bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic and Financial Assessment of Solar-Powered Irrigation
Authors: Abu-Nowar Lana Mousa
Published: March 2020

This paper aimed at assessing the economic and financial viability of solar-powered irrigation of tomato crop in Jordan Valley. Data were collected from 16 tomato farms that use solar-powered irrigation system. Another 16 farms with diesel-powered irrigation system was investigated for comparative reasons. Descriptive statistics, Cost Function Analysis (CFA), Life-cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA), Water Productivity (WP) and the financial indicators of Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PP) and Benefit to Cost Ratio (B/C) were the main economic and financial analytical tools used in this study. The results of the study revealed that costs of inputs, labor costs and equipment and maintenance costs have had a lower adverse impact on the total revenues level when using solar-powered irrigation system. The results also indicated the preference of the investigated financial indicators (NPV, IRR, PP and B/C ratio) when solar-powered irrigation is used compared to diesel-powered irrigation. The results also revealed a lower cost of life of the farm under the use of solar-powered irrigation. The governmental policies and programs should be directed toward the concepts of renewable energy in general and solar energy uses in agriculture in particular. Special agricultural extension plans in training and capacity building of farmers and extension workers on the use of solar energy in irrigation of agricultural crops should be developed. Cooperation in the fields of solar energy between the Ministry of Agriculture and related parties such as the Royal Scientific Society and the Ministry of Energy should be initiated to conduct specialized researches in the fields of solar energy use in agriculture.
Evaluation of the Potential of Sewage Sludge for Manufacturing Substrate for Passion Fruit Seedlings
Authors: Pereira Israel Martins , Zacarias Alex Justino , Guidinelle Rebyson Bissaco , Saluci Julio Cesar Gradice , Jaeggi Mário E. P. da Costa , Souza André Oliveira , Cruz Derivaldo Pureza da , Sant’Anna Camila Q. da S. Sanfim de , Oliveira Tâmara R. Albuquerque de , Rocha Richardson Sales , Gravina Geraldo de Amaral , Lima Wallace Luís de
Published: March 2020

Brazil is the world’s largest producer and largest consumer of passion fruit, producing approximately 0.1 million tons. However, crop management techniques are deficient in the use of alternative sources of fertilizer, an extremely relevant aspect in reducing production costs, as some nutrients are imported at high costs. Thus, this study was intended to calculate the percentage of an optimal dose of sewage sludge according to the regression model for each morpho-agronomic trait of yellow passion fruit. A completely randomized design (CRD) was adopted, consisting of four treatments, 0; 25; 50; and 75%, with 20 replicates considering one plant per replicate. Treatments were T1 (0 without sewage sludge addition), T2 (75% soil + 25% sewage sludge); T3 (50% soil + 50% sewage sludge); and T4 (25% soil + 75% sewage sludge). Regression coefficients were above 80%. Morpho-agronomic traits obtained optimal doses at a concentration of 50% of sewage sludge for the manufacture of the substrate. The conclusion reached was the substrate based on sewage sludge in the proportion of 50% combined with 50% of soil was superior to the other ones for seedling production.
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Five Egyptian Buffalo Populations Using Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Merdan S. M. , El-Zarei M. F. , Ghazy A. A. , Ayoub M. A. , Al-Shawa Z. M. , Mokhtar S. A.
Published: March 2020

For assessing the genetic diversity and genetic characterization of five Egyptian buffalo populations a total of 12 microsatellite markers were used. The total number of buffaloes sampled was 80, collected at random from five farms in five different governorates; Cairo, Kafr El-Sheikh, Shebeen El-Kom, Menoufia, and Beni Suef. The genetic parameters (allelic diversity, allelic frequencies, observed heterozygosity, unbiased expected heterozygosity, and polymorphic information content) were calculated using three different programs. All used microsatellites were polymorphic and ranged from four alleles (Loci; CSSM029, CSSM036, CSSM038, CSSM043, CSSM046, and ILSTS005) to nine alleles (Loci; BM1818 and CSSM047) with a total of 64 alleles in the whole population. Allelic richness for the whole population ranged between 3.297 (in locus CSSM029) and 6.806 (in locus CSSM047) with overall mean 4.574. Within populations, Kafr El-Sheikh population had the highest average of allelic richness (4.384). This indicates the potential of this population to adapt with environmental changes in future compared with other populations. BMC1013, BM1818, CSSM019, and CSSM047 showed the highest allelic richness. PIC estimates were high and ranged between 0.65 (in locus CSSM029) and 0.92 (in locus CSSM022) with an average of 0.82. Values of Ho were lower than values of HNb for all populations, which denoting depression of heterozygotes in these populations and may be attributable to existence of null alleles and inbreeding. This study as well proves the usefulness of heterologous bovine microsatellite markers in evaluation of the genetic variability in Egyptian buffalo populations due to high polymorphism, informativeness of these markers which can be used to develop future breeding strategies and conservation decisions on our indigenous breed.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 12, No. 4
Authors: Brown Anne
Published: March 2020

Reviewer acknowledgements for Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 12, No. 4, 2020.
Carl Schmitt, Spanien und Donoso Cortés
Authors: Mehring Reinhard
Published: March 2020

Carl Schmitts Identifikation mit Donoso Cortés ist Teil eines weiteren Spanienmythos. Der Aufsatz zeigt, dass Schmitt den spanischen Diplomaten und Liberalismuskritiker in den 1920er Jahren strategisch gezielt zitierte und dieses frühe gegenrevolutionäre Outing mit seiner Bolschewismuskritik verknüpfte.
Herodotus 9.85 and Spartiate Burial Customs
Authors: Christesen Paul
Published: March 2020

At 9.85 Herodotus states that after the Battle of Plataia, the Lakedaimonians buried their dead in three separate graves: one for the ἱρέες, one for the rest of the Spartiates, and one for helots. Taken together with 9.71, this passage suggests that all of the Spartiates decorated for bravery at Plataia were priests, which seems prima facie improbable. The interpretive challenges presented by 9.85 have been the subject of lively scholarly debate since the eighteenth century because this passage potentially provides important evidence for Spartiates’ funerary, religious, and educational customs. With an eye to facilitating future research, this article offers a detailed conspectus of the extensive collection of relevant scholarship and, in part by drawing upon evidence from the archaeological excavations of the Tomb of the Lakedaimonians in the Kerameikos, identifies one reading, which involves athetizing part of 9.85, as the preferred interpretive approach.
Klima på frihjul? Global opvarmning og klimapolitik
Authors: Pedersen Karin Hilmer , Svendsen Gert Tinggaard
Published: March 2020

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Forsidestof
Authors: Redaktionen -
Published: March 2020

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En dagsordensættende disputats
Authors: Pedersen Mogens N.
Published: March 2020

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Discrete analysis of camelid variable domains: sequences, structures, and in-silico structure prediction
Authors: Melarkode Vattekatte Akhila , Shinada Nicolas Ken , Narwani Tarun J. , Noël Floriane , Bertrand Olivier , Meyniel Jean-Philippe , Malpertuy Alain , Gelly Jean-Christophe , Cadet Frédéric , de Brevern Alexandre G.
Published: March 2020

Antigen binding by antibodies requires precise orientation of the complementarity- determining region (CDR) loops in the variable domain to establish the correct contact surface. Members of the family Camelidae have a modified form of immunoglobulin gamma (IgG) with only heavy chains, called Heavy Chain only Antibodies (HCAb). Antigen binding in HCAbs is mediated by only three CDR loops from the single variable domain (VHH) at the N-terminus of each heavy chain. This feature of the VHH, along with their other important features, e.g., easy expression, small size, thermo-stability and hydrophilicity, made them promising candidates for therapeutics and diagnostics. Thus, to design better VHH domains, it is important to thoroughly understand their sequence and structure characteristics and relationship. In this study, sequence characteristics of VHH domains have been analysed in depth, along with their structural features using innovative approaches, namely a structural alphabet. An elaborate summary of various studies proposing structural models of VHH domains showed diversity in the algorithms used. Finally, a case study to elucidate the differences in structural models from single and multiple templates is presented. In this case study, along with the above-mentioned aspects of VHH, an exciting view of various factors in structure prediction of VHH, like template framework selection, is also discussed.
The Method of Force of Fire in High-Rise Building by Guide to the Fire Safety Concepts Tree: Focusing on Manually Fire Suppression Strategy
Authors: Oh Seong-Ju , Kong Ha-Sung
Published: March 2020

This study analyzes the issue of the supply of force of fire in the high-rise buildings, and proposes an efficient method to do so. The results are as follows. First, in terms of Detect fire, it is necessary to shorten force of fire supply time by diversifying fire alarms such as alarms, vibrations, and voices from outside, clarification of fire occurrence points, and marking of fire. Second, with regard to communication signals, strengthening the installation target of wireless communication auxiliary facilities, supplementing the installation of repeaters, and constructing a multicommunications network were proposed. Third, in terms of Decide action, it is necessary to supply firefighter and firefighting equipment with the method of crossing of a river in adjacent buildings. Fourth, in terms of Respond to site, helicopters and emergency elevators are used to assist in the supply of firefighting equipment using drones. Easy-to-break glass windows and identification marks are required in every floor. Finally, in terms of applying fire suppressants, water can be supplied by means of a helicopter adjacent to the structure.
Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Response to a Pregnant Woman by the 119 Emergency Medical Service System: A Case Study
Authors: Lee Jae-Min , Hong Soo-Mi , An Guk-Ki , Yun Hyeong-Wan
Published: March 2020

When a pregnant woman experiences cardiac arrest, resuscitation is of the utmost importance. Cardiac arrest in pregnant women differs from cardiac arrest in the general population since both mother and fetus need to be taken into consideration. In the event of cardiac arrest, determining whether to deliver the baby is significant. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is not always successful, and the survival rate depends on the speed and precision of the procedure. In this study, we focus on the case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman who experienced cardiac arrest and whose family was quick to perceive her condition and call the hospital. A witness performed initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation, while rescue workers performed the advanced procedure. In this case, the patient and baby received proper treatment and left the hospital after six days. It is extremely rare for a pregnant patient to achieve return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) or receive advanced cardiac life support before reaching the hospital. However, the woman in question in this study achieved ROSC and received both cardiopulmonary resuscitation before reaching the hospital and advanced cardiac life support at the hospital. The specifics of the case are reported in the context of a literature review.
Role of Agricultural Journalism on the Adoption of Agricultural Innovation among Farmers in Etche Local Government Area Rivers State
Authors: Amadi N. S. , Raji W. I.
Published: March 2020

The study examined the role of Agricultural Journalism on the adoption of agricultural innovation among farmers in Etche local Government Area Rivers State. The population of the study comprised all registered small scale farmers and extension workers in Etche Local Government area. The sample size of the study was 105 small scale farmers and 32 extension workers selected using simple random sampling techniques. The instrument used was a self-structured questionnaire title “Role of Agricultural Journalism on the Adoption of Agricultural Innovation among small scale farmers. The validation of the instrument was done by two experts and the reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha reliability coefficient. However, the reliability index obtained was 0.86, which is acceptable for instrument consistency. Mean and the standard deviation were used to analyze the responses on each item. Items ≥ 2.50 were accepted, otherwise were rejected. Z-test statistical tool was employed to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study established that creating awareness on modern farming methods, providing information on the effectiveness of crop varieties, establishing the procedure of input combination, communicating the impacts and accomplishment of the innovation, disseminating agricultural research findings to farmers are roles of agricultural journalism on the adoption of agricultural innovation among farmers in Etche. The study recommends that agricultural research institutes should also utilize agricultural journalism to educate farmers on their new development. Agricultural journals should contain detailed information about the use of innovation.
Export Diversification and Capital Flight in Cameroon
Authors: Gautier Tchoffo Tameko
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study is to show the effect of export diversification on capital flight in Cameroon over the 1984-2015 period. The Autoregressive Distributed Lags (ARDL) method is used. The results show that the export diversification promotes capital flight in Cameroon. The main recommendation is to ensure efficiency and transparency in the export diversification process in order to fight corruption, report the net worth of exported goods and fight capital flight.
Simultaneous Studies of Redox Reaction of Chromium(VI) and Arsenic(III) in Aqueous Phase: A Kinetic and Mechanistic Approach
Authors: Boniface Iorhuna, T. , Raymond Wuana, A. , Stephen Yiase, G.
Published: March 2020

A kinetic and mechanistic approach was used to simultaneously study the oxidation of As(III) and reduction of Cr(VI) in aqueous phase, and in the presence of Fe(III). Reactions were monitored by UV-visible spectrophotometry. The stoichiometry of the reaction was . The rate equation for the reaction is proposed as  where k2 is the second order rate constant. The reaction was not affected by Fe(III) ions within the studied concentration range of 0.001 – 0.009 molL-1. From the reaction between   a plausible mechanism involving an ester formation by the reactants leading to the eventual formation of As(V) and Cr(III) was proposed.
Responce of Safflower to Foliar Application of Micronutrient Mixture
Authors: Kumara Kirana , Rao K. Narayana , Veeresh H. , Gaddi Ashok Kumar , Channabasavanna A. S.
Published: March 2020

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi, 2018 at Agricultural Research Station, Raichur on the effect of foliar application of micronutrient mixture on growth, yield and economics of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). The Experiment was laid down completely randomized block design with nine treatments replicated thrice. The results revealed that foliar application of Grade-I multi micronutrient mixture (Fe-2%, Zn-3%, Mn-1% and B-0.5%) at 30 and 50 days after sowing @ 10 ml/litre and application of RDF (75:75:40 and 80 kg ha-1 of NPK and gypsum, respectively) along with soil application of zinc sulphate @ 6 kg ha-1 has recorded highest seed yield (1557 kg ha-1), stalk yield (2478 kg ha-1), harvest index (38.59%) and B:C and it is on par with the treatment receiving foliar application of Grade-I multi micronutrient mixture (Fe-2%, Zn-3%, Mn-1% and B-0.5%) at 30 and 50 days after sowing @ 10 ml/litre and application of RDF (75:75:40 and 80 kg ha-1 of NPK and gypsum, respectively). From the above experiment it is revealed that along with RDF supplying micronutrients in safflower through foliar nutrition is beneficial in terms of growth, yield and economics when compared to RDF sole.
Lipid Peroxidation Activity and Phytochemical Constituents of Extract of Groundnut Peels
Authors: Uchenna Eneh Frank , Christian Ezeigwe Obiajulu , Martha Omeje
Published: March 2020

Aims: This study was designed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents and lipid peroxidation activities of extracts of two species of groundnut peels (Var-Hypogaea-Big and Var-vulgaris-Small).

Study Design: Twenty-four (24) male wistar albino rats where randomized into four (4) groups of six (6) rats each. Group A was the baseline, Groups B and C were given feed formulated with 1% groundnut peel extract of Var-hypogaea and Var-vulgaris respectively, group D is the control group fed with a standard feed.

Results: The phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard methods. Lipid peroxidation was determined by the thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances (TBARS) assay method. The phytochemical analysis revealed that the extract from the groundnut peels of Var-hypogaea-big contain alkaloids, tannins, saponnins, terpenoid, flavonoids phlobotannin, and glycosides. Also, the groundnut peel extracts of Var-vulgaris-small reveal the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponnins, terpenoid, flavonoids phlobotannin and glycosides. There was a significant (p<0.05) increase in the malondialdehyde level of the groups that were fed with the feed compounded with both species of the groundnut compared with the baseline and normal control. However, the malondialdehyde level of the group fed with var-vulgaris was higher than that of Var-hypogaea.

Conclusion: These results suggest that the groundnut peel extract of Var-hypogaea and Var-vulgaris is capable of inducing lipid peroxidation in living tissues. The groundnut peel does not only serve as a covering to the groundnut seed but may also protect the seeds from the effect of pests since it exhibits lipid peroxidative activity.
Semilunar postlarval settlement periodicity ensuing from semilunar larval release cycle in the Nihonotrypaea harmandi (Crustacea, Decapoda, Axiidea, Callianassidae) population on an intertidal sandflat in an open marine coastal embayment
Authors: Tamaki Akio , Itoh Jun‐ichi , Takeuchi Seiji , Takikawa Tetsutaro
Published: March 2020

Many decapod crustaceans in marine intertidal habitats release larvae toward coastal oceans, from which postlarvae (decapodids: settling‐stage larvae) return home. Decapodid settlement processes are poorly understood. Previous studies showed that in Kyushu, Japan, the callianassid shrimp population on an intertidal sandflat of an open bay joining the coastal ocean near a large estuary released eight batches of larvae basically in a semilunar cycle from June through October and that decapodids performed diel vertical migration, occurring in the water column nocturnally. We conducted (a) frequent sampling for population density and size‐composition on the sandflat through one reproductive season, (b) planktonic and benthic sampling for decapodids around the bay mouth, and (c) current meter deployment at three points across the bay mouth for tidal harmonic analysis. On the sandflat, six batches of newly‐settled decapodids (settlers) occurred in a semilunar periodicity until October, with peaks occurring 0–3 days before syzygy dates except for the first one. For larval Batches 1–4, buoyancy‐driven shoreward subsurface currents during July to mid‐October would transport some pre‐decapodid‐stage larvae (zoeae) toward the bay. The absence of expected settler Batches 7–8 would be due to the converse subsurface currents caused by water‐column mixing and seasonal winds after mid‐October, carrying zoeae offshore. Once in the bay, phasing of night and nighttime‐averaged shoreward tidal current explained the settlement pattern for Batches 1–4. For Batches 5–6 occurring in mid‐September to mid‐October, water currents generated by seasonal wind and tidal forcings may have caused peak settlement after the time expected from tidally‐driven decapodid transport.
Detection of prions in skin punch biopsies of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease patients
Authors: Mammana Angela , Baiardi Simone , Rossi Marcello , Franceschini Alessia , Donadio Vincenzo , Capellari Sabina , Caughey Byron , Parchi Piero
Published: March 2020

Prion real‐time quaking‐induced conversion (RT‐QuIC) is an ultrasensitive assay detecting pathological aggregates of misfolded prion protein in biospecimens. We studied 71 punch biopsy skin samples of 35 patients with Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD), including five assessed in vitam. The results confirmed the high value of skin prion RT‐QuIC for CJD diagnosis (89% sensitivity and 100% specificity) and support its use in clinical practice. Preliminary data based on a limited number of cases suggest that prion‐seeding activity in the skin varies according to the prion strain, being higher in sporadic CJD subtypes linked to the V2 strain (VV2 and MV2K) than in typical CJDMM1.
Application of Electric Current‐Assisted Sintering Techniques for the Processing of Advanced Materials
Authors: Bram Martin , Laptev Alexander M. , Mishra Tarini Prasad , Nur Kushnuda , Kindelmann Moritz , Ihrig Martin , Pereira da Silva Joao Gustavo , Steinert Ralf , Buchkremer Hans Peter , Litnovsky Andrey , Klein Felix , Gonzalez-Julian Jesus , Guillon Olivier
Published: March 2020

Highly efficient energy conversion and storage technologies such as high‐temperature solid oxide fuel and electrolysis cells, all‐solid‐state batteries, gas separation membranes, and thermal barrier coatings for advanced turbine systems depend on advanced materials. In all cases, processing of ceramics and metals starting from powders plays a key role and is often a challenging task. Depending on their composition, such powder materials often require high sintering temperatures and show an inherent risk of abnormal grain growth, evaporation, chemical reaction, or decomposition, especially in the case of long dwelling times. Electric current‐assisted sintering (ECAS) techniques are promising to overcome these restrictions, but a lot of fundamental and practical challenges must be solved properly to take full advantage of these techniques. A broad and long‐term expertise in the field of ECAS techniques and comprehensive facilities including conventional field‐assisted sintering technology/spark plasma sintering (FAST/SPS), hybrid FAST/SPS (with additional heater), sinter forging, and flash sintering (FS) devices are available at the Institute of Energy and Climate Research: Materials Synthesis and Processing (IEK‐1). Herein, main advantages and challenges of these techniques are discussed and the concept to overcome current limitations is introduced on selected examples.
Blue Single‐Layer Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes Using Fluorescent Materials: A Molecular Design View Point
Authors: Poriel Cyril , Rault‐Berthelot Joëlle
Published: March 2020

Since the beginning of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), blue emission has attracted the most attention and many research groups worldwide have worked on the design of materials for stable and highly efficient blue OLEDs. However, almost all the high‐efficiency blue OLEDs using fluorescent materials are multilayer devices, which are constituted of a stack of organic layers to improve the injection, transport, and recombination of charges within the emissive layer. Although the technology has been mastered, it suffers from real complexity and high cost and is time‐consuming. Simplifying the multilayer structure with a single‐layer one, the simplest devices made only of electrodes and the emissive layer have appeared as an appealing strategy for this technology. However, removing the functional organic layers of an OLED stack leads to a dramatic decrease of the performance and achieving high‐efficiency blue single‐layer OLEDs requires intense research especially in terms of materials design. Herein, an exhaustive review of blue emitting fluorophores that have been incorporated in single‐layer OLEDs is reported, and the links between their electronic properties and the device performance are discussed. Thus, a structure/properties/device performance relationship map is drawn, which is of interest for the future design of organic materials.
MoS2 Van der Waals p–n Junctions Enabling Highly Selective Room‐Temperature NO2 Sensor
Authors: Zheng Wei , Xu Yongshan , Zheng Lingli , Yang Chen , Pinna Nicola , Liu Xianghong , Zhang Jun
Published: March 2020

Van der Waals p–n junctions of 2D materials present great potential for electronic devices due to the fascinating properties at the junction interface. In this work, an efficient gas sensor based on planar 2D van der Waals junctions is reported by stacking n‐type and p‐type atomically thin MoS2 films, which are synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and soft‐chemistry route, respectively. The electrical conductivity of the van der Waals p–n junctions is found to be strongly affected by the exposure to NO2 at room temperature (RT). The MoS2 p–n junction sensor exhibits an outstanding sensitivity and selectivity to NO2 at RT, which are unavailable in sensors based on individual n‐type or p‐type MoS2. The sensitivity of 20 ppm NO2 is improved by 60 times compared to a p‐type MoS2 sensor, and an extremely low limit of detection of 8 ppb is obtained under ultraviolet irradiation. Complete and very fast sensor recovery is achieved within 30 s. These results are superior to most of the previous reports related to NO2 detection. This work establishes an entirely new sensing platform and proves the feasibility of using such materials for the high‐performance detection of gaseous molecules at RT.
Design of Sub‐Nanochannels between Graphene Oxide Sheets via Crown Ether Intercalation to Selectively Regulate Cation Permeation
Authors: Bang Ki Ryuk , Bahamon Daniel , Vega Lourdes F. , Cho Eun Seon
Published: March 2020

Graphene‐based membranes are a promising candidate for separating pollutants and ions. In particular, graphene oxide (GO) membranes are widely studied due to their unique nanochannels. The characteristic nanochannels of GO membranes can be manipulated via intercalation of cations, inhibiting the transport of other ions in the diffusion process. To maintain the tailored nanochannel during a pressure‐assisted filtration procedure, it is essential to retain such inserted cations. Here, dibenzo‐18‐Crown‐6 molecules (DB18C6) tightly binding to potassium ions are intercalated into GO nanosheets for preventing the leakage of the potassium ions from the nanochannel in the separation process. The complex between potassium ion and DB18C6 forges sub‐nanochannels between GO nanochannels, controlling the salt rejection rate as well as the permeation of water molecules, and selectively inhibiting the transport of Na+ ions compared to the untreated GO membrane. The as‐prepared GO@Crown composite membranes exhibit excellent NaCl rejection rates (up to 60%), water permeance (3.11–8.86 LMH bar−1), and a Na+ rejection rate (up to 62.5%) as well as an outstanding Na2SO4 rejection rate (up to 88%) in the dead‐end filtration process. Molecular dynamics compute the tunable interlayer spacing of GO@Crown composite membranes and the possible configuration of crown ethers between GO layers, supporting the experimental results.
Tuning Nanofillers in In Situ Prepared Polyimide Nanocomposites for High‐Temperature Capacitive Energy Storage
Authors: Ai Ding , Li He , Zhou Yao , Ren Lulu , Han Zhubing , Yao Bin , Zhou Wei , Zhao Ling , Xu Jianmei , Wang Qing
Published: March 2020

Modern electronics and electrical systems demand efficient operation of dielectric polymer‐based capacitors at high electric fields and elevated temperatures. Here, polyimide (PI) dielectric composites prepared from in situ polymerization in the presence of inorganic nanofillers are reported. The systematic manipulation of the dielectric constant and bandgap of the inorganic fillers, including Al2O3, HfO2, TiO2, and boron nitride nanosheets, reveals the dominant role of the bandgap of the fillers in determining and improving the high‐temperature capacitive performance of the polymer composites, which is very different from the design principle of the dielectric polymer composites operating at ambient temperature. The Al2O3‐ and HfO2‐based PI composites with concomitantly large bandgap and moderate dielectric constants exhibit substantial improvement in the breakdown strength, discharged energy density, and charge–discharge efficiency when compared to the state‐of‐the‐art dielectric polymers. The work provides a design paradigm for high‐performance dielectric polymer nanocomposites for electrical energy storage at elevated temperatures.
Expansion of the phenotype of lateral meningocele syndrome
Authors: Cappuccio Gerarda , Apuzzo Diletta , Alagia Marianna , Torella Annalaura , Pinelli Michele , Franco Brunella , Corrado Bruno , del Giudice Ennio , D'Amico Alessandra , Nigro Vincenzo ,   TUDP, Brunetti‐Pierri Nicola
Published: March 2020

Lateral meningocele syndrome (LMS) is due to specific pathogenic variants in the last exon of NOTCH3 gene. Besides the lateral meningoceles, this condition presents with dysmorphic features, short stature, congenital heart defects, and feeding difficulties. Here, we report a girl with neurosensorial hearing loss, severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, congenital heart defects, multiple renal cysts, kyphosis and left‐convex scoliosis, dysmorphic features, and mild developmental delay. Exome sequencing detected the previously unreported de novo loss‐of‐function variant in exon 33 of NOTCH3 p.(Lys2137fs). Following the identification of the gene defect, MRI of the brain and spine revealed temporal encephaloceles, inner ears anomalies, multiple spinal lateral meningoceles, and intra‐ and extra‐dural arachnoid spinal cysts. This case illustrates the power of reverse phenotyping to establish clinical diagnosis and expands the spectrum of clinical manifestations related to LMS to include inner ear abnormalities and multi‐cystic kidney disease.
Raising girls and boys in early China: Stable isotope data reveal sex differences in weaning and childhood diets during the eastern Zhou era
Authors: Miller Melanie J. , Dong Yu , Pechenkina Kate , Fan Wenquan , Halcrow Siân E.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Using stable isotope analysis of incremental dentin segments, we reconstruct breastfeeding, weaning, and childhood dietary patterns of Eastern Zhou period (771–221 BC) individuals from the Central Plains of China. Previous isotopic research on the Eastern Zhou demonstrated dietary difference between male and female diets in adulthood via bone collagen analysis. To understand the development of gendered dietary patterns we must examine the early life period. We aim to identify the timing of the weaning process, whether childhood diets were the same as adulthood diets, and if there were differences between the diets of boys and girls during childhood.

Materials and Methods

We present incremental dentin and bone collagen δ13C and δ15N isotope data from 23 individuals from two Eastern Zhou archaeological sites (Xiyasi 西亚斯and Changxinyuan 畅馨苑).

Results

Weaning was completed between ages 2.5 and 4 years. Females were weaned slightly earlier than males. Early childhood diets show significant incorporation of C3 foods, such as wheat and soybean, for almost all children, while later adulthood diets indicate greater incorporation of C4 foods (millets), particularly for males.

Discussion

Childhood diets included greater amounts of C3 foods than expected, suggesting that grains such as wheat may have been adopted in these communities as foods for children. Nevertheless, dietary differentiation between females and males began in childhood, with boys eating more millets (C4 foods) than girls. The findings suggest that feeding children was a significant aspect of socialization and cultural gendering of individuals in ancient China.
Lateralization in seven lemur species when presented with a novel cognitive task
Authors: Batist Carly H. , Mayhew Jessica A.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Asymmetrical behavior patterns are observed in many animal species, but the potential adaptive significance of lateralization and the evolutionary forces driving it remain unclear. Most laterality studies have focused on a single species, which makes interspecies comparisons difficult. The aim of this study was to examine differences in the strength and direction of lateralization in multiple lemur species when engaged in a standardized, novel cognitive task.

Materials and Methods

We assessed laterality in seven lemur species at the Duke Lemur Center when using a novel puzzle‐box. We recorded which hand opened the apparatus door and which hand picked up the food reward. We also recorded whether the mouth was used for either action instead of the hands. We then calculated handedness indices (HI), z‐scores, and mouth‐use rates.

Results

Overall, 62% of individuals were more lateralized than chance. However, within‐genera, there were relatively equal numbers of individuals with a left‐ or right‐hand bias, which resulted in ambipreference at the genus level. The hand a lemur used on its first success in the task predicted its overall HI value, and the strength of lateralization increased as the number of successes increased. Varecia had significantly higher mouth‐use rates than all other genera.

Discussion

We found evidence of an individual learning trajectory in which the hand used on a lemur's first success was canalized as the preferred (and lateralized) hand, in support of the “cognitive simplicity” hypothesis. Individual variability in hand preference was high, which is consistent with previous research. Between‐genera differences in mouth use appear to reflect species‐specific feeding postures and differences in manual dexterity.
Singlet Fission in Carbene‐Derived Diradicaloids
Authors: Ullrich Tobias , Pinter Piermaria , Messelberger Julian , Haines Philipp , Kaur Ramandeep , Hansmann Max M. , Munz Dominik , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: March 2020

Herein, we present a new class of singlet fission (SF) materials based on diradicaloids of carbene scaffolds, namely cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbenes (CAACs). Our modular approach allows the tuning of two key SF criteria: the steric factor and the diradical character. In turn, we modified the energy landscapes of excited states in a systematic manner to accommodate the needs for SF. We report the first example of intermolecular SF in solution by dimer self‐assembly at cryogenic temperatures.
Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Antitumor Studies of Transition Metal Complexes Derived from N‐(2‐Aminoethyl)‐1,3‐Propanediamine with DFT Calculations and Molecular Docking Investigation
Authors: Khalaf‐Alla Perihan A.
Published: March 2020

New expected biologically active complexes for some of the first (Mn (II), Ni (II), Cu (II) and Zn (II)) and second (Rh (III) and Cd (II)) transitional metals rows with N‐(2‐Aminoethyl)‐1,3‐propanediamine as a ligand (AEPD)have been synthesized. All synthesized complexes were formed with 1:1 (metal: AEPD) stoichiometry except Ni (II) 1:2 (Ni: AEPD). The compounds were characterized by different analysis tools such as; elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), 1H‐NMR, mass spectra, thermal analysis, electronic spectra, magnetic measurement and molar conductance techniques. AEPD ligand interacted with all metal ions as tridentate ligand by using the nitrogen atoms. On the other hand, density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been performed to confirm the optimized geometrical structures for both AEPD and its complexes. Furthermore, coordination compounds were screened for their potential antibacterial activities against six pathogenic bacteria as well as one kind of fungi in comparison to standard antibiotics by agar well diffusion method. The results show that most of the complexes exhibit antibacterial and antifungal activities against these organisms. Rh (III)‐AEPD complex exhibited the strongest antibacterial effect followed by the Cd (II) complex but as antifungal agents Cd (II) was the first and the second was Rh (III). Also, the anticancer activity was screened for these metal complexes against growth of human liver cancer HEPG2 tumor cell line and this inhibition activity of Cd (II) chelate was noticed to be more active with lowest IC50 than that of all other synthesized complexes. Unfortunately, Mn (II) and Rh (III) chelates lacked anticancer activity. The docking active sites interactions were evaluated using the selected protein for anticancer activity. Finally, antioxidant activity was studied. Mn (AEPD) showed maximum activity followed by complex of Rh (III).
Synthesis and crystal structure of a new copper (II) complex, designed to produce efficient successor of Cu2O, toward synergy of adsorption and photodegradation of MB
Authors: Razmara Zohreh , Abdelbaky Mohammed S.M. , García‐Granda Santiago
Published: March 2020

A new copper (II) coordination complex formulated as [Cu (dipic)(phen)(2‐MePy)]. 2H2O (1) where phen = 1, 10‐phenanthroline, dipic2− = pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxylato and 2‐MePy = 2‐methyl pyrrole was synthesized through a simple and environment‐friendly reaction under ultrasound irradiation. Also, complex 1 was synthesized by hydrothermal process at 120 °C for 3 days. The corresponding structure of complex 1 was characterized by elemental analysis, atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), conductivity measurement, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and fluorescence. The crystal structure of the hydrothermally synthesized complex was characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SC‐XRD(, which revealed a triclinic structure. In the remainder of this study, the Cu2O nanoparticles have been prepared via thermal decomposition of hydrothermal and ultrasound complexes and characterized by ICP, FT‐IR, powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), SEM and N2 adsorption/desorption. Adsorption and visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic capabilities of two synthetic Cu2O were investigated in the removal of MB from water. The result showed that the synthesized catalysts have good catalytic activity and the photocatalytic degradation is more effective in dye removal of MB compared with the adsorption.
Chronoamperometry as effective alternative technique for electro‐synthesis of ortho‐phenylendiamine permselective films for biosensor applications
Authors: Monti Patrizia , Bacciu Andrea , Arrigo Paola , Marceddu Salvatore , Migheli Quirico , Serra Pier A. , Rocchitta Gaia
Published: March 2020

Analyte quantification in first generation electrochemical biosensors is threatened by electro‐active molecules, such as ascorbic acid (AA). Electrochemical deposition of ortho‐phenylendiamine (oPD) on transducer considerably reduces AA interfering. These properties of poly‐oPD (PPD) are influenced by electro‐polymerization conditions. Chronoamperometry (CA) is proposed as an alternative technique for oPD electro‐deposition over Pt. Pt/PPD sensors are evaluated through functional parameters related to AA rejection and analytical performances. N2, O2, and air bubbled supporting electrolyte and several step duration times are used. Best performing CA‐PPD sensor is obtained in N2‐purged phosphate solution containing 300 mM oPD by means of a 1 s step duration/120 steps CA. High performing PPD is achieved in shorter time compared to commonly used constant potential amperometry. Aging of polymeric features and scanning electron microscopy investigations are performed and optimized CA electro‐polymerization conditions are used to build up an efficient interference blocking layer in a glucose oxidase biosensor.
Functional morphology of the jaw adductor muscles in the Canidae
Authors: Penrose Fay , Cox Philip , Kemp Graham , Jeffery Nathan
Published: March 2020

Cranial form is closely allied to diet and feeding behavior in the Canidae, with the force and velocity of jaw‐closing depending on the bony morphology of the skull and mandible, and the mass, architecture, and siting of the jaw adductor muscles. Previously, little has been reported on the details of the form and function of canid jaw adductor muscles, with earlier studies basing functional hypotheses on data derived from dry skull specimens. Here we use empirically derived muscle data from fresh‐frozen specimens to explore the architecture of the muscles, and to inform finite element analyses models that predict bite force and strain energy in 12 species of wild canid. The inclusion of muscle architectural detail is shown to influence masticatory muscle force production capability calculations, indicating that muscles with longer fascicles were disadvantaged compared to muscles with shorter fascicles. No clear patterns of allometry were detected. Dietary groups were differentiated by temporalis fascicle angles, which, when allied with the differentiation of rostral length reported in previous studies, may further contribute to specializations of fast jaw‐closing or forceful jaw‐closing species. The most biomechanically demanding masticatory function is canine biting, and the highest strain energy values were reported in this loading condition, particularly in the zygomatic arches and caudal rostrum. Specific head shapes may be constrained by size, with scaled strain energy models predicting that some bony morphologies may only be viable in species with small body masses.
Effect of Ligand Fields on the Reactivity of O2‐Activating Iron(II)‐Benzilate Complexes of Neutral N5 Donor Ligands
Authors: Bhattacharya Shrabanti , Singh Reena , Paine Tapan Kanti
Published: March 2020

Three new iron(II)‐benzilate complexes [(N4Py)FeII(benzilate)]ClO4 (1), [(N4PyMe2)FeII(benzilate)]ClO4 (2) and [(N4PyMe4)FeII(benzilate)]ClO4 (3) of neutral pentadentate nitrogen donor ligands have been isolated and characterized to study their dioxygen reactivity. Single‐crystal X‐ray structures reveal a mononuclear six‐coordinate iron(II) center in each case, where benzilate binds to the iron center in monodentate mode via one carboxylate oxygen. Introduction of methyl groups in the 6‐positions of the pyridine rings makes the N4PyMe2 and N4PyMe4 ligand fields weaker compared to that of the parent N4Py ligand. All the complexes (1–3) react with dioxygen to decarboxylate the coordinated benzilate to benzophenone quantitatively. The decarboxylation is faster for the complex of the more sterically hindered ligand and follows the order 3>2>1. The complexes display oxygen atom transfer reactivity to thioanisole and also exhibit hydrogen atom transfer reactions with substrates containing weak C−H bonds. Based on interception studies with external substrates, labelling experiments and Hammett analysis, a nucleophilic iron(II)‐hydroperoxo species is proposed to form upon two‐electron reductive activation of dioxygen by each iron(II)‐benzilate complex. The nucleophilic oxidants are converted to the corresponding electrophilic iron(IV)‐oxo oxidant upon treatment with a protic acid. The high‐spin iron(II)‐benzilate complex with the weakest ligand field results in the formation of a more reactive iron‐oxygen oxidant.
Mechanically Stable UV‐Crosslinked Polyester‐Polycarbonate Solid Polymer Electrolyte for High‐Temperature Batteries
Authors: Johansson Isabell L. , Brandell Daniel , Mindemark Jonas
Published: March 2020

Due to the mechanism with which solid polymer electrolytes use to conduct ions, these materials are generally more suitable for high‐temperature applications where the ionic conductivity is sufficient and where liquid electrolytes show insufficient stability. To enable high‐temperature cycling of polymer electrolytes, the mechanical stability has to be improved. Herein, we report successful long‐term cycling of a solid polyester‐polycarbonate – poly(ϵ‐caprolactone‐co‐trimethylene carbonate) (poly(CL‐co‐TMC)) – electrolyte cross‐linked through the addition of multifunctional acrylates and the use of UV‐irradiation, allowing stable cycling of cells for more than 100 cycles at 80 °C, with good rate capabilities (0.2 mA cm−2) and Coulombic efficiencies exceeding 99 %. Both the mechanical properties and the ionic conductivity of the mechanically stabilized poly(CL‐co‐TMC) were investigated and optimized to reduce the frequency dependence of the moduli while still achieving an acceptable ionic conductivity at elevated temperature. These results indicate that the poly(CL‐co‐TMC) system can straight‐forwardly be modified to allow for higher‐temperature applications.
The financial trade‐off between the production of biochar and biofuel via pyrolysis under uncertainty
Authors: Frank Jenny R. , Brown Tristan R. , Malmsheimer Robert W. , Volk Timothy A. , Ha HakSoo
Published: March 2020

There is a lack of widespread interest in slow pyrolysis biochar pathways relative to other bioenergy pathways because of the perceived absence of biochar's market value when produced at a commercial scale. Thus, most refereed techno‐economic analyses focus on fast pyrolysis. This study quantifies the carbon price point at which the economic feasibility of the slow‐pyrolysis pathway for biochar production is equal to or greater than a fast‐pyrolysis pathway for biochar and biofuel production using baseline minimum carbon prices (MCP). These factors are then modeled under uncertainty to generate stochastic cash flows for the calculation of a 20‐year net present value and carbon abatement cost probability distributions. This article examines whether a slow‐pyrolysis pathway is ever more financially attractive than a fast‐pyrolysis pathway at realistic carbon prices. The results show fast pyrolysis to fuels and biochar achieving the lowest baseline MCP of $61.38/Mg, while the slow pyrolysis to biochar and methanol at 450 °C scenario yields the highest baseline MCP of $642.40/Mg. A notable result is the baseline MCP for the slow pyrolysis to biochar scenario achieving $123.48/Mg, when compared with the fast pyrolysis to fuels and electricity scenario, resulting in a baseline MCP of $182.03/Mg. The results suggest that carbon prices, when high enough, can incentivize biochar carbon sequestration produced from slow‐pyrolysis pathways rather than carbon abatement with biofuels, and that slow pyrolysis to biochar and methanol scenarios require a higher baseline MCP and are less financially competitive than the other pathways. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
YAP/TAZ: Drivers of Tumor Growth, Metastasis, and Resistance to Therapy
Authors: Thompson Barry J.
Published: March 2020

The transcriptional co‐activators YAP (or YAP1) and TAZ (or WWTR1) are frequently activated during the growth and progression of many solid tumors, including lung, colorectal, breast, pancreatic, and liver carcinomas as well as melanoma and glioma. YAP/TAZ bind to TEAD‐family co‐activators to drive cancer cell survival, proliferation, invasive migration, and metastasis. YAP/TAZ activation may also confer resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy. YAP‐TEAD cooperates with the RAS‐induced AP‐1 (FOS/JUN) transcription factor to drive tumor growth and cooperates with MRTF‐SRF to promote activation of cancer‐associated fibroblasts, matrix stiffening, and metastasis. The key upstream repressor of YAP/TAZ activation is the Hippo (MST1/2‐LATS1/2) pathway and the key upstream activators are mechanically induced Integrin‐SRC and E‐cadherin‐AJUBA/TRIP6/LIMD1, growth factor induced PI3K‐AKT, and inflammation‐induced G‐protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signals, all of which antagonize the Hippo pathway. In this review, strategies to target YAP/TAZ activity in cancer are discussed along with the prospects for synergy with established pillars of cancer therapy.