bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological Diversity in Litchi Based on Tree and Leaf Characteristics
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Verma Sant Ram , Singh Satendra Kumar , Vishen Gaurav Singh , Tiwari Ankita
Published: September 2024

On the basis of tree and leaf characteristics, twenty litchi genotypes were evaluated to select promising genotypes. Numerous differences have been observed between the genotypes. The genotypes KT-1 and GC-2 recorded the highest (5.35 m) and lowest (4.50 m) height, respectively. The girth was greatest for the genotype KD-1 (63.01 cm) and lowest for the genotype GC-2 (49.99 cm). The genotype DP-2 had the smallest canopy diameter (5.29 m) and the genotype KS-1 the greatest (6.40 m) among the ones investigated. In GC-2 and KT-1, the plant volumes ranged from 20.35 m3 to 26.79 m3. Leaf exhibited a great deal of variability among them, nine genotypes showed vivid pink in their new leaves, whereas eleven genotypes showed yellowish green. Comparably, the colour of the leaves varied among the genotypes; nine had dark green, whereas eleven had green. Nine genotypes showed a downward curve from the midrib, whereas eleven genotypes showed an upward curve. According to an analysis of the number of leaflets on each compound leaf, Shahi had the most (7.24), while GC-1 had the fewest (6.16). The longest rachis measured 11.10 cm in KD-2 and the shortest 9.75 cm in GP-2. The genotype DT-1 exhibited the smallest petiole length, while the genotype KS-1 had the longest. The length of the leaflets varied significantly between genotypes, ranging from 10.86 cm (KD-1) to 13.81 cm (China). The genotype DP-2 had the shortest breadth (3.70 cm), while genotype KD-1 had the widest (4.36 cm). The genotypes GC-2, GP-2 and KD-1 can be promoted in close spacing orchard.
Anti-Lipidemic and Anti-Glycemic Potential of Lactational Exposure to Flavonoid from Hibiscus sabdariffa in Offspring of Wistar Rats
Authors: Wike Nyejirime Young , Richards Ndubuisi Nonso , Etu Esther Ifeyinwa , Chima Uzoefuna Casmir , Alor Patrick , Egbo Judith Uzezi , Oge Akhigbe Agatha , Sussan Obianuo Chineta , Ikenna Agbor Joseph
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim: An individual's growth, organ development, physical makeup, and health are significantly influenced by their nutrition in the early stages of development. Hibiscus sabdariffa have been associated with beneficial effects  on human health. The anti-lipidemic and anti-glycemic potential of lactational exposure  to flavonoid from Hibiscus sabdariffa from birth to postnatal day 42 was investigated in Wistar  rats.
Methods: Sixteen in-bred pregnant female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups of four rats each. Group 1 was used as normal control. Groups 2, 3 and 4 oral doses of 10, 20 and 50 mg of flavonoid respectively for 21 days. The body weight and length of the dams were measured daily. At postnatal day 21, the dams were assigned into four groups according to their parent rat. Their water and food intake were also measured daily and recorded. At postnatal day 42, blood sample was collected by occulo-puncture for serum lipid profile analysis and glucose tolerance test was done using Accucheck strip.
Results: There was a significant decrease in fluid and food intake, body weight and body length at the doses tested. Also, there was a significant decrease in the lipid profile at different doses. The oral glucose tolerance test revealed the ability of flavonoid to regulate glucose homeostasis in the offspring.
Conclusion: Consumption of flavonoid from H. sabdariffa may ameliorate diabetes status and also reduce the risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases.
Significance: Results from this study can be used as a preventive guide to cardiovascular diseases.
A Study on Existing Hygiene Practices of Rural Women of Assam, India
Authors: Gohain Ingita , Nath Dipak
Published: September 2024

Hygiene refers to conditions and practices that help to maintain health and prevent the spread of diseases.  It can be defined as the practice of certain habits to maintain a good health both at the personal level (personal hygiene – cleanliness, physical exercise, proper rest, sleep, bathing, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohols, drugs etc.) and at the community level (social hygiene – proper disposal of waste) (WHO, Jan, 2016). About 75% of health facilities are concentrated in urban areas where only 27% of the total population lives. Contagious, infectious and waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, amoebiasis, typhoid, infectious hepatitis, worm infestations, measles, malaria, tuberculosis, whooping cough, respiratory infections, pneumonia, reproductive tract infections etc. dominate the morbidity pattern, especially in rural areas [1]. The study was carried out in the state of Assam (India) with 270 randomly selected rural women of 3 districts, viz., Tinsukia, Nagaon and Barpeta districts to find the existing practice of respondents on hygiene. More than half of the respondents (57.04 %) belonged to ‘moderate category’ of practice level on hygiene. Majority of the respondents belonged to ‘moderate category’ of practice level on hygiene, namely Barpeta (56.67%), Nagaon (53.33%) and Tinsukia (61.11%). It is also observed that the Nagaon district had highest percentage (24.44%) of respondents that belonged to ‘poor category’ of practice level on hygiene as compared to the other two districts.
Comparative Analysis of Yield and Economic Benefits of Using Different Organic Manure in Broccoli Cultivation
Authors: Pahade Rahul , Jaiswal R.K. , Ali S.A. , Ahirwar Shubham , Mishra Jaya
Published: September 2024

An experiment was conducted during Rabi 2020-21 at Research farm of Department of Horticulture, R.A.K. College of Agriculture, Sehore (Madhya Pradesh) to investigate the effects of different organic manures on growth and yield of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica). The tan treatments were carried out including control (Recommended dose), different concentrations of organic manure, FYM (100% and 50%), Vermicompost (100% and 50%), Neem cake (100% and 50%), and Poultry manure (100% and 50%). All of the organic manures were applied at the time the Broccoli was transplanted into the plot, according to the doses that should be given there. It could be evinced from the data that maximum curd yield of 15.30 t/ha and net income of Rs. 236321 per ha and benefit cost ratio of 4.39 was achieved in Broccoli in the T10 (Recommended dose) while the minimum benefit cost ratio 3.15 in the T2 and minimum net income Rs.139820 per ha in the T1 with the 3.23 benefit cost ratio. Hence it could be concluded that Broccoli is a remunerative labour intensive crop.
Evaluation of Agroforestry Practices in Deoghar District, Jharkhand, India
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Oraon P. R. , Kumar Jai , Singh Bijay Kumar
Published: September 2024

The study was conducted to know the traditional agroforestry practices followed by farmers in Deoghar district, Jharkhand. The result was indicated that in agrisilviculture practices, Acacia nilotica, Melia azedarach and Dalbergia sisoo were the major tree components and in agriculture crop, Oryza sativa, Zea mays and Arachis hypogaea. In silvipastoral categories, Gmelina arborea, Mangifera indica and Dalbergia sisoo were the major tree component and in grasses, Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus scarious. In homegarden practices, M. oleifera, G. arborea and Tectona grandis were main tree components, while in agriculture crop, Cicer arietinum and Brassica oleracea and among horticultural crops, Cocos nucifera, Musa paradisiaca and Mangifera indica. In agrihorticulture category, among agriculture crop, Vigna radiata, Triticum aestivum and in horticultural crop, M. indica, Psidium guajava and Emblica officinalis. In trees along fish pond, major tree crops were T. grandis, Azadirachta indica, Bambusa nutans and different types of grasses was recorded around the fish pond. In all the three blocks, most of the household were interested to grow timber species on their farm and its range varied from 55.50% in Palojori block and 75.00% in Mohanpur block. In Palojori and Sarath block, almost 100% of household was interested to grow horticultural trees. In Mohanpur block, more than 90% of the household was also interested to grow horticultural trees. In overall calculation, 95.41% of the household was interested to grow horticultural trees and 74.50% of the household was interested to grow timber trees on their farm.
Impact of Fiscal Policy on the Industrial Development of Afghanistan
Authors: Andaish Qiamuddin , Mohammadi Karimullah
Published: September 2024

Industrialisation is crucial for economic growth and development, being recognised as the most efficient way to overcome technical and economic challenges and enhance production efficiency and labour productivity. The industrial sector is a key driver of economic progress, underscoring the significance of identifying the factors influencing its development. This study investigates the impact of government fiscal policies on industrial sector development in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2021, employing the ARDL approach. The findings reveal that in the short term, government spending and gross domestic product exert a significant and positive influence on industrial sector development, with GDP exhibiting a more substantial impact than government expenditure. Conversely, industrialisation itself and foreign direct investment (FDI) demonstrate negative effects. In the long term, government spending and FDI significantly impede industrial sector development, indicating that a 1 per cent increase in government expenditure reduces industrial development by 0.31 per cent, while a 1 per cent increase in FDI diminishes it by 0.38 per cent. In contrast, the effect of gross domestic product remains positive and significant in both the short and long term. Thus, expansionary fiscal policies, encompassing heightened government infrastructure investments and support for domestic production, can propel industrial growth.
The helical propensity of the extracellular loop is responsible for the substrate specificity of Fe(III)‐phytosiderophore transporters
Authors: Harada Erisa , Sugase Kenji , Namba Kosuke , Murata Yoshiko
Published: November 2016

Hordeum vulgare L. yellow stripe 1 (HvYS1) is a selective transporter of Fe(III)‐phytosiderophores in barley that is responsible for iron acquisition from the soil. In contrast, maize Zea mays, yellow stripe 1 (ZmYS1) possesses broad substrate specificity. In this study, a quantitative evaluation of the transport activities of HvYS1 and ZmYS1 chimera proteins revealed that the seventh extracellular membrane loop is essential for substrate specificity. The loop peptides of both transporters were prepared and analysed by circular dichroism and NMR. The spectra revealed a higher propensity for α‐helical conformation of the HvYS1 loop peptide and a largely disordered structure for that of ZmYS1. These structural differences are potentially responsible for the substrate specificities of the transporters.
Centromere protein W interacts with beta‐transducin repeat‐containing protein 1 and modulates its subcellular localization
Authors: Cheon Yeongmi , Jeon Seyeong , Lee Soojin
Published: November 2016

Beta‐transducin repeat‐containing protein 1 (β‐TrCP1) is a substrate‐recognition module of SCFβ‐TrCP1 ubiquitin ligases and its subcellular distribution is known to be critical for target specificity. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) U, an abundant nuclear protein, is known to be a unique regulator of β‐TrCP1 shuttling between the cytoplasm and the nucleus. In this study, we report that centromere protein W (CENP‐W), which is frequently overexpressed in a variety of human cancers, may also contribute to β‐TrCP1 shuttling. Although hnRNP U and CENP‐W can interact with β‐TrCP1 and transport it independently, these proteins do not compete for β‐TrCP1 binding, but rather cooperate to form a stable shuttling complex. Intriguingly, we found that overexpression of CENP‐W leads to accumulation of β‐TrCP1 in the nucleus. Thus, we propose that CENP‐W may function as a booster of β‐TrCP1 nuclear import to increase the oncogenicity of β‐TrCP1.
Evidence for dual receptor‐binding sites in Clostridium difficile toxin A
Authors: Lambert Gregory S. , Baldwin Michael R.
Published: November 2016

TcdA (308 kDa) and TcdB (270 kDa) disrupt the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier and provide an environment favorable for Clostridium difficile colonization. Recent evidence suggests that entry of TcdA into cells is mediated by at least two domains. Here, we report the characterization of a second receptor‐binding domain (RBD2) for TcdA. While both the isolated combined repetitive oligopeptides (CROPs) and RBD2 fragments are rapidly internalized into cells under physiologic conditions, only the CROPs domain appreciably accumulates at the cell surface. Once internalized, CROPs and RBD2 are trafficked to late endosomal compartments. An internal deletion of RBD2 from TcdA holotoxin ablated toxicity in HT29 cells. These data are consistent with the recently proposed dual receptor model of cellular entry.
Water sustainability of large cities in the United States from the perspectives of population increase, anthropogenic activities, and climate change
Authors: Yigzaw Wondmagegn , Hossain Faisal
Published: November 2016

Balancing water demand and supply with depleting sources and increasing demand needs a multi‐dimensional approach given the pace at which the world is urbanizing. This study selected the contiguous United States (CONUS), 42 specific cities and their river basins to determine:Which basins and cities are more susceptible to increased water shortage?Population, water use, hydrologic model and climate model data fromCMIP5were used. Representative Concentration Pathways scenarios:RCP2.6,RCP4.5,RCP6, andRCP8.5 represented different climate change conditions. Period 1 (1950–2004) showed that more areas are affected by monthly runoff and streamflow than annual averages. In some cases, significant decreasing trends in water availability were observed during the summer (June–July–August) and spring (March–April–May) seasons. The second period (2005–2049) indicated an annual increasing trend (more water available) with higher intensity for theRCP6scenario. Summer and spring showed areas of decreasing trend (less water available) forRCP4.5 andRCP6. Period 3 (2050–2099) exhibited a decreasing trend for theRCP2.6 (Western and CentralCONUS, Great Lakes, and FL),RCP4.5 (SouthwestCONUS),RCP6(Western United States), and CentralCONUS(RCP8.5). The Mississippi River has a mixed sensitivity to future climate change. The Central Valley of California, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Tucson can face further challenges as the Colorado River becomes depleted. Seawater desalination and inter‐basin water transfer can be considered in future and present policies and structural developments. The West, Southeastern Coast, and FL may consider desalination, while the West and CentralCONUScan use the Mississippi for inter‐basin transfer.
Albedo enhancement by stratospheric sulfur injections: More research needed
Authors: Robock Alan
Published: November 2016

Research on albedo enhancement by stratospheric sulfur injection inspired by Paul Crutzen's paper a decade ago has made clear that it may present serious risks and concerns as well as benefits if used to address the global warming problem. While volcanic eruptions were suggested as innocuous examples of stratospheric aerosols cooling the planet, the volcano analog also argues against stratospheric geoengineering because of ozone depletion and regional hydrologic responses. Continuous injection of SO2 into the lower stratosphere would reduce global warming and some of its negative impacts, and would increasing the uptake of CO2 by plants, but research in the past decade has pointed out a number of potential negative impacts of stratospheric geoengineering. More research is needed to better quantify the potential benefits and risks so that if society is tempted to implement geoengineering in the future it will be able to make an informed decision.
Recent trends in U.S. flood risk
Authors: Slater Louise J. , Villarini Gabriele
Published: November 2016

Flooding is projected to become more frequent as warming temperatures amplify the atmosphere's water holding capacity and increase the occurrence of extreme precipitation events. However, there is still little evidence of regional changes in flood risk across the USA. Here we present a novel approach assessing the trends in inundation frequency above the National Weather Service's four flood level categories in 2042 catchments. Results reveal stark regional patterns of changing flood risk that are broadly consistent above the four flood categories. We show that these patterns are dependent on the overall wetness and potential water storage, with fundamental implications for water resources management, agriculture, insurance, navigation, ecology, and populations living in flood‐affected areas. Our findings may assist in a better communication of changing flood patterns to a wider audience compared with the more traditional approach of stating trends in terms of discharge magnitudes and frequencies.
The role of long‐term rifting history on modes of continental lithosphere extension
Authors: Salerno V. Morena , Capitanio Fabio A. , Farrington Rebecca J. , Riel Nicolas
Published: November 2016

Continental lithosphere extension results in complex basin types with differing structural styles, subsidence, thermal histories, and melt production. Many studies have examined the role of initial rheological layering, geothermal gradients, and extension rates during a single rifting event. This approach neglects the tectonic history of many basins that are marked by multiple rifting events. Here we address the role of repeated extension on long‐term lithospheric strain modes and the resulting basins, highlighting cases most affected by previous rifting events. We use numerical models of a lithosphere undergoing two rifting events of differing extension rates and separated by cooling, to show the effect of early events on subsequent evolution. The combination of boundary displacement velocity in both events leads to the formation of various rift basin types, ranging from narrow to wide to hyperextended and with variation of subsidence patterns, degrees of symmetry, and melt yield. We show that basin type, subsidence, and melt production might be strongly affected by previous rifting events, illustrating cases in which the previous rifting history cannot be neglected. Our models reproduce the first‐order features of Earth's sedimentary basins and propose a classification to guide the interpretation of extensional basins and their evolution.
Impact of Middle Eastern dust sources on PM10 in Iran: Highlighting the impact of Tigris‐Euphrates basin sources and Lake Urmia desiccation
Authors: Sotoudeheian Saeed , Salim Reza , Arhami Mohammad
Published: November 2016

Contribution of different Middle Eastern dust origins to PM10 (PM with aerodynamic diameters less than 10 µm) levels in several receptor large cities in Iran was investigated. Initially, the major regional dust episodes were determined through statistical analysis of recorded PM levels at air quality stations and verified using satellite images. The particles dispersion was simulated by Hybrid Single‐Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) to regenerate PM10 during the dust episodes. The accuracy of the modeled results was rather convincing, with an average squared correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.7 (max = 0.95). Consequently, the contributions of different dust sources to the observed concentrations were determined. Basin of Tigris‐Euphrates Rivers encompasses active dust sources with significant rate of emission due to fluvial deposits. The sources in this basin with approximately 70–95% contribution, by far, had the most influence on PM10 levels at the receptor cities. In a finer resolution, northern and central parts of Iraq had the most influence on PM10 level during the dust episodes. Effect of probable improvement or deterioration of the current dust origin conditions on PM10 levels was analyzed by performing a sensitivity analysis through varying threshold friction velocities. The results demonstrated that 10% increase or decrease in threshold friction velocities of major dust sources could lead to average of 51% decrease or 77% increase in the receptor cities' PM10, respectively. Finally, effects of Lake Urmia desiccation, as a new hydrological prospect dust origin were analyzed. The predicted dust from the prospective dried lake bed could result in ~ 30–60% increase in PM10 of nearby cities during the studied dust episodes.
Bullying participant roles and gender as predictors of bystander intervention
Authors: Jenkins Lyndsay N. , Nickerson Amanda B.
Published: November 2016

Although the importance of peer bystanders in bullying has been recognized, there are few studies that examine the phenomenon in relation to Latané and Darley's (1970) classic Bystander Intervention Model, which states that there are five stages of bystander intervention: (i) notice the event; (ii) interpret the event as an emergency that requires assistance; (iii) accept responsibility for intervening; (iv) know how to intervene or provide help; and (v) implement intervention decisions. This study examined preliminary evidence of reliability and validity of the Bystander Intervention Model in Bullying (Nickerson, Aloe, Livingston, & Feeley, 2014), and the extent to which bullying role behavior (bullying, assisting, victimization, defending, and outsider behavior) and gender predicted each step of the model with a sample of 299 middle school students. Results of a Confirmatory Factor Analysis supported a five‐factor structure of the measure corresponding to the steps of the model. There was evidence of convergent validity and Cronbach alpha for each subscale exceeded .75. In addition, students who reported defending their peers were more likely to also engage in all five steps of the bystander intervention model, while victims were more likely to notice events, and outsiders were less likely to intervene. Gender differences and gender interactions were also found. Aggr. Behav. 43:281–290, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Controlled Crystallization of Conjugated Polymer Films from Solution and Solvent Vapor for Polymer Electronics
Authors: Schulz Gisela L. , Ludwigs Sabine
Published: November 2016

Over the years, solution‐processable conjugated oligomers and polymers have proven to be very promising for application in organic electronic devices. In addition to tuning the chemical structure of the materials, the role of morphology has been identified as a key parameter in determining device performance. Conjugated polymers are typically semicrystalline in nature consisting of both crystalline and amorphous domains giving rise to a wealth of superstructures. In comparison to classical non‐conjugated semicrystalline polymers, they bear the additional advantage of absorbing light. This makes UV‐vis absorption spectroscopy an excellent tool to monitor polymer aggregation and crystallization in‐situ both in solution and in films. With this feature article we point out the delicate interplay between solution processing and the obtained morphology in polythiophenes and low bandgap copolymers. Subtle changes in the preparation protocol lead to significant changes in textures and also give rise to polymorphism. Solvent vapor annealing and solution crystallization are highlighted as tools to control the nucleation and growth processes in semicrystalline polymer films. Structure‐function relationships between morphological, optical and electronic properties are demonstrated.
Effect of Strain Rate on Tensile Testing of Geogrid Reinforcements Using Single‐Rib and Wide‐Rib Specimen
Authors: Hegazy R. , Mahmoud G. M. , Hasan Ebtisam H.
Published: November 2016

A geogrid is geosynthetic high‐density polyethylene material used to reinforce soils and similar materials. It is valuable tool in transportation and civil construction. Geogrids allow engineers to build where it otherwise would not be possible or would be cost prohibitive using traditional methods. The tensile test of the geogrid is the most important test of this product. ISO 10319 “Geosynthetics‐Wide‐Width tensile test” uses wide‐width specimen 20 mm wide; the gripping of this wide sample is difficult and need special gripping. This study aims to develop and validate a method for testing single‐rib specimen, instead of wide specimen using 150 samples of geogrids, and six different speeds. The statistical analysis of the results showed that testing of single rib at the speed of 100 mm/min (method under validation) gave matched and compatible results of wide‐rib specimen testing at the speed of 25 mm/min (reference method), where the variance value of these two methods is not significant.
External‐Ligand‐Free Aerobic Oxidation of N‐ and C‐Containing Cyclic Systems under Pd‐Catalyzed Conditions
Authors: Wang Yue , Li Caifeng , Huang Jianhui
Published: November 2016

A convenient aerobic oxidation of N‐ and C‐containing heterocycles using a readily available inorganic base (KOtBu) in the presence of a Pd catalyst is reported. A range of N‐containing heteroaromatic compounds as well as a number of anilines have been successfully prepared in good yields. This cost‐efficient synthesis has opened the pathway toward a potential application for the synthesis of a variety of other useful heteroaromatic compounds.
Highly Efficient Brønsted Acidic Ionic Liquid Promoted Direct Diazenylation of Pyrazolones with Aryltriazenes under Mild Conditions
Authors: Zhang Yonghong , Hu Haiyan , Liu Chen‐Jiang , Cao Dawei , Wang Bin , Sun Yadong , Abdukader Ablimit
Published: November 2016

We report the first Brønsted acidic ionic liquid (IL) promoted reaction of 5‐pyrazolones with aryltriazenes to prepare arylazopyrazolones. The reaction was carried out with the aryltriazenes as diazotizing agents, water as the solvent, and the ionic liquid as the promoter at room temperature under air and metal‐free conditions. The desired products were obtained in good to excellent yields. Notably, a gram‐scale experiment and a late‐stage diazenylation reaction of a pharmaceutical derivative also furnished the desired products under mild conditions.
Techniques for transcatheter retrieval of the occlutech ASD device United Kingdom–European multicenter report
Authors: Shebani Suhair O , Rehman Rizwan , Taliotis Demetris , Magee Alan , Hayes Nicholas J , Baspinar Osman , Martínez Zunzunegui , Haas Nikolaus , Duke Christopher
Published: November 2016

Aims

To gather current experience in Occlutech ASD device retrieval, to determine whether snaring is an effective technique and to highlight alternative retrieval techniques;

Methods and Results

United Kingdom and European Occlutech ASD device implanters reported their experience in dealing with device embolization and retrieval. Six operators reported 12 retrieval cases. Retrieval was successful in 92% (11/12), although in most cases it was not straightforward and required multiple attempts using different techniques and equipment. When each different technique or equipment combination was considered separately, there were a total of 23 retrieval attempts. Fifteen attempts involved snaring the ball on the right atrial disc of the device (“the RA pin”). In 12/15 of these attempts the snare slipped off the RA pin. In 8/15 attempts snaring eventually failed. In two cases retrieval was facilitated by elongating the device in a blood vessel. In three cases retrieval was achieved by grasping the RA pin with the jaws of the Occlutech Flex II delivery cable;

Conclusions

Snares do not grip the RA pin sufficiently to reliably retrieve the device. Funnelling the device into a blood vessel or grasping the RA pin with the jaws of the delivery cable may be successful alternatives. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Examination of Huntington's disease with atypical clinical features in a Bangladeshi family tree
Authors: Al‐Mamun Md Mahfuz , Sarker Suprovath Kumar , Qadri Syeda Kashfi , Shirin Tahmina , Mohammad Quazi Deen , LaRocque Regina , Karlsson Elinor K. , Saha Narayan , Asaduzzaman Muhammad , Qadri Firdausi , Mannoor Md Kaiissar
Published: November 2016

Key Clinical Message

Atypical manifestation of Huntington's disease (HD) could inform ongoing research into HD genetic modifiers not present in the primarily European populations studied to date. This work demonstrates that expanding HD genetic testing into under‐resourced healthcare settings can benefit both local communities and ongoing research into HD etiology and new therapies.
Selective Synthesis of 1,2‐Diarylpyrrolo[3,4‐b]pyridine‐5,7‐diones via Cyclization Reaction of β‐Enamino Imides with Cinnamaldehydes
Authors: Jiang Yanhong , Yan Chaoguo
Published: November 2016

The novel 1,2‐diaryl substituted pyrrolo[3,4‐b]pyridine‐5,7‐diones were selectively synthesized in high yields by the base catalyzed cyclization reaction of 3‐arylamino‐1‐methyl‐1H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐diones with cinnamaldehyde and its derivatives in acetonitrile at room temperature. However, when piperidinium trifluoroacetate was employed as catalyst, the reaction afforded a mixture of 1,2‐diaryl and 1,4‐diaryl substituted pyrrolo[3,4‐b]pyridine‐5,7‐diones in comparable yields.
Synthesis of Substituted Benzoxacycles via a Pd(II)‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Arylation Reaction of Allylic Alcohols
Authors: Li Jingjie , Tan Ceheng , Mu Xinpeng , Gong Jianxian , Yang Zhen
Published: November 2016

Herein a Pd‐catalyzed intramolecular allylation reaction of unprotected allylic alcohols was developed, and the reaction proceeded through a Pd(II)‐mediated allylic carbocation species formation, followed by a Friedel‐Crafts type annulation to afford functionalized chromanes.
Resonance Raman Study of New Pyrrole‐Anchoring Dyes for NiO‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Summers Gareth H. , Lowe Grace , Lefebvre Jean‐François , Ngwerume Simbarashe , Bräutigam Maximilian , Dietzek Benjamin , Camp Jason E. , Gibson Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2016

Three dyes for p‐type dye‐sensitised solar cells containing a novel doubly anchored pyrrole donor group were synthesised and their solar cell performances were evaluated. Dye 1 was comprised of a phenyl–thiophene linker and a maleonitrile acceptor, which has been established as an effective motif in other push–pull dyes. Two boron dipyrromethane analogues, dyes 2 and 3, were made with different linker groups to compare their effect on the behaviour of these dyes adsorbed onto nickel oxide (dye|NiO) under illumination. The photoexcited states of dye|NiO were probed using resonance Raman spectroscopy and compared to dyes anchored using the conventional 4‐aminobenzoic acid moiety (P1 and 4). All three components, the anchor, the linker and the acceptor group were found to alter both the electronic structure following excitation and the overall solar cell performance. The bodipy acceptor gave a better performance than the maleonitrile acceptor when the pyrrole anchor was used, which is the opposite of the triphenylamine push–pull dyes. The linker group was found to have a large influence on the short‐circuit current and efficiency of the p‐type cells constructed.
Repeatability of individual migration routes, wintering sites, and timing in a long‐distance migrant bird
Authors: van Wijk Rien E. , Bauer Silke , Schaub Michael
Published: November 2016

Migratory birds are often faithful to wintering (nonbreeding) sites, and also migration timing is usually remarkably consistent, that is, highly repeatable. Spatiotemporal repeatability can be of advantage for multiple reasons, including familiarity with local resources and predators as well as avoiding the costs of finding a new place, for example, nesting grounds. However, when the environment is variable in space and time, variable site selection and timing might be more rewarding. To date, studies on spatial and temporal repeatability in short‐lived long‐distance migrants are scarce, most notably of first‐time and subsequent migrations. Here, we investigated repeatability in autumn migration directions, wintering sites, and annual migration timing in Hoopoes (Upupa epops), a long‐distance migrant, using repeated tracks of adult and first‐time migrants. Even though autumn migration directions were mostly the same, individual wintering sites often changed from year to year with distances between wintering sites exceeding 1,000 km. The timing of migration was repeatable within an individual during autumn, but not during spring migration. We suggest that Hoopoes respond to variable environmental conditions such as north–south shifts in rainfall during winter and differing onset of the food availability during spring migration.
Physical calculations of resistance to water loss improve predictions of species range models
Authors: Riddell Eric A. , Apanovitch Evan K. , Odom Jonathan P. , Sears Michael W.
Published: November 2016

Species ranges are constrained by the physiological tolerances of organisms to climatic conditions. By incorporating physiological constraints, species distribution models can identify how biotic and abiotic factors constrain a species' geographic range. Rates of water loss influence species distributions, but characterizing water loss for an individual requires complex calculations. Skin resistance to water loss (ri) is considered to be the most informative metric of water loss rates because it controls for experimental biases. However, calculating ri requires biophysical equations to solve for the resistance of the air that surrounds an organism, termed the boundary layer resistance (rb). Here, we compared theoretical and empirical methods for measuring skin resistance to water loss of a Plethodon salamander collected from nature. For the empirical methods, we measured rb of agar replicas at five body sizes, two temperatures, three vapor pressure deficits, and six flow rates using a flow‐through system. We also calculated rb using biophysical equations under the same experimental conditions. We then determined the ecological implications of incorporating skin and boundary layer resistance into a species range model that estimated potential activity time and energy balance throughout the geographic range of the study species. We found that empirical methods for calculating rb resulted in negative values of ri, whereas biophysical calculations produced meaningful values of ri. The species range model determined that ignoring realistic boundary layer and skin resistances reduced average estimates of energy balance by as much as 64% and potential activity time by 88% throughout the spatial extent of the model. We conclude that the use of agar replicas is an inadequate technique to characterize skin resistance to water loss, and incorporating boundary layer and skin resistances to water loss improves estimates of activity and energetics for mechanistic species distribution models. More importantly, our study suggests that incorporating the physical processes underlying rates of water loss could improve estimates of habitat suitability for many animals.
Comprehensive analysis of host cell impurities in monoclonal antibodies with improved sensitivity by capillary zone electrophoresis mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Zhenbin , Albanetti Thomas , Linkous Travis , Larkin Christopher J. , Schoner Ronald , McGivney James B. , Dovichi Norman J
Published: November 2016

Four methods were compared for analysis of host‐cell protein (HCP) impurities in a recombinant mAb. First, CZE‐MS/MS was used to analyze the digest of an HCP sample following extraction of the mAb with proteins A and L affinity columns; 220 protein groups and 976 peptides were identified from the depleted HCP digest. Second, a nanoACQUITY UltraPerformance LCH system was also used to analyze the depleted HCP digest; 34 protein groups and 53 peptides from 50 ng of the depleted HCP digest and 290 protein groups and 1011 peptides were identified from 1 μg of the depleted HCP digest. Third, 185 protein groups and 709 peptides were identified by CZE‐MS/MS from the HCP digest without depletion. Fourth, a strong cation exchange SPE was coupled to CZE‐ESI‐MS/MS using online pH gradient elution for analysis of the HCP digest without depletion. A series of five pH bumps were applied to elute peptides from the strong cation exchange monolith followed by analysis using CZE coupled to a Q Exactive HF mass spectrometer; 230 protein groups and 796 peptides were identified from the HCP digest without depletion.
Insight from Atomistic Simulations of Protonation Dynamics at the Nanoscale
Authors: Dreßler C. , Kabbe G. , Sebastiani D.
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we give an overview of the role of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in the field of proton exchange membranes. We focus on structural and dynamical findings regarding the topology of hydrogen bond networks and proton diffusion. On the one hand, findings about water‐containing polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell materials, such as Nafion and liquid containing pore materials are discussed. On the other hand, proton conduction in water‐free systems is elucidated. Here, the focus lies on phosphonic acids, which possess a rigid structure, and polymers based on phosphonic acids.
Pediatric acute liver failure of undetermined cause: A research workshop
Authors: Alonso Estella M. , Horslen Simon P. , Behrens Edward M. , Doo Edward
Published: November 2016

Pediatric acute liver failure (PALF) is a potentially devastating condition that occurs in previously healthy children of all ages and frequently leads to a rapid clinical deterioration. An identified cause for liver injury is lacking in approximately 30% of cases. Children with undetermined diagnosis have lower spontaneous survival and higher rates of transplantation and death than other diagnostic groups. A single‐day workshop sponsored by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases brought together clinicians and basic scientists to integrate aligned research findings and develop a foundation for new mechanistic studies and future treatment trials. The clinical phenotype of indeterminate PALF shares important similarities to the hyperinflammatory state characteristic of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). A failure of cytotoxic T cells to limit or contract inflammatory responses may propagate injury and lead to a local and systemic milieu that does not support normal hepatic regeneration. Evidence was presented that bone marrow (BM)‐derived Sinusoidal endothelial cell PROgenitor Cells (sprocs) play a vital role in hepatic regeneration. Overwhelming systemic inflammatory responses may suppress mobilization of BM sprocs and dampen hepatic recovery. Conclusion: Experience gained through treatment trials of HLH and MAS in childhood may inform study design for therapy of PALF. Successful approaches to limiting neuroinflammation through reduction of systemic inflammation and standardized neuroprotection protocols that limit glial injury could significantly improve intact survival. Finally, given that PALF is a rare disease, investigative efforts must include broad multicenter collaboration and careful stewardship of biorepository specimens. (Hepatology 2017;65:1026‐1037).
Influences of the operational variables on electrochemical treatment of chelated Cu(II) in alkaline solutions using a membrane cell
Authors: Eivazihollagh Alireza , Bäckström Joakim , Norgren Magnus , Edlund Håkan
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

The electrochemical recovery of copper and chelating agent from their complex solution using a membrane flow cell was investigated. The parameters electrolysis time, solution pH, current density, and temperature were investigated.

RESULTS

Electrochemical investigation indicated that chelating ligands can be recovered by the electrodeposition of copper ions on the cathode. For copper and EDTA recovery, the results indicated that recovery efficiency was affected by time, current density, and temperature. The recovery process was not influenced by pH in the range studied (pH 8–12), which can be explained by the low variation in the conditional stability constant, i.e. Δlog10 K' ≤ 0.7, over the pH range. However, when NTA, EDTA, and DTPA were compared, the results indicated that the recovery efficiency decreased as the conditional stability constant of the chelating agent–Cu(II) complex increased. The maximum current efficiency of copper and EDTA recovery after 5 h of treatment was approximately 85%, whereas the recovery was 80% of the initial concentration (0.05 mol L−1) at a current density of 1 A dm−2, temperature of 333 K, and pH of 10.

CONCLUSION

Relatively high recovery efficiency makes the process fairly sustainable and hinders the discharge of copper ions and chelating ligands as pollutants into the environment. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Sakacin‐A antimicrobial packaging for decreasing Listeria contamination in thin‐cut meat: preliminary assessment
Authors: Barbiroli Alberto , Musatti Alida , Capretti Giorgio , Iametti Stefania , Rollini Manuela
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Minimally processed ready‐to‐eat products are considered a high‐risk food because of the possibility of contamination with pathogenic bacteria, including Listeria monocytogenes from the animal reservoir, and the minimal processing they undergo. In this study, a sakacin‐A anti‐Listeria active package was developed and tested on thin‐cut veal meat slices (carpaccio).

RESULTS

Enriched food‐grade sakacin‐A was obtained from a cell‐free supernatant of a Lactobacillus sakei culture and applied (0.63 mg cm−2) onto the surface of polyethylene‐coated paper sheets to obtain an active antimicrobial package. The coating retained antimicrobial features, indicating that the process did not affect sakacin‐A functionality, as evidenced in tests carried out in vitro. Thin‐cut veal meat slices inoculated with Listeria innocua (a surrogate of pathogenic L. monocytogenes) were laid on active paper sheets. After 48 h incubation at 4 °C, the Listeria population was found to be 1.5 log units lower with respect to controls (3.05 vs 4.46 log colony‐forming units (CFU) g−1).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the possibility of using an antimicrobial coating containing sakacin‐A to inhibit or decrease the Listeria population in ready‐to‐eat products, thus lowering the risk of food‐related diseases. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Bromelain: from production to commercialisation
Authors: Ramli Aizi Nor Mazila , Aznan Tuan Norsyalieza Tuan , Illias Rosli Md
Published: November 2016

Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes found in pineapple (Ananas comosus) plants. It can be found in several parts of the pineapple plant, including the stem, fruit, leaves and peel. High demand for bromelain has resulted in gradual increases in bromelain production. These increases have led to the need for a bromelain production strategy that yields more purified bromelain at a lower cost and with fewer production steps. Previously, bromelain was purified by conventional centrifugation, ultrafiltration and lyophilisation. Recently, the development of more modern purification techniques such as gel filtration, ion exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, aqueous two‐phase extraction and reverse micelle chromatography has resulted in increased industrial bromelain production worldwide. In addition, recombinant DNA technology has emerged as an alternative strategy for producing large amounts of ultrapure bromelain. An up‐to‐date compilation of data regarding the commercialisation of bromelain in the clinical, pharmaceutical and industrial fields is provided in this review. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Study of the terpene profile at harvest and during berry development of Vitis vinifera L. aromatic varieties Aleatico, Brachetto, Malvasia di Candia aromatica and Moscato bianco
Authors: D'Onofrio Claudio , Matarese Fabiola , Cuzzola Angela
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

In this work, we evaluated the aromatic composition of berries at harvest and during the whole berry development of Aleatico, Brachetto, Malvasia di Candia aromatica and Moscato bianco grapevine varieties, which were cultivated in the same vineyard and under the same agricultural conditions.

RESULTS

Malvasia had a total concentration of aroma which was significantly higher than the other grapes that showed comparable amounts with each other. The class of monoterpenes was quantitatively predominant for all four grapes, in the free and in the most plentiful bound form. In Malvasia and Aleatico there was a high prevalence of geraniol derivatives throughout the entire berry development while in Brachetto and in Moscato there was a prevalence of linalool derivatives during the green phase and geraniol derivatives during ripening.

CONCLUSION

The study of the monoterpene profile allowed us to highlight similarities and differences among the four aromatic varieties and to present a hypothesis about their biosynthetic dynamics. This information is useful for further studies on gene functional characterisation and the regulation of these important berry pathways. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Factors predictive of failure to complete planned intraoperative breast radiation using the intrabeam® system
Authors: Dossett Lesly A. , Abbott Andrea M. , Sun Weihong , Loftus Loretta , Lee Marie Catherine , Diaz Roberto , Laronga Christine
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) is a form of breast irradiation that is delivered in a single session at the time of partial mastectomy. In up to 10% of patients, planned IORT is not completed; this leads to wasted resources and decreased patient satisfaction. Our objective was to evaluate factors associated with failure to complete planned IORT.

Methods and Materials

An IRB‐approved review of planned IORT cases from 2011 to 2015 was conducted. Eligibility criteria included: age ≥60, invasive ductal or mammary carcinoma, tumor <3.0 cm, ER positive, and clinically node negative. Discontinuation of planned IORT was at the discretion of the breast surgical and radiation oncologists.

Results

Twenty‐one (15%) of one hundred and forty‐five planned IORT cases were not completed. Reasons for failure to complete IORT included inadequate applicator to skin distance (n = 15, 71%), altered wire localization findings the day of surgery (n = 4, 19%), equipment failure (n = 1, 5%), and hemodynamic instability (n = 1, 5%). Significant surgeon variability was associated with failure to complete planned IORT (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Insufficient skin‐to‐applicator spacing is the most common reason for failure to complete IORT. In this series, higher volume surgeons completed a greater proportion of IORT cases, suggesting a learning curve to patient selection or intraoperative technique. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:930–932. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.