bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial Activities of Leaf Extracts and Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Allium sativum on Urinary Quinolone-resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: M. O Eghieye, , Y.B Ngwai , I.H Nkene , S.C Tama , O.F Bolarinwa, , R. H Abimiku, , I. N Igbawua,
Published: December 2024

Aims: The study was aimed at evaluation of the antibacterial activities of crude leaf extracts and synthesized Ag-NPs from Allium sativum on urinary quinolone resistant E. coli.
Study Design:  Cross sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, between November 2023 and October 2024.
Methodology: Confirmed Samples for this study were collected from selected General Hospitals in Abuja Municipal, Nigeria.  The phytochemical screening of the Allium sativum leaf ethanolic extract (ASE) for various phytochemical constituents and detection of AgNPs was conducted using laboratory method and other methods; UV-visible spectra, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).
Results: All isolates were resistant to AMP and CIP. All the E. coli isolated were MAR isolates. All the MAR isolates had MAR indices of ≥ 0.2. Most isolates were MDR isolates. There was also a PDR and XDR isolates among the selected tested E coli isolates. Phytochemical screening of aqueous, ethanolic, ethyl acetate and n-hexane leaf extracts of Allium sativum showed presence of only glycosides in all the extracts. Phenols and resins followed after as they were only absent in the aqueous extract of A. sativum leaf while tanins, steroids, saponins and pholabatanins were present in two (2) of the four (4) extract analyzed. Antibacterial activity screening of aqueous, ethanoic, ethyl acetate and n-hexane leaf extracts of Allium sativum were evaluated against quinolone resistant E. coli showed activity by only aqueous and ethanolic extracts. The ethanolic extracts were more active. Synthesized silver nanoparticles of the active extracts have shown higher antibacterial activity against the responsive isolates than their corresponding crude extracts.
Conclusion: The synthesized silver nanoparticles from the active leaf extracts exhibited greater antibacterial activity against the responsive isolates compared to their corresponding crude extracts. These findings suggest that AgNPs hold potential for use in medicine to prevent both infectious and non-infectious diseases.
Evaluation of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Accessions Resistance against Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum)
Authors: Falade Moses Jimoh , Oyetunji Olumoye Ezekiel
Published: December 2024

Aim: Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) is one of the major biotic factors limiting tomato production globally. Research was conducted in three environments to screen and identify Nigeria tomato accessions that are resistant to fusarium wilt.
Methodology: Twelve (12) prominent tomato accessions were collected and screened against Fusarium oxysporum by artificial inoculation under field conditions in three diverse environments. The experiments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Data were collected on plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, number of fruits per plant, and fresh fruits yield per plant (kg) and analyzed using IRRI STAR software. Disease scoring was done using a 0-9 point rating scale in the evaluation trials.
Result: The results show some significance levels (P<0.05) in the traits studied within the accessions. The screening result revealed that none of the twelve prominent accessions is highly resistant to the pathogen. One accession was resistant. Three were moderately resistant; three were moderately susceptible and five were highly susceptible.
Conclusion: The accessions that were resistant and moderately resistant could be used as a gene donor for breeding for tomato cultivars resistant to Fusarium oxysporum. Moreover, the accessions that have been identified to be resistant and moderately resistant with high yield should be cultivated before improved cultivars that will be resistant to Fusarium oxysporum will be readily available and accessible in rainforest and derived guinea savanna agro-ecological zones of Nigeria.
Optimizing Cowpea Cultivation in Saline Hydromorphic Soils: A Sustainable Approach for Kaipad Agroecosystems
Authors: Chandran S Akhila , Binitha N.K. , Unnikrishnan Boby V , P Nideesh , Chandran Siji
Published: December 2024

Kaipad lands, a distinct coastal agro-ecosystem located in northern Malabar, Kerala, are characterized by saline-prone hydromorphic soils that pose significant challenges for traditional rice cultivation. The unique conditions of periodic waterlogging and salinity necessitate the exploration of alternative crops to enhance agricultural sustainability. This study investigates the suitability of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L Walp) as a resilient leguminous crop for cultivation in traditionally organic rice growing problematic soils. Cowpea, known for its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, nutritional value, and economic importance, presents a promising option for farmers facing the limitations of organic rice production. A pot culture experiment was conducted to assess the impact of potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) on cowpea growth and yield in saline hydromorphic soils. Treatments included combinations of KSB with various potassium sources, such as feldspar and mica, used as alternate sources for potassic fertilizers. Results demonstrated that KSB significantly improved growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area, total dry matter production, and pod and grain yields, compared to control. Soil analysis revealed enhanced availability of potassium and other essential nutrients in KSB-treated soils, indicating a synergistic effect on nutrient solubilization in aerobic conditions. The findings suggest that cowpea, supported by KSB application, can be effectively cultivated in problematic Kaipad lands, offering a viable alternative to traditional rice farming while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This research highlights the potential for diversifying crop production in saline-prone areas, ultimately contributing to food security and economic resilience in coastal agro-ecosystems.
Exploring Halotolerant Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria Isolated from Mangrove Soil for Agricultural and Ecological Benefits
Authors: Mussa EL-Shaymaa E. , Al-Sharnouby Sohad F.S. , Ramadan Amel I. , Ismael Walaa H.
Published: December 2024

Phosphorus is a vital element for all life forms. Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria transform phosphate into a bioavailable form through solubilization and mineralization processes. The aim of this study is evaluating the role of halotolerant, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB). having different PGPR traits as biofertilizers. Thirteen bacterial strains were isolated from soil samples of Ras Muhammad mangrove forest and screened for production of different PGPR traits. The most potent microbial candidates were identified by rRNA gene sequencing analysis and uploaded in GenBank as Bacillus safensis [OR341132] and Cytobacillus firmus [OR431197] these showed ability to tolerate salt concentration up to 10%, can fix nitrogen by growing on nitrogen free media with excellent growth and characterized qualitatively and quantitative solubilize phosphorous more than 100µg/ml of insoluble phosphate,  hydrolyse phytate and produced IAA showing the highest value in the range of 94.54, 220,38 μg/mL respectively. In pot trials performed in a greenhouse the isolated strains Bacillus safensis [OR341132] and Cytobacillus firmus [OR431197] were able to significantly improve levels of assimilated phosphate, compared to non-inoculated plants.  Moreover, mixed treatment (Bacillus safensis +Cytobacillus firmus ) increased soil fertility and consequently improve the growth of parley plant . The study has overall concluded that bacteria isolated from mangrove soil, Bacillus safensis [OR341132] and Cytobacillus firmus [OR431197] could be used as the halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria [HT-PGPR] and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria [PSB] and have a good influence on the health of barley [genotype Giza123] plants under salinity conditions during thirty days.
Species Diversity and Standing Stock of Homestead Forestry in Singrauli District of Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Shah Shubham , Islam M.A. , Wani A.A. , Khan P.A. , Dutt Vaishnu , Jeelani M. Iqbal
Published: December 2024

Loss of biodiversity is one of the triple planetary crises that needs to be addressed with urgency to shape a sustainable habitat for all life forms. This paper investigates the diversity, composition and standing stock in rural homesteads of Singrauli District, MP, India. A multi-stage random sampling was used to select villages (16) and households (128) for the field survey. Data on species composition and standing stock were collected using interview schedules and homestead inventories. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics, mensuration formulas, and diversity indices. Results indicated that about 153 species of plants belonging to 55 families and 122 genera of flora were raised other than conventional agricultural crops in homesteads. Among these, 92 tree, 26 shrubs, 25 herbaceous, and 10 climber species were identified. On average, households practiced homestead forestry in an area of 0.25 ha, with 47 individuals of 15 species. The average height, diameter, basal area, and standing stock of trees in the homesteads were recorded as 12.01 m, 34.50 cm, 934.82 cm2, and 15.18 m3, respectively. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index of 3.57 and Simpson’s index of 0.05 implied high floristic diversity, and the Shannon Equitability index of 0.70 indicated a considerably even population of plant species. The Importance Value Index (IVI) indicated that Mangifera indica (27.78) and Madhuca longifolia (18.96) were found to be the dominant species in the sample homesteads owing to their multi-faceted uses. The findings specified that homestead forestry can be a viable strategy to conserve biodiversity, improve ecosystem services, expand the green cover, and secure livelihoods.
Survey and Disease Prevalence of Sorghum Zonate Leaf Spot in the Terai Region of Uttarakhand, India
Authors: S Senthilkumar , Singh Yogendra , SRM Jaya Jeevitha , Sakthivel Madhaiyan
Published: December 2024

Aims: The objective of the study was to conduct a disease survey to understand the regional dynamics of sorghum zonate leaf spot disease in the Uttarakhand Terai region.
Study Design: The investigation was carried out using a stratified random sampling technique.
Place and Duration of Study: GBPUA&T, Pantnagar and Terai Region of Uttarakhand during Kharif 2024.
Methodology: The survey was conducted from July to September 2024, covering several stages of sorghum crop development. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select fields, and observations were recorded on plants making five stops in a W-pattern to cover the whole field on foot. The disease incidence and severity were scored and recorded.
Results: The survey covered 25 fields and disease incidence & severity were recorded using a standard scale. The study found that the prevalence and severity of zonate leaf spot disease (G. sorghi) varied significantly between locations, with the highest disease incidence in Chikaghat (71.11%) and lowest in Kanthgri (43.56%) from Sitarganj block. Environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall were directly linked to the occurrence and severity of zonate leaf spots.
Conclusion: The study concluded that zonate leaf spot disease is a significant problem in the Uttarakhand Terai Region. Developing efficient management techniques to reduce zonate leaf spot negative effects on crop productivity might be facilitated by knowledge of the distribution and contributing elements. To control zonate leaf spot in these areas, more study is required to investigate resistant cultivars and better agronomic methods.
Effect of Bio-slurry Fertiliser on the Nutritional Quality of Shade Net Grown Swiss Chard
Authors: Mwajoha Allan , Gogo Elisha Otieno , Muti Simon , Rewe Thomas
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the type of bio-slurry fertiliser produced from various feedstock sources that could improve the nutritional properties of shade net-grown Swiss chard.
The experiment was conducted in a randomised complete block design in a factorial arrangement with three replications at Pwani University’s integrated biogas Unit. The factors studied were; a) Covers (shade net and open) and the second factor was bio-slurry fertiliser treatments (T1 = No fertiliser, T2 = 100% DAP+100% CAN, T3 =100% Kitchen bio-slurry fertiliser, T4 = 100% Cow dung bio-slurry fertiliser, T5 = 50% DAP -18:46:0 + 50% CAN + 50% kitchen bio-slurry fertiliser, T6 = 50% DAP- -18:46:0- + 50% CAN + 50% cow dung bio-slurry fertiliser, T7 = 50% kitchen bio-slurry fertiliser + 50% cow dung bio-slurry fertiliser). Data were analysed using ANOVA at a 5% significance level. The results indicated that bio-slurry treatments significantly influenced moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, flavonoids, tannin, oxalates, carotenoids, chlorophyll and phytates compared with the control where no fertiliser was applied. It was also noted that bio-slurry treatment significantly influenced phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and sodium compared with the control. The study concluded that a combination of 50% kitchen waste bio-slurry and 50% cow dung bio-slurry improves the nutritional quality of Swiss chard.
Integrating Active Contours and K-Nearest Neighbours for Early Detection of Diseases in Banana Plants
Authors: Medhi Epsita , Deb Nabamita , Bhuyan Banashree , Roy Adity
Published: December 2024

Diseases and pests pose a significant threat to agriculture, reducing both production and economic viability. Banana plants are highly susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can severely affect yield and quality if not properly managed. Given the global consumption of bananas, addressing disease issues in these plants is crucial. To tackle this challenge, integrating machine learning techniques can enable early disease detection. Specifically, combining region-based active contours (using Chan-Vese) with K-Nearest Neighbours (KNN) classification offers a comprehensive approach for object detection and classification in images. The hybrid approach enhances segmentation accuracy, adaptability, and generalization across different conditions and data types. Compared to traditional methods, this combination provides more robust, accurate, and efficient segmentation, making it a significant advancement in real-world applications. This technique is also applicable to other agricultural crops and fruits, offering promising results. With an average accuracy of 91.63%, the model demonstrates its effectiveness in detecting and classifying banana diseases and pests.
Mydriasis and Ophthalmoplegia in a 10-Year-Old Girl: A Diagnostic Predicament
Authors: Horley Michael , Gomathinayagam Karthikayini , Koukkoulli Antigoni
Published: December 2024

This case reports a 10-year-old girl who presented with sudden-onset diplopia and bilateral mydriasis following a recent upper respiratory infection. Ocular examination showed poor light response and mild abduction deficits. Initial low-resolution MRI was normal, but a high-resolution MRI revealed bilateral enhancement of the abducens and oculomotor nerves. Viral-induced cranial nerve palsies were suspected. The use of systemic steroids was considered but concerns about side effects in children led to a conservative approach. Patient achieved full recovery four months later. This case highlights the importance of high-resolution imaging in diagnosing cranial nerve palsies in children and raises questions about the role of corticosteroids in managing viral-induced neuropathies. Further research is needed to determine optimal treatment strategies for such cases.
Illuminating the membrane contact sites between the endoplasmic reticulum and the trans‐Golgi network
Authors: Masone Maria Chiara , Morra Valentina , Venditti Rossella
Published: October 2019

Membrane contact sites (MCSs) between different organelles have been identified and extensively studied over the last decade. Several classes of MCSs have now well‐established roles, although the contacts between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the trans‐side of the Golgi network (TGN) have long remained elusive. Until recently, the study of ER–TGN contact sites has represented a major challenge in the field, as a result of the lack of suitable visualization and isolation techniques. Only in the last 5 years has the combination of advanced technologies and innovative approaches permitted the identification of new molecular players and the functions of ER–TGN MCSs that couple lipid metabolism and anterograde transport. Although much has yet to be discovered, it is now established that ER–TGN MCSs control phosphatidyl‐4‐phosphate homeostasis by coupling the cis and the trans activity of the ER‐resident 4‐phosphatase Sac1. In this review, we focus on recent advances on the composition and function of ER–TGN MCSs.
Fibrofog in Daily Life: An Examination of Ambulatory Subjective and Objective Cognitive Function in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Kratz Anna L. , Whibley Daniel , Kim Samsuk , Sliwinski Martin , Clauw Daniel , Williams David A.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Perceived cognitive dysfunction in fibromyalgia (FM), “fibrofog,” is common. Prior laboratory‐based studies have limited our understanding of cognitive function in FM in daily life. The objective of this study was to explore levels of subjective and objective cognitive functioning and the association between subjective and objective aspects of cognition in people with and without FM in the lived environment.

Methods

Participants (n = 50 adults with FM; n = 50 adults without FM, matched for age, sex, and education) completed baseline measures of subjective and objective cognitive functioning (NIH Toolbox). They also completed ecological momentary assessments of cognitive clarity and speed and tests of processing speed and working memory, via a smart phone app, 5×/day for 8 days.

Results

On baseline objective measures, the FM group demonstrated poorer cognitive functioning across 3 NIH Toolbox tests. There were no strong correlations between subjective and objective cognitive functioning in both the FM and control groups. In the lived environment, the FM group demonstrated poorer subjective cognition and objective working memory; groups did not differ on processing speed. Momentary ratings of subjective cognitive dysfunction were significantly related to changes in objective processing speed but not working memory, with no group differences.

Conclusion

Findings indicate worse laboratory‐based and ambulatory subjective and objective cognitive function for those individuals with FM compared to those without FM. Similar associations between measures of subjective and objective cognitive functioning for the groups suggest that people with FM are not overstating cognitive difficulties. Future research examining contributors to ambulatory fibrofog is warranted.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares After Total Hip and Total Knee Arthroplasty: Outcomes at One Year
Authors: Goodman Susan M. , Mirza Serene Z. , DiCarlo Edward F. , Pearce‐Fisher Diyu , Zhang Meng , Mehta Bella , Donlin Laura T. , Bykerk Vivian P. , Figgie Mark P. , Orange Dana E.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Most patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have active RA and report postoperative flares; whether RA disease activity or flares increase the risk of worse pain and function scores 1 year later is unknown.

Methods

Patients with RA were enrolled before THA/TKA. Patient‐reported outcomes, including the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS)/Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and physician assessments of disease characteristics and activity (Disease Activity Score in 28 joints [DAS28] and Clinical Disease Activity Index), were collected before surgery. Patient‐reported outcomes were repeated at 1 year. Postoperative flares were identified using the RA Flare Questionnaire weekly for 6 weeks and were defined by concordance between patient report plus physician assessment. We compared baseline characteristics and HOOS/KOOS scores using 2‐sample t‐test/Wilcoxon's rank sum test as well as chi‐square/Fisher's exact tests. We used multivariate linear and logistic regression to determine the association of baseline characteristics, disease activity, and flares with 1‐year outcomes.

Results

One‐year HOOS/KOOS scores were available for 122 patients (56 with THA and 66 with TKA). Although HOOS/KOOS pain was worse for patients who experienced a flare within 6 weeks of surgery, absolute improvement was not different. In multivariable models, baseline DAS28 predicted 1‐year HOOS/KOOS pain and function; each 1‐unit increase in DAS28 worsened 1‐year pain by 2.41 (SE 1.05; P = 0.02) and 1‐year function by 4.96 (SE 1.17; P = 0.0001). Postoperative flares were not independent risk factors for pain or function scores.

Conclusion

Higher disease activity increased the risk of worse pain and function 1 year after arthroplasty, but postoperative flares did not.
Recent Developments and Novel Applications of Thin Film, Light‐Emitting Transistors
Authors: Zaumseil Jana
Published: October 2019

Light‐emitting field‐effect transistors (LEFETs) combine switching and amplification with light emission and thus represent an interesting optoelectronic device. They are not limited anymore to a few examples and specific materials but are nearly universal for a wide range of semiconductors, from organic to inorganic and nanoscale. This review introduces the basic working principles of lateral unipolar and ambipolar LEFETs and discusses recent examples based on various solution‐processed semiconducting materials. Applications beyond simple light emission are presented and possible future directions for light‐emitting transistors with added functionalities are outlined.
Ultrasound‐Activated Oxygen and ROS Generation Nanosystem Systematically Modulates Tumor Microenvironment and Sensitizes Sonodynamic Therapy for Hypoxic Solid Tumors
Authors: Fu Jingke , Li Tao , Zhu Yingchun , Hao Yongqiang
Published: October 2019

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is noninvasive and possesses high body‐penetration depth, showing great potential for the treatment of deep‐seated solid tumors. The efficacy of SDT, however, is limited by widespread hypoxia in solid tumors. Given this, an ultrasound‐activated nanosystem is developed by integrating ferrate(VI) and protoporphyrin IX into biodegradable hollow mesoporous organosilica nanoplatforms, followed by assembling a phase‐change material of lauric acid. The ferrate(VI) effectively reacts with water as well as overexpressed hydrogen peroxide and glutathione (GSH) in tumor cells, leading to tumor‐microenvironment‐independent oxygen production and in situ GSH depletion in tumors. More importantly, significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction is simultaneously achieved by protoporphyrin‐augmented SDT and intracellular Fenton chemistry. Furthermore, the mild hyperthermia induced by ultrasound can trigger the phase change of lauric acid, achieving ultrasound‐responsive control over the release of oxygen and ROS, and the depletion of GSH. The simultaneous oxygen generation, in situ GSH depletion, and ROS overproduction play a synergetic role in sensitizing SDT toward hypoxic solid tumors, which is verified by the remarkable improvement of hypoxic environments and more significant growth inhibition of SDT against osteosarcoma both in vitro and in vivo, showing promising application in hypoxic solid tumor treatment.
Densely Functionalized Cyanographene Bypasses Aqueous Electrolytes and Synthetic Limitations Toward Seamless Graphene/β‐FeOOH Hybrids for Supercapacitors
Authors: Talande Smita V. , Bakandritsos Aristides , Jakubec Petr , Malina Ondřej , Zbořil Radek , Tuček Jiři
Published: October 2019

Supercapacitors are a promising energy storage technology owing to their unparalleled power and lifetime. However, to meet the continuously rising demands of energy storage, they must be equipped with higher energy densities. For this purpose, the seamless integration of metal oxides on carbon matrices, such as iron oxides/oxyhydroxides, has been pursued through hydrothermal, atomic layer and electro‐deposition methods directly on current collectors. Nevertheless, such methods present limited compatibility with commercial paste‐coating processes on the current collectors. Furthermore, iron oxides/oxyhydroxides lack conductivity and are hydrophilic, operating with low‐voltage aqueous electrolytes, limiting their power and energy and requiring corrosion‐resistant H2O current collectors. To mitigate these challenges, a seamless and paste‐ready material is successfully developed through a 15 min wet‐chemical method, via the coordination of ultrasmall β‐FeOOH (akaganéite) nanoparticles to the nitrile groups of a covalent graphene derivative. Endowed with graphene‐like impedance response and very high wettability in organic electrolytes, combined high power and energy densities are obtained, with respect to the total mass of both electrode materials and current collectors, overcoming the identified challenges. This offers future prospects for the exploration of alternative molecular handles for improved interfaces and their application in different energy‐storage chemistries.
Freeform, Reconfigurable Embedded Printing of All‐Aqueous 3D Architectures
Authors: Luo Guanyi , Yu Yafeng , Yuan Yuxue , Chen Xue , Liu Zhou , Kong Tiantian
Published: October 2019

Aqueous microstructures are challenging to create, handle, and preserve since their surfaces tend to shrink into spherical shapes with minimum surface areas. The creation of freeform aqueous architectures will significantly advance the bioprinting of complex tissue‐like constructs, such as arteries, urinary catheters, and tracheae. The generation of complex, freeform, three‐dimensional (3D) all‐liquid architectures using formulated aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPSs) is demonstrated. These all‐liquid microconstructs are formed by printing aqueous bioinks in an immiscible aqueous environment, which functions as a biocompatible support and pregel solution. By exploiting the hydrogen bonding interaction between polymers in ATPS, the printed aqueous‐in‐aqueous reconfigurable 3D architectures can be stabilized for weeks by the noncovalent membrane at the interface. Different cells can be separately combined with compartmentalized bioinks and matrices to obtain tailor‐designed microconstructs with perfusable vascular networks. The freeform, reconfigurable embedded printing of all‐liquid architectures by ATPSs offers unique opportunities and powerful tools since limitless formulations can be designed from among a breadth of natural and synthetic hydrophilic polymers to mimic tissues. This printing approach may be useful to engineer biomimetic, dynamic tissue‐like constructs for potential applications in drug screening, in vitro tissue models, and regenerative medicine.
Bayesian Machine Learning in Metamaterial Design: Fragile Becomes Supercompressible
Authors: Bessa Miguel A. , Glowacki Piotr , Houlder Michael
Published: October 2019

Designing future‐proof materials goes beyond a quest for the best. The next generation of materials needs to be adaptive, multipurpose, and tunable. This is not possible by following the traditional experimentally guided trial‐and‐error process, as this limits the search for untapped regions of the solution space. Here, a computational data‐driven approach is followed for exploring a new metamaterial concept and adapting it to different target properties, choice of base materials, length scales, and manufacturing processes. Guided by Bayesian machine learning, two designs are fabricated at different length scales that transform brittle polymers into lightweight, recoverable, and supercompressible metamaterials. The macroscale design is tuned for maximum compressibility, achieving strains beyond 94% and recoverable strengths around 0.1 kPa, while the microscale design reaches recoverable strengths beyond 100 kPa and strains around 80%. The data‐driven code is available to facilitate future design and analysis of metamaterials and structures (https://github.com/mabessa/F3DAS).
Compositionally Graded Organic–Inorganic Nanocomposites for Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Ou Canlin , Zhang Lu , Jing Qingshen , Narayan Vijay , Kar‐Narayan Sohini
Published: October 2019

Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) operate in the presence of a temperature gradient, where the constituent thermoelectric (TE) material converts heat into electricity via the Seebeck effect. However, TE materials are characterized by a thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) and/or power factor (PF), which often has a strong dependence on temperature. Thus, a single TE material spanning a given temperature range is unlikely to have an optimal ZT or PF across the entire range, leading to inefficient TEG performance. Compositionally graded organic–inorganic nanocomposites are demonstrated, where the composition of the TE nanocomposite can be systematically tuned along the length of the TEG, in order to optimize the PF along the applied temperature gradient. The nanocomposite composition is dynamically tuned by an aerosol‐jet printing method with controlled in situ mixing capability, thus enabling the realization of such compositionally graded thermoelectric composites (CG‐TECs). It is shown how CG‐TECs can be realized by varying the loading weight percentage of Bi2Te3 nanoparticles or Sb2Te3 nanoflakes within an organic conducting matrix using bespoke solution‐processable inks. The enhanced energy harvesting capability of these CG‐TECs from low‐grade waste heat (<100 °C) is demonstrated, highlighting the improvement in output power over single‐component TEGs.
Application of NEAT for the simulation of liquid–liquid extraction processes with poorly specified feeds
Authors: Jirasek Fabian , Burger Jakob , Hasse Hans
Published: October 2019

The conceptual design of fluid separation processes is particularly challenging if the considered mixtures are poorly specified, since classical thermodynamic models cannot be applied when the composition is unknown. We have recently developed a method (NEAT) to predict activity coefficients in such mixtures. It combines the thermodynamic group contribution concept with the ability of NMR spectroscopy to quantify chemical groups. In the present work, we describe how NEAT can be applied to equilibrium stage simulations of liquid–liquid extraction processes with poorly specified feeds. Only a single 13C NMR spectrum of the feed is needed for predicting the distribution of a target component for different process parameters, such as temperature or extracting agent. The predictions from several test cases are compared to results that are obtained using the full knowledge on the composition of the feed and surprisingly good agreement is found.
Ecological fragmentation effects in mouse lemurs and small mammals in northwestern Madagascar
Authors: Andriatsitohaina Bertrand , Ramsay Malcolm S. , Kiene Frederik , Lehman Shawn M. , Rasoloharijaona Solofonirina , Rakotondravony Romule , Radespiel Ute
Published: October 2019

Habitat loss and fragmentation are major ecological forces threatening animal communities across the globe. These issues are especially true in Madagascar, where forest loss is ongoing. We examined the effects of forest fragmentation on the distribution and abundance of sympatric, endemic gray, and golden‐brown mouse lemurs (Microcebus murinus and Microcebus ravelobensis), the endemic western tuft‐tailed rat (Eliurus myoxinus), and the invasive black rat (Rattus rattus) in two regions in northwestern Madagascar. We used systematic capture procedures in 40 forest fragments and four continuous forest sites which differed in size, shape, and degree of isolation. With a trapping effort of 11,567 trap nights during two dry seasons (2017–2018), we captured 929 individuals (432 M. ravelobensis, 196 M. murinus, 116 E. myoxinus, and 185 R. rattus). We examined the influence of study region, forest type (fragment vs. continuous), forest size, forest shape, the proportion of 50‐m forest edge and distance to continuous forest on the abundance and interaction of the four species. Responses to fragmentation differed strongly between species, but no interaction could be detected between the abundance of the different species. Thus competition within and between native and invasive species may not be regulating abundances in these regions. On the contrary, the abundance of M. ravelobensis and E. myoxinus differed significantly between study regions and was negatively affected by fragmentation. In contrast, there was no evidence of an impact of fragmentation on the abundance of M. murinus. Finally, the invasive R. rattus responded positively to the increasing distance to the continuous forest. In conclusion, the response of small Malagasy mammals to forest fragmentation varies largely between species, and fragmentation effects need to be examined at a species‐specific level to fully understand their ecological dynamics and complexity.
Hypertonic saline and seawater solutions damage sinonasal epithelial cell air‐liquid interface cultures
Authors: Jiao Jian , Yang Jun , Li Jingyun , Li Ying , Zhang Luo
Published: October 2019

Background

Nasal irrigation (NI) is commonly used to treat several sinonasal diseases, including chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP); however, the effects of NI on the sinonasal epithelium are not fully known. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of commonly used NI solutions on epithelial mucociliary and barrier functionality in primary cultured human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs).

Methods

HNECs from control subjects and patients with CRSwNP were established as air‐liquid interface (ALI) cultures. Differentiated cultures were treated with different NI solutions, including isotonic 0.9% and hypertonic 3.0% saline, isotonic and hypertonic seawater, and Ringer lactate solution. The changes in ciliary beat frequency (CBF), numbers of ciliated and goblet cells, and cytotoxicity were measured. Epithelial barrier functionality was assessed by measuring the transepithelial electric resistance (TER), paracellular flux, and expression of tight junction protein zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) and occludin.

Results

Isotonic saline, isotonic seawater, and Ringer lactate solutions did not affect epithelial mucociliary and barrier function in either control or CRSwNP‐derived ALI cultures; however, hypertonic saline induced a significant disruption of these cell functions in both cultures. Hypertonic seawater caused a transient decrease of CBF and TER in CRSwNP‐derived ALI cultures, in contrast to inducing an obvious mucociliary and barrier dysfunction and cytotoxicity in control ALI cultures.

Conclusion

Although isotonic NI solutions appear to not affect epithelial mucociliary and barrier function in control and CRSwNP‐derived ALI cultures, hypertonic saline and seawater solutions damaged sinonasal epithelial cells in ALI cultures. The safety and efficacy of these solutions requires further investigation.
Factors associated with successful rescue intubation attempts in the emergency department: an analysis of multicenter prospective observational study in Japan
Authors: Goto Yukari , Goto Tadahiro , Okamoto Hiroshi , Hagiwara Yusuke , Watase Hiroko , Hasegawa Kohei ,   the Japanese Emergency Medicine Network Investigators
Published: October 2019

Aim

It remains unclear whether physicians should change intubation approaches after the failed first attempt. We aimed to determine the rescue intervention approaches associated with a higher success rate at the second attempt in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

We analyzed the data from a prospective, multicenter, observational study – the second Japanese Emergency Airway Network Study. The current analysis included all patients who underwent emergency intubation from February 2012 through November 2017. We defined a rescue intubation attempt as a second intubation attempt with any change in intubation approaches (i.e., change in methods, devices, or intubators) from the failed first attempt. The outcome measure was second‐attempt success.

Results

Of 2,710 patients with a failed first attempt, 43% underwent a second intubation attempt with changes in intubation approach (i.e., rescue intubation). Rescue intubation attempts were associated with a higher second‐attempt success rate compared to non‐rescue intubation attempts (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.50–2.12). The rescue intubation approaches associated with a higher second‐attempt success were changes from non‐rapid sequence intubation (RSI) to RSI (adjusted OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.12–3.75), from non‐emergency medicine (EM) residents to EM residents (adjusted OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.44–2.82), and from non‐EM attending physicians to EM attending physicians (adjusted OR, 2.82; 95% CI, 2.14–3.71).

Conclusions

In this large multicenter study, rescue interventions were associated with a higher second‐attempt success rate. The data also support the use of RSI and backup by EM residents or EM attending physicians to improve the airway management performance after a failed attempt in the ED.
Effect of the Quadrupole–Monopole Interaction on Chaos in Compact Binaries
Authors: Li Dan , Wu Xin , Liang Enwei
Published: October 2019

The dynamics of a post‐Newtonian Lagrangian of spinning compact binaries, including the Newtonian, post‐Newtonian, spin‐orbit, spin‐spin, and quadrupole–monopole interaction contributions are investigated herein. According to the Euler–Lagrangian equations, exact and approximate equations of motion can be written. Numerical computations show that the constants of motion can reach satisfactory accuracies in the exact equations but rather poor accuracies in the approximate equations. Similar to the spin–orbit coupling or the spin–spin coupling, the quadrupole–monopole interaction plays a role in some spin effects that lead to the precession of orbits. With the increase in quadrupole–monopole and extension of integration, the orbits precess strongly and the difference in the precession of orbits between the two sets of equations increases. The quadrupole–monopole interaction can also cause the chaoticity of spinning compact binaries. When it increases, chaos is strong under some circumstances in the exact equations but not in the approximate equations.
Characterization of a Citrulline 4‐Hydroxylase from Nonribosomal Peptide GE81112 Biosynthesis and Engineering of Its Substrate Specificity for the Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Enduracididine
Authors: Zwick Christian R. , Sosa Max B. , Renata Hans
Published: October 2019

The GE81112 tetrapeptides are a small family of unusual nonribosomal peptide congeners with potent inhibitory activity against prokaryotic translation initiation. With the exception of the 3‐hydroxy‐l‐pipecolic acid unit, little is known about the biosynthetic origins of the non‐proteinogenic amino acid monomers of the natural product family. Here, we elucidate the biogenesis of the 4‐hydroxy‐l‐citrulline unit and establish the role of an iron‐ and α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent enzyme (Fe/αKG) in the pathway. Homology modelling and sequence alignment analysis further facilitate the rational engineering of this enzyme to become a specific 4‐arginine hydroxylase. We subsequently demonstrate the utility of this engineered enzyme in the synthesis of a dipeptide fragment of the antibiotic enduracidin. This work highlights the value of applying a bioinformatics‐guided approach in the discovery of novel enzymes and engineering of new catalytic activity into existing ones.
Palladium Single Atoms on TiO2 as a Photocatalytic Sensing Platform for Analyzing the Organophosphorus Pesticide Chlorpyrifos
Authors: Ge Xiaoxiao , Zhou Peng , Zhang Qinghua , Xia Zhonghong , Chen Shulin , Gao Peng , Zhang Zhe , Gu Lin , Guo Shaojun
Published: October 2019

Traditional methods for analyzing organophosphorus pesticide chlorpyrifos, usually require the tedious sample pretreatment and sophisticated bio‐interfaces, leading to the difficulty for real‐time analysis. Herein, we use palladium single‐atom (PdSA)/TiO2 as a photocatalytic sensing platform to directly detect chlorpyrifos with high sensitivity and selectivity. PdSA/TiO2, prepared by an in situ photocatalytic reduction of PdCl42− on the TiO2, shows much higher photocatalytic activity (10 mol g−1 h−1) for hydrogen evolution reaction than Pd nanoparticles (1.95 mol g−1 h−1), and excellent stability. In the presence of chlorpyrifos, the photocatalytic activity of PdSA/TiO2 decreases. Through this inhibition effect the platform can realize a detection limit for chlorpyrifos of 0.01 ng mL−1, much lower than the maximum residue limit (10 ppb) permitted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Hypergolic Triggers as Co‐crystal Formers: Co‐crystallization for Creating New Hypergolic Materials with Tunable Energy Content
Authors: Titi Hatem M. , Arhangelskis Mihails , Rachiero Giovanni P. , Friščić Tomislav , Rogers Robin D.
Published: October 2019

We demonstrate a co‐crystal‐based strategy to create new solid hypergols, that is, materials exhibiting spontaneous ignition when in contact with an oxidant, from typically non‐hypergolic fuel molecules. In these materials, the energy content and density can be changed without affecting the ignition delay. The use of an imidazole‐substituted decaborane as a hypergolic “trigger” component in combination with energy‐rich but non‐hypergolic nitrobenzene or pyrazine yielded hypergolic co‐crystals that combine improved combustion properties with ultrashort ignition delays as low as 1 ms.
Strain‐Induced Isomerization in One‐Dimensional Metal–Organic Chains
Authors: Telychko Mykola , Su Jie , Gallardo Aurelio , Gu Yanwei , Mendieta‐Moreno Jesús I. , Qi Dongchen , Tadich Anton , Song Shaotang , Lyu Pin , Qiu Zhizhan , Fang Hanyan , Koh Ming Joo , Wu Jishan , Jelínek Pavel , Lu Jiong
Published: October 2019

The ability to use mechanical strain to steer chemical reactions creates completely new opportunities for solution‐ and solid‐phase synthesis of functional molecules and materials. However, this strategy is not readily applied in the bottom‐up on‐surface synthesis of well‐defined nanostructures. We report an internal strain‐induced skeletal rearrangement of one‐dimensional (1D) metal–organic chains (MOCs) via a concurrent atom shift and bond cleavage on Cu(111) at room temperature. The process involves Cu‐catalyzed debromination of organic monomers to generate 1,5‐dimethylnaphthalene diradicals that coordinate to Cu adatoms, forming MOCs with both homochiral and heterochiral naphthalene backbone arrangements. Bond‐resolved non‐contact atomic force microscopy imaging combined with density functional theory calculations showed that the relief of substrate‐induced internal strain drives the skeletal rearrangement of MOCs via 1,3‐H shifts and shift of Cu adatoms that enable migration of the monomer backbone toward an energetically favorable registry with the Cu(111) substrate. Our findings on this strain‐induced structural rearrangement in 1D systems will enrich the toolbox for on‐surface synthesis of novel functional materials and quantum nanostructures.
Late‐Stage Functionalization of Histidine in Unprotected Peptides
Authors: Noisier Anaïs F. M. , Johansson Magnus J. , Knerr Laurent , Hayes Martin A. , Drury William J. , Valeur Eric , Malins Lara R. , Gopalakrishnan Ranganath
Published: October 2019

The late‐stage functionalization (LSF) of peptides represents a valuable strategy for the design of potent peptide pharmaceuticals by enabling rapid exploration of chemical diversity and offering novel opportunities for peptide conjugation. While the C(sp2)−H activation of tryptophan (Trp) is well documented, the resurgence of radical chemistry is opening new avenues for the C−H functionalization of other aromatic side‐chains. Herein, we report the first example of LSF at C2 of histidine (His) utilizing a broad scope of aliphatic sulfinate salts as radical precursors. In this work, the exquisite selectivity for histidine functionalization was demonstrated through the alkylation of complex unprotected peptides in aqueous media. Finally, this methodology was extended for the installation of a ketone handle, providing an unprecedented anchor for selective oxime/hydrazone conjugation at histidine.
Additions to N‐Sulfinylamines as an Approach for the Metal‐free Synthesis of Sulfonimidamides: O‐Benzotriazolyl Sulfonimidates as Activated Intermediates
Authors: Bremerich Maximilian , Conrads Christian M. , Langletz Tim , Bolm Carsten
Published: October 2019

Sulfonimidamides are obtained in moderate to very good yields from the key intermediates O‐benzotriazolyl sulfonimidates, which are formed by reacting aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates, N‐tritylsulfinylamine, and N‐hydroxybenzotriazole hydrate in a process mediated by a tertiary amine. The formation of the sulfonimidate proceeds in inexpensive and environmentally benign dimethyl carbonate as the solvent, it does not require anhydrous conditions, and the product yields generally exceed 70 %. The substrate scope is broad, and a wide range of sensitive organic functionalities is well tolerated. The reactions probably proceed via aryl radicals formed from diazonium cations with assistance from both the tertiary amine and the sulfinylamine.
Mechanistic Divergence in the Hydrogenative Synthesis of Furans and Butenolides: Ruthenium Carbenes Formed by gem‐Hydrogenation or through Carbophilic Activation of Alkynes
Authors: Peil Sebastian , Fürstner Alois
Published: October 2019

Enynes with a tethered carbonyl substituent are converted into substituted furan derivatives upon hydrogenation using [Cp*RuCl]4 as the catalyst. Paradoxically, this transformation can occur along two distinct pathways, each of which proceeds via discrete pianostool ruthenium carbenes. In the first case, hydrogenation and carbene formation are synchronized (“gem‐hydrogenation”), whereas the second pathway comprises carbene formation by carbophilic activation of the triple bond, followed by hydrogenative catalyst recycling. Representative carbene intermediates of either route were characterized by X‐ray crystallography; the structural data prove that the attack of the carbonyl group on the electrophilic carbene center follows a Bürgi–Dunitz trajectory.
Polymeric injectable fillers for cosmetology: Current status, future trends, and regulatory perspectives
Authors: Zhao Peng , Zhao Wanlu , Zhang Kai , Lin Hai , Zhang Xingdong
Published: October 2019

Injectable fillers have become a vital part of cosmetology. A wide variety of injectable fillers are developed for either correction of facial wrinkles and folds or facial contouring. As the most popular filler products, polymeric injectable fillers represent a class of the most common implantable medical devices. This review is intended to not only present current filler products, but also share perspectives of future trends, development processes, and regulatory considerations for the next generation of fillers. First, currently approved polymeric injectable fillers are described in detail. Second, future trends of polymeric injectable fillers are discussed. Fillers based on the emerging technologies in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine with stimuli‐responsive or tunable properties, as well as device/drug combination products, are promising candidates. Third, fillers for cosmetology are different from traditionally recognized medical devices. As a result, the target population of such fillers is different from that of other implantable devices, leading to different user needs that impact their development processes. Last, product applications, regulatory requirements, device evaluation, characteristics, and difficulties for regulating filler products for minimally invasive cosmetology are reviewed. Both regulatory science and scientific supervision are needed for polymeric injectable fillers which are facing great opportunities as well as challenges. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48515.