, locally adaptable and results-oriented. For decades, various governments, development practitioners and international organizations have made concerted efforts in tackling large scale climate events. These stern initiatives forms part of Millennium Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 13 meant to combat climate change. The increasing demand for frameworks that effectively monitor and examine the outcomes of these huge investments made by policy-makers across regions have enhanced the evaluation and monitoring of various climate change adaptation strategies. This study sought to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of initiated adaptation strategies. The study used descriptive statistics based on informants’ knowledge and experience to assess the effectiveness of adaptation strategies in Dansoman and compare the results with the case of Nador-Berkane coastal community in north eastern part of Morocco where the “no-regret strategy” concept was adopted. Assessing the effectiveness of strategies is one of the key components of monitoring and evaluation process of climate change and is often overlooked, hence, the need for this study. Results from this study based on the informants’ experience and assessment show that climate change adaptation strategies in the study area are not effective and sustainable. This study serves as a baseline information for relevant stakeholders on critical areas, which ought to be prioritized to reduce the locals’ vulnerability to climate hazards. Assessing the effectiveness of adaptation strategies aid in ensuring efficiency and efficacy of planned and already initiated projects. Further research could be conducted on the cost of adaptation mechanisms and willingness to pay for sea defense systems in the area.
Evaluation of the Toxicity of the Ethanol Extract 70% of the Bark of Terminalia macroptera (Combretaceae) on Whistar Rats
Authors: Youssouf Traore , Monon Koné , Abou Ouattara , Calix Bahi , Guessennd Nathalie Kouadio , Adama Coulibaly , Mireille Dosso
Published: June 2019

Nowadays, many medicinal plants have proved effective in combating the phenomenon of bacterial multi-resistance against conventional antibiotics. However, the use of these plants, traditionally is done without precise doses. And this inaccuracy of dose is a real problem of traditional medicine. Thus prospecting for empirically administered plant extract requires dosage monitoring to avoid the risk of a fatal therapeutic accident. It is in this context that the study of the toxicity of Terminalia macroptera which presents itself as an anti-infectious agent, capable of overcoming certain strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has been initiated. The objective of this study is to evaluate the toxicity of 70% ethanol extract of T.macroptera in rats and to deduce its safety. With regard to the evaluation of the toxicity, rats were used whose mass varies between 100 and 170 grams. Then, using OECD Guideline 425, (2006), acute toxicity was achieved. Then the 100, 300 and 500 mg / kg bm doses were used in sub-acute toxicity to evaluate biochemical and hematological parameters. The results show an LD50> 5000 mg / kg bm. Therefore, according to the OECD classification, the hydroethanolic extract belongs to category 5, non-toxic substances. Also, the biochemical and hematological results revealed that the extract did not change at any time at P <0.05, biochemical marker levels (UREE, ASAT, ALAT, CK and LDH), reflecting vital organs of the body. So the extract would have no effect on the heart, liver and kidneys. 70% ethanol extract of T. macroptera would be safe for use as a drug and therefore could contribute to the production of Traditionally Enhanced Medicines (MTAs).
Complementary Application of Inoculant in Post-emergence on Soybean Crop
Authors: Henrique Ivanildo Guilherme , `Pereira Cassiano Spaziani , Rosalino Amauri Júnior , Silva Vinícius Henrique Da , Veiga Bruno Conceição De , Silva Adriano Alves Da , Vieira Cristiane Ramos
Published: June 2019

Objective: Inoculation is an important agricultural practice in soybean cultivation that guarantees high productivity without the external input of nitrogen. The objective of this study was to evaluate if the complementary of liquid inoculant (Bradyrhizobium japonicum), via leaf, in different times and different application rates, affects the nodulation, plant growth and soybean productivity.

Study design: A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used, with four replications, in a 5x3 factorial scheme, evaluating the complementary inoculant application, via foliar (0; 75; 150; 225 e 300 mL ha-1), in three stages of vegetative development of the crop (V2, V4 e V6).

Location and duration of the study: The study was performed in a commercial area, in the municipality of Sinop, in the northern of Mato Grosso State, between October 2017 and February 2018.

Methodology: The cultivation was in soil classified as Red-yellow Latosol with of clayey texture, was in a direct seeding system, using the cultivar NS7901RR. The seeds used were treated and inoculated at sowing, with turfous inoculant and liquid. The experimental units received the complementary applications of inoculant, via pulverization, at 15, 21 and 28 days after emergence, according to the treatment.

Results: It was verify that the different times of application of foliar inoculant, does not condition significant differences to the parameters measured in this study. The complementary inoculant application affected, significantly, the leaf chlorophyll index (P <0.05), as well as the dry matter mass of the plants (P <0.001). Up to 300 mL ha-1, a gradual increase in grain yield was verified.

Conclusion: The complementary supply of liquid inoculant (B. japonicum), via foliar, in different rates application, affects the nodulation and development of the plants and the productive yield of the crop.
Identification of potential diagnostic biomarkers for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Jiang Fenghua , Wu Qianqian , Sun Shuqian , Bi Guanghui , Guo Ling
Published: June 2019

The identification of biomarkers for early diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) prior to the onset of symptoms may improve the effectiveness of therapy. To identify potential biomarkers, we downloaded microarray datasets of PD from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between PD and normal control (NC) groups were obtained, and the feature selection procedure and classification model were used to identify optimal diagnostic gene biomarkers for PD. A total of 1229 genes (640 up‐regulated and 589 down‐regulated) were obtained for PD, and nine DEGs (PTGDS, GPX3, SLC25A20, CACNA1D, LRRN3, POLR1D, ARHGAP26, TNFSF14 and VPS11) were selected as optimal PD biomarkers with great diagnostic value. These nine DEGs were significantly enriched in regulation of circadian sleep/wake cycle, sleep and gonadotropin‐releasing hormone signaling pathway. Finally, we examined the expression of GPX3, SLC25A20, LRRN3 and POLR1D in blood samples of patients with PD by qRT‐PCR. GPX3, LRRN3 and POLR1D exhibited the same expression pattern as in our analysis. In conclusion, this study identified nine DEGs that may serve as potential biomarkers of PD.
Impact of patient comfort on diagnostic image quality during PET/MR exam: A quantitative survey study for clinical workflow management
Authors: Chen Shuguang , Hu Pengcheng , Gu Yusen , Pang Lifang , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Yiqian , Meng Xiaolin , Cao Tuoyu , Liu Xin , Fan Zhijin , Shi Hongcheng
Published: June 2019

Background

PET/MR is transferring from a powerful scientific research tool to an imaging modality in clinical routine practice. Whole body PET/MR screening usually takes 30–50 minutes to finish, during which a few factors might induce patient discomfort and further cause degraded image quality. The aim of this report is to investigate the patients' perception of the imaging procedure and its correlation with image quality.

Methods

One hundred and twenty patients (63 males and 57 females, average age = 51.3 years, range 22–70 years) who had been diagnosed with cancer or had previous history of cancer were recruited and scanned with a simultaneous PET/MR system. A questionnaire was given to all patients retrospectively after the PET/MR scan, which has nine questions to assess patients' feeling of the scan on a Likert scale scoring system (1–5, 1 as most satisfied). All PET/MR images were also visually examined by two experts independently to evaluate the quality of the images. Six body locations were assessed and each location was evaluated also with a Likert scale scoring system (1–5, 5 as the best quality). Mann–Whitney U­test was used for statistical analysis to check if there is significant correlation between image quality and patient perceptions.

Results

With a total of 120 patients, 118 questionnaires were filled and returned for analysis. The patients’ characteristics were summarized in Table 4. The statistics of the patients’ perception in the questionnaire were illustrated in Tables 5–7. Statistical significant correlations were found between MR image quality and patients’ characteristics/perception.

Conclusion

Our results show that PET/MR scanning is generally safe and comfortable for most of the patients. Statistical analysis does not support the hypothesis that bad patient’s perception leads to degraded image quality.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scanning Protocol Consensus Statements on Scanning Conventions and Documentation in the US
Authors: Torralba Karina D. , Choi Kristal S. , Salto Lorena M. , Fairchild Robert , Cannella Amy C. , Kissin Eugene Y. , Thiele Ralf , Evangelisto Amy , Nishio Midori J. ,   for the Ultrasound School of North American Rheumatologists
Published: June 2019

Objective

European rheumatology and radiology‐determined standards have largely driven the execution of ultrasound in rheumatology (RhUS). How this translates to American rheumatologic practice has not been examined. A rheumatology‐driven consensus on documentation, scanning conventions, and tiered‐mastery designation for anatomic region views was developed in 2011 and served as the framework for training and clinical research validation. The present study was undertaken to update this consensus to reflect current utilization of musculoskeletal RhUS evaluation in the US.

Methods

A 3‐round Delphi method study was conducted using a 96‐item questionnaire sent via Qualtrics survey software to 101 respondents experienced in RhUS education and scholarship. The target participant number was 38. High agreement was defined as ≥85% agreement on each item. McNemar's chi‐square test was used to analyze changes in agreement in the responses. Comments were reviewed for content analysis.

Results

A total of 46 respondents completed all 3 rounds. Of documentation and scanning convention statements, 80% and 100%, respectively, reached high agreement. Comments reflected the need for rheumatology‐defined and disease‐specific complete scan and limited scan definitions, separate from radiology‐defined definitions.

Conclusion

Many scanning conventions from 2011 remain relevant in current practice. There is a need to determine rheumatology‐defined descriptions for common procedural terminology codes for complete and limited scans that accurately reflect the current state of RhUS.
Topological Transformation‐Based Nanobarcoding for Detection and Enumeration of MicroRNAs and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism
Authors: Yuk Ji Soo , Shin Seung Won , Chun Sang Hun , Ku Bo Mi , Choi Yu Jeong , Lim Yong Taik , Luo Dan , Ahn Myung‐Ju , Um Soong Ho
Published: June 2019

RNA biomarkers have been recently reported to be associated tightly with the diagnosis and prognosis of many diseases. Particularly, cancers considered to be a serious threat to primates are known to be vastly dominated by genetic networks where RNA plays a key role. RNAs are thus recognized as a major target group that can be used for numerous cancer treatments and it is still required to identify and enumerate them in an effective manner. Here, a new topological transformation‐based nanobarcoding technique (TNT) is first reported using fluorescence‐DNA barcodes engaged with graphene oxide (GOx) for effectively discriminating short RNAs such as miRNAs and their single nucleotide polyporphisms in tissue and plasma. Through topological transformation into 3D DNA–RNA polygonal structures, various kinds of microRNAs have been read at the same time and analyzed quantitatively. Also, it positively discerned epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations known as single base variations of typical lung cancer specific RNAs. A single variant of 0.785% in target EGFR mutations is explicitly detected. It is speculated that the TNT may be a versatile method for polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐free practical diagnosis of several clinical genetic deviations such as significant biotic RNA and genic fragments and would be a promising alternative to conventional PCR terrains.
Biospecific Monolayer Coating for Multivalent Capture of Circulating Tumor Cells with High Sensitivity
Authors: Chen Jie , Yu Leixiao , Li Yan , Cuellar‐Camacho Jose Luis , Chai Yamin , Li Dong , Li Yueguo , Liu Hongyu , Ou Lailiang , Li Wenzhong , Haag Rainer
Published: June 2019

The isolation and detection of rare circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from patient peripheral blood can help to monitor the metastatic spread of carcinoma and evaluate therapeutic outcomes. However, it is technically challenging to isolate CTCs due to extreme rarity in blood. Current techniques typically have to utilize complex instrumentation to capture CTCs, resulting in nonapplicability. Inspired from the mussel adhesion, a polyglycerol‐based block polymer is used to fabricate a biospecific and bioinert interface for isolating CTCs with high selectivity and efficiency. Benefitting from the antifouling polyglycerol, the resulting monolayer coating greatly suppresses the nonspecific cells adhesion. Compared with one anti‐epithelial cell adhesion molecule (anti‐EpCAM), the CTCs' capture efficiency was improved to 95% when multiple receptors, i.e. anti‐EpCAM/Human epithelial receptor 2 (Her2)/Epithelial Growth Factor receptor (EGFR) are employed, even for low EpCAM‐expressing CTCs. The CTCs detection limit on the presented surface is as low as 1 cell mL−1. Furthermore, CTCs are isolated from breast cancer patients' blood sample with a high selectivity. Also, the CTCs can be released and still keep proliferation capability for downstream analysis. This multifunctional block polymer surface coating is quite cost effective and highly applicable for CTCs' isolation in the clinic, which can provide a new prospect for designing the next‐generation of bio/nanointerfaces for biomedical studies.
Immunogold FIB‐SEM: Combining Volumetric Ultrastructure Visualization with 3D Biomolecular Analysis to Dissect Cell–Environment Interactions
Authors: Gopal Sahana , Chiappini Ciro , Armstrong James P. K. , Chen Qu , Serio Andrea , Hsu Chia‐Chen , Meinert Christoph , Klein Travis J. , Hutmacher Dietmar W. , Rothery Stephen , Stevens Molly M.
Published: June 2019

Volumetric imaging techniques capable of correlating structural and functional information with nanoscale resolution are necessary to broaden the insight into cellular processes within complex biological systems. The recent emergence of focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB‐SEM) has provided unparalleled insight through the volumetric investigation of ultrastructure; however, it does not provide biomolecular information at equivalent resolution. Here, immunogold FIB‐SEM, which combines antigen labeling with in situ FIB‐SEM imaging, is developed in order to spatially map ultrastructural and biomolecular information simultaneously. This method is applied to investigate two different cell–material systems: the localization of histone epigenetic modifications in neural stem cells cultured on microstructured substrates and the distribution of nuclear pore complexes in myoblasts differentiated on a soft hydrogel surface. Immunogold FIB‐SEM offers the potential for broad applicability to correlate structure and function with nanoscale resolution when addressing questions across cell biology, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine.
The Future of Neuroimplantable Devices: A Materials Science and Regulatory Perspective
Authors: Obidin Nikita , Tasnim Farita , Dagdeviren Canan
Published: June 2019

The past two decades have seen unprecedented progress in the development of novel materials, form factors, and functionalities in neuroimplantable technologies, including electrocorticography (ECoG) systems, multielectrode arrays (MEAs), Stentrode, and deep brain probes. The key considerations for the development of such devices intended for acute implantation and chronic use, from the perspective of biocompatible hybrid materials incorporation, conformable device design, implantation procedures, and mechanical and biological risk factors, are highlighted. These topics are connected with the role that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays in its regulation of neuroimplantable technologies based on the above parameters. Existing neuroimplantable devices and efforts to improve their materials and implantation protocols are first discussed in detail. The effects of device implantation with regards to biocompatibility and brain heterogeneity are then explored. Topics examined include brain‐specific risk factors, such as bacterial infection, tissue scarring, inflammation, and vasculature damage, as well as efforts to manage these dangers through emerging hybrid, bioelectronic device architectures. The current challenges of gaining clinical approval by the FDA—in particular, with regards to biological, mechanical, and materials risk factors—are summarized. The available regulatory pathways to accelerate next‐generation neuroimplantable devices to market are then discussed.
Sonoporation of Cells by a Parallel Stable Cavitation Microbubble Array
Authors: Meng Long , Liu Xiufang , Wang Yuchen , Zhang Wenjun , Zhou Wei , Cai Feiyan , Li Fei , Wu Junru , Xu Lisheng , Niu Lili , Zheng Hairong
Published: June 2019

Sonoporation is a targeted drug delivery technique that employs cavitation microbubbles to generate transient pores in the cell membrane, allowing foreign substances to enter cells by passing through the pores. Due to the broad size distribution of microbubbles, cavitation events appear to be a random process, making it difficult to achieve controllable and efficient sonoporation. In this work a technique is reported using a microfluidic device that enables in parallel modulation of membrane permeability by an oscillating microbubble array. Multirectangular channels of uniform size are created at the sidewall to generate an array of monodispersed microbubbles, which oscillate with almost the same amplitude and resonant frequency, ensuring homogeneous sonoporation with high efficacy. Stable harmonic and high harmonic signals emitted by individual oscillating microbubbles are detected by a laser Doppler vibrometer, which indicates stable cavitation occurred. Under the influence of the acoustic radiation forces induced by the oscillating microbubble, single cells can be trapped at an oscillating microbubble surface. The sonoporation of single cells is directly influenced by the individual oscillating microbubble. The parallel sonoporation of multiple cells is achieved with an efficiency of 96.6 ± 1.74% at an acoustic pressure as low as 41.7 kPa.
The perfluoropolymer upper bound
Authors: Wu Albert X. , Drayton James A. , Smith Zachary P.
Published: June 2019

Perfluoropolymers have fundamentally distinct thermodynamic partitioning properties compared to those of their hydrocarbon counterparts. However, current upper bound theory assumes hydrocarbon solubility behavior for all polymers. Herein, the fundamental presupposition of invariance in solubility behavior to upper bound performance is critically assessed for perfluoropolymers and hydrocarbon polymers. By modifying solubility relationships, theoretical perfluoropolymer upper bounds are established, showing a positive shift of the upper bound front as a result of beneficial solubility selectivities for certain gas pairs, including N2/CH4, He/H2, He/N2, He/CH4, and He/CO2. Within the framework of the solution–diffusion model, an analysis is presented to compare two independent approaches often pursued in efforts to surpass the polymer upper bound: (a) achieving solubility selectivity via perfluoropolymers and (b) improving diffusion selectivity via rigid hydrocarbon polymers. This analysis demonstrates the significant benefit that can be achieved by considering both the chemical composition and morphology of solid‐state macromolecules when designing membrane materials.
Eisenkatalysierte C‐H‐Aktivierung mit Propargylacetaten: Mechanistische Einblicke in Eisen(II) durch Experiment, Kinetik, Mössbauer‐Spektroskopie und Berechnung
Authors: Mo Jiayu , Müller Thomas , Oliveira João C. A. , Demeshko Serhiy , Meyer Franc , Ackermann Lutz
Published: June 2019

Die Eisen‐katalysierte C‐H/N‐H‐Alkinanellierung wurde durch ein flexibles Klick‐Triazolamid unter überaus milden Reaktionsbedingungen realisiert. Ein umfassender Ansatz unter Zuhilfenahme von experimentellen, spektroskopischen und computerchemischen Methoden skizziert einen leichtgängigen C‐H‐Aktivierungsmechanismus durch eine Ligand‐zu‐Ligand‐Wasserstoffübertragung (LLHT, ligand‐to‐ligand hydrogen transfer). Eine Kombination aus Mössbauer‐Spektroskopie und DFT‐Berechnungen deutet auf High‐spin‐Eisen(II)‐Spezies als Schlüsselintermediate während der C‐H‐Aktivierung hin.
Resolving Optical and Catalytic Activities in Thermoresponsive Nanoparticles by Permanent Ligation with Temperature‐Sensitive Polymers
Authors: Chen Yihuang , Wang Zewei , Harn Yeu Wei , Pan Shuang , Li Zili , Lin Shaoliang , Peng Juan , Zhang Guangzhao , Lin Zhiqun
Published: June 2019

Thermoresponsive nanoparticles (NPs) represent an important hybrid material comprising functional NPs with temperature‐sensitive polymer ligands. Strikingly, significant discrepancies in optical and catalytic properties of thermoresponsive noble‐metal NPs have been reported, and have yet to be unraveled. Reported herein is the crafting of Au NPs, intimately and permanently ligated by thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), in situ using a starlike block copolymer nanoreactor as model system to resolve the paradox noted above. As temperature rises, plasmonic absorption of PNIPAM‐capped Au NPs red‐shifts with increased intensity in the absence of free linear PNIPAM, whereas a greater red‐shift with decreased intensity occurs in the presence of deliberately introduced linear PNIPAM. Remarkably, the absence or addition of free linear PNIPAM also accounts for non‐monotonic or switchable on/off catalytic performance, respectively, of PNIPAM‐capped Au NPs.
Post modification of zinc based coordination polymer to prepare Zn‐Mo‐ICP nanoparticles as efficient self‐supported catalyst for olefin epoxidation
Authors: Mohammadikish Maryam , Yarahmadi Sana
Published: June 2019

Preparation, characterization, and catalytic properties of bimetallic coordination polymer constructed from 2‐aminoterephthalic acid as linker, zinc cations as node, and cis‐dioxo molybdenum units as catalytic active sites are reported via two pathways. Molybdenum centers were placed in N,O positions created by condensation reaction of 2‐aminoterephthalic acid with salicylaldehyde while zinc cations coordinated via carboxylic acid groups of linker to achieve infinite chains of metalo‐ligand. The obtained coordination polymer was fully characterized and its catalytic properties in the epoxidation of olefins with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) described. In comparison with previously reported heterogenized molybdenum catalysts, this new coordination polymer exhibited good conversion as well as high selectivity in the epoxidation of olefins. The catalyst is stable under ambient conditions and could be reused as active catalyst for at least five times.
Ersatzneubau Hochwassersperrtor Ladenburg
Authors: Walter Bernd , Englert Rüdiger , Piewak Sebastian
Published: June 2019

Das 1931 in Betrieb gegangene Hochwassersperrtor Ladenburg wird durch einen Neubau ersetzt. Es wird ab einem Hochwasser mit einem Wiederkehrintervall von zwei Jahren geschlossen und schützt damit die sich entlang des Seitenkanals befindlichen Industrie‐ und Wohngebiete vor Überflutung.

Bei der Planung und Umsetzung der Maßnahme sind insbesondere die Sicherstellung der ganzjährigen Einsatzbereitschaft der bestehenden Anlage und auch die Minimierung der Einschränkungen der Schifffahrt während der Bauzeit zu berücksichtigen. Der Bauablauf sieht vor, die Gesamtmaßnahme mit wenigen Wochenend‐ und Nachtsperrpausen zu realisieren.

Der Ersatzneubau erfolgt im Unterwasser des alten Sperrtors. Damit befindet sich die Baumaßnahme in dessen Schutze und das Baufeld ist dadurch während der Bauzeit weitestgehend hochwassersicher. Es wird als Drucksegmenttor mit zweiseitigem hydraulischem Antrieb erstellt.

Bei der Umsetzung der Maßnahme ist dem Standardisierungsgedanken Rechnung zu tragen.
NF1 mutations identify molecular and clinical subtypes of lung adenocarcinomas
Authors: Tlemsani Camille , Pécuchet Nicolas , Gruber Aurelia , Laurendeau Ingrid , Danel Claire , Riquet Marc , Le Pimpec‐Barthes Françoise , Fabre Elizabeth , Mansuet‐Lupo Audrey , Damotte Diane , Alifano Marco , Luscan Armelle , Rousseau Benoit , Vidaud Dominique , Varin Jennifer , Parfait Beatrice , Bieche Ivan , Leroy Karen , Laurent‐Puig Pierre , Terris Benoit , Blons Helene , Vidaud Michel , Pasmant Eric
Published: June 2019

The tumor suppressor gene neurofibromin 1 (NF1) is a major regulator of the RAS‐MAPK pathway. NF1 mutations occur in lung cancer but were not extensively explored. We hypothesized that NF1‐mutated tumors could define a specific population with a distinct clinical and molecular profile. We performed NF1 sequencing using next generation sequencing (NGS) in 154 lung adenocarcinoma surgical specimens with known KRAS, EGFR, TP53, BRAF, HER2, and PIK3CA status, to evaluate the molecular and clinical specificities of NF1‐mutated lung cancers. Clinical data were retrospectively collected, and their associations with molecular profiles assessed. In this series, 24 tumors were NF1 mutated (17.5%) and 11 were NF1 deleted (8%). There was no mutation hotspot. NF1 mutations were rarely associated with other RAS‐MAPK pathway mutations. Most of patients with NF1 alterations were males (74.3%) and smokers (74.3%). Overall survival and disease‐free survival were statistically better in patients with NF1 alterations (N = 34) than in patients with KRAS mutations (N = 30) in univariate analysis. Our results confirm that NF1 is frequently mutated and represents a distinct molecular and clinical subtype of lung adenocarcinoma.
Observing an Antisense Drug Complex in Intact Human Cells by in‐Cell NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Schlagnitweit Judith , Friebe Sandoz Sarah , Jaworski Aleksander , Guzzetti Ileana , Aussenac Fabien , Carbajo Rodrigo J. , Chiarparin Elisabetta , Pell Andrew J. , Petzold Katja
Published: June 2019

Gaining insight into the uptake, trafficking and target engagement of drugs in cells can enhance understanding of a drug's function and efficiency. However, there are currently no reliable methods for studying untagged biomolecules in macromolecular complexes in intact human cells. Here we have studied an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drug in HEK 293T and HeLa cells by NMR spectroscopy. Using a combination of transfection, cryoprotection and dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), we were able to detect the drug directly in intact frozen cells. Activity of the drug was confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). By applying DNP NMR to frozen cells, we overcame limitations both of solution‐state in‐cell NMR spectroscopy (e.g., size, stability and sensitivity) and of visualization techniques, in which (e.g., fluorescent) tagging of the ASO decreases its activity. The capability to detect an untagged, active drug, interacting in its natural environment, represents a first step towards studying molecular mechanisms in intact cells.
Analysis of Site‐Specific Phosphorylation of PTEN by Using Enzyme‐Catalyzed Expressed Protein Ligation
Authors: Henager Samuel H. , Henriquez Stephanie , Dempsey Daniel R. , Cole Philip A.
Published: June 2019

The activity and localization of PTEN, a tumor suppressor lipid phosphatase that converts the phospholipid PIP3 to PIP2, is governed in part by phosphorylation on a cluster of four Ser and Thr residues near the C terminus. Prior enzymatic characterization of the four monophosphorylated (1p) PTENs by using classical expressed protein ligation (EPL) was complicated by the inclusion of a non‐native Cys at the ligation junction (aa379), which may alter the properties of the semisynthetic protein. Here, we apply subtiligase‐mediated EPL to create wt 1p‐PTENs. These PTENs are more autoinhibited than previously appreciated, consistent with the role of Tyr379 in driving autoinhibition. Alkaline phosphatase sensitivity analysis revealed that these autoinhibited 1p conformations are kinetically labile. In contrast to the Cys mutant 1p‐PTENs, which are poorly recognized by an anti‐phospho‐PTEN antibody, three of the four wt 1p‐PTENs are recognized by a commonly used anti‐phospho‐PTEN antibody.
γ‐(S)‐Guanidinylmethyl‐Modified Triplex‐Forming Peptide Nucleic Acids Increase Hoogsteen‐Face Affinity for a MicroRNA and Enhance Cellular Uptake
Authors: Tähtinen Ville , Verhassel Alejandra , Tuomela Johanna , Virta Pasi
Published: June 2019

γ‐Modified (i.e., (S)‐aminomethyl, (S)‐acetamidomethyl, (R)‐4‐(hydroxymethyl)triazol‐1‐ylmethyl, and (S)‐guanidinylmethyl) triplex‐forming peptide nucleic acids (TFPNAs) were synthesized and the effect of the backbone modifications on the binding to a miR‐215 model was studied. Among the modifications, an appropriate pattern of three γ‐(S)‐guanidinylmethyl modifications increased the affinity and Hoogsteen‐face selectivity for the miR‐215 model without ternary (PNA)2/RNA complex formation. Moreover, the γ‐(S)‐guanidinylmethyl groups were observed to facilitate internalization of the TFPNAs into living PC‐3 prostate cancer cells.
Periorbital swelling and episcleritis may be a sign of cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zuber Taylor J. , Pearlstein Michelle V. , Hwang Christopher J. , Eftekhari Kian , Lugo‐Somolinos Aida , Googe Paul B.
Published: June 2019

It is important that physicians recognize persistent periorbital edema and conjunctival injection as possible disease manifestations of CLE, especially prior to cutaneous involvement. This may lead to more rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Characterization of Magnesium Orotate‐Loaded Chitosan Polymer Nanoparticles for a Drug Delivery System
Authors: Hassani Abdelkader , Hussain Siti Aslina , Abdullah Norhafizah , Kamaruddin Suryani , Rosli Rozita
Published: June 2019

The drug release properties of magnesium orotate (MgOr) encapsulated in the chitosan (CS) cavity and the complexation behavior between MgOr and CS were investigated. The MgOr‐loaded CS nanoparticles (MgOrCSNPs) were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. MgOr was successfully encapsulated into the CS cavity. Results with 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide indicated that MgOrCSNPs retained their cytotoxic activity against the liver cancer cell line (HepG2) and breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7), and low toxicity against the human cell line (3T3) and human retinal epithelial cell line (ARPE‐19).
Porous alumina ceramics by gel casting: Effect of type of sacrificial template on the properties
Authors: Hooshmand Saleh , Nordin Jan , Akhtar Farid
Published: June 2019

The effect of type of sacrificial template on the processing and properties of porous alumina ceramics was investigated. Two templates, (a) hollow pre‐expanded polymer spheres (Expancel) and (b) dense glassy carbon, were used to prepare porous alumina ceramics by gel casting. The results showed that the burnout of sacrificial expandable polymer microspheres from alumina ceramics was 10 times faster than glassy carbon without compromising the compressive strength. Moreover, the effect of the size of the porous ceramic component during the burnout showed that the template decomposition and the escape of the formed gases took a longer time for the thicker specimens than the thinner one and it was significant in case of glassy carbon. It was found that the burnout of expandable microspheres could happen at a faster rate, and the time of the burnout cycle could be reduced significantly to save energy while keeping the mechanical strength twice as high than porous alumina ceramics after burnout of glassy carbon. Furthermore, the CO2 emissions during the burnout of sacrificial templates and the microstructure of the prepared porous alumina were compared for these two types of sacrificial templates. The prepared foams with pre‐expanded microspheres showed potential for being used in industrial applications, where the decreasing of the released gases is critical for saving time and energy for the fabrication of large ceramic parts.
Functional Construction of Dual‐Emitting 4‐Aminonaphthalimide Encapsulated Lanthanide MOFs Composite for Ratiometric Temperature Sensing
Authors: Liu Wei , Chen Chunyang , Huang Xin , Xie Erqing , Liu Weisheng
Published: June 2019

Considering size effect and functionalized pore interaction dyes guests and MOFs hosts, 4‐aminonaphthalimide was successfully introduced into the pore of LnMOF for the first time and constructed 4‐ANA⊂LnMOF luminescent composites with excellent dual‐emission properties. A series of temperature‐dependent luminescence test results show that 4‐ANA⊂Gd4L3 can be used as a reversible ratiometric luminescent temperature sensor. The functional construction method provides ideas for the development of clear purpose novel dual‐emission dye⊂LnMOF ratiometric luminescent sensors.
Divergent and Chemoselective Transformations of Thioamides with Designed Carbene Equivalents
Authors: Saito Masato , Kobayashi Yusuke , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: June 2019

The reactions of thioamides with ortho‐nitro‐substituted iodonium ylides proceeded under mild conditions to give enaminones or thiazoles, depending on the iodonium ylide used. This protocol allowed the use of protic solvents, including aqueous solutions, and therefore coupling reactions with complex molecules such as peptides or steroids were possible. A mild and efficient method for the synthesis of various iodonium ylides was established. DFT calculations suggested that the halogen bonding between a thioamide and iodonium ylide was important in this chemoselective coupling reaction. The potential use of enaminones conjugated with pharmaceuticals as prodrugs was also demonstrated.
Design and synthesis of new alkyl‐based chiral phosphoric acid catalysts
Authors: Tang Xiaoxue , He Hualing , Fang Xiantao , Chang Zexu , Antilla Jon C.
Published: June 2019

Using chiral BINOL‐derived phosphoric acids (PA's) to activate substrates for enhanced reactivity is now regarded as a powerful strategy to control enantioselectivity in asymmetric synthesis. Generally, most substituents at the 3,3′‐positions of BINOL PA's are aryl derivatives. These derivatives are pivotal in attaining high selectivity. PA's with alkyl substituents in these positions have rarely been reported. Herein, we introduced alkyl‐based substituents at the 3,3′‐position of PA's. These new potential catalysts, if applied in reactions, may allow altered noncovalent interactions (as opposed to the typical aryl substituents in these positions) with substrates used in chiral PA‐catalyzed chemistry in the future.
Sternpolymere als funktionale Bausteine für neuartige Nanofiltrationsmembranen
Authors: Schnecke Vanessa , Ulbricht Mathias
Published: June 2019

Das Interesse an Dünnschicht‐Membranen mit speziell auf den jeweiligen Trennprozess zugeschnittenen Eigenschaften steigt. Um solche Membranen mit hoher Permselektivität und Fouling‐Beständigkeit zu erhalten, werden etablierte Membransysteme mit neuen Bausteinen kombiniert. Eine Klasse vielversprechender Bausteine sind Sternpolymere. In dieser Arbeit wurden Sternpolymere mit Anionenaustauscher‐Gruppen variierbarer Molmassen und geringer Polydispersität mittels Atomtransfer‐Radikal‐Polymerisation synthetisiert. Als Anionenaustauscher fungierten tertiäre Amino‐ sowie quaternäre Ammonium‐Gruppen. Die erhaltenen Sternpolymere wurden mittels Grenzphasenpolymerisation in Polyamid‐Dünnschicht‐Komposit‐Membranen integriert.
Herstellung von Ultrafiltrations‐Membranen aus Lösungen von Cellulose in ionischen Flüssigkeiten
Authors: Tran Duc Hoa , Ulbricht Mathias
Published: June 2019

Neuartige Ultrafiltrations‐Membranen werden durch direkte Verarbeitung von Cellulose in ionischen Flüssigkeiten mittels Phaseninversion auf Filterpapier hergestellt. Einstellbare Membranleistungen können durch Variation der Gießlösungszusammensetzung erzielt werden. Durch Zugabe von Dimethylsulfoxid wird die Lösemittelgüte der ionischen Flüssigkeit verändert, was die Membranstrukturbildung beeinflusst, aber kaum Einfluss auf die Membranleistung hat. Jedoch kann sie die Membranverarbeitung durch Verringerung der Lösungsviskosität begünstigen und die benötigte Menge an ionischer Flüssigkeit senken.
Enhancement of petroleum coke thermal reactivity using Oxy‐cracking technique
Authors: Manasrah Abdallah D. , Hassan Azfar , Nassar Nashaat N.
Published: June 2019

Petroleum coke (petcoke) is a challenging fuel in terms of its complexity, high sulphur and nitrogen content, low volatile content, and undesirable emissions of SOx and NOx when used for power generation. To overcome these challenges, the oxy‐cracking process was recently proposed to convert the petcoke into a clean combustion fuel by reducing its sulphur and nitrogen contents, and consequently increasing its reactivity and combustibility. This work aimed to study the heating values and thermo‐oxidative behaviour of the oxy‐cracked petcoke, virgin petcoke, and their blends using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results showed that the oxy‐cracked petcoke is oxidized at a temperature of 475 °C, which is easier and faster than the virgin petcoke, which is usually oxidized at around 540 °C. The heating value of the oxy‐cracked petcoke was not impacted and maintained constant ~30 MJ/kg, which is relatively similar to the virgin petcoke. The nitrogen and sulphur content in the oxy‐cracked petcoke is much lower than that of virgin petcoke. A significant improvement in the combustion performance parameters of the oxy‐cracked petcoke and their blends with virgin petcoke was achieved. For instance, the ignition temperature of the proposed fuel is reduced to 13 % compared to the virgin petcoke, which led to increasing the ignition index by two‐folds. Therefore, this approach might help in improving the thermal efficiency of petcoke by using oxy‐cracked products as an initiator in the combustion process.
Modeling Magneto‐Photoabsorption Using Time‐Dependent Complex Generalized Hartree‐Fock
Authors: Stetina Torin F. , Sun Shichao , Williams‐Young David B. , Li Xiaosong
Published: June 2019

Magneto‐optical spectroscopy provides a glimpse into the hidden electronic structure of molecules and materials that normally cannot be resolved with regular optical absorption spectroscopy. The magneto‐optical signal is difficult to simulate computationally due to the necessity of modeling perturbations from both uniform magnetic and oscillating electric fields. In this work, we introduce a time‐dependent complex generalized Hartree‐Fock framework for calculating electronic magneto‐optical spectra of atomic and molecular systems. Complex‐valued gauge including atomic orbitals are used in a non‐perturbative treatment of the uniform magnetic field. The magneto‐photoabsorption spectra of atomic alkalis and aromatic systems are investigated with a focus on understanding how spectroscopic signals change in the presence of a uniform magnetic field.
Respiratory sinus arrhythmia and prosociality in childhood: Evidence for a quadratic effect
Authors: Acland Erinn L. , Colasante Tyler , Malti Tina
Published: June 2019

Research investigating the link between the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and prosociality in childhood has yielded inconsistent findings. This relation has mainly been conceptualized as linear, however, the broader physiological literature suggests that children’s physiological arousal and task performance may be related in an inverted U‐shaped fashion—with peak performance at moderate levels of arousal. Therefore, we tested whether resting respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA)—a dispositional indicator of PNS activity—was quadratically related to child‐ and caregiver‐reported sympathy and prosocial behaviors in an ethnically diverse sample of 4‐ and 8‐year‐olds (N = 300). We found a quadratic inverted U‐shaped association between resting RSA and child‐reported sympathy and prosocial behavior in 8‐year‐olds, whereas no consistent findings emerged for 4‐year‐olds. Therefore, moderate resting RSA in middle childhood may facilitate sympathy and prosocial behaviors. Dispositional over‐ or under‐arousal of the PNS may impair children’s ability to attend and respond to the distress of others by middle childhood.