bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pollen Viability and Longevity of Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.)
Authors: Ge Yaxin , Fu Chunxiang , Bhandari Hem , Bouton Joseph , Brummer E. Charles , Wang Zeng‐Yu
Published: October 2011

Pollen is essential for seed production and serves as the primary means of gene flow in outcrossing species like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.). There is a lack of information on basic pollen biology in switchgrass. This study investigated pollen viability, pollen longevity, and pollen size using different materials, including the tetraploid cultivar Alamo, the octoploid cultivar Cave‐in‐Rock, and transgenic Alamo plants. Pollen grains were collected from field‐grown Alamo and Cave‐in‐Rock plants, and greenhouse‐grown transgenics. Pollen size was in the range of 42.5 to 54.0 μm; no significant difference was observed in average pollen size between transgenic and control plants. Increasing temperature and ultraviolet‐B irradiation negatively affected pollen viability and longevity, while relative humidity had only limited impact. Weather conditions had a large impact on pollen longevity. Under sunny atmospheric conditions, pollen longevity of both cultivars decreased rapidly, with a half‐life of <4.9 min and a complete loss of viability in 20 min. Under cloudy atmospheric conditions, the half‐life of pollen was more than fivefold longer than under sunny conditions, and it took approximately 150 min to lose viability completely. No difference in pollen viability and longevity was found between transgenic and nontransgenic control plants.
Inheritances of Fusarium Head Blight Resistance in a Cross Involving Local and Exotic Durum Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Fakhfakh M. M. , Yahyaoui A. , Rezgui S. , Elias E. M. , Daaloul A.
Published: October 2011

Fusarium head blight (FHB) has recently become a major disease in durum wheat {Triticum turgidum L. subsp. durum (Desf.) Husn. [syn. Triticum turgidum L. var. durum (Desf.) Bowden]} in Tunisia. Although partial resistance to FHB is found in durum wheat landraces, little is known about resistance genes and their effectiveness. The objective of this research was to evaluate potential resistance or tolerance to FHB using a cross between two partially resistant durum wheat cultivars, Divide, a North Dakota State University (NDSU) cultivar, and Tun7, a Tunisian landrace. Seven populations (P1, P2, F1, F2, F3, BC1, and BC2) were evaluated in the greenhouse. Percentages of infected spikelets (PIS) were evaluated at 7, 14, and 21 d postinoculation (DPI) and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) and Fusarium‐damaged kernels (FDK) were measured. Mean generations analysis indicated that dominance effect (h) and dominance × dominance epistasis effect (l) contributed largely to the expression of partial resistance to FHB as measured by the PIS observed at 7 DPI (h = −8.9 and l = 10.4), 14 DPI (h = −28 and l = 33.7), and AUDPC (h = −300.5 and l = 340). Variance components indicated that additive effect (d) and additive × additive epistasis effect (i) are predominant components in the disease development at 21 DPI (d = 8.5 and i = −9). Additive effect (d) appeared to condition the expression of FDK (d = −3). Heritability estimates were 0.42 for PIS observed at 21 DPI and 0.84 for FDK. These results suggest that disease scoring at 21 DPI and FDK could be used to screen for FHB in early generations.
Counting Maize Kernels through Digital Image Analysis
Authors: Severini Alan D. , Borrás Lucas , Cirilo Alfredo G.
Published: October 2011

Because kernel number is the main yield component in grain crops, kernel number per plant or per unit land area is a commonly measured trait in field experiments. This is usually done by means of manual or mechanical counters, which is time consuming. We examined the possibility of counting kernels by means of image analysis. Our method involved taking photographs of dispersed kernel samples with a domestic digital camera and using the open source software ImageJ for automatic particle counting. We show that this is a quick (∼2 min per sample) and reliable (RMSE = 16 kernels per sample) method that could be widely adopted.
Quantifying Rhizosphere Respiration for Two Cool‐Season Perennial Forages
Authors: Skinner R. Howard
Published: October 2011

Understanding the regulation of ecosystem CO2 flux from forage production systems requires knowledge of component fluxes, including photosynthetic uptake and respiratory loss. Experimental separation of soil respiration into heterotrophic and rhizosphere respiration has been difficult, complicating efforts to quantify management and environmental effects on grazing land C sequestration. This study takes advantage of differences in the natural abundance of 13C between C3 and C4 plant species to separate microbial respiration of C4–derived soil organic matter from root respiration by C3 forage species. Respiratory flux and C isotope data were collected in May, July, and September 2008 and 2009 from plots containing either orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) or white clover (Trifolium repens L.). The site had been a big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi Vitman) field for about 30 yr before grass and clover establishment. Thus, the soil organic C had a strong C4 signature. At each sampling period, respiration measurements were made at the midpoint of the regrowth cycle, 2 wk following mowing. Rhizosphere respiration accounted for about 50% of soil respiration in July and September but only 40% in May. Rhizosphere respiration under orchardgrass averaged 50% of total soil respiration compared with 43% under white clover. Accurate quantification of the components of ecosystem respiration will aid in the development of realistic models to simulate ecosystem C flux.
Maize Transgenes Containing Zein Promoters are Regulated by opaque2
Authors: Schroder Megan N. , Floyd Brice E. , Scott M. Paul
Published: October 2011

Understanding epistatic interactions between transgenes and native genes is critical for predicting the response of transgenes to different genetic backgrounds and environments. Our objective was to determine if predicted epistatic interactions occur between maize (Zea mays L.) transgenes carrying zein promoters and opaque2, a transcriptional regulator of zein genes. Expression of the transgenes was significantly decreased in kernels containing the opaque2 mutation. Native zein proteins in these kernels were reduced as well. Thus, transgene expression mirrored expression of the native gene that contributed the promoter of the transgene. This work demonstrates that information about native gene expression may be useful for predicting transgene expression, reducing the risk of unintended consequences of transgene expression.
Multiple‐Line Cross Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping in European Elite Maize
Authors: Steinhoff Jana , Liu Wenxin , Maurer Hans Peter , Würschum Tobias , Longin C. Friedrich H. , Ranc Nicolas , Reif Jochen C.
Published: October 2011

Multiple‐line cross quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping is considered a promising tool to detect QTL with high power and substantial accuracy. The main goal of this study was to investigate the benefits of combined QTL analysis by applying two biometrical models compared to single‐population analyses. For the combined QTL analysis we used a biometrical model that assumes allele substitution effects specific for every biparental population (disconnected model). We also applied a biometrical model that assumes allele substitution effects specific for every parent (connected model). Six testcross populations of maize (Zea mays L.) derived from a diallel cross of four parents were tested in 10 Italian environments in 2007 for grain yield and grain moisture. The 788 genotypes were fingerprinted with 857 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Our findings clearly underline the potential to improve the power to detect QTL and the resolution to localize the QTL in the genome by switching from single population QTL mapping toward joint QTL analysis across populations. The disconnected model outperformed the connected model with regard to the power to detect QTL. Consequently, our results suggest that the disconnected model is the model of choice for multiple‐line cross QTL mapping in elite maize germplasm.
Present and prospective leather industry waste disposal
Authors: Fela Katarzyna , Wieczorek-Ciurowa Krystyna , Konopka Michał , Woźny Zenon
Published: October 2011

Present and prospective leather industry waste disposal

In this paper general characteristics of the main leather industry waste regarding its amount reduction by thermal treatment have been presented. Both the tannery solid wastes and the sludge contain organic substances. Their energy value is more than 50% higher in comparison to hard coal (nominally 20 MJ/kg as dry material). Up to now, the considerable amounts of energy are not recovered; leather wastes are predominantly on landfill. Implementation of a comprehensive thermal method for tannery solid waste and sludge utilization can permit to solve the waste disposal problem by effective neutralization of all of the waste. Moreover, it should bring economic benefits associated with steam or hot water production and landfill tax avoiding. The study is oriented towards the practical application.
Separation of volatile compounds from fermentation broth by membrane distillation
Authors: Gryta Marek , Barancewicz Marta
Published: October 2011

Separation of volatile compounds from fermentation broth by membrane distillation

The diluted ethanol solutions and fermentation broth (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) were separated by membrane distillation (MD). Hydrophobic macroporous (pore size 0.2 μm) capillary polypropylene membranes, Accurel PP V8/2 HF and Accurel PP S6/2, were used for these studies. The MD process can be successfully applied to remove the volatile components from the fermentation broth. Besides ethanol, propionic and acetic acids were moved from the broth to the distillate. Therefore, the course of the fermentation carried out in a membrane distillation bioreactor considerably accelerate its rate and increase the efficiency by a selective removal of fermentation products. It was found that the broth subjected to the separation did not affect the hydrophobic properties of the polypropylene membrane assembled in the MD modules.
Studies of properties of polypropylene/halloysite composites
Authors: Szczygielska Agnieszka , Kijeński Jacek
Published: October 2011

Studies of properties of polypropylene/halloysite composites

The results of the studies on the synthesis, mechanical and thermal properties of polypropylene composites with various amount of halloysite filler are presented. Halloysite (HNT) belongs to the silica type characterized by a two-layer 1:1 structure. This work was aimed to develop a method for the modification of halloysite in its prime use as a filler for polypropylene by extrusion. The composites contain 1, 3, 5 and 7 wt.% of HNT. The degree of crystallinity of the composites decrease with increasing halloysite content. The results confirm the expectations that composites of interesting physicochemical, mechanical and thermal properties can be obtained. The mechanical properties studied show that the filler modification method used leads to the synthesis of polymer composites of improved thermal and mechanical properties.
The investigation of ethanol separation by the membrane distillation process
Authors: Tomaszewska Maria , Białończyk Lidia
Published: October 2011

The investigation of ethanol separation by the membrane distillation process

Separation of ethanol from solutions with different concentrations in a BIOTRON bioreactor integrated with the direct contact membrane distillation system has been investigated. The experiments were carried out using immersed, capillary polypropylene membranes. The permeability of the membrane at the feed inlet temperatures of 308, 318 and 333K was determined. The permeate and ethanol flux was strongly affected by the vapour pressure which increased with the feed temperature and it was also associated with ethanol concentration in the feed. It was found that the membrane distillation can be successfully applied for the separation of volatile components such as ethanol.
Does human sexual dimorphism influence fracture frequency, types and distribution?
Authors: Nielsen Jonna
Published: October 2011

This study explores the hypothesis that the pattern of gender inequality in a community influences the frequency, patterns and distribution of fractures. As it is not possible to read gender relations from skeletons, it is - following several research results - assumed that the level of gender inequality is reflected in sexual dimorphism. Thus the study design consists in correlating a measure of sexual dimorphism with measures of frequencies, patterns and distribution of skeletal trauma between the two sexes. Nearly two hundreds individuals from two medieval Danish cemeteries have been examined (43 females/48 males from Jutland and 46 females/49 males from Funen). Sexual dimorphism was assessed by means of measurements on the pelvis and, in accordance with conventional wisdom, the level of sexual dimorphism was found to be lower in the Funen than in the Jutland sample. The fracture frequencies, patterns and distribution were estimated for the two skeletal samples. No significant difference between the fracture frequencies or types on the two sites was found, but the distribution of fractures between the sexes in Ribe was found to be significantly different. The study indicates a level of relationship between human sexual dimorphism, gender roles, and the distribution of fractures between the sexes. Studies of larger samples will help clarify this.
The Steps of Slovenian Organisations on the Way to Business Excellence
Authors: Gomišček Boštjan , Pibernik Anja
Published: October 2011

The Steps of Slovenian Organisations on the Way to Business Excellence

This research was carried out among the winners of the Slovenian business excellence prize (PRSPO), finalists and those who received special diplomas as a recognition level reached by applicants in implementing the business excellence model. Based on the findings of the research, we defined eight steps that organizations can consider as a guide on the path towards excellence.

The purpose of the study was to examine how the previous winners of the PRSPO began their journey towards excellence, which were the key factors, what problems they encountered and how they managed to win the diploma or award.

The analysis of the survey showed that the ISO 9001 standard is considered a first step towards the Slovenian business excellence award - in fact, it is a prerequisite for further improvements in the organization. The second step involves top management commitment and support for the introduction of excellence into business processes. The top management, in cooperation with all the employees, defines the areas for improvement and also confirms the method of implementation, both conceptually and financially. It is also necessary to take environmental aspects into consideration, which is provided by a third step along with the introduction of the ISO 14001. Once an organization defines the processes, it begins to introduce the business excellence model in the fourth step and carries out the self-assessment process. The key opportunities for improvement identified by the self-assessment process are further introduced in the business. In doing so, the organization can use various quality management approaches (the fifth step) and the first application for the PRSPO. In the sixth step, the organization encourages its employees to follow continuous education and innovation and, in the seventh step, participates again in the competition for the Slovenian business excellence award. As the required business excellence level is achieved, the organization receives the award for business excellence (PRSPO).
Sponges from the Middle Triassic reef limestone of the Aggtelek Karst (NE Hungary)
Authors: Senowbari-Daryan Baba , Kovács Sándor , Velledits Felicitász
Published: October 2011

Sponges from the Middle Triassic reef limestone of the Aggtelek Karst (NE Hungary)

The hypercalcified sponge fauna of the Middle Triassic (Anisian-Ladinian) reef limestone exposed between Aggtelek-Jósvafő-Égerszög (northern Hungary) is described. Almost all the identified species are chambered sponges ("sphinctozoa"). Only two fragments of a not determinable species of non-chambered species ("inozoa") were identified. Hexactinellid sponges are not found. The majority of the Middle Anisian "sphinctozoans" are absolutely different genera, not known from the Permian reefs. The sponge fauna of the Triassic pioneer reefs in the Aggtelek Karst are distinctly small-scaled occurring in "Tubiphytes"-dominated carbonates. The following taxa are described: Amblysiphonella sp., Celyphia zoldana Ott, Pisa & Farabegoli, Colospongia catenulata catenulata Ott, C. catenulata macrocatenulata Scholz, Follicatena cautica Ott, Kovacsia baloghi (Kovács), Solenolmia manon manon (Münster), S. radiata Senowbari-Daryan & Riedel, Olangocoelia otti Bechstädt & Brandner, Thaumastocoelia dolomitica Senowbari-Daryan, Zühlke, Bechstädt & Flügel, Thaumastocoelia cf., Th. cassiana Steinmann.
Afro-Asian cockroach from Chiapas amber and the lost Tertiary American entomofauna
Authors: Vršanský Peter , Cifuentes-Ruiz Paulina , Vidlička Ľubomír , Čiampor Fedor , Vega Francisco
Published: October 2011

Afro-Asian cockroach from Chiapas amber and the lost Tertiary American entomofauna

Cockroach genera with synanthropic species (Blattella, Ectobius, Supella, Periplaneta, Diplopteraand ?Blatta), as well as other insects such as honeybees, although natively limited to certain continents nowadays, had circumtropic distribution in the past. The ease of their reintroduction into their former range suggests a post-Early Miocene environmental stress which led to the extinction of cosmopolitan Tertiary entomofauna in the Americas, whilst in Eurasia, Africa and Australia this fauna survived. This phenomenon is demonstrated here on a low diversity (10 spp.) living cockroach genusSupella, which is peculiar for the circumtropical synanthropic brownbanded cockroachS. longipalpaand also for its exclusively free-living cavicolous species restricted to Africa.S. (Nemosupella) miocenicasp. nov. from the Miocene amber of Chiapas in Mexico is a sister species to the livingS. mirabilisfrom the Lower Guinea forests and adjacent savannas. The difference is restricted to the shape of the central macula on the pronotum, and size, which may indicate the around-Miocene origin of the living, extremely polymorphicSupellaspecies and possibly also the isochronic invasion into the Americas. The species also has a number of characteristics of the Asian (and possibly also Australian) uniform genusAllacta(falling within the generic variability ofSupella) suggestingSupellais a direct ancestor of the former. The present species is the first significant evidence for incomplete hiati between well defined cockroach genera — a result of the extensive fossil record of the group. The reported specimen is covered by a mycelium of a parasitic fungusCordycepsorEntomophthora.
Predicting subsurface soil layering and landslide risk with Artificial Neural Networks: a case study from Iran
Authors: Farrokhzad Farzad , Barari Amin , Ibsen Lars , Choobbasti Asskar
Published: October 2011

Predicting subsurface soil layering and landslide risk with Artificial Neural Networks: a case study from Iran

This paper is concerned principally with the application of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) in geotechnical engineering. In particular the application of ANN is discussed in more detail for subsurface soil layering and landslide analysis. Two ANN models are trained to predict subsurface soil layering and landslide risk using data collected from a study area in northern Iran. Given the three-dimensional coordinates of soil layers present in thirty boreholes as training data, our first ANN successfully predicted the depth and type of subsurface soil layers at new locations in the region. The agreement between the ANN outputs and actual data is over 90 % for all test cases. The second ANN was designed to recognize the probability of landslide occurrence at 200 sampling points which were not used in training. The neural network outputs are very close (over 92 %) to risk values calculated by the finite element method or by Bishop's method.
Numerical modelling of a microreactor for thermocatalytic decomposition of toxic compounds
Authors: Jóźwik Paweł , Karcz Michał , Badur Janusz
Published: October 2011

Numerical modelling of a microreactor for thermocatalytic decomposition of toxic compounds

In this paper a three-dimensional model for determination of a microreactor's length is presented and discussed. The reaction of thermocatalytic decomposition has been implemented on the base of experimental data. Simplified Reynolds-Maxwell formula for the slip velocity boundary condition has been analysed and validated. The influence of the Knudsen diffusion on the microreactor's performance has also been verified. It was revealed that with a given operating conditions and a given geometry of the microreactor, there is no need for application of slip boundary conditions and the Knudsen diffusion in further analysis. It has also been shown that the microreactor's length could be practically estimated using standard models.
Two-photon polymerization with optimized spatial light modulator
Authors: Kelemen Lóránd , Ormos Pál , Vizsnyiczai Gaszton
Published: October 2011

The application of diffractive optical elements can enhance the efficiency of the two-photon polymerization (TPP) process by multiplying the polymerizing beams. Spatial light modulators (SLMs) can dynamically change the light intensity pattern used for polymerization, making single shot polymerization possible. Most reflective, liquid crystal-based instruments, however, suffer from various surface aberrations. In order to enable SLMs to generate suitable polymerizing beams for TPP, these aberrations need to be corrected. Several methods were introduced earlier to compensate SLM aberrations in different applications. For the nonlinear process of TPP, we developed and specifically characterized a correction procedure. We used a simple interferometric method to determine the surface distortion of the SLM, calculated a correcting hologram and confirmed the correction with the polymerization of test structures. The corrected SLM was capable of parallel polymerization of 3D structures with a quality achievable with non-SLM beams.
Evaluation of Serum Hepatocellular Enzymes in Nigerian with Goitre
Authors: Nnodim Johnkennedy , Adamma Emejulu , Ndubueze Elendu Humphrey
Published: October 2011

Objective: The determination of serum gammaglutamyl transferase (GGT),alkaline phosphatase(ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in patient with goitre in Owerri, Imo state Nigeria were investigated.Material & Methods: Thirty confirmed patients with goitre age 50 to 70years with the following thyroid index (Total T4 > 140.65±7.28nmol/l , Total T3 > 2.43±0.96nmol/l, Free T4 < 50.24±9.11nmol/l and TSH > 4.12±1.00nmol/l) were selected for the study. Thirty normal subjects free from goiter age 50 to 70 years were used as control. Patients with complications such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes were excluded.Results: The level of serum gamaglutamyl transferase in goitre subjects was significantly higher (50.32 ±4.27 iu/l) when compared with control (17.50±3.94 iu/l) at P< 0.05. In the same vein the level of alkaline phosphatase was significantly higher (110.9m/l±12.92 iu/l) when compared with the control (56.3±12.06 iu/l) P<0.05. The levels of AST and ALT in goitre and control were not significant when compared with the control.Conclusion: This observation shows that gammaglutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase are frequently in-creased in goitre. Hence, they are possibly thyroid dependent enzymes.Key Words: Gammaglutamyl transferase; alkaline phosphatase; aspartateaminotransferase; alanine aminotransferase; thyroid hormonesDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v2i2.3870Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 79-81
The Impact of Nutritional Awareness Package (NAP) on Secondary School Students for the Improvement of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) at Rural Areas of Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal
Authors: Maiti Soumyajit , Chatterjee Kausik , De Debasis , Ali Kazi Monjur , Bera Tushar Kanti , Jana Kishalay , Ghosh Debidas
Published: October 2011

Objective: Nutritional problem in school age children is common throughout the India. Occurrence of nutritional problems like anaemia, scurvy, ricket and protein energy malnutrition (PEM) may develop due to lack of knowledge and awareness. Poor knowledge on nutrition among children can lead to unhealthy community. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of school-based nutrition awareness package on the development of nutritional knowledge of school children at rural areas of West Medinipur district. Material & Methods: Total 827 secondary school children were selected randomly from class VII to IX of three different schools of West Medinipur comprising 433 boys and 394 girls. To access the awareness level, a peer-reviewed, scoring system questionnaire was applied. The nutrition education was imparted through lectures, audiovisual aids and demonstrations for three months in school settings. Before and after imparting nutrition education, the changes in knowledge, attitude and practices regarding good nutrition was evaluated by questionnaire method. Results: After delivery of nutrition education, a significant improvement in their nutritional knowledge was observed. Nutritional knowledge was improved significantly on anaemia (p≤0.001), scurvy (p≤0.001), ricket (p≤0.001) and PEM (p≤0.001) at post-awareness stage. The analysis of data also inferred that the students scoring more marks in management part of deficiency diseases which is important during their future life. The study was successful in identifying certain gaps in their knowledge, attitude and practices before imparting nutrition education. Conclusion: It is concluded that a school-based comprehensive nutritional programme has significant effect on cognitive and attitudinal variables to increase the level of knowledge and to follow-up appropriate dietary behaviours. The findings support the importance of knowledge in nutrition of the children in connection with the development of healthy dietary behaviours. Key Words: School Children; Nutritional diseases; NAP; KAP DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v2i2.3976Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 87-92
Preparation, Characterization and Performance of Templated Silica Membranes in Non-Osmotic Desalination
Authors: Ladewig Bradley P. , Tan Ying Han , Lin Chun Xiang C. , Ladewig Katharina , Diniz da Costa João C. , Smart Simon
Published: October 2011

In this work we investigate the potential of a polyethylene glycol-polypropylene glycol-polyethylene glycol, tri-block copolymer as a template for a hybrid carbon/silica membrane for use in the non-osmotic desalination of seawater. Silica samples were loaded with varying amounts of tri-block copolymer and calcined in a vacuum to carbonize the template and trap it within the silica matrix. The resultant xerogels were analyzed with FTIR, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and N2 sorption techniques, wherein it was determined that template loadings of 10 and 20% produced silica networks with enhanced pore volumes and appropriately sized pores for desalination. Membranes were created via two different routes and tested with feed concentrations of 3, 10 and 35 ppk of NaCl at room temperature employing a transmembrane pressure drop of 85% (in most cases >95%) and fluxes higher than 1.6 kg m−2 h−1. Furthermore, the carbonized templated membranes displayed equal or improved performance compared to similarly prepared non-templated silica membranes, with the best results of a flux of 3.7 kg m−2 h−1 with 98.5% salt rejection capacity, exceeding previous literature reports. In addition, the templated silica membranes exhibited superior hydrostability demonstrating their potential for long-term operation.
Vigna (Leguminosae) sensu lato: The names and identities of the American segregate genera
Authors: Delgado‐Salinas Alfonso , Thulin Mats , Pasquet Rémy , Weeden Norm , Lavin Matt
Published: October 2011

• Premise of study: The legume genus Vigna and close relatives have highly elaborated floral morphologies that involve the coiling, bending, and intricate connection of flower parts. Banners, levers, platforms, and pumps have evolved that attract pollinators and then manipulate their movement. Given this three‐dimensional floral complexity, the taxonomy of Vigna and relatives has been confounded by the study of mostly two‐dimensional museum specimens. A molecular phylogenetic analysis was undertaken in the effort to resolve long‐standing taxonomic questions centered on floral morphology.

• Methods: The phylogenetic analysis included cpDNA trnK and nuclear ribosomal ITS/5.8S (ITS) sequence variation. The American species were comprehensively sampled and outgroups included Old World relatives.

• Key results: The trnK and ITS data analyses concurred in resolving six well‐supported clades of American Vigna that are most closely related to other American genera: Dolichopsis, Macroptilium, Mysanthus, Oryxis, Oxyrhynchus, Phaseolus, Ramirezella, and Strophostyles. These 14 American clades ranked here as genera are resolved as sister to a clade comprising the mainly Old World species of Vigna.

• Conclusions: American Vigna clades were reassigned to the genera Ancistrotropis, Cochliasanthus, Condylostylis, Leptospron, Sigmoidotropis, and the newly described Helicotropis. Vigna sensu stricto in the Americas now includes relatively few and mostly pantropical species. Elaborate floral asymmetries are readily used to apomorphically diagnose nearly all of the American genera. The age estimates of the extant diversification of the American and its Old World sister clade are approximately coeval at ca. 6–7 million yr, which belies much greater floral variation in the Americas.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers for Hebanthe eriantha (Amaranthaceae)
Authors: Figueira Glyn M. , Bajay Miklos Maximiliano , Silva Carolina M. S. , Zucchi Maria I. , Monteiro Mariza , Rodrigues Marili V. N.
Published: October 2011

• Premise of the study: Hebanthe eriantha (Amaranthaceae) is extensively collected and used in folk medicine. Microsatellite markers were developed and characterized to investigate the genetic structure and diversity of germplasm collections of this species.

• Methods and Results: Eleven highly polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed. The number of alleles observed for each locus ranged from two to eight. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.000 to 0.808 and 0.455 to 0.851, respectively.

• Conclusions: These results show the utility of microsatellite loci for studies of population genetics in H. eriantha, which are important for the future conservation and cultivation of this medicinal species.
Dimethyl Fumarate, an Immune Modulator and Inducer of the Antioxidant Response, Suppresses HIV Replication and Macrophage-Mediated Neurotoxicity: A Novel Candidate for HIV Neuroprotection
Authors: Cross Stephanie A. , Cook Denise R. , Chi Anthony W. S. , Vance Patricia J. , Kolson Lorraine L. , Wong Bethany J. , Jordan-Sciutto Kelly L. , Kolson Dennis L.
Published: October 2011

Despite antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV infection promotes cognitive dysfunction and neurodegeneration through persistent inflammation and neurotoxin release from infected and/or activated macrophages/microglia. Furthermore, inflammation and immune activation within both the CNS and periphery correlate with disease progression and morbidity in ART-treated individuals. Accordingly, drugs targeting these pathological processes in the CNS and systemic compartments are needed for effective, adjunctive therapy. Using our in vitro model of HIV-mediated neurotoxicity, in which HIV-infected monocyte-derived macrophages release excitatory neurotoxins, we show that HIV infection dysregulates the macrophage antioxidant response and reduces levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Furthermore, restoration of HO-1 expression in HIV-infected monocyte-derived macrophages reduces neurotoxin release without altering HIV replication. Given these novel observations, we have identified dimethyl fumarate (DMF), used to treat psoriasis and showing promising results in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis, as a potential neuroprotectant and HIV disease-modifying agent. DMF, an immune modulator and inducer of the antioxidant response, suppresses HIV replication and neurotoxin release. Two distinct mechanisms are proposed: inhibition of NF-κB nuclear translocation and signaling, which could contribute to the suppression of HIV replication, and induction of HO-1, which is associated with decreased neurotoxin release. Finally, we found that DMF attenuates CCL2-induced monocyte chemotaxis, suggesting that DMF could decrease recruitment of activated monocytes to the CNS in response to inflammatory mediators. We propose that dysregulation of the antioxidant response during HIV infection drives macrophage-mediated neurotoxicity and that DMF could serve as an adjunctive neuroprotectant and HIV disease modifier in ART-treated individuals.
Regenerative Therapies Using Cell Sheet-Based Tissue Engineering for Cardiac Disease
Authors: Haraguchi Yuji , Shimizu Tatsuya , Yamato Masayuki , Okano Teruo
Published: October 2011

At present, cardiac diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Recently, a cell-based regenerative medicine has appeared as one of the most potential and promising therapies for improving cardiac diseases. As a new generational cell-based regenerative therapy, tissue engineering is focused. Our laboratory has originally developed cell sheet-based scaffold-free tissue engineering. Three-dimensional myocardial tissue fabricated by stacking cardiomyocyte sheets, which are tightly interconnected to each other through gap junctions, beats simultaneously and macroscopically and shows the characteristic structures of native heart tissue. Cell sheet-based therapy cures the damaged heart function of animal models and is clinically applied. Cell sheet-based tissue engineering has a promising and enormous potential in myocardial tissue regenerative medicine and will cure many patients suffering from severe cardiac disease. This paper summarizes cell sheet-based tissue engineering and its satisfactory therapeutic effects on cardiac disease.
Treatment with Etanercept in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Sheng-qian , Xu Jian-hua , Ding Changhai
Published: October 2011

We report a case of a 52-year-old woman with a 1-year history of rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease referred to hospital because of aggravated pulmonary symptoms in spite of intensive treatment including prednisone, azathioprine and triptergium glycoside. We subsequently initiated treatment with 25 mg of etanercept, subcutaneously injected twice weekly. Following 6 months of therapy with this agent, sustained improvement in dyspnea, cough was reported by the patient and respiratory function test showed marked improvement. The improvement was confirmed by reduced middle and lower lung markings on chest radiography and high-resolution CT scan. This report suggests etanercept may be effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease.
A novel intervention for decreasing hospital crowding following the blizzards of 2010
Authors: Levy, MSc, MD J. Lee , Seaman, MD Kevin , Levy, MSc, DO Matthew J.
Published: October 2011

Recent evidence demonstrates that emergency department (ED) and inpatient hospital crowding contributes to unsafe patient care. The blizzards of 2010 produced conditions that prohibited the safe discharge of admitted inpatients and were identified as a major factor in crowding of the ED at Howard County General Hospital (HCGH). At one point, admitted patients occupied 35 of the 36 treatment beds in the ED. A novel intervention was conceived and created that used the resources of Howard County Fire and Rescue (HCFR) to transport discharged patients from the inpatient floors to their home, thereby decreasing ED boarding and crowding. Throughout the 12-hour operation, HCFR personnel transported 13 patients from hospital inpatient floors to their home, and two ED interfacility transports were performed. In addition, HCFR units conducted one rescue and successful resuscitation of a patient with a sudden cardiac arrest during a 911 emergency call. During this call, HCFR and HCGH also coordinated the emergency transport of an interventional cardiologist through the blizzard to HCGH to perform emergency cardiac catheterization. At the end of the operational period, the ED had regained all but four beds pending inpatient admission. These efforts fortified a strong partnership between a community hospital and local fire department to facilitate the expeditious discharge and disposition of inpatients during the blizzards of 2010 to decrease crowding.
Weakened atmospheric energy transport feedback in cold glacial climates
Authors: Cvijanovic I. , Langen P. L. , Kaas E.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. The response of atmospheric energy transport during Northern Hemisphere cooling and warming from present day (PD) and Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) conditions is investigated using sea surface temperature anomalies derived from a freshwater hosing experiment. The present day climate shows enhanced sensitivity of the atmospheric mid-latitude energy transport compared to that of the LGM, suggesting its ability to reorganize more easily and thereby dampen high latitude temperature anomalies that may arise from changes in the oceanic transport. This effect is found to be a result of both the atmospheric and surface flux response. The increased PD transport sensitivity relative to that of the LGM is linked to a stronger dry static energy transport response which, in turn, is mainly driven by larger changes in the transient eddy heat flux. In comparison, changes in mid-latitude latent heat transport play a minor role in the overall transport sensitivity.
Simultaneous determination of sibutramine and its active metabolites in human plasma by LC‐MS/MS and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Bae Jung‐Woo , Choi Chang‐Ik , Jang Choon‐Gon , Lee Seok‐Yong
Published: October 2011

A simple and sensitive liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) technique was developed and validated for the determination of sibutramine and its N‐desmethyl metabolites (M1 and M2) in human plasma. After extraction with methyl t‐butyl ether, chromatographic separation of analytes in human plasma was performed using a reverse‐phase Luna C18 column with a mobile phase of acetonitrile–10 mm ammonium formate buffer (50:50, v/v) and quantified by ESI‐MS/MS detection in positive ion mode. The flow rate of the mobile phase was 200 μL/min and the retention times of sibutramine, M1, M2 and internal standard (chlorpheniramine) were 1.5, 1.4, 1.3 and 0.9 min, respectively. The calibration curves were linear over the range 0.05–20 ng/mL, for sibutramine, M1 and M2. The lower limit of quantification was 0.05 ng/mL using 500 μL of human plasma. The mean accuracy and the precision in the intra‐ and inter‐day validation for sibutramine, M1 and M2 were acceptable. This LC‐MS/MS method showed improved sensitivity and a short run time for the quantification of sibutramine and its two active metabolites in plasma. The validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study in human. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of methyllycaconitine, selective α7 nicotinic receptor antagonist, in rodent plasma and brain tissue by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry – application to neuropharmacokinetics of methyllycaconitine in rats
Authors: Nirogi Ramakrishna , Kandikere Vishwottam , Komarneni Prashanth , Aleti Raghupathi , Boggavarapu Rajesh , Bhyrapuneni Gopinadh , Muddana Nageswararao , Mukkanti K.
Published: October 2011

A sensitive high‐performance liquid chromatography–positive ion electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the quantification of methyllycaconitine (MLA) in rat plasma and brain tissue. Following acetonitrile protein precipitation, the analyte was separated using a gradient mobile phase on a reversed‐phase column and analyzed by MS/MS in the multiple reaction monitoring mode using the respective [M + H]+ ions, m/z 683–216 for MLA and m/z 260–116 for the internal standard. The assay exhibited a linear dynamic range of 0.5–250 ng/mL for MLA in rat plasma and brain tissue. The lower limit of quantification was 0.5 ng/mL. Acceptable precision (<12%) and accuracy (100 ± 6%) were obtained for concentrations over the standard curve range. The method was successfully applied to quantify MLA concentrations in a rodent pharmacokinetic and brain penetration study. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulatory focus and preference reversal between hedonic and utilitarian consumption
Authors: Roy Rajat , Ng Sharon
Published: October 2011

This article explores the impact of consumers' regulatory goals on their relative focus on hedonic (versus utilitarian) benefits of products. Drawing from extant literature, we argue that promotion‐focused consumers will exhibit more favorable attitude towards a product when its hedonic benefits are highlighted in comparison to its utilitarian benefits. Prevention‐focused consumers on the other hand will exhibit more favorable attitude towards a product when its utilitarian benefits are highlighted in comparison to its hedonic benefits. We further argue that this effect is moderated by contextual factors, such as evaluation mode. In addition, we argue that the posited difference only holds when the hedonic and utilitarian products are evaluated individually. When the two products are evaluated jointly, both promotion and prevention‐focused individuals will exhibit more favorable attitude towards the hedonic product. Two studies were conducted to test the hypotheses and findings supported our predictions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Enhanced Thermoelectric Properties in Zinc Antimonides
Authors: Bjerg Lasse , Madsen Georg K. H. , Iversen Bo B.
Published: October 2011

ab initio calculations for BaZn2Sb2, CaZn2Sb2, and ZnSb
ChemInform Abstract: Lithium Distribution in Aluminum‐Free Cubic Li7La3Zr2O12.
Authors: Xie Hui , Alonso Jose A. , Li Yutao , Fernandez‐Diaz Maria T. , Goodenough John B.
Published: October 2011

An Al‐free sample of nominal composition Li7La3Zr2O12 is characterized by neutron diffraction in order to determine the Li distribution in the Li‐stuffed garnet structure and to clarify how the Li+—Li+ interactions limit the concentration of Li+ ions in the interstitial space and influence the Li ion conductivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Stable Red Oxynitride β‐SiAlON:Pr3+ Phosphor for Light‐Emitting Diodes.
Authors: Liu Tzu‐Chen , Cheng Bing‐Ming , Hu Shu‐Fen , Liu Ru‐Shi
Published: October 2011

Si5.984AlzOzN8‐z :Pr0.016 (z = 0—2.0) is prepared from α‐Si3N4, AlN, Al2O3, and Pr2O3 by gas pressure sintering at 1950 °C for 2 h.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Crystal and Electronic Structures, and Properties of the New Pnictide Semiconductors A2CdPn2 (A: Ca, Sr, Ba, Eu; Pn: P, As).
Authors: Wang Jian , Yang Min , Pan Ming‐Yan , Xia Sheng‐Qing , Tao Xu‐Tang , He Hua , Darone Gregory , Bobev Svilen
Published: October 2011

Ca2CdP2, Ca2CdAs2, Sr2CdAs2, Ba2CdAs2, and Eu2CdAs2 are synthesized by high‐temperature metal flux reactions (700—960 °C, 20—24 h) and characterized by single crystal XRD.
ChemInform Abstract: Facile Preparation of Hydrated Vanadium Pentoxide Nanobelts Based Bulky Paper as Flexible Binder‐Free Cathodes for High‐Performance Lithium Ion Batteries.
Authors: Yan Qingyu , et al. et al.
Published: October 2011

V2O5·0.44H2O nanobelts are hydrothermally synthesized from mixtures of V2O5, H2O2, and NH4H2PO4 (H2O, autoclave, 180 °C, 48 h, 99% yield).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Characterization of Three Open‐Framework Zinc Phosphites with (3,4)‐Connected Frameworks.
Authors: Kang Maoping , Luo Daibing , Luo Xiuchao , Lin Zhien
Published: October 2011

The crystal structures of the new open‐framework zinc phosphite compounds (II), (IV), and (V) are determined by single crystal XRD.
ChemInform Abstract: Eight‐Coordinated Arsenic in the Zintl Phases RbCd4As3 and RbZn4As3: Synthesis and Structural Characterization.
Authors: He Hua , Tyson Chauntae , Bobev Svilen
Published: October 2011

MCd4Pn3 and MZn4Pn3 (M: Na, K, Rb, Cs; Pn: As, P) Zintl phases are synthesized from the elements by high temperature reactions (500—850 °C, 7—10 d).
ChemInform Abstract: [BMIm]4[Sn9Se20]: Ionothermal Synthesis of a Selenidostannate with a 3D Open‐Framework Structure.
Authors: Lin Yumei , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: October 2011

Red platelike crystals of [bmim]4[Sn9Se20] are synthesized from a mixture of [K4(H2O)4]SnSe4 and [bmim]BF4 (autoclave, 150 °C, 68% yield).
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Distorted Open‐Shell Endohedral Zintl Cluster: [Mn@Pb12]3‐.
Authors: Zhou Binbin , Kraemer Tobias , Thompson Amber L. , McGrady John E. , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: October 2011

[K(2,2,2‐crypt)]3[Mn@Pb12]·1.5en is synthesized by addition of a solution of Mn3(Mst)6 in THF to a mixture of K4Pb9 and 2,2,2‐crypt dissolved in en.
ChemInform Abstract: Nanoparticles of the Novel Coordination Polymer KBi(H2O)2[Fe(CN)6]·H2O as a Potential Contrast Agent for Computed Tomography.
Authors: Perera Vindya S. , Hao Jihua , Gao Min , Gough Maya , Zavalij Peter Y. , Flask Chris , Basilion James P. , Huang Songping D.
Published: October 2011

Nanoparticles of the title compound are prepared by slow mixing of an aqueous K4[Fe(CN)6] solution containing polyvinylpyrrolidone with an aqueous Bi(NO3)3 solution containing sodium citrate (room temperature, 30 min).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Fe2‐xMnxP Nanoparticles from Single‐Source Molecular Precursors.
Authors: Colson Adam C. , Whitmire Kenton H.
Published: October 2011

The title nanoparticles (0.15 ≤ x ≤ 0.7) are synthesized by injecting a dioctyl ether solution of FeMn(CO)8(μ‐PH2) into a 220 °C hot solution containing dioctyl ether, oleic acid, and hexadecylamine (2 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Enantioselective Organocascade Intermolecular Iminium/Enamine Michael Addition on Enals.
Authors: Quintard Adrien , Alexakis Alexandre
Published: October 2011

A method for the preparation of chiral disulfones by three‐component domino reaction of aldehydes (I) with vinyl sulfone (II) and different nucleophiles is elaborated.
ChemInform Abstract: Mild Organic Ammonium Tribromide‐Mediated Regioselective Ring Opening of Epoxides with Alcohols, Water, Acetic Anhydride, and Amines under Solvent‐Free Reaction Conditions.
Authors: Singhal Sweety , Jain Suman L. , Sain Bir
Published: October 2011

The organic ammonium tribromide MPHT is found to be an efficient catalyst for the regioselective ring opening of epoxides (I) with various nucleophiles under mild reaction conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Unexpected Formation of N‐Fluoroalkaneacyl Anilides from the Reactions of Fluoroalkanesulfonyl Azides with Nitrobenzene and Its Derivatives.
Authors: Xiong Wan‐ting , Zhao Jing‐wei , Gu Ji‐wei , Zhu Shizheng
Published: October 2011

The thermolysis reaction of fluoroalkanesulfonyl azides with nitrobenzenes bearing an electron‐withdrawing group such as ‐CF3 or ‐F gives unexpectedly acyl anilides (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Diastereoseletive Construction of 7‐Methylenebicyclo[3.2.1]oct‐3‐en‐2‐one Derivatives by Palladium‐Catalyzed Cyclization of Propargylic Acetates with 2‐Oxocyclohex‐3‐enecarboxylates.
Authors: Yoshida Masahiro , Sugimura Chiyuki , Shishido Kozo
Published: October 2011

The reaction tolerates a wide range or aromatic and aliphatic substituents in the propargylic substrates.