bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CBCT Comparison of the Remaining Dentin Thickness Following Biomechanical Teeth Preparation using Edge Endo X7, Hero Gold, and Neo Endo Flex Rotary File Systems: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Priyanka Banavathu , Prasad Parvathaneni Krishna , Raju TBVG , Abitha Seshadri , Varma Nandimpalli Mahendra , Dev Dondapati Gowtam
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Success in endodontics depends on canal preparation, disinfection, and obturation. Cleaning and shaping play a pivotal role in successful endodontic therapy. An important factor in preventing procedural mishaps and further complications is the quantity of dentine removed during instrumentation because the fracture resistance of the root is directly influenced by the amount of dentine that remains after instrumentation. Aim: To evaluate and compare the remaining dentine thickness of the root canal after instrumentation with three different rotary file systems using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging. Materials and Methods: Thirty permanent extracted, singlerooted teeth were collected. The samples were decoronated at the level of the Cementoenamel Junction (CEJ). A preinstrumentation CBCT scan was taken. Access opening and working length were determined. The samples were randomly assigned to three groups: Group I - Edge Endo X7, Group II- Hero Gold, Group III - Neo-endo flex files. Biomechanical preparation was carried out using the respective files. To evaluate the remaining dentine thickness, a comparison was made with the pre-instrumentation CBCT scan. Statistical analysis was performed using One-way ANOVA. Results: Upon inter-group comparison of the pre-instrumentation group, no significant difference (p≥0.05) was observed. Postinstrumentation, it was noted that the remaining dentine thickness in Group I (p≤0.05) at the apical third was significantly less than in Group II (p=0.007) and Group III (p=0.042). Maximum preservation of dentine was seen with Hero gold files, whereas the minimum preservation of dentine was seen with Edge Endo X7. Conclusion: Hero gold files exhibited less removal of dentine apically, whereas Edge Endo X7 showed more removal of dentine apically
Assessment of Impact of Malocclusion on Oral Health Status and Oral Health-related Quality of Life among School and College Students of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Abraham Vinita Mary , Mahendra Jaideep , Natarajan Prabhu Manikam , Kesavan R , Vidhyarekha U , Swamikannu Bhuminathan
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Malocclusion is multifactorial in origin, caused by the interaction of various general and local factors. The consequences of malocclusion include dental caries, periodontitis, impaction of teeth, and compromised chewing abilities. Thus, if left untreated, malocclusion can not only lead to oral health problems like periodontal problems and dental caries but also psychological problems, causing a loss of selfesteem and confidence in the individual. Aim: To assess the potential relationship between malocclusion with orthodontic treatment needs and dental caries, periodontal diseases, dental traumatic injuries, oral hygiene, and Oral Health-related Quality of Life (OHRQoL). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1800 school-going and college students at their respective Institutions in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India from December 2021 to June 2022 with and without orthodontic treatment needs, to identify malocclusion and various oral conditions/diseases associated with it, in addition to the effect of malocclusion on OHRQoL. Oral health status was assessed using the World Health Organisation (WHO) Basic Oral Health Survey (2013); malocclusion was assessed using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needs (IOTN) index, and OHRQoL was measured using OHIP-14. Data were analysed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 software, and statistical significance was assessed using Pearson’s Chisquare test and Mann-Whitney U Test. Results: The study was conducted among 1800 subjects aged between 14 and 21 years (mean 17.47±1.58 years) from various schools and colleges in Chennai. Among the study subjects, 1066 (59.2%) were males, and 734 (40.8%) were females. About 46.7% of the study subjects had malocclusion. The binomial logistic regression analysis suggested that study subjects with orthodontic treatment needs had greater odds of experiencing dental caries, gingival bleeding, and traumatic dental injuries compared to study subjects without orthodontic treatment needs. Conclusion: There is a definite relationship between malocclusion, orthodontic treatment needs, dental caries, periodontal diseases, dental traumatic injuries, oral hygiene, and OHRQoL.
Seasonal Patterns in Cumin Arrivals and Prices in Indian Markets: A Post-COVID 19 Analysis
Authors: Kiran Gadhe , Shaikh A. S. , Kumar Mohit
Published: April 2024

Cumin known as jeera in India, holds significant economic and cultural importance in the country's spice industry. My research paper explores the seasonal dynamics of cumin arrivals and prices in selected Indian markets, considering the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing data from the Agmarknet portal spanning from January, 2006 to December, 2021, this study employs rigorous statistical techniques to analyze the patterns. The study reveals distinctive characteristics in cumin arrivals and prices across different markets. Notably, markets like Unjha, Jamnagar, Gondal, Merta City and Mumbai witnessed significant seasonal price fluctuations in August (102.40), January (103.23), July (105.37), August (104.49) and October (108.17) respectively. Mumbai, characterized by stable supply and demand, exhibited moderate price variation (CV = 17.81%), whereas Mandore experienced substantial fluctuations (CV = 43.55%) due to seasonal factors exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This research provides invaluable insights into the altered seasonal patterns of cumin arrivals and prices following the pandemic, offering vital information for farmers, traders and policymakers. Informed decisions about cumin production, marketing and pricing can be made, aligning with the dynamic post-COVID-19 landscape of the spice market in India.
Exploring the Impact of the Digital Economy on China's Export Implied Carbon Intensity: A Provincial Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jifeng , Hu Shuting
Published: April 2024

Exploiting the positive effect of digital economy on reducing the implied carbon intensity of exports is an important path to promote the green and low-carbon transformation of China's export trade. In view of this, using the Chinese provincial panel data from 2008 to 2020 to scrutinize the consequential impact and intricate mechanisms at play between these variables.  Employing a robust methodology, including fixed-effects models, mediating-effects models, and threshold models, the analysis delves into the multi-faceted impact of the digital economy on export implied carbon intensity. It is found that (1) The enhancement of the digital economy can significantly reduce the implied carbon intensity of exports. (2) The digital economy further diminishes the implied carbon intensity of exports through the mediating influences of industrial structure and technological progress. (3) The relationship between the digital economy, industrial structure, and technological progress exhibits a noteworthy non-linear dynamic concerning export implied carbon intensity.
Comparative Study on Current Fishing Status of Paalameenmadu and Kallar Barmouths in Batticaloa District,
Authors: Aruniya K. , Wickramaratne I. U. , Thilakarathne E.P.D.N.
Published: April 2024

Batticaloa lagoon is one of the productive estuaries on the East coast of Sri Lanka and is connected to the sea at two points, Paalameenmadu and Kallar barmouths. The entire dynamics of the lagoon is based on the seasonal opening and closing of the above barmouths which influences the fish catch composition in nearby fishing areas. This study collects information on current fishing practices, species composition of the catch, and seasonal catch species composition, the level of awareness on fishing regulation and sustainable fishery using semi-structured questionnaire. Fisheries data were collected from 10 major barmouth fishery landing sites from January to April 2021. 210 respondents were selected using a stratified random sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect responses after a pre-test and analysed with descriptive statistics method using SPSS.  The study revealed that Paalameenmadu barmouth was opened annually and Kallar barmouth has been closed for the last five years. The most practiced crafts in Paalameenmadu are outboard Fiber Reinforced Plastic boats (OFRP) by 35.26% of fishers and small lagoon canoes by 87.04% fishers in Kallar. A total of seven types of fishing gears are used, among them hook and line, cast net, and dragnet were identified as major fishing gears operated. 30 aquatic species have been recorded in the catch, representing 17 families. Among them, dominant fish families are Scombridae 17.11% and Penaeidae 14.81% in Paalameenmadu. In the Kallar, family Penaeidae 18.75% and Gerreidae 16.32% have been recorded. Barmouth opening is favourable for fishing and 38.57% Penaeidae species were caught during barmouth opening period. Community response that Irregular and early barmouth opening have caused a reduction in fish production which impacts on economic activities. Fishermen have good awareness on importance of fishery resources sustainability and these resources need to be preserved for future generations through proper management practices.
Phytochemical Profile and Antibacterial Effects of Zingiber Officinale Root Extract on Some Enteric Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Anyanwu George Okechukwu , Dike-Ndudim Joy Nkeiruka , Nwosu Dennis Chimezie , Anyanwu Comfort Chinyere , Ahiara Chinatu Onyeakolam , Chima Ogbonnaya Cornelius , Emengaha Festus Chidi , Obi Augustine Uchechukwu , Onuh Isaac Onyeke , Ndubueze Chizaram Winners
Published: April 2024

The majority of Africans today depend either totally or partially on medicinal plants for the treatment of various diseases. In some rural communities, ethno-medicine is sometimes the only form of healthcare. Therefore, this work aimed to determine the phytochemical constituents and antibacterial potentials of Z. officinale, which is one of the medicinal plants used by some people. The active ingredients of the plant were first extracted using water and ethanol as solvents. This was followed by the phytochemical analysis of the extracts. Furthermore, the antibacterial effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Z. officinale on Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Shigella dysenteriae isolated from faeces of gastroenteritis patients were evaluated using the agar diffusion technique (punch method). Additionally, a two-fold tube dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extracts. The mean values of zones of inhibition obtained were statistically analyzed using ANOVA. The least significant difference was determined according to the LSD test at P<0.05. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponin, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. The antibacterial results showed that both the aqueous and ethanolic extracts have antibacterial effects against all the test organisms but at varying degrees. At the 500mg/ml concentration, the ethanolic extract of Zingiber officinale produced a zone of inhibition of 21.00b against S. dysenteriae and 20.00b against E. coli and S. typhi. On the other hand, the 500mg/ml concentration of the aqueous extract had a zone of inhibition of 20.00b against S. dysenteriae, 16.00b against E. coli and 10.00b against S. typhi. The findings from this study lend credence to the claims that Z. officinale extracts possess antibacterial potentials. Also, the higher potency in ethanolic than in aqueous extract suggests that the potency might be dose and solvent dependent. Conclusively, owing to the findings from this study, the active ingredients of Z. officinale could be harnessed and employed in the development of novel antibacterial therapies.
Effects of Integrated Crop Management Practices on Tomato Yield and Economics in Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Yugandhar V. , Sireesha E. , Harani M. , Naik K. Balaji , Mallikarjun M. , Kumari C. Radha
Published: April 2024

Integrated crop management (ICM) demonstrations were done in 20 farmers’ fields in the Krishi Vigyan Kendra operated mandals of Ananthapur and Satya Sai districts in Andhra Pradesh state during the Kharif seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24. The objective was to demonstrate the influence of ICM to increase tomato yield at field level. According to the data, ICM practices produced a mean yield of 59.7 t/ha, which is 6.23% higher than farmers practice (56.2 t/ha). The increment in yield of tomato crop under ICM practices was due to use of improved hybrid of Arka Samrat coupled with ICM module developed by Dr YSR Horticultural University. ICM practices resulted in a higher economic benefit and adoption of ICM practices resulted in higher benefit-cost ratio (3.80) than the farmers practice with private hybrids (3.48). Tomato productivity per unit area increased by applying scientifically sound, long-term management practices. The study demonstrated that, ICM enhanced tomato yields. This can be used to influence farmers to adopt enhanced tomato production management technologies in the future.
Studies on Genetic Divergence among Indian and Exotic Cowpea Germplasm Based on Morphological & Agronomical Traits
Authors: Belwal Ankita , Singh J.P. , J Jyothsna , Dhathri Mondeddula
Published: April 2024

Aim: Assessment and characterization of genotypes is essential for successful crop breeding efforts. This study was undertaken at the Department of Vegetable crops, GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India to assess and characterize the 40 cowpea germplasm from indigenous and exotic collections.
Methodology: To analyze the genetic diversity, Mahalanobis D2 statistic analysis is employed.
Results: Based on the findings of the current study, it can be inferred that certain genotypes, namely EC-572715 for plant height, EC-390216 for various phenological traits such as days to first flowering, days to first pod emergence, and days to first pod edible maturity, as well as WB-9 and IC-628899 for the number of primary branches, COPBVAR-3 and EC-97306 for the number of pods per cluster, EC-390216 and IC-628899 for pod length, EC-472272 and COPBVAR-3 for the number of seeds per pod, and COPBVAR-3, EC-390241, and EC-390216 for the number of pods per plant and green pod yield per plot, exhibit promising characteristics for adoption in large-scale agricultural practices following rigorous multiplication and multi-location testing. Additionally, these genotypes could serve as valuable donor parents in breeding programs aimed at improving crop traits.
Modulatory Functions of Craterispermum schweinfurthi on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis of Male Wistar Rats in Phenyl Hydrazine Induced Testicular Toxicity
Authors: Friday Saronee, , Dagbota Dan-Jumbo , Azosibe Perowei , Ezinwayi Amadi Joy
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is mediated by different factors which are of research interest.
Aim: To evaluate the modulatory functions of Craterispermum schweinfurthi leaf extract on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of male Wistar rats in phenyl hydrazine induced testicular toxicity.
Methodology: 40 male Wistar rats weighing between 100-250g were randomly divided into 8 groups of 5 rats each. Testicular toxicity was induced through intraperitoneal administration of 40mg/kg of phenyl hydrazine at 9am on day 0 and two additional injections at 9am and 6pm on day 1 in all rat groups except groups 1 and 8 and were treated as follows for 14 days; Group 1: Rats in this group received distilled water only: Group 2: Untreated Phenyl hydrazine induced toxicity rats: Groups 3-5 received 250mg/kg, 500mg/kg and 750mg/kg body weight  of the extract: Group 6:  Rats in this group were administered 0.23ml/kg of Bioferon: Group7: Phenyl hydrazine + Phytosterol (2000mg/kg): Group 8: Phytosterol only (2000mg/kg). 24 hours after the last administration, the rats were anaesthetized using 3.5% chloroform soaked in cotton wool and blood samples collected through direct cardiac puncture for the estimation of serum concentration of reproductive hormones. Also, rat’s caudal epididymis was excised for the determination of sperm indices.
Results: Administration of the hydromethanol leaf extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthi to rats Groups 3-5, significantly increased serum concentration of luteinizing, Follicle stimulating hormones and Testosterone compared to Group 2 (phenyl hydrazine induced toxicity) rats (p<0.05): Suggesting a possible modulatory function of the extract. Significantly dose dependent higher values of sperm volume, viability, count, normal and active sperm were observed amongst groups 3-5 rats following the administration of graded doses of the extract compared to Group 2 (phenyl hydrazine induced toxicity) rats (p<0.05). Suggesting a possible amelioration of the toxic effects of phenyl hydrazine.
Conclusion: This study reports that administration of hydromethanol extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthi caused a significant and dose dependent improvement in the concentration of male reproductive hormones: resulting in a predictable increase in sperm indices.
The Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Effects of Allium sativum Clove Extracts on Some Enteric Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Anyanwu George Okechukwu , Dike-Ndudim Joy Nkeiruka , Nwosu Dennis Chimezie , Anyanwu Comfort Chinyere , Ndubueze Chizaram Winners , Ahiara Chinatu Onyeakolam , Chima Ogbonnaya Cornelius , Emengaha Festus Chidi , Obi Augustine Uchechukwu , Onuh Isaac Onyeke
Published: April 2024

In this study, the phytochemicals present in the cloves of Allium sativum were determined, and their antibacterial activities against some enteric bacterial pathogens were assessed. The phytochemical constituents were determined after the extraction process was completed using water and ethanol as the solvents. Furthermore, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of A. sativum were tested against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Shigella dysenteriae isolated from faeces of gastroenteritis patients. The agar diffusion technique (punch method) was used for this. Additionally, the extracts' minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined. The mean values of the zones of inhibition obtained were statistically analyzed using ANOVA. The least significant difference was determined according to the LSD test at P<0.05. The results of the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponin, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. Furthermore, the antibacterial susceptibility test showed that the aqueous and ethanolic extracts possess antibacterial properties against all the test organisms. The ethanolic extract at the concentration of 500mg/ml had zones of inhibition of 29.00b against E. coli, 24.00b against S. dysenteriae and the lowest 20.00b against S. typhi. On the other hand, at that same concentration, the aqueous extract had zones of inhibition of 20.00b against E. coli and 18.00b against S. dysenteriae and S. typhi. This study suggests that A. sativum extracts possess antibacterial properties. Furthermore, since the ethanolic extract was more effective than the aqueous extract, it could be that the antibacterial potency of A. sativum is solvent-dependent. In conclusion, the findings from this study suggest that further purification of the constituents of the plant might lead to the development of novel antibiotics.
Comparative Analysis of Life Satisfaction of Patients before and after Diagnosis of Eye Pathologies
Authors: Apakama Akunne Ijeoma , Onwuegbuna Arinze Anthony , Nwafor Chidozie Edwin , Uzozie Chukwudi Charles , Isu Fidelis Nkama , Onyekwe Arinze Emmanuel
Published: April 2024

Aim: To compare the life satisfaction of patients before and after diagnosis of eye pathologies.
Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional survey amongst eye patients at Guinness Eye Centre, Onitsha, South East, Nigeria using pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Data collected included the socio -demographics and the life satisfaction scores of the patients before, and 4-6 weeks after diagnosis.
Results: A total of 137 patients in the age range 18 to 88years, and with disease duration ranging from 1 to 23 years were enrolled. There was equal male to female ratio with mean age of 54.6 years. There was significant decreased mean life satisfaction scores from 25.9 before diagnosis to 24.3 after diagnosis among participants with eye pathology.
Conclusion: The diagnosis of a vision threatening eye pathology is associated with lowering of life satisfaction hence the need to incorporate psychotherapy in the long term management of these patients.
SISTEM PEMBARUAN STOK BARANG PADA TOKO PAKAIAN MENGGUNAKAN TEKNOLOGI RFID
Authors: Levina Elysia , Lim Resmana , Santoso Petrus
Published: April 2024

Pendataan barang pada toko ritel penting untuk mengetahui status ketersediaan barang, dengan adanya pendataan stok barang, maka pencarian barang akan lebih mudah. Pencatatan keluar juga perlu dilakukan dengan cepat agar tidak mengganggu kegiatan jual beli, sehingga sistem diharapkan dapat mengelola stok barang yang dapat diakses dengan mudah dan dapat dilakukan dengan cepat. Website berfungsi sebagai interface untuk menampilkan data yang ada pada database. USB RFID reader digunakan sebagai alat untuk membaca RFID. Pembuatan website menggunakan node js sebagai framework backend dan vue js sebagai framework frontend. Akses website dibedakan menjadi dua jenis berdasarkan fiturnya, yaitu storage, untuk mencatat barang masuk dan store, untuk mencatat barang keluar. Pengujian dilakukan dengan menguji keberhasilan komunikasi Node js dengan MySQL menggunakan aplikasi Postman, dan menguji keberhasilan komunikasi website dengan database. Dari hasil pengujian tersebut, RFID dapat dibaca oleh USB RFID reader, lalu data barang dapat dibaca, ditulis, diedit dan dihapus melalui web
KONTROL MINIATUR KURSI RODA DENGAN PERINTAH SUARA BERBASIS VOICE RECOGNITION MODULE
Authors: Angwyn Tobias Arthuro , Thiang Thiang
Published: April 2024

Salah satu solusi untuk mengatasi kelumpuhan adalah kursi roda. Tetapi, kursi roda konvensional akan sulit digunakan bagi orang-orang yang tidak memiliki tenaga fisik yang cukup. Salah satu solusi permasalahan tersebut adalah kursi roda kendali suara. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuat dan mengimplementasi sebuah kendali suara pada miniatur kursi roda. Arduino Uno digunakan sebagai mikrokontroler yang menerima input dari ELECHOUSE Voice Recognition Module V3 untuk kendali suara dan Arduino Joystick Module untuk kendali joystick ketika kendali suara tidak efektif. Pengguna dapat menukar antara kendali suara dan kendali joystick dengan menekan sebuah push button. Masing-masing kendali memberikan kursi roda empat gerakan, yaitu maju, putar kiri, putar kanan, dan mundur. Masing-masing gerakan ada tiga tingkat kecepatan. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian yang telah dilakukan, pada kondisi jarak sumber suara ke penerima suara dekat dan jumlah noise minimal, ELECHOUSE Voice Recognition Module V3 memiliki tingkat akurasi sekitar 90%. Pada kondisi sebaliknya, tingkat akurasi ELECHOUSE Voice Recognition Module V3 dapat turun hingga sekitar 30%. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian, dapat disimpulkan bahwa ELECHOUSE Voice Recognition Module V3 cukup baik untuk pengenalan suara seorang pengguna dan Arduino Joystick Module cukup baik untuk kendali cadangan. Dengan demikian, dengan motor yang sesuai, sistem ini dapat diterapkan pada kursi roda yang sesungguhnya.
PERENCANAAN GAMBAR LISTRIK UNTUK RENOVASI KELISTRIKAN GEREJA “X” DI SURABAYA
Authors: Limanto James , Setiadji Julius Sentosa , Hosea Emmy
Published: April 2024

Gereja “X” berencana melakukan renovasi sistem kelistrikan bangunan. Renovasi sistem kelistrikan tersebut bertujuan untuk mengganti dan menata ulang sistem kelistrikan di bangunan gereja. Sebelum merancang sistem kelistrikan bangunan terlebih dahulu dilakukan penataan sistem pencahayaan dengan bantuan software calculux indoor 5.0b untuk mensimulasikan sistem pencahayaan yang baru. Hasil simulasi menunjukkan pencahayaan pada rancangan baru sudah memenuhi standar SNI pencahayaan dengan rata – rata selisih keseluruhan ruangan sebesar 3,22%. Dalam pengerjaan rancangan sistem kelistrikan yang baru, terdapat 5 panel meliputi 1 LVMDP (Low Voltage Main Distribution Panel) dan 4 SDP (Sub Distribution Panel). Untuk SDP, panel A dan B mengatur beban penerangan dan stop kontak lantai 1 dan 2, panel C mengatur beban yang menyala pada malam hari, panel D mengatur beban air conditioner.
PERANCANGAN DAN PEMANTAUAN LOCKER MENGGUNAKAN KTM BERBASIS ESP8266
Authors: Rory Daniel Ignatius , Putro Iwan Handoyo , Khoswanto Handry
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh beberapa kasus dimana barang atau komponen hilang saat di rak lab kampus, beberapa kasus dimana salah satu proyek dari mahasiswa rusak karena ditinggal di rak lab kampus, ada juga beberapa kasus dimana barang yang dititipkan di lab tertinggal atau lupa akan barangnya. Hal ini menyebabkan kerugian pada pengguna rak serta kurangnya informasi asisten lab akan barang tersebut. Pada studi ini, penulis berusaha untuk membuat alat yang bisa berfungsi sebagai sistem keamanan locker dengan menggunakan RFID pada KTM mahasiswa. Alat ini bisa memantau penggunaan locker user, locker nomor berapa yang digunakan dan jam penggunaan locker. Proses pemantauan ini bisa lakukan oleh admin ataupun user itu sendiri. Pengujian dilakukan dengan 3 metode. Pertama, Pengujian hardware yang terdiri dari pengujian alat RFID tanpa dan menggunakan media penghalang. Kedua, pengujian software yang terdiri dari pengujian input, edit, tambah, hapus dan pengujian melakukan monitoring. Ketiga, pengujian sistem secara keseluruhan.
High‐order simulation of polymorphic crystallization using weighted essentially nonoscillatory methods
Authors: Hermanto Martin Wijaya , Braatz Richard D. , Chiu Min‐Sen
Published: November 2008

Most pharmaceutical manufacturing processes include a series of crystallization processes to increase purity with the last crystallization used to produce crystals of desired size, shape, and crystal form. The fact that different crystal forms (known as polymorphs) can have vastly different characteristics has motivated efforts to understand, simulate, and control polymorphic crystallization processes. This article proposes the use of weighted essentially nonoscillatory (WENO) methods for the numerical simulation of population balance models (PBMs) for crystallization processes, which provide much higher order accuracy than previously considered methods for simulating PBMs, and also excellent accuracy for sharp or discontinuous distributions. Three different WENO methods are shown to provide substantial reductions in numerical diffusion or dispersion compared with the other finite difference and finite volume methods described in the literature for solving PBMs, in an application to the polymorphic crystallization of L‐glutamic acid. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Convergent functional genomics of genome‐wide association data for bipolar disorder: Comprehensive identification of candidate genes, pathways and mechanisms
Authors: Le‐Niculescu H. , Patel S.D. , Bhat M. , Kuczenski R. , Faraone S.V. , Tsuang M.T. , McMahon F.J. , Schork N.J. , Nurnberger J.I. , Niculescu A.B.
Published: November 2008

Given the mounting convergent evidence implicating many more genes in complex disorders such as bipolar disorder than the small number identified unambiguously by the first‐generation Genome‐Wide Association studies (GWAS) to date, there is a strong need for improvements in methodology. One strategy is to include in the next generation GWAS larger numbers of subjects, and/or to pool independent studies into meta‐analyses. We propose and provide proof of principle for the use of a complementary approach, convergent functional genomics (CFG), as a way of mining the existing GWAS datasets for signals that are there already, but did not reach significance using a genetics‐only approach. With the CFG approach, the integration of genetics with genomics, of human and animal model data, and of multiple independent lines of evidence converging on the same genes offers a way of extracting signal from noise and prioritizing candidates. In essence our analysis is the most comprehensive integration of genetics and functional genomics to date in the field of bipolar disorder, yielding a series of novel (such as Klf12, Aldh1a1, A2bp1, Ak3l1, Rorb, Rora) and previously known (such as Bdnf, Arntl, Gsk3b, Disc1, Nrg1, Htr2a) candidate genes, blood biomarkers, as well as a comprehensive identification of pathways and mechanisms. These become prime targets for hypothesis driven follow‐up studies, new drug development and personalized medicine approaches. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemical Strategies for Generating Protein Biochips
Authors: Jonkheijm Pascal , Weinrich Dirk , Schröder Hendrik , Niemeyer Christof M. , Waldmann Herbert
Published: November 2008

Protein biochips are at the heart of many medical and bioanalytical applications. Increasing interest has been focused on surface activation and subsequent functionalization strategies for immobilizing these biomolecules. Different approaches using covalent and noncovalent chemistry are reviewed; particular emphasis is placed on the chemical specificity of protein attachment and on retention of protein function. Strategies for creating protein patterns (as opposed to protein arrays) are also outlined. An outlook on promising and challenging future directions for protein biochip research and applications is also offered.
The Azadirachtin Story
Authors: Veitch Gemma E. , Boyer Alistair , Ley Steven V.
Published: November 2008

Azadirachtin has been the subject of intensive research within the scientific community ever since its isolation from the neem tree in 1968. There are now over 1000 publications relating to this natural product which cover all aspects of structural, biological and synthetic studies. Herein, we describe the worldwide synthesis efforts towards this fascinating molecule.
Progress and challenges in freshwater conservation planning
Authors: Nel Jeanne L. , Roux Dirk J. , Abell Robin , Ashton Peter J. , Cowling Richard M. , Higgins Jonathan V. , Thieme Michele , Viers Joshua H.
Published: November 2008

Freshwater ecosystems and their associated biota are among the most endangered in the world. This, combined with escalating human pressure on water resources, demands that urgent measures be taken to conserve freshwater ecosystems and the services they provide. Systematic conservation planning provides a strategic and scientifically defensible framework for doing this.

Pioneered in the terrestrial realm, there has been some scepticism associated with the applicability of systematic approaches to freshwater conservation planning. Recent studies, however, indicate that it is possible to apply overarching systematic conservation planning goals to the freshwater realm although the specific methods for achieving these will differ, particularly in relation to the strong connectivity inherent to most freshwater systems.

Progress has been made in establishing surrogates that depict freshwater biodiversity and ecological integrity, developing complementarity‐based algorithms that incorporate directional connectivity, and designing freshwater conservation area networks that take cognizance of both connectivity and implementation practicalities.

Key research priorities include increased impetus on planning for non‐riverine freshwater systems; evaluating the effectiveness of freshwater biodiversity surrogates; establishing scientifically defensible conservation targets; developing complementarity‐based algorithms that simultaneously consider connectivity issues for both lentic and lotic water bodies; developing integrated conservation plans across freshwater, terrestrial and marine realms; incorporating uncertainty and dynamic threats into freshwater conservation planning; collection and collation of scale‐appropriate primary data; and building an evidence‐base to support improved implementation of freshwater conservation plans.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Problem‐solving test: A mutation causing cystic fibrosis
Authors: Szeberényi József
Published: November 2008

Terms to be familiar with before you start to solve the test: cystic fibrosis, pedigree analysis, transmembrane protein, channel protein, polymerase chain reaction, primers, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, fluorescent DNA staining, autosomal vs. sex‐linked inheritance, recessive vs. dominant inheritance, homozygote, heterozygote, frame‐shift mutation, deletion.
Glucose as the sole metabolic fuel: The possible influence of formal teaching on the establishment of a misconception about energy‐yielding metabolism among students from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Luz Maurício R. M. P. , de Oliveira Gabriel Aguiar , de Sousa Cristiane Ribeiro , Da Poian Andrea T.
Published: November 2008

Energy‐yielding metabolism is an important biochemistry subject that is related to many daily experiences and health issues of students. An adequate knowledge of the general features of EYM is therefore important, both from an academic and social point of view. In a previous study, we have shown that high‐school students present the misconception that carbohydrates, especially glucose, are the sole metabolic fuel for ATP production by human cells. In the present work, we investigated the possible origins of the occurrence of this misconception among students. The analysis of students' answers to questionnaires indicated that the misconception appears as soon as in the 8th grade and remains unchanged throughout subsequent school years. The analysis of grade textbooks showed that the misconception is likely to be a consequence of the teaching of nutrition in the 8th grade, when a single function is emphasized for each nutrient. The energetic function is mainly associated with carbohydrates, while proteins and lipids are considered structural and storage molecules, respectively. An extreme similarity was observed between students' knowledge of nutrient's function and textbook contents. Analysis of high‐school textbooks suggested that the misconception would be reinforced because of the detailed teaching only of glucose metabolism, with rare mention of lipids or amino acids as metabolic fuels. The consequences of that approach are discussed and suggestions are made on an alternative teaching of energy‐yielding metabolism.
The accuracy of risk assessment instruments in the prediction of impulsive versus predatory aggression
Authors: McDermott Barbara E. , Quanbeck Cameron D. , Busse David , Yastro Kalynn , Scott Charles L.
Published: November 2008

Actuarial violence risk assessments, many of which include the construct of psychopathy, have been shown to be superior to clinical judgment in the prediction of long‐term risk of community violence and recidivism. While these instruments initially appeared to provide similarly accurate judgments of risk of institutional aggression, recent research has indicated that such assessments may be less robust in this setting. One explanation may lie in the types of aggression most frequently observed in each setting. Impulsive (or reactive/affective) is the type of physical aggression most commonly exhibited in psychiatric facilities. This research examines the relationship between risk assessments and aggression in an inpatient forensic setting, with such aggression categorized as impulsive, predatory or psychotic aggression. Consistent with previous research, impulsive aggression was the most frequent type observed (58%). Anger (as measured by the Novaco Anger Scale) and clinical issues (as measured by the HCR‐20) were most associated with impulsive aggression, with AUC values of .73 and .71 respectively. In contrast, anger and psychopathy (as measured by the PCL‐R) were more associated with predatory aggression, with AUC values of .95 and .84 respectively. Psychotic symptoms were highly associated with psychotically motivated aggression (AUC = .90). These results suggest that traditional violence risk assessments may have limited utility in predicting aggression in an institutional setting and that psychiatric symptoms and heightened affect are more relevant. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oligosubstituted Pyrroles Directly from Substituted Methyl Isocyanides and Acetylenes
Authors: Lygin Alexander V. , Larionov Oleg V. , Korotkov Vadim S. , de Meijere Armin
Published: November 2008

The formal cycloaddition of α‐metallated methyl isocyanides 1 onto the triple bond of electron‐deficient acetylenes 2 represents a direct and convenient approach to oligosubstituted pyrroles 3. The scope and limitations of this reaction (24 examples, 25–97 % yield) are reported along with an optimization of the reaction conditions and a rationalization of the mechanism. In addition, a related newly developed CuI‐mediated synthesis of 2,3‐disubstituted pyrroles by the reaction of copper acetylides derived from unactivated terminal alkynes with substituted methyl isocyanides is described (11 examples, 5–88 %yield).
DCDHF Fluorophores for Single‐Molecule Imaging in Cells
Authors: Lord Samuel J. , Conley Nicholas R. , Lee Hsiao‐lu D. , Nishimura Stefanie Y. , Pomerantz Andrea K. , Willets Katherine A. , Lu Zhikuan , Wang Hui , Liu Na , Samuel Reichel , Weber Ryan , Semyonov Alexander , He Meng , Twieg Robert J. , Moerner W. E.
Published: November 2008

There is a persistent need for small‐molecule fluorescent labels optimized for single‐molecule imaging in the cellular environment. Application of these labels comes with a set of strict requirements: strong absorption, efficient and stable emission, water solubility and membrane permeability, low background emission, and red‐shifted absorption to avoid cell autofluorescence. We have designed and characterized several fluorophores, termed “DCDHF” fluorophores, for use in live‐cell imaging based on the push–pull design: an amine donor group and a 2‐dicyanomethylene‐3‐cyano‐2,5‐dihydrofuran (DCDHF) acceptor group, separated by a π‐rich conjugated network. In general, the DCDHF fluorophores are comparatively photostable, sensitive to local environment, and their chemistries and photophysics are tunable to optimize absorption wavelength, membrane affinity, and solubility. Especially valuable are fluorophores with sophisticated photophysics for applications requiring additional facets of control, such as photoactivation. For example, we have reengineered a red‐emitting DCDHF fluorophore so that it is dark until photoactivated with a short burst of low‐intensity violet light. This molecule and its relatives provide a new class of bright photoactivatable small‐molecule fluorophores, which are needed for super‐resolution imaging schemes that require active control (here turning‐on) of single‐molecule emission.
Sequence‐Specific Positions of Water Molecules at the Interface between DNA and Minor Groove Binders
Authors: Spitzer Gudrun M. , Fuchs Julian E. , Markt Patrick , Kirchmair Johannes , Wellenzohn Bernd , Langer Thierry , Liedl Klaus R.
Published: November 2008

Ligands able to specifically recognize DNA sequences are of fundamental interest as transcription‐controlling drugs. Herein, we analyze the positions of water molecules relative to B‐DNA base pairs in the minor groove of X‐ray and NMR protein data bank (PDB) structures. The patterns observed for water molecules at the interface between DNA and a ligand are compared with those obtained for structures without a ligand. Although the ligand end groups are often charged, and therefore highly hydrated, they do not alter the water patterns, which show considerable differences for the AT and CG base pairs. For AT they are much more precise than for CG in both ligand‐containing and ligand‐free structures. This behavior strongly indicates that the release of water molecules upon ligand binding leads to a gain of entropy and explains why this effect is especially pronounced for A‐tract B‐DNA sequences.
A flexible multicarrier CDMA system with time‐varying data rates and services
Authors: You Cheolwoo , Chung Wonzoo , Jeon Taehyun
Published: November 2008

We consider an enhanced multicarrier code‐division multiple access (CDMA) system that performs the spreading in the time and frequency domains simultaneously, where time‐domain spreading codes are used as a main code and frequency‐domain spreading codes (FDSCs) are used as a subcode. By allocating the FDSCs to users, rates and services can be dynamically matched to users' needs. The resulting system can support different time‐varying source rates and, therefore, enable multimedia applications. In addition, since the proposed scheme uses multiple carriers, it has some advantages such as the mitigated multipath fading, frequency/path diversity and narrowband interference suppression capability, in contrast to a single carrier (SC) system such as the multicode CDMA scheme. Finally, the closed‐form expression for probability of bit error is derived for a frequency‐selective Rayleigh fading channel. It has been also shown that the proposed system has outperformed the conventional SC RAKE system if the available bandwidth is fixed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cre‐mediated recombination in pituitary somatotropes
Authors: Nasonkin Igor O. , Potok Mary Anne , Camper Sally A.
Published: November 2008

We report a transgenic line with highly penetrant cre recombinase activity in the somatotrope cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Expression of the cre transgene is under the control of the locus control region of the human growth hormone gene cluster and the rat growth hormone promoter. Cre recombinase activity was assessed with two different lacZ reporter genes that require excision of a floxed stop sequence for expression: a chick β‐actin promoter with the CMV enhancer transgene and a ROSA26 knock‐in. Cre activity is detectable in the developing pituitary after initiation of Gh transcription and persists through adulthood with high penetrance in Gh expressing cells and lower penetrance in lactotropes, a cell type that shares a common origin with somatotropes. This Gh‐cre transgenic line is suitable for efficient, cell‐specific deletion of floxed regions of genomic DNA in differentiated somatotropes and a subset of lactotrope cells of the anterior pituitary gland. genesis 47:55–60, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Building Higher Carbohydrates via Dioxanone Aldol Chemistry: The α,α′‐Bisaldol Approach
Authors: Niewczas Izabella , Majewski Marek
Published: November 2008

A synthetic approach to higher carbohydrates via the sequence of two aldol reactions that proceed at the α and α′ positions of 2,2‐dimethyl‐1,3‐dioxan‐5‐one (dioxanone) is described. As reported before, the first aldol reaction works well under organocatalytic conditions (proline catalysis), this is followed by protection of the hydroxy, deprotonation of the resulting compound using excess of LDA, and the second aldol addition. This sequence of reactions gives compounds having a straight‐chain carbon skeleton with an oxygen‐based functional group at each carbon. Most of the groups are protected. The utility of this strategy is illustrated by short syntheses of 6‐C‐phenyl‐D‐glycero‐D‐allo‐hexopyranose and D‐erythro‐D‐allooctopyranose(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Flux‐difference splitting‐based upwind compact schemes for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Shah Abdullah , Yuan Li
Published: November 2008

Third‐order and fifth‐order upwind compact finite difference schemes based on flux‐difference splitting are proposed for solving the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations in conjunction with the artificial compressibility (AC) method. Since the governing equations in the AC method are hyperbolic, flux‐difference splitting (FDS) originally developed for the compressible Euler equations can be used. In the present upwind compact schemes, the split derivatives for the convective terms at grid points are linked to the differences of split fluxes between neighboring grid points, and these differences are computed by using FDS. The viscous terms are approximated with a sixth‐order central compact scheme. Comparisons with 2D benchmark solutions demonstrate that the present compact schemes are simple, efficient, and high‐order accurate. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical studies of blood flow in healthy, stenosed, and stented carotid arteries
Authors: Gay Mickaël , Zhang Lucy T.
Published: November 2008

Numerical analysis of pulsatile blood flow in healthy, stenosed, and stented carotid arteries is performed with the aim of identifying hemodynamic factors in the initiation, growth, and the potential of leading to severe occlusions of a diseased artery. The Immersed Finite Element Method is adopted for this study to conveniently incorporate various geometrical shapes of arteries without remeshing. Our computational results provide detailed quantitative analysis on the blood flow pattern, wall shear stress, particle residence time, and oscillatory shear index. The analysis of these parameters leads to a better understanding of blood clot formation and its localization in a stenosed and a stented carotid artery. A healthy artery is also studied to establish a baseline comparison. This analysis will assist in developing treatments for diseased arteries and novel stent designs to reduce restenosis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene position within chromosome territories correlates with their involvement in distinct rearrangement types in thyroid cancer cells
Authors: Gandhi Manoj S. , Stringer James R. , Nikiforova Marina N. , Medvedovic Mario , Nikiforov Yuri E.
Published: November 2008

Chromosomal rearrangements in human cancers are of two types, interchromosomal, which are rearrangements that involve exchange between loci located on different chromosomes, and intrachromosomal, which are rearrangements that involve loci located on the same chromosome. The type of rearrangement that typically activates a specific oncogene may be influenced by its nuclear location and that of its partner. In interphase nuclei, each chromosome occupies a distinct three‐dimensional (3D) territory that tends to not overlap the territories of other chromosomes. It is also known that after double strand breaks in the genome, mobility of free DNA ends is limited. These considerations suggest that loci located deep within a chromosomal territory might not participate in interchromosomal rearrangements as readily as in intrachromosomal rearrangements. To test this hypothesis, we used fluorescence in situ hybridization with 3D high‐resolution confocal microscopy to analyze the positions of six oncogenes known to be activated by recombination in human cancer cells. We found that loci involved in interchromosomal rearrangements were located closer to the periphery of chromosome territories as compared with the loci that were involved in intrachromosomal inversions. The results of this study provide evidence suggesting that nuclear architecture and location of specific genetic loci within chromosome territories may influence their participation in intrachromosomal or interchromosomal rearrangements in human thyroid cells. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.