bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economics of Milk Production and Yield Differentials among the Marginal Women Farmers of Jharkhand State in India
Authors: Horo Aniketa , Chandel B. S.
Published: February 2019

Aim: To determine the economics of milk production and yield gaps of crossbred cow, buffalo and indigenous cow in Jharkhand State of India.

Study Design: The study was designed to cater the scope of production economics in reality by suggesting ways to bridge the yield gaps.

Place and Duration of Study: The present study was conducted using 130 beneficiary farmers in Hazaribagh and Khunti districts of Jharkhand during the 2016-17 agricultural year.

Methodology: As per the technique of the yield gap analysis, developed by Gomez (1977), the total yield gap is the sum of Yield Gap I (YG I) and Yield Gap II (YG II). The various cost components were identified under fixed cost and variable cost. Gross returns and net returns were then calculated accordingly.

Results: The sampled households were post-stratified into two groups: Group 1 abbreviated as G1, having less than or equal to 2 lactating animals and Group 2 as G2, having more than two lactating animals. The proportion of G1 and G2 households were about 79 and 21 per cent, respectively. The results of data analysis reflected that milk yield gap between potential yield and actual yield (YG II) was higher than yield gap between experimental yield and potential yield (YG I) for both household groups across all the type of dairy animals. The YG II in crossbred cow was more than two times higher on G1 farm as compared to G2 farm while it was more than five times higher in local cow. The average productivity of crossbred (9.23 litres/ day) was much higher than the average productivity of buffalo (6.09 litres) and local cow (4.98 litres/day).

Conclusion: Overall value of total yield gap (TYG) entails that if all the constraints regarding the milk production were tackled then the milk yield of the two districts could be increased by about 43 per cent. Buffalo was providing higher net returns per day per animal (Rs. 7.39) in comparison to crossbred (Rs. 5.19). Net returns both for per day and per litre were negative in case of local cow. The study reveals that the marginal farmers can become economically stable by incorporating dairying (crossbred and buffalo) as a component in their farming system.
Biofilm and Biosurfactant Mediated Aromatic Hydrocarbons Degradation by Marine Bacteria Isolated from Contaminated Marine Environments of Niger Delta
Authors: Uba Bright Obidinma , Chukwura Edna Ifeoma , Okoye Ebere Linda , Umebosi Amala Amechi , Agbapulonwu Uchechukwu Fidelia , Muogbo Olisaemeka Charles , Okoye Chidiogo Leticia , Oranta Lilian Onyinyechukwu , Odunukwe Adaeze Mercy , Ndurue Chinonso Peace , Ehirim Ogechi Salvation
Published: February 2019

Aims: To examine the effects of biofilm and biosurfactant associated cells of marine bacteria isolated from contaminated marine environments of Niger Delta on aromatic hydrocarbon degradation.

Study Design: Nine treatments and the controls designs were set up in triplicates containing 100 mL of sterile modified mineral basal medium in 250 mL conical flasks supplemented with 50, 100, 200 and 300 ppm of xylene, anthracene and pyrene each and nine marine hydrocarbon degraders; incubated at 24°C for 5 - 7 days. The nine treatments and control set ups designated as ANT1, XYL2, PYR3, ANT4, PYR5, ANT6, XYL7, XYL8, PYR9 and CTRL (without hydrocarbons) were used to examine the effects of biofilm and biosurfactant produced by the marine bacteria on aromatic hydrocarbon degradability.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Nigeria between September, 2014 and August, 2017.

Methodology: A laboratory scale study was carried on six composite samples of the sediment and water samples from the three studied areas using enrichment, selection, morphological, biochemical, growth effect, emulsification, surface tension, bacterial adherence to hydrocarbon (BATH), salt aggregation (SAT) and microtitre plate biofilm formation tests.

Results: The findings revealed that the three sampling sites harbour a lot of efficient aromatic degrading bacterial strains belonging to the genera: Providencia, Alcaligenes, Brevundimonas, Myroides, Serratia, and Bacillus able to significantly (P = .05) degrade the aromatic hydrocarbons. Significant positive correlation between biofilm formation and emulsification activity (r = 0.670; P = .05), was observed while surface tension (r = 0.134; P > .05), BATH (r = 0.142; P > .05) and SAT (r = 0.227; P > .05) had no significant positive correlation with biofilm formation.

Conclusion: Thus, the metabolic traits potentials of these strains could be exploited for in situ bioremediation intervention in the coastal areas of Nigeria.
Influence of Irrigation Depths on the Growth of Chrysanthemum, Cultivated in Pots, in a Greenhouse in the Northwest Region of Espírito Santo
Authors: Posse Robson Prucoli , Fornaciari Gabriel , Borghi Edinei José Armani , Valani Francielly , Silva Sophia Machado Ferreira da , Oliveira Evandro Chaves de , Costa Geilson Silva
Published: February 2019

Chrysanthemum is one of the most important plants in the national and international market of ornamental plants since it has relevant commercial value and presents short cycle and extensive diversity of inflorescences and colors. The present work aimed to evaluate the productive performance of the Puritan cultivar grown in pots under different irrigation depths, in greenhouse conditions in the northwest region of Espírito Santo. The experiment was set up in a completely randomized design with 6 treatments defined by crop evapotranspiration daily replacements (ETc) of 50% 75%, 100%; 125%, 150% and 175%, with 20 repetitions (pots) each treatment. An auto compensating trickle irrigation system was used, a dripper per pot, discharging 1.3 liters per hour. The evaluations were made at 90 days after planting, when measurements of fresh and dry mass of roots, fresh and dry mass of shoot system, plant height, stem diameter, dry mass of the flowers and flowers diameter were performed. The analysis of variance at 5% probability, showed significant quadratic effect for the dry matter characteristics of the aerial part and height of the plant and significant linear positive effect for the other evaluated characteristics. Under the conditions of the study, daily replacements of 175% of the crop evapotranspiration, which corresponded to daily average depths of 12.25 mm, conferred the best results in all evaluated parameters.
Efficiency of Hydraulic Ram Pumps Made with Alternative Materials
Authors: Bosa Igor Rozado , Monaco Paola Alfonsa Vieira Lo , Haddade Ismail Ramalho , Barth Henrique Teodoro , Roldi Vinícius , Vieira Gustavo Haddad Souza , Neto Alberto Chambela
Published: February 2019

This study evaluates the effect of different angles of inclination of air chamber and ratios of fall/elevation heights (h/H) on the efficiency of hydraulic ram pumps made with alternative materials. The experiment is divided in two stages. In the first, an entirely randomized design is used, with five replications, in a 3×2 factorial scheme, considered in the composition of the treatments, with combinations of three alternative materials of the air chamber (polyethylene terephthalate bottle, polyvinyl chloride tube and the cylinder of a fire extinguisher) at two angles of inclination (45° and 90º). In the second stage, the experiment is again conducted with an entirely randomized design, with five replications, in a 2×4 factorial scheme, considered in the composition of the treatments, with combinations of two angles of inclination of the air chamber (45° and 90°) in four h/H ratios (1/3, 1/4, 1/5 and 1/6). The alternative material of the air chamber provides the highest efficiency in the first stage. The variables studied are subjected to normality analysis (Shapiro-Wilk) and homoscedasticity (Bartlett), with the T test being performed with the correction of Bonferroni (P < 0.05). The hydraulic ram with a PET bottle camber, inserted at an angle of 90º, submitted to an h/H ratio of between 1/4 and 1/6, provided the highest efficiency.
Big cats at large: Density, structure, and spatio‐temporal patterns of a leopard population free of anthropogenic mortality
Authors: Balme Guy , Rogan Matt , Thomas Lisa , Pitman Ross , Mann Gareth , Whittington‐Jones Gareth , Midlane Neil , Broodryk Mark , Broodryk Kerryn , Campbell Michelle , Alkema Marc , Wright Dave , Hunter Luke
Published: February 2019

Human impact is near pervasive across the planet and studies of wildlife populations free of anthropogenic mortality are increasingly scarce. This is particularly true for large carnivores that often compete with and, in turn, are killed by humans. Accordingly, the densities at which carnivore populations occur naturally, and their role in shaping and/or being shaped by natural processes, are frequently unknown. We undertook a camera‐trap survey in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve (SSGR), South Africa, to examine the density, structure and spatio‐temporal patterns of a leopard Panthera pardus population largely unaffected by anthropogenic mortality. Estimated population density based on spatial capture–recapture models was 11.8 ± 2.6 leopards/100 km2. This is likely close to the upper density limit attainable by leopards, and can be attributed to high levels of protection (particularly, an absence of detrimental edge effects) and optimal habitat (in terms of prey availability and cover for hunting) within the SSGR. Although our spatio‐temporal analyses indicated that leopard space use was modulated primarily by “bottom‐up” forces, the population appeared to be self‐regulating and at a threshold that is unlikely to change, irrespective of increases in prey abundance. Our study provides unique insight into a naturally‐functioning carnivore population at its ecological carrying capacity. Such insight can potentially be used to assess the health of other leopard populations, inform conservation targets, and anticipate the outcomes of population recovery attempts.
Plasma cyclic glycine proline/IGF‐1 ratio predicts clinical outcome and recovery in stroke patients
Authors: Fan Dawei , Krishnamurthi Rita , Harris Paul , Barber P. Alan , Guan Jian
Published: February 2019

Objective

Many stroke patients make a partial recovery in function during the first 3 months, partially through promoting insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) function. A prognostic biomarker that associates with IGF‐1 function may predict clinical outcome and recovery of stroke. This study evaluated plasma concentrations of IGF‐1, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)‐3 and cyclic‐glycine‐proline (cGP) and their associations with clinical outcome in stroke patients.

Methods

Thirty‐four patients were recruited within 3 days of stroke. Clinical assessments included the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) within 3 days (baseline), and at days 7 and 90; the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Fugl‐Meyer Upper‐Limb Assessment Scale (FM‐UL) at days 7 and 90. Plasma samples were collected from the patients at the baseline, days 7 and 90. Fifty age‐matched control participants with no history of stroke were also recruited and provided plasma samples. IGF‐1, IGFBP‐3, and cGP concentrations were analyzed using ELISA or HPLC‐MS.

Results

Baseline concentrations of IGFBP‐3, cGP, and cGP/IGF‐1 ratio were lower in stroke patients than the control group. The neurological scores of stroke patients were improved and plasma cGP and cGP/IGF‐1 ratio increased over time. Baseline cGP/IGF‐1 ratio was correlated with the NIHSS scores at day 90 and the changes in NIHSS scores from the baseline to 90 days.

Interpretation

Low cGP concentrations and cGP/IGF‐1 ratio in stroke patients suggest an impaired IGF‐1 function. The cGP/IGF‐1 ratio at admission maybe further developed as a prognostic biomarker for stroke recovery.
Carbon‐Nanotube‐Cored Cobalt Porphyrin as a 1D Nanohybrid Strategy for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Jeong Kihun , Kim Ju‐Myung , Kim Su Hwan , Jung Gwan Yeong , Yoo JongTae , Kim Seung‐Hyeok , Kwak Sang Kyu , Lee Sang‐Young
Published: February 2019

Redox‐active organic electrode materials have garnered considerable interest as an emerging alternative to currently widespread inorganic‐(or metal)‐based counterparts in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Practical use of these materials, however, has posed a challenge due to their electrically insulating nature, limited specific capacity, and poor electrochemical durability. Here, a new class of multiwalled‐carbon‐nanotube‐(MWCNT)‐cored, meso‐tetrakis(4‐carboxyphenyl)porphyrinato cobalt (CoTCPP) is demonstrated as a 1D nanohybrid (denoted as CC‐nanohybrid) strategy to develop an advanced LIB anode. CoTCPP, which is one of the metalloporphyrins having multielectron redox activities, shows strong noncovalent interactions with MWCNTs due to its conjugated π‐bonds, resulting in successful formation of the CC‐nanohybrids. The structural uniqueness of the CC‐nanohybrid facilitates electron transport and electrolyte accessibility, thereby improving their redox kinetics. Inspired by the 1D structure of the CC‐nanohybrid, all‐fibrous nanomat anode sheets are fabricated through concurrent electrospraying/electrospinning processes. The resulting nanomat anode sheets, driven by their 3D bicontinuous ion/electron conduction pathways, provide fast lithiation/delithiation kinetics, eventually realizing the well‐distinguishable lithiation behavior of CoTCPP. Notably, the nanomat anode sheets exhibit exceptional electrochemical performance (≈226 mAh gsheet
−1 and >1500 cycles at 5 C) and mechanical flexibility that lie far beyond those achievable with conventional LIB anode technologies.
Rapid and Long‐Term Glycemic Regulation with a Balanced Charged Immune‐Evasive Hydrogel in T1DM Mice
Authors: Zhang Jiamin , Zhu Yingnan , Song Jiayin , Xu Tong , Yang Jing , Du Yan , Zhang Lei
Published: February 2019

Transplantation of encapsulated islets is a promising treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. However, its long‐term clinical therapeutic efficacy is still hindered by serious immune rejection from the host immunological responses to the implanted materials, known as foreign body reaction (FBR). In this work, an anti‐biofouling balanced charged hydrogel is reported that can serve as an excellent immunoprotective material for islet transplantation therapy. It is found that the encapsulated islets can maintain their glucose‐responsive and insulin‐producing functions. Additionally, the hydrogel can effectively evade in vivo FBR after intraperitoneal implantation in an immunocompetent streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mouse model. As a result, 100% of the mice rapidly recover to normoglycemia within 2 d and stably maintain for at least 150 d without any immunosuppression treatment. These findings shed light on the “insulin independence and immunoisolation” encapsulation strategy, which can overcome the barrier of islet transplantation and holds the potential to improve current clinical therapeutic efficacy.
Tough Adhesion of Nucleobase‐Tackifed Gels in Diverse Solvents
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Qin , Duan Lijie , Gao Guanghui
Published: February 2019

Adhesive gels have attracted increasing attention in biological medicine and industrial fields. However, it remains a huge challenge to achieve robust adhesion in various nonpolar and polar solvents. Herein, a tough nucleobase‐tackified adhesive gel is successfully fabricated and exhibits strong adhesion to various materials in diverse solvents, including hexane, chloroform, dimethyl sulfoxide, ethanol, and water (seawater, high salt, acid, and alkali aqueous solutions). The adhesive gels possess high toughness and excellent resist fatigue as well as impressive nonswelling behavior in water or oil. This tough gel‐based adhesive holds great promise for various applications, such as battery adhesives, soft robots, wound dressing, wearable devices, and 3D printing in various environments. It is anticipated that this strategy will provide a novel route for fabricating the next generation of adhesive soft materials.
Mixed‐Valence Single‐Atom Catalyst Derived from Functionalized Graphene
Authors: Bakandritsos Aristides , Kadam Ravishankar G. , Kumar Pawan , Zoppellaro Giorgio , Medved' Miroslav , Tuček Jiří , Montini Tiziano , Tomanec Ondřej , Andrýsková Pavlína , Drahoš Bohuslav , Varma Rajender S. , Otyepka Michal , Gawande Manoj B. , Fornasiero Paolo , Zbořil Radek
Published: February 2019

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) aim at bridging the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. The challenge is the development of materials with ligands enabling coordination of metal atoms in different valence states, and preventing leaching or nanoparticle formation. Graphene functionalized with nitrile groups (cyanographene) is herein employed for the robust coordination of Cu(II) ions, which are partially reduced to Cu(I) due to graphene‐induced charge transfer. Inspired by nature's selection of Cu(I) in enzymes for oxygen activation, this 2D mixed‐valence SAC performs flawlessly in two O2‐mediated reactions: the oxidative coupling of amines and the oxidation of benzylic CH bonds toward high‐value pharmaceutical synthons. High conversions (up to 98%), selectivities (up to 99%), and recyclability are attained with very low metal loadings in the reaction. The synergistic effect of Cu(II) and Cu(I) is the essential part in the reaction mechanism. The developed strategy opens the door to a broad portfolio of other SACs via their coordination to various functional groups of graphene, as demonstrated by successful entrapment of FeIII/FeII single atoms to carboxy‐graphene.
Biomimicking Fiber Scaffold as an Effective In Vitro and In Vivo MicroRNA Screening Platform for Directing Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Na , Milbreta Ulla , Chin Jiah Shin , Pinese Coline , Lin Junquan , Shirahama Hitomi , Jiang Wei , Liu Hang , Mi Ruifa , Hoke Ahmet , Wu Wutian , Chew Sing Yian
Published: February 2019

MicroRNAs effectively modulate protein expression and cellular response. Unfortunately, the lack of robust nonviral delivery platforms has limited the therapeutic application of microRNAs. Additionally, there is a shortage of drug‐screening platforms that are directly translatable from in vitro to in vivo. Here, a fiber substrate that provides nonviral delivery of microRNAs for in vitro and in vivo microRNA screening is introduced. As a proof of concept, difficult‐to‐transfect primary neurons are targeted and the efficacy of this system is evaluated in a rat spinal cord injury model. With this platform, enhanced gene‐silencing is achieved in neurons as compared to conventional bolus delivery (p< 0.05). Thereafter, four well‐recognized microRNAs (miR‐21, miR‐222, miR‐132, and miR‐431) and their cocktails are screened systematically. Regardless of age and origin of the neurons, similar trends are observed. Next, this fiber substrate is translated into a 3D system for direct in vivo microRNA screening. Robust nerve ingrowth is observed as early as two weeks after scaffold implantation. Nerve regeneration in response to the microRNA cocktails is similar to in vitro experiments. Altogether, the potential of the fiber platform is demonstrated in providing effective microRNA screening and direct translation into in vivo applications.
Modern Processing and Insights on Selenium Solar Cells: The World's First Photovoltaic Device
Authors: Hadar Ido , Song Tze‐Bin , Ke Weijun , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: February 2019

The first solid‐state solar cells, fabricated ≈140 years ago, were based on selenium; these early studies initiated the modern research on photovoltaic materials. Selenium shows high absorption coefficient and mobility, making it an attractive absorber for high bandgap thin film solar cells. Moreover, the simplicity of a single element absorber, its low‐temperature processing, and intrinsic environmental stability enable the utilization of selenium in extremely cheap and scalable solar cells. In this paper, a detailed study of selenium solar cell fabrication is presented, and the key factors that affect the selenium film morphology and the resulting device efficiency are presented. Specifically, the crystallization process from amorphous film into functional crystalline device is studied. The importance of controlling the process is shown, and methods to align the growth orientation are suggested. Finally, the crystallization process under illumination, which has general importance for the fabrication of thin film photovoltaics, is investigated. Specifically for selenium, the illumination significantly improves the film morphology and leads to device efficiency of 5.2%, with open‐circuit voltage of 0.911 V, short‐circuit current density of 10.2 mA cm−2, and fill factor of 55.0%. These findings form a solid foundation for future improvements of the photovoltaic material and device architecture.
Ghosts from the past: even comprehensive sampling of the native range may not be enough to unravel the introduction history of invasive species—the case of Acacia dealbata invasions in South Africa
Authors: Hirsch Heidi , Castillo Maria L. , Impson Fiona A. C. , Kleinjan Catharina , Richardson David M. , Le Roux Johannes J.
Published: February 2019

Premise of the Study

Knowledge about the introduction history (source(s), number and size of introduction events) of an invasive species is a crucial prerequisite to understand invasion success and to facilitate effective and sustainable management approaches, especially for effective biological control. We investigated the introduction history of the Australian legume tree Acacia dealbata in South Africa. Results of this study will not only provide critical information for the management of this species in South Africa, but will also broaden our overall knowledge on the invasion ecology of this globally important invasive tree.

Methods

We used nuclear microsatellite markers to compare the genetic diversity and structure between 42 native Australian and 18 invasive South African populations and to test different and competing introduction scenarios using Approximate Bayesian Computation analyses.

Key Results

Australian populations were characterized by two distinct genetic clusters, while South African populations lacked any clear genetic structure and showed significantly lower levels of genetic diversity compared to native range populations. South African populations were also genetically divergent from native populations and the most likely introduction scenario indicated an unknown source population.

Conclusions

Although we cannot definitely prove the cause of the observed genetic novelty/diversification in South African Acacia dealbata populations, it cannot be attributable to insufficient sampling of native populations. Our study highlights the complexity of unravelling the introduction histories of commercially important alien species.
Optomechanically Induced Mode Transition and Spectrum Enhancement in a Microresonator System
Authors: Gao Yong‐Pan , Wang Zhong‐Xiao , Liu Xiao‐Fei , Wang Tie‐Jun , Wang Chuan
Published: February 2019

Optomechanics describes the interconnection between the terahertz optical field and mechanical microwave field, making it appealing in the context of nanophotonics and quantum information science. Here, the optomechanically induced mode transition and spectrum enhanced phenomenon in an optomechanical microcavity system are studied. An optical filter that is limited by the bandwidth of the mechanical mode is built. The analytical model is presented by considering a microresonator system which supports two electromagnetic modes and a single mechanical mode. Through the filtering of mechanical resonator, the optical spectral width becomes similar to the mechanical resonator bandwidth which can go beyond the limit of the cavity quality factor. It is found that the transition between the optomechanically induced transparency and the optomechanically induced absorption can be observed by tuning the coupling between the microresonator and the waveguide. Moreover, the controllable nonreciprocal excitation of the system can also be observed.
Selective Decrosslinking in Liquid Crystal Polymer Actuators for Optical Reconfiguration of Origami and Light‐Fueled Locomotion
Authors: Jiang Zhi‐Chao , Xiao Yao‐Yu , Tong Xia , Zhao Yue
Published: February 2019

The ability to optically reconfigure an existing actuator of a liquid crystal polymer network (LCN) so that it can display a new actuation behavior or function is highly desired in developing materials for soft robotics applications. Demonstrated here is a powerful approach relying on selective polymer chain decrosslinking in a LCN actuator with uniaxial LC alignment. Using an anthracene‐containing LCN, spatially controlled optical decrosslinking can be realized through photocleavage of anthracene dimers under 254 nm UV light, which alters the distribution of actuation (crosslinked) and non‐actuation (decrosslinked) domains and thus determines the actuation behavior upon order‐disorder phase transitions. Based on this mechanism, a single actuator having a flat shape can be reconfigured in an on‐demand manner to exhibit reversible shape transformation such as self‐folding into origami three‐dimensional structures. Moreover, using a dye‐doped LCN actuator, a light‐fueled microwalker can be optically reconfigured to adopt different locomotion behaviors, changing from moving in the laser scanning direction to moving in the opposite direction.
Synthese und Charakterisierung von drei mehrschaligen metalloiden Goldclustern der Zusammensetzung Au32(R3P)12Cl8
Authors: Kenzler Sebastian , Fetzer Florian , Schrenk Claudio , Pollard Nia , Frojd Andrew R. , Clayborne Andre Z. , Schnepf Andreas
Published: February 2019

Drei mehrschalige metalloide Goldcluster der Zusammensetzung Au32(R3P)12Cl8 (R=Et, nPr, nBu) wurden über die unkomplizierte Syntheseroute der Reduktion von R3PAuCl mit NaBH4 in Ethanol hergestellt. Der Au32‐Kern setzt sich aus zwei Schalen zusammen; die innere besteht dabei aus einem schiefen Ikosaeder und die äußere aus einem verzerrten Dodekaeder. Die äußere Schale wird von acht Chloratomen und zwölf R3P‐Gruppen abgeschlossen. Während die Gold‐Gold‐Abstände des zentralen Ikosaeders im Größenbereich von elementarem Gold sind, sind die Bindungsabstände der Goldatome im umgebenden Dodekaeder im Bereich aurophiler Wechselwirkungen. Quantenchemische Rechnungen verdeutlichen, dass die beobachtete Jahn‐Teller‐Verzerrung des Clusterkerns auf einen elektronischen Schalenabschluss zurückzuführen ist. Die einfache Reproduzierbarkeit der Cluster, gute Löslichkeit und hohe Ausbeute an kristalliner Substanz sind ideale Voraussetzungen für weitere Untersuchungen.
A Practical Guide to Performance Improvement: Beginning the Process
Authors: Dawson Anthony
Published: February 2019

This article discusses the history and background of performance improvement (PI) processes and describes the creation of the foundational document for a PI project: the project charter. It is important for PI teams to create a complete charter before the project begins to give structure to the project. Teams involved in PI should use the charter as a roadmap for project completion because it helps to keep the team focused on issues within the scope of the project. This article reviews the steps to begin creating the charter and provides examples of the various sections that should be included. By reviewing this article, the reader should have a better understanding of this part of the PI process.
Debriefing in the OR: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Finch Elizabeth P. , Langston Michael , Erickson Deborah , Pereira Katherine
Published: February 2019

Ineffective communication can contribute to perioperative adverse events even when a safety checklist is used. The purpose of this project was to improve the overall debriefing process of the surgical safety checklist. We included coaches and used the International Classification for Patient Safety for categorizing any opportunities for improvement that were identified during the debriefing process. The results of our project showed an increase in both the total number of debriefings completed and the number of items discussed when completing the debriefing checklist in comparison with the preintervention compliance audits. We concluded that by using a coaching strategy and method to categorize perioperative opportunities for improvement during the debriefing process, there was improved compliance with completing the debriefing process in our facility.
Denosumab Versus Risedronate in Glucocorticoid‐Induced Osteoporosis: Final Results of a Twenty‐Four–Month Randomized, Double‐Blind, Double‐Dummy Trial
Authors: Saag Kenneth G. , Pannacciulli Nicola , Geusens Piet , Adachi Jonathan D. , Messina Osvaldo D. , Morales‐Torres Jorge , Emkey Ronald , Butler Peter W. , Yin Xiang , Lems Willem F.
Published: February 2019

Objective

Clinical trial results have shown that, in glucocorticoid‐treated patients, treatment with denosumab 60 mg subcutaneously once every 6 months (Q6M) increased spine and hip bone mineral density (BMD) at month 12 significantly more than treatment with risedronate 5 mg orally once daily (QD). The present analysis was performed to compare efficacy and characterize safety through month 24.

Methods

This phase III study enrolled men and women ≥18 years old who had received ≥7.5 mg daily prednisone or equivalent for <3 months (glucocorticoid‐initiating) or for ≥3 months (glucocorticoid‐continuing) before screening. All patients <50 years old had a history of osteoporotic fracture. Glucocorticoid‐continuing patients ≥50 years old had T scores of −2.0 or less (or −1.0 or less with fracture history). Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive denosumab 60 mg subcutaneously Q6M or risedronate 5 mg orally QD for 24 months, with daily calcium and vitamin D.

Results

Of 795 patients, 590 (74.2%) completed the study (in the glucocorticoid‐initiating group, 109 of 145 patients treated with denosumab and 117 of 145 patients treated with risedronate; in the glucocorticoid‐continuing group, 186 of 253 patients treated with denosumab and 178 of 252 patients treated with risedronate). Denosumab was superior to risedronate in increasing lumbar spine and total hip BMD at all time points assessed, among glucocorticoid‐initiating patients (24‐month lumbar spine: BMD increase of 6.2% versus 1.7%, respectively [P < 0.001]; 24‐month total hip: BMD increase of 3.1% versus 0.0% [P < 0.001]) and among glucocorticoid‐continuing patients (24‐month lumbar spine: BMD increase of 6.4% versus 3.2% [P < 0.001]; 24‐month total hip: BMD increase of 2.9% versus 0.5% [P < 0.001]). Adverse events, serious adverse events (including infections), and fractures were similar between treatment groups.

Conclusion

Denosumab was superior to risedronate in terms of increases in spine and hip BMD through month 24, and the safety profile was similar between treatment groups. Denosumab may offer a new osteoporosis treatment option for glucocorticoid‐treated patients.
Comparative evaluation of risk management frameworks for U.S. source waters
Authors: Setty Karen , McConnell Robert , Raucher Robert , Bartram Jamie
Published: February 2019

The U.S. Safe Drinking Water Act required states to develop source water assessment programs identifying existing and potential contamination sources; however, comprehensive risk prioritization and management approaches for surface water supplies have seen limited application. This participatory study assessed which permutation(s) of risk management frameworks and tools might benefit U.S. utilities by combining a literature review with external utility interviews. Qualitative data provided a basis for categorical assignments of goodness of fit with each of 24 framework evaluation criteria across five categories. Weighted integration using stakeholder input provided a relative ranking of applicability, later validated at a decision‐making workshop. Hybridization of the American National Standards Institute/American Water Works Association (ANSI/AWWA G300) source water protection standard and World Health Organization Water Safety Plan guidance was recommended to develop a comprehensive risk management approach for U.S. source waters. Cost–benefit components of other guidance materials were recommended to incorporate financial considerations into risk ranking and mitigation decisions.
Novel CaO/polylactic acid nanoscaffold as dental resin nanocomposites and the investigation of physicochemical properties
Authors: Ranjbar Mehdi , Pardakhty Abbas , Tahmipour Batool , Mohamadzadeh Iman
Published: February 2019

In this study, for the first time, calcium oxide (CaO)/polylactic acid nanoscaffolds were synthesized by co‐precipitation assistant reverse micelles method. The physical and chemical (physicochemical) properties of the structures as dental resin composites were also studied. Nanocomposite materials as primary and basic dental compounds can be conveniently applied as dental filling materials with a high esthetic quality. In this research nanoscaffolds act as a bed for nanoparticles and improve the mechanical and chemical (mechanochemical) properties, CaO nanoparticles were loading in polylactic acid nanoscaffold as a bioactivity polymer for usage in the dental resin composites. Mechanical properties of the dental resin composite containing CaO/polylactic acid nanoscaffold were calculated: the flexural strength (137.2 MPa), modulus (12.9GPa) and compressive strength (344.2 MPa). Potential of the basic nanoparticle and the products were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic light scattering (DLS), ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV‐visible) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed the size of the optimized nanostructures was about 85 to 120 nm. According to TGA results of polylactic acid nanofibers with thermal stability below 300°C these high thermal stability materials can be used as dental resin composites.
Prospective cohort study of ultrasound surveillance of regional lymph nodes in patients with intermediate-risk cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Hayes A J , Moskovic E , O'Meara K , Smith H G , Pope R J E , Larkin J , Thomas J M
Published: February 2019

Background

For patients with intermediate-thickness melanoma, surveillance of regional lymph node basins by clinical examination alone has been reported to result in a larger number of lymph nodes involved by melanoma than if patients had initial sentinel node biopsy and completion dissection. This may result in worse regional control. A prospective study of both regular clinical examination and ultrasound surveillance was conducted to assess the effectiveness of these modalities.

Methods

Between 2010 and 2014, patients with melanoma of thickness 1·2–3·5 mm who had under-gone wide local excision but not sentinel node biopsy were recruited to a prospective observational study of regular clinical and ultrasound nodal surveillance. The primary endpoint was nodal burden within a dissected regional lymph node basin. Secondary endpoints included locoregional or distant relapse, progression-free and overall survival.

Results

Ninety patients were included in the study. After a median follow-up of 52 months, ten patients had developed nodal relapse as first recurrence, four had locoregional disease outside of an anatomical nodal basin as the first site of relapse and six had relapse with distant disease. None of the patients who developed relapse within a nodal basin presented with unresectable nodal disease. The median number of involved lymph nodes in patients undergoing lymphadenectomy for nodal relapse was 1 (range 1–2; mean 1·2).

Conclusion

This study suggests that ultrasound surveillance of regional lymph node basins is safe for patients with melanoma who undergo a policy of nodal surveillance.
Exploring the association between Cerebral small‐vessel diseases and motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Wan Ying , Hu Wenjian , Gan Jing , Song Lu , Wu Na , Chen Yuzhen , Liu Zhenguo
Published: February 2019

Objectives

to explore the association between cerebral small‐vessel diseases (CSVDs) and motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

137 PD patients were recruited into the study. Detailed motor symptoms, including tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and axial impairment, were evaluated using Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). Non‐motor symptoms, including cognition, anxiety, and depression, were evaluated using Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA), and Hamilton depression scale (HAMD). Brain MRI was used to assess the subtypes of CSVDs, including lacunes, enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS), and white matter hyperintensities (WMH). WMH were furtherly divided into deep WMH (DWMH) and periventricular hyperintensities (PVH). The association between CSVDs and motor symptoms was analyzed. Patients were divided into the postural instability and gait disability (PIGD) group and non‐PIGD group. Demographic, clinical and CSVDs variables were compared between the two groups.

Results

CSVDs subtypes were all detected in the participants with different prevalence rates and severity degrees. We found a close association between EPVS in basal ganglia and the tremor score (p = 0.032), and between DWMH in the frontal and occipital lobes and the axial motor score (p < 0.05) through the spearman and multivariate liner regression analysis. Compared with the non‐PIGD group, the PIGD group demonstrated more serious cognitive impairment and DWMH in the frontal and occipital lobes (p < 0.05). The demographic characteristics and vascular risk factors of the PIGD group were not different from those of the non‐PIGD group. Cognitive impairment and DWMH in the frontal lobe were identified to be independent risk factors of PIGD motor phenotype.

Conclusions

We identified a close association between the CSVDs and motor symptoms in PD and DWMH in the frontal lobe was a risk factor of PIGD motor phenotype, which supports the contribution of vascular pathology in PD.
Heterologous expression of Neurospora crassa cbh1 gene in Pichia pastoris resulted in production of a neutral cellobiohydrolase I
Authors: Yang Jie , Deng Lu , Zhao Chen , Fang Hao
Published: February 2019

The high production cost of cellulase is one of the limitations that hinder the commercialization of lignocellulose‐based biorefineries. As one of the important cellulases, Neurospora crassa cellulase is not so intensively investigated as T. reesei cellulase. In this study, the cbh1gene (NCU07340) cloned from N. crassa was expressed in Pichia pastoris under the control of alcohol oxidase 1 (AOX1) promotor. Six transformants with the highest resistance to G418 were selected by two rounds of transformant screening, among which the most robust producer of the recombinant cellobiohydrolase I (CBHI) has an Avicelase activity of 0.22 U/mL. After fermentation optimization, it was improved to 0.30 U/mL. Interestingly, the optimal temperature and pH of the recombinant CBHI were 60°C and 7.2, respectively, and it was quite stable within the wide ranges of temperature and pH. This work is a good example for the future improvement and optimization of N. crassa cellulase.
The effect of acetate on population heterogeneity in different cellular characteristics of Escherichia coli in aerobic batch cultures
Authors: Heins Anna‐Lena , Lundin Luisa , Nunes Inês , Gernaey Krist V. , Sørensen Søren J. , Lantz Anna Eliasson
Published: February 2019

Acetate as the major by‐product in industrial‐scale bioprocesses with Escherichia coli is found to decrease process efficiency as well as to be toxic to cells, which has several effects like a significant induction of cellular stress responses. However, the underlying phenomena are poorly explored. Therefore, we studied time‐resolved population heterogeneity of the E. coli growth reporter strain MG1655/pGS20PrrnBGFPAAV expressing destabilized green fluorescent protein during batch growth on acetate and glucose as sole carbon sources. Additionally, we applied five fluorescent stains targeting different cellular properties (viability as well as metabolic and respiratory activity). Quantitative analysis of flow cytometry data verified that bacterial populations in the bioreactor are more heterogeneous in growth as well as stronger metabolically challenged during growth on acetate as sole carbon source, compared to growth on glucose or acetate after diauxic shift. Interestingly, with acetate as sole carbon source, significant subpopulations were found with some cells that seem to be more robust than the rest of the population. In conclusion, following batch cultures population heterogeneity was evident in all measured parameters. Our approach enabled a deeper study of heterogeneity during growth on the favored substrate glucose as well as on the toxic by‐product acetate. Using a combination of activity fluorescent dyes proved to be an accurate and fast alternative as well as a supplement to the use of a reporter strain. However, the choice of combination of stains should be well considered depending on which population traits to aim for.
Competency‐based education and higher education enterprise systems
Authors: Boyer Naomi , Bucklew Kathy
Published: February 2019

Background

Competency‐based education (CBE) as a means of awarding degrees and credentials in higher education has emerged as a student‐centric, personalized academic design with the potential to transform learning; however, the variety that currently exists in program design and delivery has limited the development opportunities for systemic enterprise solutions. To scale, expand, and enhance the delivery of these programs, new technological systems and administrative processes are required, as existing enterprise systems do not support flexible configurations of automated business processes that respond to institutions that deliver both traditional and CBE programs.

Aims

The research presented explores the basic system design and configuration elements that are necessary to electronically facilitate the student, academic, and business functions in higher education CBE programs.

Method

A national survey was conducted collecting data on CBE program design and practices as it relates to enterprise system elements.

Discussion

Based on the results of the survey, it is recommended that future efforts in the next‐generation enterprise technology, specifically student information systems, focus on three foundational building blocks: course/program catalogs, class/schedule building, and term/subterm timeframes. By integrating key configuration options into these three areas, the variety across institutional design can be accounted for, and flexibility for future innovative instructional models can be addressed.

Conclusion

Additional consideration, in future research, should be given to the interplay between systems to create a technological ecosystem responsive to the individual student with the educational process.
Cell Profiling Based on Sugar‐Chain–Cell Binding Interaction and Its Application to Typing and Quality Verification of Cells
Authors: Shinchi Hiroyuki , Nakamura Tomoya , Ota Hayato , Nishihara Shoko , Wakao Masahiro , Suda Yasuo
Published: February 2019

Developing methods to determine cell type and cell state has been a significant challenge in the field of cancer diagnosis as well as in typing and quality verification for cultured cells. Herein, we report a cell profiling method based on binding interactions between cell‐surface sugar‐chain‐binding proteins and sugar‐chain‐immobilized fluorescent nanoparticles (SFNPs), together with a method for cell typing and cell quality verification. Binding profiles of cells against sugar chains were analyzed by performing flow cytometry analysis with SFNPs. Discrimination analysis based on binding profiles could classify cell type and evaluate the quality of cultured cells. By applying our method to differentiated cells originating from conventional cell lines and also to mouse embryotic stem cells, we could detect the cells before and after differentiation. Our method can be utilized not only for the biofunctional analysis of cells but also for diagnosis of cancer cells and quality verification of cultured cells.
Transcatheter tricuspid valve‐in‐valve replacement: Making it simpler
Authors: Capretti Giuliana , Urena Marina , Bouleti Claire , Himbert Dominique
Published: February 2019

Transcatheter tricuspid valve‐in‐valve replacement (TTVR) represents an attractive therapeutic option in very high surgical risk patients with degenerated tricuspid bioprostheses. However, the procedural management of these patients might be challenging due to their comorbidities, long lasting heart valve disease and the presence of left‐sided mechanical prostheses. Thus, a more “minimally disruptive” procedure would have several potential benefits in such a frail population. We present the cases of four patients admitted for congestive heart failure due to severe degeneration of their tricuspid bioprostheses who were treated with a minimalist TTVR. The protocol combined continuation of the oral anticoagulant treatment with no bridging therapy, the use of a single venous access with local anesthesia, rapid pacing via the stiff right ventricular wire, and transthoracic echocardiographic guidance and assessment, with no need for contrast injection.

Our protocol aims at simplifying the TTVR procedure and might be a useful tool to avoid procedural complications and reduce hospital stay.
Nitrogen‐Rich, Well‐Dispersed Nanoporous Carbon Materials for Super‐Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Wu Qi , Wang Zhichang , Li Yibing , Wang Zheng , Liang Yan , Hu Yaoxin , Ou Ranwen , Wang Jianshe , Lu Tianliang , Wang Jianfeng , Wang Huanting , Zhao Chuan , Han Li
Published: February 2019

Nitrogen‐doped carbon with a well‐dispersed and three‐dimensional porous network structure has been fabricated for efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) by using polyacrylamide (PAM) and graphene oxide (GO) as well as a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) as raw materials. The PAM is favorable for the formation of three‐dimensional porous structures, while high‐temperature carbonization of the ZIF results in well‐dispersed microporous carbon. Among them, Zn‐Z/P0.6/G‐T calcined at 800 °C with a PAM concentration of 60 % shows the largest specific surface area (1,458 m2/g) and best ORR performance in 0.1 M KOH, giving an onset potential of 0.918 V (vs. RHE), which is even more positive than Pt/C (0.902 V vs. RHE), demonstrating its superior ORR capability. The ORR performance can be further improved by incorporating cobalt into the composite (denoted Co‐Z/P0.6/G‐T), and this can be prepared by using cobalt nitrate as a metal source. As an ORR catalyst, it exhibits a more positive onset potential (0.935 V vs. RHE) than Zn‐Z/P0.6/G‐T (0.918 V vs. RHE). The good ORR performance together with its long‐term stability and better methanol tolerance make it a promising non‐noble catalyst for fuel cell applications.