bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Alternate Tillage and Weed Management Options on Production Potential and Weed Incidences for Dry Seeded Rice (DSR)
Authors: Rashid M.H , Ali M.H , Timsina J. , Islam N. , Ibrahim M
Published: October 2024

The study which aims at the evaluation of conservation tillage and to identify appropriate management options for dry seeded rice (DSR) under conservation tillage system was carried out at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), Regional station, Rajshahi during wet season of 2010 and 2011. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. The main plot treatments were Zero tillage (ZT), Strip tillage (ST) using power tiller operated seeder (PTOS), Minimum tillage using PTOS (MT), Permanent bed (PB) using bed planter, Fresh bed (FB) using bed planter and Conventional tillage (CT). Except conventional tillage, other alternate tillage treatments considered as conservation tillage treatments. The subplot treatments were Weed free (W1); Post emergence herbicide + 1 hand weeding (W2), Pre-emergence herbicide + post-emergence herbicide (W3), Post emergence herbicide alone (W4) and Weedy control (W5). Pandimethylin and Bispyribac Sodium were the pre and post emergence herbicide, respectively. Among the tillage treatments, conventional tillage (CT) registered comparatively lower weeds population as well as weeds biomass. Alternate tillage treatments showed about similar result in terms of weed incidences. Again, crop weed competition almost remained same among the weed free and herbicide applied treatments. Although the number of panicle m-2 was comparatively lower, the higher panicle length associated with higher grains panicle-1 was achieved in fresh bed and permanent bed treatments. The grain yield of rice was also comparable among the conventional tillage, bed planting system and also the zero or strip tillage treatments. On the other-hand, the post emergence herbicide W4 treatment (Bispyribac Na+) was found more effective in controlling weeds where W1 (weed free) and W2 treatment (Bispyribac Na+) + 1 hand weeding) showed identical effect in relation to weed intensity, grain and straw yield of rice.
Prevalence and Treatment Outcomes of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Baluchistan, Pakistan
Authors: Kumari Darshna , Javed Amber , Siddiq Afshan , Baig Sadia Ghousia
Published: October 2024

About 20 species of the genus Leishmania are responsible for the illness leishmaniasis. It is an underappreciated parasite infection carried by vectors that causes a variety of diseases with different symptoms. There are several risk factors that contribute to its occurrence and prevalence, including starvation, poverty, migration, and inadequate shelter. There is evidence to suggest that the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is increasing in Pakistan. As a result, it is seen as a major public health concern for the country. Moreover, there has been a higher frequency of CL in places that have seen the largest influx of migrants as well as in areas that border Afghanistan. The purpose of this study is to highlight the current reported prevalence and treatment results of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Baluchistan, Pakistan, taking into account the geographic location and dissemination of the disease over the border area. The purpose of the review was to present the results of research (original publications) that were done to show the frequency of CL in Baluchistan, Pakistan, over the previous five years, as well as the outcomes of its treatments. Key phrases such as "Leishmaniasis", "Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL)", "Prevalence", "Treatment outcome", "Baluchistan", and "Pakistan" were entered into several literature search engines, such as PubMed, Scopus, Medline search, and Google Scholar, to retrieve relevant articles. The province of Baluchistan has shown sporadic frequency of the CL, according to studies conducted over the past five years. Every district has displayed a separate illness trajectory and set of statistics. Nonetheless, the pattern of rising incidence and prevalence throughout the province was what was consistently seen. According to reports, the first three decades of life and men are considered to be high-risk groups. The arms and legs were noted to be the lesions' most common locations. The purpose of the review was to present the results of research (original publications) that were done to show the frequency of CL in Baluchistan, Pakistan, over the previous five years, as well as the outcomes of its treatments.
Seed Dormancy and After-ripening Mechanisms in Seed Germination: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chandra R.Jeya , P.Masilamani  , B.Suthakar  , P.Rajkumar  , S.D.Sivakumar  , V.Manonmani
Published: October 2024

A review on seed dormancy and after-ripening mechanism on seed germination was conducted. After-ripening is an important post-harvest phase in seeds that causes physiological and biochemical changes that reduce dormancy and promote germination. It is a time based and environment regulated process that occurs in dried seeds and determines germination potential. This post-harvest period is characterized by a series of biochemical and molecular changes that modify the seeds internal environment, ultimately breaking dormancy and enabling germination. The process of after ripening is mediated by several key mechanisms, including hormonal balances, particularly the reduction of abscisic acid levels and the increase in gibberellins and reactive oxygen species serve a dual function in both signalling and oxidative damage repair, contribute to dormancy associated barriers. Unlike other dormancy breaking methods, such as stratification, which requires external factors like light or temperature fluctuations, after-ripening primarily occurs under dry storage conditions. Molecular studies have shown that after-ripening involves gene expression with transcriptional regulation of dormancy related genes and activation of germination promoting genes are observed. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications also contribute to the regulation of these genes during after-ripening. Understanding the after-ripening mechanism is very important for improving seed storage, enhancing germination rates and optimizing crop yields and helps in management of seed banks, minimizing unwanted in-situ germination before harvest and also elucidates the complication of seed dormancy and germination, providing valuable information for both basic plant biology and applied agricultural sciences. Hence, understanding the interaction of external factors, internal seed biology, and after-ripening conditions are critical for optimizing seed germination rates and crop productivity.
Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Kumar Surendra , Singh Lokendra , Yadav R K , Mishra Anuj , Babu Keshav , Dixit Ravi , Kuswaha Chandramani
Published: October 2024

In present Investigation 45 single cross hybrids were evaluated along with their parental lines and checks heterosis and inbreeding depression. The standard heterosis, the hybrid combinations DI- 123 x DI- 111(91.11), DI- 121 x DI- 117 (80.82), DI- 121 x DI- 111(80.33), DI- 121 x D- 56 (78.33), DI- 123 x DI- 117 (74.10), DI- 122 x D- 52(70.23), DI- 121 x D- 52 (67.04) and DI- 117 x D- 56 (62.24) were identified as best for grain yield per plant (g) and some of the yield contributing traits. Maximum inbreeding depression was obtained from DI- 111 x DI- 118 (61.50) for grain yield per plant (g).
Effect of Liming on Soil pH, Nutrient Availability, Growth and Yield of Wheat in Acidic Soils of Tista Floodplain in Bangladesh
Authors: Hosna Khandakar Taheratul , Rahman Md. Moshiur , Al-Solaimani Samir G. , Yeasmin Nilufar , Islam Md. Nurul , El-Wahed Mohamed H. Abd , Muhammad Noor
Published: October 2024

Lime is crucial for improving soil pH, enhancing nutrient availability, and promoting healthier plant growth in acidic soils. The objectives of the study were to identify the effects of liming on wheat on nutrients status of soil before and after harvest. Over three years (2018-2021), six experiments were conducted in various locations across Bangladesh, including Kishoreganj, Gangachara, Kurigram, and Rangpur districts, to assess the effects of liming on wheat productivity. Each year featured two experimental setups to evaluate soil and crop responses in different regions. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) experiment was conducted during the rabi season in the Tista Floodplain (AEZ-3). The application of various lime doses had a significantly positive impact on plant height, total number of tillers per hill, branches per plant, spike length, number of filled grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, and overall grain yield of wheat. Notably, a lime application of 1.0 tha⁻¹ resulted in the highest grain yield. The contents and uptake of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) were also significantly affected by the different treatments. Liming effectively helps reclaim acidic soils in the Tista Floodplain. Therefore, for acidic soils, the use of lime is recommended to enhance yield, yield-contributing traits, and nutrient availability.
Bio‐optical properties of Arctic drift ice and surface waters north of Svalbard from winter to spring
Authors: Kowalczuk Piotr , Meler Justyna , Kauko Hanna M. , Pavlov Alexey K. , Zabłocka Monika , Peeken Ilka , Dybwad Christine , Castellani Giulia , Granskog Mats A.
Published: April 2017

We have quantified absorption by CDOM, aCDOM(λ), particulate matter, ap(λ), algal pigments, aph(λ), and detrital material, aNAP(λ), coincident with chlorophyll a in sea ice and surface waters in winter and spring 2015 in the Arctic Ocean north of Svalbard. The aCDOM(λ) was low in contrast to other regions of the Arctic Ocean, while ap(λ) has the largest contribution to absorption variability in sea ice and surface waters. ap(443) was 1.4–2.8 times and 1.3–1.8 times higher than aCDOM(443) in surface water and sea ice, respectively. aph(λ) contributed 90% and 81% to ap(λ), in open leads and under‐ice waters column, and much less (53%–74%) in sea ice, respectively. Both aCDOM(λ) and ap(λ) followed closely the vertical distribution of chlorophyll a in sea ice and the water column. We observed a tenfold increase of the chlorophyll a concentration and nearly twofold increase in absorption at 443 nm in sea ice from winter to spring. The aCDOM(λ) dominated the absorption budget in the UV both in sea ice and surface waters. In the visible range, absorption was dominated by aph(λ), which contributed more than 50% and aCDOM(λ), which contributed 43% to total absorption in water column. Detrital absorption contributed significantly (33%) only in surface ice layer. Algae dynamics explained more than 90% variability in ap(λ) and aph(λ) in water column, but less than 70% in the sea ice. This study presents detailed absorption budget that is relevant for modeling of radiative transfer and primary production.
Impact of sea level rise on tidal range in Chesapeake and Delaware Bays
Authors: Lee Serena Blyth , Li Ming , Zhang Fan
Published: April 2017

Coastal inundation is affected not only by rising mean sea level but also by changing tides. A numerical model is developed to investigate how sea level rise and coastline changes may impact tides in two coastal‐plain estuaries, Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay. Despite their different tidal characteristics, the two estuaries display similar responses to the sea level rise and shoreline management scenarios. When hypothetic sea walls are erected at the present coastline to prevent low‐lying land from flooding, tidal range increases, with greater amplification in the upper part of the two estuaries. When low‐lying land is allowed to become permanently inundated by higher sea level, however, tidal range in both estuaries decreases. Analyses of the tidal energy budget show that the increased dissipation over the shallow water and newly inundated areas compensates for the reduced dissipation in deep water, leading to smaller tidal range. The changes in the tidal range are not proportional to the changes in the mean sea level, indicating a nonlinear tidal response to sea level rise. The ratio of tidal range change to sea level rise varies between −0.05 and 0.1 in Chesapeake Bay and between −0.2 and 0.25 in Delaware Bay. The model results suggest a potential adaptation strategy that uses inundation over low‐lying areas to reduce tidal range at up‐estuary locations.
Was Late Triassic Tanggula granitoid (central Tibet, western China) a product of melting of underthrust Songpan‐Ganzi flysch sediments?
Authors: Lu Lu , Zhang Kai‐Jun , Yan Li‐Long , Jin Xin , Zhang Yu‐Xiu
Published: April 2017

Geochronological (laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry, LA‐ICP‐MS), mineral chemistry, major and trace element, and Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotopic data are presented for the Tanggula granitoid, the largest granitic pluton in the northern Tibetan Plateau. The Tanggula pluton yields a Late Triassic emplacement age (228–223 Ma) and is magnesian (Mg# = 29.10–49.81), high‐K calc‐alkaline (K2O/Na2O = 0.76–3.51, mostly >1), and strongly peraluminous (molar Al2O3/(CaO + Na2O + K2O), A/CNK = 1.06–1.42, mostly >1.1). High initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.716849 to 0.730577) and low ƐNd(t) (−10.95 to −9.60) and ƐHf(t) values (−16 to −5.1), along with an abundance of aluminosilicate minerals (e.g., biotite), enrichments in light rare earth and large ion lithophile elements, negative Eu anomalies, and depletion in high field strength elements suggest that the Tanggula granitoid is an S‐type granite derived mainly from the anatexis of metasedimentary source rocks. Geochemical fingerprinting using Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotopes and detrital zircon U‐Pb age spectra shows that Triassic flysch sediments from the Songpan‐Ganzi Paleo‐Tethyan Ocean to the north of the pluton are the most likely source of the Tanggula granitic magmas. The Tanggula granitoid could thus have been formed by the partial melting of the flysch sediments from the Songpan‐Ganzi complex as they were underthrust beneath the Qiangtang terrane along the Jinsha subduction zone during the Late Triassic.
Similarities and differences between three coexisting spaceborne radars in global rainfall and snowfall estimation
Authors: Tang Guoqiang , Wen Yixin , Gao Jinyu , Long Di , Ma Yingzhao , Wan Wei , Hong Yang
Published: April 2017

Precipitation is one of the most important components in the water and energy cycles. Radars are considered the best available technology for observing the spatial distribution of precipitation either from the ground since the 1980s or from space since 1998. This study, for the first time ever, compares and evaluates the only three existing spaceborne precipitation radars, i.e., the Ku‐band precipitation radar (PR), the W‐band Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR), and the Ku/Ka‐band Dual‐frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR). The three radars are matched up globally and intercompared in the only period which they coexist: 2014–2015. In addition, for the first time ever, TRMM PR and GPM DPR are evaluated against hourly rain gauge data in Mainland China. Results show that DPR and PR agree with each other and correlate very well with gauges in Mainland China. However, both show limited performance in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) known as the Earth's third pole. DPR improves light precipitation detectability, when compared with PR, whereas CPR performs best for light precipitation and snowfall. DPR snowfall has the advantage of higher sampling rates than CPR; however, its accuracy needs to be improved further. The future development of spaceborne radars is also discussed in two complementary categories: (1) multifrequency radar instruments on a single platform and (2) constellations of many small cube radar satellites, for improving global precipitation estimation. This comprehensive intercomparison of PR, CPR, and DPR sheds light on spaceborne radar precipitation retrieval and future radar design.
Geodynamics of divergent double subduction: 3‐D numerical modeling of a Cenozoic example in the Molucca Sea region, Indonesia
Authors: Zhang Qingwen , Guo Feng , Zhao Liang , Wu Yangming
Published: April 2017

Geological observations reveal existence of a unique form of plate subduction featuring subduction on both sides of one single oceanic plate, which is termed divergent double subduction (DDS). DDS may play an important role in facilitating tectonic processes like closure of oceanic basins, accretion and amalgamation of magmatic arcs, and growth of continents. However, this type of subduction has been largely a conceptual model and the geodynamics behind DDS are still poorly constrained. The Molucca Sea subduction zone in SE Asia has been considered as a Cenozoic example of DDS based on geophysical and geological data and provides an opportunity for detailed assessment of how DDS occurs. Here we present 3‐D numerical modeling with aims to reproduce the geodynamic processes of DDS. Several factors that may have important influences on the evolution of DDS are evaluated, including the geometry of the subducting plate, the order of subduction initiation on both sides, the far‐field boundary conditions and thickness of the overriding plates, and the negative buoyancy of the subducting plate. Our results reproduce the observed asymmetrical shape of the subducting Molucca Sea plate and the bending of Halmahera and Sangihe arcs and suggest that DDS is possible if effective escape of the slab‐trapped upper mantle overcomes the space problem, otherwise the slab‐trapped mantle may hinder the sustainability of subduction. We therefore conclude that DDS is associated with closure of narrow and short oceanic plate, and large‐scale double subduction is rare in nature probably owing to space problem.
A new global database to improve predictions of permeability distribution in crystalline rocks at site scale
Authors: Achtziger‐Zupančič P. , Loew S. , Mariéthoz G.
Published: April 2017

A comprehensive worldwide permeability data set has been compiled consisting of 29,000 in situ permeabilities from 221 publications and reports and delineating the permeability distribution in crystalline rocks into depths of 2000 meters below ground surface (mbgs). We analyze the influence of technical factors (measurement method, scale effects, preferential sampling, and hydraulic anisotropy) and geological factors (lithology, current stress regime, current seismotectonic activity, and long‐term tectonogeological history) on the permeability distribution with depth, by using regression analysis and k‐means clustering. The influence of preferential sampling and hydraulic anisotropy are negligible. A scale dependency is observed based on calculated rock test volumes equaling 0.6 orders of magnitude of permeability change per order of magnitude of rock volume tested. Based on the entire data set, permeability decreases as log(k) = −1.5 × log(z) − 16.3 with permeability k (m2) and positively increasing depth z (km), and depth is the main factor driving the permeability distribution. The permeability variance is about 2 orders of magnitude at all depths, presumably representing permeability variations around brittle fault zones. Permeability and specific yield/storage exhibit similar depth trends. While in the upper 200 mbgs fracture flow varies between confined and unconfined, we observe confined fracture and matrix flow below about 600 mbgs depth. The most important geological factors are current seismotectonic activity (determined by peak ground acceleration) and long‐term tectonogeological history (determined by geological province). The impact of lithology is less important. Based on the regression coefficients derived for all the geological key factors, permeability ranges of crystalline rocks at site scale can be predicted. First tests with independent data sets are promising.
Modeling blowing snow accumulation downwind of an obstruction: The Ohara Eulerian particle distribution equation
Authors: Kinar N. J.
Published: April 2017

An equation was proposed to model the height of blowing snow accumulation downwind of an obstacle such as vegetation, a snow fence, a building, or a topographic feature. The equation does not require aerodynamic flow condition parameters such as wind speed, allowing for the spatial distribution of snow to be determined at locations where meteorological data is not available. However, snow particle diffusion, drift, and erosion coefficients must be estimated for application of the equation. These coefficients can be used to provide insight into the relative magnitude of blowing snow processes at a field location. Further research is required to determine efficient methods for coefficient estimation. The equation could be used with other models of wind‐transported snow to predict snow accumulation downwind of an obstacle without the need for wind speed adjustments or correction equations. Applications for this equation include the design of snow fences, and the use of this equation with other hydrological models to predict snow distribution, climate change, drought, flooding, and avalanches.
Adaptive saturated finite‐time control algorithm for buck‐type DC‐DC converter systems
Authors: Cheng Yingying , Yang Chen , Wen Guanghui , He Yigang
Published: April 2017

To enhance the convergent rate and robustness of buck‐type DC‐DC converter system, a new finite‐time voltage regulation control algorithm is proposed in this paper. First, an average state space‐based model is analyzed, which considers both the parameters uncertainties and the variations of load and input voltage. By using saturation finite‐time control theory, at the first step, in the absence of disturbance, a new fast voltage regulation control algorithm is designed, which can guarantee that the output voltage converges to the reference voltage in a finite time. Because the saturation constraint is considered during the controller design, the duty ratio function of the converter satisfies the constraint between 0 and 1. Second, in the presence of disturbance, a finite‐time convergent disturbance observer is designed to estimate the unknown disturbances in a finite time. Finally, a disturbance observer‐based finite‐time voltage regulation control algorithm is developed. Compared with PI (Proportional‐Integral) control algorithm, circuit simulations show that the proposed algorithm has a faster regulation performance and stronger robustness performance on disturbance rejection.
Extreme‐Value Statistics Reveal Rare Failure‐Critical Defects in Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Boyce Brad L. , Salzbrenner Bradley C. , Rodelas Jeffrey M. , Swiler Laura P. , Madison Jonathan D. , Jared Bradley H. , Shen Yu‐Lin
Published: April 2017

Additive manufacturing enables the rapid, cost effective production of customized structural components. To fully capitalize on the agility of additive manufacturing, it is necessary to develop complementary high‐throughput materials evaluation techniques. In this study, over 1000 nominally identical tensile tests are used to explore the effect of process variability on the mechanical property distributions of a precipitation hardened stainless steel produced by a laser powder bed fusion process, also known as direct metal laser sintering or selective laser melting. With this large dataset, rare defects are revealed that affect only ≈2% of the population, stemming from a single build lot of material. The rare defects cause a substantial loss in ductility and are associated with an interconnected network of porosity. The adoption of streamlined test methods will be paramount to diagnosing and mitigating such dangerous anomalies in future structural components.
Biocompatible Cup‐Shaped Nanocrystal with Ultrahigh Photothermal Efficiency as Tumor Therapeutic Agent
Authors: Gao Fengli , Sun Maozhong , Xu Liguang , Liu Liqiang , Kuang Hua , Xu Chuanlai
Published: April 2017

As an emerging treatment for cancer, phototherapy has received much clinical attention. Here, a multifunctional Au nanocup (Au NC) for the targeted computed tomographic and photoacoustic imaging of cancerous tumors and phototherapy is reported. The Au NC has an intrinsic photothermal conversion efficiency of 38.5% and offers a tumor‐specific targeted computed tomographic and photoacoustic imaging system. Furthermore, when treated with nontoxic Au NC‐Ce6, cancer cells and tumors are obliterated with low doses of irradiation and safe power levels, with both photothermal and photodynamic therapeutic effects, in vitro and vivo. These data provide a solid foundation for the clinical application of Au NC.
In Situ Construction of Stable Tissue‐Directed/Reinforced Bifunctional Separator/Protection Film on Lithium Anode for Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Xu Ji‐Jing , Liu Qing‐Chao , Yu Yue , Wang Jin , Yan Jun‐Min , Zhang Xin‐Bo
Published: April 2017

To achieve a high reversibility and long cycle life for Li–O2 battery system, the stable tissue‐directed/reinforced bifunctional separator/protection film (TBF) is in situ fabricated on the surface of metallic lithium anode. It is shown that a Li–O2 cell composed of the TBF‐modified lithium anodes exhibits an excellent anodic reversibility (300 cycles) and effectively improved cathodic long lifetime (106 cycles). The improvement is attributed to the ability of the TBF, which has chemical, electrochemical, and mechanical stability, to effectively prevent direct contact between the surface of the lithium anode and the highly reactive reduced oxygen species (Li2O2 or its intermediate LiO2) in cell. It is believed that the protection strategy describes here can be easily extended to other next‐generation high energy density batteries using metal as anode including Li–S and Na–O2 batteries.
Toward Practical High‐Energy Batteries: A Modular‐Assembled Oval‐Like Carbon Microstructure for Thick Sulfur Electrodes
Authors: Ye Yusheng , Wu Feng , Liu Yuting , Zhao Teng , Qian Ji , Xing Yi , Li Wanlong , Huang Jiaqi , Li Li , Huang Qianming , Bai Xuedong , Chen Renjie
Published: April 2017

The modular assembly of microstructures from simple nanoparticles offers a powerful strategy for creating materials with new functionalities. Such microstructures have unique physicochemical properties originating from confinement effects. Here, the modular assembly of scattered ketjen black nanoparticles into an oval‐like microstructure via double “Fischer esterification,” which is a form of surface engineering used to fine‐tune the materials surface characteristics, is presented. After carbonization, the oval‐like carbon microstructure shows promise as a candidate sulfur host for the fabrication of thick sulfur electrodes. Indeed, a specific discharge capacity of 8.417 mAh cm−2 at 0.1 C with a high sulfur loading of 8.9 mg cm−2 is obtained. The large‐scale production of advanced lithium–sulfur battery pouch cells with an energy density of 460.08 Wh kg−1@18.6 Ah is also reported. This work provides a radically different approach for tuning the performance of a variety of surfaces for energy storage materials and biological applications by reconfiguring nanoparticles into desired structures.
Treatment of Organic Pollutants Using a Solar Energy Driven Photo‐Oxidation Device
Authors: Perez‐Rodriguez Paula , Bennani Yasmina , Alani Mathew Jose , Smith Wilson , Rietveld Luuk Cornelis , Zeman Miro , Smets Arno Hendrikus Marie
Published: April 2017

Two of the main problems of society in the near future are the access to clean water and energy. In particular, organic pollutants can be a major health threat. Within available methods, a trade‐off can be established between the pollutant treatment price and the final pollutant concentration that can be achieved. In this paper, a water treatment device is proposed in order to decouple these two variables. It consists of a BiVO4 photoanode combined with a thin film silicon solar cell. BiVO4 is an earth‐abundant material with a bandgap energy of 2.4 eV. Here, its good catalytic properties are shown for the degradation of phenol and chloroform when combined with an external bias voltage of 1 V versus Ag/AgCl. In addition, to cover the voltage needs, an a‐Si:H/nc‐Si:H solar cell has been coupled with the BiVO4 photoanode. This solar cell has been specifically designed to work under the transmitted spectrum of BiVO4, with thicknesses of 300 and 2000 nm for the top and bottom cell, respectively. This device has successfully been fabricated, and tested for removal of organic contaminants from an aqueous solution, performing even better than the BiVO4 photoanode alone with a similar external bias voltage applied.
Open‐Structured V2O5·nH2O Nanoflakes as Highly Reversible Cathode Material for Monovalent and Multivalent Intercalation Batteries
Authors: Wang Huali , Bi Xuanxuan , Bai Ying , Wu Chuan , Gu Sichen , Chen Shi , Wu Feng , Amine Khalil , Lu Jun
Published: April 2017

The high‐capacity cathode material V2O5·nH2O has attracted considerable attention for metal ion batteries due to the multielectron redox reaction during electrochemical processes. It has an expanded layer structure, which can host large ions or multivalent ions. However, structural instability and poor electronic and ionic conductivities greatly handicap its application. Here, in cell tests, self‐assembly V2O5·nH2O nanoflakes shows excellent electrochemical performance with either monovalent or multivalent cation intercalation. They are directly grown on a 3D conductive stainless steel mesh substrate via a simple and green hydrothermal method. Well‐layered nanoflakes are obtained after heat treatment at 300 °C (V2O5·0.3H2O). Nanoflakes with ultrathin flower petals deliver a stable capacity of 250 mA h g−1 in a Li‐ion cell, 110 mA h g−1 in a Na‐ion cell, and 80 mA h g−1 in an Al‐ion cell in their respective potential ranges (2.0–4.0 V for Li and Na‐ion batteries and 0.1–2.5 V for Al‐ion battery) after 100 cycles.
Large‐Sized Few‐Layer Graphene Enables an Ultrafast and Long‐Life Aluminum‐Ion Battery
Authors: Zhang Leyuan , Chen Liang , Luo Hao , Zhou Xufeng , Liu Zhaoping
Published: April 2017

To develop high‐power and high‐energy batteries with a long life remains a great challenge, even combining the benefits of metal (fast kinetics and high capacity) and carbon materials (robust structure). Among them, Al‐ion batteries based on aluminum anode and graphite carbon cathode have gained lots of interests as one of the most promising technologies. Here, it is demonstrated that the size of graphitic material in ab plane and c direction plays an important role in anion intercalation chemistry. Sharply decreasing the size of vertical dimension (c direction) strongly facilitates the kinetics and charge transfer of anions (de)intercalation. On the other hand, increasing the size of horizontal dimension (ab plane) contributes to improving the flexibility of graphitic materials, which results in raising the cycling stability. Meanwhile, chloroaluminate anions are reversibly intercalated into the interlayer of graphite materials, leading to the staging behaviors. In the end, an ultrafast Al‐ion battery with exceptional long life is achieved based on large‐sized few‐layer graphene as a cathode and aluminum metal as an anode.
Higher levels of submissive behaviors at the onset of the pairing process of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) are associated with lower risk of wounding following introduction
Authors: Pomerantz Ori , Baker Kate C.
Published: April 2017

Social housing of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) is considered to be the cornerstone of behavioral management programs in biomedical facilities. However, it also involves the risk of socially inflicted trauma. The ability to avoid such trauma would contribute to the animals’ well‐being and alleviate staff's concerns, thus paving the path for more introductions. Here, we sought to address the conflict between the need to socially house rhesus macaques and the need to bring social wounding to a minimum by identifying behaviors expressed early in social introductions, that may serve as predictors of later wounding events. We employed logistic regression analysis to predict the occurrence of wounding for 39 iso‐sexual, adult pairs in the 30 days following the introduction into full contact using the levels of behaviors that were observed at the onset of the introduction. The results show that the levels of submissive behaviors were the only significant predictor to later stage wounding. Higher levels of submissive behaviors expressed during the early phases of the introduction were associated with a decreased likelihood of wounding. Interestingly, levels of affiliative behaviors have not added any power to the predictability of the statistical model. Therefore, it may be suggested that the exchange of submissive signals at the earliest stages of the introduction is critical in the determination of relative rank and preclude the need to establish dominance via aggression when allowed full contact. While the observation of clear‐cut dominance relationships is commonly considered a harbinger of success, our findings suggest that it is the acknowledgment of subordination, rather than the expression of dominance that underlies this observed pattern. The value of our findings for guiding social housing decision‐making may be strongest in situations in which the composition of potential partners is constrained, and therefore requiring that wise decisions be relied upon early behaviors.
Induzierte chemische Verteidigung eines Ständerpilzes durch eine doppelbindungsverschiebende Polyensynthase
Authors: Brandt Philip , García‐Altares María , Nett Markus , Hertweck Christian , Hoffmeister Dirk
Published: April 2017

Die antilarvalen pilzlichen Polyene 18‐Methyl‐19‐oxoicosaoctaensäure und 20‐Methyl‐21‐oxodocosanonaensäure werden von dem den Schichtpilzen (Stereaceae) zugehörigen Pilzisolat BY1 als Reaktion auf Verwundung des Mycels gebildet. Wir identifizierten eine Polyketidsynthase (PPS1), die zu einer bislang völlig uncharakterisierten Gruppe dieser Enzyme gehört. Nach Schädigung des Mycels wird das Gen PPS1 stark induziert. Die Synthese der obigen Polyene wurde im Schimmelpilz Aspergillus niger als heterologem Wirt nachgestellt. Dies zeigt, dass PPS1 1) gleichzeitig verzweigtkettige Polyketide verschiedener Längen produziert und 2) die beispiellose Verschiebung von acht oder neun Doppelbindungen katalysiert. Unsere Arbeit stellt die erste Charakterisierung einer reduzierenden Polyketidsynthase aus einem Ständerpilz dar. Außerdem zeigen wir, dass verletzungsinduzierte De‐novo‐Synthese von Polyketiden eine pilzliche Antwort auf Umwelteinflüsse ist.
Metallfreie formale oxidative C‐C‐Kupplung durch In‐situ‐Erzeugung einer elektrophilen Enoloniumspezies
Authors: Kaiser Daniel , de la Torre Aurélien , Shaaban Saad , Maulide Nuno
Published: April 2017

Viele moderne organische Synthesen nutzen die intrinsische, natürliche Polarität der chemischen Bindungen und reaktiven Zentren der Substrate. Die Entwicklung unkonventionell polarisierter Synthone ist daher eine wünschenswerte Strategie, weil somit neuartige retrosynthetische Schritte in der Synthese komplexer Strukturen zugänglich gemacht werden können. Während die Umpolung von Carbonylzentren eine gängige Strategie ist, finden sich in der Literatur nur wenige Berichte über die Polaritätsumkehr der α‐Position von Carbonylen. Wir stellen hier die Entwicklung einer neuen elektrophilen Enoloniumspezies und ihre Anwendung in der chemoselektiven, metallfreien oxidativen C‐C‐Kupplung vor.
Bildung von Nanopartikeln durch Elektronentransfer in Peptiden und c‐Cytochromen
Authors: Vasylevskyi Serhii I. , Kracht Sonja , Corcosa Paula , Fromm Katharina M. , Giese Bernd , Füeg Michael
Published: April 2017

Die Reduktion von Ag+‐Ionen zu Ag0‐Atomen ist ein stark endergonischer Schritt, und erst die Aggregation zu Agn‐Clustern führt zu einem exergonischen Prozess. Diese elementaren Reaktionen spielen eine entscheidende Rolle, wenn Ag‐Nanopartikel (AgNPs) durch Elektronentransfer(ET)‐Reaktionen aus Ag+‐Ionen erzeugt werden. Wir haben sowohl die Bildung von AgNPs durch photoinduzierten ET in Peptiden, als auch durch ET in c‐Cytochromen über deren Fe2+‐Häme untersucht. Unsere früheren photoinduzierten ET‐Experimente in Peptiden hatten gezeigt, dass Histidin die Bildung von AgNPs hemmt. Nun konnten wir zeigen, dass AgNPs gebildet werden können, wenn Aminosäuren verwendet werden, die Ag+‐Ionen schwächer binden als Histidin, und zwar mit steigender Bildungsrate von Lysin<Asparagin<Aspartat≤Serin. Die Fähigkeit der Fe2+‐Häme, Ag+‐Ionen zu AgNPs zu reduzieren, wurde sowohl mit einer enzymatischen Reaktion als auch in vivo mit lebenden Bakterien des Typs Geobacter sulfurreducens (Gs) untersucht.
Non–symmetrically p–nitrobenzyl–substituted N–heterocyclic carbene–silver(I) complexes as metallopharmaceutical agents
Authors: Shahini C. R. , Achar Gautam , Budagumpi Srinivasa , Tacke Matthias , Patil Siddappa A.
Published: April 2017

In the present work, a series of eight new imidazole, 4,5–dichloroimidazole, 4,5–diphenylimidazole and benzimidazole based nitro–functionalized mono–N–heterocyclic carbene (NHC)–silver(I) acetate (7a–d) and bis–NHC–silver(I) hexafluorophosphate complexes (8a–d) were synthesised by the reaction of the corresponding azolium hexafluorophosphate salts (6a–d) with silver(I) acetate and silver(I) oxide in methanol and acetonitrile, respectively. All the synthesised compounds were fully characterized by various spectroscopic techniques and elemental analyses. Additionally, the structure of bis–(1–benzyl–3–(p–nitrobenzyl)–4,5–dichloroimidazole–2–ylidene)silver(I) hexafluorophosphate complex (8b) was confirmed by single crystal X–ray diffraction analysis. Preliminary in vitro antibacterial evaluation was conducted for all the compounds (6a–d), (7a–d), and (8a–d) by Kirby–Bauer's disc diffusion method followed by the determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) from broth macrodilution method against five standard bacteria; two Gram–positive bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and three Gram–negative bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Shigella sonnei, and Salmonella typhi). All the hexafluorophosphate salts (6a–d) were found inactive against the tested bacterial strains and their corresponding mono– and bis–NHC–silver(I) complexes (7a–d and 8a–d) exhibited moderate to high antibacterial activity with MIC value in the range 8–128 μg/mL. In addition, preliminary in vitro anticancer potential of all the silver(I) complexes (7a–d and 8a–d) was determined against the human derived breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF 7) by MTT assay. All the mono– and bis–NHC–silver(I) complexes (7a–d and 8a–d) orchestrated high anticancer potential with IC50 values ranging from 10.39 to 59.56 nM. In comparison, mono– NHC–silver(I) complexes performed better than the bis–NHC–silver(I) complexes.
Synthesis, characterization and optical properties of a new cationic cyclometalated platinum(ii) complex
Authors: Jamali Sirous , Kermanshahian Shariar
Published: April 2017

The cyclometalated platinum (II) complex, [Pt(ppy)(ppyH)2] OTF, 2, in which ppy and ppyH denote the cyclometalated and non‐cyclometalated 2‐phenylpyridine ligand respectively, was prepared from the reaction of the platinum(IV) complex [PtMe3(OTF)], 1, with 3 equiv 2‐phenylpyridine at room temperature. The cyclometalated complex 2 was characterized using 1H NMR spectroscopy. The solid state structure of 2 was further identified by single crystal X‐ray structure determination. 2 displays a green emission in solution and in solid state at room temperature and TD‐DFT calculations is used to elucidate the origin of the electronic transitions in the UV–vis spectrum of 2.
Synergistic effect of expandable graphite and α‐type zirconium phosphate on flame retardancy of polyurethane elastomer
Authors: Xu Wen‐Zong , Xu Bao‐Ling , Wang Gui‐Song , Wang Xiao‐Ling , Liu Liang
Published: April 2017

Organically modified zirconium phosphate (OZrP) was prepared by cation exchange of natural counterions with hexadecyltri‐n‐butylphosphonium bromide. Subsequently, OZrP and expandable graphite (EG) were incorporated into polyurethane elastomer (PUE), and the thermal stability and flame retardancy of PUE composites were investigated. The thermogravimetric analysis indicated that partial substitution of EG with OZrP could improve both the thermal stability and char yield of PUE composites. The cone calorimetry and limiting oxygen index test showed that partial substitution of EG with OZrP could further enhance the flame retardancy of PUE composites and presented an excellent synergistic effect. Moreover, the char residue of PUE composites was analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and laser Raman spectroscopy. Their results indicated that the synergistic effect of the physical barrier to prevent transmission of heat and mass between condensed and gas phases. Therefore, the further combustion of the nether material could be inhibited, which created better flame retardancy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45188.
Rapid Exponential Stabilization of a 1‐D Transmission Wave Equation with In‐domain Anti‐damping
Authors: Hassine Fathi
Published: April 2017

We consider the problem of pointwise stabilization of a one‐dimensional wave equation with an internal spatially varying anti‐damping term. We design a feedback law based on the backstepping method and prove exponential stability of the closed‐loop system with a desired decay rate.
Disturbance Observer‐Based Elegant Anti‐Disturbance Control for Stochastic Systems with Multiple Disturbances
Authors: Zhang Linqing , Wei Xinjiang , Zhang Huifeng
Published: April 2017

Disturbance observer‐based elegant anti‐disturbance control (DOBEADC) scheme is proposed for a class of stochastic systems with nonlinear dynamics and multiple disturbances. The stochastic disturbance observer based on pole placement is constructed to estimate disturbance which is generated by an exogenous system. Then, composite DOBC and
controller is designed to guarantee the composite system is mean‐square stable and its
performance satisfies a prescribed level. Finally, simulations on an A4D aircraft model show the effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
Extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF‐EMF) reduces oxidative stress and improves functional and psychological status in ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Cichoń Natalia , Bijak Michał , Miller Elżbieta , Saluk Joanna
Published: April 2017

As a result of ischaemia/reperfusion, massive generation of reactive oxygen species occurs, followed by decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes. Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF‐EMF) can modulate oxidative stress, but there are no clinical antioxidant studies in brain stroke patients. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of ELF‐EMF on clinical and antioxidant status in post‐stroke patients. Fifty‐seven patients were divided into two groups: ELF‐EMF and non‐ELF‐EMF. Both groups underwent the same 4‐week rehabilitation program. Additionally, the ELF‐EMF group was exposed to an ELF‐EMF field of 40 Hz, 7 mT for 15 min/day for 4 weeks (5 days a week). The activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase was measured in hemolysates, and total antioxidant status (TAS) determined in plasma. Functional status was assessed before and after the series of treatments using Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Applied ELF‐EMF significantly increased enzymatic antioxidant activity; however, TAS levels did not change in either group. Results show that ELF‐EMF induced a significant improvement in functional (ADL) and mental (MMSE, GDS) status. Clinical parameters had positive correlation with the level of enzymatic antioxidant protection. Bioelectromagnetics. 38:386–396, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pyrophosphate as substrate for alkaline phosphatase activity: A convenient flow‐injection chemiluminescence assay
Authors: Zhang Qingfeng , Zhang Cuiyun , Yang Meiding , Yu Donghong , Yu Cong
Published: April 2017

A sensitive and convenient flow‐injection chemiluminescence (FI‐CL) turn‐on assay for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity without any label and synthesis is developed. Cu2+ can catalyze the luminol–H2O2 CL reaction. Pyrophosphate (PPi) can chelate Cu2+ and therefore the Cu2+‐mediated luminol‐H2O2 CL reaction is inhibited. The addition of ALP can catalyze the hydrolysis of PPi into phosphate ions, Cu2+ is released and the chemiluminescence recovers. A detection limit of 1 mU/mL ALP is obtained.
Following nature's roadmap: folding factors from plasma cells led to improvements in antibody secretion in S. cerevisiae
Authors: Koskela Essi V. , de Ruijter Jorg C. , Frey Alexander D.
Published: April 2017

Therapeutic protein production in yeast is a reality in industry with an untapped potential to expand to more complex proteins, such as full‐length antibodies. Despite numerous engineering approaches, cellular limitations are preventing the use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as the titers of recombinant antibodies are currently not competitive. Instead of a host specific approach, the possibility of adopting the features from native producers of antibodies, plasma cells, to improve antibody production in yeast. A subset of mammalian folding factors upregulated in plasma cells for expression in yeast and screened for beneficial effects on antibody secretion using a high‐throughput ELISA platform was selected. Co‐expression of the mammalian chaperone BiP, the co‐chaperone GRP170, or the peptidyl‐prolyl isomerase FKBP2, with the antibody improved specific product yields up to two‐fold. By comparing strains expressing FKBP2 or the yeast PPIase Cpr5p, the authors demonstrate that speeding up peptidyl‐prolyl isomerization by upregulation of catalyzing enzymes is a key factor to improve antibody titers in yeast. The findings show that following the route of plasma cells can improve product titers and contribute to developing an alternative yeast‐based antibody factory.
Cardiac troponin and cerebral herniation in acute intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Xu Mangmang , Lin Jing , Wang Deren , Liu Ming , Hao Zilong , Lei Chunyan
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To explore the association, if any, between the relationship between cardiac troponin and cerebral herniation after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

Six hundred and eighty‐seven consecutive ICH patients admitted to West China Hospital from May 1, 2014 to September 1, 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on demographics, etiology, laboratory examinations at admission including serum cardiac troponin, computed tomography (CT) scans at admission and follow‐up, and clinical outcomes were obtained. Using multiple logistic regression to identify the relationship of troponin and herniation. The association between troponin and hematoma volume was assessed using bivariate correlation and linear regression.

Results

Among 188 (27.4%) patients who underwent the test of serum cardiac troponin at admission, 16 (8.5%) demonstrated cerebral herniation. The median time from symptom onset to CT at admission and follow‐up was 4 and 30.25 hr, respectively. In multivariate analysis, elevated troponin was independently associated with cerebral herniation (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 5.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08–24.93). And those with elevated troponin had larger hematoma volume at follow‐up in bivariate correlation (correlation coefficient, .375, p = .003) and linear regression (β, .370, 95% CI, 0.062–0.320, p = .005), higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (adjusted OR 2.06; 95% CI, 1.06–4.01, p = .033) and lower Glasgow Coma Scale score (adjusted OR 2.34; 95% CI, 1.17–4.68, p = .016) than those without.

Conclusions

Elevated cardiac troponin was associated with an almost five‐fold increased risk of cerebral herniation, but not in‐hospital mortality. The possibility of cerebral herniation should be considered when ICH patients with large hematoma volume and elevated troponin.