bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Analyses of Integrating Solar Inverter into the Existing Energy Systems in Nigerian Healthcare Centers
Authors: Bolarinwa Mojisola A. , Elusakin Opeyemi O.
Published: July 2024

Reliable electricity supply is crucial towards efficient healthcare delivery in a developing country like Nigeria, where national grid faces constant outages. Many healthcare centers depend on diesel generators, meaning high operational costs and environmental impacts. This study investigates the economic feasibility of integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with existing energy infrastructure at a healthcare facility in Nigeria. Data were collected from a healthcare facility among others, and, using HOMER software; three different system configurations were simulated over a 25-year project lifetime, with focus on incorporating solar inverter system, alongside existing grid supply and generator. Results showed the optimal system configuration to be the one comprising of solar inverter system alongside the existing grid and diesel generator. This system has a significantly lower net present cost (NPC) of $382,263, compared to the base case scenario of $1,663,158, which relies totally on grid electricity and the diesel generator. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for the hybrid system is $0.139/kWh, also much lower than base case LCOE of $0.642/kWh. While initial investment cost for this system posed a challenge, the study demonstrated a payback period of approximately 4.8 years, with return on investment of 16%, and an internal rate of return (20.3%). The findings demonstrated the economic viability and potential benefits of integrating solar PV systems in the healthcare sector, as energy costs are lowered due to reduced billing and maintenance costs. This has significant potential for long-term cost savings, in addition to elimination of havoc-causing outrages. Furthermore, reduced dependence on diesel generator implies lowered greenhouse gases emission, which is beneficial to patients, staff and visitors. Government incentives or other financing mechanisms are potential solutions to high installation costs. This research is recommended for implementation in places like Nigeria, as it serves as a guide towards sustainable energy for improved healthcare delivery.
COVID-19 SIQRV Fractional-Order Mathematical Model with Vaccination and Quarantine Control Measures
Authors: Bavithra S A R , Padmasekaran S. , Chatzarakis G. E.
Published: July 2024

In this study, an epidemic disease fractional-order mathematical model for Omicron, denoted as B.1.1.529 SARS-Cov-2 Variant, is constructed. Covid-19 vaccines and quarantine are considered here to ensure the host population's safety across the model. The fundamentals of positivity and boundedness in this model have been investigated and validated. The reproduction number was calculated to determine whether or not the disease would spread further in Tamilnadu. Infection-free steady-state solutions that exist are asymptotically stable locally and globally when R0 < 1. Infection-present steady-state solutions also that are locally stable are discovered when R0 < 1. Finally, the current Omicron variant pandemic data from Tamilnadu, India, is validated.
Phenotypic Screening of Advanced Breeding Lines for Blast Resistance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: P Umamahesh. , Nayak P. Gonya , Prasanna B. Laxmi , Goud T. Yella
Published: July 2024

Rice is predominantly grown in Asia, which accounts for about 90% of global production. Rice crop is affected by both biotic and abiotic stresses, biotic stresses such as blast, bacterial blight which significantly reduces the yields. Present study was conducted to introgress the blast gene Pi54 into the genetic background of the rice variety Telangana Sona (RNR 15048) through marker assisted pedigree breeding. A cross was made between Telangana Sona (RNR 15048) and near isogenic line of Cottondora Sannalu (MTU1010NIL). A set of 40 advanced breeding lines (F5) were screened phenotypically for blast resistance in uniform blast nursery (UBN) during Rabi 2023-24 at RARS, Polasa, Jagtial. Among the 40 breeding lines screened for blast, 12 breeding lines were shown resistant reaction with a disease score of 1, 18 breeding lines exhibited resistant reaction with a disease score of 3 and 10 breeding lines were exhibited moderate resistant reaction with disease score of 5. These thirty breeding lines exhibited resistance reaction to blast with durable resistance, could serve as good donors for blast and further forwarded to conduct multi location trials and further to release as new varieties through AICRP.
Effects of Plant Essential Oils on Seed Quality Parameters of Redgram (Cajanus cajan) During Storage
Authors: Shireesha P. , Padmasri A. , Azam M. Mohibbe , Pallavi M.
Published: July 2024

A lab experiment was carried out at Entomology laboratory, Seed Research and Technology Centre and ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana to study effect of plant essential oils viz, Gaultheria procumbens oil @ 5 ml kg-1 seed, Cedrus deodara @ 5 ml kg-1 seed, Cinnamomum camphora @ 5 ml kg-1 seed, Cymbopogan flexous @ 5 ml kg-1 seed, Eucalyptus radiata @ 5 ml kg-1 seed, Mentha piperita @ 5 ml kg-1 seed, Azadirachta indica @ 5 ml kg-1 seed and Deltamethrin 2.8 EC @ 0.04 ml kg-1 seed on quality parameters in redgram (Cajanus cajan) storage under ambient conditions during 2023-24. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design and all the treatments were replicated thrice. Among the plant essential oils, Mentha piperita @ 5 ml kg-1 and Eucalyptus radiata showed superior performance over other treatments resulting highest germination, field emergence percentage, seedling vigour index I, seedling vigour index II and also had a great promise in pest management. Considering the negative consequences of harmful synthetic chemicals, safe, readily available, and efficient plant essential oils should be introduced for seed treatments during storage for seed quality maintenance and reducing natural infestation of insects.
Recognizing Farmers' Requirements with Visual Analytics of Inquiries
Authors: M Phaneswar. , BS Yashavanth. , D Srinivasa Chary. , T Lavanya.
Published: July 2024

Aims: To identify the trending queries raised in Kisan Call Centers by employing visual analytics.
Study Design:  Analyzing secondary data on farmers’ queries by employing various visual analytics techniques.
Methodology: The study was conducted using various visual analytics techniques. The choropleth map was used to visualize the district-wise spatial distribution of queries within Telangana state. The line graph was used to understand the temporal trend in queries raised during the study period. The word clouds, bigrams and network maps were used to identify the words that are often appeared in the query text. Before visual analytics, the raw data was processed using various text cleansing steps such as removing all non-alphanumeric characters, punctuation, and extraneous whitespace, lowercasing and tokenizing. Several popular packages available in the R programming language were employed to carry out the analysis.
Results: From choropleth map, it was found out that most queries during the study period were raised in the eastern districts of Telangana, highest being raised at Mahabubabad (>17000). The average number of queries raised in a month was found to be around 8000 queries per month. The line graph indicated that the queries raised during the second wave of COVID-19 were less. The word cloud indicated that the word ‘management’ has appeared most number of times in the query text followed by ‘weather’ and ‘paddy’.
Conclusion: From this study, we found that the maximum queries on farming in Telangana are raised in Mahabubabad district. It was also found that the queries on ‘nutrient management in paddy’ and ‘pm kisan samman’ were highest. This highlights the need for educating farm tele advisors on the trending queries for efficient delivery of information needed by the farmers.
Finite Element Static Analysis of the Main Beam of Mobile Moulder Grooving Machine
Authors: Wu Chenchen , Li Tongtong , Zhang Xu , Wei Guo , Nie Gaocheng
Published: July 2024

This paper takes the 1500t mobile moulded frame trench making machine as the research object, firstly introduces the structural composition and operation flow of the trench making machine, and establishes the finite element model of the trench making machine by using the parameterized language of APDL in ANSYS software. Since the main beam has a large self-weight and is the main load-bearing part of the machine, the analysis focuses on the stress and displacement maps of the main beam under the typical working conditions of pouring and over-hole. Through the finite element analysis, the maximum stress value of the main beam is 179.78MPa, which occurs in the middle position of the main beam under the concrete pouring condition of Class 8 wind. The maximum deformation in the Y direction of the main beam was -69.90 mm, which occurred at the two end positions of the main beam. In addition, the results of class 11 wind unloaded and different distance working conditions over the hole were also obtained, and found to meet the use requirements. The safety of the main girder design is verified by comparing the theoretical calculations with the finite element calculations, and at the same time, the theoretical basis is provided for the subsequent research on whether there is any optimisation space for the main girder.
Characteristics, Treatment, Outcomes, and Cause of Death of Invasively Ventilated Patients with COVID-19 ARDS in Asir Central Hospital, Southern of Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Single Center Experience
Authors: Bshabshe Ali Al , Alqahtani Mushary S. , Amer Khaled A. , Jahash Najla A. , Thawwab Abdullah Al , Saleh Osama A. , Alasim Ahmed A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: COVID-19's emergence caused devastating consequences worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Critically ill patients face challenges like acute respiratory failure requiring intensive measures, including mechanical ventilation. Mortality rates in ARDS are influenced by various factors. This paper focuses on describing characteristics, management, and survival factors of mechanically ventilated ICU patients in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A retrospective, noninterventional approach, we reviewed charts and data of all COVID-19-infected patients who were admitted to the ICU, particularly those requiring ventilation support at Aseer Central Hospital (ACH) in the southern region of Saudi Arabia.
Results: The study enrolled 594 COVID patients, mean age 60.5 ± 17.3 years, with 67% males. Approximately half had O negative blood group. Common chronic health issues: diabetes mellitus (35.5%). Positive culture findings in almost 340 (57.2%), with Klebsiella pneumoniae being the most isolated microorganism (45.5%). Significant correlations found with mortality: age, blood culture, Rh positive group (P<0.05).
Conclusion: This study provides critical insights into the clinical and epidemiological aspects of COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU in a Saudi Arabian hospital. The research underscores the impact of age, comorbidities, laboratory markers, and treatment interventions on patient outcomes, emphasizing the significance of tailored management strategies in this context.
Commercialization and Agricultural Diversity: Insights from North Karnataka, India
Authors: H. C. Harshitha , Kiresur V. R. , Teggi M. Y. , Hosmath J. A. , Karakannavar Sarojani J.
Published: July 2024

Aim: Agriculture has been the foundation of India's economy for centuries, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population. The present study aimed to analyze the impact of agricultural commercialization on diversity of agriculture. Specifically, it assessed the degree of commercialization and determined the diversification index for the study area.
Specific Objective of the Study: To study the effect of commercialization on the diversity of agriculture in the study area.
Place and Duration of the Study: The present study was conducted in Dharwad, Gadag, Belagavi and Bagalkote districts of North Karnataka based on the gross irrigated area. The study was conducted for agricultural year 2022-23.
Methodology: The study utilized primary data gathered through personal interview method with 240 farm households from 24 villages across eight talukas in four districts of North Karnataka. It employed descriptive statistics and calculated the Household Crop Commercialization Index (CCI) to measure the extent of agricultural commercialization, along with the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) to assess diversification. The Regression Adjustment (RA) method was employed to analyze how commercialization influences agricultural diversity.
Results and Discussion: In regions considered less progressive, the CCI was lower at 89.54 per cent compared to more progressive areas where it reached 96.02 per cent, indicating a disparity in the degree of crop commercialization. Similarly, the HHI was lower in less progressive areas (0.45) compared to more progressive areas (0.66), indicating a less concentrated market structure. In areas characterized by higher progressiveness, farmers predominantly cultivated sugarcane, a crop with strong commercial value, which limited agricultural diversification. A notable gender difference was observed at a significance level of 10 per cent. Households with higher levels of commercialization exhibited significantly greater agricultural assets and slightly larger land holdings, indicating improved access to markets and higher agricultural productivity. The RA model in the analysis indicated a substantial ATET coefficient of 0.44, suggesting that increased commercialization strongly promotes agricultural diversity. Conversely, less commercialized households showed a POM coefficient of 0.07, confirming some degree of diversification.
Significance of the Study: The study highlighted the dual role of agricultural commercialization in improving economic stability and promoting sustainable livelihoods, while also revealing critical gender disparities that necessitated inclusive policies. These insights have important implications for policymakers aiming to foster equitable agricultural development and strengthen community cohesion through enhanced economic and social support structures.
Klimatransformationspflichten für Großunternehmen — Umsetzung des Art. 22 CSDDD via Klimaquote
Authors: Weller Marc-Philippe , Schwemmer Sophia
Published: July 2024

Art. 22 CSDDD verlangt vom deutschen Gesetzgeber die Einführung einer materiellrechtlichen Pflicht von Großunternehmen zur Erstellung, Umsetzung und jährlichen Aktualisierung eines Klimatransformationsplanes. Der Beitrag beleuchtet die Richtlinienvorgaben zum Klimatransformationsplan und seine Wirkmechanismen näher. Auf dieser Grundlage zeigt er auf, wie ein Umsetzungsrechtsakt in Orientierung am DJT-Regelungsvorschlag zur Klimaquote aussehen könnte.
A uniform database of teleseismic shear wave splitting measurements for the western and central United States
Authors: Liu Kelly H. , Elsheikh Ahmed , Lemnifi Awad , Purevsuren Uranbaigal , Ray Melissa , Refayee Hesham , Yang Bin B. , Yu Youqiang , Gao Stephen S.
Published: March 2014

We present a shear wave splitting (SWS) database for the western and central United States as part of a lasting effort to build a uniform SWS database for the entire North America. The SWS measurements were obtained by minimizing the energy on the transverse component of the PKS, SKKS, and SKS phases. Each of the individual measurements was visually checked to ensure quality. This version of the database contains 16,105 pairs of splitting parameters. The data used to generate the parameters were recorded by 1774 digital broadband seismic stations over the period of 1989–2012, and represented all the available data from both permanent and portable seismic networks archived at the Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology Data Management Center in the area of 26.00°N to 50.00°N and 125.00°W to 90.00°W. About 10,000 pairs of the measurements were from the 1092 USArray Transportable Array stations. The results show that approximately 2/3 of the fast orientations are within 30° from the absolute plate motion (APM) direction of the North American plate, and most of the largest departures with the APM are located along the eastern boundary of the western US orogenic zone and in the central Great Basins. The splitting times observed in the western US are larger than, and those in the central US are comparable with the global average of 1.0 s. The uniform database has an unprecedented spatial coverage and can be used for various investigations of the structure and dynamics of the Earth.
Preparation of Catalytic Materials Using Ionic Liquids as the Media and Functional Components
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wu Tianbin , Han Buxing
Published: March 2014

Ionic liquids (ILs) have attracted much attention due to their unique properties and wide application potential in a variety of fields. The unusual properties of ILs provide numerous opportunities to design and prepare arious advanced materials, including highly efficient catalysts. In recent years, synthesis of different kinds of catalytic materials and their applications in chemical reactions have been studied extensively and have become a very interesting area. Herein, we present a review on the synthesis of catalytic materials using ILs as the media and/or functional components; the important and widely investigated topics are discussed, including mainly metal nanocatalysts/IL, functional IL/support, metals or metal oxides/IL/support, polymeric ILs (PILs) catalysts, and the performances of catalytic systems are highlighted. An outlook for this interesting area is also given at the end of the article.
The Potential Applications of Nanoporous Materials for the Adsorption, Separation, and Catalytic Conversion of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Sneddon Gregor , Greenaway Alex , Yiu Humphrey H. P.
Published: March 2014

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies aiming at tackling CO2 emission have attracted much attention from scientists of various backgrounds. Most CCS systems require an efficient adsorbent to remove CO2 from sources such as fossil fuels (pre‐combustion) or flue gas from power generation (post‐combustion). Research on developing efficient adsorbents with a substantial capacity, good stability and recyclability has grown rapidly in the past decade. Because of their high surface area, highly porous structure, and high stability, various nanoporous materials have been viewed as good candidates for this challenging task. Here, recent developments in several classes of nanoporous materials, such as zeolites, metal organic frameworks (MOFs), mesoporous silicas, carbon nanotubes, and organic cage frameworks, for CCS are examined and potential future directions for CCS technology are discussed. The main criteria for a sustainable CO2 adsorbent for industrial use are also rationalized. Moreover, catalytic transformations of CO2 to other chemical species using nanoporous catalysts and their potential for large scale carbon capture and utilization (CCU) processes are also discussed. Application of CCU technologies avoids any potential hazard associated with CO2 reservoirs and allows possible recovery of some running cost for CO2 capture by manufacturing valuable chemicals.
Effects of small molecular weight silicon‐containing acrylate on kinetics, morphologies, and properties of free‐radical/cationic hybrid UV‐cured coatings
Authors: Qi Yuanchun , Li Lingling , Fang Zhou , Zhong Jianfeng , Dong Qingzhi
Published: March 2014

A series of UV‐curable, silicon‐containing mixtures were prepared by adding different micro amounts of small molecular weight silicon‐containing acrylate KH570 to an interpenetrating polymer network system composed of cycloaliphatic polyurethane acrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate, cycloaliphatic epoxy resin, free‐radical photoinitiator Irgacure 754 and cationic photoinitiator Irgacure 250 with a weight ratio of 15 : 15 : 65 : 1 : 4. Hybrid coatings with different addition amounts of KH570 (0.2, 0.6, 1.0 wt %) were cured from the mixtures by UV‐initiated free‐radical/cationic dual curing technique. Final reactant conversions and photopolymerization rates of the hybrid UV‐cured coatings were improved with the increase of KH570 content, as evaluated by conversion profiles. The morphologies and microstructures were characterized by scanning electron micro‐scopic, atomic force micrographic, and fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer measurements. Thermal, mechanical, and surface properties of the hybrid UV‐cured coatings were investigated. The increase in KH570 content caused a decrease in mechanical properties besides the breaking elongation. Thermo‐gravimetric analysis revealed that the incorporation of silicon into cross‐linked network structure resulted in high thermal stability. The surface properties of hybrid UV‐cured coatings, such as hardness, contact angle, flexibility, and glossiness were also examined. It is found that transparent hybrid coating with the addition of 1.0 wt % KH570 exhibited a relatively higher contact angle as a direct result of a relatively higher hydrophobic surface. These researches showed that micro amounts of small molecular weight silicon‐containing acrylate could greatly influence the morphologies of liquid nitrogen quenching cross sections and properties of hybrid UV‐cured coatings and could be used to modify UV‐cured coatings for some superior properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40655.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Quaternary Ammonium Salt‐Type Agents Containing Cholesterol and Terpenes
Authors: Novotná Eva , Waisser Karel , Kuneš Jiří , Palát Karel , Buchta Vladimír , Stolaříková Jiřina , Beckert Rainer , Wsól Vladimír
Published: March 2014

New quaternary ammonium salt‐type compounds with lipophilic cholesterol and terpene moieties were synthesized. The compounds showed promising antibacterial and antimycobacterial activities. Those compounds containing the cholesterol moiety showed significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Enterococcus faecium. On the contrary, the antimycobacterial activity increased with the presence of the terpene unit in the molecule.
Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects in children and adolescents: Single‐center experience with the GORE® septal occluder
Authors: Grohmann J. , Höhn R. , Fleck T. , Schmoor C. , Stiller B.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Device closure of atrial septal defects (ASD II) is an alternative to surgery. ASD morphology and intracardiac relationships may influence device selection. Biocompatibility, techniques for closing large or multiple defects, and the risk of erosion are main issues in children

Background

The GORE® Septal Occluder (GSO) is a non‐self‐centering device with a flat and conformable nitinol‐frame covered with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. We hereby evaluate our initial experience in children to demonstrate feasibility, efficacy, and safety. Methods: Single‐center retrospective intention‐to‐treat analysis of GSO procedures in children and adolescents with hemodynamically significant ASD. All procedures were conducted under general anesthesia, fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiography. All defects were sized using stop‐flow‐technique. GSOs of 20–30 mm disc‐diameter were implanted.

Results

GSO implantation was attempted in 45 with technical success in 41 patients, median age 6 (range 3–17) years, bodyweight 19 (12–95) kg. Median balloon‐sized diameter was 13 (8–19) mm resulting in a GSO‐to‐ASD‐ratio of 2 (1.7–2.5). Deficient retro‐aortic rims (<3 mm) were found in 12 patients, and 10 of these 12 defects could be closed. We observed no complications. Four extensive or multiple ASDs were not treated successfully with GSO. After retrieval, one was closed with a different device; three patients needed surgical therapy. The median follow‐up of four (range 0.2–22) months was uneventful in all patients

Conclusions

We found the GSO device closure of ASDs in children to be effective. However, our initial experience is limited to short‐ and mid‐term‐follow‐up of a low number of patients. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of bifurcation stent technique on clinical outcomes in patients with a medina 0,0,1 coronary bifurcation lesion: Results from the COBIS (COronary BIfurcation Stenting) II registry
Authors: Jang Woo Jin , Song Young Bin , Hahn Joo‐Yong , Choi Seung‐Hyuk , Kim Hyo‐Soo , Yu Cheol Woong , Rha Seung Woon , Jang Yangsoo , Seung Ki Bae , Gwon Hyeon‐Cheol
Published: March 2014

Objective

To compare the long‐term clinical outcomes of patients treated with 1‐ versus 2‐stent techniques for Medina 0,0,1 type bifurcation lesions. Background: Little is known about clinical outcomes and optimal treatment strategies for Medina 0,0,1 type bifurcation lesions

Methods

A total of 2,897 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention using a drug‐eluting stent for a coronary bifurcation lesion with a side branch (SB) ≥2.3 mm were enrolled from 18 centers in South Korea. We compared target lesion failure (TLF), defined as the composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or target lesion revascularization (TLR) according to 1‐ or 2‐stent techniques in the patients with a de novo Medina 0,0,1 type bifurcation lesion (n = 113, 3.9%)

Results

Fifty patients were treated with the 1‐stent technique, and 63 patients with the 2‐stent technique. During a median follow‐up duration of 36.6 months, patients in the 1‐stent technique group tended to have a higher incidence of TLR (3.2 versus 12.0%, P = 0.07) and TLF (4.8 versus 12.0%, P = 0.16) than those in the 2‐stent technique group. Multivariate analysis revealed that the 1‐stent technique was associated with a higher risk of TLR (hazard ratio [HR] 7.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27–42.5; P = 0.03) and TLF (HR 4.65; 95% CI 1.01–21.6; P = 0.05) than the 2‐stent technique

Conclusions

In patients with a Medina 0,0,1 type bifurcation lesion, the 2‐stent technique seems to be associated with a better clinical outcome compared with the 1‐stent technique. These findings need to be confirmed in randomized controlled trials. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The relationship between DRD4 polymorphisms and phenotypic correlations of behaviors in the collared flycatcher
Authors: Garamszegi László Z. , Mueller Jakob C. , Markó Gábor , Szász Eszter , Zsebők Sándor , Herczeg Gábor , Eens Marcel , Török János
Published: March 2014

There is increasing evidence that the genetic architecture of exploration behavior includes the dopamine receptor D4 gene (DRD4). Such a link implies that the within‐individual consistency in the same behavior has a genetic basis. Behavioral consistency is also prevalent in the form of between‐individual correlation of functionally different behaviors; thus, the relationship between DRD4 polymorphism and exploration may also be manifested for other behaviors. Here, in a Hungarian population of the collared flycatcher, Ficedula albicollis, we investigate how males with distinct DRD4 genotypes differ in the consistent elements of their behavioral displays during the courtship period. In completely natural conditions, we assayed novelty avoidance, aggression and risk‐taking, traits that were previously shown repeatable over time and correlate with each other, suggesting that they could have a common mechanistic basis. We identified two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP554 and SNP764) in the exon 3 of the DRD4 gene by sequencing a subsample, then we screened 202 individuals of both sexes for these SNPs. Focusing on the genotypic variation in courting males, we found that “AC” heterozygote individuals at the SNP764 take lower risk than the most common “AA” homozygotes (the “CC” homozygotes were not represented in our subsample of males). We also found a considerable effect size for the relationship between SNP554 polymorphism and novelty avoidance. Therefore, in addition to exploration, DRD4 polymorphisms may also be associated with the regulation of behaviors that may incur fear or stress. Moreover, polymorphisms at the two SNPs were not independent indicating a potential role for genetic constraints or another functional link, which may partially explain behavioral correlations.
High‐throughput characterization of an insect cell‐free expression
Authors: Richter Carolin , Bickel Fabian , Osberghaus Anna , Hubbuch Jürgen
Published: March 2014

Cell‐free protein expression is a promising tool for improving protein‐specific expression techniques. Despite their advantages, insect cell‐free expression systems are not as well established as Escherichia coli cell‐free systems. In most studies, characterization and optimization strategies are based on manual “one‐factor‐at‐a‐time” investigations that are expensive and time consuming. In this paper, two insect cell‐free expression systems (Sf9 and High Five™) were reproducibly (CV = 2.9%) implemented on a robotic platform with integrated analytics. All experiments were planned by statistical design of experiments using central composite designs and analyzed by multivariate data analysis. Quadratic response surface models were fitted to the experimental data and model predictivity was validated successfully for both insect cell types. The characterization of the complete in vitro translation process included quantification and visualization of the parameter influences on the expression yield and the robustness of the systems. The results were compared to previous studies, which confirmed the applicability of the new method. In the future, yields from insect cell‐free expression can be enhanced using a comprehensive system characterization based on optimally designed high‐throughput screenings on robotic systems.
Application of a compound containing silica for removing ammonium in aqueous media
Authors: Darvishi Cheshmeh Soltani R. , Safari M. , Rezaee A. , Godini H.
Published: March 2014

In the present investigation, removal of ammonium from aqueous solutions by a compound containing silica was considered. The compound was a waste of ferrosilicon compound produced during Ferro‐alloy manufacturing. The results showed that an increase in the pH of solution up to 7 caused a rapid increase in the adsorbed ammonium to 36.21 mg/g. But adsorbed ammonium was decreased to 26.51 mg/g as the initial pH reached to 10. The amount of adsorbed ammonium was increased with contact time and initial ammonium concentration. A contact time of 180 min was selected because there was no significant increment in adsorbed ammonium as contact time was further increased. The results exhibited suitability of the pseudo‐second order kinetic model (R2 = 0.9867). Increasing initial ammonium concentration from 10 to 180 mg/L resulted in an increment in adsorbed ammonium from 6.69 to 59.13 mg/g, respectively. The obtained data were fitted to Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D‐R) isotherm models in which the obtained correlation coefficient showed the relatively better fitness of the data to Langmuir model (R2 = 0.9969) with a maximum adsorption capacity of 78.74 mg/g. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 105–111, 2015
A morphometric and taxonomic study of Monstera (Araceae) in Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Mayo Simon J. , Andrade Ivanilza M.
Published: March 2014

A taxonomic revision is presented of the three taxa of Monstera (Araceae) recognized for Bahia State, Brazil:– M. adansonii subsp. blanchetii (stat. nov.), M. adansonii subsp. klotzschiana (stat. nov.) and M. praetermissa; a fourth taxon, not so far recorded from the state, M. adansonii subsp. laniata (stat. nov.), is distinguished from subsp. blanchetii. The two highly variable subspecies of Monstera adansonii were further investigated by morphometric study of herbarium specimens. These two taxa were distinguished using principal coordinates analysis (classical multidimensional scaling) and linear discriminant analysis; the most important diagnostic characters are stigma length and width, stigmatophore length, style apex size and leaf perforation number. Discrimination on leaf characters alone was over 90% successful – subsp. blanchetii differs most significantly from subsp. klotzschiana in higher values for perforation number and leaf base angle. Descriptions, illustrations, geographical and conservation status information and a key to the taxa are provided. Two neotypes are proposed (M. maximilianii Engl., M. klotzschiana Schott) and discussions of the typifications are provided. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Changes in mutational status during third‐line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer—Results of consecutive measurement of cell free DNA, KRAS and BRAF in the plasma
Authors: Spindler Karen‐Lise Garm , Pallisgaard Niels , Andersen Rikke Fredslund , Jakobsen Anders
Published: March 2014

KRAS and BRAF mutations are responsible for primary resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) MoAbs in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), but it is unknown what causes wildtype (wt) patients to develop resistance during treatment. We measured circulating free DNA (cfDNA), KRAS and BRAF in plasma and report the changes during third line treatment with cetuximab and irinotecan. One‐hundred‐and‐eight patients received irinotecan 350 mg/m2 q3w and weekly cetuximab (250 mg/m2) until progression (RECIST) or unacceptable toxicity. cfDNA and number of mutated KRAS/BRAF alleles in plasma at baseline and before each cycle was analyzed by an in‐house qPCR. cfDNA and pKRAS levels decreased from baseline to cycle three and increased at time of progression (p = 0.008). The decrease was larger in responding patients than in non‐responding (p < 0.05). Two patients with primary mutant disease had different types of mutations detected in the plasma, including synchronous KRAS and BRAF. Twelve patients had a primary KRAS mutant tumor, but wild‐type disease according to baseline plasma analysis, eight of these obtained stabilization of disease. In five patients with primary wt disease a mutation appeared in plasma before radiological evidence of progression. Loss of mutations may explain observed benefit of treatment in primary mutant disease, whereas appearance of mutations during therapy may be responsible for acquired resistance in primary wt disease. Benefit from EGFR MoAbs may be influenced by the quantitative level of mutational alleles rather than by mutational status alone, and plasma levels of cfDNA, KRAS and BRAF could be used to monitor patients during treatment.
New insights into roles of intermediate filament phosphorylation and progeria pathogenesis
Authors: Goto Hidemasa , Inagaki Masaki
Published: March 2014

Intermediate filaments (IFs) form one of the major cytoskeletal systems in the cytoplasm or beneath the nuclear membrane. Because of their insoluble nature, cellular IFs had been considered to be stable for a long time. The discovery that a purified protein kinase phosphorylated a purified IF protein and in turn induced the disassembly of IF structure in vitro led to the novel concept of dynamic IF regulation. Since then, a variety of protein kinases have been identified to phosphorylate IF proteins such as vimentin in a spatiotemporal regulated manner. A series of studies using cultured cells have demonstrated that preventing IF phosphorylation during mitosis inhibits cytokinesis by the retention of an IF bridge‐like structure (IF‐bridge) connecting the two daughter cells. Knock‐in mice expressing phosphodeficient vimentin variants developed binucleation/aneuploidy in lens epithelial cells, which promoted microophthalmia and lens cataract. Therefore, mitotic phosphorylation of vimentin is of great importance in the completion of cytokinesis, the impairment of which promotes chromosomal instability and premature aging. © 2014 IUBMB Life, 66(3):195–200, 2014
Determination of plant growth regulators in pears by microwave‐assisted extraction and liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Mao Xuejin , Tang Lijuan , Tan Ting , Wan Yiqun
Published: March 2014

A new method for the determination of six plant growth regulators, 3‐indolylacetic acid, 3‐indolepropionic acid, 2‐naphthoxyacetic acid, 2,4‐dicholrophenoxyacetic acid, 1‐naphthlcetic acid, and methyl naphthalene‐1‐acetate, in pears was established by liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. In this study, a microwave‐assisted extraction technique was first applied for the determination of plant growth regulators in fruit and three cleanup techniques were, respectively, investigated for the purification of pear samples. The chromatographic separation was performed on a Diamonsil C18 column by using 0.01 mol/L formic acid/ammonium formate buffer solution (pH 3.5)/methanol (35:65, v/v) as the mobile phase with a flow rate of 0.7 mL/min in 1:1 split mode. The LODs ranged from 0.3 to 1.9 μg/kg. Under optimized conditions, the average recoveries (five replicates) for six plant growth regulators (spiked at 0.01, 0.05, and 0.5 mg/kg) ranged from 78.9 to 118.0%, and the RSDs were 1.4–10.3%.
Characterization and in vitro differentiation potency of early‐passage canine amnion‐ and umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells as related to gestational age
Authors: Filioli Uranio Manuel , Dell'Aquila Maria Elena , Caira Michele , Guaricci Antonio Ciro , Ventura Mario , Catacchio Claudia RITA , Martino Nicola Antonio , Valentini Luisa
Published: March 2014

Fetal adnexa are a non‐controversial source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that have high plasticity, a high proliferation rate, and the ability to differentiate towards multiple lineages. MSC populations have been characterized for their stemness and differentiation capabilities; more recent work has focused on MSC selection and on establishing predictable elements to discriminate the cells with the most potential for regenerative medicine. In this study, we cytogenetically and molecularly characterized and followed the in vitro proliferation and differentiation potential of early‐passage canine amniotic membrane MSCs (AM‐MSCs) and umbilical cord matrix MSCs (UCM‐MSCs) isolated from fetuses at early (35–40 days) and late (45–55 days) gestational ages. We found that cells from both fetal gestational ages showed similar features. In all examined cell lines, the morphology of proliferating cells typically appeared fibroblast‐like. Population doublings, passaged up to 10 times, increased significantly with passage number. In both cell types, cell viability and chromosomal number and structure were not affected by gestational age at early passages. Passage‐3 AM‐ and UCM‐MSCs from both gestational phases also expressed embryonic (POU5F1) and mesenchymal (CD29, CD44) stemness markers, whereas hematopoietic and histocompatibility markers were never found in any sample. Passage‐3 cell populations of each cell type were also multipotential as they could differentiate into neurocytes and osteocytes, based on cell morphology, specific stains, and molecular analysis. These results indicated that MSCs retrieved from the UCM and AM in the early and late fetal phases of gestation could be used for canine regenerative medicine. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 81: 539–551, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lipidic polyols using thiol‐ene/yne strategy for crosslinked polyurethanes
Authors: Pham Phuoc Dien , Lapinte Vincent , Raoul Yann , Robin Jean‐Jacques
Published: March 2014

Oleic acid and α,ω‐diacid were converted into propargylic esters followed by thiol‐ene/yne coupling (TEC/TYC) functionalization in presence of mercaptoethanol. The multiradical addition on fatty esters leads to the formation of lipidic polyols (OH1 and OH2), as judged by 1H NMR and mass spectroscopies as well as by size exclusion chromatography. The crosslinking reaction between TEC/TYC‐based polyols and 4,4′‐methylene bis(phenylisocyanate) isocyanate reactant was monitored by FTIR experiment and reaction parameters were optimized. By differential scanning calorimetry, relatively high glass transitions are measured corresponding to structure with little or without dangling chain. Moreover, the thermal stability of the resulting plant oil‐based polyurethane materials (PU1 and PU2) were found to be fully consistent with that of other lipidic PUs respecting a three‐step process. Thanks to TYC methodology, fatty α,ω‐diacid produces lipidic polyol without dangling chain and lipidic thermoset PU with relatively high Tg. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1597–1606
Crystallization of the mesomorphic form and control of the molecular structure for tailoring the mechanical properties of isotactic polypropylene
Authors: De Rosa Claudio , Auriemma Finizia , Di Girolamo Rocco , de Ballesteros Odda Ruiz
Published: March 2014

The combination of the control of the concentration of stereodefects in isotactic polypropylene using metallocene catalysts and the crystallization via the mesophase is a strategy to tailor the mechanical properties. Stiff materials, flexible materials, and thermoplastic elastomers can be produced depending only on the concentration of rr stereodefects. Modulus, ductility, and strength can be modulated through the crystallization of α and γ forms or of the mesophase. Different morphologies are observed depending on the stereoregularity and conditions of crystallization. Crystals of the mesomorphic form always exhibit a nodular morphology, accounting for the similar good deformability of all quenched samples, whatever the concentration of stereodefects. The mesophase transforms by thermal treatments into the α form preserving the nodular morphology, with increase of strength while maintaining the ductility typical of the mesophase. Annealing of the mesophase permits a precise adjustment of crystallinity and size of nodular crystals offering additional options to modify the mechanical properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 677–699
III‐nitride nanowire based light emitting diodes on carbon paper
Authors: Mastro Michael A. , Anderson Travis J. , Tadjer Marko J. , Kub Francis J. , Hite Jennifer K. , Kim Jihyun , Eddy Charles R.
Published: March 2014

This article presents the use of flexible carbon substrates for the growth of III‐nitride nanowire light emitters. A dense packing of gallium nitride nanowires were grown on a carbon paper substrate. The nanowires grew predominantly along the a‐plane direction, normal to the local surface of the carbon paper. Strong photo‐ and electro‐luminescence was observed from InGaN quantum well light emitting diode nanowires. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystalline quality improvement of GaN coalesced using nano‐PSS with void‐embedded nanostructure by MOVPE
Authors: Li Junze , Chen Zhizhong , Jiang Xianzhe , Hu Zhe , Kang Xiangning , Zhang Guoyi
Published: March 2014

The nanoscale patterned sapphire substrates (NPSS) were prepared combining nanoimprint lithography and dry/wet etching technology. The NPSS was patterned with 300 nm diameter, 330 nm depth, 550 nm periodicity hexagonal close packed pillars. Coalescence of GaN has been achieved on the NPSS using MOVPE. The growth mode and conditions were discussed in detail, which was different from that of GaN epitaxial on planar sapphire. The AFM images showed the GaN on NPSS had a smoother surface, and the XRD results showed that the crystal quality had been improved by the NPSS. The threading dislocation density (TDD) suppression was observed in transmission electron microscopy. Depth‐resolved CL measurements were used to quantify the redshift in terms of bandgap renormalization and strain effects. It was supposed that the compressive stress in the GaN layers was changed gradually towards the growth surface. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
First‐principles theoretical study of optical properties of oxygen‐doped II‐VI semiconductors
Authors: Ishikawa Masato , Nakayama Takashi
Published: March 2014

Doping properties of oxygen into zinc‐family II‐VI semiconductors were studied by the first‐principles calculation. We found that a large band‐gap reduction occurs for ZnS and ZnSe, while there is little reduction and appears a deep level of oxygen in the band gap for ZnTe. Such difference was shown to reflect the order of energy positions of host cation (Zn) 4s‐orbital and oxygen (O) 3s‐orbital states. We also calculated photoabsorption spectra, ε2(ω), and found that oxygen‐related transitions are strong in case of ZnTe due to localized nature of deep level, while transitions are embedded in the band‐to‐band adsorption in cases of ZnS and ZnSe due to strong hybridization of unoccupied states of O and II‐VI semiconductors. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Deposition of polycrystalline Cd1‐xZnx Te films on ZnTe/graphite and graphite substrates by close‐spaced sublimation
Authors: Okamoto Tamotsu , Akiba Sho , Takahashi Kohei , Nagatsuka Satsuki , Kanda Yohei , Tokuda Satoshi , Kishihara Hiroyuki , Sato Toshiyuki
Published: March 2014

The effects of a ZnTe layer on the deposition of a Cd1‐xZnxTe (CZT) layer in the initial stage of the close‐spaced sublimation (CSS) deposition were investigated. The deposition rate was almost constant in the initial stage of the CdTe deposition on the ZnTe/graphite substrates. However, the deposition rate within 1 minute was lower than that after 1 minute in the CdTe deposition on graphite substrates. This result suggests that nucleation of CdTe directly deposited on graphite substrate is difficult when compared to that with a ZnTe layer. Furthermore, the effects of CdCl2 and ZnTe additions to the CdTe sources in the CSS deposition were also investigated. Both the grain size and the intensity of donor‐acceptor pair (DAP) emission in photoluminescence (PL) spectra were decreased by the effect of CdCl2 addition. Zn content in CZT films was controlled by the ZnTe ratio in the CdTe/ZnTe powder sources. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Estimation of band gap energy of Mgx Zn1‐xO films by photocurrent
Authors: Abe Takami , Nakagawa Akira , Chiba Tetsuya , Nakagawa Michiko , Takahashi Shuzo , Chiba Shigeki , Kashiwaba Yasuhiro , Ojima Tsutomu , Aota Katsumi , Daibo Masahiro , Niikura Ikuo , Kashiwaba Yasube , Osada Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

The band gap energy (Eg) of high‐quality Mgx Zn1‐xO films grown on ZnO (0001) substrates by the plasma‐assisted reactive evaporation method using a ZnMg alloy could be estimated by the photocurrent (Iph). Measurement of Iph was more useful than photoluminescence (PL), transmittance or reflectance (R) spectra measurements for determination of Eg of materials with large binding energy of the excitons. The values estimated from the relation of (αkhν)2–hv plots using optical absorption coefficient αk calculated from extinction coefficient k were close to the peak energy of PL or R of these films. The values estimated from the relation of (αphhv)2–hν plots using inter‐band absorption coefficient αph calculated from Iph spectra were larger than the values of peak energy of PL or R despite strong absorption of the excitons. Therefore, it was thought that these values are closer to Eg. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)