bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of optimal parameters for aspartic protease production from Aspergillus terreus using solid-state fermentation
Authors: Hasnawi Sadeq Fenjan , Abd Al-Manhel Alaa Jabbar , AL-Younis Zena Kadhim
Published: April 2024

The current study presents extracellular Aspartic protease production using low-cost agro-industrial waste with the indigenously isolated novel strain Aspergillus terreus, and parameters that largely affect enzyme production, namely fermentation time, pH, moistening solution, temperature, inoculum volume, and different solutions, were utilized for enzyme extraction. The isolated fungus was identified as A. terreus (registered as A. terreus SFH5 in the gene bank) by phenotypic and molecular characterization, showed the highest aspartic protease activity of 258.6 units/mL and 272.2 units/mg using a solid-state fermentation technique during screening, and was further used for media component screening and optimization studies. The study employed wheat bran as the preferred production medium and casein as the nitrogen source. The fermentation process was conducted at a temperature of 30°C and a pH of 5. The moistening solution to fermentation medium ratio was set at 3:1, while an inoculum volume of 2 mL (containing 1 × 106 spores/10 g solid) was used. Distilled water was selected as the most effective solution for extracting the enzyme. It has been discovered that the locally isolated novel strain of A. terreus, SFH5, can efficiently produce a substantial amount of aspartic protease by utilizing agro-industrial waste. This makes it a viable candidate for large-scale optimized production of the enzyme to satisfy industrial requirements.
Phylogenetic analysis of Omicron subvariants in Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Phuoc , Nguyen Huyen Thi Thuong , Thai Quan Ke
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic is still exposed worldwide and dominated by Omicron and its subvariants. The evolution of Omicron is mainly influenced by protein S mutations encoded by the Spike gene. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the diversity of the S gene from Omicron isolated in Vietnam, focusing on haplotype and nucleotide levels. A total of 6348 sequences of Omicron originated from Vietnam were collected, aligned to identify the nucleotide variations before being used to build phylogenetic tree. The analysis showed that Omicron in Vietnam had a high level of haplotype diversity, leading to the identification of five subvariants, in which BA.2* and BA.5* were the most prevalent, followed by XBB* variant. Phylogenetic analysis showed close relationships between BA.2* and XBB* based on S gene sequences. The S1 region exhibited the highest genetic variation, characterized by indels and numerous missense mutations in NTD and RBD. Notably, the analysis also showed that transition mutations, including C → T and A → G, as well as reversible changes, were commonly observed. Our study provided valuable insights into the genetic diversity of Omicron variants in Vietnam, emphasizing the significant role of the S gene mutations in the evolution of SARS-CoV-2. Understanding these genetic variations is crucial for efforts to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Optimizing solid-state fermentation for metabolite enrichment by Aspergillus tamarii on rice bran and wheat
Authors: Suminto Syaefudin , Huang Arthur Alba , Hasanah Uswatun , Nurcholis Waras
Published: April 2024

Globalization has led to an increase in the global population and drug resistance, necessitating the development of novel pharmaceuticals. Fungi represent a promising source for new drugs, producing a diverse array of secondary metabolites, some of which are integral to clinically essential drugs. This study aimed to determine the optimal conditions for enhancing metabolite production by the Indonesian fungal strain Aspergillus tamarii (IPBCC 880066) when cultivated on solid media, specifically rice bran and wheat. The optimal fermentation conditions, including moisture content, growth temperature, and incubation duration, were determined based on the number of spots observed on thin-layer chromatography plates. Results indicated that the optimum conditions for metabolite production were a 40% moisture content, a growth temperature of 25°C, and a 14-day incubation period. Subsequent UPLC-MS/MS analysis identified 22 metabolites produced by A. tamarii on rice bran and 20 metabolites on wheat. Notably, two compounds, N-(2-hydroxypropyl)-2-methylacrylamide and N6-[(benzyloxy)carbonyl]-L-lysine, were detected in both rice bran and wheat fermented by A. tamarii. Some of the identified metabolites have the potential to be applied in the pharmaceutical industry. In conclusion, our study emphasizes A. tamarii’s efficacy in diverse metabolite production under optimized conditions, providing valuable insights for maximizing fungal metabolite production in potential pharmaceutical applications.
First-principles study of VS2 as anode material for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Zhou Bin , Xiao Shi-Cheng , Wang Yi-Nan , Zhang Xiao-Yu , Zhong Xue , Ma Dan , Dai Ying , Fan Zhi-Qiang , Tang Gui-Ping ,   School of Physics and Electronic Science, Changsha University of  Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, China
Published: April 2024

With the increase of performance requirements for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), it is particularly important to study and develop new electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. In this work, a 3×3×1 supercell of VS2 is constructed, and the possibility of using it as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries is study by the first-principles method based on density functional theory. Through the analysis of the energy band diagram, it is found that VS2 has metallic properties. Combining the density of states diagram, the analysis shows that the energy band near the Fermi level of VS2 is contributed by the 3d state of V and the 3p state electrons of S, which means that the conductive properties of VS2 are largely affected by the 3d state of V and the 3p state electrons of S. Of the vacancies, bridge sites, and top sites of lithium adsorbing vanadium (V), the top site has the lowest adsorption energy, indicating that lithium will preferentially adsorb the top site of vanadium (V). Through first-principles molecular dynamics simulations of the top position of adsorbed vanadium (V), it is found that at a temperature of 300 K, the total energy of the system and the magnitude of the total temperature fluctuation can reach a steady state, indicating that lithium can exist at the top position of stably adsorbed vanadium (V). Moreover, the interlayer spacing of the double-layer VS2 reaches 3.67 Å, which is larger than the interlayer spacing of graphene. From the top position to the vacancy, its diffusion barrier is only 0.20 eV. Its interlayer spacing is larger than the double-layer graphene’s, and its diffusion barrier is lower than graphene’s, indicating that lithium has very good diffusivity on the VS2 surface, and lithium can migrate quickly on the VS2 surface, which is conducive to the rapid charge-discharge process of LIB. In addition to excellent electrical conductivity, VS2 has good mechanical properties. The calculated Young's modulus is 96.82 N/m, and the Young's modulus and Poisson’s ratio do not decrease after adsorbing lithium, indicating that the rigidity of VS2 will not be reduced in the diffusion and migration process of lithium. On the other hand, it has excellent deformation resistance. In order to be more accurate and closer to the actual situation, a double-layer VS2 model is constructed, with a maximum number of lithium atoms adsorbed between layers being 18. The calculated theoretical capacity of VS2 (466 mAh/g) is higher than the theoretical capacity of graphene (372 mAh/g). Our results indicate that VS2 has excellent electrical conductivity and mechanical stiffness, making it a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Regional response to light illuminance across the human hypothalamus
Authors: Campbell Islay , Sharifpour Roya , Aizpurua Jose Fermin Balda , Beckers Elise , Paparella Ilenia , Berger Alexandre , Koshmanova Ekaterina , Mortazavi Nasrin , Read John , Zubkov Mikhail , Talwar Puneet , Collette Fabienne , Sherif Siya , Phillips Christophe , Lamalle Laurent , Vandewalle Gilles
Published: April 2024

Light exerts multiple non-image-forming biological effects on physiology including the stimulation of alertness and cognition. However, the subcortical circuitry underlying the stimulating impact of light is not established in humans. We used 7 Tesla functional magnetic resonance imaging to assess the impact of variations in light illuminance on the regional activity of the hypothalamus while healthy young adults (N=26; 16 women; 24.3 ± 2.9y) were completing two auditory cognitive tasks. We find that, during both the executive and emotional tasks, higher illuminance triggered an activity increase over the posterior part of the hypothalamus, which includes part of the tuberomamillary nucleus and the posterior part of the lateral hypothalamus. In contrast, increasing illuminance evoked a decrease in activity over the anterior and ventral parts of the hypothalamus, encompassing notably the suprachiasmatic nucleus and another part of the tuberomammillary nucleus. Critically, performance of the executive task was improved under higher illuminance and was negatively correlated with the activity of the posterior hypothalamus area. These findings reveal the distinct local dynamics of different hypothalamus regions that underlie the impact of light on cognition. They may suggest that light acts on the orexin and histamine system to affect the quality of wakefulness.
Vulnerabilidad urbana a partir de un análisis sistémico:
Authors: García Jaramillo Sergio Luis , Ramirez Rosete Norma Leticia
Published: April 2024

La vulnerabilidad urbana es un concepto que se refiere a las condiciones de vida en las ciudades que no son propiamente identificadas como marginación o pobreza, pero que afectan a un gran número de personas que habitan, por ejemplo, unidades habitacionales en México. Por ende, este trabajo introduce el concepto de vulnerabilidad urbana y su construcción teórica desde una perspectiva sistémica, identificando los componentes o dimensiones del sistema, así como sus riesgos y mecanismos de adaptación para comprender la interacción entre el espacio y la sociedad en la unidad habitacional Amalucan. Para ello, se propone un análisis cualitativo y cuantitativo que identifique variables relacionadas con las dimensiones que componen la vulnerabilidad urbana dentro de la unidad habitacional: vulnerabilidad sociodemográfica, socioeconómica, residencial y subjetiva. Se utilizarán datos obtenidos de los censos poblacionales realizados por INEGI en las primeras décadas del siglo XXI, además de visitas de campo y entrevistas a los habitantes. Asimismo, se analizarán posibles riesgos (sociodemográficos y socioeconómicos) como parte del estudio sistémico de la vulnerabilidad.
Effectiveness of Ultrasound-guided Adductor Canal Block for Postoperative Pain Management in below Knee Orthopaedic Surgeries: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Rao Elakuchi Vikas , Das Mousumi , Mohapatra Partha Sarathi , Patanaik Sunil Kumar , Singh Adyasha , Deo Duddi Sita Abhilash , Sahu Lingaraj , Pattanayak Chaitali
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The sensory innervation below the knee is provided by the saphenous nerve and sciatic nerve. Drugs deposited in the Adductor Canal (AC) at the Adductor Hiatus (AH) level spread both proximally up to the mid-canal and distally to the popliteal fossa through the perivascular space. The Adductor Canal Block (ACB) is a newer technique by which both nerves can be blocked in a single procedure. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of ACB for postoperative pain management in below knee surgeries. Materials and Methods: This randomised controlled study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 81 patients with American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) I and II physical status were randomly allocated to either group A (ACB) or group B (Control), scheduled for below knee orthopaedic surgery. Group A patients received a mixture of 40 mL of 0.125% bupivacaine and 8 mg dexamethasone in the AC at the hiatus level under ultrasound guidance. Group B patients received standard care for pain management. The duration of sensory and motor block, mean Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, amount of opioid drug requirement, drug-related side-effects, and satisfaction scores were compared between the two groups. Data were presented as mean±Standard Deviation (SD) for continuous variables and frequency (%) for categorical data and were analysed using t-tests and Chi-square tests. Results: The mean age in group A was 42.9±13.5 years and in group B was 46.3±13.1 years. In group A, there were 30 males and 11 females, while in group B, there were 32 males and 8 females. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) between group A and B was 27.4±3.2 kg/m2 and 26.3±3.1 kg/m2 , respectively. The mean duration of sensory block was longer in group A (12.3±4.6 hours) compared to group B (4.7±0.7 hours). The mean VAS scores (1.351±0.659 vs 3.240±0.590) were significantly lower in group A. The total opioid requirement was 42.9±73.6 mg vs 205.9±26.0 mg between the two groups, which was significantly lower in group A. Conclusion: In distal ACB, a single procedure with 40 mL of 0.125% bupivacaine significantly reduces postoperative VAS scores and analgesic requirements while increasing patient satisfaction levels. Therefore, this block is safe and recommended for postoperative pain management in below knee surgeries.
НИЗКОТЕМПЕРАТУРНОЕ ОКИСЛЕНИЕ КРЕМНИЯ С ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕМ ГЕНЕРАТОРА ОЗОНА
Authors: Патюков С.И. , Резванов А.А. , Черняев М.В. , Горохов С.А.
Published: April 2024

В работе исследуется кинетика низкотемпературного радикального окисления кремния в потоке озона, сформированном в озонаторе (генераторе озона). Полученные данные подтверждают уникальные возможности процесса низкотемпературного окисления в озоне - возможность формирования тонкого оксида кремния толщиной 10…20 A при температуре 500 °С, что примерно на 150…200 градусов ниже, чем для существующего процесса ISSG окисления.
PANKTHIPRASOONADI GRITHAM: A REVIEW
Authors: G Sunitha , bhosikar Sariput , R Rajalakshmi
Published: April 2024

Pakthi prasoonadi gritha is explained in traditional visha granthas like visha jyothsinika and prayoga samuchaya. The word pakthi means ten, and prasoona means pushpa (flowers). Here dasapushpas are the major ingredient which is considered as divya aushadhi in treating Visha. The dasapushpas are sahadevi, akhukarni, vishukranthi, durva, brngaraja, lakshmana, musali, samanga, badra and vishnukranthi. This gritha preparation mainly fused for mandali visha (viper bite) This formulation has been indicated for Vrana Shodana as well as Ropana. Even the Kalka prepared out of this can be applied at the site of bite to prevent development of ulcers. This gritha preparation can be taken internally also. One of the best substances that is easily assimilated in the body in its natural as well as in its medicated form is gritha. Gritha considered as best among all the other sneha as it is assimilated easily in the body and achieves the properties of drug by which it gets medicated without losing its original properties, and it can be given in all visha avasthas. The combined action of all ingredients helps in reduce visha from the body.
Biofertilizers- Towards Sustainable Agriculture Development
Authors: S Garcha , N Kaur , Brar JK.
Published: April 2024

By 2050, there will be approximately 10 billion people on the planet, therefore finding greener methods to produce food will be crucial. A significant greener method involves the use of beneficial bacteria known as plant growth-promoting microorganisms. These microscopic organisms can increase crop yields, strengthen the soil and foster healthier plant growth. Beneficial microbes include bacteria, fungi, algae. They are eco-friendly and enhance nutrient absorption by the plants. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In addition, some species of biofertilizers produce plant growth hormones. The opinion article outlines the advantages and important biofertilizers strains which are used commercially.
On Some Stochastic Ordering Comparisons for Renewal Processes
Authors: Ghosh Suman Kalyan , Ravi S.
Published: April 2024

After a brief introduction to ordinary renewal process, we have defined compound renewal process generated by an ordinary renewal process followed by the distributional properties of the corresponding random variables. A few results are obtained by comparing independent renewal processes with respect to several stochastic orderings between the generating inter-arrival time random variables, like, stochastic order, hazard rate order, likelihood ratio order and variability order, as well as some ageing classes of the generating random variables. Some numerical illustrations are given. The results obtained here appear to be new.
Effect of Soil and Foliar Applications on Growth and Productivity of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)
Authors: Shree Kaviya , R Augustine , Manuel R Isaac , B Balaganesh , Kumar Dinesh
Published: April 2024

The field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season (Nov - Jan) of 2023-2024 in the experimental farm of Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. To study “Effect of soil and foliar applications on growth and productivity of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L).” Factorial Randomized Block Design was used with two factors and 3 replications. The treatment combination consists of 10 treatments viz., T1- 100 percent RDF+ Nano-DAP, T2 - 100 percent RDF + Nano-Urea foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T3 – 100 percent RDF + FYM at 10 t ha-1 + Nano-DAP foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T4 – 100 percent RDF + FYM at 10 t ha-1 + Nano-Urea foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T5 – 100 percent RDF + VC at 5 t ha-1 + Nano-DAP foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T6 - 100 percent RDF + VC at 5 t ha-1 + Nano-Urea foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T7 – 75 percent  RDF + FYM at 10 t ha-1 + Nano-DAP foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T8 - 75 percent  RDF + FYM at 10 t ha-1 + Nano-Urea foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T9 - 75 percent  RDF + VC at 5 t ha-1 + Nano-DAP foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS, T10- 75 percent  RDF + VC at 5 t ha-1 + Nano-Urea foliar sprays at 30 and 45 DAS.The results indicated that the application of  75 percent  RDF + Vermicompost at 5 t ha-1 + Nano-Urea increased the growth parameters (plant height and Leaf Area Index), physiological parameters (Crop Growth Rate and Chlorophyll Index) and yield (grain and stover yield) of pearl millet.
Impact of Combining Microbial Enriched Organic Manures with Inorganic Nutrients on Physiological Characteristics and Productivity of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)
Authors: E Helan Devasena , R Isaac Manuel , R Augustine , TCK Sugitha , Innazent Anitrosa
Published: April 2024

The present investigation was undertaken to validate the integrated use of inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers inoculated in organic manures on the physiological attributes and of pearl millet in the School of Agricultural Science, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, India. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications, during the rabi season of 2023-24. Results outlined that the integrated nutrient management practice of applying Azospirillum & PSB enriched vermicompost @ 6 t ha-1 + 100% Recommended dose of N, P2O5 & K2O has significantly increased the physiological attributes (leaf area index, crop growth rate, chlorophyll index), and yield (grain yield and stover yield) of pearl millet. This was statistically on par with the treatment Azospirillum & PSB enriched FYM @12.5 t ha-1 + 100% RDF dose of N, P2O5 & K2O.
Effect of Desensitizing Agent on Enamel Microhardness: In vitro Study
Authors: Dalbosco Bruno Fongaro , Zancheta Adilvo Luiz , Cardoso Poliana Maria de Faveri , Godoy Carlos Eduardo Misiak , Ueda Julio Katuhide , Campos Francisco Ubiratan Ferreira de , Camilotti Veridiana
Published: April 2024

Aims: Investigate possible changes in the microhardness of tooth enamel associated with the use of ozonized sunflower oil during the whitening procedure.

Study Design: In vitro study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dentistry of the State University of Western Paraná - UNIOESTE between January 2023 and December 2023.

Methodology: 30 healthy bovine incisor crowns were stored in 0.01% thymol solution (4ºC/30 days). Blocks measuring 4x4x2.5mm were made. With the exception of the buccal side, all sides were waterproofed and stored in artificial saliva and phosphate buffer. The specimens were divided into 3 groups (n=10) - CT (control), NP + H2O2 (desensitizing agent based on potassium nitrate and 35% hydrogen peroxide) and OL + H2O2 (ozonized sunflower oil and 35% hydrogen peroxide). The desensitizing agents were applied before the whitening gel. Color was recorded before and after the whitening procedure. Knoop surface microhardness was measured at 7, 14 and 21 days. The data obtained was submitted to Shapiro Wilk statistical analysis, Friedman ANOVA (p<0.05), Durbin-Conover (p<0.05) and Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA (p<0.05).

Results: In the intra-group analysis, the groups tested showed a statistical difference in enamel surface hardness, except for the OL + H2O2 group, before bleaching (234 + 95) and after bleaching (200 + 99). In the inter-group analysis, there was a significant statistical difference between the groups in the periods of 14 and 21 days after bleaching and no significant change in the period before and immediately after bleaching. In the analysis of color saturation, statistical changes were observed in the bleached groups.

Conclusion: Ozonated sunflower oil did not influence the microhardness values of the enamel surface, confirming its safety as a desensitizing agent during treatment.
Assessing Anthropogenic Impacts on Stubb’s Creek Forest Reserve, Nigeria: A Remote Sensing and GIS Approach
Authors: Umoren Nsikak E. , Obute Gordian C. , Ukaegbu Kingsley O. E.
Published: April 2024

Land use-land cover (LULC) changes, particularly in tropical regions like the Niger Delta of Nigeria, are critical drivers of global environmental shifts. This study focuses on the spatial assessment of forest depletion in the Stubb’s Creek Forest Reserve (SCFR) in Akwa Ibom State, amidst rapid infrastructural and industrial developments. The data used includes Landsat 5 of 30m TM, Landsat 7 of 30m TM, and Landsat 8 of 30m ETM for 1986, 2003, and 2018 respectively. Using remote sensing and GIS techniques, the research analyzes LULC dynamics between 1986 and 2018 and projects future trends to 2028. Results reveal a significant depletion of forest covers, particularly the Dense Forest, due to anthropogenic activities like oil and gas exploration and infrastructure development. Over the study period, the Dense Forest cover decreased from 12,296 hectares (41.9% of the total area) in 1986 to 9,149 hectares (31.2%) in 2018. Conversely, built-up areas increased from 1,385 hectares (4.7%) to 3,358 hectares (11.4%) during the same period. The study forecasts a continued decline in forest cover, with a projected Dense Forest cover of 7,474 hectares (25.45%) in 2028. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable land management policies to mitigate biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. Remote sensing and GIS tools prove instrumental in monitoring and understanding LULC changes, offering valuable insights for informed decision-making in environmental conservation and land use planning.
A Review on Important Double Integral Transformations with Some Elementary Functions
Authors: Mansour Eman A.
Published: April 2024

Integral transformations are not new to mathematics, having proven their significance repeatedly over the years through their applications in diverse fields. Extensive studies on integral transforms have led mathematicians to conclude that applying double integral transforms can yield novel features and open up new avenues for application. This work examines 29 double integral transforms and their applications to essential functions. These transformations play a vital role in solving partial differential equations in diverse fields such as physics, engineering, medicine, and mechanics. Our review incorporates 29 references to demonstrate their practical significance in real-world applications.
Modernisierungsbedarf beim presserechtlichen Auskunftsanspruch
Authors: Schnabel Christoph
Published: April 2024

Der presserechtliche Auskunftsanspruch ist in die Jahre gekommen. Seit Erlass sind die Gesetze kaum geändert worden. Weiterentwicklungen erfolgten nur durch die Rechtsprechung, ohne demokratisches Mandat. Dabei zeigen sich Fehlentwicklungen im Hinblick auf die Anspruchsverpflichteten, die Handhabung der Ausnahmen und den Anspruchsgegenstand selbst. In Bezug auf Bundesbehörden besteht - aufgrund einer Änderung der Rechtsprechung - seit mehr als zehn Jahren gar keine gesetzliche Grundlage mehr. Hier ist der Bundesgesetzgeber gefordert. Die Landesparlamente sollten ihre Gesetze ebenfalls aktualisieren. Der Beitrag stellt dar, wo Handlungsbedarf besteht und welche Lösungen angezeigt sind.
Rechtsprechungsübersicht zur Wiedereinsetzung in den vorigen Stand
Authors: Vossler Norbert
Published: April 2024

Der nachfolgende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die aktuelle Rechtsprechung des BGH zur Wiedereinsetzung in den vorigen Stand (§§ 233 ff. ZPO) aus den Jahren 2022 und 2023. Er bildet damit eine Ergänzung zu der Rechtsprechungsübersicht zum Berufungsrecht (zuletzt Vossler, MDR 2023, 601).
Aktuelle Entwicklungen im Architekten- und Ingenieurrecht
Authors: Schmeel Günter
Published: April 2024

Der Beitrag schließt an die letzte Rechtsprechungsübersicht (Schmeel, MDR 2023, 610) an und stellt die im Jahr 2023 veröffentlichten Entscheidungen im Bereich des Architekten- und Ingenieurrechts vor. Schwerpunkte sind Vertrags‑, Vergütungssowie Haftungsfragen.
Early pregnancy azathioprine use and pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Cleary Brian J. , Källén Bengt
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND:Azathioprine (AZA) is used during pregnancy by women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), other autoimmune disorders, malignancy, and organ transplantation. Previous studies have demonstrated potential risks.METHODS:The Swedish Medical Birth Register was used to identify 476 women who reported the use of AZA in early pregnancy. The effect of AZA exposure on pregnancy outcomes was studied after adjustment for maternal characteristics that could act as confounders.RESULTS:The most common indication for AZA use was IBD. The rate of congenital malformations was 6.2% in the AZA group and 4.7% among all infants born (adjusted OR: 1.41, 95% CI: 0.98–2.04). An association between early pregnancy AZA exposure and ventricular/atrial septal defects was found (adjusted OR: 3.18, 95% CI: 1.45–6.04). Exposed infants were also more likely to be preterm, to weigh <2500 gm, and to be small for gestational age compared to all infants born. This effect remained for preterm birth and low birth weight when infants of women with IBD but without AZA exposure were used as a comparison group. A trend toward an increased risk of congenital malformations was found among infants of women with IBD using AZA compared to women with IBD not using AZA (adjusted OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 0.93–2.18).CONCLUSIONS:Infants exposed to AZA in early pregnancy may be at a moderately increased risk of congenital malformations, specifically ventricular/atrial septal defects. There is also an increased risk of growth restriction and preterm delivery. These associations may be confounded by the severity of maternal illness. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Highly Active Carbon‐supported PdSn Catalysts for Formic Acid Electrooxidation
Authors: Zhang Zhonghua , Ge Junjie , Ma Liang , Liao Jianhui , Lu Tianhong , Xing Wei
Published: April 2009

PdSn/C catalysts with different atomic ratios of Pd to Sn were synthesised by a NaBH4 reduction method. Electrochemical tests show that the alloy catalysts exhibit significantly higher catalytic activity and stability for formic acid electrooxidation (FAEO) than the Pd/C catalyst prepared with the same method. XRD and TEM indicate that a particle‐size effect is not the main cause for the high performance. XPS confirms that Pd is modified by Sn through an electronic effect which can decrease the adsorption strength of poisonous intermediates on Pd and thus promote the FAEO greatly.
1,8‐naphthyridines. Part II. Synthesis of some 3‐pyridyl‐5,7‐di(trifluoromethyl)‐1,8‐naphthyridin‐2(1H)ones
Authors: Eichler Eva , Rooney Clarence Stanley , Williams Haydn Windsor Richard
Published: April 2009

Ethyl 2‐amino‐4,6‐di(trifluoromethyl)nicotinate was prepared and its use as an intermediate in the synthesis of two 3‐pyridyl‐5,7‐di(trifluoromethyr)‐1,8‐naphthyridin‐2(1H)ones is presented. A dimer of 2‐amino‐4,6‐di(trifluoromethyl)nieotinaldehyde is described.
Methotrexate analogs. 7. Synthesis of two higher homologs and a positional isomer of methotrexate diethyl ester as potential antitumor agents
Authors: Rosowsky Andre , Chen Katherine K. N. , Papathanasopoulos Nickolas
Published: April 2009

Analogs of methotrexate diethyl ester (1) were prepared, in which the distances separating the ester functions from each other and from the carboxamide function of thep‐aminobenzoate moiety were variedviathe use of methylene groups as “spacers”. The diethyl esters3and4, with D,L‐α‐aminoadipate and D,L‐α‐aminopimelate side chains in place of L‐glutamate, displayed approximately the same order of activity as compound1against bacterial and mammalian cells in culture, and were inhibitors of the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. When given intraperitoneally to L1210 1eukemic mice at a dose of 120 mg./kg. q3d 1,4,7, compound4produced a 67% increase in survival and no evidence of toxicity, whereas methotrexate diethyl ester (1) gave a 44% increase in survival at a dose of 45 mg./kg. q3d 1,4,7 but was toxic at higher doses. The positional isomer2was inactive.
Game experience: an analysis of English and Welsh domestic cricket spectators
Authors: Kuenzel Sven , Yassim Mazia
Published: April 2009

This study investigated differing emphasis cricket spectators place on key game experience variables. Spectators were classified based on membership, frequency of attendance and demographics. The mixed methods designs used a qualitative strand, which identified four key game experience variables; star players, quality of game, social facilitation and auditory and olfactory elements. The quantitative strand was used to empirically test these game experience variables. This survey of 584 cricket spectators identified auditory and olfactory elements, quality of game, and social facilitation as the three important game experience variables relevant to various cricket spectator segments. The findings revealed that women, members, older spectators and moderately frequent attendees placed greater emphasis on auditory and olfactory. Older spectators and members also placed greater emphasis on quality of game. It was also found that regardless of how frequently spectators attend games, they placed equal emphasis on social facilitation.

In this exploratory study, tentative light is shed on the largely unexplored subject of cricket spectator consumption experience. As such it helps provide practitioners in the industry as well as researchers with a better understanding of cricket spectators.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
N‐glycosylation microheterogeneity and site occupancy of an Asn‐X‐Cys sequon in plasma‐derived and recombinant protein C
Authors: Gil Geun‐Cheol , Velander William H. , Van Cott Kevin E.
Published: April 2009

Human protein C (hPC) is glycosylated at three Asn‐X‐Ser/Thr and one atypical Asn‐X‐Cys sequons. We have characterized the micro‐ and macro‐heterogeneity of plasma‐derived hPC and compared the glycosylation features with recombinant protein C (tg‐PC) produced in a transgenic pig bioreactor from two animals having approximately tenfold different expression levels. The N‐glycans of hPC are complex di‐ and tri‐sialylated structures, and we measured 78% site occupancy at Asn‐329 (the Asn‐X‐Cys sequon). The N‐glycans of tg‐PC are complex sialylated structures, but less branched and partially sialylated. The porcine mammary epithelial cells glycosylate the Asn‐X‐Cys sequon with a similar efficiency as human hepatocytes even at these high expression levels, and site occupancy at this sequon was not affected by expression level. A distinct bias for particular structures was present at each of the four glycosylation sites for both hPC and tg‐PC. Interestingly, glycans with GalNAc in the antennae were predominant at the Asn‐329 site. The N‐glycan structures found for tg‐PC are very similar to those reported for a recombinant Factor IX produced in transgenic pig milk, and similar to the endogenous milk protein lactoferrin, which may indicate that N‐glycan processing in the porcine mammary epithelial cells is more uniform than in other tissues.
Linking the thermal regimes of streams in the Great Lakes Basin, Ontario, to landscape and climate variables
Authors: Chu Cindy , Jones Nicholas E. , Allin Laurie
Published: April 2009

The lack of geographically broad‐scale temperature data has limited our ability to classify stream temperatures and assess the processes affecting them. Continuous data (1 July 2005–30 June 2006) from 90 sites throughout the Great Lakes Basin (GLB) were used to classify and model the thermal regimes of streams in Ontario. Existing and newly developed temperature metrics were used to characterize the data for each site. The 90 sites clustered into three thermal regimes based on maximum weekly maximum temperature (°C) and spring rate of change (°C · d−1). The centroids of regime 1, 2 and 3 had temperatures of 26.4, 28.4, 23.5°C and warming rates of 0.20, 0.12 and 0.10°C · d−1, respectively. There was a regional pattern in the thermal regimes; most sites in the north were regime 1 and most sites in the south were regime 2 but neither regime was limited to those areas. Regime 3 sites were found throughout the study area. Discriminant function analysis indicated that per cent riparian forest, mean annual air temperature, per cent surface water and groundwater discharge potential influenced the thermal regimes at the sites, and demonstrated how variables at three spatial scales influence stream temperatures. This study provides a framework for thermal assessments elsewhere and demonstrates how anthropogenic activities such as riparian deforestation, groundwater withdrawal, stream regulation and climate change will all affect the main drivers of thermal regimes in streams. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Groflächige μc‐Si:H Plasmaabscheidung für Silizium‐Dünnschichtsolarmodule
Authors: Kilper Thilo
Published: April 2009

Im Vergleich zur waferbasierten Siliziumsolarzellentechnologie ermöglicht die siliziumbasierte Dünnschichtphotovoltaik einen signifikant reduzierten Materialeinsatz für Absorberschichten, Niedertemperaturherstellungsprozesse bei etwa 200°C, die Möglichkeit zur Schichtabscheidung auf Substratflächen > 1 m2sowie eine reduzierte Anzahl an Solarmodulherstellungsschritten, wodurch sich ein hohes Potenzial zur weiteren Absenkung der Gestehungskosten von Solarstrom eröffnet. Die neueste Generation von Silizium‐Dünnschichtsolarmodulen basiert neben amorphem Silizium auch auf mikrokristallinem Silizium als Absorbermaterial, was eine bessere Ausnutzung des Sonnenlichtspektrums und hierdurch potenziell stabilisierte Modulwirkungsgrade > 10% auch auf großer Fläche ermöglicht. Im Rahmen meiner kürzlich abgeschlossenen Dissertation wurden am Forschungszentrum Jülich neue PECVD‐Herstellungsprozesse für 30×30 cm2μc‐Si:H Absorberschichten entwickelt, die bei gleich hoher Materialqualität und ‐homogenität deutlich höhere Abscheidungsraten und damit einen höheren Produktionsoutput ermöglichen. Gleichzeitig wurden neue PECVD‐Herstellungsprozesse für 30×30 cm2μc‐Si:H Absorberschichten entwickelt, die aufzeigen, wie mithilfe einer Prozesskontrolle bei stark reduziertem Wasserstoffverbrauch und einem deutlich verbessertem Silanausnutzungsgrad qualitativ ähnlich gute Schichten wie bei Prozessen mit hohen Gesamtgasflüssen hergestellt können. Zusammen mit der durchgeführten Quantifizierung der tolerierbaren Mengen von atmosphärischen Verunreinigungen in der μc‐Si:H Absorberschicht, welche wichtige Aussagen über die erforderliche Prozessreinheit zur Erzielung eines möglichst geringen Produktionsausschusses liefert, wurden dadurch Möglichkeiten aufgezeigt, wie bei der industriellen Serienproduktion von a‐Si:H/μc‐Si:H basierten Dünnschichtsolarmodulen weitere Kostensenkungsschritte (über eine Erhöhung des Outputs und einem reduzierten Verbrauch der Prozessgase Monosilan und Wasserstoff) erzielt werden können.
The influence of climatic conditions on long-term changes in the helminth fauna of terrestrial molluscs and the implications for parasite transmission in southern England
Authors: Morley N.J. , Lewis J.W.
Published: April 2009

The influence of climatic conditions on the prevalence and transmission of helminth parasites in a terrestrial mollusc population was studied in a grassland site in southern England between 1974 and 1983. Molluscs were sampled in each September of 5 years over this period (1974, 1976, 1979, 1981, 1983). Climatic conditions had a variable effect on parasite prevalence. Trematode sporocyst infections increased after wet summer and warm winter conditions and declined in hot, dry periods. Cestode infections increased after combined wet spring and summer weather and low winter temperatures, although trematode metacercariae and nematode infections were less likely to be influenced by climate. The effects on parasite transmission were undertaken by comparing parasite prevalences in the principal definitive hosts, the common shrew (Sorex araneus) and the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) in the same habitat over the period 1973–1983. Changes in parasite prevalences in the molluscan population were rarely replicated by changes in the small mammal population, except for trematode parasites in small mammals during a period of severe drought in 1976. These results suggest that only long-term persistent modifications in climate are likely to affect host–parasite dynamics.
A sea ice free summer Arctic within 30 years?
Authors: Wang Muyin , Overland James E.
Published: April 2009

September 2008 followed 2007 as the second sequential year with an extreme summer Arctic sea ice extent minimum. Although such a sea ice loss was not indicated until much later in the century in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 4th Assessment Report, many models show an accelerating decline in the summer minimum sea ice extent during the 21st century. Using the observed 2007/2008 September sea ice extents as a starting point, we predict an expected value for a nearly sea ice free Arctic in September by the year 2037. The first quartile of the distribution for the timing of September sea ice loss will be reached by 2028. Our analysis is based on projections from six IPCC models, selected subject to an observational constraints. Uncertainty in the timing of a sea ice free Arctic in September is determined based on both within‐model contributions from natural variability and between‐model differences.
Evaluation of diversity, specialization, and gene specificity in transcriptomes
Authors: Martinez Octavio , Reyes-Valdés Humberto
Published: April 2009

The transcriptome is a set of genes transcribed in a given tissue under specific conditions and can be characterized by a list of genes with their corresponding frequencies of transcription. Transcriptome changes can be measured by counting gene tags from mRNA libraries or by measuring light signals in DNA microarrays. Recently we proposed an approach to define and estimate the diversity and specialization of transcriptomes and gene specificity. This approach can be useful for the determination and measure of transcriptional networks. We defined transcriptome diversity as the Shannon entropy of its frequency distribution. Gene specificity is defined as the mutual information between the tissues and the corresponding transcript, allowing detection of either housekeeping or highly specific genes and clarifying the meaning of these concepts in the literature. Tissue specialization is measured by average gene specificity. Visualization of the positions of transcriptomes in a system of diversity and specialization coordinates makes it possible to understand at a glance their interrelations, summarizing in a powerful way which transcriptomes are richer in diversity of expressed genes, or which are relatively more specialized. This enlightens the relation among transcriptomes, allowing a better understanding of their changes through the development of the organism or in response to environmental stimuli. We present statistical tools based on resampling procedures to obtain confidence intervals for the parameters as well as perform statistical test. These approaches are illustrated with a human dataset.
Variability in Waist Circumference Measurements According to Anatomic Measurement Site
Authors: Mason Caitlin , Katzmarzyk Peter T.
Published: April 2009

The measurement of waist circumference (WC) is widely advocated as a simple anthropometric marker of health risk; yet there remains no uniformly accepted protocol. This study determined whether the magnitude of WC differs across four measurement sites, and quantified the influence of site on the apparent prevalence of abdominal obesity. The predominantly white sample consisted of 223 men and 319 women (20–67 years). WC was measured using a nonstretching tape at the superior border of the iliac crest, midpoint between the iliac crest and lowest rib, umbilicus, and the minimal waist. Differences in WC across sites were tested using repeated measures ANOVA, adjusted for multiple comparisons. Inter‐ and intraobserver reliabilities across sites were estimated using intraclass correlation. In women, the mean WC for all sites were significantly different from each other, with the exception of the iliac crest and midpoint. In contrast, no significant differences between sites were found in men. Measurement site had an influence on the apparent prevalence of abdominal obesity (>88/102 cm), ranging from 23 to 34% in men and 31 to 55% in women. The reproducibility of WC was high at all sites and was comparable across levels of BMI. In conclusion, the magnitude of WC is influenced by measurement site, particularly in women. Small differences are amplified when dichotomous cut points rather than a continuum are used to define abdominal obesity. Adopting a standard measurement protocol will facilitate the interpretation and clinical utility of WC for obesity‐related risk stratification.
Role of nuclear-encoded subunit Vb in the assembly and stability of cytochrome c oxidase complex: implications in mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production
Authors: Galati Domenico , Srinivasan Satish , Raza Haider , Prabu Subbuswamy K. , Hardy Michael , Chandran Karunakaran , Lopez Marcos , Kalyanaraman Balaraman , Avadhani Narayan G.
Published: April 2009

CcO (cytochrome c oxidase) is a multisubunit bigenomic protein complex which catalyses the last step of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. The nuclear-encoded subunits are thought to have roles either in regulation or in the structural stability of the enzyme. Subunit Vb is a peripheral nuclear-encoded subunit of mammalian CcO that is dramatically reduced under hypoxia. Although it has been shown to contain different ligand-binding sites and undergo modifications, its precise function is not known. In the present study we generated a cell line from RAW 264.7 murine macrophages that has a more than 80% reduced level of Vb. Functional analysis of these cells showed a loss of CcO activity, membrane potential and less ability to generate ATP. Resolution of complexes on blue native gel and two-dimensional electrophoretic analysis showed an accumulation of subcomplexes of CcO and also reduced association with supercomplexes of the electron transfer chain. Furthermore, the mitochondria from CcO Vb knock-down cells generated increased ROS (reactive oxygen species), and the cells were unable to grow on galactose-containing medium. Pulse-chase experiments suggest the role of the CcO Vb subunit in the assembly of the complex. We show for the first time the role of a peripheral, non-transmembrane subunit in the formation as well as function of the terminal CcO complex.
Microwave-assisted magnetization reversal and multilevel recording in composite media
Authors: Li Shaojing , Livshitz Boris , Bertram H. Neal , Fullerton Eric E. , Lomakin Vitaliy
Published: April 2009

Microwave-assisted magnetic reversal (MAMR) is studied for media comprising exchange-coupled composite elements comprising soft and hard layers. Reversal in such elements occurs under substantially reduced reversal fields, microwave fields, and microwave resonant frequencies as compared to those for homogeneous elements. Reversal can occur in uniform modes as well as nonuniform domain wall assisted modes depending on the soft layer thickness. In addition, a multilevel MAMR scheme is suggested where the recording media comprise multiple levels of elements, with each level having a distinct resonant frequency. These levels are addressed individually by tuning the frequency of the microwave field.
Fluctuation conductivity and pseudogap in YBCO high-temperature superconductors (Review)
Authors: Solov’ev A. L. , Dmitriev V. M.
Published: April 2009

A considerable part of the theoretical and experimental works reflecting the current status of research on high-temperature superconductivity and the unusual phenomenon of a pseudogap in high-temperature superconductors (HTSCs) is reviewed. The concept of local pairs in systems with low and intermediate charge-carrier density, which can include HTSCs, is examined. The experimental part is primarily based on the study of excess and fluctuation conductivity (FC) in YBa2Cu3O7−y (TBCO) and Y1−xPrxBa2Cu3O7−y (YPrBCO) thin epitaxial films. A new approach to analyzing FC and the pseudogap in such high-temperature systems is proposed and checked experimentally. The approach is based on the idea that excess conductivity σ′(T) forms in HTSCs at temperatures substantially above critical temperature Tc as a result of the formation of pair states in the form of noninteracting strongly bound bosons, demonstrating with decreasing temperature a transition from a regime with localized pairs conforming to the Bose–Einstein condensation theory into a regime with fluctuation Cooper pairs which conform to the BCS theory.
Process of intercalation of C60 with molecular hydrogen according to x-ray diffraction data
Authors: Yagotintsev K. A. , Stetsenko Yu. E. , Legchenkova I. V. , Prokhvatilov A. I. , Strzhemechny M. A. , Schafler E. , Zehetbauer M.
Published: April 2009

The process of normal hydrogen infusion into a C60 powder at 1bar and room temperature is monitored using x-ray diffraction. The effect of the intercalation on the lattice proves to be rather weak: the volume expansion upon complete saturation does not exceed 0.13%. The characteristic saturation time is found to be 320h; the corresponding diffusion coefficient amounts to (2.8±0.8)×10−14cm2∕s. The integrated reflection intensity calculations for a completely saturated sample suggest that only octahedral voids are filled under the conditions of the experiment. Complete saturation has only a weak effect on the rotational subsystem of the C60 fullerite: the orientational phase transition shifts by 6to7K to lower temperatures; no substantial hysteresis is noticed. The dopant shows reluctance to leave the sample under a vacuum of 10−3Torr at room temperature.