bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Problems Faced by the Consumers While Buying and Using the Electric Two Wheeler in Thrissur District, Kerala, India
Authors: K K Aswathy , K N Ushadevi 
Published: April 2024

Aim: The study aimed to identify the problems faced by the consumers while buying and using the electric two wheeler.
Methodology: Data required for the study were collected from primary and secondary sources. The primary survey were conducted among the respondents through a pre-structured interview schedule during the month of May 2023. Secondary data were collected from websites, government reports and publications. A total of 30 respondents who are using electric vehicles were selected from Thrissur, using a random sampling method. The identified problems of consumers while buying and using electric vehicle are ranked by making use of Garrett’s Ranking Technique.
Results: Based on Garrett’s ranking, it can be seen that the major problems faced by the consumers while buying electric vehicle were high vehicle cost and the major problem faced by the consumers while using were lack of service centers and followed by lack of skilled labor (breakdown & maintenance).
Conclusion: The results of this study will aid marketers in understanding the problems of consumers. Understanding this would give marketers the ability to create and carry out their marketing strategies effectively, giving them a stronger competitive edge.
Phytochemistry and Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Aqueous and Hydroethanolic Extracts of Pavetta corymbosa Leaves (Rubiaceae)
Authors: Patrice Miezan Bilé Aka , Yves Kouamé Yao , François Kouakou Yeboué Koffi , Blaise Kayo 
Published: April 2024

Pavetta corymbosa (Rubiaceae) is a plant widely known in sub-Saharan Africa in the field of traditional medicine. It is used empirically against certain pathologies such as malaria, diabetes, hemorrhages and typhoid fever. However, there is no scientific data on its phytochemical and biological profile, so this study was carried out to research the chemical groups contained in the leaves of this plant and determine the toxicological parameters which would justify its use in traditional medicine. Several standard characterization methods were used for phytochemical screening of aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts of Pavetta corymbosa leaves. The study of the acute toxicity of the two types of extracts from the leaves of this plant was carried out according to the OECD guideline 423 using Wistar rats. Phytochemical screening indicated the existence of polyphenols, saponosides, quinones, flavonoids, polyterpenes and sterols in the two types of extracts of this plant, which would justify its biological and pharmacological effects. The study of the acute toxicity of these two types of extracts, administered intraperitoneally to Wistar rats, showed no mortality of the rats. These toxicological results allow us to qualify the leaves of Pavetta corymbosa as being non-toxic, hence the interest in its use in traditional medicine against certain pathologies.
Iron Heterogeneity in Soil and its Relation to its Uptake by Water Leaf (Talinum Triangulaire L.)
Authors: Ogunlade-Anibasa, G.O.  , Aniki, S.O.  , Ameh, P.T.  , Igwemmar, N.C . 
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the relationship between iron (Fe) heterogeneity in soil and Fe uptake by water leaf (Talinum triangulaire). A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted with water leaf grown under three treatments; control (0mg/kg Fe added), homogeneous (1000mg/kg Fe added), and heterogeneous (simulated realistic heterogeneity) for six weeks after initial establishment in the nursery for four weeks). At harvest, plant samples were cut, washed, dried, milled into powder and analyzed for iron concentrations using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) Thermos Fisher Scientific Model 3000 ICE after acid digest by Nitric acid (HNO3). The mean root Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 1263 ±154mg/kg, 1504 ±178mg/kg and 1393mg/kg ±140mg/kg respectively. The mean shoot Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 904 ±174u mg/kg, 1401±117 mg/kg and 1045 ±95 mg/kg respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p >0.005) in shoot and root Fe concentration between treatments. However, the homogeneous treatment was 0.19 times higher than the control and 0.07 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. Iron level in the roots was 0.35 times high as the control and 0.25 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. The Concentration factors for the control, homogeneous, and heterogeneous treatments were 0.1118, 0.1498 and 0.1258 respectively. The similarity in concentration factor between treatments showed that it is an accumulator of Fe and has the affinity for Fe irrespective of the varied soil concentrations. These findings indicate that water leaf possesses mechanisms enabling efficient Fe acquisition from variable soil conditions. Overall, the study provides initial evidence that water leaf is resilient to variability in soil Fe distribution, holding implications for its improved cultivation. However, further research on the specific genes and processes governing iron mobilization and uptake in water leaf is recommended.
Prevalence, Associated Factors and Treatment Outcomes of Laboratory-confirmed Pregnancy Malaria at Antenatal Care in Three Healthcare Facilities of Douala, Cameroon
Authors: Kuete Thomas , Essome Henri , Moche Larissa Boukam , Anabianina Nadège , Mangamba Christiane Keddy , Ekobo Albert Same 
Published: April 2024

Pregnancy malaria is a life-threatening condition to the mother, the fetus and the newborn. Since the implementation of the World Health Organization’s recommendations of specific malaria control strategies to pregnant women in malaria endemic countries, evaluation studies are needed to assess the prevalence of malaria in pregnancy. This cross-sectional prospective study was therefore set to determine the prevalence and associated factors as well as the treatment outcomes of Plasmodium infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in three hospitals of Douala in Cameroon.
Each volunteered pregnant woman received for antenatal care was questioned according to the study questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data, use of malaria prevention tools and pregnancy history. Then a laboratory test was carried for Plasmodium detection in the peripheral blood using microscopy and a HRP2-based rapid diagnostic test. Plasmodium carrying pregnant women were treated according to the national malaria program scheme followed by post-treatment follow-up. Data were processed and analyzed using SPSS.20 software. Association of Plasmodium infection with risk factors was analyzed as univariate using Pearson Chi-square and Fisher Exact tests considering a P-value < 0.05 as statistically significant.
A total of 487 pregnant women aged between 18 years and 42 years were included in the study. The prevalence of Plasmodium infection was 3.5% and 4.3% by malaria rapid diagnostic test and microscopy respectively. Only Plasmodium falciparum asexual stage was detected. Parasite loads were low. Factors associated with Plasmodium falciparum higher prevalence were being less than 21 years old (0.02), not sleeping under mosquitoe net daily (p=0.04) and having fever during the pregnancy (p=0.04). Parenteral treatment with either artesunate, artemether or quinine sulfate showed good efficacy.
Conclusion: Pregnant women attending the antenatal cares harbored low Plasmodium infection prevalence and loads. Being of young age, not sleeping under mosquitoe bednet daily and having fever during the pregnancy were predictive Plasmodium falciparum. Plasmodium infected pregnant women were successfully treated with antimalarial medications recommended by the national Ministry of Public Health. The authors recommend increasing efforts by health authorities to strengthen malaria prevention in pregnant women through more adherence to sleeping under ITNs daily and taking IPT-sp as well as systematic detection of Plasmodium infection at each antenatal visit.
30 Jahre UNIDROIT Principles – Unifying the Commercial World — Zugleich Ankündigung einer gleichnamigen Konferenz in Hamburg am 6./7.6.2024
Authors: Brödermann Eckart 
Published: April 2024

Zusammenfassung
Anlässlich des 30. Geburtstags der erstmals 1994 veröffentlichten Unidroit Principles of International Commercial Contracts fasst dieser Beitrag ihre in weltweiter Praxis erprobte Doppelrolle zusammen (neben der Beeinflussung von nationalen Gesetzgebern): Als wählbare Rechtsregel, am besten in Kombination mit einer Schiedsklausel (Simplified Global Contracting), und als Auslegungshilfe für nationales Recht aufgrund ihrer Qualität als allgemeine Rechtsprinzipien des internationalen Vertragsrechts.
Scanning Kelvin Probe Microscopy on Bulk Heterojunction Polymer Blends
Authors: Maturová Klára , Kemerink Martijn , Wienk Martijn M. , Charrier Dimitri S. H. , Janssen René A. J. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractHere, correlated AFM and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy measurements with sub‐100 nm resolution on the phase‐separated active layer of polymer‐fullerene (MDMO‐PPV:PCBM) bulk heterojunction solar cells in the dark and under illumination are described. Using numerical modeling a fully quantitative explanation for the contrast and shifts of the surface potential in dark and light is provided. Under illumination an excess of photogenerated electrons is present in both the donor and acceptor phases. From the time evolution of the surface potential after switching off the light the contributions of free and trapped electrons can be identified. Based on these measurements the relative 3D energy level shifts of the sample are calculated. Moreover, by comparing devices with fine and coarse phase separation, it is found that the inferior performance of the latter devices is, at least partially, due to poor electron transport.
Copper‐Catalyzed Preparation of γ‐Alkylidenebutenolides and Isocoumarins under Mild Palladium‐Free Conditions
Authors: Inack‐Ngi Samuel , Rahmani Raphaël , Commeiras Laurent , Chouraqui Gaëlle , Thibonnet Jérôme , Duchêne Alain , Abarbri Mohamed , Parrain Jean‐Luc 
Published: March 2009

Abstractmagnified imageA general and efficient copper(I)‐catalyzed cross‐coupling and heterocyclization reaction of terminal alkynes and β‐iodo‐α,β‐unsaturated acid derivatives has been developed under very mild conditions. This method provides easy access from good to excellent yields of a variety of 5‐ylidenebutenolides and 3‐substituted isocoumarins with excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivity. This procedure does not require the use of any expensive supplementary additives, and is palladium‐free.
Grandparental investment: The influence of reproductive timing and family size
Authors: Coall David A. , Meier Marc , Hertwig Ralph , Wänke Michaela , Höpflinger François 
Published: March 2009

AbstractThe influence that grandparents have on the life history traits of their descendants has been studied extensively. However, no attention has been paid to the potential influence a grandparent's own reproductive history has on the investment they make in their grandchildren. We use data from 658 Swiss grandchildren and 591 of their grandparents to investigate whether grandparents' reproductive scheduling and family size influence the amount of investment grandparents make in a focal grandchild (shared contacts, occasions to meet, activities, discussions, interests, and important roles the grandparent plays). Grandparents who were younger when they had their first child had more children and grandchildren; this relationship strengthened after controlling for grandparental age, sex, lineage, and education (all P < 0.001). Generally, having more children or grandchildren was associated with reduced levels of grandparental investment. After adjustment for a wide range of factors known to influence investment, having more children or grandchildren and having a first child or grandchild at a younger age were associated with reduced investment in 14 of 24 analyses (all P < 0.09). The association between reproductive scheduling and investment was partially mediated by the grandparent's family size. Interestingly, these relationships were only present in data reported from the grandchild's point of view, not the grandparent's. This analysis provides preliminary evidence that grandparents' reproductive strategies have consequences for the amount of investment they make in their grandchildren. These results are examined in terms of the trade‐offs between current and future reproduction and offspring quality and quantity. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Varicella zoster virus is not a disease‐relevant antigen in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Burgoon Mark P. , Cohrs Randall J. , Bennett Jeffrey L. , Anderson Sarah W. , Ritchie Alanna M. , Cepok Sabine , Hemmer Bernhard , Gilden Don , Owens Gregory P. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractHerpesvirions and varicella zoster virus (VZV) DNA were recently reported in all 15 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) obtained within 1 week of exacerbation. Using identical electron microscopic and polymerase chain reaction techniques, including additional primer sets representing different regions of the VZV genome, we found no herpesvirions or VZV DNA in MS CSF or acute MS plaques. Although enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analysis demonstrated a higher titer of VZV antibody in MS CSF than in inflammatory control samples, recombinant antibodies prepared from clonally expanded MS CSF plasma cells did not bind to VZV. VZV is not a disease‐relevant antigen in MS. Ann Neurol 2009;65:474–479
CCL21 overexpressed on lymphatic vessels drives thymic hyperplasia in myasthenia
Authors: Berrih‐Aknin Sonia , Ruhlmann Nathalie , Bismuth Jacky , Cizeron‐Clairac Géraldine , Zelman Einat , Shachar Idit , Dartevelle Philippe , de Rosbo Nicole Kerlero , Le Panse Rozen 
Published: March 2009

AbstractObjectiveMyasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular disease mediated by anti‐acetylcholine receptor (AChR) autoantibodies, is associated with thymic hyperplasia characterized by ectopic germinal centers that contain pathogenic antibody‐producing B cells. Our thymic transcriptome study demonstrated increased expression of CCL21, a recruiter of immune cells. Accordingly, we are investigating its implication in MG pathogenesis.MethodsThe expression of CCL21 and its CCR7 receptor was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting, respectively. Chemotaxis of T and B cells to CCL21 was measured by transwell assay. The nature of the thymic cells overexpressing CCL21 was investigated by immunochemistry and laser‐capture microdissection combined with real‐time PCR.ResultsWe demonstrate that CCL21 is overexpressed specifically in hyperplastic MG thymuses, whereas there is no variation in CCR7 levels on blood cells. We show that although CCL21 attracts both human T and B cells, it acts more strongly on naive B cells. CCL21 overexpression is normalized in corticoid‐treated MG patients, suggesting that targeting this chemokine could represent a new selective treatment, decreasing the abnormal peripheral lymphocyte recruitment. Moreover, we locate protein and messenger RNA overexpression of CCL21 to specific endothelial vessels. Investigation of the nature of these vessels demonstrated different angiogenic processes in MG thymuses: high endothelial venule angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Unexpectedly, CCL21 overexpression originates from afferent lymphatic endothelial vessels.InterpretationWe postulate that thymic overexpression of CCL21 on specialized lymphatic vessels results in abnormal peripheral lymphocyte recruitment, bringing naive B cells in contact with the inflammatory environment characteristic of MG thymuses, where they can be sensitized against AChR. Ann Neurol 2009;66:521–531
Remission of epilepsy after two drug failures in children: A prospective study
Authors: Berg Anne T. , Levy Susan R. , Testa Francine M. , D'Souza Ramona 
Published: March 2009

AbstractObjectiveDetermine the probability of a more than 1‐year remission after failure of a second drug in children prospectively followed from initial diagnosis of epilepsy and then from time of second drug failure. Identify prognostic factors for remission after second drug failure.MethodsOf 613 children, 128 did not respond favorably to 2 drugs, had a trial of at least a third drug (median, 3), and were followed for more than 1 year (median, 10.1 years) since second drug failure. Product limit and proportional hazards techniques were used to analyze predictors of any 1‐year remission (Rem1) and 1‐ and 3‐year remission at last contact (Rem1/3‐LC).ResultsSeventy‐three patients (57%) had a remission. Repeated remissions and relapses were common. Only 48 (37.5%) achieved Rem1‐LC and 28 (23%) Rem3‐LC. Idiopathic epilepsy (Rem1: rate ratio [RR], 3.64, p < 0.0001; Rem1‐LC: RR, 2.57, p = 0.008) and seizure frequency (Rem1: RR, 0.76, p = 0.003; Rem1‐LC: RR, 0.82, p = 0.04 per increase in category) were the most robust predictors. Symptomatic cause was the only correlate of Rem3‐LC. Remission before second drug failure did not predict remission after second drug failure.InterpretationRemission after second drug failure is common but often temporary. Children who have not responded to two appropriate drugs should be carefully evaluated to maximize therapy and possibly considered for more aggressive treatments. Ann Neurol 2009;65:510–519
Crystal‐Structure Determination of Powdered Paramagnetic Lanthanide Complexes by Proton NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Kervern Gwendal , D'Aléo Anthony , Toupet Loïc , Maury Olivier , Emsley Lyndon , Pintacuda Guido 
Published: March 2009

AbstractShifts for crystals: Solid‐state NMR spectroscopy can be used for structure determination of microcrystalline paramagnetic solids at natural isotopic abundance. The protocol makes use of paramagnetic effects, measured on suitably recorded 1H NMR spectra, to define the conformation of a molecule in the lattice and the intermolecular packing in the solid phase. The method is illustrated with a family of lanthanide compounds (see picture).magnified image
Iterative In Situ Click Chemistry Creates Antibody‐like Protein‐Capture Agents
Authors: Agnew Heather D. , Rohde Rosemary D. , Millward Steven W. , Nag Arundhati , Yeo Woon‐Seok , Hein Jason E. , Pitram Suresh M. , Tariq Abdul Ahad , Burns Vanessa M. , Krom Russell J. , Fokin Valery V. , Sharpless K. Barry , Heath James R. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractSpecial agents for protein capture: Iterative in situ click chemistry (see scheme for the tertiary ligand screen) and the one‐bead–one‐compound method for the creation of a peptide library enable the fragment‐based assembly of selective high‐affinity protein‐capture agents. The resulting ligands are water‐soluble and stable chemically, biochemically, and thermally. They can be produced in gram quantities through copper(I)‐catalyzed cycloaddition.magnified image
Preparation a novel pH‐sensitive blend hydrogel based on polyaspartic acid and ethylcellulose for controlled release of naproxen sodium
Authors: Cao Hui , Zhu Jianting , Su Haijia , Fang Li , Tan Tianwei 
Published: March 2009

AbstractHydrogels based on pH‐sensitive polymers are of great interest as potential biomaterials for the controlled delivery of drug molecules. In this study, a novel, pH‐sensitive hydrogel was synthesized by poly(aspartic acid) (PASP) crosslinked with 1,6‐hexanediamine and reinforced with ethylcellulose (EC). The loading and release characteristics of naproxen sodium (NS) were studied. The PASP–EC blend hydrogels had pH‐sensitive characteristics and were strongly dependent on the pH value. The release kinetics for NS from the PASP–EC blend hydrogels and PASP hydrogel were evaluated in simulated gastric fluid (pH = 1.05) and simulated intestinal fluid (pH = 6.8) at 37°C. The results showed that the drug‐loaded hydrogels were resistant to simulated gastric fluid, and hence, they could be useful for oral drug delivery. Compared with the PASP hydrogel, the PASP–EC blend hydrogels showed a lower release rate of NS in the same pH conditions. It was evident that the presence of hydrophobic groups (EC) retarded the release of NS and led to sustained release. The kinetics of NS release from the drug‐loaded hydrogels conformed to the Korsmeyer–Peppas model. The release exponent of the model was 0.7291, which indicated multiple drug release. The PASP–EC blend hydrogels were biodegradable and pH sensitive; there would be a wide range of applications for them in controlled drug‐delivery systems. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Latex film performance of styrene–acrylic particles functionalized with acrylic acid
Authors: Montesinos‐Gómez Rosa , Reynoso Rodolfo , Rodríguez‐Gómez Francisco J. , Reyes‐Mercado Yuri , Vázquez Flavio 
Published: March 2009

AbstractLatex polymers are frequently used as substitutes for solvent‐borne coatings in environmental friendly technologies. However, the relationship between the copolymer composition and the latex film performance must be established. The preparation of a series of styrene–n‐butyl acrylate latexes functionalized with different amounts of acrylic acid through semicontinuous emulsion polymerization is presented. In this work, latexes were employed to study the modification of the latex film properties by the addition of acrylic acid during the polymerization; mainly, the adhesion to the substrate, the water vapor permeability, and the electrical film resistance were examined. The most advantageous acrylic acid content was established by a balance of the tested properties. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Physiology of Aspergillus niger in oxygen‐limited continuous cultures: Influence of aeration, carbon source concentration and dilution rate
Authors: Diano A. , Peeters J. , Dynesen J. , Nielsen J. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractIn industrial production of enzymes using the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger supply of sufficient oxygen is often a limitation, resulting in the formation of by‐products such as polyols. In order to identify the mechanisms behind formation of the different by‐products we studied the effect of low oxygen availability, at different carbon source concentrations and at different specific growth rates, on the metabolism of A. niger, using continuous cultures. The results show that there is an increase in the production of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates at low oxygen concentrations. Indeed, at these conditions, a decrease in the mitochondrial respiratory chain activity leads to an accumulation of NADH and to a decreased ATP production which uncouples catabolism and anabolism, influences the intracellular pH and leads to production and excretion of organic acids. Moreover, mannitol is being produced in order to ensure reoxidation of NADH, and this is the main cellular response to balance the ratio NADH/NAD at low oxygen availability. Mannitol production is also coupled to low specific growth rate, which suggests a control of carbon catabolite repression on the mannitol pathway. The roles of two other polyols, erythritol and glycerol, were also investigated. Both compounds are known to accumulate intracellularly, at high osmotic pressure, in order to restore the osmotic balance, but we show that the efficiency of this system is affected by a leakage of polyols through the membrane. Biotechnol. Bioeng. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 956–965. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.