bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term participation in collaborative fisheries research improves angler opinions on marine protected areas
Authors: Mason Erica T. , Kellum Allison N. , Chiu Jennifer A. , Waltz Grant T. , Murray Samantha , Wendt Dean E. , Starr Richard M. , Semmens Brice X.
Published: October 2020

Recent marine spatial planning efforts, including the management and monitoring of marine protected areas (MPAs), increasingly focus on the importance of stakeholder engagement. For nearly 15 years, the California Collaborative Fisheries Research Program (CCFRP) has partnered volunteer anglers with researchers, the fishing industry, and resource managers to monitor groundfishes in California’s network of MPAs. While the program has succeeded in generating sustained biological observations, we know little about volunteer angler demography or the impact of participation on their perceptions and opinions on fisheries data or MPAs. In this study we surveyed CCFRP volunteers to learn about (a) volunteer angler demographics and attitudes toward groundfish management and stock health, (b) volunteer angler motivations for joining and staying in the program, and (c) whether participation in the program influenced volunteer angler opinions on the quality of fisheries data used in resource management and the establishment of MPAs in California. CCFRP volunteers were older and had higher fishing avidity than average within the California recreational angling community. Many self-identified as more conservation-minded than their peers in the recreational fishing community and had positive views of California groundfish management and stock health. Participation in science and giving back to fisheries resources were major motivating factors in their decision to become and remain CCFRP volunteers. Angler opinions toward MPAs were more positive after volunteering with CCFRP. Those who had volunteered for seven or more years with CCFRP were more likely than not to gain a positive opinion of MPAs. Our survey results provide evidence that long-term engagement of stakeholders in collaborative research positively influences stakeholder opinions regarding marine resource management, and highlights CCFRP’s success in engaging citizen science stakeholders in collaborative fisheries research.
Transcriptome-wide identification of MAPKKK genes in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) and their potential roles in low temperature stress responses
Authors: Wang Wei , Shao An , Amombo Erick , Fan Shugao , Xu Xiao , Fu Jinmin
Published: October 2020

As upstream components of MAPK cascades, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinases (MAPKKKs) act as adaptors linking upstream signaling steps to the core MAPK cascades. MAPK cascades are universal modules of signal transduction in eukaryotic organisms and play crucial roles in plant development processes and in responses to biotic and abiotic stress and signal transduction. Members of the MAPKKK gene family have been identified in several plants,however, MAPKKKs have not been systematically studied in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.). In this study, 55 potential CdMAPKKKs were produced from bermudagrass transcriptome data, of which 13 belonged to the MEKK, 38 to the Raf, and 4 to the ZIK subfamily. Multiple alignment and conserved motif analysis of CdMAPKKKs supported the evolutionary relationships inferred from phylogenetic analyses. Moreover, the distribution pattern in Poaceae species indicated that members of the MAPKKK family were conserved among almost all diploid species, and species-specific polyploidy or higher duplication ratios resulted in an expansion of the MAPKKK family. In addition, 714 co-functional links which were significantly enriched in signal transduction, responses to temperature stimuli, and other important biological processes of 55 CdMAPKKKs were identified using co-functional gene networks analysis; 30 and 19 co-functional genes involved in response to cold or heat stress, respectively, were also identified. Results of promoter analyses, and interaction network investigation of all CdMAPKKKs based on the rice homologs suggested that CdMAPKKKs are commonly associated with regulation of numerous biological processes. Furthermore, 12 and 13 CdMAPKKKs were significantly up- and downregulated, respectively, in response to low temperature stress; among them, six CdMAPKKKs were significantly induced by low temperature stress, at least at one point in time. This is the first study to conduct identification and functional analysis of the MAPKKK gene family in bermudagrass, and our results provide a foundation for further research on the functions of CdMAPKKKs in response to low temperature stress.
Wild dog/dingo conservation, control and management: The impact beyond the paddock
Authors: Schofield Warren
Published: October 2020

The impact of predation by dingoes/wild dogs on livestock creates extreme amounts of stress, angst and anger within rural communities. How do we return to a well-managed landscape and once again have positive communication between stakeholders? Wild dogs attack livestock. Dingoes attack livestock. This is the reality. Livestock predation has impacts that extend far beyond the animals that are attacked. It affects people. The basic tools for controlling dingoes are simple, traps, guns, fences and poison. Dingo control fails when these tools are not applied correctly, or one tool is relied on and overused. Proactive management is the only way to avoid generational problems. All stakeholders must invest in the issue. To me, this dilemma is not about the dingoes. It’s not just about the sheep and cattle, it’s about the people and our communities.
A Study On Sum Formulas of Generalized Sixth-Order Linear Recurrence Sequences
Authors: Soykan Yüksel
Published: October 2020

In this paper, closed forms of the summation formulas for generalized Hexanacci numbers are presented. As special cases, we give summation formulas of Hexanacci, Hexanacci-Lucas, sixth order Pell, sixth order Pell-Lucas, sixth order Jacobsthal, sixth order Jacobsthal-Lucas numbers.
Microbial Diversity of Acetic Acid Producing Bacteria from Protein-Rich Residues
Authors: Onyenegecha G. C. , Ire F. S. , Agwa O. K.
Published: October 2020

Background: Acetic acid bacteria (AAB) are concrete sets of organism which act as precursor for acetic acid production. Acetic acid is a colorless liquid with strong pungent and sour smell. It is synthesized from oxidation of ethanol by AAB. Vast studies have been made from sugary sources in the isolation of AAB.

Aim: The needs to study and utilize our protein-rich residues (PRR) for AAB presence spurn this study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, University of Port Harcourt, between June and December 2018.

Methodology: The samples (beans, groundnut and powdered milk) used in this study were surface-sterilized, homogenized, pre-enriched (in balsam medium) and serially diluted with inoculum size (0.1ml) inoculated on sterilized glucose yeast peptone agar, Mannitol agar and low glycemic index (LGI) media and incubated at 30oC for 48 h using the spread plate technique. A total of 11 bacterial isolates were obtained and screened for acetic acid production in brain heart infusion and yeast glucose ethanol acetic acid broth at 30oC for 14 days and positive isolates were identified by titration method. AAB isolates with the highest acetic acid concentration were selected for molecular identification and further studies.

Results: Two Acetic acid bacteria identified in this study were Acetobacter and Gluconobacter. The result of this study indicated that Acetobacter had acetic acid concentration of 3.6g/100ml while Gluconobacter had 1.8g/100 ml. However, molecular identification highlighted Acetobacter as Bacillus cereus with Genbank accession number MK 332142; whereas Gluconobacter was Stenotrophomonas maltophilia MK 332143. The neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree and bioinformatics revealed B. cereus and S. maltophilia as 97% and 96% similarity index, 854 and 883 nucleotide sequencing letters as well as 450 and 410 base pairs.

Conclusion: This finding implied that “S. maltophilia” and “B. cereus” are predominant Acetic acid bacteria in spoilt beans and groundnut; and can act as potential strains with industrial importance to man and environment.
A Review to Identify the Gaps in Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV Services in Nigeria
Authors: Chizoba A. F. , Adogu P. O. U. , Chineke H. N.
Published: October 2020

Background: Nigeria has the second largest burden of maternal to child transmission of HIV (MTCT) in the world at a rate of 30% and has the largest burden of paediatric HIV infection globally at the rate of 10%. Effective prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) can drastically reduce the paediatric HIV infection to 2%. However, recent evidence reveals yawning gaps in the PMTCT services in Nigeria, where out of estimated 9.2 million pregnancies, only about 3 million received HIV counselling and testing (HCT). This review is to unravel the unmet needs for PMTCT of HIV services in Nigeria.

Methods: Keywords from objectives of review are MTCT and PMTCT which were used to search for related literatures through online libraries of national and international journals; Medline and PubMed including google. 62 related literatures/studies were initially generated and then narrowed down to 19 literatures were selected which met the inclusion criteria- less than 10 year and related to objective of review.

Findings: There are unmet needs for PMTCT of HIV services in Nigeria due to challenges like low HCT/PMTCT service uptake (35.5%), low HCT/PMTCT service delivery facilities (27%), low ANC (58%) and low (35%) delivery in formal health setting.

Conclusion: PMTCT target in Nigeria has not been met. Regular training of existing health workforce including the TBAs and the adoption of the recommendations for an HIV-free generation will bridge the HCT / PMTCT of HIV services gap identified in this review.
Hydrocracking of Calophyllum inophyllum Oil Employing Co and/or Mo Supported on γ-Al2O3 for Biofuel Production
Authors: Trisunaryanti Wega , Triyono Triyono , Ghoni Mohammad Ali , Fatmawati Dyah Ayu , Mahayuwati Puspa Nindro , Suarsih Endah
Published: October 2020

Cobalt and/or Molybdenum based catalysts were simply dispersed on γ-Al2O3 through wet impregnation. The set of prepared monometallic and bimetallic catalysts of aCoO/γ-Al2O3, aMoO/γ-Al2O3, aCoOaMoO/γ-Al2O3, and bCoObMoO/γ-Al2O3 were investigated and evaluated in the hydrocracking of Calophyllum inophyllum (CIO) which is not a food crop as well as rich in unsaturated fatty acid that potential to be converted into biofuel. Out of the prepared catalysts, aCoOaMoO/γ-Al2O3 with total   metal content, acidity, and specific surface area of 13.62 wt%, 5.01 mmol.g-1, and 107.67 m2.g-1, respectively, showed the best catalytic performance. The high metal loading of aCoOaMoO/γ-Al2O3is favorable by producing 65.56 wt% liquid fraction through carbocation formation mechanism. It was selective to produce 8.61 wt% gasoline and 5.01 wt% diesel. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Effect of Severity Factor on the Subcritical Water and Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Coconut Husk for Reducing Sugar Production
Authors: Muharja Maktum , Fadhilah Nur , Darmayanti Rizki Fitria , Sangian Hanny Frans , Nurtono Tantular , Widjaja Arief
Published: October 2020

Preventing the further degradation of monomeric or oligomeric sugar into by-product during biomass conversion is one of the challenges for fermentable sugar production. In this study, the performance of subcritical water (SCW) and enzymatic hydrolysis of coconut husk toward reducing sugar production was investigated using a severity factor (SF) approach. Furthermore, the optimal condition of SCW was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM), where the composition changes of lignocellulose and sugar yield as responses. From the results, at low SF of SCW, sugar yield escalated as increasing SF value. In the enzymatic hydrolysis process, the effect of SCW pressure is a significant factor enhancing sugar yield. A maximum total sugar yield was attained on the mild SF condition of 2.86. From this work, it was known that the SF approach is sufficient parameter to evaluate the SCW and enzymatic hydrolysis of coconut husk. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Quantified VMAT plan complexity in relation to measurement‐based quality assurance results
Authors: Nguyen Michael , Chan Gordon H.
Published: October 2020

Volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) treatment plans that are highly modulated or complex may result in disagreements between the planned dose distribution and the measured dose distribution. This study investigated established VMAT complexity metrics as a means of predicting phantom‐based measurement results for 93 treatments delivered on a TrueBeam linac, and 91 treatments delivered on two TrueBeam STx linacs. Complexity metrics investigated showed weak correlations to gamma passing rate, with the exception of the Modulation Complexity Score for VMAT, yielding moderate correlations. The Spearman’s rho values for this metric were 0.502 (P < 0.001) and 0.528 (P < 0.001) for the TrueBeam and TrueBeam STx, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was also performed. The aperture irregularity on the TrueBeam achieved a 53% true positive rate and a 9% false‐positive rate to correctly identify complex plans. Similarly, the average field width on the TrueBeam STx achieved a 60% true‐positive rate and an 8% false‐positive rate. If incorporated into clinical workflow, these thresholds can identify highly modulated plans and reduce the number of dose verification measurements required.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Face‐Centered‐Cubic‐Based Cr‐Free Equiatomic High‐Entropy Alloys
Authors: Liu Xinwang , Liu Peng , Zhang Weibin , Hu Qiang , Chen Qiang , Gao Niu , Tu Zeli , Fan Zitian , Liu Gang
Published: October 2020

High‐entropy alloys (HEAs) with face‐centered‐cubic (FCC) structures, e.g., the typical CrMnFeCoNi HEA, have a strong tendency to precipitate brittle sigma phases, as Cr is a strong sigma stabilizer. To develop HEAs with alleviated concerns of sigma phases, Cu for Cr in the Cr‐Mn‐Fe‐Co‐Ni HEA system is substituted to form a Mn‐Fe‐Co‐Ni‐Cu system. The quinary alloy and its quaternary subsets are investigated all in as‐cast state. Microstructure evolution, phase constituent, and tensile properties at room temperature are studied. The HEAs have multi‐phase FCC structures with slightly different lattice constants and spherical Cu‐rich particles are observed in most systems. All alloys exhibit dendrite‐like morphology with Cu segregation in interdendritic regions due to the solute partitioning. The investigated HEAs show good strengths, large elongations, and work hardening capability. The strengths are attributed to combined mechanisms, especially the precipitation strengthening by Cu‐rich particles. The findings provide some model HEA systems for further usefully guiding design in the widely compositional space of Cr‐free HEAs.
Antifouling Properties of Liquid‐Infused Riblets Fabricated by Direct Contactless Microfabrication
Authors: Fenati Renzo A. , Quinn Mitchell S. , Bilinsky Henry C. , Neto Chiara
Published: October 2020

The fabrication of riblets and surfaces structured with aligned grooves, by direct contactless microfabrication (DCM), and the ability of the riblets to function as lubricant‐infused surfaces, is reported. Three types of riblets are fabricated with features (width, height, and period) on the micrometric scale, and with two different UV‐crosslinkable coatings. Riblets with width 10 μm, period 40 μm, and height 30 μm show high water repellence as prepared (water contact angle [WCA] 147°) and, once infused with silicone oil 10 cSt, result in water droplets rolling off the surface at tilt angles of 10°. These riblets are effective at reducing the attachment of marine bacteria, both in the as‐prepared and infused form. The DCM process produces structured surfaces over large areas (10 × 10 cm2) in a few minutes and using inexpensive materials, making mechanically robust surfaces. The DCM process is scalable to the large surface areas required for marine and other applications. The low roll‐off angles and the bacterial inhibition results achieved on the riblets indicate that riblets are an up‐scalable and nontoxic alternative to more complicated fabricated techniques, with potential as antifouling and drag‐reducing coatings.
Impact and Flexural Properties Studies on Carbon Fiber Reinforced Epoxy/Polycarbonate Hybrid Laminates with Different Stacking Sequence
Authors: Zhu Hang , Xie Yingxi , Yang Binbin , Zhang Bole , Liu Xiaokang , Lu Longsheng
Published: October 2020

Carbon fiber (CF) hybrid laminates with excellent mechanical properties have attracted great attention. Herein, CF reinforced epoxy/polycarbonate (CF/Epoxy/PC) hybrid laminates are fabricated via laser surface processing and hot‐pressing technique. Several mechanical tests, including uniaxial tensile, flexural, and impact, are conducted to assess the effect of stacking sequence on the prepared hybrid laminates. In addition, failure behaviors and morphologies are observed to analyze the interaction mechanism between the two laminates. Experimental results indicate that the tensile properties of hybrid laminates conform to the rules of mixture. The best flexural properties and impact peak force are found in Epoxy–PC hybrid laminates. However, due to the transfer phenomenon of flexural point during the impact process, PC–Epoxy hybrid laminates possess the best impact energy absorption. Furthermore, the introduction of CF/PC laminates greatly mitigates the out‐of‐plane fracture process of CF/Epoxy laminates during a flexural test. However, its in‐of‐plane fracture area has a further increase during the impact process, which illustrates the synergetic enhancement ability of hybrid laminates.
Protein‐Engineered Functional Materials for Bioelectronics
Authors: Chen Min , Fu Xuewei , Chen Zhiping , Liu Jin , Zhong Wei‐Hong
Published: October 2020

Structural and compositional diversities of proteins generate a number of functions for fabricating novel and advanced materials. Recent progress in protein engineering endows flexible approaches and new functionalities, which makes the fabricated materials potentially applicable in a broad spectrum of fields. Such engineering strategies by applying proteins alone or together with other molecules derive numerous functional materials such as patterned nanometal materials/nanometallic compounds, well‐designed nanocomposites, etc. Advantages in materials’ tunability, property improvement (e.g., electronic and mechanical properties, etc.), functionalities, and biocompatibility have been demonstrated, thus providing alternatives to existing materials via conventional methods. This review summarizes and discusses the strategies of fabricating functional materials using proteins as the critical contributors. Benefiting from their versatility, proteins find their roles in engineering functional materials via acting as structure‐control agents, reaction agents, and battery components, which are emphasized in this review. The strategies of each group of functions are specifically detailed. Properties of protein‐engineered functional materials and their potential applications in the fields of microelectronics, energy storage and conversion, sensor devices, etc. are also reviewed.
A Journey of Nanomotors for Targeted Cancer Therapy: Principles, Challenges, and a Critical Review of the State‐of‐the‐Art
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhou Chao
Published: October 2020

A nanomotor is a miniaturized device that converts energy stored in the environment into mechanical motion. The last two decades have witnessed a surge of research interests in the biomedical applications of nanomotors, but little clinical translation. To accelerate this process, targeted cancer therapy is used as an example to describe a “survive, locate, operate, and terminate” (SLOT) mission of a nanomotor, where it must 1) survive in the unfriendly in vivo environment, 2) locate its target as well as be located by human operators, 3) carry out specific operations, and 4) terminate after the mission is completed. Along this journey, the challenges presented to a nanomotor, including to power, navigate, steer, target, release, control, image, and communicate are discussed, and how state‐of‐the‐art nanomotors meet or fall short of these requirements is critically reviewed. These discussions are then condensed into a table for easy reference. In particular, it is argued that chemically powered nanomotors are intrinsically ill‐positioned for targeted cancer therapy, while nanomotors powered by magnetic fields or ultrasound show more promises. Following this argument, a tentative nanomotor design is then presented in the end to conform to the SLOT guideline, and to inspire practical, functional nanorobots that are yet to come.
Enhanced Trion Emission and Carrier Dynamics in Monolayer WS2 Coupled with Plasmonic Nanocavity
Authors: Shi Jianwei , Zhu Jiangrui , Wu Xianxin , Zheng Biyuan , Chen Jie , Sui Xinyu , Zhang Shuai , Shi Jia , Du Wenna , Zhong Yangguang , Wang Qi , Zhang Qing , Pan Anlian , Liu Xinfeng
Published: October 2020

In 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), trions have important applications in fundamental studies of multibody phenomena, novel optoelectronic devices, and valleytronic devices. However, the enhancement of trion emission, and in particular how the carrier dynamics is influenced when coupled with plasmonic cavity, is important for a deep understanding of trions and their further utilization. In this study, strong trion emission is achieved by coupling monolayer WS2 with a plasmonic nanocavity. Temperature‐dependent photoluminescence, dark‐field scattering measurement, and transient absorption spectroscopy are employed to investigate the trion and exciton behaviors in the hybrid structure. In plasmonic nanocavity, trion emission is enhanced by an order of magnitude, which is attributed to the conversion of excitons to trions via capturing photoionized carriers facilitated by Fano resonance. Further, the ultrafast dynamics of trions and excitons suggest that the plasmonic nanocavity enhances the hole cooling process and radiative recombination of excitons, as well as the formation and recovery process of trions. The results not only explain the enhancement of trion emission and carrier dynamics in the hybrid system but also provide one feasible method to obtain strong trion emission in TMDs, which makes the hybrid system a promising candidate for optoelectronic and valleytronic applications.
Giant and Anisotropic Nonlinear Optical Responses of 1D van der Waals Material Tellurium
Authors: Gan Xuetao , Li Jiajie , Xu Manzhang , Wang Xuewen , Liu Zheng , Zhao Jianlin
Published: October 2020

Recently, tellurium (Te), composed of helical Te chains stacked via the van der Waals interaction, emerges as a versatile material with high carrier mobilities and intriguing topological properties. Here, it is revealed that Te's 1D counterpart, that is, Te nanowire (NW), has advantages over the NWs of other materials in the characteristics of giant and anisotropic nonlinear optical responses. This endows the Te NW with potentials for developing nonlinear photonic and optoelectronic nanodevices with high efficiency and polarization selectivity. Compared with the well‐studied III–V and II–VI compound NWs, such as aluminium gallium arsenide, zinc oxide, and indium phosphide NWs, second harmonic generations (SHGs) and third harmonic generations (THGs) from the Te NWs are more than two orders of magnitude stronger. Its second‐order nonlinear susceptibility is estimated as 1.25 × 104 pm V−1, which is the highest value in the reported NWs, and almost four orders of magnitude higher than ZnO NW. Further, this giant optical nonlinearity promises the realizations of strong SHGs and sum‐frequency generations from Te NWs with the pump of sub‐milliwatt continuous‐wave lasers. Determined by the helical Te chain, its SHG only responds to the pump laser polarized perpendicularly to the long axis of NW, which is opposite to the polarization dependencies in other NWs, and the THG has a distorted fourfold polarimetric pattern.
Perovskite/Metal‐Based Hyperbolic Metamaterials: Tailoring the Permittivity Properties of Coexisting Anisotropies in the Visible Region
Authors: Basak Supratim , Bar‐On Ofer , Scheuer Jacob
Published: October 2020

Hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs) based on plasmonic metals and solution processable metal halide perovskites are realized and studied. By harnessing the flexibility and unique properties of perovskites it is possible to tailor and tune the dispersion properties of such HMMs in the visible band. In particular, an HMM exhibiting direct transition from type I to type II in the mid‐visible region is demonstrated for the first time. The wavelength of this transition can be controlled and tuned over the whole visible band by modifying the combination of the perovskite and the plasmonic constituents. HMMs with such characteristics exhibit intriguing properties such as supercollimation, which is highly attractive for applications in imaging, solar power harvesting, and light emitting devices.
Dynamic Mechanochromic Optics with Tunable Strain Sensitivity for Strain‐Responsive Digit Display
Authors: Mao Zemin , Zeng Songshan , Shen Kuangyu , Chooi Aimee P. , Smith Andrew T. , Jones Michael D. , Zhou Yingjie , Liu Xiang , Sun Luyi
Published: October 2020

A facile but highly effective mechanochromism design is reported that is based on a bilayer structure consisting of a sputter‐coated metal light‐shielding layer atop a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate containing a fluorescent dye, featuring transverse and/or longitudinal microscale cracks when stretched. The crack opening width on the light‐shielding layer upon stretching/releasing allows the UV radiation to activate the fluorescent dye in the PDMS matrix to exhibit luminescent color, which can be easily tuned with choice of fluorescent dyes. The strain response of the crack opening width can be fine‐tuned by applying various degrees of prestretching strain in the preparation process, resulting in customizable mechanochromic responses. Three types of mechanochromic devices are prepared as representative examples. The fluorescence intensity of these devices can be tuned to either increase or decrease with an increasing strain, or first decrease and then increase within the operating strain range. Moreover, this system can be further modified into a dynamic strain sensor with digit display function, allowing the strain degree of the device to be directly read. This design strategy can be easily adopted by fellow researchers and is expected to open a brand‐new avenue to tune mechanochromic response for various dynamic adaptive optics.
Extension of Compositional Space to the Ternary in Alloy Chiral Nanoparticles through Galvanic Replacement Reactions
Authors: Ni Ziyue , Zhu Yuanmin , Liu Junjun , Yang Lin , Sun Peng , Gu Meng , Huang Zhifeng
Published: October 2020

Metal chiral nanoparticles (CNPs), composed of atomically chiral lattices, are an emerging chiral nanomaterial showing unique asymmetric properties. Chirality transmission from the host CNPs mediated with galvanic replacement reactions (GRRs) has been carried out to extend their compositional space from the unary to binary. Further compositional extension to, e.g., the ternary is of fundamental interest and in practical demand. Here, layer‐by‐layer glancing angle deposition is used to dope galvanically “inert” dopant Au in the host Cu CNPs to generate binary Cu:Au CNPs. The “inert” dopants serve as structural scaffold to assist the chirality transmission from the host to the third metals (M: Pt and Ag) cathodically precipitating in the CNPs, enabling the formation of polycrystalline ternary Cu:Au:M CNPs whose compositions are tailored with engineering the GRR duration. More scaffold Au atoms are favored for the faster chirality transfer, and the Au‐assisted chirality transfer follows the first‐order kinetics with the reaction rate coefficient of ≈0.3 h−1 at room temperature. This work provides further understanding of the GRR‐mediated chirality transfer and paves the way toward enhancing the application functions in enantiodifferentiation, enantioseperation, asymmetric catalysis, bioimaging, and biodetection.
Exosomes for Wound Healing: Purification Optimization and Identification of Bioactive Components
Authors: Hettich Britta F. , Ben‐Yehuda Greenwald Maya , Werner Sabine , Leroux Jean‐Christophe
Published: October 2020

Human mesenchymal stem cell exosomes have been shown to promote cutaneous wound healing. Their bioactivity is most often attributed to their protein and nucleic acid components, while the function of exosomal lipids remains comparatively unexplored. This work specifically assesses the involvement of lipids and the transmembrane enzyme CD73 in the exosomes’ biological activity in stimulating the cutaneous wound healing process. Since exosome preparation processes are not harmonized yet, certain production and purification parameters are first systematically investigated, enabling the optimization of a standardized protocol delivering high exosome integrity, yield, and purity. An in situ enzymatic assay is introduced to specifically assess the vesicle functionality, and quantitative proteomics is employed to establish the cell culture conditions yielding a stable exosome protein profile. Using a combination of in vitro approaches, CD73 and constitutional lipids of HPV‐16 E6/E7 transformed human bone marrow stromal cell‐derived exosomes are identified as key bioactive components promoting the exosome‐driven acceleration of processes required for wound repair. A pilot wound healing study in mice indeed suggests a role of lipids in the exosomes’ biological activity. Strikingly, the extent of the bioactivity of these exosomal components is found to be dependent on the target cell type.
Functional dissection of magnesium nutrition and use efficiency in common bean
Authors: Ouled Youssef Ines , Krouma Abdelmajid
Published: October 2020

Despite its abundance in the soil, Mg not only limits crop productivity and the quality of agricultural products, but also contributes to many chronic diseases in humans. This Mg deficiency is commonly observed in acid soils, lands of high rainfall and with high leaching activity, as well as agricultural soils with an unbalanced use of fertilizers (several Tunisian soils and irrigated areas …). Most authors suggested a critical Mg concentration for growth, photosynthesis, and the general plant functioning. However, some differential responses to this mineral constraint were observed among species, varieties, and genotypes but their origin is not yet elucidated. The present study focused on the response of two common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes to Mg deficiency with a deep analysis of the link between growth, chlorophyll accumulation, photosynthetic process, and tissues Mg status. The main results emerging from this study is the close relationship between chlorophyll concentration, photosynthesis, plant growth, and tissue Mg concentration. Our results confirm the interdependence of these functions. The genotypic differences observed in this study are linked to the ability of the tolerant genotype to maintain a better allocation of Mg to shoots to support chlorophyll biosynthesis and photosynthesis and a better Mg use efficiency for these functions.
Soil nutrient distribution on cattle farms in three physiographic regions of North Carolina
Authors: Franzluebbers Alan J. , Poore Matt H. , Freeman Sharon R. , Rogers Johnny R.
Published: October 2020

Beef cattle production systems are sometimes considered a source of nutrient enrichment due to alteration of botanical composition and excretion of nutrients in isolated zones of pastures. However, research on environmental effects from livestock grazing in the eastern United States has been scant. We conducted an intensive soil sampling campaign on six private farms in three physiographic regions of North Carolina to determine the impacts of landscape features, pasture management, and animal behavior on a suite of soil nutrients. Total and particulate organic C and soil‐test biological activity (STBA) increased with increasing elevation due to edaphic and climate factors. Within farms, fields with different management illustrated that: (a) swine and poultry manure application can favorably enrich soil with infrequent application, but lead to excessive soil‐test P and K with repeated application; (b) positive impacts on total and particulate organic C and STBA occur with grazed perennial forages compared with annual forages and previous cropping; and (c) enrichment of total and particulate organic C and STBA occurs with winter hay feeding, but excessive nutrient accumulation can occur if fed in the same location repeatedly. Aggregated enrichment of soil organic C, STBA, and soil‐test P and K occurred on 30% of fields near drinking water tanks, shade sources, gates, and hay feeding stations. Improved grazing management with rotational stocking and more year‐round grazing helped to minimize occurrence and magnitude of nutrient enrichment zones. We conclude that improved grazing management systems can have positive impacts on the environment, and likely on farm livelihoods.
Lessons learned while protecting wild chimpanzees in West Africa
Authors: Boesch Christophe , Gotanegre Arnaud , Hillers Annika , Kouassi Joseph , Boesch Hedwige , Kizila Pacifique , Normand Emmanuelle
Published: October 2020

Though human activities are postulated to be the main drivers of the worldwide biodiversity crisis, humans are also suggested by some to be an important part of the solution to the crisis. How can such a paradox be best solved? This paradox requires an adaptive, context‐specific, dynamic solution, at a fine‐grained scale that varies by location. The Wild Chimpanzee Foundation (WCF) works on the ground in three West African countries: In Côte d'Ivoire, where bushmeat consumption is a recurrent and generalized threat to wildlife, WCF used live theater performances in the villages to address this issue. Post‐activity evaluations revealed that the more often individuals have been part of such awareness activities, the less they will consume bushmeat. In nearby Liberia, where illegal miners have invaded many protected areas and intact forests, the WCF supports Community Watch Teams (CWT) to patrol the Sapo National Park with Forestry Development Authority staff. Within 11 months of its creation, the CWT patrols around and in the Sapo National Park resulted in thousands of illegal miners progressively leaving the national park. In Guinea, where coexistence between humans and primates has prevailed based on religious traditions, the WCF developed a strategic approach, as the Moyen‐Bafing National Park contains about 5000 chimpanzees as well as some 255 villages. Therefore, we adopted an “integrated landscape approach” whereby the community activities are planned in combination with initiatives increasing forest regeneration and connectivity in high conservation value areas. Communities in northern Guinea confronted with dramatic fluctuations due to climatic changes welcomed such activities that help them become more resilient and adaptable to those alterations. In conclusion, evidence‐based information at the local level helps to resolve the conservation paradox by adapting with the local communities' context‐specific dynamic approaches to enhance the conservation of great apes.
Integrity and Efficiency in the Decision‐Making Process: Suggested Solutions for Addressing Significant Hurdles
Authors: Giovannini Teresa
Published: October 2020

Users expect the arbitration process to be both fair and efficient in terms of time and costs.
Rückgrat‐verknüpfte Liganden erhöhen die Vielfalt in heteroleptischen Koordinationskäfigen
Authors: Wu Kai , Zhang Bo , Drechsler Christoph , Holstein Julian J. , Clever Guido H.
Published: October 2020

Die Kombination von formkomplementären, bis‐monodentaten Liganden LA und LB mit PdII‐Kationen erlaubt das Selbstsortieren heteroleptischer Käfige der Formel cis‐[Pd2LA2LB2]. Wir berichten, wie solche Gebilde durch die Einführung kovalenter Brücken zwischen den Rückgraten zweier LA‐Einheiten diversifiziert werden können. Durch Lösungsmittel‐ und Gasteffekte wird gezeigt, dass die Flexibilität dieser Brücken die Zahl an Metallionen und Hohlräumen sowie die Topologie von vier Produkten bestimmt. Der Ligand LA1 mit flexiblem Linker reagiert in CH3CN mit seinem LB‐Pendant zu einem vierkernigen Dimer (D1). In DMSO wird ein dreikerniger Pseudotetraeder T1 gebildet. Das Produkt von starrem LA2 mit LB ähnelt D1, jedoch mit rotierter Ligandanordnung (D2). In Gegenwart eines Gastes wandelt sich D2 in Prisma P2 um. Wir zeigen, wie die Steuerung des Koordinationsmodus eines Liganden strukturelle Differenzierung auslösen und somit die Komplexität in der Metall‐vermittelten Selbstassemblierung erhöhen kann.
Spin‐Crossover Properties of an Iron(II) Coordination Nanohoop
Authors: Heras Ojea María José , Van Raden Jeff M. , Louie Shayan , Collins Richard , Pividori Daniel , Cirera Jordi , Meyer Karsten , Jasti Ramesh , Layfield Richard A.
Published: October 2020

Addition of the bipyridyl‐embedded cycloparaphenylene nanohoop bipy[9]CPP to [Fe{H2B(pyz)2}] (pyz=pyrazolyl) produces the distorted octahedral complex [Fe(bipy[9]CPP){H2B(pyz)2}2] (1). The molecular structure of 1 shows that the nanohoop ligand contains a non‐planar bipy unit. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate spin‐crossover (SCO) behaviour with a T1/2 of 130 K, lower than that of 160 K observed with the related compound [Fe(bipy){H2B(pyz)2}2] (2), which contains a conventional bipy ligand. A computational study of 1 and 2 reveals that the curvature of the nanohoop leads to the different SCO properties, suggesting that the SCO behaviour of iron(II) can be tuned by varying the size and diameter of the nanohoop.
Oxidative Kinetic Resolution of Cyclic Benzylic Ethers
Authors: Sun Shutao , Ma Yingang , Liu Ziqiang , Liu Lei
Published: October 2020

A manganese‐catalyzed oxidative kinetic resolution of cyclic benzylic ethers through asymmetric C(sp3)−H oxidation is reported. The practical approach is applicable to a wide range of 1,3‐dihydroisobenzofurans bearing diverse functional groups and substituent patterns at the α position with extremely efficient enantiodiscrimination. The generality of the strategy was further demonstrated by efficient oxidative kinetic resolution of another type of five‐membered cyclic benzylic ether, 2,3‐dihydrobenzofurans, and six‐membered 6H‐benzo[c]chromenes. Direct late‐stage oxidative kinetic resolution of bioactive molecules that are otherwise difficult to access was further explored.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Boron‐Doped Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons via 1,4‐Boron Migration
Authors: Zhang Jin‐Jiang , Tang Man‐Chung , Fu Yubin , Low Kam‐Hung , Ma Ji , Yang Lin , Weigand Jan J. , Liu Junzhi , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah , Feng Xinliang
Published: October 2020

Herein, we demonstrate a novel one‐pot synthetic method towards a series of boron‐doped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (B‐PAHs, 1 a–1 o), including hitherto unknown B‐doped zethrene derivatives, from ortho‐aryl substituted diarylalkynes with high atom efficiency and broad substrate scopes. A reaction mechanism is proposed based on the experimental investigation together with the theoretical calculations, which involves a unique 1,4‐boron migration process. The resultant benchtop‐stable B‐PAHs are thoroughly investigated by X‐ray crystallography, cyclic voltammetry, UV/Vis absorption, and fluorescence spectroscopies. The blue and green organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) devices based on 1 f and 1 k are further fabricated, demonstrating the promising application potential of B‐PAHs in organic optoelectronics.
Geometry‐Directed Self‐Assembly of Polymeric Molecular Frameworks
Authors: Yan Xiao‐Yun , Guo Qing‐Yun , Lin Zhiwei , Liu Xian‐You , Yuan Jun , Wang Jing , Wang Haomin , Liu Yuchu , Su Zebin , Liu Tong , Huang Jiahao , Zhang Ruimeng , Wang Yicong , Huang Mingjun , Zhang Wei , Cheng Stephen Z. D.
Published: October 2020

Despite the significant advances in creating assembled structures from polymers, engineering the assembly of polymeric materials into framework structures remains an outstanding challenge. In this work, we present a facile strategy to construct polymeric molecular frameworks through the assembly of T‐shape polymer‐rod‐sphere amphiphiles in the bulk state. Various frameworks are yielded as a result of delicate interplays among three components of the T‐shape amphiphiles. The internal structure of frameworks was revealed by combining experimental investigations and computational simulations. The frameworks display good solution‐processability, thermal stability, and uniform pore‐forming capability, which endow the resultant frameworks with great potential in scalable fabrications.
Surfactant‐Induced Interfacial Aggregation of Porphyrins for Structuring Color‐Tunable Liquids
Authors: Gu Pei‐Yang , Xie Ganhua , Kim Paul Y. , Chai Yu , Wu Xuefei , Jiang Yufeng , Xu Qing‐Feng , Liu Feng , Lu Jian‐Mei , Russell Thomas P.
Published: October 2020

Locking nonequilibrium shapes of liquids into targeted architectures by interfacial jamming of nanoparticles is an emerging area in material science. 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐sulfonatophenyl) porphyrin (H6TPPS) shows three different aggregation states that present an absorption imaging platform to monitor the assembly and jamming of supramolecular polymer surfactants (SPSs) at the liquid/liquid interface. The interfacial interconversion of H6TPPS, specifically H4TPPS2− dissolved in water, from J‐ to an H‐aggregation was induced by strong electrostatic interactions with amine‐terminated polystyrene dissolved in toluene at the water/toluene interface. This resulted in color‐tunable liquids due to interfacial jamming of the SPSs formed between H4TPPS2− and amine‐terminated polystyrene. However, the formed SPSs cannot lock in nonequilibrium shapes of liquids. In addition, a self‐wrinkling behavior was observed when amphiphilic triblock copolymers of PS‐block‐poly(2‐vinylpyridine)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide) were used to interact with H4TPPS2−. Subsequently, the SPSs formed can lock in nonequilibrium shapes of liquids.
Highly Robust Iron Catalyst System for Intramolecular C(sp3)−H Amidation Leading to γ‐Lactams
Authors: Kweon Jeonguk , Chang Sukbok
Published: October 2020

Disclosed here is the use of an iron catalyst system for an intramolecular C−H amidation toward γ‐lactam synthesis from dioxazolone precursors. (Phthalocyanine)FeIIICl was found to catalyze this cyclization with extremely high turnover numbers of up to 47 000 under mild and aerobic conditions. On the basis of experimental and computational mechanistic studies, the reaction is suggested to proceed by a stepwise radical pathway involving fast hydrogen atom abstraction followed by radical rebound. A plausible origin for the high turnover numbers along with air‐compatibility is also rationalized.
Combining a Titanium–Organic Cage and a Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Cage for Highly Effective Third‐Order Nonlinear Optics
Authors: He Yan‐Ping , Chen Guang‐Hui , Li De‐Jing , Li Qiao‐Hong , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2020

Many metal–organic cages (MOCs) and a few hydrogen‐bonded organic cages (HOCs) have been investigated, but little is reported about cooperative self‐assembly of MOCs and HOCs. Herein, we describe an unprecedented MOC&HOC co‐crystal composed of tetrahedral Ti4L6 (L=embonate) cages and in‐situ‐generated [(NH3)4(TIPA)4] (TIPA=tris(4‐(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)phenyl)amine) cages. Chiral transfer is observed from the enantiopure Ti4L6 cage to enantiopure [(NH3)4(TIPA)4] cage. Two homochiral supramolecular frameworks with opposite handedness (PTC‐235(Δ) and PTC‐235(Λ)) are formed. Such MOC&HOC co‐crystal features high stability in water and other solvents, affording single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transformation to trap CH3CN molecules and identify disordered NH4+ cations. A tablet pressing method is developed to test the third‐order nonlinear optical property of KBr‐based PTC‐235 thin film. Such a thin film exhibits an excellent optical limiting effect.
Ionic liquid assisted polyetheretherketone‐multiwalled carbon nanotubes nanocomposites: An environmentally friendly approach
Authors: Ahmad Aqeel , Mahmood Hamayoun , Mansor Nurlidia , Iqbal Tanveer , Moniruzzaman Muhammad
Published: October 2020

Reinforcement of PEEK by nanoparticles such as multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), is a promising technique to prepare PEEK nanocomposites with improved properties for promising biomedical applications. However, proper dispersion of MWCNTs in the polymer matrices is a primary processing challenge. The present study reports a novel and environmentally beneficial approach for homogeneous dispersion of MWCNT in PEEK by using ionic liquid (IL) 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate ([EMIM][HSO4]). Neat PEEK, PEEK‐MWCNTs (using conventional organic solvent dimethylformamide), and PEEK‐MWCNTs‐IL (using [EMIM][HSO4]) nanocomposites were fabricated via melt‐compounding and compression molding techniques. The fabricated composites were characterized for morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties and compared to those of neat PEEK and PEEK‐MWCNTs. Ionic liquid provoked proficient dispersion of the MWCNTs in PEEK, as confirmed by FESEM and optical micrographs. The thermal stability of PEEK‐MWCNTs‐IL composite was significantly superior to that of the neat PEEK and PEEK‐MWCNTs. Analysis of tensile strength and nanoindentation depicted that the modulus of elasticity of PEEK‐MWNCTs‐IL was significantly increased by 76% as compared to that of neat PEEK. We believe that the present work could provide a new and green platform for the manufacturing of PEEK nanocomposites with enhanced dispersion of nanofillers for biomedical applications.
Polyvinyl butyral‐zirconia hybrid hollow fibers prepared by air gap spinning
Authors: Bhuiyan Anamul Hoque , Nagakawa Takuma , Nakane Koji
Published: October 2020

In this study, an air gap spinning method was adopted to develop polyvinyl butyral (PVB)‐zirconium (Zr) hybrid hollow fibers. With zirconium alkoxide, three kinds of PVB with different degree of acetalization were used as organic polymers. The morphologies, surface Zr content and relative bonding inside the hollow fibers were characterized by changing coagulation solution concentration, spinning dope viscosity and air gap distance. The effect of Zr on PVB structure were examined in terms of x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Results indicate that PVB spinning solution experienced good mixing mechanism at room temperature and immediately develop structural hollow fiber when extruded into coagulation fluid of Zr alkoxide by 2.0 cm air gap distance. Among other prepared fibers, fiber contained 20 wt% PVB with 2 cm air gap confirms effective average diameter of about 1016 μm which strongly influenced by spinning solution viscosity. The variation of maximum Zr content (8.18%–14.36%) confirms the asymmetry of coordinate bonding occurred on internal and external surface. Moreover, changing of spinning solution viscosity, coagulation liquid concentration and air gap can only affect the surface roughness and fiber diameter whereas no micro pores were developed in the fiber sublayers.