bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate Change and Its Consequences: A Deep Dive into Agricultural Productivity and Economic Stability
Authors: A. Sree Lakshmi, , Patil Pratiksha , G Priyanka , Siddiqua Ayesha , Vinothini R. , Asangi Honnappa , Misra Somya
Published: September 2024

The title of a review "The Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Productivity and Economic Stability" explores the multifaceted effects of climate change on global agriculture and its subsequent economic implications. As climate change accelerates, altering precipitation patterns, increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, and shifting temperature zones, agricultural productivity faces significant challenges. These environmental changes can lead to reduced crop yields, altered growing seasons, and increased pest and disease pressures. The study examines how these impacts vary across different regions, particularly affecting vulnerable and low-income communities that rely heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods. Furthermore, it investigates the broader economic consequences, including food price volatility, reduced food security, and economic instability. By employing a combination of climate models, agricultural simulations, and economic analysis, the study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the urgent need for adaptive strategies and sustainable practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and economic stability.
Online Survey on the Acceptance of Latent Tuberculosis Testing and Isoniazid Preventive Therapy among Healthcare Workers in Nigeria
Authors: Obidigbo Solomon Obinna , Makintami Fatima Ibrahim , Lekko Yusuf Madaki , Sajo Mohammed Usman , Ejeh Francis Enenche
Published: September 2024

Background: Healthcare workers in Nigeria are exposed to myriads of occupational risks including workplace acquired infections such as tuberculosis.
Methods: This study was a cross-sectional survey and used google form to administer the questionnaire via social media networks. Descriptive statistical methods were used to summarize data on socio-demographic characteristics and responses to questions, Microsoft excel and SPSS version 20.0 for statistical analysis of data summarized as categorical variables, frequency (n) and percentages (%).
Results: About six out of ten of the participants believed that they could be severely ill if they got tuberculosis. Majority of respondents 413 (89.2%) reported acceptance of latent TB testing while 87.7% agreed to take Isoniazid treatment if they test positive for LTBI. The occupational risk group was found to be less likely to accept LTBI testing. Also, respondents from the Northeast (OR = 4.225; 95% CI = 1.216-14.688; p value = 0.023) and southeast (OR = 4.494; 95% CI = 1.382-14.609; p value = 0.012) were four times more likely to accept isoniazid preventive treatment respectively. Participants who held that tuberculosis is a serious disease were more likely to accept isoniazid preventive treatment (OR = 2.220; 95% CI = 1.100-4.480 p value = 0.026). The majority of the HCW (56%) in the study never get tested for LTBI.
Conclusion: the majority of the healthcare workers in this study showed that TB is a dangerous disease and agreed to get regular testing and isoniazid therapy to prevent tuberculosis.
Estimation of Heterosis for Plant Growth, Oil Content and Yield Related Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss] Using Half Diallel
Authors: Gupta Anuj , Chauhan Sugandh , Tyagi Sunil Dutt , Singh Satpal
Published: September 2024

Genetic investigation was carried out diallel design for heterosis analysis studies the experimental material comprised with eight parents with two checks was carried out to identify high heterotic crosses and their relationship in Indian mustard. Several hybrids exhibited heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for seed yield per plant and other characters. The heterosis analysis revealed substantial hybrid vigor across 28 hybrid crosses, with noteworthy improvements in traits such as earlier flowering, earlier maturity, and increased seed weight. The seed yield per plant exhibited better parent heterosis ranging from -20.71% to 16.28%, with five crosses yielding more seeds than their better parents. P3 (PM-22) X P8 (RH-749) was the best cross, with a 16.28% increase. Standard heterosis ranged from -38.72% to 35.14%, with ten crosses showing significant positive heterosis. The findings from this investigation provide crucial insights into the genetic performance and breeding potential of Indian mustard genotypes. The identified parental lines and cross combinations with desirable heterosis effects offer valuable resources for breeding programs aimed at developing high-yielding and resilient mustard varieties, contributing to the advancement of agricultural practices and crop improvement. The above best parent and best crosses can be used in hybridization and heterosis breeding respectively.
A Comprehensive Review on Sustainable Cultivation Practices of Medicinal Plants
Authors: Patil Pragati , R. Ashick Rajah , Sivakumar B. , Bora Nilav Ranjan , V. Vasanth , D. Suwethaa Sri , A. Mukil Vas , Rajaram R. , Prathyusha Kontham , Datta Pankaj Lushan , Nath Indrani
Published: September 2024

The global demand for medicinal plants continues to grow, fueled by their integral role in both traditional and modern healthcare systems. However, this increasing demand has brought about challenges as unsustainable harvesting practices and habitat degradation threaten the future of these dynamic resources. Recognizing these risks, sustainable harvesting and cultivation have become critical strategies for safeguarding medicinal plants while still meeting the needs of those who rely on them. This review delves into the importance of sustainable practices, exploring how they contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, the health of ecosystems, and the socio-economic well-being of communities. We take a closer look at the principles guiding sustainable harvesting, identify the factors that lead to unsustainable practices, and discuss the ecological impacts of overharvesting. The review also explores the role of cultivation as a viable alternative to wild collection, showing how it can support wild populations, enhance genetic diversity and ease the strain on natural habitats. By bringing together current knowledge and best practices, this review seeks to advance the conversation on sustainable resource management. It encourages the adoption of methods that will ensure the continued availability of medicinal plants, preserving these precious resources for generations to come.
Isolation and Characterization of Pathogen causing Northern Corn Leaf Blight of Maize in Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya, India
Authors: Ampolu Santosh Kumar , Rajesh T. , S. V. Nandeesha , Vijayreddy Dumpapenchala , Alok Ankit
Published: September 2024

The present study was carried out to identify and characterize the Exserohilum turcicum causing northern corn leaf blight of maize based on the cultural, morphological and molecular characteristics. Diseased leaf samples from maize fields exhibiting typical cigar shaped symptoms of northern corn leaf blight were collected from the research fields of CPGS-AS (Umiam), College of Agriculture (Kyrdemkulai) and ICAR-RC for NEH region (Umiam) located in Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya. Through cultural, morphological, molecular characterization the fungal isolate was identified as Exserohilum sp. Phylogenetic analysis of ITS rDNA gene sequence indicates as Exserohilum turcicum is associated with the disease northern corn leaf blight of maize. The findings underscore the importance of pathogen Exserohilum turcicum causing northern corn leaf blight impact on the maize crop, highlighting potential threat to its production.
Egg Parasitoids of Hemipteran Insects: A Special Account on Scelionidae (Platygastroidea: Hymenoptera)
Authors: Mahendra K. R. , Chaitanya M. , Karthik R. , Lakshmi K. S. Ishwarya , Balaji B. N. , Godavari
Published: September 2024

Parasitoids are considered as one of the key biotic factors regulating the population dynamics of other insects in the natural settings. Egg parasitoids have been used successfully for many decades as inundative and augmentative biological control agents against a wide range of economically important agricultural pests. In this review parasitoids in the family Scelionidae, especially those attacking the eggs of hemipteran insects were discussed. Information on six genera of scelionids namely Trissolcus Ashmead, Telenomus Haliday, Gryon Haliday, Idris Förster, Protelenomus Kieffer, Hadronotus Förster and Psix Kozlov as the egg parasitoids of hemipteran insects has been gathered. Among these six genera, several species belonging to Trissolcus Ashmead and Telenomus Haliday have been extensively studied and exploited for the biological control of hemipteran pests.  The main target hosts of these egg parasitoids found to be the heteropteran pests in the families Pentatomidae, Scutelleridae, Urostylididae and Coreidae. Release of these parasitoids have provided successful control of several pests in soybean, cowpea, rice and squash especially for the control of invasive stink bugs. Further, it was found that, the effective utilization of these parasitoids has the greatest potential to manage several agriculturally important pests in the ever-changing agricultural ecosystems where chemical free pest management is the main priority. A small efferent is made to pool the information from the existing literature on the parasitoid species involved and the host insects associated with them to understand their diversity and biocontrol potential.
Factors Associated with the Uptake of Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine among Girls Aged 9-14 Years in Buikwe District, Central Uganda
Authors: Ndibazza Catherine , Barugahare Banson John
Published: September 2024

Aim: Cervical cancer is one of the leading global public health concerns.  Our study aimed at determining factors associated with the uptake of the HPV vaccine among 451 girls aged 9-14 years.
Study Design and Area: We conducted a cross-sectional study that was carried out in the Buikwe district, central Uganda.
Methods: The study was conducted using mixed methods. Quantitative data were entered using the Epidata software and exported to Stata 14 for cleaning and analysis. Atlasti 6 software was used in thematic qualitative data analysis. 
Results: The level of HPV vaccine uptake was 30%. Girls whose mothers/caretakers accessed health information through the health workers (P = 0.004, AOR = 2.68(1.36-5.26), CI = 95%) were more likely to uptake the HPV vaccine than any other in the study population.  Mothers/caretakers who are civil servants were more likely to receive the HPV vaccine (P = 0.049, AOR=1.78 (1.00-3.18), CI=95%). Girls whose mothers/caretakers had never heard about HPV vaccines and thought getting vaccinated is not important were less likely to uptake the HPV vaccine (P = 0.000, AOD = 0.31 (0.10-0.89), CI=95%) and (P = 0.000, AOD = 0.12 (0.05-0.28), CI=95%) respectively.
Conclusion: The level of HPV vaccine uptake among girls aged 9-14 years remains significantly low at 30%. Vaccine uptake was severely affected by the level of health education - awareness among the mothers/caretakers. There is need for strategies to improve vaccine awareness and uptake among the key stakeholders.
Economic Analysis of the Export Trends of Livestock and Livestock Products in India
Authors: Relekar Swati Prakash , Rebasiddanavar Revappa M. , Doni Megha Mallikarjun , Vajramma Boggala
Published: September 2024

Livestock provides livelihood to two-third of rural masses and employs about 8.8 per cent population of India. While dairying ensures livelihood to 70 million farm families. The study utilized export data from government sources and conducted a statistical analysis to assess trends and stability. Data revealed that the overall export value increased significantly from ₹22,092.62 crore in 2011-12 to ₹48,947.55 crore in 2021-22, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.90%. Buffalo meat emerged as the leading export product, while dairy products exhibited a notable growth rate while dairy products and other categories showed varied growth. The instability index for the total exports was 19.02%, indicating moderate stability. State-wise analysis indicated Uttar Pradesh as the leading exporter, followed by Maharashtra and Haryana, with these three states together accounting for 85% of the total exports in 2021-22. The average growth rate of exports across states was 3.57%, demonstrating a stable growth pattern. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the sector showed resilience with a 13.98% growth in exports for 2021-22, aided by government initiatives. The analysis of dairy product exports highlighted a significant increase from ₹2,382.91 crore in 2020-21 to ₹4,742.70 crore in 2021-22, marking a 99% growth. The primary export destinations were the USA, Bangladesh, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Malaysia. A transitional probability matrix revealed shifts in market shares, with notable increases in the USA and Bangladesh. Trade performance from 2011-22 showed that India's export share in dairy products improved from 0.03% to 0.135%, while import share decreased significantly. The instability index for exports was 63.53%, reflecting high volatility. Investing in advanced breeding technologies to increase productivity, and enhancing market access through trade agreements and promotional activities. Additionally, policies to manage volatility, such as price stabilization measures and export incentives, could further support industry growth.
Trends in Growth and Direction of Kokum Black Exports from India
Authors: V. N. Anap , S. R. Torane , J. M. Yadav , S. S. Torane
Published: September 2024

An attempt was made to study the trends in export growth and direction of kokum black from India. Export data was used for last 15 years (2004-05 to 2018-19). Further, destination wise time series data on export was collected from annual publication of Agricultural and Processed Foods Export Development Authority, India (APEDA) and its website www.apeda.com [1] and website of Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics was obtained. The average export quantity of kokum black for last fifteen years was 43983 MTs and export earnings realized at constant prices were Rs.78.65 lakhs. Oman registered a positive and significant growth. It is concluded that, kokum black export has decreasing trend for both in terms of quantity (-2.26%) as well as real price (0.71%). USA was relatively loyal and stable importers of Indian kokum black. However, UK and Australia were found to be most unstable importers.
Techno-Economic Feasibility Study of Tractor Pto Operated Shredder Cum Pulverizer
Authors: Pandey Soumya , Naik R. K. , Tuteja H.S.
Published: September 2024

India's agricultural sector faces a challenge of widespread crop residue burning. An estimated 90-140 million tonnes of crop residues are burned annually by farmers across the country. The shredder cum pulverizer focuses on the shredding and pulverizing of coconut husks and fronds (Cocos nucifera), corn stalks (Zea mays L.) and subabul branches (Leucaena leucocephala). This shredded and pulverized crop residue is used to prepare the vermin compost, biomass production and various other purposes. The experiment was conducted at the IGKV, Raipur (C.G.). The detailed specifications parameters were optimized for each unit of the shredder cum pulverier. This study was conducted with four levels of feed rate varies with four levels of different speeds of operation at four moisture content) as the independent parameters. Their effects were studied on dependent parameters. The detailed data were analyzed statistically by SPD (Split Plot Design) with the three replications. The various performance parameters were also calculated. The result of the experiments showed that the shredding capacity and size of reduction of the shredder cum pulverizer with different feed rates of crop residues of coconut husks, coconut fronds, corn stalks, and subabul branches at different feed rates are 79.65 kg/h, 86.98 kg/h, 82.65 kg/h, and 94.64 kg/h, respectively, and the resultant size reductions of crop residues are 1.26mm, 2.66mm, 1.73mm, and 2.57mm, respectively. The result showed that the maximum shredding capacity 94.64kg/h was found on subabul branches were observed at 400kg/h feed rate, 40m/s speed of operation and 24% moisture content and the maximum size of reduction 1.26mm was found on coconut husks were observed at 600kg/h feed rate, 70m/s speed of operation and 24% moisture content. The cost of operation of shredder cum pulverizer was observed to be 983.25 Rs/h.
Assessment of Early Blight Disease Resistant Tomato F1 Hybrid Arka Abhed in Karimnagar District of Telangana, India
Authors: Gopal G Venu , Rao N Venkateshwar , Mahesh L , Reddy D Sreenivasa , Vijay J
Published: September 2024

Tomato is the major Solanaceous vegetable crop grown in Karimnagar District of Telangana.  Alternaria tomatophila and Alternaria solani cause early blight disease and severe yield losses to the tomato growers in Karimnagar District. Early blight is the major problem in Karimnagar from June to September months causing severe crop losses to the tomato farmers. Usually farmers are spraying different fungicides based on Copper to control early blight disease for private hybrids. It controls 25-35% of the disease and increased cost of cultivation. Hence, early blight disease resistant hybrid Arka Abhed was tested against private hybrid in KVK, Karimnagar operational area. Data on disease incidence was collected at 15, 30, 60, 90,120 DAP in all the hybrids. The data revealed that Arka abhed recorded significantly very lower incidence of early blight disease than private hybrid during all crop growth stages. It recorded 1.5% early blight incidence whereas private hybrid recorded 32.4%. Reduced number of sprayings to control early blight disease were also significantly low i.e. two sprays were carried out whereas in private hybrid seven sprays were done during in rainy period. According to yield Arka Abhed recorded 68.3t/ha whereas it was 58.6t/ha in private hybrid. The peduncle in green in colour for long days and taste also same for all the days in storage period for 8-12 days in Arka Abhed. Average fruit weight is 86 gr to 112 grams were recorded.
Optimizing Resource Utilization for Paddy Cultivation in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India: A Study on Efficiency and Sustainability
Authors: Singh Vaishnavi , Singh O.P. , Borisagar Dharmik
Published: September 2024

Agriculture is a cornerstone of the Indian economy, essential for providing food and livelihoods to millions. Efficient resource management of key resources such as land, water, labour, and inputs like fertilizers and pesticides enhance productivity, reduce production costs and environmental sustainability. Rice is a major food source and a vital agricultural commodity in India. This paper examines resource use in paddy cultivation across different farm sizes in Chandauli and Mirzapur districts in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. The selected districts are among the highest in the state in terms of productivity. Resource use efficiency was assessed using the well-known Cobb-Douglas, or log-log, production function. The findings reveal a general trend of under-utilization of crucial inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and machinery, with varying levels of efficiency across farm categories. The analysis underscores the need to better utilize these resources to improve profitability and efficiency in paddy farming in the study area. Improving resource management and adopting technological advancements, such as direct-seeded rice, the use of nano fertilizers, and the incorporation of rice straw into fields to enhance soil fertility, can significantly increase production outcomes on farmers' fields while promoting sustainable practices.
In situ evidence of the modification of the parallel propagation of EMIC waves by heated He+ ions
Authors: Yuan Zhigang , Yu Xiongdong , Wang Dedong , Huang Shiyong , Li Haimeng , Yu Tao , Qiao Zheng , Wygant John R. , Funsten Herbert O.
Published: July 2016

With observations of the Van Allen Probe B, we report in situ evidence of the modification of the parallel propagating electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves by heated He+ ions. In the outer boundary of the plasmasphere, accompanied with the He+ ion heating, the frequency bands of H+ and He+ for EMIC waves merged into each other, leading to the disappearance of a usual stop band between the gyrofrequency of He+ ions (ΩHe+) and the H+ cutoff frequency (ωH+co) in the cold plasma. Moreover, the dispersion relation for EMIC waves theoretically calculated with the observed plasma parameters also demonstrates that EMIC waves can indeed parallel propagate across ΩHe+. Therefore, the paper provides an in situ evidence of the modification of the parallel propagation of EMIC waves by heated He+ ions.
The quasi‐2 day wave activities during 2007 boreal summer period as revealed by Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model
Authors: Gu Sheng‐Yang , Liu Han‐Li , Pedatella N. M. , Dou Xiankang , Shu Zhifeng
Published: July 2016

The ensemble data assimilation version of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model + Data Assimilation Research Testbed developed at National Center for Atmospheric Research is utilized to study the quasi‐2 day wave (QTDW) activities during boreal summer period of 2007. The westward wave number 3 (W3) and 4 (W4) modes intermittently dominated the QTDW oscillations at different times. The W3 peaked 4 times from day 172 to day 224 with the major peak at around days 199–206 being much stronger than the others. The W4 also showed a quadruple structure during the whole summer period but with their amplitudes comparable with each other. The period of W4 increases from ~42 h on day 186 (with stronger easterly jet) to 56 h on day 225 (with weaker easterly jet), while the W3 period is more stable with the maximum perturbation occurring at ~52 h. Thus, the W3 exhibits more normal mode features than W4. Further diagnostic analysis shows that the barotropically/baroclinically unstable regions at middle and low latitudes are more effective for the amplification of W3 with stronger instabilities providing larger forcing. Moreover, the temporal variability of the refractive indexes and critical layers of W4, which are related to the background wind, are responsible for its period variations. We also find that the absence of a westward wave number 2 (W2) QTDW during boreal summer of 2007 is due to the weaker easterly jet compared with that during austral summer.
Bovine Serum Albulmin Protein‐Templated Silver Nanocluster (BSA‐Ag13): An Effective Singlet Oxygen Generator for Photodynamic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yu Yong , Geng Junlong , Ong Edward Yong Xi , Chellappan Vijila , Tan Yen Nee
Published: July 2016

This paper reports a novel synthesis approach of bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein‐templated ultrasmall (<2 nm) Ag nanocluster (NC) with strong singlet oxygen generation capacity for photodynamic therapy (PDT). An atomically precise BSA‐Ag13 NC (i.e., 13 Ag atoms per cluster) is successfully synthesized for the first time by using NaOH‐dissolved NaBH4 solution as the controlling reducing agent. The ubiquitous size of BSA‐Ag13 NC results in unique behaviors of its photoexcited states as characterized by the ultrafast laser spectroscopy using time‐correlated single photon counting and transient absorption techniques. In particular, triply excited states can be largely present in the excited BSA‐Ag13 NC and readily sensitized molecular oxygen to produce singlet oxygen (1O2) with a high quantum efficiency (≈1.26 using Rose Bengal as a standard). This value is much higher than its Au analogue (i.e., ≈0.07 for BSA‐Au25 NC) and the commonly available photosensitizers. Due to the good cellular uptake and inherent biocompatibility imparted by the surface protein, BSA‐Ag13 NC can be applied as an effective PDT agent in generating 1O2 to kill cancer cell as demonstrated in this study.
A New Technology for Efficient, High Yield Carbon Dioxide and Water Transformation to Methane by Electrolysis in Molten Salts
Authors: Wu Hongjun , Ji Deqiang , Li Lili , Yuan Dandan , Zhu Yanji , Wang Baohui , Zhang Zhonghai , Licht Stuart
Published: July 2016

This study presents a new green technology for the sustainable utilization of carbon dioxide. Synthetic methane, if produced efficiently and with low carbon footprint, provides a ready replacement for natural gas in the existing energy, manufacturing, and transportation industries. The first technology for the production of methane from CO2 and water by molten electrolysis is demonstrated. The technology is more efficient than alternative renewable methane production by microbial, aqueous, or solid oxide electrolysis, or than various photocatalytic processes. Methane is produced at 1000‐fold the rate observed in photoelectrochemical systems, and without noble metals or an external hydrogen source. Added steam and CO2 continuously renew the electrolyte. CO2 and H2O are directly transformed by electrolysis at 97.4% current efficiency at a constant current of 250 mA through 20 cm2 iron and nickel electrodes in a 600 °C alkali carbonate/LiOH electrolyte at low (<2 V) energy. The electrolysis product is comprised of 64.9% methane, 34.8% H2, and 0.3% longer (than C1) hydrocarbons.
Materials Pushing the Application Limits of Wire Grid Polarizers further into the Deep Ultraviolet Spectral Range
Authors: Siefke Thomas , Kroker Stefanie , Pfeiffer Kristin , Puffky Oliver , Dietrich Kay , Franta Daniel , Ohlídal Ivan , Szeghalmi Adriana , Kley Ernst‐Bernhard , Tünnermann Andreas
Published: July 2016

Wire grid polarizers (WGPs), periodic nano‐optical metasurfaces, are convenient polarizing elements for many optical applications. However, they are still inadequate in the deep ultraviolet spectral range. It is shown that to achieve high performance ultraviolet WGPs a material with large absolute value of the complex permittivity and extinction coefficient at the wavelength of interest has to be utilized. This requirement is compared to refractive index models considering intraband and interband absorption processes. It is elucidated why the extinction ratio of metallic WGPs intrinsically humble in the deep ultraviolet, whereas wide bandgap semiconductors are superior material candidates in this spectral range. To demonstrate this, the design, fabrication, and optical characterization of a titanium dioxide WGP are presented. At a wavelength of 193 nm an unprecedented extinction ratio of 384 and a transmittance of 10% is achieved.
Fetal and neonatal maxillary ontogeny in extant humans and the utility of prenatal maxillary morphology in predicting ancestral affiliation
Authors: Nicholas Christina L.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

The midface of extant Homo sapiens is known to undergo shape changes through fetal and neo‐natal ontogeny; however, little work has been done to quantify these shape changes. Further, while midfacial traits which vary in frequency between populations of extant humans are presumed to develop prenatally, patterns of population‐specific variation maxillary shape across ontogeny are not well documented. Only one study of fetal ontogeny which included specific discussion of the midface has taken a three‐dimensional geometric morphometric approach, and that study was limited to one population (Japanese). The present research project seeks to augment our understanding of fetal maxillary growth patterns, most especially in terms of intraspecific variation.

Materials and Methods

Three‐dimensional coordinate landmark data were collected on the right maxillae of 102 fetal and neo‐natal individuals from three groups (Euro‐American, African‐American, “Mixed Ancestry”).

Results

Shape changes were seen mainly in the lateral wall of the piriform aperture, the anterior nasal spine, and the subnasal alveolar region. The greatest difference across age groups (second trimester, third trimester, neonates) was between the second and third trimester. Euro‐Americans and African‐Americans clustered by population and differences in midfacial morphology related to ancestry could be discerned as early as the second trimester (p = .002), indicating that population variation in maxillary morphology appears very early in ontogeny.

Discussion

The midface is a critical region of the skull for assessing ancestry and these results indicate that maxillary morphology may be useful for estimating ancestry for prenatal individuals as young as the second trimester.
Organic silicone‐modified transgenic soybean oil as bio‐based coating material for controlled‐release urea fertilizers
Authors: Liu Xiaoqi , Yang Yuechao , Gao Bin , Li Yuncong
Published: July 2016

Novel bio‐based polyurethanes (PUs) were synthesized from transgenic soybean oil (TSBO) and then modified with hydroxyl‐terminated dimethyl silicone (HTMS) to coat urea prills for controlling nitrogen (N) release. Different kinds of coated ureas were prepared from these hydrophobic PUs. Physicochemical properties of the coatings were characterized in the laboratory. The N release characteristics of the PU‐coated ureas (PCUs) in water were determined at 25 °C. Experimental results showed that the presence of HTMS in the PUs reduced the coating porosity, increased the water‐contact angle of the coating material, and thus slowed the nutrient release from the PCUs. These results suggested that HTMS improved the structure and properties of coating materials for controlled release. These findings showed that bio‐based PUs derived from TSBOs made excellent coating material, particularly after HTMS modification, and thus may replace petroleum‐based PUs for controlled‐release fertilizers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44097.
Recent advances in bio‐based epoxy resins and bio‐based epoxy curing agents
Authors: Baroncini Elyse A , Kumar Yadav Santosh , Palmese Giuseppe R , Stanzione Joseph F
Published: July 2016

The combination of awareness of harmful industrial processes and environmental issues and depleting petroleum‐based resources has spurred much research in developing materials from renewable sources. Epoxy resins are common pre‐polymers used in a variety of industries, such as adhesives, coatings, insulations, and high performance composites. To transform epoxy resins into crosslinked networks with desirable thermal and mechanical properties, the resins must be cured with a curing agent. This review encompasses recent developments using bio‐based epoxy resins and bio‐based epoxy curing agents. Resins and curing agents synthesized from modified plant oils, sugars, polyphenols, terpenes, rosin, natural rubber, and lignin are highlighted and their thermal and mechanical properties reviewed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44103.
Immunomodulation of inflammatory leukocyte markers during intravenous immunoglobulin treatment associated with clinical efficacy in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Dyer Wayne B. , Tan Joanne C. G. , Day Timothy , Kiers Lynette , Kiernan Matthew C. , Yiannikas Con , Reddel Stephen , Ng Karl , Mondy Phillip , Dennington Peta M. , Dean Melinda M. , Trist Halina M. , dos Remedios Cristobal , Hogarth P. Mark , Vucic Steve , Irving David O.
Published: July 2016

Objective

The objective of the study was to profile leukocyte markers modulated during intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment, and to identify markers and immune pathways associated with clinical efficacy of IVIg for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) with potential for monitoring treatment efficacy.

Methods

Response to IVIg treatment in newly diagnosed IVIg‐naïve and established IVIg‐experienced patients was assessed by changes in expression of inflammatory leukocyte markers by flow cytometry. The adjusted INCAT disability and Medical Research Council sum scores defined clinical response.

Results

Intravenous immunoglobulin modulated immunopathogenic pathways associated with inflammatory disease in CIDP. Leukocyte markers of clinical efficacy included reduced CD185+ follicular helper T cells, increased regulatory markers (CD23 and CD72) on B cells, and reduction in the circulating inflammatory CD16+ myeloid dendritic cell (mDC) population and concomitant increase in CD62L and CD195 defining a less inflammatory lymphoid homing mDC phenotype. A decline in inflammatory CD16+ dendritic cells was associated with clinical improvement or stability, and correlated with magnitude of improvement in neurological assessment scores, but did not predict relapse. IVIg also induced a nonspecific improvement in regulatory and reduced inflammatory markers not associated with clinical response.

Conclusions

Clinically effective IVIg modulated inflammatory and regulatory pathways associated with ongoing control or resolution of CIDP disease. Some of these markers have potential for monitoring outcome.
Cadaveric and radiologic study of the anatomical variations of the prostatic arteries: A review of the literature and a new classification proposal with application to prostatectomy
Authors: Moya Celia , Cuesta Julián , Friera Alfonsina , Gil‐Vernet Sedó Jose María , Valderrama‐Canales Francisco J.
Published: July 2016

Development of prostatic arterial embolization (PAE) to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has raised interest in the variations of the prostatic arteries (PA). The aim of this study is to identify these vascular variations, to compare them with previous data, and to propose a simple classification. Ten adult male pelvis sides from embalmed cadavers were dissected, ages 69 to 92 years, and 10 PA were examined. In a retrospective analysis of 34 DSA pelvic angiographies on 28 patients aged 50 to 90 years, 48 PA were identified. A total of 58 PA were therefore analyzed. Six types are defined. Type I: PA originates from the anterior division (AD) of the internal iliac artery (IIA), 20.7%; Type II: PA emerges from the obturator artery (OA), 5.2%; type III: PA arises from the gluteal‐pudendal trunk (GPT), 27.5%; Type IV: PA originates from the internal pudendal artery (IPA), 29.3%; Type V: PA comes from the middle rectal artery (MRA), 15.5%. Other origins, not observed in our sample but described in the literature, were amalgamated under Type VI. The AD/GPT/IPA stem is the main source of the PA. Analysis of the definitions of IIA branches and the associated terminology is necessary for interpreting the results reported by several authors on different samples, but in general the results fit the meta‐analysis well. A new, simple, and complete classification for vascular variations of the PA is proposed. Clin. Anat. 30:71–80, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Isoflavone Content in Subterranean Clover Germplasm from Sardinia
Authors: Tava Aldo , Stochmal Anna , Pecetti Luciano
Published: July 2016

Subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) is an important pasture legume, and Sardinia is known as a major centre of diversification of this species. As other legumes, this clover produces biologically active flavonoids including the subclass of isoflavones that are natural phytoestrogens with positive health effects. Present sources of isoflavones for medical/nutraceutical treatments are red clover (Trifolium pratense) and soybean (Glycine max). This study assessed the content and composition of flavonoids in 14 subterranean clover genotypes from Sardinia, grown ex‐situ in comparison with two red clover ecotypes, to acquire information on the potential of the species as an alternative source of isoflavones for possible exploitation. Twenty compounds were tentatively identified across the two clovers after HPLC and LC/ESI‐MS analyses, including clovamide, four flavonols, and 15 isoflavones. Most compounds were present as glucosides or glucosyl malonates. Subterranean clover extracts mainly comprised of derivatives of the isoflavones genistein, biochanin A, and formononetin. Compared to red clover, subterranean clover had higher content of total isoflavones and lower concentration of total flavonols. The isoflavone concentration in subterranean clover was higher than literature data for soybean or red clover. The existing genotypic variation warrants the possibility of selecting varieties with high isoflavone concentration for nutraceutical or pharmaceutical purposes.
Evolution of Capsaicinoids in Peter Pepper (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) During Fruit Ripening
Authors: Barbero Gerardo F. , de Aguiar Ana C. , Carrera Ceferino , Olachea Ángel , Ferreiro‐González Marta , Martínez Julian , Palma Miguel , Barroso Carmelo G.
Published: July 2016

The evolution of individual and total contents of capsaicinoids present in Peter peppers (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) at different ripening stages has been studied. Plants were grown in a glasshouse and the new peppers were marked in a temporal space of ten days. The extraction of capsaicinoids was performed by ultrasound‐assisted extraction with MeOH. The capsaicinoids nordihydrocapsaicin (n‐DHC), capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, homocapsaicin, and homodihydrocapsaicin were analyzed by ultraperformance liquid chromatography (UHPLC)‐fluorescence and identified by UHPLC‐Q‐ToF‐MS. The results indicate that the total capsaicinoids increase in a linear manner from the first point of harvest at ten days (0.283 mg/g FW) up to 90 days, at which point they reach a concentration of 1.301 mg/g FW. The evolution as a percentage of the individual capsaicinoids showed the initial predominance of capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, and n‐DHC. Dihydrocapsaicin was the major capsaicinoid up to day 50 of maturation. After 50 days, capsaicin became the major capsaicinoid as the concentration of dihydrocapsaicin fell slightly. The time of harvest of Peter pepper based on the total capsaicinoids content should be performed as late as possible. In any case, harvesting should be performed before overripening of the fruit is observed.
Grasses andRhodococcuserythropolisBacteria for Bioremediation of Naturally Polluted Soils with Hydrocarbons
Authors: Mirzakhani Elnaz , Nejad Forogh Mortazaei
Published: July 2016

A combination of grasses, Kentucky bluegrass and Bermuda grass, withRhodococcuserythropolisbacteria was hypothesized for bioremediation of naturally polluted soils with hydrocarbons. A 90‐day greenhouse experiment as a factorial design with twelve treatments including soil inoculation with bacteria as well as soil sterilization using both plants in three replicates was performed. Both grasses significantly decreased the concentration of soil hydrocarbons compared with the control polluted soil, with Kentucky grass being the more effective one. The bacteria enhanced the bioremediation abilities of both plants, especially of Kentucky grass. Soil sterilization substantially reduced the rate of hydrocarbons in the soil. The positive effects of bacteria on the process of bioaugmentation make this method of bioremediation strongly recommendable.
Study of Hydrogen Peroxide Reactions on Manganese Oxides as a Tool To Decode the Oxygen Reduction Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Ryabova Anna S. , Bonnefont Antoine , Zagrebin Pavel , Poux Tiphaine , Paria Sena Robert , Hadermann Joke , Abakumov Artem M. , Kéranguéven Gwénaëlle , Istomin Sergey Y. , Antipov Evgeny V. , Tsirlina Galina A. , Savinova Elena R.
Published: July 2016

Hydrogen peroxide has been detected as a reaction intermediate in the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on transition‐metal oxides and other electrode materials. In this work, we studied the electrocatalytic and catalytic reactions of hydrogen peroxide on a set of Mn oxides, Mn2O3, MnOOH, LaMnO3, MnO2, and Mn3O4, that adopt different crystal structures to shed light on the mechanism of the ORR on these materials. We then combined experiment with kinetic modeling with the objective to correlate the differences in the ORR activity to the kinetics of the elementary reaction steps, and we uncovered the importance of structural and compositional factors in the catalytic activity of the Mn oxides. We concluded that the exceptional activity of Mn2O3 in the ORR is due to its high catalytic activity both in the reduction of oxygen to hydrogen peroxide and in the decomposition of the latter, and furthermore, we proposed a tentative link between crystal structure and reactivity.
Palladium Nanoparticles Supported on Three‐Dimensional Graphene Nanosheets: Superior Cathode Electrocatalysts
Authors: Kabir Sadia , Serov Alexey , Zadick Anicet , Artyushkova Kateryna , Atanassov Plamen
Published: July 2016

The oxygen reduction reaction taking place in the cathode compartment of alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells plays a crucial role in optimizing the electrochemical energy conversion efficiency of the cell. It has therefore become imperative to design electrocatalysts that can efficiently catalyze the electroreduction of oxygen in alkaline media. In this work, palladium nanoparticles were synthesized by using a surfactant‐free method and deposited on 3D graphene nanosheets (Pd/3D‐GNSs) with morphologies modified by sacrificial templating. The Pd nanoparticles dispersed on the 3D‐GNSs have a face‐centered cubic crystalline structure with an average particle size of 4–5 nm. By using various surface analysis techniques, it was shown that the porous 3D‐GNS supports were highly graphitized and facilitated the dispersion of Pd nanoparticles. By using cyclic voltammetry, it was demonstrated that, relative to Pd nanoparticles supported on commercial carbon black (Vulcan XC‐72R), the Pd/3D graphene nanocomposites had increased electrochemically accessible surface areas and significantly higher catalytic activity towards the four‐electron reduction of oxygen, with an onset potential closer to theoretical values and minimal hydrogen peroxide yields (3–4 %). Overall, the 3D graphene nanosheets significantly enhanced the performance of Pd nanoparticles in alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells by improving their dispersion, increasing the active surface area, and enhancing mass‐transport kinetics through its porous 3D morphology.
A Molecular Relay‐Modified CdS‐Sensitized Photoelectrochemical Cell for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Shen Chao , Chua Chin Sheng , Lim Yee‐Fun , Liu Jie , Wang Xingzhu , Liu Bin , Wang Qing
Published: July 2016

A novel approach to enhance the photocurrent and photostability of semiconductor‐sensitized photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) with a nonsacrificial electrolyte by grafting the CdS surface with a molecular relay, 4‐(N,N‐diphenylamino)benzoic acid (DPABA) is reported. Using this modification, the PECs are able to perform overall water splitting instead of only hydrogen generation. The probable reasons for the improvement are that the photogenerated holes in the CdS valence band could be rapidly removed by DPABA, which facilitates charge separation and thus suppresses the photocorrosion process. The use of such a method might further improve the performance of overall water splitting, together with superior light‐absorption sensitizers and more suitable molecular relays with better oxygen evolution reaction catalytic properties.
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Structures and Magnetic Properties of Iron Borates Containing Lanthanides Sr6LnFe(BO3)6 (Ln: La, Pr, Nd, Sm—Lu).
Authors: Inoue Hiroki , Doi Yoshihiro , Hinatsu Yukio
Published: July 2016

The polycrystalline iron borates of title are prepared by firing stoichiometric amounts of SrCO3, Ln2O3 resp.
ChemInform Abstract: Non‐Rare‐Earth BaMgAl10‐2xO17:xMn4+,xMg2+: A Narrow‐Band Red Phosphor for Use as a High‐Power Warm w‐LED.
Authors: Wang Bo , Lin Hang , Huang Feng , Xu Ju , Chen Hui , Lin Zebin , Wang Yuansheng
Published: July 2016

BaMgAl10‐2xO17:xMn4+, xMg2+ (x = 0.005—0.05) samples are prepared by firing and sintering stoichiometric amounts of BaCO3, MgO, Al2O3, and MnCO3 in air (1.
ChemInform Abstract: High Thermopower with Metallic Conductivity in p‐Type Li‐Substituted PbPdO2.
Authors: Lamontagne Leo K. , Laurita Geneva , Gaultois Michael W. , Knight Michael , Ghadbeigi Leila , Sparks Taylor D. , Gruner Markus E. , Pentcheva Rossitza , Brown Craig M. , Seshadri Ram
Published: July 2016

Polycrystalline PbPd1‐xLixO2 (x = 0—0.8) are prepared by repeated heating of stoichiometric amounts of PbCO3, PdO, and Li2CO3 (Al2O3 crucible, 700 °C, 12 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Peculiarities of Thermoelectric Half‐Heusler Phase Formation in Gd‐Ni‐Sb and Lu‐Ni‐Sb Ternary Systems.
Authors: Romaka V. V. , Romaka L. , Horyn A. , Rogl P. , Stadnyk Yu , Melnychenko N. , Orlovskyy M. , Krayovskyy V.
Published: July 2016

Phase equilibria in the Gd—Ni—Sb and Lu—Ni—Sb systems are studied at 873 K by powder XRD and microstructure analyses.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Electrochemical Properties of a Simple Magnesium Electrolyte for Magnesium/Sulfur Batteries.
Authors: Zhang Yuegang , et al.
Published: July 2016

[Mg(THF)6][AlCl4]2 is prepared by reaction of MgCl2 and AlCl3 in 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ionic liquid (95 °C, 1 d) to which THF is given.
ChemInform Abstract: Reduced Graphene‐Wrapped MnO2 Nanowires Self‐Inserted with Co3O4 Nanocages: Remarkable Enhanced Performances for Lithium‐Ion Anode Applications.
Authors: Zhu Qi , Li Yunhui , Gao Ying , Wang Xiao , Song Shuyan
Published: July 2016

MnO2 nanowires are prepared by preparing MnO2 nanowires by hydrothermal reaction of a 1:1 molar mixture of aqueous KMnO4 and NH4Cl (autoclave, 200 °C, 1 d) followed by attaching a zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF‐76) to the wires by an aqueous solution of ethylene imine polymer.
ChemInform Abstract: Substitution of Lithium for Magnesium, Zinc, and Aluminum in Li15Si4: Crystal Structures, Thermodynamic Properties, as well as 6Li and 7Li NMR Spectroscopy of Li15Si4 and Li15‐xMxSi4 (M: Mg, Zn, and Al).
Authors: Baran Volodymyr , van Wuellen Leo , Faessler Thomas F.
Published: July 2016

Single crystals of Li14MgSi4 (I) and Li14.05Zn0.95Si4 (II) are prepared by solid state reaction of Si, Si/Mg2Si powder or Zn, and Li (Ta ampoules in silica jackets, 750 °C, 1 h, controlled cooling).
ChemInform Abstract: Counteranion‐Stabilized Titanium(IV) Isopolyoxocationic Clusters Isolated from Water.
Authors: Zhang Guanyun , Hou Jie , Li Mingzhong , Tung Chen‐Ho , Wang Yifeng
Published: July 2016

Compounds (II) and (IV) are characterized by single crystal XRD and vibrational and NMR spectroscopy.
ChemInform Abstract: A5RE4X[TO4]4 Crystal Growth: Fluoride Flux Synthesis of Na5Ln4F[GeO4]4 (Ln: Pr, Nd), the First Quaternary Germanate Oxyfluorides.
Authors: Latshaw Allison M. , Wilkins Branford O. , Morrison Gregory , Smith Mark D. , zur Loye Hans‐Conrad
Published: July 2016

Crystals of the title compounds are prepared from mixtures of Ln2O3 (Ln: Pr, Nd), Na2CO3, and GeO2 using eutectic NaF/NaCl as flux (Ag crucible, 800 °C, 24 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Characterization of ReS2 and ReSe2 Layered Chalcogenide Single Crystals.
Authors: Jariwala Bhakti , Voiry Damien , Jindal Apoorv , Chalke Bhagyashree A. , Bapat Rudheer , Thamizhavel Arumugam , Chhowalla Manish , Deshmukh Mandar , Bhattacharya Arnab
Published: July 2016

Single crystals of ReS2 (I) and ReSe2 (II) are grown by a modified Bridgman method from the constituent elements (evacuated quartz tubes, 1100 °C, 24 h; cooling to 900 °C at a rate of 1 °C/h).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties of the Perovskite La0.3Sm0.2Sr0.5Ti0.5 Fe0.5O3.
Authors: Singh Devinder , Sharma Narayan Dutt , Mahajan Arun , Singh Suram
Published: July 2016

Polycrystalline La0.3Sm0.2Sr0.5Ti0.5 Fe0.5O3 is prepared by a citrate‐gel reaction starting with stoichiometric amounts of La2O3, Sm2O3, SrCO3, Ti(O‐iPr)4, and Fe(NO3)3 in aq.
ChemInform Abstract: Sponge‐Like Silver Obtained by Decomposition of Silver Nitrate Hexamethylenetetramine Complex.
Authors: Afanasiev Pavel
Published: July 2016

Decomposition of AgNO3·hexamethylenetetramine (obtained from an aqueous mixture of AgNO3 and hexamethylenetetramine) under N2 above 200 °C leads to the formation of sponge‐like silver with pore sizes from 10 μm to 10 nm.
ChemInform Abstract: Site‐Selective Acylations with Tailor‐Made Catalysts.
Authors: Huber Florian , Kirsch Stefan F.
Published: July 2016

A concept that aims at tailor‐made catalysts for the site‐specific acylation of alcohols is described.