bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of growth and physiological enzyme activities in Eriogyna pyretorum to various host plants
Authors: Lin Haoyu , Liao Songkai , Wei Hongjian , Wang Qi , Mao Xinjie , Wang Jiajin , Cai Shouping , Chen Hui
Published: July 2024

Morphological attributes and chemical composition of host plants shape growth and development of phytophagous insects via influences on their behavior and physiological processes. This research delves into the relationship between Eriogyna pyretorum and various host plants through studuying how feeding on different host tree species affect growth, development, and physiological enzyme activities. We examined E. pyretorum response to three distinct host plants: Camphora officinarum, Liquidambar formosana and Pterocarya stenoptera. Notably, larvae feeding on C. officinarum and L. formosana displayed accelerated development, increased pupal length, and higher survival rates compared to those on P. stenoptera. This underlines the pivotal role of host plant selection in shaping the E. pyretorum’s life cycle. The activities of a-amylase, lipase and protective enzymes were the highest in larvae fed on the most suitable host L. formosana which indicated that the increase of these enzyme activities was closely related to growth and development. Furthermore, our investigation revealed a relationship between enzymatic activities and host plants. Digestive enzymes, protective enzymes, and detoxifying enzymes exhibited substantial variations contingent upon the ingested host plant. Moreover, the total phenolics content in the host plant leaves manifested a noteworthy positive correlation with catalase and lipase activities. In contrast, a marked negative correlation emerged with glutathione S-transferase and α-amylase activities. The total developmental duration of larvae exhibited a significant positive correlation with the activities of GST and CarE. The survival rate of larvae showed a significant positive correlation with CYP450. These observations underscore the insect’s remarkable adaptability in orchestrating metabolic processes in accordance with available nutritional resources. This study highlights the interplay between E. pyretorum and its host plants, offering novel insights into how different vegetation types influence growth, development, and physiological responses. These findings contribute to a deeper comprehension of insect-plant interactions, with potential applications in pest management and ecological conservation.
Changes in the composition of invertebrate assemblages from wave-exposed intertidal mussel stands along the Nova Scotia coast, Canada
Authors: Scrosati Ricardo A. , Ellrich Julius A.
Published: July 2024

Rocky intertidal habitats occur worldwide and are mainly characterized by primary space holders such as seaweeds and sessile invertebrates. Some of these organisms are foundation species, as they can form structurally complex stands that host many small invertebrates. The abundance of primary space holders is known to vary along coastlines driven directly or indirectly by environmental variation. However, it is less clear if the invertebrate assemblages associated to a foundation species may remain relatively unchanged along coastlines, as similar stands of a foundation species can generate similar microclimates. We examined this question using abundance data for invertebrate species found in mussel stands of a similar structure in wave-exposed rocky habitats at mid-intertidal elevations along the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia (Canada). While the most abundant invertebrate species were found at three locations spanning 315 km of coastline, species composition (a combined measure of species identity and their relative abundance) differed significantly among the locations. One of the species explaining the highest amount of variation among locations (a barnacle) exhibited potential signs of bottom-up regulation involving pelagic food supply, suggesting benthic–pelagic coupling. The abundance of the species that explained the highest amount of variation (an oligochaete) was positively related to the abundance of their predators (mites), further suggesting bottom-up forcing in these communities. Overall, we conclude that species assemblages associated to structurally similar stands of a foundation species can show clear changes in species composition at a regional scale.
Incidence of Thrombocytopenia in NICU and Its Association with Immature Platelet Fraction and Absolute Immature Platelet Count: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Jagtap Saylee , Saxena Amit , Bhate Shreya , Dedhia Yasha , Sharif Mumtaz , Kolhe Shital , Sonawane Vijay
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Neonatal Thrombocytopenia (TCP) is frequently encountered in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), occurring either due to decreased production or increased destruction of platelets. This condition often leads to increased platelet transfusions in a NICU setting. Immature Platelet Fraction (IPF) and Absolute Immature Platelet Count (AIPC) are hypothesised to be surrogate markers of bone marrow activity and can help in differentiating between TCP caused by decreased production or increased destruction. Aim: To estimate the incidence of neonatal TCP in newborns admitted to a tertiary care NICU and to investigate the association of IPF percentage and AIPC values with the cause of TCP. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology at Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, from April 2021 to May 2022. All 46 newborns admitted to the NICU with TCP were enrolled in the study. The total number of NICU admissions during the study period was used to calculate the incidence. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with reticulocyte count and peripheral smear was examined using the impedance technique. The IPF and AIPC values were determined using an automated CBC counter based on flow cytometry principles. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test. Results: The study included a total of 46 neonates with TCP, with an incidence rate of 6.14%. Among the patients with TCP, 18 (39.13%) had mild, 17 (36.95%) had moderate, and 11 (23.91%) had severe TCP. The majority of neonates (21.7%) had a significant maternal history of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH). Of the neonates with TCP, 42 (91.3%) had high IPF and 4 (8.6%) had normal IPF. Regarding AIPC, 29 (63.04%) had normal values, 11 (23.91%) had high values, and 6 (13%) had low values. No significant association was found between IPF and AIPC values and the diagnosis of TCP in this study. Conclusion: The present study concludes that IPF and AIPC investigations cannot be recommended as markers to confirm the cause of TCP.
Marketing Dynamics of Grapes in Pune Division: Channels, Efficiency, and Stakeholder Issues
Authors: Dhoriyani Dashant R. , Prajapati Mahesh R.
Published: July 2024

India emerging as the world's second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables. Farmers who produce agricultural products are spread over distant communities whereas customers live in semi-urban or urban areas. This produce must reach consumers for final usage and consumption. This product passes via various agencies and functionaries before reaching the consumer. The study objective is to identify different marketing channels of Grapes, estimate the price spread and marketing efficiency of identified channels, and identify Problems faced by different stakeholders. Primary data were collected through 60 farmers and 30 intermediaries. A descriptive study design with a non-probability sampling method and purposive sampling technique was employed. Tabular, percentage and Garrett ranking methods were utilized for data analysis to obtain the desired results. From this study, four marketing Channels were found namely Channel I (Farmer – village trader- wholesalers cum commission agents - Retailer - Consumer), Channel II (Farmer – pre-harvest contractor- wholesalers cum commission agents - Retailer - Consumer), Channel III (Farmer -Wholesaler cum commission agent - Retailer – Consumer) and Channel IV (Farmer - Company CC - Company DC - Consumer. Channel III stands out with the highest producer's share in the consumer's rupee (62.43%) and the highest marketing efficiency (1.66). The majority of farmers faced the challenge of high costs incurred for the purchase of inputs and for the transportation of produce. The quality variation was a major problem faced by village traders. Price fluctuation was a major problem faced by pre-harvest contractors. Facing competition from other private players was a major problem for private companies. Quality variation was a major problem for the wholesaler cum commission agent. Retailers' major problems were price fluctuation followed by high transportation costs.
Compositional Analysis of the Lignocellulosic Biomass from Agricultural Waste (Rice Husk)
Authors: Malik Sheeba , Omre Pramod Kumar , Sivadas Shreejaya
Published: July 2024

Rice husk, a byproduct of rice milling, represents a significant agricultural waste biomass with untapped potential for various industrial applications. This study provides a comprehensive compositional analysis of rice husk to explore its utility as a valuable resource. The chemical composition of rice husk such as initial moisture content, hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, ash and extractives were analyzed. The result reported in mean value i.e 9.884 ±0.56 (%) moisture content, 8.077±0.27 (%) extractives, 17.210 ± 0.69 (%) lignin, 21.073 ± 0.62 (%) hemicellulose and 38.640 ± 0.94 (%) cellulose, 15.0 ±0.87 (%) ash. This study concludes that rice husk is an abundant source of cellulose and holds significant potential for cellulose isolation.
Consumer Protection Frameworks by Enhancing Market Fairness, Accountability and Transparency (FAT) for Ethical Consumer Decision-Making: Integrating Circular Economy Principles and Digital Transformation in Global Consumer Markets
Authors: Mishra Rashmi , Varshney Deepika
Published: July 2024

This research explores the evolving role of consumer protection laws for enhancing market fairness, accountability, and transparency (FAT) to facilitate informed consumer decision-making within the digital economy. Exploring international standards by The United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection (UNGCP), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the United Nations on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), as well as regional initiatives like the European Commission's, the study investigates circular economy principles for consumer resilience and marginalized groups such as low-income populations and rural communities. Utilizing a normative and exploratory research approach, data is gathered from global policy documents and scholarly sources.  Comparative qualitative analysis is conducted to identify standard practices. The significance of adopting consumer protection frameworks to study the intricacies of digital transactions and environmental sustainability and its impact on consumer protection law, which will help citizens make informed decisions. This study highlights innovative strategies, such as the OECD’s guidelines for e-commerce and national policies promoting circular economy principles. By exploring case studies from countries like Germany, the Netherlands, China, Japan, India and Oman for circular economy practices and Sweden, the United States, Armenia, Australia and Oman for financial sector improvements, the research provides the framework for improving consumer protection policies globally.
Effect of Growth Stage-based Water Stress on Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicon L.) in Semi-arid Regions of Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreigziabher Ekubay Tesfay
Published: July 2024

Water availability is a major concern in regions with limited water resources. Implementation of best irrigation water management methods can maximize crop yields and irrigation water use efficiency. An experiment was conducted in Laelay Koraro district, Tigray, Ethiopia for two consecutive years (2018 and 2019 off seasons) to investigate the effect of growth stage-based deficit irrigation on tomato yield, yield characteristics and water usage efficiency. The experiment used a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The treatments were three irrigation levels (100%, 50%, and 25% of crop irrigation requirement) and four FAO-defined tomato growth stages (initial, developmental, mid, and late seasons). Data on agronomic parameters and irrigation water were collected and analyzed statistically. The results revealed that reducing irrigation amount by up to 75% during the development growth stage significantly decreased marketable yield by up to 66.5%. However, the highest water use efficiency (9.2kgm-3) was achieved by reducing irrigation amount by 75% at the end-growth stage of tomato. Treatments with the lowest water use efficiency (3.5kgm-3) were those receiving 75% less irrigation amount than the full requirement during the development growth stage. Irrigation deficit up to 75% of the full requirement during tomato development stages greatly affect marketable yield and water use efficiency. Therefore, the tomato crop is highly susceptible to water stress when receiving more than a 50% reduction in full irrigation requirement during its developmental growth stage.
Effect of Pre-Treatments on Quality Parameters of Nelumbo nucifera Root Powder
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Awasthi Priya , Mishra Vigya , Chugh Vishal , Singh S. C. , Vikram Balaji , Singh Amit Kumar
Published: July 2024

Nelumbo nucifera roots, commonly known as lotus roots root have an abundance of potential for utilization in many food applications because they have so many medicinal, physiological and health advantages. This research was conducted to study the effect of different pretreatments namely on quality parameters of lotus root powder. All treatments were blanched for 3 minutes and dried at 55°C except control. The physical characteristics such as yield, moisture, bulk density and water holding capacity for lotus root powder were found to be 16.500% to 26.515%, 7.780% to 9.470%, 0.571 (ml/g) to 0.775 (ml/g) and 22.762 (%) to 28.995 (%) however the chemical characteristics of lotus root power such as pH (6.623 to 7.472), crude protein (8.718% to 12.000%), crude fat (3.288% to 4.315%) and crude fiber (16.790% to 21.110%) respectably was recorded. Lotus root powder has high bulk density resulting in easy to dispensability. Similarly due to the presence of a good amount of crude fibre and water-holding capacity lotus root powder possesses great potential for processing industries and can be added, substituted, or replaced in different varieties of foods.
Effect of Supplementation of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Powder on Body Weight Gain and Egg Quality in Layers
Authors: Mali Pallavi D. , Adangale S.B. , Deokar D. K. , Lawar V.S. , Lokhande A. T. , Chougale Chetan , Chawke Akshay
Published: July 2024

Background: As the demand for natural and sustainable solutions in poultry production continues to rise, ashwagandha root powder presents itself as a promising avenue for improving egg quality while aligning with consumer preferences for wholesome and nutritious products. Therefore, research trial was conducted to study the effect of supplementation of ashwagandha root powder on body weight gain and egg quality in layers during a period of 10 weeks.
Methodology: One hundred and twenty White Leghorn layers were randomly divided into four treatments and reared on standard managemental conditions. The Ashwagandha root powder was supplemented with the basal diet at 0.5% level (T1), 1% (T2), 1.5 % (T3) while T0 was kept as control i.e. basal diet without ashwagandha root powder. The feed and water were offered ad libitum to experimental birds.
Design used: The design of the experiment was a completely randomized design. Duncans multiple range test was used to determine significant difference among means for different treatments.
Results: The result noted that the body weight change was not affected by ashwagandha root powder supplementation. Egg quality parameters viz., egg shape index, shell weight, yolk weight, yolk height, albumen weight and albumen index were not influenced by the addition of ashwagandha root powder. However, a significant (p<0.05) effect was observed on yolk index.  No significant (p>0.05) difference was seen in the sensory attributes of the egg. It may be suggested that inclusion of ashwagandha root powder in the diets of layer can be improve yolk index without affecting sensory attributes of eggs in layer.
Estimation of Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression for Yield Related and Quality Traits in Forage Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor L. (Moench)]
Authors: Santosh  , Pandey P. K.
Published: July 2024

The present study was conducted at GBPUAT Pantnagar to study the heterosis and inbreeding depression for nine yield related and three quality traits which consisted of seventy F1 crosses developed through line x tester mating design involving ten cytoplasmic male sterile (female) lines and seven pollinator (male) lines during Kharif 2018 and 70 F2s developed by selfing of F1 crosses during Kharif 2019 in random block design (R.B.D.) with three replications. Observations were recorded on plant height, stem girth, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, leaf: stem ratio, total soluble solids, HCN content, green fodder yield per plot, dry fodder yield per plot, and protein percent. The observed F1data was analyzed for mid parent heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis whereas F2data was analyzed for inbreeding depression. The large number of crosses exhibited heterosis and inbreeding depression in desired direction for all yield related and quality traits under study which indicated the presence of additive as well as non-additive gene actions. The crosses ICSA 271 x PC 5, ICSA 276 x CSV-15, 993100 A x 04K 668, 11 A2 x 04 K 693, ICSA 469 x 04 K 668, ICSA 293 x 01 K 733, SPA2 94012 x 04 K 700, ICSA 293 x CSV-15, SP 55609 A x UPMC-8, and 993100 A x 04 K 700 exhibited high mean performance for all the traits under study coupled with high heterosis in desired direction.
Amplitude of Accommodation in Young Caucasian Adults in Greece
Authors: Pateras E. , Chrysanthopoulos Α.
Published: July 2024

Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence of accommodation insufficiency among young Caucasian adults in Greece.
Methods: Accommodation amplitude was assessed using the minus to blur method (PRA). Results were compared against Donder's and Hofstetter's values. Participants were categorized into "normal," "borderline," and "insufficient" based on deviations from expected values.
Results: Over 50% of participants exhibited accommodation insufficiency. Men had significantly lower rates of normal accommodation amplitude compared to women. Further research is required to explore the impact of refractive errors on accommodation issues.
Conclusions: Accommodation insufficiency is a significant issue among young adults, necessitating further studies and the establishment of standardized measurement methods. Investigating the role of the ciliary muscle in accommodation is also recommended.
Unconventional Computing: A Boolean Chemical Perspective
Authors: De Silva A. Prasanna
Published: April 2013

Elementary computing operations can be arranged within molecules so that problems in chemical, biochemical, and biological situations can be addressed. Problems that are found in small and/or living spaces, where the corresponding semiconductor logic devices cannot operate conveniently, are particularly amenable to this approach. The visualization and monitoring of intracellular species is one such category. Problems in medical diagnostics and therapy form additional categories. Chemists and biologists employ chemical synthesis and molecular biology techniques to build molecular logic devices. The photochemical approach to molecular logic devices is particularly prevalent. The fluorescent photoinduced electron transfer (PET) switching principle is particularly useful for designing logic functions into small molecules.
Ion Exchange Membranes
Authors: Wang Yaoming , Xu Tongwen
Published: April 2013

During the past 50 years, ion‐exchange membranes and related processes have attracted multidisciplinary attentions and also found a variety of applications such as water desalination, cleaning production or separation, resources recycling, power generation, and sensitive electrode preparation. The evolvement of an ion‐exchange membrane can achieve the maximal utilization of resources and pollution prevention. Electrodialysis (ED) processes based on ion‐exchange membranes play the same role as “photosynthesizers” in industrial ecosystems and inherently possesses economical and environmental benefits. Therefore, the intention of this article is to give a brief summary of the preparation, characterization, and applications of ion‐exchange membranes. Primary attentions have been given to the preparation of homogenous membranes, hybrid organic–inorganic membranes, bipolar membranes, as well as amphoteric and mosaic membranes. Methodologies used for the characterization of ion‐exchange membranes are summarized subsequently. Finally, the main principles of various ion‐exchange‐membranes‐based processes are described and their advantages and limitations in various applications are also pointed out. Although numerous progresses have been made regarding preparations and applications of ion‐exchange membranes, the industrial applications of ion‐exchange‐membranes‐based processes gradually lack behind the pressure‐driven membranes processes due to the commercial interests. However, the inherent technological advance and environmental benignity of ion‐exchange membranes deserve the collaborative efforts of academia, industry, and government to bring ion‐exchange membranes technologies to perfection.
Cake/Biofilm Enhanced Concentration Polarization
Authors: Gutman Jenia , Herzberg Moshe
Published: April 2013

In pressure driven membrane processes, different types of resistances limit membrane permeate flux. While permeate flux limitations, in most cases, are intuitively related to hydraulic restrictions, even minor concentrations of particles and colloids can enhance concentration polarization in solute‐rejecting membranes, including reverse osmosis and nanofiltration systems. The enhanced concentration polarization phenomenon is attributed to the reduced back‐diffusion of salts and other small compounds through fouling layers and is mainly a result of the presence of bacteria, particles, or colloids in the feed water. This chapter presents key points of enhanced concentration polarization effects caused by different types of foulants: particles, colloids, and microorganisms.
Metallic Membranes for High Temperature Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Ma Yi H. , Catalano Jacopo , Guazzone Federico
Published: April 2013

Composite palladium membranes have extensively been studied in laboratories and, more recently, in small pilot industrial applications for the high temperature separation of hydrogen from reactant mixtures such as water‐gas shift (WGS) reaction or methane steam reforming (MSR). Composite Pd membrane fabrication methods have matured over the last decades, and the deposition of very thin films (1–5 µm) of Pd over porous ceramics or modified porous metal supports is quite common. The H2permeances and the selectivities achieved at 400–500 °C were in the order of 50–100 Nm3/m/h/bar0.5and greater than 1000, respectively. This chapter describes in detail composite Pd‐based membrane preparation methods, which consist of thegradingof the support and the deposition of the dense metal layer, their performances, and their applications in catalytic membrane reactors (CMRs) at high temperatures (400–550 °C).
Liquid Membranes, Supported and Emulsion
Authors: Víllora Gloria
Published: April 2013

Liquid membranes (LMs) constitute an emerging technique that can be used as an alternative for separation processes, mainly due to their high efficiency, and as such are being looked into for industrial applications. This article provides information on two types of LMs, supported liquid membrane (SLM) and emulsion liquid membrane (ELM), presenting the principles, methods of preparation, transport mechanisms, stability, and applications of a number of separation processes.

SLMs use porous supports impregnated with a solvent. Solute molecules dissolve into the membrane at the feed/membrane interface, and the dissolved species diffuse through the membrane and desorb at the receiving phase. Numerous processes based on SLMs have been proposed as effective methods for the separation of different chemical species, such as organic compounds, metal ions, gas mixtures, or pharmaceutical compounds. Nevertheless, the application of SLMs on a large scale is still limited due to inadequate membrane stability. Much effort has been put into to improve SLM stability, and one possible alternative is to substitute organic solvents in the membrane by room temperature organic liquids (ILs), which possess unique properties that are interesting in the context of LMs. Thus, supported ionic liquid membranes (SILMs) receive special attention in this article. ELMs are prepared by the intensive mixing of two nonmiscible phases (e.g., water droplets in an oil phase) and the addition of some strong surfactant. Some recent advances in this field are presented.
Seawater Desalination—Costs and Technology Trends
Authors: Voutchkov Nikolay
Published: April 2013

Seawater desalination has become affordable and drought‐proof water supply alternative for many urban coastal centers worldwide as a result of dramatic advances in reverse osmosis membrane technology and equipment for energy recovery, which have occurred over the past 20 years. This article provides an overview of key factors influencing desalination costs and energy use and discusses recent trends for their minimization. Advances in reverse osmosis membrane productivity and practical aspects of the use of energy recovery equipment are described, and their potential for cost and energy savings is ranked. The presented material evaluates key benefits of collocation of desalination plants with existing once‐trough power generation stations; efficiency of the latest isobaric equipment for recovery of energy from concentrate, nanoparticle‐enhanced reverse osmosis membrane elements; and the state‐of‐the‐art configurations of reverse osmosis systems used in the most advanced seawater desalination plants worldwide.
Chemically Tuning Mechanics of Graphene by BN
Authors: Peng Qing , Chen Xiao‐Jia , Ji Wei , De Suvranu
Published: April 2013

With finite bandgaps, g‐BNC, a boron nitride monolayer (g‐BN) phase within a graphene layer, is a promising semiconductor for next generation electronics. We report its mechanics dependence of the g‐BN concentration, including the high order elastic constants and mechanical failure, through a first‐principles study based on density functional theory. The in‐plane stiffness as well as third order elastic constants of graphene can be linearly tuned with g‐BN concentration. The longitudinal mode elastic constants are sensitive to the BN modification, in contrast to the shear mode elastic constants. This study may provide guidance in optimizing the mechanics of graphene‐based nanodevices.
Stability and instability in isothermal CFSTRs with complex chemistry: Some recent results
Authors: Shinar Guy , Knight Daniel , Ji Haixia , Feinberg Martin
Published: April 2013

Although the classical 1955 paper by Bilous and Amundson was largely devoted to the study of nonisothermal systems, they also found it worthwhile to establish the stable behavior of a model isothermal multireaction continuous flow stirred tank reactor for all values of residence time, rate constants, and feed concentrations. Over a half century later, there remains a predisposition to the idea that isothermal reactors are prone to dull, stable behavior even when the underlying chemistry is complex. That idea is revisited in light of some recent findings in chemical reaction network theory. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 3403–3411, 2013
Feeding Ecology of Red Langurs in Sabangau Tropical Peat‐Swamp Forest, Indonesian Borneo: Extreme Granivory in a Non‐Masting Forest
Authors: EHLERS SMITH DAVID A. , HUSSON SIMON J. , EHLERS SMITH YVETTE C. , HARRISON MARK E.
Published: April 2013

Southeast Asia's lowland dipterocarp forests experience supra‐annual “mast” fruiting and flowering events, in which the majority of trees reproduce simultaneously at irregular intervals, with extensive intervening periods of very low primate food availability. This scarcity of food results in a negative energy balance and a reliance on “fallback foods” in some primate species. By contrast, ombrogenous tropical peat‐swamp forests are non‐masting, and show lower variability of food availability. We sought to test the influence of fruit availability on primate diet and preference in peat‐swamp habitats and assess whether it differs from masting forests. We collected behavioral‐dependent feeding data on three adult females in a group of red langurs (Presbytis rubicunda: Colobinae) between January and December 2011 in Sabangau tropical peat‐swamp forest, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, as colobine monkeys are adaptated for folivory, and are therefore generally considered less reliant on temporally variable fruits than monogastric primates. We documented the highest level of granivory recorded to date in colobine monkeys: mean annual diet comprised 76.4% seeds and 7.3% other fruit parts; 7.7% young and 2.5% mature leaves; 2.8% flowers; 2.6% piths, and <1% on other minor food items. Fruit availability was fairly constant throughout the year and fruit parts were consumed at consistently higher levels than expected based on availability, confirming that fruit is preferred. Leaves and flowers were consumed consistently less than expected and thus are not preferred. There were no significant correlations between preferred food availability and consumption of potential fallback foods, suggesting that reliance on fallback foods did not occur in Sabangau during the study period. Furthermore, consumption of fruit was not significantly correlated with its availability. Our findings suggest that the relatively constant availability of fruit in this habitat affords P. rubicunda regular access to a nutritionally superior food, and that reliance on fallback foods is therefore not required. Am. J. Primatol. 75:848–859, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The relationships among jaw‐muscle fiber architecture, jaw morphology, and feeding behavior in extant apes and modern humans
Authors: Taylor Andrea B. , Vinyard Christopher J.
Published: April 2013

The jaw‐closing muscles are responsible for generating many of the forces and movements associated with feeding. Muscle physiologic cross‐sectional area (PCSA) and fiber length are two architectural parameters that heavily influence muscle function. While there have been numerous comparative studies of hominoid and hominin craniodental and mandibular morphology, little is known about hominoid jaw‐muscle fiber architecture. We present novel data on masseter and temporalis internal muscle architecture for small‐ and large‐bodied hominoids. Hominoid scaling patterns are evaluated and compared with representative New‐ (Cebus) and Old‐World (Macaca) monkeys. Variation in hominoid jaw‐muscle fiber architecture is related to both absolute size and allometry. PCSAs scale close to isometry relative to jaw length in anthropoids, but likely with positive allometry in hominoids. Thus, large‐bodied apes may be capable of generating both absolutely and relatively greater muscle forces compared with smaller‐bodied apes and monkeys. Compared with extant apes, modern humans exhibit a reduction in masseter PCSA relative to condyle‐M1 length but retain relatively long fibers, suggesting humans may have sacrificed relative masseter muscle force during chewing without appreciably altering muscle excursion/contraction velocity. Lastly, craniometric estimates of PCSAs underestimate hominoid masseter and temporalis PCSAs by more than 50% in gorillas, and overestimate masseter PCSA by as much as 30% in humans. These findings underscore the difficulty of accurately estimating jaw‐muscle fiber architecture from craniometric measures and suggest models of fossil hominin and hominoid bite forces will be improved by incorporating architectural data in estimating jaw‐muscle forces. Am J Phys Anthropol 151:120–134, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functional and mechanical properties of acrylate elastomer/expanded graphite nanocomposites
Authors: Quan Yannan , Lu Ming , Tian Ming , Yan Shouke , Yu Zhongzhen , Zhang Liqun
Published: April 2013

Expanded graphite (EG) is prepared by microwave irradiation to expandable graphite. A stable aqueous suspension of EG is obtained through dispersing EG into deionized water in the presence of surfactant under ultrasonication. Nanocomposites are prepared by compounding EG aqueous suspension with alkyl acrylate elastomer latex. It is showed that, by the latex compounding method (LCM), EG platelets are finely dispersed in the elastomer matrix. The nanocomposites exhibit remarkable improvements in mechanical properties, wear resistance, and gas barrier property. The prepared compound also shows certain electrical conductivity, but soon loses it after milled on a miller. Meanwhile, a dramatic change in EG network is observed corresponding to the loss of electrical conductivity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Electrochemical synthesis and characterization of new electrodes based on poly‐hematoxylin films
Authors: Samide Adriana , Tutunaru Bogdan , Bratulescu George , Ionescu Catalina
Published: April 2013

The poly‐hematoxylin films undoped (p‐HX) and doped with strontium (p‐HX‐Sr) were prepared on the platinum electrodes (Pt) using cyclic voltammetry. The influence of experimental parameters, such as: anodic potential and number of voltammetric cycles on the films synthesis was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that, the optimal conditions to obtain the poly‐hematoxylin films on platinum electrode from 10−2 mol L−1 NaNO3 solution, were found by recording 10 voltammetric cycles at an anodic potential of 1.5 V. Electrocatalytic activity of the poly‐hematoxylin‐platinum (p‐HX/Pt) and poly‐hematoxylin‐strontium‐platinum (p‐HX‐Sr/Pt) electrodes was tested for electrochemical degradation of benzocaine using UV‐Vis spectrophotometry. Both, the mechanisms of hematoxylin (HX) polymerization, as well as benzocaine degradation were proposed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and swelling properties of corn stalk‐composite superabsorbent
Authors: Wan Tao , Huang Runqiu , Zhao Qihua , Xiong Lei , Luo Lei , Tan Xuemei , Cai Guojun
Published: April 2013

A corn stalk‐composite superabsorbent with water absorbency of 660 g/g within 30 min, was prepared by graft copolymerization with acrylic acid (AA), acrylamide (AM), sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate (SSS), and corn stalk in aqueous solution after the pretreatment of corn stalks (CS), using N,N‐methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinker and ammonium persulfate (APS) and sodium bisulfite (SBS) as redox initiators. Factors influencing water absorbency and gel strength of the superabsorbent composite, such as the amount of corn stalk, the mass ratio of acrylic acid to acrylamide, the degree of neutralization for AA and the amount of crosslinker, were investigated. Morphologies and structure of the corn stalk‐composite superabsorbents were characterized by FTIR, SEM and optical microscope. FTIR spectra indicate the structure of corn stalk graft‐copolymer. SEM data show that the discontinuous sheet structures of corn stalks disappear and gel aggregates with many large microporous holes and small capillary pores are formed after corn stalk graft modification. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Model Predictive Control for Nonlinear Distributed Parameter Systems based on LS‐SVM
Authors: Ai Ling , San Ye
Published: April 2013

This paper presents a novel model predictive control configuration for nonlinear distributed parameter systems based on least squares support vector machine. First, a data‐based modeling methodology for an unknown nonlinear distributed parameter system is introduced. Subsequently, the model predictive control framework based on the aforementioned model is presented at the measured point. To verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the control arithmetic, simulation results from a tubular reactor with the controller designed by the presented procedure are given.
Bauwerksdaten und Bauwerksprüfung
Authors: Friebel W.‐D. , Krieger J.
Published: April 2013

Als Grundlage haushalts‐, bau‐ und verkehrstechnischer Entscheidungen werden Informationen zum Bestand und zum Zustand von Ingenieurbauwerken benötigt. Diese Informationen werden durch die Straßenbauverwaltungen der Länder auf der Grundlage von mehreren durch das Bundesministerium für Verkehr, Bau‐ und Wohnungswesen eingeführten Regelwerken erhoben und bereitgestellt. Im Zusammenhang mit der erforderlichen Anpassung dieser Regelwerke an aktuelle technische Entwicklungen und moderne DV‐Techniken wurde eine umfangreiche Überarbeitung der Regelwerke sowie die Einführung neuer DV‐Systeme erforderlich, wobei auch die Aspekte des im Aufbau befindlichen Bauwerksmanagementsystems zu berücksichtigen waren. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die Neufassungen dieser Regelwerke und die zugehörigen DV‐Systeme.
Zur Sanierung von Gewichtsstaumauern mit wasserseitigen Dichtwandkonstruktionen
Authors: Zrost H. , Schlegel R. , Hebestreit D. , Vogt R. , Stuhr J.
Published: April 2013

Im Zuge der Sanierung der beiden Gewichtsstaumauern der Talsperre Neustadt in Thüringen und der Talsperre Carlsfeld in Sachsen sind an der Wasserseite vorgelagerte Dichtwandkonstruktionen mit Kontrollgang vorgesehen. In Vorbereitung der Planung und Ausführung wurden an der Talsperre Neustadt Baustellengroßversuche durchgeführt. Es konnte damit ein mittlerer Bereich der Gesamtkonstruktion im Maßstab 1:1 simuliert werden. Durch die Versuche wurden insbesondere das Zusammenwirken und der qualitätsgerechte Einbau der einzelnen Dichtwandkomponenten Dränagebetonschicht, Asphaltbeton‐Dichtungsschicht, mechanische Schutzschicht aus Stahlbeton‐Fertigteilen und der Ankerung untersucht. Nach der Beschreibung der Versuchsziele und Versuchsdurchführung erfolgt die Darstellung und Auswertung der Versuchsergebnisse.
Continuous Cold without Cryogenic Consumables: Development of a Convenient Laboratory Tool for Low‐Temperature Flow Processes
Authors: Browne D. L. , Harji B. H. , Ley S. V.
Published: April 2013

There are a number of challenges that need to be overcome in order to stimulate more synthesis chemists to adopt continuous‐flow chemical processing techniques. By way of example, the use of cryogenic consumables to cool reactions is impractical on scale or over extended reaction times. Here, a solution to the problem is described with the development of a convenient laboratory device that offers chemists the benefits of continuous flow processing using an accurate thermal energy transfer block which provides long‐term reaction stability and is free from water ingress.
Packed‐Bed Microreactor for Continuous‐Flow Adipic Acid Synthesis from Cyclohexene and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Shang M. , Noël T. , Wang Q. , Hessel V.
Published: April 2013

The synthesis of adipic acid by means of a direct oxidation of cyclohexene by hydrogen peroxide was carried out in a continuous‐flow packed‐bed microreactor. The reaction uses Na2WO4·2H2O as a catalyst and [CH3(n‐C8H17)3N]HSO4 as a phase transfer catalyst without additional solvent. A parametric process optimization, such as glass beads size, residence time, concentration of hydrogen peroxide, addition of acid, reaction temperature, and molar ratios of reactants and catalysts, was performed. It is demonstrated that smaller glass beads result in a better yield of adipic acid and that the addition of acid plays an important role in the oxidation of cyclohexene to adipic acid. Based on the concept of Novel Process Windows, the influence of elevated temperatures is investigated.
Aromatic CC Bonds as Dipolarophiles: Facile Reactions of Uncomplexed Electron‐Deficient Benzene Derivatives and Other Aromatic Rings with a Non‐Stabilized Azomethine Ylide
Authors: Lee Sunyoung , Diab Sonia , Queval Pierre , Sebban Muriel , Chataigner Isabelle , Piettre Serge R.
Published: April 2013

Non‐stabilized azomethine ylide 4 a reacts smoothly at room temperature with a variety of uncomplexed aromatic heterocycles and carbocycles on the condition that the ring contains at least one or two electron‐withdrawing substituents, respectively. Aromatic substrates, including pyridine and benzene derivatives, participate as 2 π components in [3+2] cycloaddition reactions and interact with one, two, or three equivalent(s) of the ylide, depending on their structure and substitution pattern. Thus, this process affords highly functionalized polycyclic structures that contain between one and three pyrrolidinyl ring(s) in useful yields. These results indicate that the site selectivity of the cycloaddition reactions strongly depends on both the nature and the positions of the substituents. In most cases, the second 1,3‐dipolar reaction occurs on the opposite face to the one that contains the first pyrrolidinyl ring. DFT calculations on model compounds indicate that a concerted mechanism features a low activation barrier.
Synthesis of a Targeted Library of Heparan Sulfate Hexa‐ to Dodecasaccharides as Inhibitors of β‐Secretase: Potential Therapeutics for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Schwörer Ralf , Zubkova Olga V. , Turnbull Jeremy E. , Tyler Peter C.
Published: April 2013

Heparan sulfates (HS) are a class of sulfated polysaccharides that function as dynamic biological regulators of the functions of diverse proteins. The structural basis of these interactions, however, remains elusive, and chemical synthesis of defined structures represents a challenging but powerful approach for unravelling the structure–activity relationships of their complex sulfation patterns. HS has been shown to function as an inhibitor of the β‐site cleaving enzyme β‐secretase (BACE1), a protease responsible for generating the toxic Aβ peptides that accumulate in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with 6‐O‐sulfation identified as a key requirement. Here, we demonstrate a novel generic synthetic approach to HS oligosaccharides applied to production of a library of 16 hexa‐ to dodecasaccharides targeted at BACE1 inhibition. Screening of this library provided new insights into structure–activity relationships for optimal BACE1 inhibition, and yielded a number of potent non‐anticoagulant BACE1 inhibitors with potential for development as leads for treatment of AD through lowering of Aβ peptide levels.
Corporate Social Responsibility of Oil Companies in Developing Countries: From Altruism to Business Strategy
Authors: García‐Rodríguez Francisco J. , García‐Rodríguez José León , Castilla‐Gutiérrez Carlos , Major Silvério A.
Published: April 2013

The growing importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in today's competitive business climate is well known. CSR is particularly important for firms in sectors characterised by their close ties with their social and environmental context, especially multinational enterprises (MNEs) operating in resource‐rich developing countries and, more specifically, in the oil sector. Numerous question marks surround the extent to which oil MNEs really contribute, through CSR activities, to sustainable development in these countries. Based on a case study, this paper examines the adoption of an environmental management system (EMS) in Luanda Oil Refinery in Angola. The results illustrate the potential of CSR, when integrated into MNE business strategy, to improve the social and environmental situation of such countries, due not only to its impact on the company's immediate surroundings but on the wider legislative, administrative and entrepreneurial context also. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Environmental Disclosures by the Malaysian Construction Sector: Exploring Extent and Quality
Authors: Ahmad Nik Nazli Nik , Mohamad Noor Afzalina
Published: April 2013

We examine the extent and quality of environmental disclosures by public‐listed Malaysian construction companies in their 2009 annual reports. Most of the 49 sample companies provide general disclosures which are positive and non‐verifiable in nature. Very few companies disclose quantitative/non‐monetary or monetary environmental information. In addition, companies did not make disclosures in eight of the items contained in the index. This suggests that environmental disclosures do not discharge the companies’ accountability as disclosures are neither complete nor comprehensive enough and are largely confined to general, narrative statements which cannot be verified. To ensure accountability, regulators must introduce environmental reporting guidelines which specify content and format of the disclosures. This study addresses the paucity of Malaysian environmental disclosure literature and is one of the few which also examines quality of disclosure. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Highly Selective Lewis Acid Sites in Desilicated MFI Zeolites for Dihydroxyacetone Isomerization to Lactic Acid
Authors: Dapsens Pierre Y. , Mondelli Cecilia , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: April 2013

Desilication of commercial MFI‐type (ZSM‐5) zeolites in solutions of alkali metal hydroxides is demonstrated to generate highly selective heterogeneous catalysts for the aqueous‐phase isomerization of biobased dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to lactic acid (LA). The best hierarchical ZSM‐5 sample attains a LA selectivity exceeding 90 %, which is comparable to that of the state‐of‐the‐art catalyst (i.e., the Sn‐beta zeolite); this optimized hierarchical catalyst is recyclable over three runs. The Lewis acid sites, which are created through desilication along with the introduction of mesoporosity, are shown to play a crucial role in the formation of the desired product; these cannot be achieved by using other post‐synthetic methods, such as steaming or impregnation of aluminum species. Desilication of other metallosilicates, such as Ga–MFI, also leads to high LA selectivity. In the presence of a soluble aluminum source, such as aluminum nitrate, alkaline‐assisted alumination can introduce these unique Lewis acid centers in all‐silica MFI zeolites. These findings highlight the potential of zeolites in the field of biomass‐to‐chemical conversion, and expand the applicability of desilication for the generation of selective catalytic centers.