bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Opportunities and Challenges for Women Entrepreneur in Digital Age
Authors: Swati  , Dua Kavita
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the opportunities and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the digital age, focusing on their entrepreneurial competencies, performance, and the hurdles encountered in their ventures. With the rapid evolution of technology and the widespread adoption of digital platforms, women entrepreneurs have emerged as key players in the entrepreneurial landscape. The objectives of this research are to explore the opportunities available to women entrepreneurs in the digital realm, assess their entrepreneurial competencies, and evaluate their performance in leveraging digital tools for business growth. Additionally, the study aims to identify and analyze the challenges that women entrepreneurs encounter in the digital age, ranging from technological barriers to gender-related issues. The methodology employed includes a sample of 30 women entrepreneurs from Hisar districts in Haryana actively engaged in digital-age entrepreneurship, with data collected through a structured survey questionnaire using a three-point Likert scale. The findings from this study will provide insights into enhancing support systems and addressing barriers to facilitate the success of women entrepreneurs in the digital era.
Study of Genetic Variability and Path Analysis for Yield Attributing Traits in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)
Authors: Paliwal Shruti , Tripathi Manoj Kumar , Sikarwar R. S. , Sharma Sanjeev
Published: May 2024

This study was conducted to assess genetic variability, interrelationship among yield attributing traits and their direct and indirect effect on yield. Ninety-two genotypes including four checks was taken in the study and were planted during two seasons i.e., Rabi 2022-23 and Rabi 2023-24 at Research Farm, Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior. These genotypes were evaluated for analysis of genetic variability, phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, correlation and path analysis for seed yield and its related traits. Higher estimates of GCV and PCV were observed for traits like seed yield per plant, harvest index, thousand seed weight, numbers of seeds per capsule, numbers of capsules per plant, numbers of secondary and primary branches. Highly significant and positive correlation with seed yield was documented for numbers of capsules per plant (0.82), numbers of secondary branches per plant (0.64) and thousand seed weight (0.31). Path coefficient analysis revealed that numbers of capsules per plant was the major contributor to the seed yield (0.7950) followed by harvest index (0.1762) and biological yield (0.1211).
Effect of Organic Manure and Biofertilizers on the Growth, Yield and Productivity of Guava under Meadow Orcharding
Authors: Karanveer  , Singh Devi , Wesley C.John
Published: May 2024

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of organic manure and biofertilizers on the growth, yield and productivity of guava under meadow orcharding at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. In this experiment, various organic sources (Farm yard manure (30 kg/plant/y), vermicompost (30 kg/plant/y) and neem cake (3 kg/plant/y) along with various biofertilizer combinations (Azotobacter, Azospirillum, PSB) were tested on five-year-old guava cultivar 'Allahabad Safeda' to study its effect on growth, fruiting and yield. The results obtained showed higher fruit weight (218.00 g), fruit length (7.60 cm), fruit diameter (7.42 cm), maximum number of fruits produced per plant (26.64 fruits/plant), maximum yield per plant of 5.81 kg/plant and maximum yield per ha (23.12 t/ha) with the application of T9. The highest total soluble solids (12°Brix) and total sugar content of fruit (8.26%) with the application of T9. Application of nutrients through organic along with biofertilizers improve soil health in terms of mean microbial population in the rhizosphere of root zone soil as compared to control. From the present study, the application of biofertilizers with the combination of organic manures has a beneficial effect on the availability of major nutrients in the soil to help in maintaining of the soil fertility and plant growth of the fruits at a desired level. It can be concluded that, for better growth, yield and quality guava fruits, the guava trees should be fertilized with (FYM (30kg/plant) +Azospirillum @250g/tree +PSB @250g/tree +Neem cake @3kg/tree) per year with treatment T9.
Trait Association and Path Analyses for Yield and Its Attributes in Ridge Gourd Commercial Hybrids (Luffa acutangula L.)
Authors: Suvedha M.  , Marichamy M.S.  , Kanthaswamy V.  , Vengadessan V.  , Jyothsna J
Published: May 2024

This study aims to explore the relationship between several traits among 18 ridge gourd hybrids. It was carried out during the rabi season of 2021–2022, at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry. Twenty yield-related qualities were assessed using a randomized block design with two replications in order to determine the associations among various characters. The yield per vine was found to have a highly significant and positive correlation with the following variables: vine length at final harvest, number of primary branches vine-1, number of female flowers vine-1, days to final harvest, fruit length, fruit girth, number of seeds fruit-1, total number of harvest, number of fruits vine-1 and weight of individual fruit. Path analysis revealed that the characters such as number of female flowers vine-1, days to first female flower anthesis, total number of harvest, sex ratio, total soluble solids, days to first male flower anthesis, vine length at final harvest, number of seeds fruit-1, days to first harvest, number of primary branches vine-1, fruit length, fruit girth, number of seeds fruit-1, number of fruits vine-1 and weight of individual fruit are considered as important traits which directly and indirectly influences towards yield. It implies that the characters strongly influence the yield vine-1 and hence selection for these traits would be considered important in selection of hybrids for yield.
Impact of Planting Dates on NPK Content in Soybean Plants and Seeds across Different Cultivars
Authors: Kaur Ravneet , Upadhyay Hina , Saajan Supreet
Published: May 2024

Soybean Glycine max (L.). growth, development, and production are negatively impacted by delayed planting dates and poor environmental circumstances. The nitrogen accumulation, phosphorus accumulation, potassium accumulation at harvest and nitrogen content, phosphorus content, potassium content in seed impacted by changes in photoperiod, temperature, and precipitation with delayed planting. Extremely high temperatures and drought stress are examples of environmental variables that negatively impact plant development and productivity and are frequently linked to delayed planting.
Evaluation of Different Fungicides against Fusarium Wilt Pathogen of Bottle Gourd
Authors: Chaudhari Keya , Patel N. R.
Published: May 2024

Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria Mol.Standl.), a prominent member of the cucurbitaceae family, stands as a significant vegetable crop. However, it faces a formidable challenge in the form of Fusarium wilt, attributed to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lagenariae, a fungal pathogen. This disease poses a substantial threat to bottle gourd cultivation, affecting its vascular system and leading to symptoms like wilting and yellowing, ultimately endangering the plant's survival. The research was conducted on evaluation of fungicides against F. oxysporum of bottle gourd at department of plant pathology, S. D. Agricultural University during 2018-2020. Four systemic, four non-systemic and four combined fungicides at different concentration were tested against F. oxysporum through poison food technique. Among systemic fungicides, carbendazim found much effective and it recorded the highest growth inhibition (99%) at higher concentration, followed by propiconazole (98%) at 500 ppm. Among non systemic fungicides, propineb recorded the highest growth inhibition (99.50%) at higher concentration, followed by chlorothalonil (73.83%) at 2000 ppm. Among combined fungicides, carboxin + thiram recorded the highest growth inhibition (99.50%) at higher growth inhibition at 1000 ppm.
Management of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Maize with Oil Based Formulations of Metarhizium rileyi
Authors: Sai Pooja N  , Hosamani A
Published: May 2024

Maize, a vital cereal crop globally and in India, faces productivity challenges exacerbated by invasive pests like the fall armyworm. In response, eco-friendly strategies like microbial-based pesticides, including Metarhizium rileyi, is emerging as promising solution. This study addresses the challenge for effective fall armyworm management by utilizing M. rileyi oil based formulations. Results demonstrate significant larval reduction, with sunflower oil-based formulations achieving the highest reduction of 49.12% compared to control. These findings underscore the potential of M. rileyi formulations, particularly in sunflower oil, as valuable tools in integrated pest management strategies for maize crops.
Design and Kinematics Analysis of Tensioning Integral Robot
Authors: Wang Shoubo , Liu Hongze
Published: May 2024

In the past two decades, the technology of robots has developed rapidly. With the enrichment of social needs and applications, the functions of robots have become diversified. The tension-integrated robot designed in this paper is based on the British OC Robotics Series II X125 robot for mechanism design. The mathematical model of the tension-integrated robot is derived, and the kinematic simulation is carried out by Adams and Matlab to verify the correctness of the mathematical model, and the kinematic analysis of the tension-integrated robot is carried out.
Firstly, the development and research status of tensioning integral robot is briefly summarized. Because the shape of the tensioning integral robot designed in this paper is similar to that of a snake, the development, structural characteristics and research status of the snake robot are summarized.
Secondly, according to the application requirements of the tensioned integral robot, the functions and performance indexes of the tensioned integral robot are analyzed, and the overall structure of the tensioned integral robot is designed, including the body structure of the snake robot, the driving mechanism and the base. The serpentine arm of the serpentine robot is a serpentine structure with twelve joints connected in series.
Finally, the mathematical model of the snake robot is derived, and the kinematic simulation of the snake robot is carried out by Adams and Matlab respectively. The obtained image results are the same, which proves that the mathematical model of the snake robot is correctly derived, laying a foundation for further research.
Encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis (ECCL): Neuroradiological findings in three patients and a new association with fibrous dysplasia
Authors: Delfino Luciana Nogueira , Fariello Giuseppe , Quattrocchi Carlo Cosimo , Aiello Costanza , Menchini Laura , Devito Rita , Zama Mario , Claps Dianella , Vigevano Federico , Longo Daniela
Published: May 2011

Encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis (ECCL) is a rare neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by involvement of tissues of ectodermal and mesodermal origin such as skin, eye, adipose tissue, and brain. Since 1970, when Haberland and Perou had described the first patient, 54 cases of ECCL have been reported in literature. We report on three new boys with ECCL. In addition to their typical dermal, ocular and central nervous system anomalies, one of them had a spheno‐ethmoidal osseous lesion. Histopathological evaluation confirmed the benign nature of the lesion and was consistent with fibrous dysplasia. The aim of our study is to review clinical records and brain imaging studies of these three new patients with ECCL and compare these findings with those reported in literature to better define the phenotypic spectrum and radiological findings in ECCL. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fanconi anemia‐like presentation in an infant with constitutional deletion of 21q including the RUNX1 gene
Authors: Click Eleanor S. , Cox Barbara , Olson Susan B. , Grompe Markus , Akkari Yassmine , Moreau Lisa A. , Shimamura Akiko , Sternen Darci L. , Liu Yajuan J. , Leppig Kathleen A. , Matthews Dana C. , Parisi Melissa A.
Published: May 2011

We describe a newborn female with a de novo interstitial deletion of chromosome 21q21.1‐22.12 including the RUNX1 gene who had developmental delay, multiple congenital anomalies, tetralogy of Fallot, anemia, and chronic thromobocytopenia requiring frequent platelet transfusions from birth. Because of her physical and hematologic abnormalities, she was tested for Fanconi anemia (FA). Lymphocytes and fibroblasts from this patient demonstrated increased chromosome breakage with exposure to the clastogen mitomycin C, but not, in contrast to most FA patients, to diepoxybutane. Further testing by Western analysis and complementation testing did not show a defect in the function of known Fanconi proteins. Her constitutional deletion was later found to span 13.2 Mb by chromosome microarray analysis, encompassing the RUNX1 gene that has been implicated in thrombocytopenia and predisposition to acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) when in the haploinsufficient state. We compare her phenotype to other individuals with similar 21q deletions and thrombocytopenia, as well as those with FA. We suggest that deletion of RUNX1 or another critical gene within the deleted region may result in chromosomal instability similar to that seen in FA. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Array‐CGH study of partial trisomy 9p without mental retardation
Authors: Abdallah Bouhjar Inesse Ben , Hannachi Hanane , Mougou Zerelli Soumaya , Labalme Audrey , Gmidène Abir , Soyah Najla , Missaoui Sonia , Sanlaville Damien , Elghezal Hatem , Saad Ali
Published: May 2011

Partial trisomy 9p is one of the most common detected autosomal structural anomalies, so the phenotype–genotype correlation of this rearrangement has been well described. Despite variation in size of the 9p duplications, trisomy 9p syndrome is characterized by typical dysmorphic features and a variable but constant psychomotor and mental retardation. Previously reported phenotype genotype correlation studies proposed that the critical region for phenotype is located in 9p22. We report here on a new patient with partial trisomy 9p13.3→9pter in an 8‐year‐old boy with typical trisomy 9p dysmorphic features but a normal mental development. Cytogenetics investigations showed that our patient karyotype was 47,XY,+ der(22)t(9;22)(p13.q11) inherited by a 3:1 disjunction of a maternal reciprocal translocation t(9;22)(p13.q11). FISH and array CGH analysis were used to better characterize duplicated chromosomal regions and showed a large duplication of chromosome 9p13.3→9pter associated to microduplication in 22q11.1. The size of the duplications in chromosomes 9p and 22q were estimated about 33.9 and 2.67 Mb, respectively. The comparison between this case and those reported in the literature allows us to support that all syndromes show variability and that not all partial trisomies 9p are associated with intellectual disability. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of Molecular Surface Structure, Composition, and Dynamics under Reaction Conditions at High Pressures and at the Solid–Liquid Interface
Authors: Somorjai Gabor A. , Beaumont Simon K. , Alayoglu Selim
Published: May 2011

In the last two decades, surface‐science experiments and techniques have been developed to focus on obtaining molecular information under reaction conditions at high pressures (near or above 1 bar) and liquid interfaces. This Minireview describes the results of these studies obtained by surface‐sensitive laser spectroscopies, scanning tunneling microscopy, and X‐ray spectroscopies usually practiced at a synchrotron light source. The use of model surfaces, single crystals, and monodisperse nanoparticles with variable size (1–10 nm) and shape facilitates meaningful interpretation of the experimental data. These methods allow evaluation of the molecular structures of intermediates, oxidation states of metals, and mobility of adsorbants. New techniques that are likely to make major contributions to the investigation of surfaces under reaction conditions are also discussed.
Comparative study of PLA nanocomposites reinforced with clay and silica nanofillers and their mixtures
Authors: Kontou Evagelia , Niaounakis Michael , Georgiopoulos Panayiotis
Published: May 2011

This study compares the effects of two different types of nanosized fillers (silica and montmorillonite) at three different weight fractions as well their mixtures on the thermomechanical properties of polylactide (PLA). The role of aggregation and interphase was investigated in terms of several experimental techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS), thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and tensile measurements. The experimental results clearly suggest that silica and montmorillonite have different reinforcing and toughening effects on PLA, while the combination of the two different nanofillers has a detrimental effect on the tensile properties of the material. Four micromechanics models describing the Young's modulus of the nanocomposites were used to study the different matrix–nanofiller interactions. The best fit of the experimental results was obtained with a model that assumes the presence of an interphase surrounding each nanoparticle. The increase of the nanofiller content above a certain amount was not accompanied by a corresponding increase of the interphase, because the total nanofiller surface area was counterbalanced by the creation of aggregates. It is postulated that the aggregation effect acts antagonistically to the interphase effect. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Performance of conducting polyaniline‐DBSA and polyaniline‐DBSA/Fe3O4composites as electrode materials for aqueous redox supercapacitors
Authors: Radhakrishnan S. , Rao Chepuri R. K. , Vijayan M.
Published: May 2011

This article reports the synthesis, characterization and supercapacitative properties of dodecyl benzenesulphonic acid (DBSA) doped polyaniline(PAni) and its magnetite composites. The synthesized composites are characterized by Uv‐Vis, FT‐IR, XRD, SEM, electrochemical methods and are evaluated as electrode material for supercapacitor applications. The composites are partially soluble in methanol and are highly dispersible in water. The pristine polyaniline (PAni‐DBSA) showed a specific capacitance of 160 F/g, whereas its magnetite(3.8 wt %) composite (C1) and the symmetrical capacitor derived from C1 showed enhanced capacitance of 228 F/g and 180 F/g respectively, at 1 mA/cm2. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Oxygen barrier and enthalpy of melting of multilayer EVOH films after pressure‐assisted thermal processing and during storage
Authors: Dhawan Sumeet , Barbosa‐Cànovas Gustavo V. , Tang Juming , Sablani Shyam S.
Published: May 2011

Pressure‐assisted thermal processing (PATP) is an advanced thermal process involving application of elevated pressures above 600 MPa on a preheated food for a holding time of 3 to 5 min, causing the volumetric temperature of food to increase above 100°C, to inactivate bacterial spores and enzymes. This study evaluated the influence of PATP on two state‐of‐the‐art multilayer EVOH films. Flexible pouches containing water as the food simulant were made from the two films and processed at 680 MPa for 3 min at 105°C and 680 MPa for 5 min at 100°C. Each film was investigated for its oxygen transmission rates (OTRs), melting temperature (Tm), enthalpy of melting (ΔH), and overall crystallinity before (control) and after processing. The changes in OTRs and total ΔH of the two films were also analyzed during a storage period of 240 days in ambient conditions after processing. Results showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the OTRs of the two films after PATP. However, PATP did not cause a significant (P > 0.05) change in the Tm and ΔH of the two films. The overall crystallinity of film A decreased, but improved slightly for film B after PATP. A recovery in the OTRs of the two films occurred during storage. The films also showed changes in the total ΔH measured during the storage period, which was used to explain the changes in the oxygen barrier properties. The OTR of both films remained below 2 cc/m2 day, which is required in packaging applications for shelf‐stable foods with a 1‐year shelf life. This work demonstrates the advantages of using multilayer films containing EVOH as the barrier layer in PATP applications to produce shelf‐stable foods. This work also highlights the advantage of, DSC analysis for studying the physical ageing of polymers during storage. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Molecular cloning and characterization of two nicotinic acetylcholine receptor β subunit genes from Apis cerana cerana
Authors: Yu Xiaoli , Wang Mian , Kang Mingjiang , Liu Li , Guo Xingqi , Xu Baohua
Published: May 2011

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) mediate fast cholinergic synaptic transmission in the insect nervous system and are important targets for insecticides. In this study, we identified and characterized two novel β subunit genes (Accβ1 and Accβ2) from Apis cerana cerana. Homology analysis indicated that Accβ1 and Accβ2 possess characteristics that are typical of nAChR subunits although Accβ2 was distinct from Accβ1 and the other nAChR subunits, due to its unusual transmembrane structure and uncommon exon–intron boundary within the genomic region encoding the TM1 transmembrane domain. Analysis of the 5′ flanking regions indicated that Accβ1 and Accβ2 possess different regulatory elements, suggesting that the genes might exhibit various expression and regulatory patterns. RT‐PCR analysis demonstrated that Accβ2 was expressed at a much higher level than Accβ1 in the tissues of adult bees. During development, Accβ1 was highly expressed at the pupal stages, whereas Accβ2 was abundantly expressed at the larval stages. Furthermore, Accβ1 and Accβ2 were both induced by exposure to various insecticides and environmental stresses although Accβ2 was more responsive than Accβ1. These results indicate that Accβ1 and Accβ2 may have distinct roles in insect growth and development and that they may belong to separate regulatory pathways involved in the response to insecticides and environmental stresses. This report is the first description of the differences between the nAChR β subunit genes in the Chinese honey bee and establishes an initial foundation for further study. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Supercooled Sulfuric Acid Droplets: Perturbed Stratospheric Chemistry in Early Winter
Authors: Turco R. P. , Hamill P.
Published: May 2011

During the onset of polar winter in the stratosphere, before the formation of nitric acid ice clouds (referred to as polar stratospheric clouds, or PSCs), sulfate aerosol particles may catalyze heterogeneous chemical reactions that redistribute chlorine from reservoir species to more active forms. This activated chlorine can lead to ozone destruction in the fall and early winter, prior to the formation of PSCs, at middle and high latitudes over the winter half‐year in both hemispheres. During periods of slow cooling, a significant fraction of ambient chlorine nitrate (ClONO2) may be processed into active chlorine through its reactions with water and HCl at the surfaces of dilute supercooled sulfuric acid droplets. This mechanism for chlorine activation may explain the occurrence of widespread regions of reduced ozone abundance in the Northern Hemisphere at high‐ and middle‐latitudes outside of the polar vortex. Following major volcanic eruptions, a large increase in the surface area of sulfate particles could lead to significant repartitioning of chlorine species via the reaction of ClONO2with H2O, even under midlatitude conditions, which may explain in part the detection of ozone reductions in volcanic clouds. Chemical transformation of other compounds may also be accelerated by the presence of dilute supercooled sulfate aerosols in the stratosphere, including the reaction of HOCl with HCl, and the hydrolysis of COF2to HF; however, neither of these latter processes appear to have first‐order significance for the chemistry of the stratosphere.
Temperature Dependent Absorption Cross‐sections and Atmospheric Photolysis Rates of Nitric Acid
Authors: Rattigan O. , Lutman E. R. , Jones R. L. , Cox R. A.
Published: May 2011

Absorption cross‐sections for HNO3 have been measured in the wavelength region 220–340 nm, using a dual‐beam diode array spectrometer, with a spectral resolution of 0.3 nm. The results at room temperature were in good agreement with earlier measurements. Absorption over most of the wavelength range showed a distinct temperature dependence, with a decline in cross‐section with decreasing temperature in the range 295–239 K. The results lead to quite large effects on the calculated photodissociation rate of HNO3 in the lower stratosphere, especially at the low temperatures and high solar zenith angles characteristic of the polar winter and spring.
Heterogeneous Photochemical Sources of Atomic Cl in the Troposphere
Authors: Zetzsch C. , Behnke W.
Published: May 2011

The reaction of N2O5 with wet NaCl aerosol is observed to produce ClNO2 at high yields. The sticking coefficient of N2O5 on NaCl aerosol is determined in a smog chamber (in an inserted teflon bag) at 292 K, and the rate constant for the consecutive chemical reaction leading to formation of ClNO2 is determined at various relative humidities between 71 and 92%. A preliminary evaluation of the experiments yields a sticking coefficient of 0.03(−0,01+0,02), similar to that reported for pure water droplets. At the deliquescence point of NaCl, ∼ 50% of the collisions lead to the formation of ClNO2. This portion decreases slightly with increasing humidity (i.e. liquid water content of the NaCl aerosol). The process is expected to be an efficient sink of N2O5 in the troposphere. Model calculations indicate a significant contribution of atomic Cl to global marine tropospheric chemistry at higher latitudes of the northern hemisphere. Phosgene, chloroacetone, and 1,1‐dichloroacetone are observed as products from a heterogeneous chlorination in the aerosol smog chamber.
Dy3+‐activated NaM4 (VO4)3 (M = Ca, Ba, Sr) phosphor for near‐UV solid‐state lighting
Authors: Singh Roshani , Dhoble S. J.
Published: May 2011

We report the photoluminescence characterization of Dy3+‐activated NaM4(VO4)3 (M = Ca, Ba, Sr) phosphors prepared by a solid‐state method. The synthesis was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) characterization and photoluminescence (PL) emission results showed sharp blue and yellow bands for NaM4(VO4)3 (M = Ca, Ba, Sr):Dy3+ phosphors at the excitation wavelength of 323 nm, which is near‐UV excitation. Thus, these phosphors could be applicable for near‐UV excited solid‐state lighting devices. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“Marking” the nitrogen atoms of phenyl‐(2‐pyridyl)‐(3‐pyridyl)‐(4‐pyridyl)‐methane. Synthesis and absolute configuration of the corresponding tris(pyridine N‐oxide)
Authors: Matsumoto Kouzou , Miki Kaori , Inagaki Takuya , Nehira Tatsuo , Pescitelli Gennaro , Hirao Yasukazu , Kurata Hiroyuki , Kawase Takeshi , Kubo Takashi
Published: May 2011

To “mark” the nitrogen atoms in phenyl‐(2‐pyridyl)‐(3‐pyridyl)‐(4‐pyridyl)methane (1), we have synthesized the corresponding tris(pyridine N‐oxide) 2 by oxidation of 1 with m‐chloroperbenzoic acid. The nitrogen atoms of 2 are unequivocally determined by the X‐ray crystal analysis of a single crystal of rac-2 whereas the nitrogen atoms cannot be assigned at all in the case of rac-1. N‐Oxide 2 can be resolved by chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography under similar conditions to those used for the resolution of 1. The calculated circular dichroism (CD) curve for (R)-1 on the basis of time‐dependent density functional theory reproduces the experimental spectra very well to suggest that the second‐eluted fraction ([CD(+)283]‐2) is the R isomer, namely (R)‐[CD(+)283]‐2. The independent absolute configuration determinations for 1 and 2 are in keeping with the chemical correlation between the two compounds by oxidation of (R)-2 into (R)-1. Chirality 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stability of CVD‐Produced Polymer Thin Films
Authors: Senkevich Jay J.
Published: May 2011

This research news is presented to help researchers with their development of CVD‐produced polymer thin films, but could also be utilized for thicker coatings and for liquid‐deposited thin films. This arises from the observation that many CVD researchers deposit polymer thin films, and then use them without any additional insight gained into their stability. The stability of the polymer thin film, however, is paramount for their use, not only at elevated temperatures, but also at room temperature, since even at room temperature polymers can leach out impurities causing, for example, a biological immune response.
Adult granulosa cell tumor presenting as metastases to the pleural and peritoneal cavity
Authors: Gupta Nalini , Rajwanshi Arvind , Dey Pranab , Suri Vanita
Published: May 2011

Ovarian tumors of sex‐cord stromal derivation rarely exfoliate malignant cells in serous effusions. Adult granulosa cell tumor (AGCT) often presents as a stage I disease and association with ascites is about 10%. AGCT is rarely known to exfoliate tumor cells in the ascitic fluid. Exfoliation of malignant cells in the pleural fluid is rarer and has not been described previously in literature to the best of our knowledge. We report a case of AGCT presenting as stage IV disease with exfoliation of malignant cells in the pleural and ascitic fluid with exudative effusions. We wish to emphasize on cytomorphologic features of AGCT to differentiate the same from malignant epithelial tumors. A precise diagnosis in such a case may be possible on serous body fluid cytology with a combined clinical and cytopathologic approach. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The functions of maternal Dishevelled 2 and 3 in the Early Xenopus embryo
Authors: Tadjuidje Emmanuel , Cha Sang‐Wook , Louza Mariana , Wylie Christopher , Heasman Janet
Published: May 2011

Of the three Dishevelled (Dvl) genes, only Dvl2 and Dvl3 are maternally encoded in the frog, Xenopus laevis. We show here by loss of function analysis that single depletion of either Dvl2 or Dvl3 from the oocyte causes the same embryonic phenotype. We find that the effects of loss of function of Dvl2 and 3 together are additive, and that the proteins physically interact, suggesting that both are required in the same complex. We show that maternal Dvl2 and 3 are required for convergence extension movements downstream of the dorsally localized signaling pathway activated by Xnr3, but not downstream of the pathway activated by activin. Also, depletion of maternal Dvl2 and 3 mRNAs causes the up‐regulation of a subset of zygotic ectodermal genes, including Foxi1e, with surprisingly no significant effect on the canonical Wnt direct target genes Siamois and Xnr3. We suggest that the likely reason for continued expression of the Wnt target genes in Dvl2/3‐depleted embryos is that maternal Dvl mRNA depletion is insufficient to deplete stored punctae of Dvl protein in the oocyte cortex, which may transduce dorsal signaling after fertilization. Developmental Dynamics 240:1727–1736, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Novel Antiproliferative 9‐Aminoacridines
Authors: Gellerman Gary , Waintraub Sagiv , Albeck Amnon , Gaisin Vladimir
Published: May 2011

Highly efficient one‐pot syntheses of antiproliferative 9‐aminoacridine (9‐AA) derivatives are described. Simple SNAr and addition/elimination reactions, using readily accessible starting materials, give a fast entry to novel 9‐(pyridylamino)acridines, 9‐(pyrimidinylamino)acridines and potential “dual‐function” bioreductive 9‐(acridinylamino)quinone intercalators. The synthetic routes reported in this work are general and readily applicable, significantly expanding the range and scope of potential 9‐AA anticancer candidates.
Equity volatility, bond yields, and yield spreads
Authors: Jubinski Daniel , Lipton Amy F.
Published: May 2011

This study examines the impact of implied and contemporaneous equity market volatility on Treasury yields, corporate bond yields, and yield spreads over Treasuries. The CBOE VIX is the measure of implied volatility, and the measure of contemporaneous volatility is constructed using intraday squared S&P 500 returns. We find that bond yields and spreads respond to changes in equity market volatility in a manner consistent with a flight‐to‐quality effect. Both short‐ and long‐term Treasury yields fall in response to increases in implied volatility, and the yield curve flattens modestly. Yields on short‐term investment grade bonds fall in response to contemporaneous volatility shocks, while long‐term spreads on low‐quality issues widen. This indicates that investors “look ahead” in anticipation of changes in equity market volatility but respond more strongly to changes in contemporaneous market activity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark
Subtle cognitive impairment in elders with Mini‐Mental State Examination scores within the ‘normal’ range
Authors: Friedman Timothy W. , Yelland Gregory W. , Robinson Stephen R.
Published: May 2011

Objective

The Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) is commonly used as a screening test for dementia, yet MMSE scores above the cut‐off for dementia (24–30) are widely thought to have limited utility, particularly in older persons. The study investigates whether scores within this range can be indicative of pre‐symptomatic levels of cognitive impairment.

Methods

Ninety‐six community‐dwelling older persons aged 62–89 years (mean = 75.2 years), who had obtained MMSE scores between 25 and 30, were tested on the computer‐based Subtle Cognitive Impairment Test (SCIT).

Results

Compared with individuals who obtained a perfect score of 30 on the MMSE, individuals with scores of 28–29 made more errors on the SCIT, whereas those with scores of 25–27 on the MMSE made the most errors on the SCIT (F(2,94) = 9.84, p < 0.01). Individuals who made errors in the language (r(94) = −0.47, p < 0.01), attention (r(94) = 0.24, p < 0.05) and visual construction (r(94) = −0.27, p < 0.01) subtests of the MMSE were more likely to display impaired SCIT performance.

Conclusions

The pattern of performance on the SCIT varied in a systematic way, depending on the MMSE subtest in which the errors were made, raising the possibility that there may be different subtypes of subtle cognitive impairment within the ostensibly normal population of older persons. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying change in individual subjects affected by frontotemporal lobar degeneration using automated longitudinal MRI volumetry
Authors: Frings Lars , Mader Irina , Landwehrmeyer Bernhard G. , Weiller Cornelius , Hüll Michael , Huppertz Hans‐Jürgen
Published: May 2011

A novel method of automated MRI volumetry was used to study regional atrophy and disease progression in repeated MRI measurements of patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Fifty‐nine structural MRI data sets of 17 clinically diagnosed FTLD patients were acquired over up to 30 months in intervals of 6 months and compared with data of 30 age‐matched healthy controls. Patients were further subgrouped into behavioral variant FTLD (bvFTLD), progressive nonfluent aphasia (PNFA), and semantic dementia (SemD). Gray matter (GM) volumes of frontal lobes (FL) and temporal lobes (TL) were determined by voxel‐based volumetry based on SPM5 algorithms and a probabilistic brain atlas. MRI volumetry revealed frontal and temporal GM atrophy across FTLD patients, with further progression over time. Significant side asymmetry of TL volumes was found in SemD. The ratio of TL to FL volumes was significantly reduced in SemD and increased in bvFTLD. Using this ratio, 6/7 SemD patients and 5/6 bvFTLD patients could be correctly differentiated. TL/FL ratios in bvFTLD and SemD further diverged significantly over a time span of only 6 months. Rates of temporal GM loss per 6 months were 3–4% in SemD, and 2.5% for frontal GM loss in bvFTLD, and thereby clearly exceeded published cerebral volume loss in healthy elderly subjects. The study presents a fully automated, observer‐independent volumetric assessment of regional atrophy which allows differentiation of FTLD subgroups. Its sensitivity for atrophy progression—even in such short intervals like 6 months—might benefit future clinical trials as treatment outcome measure. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coupling electrophysiological and hemodynamic responses to errors
Authors: Doñamayor Nuria , Heilbronner Urs , Münte Thomas F.
Published: May 2011

Performance errors are associated with distinct electrophysiological and hemodynamic signatures: a fronto‐central error‐related negativity (ERN) is seen in the event‐related potentials and a network of activations including medio‐frontal, parietal, and insular cortex is revealed by functional magnetic resonance imaging. We used simultaneous electroencephalography and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to characterize the relationship between the electrophysiological and hemodynamic responses to errors. Participants performed a modified Flanker task. When analyzed independently, we found the ERN and hemodynamic activations in dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, superior frontal gyrus, precentral gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus, and inferior parietal lobule. fMRI‐informed dipole modeling and joint independent component analysis (ICA) were used to couple electrophysiological and hemodynamic data. Both techniques revealed a temporal evolution of the areas found in the fMRI analysis, with the right hemisphere activations peaking before the left hemisphere. However, joint ICA added information, revealing a number of cortical and subcortical areas that had not been shown with parametric mapping. This technique also uncovered how these areas evolve over time. All together, these analyses provide a more detailed picture of the spatiotemporal dynamics of the processing of performance errors. Hum Brain Mapp 33:1621–1633, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oscillatory correlates of controlled speed‐accuracy tradeoff in a response‐conflict task
Authors: Pastötter Bernhard , Berchtold Franziska , Bäuml Karl‐Heinz T.
Published: May 2011

In making decisions, people have to balance between the competing demands of speed and accuracy, a balance generally referred to as the speed‐accuracy tradeoff (SAT). In this study, we investigated the role of controlled SAT in a two‐choice task in which manual responses were either validly or invalidly cued. Examining electrophysiological measurements of oscillatory brain activity, theta power in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), alpha power in the occipital cortex, and beta power in the motor cortex were found to be related to SAT. Because oscillatory effects of SAT were found to emanate from the SAT baseline interval preceding the two‐choice task, the results indicate that SAT is modulated by a change of visuo‐motor baseline activities rather than a change of response threshold. Moreover, in the two‐choice task, conflict‐induced theta power in the ACC was found to be more pronounced in speed than in accuracy trials, whereas priming‐related beta power dynamics in the motor cortex were unaffected by SAT. These results indicate that conflict processing, but not response priming, depends on SAT. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Brain activation for language dual‐tasking: Listening to two people speak at the same time and a change in network timing
Authors: Buchweitz Augusto , Keller Timothy A. , Meyler Ann , Just Marcel Adam
Published: May 2011

The study used fMRI to investigate brain activation in participants who were able to listen to and successfully comprehend two people speaking at the same time (dual‐tasking). The study identified brain mechanisms associated with high‐level, concurrent dual‐tasking, as compared with comprehending a single message. Results showed an increase in the functional connectivity among areas of the language network in the dual task. The increase in synchronization of brain activation for dual‐tasking was brought about primarily by a change in the timing of left inferior frontal gyrus (LIFG) activation relative to posterior temporal activation, bringing the LIFG activation into closer correspondence with temporal activation. The results show that the change in LIFG timing was greater in participants with lower working memory capacity, and that recruitment of additional activation in the dual‐task occurred only in the areas adjacent to the language network that was activated in the single task. The shift in LIFG activation may be a brain marker of how the brain adapts to high‐level dual‐tasking. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Response compensation of fine‐wire thermocouples and its application to multidimensional measurement of a fluctuating temperature field
Authors: Tagawa Masato , Kaifuku Kazuhide , Houra Tomoya , Yamagami Yosuke , Kato Kenji
Published: May 2011

A novel sensor technique is proposed to visualize readily the spatiotemporal behavior of a fluctuating temperature field of air flow. Two temperature probes were fabricated: a rod‐type probe consisting of 24 two‐thermocouple sensors set in line, and a plane‐type probe with 64 two‐thermocouple sensors arrayed on a two‐dimensional grid (8 × 8 points). Each two‐thermocouple sensor used in these probes was composed of two fine‐wire thermocouples (type K) of unequal diameters of 25 and 51 μm, respectively. An adaptive response‐compensation scheme was applied to accurately reconstruct rapidly‐changing airflow temperatures. The plane‐type probe enables visualization of fluctuating temperature fields of an artificially disturbed hot‐air jet and of the adequate capture of spatiotemporal behavior of a rapid circular motion of a hot‐air jet blown out from a hair dryer. A time‐constant estimation scheme was proposed to estimate instantaneous time‐constants which serve as a basis for a real‐time response compensation technique for multidimensional temperature measurement. In addition, by scanning a temperature field with the rod‐type probe, the temperature distribution can be reconstructed in one‐dimensional space and time. This quasi two‐dimensional visualization can become a prototype of a “scanner” for fluid temperature fields. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.20355
Quantification of protein immobilization on substrates for cellular microarray applications
Authors: Rodríguez‐Seguí Santiago A. , Pons Ximénez José Ignacio , Sevilla Lídia , Ruiz Ana , Colpo Pascal , Rossi François , Martínez Elena , Samitier Josep
Published: May 2011

Cellular microarray developments and its applications are the next step after DNA and protein microarrays. The choice of the surface chemistry of the substrates used for the implementation of this technique, that must favor proper protein immobilization while avoiding cell adhesion on the nonspotted areas, presents a complex challenge. This is a key issue since usually the best nonfouling surfaces are also the ones that retain immobilized the smallest amounts of printed protein. To quantitatively assess the amount of protein immobilization, in this study several combinations of fluorescently labeled fibronectin (Fn*) and streptavidin (SA*) were microspotted, with and without glycerol addition in the printing buffer, on several substrates suitable for cellular microarrays. The substrates assayed included chemically activated surfaces as well as Poly ethylene oxide (PEO) films that are nonfouling in solution but accept adhesion of proteins in dry conditions. The results showed that the spotted Fn* was retained by all the surfaces, although the PEO surface did show smaller amounts of immobilization. The SA*, on the other hand, was only retained by the chemically activated surfaces. The inclusion of glycerol in the printing buffer significantly reduced the immobilization of both proteins. The results presented in this article provide quantitative evidence of the convenience of using a chemically activated surface to immobilize proteins relevant for cellular microarray applications, particularly when ECM proteins are cospotted with smaller factors which are more difficult to be retained by the surfaces. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 2011.
Hydroxyapatite scaffolds infiltrated with thermally crosslinked polycaprolactone fumarate and polycaprolactone itaconate
Authors: Sharifi Shahriar , Shafieyan Yousef , Mirzadeh Hamid , Bagheri‐Khoulenjani Shadab , Rabiee Sayed Mahmood , Imani Mohammad , Atai Mohammad , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Hatampoor Ali
Published: May 2011

In this work, two unsaturated derivatives of polycaprolactone (PCL), polycaprolactone fumarate (PCLF), and polycaprolactone itaconate (PCLI), have been synthesized and used as an infiltrating polymer to improve the mechanical properties of brittle hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds. PCLF and PCLI were first synthesized through polyesterification of the low molecular weight PCL diols with fumaryl chloride and itaconyl chloride respectively, and then characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. HA scaffolds were sintered using a foam replication technique, with porosity of about 60%. Polymer‐HA composites were obtained by infiltrating the HA scaffolds with PCLF and PCLI solution (12.5 and 30 w/v in dichloromethane) followed by thermal crosslinking. The polymer infiltrated HA scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, porosimetry, and gravimetrical analysis. The polyesterification reaction of PCL diols with fumarate chloride was more efficient than itaconyl chloride and dependent upon the molecular weight of the initial PCL precursor; the resultant PCLF demonstrated a degree of substitution of 1.2, 4.2, and 2.7 times higher than PCLIs. Polymer infiltration improved the compressive strength of the HA scaffolds, and based upon the type of macromer (PCLF or PCLI) and also their concentration in infiltrating solution (12.5 or 30 w/v %) compressive strength increased about 14–328%. In all studied samples, the reinforcement effect of PCLF infiltration was higher than PCLI. The macromers and their corresponding infiltrated HA scaffolds did not show any significant cytotoxicity toward human primary osteogenic sarcoma cell (G92 cell lines), in vitro. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 2011.