bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact and Emission of Greenhouse Gases from Paddy Fields and their Mitigation Techniques
Authors: Kakar Kifayatullah , Durani Asmatullah , Hashimi Tariqullah , Baber Bakhtmuneer , Gulab Gulbuddin , Safi Zabihullah
Published: October 2024

Agricultural soil functions as both a supplier and absorber of significant greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2). The scientific community has expressed significant concern regarding rice paddies, as they are responsible for the production of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that pose a long-lasting threat. The primary GHGs emitted from these fields are CH4 and N2O, accounting for approximately 30% and 11% of global agricultural emissions, respectively. Consequently, there is an urgent need to accurately measure the fluxes of CH4 and N2O in order to enhance our comprehension of these gases originating from rice fields. This understanding will enable the development of effective mitigation tactics to combat future climate change. This review aims to exclusively focus on the emission of CH4 and N2O in poddy fields, while also examining the impact of field and crop management activities on these emissions. Modifying traditional crop management practices could yield substantial results in mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in poddy fields. By implementing effective management techniques, both environmental and agricultural aspects pertaining to soil can be readily adjusted. Therefore, comprehending the process of CH4 and N2O generation and release in poddy fields, as well as the factors governing these emissions, is crucial for devising efficient strategies to minimize emissions from  poddy fields. This will assist regulatory bodies and policymakers in developing appropriate policies for agricultural farmers to enhance the reduction of GHG emissions and mitigate global climate change.
Effects of Climate Change on Horticulture Sector Productivity: A Review
Authors: Jamal Masih Ullah , Bilal Muhammad , Durani Asmatullah , Waseem Muhammad , Jabarkhil Ajab Khan
Published: October 2024

This comprehensive analysis provides a thorough examination of the significant influence of climate change variability on the horticultural yield. The focus is specifically on recent trends and changing patterns within various major sectors of horticulture, namely Pomology, Olericulture, Floriculture, Post-Harvest, and Landscaping. The impact of rising temperatures altered precipitation patterns, and increased occurrences of extreme weather events is profoundly transforming the horticultural landscape. By delving into in-depth analyses of recent studies, this article sheds light on noteworthy changes in flowering and fruiting patterns in Pomology, as well as alterations in phenological stages in Olericulture. Furthermore, it highlights the innovative approaches in controlled-environment agriculture that have been adopted in Floriculture. The effects of climate change on post-harvest processes and the adoption of novel technologies are also explored within the context of post-harvest. Additionally, the integration of horticulture and landscape architecture is emphasized as a crucial strategy in adapting Landscaping practices to the variability brought about by climate change. The review is supported by various facts that illustrate global temperature anomalies, fruiting periods, phonological shifts, impacts on flower quality, adoption rates of post-harvest technologies, and the integration of horticulture and landscape architecture. The main objective of the review is to offer a brief understanding on the impact of climate change on horticultural productivity. Ultimately, the review highlights the urgent need to implement adaptive strategies and sustainable practices across diverse sectors of horticulture to ensure resilience in the face of ongoing climate change. This study suggests that vertical farming, climate resilient landscaping, Genomic Wide Association Studies, and Smart Breeding of crops as well as Controlled Environmental Agricultural methods might be suitable to encounter climate change.
Optimizing Gladiolus Production for Off-Season Cultivation by Mitigating High-Temperature Conditions
Authors: Qayyum Muhammad Mazhar , Imran Hassan , Khan Shah Masaud
Published: October 2024

‌The study was conducted to investigate the effect of modified poly thene tunnel during staggered planting times on growth and vase life of gladiolus cut flowers. The polythene effectively reduces the internal temperature, particularly during extremely hot and humid planting times. Under the modified polythene conditions, high quality growht and vase life were observed during the months of September and October planting times. These included a higher number of leaves plant-1, larger leaf area, maxium spike length, maximum spike diameter,  greater number of florets spike-1, heavier flower diameter and an extended vase life of the gladiolus cut flowers. Effectiveness of modified polythene  tunnel is evident in reducing temperature of growing environment, leading to improved growth and enhanced vase life of the gladiolus flowers.
Enhancing Fuel Efficiency of Internal Combustion Engine through the Application of Nanostructured Aluminium Alloy in Pistons
Authors: Adil Habibullah , Gerguri Shpend , Durodola John , Bonatesta Fabrizio , Audebert Fernando
Published: October 2024

‌The automobile and motorsport industires are under immense pressure due to emission laws to reduce fuel consumption and alleviate the effects of global warming. This experimental study compared the performance of internal combustion engine pistons made of a newly developed nanostructured aluminium alloy (RSA-612) and conventional aluminium alloy 2618. The new alloy is expected to reduce piston mass which will reduce piston assembly frictional losses and lead to reduced fuel consumption.  The new alloy has lower density and higher strength at elevated temperatures than conventional aluminum alloys, and the final machined piston was 13.5% lighter than the original piston. The limited engine testing carried out in this study showed that the new piston produced enhanced performance  in certain engine operating conditions, whilst performing similarly or slightly worse in others. Further testing with the new piston is advised to assess engine performance across wider engine running envelope.
Investigating the Impact of Nanotechnology in Reducing Air and Environmental Pollution: A Review
Authors: Hemat Haji Mohammad , Mohammadi Fida Mohammad , Rishten Nik Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Environmental pollution has a great impact on human health, ecosystem and financial development. The direct and indirect effects of nanotechnology on the environment and air pollution can be investigated from different aspects. The prospect of using this new technology is very wide. Today, in the world, nanotechnology is known as a key and influential technology on science, technology and industry,Nanotechnology uses various sciences and technologies such as physics, chemistry, biology and engineering. Nanotechnology is the science of building new materials atom by atom with desired properties, which is still at the beginning of its journey in the world and a very bright future is predicted for it among the many achievements of this technology is its application in the production, transmission, consumption and storage of energy with high efficiency and reducing environmental pollution, which creates a tremendous transformation in this field. It is expected that in the next 55 years, the world population will grow by 55% and the consumption of energy and materials will grow by 255%. So far, rising levels of production and consumption have countered our achievements in more efficient and cleaner technologies. Among these things, we can mention the production of urban solid waste, environmental effects caused by vehicles and air pollution, nanotechnology can contribute to reducing pollution or energy consumption of products. Air pollution is a change in the natural characteristics of the atmosphere due to chemical substances, dust or biological factors. Depletion of stratospheric ozone layer due to Air pollution has long been recognized as a danger to people's health and the earth's ecosystems.
Poor Land Management and its Impacts on Climate Change
Authors: Hakimi Habibrahman , Momand Ibad Ur Rahman , Khaliqi Zalmay
Published: October 2024

The poor land management practices exacerbate climate change. The study elucidates the intricate relationships between deforestation, soil degradation, and their repercussions on climate patterns. The findings underscore the critical need for integrated land-use policies, afforestation initiatives, sustainable agricultural practices, community empowerment, and policy reforms to mitigate these adverse effects and foster a more resilient environment. The importance of land management in addressing climate change and mitigating its effects, which is the primary source of livelihood in developing countries. In this paper, we explore the basic concepts and principles of sustainable land management to combat climate change. A major focus is to provide an overview of the most important problems that the world faces with land-related, environmental, and climate change issues. However, the poor management of land is a silent crisis that permeates multiple aspects of our lives. This article sheds light on the critical importance of responsible land management and the far-reaching consequences of neglecting this vital resource. To ensure the success of this study, a variety of sources were used. These included books, journals, and special reports (UNFCCC, FAO, IPCC, IFG, and Land Portal special reports on sustainable land management and climate change). We used research-related tools like Arc GIS and QGIS to determine which land is most vulnerable and to find solutions for managing it and changing it into sustainable land.
The Effects of Climate Change on Rural Areas of Kandahar Province, Afghanistan
Authors: Sadat Asadullah , Wasil Abdul Hadi , Saeedullah Shinwari
Published: October 2024

Climate change is a global worst phenomenon that causes a long-term change in the weather, which results in drought, increased temperature, lack of water and other adverse events, affects food security and has a negative impact on human life. A field study was conducted and the data was collected through questionnaires, 52 respondents were chosen based on Krejcie and Morgan's 1970 table once the study population reached 60 respondents through an accurate count and analyzed by (SPSS26). In addition to the analytical techniques’ frequency, average and percentage, the Friedman test was also performed for accurate calculation of data analysis. It was found that climate change had negatively affected agricultural products, rural opportunities, as well as water resources. It is stated that the farmers are facing a series of challenges such as adapting to the climate change and have not been taken an appropriate practical measure to adapt to the climate change in the study area. The research results also demonstrated that climate change has affects the lives of the villagers, reduces their income, as well as effected rural areas.
Sustainable Construction Practices for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: A Review
Authors: Behsoodi Mohammad Mukhlis , Safi Hedayat Ullah , Shirzad Wafiullah
Published: October 2024

This comprehensive review explores the critical role of sustainable construction practices in addressing climate change challenges through both mitigation and adaptation strategies. Climate change, caused by human activities, necessitates urgent global action, given its wide-ranging impacts. Mitigation measures, encompassing transitions to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and waste management, are essential for averting severe consequences and require collaborative efforts and societal behavioral changes. Simultaneously, adaptation strategies, including resilient infrastructure and community planning, are crucial for addressing the unavoidable impacts of past emissions. The paper dedicates significant attention to sustainable construction practices, highlighting their contribution to both mitigation and adaptation. Key elements, such as energy-efficient design, renewable energy integration, and resilient construction techniques, not only reduce the environmental footprint of the construction industry but also foster socially responsible and resilient built environments. Sustainable construction practices emerge as fundamental in the global initiative to combat climate change, aligning with environmental stewardship for a sustainable and resilient future. Nevertheless, sustained research, innovation, and international collaboration are imperative to advance these practices and effectively tackle the intricate challenges posed by climate change in the built environment.
Integrated Water Resource Management of Panjshir River Basin
Authors: Sherzaad Shamsulhaq
Published: October 2024

In recent years, integrated water resource management has attracted the attention of policymakers and experts in the water sector. This method, which is very effective, faces many challenges in developing countries such as Afghanistan. The following research is based on the field method, which has been used for information from books, journals, and reliable scientific sites, and to collect basic information from a questionnaire that has been interviewed with 103 residents of Panjshir province, as well as from the analyzed data. The National Water Resources Authority has also been used. The findings of the research show that in the Panjshir river basin, only a foundation has been laid in the form of policies, strategies, and laws, but there are deficiencies in the fields of regular institutional framework and tools needed to perform tasks in this river basin. One of the departments of integrated water resource management has not been formed, and there are still few hydrological and hydro meteorological stations in this field. On the other hand, according to the respondents to the questionnaire, the role of women as a huge group of society in decision-making is also weak. Therefore, we conclude that the effectiveness of applying the principles of integrated water resource management in the Panjshir river basin is low due to the above reasons.
Symbiotic Value: A New Probe into The Marketing Strategy of Movie Licensed Merchandise
Authors: Alexander Ben
Published: October 2024

Chinese movie licensed merchandise is highly active in the internet era and exhibits distinct internet characteristics. The value of movie merchandise is amplified by the power of the internet, but its impact remains limited. This study employs in-depth interviews to understand the current state and challenges in the development and marketing processes of movie licensed merchandise. From the perspective of symbiotic marketing theory, a sample survey and data analysis of European and American films reveal that the genre and series of a film directly influence the development of its licensed merchandise. Meanwhile, box office success and critical acclaim do not necessarily determine merchandise sales. Consequently, the paper proposes that the symbiotic marketing model for Chinese movie licensed merchandise should focus on the “symbiotic conditions” between movies and merchandise and choose products that can establish strong connections with the films to achieve value co-creation. This approach aims to maximize the value of movies and promote the prosperity of the movie market.
Film investment decision support: prediction model through movie merchandiseFilm investment decision support
Authors: Potter Kevin
Published: October 2024

With hundreds of millions of box office revenue, dazzling stars, and countless fans, the huge profits of the film industry seem to be more likely to cause a public sensation, but multiple data studies express that more than half of movie is unprofitable. Income diversification has become the guarantee for the development of the film industry. Besides the box office, movie merchandise has become an important part of movie revenue. Predicting movie merchandise exploitability can help investors to reduce investment risks and make better decisions. This paper adopts the empirical research method, collects data from hundreds of movies, and produces a merchandise dataset. Through data analysis, we found three core influencing factors: genres, series, and box office, then build a prediction model to support film investment. This model can quantify the exploitability of movie merchandise at the film planning stage and has an accuracy of 88.6%, which has a good generalization ability.
Yongle 2024 Spring Auction: A Microcosm of China’s Thriving Art Market
Authors: Hu Luke
Published: October 2024

Over the course of three days, the Yongle 2024 Spring Auction achieved a remarkable total turnover of 430 million RMB, with four items selling for over 10 million RMB each and 90 items crossing the million RMB mark. The contemporary art section alone concluded with a substantial 180 million RMB, and the evening session boasted an impressive average transaction rate of 94%, reflecting the market’s strong confidence in high-quality collectibles.
Innovating Traditional Sachet with China-Chic Element, Searching for the Future of Cultural Heritage
Authors: Wang Qiutong
Published: October 2024

China’s long history contains countless treasures of excellent traditional culture, but most of them are gradually fading out of people’s view, and sachet is one of them. Therefore, we hope to inject new vitality into these sleeping historical treasures through the combination of traditional culture and contemporary trends. We started from the China-Chic element innovation of sachet to explore the acceptance and recognition of innovative traditional cultural products among teenagers. Through market research and consumer behavior research, we explore specific strategies and improvement plans for the innovative promotion of sachet, with a view to enhancing teenagers’ willingness to purchase sachet while increasing their understanding of traditional culture and their own cultural identity, contributing to the inheritance, protection, and innovative development of Chinese traditional culture. Specifically, we investigated 213 teenagers’ cognitive preferences for sachet and the psychological factors affecting their willingness to consume through questionnaires, and analyzed the results of the data to purchase and make sachet and sell them in the field, and finally conducted qualitative interviews with the participants of the activity to analyze teenagers’ preferences and the purchasing decision-making process more comprehensively. We found that adolescents are attracted by the traditional cultural connotations carried by sachets and also expressed positive attitudes towards innovative sachets. As they do not yet have independent financial resources, they attach more importance to both price and practical value but are also willing to pay for innovative sachets with higher pricing. This study has the problem of a small sample size and a small market size for field research. In the future, we will also expand the sample, develop and design more types of sachets, and try to inject modern technological elements or “link” with different brands, etc., to collide traditional sachet culture with the new era of sparks, in order to allow more people to discover and continue those excellent traditional cultures that have been fading away from us under the wheel of history.
On certain inequalities for φ, ψ, σ, and related functions, II
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Babeș-Bolyai University, Sándor József
Published: October 2024

We offer new proofs and refinements of two inequalities from paper [2]. The unitary functions variants are also considered.
Reengineering of Student-Teacher Coding Program for Philippine Grade Schools Curriculum: A Literature Review
Authors: Zamora Princess Arleen , Bautista Nora , Carpio Joselito
Published: October 2024

The main objective of this literature review is to delve into the situation of coding programs in schools in the Philippines, examining both the obstacles they encounter and potential areas for improvement. By analyzing a range of studies, scholarly articles, and relevant literature, this research aims to comprehend how coding programs impact students' acquisition of skills, logical reasoning abilities, creativity, and cognitive development. Moreover, it evaluates approaches and best practices for integrating coding courses into the curriculum while considering the advantages and challenges associated with their implementation. In addition, the study explored how students' academic performance and future job prospects are influenced by their coding skills and proposed strategies to enhance coding programs that promote the development of these abilities. The insights gathered from this analysis provide recommendations for research and valuable insights into designing coding curricula that cater specifically to elementary schools in the Philippines within the broader educational landscape.
Job Satisfaction among Employees of a Private Catholic Education Institution: A Baseline Study
Authors: Lacorte Arianne , Quemuel Xevious Paulive
Published: October 2024

This study investigates job satisfaction among employees at San Sebastian College-Recoletos, a private Catholic education institution in the Philippines. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs was used to understand employee satisfaction. The research design incorporates a descriptive-comparative methodology to explore the relationships between ages, gender, years of service, salary, campus, classification, and overall job satisfaction. A self-administered survey is the data collection instrument with 80 participants from different employee classifications. Statistical analyses such as mean and Analysis of Variance examine differences in job satisfaction levels. Overall, employees reported that they are satisfied and that safety and security needs are the most confident among other needs. Meanwhile, the overall satisfaction of the employees significantly differs when they are grouped according to age. An action plan has been proposed based on the study findings. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies, qualitative investigations, exploration of alternative job satisfaction models, and a focus on specific areas for improvement based on employee needs.
Aspirations, Goals, Dreams, and Future Pursuit of Basketball Athletes in the National College Athletics Association (NCAA): A Literature Review
Authors: Punzalan Michelle , Maranan Mario
Published: October 2024

This study offers insightful information about academic support programs for student-athletes, highlighting the necessity of all-encompassing assistance and utilizing technology to cater to their requirements. Aspects of academic support included in the evaluation include study halls, writing centers, technology, job transition, counseling, and bridging programs. It emphasizes how crucial customized solutions and a positive team atmosphere are. The necessity of a more comprehensive strategy to affect student-athletes’ conduct, the significance of specialized library education, and the requirement to ease their transition into the workforce are among the study gaps that have been found. To better meet the special needs of student-athletes and pinpoint best practices for various contexts, the abstract suggests that more research be done on the long-term effects of academic support programs, the efficacy of technology-based interventions, and cross-cultural analysis of academic support programs. In addition to offering suggestions for future research to improve academic assistance programs for student-athletes, the abstract contains insightful information about the difficulties and experiences faced by student-athletes.
Utilizing Positive Heutagogy on Learners Discipline: An Assessment
Authors: Orlanda Mayette , Terones Clariza , Zoleta Marites
Published: October 2024

Heutagogy, also known as self-determined learning, is a student-centered approach that emphasizes autonomy and capability development. In a heutagogical context, students actively explore areas of uncertainty within their topics. Teachers facilitate this process by providing background information and allowing students to delve deeply into subjects.  This study explores the impact of the UPHOLD (Utilizing Positive Heutagogy on Learners’ Discipline) approach on the academic performance of Hearts and Hands Extended to Learners Progress (HELP) recipients for the academic year 2021-2022, using a descriptive-comparative method. The research focused on assessing changes in learners’ performance and the number of HELP recipients before and after the implementation of UPHOLD. The results indicated a significant improvement in performance for Grade 1 in Key Stage 1, while Grades 2 and 3 did not show the same improvement. In Key Stage 2, Grades 4, 5, and 6 all demonstrated noticeable improvement. Furthermore, there was a notable decrease in the number of HELP Program learners, suggesting that UPHOLD effectively promoted self-directed learning. However, it was observed that younger students in Grades 1 to 3, who struggle with independent learning, require more support. These findings highlight the importance of educators closely monitoring students' learning independence to foster effective habits and prevent disengagement.
Teachers in Times of Pandemic: An Ethnological Analysis of Coping with the Challenges in the New Normal
Authors: Millena Gilbert , Magcalen Maricar
Published: October 2024

People are living in the midst of what is the greatest danger in the course of our lives to worldwide instruction, a massive instructive emergency. The study analyzed the lived experiences of the nine teachers in one of the public elementary schools in the province of Albay, Philippines, regarding the challenges they encountered in the preparation and delivery of instructions in time for the "New Normal." Primarily, this research investigated the stress brought by the shift to the "new normal" system of education from the traditional face-to-face delivery of learning to the teachers of Matnog Elementary School, Daraga North District, Daraga, Albay. Ethnographic research was utilized to analyze the lived experiences of the respondents involved. The study found that the shift to teaching brought much stress on the part of the teachers, especially those who are not fond of using technology-based instruction. As to how the teachers cope, it was revealed that all available means and resources were tapped in order to be successful and deliver the learning to its clientele. The study concludes that any form of abrupt changes or adaptation of any system will result in anxiety for those on the front line who were expected to deliver the system by all means.
Vacuolar Processing Enzymes and Aquaporins
Authors: Hara‐Nishimura Ikuko , Maeshima Masayoshi
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Vacuolar Processing Systems

Aquaporins in Plant Vacuoles
Post‐Golgi, Prevacuolar Compartments
Authors: Robinson David G. , Rogers John C. , Hinz Giselbert
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Why Do Cells Need Prevacuolar Compartments?

ThePLC/PVCin Yeast and Mammals: An Overview

Evidence for Post‐Golgi/Prevacuolar Compartment(s) in Plants

Interaction ofPLC/PVCwith Endocytotic Pathways

The Final Step: Delivery into the Lysosome/Vacuole
Biophysical Characterization of Plant Cell Walls
Authors: Morris V.J. , Ring S.G. , MacDougall A.J. , Wilson R.H.
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Infrared Spectroscopy of Plant Cell Walls

Atomic Force Microscopy of Cell Walls

Molecular Interactions of Plant Cell Wall Polymers
Towards an Understanding of the Supramolecular Organization of the Lignified Wall
Authors: Boudet Alain‐M.
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

The Dynamics of Lignification: Chemical and Ultrastructural Aspects

Interactions and Cross‐Linking Between Non‐Lignin Components of the Cell Wall

Integration of Lignins in the Extracellular Matrix

New Insights Gained From Analysis of Transgenic Plants and Cell Wall Mutants

Cell Wall Proteins: Their Structural Roles and Potential Involvement in the Initiation of Lignification and Wall Assembly

Conclusions

Acknowledgements
WAKs: Cell Wall Associated Kinases
Authors: Riese Jeff , Ney Josh , Kohorn Bruce D.
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Preface

Introduction

The Cell Wall and Membrane

Cell Wall Contacts

TheWAKFamily

A Transmembrane Protein with a Cytoplasmic Protein Kinase and Cell Wall Domain

WAKs are Bound to Pectin

Genomic Organization ofWAKs

EGFRepeats

WAKExpression

WAKs and Cell Expansion

WAKs and Pathogenesis

WAKLigands

WAKSubstrates

Acknowledgements
Phase‐Control Enabled Superior Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Nanocrystalline Tungsten‐Molybdenum Thin Films
Authors: Martinez G. , Ramana C. V.
Published: June 2017

The authors report on the design and stabilization of the mechanically hard and electrically resistive β‐phase W‐Mo nanocrystalline thin films at room‐temperature (RT). The W‐Mo films are deposited under different deposition temperatures in the range of Ts = RT–30 °C. Structural analyses indicate that, as deposited at RT, the W‐Mo films crystallize in the metastable β‐phase, while those deposited at higher Ts (100–300 °C) exhibit the thermodynamically stable α‐phase. The phase‐effect is significant on the mechanical characteristics; superior hardness (H); and modulus of elasticity (Er) are found in β‐than in α‐phase W‐Mo films. At the β‐to‐α phase transformation, significant reduction occurs in H (40 → 25 GPa) and Er (275 → 225 GPa) coupled with a reduction in electrical‐resistivity (320 → 180 µΩ‐cm). Their findings and the phase‐mechanical‐electrical property correlation established may provide further possibilities to design and tailor the performance of W‐based thin films for future electronic and electromechanical device applications.
Protein adsorption and cell behaviors on polycaprolactone film: The effect of surface topography
Authors: Khampieng Thitikan , Yamassatien Vipawee , Ekabutr Pongpol , Pavasant Prasit , Supaphol Pitt
Published: June 2017

Protein adsorption is the first phenomenon that occurs when foreign materials are inserted into the body. Materials used in biomedical applications can have different surface topologies. Knowledge of the effect of the surface on protein adsorption is important due to its influence on cell behavior. The main objective of this study was to analyze polycaprolactone (PCL) films with different surface topologies. Protein adsorption was studied using bovine serum albumin (BSA) as the biomolecule. Different surface topologies of PCL were induced by phase separation using solvents with various solubility parameters. The investigated solvents were chloroform, acetone, tetrahydrofuran (THF), and ethanol (EtOH). The PCL films with different surface topologies and protein‐adsorbed PCL films were studied with respect to their hydrophobicity, the concentration and nature of functional groups on their surface, their surface roughness, and their cytotoxicity. Atomic force microscopy revealed that the films with the roughest surface were cast from 40:60 EtOH:THF and contained significantly larger amounts of adsorbed protein. Proteins preferentially adsorbed onto rough surfaces. The cell culture also indicated that mouse‐calvaria‐derived pre‐osteoblastic cells proliferated best and exhibited the greatest amount of calcium deposition on the surface with the largest amount of adsorbed protein.
Surface‐Casting Synthesis of Mesoporous Zirconia with a CMK‐5‐Like Structure and High Surface Area
Authors: Gu Dong , Schmidt Wolfgang , Pichler Christian M. , Bongard Hans‐Josef , Spliethoff Bernd , Asahina Shunsuke , Cao Zhengwen , Terasaki Osamu , Schüth Ferdi
Published: June 2017

About 15 years ago, the Ryoo group described the synthesis of CMK‐5, a material consisting of a hexagonal arrangement of carbon nanotubes. Extension of the surface casting synthesis to oxide compositions, however, was not possible so far, in spite of many attempts. Here it is demonstrated, that crystalline mesoporous hollow zirconia materials with very high surface areas up to 400 m2 g−1, and in selected cases in the form of CMK‐5‐like, are indeed accessible via such a surface casting process. The key for the successful synthesis is an increased interaction between the silica hard template surface and the zirconia precursor species by using silanol group‐rich mesoporous silica as a hard template. The surface areas of the obtained zirconias exceed those of conventionally hard‐templated ones by a factor of two to three. The surface casting process seems to be applicable also to other oxide materials.
Colorimetric Recognition of Aldehydes and Ketones
Authors: Li Zheng , Fang Ming , LaGasse Maria K. , Askim Jon R. , Suslick Kenneth S.
Published: June 2017

A colorimetric sensor array has been designed for the identification of and discrimination among aldehydes and ketones in vapor phase. Due to rapid chemical reactions between the solid‐state sensor elements and gaseous analytes, distinct color difference patterns were produced and digitally imaged for chemometric analysis. The sensor array was developed from classical spot tests using aniline and phenylhydrazine dyes that enable molecular recognition of a wide variety of aliphatic or aromatic aldehydes and ketones, as demonstrated by hierarchical cluster, principal component, and support vector machine analyses. The aldehyde/ketone‐specific sensors were further employed for differentiation among and identification of ten liquor samples (whiskies, brandy, vodka) and ethanol controls, showing its potential applications in the beverage industry.
Nonlinear Constrained Optimal Control Problems and Cardinal Hermite Interpolant Multiscaling Functions
Authors: Ashpazzadeh Elmira , Lakestani Mehrdad , Razzaghi Mohsen
Published: June 2017

In this paper, a numerical method for solving nonlinear quadratic optimal control problems with inequality constraints is presented. The method is based upon cardinal Hermite interpolant multiscaling function approximation. The properties of these multiscaling functions are presented first. These properties are then utilized to reduce the solution of the nonlinear constrained optimal control to a nonlinear programming one, to which existing algorithms may be applied. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the efficiency and applicability of the technique.
Two Completely Different Mechanisms for Highly Specific Na+ Recognition by DNAzymes
Authors: Zhou Wenhu , Saran Runjhun , Ding Jinsong , Liu Juewen
Published: June 2017

Our view of the interaction between Na+ and nucleic acids was changed by a few recently discovered Na+‐specific RNA‐cleaving DNAzymes. In addition to nonspecific electrostatic interactions, highly specific recognition is also possible. Herein, two such DNAzymes, named EtNa and Ce13d, are compared to elucidate their mechanisms of Na+ binding. Mutation studies indicate that they have different sequence requirements. Phosphorothioate (PS) substitution at the scissile phosphate drops the activity of EtNa 140‐fold, and it cannot be rescued by thiophilic Cd2+ or Mn2+, whereas the activity of PS‐modified Ce13d can be rescued. Na+‐dependent activity assays indicate that two Na+ ions bind cooperatively in EtNa, and each Na+ likely interacts with a nonbridging oxygen atom in the scissile phosphate, whereas Ce13d binds only one Na+ ion in a well‐defined Na+ aptamer, and this Na+ ion does not directly interact with the scissile phosphate. Both DNAzymes display a normal pH–rate profile, with a single deprotonation reaction required for catalysis. For EtNa, Na+ fails to protect the conserved nucleotides from dimethyl sulfate attack, and no specific Na+ binding is detected by 2‐aminopurine fluorescence, both of which are different from those observed for Ce13d. This work suggests that EtNa binds Na+ mainly through its scissile phosphate without significant involvement of the nucleotides in the enzyme strand, whereas Ce13d has a well‐defined aptamer for Na+ binding. Therefore, DNA has at least two distinct ways to achieve highly selective Na+ binding.
The Exfoliation of Graphite Particles in the Vibratory Disk Mill
Authors: Aman Sergej , Aman Alexander , Hintz Werner , Trüe Michael , Veit Peter , Hirsch Sören
Published: June 2017

The exfoliation of graphite particles during the treatment in the vibratory disk mill containing commercial sugar was investigated. During the collision of the grinding ring with the grinding chamber wall an intensive stressing of graphite takes place. After treatment in the mill, the resulting dark paste was solved in water and subjected to 10 min sonication. The suspension was centrifuged to remove the not exfoliated multilayered particles. Analysis of Raman spectra shows the presence of graphite sheets in suspension. The represented method of exfoliation is environmentally friendly and scalable.
Improving color reproduction accuracy of an OLED‐based mobile display
Authors: Kirchner Eric , van der Lans Ivo , Perales Esther , Martínez‐Verdú Francisco
Published: June 2017

For improving color reproduction accuracy of mobile displays, we recently developed a generic model for device‐specific display characterization model that also accounts for the influence of illuminance from ambient light. In the present article, this MDCIM model (Mobile Display Characterization and Illumination Model) is applied to a Samsung Galaxy S4 display, representing OLED displays. The performance of the model was tested by determining the values of all model parameters using publicly available technical data only. We organized visual tests under various ambient illuminance levels from 600 to 3000 lux. Seven observers compared the color of displayed images with the color of physical samples. With the MDCIM method, the quality of the color match was shown to improve considerably as compared to using only device‐independent encoding color space. On a five‐point scale to quantify color reproduction accuracy, the MDCIM resulted in more than 1 unit improvement at 1000 lux illuminance. At lower and higher illuminance, the improvement was even larger. Color reproduction accuracy was found to be at least reasonable, according to the subjective assessment of visual observers, for more than 75% of the samples when using the MDCIM method, but only 20% or less when using the common device‐independent encoding color space.
Attribute‐based access control management for multicloud collaboration
Authors: John John C. , Sural Shamik , Gupta Arobinda
Published: June 2017

Security of applications has been identified as one of the major concerns in today's multicloud collaborative environment. These applications are often bounded by the constraints of the disparate cloud domains they are deployed in. A fine‐grained access control mechanism such as attribute‐based access control (ABAC) is considered to be an appropriate choice for authorization management in this context. However, identifying a suitable set of ABAC rules, often called rule mining, is a critical step in building ABAC‐based systems. We propose 2 approaches for intercloud rule formation in ABAC. In the first approach, we consider cross domain rule mining as the problem of forming a minimal set of positive authorizations only. The second approach shows the advantage of developing deny rules along with positive authorizations in reducing the total number of rules, and hence, the response time for evaluating access requests. The problem is proved to be NP‐hard. Heuristic solutions are proposed and evaluated on benchmark datasets showing encouraging results.
Kinetics of CO2 Hydrogenation to Hydrocarbons over Iron–Silica Catalysts
Authors: Owen Rhodri E. , Mattia Davide , Plucinski Pawel , Jones Matthew D.
Published: June 2017

The conversion of CO2 to hydrocarbons is increasingly seen as a potential alternative source of fuel and chemicals, while at the same time contributing to addressing global warming effects. An understanding of kinetics and mass transfer limitations is vital to both optimise catalyst performance and to scale up the whole process. In this work we report on a systematic investigation of the influence of the different process parameters, including pore size, catalyst support particle diameter, reaction temperature, pressure and reactant flow rate on conversion and selectivity of iron nanoparticle ‐silica catalysts. The results provided on activation energy and mass transfer limitations represent the basis to fully design a reactor system for the effective catalytic conversion of CO2 to hydrocarbons.
Joint genotype‐ and ancestry‐based genome‐wide association studies in admixed populations
Authors: Szulc Piotr , Bogdan Malgorzata , Frommlet Florian , Tang Hua
Published: June 2017

In genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) genetic loci that influence complex traits are localized by inspecting associations between genotypes of genetic markers and the values of the trait of interest. On the other hand, admixture mapping, which is performed in case of populations consisting of a recent mix of two ancestral groups, relies on the ancestry information at each locus (locus‐specific ancestry). Recently it has been proposed to jointly model genotype and locus‐specific ancestry within the framework of single marker tests. Here, we extend this approach for population‐based GWAS in the direction of multimarker models. A modified version of the Bayesian information criterion is developed for building a multilocus model that accounts for the differential correlation structure due to linkage disequilibrium (LD) and admixture LD. Simulation studies and a real data example illustrate the advantages of this new approach compared to single‐marker analysis or modern model selection strategies based on separately analyzing genotype and ancestry data, as well as to single‐marker analysis combining genotypic and ancestry information. Depending on the signal strength, our procedure automatically chooses whether genotypic or locus‐specific ancestry markers are added to the model. This results in a good compromise between the power to detect causal mutations and the precision of their localization. The proposed method has been implemented in R and is available athttp://www.math.uni.wroc.pl/~mbogdan/admixtures/.
Effect of tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) on Ca2+ signal transduction and cell viability in a model of renal tubular cells
Authors: Fang Yi‐Chien , Chou Chiang‐Ting , Liang Wei‐Zhe , Kuo Chun‐Chi , Hsu Shu‐Shong , Wang Jue‐Long , Jan Chung‐Ren
Published: June 2017

Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) is a compound purified from herb. Its effect on Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in renal cells is unclear. This study examined whether TMP altered Ca2+ signaling in Madin‐Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. TMP at 100–800 μM induced [Ca2+]i rises, which were reduced by Ca2+ removal. TMP induced Mn2+ influx implicating Ca2+ entry. TMP‐induced Ca2+ entry was inhibited by 30% by modulators of protein kinase C (PKC) and store‐operated Ca2+ channels. Treatment with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor 2,5‐di‐tert‐butylhydroquinone (BHQ) inhibited 93% of TMP‐evoked [Ca2+]i rises. Treatment with TMP abolished BHQ‐evoked [Ca2+]i rises. Inhibition of phospholipase C (PLC) abolished TMP‐induced responses. TMP at 200–1000 μM decreased viability, which was not reversed by pretreatment with the Ca2+ chelator 1,2‐bis(2‐aminophenoxy)ethane‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid‐acetoxymethyl ester. Together, in MDCK cells, TMP induced [Ca2+]i rises by evoking PLC‐dependent Ca2+ release from endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+ entry via PKC‐sensitive store‐operated Ca2+ entry. TMP also caused Ca2+‐independent cell death.
Lysophosphatidic acid‐triggered pathways promote the acquisition of trophoblast endovascular phenotype in vitro
Authors: Beltrame Jimena S. , Sordelli Micaela S. , Cañumil Vanesa A. , Franchi Ana M. , Ribeiro María L.
Published: June 2017

Successful implantation and placentation requires that extravillous cytotrophoblast acquires an endovascular phenotype and remodels uterine spiral arteries. Defects in this mechanism correlate with severe obstetric complications as implantation failure and preeclampsia. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) participates in embryo implantation and contributes to vascular physiology in different biological systems. However, the role of LPA on trophoblast endovascular transformation has not been studied. Due to difficulties in studying human pregnancy in vivo, we adopted a pharmacological approach in vitro to investigate LPA action in various aspects of trophoblast endovascular response, such as the formation of endothelial capillary‐like structures, migration, and proliferation. The HTR‐8/SVneo cell line established from human first trimester cytotrophoblast was used to model the acquisition of the endovascular phenotype by the invading trophoblast. LPA increased HTR‐8/SVneo tube formation, migration (wound healing assay and phalloidin staining) and proliferation (MTT assay). LPA G protein‐coupled receptors, LPA1 and LPA3, were expressed in HTR‐8/SVneo. By using selective antagonists, we showed that enhanced tubulogenesis was mediated by LPA3. In addition, cyclooxygenase‐2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase pathways participated in LPA‐stimulated tubulogenesis. Inducible nitric oxide synthase was activated downstream cyclooxygenase‐2. Furthermore, prostaglandin E2 and a nitric oxide donor (SNAP) increased trophoblast tube formation in a concentration‐dependent manner. Finally, we observed that cyclooxygenase‐2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase were localized in the nucleus, and LPA did not modify their cellular distribution. Our results show that LPA‐triggered regulatory pathways promote trophoblast endovascular response in vitro, suggesting a new role for LPA during spiral artery remodeling at the maternal‐fetal interface.
Genetic variants in 3′‐UTRs of MTHFR in the pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia and bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Mohammadpour‐Gharehbagh Abbas , Salimi Saeedeh , Keshavarzi Farshid , Saeidian Foozieh , Mousavi Mahdieh , Teimoori Batool , Esmaeilipour Maryam , Mokhtari Mojgan
Published: June 2017

Preeclampsia (PE) as a pregnancy‐specific disorder is the major cause of mortality and morbidity of mothers and fetuses. This study attempts to investigate the possible association between the 2572C>A (rs4846049) and 4869C>G (rs1537514) polymorphisms in the 3′‐ untranslated region of MTHFR gene and the risk of PE. A total of 198 patients diagnosed with PE and 171 unrelated, age matched healthy pregnant women, were recruited for this case‐control study. The MTHFR 2572C>A and 4869C>G genotyping was performed by the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method. The CG genotype of MTHFR 4869C>G was associated with decreased risk of PE, and this genotype was found to be a protective factor for PE susceptibility. There was no significant difference in the genotypes of MTHFR 2572C>A polymorphism between PE patients and control group. The frequency of combined AC/CG genotypes of MTHFR 2572C>A and 4869C>G polymorphisms were less frequent in PE patients and were associated with a lower risk of PE. The C‐G and A‐G haplotypes of MTHFR 2572C>A and 4869C>G polymorphisms were significantly lower in PE patients. In conclusion, the CG genotype of MTHFR 4869C>G polymorphism was associated with a lower risk of PE. No association was found between MTHFR 2572C>A polymorphism and PE.