bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Leaf Clipping and Nitrogen Split Application on Bridegroom Rice Productivity
Authors: Saranya J. , Jawahar S. , Suseendran K. , Kalaiyarasan C. , Elayaraja D.
Published: September 2024

Bridegroom rice is one the most important indigenous rice variety predominantly grown in Tamil Nadu, India. Lodging in nature and poor responsive to nitrogenous fertilizers affects the yield of this crop. To minimize crop lodging and to enhance the productivity, a field experiment was carried out during Samba 2023 at Experimental Farm, Department of Agronomy, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India to study the effect of leaf clipping and nitrogen split application on bridegroom rice productivity. The experiment was laid out in Factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with three replications. The treatments consisted of two factors viz., Factor I -leaf clipping (L): L1- No leaf clipping, L2 - leaf clipping on 30 DAT at one third of  leaf, L3- leaf clipping on 45 DAT at one third of leaf and Factor II - split application of N (N) : N1- no splits (no NPK), N2 - 4 equal splits (basal, 25, 50, 75 DAT), N3­- 5 equal splits (basal 20, 40, 60,80 DAT ) and N4 - 6 equal splits (basal, 15, 30, 45, 60 ,75 DAT). Among the treatments, leaf clipping on 45 DAT at one third of leaf along with application of nitrogen in 6 equal split registered its superiority compared to others which recorded the higher values for growth attributes viz., plant height (243cm), number of tillers hill-1 (23.42), root length (33.56cm), root volume (45.19 cc) and dry matter production (12592 kg ha-1),yield attributes viz., number of panicles m-2 (407.62) and number of grains panicle-1 (158.34) and test weight (42.34g) and yields of rice (grain - 3950 kg ha-1­and straw - 6530 kg ha-1­). Thus, it can be concluded that leaf clipping on 45 DAT at one third of leaf along application of nitrogen in 6 equal splits is a viable practice to enhance the growth and yield of bridegroom rice.
Exergy and Energy Analysis of Forced Convective Thin-layer Solar Drying of Tiger Nuts (Cyperus esculantus L.)
Authors: Ezeanya Nnaemeka Charles
Published: September 2024

Aims: To study the exergy and energy analysis for thin-layer solar drying of tiger nuts; and also to determine the drying kinetics for the thin-layer solar drying of tiger nuts.
Study Design:  Yellow variety of tiger nuts were dried in a forced convection solar dryer to determine the exergy and energy indices.
Place and Duration of Study: Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria between October, 2022 to March, 2023.
Methodology: The experiment was conducted at three different air velocities of 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 m s-1 and two different loads of 70 and 140 g. The tiger nuts were dried from average initial moisture content of 52% (wb) to final moisture content of 10.2% (wb), at an average temperature range of 50.5 to 51.2 ºC. Energy utilization, exergy loss rate, exergy efficiency, improvement potential, and sustainability index were determined.
Results: The results of energy utilization, exergy loss rate and improvement potential ranged from 2.1 to 5.09 W, 0.25 to 0.93 W and 0.08 to 0.54 W respectively; however, these values increased with increasing air velocities and loads. The results of exergy efficiency and sustainability index ranged from 41.8 to 68.49% and 1.72 to 3.17 respectively; these values increased with decreasing air velocities and loads. Graphical plots of moisture content with drying time showed that the moisture content of the tiger nuts decreased with increasing drying time. The characteristic nature of the curve is indicative of the fact that there was an initial higher rate of drying, which gradually declined with drying time. The results also showed that the drying rates of the tiger nuts ranged from 6.03 to 8.44 %MC/hr; and these values varied with the different air velocities and loads.
Conclusion: The results from this research will serve as a guide in reduction of energy costs for the optimum design of convective dryers.
Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices in Rice (Oryza sativa) Under SRI
Authors: Premnath K. , Suseendran K. , Kalaiyarasan C. , Jawahar S.
Published: September 2024

An experimental study was conducted at the Annamalai University Experimental Farm in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, between February and May 2023. The objective of this work is to chemically manage the developing weeds in rice during vegetative development using the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technology. Additionally, the study aims to identify the weed flora in the experimental field. In this study, a Randomised Block Design with three replications was employed. The experimental treatments comprised optimal combinations of chemical and mechanical techniques for weed management. The experiment was structured in a randomised block design, consisting of seven treatments, and subsequently reproduced three times. Among the several treatments, the application of Penoxsulam + Butachlor @ 2L/ha (PE) on 3 days after transplantation (DAT) for rice, and the use of Conoweeder twice on 25 and 35 DAT (rice), effectively decreased weed density and thus reduced weed biomass. This led to an improvement in crop development and production. The greater plant height, drying matter potential (DMP), and grain yield seen with the application of Penoxsulam + Butachlor @ 2L/ha (PE) on 3 days after transplantation (DAT), and Conoweeder twice on 25 and 35 DAT, may be attributed to the effective management of a weed-free environment, especially during critical growth phases of the crop. Suppression of agricultural weed competition facilitated increased growth and development of rice crop, resulting in elevated grain and straw yield.
Comparative Study on Cost Analysis of Mechanical and Manual Transplanting of Rice
Authors: Vijay J , Mahesh L , Rao N Venkateshwar , Reddy D Sreenivasa , Venugopal G
Published: September 2024

In Telangana, rice cultivation predominantly relies on traditional manual transplanting, which requires a significant labor force. However, the migration of agricultural laborers to urban areas in search of better wages has led to a shortage of workers, particularly during the critical transplanting season. To address this labor shortage and reduce cultivation costs, an efficient and cost-effective method of rice transplanting is essential, without compromising grain yield.
To explore such a solution, Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Jammikunta, Karimnagar district, conducted 30 frontline demonstrations between 2018-19 and 2020-21, showcasing rice cultivation using a self-propelled, walk-behind six-row mechanical transplanter. The performance of this mechanical method was evaluated by collecting data on various growth parameters, including plant height, number of productive tillers per hill, panicle length, grains per panicle, and grain yield, and comparing it with traditional manual transplanting.
Economic analysis revealed that the gross returns from mechanical transplanting were Rs. 135,956, compared to Rs. 128,629 for manual transplanting. Similarly, the net returns for mechanical and manual methods were Rs. 95,106 and Rs. 82,204, respectively. The benefit-cost ratio was found to be 3.32 for mechanical transplanting and 2.77 for manual transplanting. These findings indicate that mechanical rice transplanting offers a viable, cost-effective alternative, reducing labor requirements and drudgery while delivering higher yields.
Gene Editing for Disease Resistance in Crops: Success Stories and Challenges
Authors: M Muhammad Suhaib Ismayil , Kiran N R , Thottempudi Kavya , Yadav Akash , Vinothini R. , Mundhe Akshay Kisan , Mote Manisha Satyawan , M Shankar
Published: September 2024

Gene editing has emerged as a transformative tool in modern agriculture, offering new avenues for enhancing disease resistance in crops. By precisely modifying the DNA of plants, scientists can develop varieties that are better equipped to withstand the onslaught of pathogens, which pose significant threats to global food security. This article delves into the success stories and challenges associated with gene editing for disease resistance in crops, with a focus on technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, TALENs, and ZFNs. One of the major success stories in this field is the development of disease-resistant varieties of wheat, rice, and tomatoes. For instance, researchers have used CRISPR-Cas9 to create wheat varieties resistant to powdery mildew, a devastating fungal disease. Similarly, gene editing has enabled the development of rice strains with enhanced resistance to bacterial blight, a disease that can lead to significant yield losses. In tomatoes, gene editing has been employed to confer resistance against the Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus, which severely affects tomato production worldwide. These achievements underscore the potential of gene editing to create crops that are not only more resilient but also capable of maintaining high yields under disease pressure. However, the application of gene editing in crop disease resistance is not without challenges. One of the primary concerns is the regulatory landscape, which varies significantly across different countries. While some nations have embraced gene-edited crops, others have imposed strict regulations, treating them similarly to genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This inconsistency can hinder the global deployment of disease-resistant crops and create trade barriers. Additionally, there are concerns related to off-target effects, where unintended changes in the genome may occur, potentially leading to unintended consequences in the plant's growth or ecological interactions.
Einkunftsquellen von Influencern und deren Besteuerung bei Wohnsitz im Ausland
Authors: Kunz Tom-Eric , Leitsch Sebastian
Published: September 2024

Die Einbindung von Influencern in das Marketing, das sog. Influencer- Marketing, spielt in den letzten Jahren eine immer größere Rolle. Zahlreiche deutsche Influencer haben sich zuletzt im Ausland, bspw. in Dubai, niedergelassen und üben ihre Tätigkeit von dort aus. Es stellt sich die Frage, inwieweit es in diesen Konstellationen zu einer beschränkten Steuerpflicht in Deutschland kommen kann. Soweit bspw. im Rahmen einer Produktwerbung unterhaltende Beiträge durch ausländische Influencer in Deutschland erstellt werden oder inländischen Unternehmen im Rahmen gebrandeter Produkte Namens- oder Markenrechte eingeräumt werden, können inländische Einkünfte i.S.d. § 49 Abs. 1 Nr. 2 Buchst. d oder f EStG vorliegen. Auslegungsprobleme der §§ 49 sowie 50a EStG führen für im Ausland lebende Influencer zu Rechtsunsicherheiten und für deren inländische Vertragspartner zu Haftungsrisiken aufgrund nicht durchgeführter Quellensteuereinbehalte.
Hybride Gestaltungen: Der Entwurf eines BMF-Schreibens v. 13.7.2023 zu § 4k EStG
Authors: Rüsch Gary
Published: September 2024

Der Beitrag kommentiert ausgewählte Aspekte des am 13.7.2023 veröffentlichten Entwurfs eines BMF-Schreibens zu § 4k EStG, da die finale Fassung des Schreibens auf sich warten lässt. Wann die endgültige Veröffentlichung des Anwendungsschreibens erfolgt, ist derzeit nicht absehbar.
The influence of sandstone caprock material on bedrock channel steepness within a tectonically passive setting: Buffalo National River Basin, Arkansas, USA
Authors: Thaler E. A. , Covington M. D.
Published: August 2016

Bedrock channel profile analysis typically assumes that channels evolve toward a condition of topographic steady state where channel morphology is adjusted to rock erodibility, uplift rates, and stream power. Here we use the integral method of channel profile analysis to quantify channel steepness within a large set of tributary channels that incise through layered rocks in the Buffalo National River Basin in northern Arkansas. Statistical analysis of these channels demonstrates that normalized channel steepness is not a function of local bedrock lithology but is influenced by coarse sediment supply. Specifically, normalized steepness is greatest in reaches of the basin where an interval of Pennsylvanian sandstone forms a caprock on the ridges. Block detachment of the sandstone causes large boulders to be stranded in the upper tributaries where stream power is too low to mobilize or effectively erode the boulders. Within these channels, normalized steepness is correlated with sandstone boulder size and percent boulder coverage rather than local lithology, despite strong contrasts in the mechanical strength of the lithologies incised. This analysis suggests that removal of caprock material is rate limiting within the landscape and may be responsible for the long‐term persistence of topography within this tectonically passive setting.
Modeling cosmic ray neutron field measurements
Authors: Andreasen Mie , Jensen Karsten H. , Zreda Marek , Desilets Darin , Bogena Heye , Looms Majken C.
Published: August 2016

The cosmic ray neutron method was developed for intermediate‐scale soil moisture detection, but may potentially be used for other hydrological applications. The neutron signal of different hydrogen pools is poorly understood and separating them is difficult based on neutron measurements alone. Including neutron transport modeling may accommodate this shortcoming. However, measured and modeled neutrons are not directly comparable. Neither the scale nor energy ranges are equivalent, and the exact neutron energy sensitivity of the detectors is unknown. Here a methodology to enable comparability of the measured and modeled neutrons is presented. The usual cosmic ray soil moisture detector measures moderated neutrons by means of a proportional counter surrounded by plastic, making it sensitive to epithermal neutrons. However, that configuration allows for some thermal neutrons to be measured. The thermal contribution can be removed by surrounding the plastic with a layer of cadmium, which absorbs neutrons with energies below 0.5 eV. Likewise, cadmium shielding of a bare detector allows for estimating the epithermal contribution. First, the cadmium difference method is used to determine the fraction of thermal and epithermal neutrons measured by the bare and plastic‐shielded detectors, respectively. The cadmium difference method results in linear correction models for measurements by the two detectors, and has the greatest impact on the neutron intensity measured by the moderated detector at the ground surface. Next, conversion factors are obtained relating measured and modeled neutron intensities. Finally, the methodology is tested by modeling the neutron profiles at an agricultural field site and satisfactory agreement to measurements is found.
Analytical and numerical investigations of spontaneous imbibition in porous media
Authors: Nooruddin Hasan A. , Blunt Martin J.
Published: August 2016

We present semianalytical solutions for cocurrent displacements with some degree of countercurrent flow. The solution assumes a one‐dimensional horizontal displacement of two immiscible incompressible fluids with arbitrary viscosities and saturation‐dependent relative permeability and capillary pressures. We address the impact of the system length on the degree of countercurrent flow when there is no pressure drop in the nonwetting phase across the system, assuming negligible capillary back pressure at the inlet boundary of the system. It is shown that in such displacements, the fractional flow can be used to determine a critical water saturation, from which regions of both cocurrent and countercurrent flow are identified. This critical saturation changes with time as the saturation front moves into the porous medium. Furthermore, the saturation profile in the approach presented here is not necessarily a function of distance divided by the square root of time. We also present approximate solutions using a perturbative approach, which is valid for a wide range of flow conditions. This approach requires less computational power and is much easier to implement than the implicit integral solutions used in previous work. Finally, a comprehensive comparison between analytical and numerical solutions is presented. Numerical computations are performed using traditional finite‐difference formulations and convergence analysis shows a generally slow convergence rate for water imbibition rates and saturation profiles. This suggests that most coarsely gridded simulations give a poor estimate of imbibition rates, while demonstrating the value of these analytical solutions as benchmarks for numerical studies, complementing Buckley‐Leverett analysis.
Prolonged El Niño conditions in 2014–2015 and the rapid intensification of Hurricane Patricia in the eastern Pacific
Authors: Foltz Gregory R. , Balaguru Karthik
Published: August 2016

Hurricane Patricia was the most intense tropical cyclone on record in the eastern North Pacific or Atlantic, reaching a peak intensity of 95 m s−1 only 30 h after attaining hurricane status (33 m s−1). Here it is shown that exceptionally warm sea surface temperatures (SSTs), a deeper than normal thermocline, and strong near‐surface salinity stratification all aided Patricia's rapid intensification, combining to increase its Potential Intensity by 1–14 m s−1. Anomalous surface warming and thermocline deepening along Patricia's track were driven by prolonged El Niño conditions during 2014–2015 and punctuated by the buildup to the extreme El Niño of 2015–2016. In the region where Patricia intensified, SST was 1.5° C higher and sea surface height was 10 cm higher compared to conditions during the last extreme El Niño in 1997, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the 2015 anomalies.
Accurately characterizing the importance of wave‐particle interactions in radiation belt dynamics: The pitfalls of statistical wave representations
Authors: Murphy Kyle R. , Mann Ian R. , Rae I. Jonathan , Sibeck David G. , Watt Clare E. J.
Published: August 2016

Wave‐particle interactions play a crucial role in energetic particle dynamics in the Earth's radiation belts. However, the relative importance of different wave modes in these dynamics is poorly understood. Typically, this is assessed during geomagnetic storms using statistically averaged empirical wave models as a function of geomagnetic activity in advanced radiation belt simulations. However, statistical averages poorly characterize extreme events such as geomagnetic storms in that storm‐time ultralow frequency wave power is typically larger than that derived over a solar cycle and Kp is a poor proxy for storm‐time wave power.
Remote sensing of normalized diffuse attenuation coefficient of downwelling irradiance
Authors: Lin Junfang , Lee Zhongping , Ondrusek Michael , Du Keping
Published: August 2016

The diffuse attenuation of downwelling irradiance, Kd (m−1), is an important property related to light penetration and availability in aquatic ecosystems. The standard Kd(490) product (the diffuse attenuation coefficient at 490 nm) of the global oceans from satellite remote sensing has been produced with an empirical algorithm, which limits its reliability and applicability in coastal regions. More importantly, as an apparent optical property (AOP), Kd is a function of the angular distribution of the light field (e.g., solar zenith angle). The empirically derived product thus contains ambiguities when compared with in situ measurements as there is no specification regarding the corresponding solar zenith angle associated with this Kd(490) product. To overcome these shortcomings, we refined the Kd product with a product termed as the normalized diffuse attenuation coefficient (nKd, m−1), that is equivalent to the Kd in the absence of the atmosphere and with the sun at zenith. Models were developed to get nKd from both in situ measurements and ocean color remote sensing. Evaluations using field measurements indicated that the semianalytically derived nKd product will not only remove the ambiguities when comparing Kd values of different light fields but will also improve the quality of such a product, therefore maximizing the value offered by satellite ocean color remote sensing.
Palladium NNC Pincer Complex as an Efficient Catalyst for the Cycloisomerization of Alkynoic Acids
Authors: Conde Nerea , SanMartin Raul , Herrero María Teresa , Domínguez Esther
Published: August 2016

A two‐step (nucleophilic substitution/palladation by oxidative addition) sequence provides a high‐yielding access to a non‐symmetrical palladium NNC pincer complex. A number of terminal and internal alkynoic acids with different substitution patterns at the α‐ and β‐positions are regio‐ and diastereoselectively cycloisomerized to the corresponding exocyclic enol lactones in the presence of exceedingly low amounts of the latter palladium complex, so that unprecedented turnover numbers and frequencies ranging from 1,000,000 to 700,000 and from 41,667 to 9722 h−1, respectively, are achieved. The optimized protocol, based on the use of a catalytic amount of triethylamine as base, allows an easy real‐time monitoring of the reaction by NMR spectroscopy. Several pieces of evidence in favor of the direct participation of the above pincer complex as the catalyst of the reaction have been gathered from kinetic and poisoning experiments

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Lichtgesteuerte Kupplungsreaktionen im nahen Infrarot mittels Aufkonvertierungs‐Nanopartikeln
Authors: Lederhose Paul , Chen Zhijun , Müller Rouven , Blinco James P. , Wu Si , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: August 2016

Wir berichten über eine Nitrilimin‐vermittelte Tetrazol‐En‐Cycloaddition (NITEC) in Gegenwart von Photonen‐aufkonvertierenden Nanopartikeln (UCNPs) als eine effiziente Verknüpfungsmethode. Werden Pyren‐Aryltetrazol‐Derivate (λabs,max=346 nm) in Gegenwart von UCNPs mit Nahinfrarotlicht bei 974 nm bestrahlt, so wird das Tetrazol rasch zu einem reaktiven Nitrilimin umgesetzt. In Gegenwart einer elektronenarmen Doppelbindung reagiert das entstandene Nitrilimin unter Umgebungsbedingungen quantitativ zu einem Pyrazolin‐Cycloaddukt. Die Kombination von NITEC und UCNP wurde für Cycloadditionen kleiner Moleküle, Polymer‐Endgruppenumwandlungen und die Bildung von Blockcopolymeren aus funktionalisierten Makromolekülen genutzt. Da die Methode vielversprechend für In‐vivo‐Anwendungen ist, wurden Gewebedurchdringungsexperimente in Gegenwart von biologisch relevantem Biotin durchgeführt. Quantitative Cycloadditionen und die Aufrechterhaltung der biologischen Aktivität des Biotins unter Bestrahlung bei 974 nm wurden beobachtet.
Entropically Driven Self‐Assembly of Bolaamphiphilic Perylene Dyes in Water
Authors: Görl Daniel , Würthner Frank
Published: August 2016

The specific hydrophobic effect involved in the self‐assembly of a bolaamphiphilic perylene bisimide (PBI) dye bearing oligoethylene glycol (OEG) chains has been identified. In pure water, the self‐assembly is entropically driven and enthalpically disfavored, as explored by optical spectroscopy and isothermal titration calorimetry studies. Besides strong π–π interactions between the PBI units that are primarily of enthalpic nature, the major contribution to the self‐assembly is the gain of entropy by release of confined water molecules from the hydration shell of the hydrophilic OEG moieties. Both contributions favor self‐assembly, but their countervailing thermodynamic parameters are reflected in an uncommon temperature dependence, which can be inverted upon gradual addition of an organic cosolvent that makes the π–π interaction increasingly dominant.
Reagents with a Crystalline Coat
Authors: Schwenger Alexander , Frey Wolfgang , Richert Clemens
Published: August 2016

Tetrakis(dimethoxyphenyl)adamantane (TDA) readily forms crystalline inclusion complexes with reactive, toxic, or malodorous reagents, such as benzoyl chloride, acetyl chloride, cyclohexyl isocyanide, phosphorus trichloride, and trimethylsilyl chloride. The crystals are stable and largely free of the problematic properties of the free reagents. When exposed to solvents such as DMSO or MeOH, the reagents react, and a large portion of the TDA precipitates. The TDA‐coated reagents may lead to a safer way of storing, handling, and delivering reagents, and ultimately to synthetic protocols that do not require fume hoods.
Rapid green and blue light‐induced CO release from bromazepam Mn(I) and Ru(II) carbonyls: synthesis, density functional theory and biological activity evaluation
Authors: Mansour Ahmed M.
Published: August 2016

Two new photoactivatable carbon monoxide‐releasing molecules (CORMs), fac‐[Mn(CO)3(BZM)Br] (1) and [RuCl2(BZM)(CO)2] (2), derived from the anti‐anxiety drug bromazepam (BZM) and capable of rapid release of CO upon the illumination with light‐emitting diode (LED) source light (470–525 nm) have been synthesized and characterized. The photo‐delivery of CO to myoglobin solution could be achieved via the illumination of 1 at 525 nm for 10 min or at 470 nm for 1 min. The addition of water to a dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solution of 1 increases its stability, but it decreases the rate of the CO‐releasing process. CORM 2 behaves as a good visible photoCORM, whereby its two CO molecules are released within 10 min upon exposure to LED light source at 470 nm in DMSO. The illumination profile of 2 was also examined using solution infrared spectroscopy. The cis/trans stereochemistry around the Ru(II) ion was determined using quantum chemical calculations. The formation of photoCORMs leads to an improvement in the toxicity of BZM against tested microbes.
Moving Graphitic Carbon Nitride from Electrocatalysis and Photocatalysis to a Potential Electrode Material for Photoelectric Devices
Authors: Xu Jingsan , Antonietti Markus , Shalom Menny
Published: August 2016

Carbon nitride (g‐CN) has attracted significant interest in the last years as a robust, low‐cost alternative to metal‐based materials in different fields due to its low price, environmentally benign character, simple synthesis and tunable properties. In particular, g‐CN demonstrates promising activity in energy‐related applications such as photo and heterogeneous catalysis, batteries and electrolysis. However, while g‐CN is already well‐established as a photocatalyst, its utilization in (opto)electronic devices is still at an early stage. This Focus Review concentrates on the utilization of g‐CN in solar and photoelectrochemical cells, electrolyzers and light emitting diode alongside the recap of new synthetic approaches. This review is expected to provide useful insights into the design and fabrication of g‐CN based photoelectronic devices as well as g‐CN working principles, including the main challenges toward its integration in optoelectronic devices.
Design of cyclized selective melanotropins
Authors: Cai Minying , Hruby Victor J.
Published: August 2016

This article describes the development of cyclic peptides for G‐protein coupled receptors to enable structure‐function knowledge and the design of novel therapeutics. One important property of cyclic peptides is that they tend to be resistant to the digestion, enabling them to survive in the human digestive tract. This trait makes them very important as drug leads or as scaffolds which, in theory, can be engineered to incorporate a peptide domain of medicinal value. This is especially important for delivery of peptides that would be destroyed without such implementation. The melanocortin system is the focus of this article, and includes melanotropin ligands and melanocortin receptors. We examine two strategies to constrain the melanotropin peptide backbone. The first is based on global constraint of peptides by cyclization using various kinds of linkers. In the second approach we describe the use of a natural cyclized template, the cyclotide, to graft the melanotropin phamacophore, ‐His‐Phe‐Arg‐Trp‐, to obtain selective drug leads. In these examples the conserved melanocyte stimulating hormone pharmacophore is examined and the modified peptides were synthesized by solid phase methodology. Biological studies confirmed the production of selective, potent and in some cases orally available ligands.
Cost-effectiveness of pelvic exenteration for locally advanced malignancy
Authors: Koh C E , Badgery-Parker T , Salkeld G , Young J M , Heriot A G , Solomon M J
Published: August 2016

Background

The rising cost of healthcare is well documented. The purpose of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of pelvic exenteration (PE).

Methods

Consecutive patients referred for consideration of PE between 2008 and 2011 were recruited into a prospective non-randomized study that compared quality of life (QoL) between patients who did or did not undergo PE. Information on QoL and cost (in Australian dollars, AUD) was collected at baseline, during admission and up to 24 months after discharge. QoL data were converted into a utility-based measure. Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were calculated. Bottom-up costing was performed. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated per life-year saved and per QALY.

Results

There were 174 patients with sufficient data for analysis. Of these, 139 underwent PE. R0 was achieved in 78·4 per cent of patients. The survival rate at 24 months after PE was 74·8 per cent compared with 43 per cent in those without exenteration (P = 0·001). Treatment costs were significantly higher for patients who had PE compared with those who did not (mean AUD 137 407 versus 79 174; P < 0·001). The ICER was AUD 124 147 (95 per cent c.i. 71 585 to 261 876) per life-year saved and AUD 227 330 (109 974 to 1 100 449) per QALY. Curative PE (R0) was found to be more cost-effective than non-curative PE (R1/R2), with an ICER of AUD 101 518 (60 105 to 200 428) versus 390 712 (74 368 to 82 256 739) per life-year saved.

Conclusion

Treatment of advanced pelvic cancers is expensive regardless of the treatment intent. For a cost difference of only AUD 58 000 (€38 264), PE offers a chance of cure, and improves survival and QoL.
Multicentre observational study of surgical system failures in aortic procedures and their effect on patient outcomes
Authors: Lear R , Riga C , Godfrey A D , Falaschetti E , Cheshire N J , Van Herzeele I , Norton C , Vincent C , Darzi A W , Bicknell C D , Gohel M , Hayes P , Joseph T , Sowinski A , Wilson T , Chong P , Gerrard D , Croucher A , Bown M , Gokani V , McCarthy M , Brightwell R , Meyer F , Burrows M , Renton S , Das S , Parsapour S , Nordon I , Baxter S , Shearman Clifford , Jenkins M , Modarai B , Clarke S , Thompson A , Cavanagh S , Gibson A , Coleman Z
Published: August 2016

Background

Vascular surgical care has changed dramatically in recent years with little knowledge of the impact of system failures on patient safety. The primary aim of this multicentre observational study was to define the landscape of surgical system failures, errors and inefficiency (collectively termed failures) in aortic surgery. Secondary aims were to investigate determinants of these failures and their relationship with patient outcomes.

Methods

Twenty vascular teams at ten English hospitals trained in structured self-reporting of intraoperative failures (phase I). Failures occurring in open and endovascular aortic procedures were reported in phase II. Failure details (category, delay, consequence), demographic information (patient, procedure, team experience) and outcomes were reported.

Results

There were strong correlations between the trainer and teams for the number and type of failures recorded during 88 procedures in phase I. In 185 aortic procedures, teams reported a median of 3 (i.q.r. 2–6) failures per procedure. Most frequent failures related to equipment (unavailability, failure, configuration, desterilization). Most major failures related to communication. Fourteen failures directly harmed 12 patients. Significant predictors of an increased failure rate were: endovascular compared with open repair (incidence rate ratio (IRR) for open repair 0·71, 95 per cent c.i. 0·57 to 0·88; P =0·002), thoracic aneurysms compared with other aortic pathologies (IRR 2·07, 1·39 to 3·08; P < 0·001) and unfamiliarity with equipment (IRR 1·52, 1·20 to 1·91; P < 0·001). The major failure total was associated with reoperation (P =0·011), major complications (P = 0·029) and death (P = 0·027).

Conclusion

Failure in aortic procedures is frequently caused by issues with team-working and equipment, and is associated with patient harm. Multidisciplinary team training, effective use of technology and new-device accreditation may improve patient outcomes.
A machine learning approach to identify functional biomarkers in human prefrontal cortex for individuals with traumatic brain injury using functional near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Karamzadeh Nader , Amyot Franck , Kenney Kimbra , Anderson Afrouz , Chowdhry Fatima , Dashtestani Hadis , Wassermann Eric M. , Chernomordik Victor , Boccara Claude , Wegman Edward , Diaz‐Arrastia Ramon , Gandjbakhche Amir H.
Published: August 2016

Background

We have explored the potential prefrontal hemodynamic biomarkers to characterize subjects with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) by employing the multivariate machine learning approach and introducing a novel task‐related hemodynamic response detection followed by a heuristic search for optimum set of hemodynamic features. To achieve this goal, the hemodynamic response from a group of 31 healthy controls and 30 chronic TBI subjects were recorded as they performed a complexity task.

Methods

To determine the optimum hemodynamic features, we considered 11 features and their combinations in characterizing TBI subjects. We investigated the significance of the features by utilizing a machine learning classification algorithm to score all the possible combinations of features according to their predictive power.

Results and Conclusions

The identified optimum feature elements resulted in classification accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 85%, 85%, and 84%, respectively. Classification improvement was achieved for TBI subject classification through feature combination. It signified the major advantage of the multivariate analysis over the commonly used univariate analysis suggesting that the features that are individually irrelevant in characterizing the data may become relevant when used in combination. We also conducted a spatio‐temporal classification to identify regions within the prefrontal cortex (PFC) that contribute in distinguishing between TBI and healthy subjects. As expected, Brodmann areas (BA) 10 within the PFC were isolated as the region that healthy subjects (unlike subjects with TBI), showed major hemodynamic activity in response to the High Complexity task. Overall, our results indicate that identified temporal and spatio‐temporal features from PFC's hemodynamic activity are promising biomarkers in classifying subjects with TBI.
Changes in the craniofacial complex and alveolar bone height of young adults: Applications to dental medicine
Authors: Choi Sung‐Hwan , Jung Si‐Nae , Cha Jung‐Yul , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Kim Kee‐Deog , Baik Hyoung‐Seon , Hwang Chung‐Ju
Published: August 2016

The few studies on craniofacial complex changes in adults have reported contradictory findings. The aim of this study was to radiographically evaluate changes in the craniofacial complex and alveolar bone height of young adults over a 4‐year period. This prospective study included 82 young adults (62 men; mean age, 19.0 ± 0.8 years; 20 women; mean age, 18.8 ± 0.9 years). Three radiographic examinations were performed longitudinally: the first (T0) was conducted at the start of the study, the second (T1) was conducted 2 years later, and the third (T2) was conducted at the end of the study period. As part of these examinations, lateral cephalograms, maxillary and mandibular anterior periapical radiographs, and bilateral posterior bitewing radiographs were obtained. During the 4‐year follow‐up period, all linear cephalometric measurements were significantly greater in men than in women. The amount of increase in the anterior facial height between T1 and T2 was lower in women than in men (P = 0.029). The rate of uprighting of the upper incisors was lower in men than in women over time (P = 0.020). The apex of the nose moved inferiorly between T0 and T2 (P = 0.006). The average overall change in the alveolar bone height was 0.27 mm and the yearly change was 0.07 mm over the 4‐year period (P< 0.001). Significant changes in the skeletal, dental, and soft tissue, as well as, natural changes in alveolar bone, occur in young adults over time. Clin. Anat. 29:1011–1017, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Median arcuate ligament syndrome: Predictor of ischemic complications?
Authors: Arazińska Agata , Polguj Michał , Wojciechowski Andrzej , Trębiński Łukasz , Stefańczyk Ludomir
Published: August 2016

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a pathologic entity that can affect the celiac axis. Due to the extensive collateral network of mesenteric circulation, stenosis of one mesenteric artery does not lead to significant symptoms. The purpose of this study was to describe multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography findings of celiac artery entrapment by the median arcuate ligament and determine those patients with high risks of ischemic complications. From January 2012 to March 2016, 103 patients with celiac artery (CA) compression by median arcuate ligament were detected. In 23 patients collateral circulation was developed. In order to investigate the problem, we managed to estimate the correlation between range of stenosis of CA and presence of collateral circulation between the celiac artery (CA) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA). A statistically significant correlation was found between range of CA stenosis and collateral circulation presence (Spearman's correlation coefficient 0.339, P < 0.0001). In conclusions, based on our observations, we hypothesize that ischemia as a result of mesenteric vessel narrowing by the median arcuate ligament may occur more often than indicated by clinical symptoms and described in literature. Clin. Anat. 29:1025–1030, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comprehensive Research on Essential Oil and Phenolic Variation in Different Foeniculum vulgare Populations During Transition from Vegetative to Reproductive Stage
Authors: Salami Maryam , Rahimmalek Mehdi , Ehtemam Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2016

Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of four fennel populations (England, Spain, Poland and Iran) were investigated during six developmental stages including two vegetative and four reproductive phases. In reproductive phase, the essential oil content of fruits decreased and the maximum content (5.9%) was obtained in immediate fruits. The essential oils were analyzed using GC/MS. trans‐Anethole was the main component of the leaves and the fruits oil. In leaves, it ranged from 41.28% in England at late vegetative stage to 56.6% in Poland population at early vegetative stage. Other major compounds of leaves were limonene, α‐pinene and (Z)‐β‐ocimene. In reproductive phases the trans‐anethole increased dramatically. It varied from 85.25% in immature fruits from Poland to 90.7% in pre‐mature stage from Spain. The highest phenolic content in the extracts at different growth stages obtained 189 mg TAE/g DW at full mature stage of seed in Iran population. The flavonoid of leaves extract ranged from 3 to 7.5 mg QUE/g DW, while in fruits extract varied from 3 to 10.3 mg QUE/g DW. Antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated using 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazy (DPPH) and β‐carotene model systems. Immature and full mature growth stages of fennel population from Spain indicated the highest activity in quenching of DPPH radical (74.2% and 74.5, respectively). Antioxidant activities of the extracts had high positive correlation with their phenolic contents in all fruit maturity stages. Finally, it might probably be suggested that in fennel the hot and humid condition can lead to increase trans‐anethole, while the hot and dry one can produce higher amount of phenolics and flavonoids.
Abnormal photoreceptor outer segment development and early retinal degeneration in kif3a mutant zebrafish
Authors: Raghupathy Rakesh K. , Zhang Xun , Alhasani Reem H. , Zhou Xinzhi , Mullin Margaret , Reilly James , Li Wenchang , Liu Mugen , Shu Xinhua
Published: August 2016

Photoreceptors are highly specialized sensory neurons that possess a modified primary cilium called the outer segment. Photoreceptor outer segment formation and maintenance require highly active protein transport via a process known as intraflagellar transport. Anterograde transport in outer segments is powered by the heterotrimeric kinesin II and coordinated by intraflagellar transport proteins. Here, we describe a new zebrafish model carrying a nonsense mutation in the kinesin II family member 3A (kif3a) gene. Kif3a mutant zebrafish exhibited curved body axes and kidney cysts. Outer segments were not formed in most parts of the mutant retina, and rhodopsin was mislocalized, suggesting KIF3A has a role in rhodopsin trafficking. Both rod and cone photoreceptors degenerated rapidly between 4 and 9 days post fertilization, and electroretinography response was not detected in 7 days post fertilization mutant larvae. Loss of KIF3A in zebrafish also resulted in an intracellular transport defect affecting anterograde but not retrograde transport of organelles. Our results indicate KIF3A plays a conserved role in photoreceptor outer segment formation and intracellular transport.
Preventing suicide among justice‐involved youth using public health partnerships
Authors: Kemp Kathleen , Poindexter Brittney
Published: August 2016

Suicide is the second‐leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 24 in the United States. Youth self‐report of suicidal ideation has steadily increased from 2009 (13.8%) to 2013 (17%). Among youth involved in the juvenile justice system, self‐reported rates of suicidal ideation are even greater. One study reported that more than 29% of juvenile justice–involved youth reported suicidal ideation. Not surprisingly, rates of reported suicide attempts are higher among juvenile justice youth (14%) compared to the general adolescent population (8%). Overall, suicide and suicidal behaviors among youth represent a significant public health problem, especially for those involved in the juvenile justice system.
Physician‐assisted suicide for child psychiatric patients?
Authors: Fritz Gregory K.
Published: August 2016

I recently read an incredible story about a 41‐year‐old California woman with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease) who hosted a weekend party for her friends prior to her physician‐assisted suicide. Guests who attended found it difficult, moving, and very important regarding their relationship with the woman. It seemed like a sad but beautiful event for the woman and for those of her friends who chose to participate. As one who has always been interested in palliative care and death with dignity, I was prompted to look into the status of physician‐assisted suicide, especially where it stands with regard to the pediatric population.
Back‐to‐school tips for children of all ages
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2016

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released back‐to‐school tips last month that will help parents — and their children — have smooth sailing through the first days of school — or if not smooth, at least easier.
Potassium‐Activated Wire Mesh: A Stable Monolithic Catalyst for Diesel Soot Combustion
Authors: Qi Guolu , Zhang Yexin , Chen Aibing , Yu Yifeng
Published: August 2016

Potassium‐modified FeCrAl alloy wire mesh was developed as a catalytic diesel particulate filter to suppress the emission of soot from a diesel engine. Potassium species were deposited on wire mesh by a chemical vapor deposition method, in which a model soot was used to convert KOH into metallic K at high temperatures to subsequently activate the wire mesh. Tests showed that metallic K reacted with the enriched Al2O3 component on the surface derived from segregation and successive oxidation during precalcination. The resulting layer of K‐O‐Al species offers remarkable activity and stability for the catalytic oxidation of diesel soot. The K‐activated wire mesh could lower the initial temperature of soot combustion and maintain the activity for several cycles.
Oxidative Coupling of Methane: Opportunities for Microkinetic Model‐Assisted Process Implementations
Authors: Obradović Ana , Thybaut Joris W. , Marin Guy B.
Published: August 2016

Oxidative coupling of methane is a low‐cost alternative for ethylene production. However, its high exothermicity, complex reaction network, and low selectivity to C2 products require more in‐depth analysis for economically viable process implementation. Microkinetic modeling enables assessment of operating conditions and catalyst properties on the overall performance via elementary gas‐phase and catalytic reactions. The know‐how to reproduce and interpret experimental kinetic data, especially the role of highly reactive intermediate species, is crucial for correct reaction network determination. Once the catalyst descriptors, physical catalyst properties, and operating conditions are determined and optimized, next catalyst generations can be developed tailored to the process implementation.
A Highly Selective Potassium Sensor for the Detection of Potassium in Living Tissues
Authors: Depauw Alexis , Dossi Elena , Kumar Naresh , Fiorini‐Debuisschert Céline , Huberfeld Gilles , Ha‐Thi Minh‐Huong , Rouach Nathalie , Leray Isabelle
Published: August 2016

The development of highly selective sensors for potassium is of great interest in biology. Two new hydrosoluble potassium sensors (Calix‐COU‐Alkyne and Calix‐COU‐Am) based on a calix[4]arene bis(crown‐6) and an extended coumarin were synthesized and characterized. The photophysical properties and complexation studies of these compounds have been investigated and show high molar extinction coefficients and high fluorescence quantum yields. Upon complexation with potassium in the millimolar concentration range, an increase of one‐ and two‐photon fluorescence emission is detected. A twofold fluorescence enhancement is observed upon excitation at λ=405 nm. The ligands present excellent selectivity for potassium in the presence of various competitive cations in water and in a physiological medium. The photophysical properties are not affected by the presence of a large amount of competing cations (Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, etc.). Ex vivo measurements on mouse hippocampal slices show that Calix‐COU‐Alkyne accumulates extracellularly and does not alter the neuronal activity. Furthermore, the sensor can be utilized to monitor slow extracellular K+ increase induced by inhibition of K+ entry into the cells.
One‐Pot Evolution of Ageladine A through a Bio‐Inspired Cascade towards Selective Modulators of Neuronal Differentiation
Authors: Iwata Takayuki , Otsuka Satoshi , Tsubokura Kazuki , Kurbangalieva Almira , Arai Daisuke , Fukase Koichi , Nakao Yoichi , Tanaka Katsunori
Published: August 2016

A bio‐inspired cascade reaction has been developed for the construction of the marine natural product ageladine A and a de novo array of its N1‐substituted derivatives. This cascade features a 2‐aminoimidazole formation that is modeled after an arginine post‐translational modification and an aza‐electrocyclization. It can be effectively carried out in a one‐pot procedure from simple anilines or guanidines, leading to structural analogues of ageladine A that had been otherwise synthetically inaccessible. We found that some compounds out of this structurally novel library show a significant activity in modulating the neural differentiation. Namely, these compounds selectively activate or inhibit the differentiation of neural stem cells to neurons, while being negligible in the differentiation to astrocytes. This study represents a successful case in which the native biofunction of a natural product could be altered by structural modifications.
ChemInform Abstract: Pressure‐Induced Structural and Electronic Transition in Sr2ZnWO6 Double Perovskite.
Authors: Li Nana , Manoun Bouchaib , Tang Lingyun , Ke Feng , Liu Fengliang , Dong Haini , Lazor Peter , Yang Wenge
Published: August 2016

Polycrystalline Sr2ZnWO6 is prepared by staged calcination of stoichiometric amounts of SrCO3, ZnO, and WO3 in air (Al2O3 crucible, 1.