bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Doubling Indian Agri Export through Natural Farming Management, Horticulture & African Markets
Authors: Ghate Utkarsh , Kulkarni Hema
Published: September 2024

Aims: We explore the scope of escalating agriculture export in doubling farmers income and rational use of the growing Indian agriculture surplus and consequent glut, farmer distress.
Study Design: The study is exploratory type and was conducted by literature survey and discussion with farmers, experts and industry.
Methodology: The study was conducted by field visits to exporting, farmer exporters and experts during 2017 to 2022 by visiting farmers in Amaravati and Palghar districts, exporters in Mumbai city and experts at Pune city. Their data were triangulated with the literature from reputed  agri-research institutions.
Results: Doubling agri export can help to doubling farmer’s income (DFI) as export price is premium and profitability higher, besides increasing foreign exchange. Fruits & vegetables (F&V) is the largest agri-export segment globally but meagre 9th rank among Indian agri-export basket. Focussing on larger or costly market segment such as fruits & vegetables having higher productivity & surplus, rather than the cereals can help. Recent natural farming mission can aid in it and safeguard consumer and farmer’s health such as from the cancer. Indian F&V production more than doubled in the past 2 decades to exceed grains production, due to their health benefits. Maximum residue level (MRL) is the export benchmark so promoting low/ no pesticide techniques under the recent Indian natural farming (NF) mission can help to triple Indian agri-exports to $ 100 billion by 2030 from $35 billion in 2023, through horticulture, dairy and tea, cocoa that are in demand and valued. African markets can be tapped as it imports majority of its food and has less entry barriers. Policy may focus on fruits like Banana and premium for NF produce.
Conclusion: Focusing on fruits & vegetables (F&V), dairy, lipids & adopting the low/ no “pesticide residue” standard etc. can boost Indian agri-exports.
Exploring the Correlation Between Occupational Well-Being and Burnout: An Analysis of Bhutanese Teachers` Data
Authors: Karma
Published: September 2024

Aims: This study examined the relationship between teachers` occupational well-being and burnout as well as challenges faced by teachers, key drivers of their job satisfaction, factors contributing to their burnout, and suggestion for improving their well-being at school. The well-being of teachers was assessed focusing on affective, behavioral, and health components.
Methodology:  A cross-sectional survey study design was used to collect data from the teachers. The target population consists of all primary, middle, and secondary school teachers across the country. To ensure a representative sample, 402 Bhutanese teachers (primary, middle, and secondary school) across the country were selected by employing stratified random sampling method. Different teachers from different grades, schools, and years of experience were selected proportionately. A self-created structured questionnaire was applied to 402 Bhutanese teachers across the country, selected through stratified random sampling method. The instrument demonstrated strong internal consistency reliability, with Cronbach`s alpha coefficient 0.85, 0.78, 0.70, and 0.77 for affective, behavioral, and health well-being, as well as burnout constructs, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (correlation analysis and two sample independent t-test) in RStudio.
Results: Among the dimensions of occupational well-being, affective components like anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion require significant attention, with emotional exhaustion being notably high. Regarding potential stressors, high workload, paperwork, students` behavioral and disciplinary issues, and insufficient resources are the most pressing issues for most of the teachers. The most satisfying aspects of the job for teachers are having supportive colleagues, experiencing positive interactions with students, and receiving competitive salary and benefits.
Conclusion: For policy makers and school administrators, the findings of this study underscore the importance of implementing strategies to mitigate emotional exhaustion, such as providing mental health resources, fostering a supportive work environment, offering professional development opportunities focused on stress management, and improving students` behavioral and disciplinary issues. Addressing the foregoing issues can lead to a decrease in burnout rates, ultimately improving teacher retention and the overall quality of education.
Response of Adenium (Adenium obesum) Types to Wedge Grafting
Authors: Khanolkar Ujwal C. , Khanvilkar M. H. , Dalvi N. V. , Kulkarni M. M. , Mane A. V. , Pawar P. R.
Published: September 2024

The present investigation entitled “Response of Adenium (Adenium obesum) types to wedge grafting.” was conducted at College of Horticulture,Dr.B.S.K.K.V., Dapoli,Dist.Ratnagiri (Maharashtra) during October-November of academic year 2023-2024. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) in ten treatment and three replications. The result revealed that early sprouting (11.47 days), number of sprout per plant (1.93), sprouting percentage (91.67 %) and survival percentage (86.67 %) maximum in type T3 (ADBSKKVCOH -3 Pink). Thus it can be observed that type T3 (ADBSKKVCOH -3 Pink) give significant result to sprouting as well as survival parameters by wedge grafting.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Antisickling, Elemental and Proximate Analysis of the Leaves of Three Khaya species Found in Nigeria
Authors: O. A. Oyedapo, , C.M. Cyril-Olutayo , J.M. Agbedahunsi, , T.A. Adenegan-Alakinde, , A.O Baderinwa-Adejumo,
Published: September 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is traditionally treated in Nigeria by the Traditional Medical Practitioners (TMPs) with medicinal plants and other plant products. One of the herbs commonly used singly or in combination with other plant materials is Khaya, which is widely distributed in Africa, with three species existing in Nigeria. These are Khaya senegalensis A. Juss (KS), Khaya grandifoliola (WELW) CDC (KG) and Khaya ivorensis A. Chev. (KI). In this study we evaluated the anti-sickling activities of the leaf extracts of the three Khaya species leaves with a view to authenticating the ethnomedicinal claims, and assess the proximate as well as the elemental constituents that may contribute to the properties.
Dried leaves of the Khaya species were extracted by cold maceration and Soxhlet methods using water, ethanol and petroleum spirit as extractives. Filtered extracts were concentrated in vacuo at 40oC and dried in a lyophilizer. Inhibitory and reversal models were employed to evaluate their anti-sickling effects on Hb SS red blood cells following standard procedures. Proximate and elemental analysis were determined using the simple analytical procedure as described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemistry (AOAC) of 1987, 13th Edition Washington DC P1094 and Dry Ashing method of AOAC 2006 respectfully.
Anti-sickling results showed that the Soxhlet ethanol extracts of the Khaya species demonstrated significant (p≤0.05) ability to reverse and inhibit the sickling of red blood cells in-vitro with KI having the highest inhibitory and reversal of 60.04+1.77% and 74.97+2.23% respectively at 4 mg/ml concentration. The proximate analysis revealed the richness of the Khaya leaves in minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. Khaya leaves contained calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, and other essential elements within the limits of dietary requirement.
Khaya species could therefore be recommended for further development into herbal remedy in the management of sickle cell disease.
Impact Assessment of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on Seed Germination and Seedling Development of Maize
Authors: Prajapati Bhavik J. , Patel K. C. , Kumar Dileep , Patel Swati H. , Patel V. J.
Published: September 2024

The rising interest in using zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in agriculture raises concerns about soil contamination, which could result in phytotoxic effects on germinating seeds and seedlings. The present study was carried out to analyze the responses induced by lower, as well as higher doses of ZnO NPs (0–5120 ppm), in maize, for a period of 7 days incubation study. The results revealed that percent seed germination, shoot, root and seedling length, fresh and dry weight and seed vigour was increased with nano seed priming at lower concentration (80 ppm) as compared to control but decline variably at higher levels (higher than 640-5120 ppm) of zinc in maize. Thus, seed-priming with zinc oxide nanoparticles at low dosages was sufficient to elicit a good response to seedling germination and vigour, while higher doses were associated with a delay in early development metrics and caused toxic effect on the seedling.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Nutrient Status in Garlic (Allium sativum L.)
Authors: Choudhary Parveen , Kumari Santosh , Saini Anubha
Published: September 2024

An experiment was conducted during rabi season, 2021 to investigate the effect of integrated nutrient management on soil nutrient status in garlic. The study was structured around eighteen treatments with combinations of inorganic fertilizers, biofertilizers and organic manures like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit. The treatment T12 [(75 % RDF + 40 kg Sulphur/ha + Azotobacter + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria + FYM (25t/ha)] resulted in minimum soil pH (6.82) and electrical conductivity (0.181 dSm-1) as well as highest organic carbon (0.86 %), available Nitrogen (258.84 kg ha-1), Phosphorus (26.72 kg ha-1) contents. Further, the treatment T17 [(100 % RDF + FYM (25t/ha)] recorded maximum available Potassium (180.35 kg ha-1) and treatment T16 [(100 % RDF + 40 kg S/ha + FYM) recorded highest S (44.98 kg ha-1) contents. Thus, it can be concluded that integration of inorganic fertilizers with biofertilizers and organic manures helps in improving the soil nutrient status.
Effects of Aqueous Extracts of Costus afer and Vit. C Supplement on Renal Damage in Male Mice Subjected to Sub-chronic Exposure of Dichlorvos
Authors: Obulor Adetutu Olubunmi , Wekeh-Emenike Aruchi, , Mpakaboari Roseline Soibifaa , Izeoma Ngozi Salvation , Orlu Eme Efioanwan
Published: September 2024

Aim: To evaluate effects of aqueous extracts of Costus afer and Vit. C supplement on renal damage in male mice subjected to sub-chronic exposure of dichlorvos.
Study Design: The study was a completely randomized design employing relevant statistical tools for analysis and interpretation.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Rivers State University. The experiment lasted for 35 days between April and June 2023.
Methodology: A total of 30 male mice were randomly selected into 6 groups (n=5). Group A was the control, B received Dichlorvos@25mg/kg/bw/day, C & D received 100% vitamin C and Costus afer at 250mg/kg/bw/day only. Groups E & F were coadministered Dichlorvos with Vitamin C and 100% extract of Costusaferat 250mg/kg/bw/day respectively. At the end of the treatment period, blood samples were collected for analysis. Total protein was analyzed using the spectrophotometric method of biuret, Bradford and erythrosine – b, albumin was estimated, creatinine and urea was done using enzymatic method.Histological sections of the kidney were mounted on slides, stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Photomicrographs were generated.
Results: All kidney biomarkers examined increased significantly (p=0.05) in group B administered Dichlorvos only but decreased in groups administered the vit C and Costusafer respectively. Histopathological analysis of the kidney shows the regular structure of the kidney architecture in group A. Glomeruli shrinkage, necrosis and degeneration of nephrons were observed in group B, while less pronounced changes were observed in groups C-F co-administered with Vit C and Costus afer. However, group E shows fully regenerated nephrons while few depleted nephronic cells were still observed in group F despite coadministration of Costus afer.
Conclusion: Based on the results, Vit C supplement shows more potent, therapeutic properties against kidney damage in male mice subjected to sub-chronic exposure of Dichlorvos compared toCostusafer.
Analysing Market Integration and Causality of Oilseed Crops: Key Insights and Challenges in Major Tamil Nadu Markets and Interstate Regions of India
Authors: Shankar Gowri , Malaisamy A.
Published: September 2024

Oilseed crops like Sesame and Groundnut experience significant price fluctuations due to factors like seasonal production patterns, their perishable nature, and risk involved in production and marketing of output. The farmers are further complicated by a lack of information about market conditions, including the timing of arrivals and prices. Market integration, which helps stabilize prices and improve the efficiency of the marketing system. This study focuses on analysing the market integration of major oilseed crops— Sesame, and Groundnut in India from January 2013 to January 2024. Johansen's cointegration test and Granger Causality test were applied to examine how prices in different markets are influence one another. The stationarity of the prices tested using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test. The results confirmed that the prices are cointegrated, showing a strong interdependence between them. The analysis also revealed causal relationships between regions, such as bidirectional causality in the case of Sesame and Groundnut. The findings underscore the importance of further research to address production challenges, improve technical methods, and develop informed policies to manage the issues faced by oilseed crop growing farmers. This will help overcome obstacles in production and ensure a more efficient marketing system.
Development of Model and Graphical User Interface for Leak Localization in Crude Oil Pipeline
Authors: Kerunwa Anthony , Anyadiegwu Charley I.C. , Okoro Innocent Chijioke , Nwachukwu Angela Nkechinyere , Obibuike Ubanozie Julian , Dike Chukwuebuka Francis , Udechukwu Matthew Chidubem
Published: September 2024

Pipelines provide the most efficient and cost-effective means for fluid transport but the challenge posed by leaks has substantially increased the risks and hazards in pipeline fluid transportation. The development of efficient leak detection system pays off in quicker leak detection and localization, leading to quicker responses and remediation works by the pipeline emergency response team. This would ultimately bring about less severity of the pipeline leak in terms of financial losses, human and environmental consequences. Steady state modeling of crude oil pipeline flow with attempt to determine and localize leak has been achieved in this study. Mathematical models have been developed to detect and localize leaks in crude oil pipeline during leak occurrence. Leak detection was modeled using the conservation of mass equation while leak localization was modeled by modifying the Darcy-Weisbach pipeline liquid flow equations and utilizing the Swamee-Jain friction factor correlation. Equations for flowrate and pressure drop along the pipeline were developed for two cases: a case where there is no leak in the pipeline and a case where there is leak in the pipeline. Leak localization equation was determined by equating the fluid flow equation when there is no leak and when there is leak. The model was structured and simulated in Matlab software with the model tested for four field cases. The results from the simulation revealed swift leak detection, accurate localization of the leak, and determination of the pressure at the point of leak. Experimentally determined results from actual field measurements of leak incidences were used to validate the results. The result determined from the model developed proved accurate with only an average error of 0.216 miles.
Emerging Trends in Plant Growth Regulators: Innovations and Applications
Authors: MR Namratha , Kavya Thottempudi , Koushal Sanjay , Ghosh Pronobesh , Siddiqua Ayesha , Dhal Preetilagna
Published: September 2024

The review offers a comprehensive and illuminating summary of the most recent developments in the area of plant growth regulators (PGRs). The purpose of this research is to investigate the rapid advancements and uses of plant growth regulators (PGRs), which are vital instruments for maximizing the growth and productivity of plants. A wide variety of novel PGR compounds and technologies have been created as a result of recent breakthroughs. These new technologies and compounds provide considerable enhancements over the conventional methods. This discusses important discoveries such as innovative synthetic plant growth regulators (PGRs) and biostimulants that improve plant growth, resistance to stress, and crop output. Specifically, it investigates the manner in which these improved PGRs are developed to target certain physiological processes, which ultimately results in treatments that are more precise and successful in crop management. In addition, the study investigates the role that developing technologies play in the implementation of PGRs. These technologies include smart delivery systems and precision agricultural methods, which make it possible to adjust treatments to the individual requirements of plants and the circumstances of their environments. Additionally, the incorporation of PGRs into agricultural operations that are environmentally responsible. It highlights the potential for these advances to help to environmentally friendly agriculture by lowering the dependency on chemical inputs and enhancing the efficiency with which resources are used. The significance of these technological developments in solving global concerns such as climate change and food security is emphasized in the article. The revolutionary effect that new PGR technology have had on contemporary agricultural practices. This article highlights the potential for these technologies to improve crop productivity and promote sustainable agriculture practices by providing a detailed review of current developments and the practical consequences of those trends.
Optimization of Bioremediation of Crude Oil Polluted Soil through Variation in Moisture Content and Proportion of Augmenting Bacterium and Fungus
Authors: Pedro Peekate, Lekiah , Mdananebari Friday, , Owhonka Aleruchi,
Published: September 2024

Aim: The aim of this study was to enhance bioremediation of crude-oil polluted soil through optimization procedures.
Study Design: The Box-Benkhen coded values format and experimental design were used in the design of the study.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Microbiology laboratory of the Department of Microbiology, Rivers State University, Nigeria, between February 2024 and July 2024.
Methodology: Hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria (HUB) & fungi (HUF) were isolated from crude-oil polluted soil, and screened for hydrocarbon degrading ability (HCDA). HUB and HUF with the highest HCDA were identified and used for bioremediation optimization experiment. In the experiment, different combination of moisture content (MC), and proportion of HUB (pHUB) & HUF (pHUF) were investigated for their effect on extent of hydrocarbon reduction (EoHR). EoHR obtained from the different combinations were fitted using a generalized polynomial model so as to obtain a polynomial equation for predicting EoHR. The equation was used in generating prediction profiles from which the combined values of the 3 parameters that will lead to the highest EoHR was determined. The predicted combined values were implemented in a new setup. A control and a setup enhanced with fertilizer were also prepared. The setups were maintained for 3 weeks. On day 0, 14, and 21 samples were collected and analyzed for total hydrocarbon concentration (THC).
Results: The results obtained showed that among the coded isolated HUB and HUF, HB5 and HF1 had the highest HCDA; 36.4% and 4.1% respectively, and were identified phenotypically as Klebsiella ornithinolytica and Aspergillus flavus respectively. The results of the optimization experiment and prediction profiles showed that the highest (68.6%) EoHR was achievable at MC = 20%, pHUB = 10%, and pHUF = 1%. The actual EoHR on day 21 in the optimized, enhanced optimized, and control setups were 60.3, 58.9, and 39.9% respectively.
Conclusion: Bioremediation optimization studies is advantageous and should be carried out on crude-oil polluted sites before carrying out bioremediation.
Stellar spectral flux calibration of auroral H‐beta photometer signal and background channels
Authors: Jackel Brian J. , Unick Craig
Published: December 2016

Observations of optical aurora typically require the operation of sensitive instruments at remote field sites. Absolute radiometric calibration of these devices is essential for quantitative comparison over time and with other measurements. In this study we present absolute calibration of a proton auroral photometer using star transits observed during regular data collection. This requires absolute flux spectra with sufficient resolution to account for structure in stellar Hβ absorption line profiles. Several flux spectral catalogs are combined and corrected for systematic differences. The resulting estimates of instrumental sensitivity are consistent with darkroom calibration to roughly 15%.
A miniature, low‐power scientific fluxgate magnetometer: A stepping‐stone to cube‐satellite constellation missions
Authors: Miles D. M. , Mann I. R. , Ciurzynski M. , Barona D. , Narod B. B. , Bennest J. R. , Pakhotin I. P. , Kale A. , Bruner B. , Nokes C. D. A. , Cupido C. , Haluza‐DeLay T. , Elliott D. G. , Milling D. K.
Published: December 2016

Difficulty in making low noise magnetic measurements is a significant challenge to the use of cube‐satellite (CubeSat) platforms for scientific constellation class missions to study the magnetosphere. Sufficient resolution is required to resolve three‐dimensional spatiotemporal structures of the magnetic field variations accompanying both waves and current systems of the nonuniform plasmas controlling dynamic magnetosphere‐ionosphere coupling. This paper describes the design, validation, and test of a flight‐ready, miniature, low‐mass, low‐power, and low‐magnetic noise boom‐mounted fluxgate magnetometer for CubeSat applications. The miniature instrument achieves a magnetic noise floor of 150–200 pT/√Hz at 1 Hz, consumes 400 mW of power, has a mass of 121 g (sensor and boom), stows on the hull, and deploys on a 60 cm boom from a three‐unit CubeSat reducing the noise from the onboard reaction wheel to less than 1.5 nT at the sensor. The instrument's capabilities will be demonstrated and validated in space in late 2016 following the launch of the University of Alberta Ex‐Alta 1 CubeSat, part of the QB50 constellation mission. We illustrate the potential scientific returns and utility of using a CubeSats carrying such fluxgate magnetometers to constitute a magnetospheric constellation using example data from the low‐Earth orbit European Space Agency Swarm mission. Swarm data reveal significant changes in the spatiotemporal characteristics of the magnetic fields in the coupled magnetosphere‐ionosphere system, even when the spacecraft are separated by only approximately 10 s along track and approximately 1.4° in longitude.
Effect of alpha particles on the shock structure
Authors: Gedalin Michael
Published: December 2016

The magnetic profile of a collisionless shock is shaped by ions. Dynamics of the ions is governed by the fields in the shock front. Species with different charge‐to‐mass ratio have different gyroradii; thus, their distributions upon crossing the shock became substantially different. Accordingly, the dependencies of the density and temperature on the coordinate along the shock normal should differ. In a stable one‐dimensional stationary shock the total pressure must remain constant throughout. Therefore, the magnetic pressure should anticorrelate with the particle pressure. Since the particle pressure is not uniform, downstream spatial magnetic oscillations should arise. Each of the species results in its own dependence of the pressure on the coordinate along the shock normal; therefore, the oscillations are not spatially periodic. The magnetic compression in the shocks with alpha particles is higher than the magnetic compression in purely proton shocks, while the amplitude of the downstream magnetic oscillations is lower.
Lower hybrid waves in the ion diffusion and magnetospheric inflow regions
Authors: Graham D. B. , Khotyaintsev Yu. V. , Norgren C. , Vaivads A. , André M. , Toledo‐Redondo S. , Lindqvist P.‐A. , Marklund G. T. , Ergun R. E. , Paterson W. R. , Gershman D. J. , Giles B. L. , Pollock C. J. , Dorelli J. C. , Avanov L. A. , Lavraud B. , Saito Y. , Magnes W. , Russell C. T. , Strangeway R. J. , Torbert R. B. , Burch J. L.
Published: December 2016

The role and properties of lower hybrid waves in the ion diffusion region and magnetospheric inflow region of asymmetric reconnection are investigated using the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission. Two distinct groups of lower hybrid waves are observed in the ion diffusion region and magnetospheric inflow region, which have distinct properties and propagate in opposite directions along the magnetopause. One group develops near the ion edge in the magnetospheric inflow, where magnetosheath ions enter the magnetosphere through the finite gyroradius effect and are driven by the ion‐ion cross‐field instability due to the interaction between the magnetosheath ions and cold magnetospheric ions. This leads to heating of the cold magnetospheric ions. The second group develops at the sharpest density gradient, where the Hall electric field is observed and is driven by the lower hybrid drift instability. These drift waves produce cross‐field particle diffusion, enabling magnetosheath electrons to enter the magnetospheric inflow region thereby broadening the density gradient in the ion diffusion region.
In situ and remote characterization of the external field temporal variations at Mars
Authors: Langlais Benoit , Civet François , Thébault Erwan
Published: December 2016

Since there are currently no magnetic field measurements made at Mars' surface, it is not possible to directly monitor the temporal variability of the external field as it is done on Earth's ground magnetic observatories. In this paper we examine two indirect ways of quantifying this external field. First, we directly use Mars Global Surveyor magnetic field measurements to quantify the level of variability of the external field. We sort the measurements on a fine spatial mesh, 0.8° × 0.8° at the equator. We then subtract for each bin and measurement the internal, crustal (static) field without any a priori modeling. We finally compute daily averages of the individual residuals to obtain a time series of an in situ proxy. Second, we use the Advanced Composition Explorer mission which measures the solar wind about 1 h upstream of the Earth at the L1 Lagrange point. These measurements are extrapolated to Mars' position taking into account the orbital configurations of the Mars‐Earth system and the average velocity of particles carrying the interplanetary magnetic field to obtain a remote proxy time series. We compare these time series and demonstrate that they are complementary. When Mars and the Earth are close to the same Parker spiral arm, in situ and remote series have correlation coefficients close to 0.5. We show how these series, or proxies, can help to select magnetic field measurements on Mars. This dual approach and these proxies will especially be useful for upcoming magnetic field measurements made around or at the surface of Mars.
Glacial density and GIA in Alaska estimated from ICESat, GPS and GRACE measurements
Authors: Jin Shuanggen , Zhang T. Y. , Zou F.
Published: December 2016

The density of glacial volume change in Alaska is a key factor in estimating the glacier mass loss from altimetry observations. However, the density of Alaskan glaciers has large uncertainty due to the lack of in situ measurements. In this paper, using the measurements of Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat), Global Positioning System (GPS), and Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) from 2003 to 2009, an optimal density of glacial volume change with 750 kg/m3 is estimated for the first time to fit the measurements. The glacier mass loss is −57.5 ± 6.5 Gt by converting the volumetric change from ICESat with the estimated density 750 kg/m3. Based on the empirical relation, the depth‐density profiles are constructed, which show glacial density variation information with depths in Alaska. By separating the glacier mass loss from glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) effects in GPS uplift rates and GRACE total water storage trends, the GIA uplift rates are estimated in Alaska. The best fitting model consists of a 60 km elastic lithosphere and 110 km thick asthenosphere with a viscosity of 2.0 × 1019 Pa s over a two‐layer mantle.
GIS‐based prediction of stream chemistry using landscape composition, wet areas, and hydrological flow pathways
Authors: Tiwari Tejshree , Lidman Fredrik , Laudon Hjalmar , Lidberg William , Ågren Anneli M.
Published: December 2016

Landscape morphology exerts strong, scale‐dependent controls on stream hydrology and biogeochemistry in heterogeneous catchments. We applied three descriptors of landscape structure at different spatial scales based on new geographic information system tools to predict variability in stream concentrations for a wide range of solutes (Al, Ba, Be, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, S, Si, Sr, Sc, Co, Cr, Ni, Cu, As, Se, Rb, Y, Cd, Sb, Cs, La, Pb, Th, U, DOC, and Cl) using a linear regression analysis. Results showed that less reactive elements, which can be expected to behave more conservatively in the landscape (e.g., Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cl, and Si), generally were best predicted from the broader‐scale description of landscape composition (areal coverage of peat, tills, and sorted sediments). These results highlight the importance of mineral weathering as a source of some elements, which was best captured by landscape‐scale descriptors of catchment structure. By contrast, more nonconservative elements (e.g., DOC, Al, Cd, Cs, Co, Th, Y, and U), were best predicted by defining wet areas and/or flow path lengths of different patches in the landscape. This change in the predictive models reflect the importance of peat deposits, such as organic‐rich riparian zones and mire ecosystems, which are favorable environments for biogeochemical reactions of more nonconservative elements. As such, using this understanding of landscape influences on stream chemistry can provide improved mitigation strategies and management plans that specifically target source areas, so as to minimize mobilization of undesired elements into streams.
Rapid Visual Screening and Programmable Subtype Classification of Ebola Virus Biomarkers
Authors: Balcioglu Mustafa , Rana Muhit , Hizir Mustafa Salih , Robertson Neil M. , Haque Kashfia , Yigit Mehmet V.
Published: December 2016

The massive outbreaks of the highly transmissible and lethal Ebola virus disease were caused by infection with one of the Ebolavirus species. It is vital to develop cost‐effective, highly sensitive and selective multitarget biosensing platforms that allow for both the detection and phenotyping. Here, a highly programmable, cost‐efficient and multianalyte sensing approach is reported that enables visual detection and differentiation of conserved oligonucleotide regions of all Ebolavirus subtypes known to infect human primates. This approach enables the detection of as little as 400 amols (24 × 106 molecules) of target sequences with the naked eye. Furthermore, the detection assay can be used to classify four virus biomarkers using a single nanoprobe template. This can be achieved by using different combinations of short single stranded initiator molecules, referred to as programming units, which also enable the simultaneous and rapid identification of the four biomarkers in 16 different combinations. The results of 16 × 5 array studies illustrate that the system is extremely selective with no false‐positive or false‐negative. Finally, the target strands in liquid biopsy mimics prepared from urine specimens are also able to be identified and classified.
The CD44‐Mediated Uptake of Hyaluronic Acid‐Based Carriers in Macrophages
Authors: Rios de la Rosa Julio M. , Tirella Annalisa , Gennari Arianna , Stratford Ian J. , Tirelli Nicola
Published: December 2016

CD44 is a potentially rewarding target in cancer therapy, although its mechanisms of ligand binding and internalization are still poorly understood. In this study, we have established quantitative relationships between CD44 expression in differently polarized macrophages (M0, M1, and M2‐polarized THP‐1 human macrophages) and the uptake of hyaluronic acid (HA)‐based materials, which are potentially usable for CD44 targeting. We have validated a robust method for macrophage polarization, which sequentially uses differentiating and polarizing factors, and allows to show that CD44 expression depends on polarization (M1 > M0 ≥ M2). It is noteworthy that THP‐1 M2 expressed CD44v6, suggesting their suitability as a model of tumor‐associated macrophages. In the uptake of HA, both as a soluble polymer and in the form of (siRNA‐loaded) nanoparticles, CD44 expression correlated positively with binding, but negatively with internalization. Counterintuitively, it appears that a higher presence of CD44 (in M1) allows a more efficient capture of HA materials, but a lower expression (in M2) is conducive to better internalization. Although possibly cell‐specific, this unexpected relationship indicates that the common paradigm “higher CD44 expression = better targetability” is too simplistic; mechanistic details of both receptor presentation and association still need to be elucidated for a predictable targeting behavior.
Unexpected Equilibrium Ionic Distribution in Cyanine/C60 Heterojunctions
Authors: Jenatsch Sandra , Groenewold Jan , Döbeli Max , Hany Roland , Crockett Rowena , Lübben Jörn , Nüesch Frank , Heier Jakob
Published: December 2016

The equilibrium ionic distribution in cyanine donor–fullerene acceptor bilayer systems is investigated using Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, elastic recoil detection analysis, and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy. Simultaneously, the potential profile inside the C60 layer is followed by Kelvin probe force microscopy. Experimental verifications are obtained by using different device architectures, different mobile counter ions, and alternative acceptor layers. The unexpected constant iodide profile inside C60 and the potential shift close to the donor–acceptor interface can be explained by an exchange of electrons and ions from acceptor to donor and vice versa. The proposed model explaining all of the observed experimental findings is supported by a thermodynamic model.
Silyl‐Substituted Planar Chiral Phosphoric Acids with Ferrocene‐bridged Paracyclophane Frameworks: Synthesis, Characterization, and Uses in Enantioselective aza‐Friedel‐Crafts Reactions
Authors: Stemper Jérémy , Isaac Kévin , Ghosh Nayan , Lauwick Hortense , Le Duc Gaëtan , Retailleau Pascal , Voituriez Arnaud , Betzer Jean‐François , Marinetti Angela
Published: December 2016

This manuscript reports on a suitable method for the synthesis of paracyclophane type, ferrocene‐bridged chiral phosphoric acids, which bear silyl‐substituents on their paracyclophane frameworks. These acids have been obtained easily in enantiomerically pure form, by taking advantage of (S)‐(1‐phenyl‐2‐cyanoethyl)phosphorodiamidite as a phosphorylating agent. They have been used then as catalysts for aza‐Friedel‐Crafts reactions between indoles and imines, giving high catalytic activity and up to 98% enantiomeric excess.

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All‐Printed, Stretchable Zn‐Ag2O Rechargeable Battery via Hyperelastic Binder for Self‐Powering Wearable Electronics
Authors: Kumar Rajan , Shin Jaewook , Yin Lu , You Jung‐Min , Meng Ying Shirley , Wang Joseph
Published: December 2016

While several stretchable batteries utilizing either deterministic or random composite architectures have been described, none have been fabricated using inexpensive printing technologies. In this study, the authors printed a highly stretchable, zinc‐silver oxide (Zn‐Ag2O) battery by incorporating polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene‐block‐polystyrene (SIS) as a hyperelastic binder for custom‐made printable inks. The remarkable mechanical properties of the SIS binder lead to an all‐printed, stretchable Zn‐Ag2O rechargeable battery with a ≈2.5 mA h cm−2 reversible capacity density even after multiple iterations of 100% stretching. This battery offers the highest reversible capacity and discharge current density for intrinsically stretchable batteries reported to date. The electrochemical and mechanical properties are characterized under different strain conditions. The new stress‐enduring printable inks pave ways for further developing stretchable electronics for the wide range of wearable applications.
Anziehung gleich geladener Ionen in ionischen Flüssigkeiten: Kontrolle der Bildung kationischer Cluster über die Wechselwirkungsstärke der Gegenionen
Authors: Strate Anne , Niemann Thomas , Michalik Dirk , Ludwig Ralf
Published: December 2016

Die Eigenschaften ionischer Flüssigkeiten werden durch ein Gleichgewicht von Coulomb‐Wechselwirkung, Wasserstoffbrücken und Dispersionskräften beschrieben. Eine Verringerung der attraktiven Coulomb‐Wechselwirkung durch die Verwendung schwach koordinierender Anionen führt zur Bildung kationischer Cluster. Diese werden durch kooperative Wasserstoffbrücken stabilisiert, und ihre Bildung wird durch die Wechselwirkungsstärke der Anionen kontrolliert. Zum Nachweis dieser Cluster kamen IR‐ und NMR‐Spektroskopie in Kombination mit Quantenchemie zum Einsatz. Die Cluster können nur für schwach koordinierende Anionen beobachtet werden. Werden kationische Cluster gebildet, erweisen sich cyclische Tetramere als besonders stabil. Dabei können die kooperativen Wasserstoffbrücken die Coulomb‐Abstoßung der gleichen Ladungen überkompensieren. Eine einfache spektroskopische Skala erlaubt die Abschätzung der möglichen Bildung von Clustern gleicher Ladung auf Basis von IR‐ und NMR‐spektroskopischen Signaturen.
Photoarylation of Iodocarboranes with Unactivated (Hetero)Arenes: Facile Synthesis of 1,2‐[(Hetero)Aryl]n‐o‐Carboranes (n=1,2) and o‐Carborane‐Fused Cyclics
Authors: Ni Hangcheng , Qiu Zaozao , Xie Zuowei
Published: December 2016

Photoarylation of iodocarboranes with unactivated arenes/heteroarenes at room temperature has been achieved, for the first time, thus leading to the facile synthesis of a large variety of cage carbon mono(hetero)arylated and di(hetero)arylated o‐carboranes. This work represents a clean, efficient, transition‐metal‐free, and cheap synthesis of functionalized carboranes, which has significant advantages over the known methods.
New dates for earth mounds at Weipa, North Queensland, Australia
Authors: BROCKWELL SALLY , Ó FOGHLÚ BILLY , FENNER JACK N. , STEVENSON JANELLE , PROSKE ULRIKE , SHINER JUSTIN
Published: December 2016

This paper reports new radiocarbon determinations for late Holocene occupation in the Weipa region of Far North Queensland, Australia. Earth mounds along the margins of small wetlands and freshwater creeks developed mainly after 2200 years ago, but are concentrated within the past 500 years. Their establishment appears to be associated with changing environmental conditions and a regional increase in the availability of permanent water sources around 2200 and 500 years ago. These results have implications for earth mound chronology and possibly climate change understanding elsewhere in Northern Australia.
Geophysical and Geochemical Studies on Historical Layers in the Area of Old Krakow, Poland
Authors: Łyskowski Mikołaj , Pasierb Bernadetta , Wardas‐Lasoń Marta , Antonik Wioleta , Mazurkiewicz Ewelina
Published: December 2016

In the present study, application of complementary to each other non‐invasive geophysical methods and geochemical slim hole drilling allowed to locate a small fragment of the historical water system, and to determine the type and stratigraphy of the sediments filling it. The most universal, and frequently used geophysical methods are electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and ground penetrating radar (GPR). These methods are characterized by high precision mapping of the investigated medium, and the possibility of implementation even in small areas. They play an important role in defining the location of archaeological excavations sites. The applied geophysical methods enabled precise and comprehensive analyses of near‐surface zones in the area of Planty Park in Krakow (Poland), such as engineering/geological recognition, and detection of anthropogenic structures. As an important metropolis of Central Europe in the medieval period, Krakow due to rapid development of craft and trade had a high demand for water both for the general population and craftsmen. As a result, the city continuously developed and used a complex watercourse and sewage collection system. The layout of the system has not yet been accurately mapped. The authors decided that the ERT method was suitable for this case study. The study was conducted in the eastern part of Planty Park, near Dominikańska Street, measurements were taken using a two‐dimensional (2D) parallel layout of ERT profiles. The authors also carried out a three‐dimensional (3D) image interpretation process. Even though the ERT method is limited by the requirement of a minimal implementation area, it makes the detection of former watercourses possible. In order to verify the ERT results, three small‐diameter mechanical holes drillings were carried for purpose of macroscopic analysis of the ground type with determination of its lithology and layer layout. On gathered samples laboratory measurements of pH, oxidation–reduction potential Eh, and conductivity EC were done. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brief Report: Longitudinal Patterns of Response to Standard of Care Therapy for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Implications for Clinical Trial Design
Authors: Kim Mimi , Merrill Joan , Kalunian Kenneth , Hahn Bevra , Roach Anita , Izmirly Peter ,   for the Lupus Foundation of America Collective Data Analysis Initiative Group
Published: December 2016

Objective

To evaluate longitudinal patterns of response to standard of care for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in clinical trials and to identify characteristics that differentiate nonresponders from persistent responders.

Methods

Data on 147 patients with moderately to severely active SLE without acute nephritis who were treated with placebo plus standard of care in two 52‐week phase II/III trials were obtained from the Collective Data Analysis Initiative of the Lupus Foundation of America. Cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses of British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG)–based responses (improvement in all baseline A or B scores without new flare) were performed. Baseline characteristics that discriminated persistent responders from nonresponders were identified using logistic regression.

Results

Cross‐sectional response rates decreased from 46% to 37% between 12 and 52 weeks. The overall rate of complete and sustained response, i.e., response at all visits, was only 14.3% (95% confidence interval 8.6–19.9%). Agreement between response status at 12 weeks and 36–52 weeks was low (κ = 0.15–0.29), and only 31% of initial 12‐week responders maintained response at all subsequent visits. Baseline factors predictive of persistent response to standard of care included fewer organs with active disease, high C3 levels, and type of background therapy.

Conclusion

Use of sustained rather than landmark response may reduce high placebo response rates in SLE trials that continue aggressive standard of care. Further exploration to assess the power of this end point to improve discrimination between active and placebo arms is indicated. Lack of temporal stability in response highlights a potential weakness with shorter studies. Rates of response to standard of care are affected by the severity of the disease and the aggressiveness of background immunosuppressive treatments.
A Multi‐Biomarker Disease Activity Score and the Choice of Second‐Line Therapy in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis After Methotrexate Failure
Authors: Hambardzumyan Karen , Saevarsdottir Saedis , Forslind Kristina , Petersson Ingemar F. , Wallman Johan K. , Ernestam Sofia , Bolce Rebecca J. , van Vollenhoven Ronald F.
Published: December 2016

Objective

To investigate whether the Multi‐Biomarker Disease Activity (MBDA) score predicts optimal add‐on treatment in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were inadequate responders to MTX (MTX‐IRs).

Methods

We analyzed data from 157 MTX‐IRs (with a Disease Activity Score using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate [DAS28‐ESR] >3.2) from the Swedish Pharmacotherapy (SWEFOT) trial who were randomized to receive triple therapy (MTX plus sulfasalazine plus hydroxychloroquine) versus MTX plus infliximab. The MBDA score as a predictor of the subsequent DAS28‐based response to each second‐line treatment was analyzed at randomization with the Breslow‐Day test for 2 × 2 groups, using both validated categories (low [<30], moderate [30–44], and high [>44]) and dichotomized categories (lower [≤38] versus higher [>38]).

Results

Among the 157 patients, 12% had a low MBDA score, 32% moderate, and 56% high. Of those with a low MBDA score, 88% responded to subsequent triple therapy, and 18% responded to MTX plus infliximab (P = 0.006); for those with a high MBDA score, the response rates were 35% and 58%, respectively (P = 0.040). When using 38 as a cutoff for the MBDA score (29% patients with lower scores versus 71% with higher scores), the differential associations with response to triple therapy versus MTX plus infliximab were 79% versus 44% and 36% versus 58%, respectively (P = 0.001). Clinical and inflammatory markers had poorer predictive capacity for response to triple therapy or MTX plus infliximab.

Conclusion

In patients with RA who had an inadequate response to MTX, the MBDA score categories were differentially associated with response to subsequent therapies. Thus, patients with post‐MTX biochemical improvements (lower MBDA scores) were more likely to respond to triple therapy than to MTX plus infliximab. If confirmed, these results may help to improve treatment in RA.