bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Pathogenic Bacteria from Diseased Thai Pangas Pangasius hypophthalmus with Their Sensitivity to Antibiotics
Authors: Parven Moslima , Alam M. M. Mahbub , Khalil Sarker Md. Ibrahim , Hamom Aishi , Goni Osman , Rahman Md. Moshiur , Abdullah-Al-Mamun Md.
Published: May 2020

Thai Pangas (Pangasiaus hypophthalmus) has been emerging as an economically very important species due their faster growth, year round production and high productivity in South-East Asian aquaculture. It has good market value as a food fish due to its good taste and deliciousness with high protein, minerals and fat content. It is also popular as a game fish.

Aims: The present study was conducted to identify bacterial pathogens in diseased P. hypophthalmus and evaluate their sensitivity to antibiotics.

Methodology: To identify the causativeagent of diseased fish pure culture of bacteria using slant and streak plate techniques and different biochemical tests such as Gram’s Staining, Motility Test, Sugar Fermentation Test, MR-VP test, Indole Test etc. were performed. To assess the sensitivity of the isolated bacteria to antibiotics five antibiotics disks i.e. Ciprofloxacin (5μg), Azithromycin (15μg), Ampicillin/Sulbactam (20μg), Tetracycline (30μg) and Erythromycin (15μg) were used.

Results: Three pathogenic bacteria i.e. Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella ictaluri and Pseudomonas sp. were identified in the studied diseased fish. Only Pseudomonas sp. were identified from Fresh fish. E. ictaluri was found only in diseased pangas which was the causative agent for thedisease, Bacillary Necrosis. The results of the antibiotic sensitivity test showed multi-resistances of the identified bacteria to the tested antibiotics. The identified bacteria were 100% sensitive to Ciprofloxacin (5μg), intermediate to Azithromycin (15μg) and Tetracycline (30μg), but resistant to Erythromycin (15μg) and Ampicilin/Sulbactam (20μg).

Conclusion: Ciprofloxacin (5µg) could be used to control bacillary necrosis disease in Thai pangas. The results of this study will be helpful to the fish farmers for the management of bacterial diseases in fish.
Obesity‐Associated Adipose Stromal Cells Promote Breast Cancer Invasion through Direct Cell Contact and ECM Remodeling
Authors: Ling Lu , Mulligan Jeffrey A. , Ouyang Yunxin , Shimpi Adrian A. , Williams Rebecca M. , Beeghly Garrett F. , Hopkins Benjamin D. , Spector Jason A. , Adie Steven G. , Fischbach Claudia
Published: May 2020

Obesity increases the risk and worsens the prognosis for breast cancer due, in part, to altered adipose stromal cell (ASC) behavior. Whether ASCs from obese individuals increase migration of breast cancer cells relative to their lean counterparts, however, remains unclear. To test this connection, multicellular spheroids composed of MCF10A‐derived tumor cell lines of varying malignant potential and lean or obese ASCs are embedded into collagen scaffolds mimicking the elastic moduli of interstitial breast adipose tissue. Confocal image analysis suggests that tumor cells alone migrate insignificantly under these conditions. However, direct cell‐cell contact with either lean or obese ASCs enables them to migrate collectively, whereby obese ASCs activate tumor cell migration more effectively than their lean counterparts. Time‐resolved optical coherence tomography imaging suggests that obese ASCs facilitate tumor cell migration by mediating contraction of local collagen fibers. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐dependent proteolytic activity significantly contributes to ASC‐mediated tumor cell invasion and collagen deformation. However, ASC contractility is also important, as co‐inhibition of both MMPs and contractility is necessary to completely abrogate ASC‐mediated tumor cell migration. These findings imply that obesity‐mediated changes of ASC phenotype may impact tumor cell migration and invasion with potential implications for breast cancer malignancy in obese patients.
Ferrofluid Droplets as Liquid Microrobots with Multiple Deformabilities
Authors: Fan Xinjian , Sun Mengmeng , Sun Lining , Xie Hui
Published: May 2020

Developing microrobots with multiple deformabilities has become extremely challenging due to the lack of materials that are soft enough at the microscale level and the inability to be reconfigured after fabrication. In this study, it is aimed to prove that liquid microrobots composed of ferrofluid droplets are inherently deformable and they can be controlled, individually or in aggregate, with multiple programmable deformabilities. For example, the liquid‐microrobot monomer (LRM) can pass through narrow channels via elongation and achieve scaling via splitting and coalescence. LRMs can also reassemble into various kinds of functional liquid‐robot aggregates, such as microsticks, micropies, microtrains, microkayaks, and microrollingpins. Thus, they can respond to multi‐terrain surfaces or perform various complex tasks. Moreover, the authors' physics‐based theoretical model demonstrates dynamic self‐assembly and group behavior of a multiple LRM system, which is conducive to investigating the mechanisms behind it. These ferrofluid droplet robots provide novel solutions for some potential applications, such as untethered micromanipulation and targeted cargo delivery.
Injectable Polypeptide‐Protein Hydrogels for Promoting Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Cheng Liang , Cai Zhengwei , Ye Tingjun , Yu Xiaohua , Chen Zhijie , Yan Yufei , Qi Jin , Wang Lei , Liu Zhihong , Cui Wenguo , Deng Lianfu
Published: May 2020

Protein is the key composition of all tissues, which has also been widely used in tissue engineering due to its superior biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. However, natural protein usually lacks active functions such as vascularization, osteo‐induction, and neural differentiation, which limits its further applications as a functional biomaterial. Here, based on the mimetic extracellular matrix feature of bovine serum albumin, injectable polypeptide‐protein hydrogels with vascularization and antibacterial abilities are constructed successfully via coordinative cross‐linking of sulfydryl groups with silver ions (Ag+) for the regeneration of infected wound. In this protein hydrogel system, (Ag+), acting as crosslinkers, can not only provide a sterile microenvironment and a strong and robust antibacterial ability but also introduce K2(SL)6K2 (KK) polypeptide, which endows the hydrogel with vascularization behavior. Furthermore, the in vivo data show that the polypeptide‐protein hydrogel has a considerable collagen deposition and vascularization abilities in the early stage of wound healing, resulting in rapid new tissue regeneration featured with newly appeared hair follicles. Altogether, this newly developed multifunctional 3D polypeptide‐protein hydrogel with vascularization, antibacterial properties, and hair follicle promotion can be a promising approach in biomedical fields such as infected wound healing.
Inkjet‐Printed Wearable Nanosystems for Self‐Powered Technologies
Authors: Huang Tao‐Tse , Wu Wenzhuo
Published: May 2020

The scalable production of nanomaterials‐based electronic components with mechanically compliable form factors not only provides interesting research topics but also ushers in exciting opportunities for wearable applications in consumer electronics, healthcare, human–machine interface, etc. Wearable nanosystems consist of components such as thin‐film transistors, flexible sensors, energy harvesters, and energy storage devices. Despite the increased interests and efforts in nanotechnology‐enabled wearables, reducing the manufacturing and assembly costs while improving the performance at the device and system level remains a major technological challenge. The inkjet printing process has emerged as a potential economic method for nanomanufacturing functional devices. Here, the authors review the recent advances in inkjet‐printed wearable nanodevices and provide an in‐depth discussion focusing on the materials, manufacturing process, integration, performance issues, and potential applications for inkjet‐printed self‐powered wearable devices. The authors compile a comprehensive list of the reported flexible devices with the corresponding materials employed. Finally, they discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with related topics.
Toward an All‐Ceramic Cathode–Electrolyte Interface with Low‐Temperature Pressed NASICON Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 Electrolyte
Authors: Paolella Andrea , Zhu Wen , Bertoni Giovanni , Perea Alexis , Demers Hendrix , Savoie Sylvio , Girard Gabriel , Delaporte Nicolas , Guerfi Abdelbast , Rumpel Matthias , Lorrmann Henning , Demopoulos George P. , Zaghib Karim
Published: May 2020

This work shows, for the first time, the critical influence of pressure during the hot sintering stage on the ionic conductivity of the lithium super ionic conductor Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3. A hot press method is developed to obtain high ionic conductivities at the significantly decreased densification temperature of only 650 °C by applying pressure (56 MPa). Considering the possible initiation of undesirable decomposition reactions when cathode materials are annealed at high temperature (typically ≥700 °C), the use of high pressure at 650 °C can significantly limit the formation of degradation by‐products. This study determines the criteria required to optimize the pressure and temperature parameters for enhancing the total ionic conductivity. Finally, this study reports an all solid‐state battery based on a LiFePO4 olivine cathode prepared at 650 °C showing very good Li‐intercalation/deintercalation performance. Good ionic interfacial contact is achieved without using polymer and liquid electrolyte.
Ultraviolet Light‐Assisted Electrospinning of Core–Shell Fully Cross‐Linked P(NIPAAm‐co‐NIPMAAm) Hydrogel‐Based Nanofibers for Thermally Induced Drug Delivery Self‐Regulation
Authors: Pawłowska Sylwia , Rinoldi Chiara , Nakielski Paweł , Ziai Yasamin , Urbanek Olga , Li Xiaoran , Kowalewski Tomasz Aleksander , Ding Bin , Pierini Filippo
Published: May 2020

Body tissues and organs have complex functions which undergo intrinsic changes during medical treatments. For the development of ideal drug delivery systems, understanding the biological tissue activities is necessary to be able to design materials capable of changing their properties over time, on the basis of the patient's tissue needs. In this study, a nanofibrous thermal‐responsive drug delivery system is developed. The thermo‐responsivity of the system makes it possible to self‐regulate the release of bioactive molecules, while reducing the drug delivery at early stages, thus avoiding high concentrations of drugs which may be toxic for healthy cells. A co‐axial electrospinning technique is used to fabricate core–shell cross‐linked copolymer poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐N‐isopropylmethacrylamide) (P(NIPAAm‐co‐NIPMAAm)) hydrogel‐based nanofibers. The obtained nanofibers are made of a core of thermo‐responsive hydrogel containing a drug model, while the outer shell is made of poly‐l‐lactide‐co‐caprolactone (PLCL). The custom‐made electrospinning apparatus enables the in situ cross‐linking of P(NIPAAm‐co‐NIPMAAm) hydrogel into a nanoscale confined space, which improves the electrospun nanofiber drug dosing process, by reducing its provision and allowing a self‐regulated release control. The mechanism of the temperature‐induced release control is studied in depth, and it is shown that the system is a promising candidate as a “smart” drug delivery platform.
A Red‐Emissive Fluorescent Probe with a Compact Single‐Benzene‐Based Skeleton for Cell Imaging of Lipid Droplets
Authors: Zhou Ri , Cui Yuanyuan , Dai Jianan , Wang Chenguang , Liang Xishuang , Yan Xu , Liu Fangmeng , Liu Xiaomin , Sun Peng , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Yue , Lu Geyu
Published: May 2020

Lipid droplets (LDs) are important organelles associated with many physiological processes as well as diseases. To visualize LDs and study their versatile functions, the fluorescence imaging technique is one of the most powerful tools. Thus, the development of fluorescent probes for LDs imaging has attracted increased attention in recent years. Herein, a new LDs fluorescent probe Ph‐Red is developed and its application in fluorescence imaging is carefully demonstrated. The probe Ph‐Red has a compact single‐benzene‐based molecular structure and can be easily synthesized via a one‐step reaction. Impressively, the probe displays strong red emission based on a very small π‐system consisting of only one benzene ring. Moreover, the probe shows high LDs staining selectivity and good cellular viability, and is tolerant for repeatedly fluorescence imaging. Given these advantages, the 3D confocal imaging in fixed cells as well as multicolor confocal imaging in live cells are successfully realized, highlighting the utility of the single‐benzene‐based fluorescent probe Ph‐Red for LDs imaging. In addition, the hydrophobicity of the probe and the molecular size are revealed to play critical roles for efficiently staining LDs, which are important insights for the development of new LDs fluorescent probes.
Wearable Conformal Metasurfaces for Polarization Division Multiplexing
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Zhang Lei , Zhang Min , Su Hong , Li Irene Ling , Ruan Shuangchen , Liang Huawei
Published: May 2020

In practice, there is a strong requirement for modulating the performance of existing bulk devices without changing their physical geometry. In this study, by attaching a flexible metasurface on a cylindrical lens, a wearable conformal metasurface for terahertz polarization division multiplexing is demonstrated, which could be used in wireless communications, detection, and imaging. The integrated metasurface/lens can achieve the control functions of spot focusing, generation of Bessel beams, and phase holograms, respectively, for crosspolarized waves and line focusing for copolarized waves. A total modulation efficiency of up to 87% is experimentally obtained. Notably, the metasurfaces can be attached on/removed from existing bulk devices multiple times, without reducing the performances of both metasurface and conventional devices. As the flexible samples are fabricated using the cost‐effective standard flexible printed circuit technique, a multilayer conformal metasurface can be easily obtained for an efficient control. Furthermore, the same bulk device can be integrated with different flexible metasurfaces for various controls. Thus, the proposed metasurface can provide a promising flexible platform for various integrated applications and contribute to the development of wearable functional devices.
Soft Photonic Fibers for Colorimetric Solvent Vapor Sensing
Authors: Malekovic Mirela , Urann Markus , Steiner Ullrich , Wilts Bodo D. , Kolle Mathias
Published: May 2020

Stimuli‐responsive elastomers are promising material systems for the development of optical sensors with visual outputs that can be easily assessed by the human eye. These materials, when shaped into alternating layers, form distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) that feature a high spectrally selective reflectivity. The adsorption of vapor molecules into these photonic structures leads to partial swelling in the constituent materials that can induce pronounced color changes. Here, it is demonstrated that soft photonic fibers with a DBR‐cladding can selectively sense and quantify different organic vapors. It is found that fibers with a multilayer cladding assembled of films of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and a polystyrene‐polyisoprene block‐copolymer (PSPI) change color sensitively depending on the concentration of toluene, benzene, tetrahydrofuran, or chloroform vapors. It is shown that this is a direct consequence of a selective swelling of the constituent polymer layers due to vapor adsorption. With wavelength variations as small as 5 nm being noticeable to the human eye, such photonic fibers are interesting materials for optical sensors. Modifications of their building blocks and their structural morphology make these vapor‐sensing fibers a versatile platform for standalone and textile‐integrated solvent sensing systems applied in industrial and lab‐scale manufacturing processes.
Surface Engineered Hybrid Core–Shell Si‐Nanowires for Efficient and Stable Broadband Photodetectors
Authors: Sarkar Krishnendu , Devi Pooja , Lata Akash , Lokku Vinod K. , Kumar Praveen
Published: May 2020

Silicon nanostructures have gained intensive interest to develop broadband photodetectors at a large‐scale due to their excellent electronic properties. Herein, Si‐nanowires (SiNWs) decorated with reduced graphene oxide:carbon quantum dots (rGO:CQDs) nanocomposite (NC), as core–shell heterojunction building blocks for broadband (ultraviolet (UV)–near infrared (NIR)) photodetectors (PDs), are demonstrated. The SiNWs and CQDs are synthesized by wet‐chemical etching and facile pyrolysis methods, respectively. Photogenerated carriers are transported through rGO because of its high electron mobility and favorable band alignment with CQDs and Si. Further, to minimize the recombination of photogenerated carriers, and enhance the response in the visible region, plasmon‐enhanced AuCQDs are incorporated in the shell matrix. The optimized heterostructure (rGO:AuCQDs/undoped CQDs/SiNWs) is sensitive to a broad wavelength range covering the UV to NIR (360 to 940 nm) region, manifests the excellent responsivity of 16 A W−1 at 360 nm, detectivity (D*) of 2.2 × 1013 Jones, and noise equivalent power as low as 2.8 fW Hz−1/2. The optimized PDs heterostructure demonstrates excellent air‐stability after 8 days of illumination without any encapsulation or protective coating. The proposed simple, cost‐effective, and Si‐process‐line compatible fabrication of Si‐based PD device structure imposes a great promise for highly efficient and stable advanced futuristic optoelectronic devices.
Work Function Evolution in Li Anode Processing
Authors: Etxebarria Ane , Koch Stephan L. , Bondarchuk Oleksandr , Passerini Stefano , Teobaldi Gilberto , Muñoz‐Márquez Miguel Ángel
Published: May 2020

Toward improved understanding and control of the interactions of Li metal anodes with their processing environments, a combined X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), and density functional theory (DFT) characterization of the effects that O2, CO2, and N2, the main gases in dry‐atmosphere battery production lines, induced on a reproducibly clean Li surface at room temperature is presented here. XPS measurements demonstrate that O2 is ten times more effective than CO2 at oxidizing metal Li. Notably, pure N2 is shown to not dissociate on clean metal Li. UPS results indicate that decomposition of O2 (CO2) reduces the work function of the Li surface by almost 1 eV, therefore increasing the reduction energy drive for the treated substrate by comparison to bare metallic Li. DFT simulations semiquantitatively account for these results on the basis of the effects of dissociative gas adsorption on the surface dipole density of the Li surface.
High‐Voltage‐Driven Surface Structuring and Electrochemical Stabilization of Ni‐Rich Layered Cathode Materials for Li Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Song Seok Hyun , Cho Moses , Park Inchul , Yoo Jong‐Gyu , Ko Kyung‐Tae , Hong Jihyun , Kim Jongsoon , Jung Sung‐Kyun , Avdeev Maxim , Ji Sungdae , Lee Seongsu , Bang Joona , Kim Hyungsub
Published: May 2020

Layered lithium–nickel–cobalt–manganese oxide (NCM) materials have emerged as promising alternative cathode materials owing to their high energy density and electrochemical stability. Although high reversible capacity has been achieved for Ni‐rich NCM materials when charged beyond 4.2 V versus Li+/Li, full lithium utilization is hindered by the pronounced structural degradation and electrolyte decomposition. Herein, the unexpected realization of sustained working voltage as well as improved electrochemical performance upon electrochemical cycling at a high operating voltage of 4.9 V in the Ni‐rich NCM LiNi0.895Co0.085Mn0.02O2 is presented. The improved electrochemical performance at a high working voltage at 4.9 V is attributed to the removal of the resistive Ni2+O rock‐salt surface layer, which stabilizes the voltage profile and improves retention of the energy density during electrochemical cycling. The manifestation of the layered Ni2+O rock‐salt phase along with the structural evolution related to the metal dissolution are probed using in situ X‐ray diffraction, neutron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. The findings help unravel the structural complexities associated with high working voltages and offer insight for the design of advanced battery materials, enabling the realization of fully reversible lithium extraction in Ni‐rich NCM materials.
Nature of Novel 2D van der Waals Heterostructures for Superior Potassium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Jue , Wang Bin , Lu Bingan
Published: May 2020

Novel 2D van der Waals heterostructures with innovative bimetallic oxychloride (Bi‐ and Sb‐based oxychloride) nanosheets that are well dispersed on reduced graphene oxide nanosheets, are established through element engineering for superior potassium ion battery (PIBs) anodes. This material displays an exceptional electrochemical performance, obtaining a discharge capacity as high as 360 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 after running 1000 cycles for over 9 months with a capacity preservation percentage of 88.5% and achieving a discharge capacity as high as 319 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1, in addition to the low charge/discharge plateaus for anodes and promising full cell performance. More significantly, the nature of such 2D van der Waals heterostructures, including the element engineering for morphology control, the function of each component of heterostructures, the mechanism of potassium ion storage, and the process of K+ intercalation accompanied with the lattice distortion and chemical bond breakages, is explored in depth. This study is critical for not only paving the way for the practical application of PIBs but also shedding light on fundamentals of potassium ion storage in 2D van der Waals heterostructures.
Sulfonate N‐Heterocyclic Carbene–Copper Complexes: Uniquely Effective Catalysts for Enantioselective Synthesis of C−C, C−B, C−H, and C−Si Bonds
Authors: Hoveyda Amir H. , Zhou Yuebiao , Shi Ying , Brown M. Kevin , Wu Hao , Torker Sebastian
Published: May 2020

A copper‐based complex that contains a sulfonate N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand was first reported 15 years ago. Since then, these organometallic entities have proven to be uniquely effective in catalyzing an assortment of enantioselective transformations, including allylic substitutions, conjugate additions, proto‐boryl additions to alkenes, boryl and silyl substitutions, hydride‐allyl additions to alkenyl boronates, and additions of boron‐containing allyl moieties to N‐H ketimines. In this review article, we detail the shortcomings in the state‐of‐the‐art that fueled the development of this air stable ligand class, members of which can be prepared on multigram scale. For each reaction type, when relevant, the prior art at the time of the advance involving sulfonate NHC‐Cu catalysts and/or subsequent key developments are briefly analyzed, and the relevance of the advance to efficient and enantioselective total or formal synthesis of biologically active molecules is underscored. Mechanistic analysis of the structural attributes of sulfonate NHC‐Cu catalysts that are responsible for their ability to facilitate transformations with high efficiency as well as regio‐ and enantioselectivity are detailed. This review contains several formerly undisclosed methodological advances and mechanistic analyses, the latter of which constitute a revision of previously reported proposals.
Effect of silanol on the thermal stability of poly[methyl(trifluoropropyl)siloxane]
Authors: You Yang , Chen Jianding , Zheng Anna , Wei Dafu , Xu Xiang , Guan Yong
Published: May 2020

Poly[methyl(trifluoropropyl)siloxane] (PMTFPS), which is an essential polymer in oil‐resistant rubber materials, exhibits unsatisfactory thermal stability. In this article, PMTFPSs with methyl and hydroxyl terminal groups are prepared, and their thermal stabilities are investigated via thermogravimetric analysis and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry in an inert atmosphere. Additionally, the degradation mechanisms are discussed in terms of molecular structural characteristics (bond length and bond angle) and reaction driven forces (electrostatic potential and atom charge) based on quantum chemistry calculations. PMTFPS is found to degrade mainly into cyclic monomers through (a) the SiO rearrangement reaction in the middle of the chain and (b) the “back‐biting” reaction from the end of the chain. PMTFPS with silanol terminal groups is more likely to degrade according to pathway (b), resulting in more cyclotrisiloxane. Furthermore, the silanol from nano‐silica accelerates the degradation of PMTFPS, and the mechanism of this process is presented.
Effect of microsurgical varicocelectomy on semen parameters, serum, and intratesticular testosterone levels
Authors: Lima Thiago Fernandes Negris , Frech Fabio Stefano , Patel Premal , Blachman‐Braun Ruben , Ramasamy Ranjith
Published: May 2020

Objective

The goal of this work was to evaluate if men who underwent microsurgical varicocelectomy would have improvement in serum testosterone (T) as well as serum 17‐hydroxyprogesterone (17‐OHP—An intratesticular T biomarker) in addition to semen parameters after operation.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a prospective analysis of 30 men who underwent microsurgical varicocelectomy from December 2018 to September 2019. We assessed varicocele grade and laterality, serum T, serum 17‐OHP, serum follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), serum LH, and semen parameters in baseline and follow‐up. According to the data distribution, we reported the median and interquartile ranges and utilized the Mann‐Whitney U, Student's t test and Wilcoxon rank test. Correlation analysis was performed with the Spearman test.

Results

In the baseline, 9 (30%) men had 17‐OHP < 55 ng/dL and 21 (70%) men presented with 17‐OHP ≥ 55 ng/dL. Also, 19 men had TMSC < 9 million, including 6 men with azoospermia, 1 man with cryptozoospermia, and 11 men with TMSC ≥ 9 million. We found an improvement in most SA parameters of most men, which include concentration (63.3%, 19/30), motility (46.6%, 14/30), and TMSC (60%, 18/30). About seven (36.8%) men had TMSC upgraded to > 9. There was a significant change in volume (2.1 [1.5‐2.8] to 2.4 [1.7‐3.6] cc, P = .018), concentration (6.8 [0.8‐22.5] to 12.5 [1‐31] million/cc, P = .047) and TMSC (4.4 [0.3‐15.1] to 10.5 [0‐41.8] million, P = .012) after surgery. We neither found a change in serum T nor a change in intratesticular T (serum 17‐OHP) after varicocelectomy (P > .05). FSH, LH and T were similar both before and after varicocelectomy (P > .05).

Conclusion

Despite improvement in semen parameters following varicocelectomy, we did not see changes in either serum or intratesticular T. This suggests that improvement of semen parameters following varicocele repair could be from factors other than changes in androgen levels within the testis.
The Fluidity of the Bacterial Outer Membrane Is Species Specific
Authors: Cao Pengbo , Wall Daniel
Published: May 2020

The outer membrane (OM) is an essential barrier that guards Gram‐negative bacteria from diverse environmental insults. Besides functioning as a chemical gatekeeper, the OM also contributes towards the strength and stiffness of cells and allows them to sustain mechanical stress. Largely influenced by studies of Escherichia coli, the OM is viewed as a rigid barrier where OM proteins and lipopolysaccharides display restricted mobility. Here the discussion is extended to other bacterial species, with a focus on Myxococcus xanthus. In contrast to the rigid OM paradigm, myxobacteria possess a relatively fluid OM. It is concluded that the fluidity of the OM varies across environmental species, which is likely linked to their evolution and adaptation to specific ecological niches. Importantly, a fluid OM can endow bacteria with distinct functions for cell‐cell and cell‐environment interactions.
Novel homozygous variant in WISP3 in a family with unrecognized progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia
Authors: Patel Chandreshkumar , Khanshour Anas M. , Wilkes David , Rios Jonathan J. , Sheff Kelly W. , Nassi Lorien , Wise Carol A.
Published: May 2020

We present the use of whole‐genome sequencing to correctly diagnose progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia in patients with atypical clinical and radiologic findings and prior diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Low‐T CO Oxidation over Cu−CHA Catalysts in Presence of NH3: Probing the Mobility of CuII Ions and the Role of Multinuclear CuII Species
Authors: Villamaina Roberta , Iacobone Umberto , Nova Isabella , Ruggeri Maria Pia , Collier Jillian , Thompsett David , Tronconi Enrico
Published: May 2020

We use dry CO oxidation to probe CuII dimers in Cu−CHA catalysts in the presence of ammonia. Samples with different Cu/Al and Si/Al ratios were exposed to CO in He at 200 °C after either one of two catalyst pre‐treatments: (i) pre‐oxidization in 8 % O2/He at 550 °C for 1 hour; (ii) pre‐oxidation in 8 % O2/He at 550 °C for 1 hour followed by NH3 saturation at 200 °C in O2. Pre‐adsorbed NH3 was necessary to observe a significant CO2 evolution, the rate of CO2 formation being second order in the CuIIOH fraction of the CuII sites. This is direct evidence that NH3, not involved in the CO oxidation chemistry, favours the formation of CuII dimers with removable oxygen by ligating with and mobilizing isolated CuIIOH ions, otherwise inactive. These findings are relevant for the low‐temperature NH3−SCR redox mechanism over Cu−CHA, in which CuII dimers may play a role in parallel or in alternative to the isolated CuII sites so far proposed for the reduction half cycle of standard SCR.
Improving Broadband White‐Light Emission Performances of 2D Perovskites by Subtly Regulating Organic Cations
Authors: Jing Chang‐Qing , Wang Juan , Zhao Hui‐Fang , Chu Wen‐Xin , Yuan Yun , Wang Zhi , Han Meng‐Fei , Xu Te , Zhao Jian‐Qiang , Lei Xiao‐Wu
Published: May 2020

Recently, 2D organic–inorganic hybrid lead halide perovskites have attracted intensive attention in solid‐state luminescence fields such as single‐component white‐light emitters, and rational optimization of the photoluminescence (PL) performance through accurate structural‐design strategies is still significant. Herein, by carefully choosing homologous aliphatic amines as templates, isotypical perovskites [DMEDA]PbCl4 (1, DMEDA=N,N‐dimethylethylenediamine) and [DMPDA]PbCl4 (2, DMPDA=N,N‐dimethyl‐1,3‐diaminopropane) having tunable and stable broadband bluish white emission properties were rationally designed. The subtle regulation of organic cations leads to a higher degree of distortion of the 2D [PbCl4]2− layers and enhanced photoluminescence quantum efficiencies (<1 % for 1 and 4.9 % for 2). The broadband light emissions could be ascribed to self‐trapped excitons on the basis of structural characterization, time‐resolved PL, temperature‐dependent PL emission, and theoretical calculations. This work gives a new guidance to rationally optimize the PL properties of low‐dimensional halide perovskites and affords a platform to probe the structure–property relationship.
Structure–Activity Relationship Study of a Potent α‐Thrombin Binding Aptamer Incorporating Hexitol Nucleotides
Authors: De Fenza Maria , Eremeeva Elena , Troisi Romualdo , Yang Hui , Esposito Anna , Sica Filomena , Herdewijn Piet , D'Alonzo Daniele , Guaragna Annalisa
Published: May 2020

The replacement of one or more nucleotide residues in the potent α‐thrombin‐binding aptamer NU172 with hexitol‐based nucleotides has been devised to study the effect of these substitutions on the physicochemical and functional properties of the anticoagulant agent. The incorporation of single hexitol nucleotides at the T9 and G18 positions of NU172 substantially retained the physicochemical features of the parent oligonucleotide, as a result of the biomimetic properties of the hexitol backbone. Importantly, the NU172‐TH9 mutant exhibited a higher binding affinity toward human α‐thrombin than the native aptamer and an improved stability even after 24 h in 90 % human serum, with a significant increase in the estimated half‐life. The anticoagulant activity of the modified oligonucleotide was also found to be slightly preferable to NU172. Overall, these results confirm the potential of hexitol nucleotides as biomimetic agents, while laying the foundations for the development of NU172‐inspired α‐thrombin‐binding aptamers.
Aggregation and Amyloidogenicity of the Nuclear Coactivator Binding Domain of CREB‐Binding Protein
Authors: Garcia Ana Maria , Giorgiutti Christophe , El Khoury Youssef , Bauer Valentin , Spiegelhalter Coralie , Leize‐Wagner Emmanuelle , Hellwig Petra , Potier Noelle , Torbeev Vladimir
Published: May 2020

The nuclear coactivator binding domain (NCBD) of transcriptional co‐regulator CREB‐binding protein (CBP) is an example of conformationally malleable proteins that can bind to structurally unrelated protein targets and adopt distinct folds in the respective protein complexes. Here, we show that the folding landscape of NCBD contains an alternative pathway that results in protein aggregation and self‐assembly into amyloid fibers. The initial steps of such protein misfolding are driven by intermolecular interactions of its N‐terminal α‐helix bringing multiple NCBD molecules into contact. These oligomers then undergo slow but progressive interconversion into β‐sheet‐containing aggregates. To reveal the concealed aggregation potential of NCBD we used a chemically synthesized mirror‐image d‐NCBD form. The addition of d‐NCBD promoted self‐assembly into amyloid precipitates presumably due to formation of thermodynamically more stable racemic β‐sheet structures. The unexpected aggregation of NCBD needs to be taken into consideration given the multitude of protein–protein interactions and resulting biological functions mediated by CBP.
Enantiomeric separation of malathion and malaoxon and the chiral residue analysis in food and environmental matrix
Authors: Hua Yifan , Zhou Qian , Wang Peng , Zhou Zhiqiang , Liu Donghui
Published: May 2020

Malathion is a widely used chiral phosphorus insecticide, which has a more toxic chiral metabolite malaoxon. In this work, the enantiomers of malathion and malaoxon were separated by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass/mass (HPLC‐MS/MS) with chiral columns using acetonitrile/water or methanol/water as mobile phase, and the chromatographic conditions were optimized. Based on the chiral separation, the chiral residue analysis methods for the enantiomers in soil, fruit, and vegetables were set up. Two pairs of the enantiomers were better separated on CHIRALPAK IC chiral column, and baseline simultaneous separations of malathion and malaoxon enantiomers were achieved with acetonitrile/water (40/60, v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. The elution orders were −/+ for both malathion and malaoxon measured by an optical rotation detector. The chiral residue analysis in soil, fruit, and vegetables was validated by linearity, recovery, precision, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ). The LODs and LOQs for the enantiomers of malathion were 1 μg/kg and 3–5 μg/kg and 0.08 μg/kg and 0.20–0.25 μg/kg for malaoxon enantiomers. Good linear calibration curves for each enantiomer in the matrices were obtained within the concentration range of 0.02–12 mg/L. The mean recoveries of the enantiomers of malathion and malaoxon ranged from 82.26% to 109.04%, with RSDs of 0.71–8.63%.The results confirmed that this method was capable of simultaneously determining the residue of malathion and malaoxon in food and environmental matrix on an enantiomeric level.
In vitro Biological Tests as the First Tools To Validate Magnetic Nanotheranostics for Colorectal Cancer Models
Authors: Martín María Julia , Gentili Claudia , Lassalle Verónica
Published: May 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer death. Nanotechnology has focused on reaching more effective treatments. In this concern, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been studied for a wide range of biomedical applications related to CRC, such as diagnostic imaging, drug delivery and thermal therapy. However, limited research is currently found in the open literature that refers to nanosystems combining all these mentioned areas (theranostics). When developing nanosystems intended as theranostics applied to CRC, possible variations between patients must be considered. Therefore, multiple in vitro assays are required as guidance for future preclinical and clinical trials. The objective of this contribution is to evaluate the available and recent literature regarding the interactions of MNP and CRC models, aiming to critically analyze the information given by the commonly used assays and evaluate the data provided by each one with a view to implementing this novel technology in CRC diagnostics and therapy.
Human perceptual responses to multiple colors: A study of multicolor perceptual features modeling
Authors: Wang Shuang , Jiang Wei , Su Yanan , Liu Jingyu
Published: May 2020

This article models multicolor perceptual features to investigate human perceptual responses to multiple colors based on a subjective evaluation experiment. First, an image set containing 164 multicolor samples was constructed, and multicolor objective features containing two categories with 60 dimensions were designed and quantified. Based on this, the 164 samples were evaluated by 30 subjects based on nine perceptual descriptive variables, including “swell‐shrink,” “light‐dark,” and “far‐near.” Then, a mathematical model of multicolor perceptual features (nine descriptive variables) was established by support vector regression. Finally, this article conducted model evaluation and factor analysis, and the results showed that the model could predict multicolor perceptual features well. It was also observed that, unlike single‐color perception, space perception was produced when applying multiple colors.
Carbon Quantum Dots Co‐catalyzed with ZnO Nanoflowers and Poly (CTAB) Nanosensor for Simultaneous Sensitive Detection of Paracetamol and Ciprofloxacin in Biological Samples
Authors: Hatamluyi Behnaz , Modarres Zahed Fatemeh , Es'haghi Zarrin , Darroudi Majid
Published: May 2020

A novel platform based incorporation of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and zinc oxide nanoflowers (ZnO‐NFs) decorated with poly cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was developed as electrochemical sensor for the sensitive and selective simultaneous detection of Paracetamol (PAR) and Ciprofloxacin (CIP) in biological samples. For this, CQDs and ZnO‐NFs were first deposited on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and subsequently a Poly (CTAB) layer was grown onto their surfaces through electro‐polymerization. The synthesized nanostructures and the corresponding fabricated sensor were characterized by the techniques of TEM, XRD, FE‐SEM, and EDX analysis. Moreover electrochemical characterization by CV and DPV were performed to elucidate the construction process and electron transfer abilities of the CQDs/ZnO‐NFs/Poly(CTAB)/GCE. Increased sensitivity and efficiency of this sensing system was obtained due to the synergistic effects of CQDs, ZnO‐NFs and Poly (CTAB) with multi‐signal amplification. Under the optimum conditions, the DPV response of proposed sensor to PAR and CIP was linear at 0.05–30.0 μM and 0.01–30.0 μM, with the detection limit of 2.47 nM and 1.97 nM respectively. The sensor possessed high stability, reproducibility, sensitivity, and selectivity toward PAR and CIP detection, over potential interferents and presented high recovery percentage in the real sample matrices.
Treatment of partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide by mixed bacteria isolated from wastewater
Authors: Dong Liang , Su Fei , Wang Yong‐Zhong
Published: May 2020

In this work, a mixed strain which could degrade hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) was constructed based on SS5 and SS6 isolated from two wastewater samples. SS5 is a globular gram‐negative bacterium, and SS6 is a rod‐shaped gram‐negative bacterium. Moreover, SS5 and SS6 were identified as Acinetobacter sp. and Pseudomonas sp., respectively. The removal performance of the mixed strain was optimized using single‐factor experiment and response surface methodology. The maximal HPAM removal efficiency 29.78% was observed at pH 7.5, 35°C, 170 rpm rotation speed, and inoculum loading 3% (v/v) for 7 days. The optimal concentrations of nutrients were 0.32 g/L glucose, 0.21 g/L NaNO3, 2.10 g/L KH2PO4‐K2HPO4, and the HPAM removal efficiency reached 45.82%. Finally, the optimal HPAM concentration and the HPAM removal efficiency were 300 mg/L and 45.82%, respectively. The results indicate that the mixed strain was a potential candidate for dealing with oil‐ or gas‐field sewage with high hydrolyzed polyacrylamide concentration.
Fragility and risk assessment of freestanding building contents
Authors: Fragiadakis Michalis , Diamantopoulos Spyridon
Published: May 2020

Multistorey buildings often have a valuable inventory consisting of objects that their possible damage during an earthquake will cause unacceptable losses. The paper presents a novel, fully performance‐based seismic reliability and risk assessment framework for freestanding structural components and contents that can be modelled as rocking rigid blocks. The seismic response of building contents depends on several parameters such as the geometry of the object, the dynamic characteristics of the building and the storey that the object is located. The demand at the storey level is first obtained, and then the response of the contents is calculated using the storey acceleration response history. The demand of the structure is obtained with the aid of a modified version of the Incremental Dynamic Analysis method and subsequently the fragility curves of the rocking building contents are derived for every storey of interest. Different options for fragility assessment are discussed, and the underlying details of the problem are investigated. A simplified approach, where the fragility of the freestanding components and the structure are derived separately, is also presented. The method combines existing fragility curves and thus is suitable for quickly assessing the reliability of a building's inventory, offering sufficient risk estimates.
Revisiting flexible polyurethane foam flammability in furniture and bedding in the United States
Authors: Morgan Alexander B.
Published: May 2020

The flammability of flexible polyurethane foam has been well studied to date, via smoldering and flaming ignition. Its contribution to fire loss in the United States has also been well documented, as the flammability of this material will contribute to large fire events when not protected from ignition and heat sources. Despite this known fire risk, fire protection approaches for polyurethane foam are being questioned in regards to fire protection performance, as well as proven and hypothesized concerns over health impacts before and after fire events. The flammability of flexible polyurethane foam in furniture and bedding is a clear and present danger that must be addressed, and this article discusses the current available technologies for fire protection, with pros and cons of these approaches. Known physical and chemical behavior of these foams in fires is discussed, as well as how this behavior contributes to large fire events. Finally, issues that still need further research and information to definitively address the polyurethane foam flammability in the United States is discussed.
Optimization of Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Paprika (cv. Reshampatti) Oil, Capsaicin and Pigments
Authors: Shah Nikunj A. , Prasad R.V. , Patel Bhaumik B.
Published: May 2020

Paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) is a spice, utilized in culinary across the globe for its colour and pungency. A study was conducted to optimize the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) process individually for selective extraction of paprika oil, capsaicin and pigments. Paprika oil was extracted by supercritical fluid—carbon dioxide at different process parameters: temperature (35‐75°C), pressure (100‐500 bar), extraction time (60‐180 minutes) and particle size (0.25‐1.25 mm) using central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The ANOVA results showed that yields of paprika oil, capsaicin and pigments were significantly (P ≤ .05) affected by the extraction process variables. Optimized SFE conditions, 65, 65 and 57.04°C temperature; 357.8, 200.62 and 400 bar pressure; 90, 90 and 100.89 minutes extraction time; and 0.78, 0.50 and 0.89 mm particle size, were obtained for optimum yield of paprika oil, capsaicin and pigments, respectively. Experimental yield of paprika oil, capsaicin and pigments at the optimized condition for respective compounds was 4.91% (w/w), 2.10% (w/w) and 16 319.9 NCV, and had good agreement with the predicted values. Antimicrobial activity of extracted paprika oil was found against E. coli, B. subtilus and S. aureus.
Lower cognitive baseline scores predict cognitive training success after 6 months in healthy older adults: Results of an online RCT
Authors: Roheger Mandy , Kalbe Elke , Corbett Anne , Brooker Helen , Ballard Clive
Published: May 2020

Background

Identifying predictors for general cognitive training (GCT) success in healthy older adults has many potential uses, including aiding intervention and improving individual dementia risk prediction, which are of high importance in health care. However, the factors that predict training improvements and the temporal course of predictors (eg, do the same prognostic factors predict training success after a short training period, such as 6 weeks, as well as after a longer training period, such as 6 months?) are largely unknown.

Methods

Data (N = 4,184 healthy older individuals) from two arms (GCT vs. control) of a three‐arm randomized controlled trial were reanalyzed to investigate predictors of GCT success in five cognitive tasks (grammatical reasoning, spatial working memory, digit vigilance, paired association learning, and verbal learning) at three time points (after 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months of training). Possible investigated predictors were sociodemographic variables, depressive symptoms, number of training sessions, cognitive baseline values, and all interaction terms (group*predictor).

Results

Being female was predictive for improvement in grammatical reasoning at 6 weeks in the GCT group, and lower cognitive baseline scores were predictive for improvement in spatial working memory and verbal learning at 6 months.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that predictors seem to change over time; remarkably, lower baseline performance at study entry is only a significant predictor at 6 months training. Possible reasons for these results are discussed in relation to the compensation hypothesis. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:‐, 2020.