bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPETITIVENESS OF POL ISH ORGANIC FARMS WITH DIFFERENT ECONOMIC SIZE IN LIGHT OF FADN DATA
Authors: Orłowska Maria
Published: June 2019

Efficiency and competitiveness of Polish ecological farms differing in terms of economic size have been analyzed as well as their production potential, intensity and costs. The research was conducted in 2013-2016. Information was obtained from farm accountancy records of FADN included in the following publications: Technical-economic parameters according to groups of farms participating in the Polish edition of FADN in 2013-2016. The following methods have been used: descriptive, with the use of tables, and comparative. In 2013-2016, production potential, efficiency and competitiveness of ecological farms depended on their economic size. Farms with an economic size of 25-50 thousand euro and 50-100 thousand euro using, respectively: 37.7 and 70.3 ha AL, turned out to be able to cope with competition. However, farms with smaller areas and smaller economic size were not able to withstand competition. Farms able to withstand competition gained positive income from management in 2013-2016, however in farms without competitive abilities, this was negative. In farms with competitive ability, with an economic size of 25-50 thousand euro, payment for own labor was 1.5 times higher than the average wage in the domestic economy and in farms with an economic size of 50-100 thousand euro, it was nearly three times higher. Agricultural holdings without competitive abilities (below 25 thousand euro) did not achieve parity of own labor input return.
AGRICULTURAL HOLDINGS AS BENEFICIARIES OF AREA AND OPERATIONAL PAYM ENTS FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION IN POLAND IN THE PERIOD OF 2007-2013
Authors: Kaliński Kamil , Rudnicki Roman , Wilczyńska Katarzyna
Published: June 2019

The aim of the article was to assess the spatial diversity of payments of European Union assistance programmes implemented in the financial period of 2007-2013, which were directed to farms, as well as the assessment of the structure of these funds. It was shown that as much as PLN 121.2 billion – nearly 25.6% of the total – were distributed to the above-mentioned group of beneficiaries. The analysis was based on amounts of the obtained payments, including their division, as proposed by the authors, into area payments (dependent on the current subsidy rates per 1 ha of agricultural acreage) and operational payments (related to the implementation of specific aid measures within the CAP), with a breakdown into four absorption directions by the established groups of endogenous features of agriculture. A number of indicators and the cartogram method were used. The studies have demonstrated that the structure of these funds is dominated by area payments (77%), which are egalitarian, independent from the implementation of specific modernisation projects, applicable to all agricultural holdings and related to the agricultural acreage in good agricultural condition and the area of crops subject to the relevant payment. Besides the analysis of the spatial diversification of the above-mentioned payments by voivodships and counties, the research was guided towards the assessment of the relation between area and operational payments (Polish average 0.30), assuming that the share of the latter – given the impact of the EU funds – plays a decisive role in the modernisation of agriculture.
FACTORS OF IMPLEMENTATION AND IMPORTANCE IN THE PROCESS OF KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE IN THE CONSERVATIVE ANIMALS NETWORK OF BREEDERS AND INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS. THE POLISH CASE
Authors: Domagalska-Grędys Marta
Published: June 2019

Knowledge is a key resource to support European agriculture in meeting today’s challenges such as global competition, food safety, human, animal and plant health as well as environmental protection requirements. The question arises as to which organisations in the current institutional system of agriculture provide knowledge to farmers who keep livestock of conservative breeds at the expected level of quality and exchange (frequency)? The aim of the research was to identify a new role of industry organisations in the transfer of knowledge and indicate variables determining the importance and exchange of farmers’ knowledge with industry organizations. The survey was conducted among 145 farmers in south-eastern Poland in 2017. The research instrument was a questionnaire of interviews with farms and representatives of industry organisations. Multiple regression analysis was used to demonstrate the influence of factors on the level of knowledge exchange (importance and frequency). The results of the research indicate that industry organisations can address their knowledge mainly to farms with poor financial stability (e.g. without a sales contract) and that the planned succession on the farm motivates the farmer to seek knowledge. Among the group of factors indifferent to the validity and implementation of knowledge exchange are: 1st the occurrence of a successor on the farm, 2nd the contracting of sales, 3rd the size of the farm and the 4th the age of the owner. It is recommended to create specialized industry compounds in Poland for conservative animal breeds (not only within species).
PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFITABILITY OF PRODUCTION IN AGRICULTURAL FARMS IN PRZYSUCHA DISTRICT FARMING ON LIGHT SOILS
Authors: Niewęgłowski Marek , Gugała Marek , Zarzecka Krystyna , Sikorska Anna , Włodarczyk Bogusław
Published: June 2019

The purpose of the research was a comparative evaluation of production and economic results of agricultural farms according to area, production direction and intensity of production. The agricultural farms were situated in the Przysucha district (Masovian Voivodship). Results were compared between farms classified as different production directions. Research was carried out in 100 agricultural farms located on light soils – rye complexes. The evaluation was carried out using selected production and economic indices. Information and source data from farms were acquired using direct interviews in the form of a questionnaire. Research objects were intentionally selected from farms from the Przysucha district. Farms were divided into groups with the help of particular evaluation criteria, such as: production specialization, farm area size and intensity of production. On the basis of the research conducted, it was stated that achieving better results depended primarily on the chosen production direction. Orchards and vegetable farms, classified as small farms, due to their type of production, were more intense and achieved a higher value of global commodity production per 1 ha of UAA and production commodity. Relations discovered by the research concern farm specialization and how a farm functions in specified organizational as well as economic conditions.
PROSPECTS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF MOBILE BANKING IN RURAL AREAS
Authors: Juszczyk Sławomir
Published: June 2019

The conducted research concerned prospects for the development of mobile banking in Poland. The article is a fragment of this research and concerns prospects for the development of this banking in rural areas. The aim of the research was to determine the expectations of mobile banking customers living in rural areas and the likely directions of changes in non-cash payments. The research period for rural areas concerned the years 2016-2018. The research covered the Polish banking sector. In addition, from January to March 2019, a questionnaire was carried out among 250 clients of banks living in rural areas. The research established that customers most often use mobile banking to check account balances and make payments at online stores. Customers in mobile banking appreciate comfort, time saving, being cash free and the freedom to make payments. The expectations of mobile banking users relate to: continuous increase of Internet coverage, improvement of security for telephone theft, increasing the possibility of using the BLIK service, adapting mobile applications to older generation smartphones and further price reductions of remote banking services. Therefore, it is almost certain that technical, organizational and financial changes in mobile banking in rural areas will head in this direction.
THE CURRENT STATE AND LATEST TRENDS OF THE UKRAINIAN DAIRY SECTOR
Authors: Gereles Anna , Szőllősi László
Published: June 2019

The global dairy sector is currently going through a period of turbulence. Global human population growth is substantially increasing the demand for dairy products. Our study stresses the importance of the dairy industry in the agriculture of the Ukraine and its national economy. It aims at identifying and describing the latest trends in the Ukrainian dairy industry. While the Ukrainian dairy sector is currently dealing with a number of challenges, we are looking for a number of opportunities for Ukrainian dairy producers to strengthen their competitiveness in the EU and global market, as well as maintain and expand their position on the domestic market. The dairy industry is one of the major industries in the Ukraine and, before the crisis, this segment demonstrated a trend towards its active development, but the situation in the dairy sector has become more complicated since 2014. The biggest problem for the dairy sector was the loss of the Russian market, which accounted for about 80% of exports of dairy products. However, the growth of cow productivity became a significant achievement of the dairy sector. Today, the main challenge for the dairy industry is finding new export markets and developing existing markets.
NATURA 2000 SITES IN POLAND AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE FUNCTIONING OF FARMS
Authors: Zieliński Marek , Sobierajewska Jolanta
Published: June 2019

The paper described the network of Natura 2000 sites in Poland, the state of spending funds on Package 4. “Valuable habitats and endangered species of birds in Natura 2000 sites of the Agri-environmental-climate measure implemented under the RDP 2014-2020” (Package 4. of the AECM under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020) as of 31.12.2017 and also assessed the functioning of farms belonging to beneficiaries of this package against a background of farms from outside Natura 2000 sites, which kept accounts for the Polish FADN in the years 2015-2017. It has been determined that, in Poland, the share of areas covered by the Natura 2000 network in the land area of the country is 19.6%, however, in the case of voivodeships and districts, it is varied. In addition, it has been determined that the state of spending funds under Package 4 has, so far, been PLN 518.8 million and has accounted for 29.6% of total funds spent as part of the AECM under the RDP 2014-2020. It turned out that farms belonging to beneficiaries of Package 4, against a background of other farms which kept accounts for the Polish FADN in the years 2015-2017, were characterised, inter alia, by lower production intensity and lower productivity of production factors. Moreover, those farms obtained lower income per 1 ha of UAA. Analyses have been carried out based on the data from the General Directorate for Environmental Protection, the Central Statistical Office in Warsaw, the Agency for Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture, the Polish Farm Accountancy Data Network (Polish FADN) and the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation National Research Institute.
ELDERLY PEOPLE‘S PERCEPTION OF NEW AND CONVENIENCE FOODS WITH HEALTH BENEFITS
Authors: Platta Anna , Pukszta Tomasz
Published: June 2019

Attitudes with regard to food are good predictors of behavior and a good knowledge of it plays an important part in dietary education according to different groups of the population especially high-risk groups lacking nutrients. An evaluation of attitudes of persons aged 65+ with regard to new and unknown food as well as the acquaintance and degree of approval presented in examining convenience products with health-focused properties was the main aim of the research. The level of neophobia of dietary practices in terms of the examined group of women was lower comparing to the level in men. Consumption and/or the desire for trying out new, unknown food of a high nutritional value by the group of seniors aged 60+ is beneficial and can be used to popularize health-focused dietary practices in this population group. Therefore, taking educational actions by producers of convenience food with health-focused properties is vital and should be aimed at propagating a health-focused model of eating in circles of elderly people. Such undertakings should be based on quality features of the product, the need for rational trophism and the influence of bioactive elements on health.
Introducción al protocolo de comunicación Open Sound Control
Authors: Lario Sergi
Published: June 2019

Este artículo presenta una introducción al protocolo de comunicación Open Sound Control incorporado en la actualidad en diferentes herramientas multimedia para la producción de instalaciones interactivas audiovisuales. Está basado en un sistema abierto de mensajes por la red y permite la interoperabilidad entre distintos dispositivos y software, facilitando la sincronización en tiempo real de procesos entre ellos.
Plastome phylogenomics and characterization of rare genomic changes as taxonomic markers in plastome groups 1 and 2 Poeae (Pooideae; Poaceae)
Authors: Orton Lauren M. , Burke Sean V. , Duvall Melvin R.
Published: June 2019

A phylogenomic analysis of 42 complete plastid genomes (plastomes), including 16 that were newly sequenced, was conducted. Plastomes were sampled from 19 subtribes of Pooideae, to investigate relationships within and between Chloroplast Group 1 (Aveneae) and Group 2 (Poeae) species. Two data partitions: complete plastomes, and a combined plastome and rare genomic change (RGC) data matrix, were analyzed. Overall, 156 non-ambiguous RGC were identified, of which homology was inferred for 38 RGC. Among the 38 RGC identified, six were synapomorphic among the Group 1 subtribes: Aveninae, Agrostidinae, and Anthoxanthinae, (Phalaridinae + Torreyochloinae), and 27 were synapomorphic among the Group 2 subtribes: Loliinae, (Ammochloinae + Parapholiinae + Dactylidinae), Parapholiinae, Dactylidinae, Poinae, and Coleanthinae. Four RGC were determined to be homoplasious in Groups 1 and 2. Two other RGC originated through intrastrand deletion events. The remaining RGC events likely originated through recombination given their size and lack of sequence evidence for other types of mutations. This study also determined that relationships between taxa, even those only weakly supported in previous studies, could be inferred with strong support when utilizing complete plastomes.
Associations between cortisol awakening response and resting electroencephalograph asymmetry
Authors: Duan Hongxia , Fang Huihua , Zhang Yuling , Shi Xia , Zhang Liang
Published: June 2019

The cortisol awakening response (CAR), a rapid cortisol rise in the morning after awakening, has been proposed to provide energy to cope with daily demands and suggested to be associated with brain functions. Electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry studies have implicated asymmetric cortical activation, especially in frontal cortex, in approach-withdrawal motivation. In this study, we examined the relationship between the CAR and lateralized cortical activity under rest in 55 university male students. Saliva samples were collected at 0, 15, 30 and 60 min after awakening on the two consecutive workdays. The lateralized cortical activity at frontocentral sites was examined by alpha asymmetry score. The results showed that a higher CAR was positively associated with alpha asymmetry score, which indicated that the higher CAR is linked with more left-sided cortical activity at frontocentral sites under resting state. This association still existed even after controlling psychological and sleep quality variables. These results suggested that appropriately mobilizing energy resource storage after awakening revealed as CAR might be associated with goal-directed approach tendencies before any eventual stressful situation, characteristic of more left than right resting-state frontocentral cortical activity.
Customer Satisfactions on Islamic Banking Services in Almadinah City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aldarabseh Wesal M.
Published: June 2019

Providing quality services is a key element to compete in the banking industry. Islamic banks showed significant expansion in the past decades worldwide.  In the current study, customer satisfaction towards services provided by Islamic banks in Almadinah city, Saudi Arabia was investigated. A total of 292 customers of full-fledged Islamic banks were recruited in the study. Customer satisfaction was measured using a self-administered questionnaire. The results showed acceptable levels of customer satisfaction toward Islamic banking services (85%). In addition, personnel, image, reliability, and compliance with Islamic law were the most important service dimensions that affect customer satisfaction. Finally, gender differences were noticed with respect to customer satisfaction with females seemed to be less satisfied than males. The present findings provide positive feedback to the Islamic banking sector in Almadinah city to improve customer satisfaction of their services.
Efficiency of Bio-fungicides (Trichoderma spp and Pseudomonas fluorescens) on Seedling Emergence, Vigour and Health of Infected Chilli Seeds (Capsicum annuum) by Colletotrichum capsici
Authors: Reddy Y. N. Priya , Jakhar S. S. , Dahiya O. S.
Published: June 2019

Damping off and fruit rot caused by Colletotrichum capsici are the major constraints in production and marketability of chilli. Systemic fungicides are commonly used to control this disease. However, continuous use of chemical fungicides leads to negative impact on environment, soil and human health. Therefore, present studies (blotter and pot experiment) were conducted to explore the bio-fungicides (as an alternative to chemical fungicide) in comparison with carbendazim using chilli seeds infected with Colletotrichum capsici.

Experiments were conducted at the CCSHAU, Hisar, India during 2016 in completely randomized design with nine treatments replicated three times. Six months old seeds having germination above the Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standard, were infected with Colletotrichum capsici and such infected seeds were treated with Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma viridae, Pseudomonas fluorescens individually and their combinations to control the disease incidence. The infected, un-infected and seed treatment with carbendazim served as controls. Results revealed that the seed germination was significantly higher (94.7%) with Trichoderma viride treatment compared to all other treatments including controls in blotter method. However, the seedling emergence in pot culture was significantly superior with Carbendazim treatment, the seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma viridae was on par to that of Carbendazim treatment. The seedling length was significantly superior with Trichoderma viride compared to the carbendazim and other controls both in blotter and pot culture. The seedling dry weight and seedling vigour were significantly higher with carbendazim as compared to the Trichoderma viride treatment or other treatments in both blotter and pot culture. However, the overall seedling vigour obtained with Trichoderma viride was similar to that of carbendazim treatment. The disease incidence was significantly lower with Pseudomonas fluorescens as compared to the Trichoderma viride and carbendazim in blotter method and; T. viride + P. fluorescens treatment was on par to that of carbendazim treatment in pot culture. Therefore, use of Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas fluorescens individually or in combination are suggested as an alternative to carbendazim to control the Colletotrichum capsici.
Synthesis of Benzil by Air Oxidation of Benzoin and M(Salen) Catalyst
Authors: Shen Qiuxin , Xu Liting , Jiang Yiyan , Zheng Ran , Zhang Yiping
Published: June 2019

Bis salicylaldehyde ethylenediamine Schiff base (Salen) and its complexes with three metal ions (Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+) were prepared, and characterized by infrared spectroscopy(IR). Using air as oxygen source, the optimum reaction conditions for the catalytic oxidation of 0.05 mol benzoin by Co (Salen) were obtained by orthogonal test as follows: base KOH 2 g, catalyst 1.5 g, N, N-dimethylformamide(DMF) as solvent, reaction temperature 40 °C, reaction time 1 h. Under these conditions, the catalytic performances of different metal complexes were investigated. The catalytic activity of Co(Salen) was the best one, the yield of benzil was up to 93.6%, the number of Ni(Salen) and Zn(Salen) was 86.3% and 82.1%, respectively. The reused catalytic performance of M(Salen) complex was also studied. The catalytic activity of Co(Salen), Ni(Salen) and Zn(Salen) was stable after 4 times recycle, the yield of benzil was 71.4%, 63.3% and 57.4%, respectively, and it was easy for catalyst recycling. The oxidation product was certainly benzil with high purity according to the characterization results of melting point(MP), IR, high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance(1H NMR). Compared with the common synthetic method of benzil, this one has the advantages of friendly environment, low cost and easy operation. It is a simple and green way to synthesize benzoyl efficiently.
Effect of Flax Seed Oil on Acute Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Hepatic Injury and Determination of Hepatic Apoptosis in Rats
Authors: Ekebas Gorkem , Atasever Ayhan , Gram Duygu Yaman
Published: June 2019

Aims: The present study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of flaxseed oil (FSO) on liver lesions induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in rats by measurement of caspase 3, 8 and 9 activities in cellular apoptosis, ALT activities, triglyceride, total protein, total cholesterol and liver MDA levels.

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, Erciyes University, Kayseri, between June 2017 and July 2018.

Methodology: In this study 32 male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups of 8 animals in each. The first group was identified as the control and received an intraperitoneal 0.9% NaCl and the second group was given per os at dose of 4 ml/kg FSO for 4 weeks. The third group received an intraperitoneal dose of 1.0 ml/kg CCl4 twice in the first week. The fourth group received an intraperitoneal dose of 1.0 ml/kg CCl4 twice in the first week and simultaneously 4 ml/kg FSO by gavage for 4 weeks.

Results: Histopathological examination of CCl4 group showed intense macro and micro vesicular steatosis in hepatocytes, necrosis, lymphocytes rich mononuclear cell infiltration in portal area and parenchyma. The flaxseed oil application did not ameliorate the histological changes induced by CCl4, however reduced the activity of caspase 3, 8 and 9 by a limited number. CCl4 administration produced significantly elevated levels of serum ALT activity, total cholesterol, triglyceride and liver MDA levels, and these increases were not normalized with FSO treatment. In addition, decreased serum total protein levels in CCl4 treated group were ameliorated by FSO application.

Conclusion: The results indicate that the antioxidant properties of FSO do not have an ameliorative effect in either the histopathological lesions or biochemical parameters against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. In addition, it was concluded that duration‐dependent further research results are needed to determine the effects of flaxseed oil in high doses that can give the best results without side effects.
Soil Fertilization and Texture on Boron Accumulation and Wood Volume in Corymbia citriodora (Hook) K.D. Hill & L.A.S Johnson
Authors: Pinheiro Antônio Lelis , Caiafa Karine Fernandes , Pinheiro Daniel Teixeira , Santos Neri Soares Tássia Fernanda , Leite Rodrigo Vieira , Barros Patrícia Ramalho de , Teixeira Matheus Ferreira França
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of soil fertilization and texture on leaf Boron (B) accumulation and its relation with wood volume of Corymbia citriodora Hill & Johnson. The experiment was set in randomized block with four replications, four B fertilization levels (0, 1.1, 2.2 and 4.4 g.plant-1) in two soils types (sandy and clayey). To determine leaf B content, 25 leaves were collected from the median portion of four trees for each treatment. Leaves were dried on oven and B content was determined by the Azomethine-H method using extract obtained by dry digestion. The diameter at breast height and the total height of 25 trees were collected in all treatments and wood volume was calculated. Data were submitted to analysis of variance and the means adjusted to regression equations. The regression coefficients were evaluated by t-test at 1 and 5% probability. It was verified that clay soil produces more wood, compared to sandy soil. There was a gain increase in foliar B as B doses increased in both soil types. Leaf B affected Corymbia citriodora productivity only in clay soil.
Strategically Leveraging Infrastructure and Financing Options for Sustainable Economic Growth in Resource-based Economies
Authors: Nash Susan Smith , Stading Gary , Davis Larry R.
Published: June 2019

This paper proposes solutions and next steps toward developing a balanced approach that strategically leverages existing infrastructure for a diversified economy and sustainable growth for resource-based economies. It includes expanding financing opportunities in these countries with a combination of infrastructure policies and energy technologies and capturing the opportunities using supply chain technologies. The goals are to avoid both “debt traps” and “Dutch Disease” by leveraging existing infrastructure within a plan that incorporates supply chain management the prudent use of available financing and strategic partnership, such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Lacking convenient referral options, hospital launches OUD bridge clinic
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: June 2019

Frustration at Nashville, Tennessee's largest hospital over being unable to identify viable community treatment options for hospitalized patients with opioid use disorders (OUDs) has turned into excitement about the potential of a newly opened bridge clinic that will offer buprenorphine and injectable naltrexone treatment.
CBD may help prevent relapse in abstinent heroin addicts
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2019

Cannabidiol (CBD) has the potential to reduce craving and anxiety in people with opioid use disorder who have been opioid‐free for at least a week, a recent study using Epidiolex, the Food and Drug Administration–approved form of the marijuana‐derived drug, has found. The study compared CBD to placebo in subjects who were exposed to drug‐related and non‐drug‐related‐cues, and measured craving and anxiety. CBD administration was short‐term (three days), but beneficial effects lasted seven days afterward. There were no effects on cognition and no adverse effects.
Strain Dependency of Poisson's Ratio of SLS Printed Auxetic Lattices Subjected to Quasi‐Static and Dynamic Compressive Loading
Authors: Fíla Tomáš , Koudelka Petr , Zlámal Petr , Falta Jan , Adorna Marcel , Neuhäuserová Michaela , Luksch Jutta , Jiroušek Ondřej
Published: June 2019

This paper deals with experimental investigation into a strain‐rate dependent function of Poisson's ratio of three auxetic structures subjected to compressive loading. The missing rib, the 2D re‐entrant honeycomb, and the 3D re‐entrant honeycomb lattices printed using selective laser sintering from powdered SS316L austenitic steel are investigated. The samples are subjected to uni‐axial compression under quasi‐static conditions and dynamic conditions using the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). The deforming specimens are optically observed in order to apply a digital image correlation for evaluation of the in‐plane displacement and strain fields. From the calculated strain fields, the function of Poisson's ratio is calculated for each experiment using different methods taking specific regions of interest of the specimen microstructures into account. The obtained functions of Poisson's ratio are plotted for each microstructure and strain‐rate. The analysis of the results shows that the strain‐rate has a significant influence on the deformation characteristics of all the investigated microstructures yielding differences in the magnitude of the minima of Poisson's ratio and the differences in the maximum overall compressive strain, where the lattices are still auxetic.
Microstructural Refinement of a Ti‐40Al‐8Nb‐0.5B Alloy by Hot Deformation Within (α+β) Phase Field and Subsequent Tempering
Authors: Tian Pujian , Yang Guang , Ge Zhenghao , Wang Yifei , Cheng Liang , Liu Yanhui , Kou Hongchao
Published: June 2019

In this work, a refined microstructure is obtained in a Ti‐40Al‐8Nb‐0.5B alloy (at%) by hot deformation in the (α + β) phase region and subsequent tempering at 800 °C. The results show that the dynamic recrystallization of α phase occurred during the hot deformation, which resulted in the grain refinement from 56 to 18 µm. Meanwhile, high‐density stacking faults are introduced into the deformed α phase. After tempering at 800 °C for 5 h, ultra‐thin γ lamellar precipitated from the ordered α2 phase by following the Blackburn orientation relationships. The average lamellar spacing is about 10 nm. The refinement of lamellar spacing is mainly attributed to the numerous nucleation sites of γ phase caused by the hot deformation. In addition, fine γ and ω0 particles formed in the retained B2 phase, leading to the formation of a refined near‐lamellar microstructure.
3D Superelastic Scaffolds Constructed from Flexible Inorganic Nanofibers with Self‐Fitting Capability and Tailorable Gradient for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wang Lihuan , Qiu Yuyou , Lv Haijun , Si Yang , Liu Lifang , Zhang Qi , Cao Jianping , Yu Jianyong , Li Xiaoran , Ding Bin
Published: June 2019

Repair of bone defects with irregular shapes or at soft tissue insertion sites faces a huge challenge. Scaffolds capable of adapting to bone cavities, generating stiffness gradients, and inducing osteogenesis are necessary. Herein, a superelastic 3D ceramic fibrous scaffold is developed by assembly of intrinsically rigid, structurally flexible electrospun SiO2 nanofibers with chitosan as bonding sites (SiO2 NF‐CS) via a lyophilization technique. SiO2 NF‐CS scaffolds exhibit excellent elasticity (full recovery from 80% compression), fast recovery rate (>500 mm min−1), and good fatigue resistance (>10 000 cycles of compression) in an aqueous medium. SiO2 NF‐CS scaffolds induce human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) elongation and differentiation into osteoblasts. In vivo self‐fitting capability is demonstrated by implanting compressed SiO2 NF‐CS scaffolds into different shaped mandibular defects in rabbits, with a spontaneous recovery and full filling of defects. Rat calvarial defect repair validates enhanced bone formation and vascularization by cell (hMSC) histomorphology analysis. Further, subchondral bone scaffolds with gradations in SiO2 nanofibers are developed, leading to a stiffness gradient and spatially chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs. This work presents a type of 3D ceramic fibrous scaffold, which can closely match bone defects with irregular shapes or at different implant sites, and is promising for clinical translation.
Changes in cambial activity are related to precipitation patterns in four tropical hardwood species grown in Indonesia
Authors: Rahman Md Hasnat , Nugroho Widyanto Dwi , Nakaba Satoshi , Kitin Peter , Kudo Kayo , Yamagishi Yusuke , Begum Shahanara , Marsoem Sri Nugroho , Funada Ryo
Published: June 2019

Premise

Cambial activity in some tropical trees varies intra‐annually, with the formation of xylem rings. Identification of the climatic factors that regulate cambial activity is important for understanding the growth of such species. We analyzed the relationship between climatic factors and cambial activity in four tropical hardwoods, Acacia mangium, Tectona grandis, Eucalyptus urophylla, and Neolamarckia cadamba in Yogyakarta, Java Island, Indonesia, which has a rainy season (November–June) and a dry season (July–October).

Methods

Small blocks containing phloem, cambium, and xylem were collected from main stems in January 2014, October 2015 and October 2016, and examined with light microscopy for cambial cell division, fusiform cambial cells, and expanding xylem cells as evidence of cambial activity.

Results

During the rainy season, when precipitation was high, cambium was active. By contrast, during the dry season in 2015, when there was no precipitation, cambium was dormant. However, in October 2016, during the so‐called dry season, cambium was active, cell division was conspicuous, and a new xylem ring formation was initiated. The difference in cambial activity appeared to be related to an unusual pattern of precipitation during the typically dry months, from July to October, in 2016.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that low or absent precipitation for 3 to 4 months induces cessation of cambial activity and temporal periodicity of wood formation in the four species studied. By contrast, in the event of continuing precipitation, cambial activity in the same trees may continue throughout the year. The frequency pattern of precipitation appears to be an important determinant of wood formation in tropical trees.
Plant distribution, stature, rarity, and diversity in a patterned calcareous fen: tests of geochemical and leaf‐height models
Authors: Stockmeier Laurie A. , Givnish Thomas J.
Published: June 2019

Premise

In patterned fens, patches of short, sparse, species‐rich vegetation often occur on substrates rich in precipitated carbonates near calcareous springheads, with taller, denser vegetation farther away. Boyer and Wheeler (1989) hypothesized that phosphorus co‐precipitation near springheads limits plant productivity and coverage, and Givnish (1982) proposed that aggregations of rare, short‐statured plant species might reflect their competitive restriction to sparsely covered microsites.

Methods

We tested these hypotheses by quantifying species distributions, leaf heights, plant coverage, community composition, and substrate and leaf chemistry of Eupatorium perfoliatum along a gradient of hydrology and geochemistry in a wetland complex in southeastern Wisconsin, USA, ranging from marl flats and fens on peat mounds near springheads to surrounding sedge meadows.

Results

Community composition was strongly correlated with a one‐dimensional environmental gradient along which coverage and height increased moving downslope from marl flats, while soil carbonate, phosphorus immobilization capacity, and local species richness decreased, consistent with theory. Regionally rare species were short and restricted to sparsely covered microsites; within and among species, leaf height increased with local coverage. NPK tissue stoichiometry did not entirely support the Boyer‐Wheeler hypothesis, although nitrogen limitation appeared strongest in sedge meadows. Shifts in stature and tissue chemistry of E. perfoliatum along the marl flat–sedge meadow gradient suggested that zinc toxicity may help limit coverage near springheads despite no significant change in soil zinc content.

Conclusions

We propose a modified Boyer‐Wheeler hypothesis to account for cascading effects of phosphorus co‐precipitation near springheads on nitrogen fixation, nitrogen+phosphorus co‐limitation, and zinc mobility.
Scotus Introduces a New Federal Arbitration Act Presumption Against Consent to Class Arbitration
Authors: Loree Philip J.
Published: June 2019

The U.S. Supreme Court returned to the basics of class arbitration in April, examining whether consent to class arbitration may be inferred from ambiguous contract language.
Efficient Phage Display with Multiple Distinct Non‐Canonical Amino Acids Using Orthogonal Ribosome‐Mediated Genetic Code Expansion
Authors: Oller‐Salvia Benjamí , Chin Jason W.
Published: June 2019

Phage display is a powerful approach for evolving proteins and peptides with new functions, but the properties of the molecules that can be evolved are limited by the chemical diversity encoded. Herein, we report a system for incorporating non‐canonical amino acids (ncAAs) into proteins displayed on phage using the pyrrolysyl‐tRNA synthetase/tRNA pair. We improve the efficiency of ncAA incorporation using an evolved orthogonal ribosome (riboQ1), and encode a cyclopropene‐containing ncAA (CypK) at diverse sites on a displayed single‐chain antibody variable fragment (ScFv), in response to amber and quadruplet codons. CypK and an alkyne‐containing ncAA are incorporated at distinct sites, enabling the double labeling of ScFv with distinct probes, through mutually orthogonal reactions, in a one‐pot procedure. These advances expand the number of functionalities that can be encoded on phage‐displayed proteins and provide a foundation to further expand the scope of phage display applications.
Eco‐friendly high‐performance coating for polyester fabric
Authors: Pongsathit Siriwan , Chen Shu‐Yi , Rwei Syang‐Peng , Pattamaprom Cattaleeya
Published: June 2019

Due to increasing environmental concerns and depletion of petroleum resources, the use of green materials has become popular with garment industry. In the past, natural rubber, which is one of the most prevalent bio‐based elastomers, was used as waterproof coating for many applications due to its inherent elasticity, high tear and abrasion resistance, and hydrophobicity. However, NR has significant drawbacks when applying to garments including its poor adhesion to polyester fabrics and low breathability. Polyurethane, on the other hand, possesses high breathability but relatively poor elasticity. In this study, the fabric coating based on waterborne polyurethane and pre‐vulcanized natural rubber latex was synthesized with the goal to produce fabric for high‐performance applications, which could surpass criteria including water vapor permeability (WVP) (>10 000 g/m2•24hr), water pressure resistance (WPR) (>1000 mmH2O), and stretchability (>300%). The best condition achieved when using 60NR cured for 15 min by using 1.5 phr sulfur could provide WPR value of 4090 mmH2O and WVP of 11 033 g/m2•24hr. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48002.
Mussel‐inspired catechol‐based chemistry for direct construction of super‐hydrophilic and waterproof coatings on intrinsic hydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Zhang Jianfu , Wang Dan , Jiang Liping , Xia Jian , Bo Manjiang , Yao Zhanhai
Published: June 2019

Super‐hydrophilic coatings are useful in many applications such as agricultural greenhouses. However, the direct modification of super‐hydrophilic coatings on intrinsic hydrophobic surfaces is still a challenge, particularly without any pretreatment. Here, highly transparent super‐hydrophilic and waterproof coatings on intrinsic hydrophobic surfaces were preparedvialayer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly catechol‐grafted polymer‐branched poly(ethylenimine) (bPEI)‐3‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)propionic acid (denoted as C) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)‐dopamine (denoted as D) inspired by the mussel. The catechol‐functionalized polymer facilitates a mechanically robust coating that is tightly attached to the surface of the intrinsic hydrophobic polymers. This gives the coating excellent antifogging ability with a lowest contact angle of 0°. These coatings also demonstrated excellent stability after cross‐linking with Fe3+or alkali species. The super‐hydrophilic and waterproof coatings on intrinsic hydrophobic surfaces can also be prepared by the spray method. The super hydrophilic coating exhibits favorable antifogging ability, making it potentially useful in numerous applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 48013.
Nazarov Reagent: New Role for the [4+2] Domino Benzannulation Reaction to Construct Polysubstituted Benzenes
Authors: Chang Meijia , Huang You
Published: June 2019

A new role for the Nazarov reagent was revealed in the [4+2] benzannulation reaction, and delivered a series of polyfunctional benzenes in high yields under mild conditions. This metal‐free process not only expanded the application of the Nazarov reagent in organic synthesis, but also provided a new, efficient way to construct polyfunctional benzenes.
Microwave Heating Outperforms Conventional Heating for a Thermal Reaction that Produces a Thermally Labile Product: Observations Consistent with Selective Microwave Heating
Authors: Duangkamol Chuthamat , Batsomboon Paratchata , Stiegman Albert E. , Dudley Gregory B.
Published: June 2019

Microwave (MW) heating is more effective than conventional (CONV) heating for promoting a high‐temperature oxidative cycloisomerization reaction that was previously reported as a key step in a total synthesis of the natural product illudinine. The thermal reaction pathway as envisioned is an inverse electron‐demand dehydro‐Diels–Alder reaction with in situ oxidation to generate a substituted isoquinoline, which itself is unstable to the reaction conditions. Observed reaction yields were higher at a measured bulk temperature of 200 °C than at 180 °C or 220 °C; at 24 hours than at earlier or later time points; and when the reaction solution was heated using MW energy as opposed to CONV heating with a metal heat block. Selective MW heating of polar solute aggregates is postulated to explain these observations.
Enthalpy‐ versus Entropy‐Driven Molecular Recognition in the Era of Biologics
Authors: Varese Monica , Guardiola Salvador , García Jesús , Giralt Ernest
Published: June 2019

Our laboratory has recently identified two nanobodies (small antibodies produced by camelids)—Nb1 and Nb6—that bind efficiently to epithelial growth factor (EGF) and inhibit its ability to activate its receptor (EGFR). Because of the relevance of the EGF/EGFR axis as a target in oncology, these new nanobodies have promising therapeutic potential. This article, however, is focused on another feature of these nanobodies: their distinct thermodynamic signatures. Nb1 binds to EGF through an entropy‐driven mechanism whereas Nb6 binds to this factor under enthalpic control. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each mechanism in the contexts of traditional medical chemistry (small‐molecule drugs) and also of biological drugs. In this latter case, the implications in terms of selectivity are far from being clearly established and further experimental data are required. Their monomeric natures, high stability, and ease of recombinant production make nanobodies ideally suited for thermodynamic studies. Moreover, nanobodies, thanks to their simpler structures in comparison with conventional antibodies, might provide better understanding of the structural basis of the thermodynamic parameters of antigen recognition.
Metal‐Organic Framework Templated Synthesis ofg‐C3N4/Fe2O3@FeP Composites for Enhanced Hydrogen Production
Authors: Qi Yinhong , Xu Jixiang , Fu Yunlei , Wang Chao , Wang Lei
Published: June 2019

The simultaneous construction of heterostructures and co‐catalyst loading while maintaining a tight contact favoring charge transfer is important for improving the photocatalytic H2 production of g‐C3N4. Following this approach, we prepared herein a Fe2O3@FeP hybrid material by annealing and phosphidation of a g‐C3N4/Fe metal‐organic framework (MOF). The as‐prepared Fe2O3@FeP was used as both heterojunction and co‐catalyst material to enhance the photocatalytic H2 evolution performance of g‐C3N4 by water splitting under visible‐light irradiation. We developed an optimized g‐C3N4/Fe2O3@FeP‐60 catalyst with a H2 evolution rate as high as 12.03 mmol g−1 h−1 under Eosin Y (EY, 1.0 mmol L−1)‐sensitization. This rate was 12 times higher than that of pristine EY‐sensitized g‐C3N4 (0.97 mmol g−1 h−1). The apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) at 420 nm was 38.8 %. The improved photocatalytic activity of this composite compared to g‐C3N4 can be ascribed to: (i) its enhanced visible‐light absorption intensity; (ii) its efficient electron‐hole separation by the formation of a type‐II heterojunction with Fe2O3 and the loading of an electron collector such as FeP; and (iii) the accelerated H+ reductive reaction resulting from the FeP co‐catalyst. We believe that this work may pave the way for the construction of MOF‐based hybrid H2‐evolution photocatalysts.
Least absolute deviation estimator‐bridge variable selection and estimation for quantitative structure–activity relationship model
Authors: Al‐Dabbagh Zainab Tawfeeq , Algamal Zakariya Yahya
Published: June 2019

Regression models are frequently encountered in many scientific fields, especially in quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) modeling. The traditional estimation of regression model parameters is based on the normal assumption of the response variable, and, therefore, it is sensitive to outliers or heavy‐tailed distributions. Robust penalized regression methods have been given considerable attention because they combine the robust estimation method with penalty terms to perform parameter estimation and variable selection simultaneously. In this paper, based on the bridge penalty, a robust variable selection and parameter estimation is proposed as a method that is resistant to the existence of outliers or heavy‐tailed errors. The basic idea is to combine the least absolute deviation estimator (LAD) and the bridge penalty together to produce the LAD‐bridge method. The effectiveness of the proposed method is examined through simulation studies and application to real chemometrics data. The obtained results confirm that the LAD‐bridge can significantly reduce the prediction error compared with other existing methods.
Kombilösung
Authors: Boerboom Thomas
Published: June 2019

Ein international operierendes Gesundheitsunternehmen extrahiert Phospholipide aus Eigelb und bereitet das weitere Produkt als Zusatzstoff für Tiernahrung auf. Mit Technologielösungen von BHS‐Sonthofen und AVA optimierte das Unternehmen die Prozesse: Dabe
Chirality Induced Spin Selectivity of Photoexcited Electrons in Carbon‐Sulfur [n]Helicenes
Authors: Matxain Jon M. , Ugalde Jesus M. , Mujica Vladimiro , Allec Sarah I. , Wong Bryan M. , Casanova David
Published: June 2019

The Chiral‐Induced Spin Selectivity effect (CISS) is ordinarily associated with electron transfer, electron transport or bond polarization in chiral molecules. We explore here CISS associated with inter‐system crossing (ISC) in helicene molecules. The relative magnitude of both CISS and ISC is controlled by the strength of the spin‐orbit coupling (SOC) associated with either the excited singlet‐triplet transition or electron transport through the helix. Depending on the time scale, both mechanisms are connected in photo‐induced electron transfer, which is assumed to take place through an initial one‐photon singlet‐singlet excitation process followed by singlet‐triplet mixing, which provides the pathway for subsequent spin polarization. We explore this mechanism computationally, and find an estimate of SOC for helicenes that is consistent with the experimental results obtained for the spin polarization power of molecules using conductance and photo‐excitation techniques. Our results show a hitherto unexplored dimension of the CISS effect and connect it to the exciting possibilities of spin‐dependent chemistry.