bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Different Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination and Seedling Characteristics: A Case Study of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.), Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) and Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula)
Authors: Naik B. Pavan Kumar , Ruban J. Sam , Anburani A. , Patra Chinmayee , Venkatraj  , S Praveen Kumar
Published: August 2024

In order to study the influence of different pre-sowing treatments on seed germination and seedling characteristics of bitter gourd cultivar Co-1, bottle gourd cultivar Pusa summer prolific long and ridge gourd cultivar Arka sumeet an experiment was conducted at Horticulture orchard, Department of Horticulture, Annamalai University during zaid season 2022. Three cucurbits were soaked in various treatments like T1-Control, T2-Tap water @ 24 hours, T3-GA3 @ 100 ppm with 24 hours of soaking, T4- GA3 @ 200 ppm with 24 hours of soaking, T5-100% Coconut water @ 24 hours of soaking, T6-3% Panchagavya @ 24 hours of soaking, T7-100% Fresh Milk @ 24 hours of soaking and T8-Azospirillum @ 24 hours to determine the best treatment. The study findings generally indicate that the seeds of bitter gourd, bottle gourd and ridge gourd responded in a variety of ways depending on the pre-sowing techniques used. Based on the study, the results indicated that the treatments T4- GA3 @ 200 ppm with 24 hours T5-100% Coconut water @ 24 hours and T6-3% Panchagavya @ 24 hours of soaking have shown the highly significant compared to the T1-  control and enhanced the germination percentage, shoot length, root length, seedling  length and vigour index on all the three cucurbits. These results can be used for developing future research on plant growth improvements and this approach has need to deliberate by modern farmers.
Performance of New Bivoltine Silkworm Breeds and Hybrids for Economic Traits
Authors: D Thrilekha , Gowda Manjunatha , D.S Chethan Kumar , Chikkalingaiah  , Seetharamulu J. , Narayanaswamy K. C. , Ramesh S.
Published: August 2024

An assessment of new bivoltine races and their hybrids was conducted to identify the best-performing hybrid. Five thermotolerant pure breeds (B1, B2, B4, B6 and B8) and four popular CSR breeds (CSR2, CSR27, CSR6, CSR26) were used to develop six foundation crosses and eight double hybrids. These breeds and hybrids were evaluated based on eight important economic traits. Among the parental races, B4 excelled in four traits viz., single cocoon weight (1.69 g), cocoon yield/10,000 larvae (16.42 kg), filament length (1347.14 m) and filament weight (0.31 g). CSR27 recorded the highest shell weight (0.34 g), shell ratio (22.18%) and denier (2.49). In foundation crosses, B1 × B4 had the highest single cocoon weight (1.81 g), cocoon yield/10,000 larvae (17.98 kg), filament length (1319.06 m) and filament weight (0.33 g). FC2 excelled in shell weight (0.38 g), shell ratio (22.33%) and denier (2.45). Among double hybrids, (B1 × B4) × (FC1) recorded the highest single cocoon weight (2.67 g), cocoon yield/10,000 larvae (25.87 kg), filament length (1434.29 m) and denier (2.85). FC2 × FC1 performed best in shell weight (0.38 g), shell ratio (22.33%) and filament weight (0.47 g). Thus, new breeds B1 and B4, foundation crosses B1 × B4 and B1 × B2 and double hybrids (B1 × B4) × (FC1) show promise for commercial exploitation after multi-location trials, offering alternatives to established CSR breeds and hybrids.
Studies on Performance of Elite Dutch Rose Varieties under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse for Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka, India
Authors: R. N Tanuja, , Patil Sateesh R. , Kulkarni Balaji S. , Mesta Raghavendra K. , Gollagi Sanganabasava G. , Gandolkar Kantesh
Published: August 2024

A study on the performance of elite Dutch rose varieties under naturally ventilated polyhouse for Northern dry zone of Karnataka was carried out during 2022-23 at the experimental block, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven varieties and three replications. The varieties were Top Secret, Jumilia, Solar, Revival, Rock Star, Arka Pride and Arka Ivory. Various growth, flowering and yield parameters were recorded during experimental period (September 2022 – September 2023). Among all the varieties studied, the variety Jumilia was superior with respect to plant height (81.22 cm), plant spread (E -W: 46.19 cm and N -S: 45.24 cm), number of branches per plant (4.52), leaf area per plant (2893.28 cm2), stem girth (1.43 cm), days taken for first flower bud initiation (35.67 days), days taken for first flowering (60.00 days), number of flowers per plant (23.98) and number of flower stalks per m2 (216.79).
Enhancing Safety and Compliance in Syringe Manufacturing: A Study of Risk Management Strategies Based on ISO 14971
Authors: Sharma Akash , Prakash Chandra , Vora Ankur
Published: August 2024

Ensuring the safety and compliance of syringes is crucial in the medical device industry to mitigate risks and uphold quality standards. This research paper examines effective risk management strategies for syringe manufacturers, grounded in the principles outlined in ISO 14971. The ISO 14971 standard provides a systematic framework for identifying, evaluating, and controlling risks throughout the product lifecycle. By integrating these strategies into manufacturing processes, syringe manufacturers can enhance product safety, achieve regulatory compliance, and improve overall quality. This study synthesizes current practices and case studies to illustrate the practical application of ISO 14971 in enhancing safety and compliance within the syringe manufacturing industry.
Biological Management of Common Scab (Streptomyces scabiei) of Potato
Authors: Patel J. K. , Patel R. N. , Zapadiya D. M. , Vaghela S. J. , Jaiman R. S.
Published: August 2024

At the Potato Research Station, S. D. Agricultural University, Deesa, Gujarat (India) a field experiment was carried out from 2019–20 to 2021–22 to assess the effectiveness of the three most widely used bioagents against the potato common scab. Five distinct treatments were assessed: T1 seed treatment with Trichoderma viride and soil application of Trichoderma viride enriched FYM; T2 seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens and soil application of Pseudomonas fluorescens enriched FYM; T3 seed treatment with Bacillus subtilis and soil application of Bacillus subtilis enriched FYM; T4 seed treatment and soil application with boric acid and T5 served as the control. The pooled data result showed that T4 i.e. seed treatment and soil application with boric acid, had the lowest disease incidence and severity (33.95% & 38.67%) of common scab. This was found at par to T3 (39.06% & 44.40%) which involved seed treatment with Bacillus subtilis and soil application with Bacillus subtilis enriched FYM. Next best treatment was T2 (47.04% & 46.93%), which was seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens and soil application with Pseudomonas fluorescens enriched FYM. There was no significant difference between treatments in terms of tuber yield (t/ha).
Application of Machine Learning in the Characterization and Classification of Hazards in Underwater Operations in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Jia John A. , Jia Njideka I.
Published: August 2024

Underwater operations in the oil and gas industry involve hazardous activities for the extraction of the resources beneath ocean surfaces. These activities are inherently hazardous and can lead to significant health, safety and environmental consequences for both workers and the environment, impeding operations if proper risk management is not implemented. Reports available show fatality rate of 2.5 times higher in the oil and gas industry than obtainable in the construction industry. Classifying the risk of underwater hazards provides an effective risk profiling of the hazards and consequently application of fit for purpose control measures. This study leverages machine learning clustering algorithms, such as K-Means and Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering (AHC), to categorize hazards from underwater activities and identify high-risk hazard groups. Questionnaire were used to collect data from 418 underwater workers across 5 Niger Delta oil and gas companies assessing likelihood, frequency, and severity perspectives across 20 potential hazards. AHC and K-Mean clustering with k=3 revealed Cluster 1 had 7 hazards associated with adverse weather, security threat, and structural failure. Cluster 2 had 9 underwater hazards associated with falling objects and loss of containment while cluster 3 had a total of 4 hazards which were hazards associated with fire, explosion, and blowout. Machine learning provides clustering of the underwater operation hazards resulting in data-driven taxonomies of the hazards based on risk attributes and enlightening areas demanding managerial focus. The clustering of similar hazards together implies that grouped hazards may benefit from common control measures rather than individual solutions hence achieve effectiveness, save cost and time. The study has shown that machine learning can be applied in risk assessment of hazards in underwater operations as in other reported areas of the oil and gas industry.
Effect of Water Depth and Swell Parameters on Wave Propagation in the Coastal Zone of Benin
Authors: Tokpohozin Bernard N. , Chidikofan Djonoumawou M. G. F. , Kpomahou Fernando Y. J. , Akowanou Christian D. , Houékpohéha Mathias A. , Hounguè Guy H. , Kounouhéwa Et Basile B.
Published: August 2024

The coastal zone is studied as a morphodynamic system in the present work. A morphodynamic system comprises a geomorphological entity that adjusts its morphology in response to variations in a dynamic component. In recent years, particularly from 2015 to 2016, strong swells have been observed and have induced the destruction of coastal infrastructure and strong coastal erosion in the Gulf of Guinea, particularly Benin. Following this observation, our study is carried out to understand the origin of these strong events. Through this work, we tried to highlight the effect of water depth and swell parameters on wave propagation using experimental models from the literature. For this reason, MATLAB and Mathematica software were used for simulations. It can be said from the results obtained that the wave height has a considerable effect on the wave profile. The variation in water depth as a function of distance from the bed shows that it significantly affects the wave and its components.
Clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and management of Coffin–Siris syndrome
Authors: Vergano Samantha S. , Deardorff Matthew A.
Published: August 2014

Coffin–Siris syndrome (OMIM#135900) is a multiple congenital anomaly syndrome classically characterized by hypo‐ or aplasia of the fifth digit nails or phalanges, as well as coarse facial features, sparse scalp hair, and moderate to severe cognitive and/or developmental delay. The recent identification of molecular etiologies has served to effectively characterize a large set of patients who have been described with Coffin–Siris between the time of its initial description and the present. However, despite recent advances, a number of patients who traditionally fit the diagnosis have yet to have identified causes. This could be due to patients who lie outside the defined phenotype, or alternatively, to additional as yet unidentified genes which may play roles. Here we outline the range of clinical features described in the broader diagnostic category, review the continuing phenotypic challenges and note those subsets of patients for whom molecular causes have yet to be clarified. Finally, we discuss recommendations for clinical management of these individuals. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DOORS syndrome: Phenotype, genotype and comparison with Coffin‐Siris syndrome
Authors: Campeau Philippe M. , Hennekam Raoul C. ,   The DOORS syndrome collaborative group
Published: August 2014

DOORS syndrome (Deafness, Onychodystrophy, Osteodystrophy, mental Retardation, Seizures) is characterized mainly by sensorineural deafness, shortened terminal phalanges with small nails of hands and feet, intellectual deficiency, and seizures. Half of the patients with all clinical features have mutations in TBC1D24. We review here the manifestations of patients clinically diagnosed with DOORS syndrome. In this cohort of 32 families (36 patients) we detected 13 individuals from 10 families with TBC1D24 mutations. Subsequent whole exome sequencing in the cohort showed the same de novoSMARCB1 mutation (c.1130G>A), known to cause Coffin‐Siris syndrome, in two patients. Distinguishing features include retinal anomalies, Dandy‐Walker malformation, scoliosis, rocker bottom feet, respiratory difficulties and absence of seizures, and 2‐oxoglutaric aciduria in the patients with the SMARCB1 mutation. We briefly discuss the heterogeneity of the DOORS syndrome phenotype and the differential diagnosis of this condition. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transient Substrate‐Induced Catalyst Formation in a Dynamic Molecular Network
Authors: Fanlo‐Virgós Hugo , Alba Andrea‐Nekane R. , Hamieh Saleh , Colomb‐Delsuc Mathieu , Otto Sijbren
Published: August 2014

In biology enzyme concentrations are continuously regulated, yet for synthetic catalytic systems such regulatory mechanisms are underdeveloped. We now report how a substrate of a chemical reaction induces the formation of its own catalyst from a dynamic molecular network. After complete conversion of the substrate, the network disassembles the catalyst. These results open up new opportunities for controlling catalysis in synthetic chemical systems.
Helligkeit durch lokale Rigidifizierung – LNA‐verstärkte FIT‐Sonden zur bildgebenden Darstellung von Ribonukleotidpartikeln in vivo
Authors: Hövelmann Felix , Gaspar Imre , Loibl Simon , Ermilov Eugeny A. , Röder Beate , Wengel Jesper , Ephrussi Anne , Seitz Oliver
Published: August 2014

Bei der Analyse der RNA‐Dynamik in lebenden Zellen werden üblicherweise transgene Methoden eingesetzt. Diese erfordern modifizierte RNAs und Zellen. Hingegen ermöglichen Hybridisierungs‐Fluoreszenzsonden Untersuchungen an Wildtyp‐Zellen. Wir haben Nuklease‐resistente FIT(“DNA‐forced intercalation”)‐Sonden entwickelt, in denen hohe Anstiege der Fluoreszenz durch Hybridisierung mit einer großen Helligkeit einhergehen, sodass einzelne Ribonukleotidpartikel (RNP) verfolgt werden können. Hierbei dient ein einzelner Thiazolorange(TO)‐Interkalationsfarbstoff als Nukleobasensurrogat während eine benachbarte LNA(“locked nucleic acid”)‐Modifikation die Umgebung konformativ fixiert. Dies schließt Fluoreszenzabklingkanäle und erhöht so die Helligkeit von TO in Sonden‐Ziel‐Komplexen. Zwei FIT‐Sonden reichen aus, um oskar‐RNPs in lebenden Wildtyp‐Oozyten von Drosophila melanogaster zu verfolgen.
Pyrene‐Based Quantitative Detection of the 5‐Formylcytosine Loci Symmetry in the CpG Duplex Content during TET‐Dependent Demethylation
Authors: Xu Liang , Chen Ying‐Chu , Chong Jenny , Fin Andrea , McCoy Lisa S. , Xu Jun , Zhang Chao , Wang Dong
Published: August 2014

Methylcytosine (5mC) is mostly symmetrically distributed in CpG sites. Ten‐eleven‐translocation (TET) proteins are the key enzymes involved in active DNA demethylation through stepwise oxidation of 5mC. However, oxidation pathways of TET enzymes in the symmetrically methylated CpG context are still elusive. Employing the unique fluorescence properties of pyrene group, we designed and synthesized a sensitive fluorescence‐based probe not only to target 5‐formylcytosine (5fC) sites, but also to distinguish symmetric from asymmetric 5fC sites in the double stranded DNA context during TET‐dependent 5mC oxidation process. Using this novel probe, we revealed dominant levels of symmetric 5fC among total 5fC sites during in vitro TET‐dependent 5mC oxidation and novel mechanistic insights into the TET‐dependent 5mC oxidation in the mCpG context.
A Toxic RNA Catalyzes the In Cellulo Synthesis of Its Own Inhibitor
Authors: Rzuczek Suzanne G. , Park HaJeung , Disney Matthew D.
Published: August 2014

Potent modulators of RNA function can be assembled in cellulo by using the cell as a reaction vessel and a disease‐causing RNA as a catalyst. When designing small molecule effectors of function, a balance between permeability and potency must be struck. Low molecular weight compounds are more permeable whereas higher molecular weight compounds are more potent. The advantages of both types of compounds could be synergized if low molecular weight molecules could be transformed into potent, multivalent ligands by a reaction that is catalyzed by binding to a target in cells expressing a genetic defect. It was shown that this approach is indeed viable in cellulo. Small molecule modules with precisely positioned alkyne and azide moieties bind adjacent internal loops in r(CCUG)exp, the causative agent of myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2), and are transformed into oligomeric, potent inhibitors of DM2 RNA dysfunction by a Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction, a variant of click chemistry.
Cluster Linker Approach: Preparation of a Luminescent Porous Framework with NbO Topology by Linking Silver Ions with Gold(I) Clusters
Authors: Lei Zhen , Pei Xiao‐Li , Jiang Zhan‐Guo , Wang Quan‐Ming
Published: August 2014

A cluster‐based luminescent porous metal–organic framework has been constructed through a “cluster linker” approach. The luminescent gold(I) cluster, prefunctionalized with pyrazinyl groups, was used as a cluster linker, similar to an organic linker, to connect silver ions in order to form a 3D framework. 1D channels with 1.1 nm diameter were observed in the framework. The cluster with its intrinsic luminescence was incorporated into a porous framework to give a luminescent bifunctional NbO net. This MOF shows solvatochromic behavior, and the interactions between solvent molecules and silver ions inside the channels account for the changes in absorption and emission spectra.
Hierarchically porous graphitic carbon monoliths containing nickel nanoparticles as magnetically separable adsorbents for dyes
Authors: Liu Yurong , Lin Baoping , Li Dan , Zhang Xueqin , Sun Ying , Yang Hong
Published: August 2014

The hierarchically porous graphitic carbon monoliths containing nickel nanoparticles (HPGCM‐Ni) were fabricated via multi‐component co‐assembly in polyurethane (PU) foam scaffold associated with a direct carbonization process from triblock copolymer F127, diblock copolymer PDMS‐PEO, phenolic resol, and nickel nitrate and subsequent silicates removal with NaOH solution. The decomposable PU foam scaffold played important role in the process of multi‐component co‐assembly and macrostructure formation. The nickel salts were reduced to metallic Ni nanoparticles during the carbonization process. The obtained HPGCM‐Ni materials exhibited macropores of 100–450 μm, mesopore size of 7.2 nm, BET surface area of 725 m2 g−1, pore volume of 0.74 cm3 g−1, and saturation magnetization of 2.3 emu g−1. Using methyl orange as model dye pollutant in water, HPGCM‐Ni samples showed good adsorption capacity of 440 mg g−1, exhibiting excellent adsorption characteristics desirable for the application in adsorption of dyes and separation under an external magnetic field. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41322.
Preparation of amphoteric polycarboxylate superplasticizers and their performances in cementitious system
Authors: Jiang Lingfei , Kong Xiangming , Lu Zichen , Hou Shanshan
Published: August 2014

A series of amphoteric polycarboxylate (PC) polymers were synthesized by radical copolymerization of acrylic acid (AA), [3‐(methacryloylamino) propyl] trimethylammonium chloride (MAPTAC) and ω‐methoxypolyoxyethylene methacrylate ester (MPEGMA). Cationic groups were introduced in to PC molecules with expectation of less retardation effect on cement hydration compared to the traditional anionic PC superplasticizers. The content of cationic groups in polymer was varied by changing the monomer ratio of MAPTAC to AA in the synthesis recipes. The structure of the synthesized amphoteric PCs was verified by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The performances of the amphoteric PCs were evaluated by measurement of flowability and zeta‐potential of cement pastes and adsorption amount of PC in cement pastes. Impacts of the PCs on cement hydration were studied by isothermal calorimetry. It is concluded that both anionic and cationic PC polymers can be effectively adsorbed onto the surface of cement particles and thus change the zeta potential of cement pastes. The adsorption amounts of the amphoteric PCs decrease with increasing content of cationic units. A proper incorporation of cationic units into PC polymers may lead to a higher fluidizing performance in fresh cement pastes. The amphoteric PC polymers with higher content of cationic units show less retardation effect on cement hydration and hence higher early strength of cementitious materials may be achieved by using amphoteric PCs with appropriated content of cationic units without losing their plasticizing efficiency. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41348.
Polypyrrole film architectures influence on platinum nanoparticles efficiency in ethanol electrooxidation
Authors: Stoian Andrei Bogdan , Buica George‐Octavian , Demetrescu Ioana
Published: August 2014

The electrodeposition of polypyrrole films from aqueous surfactant solution through a two‐dimensional polystyrene template onto indium‐tin oxide substrate has been investigated. The polymer grows in the interstitial spaces of the self‐assembled polystyrene spheres, which were subsequently removed by dissolution in toluene. The new obtained surface was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Platinum nanoparticles were deposited onto the nanostructured polypyrrole electrode and used as a catalyst for the oxidation of ethanol for direct ethanol fuel cells. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41375.
Numerical prediction of algae cell mixing feature in raceway ponds using particle tracing methods
Authors: Ali Haider , Cheema Taqi A. , Yoon Ho‐Sung , Do Younghae , Park Cheol W.
Published: August 2014

In the present study, a novel technique, which involves numerical computation of the mixing length of algae particles in raceway ponds, was used to evaluate the mixing process. A value of mixing length that is higher than the maximum streamwise distance (MSD) of algae cells indicates that the cells experienced an adequate turbulent mixing in the pond. A coupling methodology was adapted to map the pulsating effects of a 2D paddle wheel on a 3D raceway pond in this study. The turbulent mixing was examined based on the computations of mixing length, residence time, and algae cell distribution in the pond. The results revealed that the use of particle tracing methodology is an improved approach to define the mixing phenomenon more effectively. Moreover, the algae cell distribution aided in identifying the degree of mixing in terms of mixing length and residence time. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 297–307. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination of fexofenadine in Hank's balanced salt solution by high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection: application to Caco‐2 cell permeability studies
Authors: Júnior Marco Antônio dos. Reis , de Faria Ana Cláudia Miranda , Velozo Eudes da. Silva , Dalla Costa Teresa , de Andrade Frank Pereira , de Castro Whocely Victor
Published: August 2014

The drug‐transporting proteins can affect the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodymanics of many drugs, resulting in an erratic and unpredictable pharmacological response. The Caco‐2 monolayer is routinely applied to investigate the carrier‐mediated transport of drugs. Therefore, the selection of a marker compound able to characterize the activity of such transporters is crucial. Fexofenadine (FEX), a P‐gp/OATP substrate, can be considered a suitable probe. However, in order to use be used as a marker compound, it is mandatory to develop an analytical method able to quantify this drug during the in vitro permeability assay. An HPLC method with ultraviolet detection was developed; the mobile phase consisted of phosphate buffer (pH 3.2) containing 10 m m of sodium octanosulphonate and acetonitrile (60:40) and the flow rate was set at 1.2 mL/min. Fexofenadine was eluted at 40°C, the retention time was about 4.6 min. The LOD and LOQ values were 1.9 and 6.2 ng/mL, respectively. Verapamil and ketoconazole, the most common P‐gp inhibitors, were eluted as distinct peaks of that corresponding to fexofenadine The method was successfully applied to quantify the amount of FEX transported across the Caco‐2 monolayer and could be an additional tool for those investigating the role of membrane transporters on drug absorption. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quadruple wild‐type (WT) GIST: defining the subset of GIST that lacks abnormalities of KIT, PDGFRA, SDH, or RAS signaling pathways
Authors: Pantaleo Maria A. , Nannini Margherita , Corless Christopher L. , Heinrich Michael C.
Published: August 2014

A subset of GISTs lack mutations in the KIT/PDGFRA or RAS pathways and yet retain an intact succinate dehydrogensase (SDH) complex. We propose that these KIT/PDGFRA/SDH/RAS‐P WT GIST tumors be designated as quadruple wild‐type (WT) GIST. Further molecular and clinicophatological characterization of quadruple WT GIST will help to determine their prognosis as well as assist in the optimization of medical management, including clinical test of novel therapies.
Does Social Capital Protect Against the Adverse Behavioural Outcomes of Child Neglect?
Authors: Kotch Jonathan B. , Smith Jamie , Margolis Benyamin , Black Maureen M. , English Diana , Thompson Richard , Lee Li‐Ching , Taneja Gitanjali , Bangdiwala Shrikant I.
Published: August 2014

LONGSCAN was a longitudinal study of the risks and consequences of child abuse and neglect conducted between 1992 and 2012 among five sites across the US. Interviews with mothers of at‐risk children began when the children were four years of age, and mothers and children from age six to age 18 years were interviewed every other year. Maltreatment reports were obtained from departments of social services, and subjects’ self‐reported abuse was obtained at age 12. Generalised estimating equations were used to investigate the impact of informal social control, social cohesion and trust (SCT), and caregiver depression at ages 12, 14 and 16 years on externalising behaviours, smoking and alcohol use among 18‐year olds who had been neglected prior to age 12. In models controlling for child age and gender, maltreatment types other than neglect, maternal education and study site, SCT significantly reduced the impact of caregiver depression on externalising behaviour and alcohol use among the neglected children at age 18. This moderating effect was not seen among non‐neglected 18‐year‐old children. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Messages:

Child neglect is a significant predictor of adolescent health risk behaviours.

Caregiver depression increases the risk of neglect and increases the adverse behavioural outcomes of neglect.

Among children neglected before age 12, in the presence of caregiver depression, SCT reduce externalising behaviours and alcohol use at age 18.

Identification and treatment of caregiver depression, along with supporting community cohesion and neighbourhood trust, can ameliorate some of the negative outcomes associated with child neglect.

‘Child neglect is a significant predictor of adolescent health risk behaviours’
Enzyme Toolbox: Novel Enantiocomplementary Imine Reductases
Authors: Scheller Philipp N. , Fademrecht Silvia , Hofelzer Sebastian , Pleiss Jürgen , Leipold Friedemann , Turner Nicholas J. , Nestl Bettina M. , Hauer Bernhard
Published: August 2014

Reducing reactions are among the most useful transformations for the generation of chiral compounds in the fine‐chemical industry. Because of their exquisite selectivities, enzymatic approaches have emerged as the method of choice for the reduction of CO and activated CC bonds. However, stereoselective enzymatic reduction of CN bonds is still in its infancy—it was only recently described after the discovery of enzymes capable of imine reduction. In our work, we increased the spectrum of imine‐reducing enzymes by database analysis. By combining the currently available knowledge about the function of imine reductases with the experimentally uncharacterized diversity stored in protein sequence databases, three novel imine reductases with complementary enantiopreference were identified along with amino acids important for catalysis. Furthermore, their reducing capability was demonstrated by the reduction of the pharmaceutically relevant prochiral imine 2‐methylpyrroline. These novel enzymes exhibited comparable to higher catalytic efficiencies than previously described enzymes, and their biosynthetic potential is highlighted by the full conversion of 2‐methylpyrroline in whole cells with excellent selectivities.
A Coenzyme‐Independent Decarboxylase/Oxygenase Cascade for the Efficient Synthesis of Vanillin
Authors: Furuya Toshiki , Miura Misa , Kino Kuniki
Published: August 2014

Vanillin is one of the most widely used flavor compounds in the world as well as a promising versatile building block. The biotechnological production of vanillin from plant‐derived ferulic acid has attracted much attention as a new alternative to chemical synthesis. One limitation of the known metabolic pathway to vanillin is its requirement for expensive coenzymes. Here, we developed a novel route to vanillin from ferulic acid that does not require any coenzymes. This artificial pathway consists of a coenzyme‐independent decarboxylase and a coenzyme‐independent oxygenase. When Escherichia coli cells harboring the decarboxylase/oxygenase cascade were incubated with ferulic acid, the cells efficiently synthesized vanillin (8.0 mM, 1.2 g L−1) via 4‐vinylguaiacol in one pot, without the generation of any detectable aromatic by‐products. The efficient method described here might be applicable to the synthesis of other high‐value chemicals from plant‐derived aromatics.
Left atrial appendage closure using the amulet device: An initial experience with the second generation amplatzer cardiac plug
Authors: Lam Simon Cheung Chi , Bertog Stefan , Gafoor Sameer , Vaskelyte Laura , Boehm Patrick , Ho Raymond Wei Jian , Franke Jennifer , Hofmann Ilona , Sievert Horst
Published: August 2014

Objectives

Aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility, safety, and short‐term outcome of left atrial appendage (LAA) closure with a new generation LAA closure device.

Background

The Amulet device (AGA, St Jude Medical, Minneapolis, MN) is a new generation of the amplatzer cardiac plug (ACP), specifically designed for LAA closure. This new version is designed to facilitate the implantation process and minimize procedural or device‐related complications.

Methods

The device was implanted in 17 patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Clinical data were obtained at baseline, during the procedure, at discharge, at 30 and 90 days.

Results

All devices were implanted successfully. Device sizes ranged from 20 mm to 31 mm. A 12 French (Fr) or 14 Fr delivery sheath was used depending on the selected device size. Full and partial recapture was performed in 1 case and 3 cases, respectively. There was 1 procedure‐related pericardial effusion successfully managed with pericardiocentesis. There was no device embolization. The mean length of stay was 2.1 ± 0.3 days. At 90 days, there were no deaths, strokes, systemic thromboembolism, or bleeding complications. There was no device‐related thrombus or pericardial effusion at 90‐day TEE. In 2 of the 17 patients minimal peridevice flow (smaller than 2 mm) was present.

Conclusions

The Amulet device, which has new novel features as compared with the first generation ACP, is a feasible option for LAA closure. From our initial experience, implantation of the Amulet is associated with high success rate and good short‐term outcome. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polysiloxane‐Based Luminescent Elastomers Prepared by Thiol–ene “Click” Chemistry
Authors: Zuo Yujing , Lu Haifeng , Xue Lei , Wang Xianming , Wu Lianfeng , Feng Shengyu
Published: August 2014

Side‐chain vinyl poly(dimethylsiloxane) has been modified with mercaptopropionic acid, methyl 3‐mercaptopropionate, and mercaptosuccinic acid. Coordinative bonding of EuIII to the functionalized polysiloxanes was then carried out and crosslinked silicone elastomers were prepared by thiol–ene curing reactions of these composites. All these europium complexes could be cast to form transparent, uniform, thin elastomers with good flexibility and thermal stability. The networks were characterized by FTIR, NMR, UV/Vis, and luminescence spectroscopy as well as by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The europium elastomer luminophores exhibited intense red light at 617 nm under UV excitation at room temperature due to the 5D0→7F2 transition in EuIII ions. The newly synthesized luminescent materials offer many advantages, including the desired mechanical flexibility. They cannot be dissolved or fused, and so they have potential for use in optical and electronic applications.
Multicomponent Assembly of Fluorescent‐Tag Functionalized Ligands in Metal–Organic Frameworks for Sensing Explosives
Authors: Gole Bappaditya , Bar Arun Kumar , Mukherjee Partha Sarathi
Published: August 2014

Detection of trace amounts of explosive materials is significantly important for security concerns and pollution control. Four multicomponent metal–organic frameworks (MOFs‐12, 13, 23, and 123) have been synthesized by employing ligands embedded with fluorescent tags. The multicomponent assembly of the ligands was utilized to acquire a diverse electronic behavior of the MOFs and the fluorescent tags were strategically chosen to enhance the electron density in the MOFs. The phase purity of the MOFs was established by PXRD, NMR spectroscopy, and finally by single‐crystal XRD. Single‐crystal structures of the MOFs‐12 and 13 showed the formation of three‐dimensional porous networks with the aromatic tags projecting inwardly into the pores. These electron‐rich MOFs were utilized for detection of explosive nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) through fluorescence quenching with high selectivity and sensitivity. The rate of fluorescence quenching for all the MOFs follows the order of electron deficiency of the NACs. We also showed the detection of picric acid (PA) by luminescent MOFs is not always reliable and can be misleading. This attracts our attention to explore these MOFs for sensing picryl chloride (PC), which is as explosive as picric acid and used widely to prepare more stable explosives like 2,4,6‐trinitroaniline from PA. Moreover, the recyclability and sensitivity studies indicated that these MOFs can be reused several times with parts per billion (ppb) levels of sensitivity towards PC and 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT).
The Metallofullerene Field‐Induced Single‐Ion Magnet HoSc2N@C80
Authors: Dreiser Jan , Westerström Rasmus , Zhang Yang , Popov Alexey A. , Dunsch Lothar , Krämer Karl , Liu Shi‐Xia , Decurtins Silvio , Greber Thomas
Published: August 2014

The low‐temperature magnetic properties of the endohedral metallofullerene HoSc2N@C80 have been studied by superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry. Alternating current (ac) susceptibility measurements reveal that this molecule exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization in a small applied field with timescales in the order of milliseconds. The equilibrium magnetic properties of HoSc2N@C80 indicate strong magnetic anisotropy. The large differences in magnetization relaxation times between the present compound and the previously investigated DySc2N@C80 are discussed.
Enantiopure Isoindolinones through Viedma Ripening
Authors: Steendam René R. E. , Brouwer Maxime C. T. , Huijs Evelien M. E. , Kulka Michaël W. , Meekes Hugo , van Enckevort Willem J. P. , Raap Jan , Rutjes Floris P. J. T. , Vlieg Elias
Published: August 2014

Here we demonstrate that deracemization of isoindolinones using Viedma ripening is possible starting from a racemic mixture of conglomerate crystals. Crystals of the enantiopure isoindolinones lose their chiral identity upon dissolution even without the need for a catalyst. This enabled complete deracemization of the reported isoindolinones without a catalyst.
Cadherin‐8 expression, synaptic localization, and molecular control of neuronal form in prefrontal corticostriatal circuits
Authors: Friedman Lauren G. , Riemslagh Fréderike W. , Sullivan Josefa M. , Mesias Roxana , Williams Frances M. , Huntley George W. , Benson Deanna L.
Published: August 2014

Neocortical interactions with the dorsal striatum support many motor and executive functions, and such underlying functional networks are particularly vulnerable to a variety of developmental, neurological, and psychiatric brain disorders, including autism spectrum disorders, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Relatively little is known about the development of functional corticostriatal interactions, and in particular, virtually nothing is known of the molecular mechanisms that control generation of prefrontal cortex–striatal circuits. Here, we used regional and cellular in situ hybridization techniques coupled with neuronal tract tracing to show that Cadherin‐8 (Cdh8), a homophilic adhesion protein encoded by a gene associated with autism spectrum disorders and learning disability susceptibility, is enriched within striatal projection neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex and in striatal medium spiny neurons forming the direct or indirect pathways. Developmental analysis of quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot data show that Cdh8 expression peaks in the prefrontal cortex and striatum at P10, when cortical projections start to form synapses in the striatum. High‐resolution immunoelectron microscopy shows that Cdh8 is concentrated at excitatory synapses in the dorsal striatum, and Cdh8 knockdown in cortical neurons impairs dendritic arborization and dendrite self‐avoidance. Taken together, our findings indicate that Cdh8 delineates developing corticostriatal circuits where it is a strong candidate for regulating the generation of normal cortical projections, neuronal morphology, and corticostriatal synapses. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:75–92, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploring express delivery networks in China based on complex network theory
Authors: Xie Fengjie , Lin Jun , Cui Wentian
Published: August 2014

Based on the complex network theory, we explore an express delivery system in China, which consists of two delivery networks, namely, the air delivery network (ADN) and the ground delivery network (GDN). Systematic structural analysis indicates that both delivery networks exhibit small‐world phenomenon, disassortative mixing behavior, and rich‐club phenomenon. However, there are significant differences between ADN and GDN in terms of degree distribution property and community structure. On the basis of the Barabási‐Albert model, we have proposed a network model incorporating the structural features of the two delivery networks to reveal their evolutionary mechanisms. Lastly, the parcel strength and the distance strength are analyzed, which, respectively, reflect the number of parcels and the long‐haul delivery distance handled by a node city. The strengths are highly heterogeneous in both delivery networks and have intense correlations with topological structures. These works are beneficial for express enterprises to construct or extend their express delivery networks, and provide some useful insights on improving parcel delivery service. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 166–179, 2015
Efficient Ruthenium Sensitizer with a Terpyridine Ligand Having a Hexylthiophene Unit for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells: Effects of the Substituent Position on the Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Ozawa Hironobu , Kuroda Takahiro , Harada Shohei , Arakawa Hironori
Published: August 2014

A novel ruthenium sensitizer with a terpyridine ligand having a hexylthiophene unit at the 4‐position (TUS‐38) has been synthesized to investigate the effects of the substituent position on the photo‐ and electrochemical properties and on solar cell performance. The dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSC) with TUS‐38 showed a 10.6 % conversion efficiency under AM 1.5 (100 mW/cm2) irradiation, which is much higher than that of the DSC with a previously reported ruthenium sensitizer with a terpyridine ligand having two hexylthiophene units at the 5‐ and 5″‐positions.
NRG1‐ErbB signalling promotes microglia activation contributing to incision‐induced mechanical allodynia
Authors: Xiang Y. , Liu T. , Yang H. , Gao F. , Xiang H. , Manyande A. , Tian Y. , Tian X.
Published: August 2014

Background

Spinal microglia activation is one of the pathologic mechanisms involved in post‐operative pain, which results from surgical injuries in skin, fascia, muscle and small nerves innervating these tissues. Recent research has shown that neuregulin‐1 (NRG1) and its receptor erythroblastosis oncogene B (ErbB) family mediate microglia proliferation and chemotaxis contributing to the development of neuropathic pain. However, it is unclear whether NRG1‐ErbB signalling contributes to incision‐induced mechanical allodynia.

Methods

Expressions of NRG1, ErbB2 and activation of microglia in spinal cord following paw plantar incision in an incision‐induced mechanical allodynia model were detected with real‐time PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. Altered mechanical pain and spinal microglia activation were observed by pharmacologically blocking of NRG1‐ErbB signalling or down‐regulation of NRG1 types I and II via small interfering RNA (siRNA) intervention.

Results

NRG1‐ErbB signalling mediated incision‐induced microglia activation and mechanical allodynia. Expressions of types I and II NRG1 in L5 dorsal root ganglion at RNA level and in spinal cord at protein level were dramatically increased after paw incision. Pharmacologically blocking of NRG1‐ErbB signalling by ErbB inhibitor and down‐regulation, the expression of NRG1 types I and II via siRNA suppressed incision‐induced microglia activation and alleviated mechanical allodynia.

Conclusion

Incision‐induced NRG1 expression mediated activation of dorsal horn microglia and contributed to the development of mechanical allodynia. Specifically targeting NRG1‐ErbB signalling may therefore provide a new therapeutic intervention for relieving incision‐induced mechanical allodynia.
Kinetics of Thiophene Hydrodesulphurization: Pore Diffusional Effects
Authors: Ganguly Sudip K. , Vohra Nishant , Varun Neetu , Das Gautam , Bhunia Haripada
Published: August 2014

Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of straight‐run naphtha (SRN) reformer feed significantly improves reformer catalyst life, gasoline yield, and its stability. HDS of SRN helps in protecting the expensive platinum‐based reforming catalyst. HDS is usually catalyzed by sulphided Co–Mo/Al2O3 or sometimes Ni–Mo/Al2O3. The design of naphtha HDS units requires the development develop a kinetic model. It is well‐known that among the sulphur types present in naphtha, the most persistent sulphur compound is thiophene. Therefore, the design of naphtha HDS units is governed by thiophene HDS rates. It is essential to have experimental conditions free from intraparticle diffusional limitations in order to obtain intrinsic kinetics data. This Communication discusses the calculation procedures involved in ensuring experimental conditions free from pore diffusional resistances before conducting detailed kinetics studies. The pore diffusional resistance was quantified in terms of Thiele modulus (Φ).
Synthesis of N,N‐Bis(dialkoxyphosphinoylmethyl)‐ and N,N‐Bis(diphenylphosphinoylmethyl)‐β‐ and γ‐amino acid Derivatives by the Microwave‐Assisted Double Kabachnik–Fields Reaction
Authors: Bálint Erika , Fazekas Eszter , Kóti János , Keglevich György
Published: August 2014

The title compounds were synthesized by the microwave‐assisted, mostly solvent‐free bis Kabachnik–Fields condensation of β‐alanine and γ‐aminobutyric acid or their esters with formaldehyde and >P(O)H species, such as dialkyl phosphites and diphenylphosphine oxide.
PPARG Modulated Lipid Accumulation in Dairy GMEC via Regulation of ADRP Gene
Authors: Kang Yu , Hengbo Shi , Jun Luo , Jun Li , Wangsheng Zhao , Huibin Tian , Huaiping Shi
Published: August 2014

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma (PPARG) is considered to be a central regulator of lipid metabolism in mammary cells. Adipose differentiation‐related protein (ADRP), a member of PAT family (Perilipin, ADRP, TIP47 family), plays a key role in lipid accumulation in mammary gland. It has been found that PPARG significantly promoted lipid storage in goat mammary epithelial cells (GMEC), which was abolished after knockdown of ADRP gene. The results of real‐time PCR, Western blot and luciferase reporter assay for goat ADRP promoter showed that ligand‐activated PPARG up‐regulated the ADRP gene expression and activity of ADRP promoter. Moreover, PPARG directly interacted with a PPRE (PPAR response element) spanning at −1003 to −990 on ADRP promoter. In this study, to our knowledge, we are the first to verify the function of PPARG on lipid storage on cellular level of goat mammary gland and our results revealed a novel pathway that PPARG may regulate lipid accumulation by controlling the expression of ADRP gene. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 192–201, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetic, Equilibrium and Isotherm Studies of Cadmium Removal from Aqueous Solutions by Oxidized Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes and the Functionalized Ones with Thiosemicarbazide and Their Toxicity Investigations: A Comparison
Authors: Tahermansouri Hasan , Ahi Roghayeh Mohamadian , Kiani Farhoush
Published: August 2014

The multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were first oxidized by nitric acid to form a MWCNT‐COOH. Then, it was modified with thiosemicarbazide to produce MWCNT‐semi. Thus, these carbon materials, MWCNTs, MWCNT‐COOH and MWCNT‐semi, have been used as efficient adsorbents for the removal of cadmium from aqueous solutions. The influence of variables including pH, concentration of the cadmium, amount of adsorbents and contact time was investigated by the batch method. The kinetic studies carried out using different kinetic models such as pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, and intraparticle diffusion models. The sorption process with each adsorbent was well described by pseudo‐second‐order kinetics which it was agreed well with the experimental data. The values of regression coefficient of various adsorption isotherms like Langmuir, Freundlich and Tempkin to obtain the characteristic parameters of each model have been carried out. The results showed which the Langmuir isotherm for all adsorbents and Tempkin model for MWCNT‐COOH and MWCNT‐semi was found to best represent the measured sorption data. Toxicity of these samples was evaluated in human embryonic kidney HEK293 and human breast cancer SKBR3 cell lines after culturing cells for 24 h. Cellular investigations showed that the modified MWCNTs in particular MWCNT‐semi have considerably significant toxic impact on SKBR3 as compared to HEK293 at concentration 3 µg/mL.