bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE TRANSFER PHENOMENON OF ENERGY IN MECHANICAL SYSTEMS OF VIBRATION DAMPING
Authors:   Jagiellonian University, Nochnichenko Ihor , Yakhno Oleg , Kostiuk Dmytro , Kryvosheiev Vladyslav ,   National Technical University of Ukraine "Igor Sikorsky"
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the analysis of transfer processes from the point of view of the energy balance in the damping system. It is shown that damping systems are based on the physical process of converting mechanical energy into thermal energy, with subsequent dissipation into the environment. The full distribution of energy in damping problems takes the following form: the mechanical energy of movement is absorbed due to the hydraulic resistance of the fluid and is transformed into a dissipative component, which can reach up to 80% of the total energy in the system. The dependence of the total power loss of the shock absorber in variable operating conditions and the scheme of physical processes and energy transformations in damping problems, which are in dissipative processes, are given. The article provides principles that can be used to design devices and modules of a wide class of damper systems with the possibility of energy recovery and storage due to the introduction of a damper system, for example, a motor-generator, an induction coil, and other energy storage systems.
THE EFFECT OF ECONOMIZER APPLICATION ON ENERGY ECONOMY IN STENTER MACHINES USED
Authors:   Trakya University, Karacavus Kenan , Hamzaoglu Furkan ,   TermoIsıSistemleri A.Ş.
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the impact of economizer application on reducing energy consumption in the textile industry. It starts by analyzing the influence of traditional drying methods on both energy usage and operational costs. Next, it explains the operation of ramie machines and economizer technology. The primary focus is on the contributions of economizer application to energy efficiency. This includes highlighting the reduction in energy consumption and cost savings in operations. The study also underscores the importance of economizer application for environmental sustainability by helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, it discusses the investment cost and payback period of economizers, emphasizing how they can enhance a company's economic competitiveness. Real-world examples and success stories are provided to demonstrate the practicality of implementing economizers. In conclusion, this research underscores the significance and potential of economizer applications in improving energy economics within the textile sector. This technology not only enables energy savings but also contributes to environmental sustainability, supporting the creation of a more sustainable future in the textile industry. It also compares the energy consumption of a single-pass ramie machine with and without economizer use, assuming a 24-hour daily operation for 300 days, while thoroughly evaluating the associated advantages and disadvantages.
Thinking through ruination: an introduction
Authors: Clot-Garrell Anna
Published: April 2024

This introduction aims to present the main contributions of the two parts of the special section – titled “Thinking through ruination: theoretical and empirical approaches to the ruins of the Anthropocene”. The focus of this special section is to explore the anthropogenic ruins of our recent past within the current context of environmental challenges and threats. The compiled articles exemplify the significance of examining these ruins, highlighting their richness and cross-disciplinary nature. Additionally, the introduction underscores the fertile intersections between the articles and discusses their common motifs in addressing the ecological crisis through the lens of ruins and ruination processes.
"Metaphor-personification" in V.G. Korolenko's Siberian short stories (based on the material of the Yakut cycle)
Authors: Filippova Ayyana Alexsanovna , Basharina Zoya Konstantinovna
Published: April 2024

The subject of the study is the metaphor-personification involved in the creation of V.G. Korolenko's Siberian short stories. The research material was metaphors-personifications extracted by the continuous sampling method from the stories "Makar's Dream", "Sokolinets", included in the Yakut cycle of Siberian stories. The appeal to the metaphor-personification is justified by the fact that it plays a huge role in the construction of an artistic work. V. Korolenko's stories represent a rich material for research, as he developed his own individual author's metaphors based on impersonation. Metaphorization based on personification is a kind of creative handwriting of Korolenko. His works are rich in artistic means of expression, such as metaphor, personification, comparison, metonymy, hyperbole, which gives him a special original author's style.   The methodological and theoretical basis of the research is the work of G.N. Pospelov, A.B. Esin, L.S. Kulik. The work also takes into account the main theoretical works of leading modern Yakut scientists: O.I. Ivanova, K.I. Platonova, I.S. Yemelyanov. Creativity Korolenko is of great interest among modern researchers. Many aspects of his work in literary criticism have already been studied. But in this study, the authors make an attempt to study the functioning of metaphor-personification in his Siberian stories, in particular, in the Siberian stories (Yakut cycle). During the study, it was revealed that V.G. Korolenko skillfully uses the technique of anthropomorphism in his stories. With the help of metaphor, personification and other artistic means of expression, he enlivens and humanizes nature. Korolenko always serves as the personification of the forces of nature to reveal a person’s state of mind, thoughts and feelings. Thanks to metaphor-personification, the world around us comes to life. Thus, the lines between the animate and inanimate world are erased.
Electron transport characteristics in water under electrostrictive effect
Authors: Li Yuan , Li Chun-Peng , Li Lin-Bo , Yuan Lei , Wang Ya-Zhen , Shi Ya-Xuan , Zhang Guan-Jun ,   School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
Published: April 2024

The transport characteristics of electrons are crucial for the initiation and development of pulse discharge in water. In this work, we develop a physical model of electron transport that consides elastic and inelastic collision cross sections. The purpose of this study is to investigate frequency variations of elastic collisions, ionization and excitation collisions with different initial electron energy values, and to explore the characteristic of electron energy loss in water. The Monte Carlo method is employed to track structure characteristics of electron transmission and scattering under varying energy values. The results show that the electrons of lower energy (~20 eV) are significantly impacted by the water molecule scattering, hence their transmission capacities are weakened. When the incident energy of electron reaches 100 eV, the scattering deviation distance is roughly equivalent to the transmission depth, about 6–8 nm, and the maximum deviation angle θshift ~ 60°. When the electron incident energy is in a range of 10–1000 eV, the number of elastic collisions is much greater than the number of excitation and ionization collisions, and the number of ionization collisions and excitation collisions increases significantly with the increase of electron energy. The higher the electron incident energy, the greater the energy loss is. However, the energy loss decreases sharply with the extension of penetration distance. For the ionization collision, the average ionization energy loss, W, decreases rapidly with the increase of electron energy, and ultimately maintains at a level of 20–30 eV, which is consistent with the experimental results reported.
Algunos aportes del Tomus ad Armenios de Proclo de Constantinopla
Authors: Sotomayor-Larraín Cristián
Published: April 2024

El Tomus es un documento de reconocido valor doctrinal. La respuesta del Patriarca se ubica después de la Fórmula de Unión y antes del concilio de Calcedonia. En este trabajo se explora su posible influencia en la decisión que siguió. Para esto, compara su contenido con algunos documentos precedentes y con el concilio del año 451. Asimismo, examina el vocabulario técnico que emplea, buscando su grado de coincidencia con los significados anteriores y posteriores de los mismos términos. Luego confronta sus afirmaciones cristológicas con las que se encuentra en los mismos documentos antes mencionados. Finalmente, resume las consecuencias salvíficas que Proclo destaca con motivo de la economía de la encarnación.
Association of Meal Irregularity and Chronotypes with Dietary and Sleep Patterns: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Alhussain Maha H , Ramadhan Fatimah R Al- , Binobead Manal Abdulaziz , Arzoo Shaista
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The circadian clock is a homeostatic regulation system comprising clock genes in the body that regulate various physiological and behavioural processes. Diet determines our health and the timing and periodicity of feeding, in addition to nutritional quality, influence circadian rhythms and metabolism significantly. Aim: To assess the association of meal irregularity and chronotypes with dietary and sleep patterns. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 375 female adults using the convenience sampling method. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary patterns, sleep patterns, chronotypes, and physical activity was collected through a self-administered questionnaire consisting of 26 questions. Participants aged 18-40 years and who completed the study questionnaire were enrolled. Pregnant or lactating mothers and users of tranquilisers and psychotropic drugs were excluded. T-tests and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used for continuous variables, and the Chisquare test was used for categorical variables. Results: A total of 197 (52.5%) participants reported consuming their meals at a regular time every day, while 178 (47.5%) did not. Concerning eating meals at a regular time every day, a significant association was found between eating meals at a regular time every day and the number of meals per day (Chi-squared, p-value<0.001). The data indicated that most participants were of the intermediate type (190, 50.7%), followed by the morning type (111, 29.6%), and then the evening type (74, 19.7%). Regarding the Morning-Evening Questionnaire (MEQ), there were significant associations between MEQ and the time of the last meal (Chi-squared, p-value=0.001), eating a meal after 9 pm (Chi-squared, p-value<0.001), and the need for a nap in the middle of the day (Chi-squared, p-value<0.001). Conclusion: The present study suggests that the regular timing of eating is associated with the number of meals per day. Dietary and sleep patterns, including the time of the last meal, eating a meal after 9 pm, and the need for a nap in the middle of the day, were also associated with chronotype.
Modified Universal Integral Regulator for Quadrotor UAV in the Presence of External Disturbances
Authors: Campos Rafaella Barrêto , Díaz-Méndez Yohan Alí , Sousa Marcelo Santiago de , Cunha Sebastião Simões
Published: April 2024

Universal Integral Regulator (UIR) is a widely used control law for control problems, it is based on sliding mode control with the inclusion of a Conditional Integrator (CI). In the original approach of this control law, the main gain is considered a constant. The purpose of this paper is to solve a quadrotor tracking problem using a new nonlinear control law based on the quadrotor tracking problem using a new nonlinear control law based on the UIR, considering the main gain dependent on the tracking error (variable gain), the control law is called in the present work as Modified Universal Integral Regulator (MUIR). It is expected that the MUIR can improve the transient response and reduce the control demand when compared to previous approaches of similar controllers. The adopted Newton-Euler quadrotor model and the controller design are treated separately in two subsystems, attitude and position control loops. The stability of MUIR is demonstrated by the use of a candidate Lyapunov function. Finally, in order to validate the robustness and choice of the proposed controllers, several numerical simulations were developed in the presence of external disturbances. Less error and control activity during transient response were observed when compared to the original Universal Integral Regulator controller.
Critical Analysis of Group Dynamics Effectiveness of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) Members in Assam, India
Authors: Singha Amrita , Sharma J.K. , Singha A.K.
Published: April 2024

Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) is a legal entity formed by farmers with a major role in integrating both forward and backward linkages in the agricultural sector for enhancing farmers' income and their livelihoods through reduced cultivation and transaction costs. The present study to analyse the effectiveness of group dynamics of FPOs members was conducted in Lower Brahmaputra Valley Zone (LBVZ) of Assam. In doing so, it utilized the descriptive research design following an ex-post-facto approach to fulfil the objectives of the study and to collect the cross-sectional data from 120 FPO member respondents through personal interview method during 2022. The study reveals that majority of the FPO members had a medium level of group dynamics effectiveness in all selected 12 indicators. The study also shows that among the identified 12 indicators to measure group dynamic effectiveness (GDE) of FPOs, group atmosphere was found with the highest mean value closely followed by teamwork, participation and group cohesiveness. The other indicators in order of importance based on their corresponding mean values were achievement of FPOs, confirmation to group norms, task function, decision making procedure, interpersonal trust, empathy and group communication. As many as 70 per cent members of FPOs in study areas had reported medium level of achievement of FPO, still there is huge scope for their further improvement and achievement in agriculture and allied activities and thereby enhance their income on sustainable basis. The study further reveals that Manikpur Joha Rice Producer Company Ltd. of Chirang district had the highest total GDEI score of 91.027. While Aya Baikho FPO Co-operative Society Ltd. of Goalpara district had the lowest GDEI score of 60.441.
Empowering Diversity: Edu-Ecotourism as a Platform for Multicultural Islamic Education Value in Coastal Communities
Authors: Hambali . , Said M. Mas’ud , Ghoni Muhammad Djunaidi
Published: April 2024

This research aims to provide a deeper understanding of the process of Empowering Diversity: Edu- Ecotourism as a Platform for Multicultural Islamic Education Value in Coastal Communities in the Mandaran neighborhood money village community (community of the Mandaran hamlet, Pesisir village, Besuki sub-district, Situbondo district). In order to obtain valid research data, research was carried out using a qualitative approach and case ethnography type. The research was conducted in the Mandaran neighborhood money village community (the Mandaran hamlet community, Pesisir village, Besuki sub-district, Situbondo district) for six months from January 2023 to June 2023. The data collection technique used the snowball sampling technique. The data sources used were primary and secondary. Data collection techniques using participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies. Meanwhile, the data analysis technique uses the Spredly model with four steps: domain analysis, taxonomic analysis, component analysis, and theme analysis. The results of the field research found that the process of process of Empowering Diversity: Edu-Ecotourism as a Platform for Multicultural Islamic Education Value in Coastal Communities in the Mandaran neighborhood money village community (community of the Mandaran hamlet, Pesisir village, Besuki sub-district, Situbondo d is organizationally, namely formulating the association's vision, mission and goals, in terms of understanding, namely formulate community regulations and policies, and in implementation, namely building a Gazebo as a center for activities, edu-eco-tourism activities, religious activities, social-community activities, and role models.
A Note on the Risk Model with Dependence and Capital Injections
Authors: Li Cailing
Published: April 2024

The note considers a risk model with dependence and capital injections, where the dependence structure is modeled by a Farlie-Gumbel-Morgenstern copula. In the risk model, the initial surplus starts from a level u \(\ge\) h, where h > 0 is a fix constant. The author derives an expression for the Laplace transform of the Gerber-Shiu function. In particular, an explicit formula for the Gerber-Shiu function is obtained when the initial surplus is h.
Overview of Marker-assisted Selection in Animal Breeding
Authors: Sharma Prachi , Doultani Shilpa , Hadiya K.K. , George LB , Highland HN
Published: April 2024

Marker-assisted selection (MAS) in animal breeding has undergone transformative advancements, reshaping genetic improvement and reproductive traits in livestock and expanding into new domains. From its inception in the late 20th century to current developments, MAS has evolved dynamically through the integration of genomic technologies, sophisticated statistical models, and innovative gene editing techniques. These advancements have significantly enhanced the precision and impact of MAS, revolutionizing genetic improvement and reproductive performance. By synergizing MAS with cutting-edge technologies, the collective aim is to optimize reproductive performance and genetic potential, fostering a sustainable and productive future for livestock breeding and beyond. The genetic markers, typically DNA sequences or genes linked to specific traits, revolutionized animal breeding by enabling the identification of animals carrying favorable genetic variants without the need for resource-intensive phenotypic evaluations. Marker-assisted selection in reproduction also laid the foundation for genomic selection, an advanced approach utilizing genome-wide markers to estimate breeding values and predict genetic potential. This comprehensive review encapsulates the journey of MAS, emphasizing its historical significance, current advancements, and promising future trajectories, showcasing its pivotal role in shaping the landscape of animal breeding and reproductive science.
Biological Approaches for Sustainable Pest and Disease Management in Pulse Crops
Authors: Khan Anam , Reddy Kovvuri Janakadatta , Mohanty Lalita Kumar , Kashyap Vivek , Patel Amit Kumar , Panotra Narinder , Pandey Shivam Kumar
Published: April 2024

Pulse crops, including lentils, peas, chickpeas, and beans, play a crucial role in addressing global food security and nutritional needs. However, their production is often hampered by various pests and diseases, leading to significant yield losses. Conventional pest and disease management practices, heavily reliant on synthetic chemical pesticides, have raised concerns about environmental sustainability, human health, and the development of resistance in target organisms. In recent years, biological approaches have emerged as promising alternatives for sustainable pest and disease management in pulse crops. This review provides a comprehensive overview of various biological control strategies, including the use of beneficial microorganisms, plant extracts, and other eco-friendly methods. The review discusses the mode of action, efficacy, and potential applications of these approaches in combating major pests and diseases affecting pulse crops. Additionally, it highlights the challenges and future prospects of integrating biological control methods into integrated pest and disease management programs. By adopting these sustainable practices, pulse crop production can be enhanced while minimizing the environmental footprint and promoting long-term ecological balance. The review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, extension specialists, and stakeholders in the agricultural sector, emphasizing the importance of biological approaches in achieving sustainable and resilient pulse crop production systems.
Correlation between Postoperative Visual Acuity and Patient-Related Outcomes in Senile Cataract
Authors: Alfin Ruth Jeneral , Alada Joel James
Published: April 2024

Aims: This study assessed visual function (VF) and quality of life (QOL) post cataract surgery and their relationship with post-operative presenting visual acuity (PVA) in patients operated for senile cataract in two hospitals in Jos, North-central Nigeria.

Study Design: A retrospective, hospital-based, cross-sectional survey.

Place and duration of study: The study took place in the Eye units of the Bingham University Teaching Hospital and the Faith Alive Foundation Hospital both in Jos, North-Central Nigeria between June and August 2021.

Methodology: Patients aged 40 years and above, operated on for senile cataract within 18 months before the onset of the study were included. Sociodemographic data and surgical history were obtained from patients and their surgical records. Visual acuity at presentation was assessed at six weeks or more postoperative period with available correction using Snellen’s acuity and converted to the LogMAR scale. A trained research assistant administered the VF-14 item and QOL-12 item questionnaires and responses were scored using Fletcher’s guidelines. Data was analyzed with STATA version 16.0 using the geometric mean, range, percentages, and Spearman’s rank test.

Results: Eighty-seven (69.6%) participants aged 40-104 years, mean of 67.2 ± 12.0 years with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1 were enrolled. Their mean PVA was 0.6LogMAR (6/24) which improved to 0.3LogMAR (6/12). The mean total VF and QOL were 87.1% and 97.5% respectively. Depth perception (99.6%), visual perception, and peripheral vision (94.2% each) scored the highest in the VF subscales.  Mental well-being (97.9%) scored the highest in the QOL subscale, followed by social interaction (97.3%). There was a negative correlation between PVA and mean total VF (rs = -0.4, P<0.0001) and QOL (rs = -0.3, P = 0.011).

Conclusion: In this study population, VF and QOL scores improved with increasing PVA.
Mindfulness as a means of reducing aggressive behavior: dispositional and situational evidence
Authors: Heppner Whitney L. , Kernis Michael H. , Lakey Chad E. , Campbell W. Keith , Goldman Brian M. , Davis Patti J. , Cascio Edward V.
Published: May 2008

Recent research and theory suggest that mindfulness, or enhanced attention and awareness in the present moment [Brown and Ryan, 2003], may be linked to lower levels of ego‐involvement and, as a result, may have implications for lowering hostility and aggressive behavior. Accordingly, we conducted two studies to examine the potential aggression‐mitigating role of mindfulness. In Study 1, we found that dispositional mindfulness correlated negatively with self‐reported aggressiveness and hostile attribution bias. In Study 2, participants made mindful before receiving social rejection feedback displayed less‐aggressive behavior than did rejected participants not made mindful. Discussion centers on potential mechanisms by which mindfulness operates to reduce aggressive behavior. Aggr. Behav. 34:486–496, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic considerations in the synthesis of self‐optimizing control structures
Authors: Baldea Michael , Araujo Antonio , Skogestad Sigurd , Daoutidis Prodromos
Published: May 2008

This work builds on our prior results to develop novel control structure design principles for integrated plants featuring multiple time scale dynamics. Specifically, the concept of self‐optimizing control can be used to identify the variables that must be controlled to achieve acceptable economic performance during plant operation. This approach does not, however, provide guidelines on control structure design and control loop tuning; a detailed controllability and dynamic analysis is generally needed to this end. In this work, we employ a singular perturbation‐based framework, which accounts for the time scale separation present in the open loop dynamics of integrated plants, to identify the available controlled and manipulated variables in each time scale. The resulting controller design procedure thus accounts for both economic optimality and dynamic performance. The developed concepts are subsequently successfully applied on a reactor‐separator process with recycle and purge. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Bimodal micro‐mesoporous aluminosilicates for heavy oil cracking: Porosity tuning and catalytic properties
Authors: Tan Qingfeng , Fan Yu , Liu Haiyan , Song Tengchun , Shi Gang , Shen Baojian , Bao Xiaojun
Published: May 2008

Through a two‐step synthesis procedure, bimodal micro‐mesoporous aluminosilicates, denoted as B‐MASs, were synthesized by assembling preformed zeolite Y nanoclusters using a triblock polymer as template. By controlling the aging conditions of preformed zeolite nanoclusters the porosity of the B‐MASs was suitably tuned. The characterization results showed that the pore walls of the mesoporous phase in theB‐MASs consist of zeolite Y nanoclusters and the microporosity of the B‐MASs is inherited from the incorporated nanoclusters. It was suggested that more incorporation of the well‐developed zeolite nanoclusters accounts for the increasing microporosity of the B‐MASs with the increasing aging temperature of the preformed zeolite nanoclusters. The incorporated nanoclusters have much shorter pore channels and mainly contribute weak Lewis acid sites to the B‐MASs. The resulting bimodal micro‐mesoporous materials B‐MASs with mutually connected mesopores and shorter micropores showed superior catalytic properties when used for cracking heavy crude oil. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
A comparison of selected international arbitration rules
Authors: Certilman Steven A.
Published: May 2008

Steven A. Certilman, of Stamford, Conn., provides a line‐by‐line comparison of five sets of often‐used international arbitration rules.
The survey says: Practitioners cautiously move toward accepting same‐neutral med‐arb, but party sophistication is mandatory
Authors: Phillips Gerald F.
Published: May 2008

In the second of two parts, Gerald F. Phillips, of Los Angeles, shares the results of a poll of dozens of leading arbitrators on using same‐neutral med‐arb, a controversial process Phillips strongly supports.
In situ gel forming systems of poloxamer 407 and hydroxypropyl cellulose or hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose mixtures for controlled delivery of vancomycin
Authors: Talasaz Azita H. H. , Ghahremankhani Ali A. , Moghadam Shadi H. , Malekshahi Mazda R. , Atyabi Fatemeh , Dinarvand Rassoul
Published: May 2008

Poloxamers are a family of triblock copolymers consisting of two hydrophilic blocks of polyoxyethylene separated by a hydrophobic block of polyoxypropylene, which form micelles at low concentrations and form clear thermally reversible gels at high concentrations. The objective of this study was to develop an in situ gel forming drug delivery system for vancomycin using the minimum possible ratio of poloxamer 407 (P407). Decreasing the concentration of poloxamer could reduce the risk of hypertriglyceridemia induction. Different additives were added to the poloxamer formulations. It was observed that among different additives, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) can decrease poloxamer concentration required to form in situ gelation from 18 to 10%. The dynamic viscoelastic properties of the samples were determined. Both the storage modulus and the loss modulus of the samples increased abruptly as the temperature passed a certain point. The gelling temperature was in the order of P407 : HPC (10 : 10 w/w) < P407 : HPMC (10 : 10 w/w) < P407 : HPMC (15 : 5 w/w) < P407 : HPC (15 : 5 w/w). Drug release rate could be controlled by changing the type and ratio of additives as well as the amount of drug loaded. It can be concluded that combining P407 and cellulose derivatives could be a promising strategy for preparation of thermally reversible in situ gel forming delivery systems with low poloxamer concentration. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Nanoelectrocatalyst Based on High‐Density Au/Pt Hybrid Nanoparticles Supported on a Silica Nanosphere
Authors: Guo Shaojun , Zhai Junfeng , Fang Youxing , Dong Shaojun , Wang Erkang
Published: May 2008

A high‐efficiency nanoelectrocatalyst based on high‐density Au/Pt hybrid nanoparticles supported on a silica nanosphere (Au‐Pt/SiO2) has been prepared by a facile wet chemical method. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy are employed to characterize the obtained Au‐Pt/SiO2. It was found that each hybrid nanosphere is composed of high‐density small Au/Pt hybrid nanoparticles with rough surfaces. These small Au/Pt hybrid nanoparticles interconnect and form a porous nanostructure, which provides highly accessible activity sites, as required for high electrocatalytic activity. We suggest that the particular morphology of the Au‐Pt/SiO2 may be the reason for the high catalytic activity. Thus, this hybrid nanomaterial may find a potential application in fuel cells.
Maximizing the liquid fuel yield in a biorefining process
Authors: Zhang Bo , von Keitz Marc , Valentas Kenneth
Published: May 2008

Biorefining strives to recover the maximum value from each fraction, at minimum energy cost. In order to seek an unbiased and thorough assessment of the alleged opportunity offered by biomass fuels, the direct conversion of various lignocellulosic biomass was studied: aspen pulp wood (Populus tremuloides), aspen wood pretreated with dilute acid, aspen lignin, aspen logging residues, corn stalk, corn spathe, corn cob, corn stover, corn stover pellet, corn stover pretreated with dilute acid, and lignin extracted from corn stover. Besides the heating rate, the yield of liquid products was found to be dependent on the final liquefaction temperature and the length of liquefaction time. The major compounds of the liquid products from various origins were identified by GC–MS. The lignin was found to be a good candidate for the liquefaction process, and biomass fractionation was necessary to maximize the yield of the liquid bio‐fuel. The results suggest a biorefinery process accompanying pretreatment, fermentation to ethanol, liquefaction to bio‐crude oil, and other thermo‐conversion technologies, such as gasification. Other biorefinery options, including supercritical water gasification and the effectual utilization of the bio‐crude oil, are also addressed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Manufacture of stable palladium and gold nanoparticles on native and genetically engineered flagella scaffolds
Authors: Deplanche Kevin , Woods Richard D. , Mikheenko Iryna P. , Sockett R. Elizabeth , Macaskie Lynne E.
Published: May 2008

The use of bacterial flagella as templates for the immobilization of Pd and Au nanoparticles is described. Complete coverage of D. desulfuricans flagellar filaments by Pd(0) nanoparticles was obtained via the H2‐mediated reduction of [Pd(NH3)4]Cl2 but similar results were not obtained using HAuCl4. The introduction of additional cysteine‐derived thiol residues in the E. coli FliC protein increased Au(III) sorption and reduction onto the surface of the flagellar filament and resulted in the production of stabilized Au(0) nanoparticles of ∼20–50 nm diameter. We demonstrate the application of molecular engineering techniques to manufacture biologically passivated Au(0) nanoparticles of a size suitable for catalytic applications. Biotechnol. Bioeng. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Substrate‐Induced Stable Enzyme–Inhibitor Complex Formation Allows Tight Binding of Novel 2‐Aminopyrimidin‐4(3H)‐ones to Drug‐Resistant HIV‐1 Reverse Transcriptase Mutants
Authors: Samuele Alberta , Facchini Marcella , Rotili Dante , Mai Antonello , Artico Marino , Armand‐Ugón Mercedes , Esté José A. , Maga Giovanni
Published: May 2008

We recently reported the synthesis and biological evaluation of a novel series of 5‐alkyl‐2‐(N,N‐disubstituted)amino‐6‐(2,6‐difluorophenylalkyl)‐3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐4(3 H)‐ones (F2‐N,N‐DABOs). These compounds are highly active against both wild‐type HIV‐1 and the K103N, Y181C, and Y188L mutant strains. Herein we present novel 6‐(2‐chloro‐6‐fluorophenylalkyl)‐N,N‐DABO (2‐Cl‐6‐F‐N,N‐DABO) derivatives and investigate the molecular basis for their high‐affinity binding to HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase (RT). Our results show that the new compounds display higher association rates than the difluoro derivatives toward wild‐type HIV‐1 RT or drug‐resistant RT mutant forms. We also show that they preferentially associate to either the free enzyme or the enzyme–nucleic acid binary complex, and that this binding is stabilized upon formation of the ternary complex between HIV‐1 RT and both the nucleic acid and nucleotide substrates. Interestingly, one compound showed dissociation rates from the ternary complex with RT mutants K103N and Y181I 10–20‐fold slower than from the corresponding complex with wild‐type RT.
Expression of the basal cell markers of taste buds in the anterior tongue and soft palate of the mouse embryo
Authors: Nakayama Ayumi , Miura Hirohito , Shindo Yoichiro , Kusakabe Yuko , Tomonari Hiroshi , Harada Shuitsu
Published: May 2008

Although embryonic expression of Shh in the fungiform papilla placodes has a critical role in fungiform papilla patterning, it remains unclear whether its appearance indicates the differentiation of the basal cells of taste buds. To examine the embryonic development of the basal cells, the expression of Shh, Prox1, and Mash1 was determined in the anterior tongue and soft palate in mouse embryos by in situ hybridization. In the anterior tongue, Prox1 was coexpressed with Shh from the beginning of Shh expression in the fungiform papilla placodes at E12.5. Shh was expressed in the soft palate in a band‐like pattern in the anteriormost region and in a punctate pattern in the posterior region at E14.5. The number (21.4 ± 4.3, at E14.5) of locations where Shh was observed (i.e., spots) rapidly increased and reached a peak level (54.8 ± 4.0 at E15.5). Also in the soft palate, Prox1 was coexpressed with Shh from the beginning of Shh expression. These results suggest that basal cell differentiation occurs synchronously with the patterning of Shh spots both in the anterior tongue and in the soft palate. In contrast, Mash1 expression lagged behind the expression of Shh and Prox1 and began after the number of Shh spots had reached its peak level in the soft palate. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry of PGP9.5 and Shh revealed that epithelial innervation slightly preceded Mash1 expression both in the tongue and in the soft palate. This is the first report describing the time courses of the embryonic expression of basal cell markers of taste buds. J. Comp. Neurol. 509:211–224, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Integrin β1 is involved in the signaling of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor
Authors: Cao Jun‐Ping , Yu Jing‐Kao , Li Chong , Sun Yu , Yuan Hong‐Hua , Wang Hong‐Jun , Gao Dian‐Shuai
Published: May 2008

Glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a potent neurotrophic factor for the substantia nigra (SN) dopamine (DA) neurons. The transmembrane signaling of GDNF is mediated by a unique receptor system, including the ligand binding receptor GDNF family receptor α (GFRα) and the transmembrane signaling receptor Ret or neural cell adhesion molecule‐140 (NCAM‐140). Here, we found that another transmembrane cell adhesion molecule, integrin, a heterodimer consisting of α and β subunits, also mediates the transmembrane signaling of GDNF. The results showed that the level of phosphorylated Src homology 2 domain containing (Shc), which was associated with the cytoplasmic domain of integrin β1, increased after GDNF administration. Coimmunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that integrin β1 could form a complex with GFRαl. The simulation of molecular modeling showed that four H‐bonds were formed between integrin β1 and GFRα. These data indicate that integrin β1 is involved in the transmembrane signaling of GDNF and suggest that integrin β1 may be an alternative signaling receptor for GDNF. J. Comp. Neurol. 509:203–210, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Growth and characterization of a new potential second harmonic generation material from the amino acid family: L‐Valinium picrate
Authors: Martin Britto Dhas S. A. , Natarajan S.
Published: May 2008

L‐Valinium picrate (C5H12NO2)+. (C6H2N3O7)–, a non‐linear optical material from the amino acid family which has large second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency, was grown by slow evaporation method. Characterization of the crystals was made using single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The functional groups and the modes of vibrations were found by using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The second harmonic generation (SHG) conversion efficiency was investigated using the Kurtz and Perry method. The SHG conversion efficiency is 60 times higher than that of the standard KDP and 8 times higher than that of the standard Urea and the optical transparency was analyzed using UV‐visible‐NIR absorption spectrum. The structural features of the material leading to the large SHG efficiency are discussed. Microhardness and dielectric studies were also carried out. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystal structure of the quaternary alloy CuTaInSe3
Authors: Delgado G. E. , Mora A. J. , Grima‐Gallardo P. , Durán S. , Muñoz M. , Quintero M.
Published: May 2008

The crystal structure of the quaternary compound CuTaInSe3 belonging to the system (CuInSe2)1‐x(TaSe)x with x= 0.5, was analyzed using X‐ray powder diffraction data. This material is isostructural with the CuFeInSe3 compound, and crystallize in the tetragonal space group P42c (Nº 112), Z = 1, with unit cell parameters a = 5.7831(1) Å, c = 11.6227(4) Å, V = 388.71(2) Å3. The Rietveld refinement of 18 instrumental and structural variables led to Rp = 8.0%, Rwp = 9.5%, Rexp = 6.3% and χ2 = 1.5 for 4501 step intensities and 144 independent reflections. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Temperature dependence of growth orientation and surface morphology of Li‐doped ZnO thin films on SiO2/Si substrates
Authors: El‐Maghraby E. M.
Published: May 2008

ZnO thin films doped with Li (ZnO:Li) were deposited onto SiO2/Si (100) substrates by direct‐current sputtering technique in the temperature range from room temperature to 500 °C. The crystalline structure, surface morphology and composition, and optical reflectivity of the deposited films were studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and optical reflection measurements. Rough surface p‐type ZnO thin film deposition was confirmed. The results indicated that the ZnO:Li films growed at low temperatures show c‐axis orientation, while a‐axis growth direction is preferable at high temperatures. Moreover, the optical reflectivity from the surface of the films matched very well with the obtained results. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystal growth of calcium oxalate induced by the extracts of Semen Plantaginis and Folium Pyrrosiae
Authors: Zhang Yongtai , Tao Jiansheng , Feng Nianping , Han Xiangdong
Published: May 2008

The crystallization of calcium oxalate (CaOxa) in aqueous solutions of the extracts of Semen Plantaginis and Folium Pyrrosiae has been investigated, focusing on the inhibition mechanism of some herbs on stone formation. It has been shown that in the presence of extracts of above two herbs, calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) crystals with typical morphologies of tetragonal bipyramids were obtained. This suggests that the extracts of Semen Plantaginis and Folium Pyrrosiae can promote the formation of thermodynamically unstable COD, and inhibit the formation of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), a major component of urinary stone. The formation mechanism of COD crystals induced by Semen Plantaginis and Folium Pyrrosiae is also discussed, indicating that the bioorganic molecules in the extracts of the herbs can induce the nucleation and growth of COD crystals. This study can help us make clear the inhibition mechanism of some herbs on stone formation that is in favor of the prevention and treatment of urolithiasis. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Influence of temperature on the microcrystalline structure of thermally evaporated Sb2S3 thin films
Authors: Tigau N.
Published: May 2008

Thin films of antimony trisulfide (Sb2S3) were prepared by thermal evaporation under vacuum (p=5×10–5 torr) on glass substrates maintained at various temperatures between 293 K and 523 K. Their microstructural properties have obtained by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The electron diffraction analysis showed the occurrence of amorphous to polycrystalline transition in the films deposited at higher temperature of substrates (523 K). The polycrystalline thin films were found to have an orthorhombic structure. The interplanar distances and unit‐cell parameters were determined by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and compared with the standard values for Sb2S3. The surface morphology of Sb2S3 thin films was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The optical transmission spectra at normal incidence of Sb2S3 thin films have been measured in the spectral range of 400–1400 nm. The analysis of the absorption spectra revealed indirect energy gaps, characterizing of amorphous films, while the polycrystalline films exhibited direct energy gap. From the photon energy dependence of absorption coefficient, the optical band gap energy, Eg, were calculated for each thin films. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Improvement of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes after long‐term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
Authors: Noh Yun‐Hee , Lee Se‐Myung , Kim Eun‐Ju , Kim Do‐Young , Lee Hyunil , Lee Jun‐Ho , Lee Ju‐Han , Park So‐Young , Koo Ja‐Hyun , Wang Jun‐Ho , Lim In‐Ja , Choi Soo‐Bong
Published: May 2008

Background

The effects of long‐term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) on cardiovascular risk factors such as hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, and proinflammatory cytokine levels have not been assessed so far in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We analysed the levels of HbA1c, serum lipids, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α), and interleukin 6 (IL‐6) at 0, 2, and 30 weeks after CSII in 15 patients with type 2 diabetes (mean age, 53.3 ± 10.1 years; disease duration, 9.4 ± 5.3 years) without previous history of major cardiovascular events.

Results

At week 30, CSII significantly lowered HbA1c by 5.0 ± 0.9% compared to baseline (7.9 ± 1.9%, p < 0.001) and improved high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc; 1.09 ± 0.16 at baseline vs 1.25 ± 0.15 mmol/L at week 30; p < 0.05) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc)/HDLc ratios (2.8 ± 1.4 at baseline vs 2.2 ± 0.9 at week 30; p < 0.05). CSII also decreased the proportion of patients with dyslipidaemia at week 30. At baseline, TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels were up‐regulated (2.65 ± 4.04 and 2.82 ± 1.81 pg/mL, respectively) compared to the normal control (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively); however, cytokine levels decreased significantly at week 30 (1.44 ± 2.25 and 1.99 ± 1.05 pg/mL, respectively; p = NS vs control).

Conclusions

Long‐term CSII alone decreased cardiovascular risk factors in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, suggesting that the synchronization of sufficient insulin peaks with meal ingestion and continuous pulsatile infusion of basal insulin corrects metabolic derangements. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anti‐CD4‐mediated selection of Treg in vitro – in vitro suppression does not predict in vivo capacity to prevent graft rejection
Authors: Oliveira Vanessa , Sawitzki Birgit , Chapman Stephanie , Appelt Christine , Gebuhr Inga , Wieckiewicz Joanna , Long Elaine , Wood Kathryn J.
Published: May 2008

Regulatory T cells (Treg) have been shown to play a role in the prevention of autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection. Based on an established protocol known to generate alloantigen reactive Treg in vivo, we have developed a strategy for the in vitro selection of Treg. Stimulation of unfractionated CD4+ T cells from naive CBA.Ca (H2k) mice with C57BL/10 (H2b) splenocytes in the presence of an anti‐CD4 antibody, YTS 177, resulted in the selection of Treg able to inhibit proliferation of naive T cells. In vivo, the cells were able to prevent rejection of 80% C57BL/10 skin grafts when co‐transferred to CBA.Rag–/– mice together with naive CD45RBhighCD4+ cells. Purification of CD62L+CD25+CD4+ cells from the cultures enriched for cells with regulatory activity; as now 100% survival of C57BL/10 skin grafts was achieved. Furthermore, differentiation of Treg could be also achieved when using purified CD25–CD4+ naive T cells as a starting population. Interestingly, further in vitro expansion resulted in a partial loss of CD4+ cells expressing both CD62L and CD25 and abrogation of their regulatory activity in vivo. This study shows that alloantigen stimulation in the presence of anti‐CD4 in vitro provides a simple and effective strategy to generate alloreactive Treg.
Rescue of cytotoxic function in the CD8α knockout mouse by removal of MHC class II
Authors: Riddle David S. , Miller Peter J. , Vincent Benjamin G. , Kepler Thomas B. , Maile Rob , Frelinger Jeffrey A. , Collins Edward J.
Published: May 2008

CD8 plays an important role in the activity of cytolytic T cells (CTL). However, whether or not CD8 is required for the development of CTL has not been clearly determined. Cytotoxic activity in the CD8α knockout mouse is difficult to induce, and has only been demonstrated against allogenic MHC targets. The lack of cytotoxicity may result from impaired lineage commitment of CTL in the absence of CD8, or diminished competitiveness during selection against (unimpaired) development of CD4+ T cells on MHC class II (MHC II). To differentiate between these possibilities, we have generated a double‐knockout mouse (MHC II–/–CD8α–/–). In MHC II–/–CD8α–/– mice, developing MHC class I (MHC I)‐reactive thymocytes cannot rely upon CD8 for selection, but they also cannot be overwhelmed by efficient selection of MHC II‐reactive thymocytes. In this mouse, a large, heterogeneous population of peripheral coreceptor double‐negative (DN) and CD4+ T cells develops. Peripheral DN T cells are fully functional CTL. They display cytolytic activity against allogeneic MHC, and against syngeneic MHC following lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection. Cells from LCMV‐infected mice bind more MHC I tetramer at lower concentrations than their wild‐type CTL counterparts. These results demonstrate unequivocally that CD8 is not required for commitment of thymocytes to the CTL lineage.
Tripodal Tetraamine Ligands Containing Three Pyridine Units: The other Polypyridyl Ligands
Authors: Blackman Allan G.
Published: May 2008

The chemistry of tripodal ligands containing three (2‐pyridyl)‐alkyl arms attached to an aliphatic N atom (tripyridyl tripodal ligands) is reviewed. An outline of the variety of such ligands is given and methods for their synthesis are detailed. The structures of metal complexes containing tripyridyl tripodal ligands are briefly discussed, with particular emphasis on the structures adopted by complexes containing metal ions of varying coordination number. A brief overview of the complexes of tpa, the most widely used tripyridyl tripodal ligand, and its derivatives, is given. The electronic properties of tripyridyl tripodal ligands are detailed, as determined from spectroscopic, NMR, magnetochemical, electrochemical and pKa measurements on their metal complexes. Some examples of the reactivity of complexes containing tripyidyl tripodal ligands are given which outline the importance of both steric and electronic effects of the ligands in determining the reactivity of the metal complexes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)