bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Factor Viii and Factor IX Activity among Primary School Children in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Okoroiwu I. L. , Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Egbuobi Lilian Nneka , Ibekwe Adaobi Maryann , Vincent C. C. N. , Unaeze Bright Chukwuebuka , Adike Calista Ndidi , Chijioke Udunma Olive , Okafor Chukwuma J. , Soremi Ayomide Olusiji , Chukwurah Ejike Felix , Ifionu Bart I. , Anyanwu Confidence Ogechi
Published: July 2021

The values of factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX (FIX) were evaluated among some primary school children in Owerri zone Imo State. The aim was to assess deficiency state or reduction in activity among these children. A total of two hundred and ten (210) venous blood samples were collected from primary school pupils whose parents consented to, and whose answers to the distributed questionnaires suggested symptoms of haemophilia. The samples were collected from pupils between the ages of five and thirteen years, and from different primary schools to represent different areas of Owerri (Works Layout Area, Nekede Area, Trans Egbu Area, and Akwukuma Area). Samples were preserved using trisodium citrate anticoagulant and transported to the haematology unit of the Federal Medical Centre Owerri within 3 hours for analysis which was done using Rayto semi auto coagulation analyzer RT 2204C with its normal ranges for factor VIII and IX activities as (50% - 200% and 70% - 200%) respectively. Out of the 210 samples collected, 16(7.6%) have <50% of factor VIII activity and 14(6.7%) have <70% of factor IX activity. Akwakuma area produced highest occurrence of factor VIII deficiency (14.8%, 8 pupils) while Works Layout and Trans Egbu Areas produced the least incidence (3.8%, 2 pupils) each. Factor IX deficiency was most prevalent at Trans Egbu Area 6(11.5%) and least at Works Layout 0(0.0%). Six children between the ages of 5 and 7 years had the highest incidence of FVIII deficiency (23.1%), while eight pupils between the ages of 11-13 years showed the highest incidence of FIX deficiency. Eight Females were found to have the highest incidence of both  FVIII and FIX deficiencies (8.2% for both defects ), while the males presented a lower incidence of the same defects (7.1%, 8 pupils and 5.4%, 6 pupils respectively). The mean levels of FVIII and FIX in all the pupils evaluated are 78.61 and 89.98 respectively while the standard deviation of the results from the mean are 2.584 and 1.473 for factor VIII and IX respectively. These data show that haemophilia A and B exist in Owerri and considering the danger it portends to lives of the citizenry, Government should provide facilities in our hospitals to take care of the affected pupils to ensure a healthy society.
Antihyperglycemic Activity of Syzygium cumini (Jamun) in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Mulkalwar Sarita , Kulkarni Vishwanath , Deshpande Teja , Bhide Harshavardhan , Patel Abhi , Tilak A. V.
Published: July 2021

Background: Recently with the changes in population lifestyle, prediabetes is constantly on the rise. Management of prediabetes currently is with lifestyle modifications like weight loss, exercise and diet control. Better drugs with acceptable safety profile are needed for better control of prediabetes. This study was thus designed to evaluate the antihyperglycaemic effect of one such potential compound Syzygium cumini (SC) (Jamun)in comparison to conventional antidiabetic drug Metformin.

Methods: Rats were divided into four study groups (SC 100mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, metformin 90 mg/kg and SC 200 mg/kg with metformin 90 mg/kg). The glycaemic changes were followed up for a period of 8 weeks.

Results: Streptozotocin (STZ) induced significant rise in blood glucose levels in the rats. SC100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg caused a reduction in BSL (192.50 ± 6.189 & 175.00 ± 6.782 respectively). SC 200 mg/kg alone and in combination with metformin caused a significant reduction in HbA1C levels at the end of 8th week (8.84 ± 0.65 &6.86 ± 0.40 respectively) as compared to their baseline levels. Increase in dose had led to more significant reduction in BSL at the end of 8th week in groups A & B (p < 0.05). However, reduction of BSL was superior with Metforminalone (159.17 ± 13.060) compared to Syzygium cumini administered alone. Also antihyperglycemic effect of Syzygium cumini administered along with metformin was significant (p < 0.05) compared to either doses of Syzygium cumini given alone.

Conclusions: Syzygium cumini demonstratedantihyperglycemic activity in diabetic rats but less significant when compared to metformin. Antihyperglycaemic effect of Syzygium cumini with metformin was significantly better than either drugsgiven alone. In prediabetic or diabeticindividuals Syzygium cumini seed powdercan be suggested as a potential add-on therapy with conventional antidiabetic drugs. However more non-clinical and clinical studies need to be conducted to confirm the findings.
Assessment of Functional End Ranges of Lower Limb Joints in Positions Commonly Used for ADLs in India
Authors: Patel Niketa , Khatri Lavina Rajesh , Parmar Lata
Published: July 2021

Background: In many countries of Asian continent, floor sitting is preferred instead of chair supported sitting. Indian population differs noticeably in its cultural practice and daily tasks which involves squatting and cross-legged sitting on the ground.

Aim: The purpose of the study was to assess the functional end-ranges of the hip, knee and ankle joints in healthy Indian subjects in positions commonly used for ADLs in India which includes squatting and cross-legged sitting.

Methods: 66 healthy subjects were recruited from rural and urban populations with age range 30-50 years. Joint ROM of the lower extremities was measured using Universal Goniometer. All the subjects were asked to acquire squat and cross legged positions which were graded.

Results: Our results finding showed that the subjects in cross leg sitting grade 2 (independent CLS) had hip flexion ranges ≥1150, hip abduction ≥ 410, hip external rotation ≥ 420, ankle plantar flexion ≥ 460, p<0.005.  For squatting, grade 2 (independent squat) had hip flexion ranges ≥ 1130,p>0.005, Knee flexion ≥1200, p>0.005 and ankle dorsiflexion ≥150, p<0.005.

Conclusion: From the results, it is suggested that squatting and cross-leg sitting multiple times a day can prevent the early closer of end ranges of the lower limbs.
Drivers of Home Healthcare Industry: Contrasting Views of Users and Providers in a Developing Country
Authors: Singh Ankit , Jha Ajeya , Purbey Shankar
Published: July 2021

Home healthcare fills an important void in a country's healthcare system; factors promoting home healthcare growth vary. In this study, the perceptions of the users and providers are analyzed to identify the important factors. Survey analysis was done for ten identified factors on 378 nurses and 394 patients. Responses were analyzed with Garret Ranking Method. The systematic random sampling method was used after acquiring the list of nurses working in home health organizations. The preference should be given to the user's perception as the customer is the king; it is encouraging for Indian home health providers that users are feeling they are deriving benefits from home health service usage; however, this feeling can be further enhanced by focusing on the right factors such as doctors recommendation, the rise of chronic diseases and the cost advantage associated with home health over Institutional care. Results revealed a disparity between the perceptions of the providers and users. This study suggests that home health agencies highlight features, such as cost-effective care, medical professionals' recommendation, and utility in providing relief to chronic disease patients.
Bronze Age and Iron Age archaeology at Thainstone Business Park, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire
Authors: McGalliard Sue , Wilson Donald , Bailey Laura , Cool Hilary E M , Cruickshanks Gemma , Hunter Fraser , Wallace Colin , Wallace Michael
Published: July 2021

Headland Archaeology (UK) Ltd was commissioned by Axiom Project Services to undertake an archaeological excavation in advance of a commercial development at Thainstone Business Park, Aberdeenshire (NGR: NJ 7707 1809). Excavation identified the remains of a Middle Bronze Age roundhouse and a contemporary urned cremation cemetery. Evidence of Late Bronze Age cremation practices was also identified. A large roundhouse and souterrain dominated the site in the 1st or 2nd century AD. Material culture associated with the Iron Age structures suggested a degree of status to the occupation there.
Uncertainty in population estimates: A meta‐analysis for petrels
Authors: Bird Jeremy P. , Woodworth Bradley K. , Fuller Richard A. , Shaw Justine D.
Published: July 2021

Population estimates are commonly generated and used in conservation science. All estimates carry inherent uncertainty, but little attention has been given to when and how this uncertainty limits their use. This requires an understanding of the specific purposes for which population estimates are intended, an assessment of the level of uncertainty each purpose can tolerate, and information on current uncertainty.

We conducted a review and meta‐analysis for a widespread group of seabirds, the petrels, to better understand how and why population estimates are being used. Globally petrels are highly threatened, and aspects of their ecology make them difficult to survey, introducing high levels of uncertainty into population estimates.

We found that by far the most common intended use of population estimates was to inform status and trend assessments, while less common uses were trialling methods to improve estimates and assessing threat impacts and conservation outcomes.

The mean coefficient of variation for published estimates was 0.17 (SD = 0.14), with no evidence that uncertainty has been reduced through time. As a consequence of this high uncertainty, when we simulated declines equivalent to thresholds commonly used to trigger management, only 5% of studies could detect significant differences between population estimates collected 10 years apart for populations declining at a rate of 30% over three generations.

Reporting of uncertainty was variable with no dispersion statistics reported with 38% of population estimates and most not reporting key underlying parameters: nest numbers/density and nest occupancy. We also found no correlation between uncertainty in petrel population estimates and either island size, body size or species threat status – potential predictors of uncertainty.

Key recommendations for managers are to be mindful of uncertainty in past population estimates if aiming to collect contemporary estimates for comparison, to report uncertainty clearly for new estimates, and to give careful consideration to whether a proposed estimate is likely to achieve the requisite level of certainty for the investment in its generation to be warranted. We recommend a practitioner‐based value of information assessment to confirm where there is value in reducing uncertainty.
Biomarkers in colorectal liver metastases: Rising complexity and unknown clinical significance?
Authors: Diener Markus K. , Fichtner‐Feigl Stefan
Published: July 2021

Surgical resection of the liver is the standard treatment for colorectal liver metastases, but 70% of patients still experience recurrence, resulting in limited survival. Molecular biomarkers promise guidance within the selection process of individualized treatment and provide better prognostic forecasting of recurrence and response to treatment. Presently, most investigated biomarkers include mutations of KRAS, BRAF, TP53, PIK3CA, APC, expression of Ki‐67, and microsatellite instability. As some colorectal cancer tumors exhibit more than one molecular target, in line with a rising number of potential biomarkers, the complexity of their clinical implementation is rising steadily. Therefore, it is important to approach new insights into molecular biomarkers with explicit caution to their clinical applicability and significance, as there are contradictory results arising from multiple available studies and meta‐analyses. This review helps to shed light on the complexity of promising biomarkers in both the prognosis and diagnosis of colorectal liver metastases.
Development of a Novel Bio‐based Redox Electrolyte using Pivalic Acid and Ascorbic Acid for the Activated Carbon‐based Supercapacitor Fabrication
Authors: Shakil Ragib , Shaikh M. Nasiruzzaman , Shah Syed Shaheen , Reaz Akter H. , Roy Chanchal Kumar , Chowdhury Al‐Nakib , Aziz Md. Abdul
Published: July 2021

Supercapacitor is considered a promising energy storage device due to its high‐power density and high specific capacitance. Electrode materials and electrolytes are major components of supercapacitors. The most used electrolytes are not biocompatible, which limits their practical applications. Bio‐electrolytes often cause low performances of supercapacitors. However, the inadequate performances of bio‐electrolytes for supercapacitor applications could be improved using redox molecules. Here, we are reporting the development of a novel redox bio‐electrolyte based on pivalic acid (PA) and ascorbic acid (AA). The salts of PA and AA served as the bio‐electrolyte and redox molecules, respectively. It is worth to note that PA which can be generated from bio‐sources and industrial wastes, is soluble in alkaline solutions. AA is found in most living organisms, including plants. The developed supercapacitor with the bio‐based redox electrolyte provides a specific capacitance of 308 Fg−1 at a current density of 1 Ag−1 and achieved an energy density of 15 Whkg−1 at a power density of 300 Wkg−1. The supercapacitor demonstrates a good coulombic efficiency of ∼97% with capacitance retention of ∼72% after 10000 charge‐discharge cycles. This study is expected to widen the applications of bio‐based redox electrolytes for practical electrochemical energy storage applications and enables access to greener and more sustainable energy storage technology.
Homeotic change in segment identity derives the human vertebral formula from a chimpanzee‐like one
Authors: Williams Scott A. , Pilbeam David
Published: July 2021

Objectives

One of the most contentious issues in paleoanthropology is the nature of the last common ancestor of humans and our closest living relatives, chimpanzees and bonobos (panins). The numerical composition of the vertebral column has featured prominently, with multiple models predicting distinct patterns of evolution and contexts from which bipedalism evolved. Here, we study total numbers of vertebrae from a large sample of hominoids to quantify variation in and patterns of regional and total numbers of vertebrae in hominoids.

Materials and Methods

We compile and study a large sample (N = 893) of hominoid vertebral formulae (numbers of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, caudal segments in each specimen) and analyze full vertebral formulae, total numbers of vertebrae, and super‐regional numbers of vertebrae: presacral (cervical, thoracic, lumbar) vertebrae and sacrococcygeal vertebrae. We quantify within‐ and between‐taxon variation using heterogeneity and similarity measures derived from population genetics.

Results

We find that humans are most similar to African apes in total and super‐regional numbers of vertebrae. Additionally, our analyses demonstrate that selection for bipedalism reduced variation in numbers of vertebrae relative to other hominoids.

Discussion

The only proposed ancestral vertebral configuration for the last common ancestor of hominins and panins that is consistent with our results is the modal formula demonstrated by chimpanzees and bonobos (7 cervical‐13 thoracic‐4 lumbar‐6 sacral‐3 coccygeal). Hox gene expression boundaries suggest that a rostral shift in Hox10/Hox11‐mediated complexes could produce the human modal formula from the proposal ancestral and panin modal formula.
Effect of different surface treatments on polypropylene composites reinforced with yerba mate fibers: Physical, mechanical, chemical, and morphological properties
Authors: Borsoi Cleide , Hansen Betina , Gemmer Ruan Ezequiel , Dahlem Júnior Marcos Aurélio , Francisquetti Edson Luiz , Zattera Ademir José , Santana Ruth Marlene Campomanes , Catto André Luis
Published: July 2021

This study presents the preparation of post‐consumer polypropylene (r‐PP) composites filled with 30 wt% yerba mate (YM) stick particles. To improve the fiber–matrix adhesion, three surface treatments were performed: alkaline treatment with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and use of 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) and maleic anhydride graft polypropylene copolymer (PP‐g‐MA) as coupling agents. Mechanical properties including tensile, flexural, and impact resistance were determined, and chemical (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy [FTIR]), physical (water absorption), and morphological analyses were performed. The main findings show that the treatments were efficient in improving the mechanical properties of the composites, with emphasis on the r‐PP/YM30/APTS and r‐PP/YM30/PP‐g‐MA composites, which proved to be superior in tensile, flexion and impact strength and absorption of water compared to the untreated composite. The morphological analysis showed a better interaction between the fiber and the polymeric matrix for the composites with YM/APTS and YM/PP‐g‐MA, which corroborates the results of tensile and flexural strength, as well as with the spectra of FTIR in which the chemical modification of the fibers is observed. However, the results show that these treatments are promising in obtaining composites with recycled matrix with better properties.
Bipartite output regulation for singular heterogeneous multi‐agent systems on signed graph
Authors: Wu Jie , Deng Qun , Han Tao , Yan Huai‐Cheng
Published: July 2021

The paper primarily tends to handle bipartite output regulation problem for singular heterogeneous multi‐agent systems with signed graph. This disturbance and reference signals are produced by exosystem, respectively. By virtue of output regulation theory, two new distributed feedback controllers with state feedback and output feedback are considered to realize the bipartite output regulation, respectively. For each case, a distributed dynamical compensator is proposed, and stability analysis of the closed‐loop system is conducted without constructing the standard reduction transformation matrices. Furthermore, local state observer is incorporated into an output feedback controller, which is suitable when the system states cannot be available. Simulations are finally presented in demonstrating the feasibility of results.
QKI 6 ameliorates CIRI through promoting synthesis of triglyceride in neuron and inhibiting neuronal apoptosis associated with SIRT1‐PPARγ‐PGC‐1α axis
Authors: Liu Rui , Li Hongzeng , Deng Jingyuan , Wu Qunqiang , Liao Chunhua , Xiao Qun , Chang Qi
Published: July 2021

Background

The stroke induced by ischemia of brain remains high incidence and death rate. The study wanted to confirm the effects of Quaking 6 (QKI 6) on the protection role in neurons of rat model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI).

Material and methods

The rat model with CIRI induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion was well established and rat neurons were isolated to characterize the effects of QKI 6 mediated by sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) on synthesis of triglyceride in neuron and neuronal apoptosis via activation of SIRT1‐peroxisome proliferater‐activated receptor (PPAR)γ‐ peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor coactivator (PGC)‐1α signaling pathway.

Results

The expression levels of SIRT1 or QKI 6, and acetylation level of QKI 6 were decreased in neurons of rat model with CIRI. QKI 6 deacetylated and mediated by SIRT1 that contributed to suppressing the progression of neuronal apoptosis in rat through promoting synthesis of triglyceride in vivo and in vitro via SIRT1‐PPARγ‐PGC‐1α signaling pathway, then inhibiting CIRI.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated SIRT1 deacetylates QKI 6, the RNA‐binding protein, that affects significantly the synthesis of triglyceride in neurons of CIRI rat model. Moreover, it activated transcription factor peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptorγ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α) through post‐transcriptional regulation of the expression of PPARγ, and further enhanced synthesis of triglyceride, thereby restrained the progression of neural apoptosis and CIRI.
Expression of 5‐methylcytosine regulators is highly associated with the clinical phenotypes of prostate cancer and DNMTs expression predicts biochemical recurrence
Authors: Wang Lin , Ren Guoping , Lin Biaoyang
Published: July 2021

In patients with prostate cancer (PCa), there is a high rate of overdiagnosis and frequent overtreatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more accurate prediction of biochemical recurrence (BCR). DNA methylation regulation patterns play crucial roles in tumorigenicity, progression, and treatment efficacy in PCa. However, the global relationship between epigenetic alterations, changes in mRNA levels, and pathologic phenotypes of PCa remain largely undefined. Here, we conducted a systematic analysis to identify global coexpression and comethylation modules in PCa. We identified coregulated methylation and expression modules and the relationships between epigenetic modifications, tumor progression, and the corresponding immune microenvironment in PCa. Our results show that DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are strongly associated with pathologic phenotypes and immune infiltration patterns in PCa. We built a two‐factor predictive model using the expression features of DNMT3B and DNMT1. The model was used to predict the BCR status of patients with PCa and achieved area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values of 0.70 and 0.88 in the training and independent testing datasets, respectively.
Acute papillary stone impaction: An ideal indication for upfront needle knife papillotomy (“needle knife excision”)
Authors: Zimmer Vincent
Published: July 2021

Needle knife papillotomy (NKP) is still considered a rescue technique after conventional access failure due to traditional high complication rates, albeit data are maturing for early use of NKP in standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography indications. By contrast, in certain settings NKP should be prioritized to a first‐class indication, such as in choledochocele management and/or, more often encountered in clinical practice, true papillary stone impaction with or without gallstone pancreatitis. The latter results in prompt stone release; thus, the procedure might become alternatively designated as “needle knife excision.”
A 7‐year‐old boy with toxic epidermal necrolysis, heart failure, and sepsis treated with the guidance of invasive hemodynamic monitoring: A case report
Authors: Saeed Amir , Mehdizadegan Nima
Published: July 2021

Toxic epidermal necrolysis is a rare immunological disease that is secondary to some medications or upper respiratory infections, with more than 30% involvement of skin and mucosa. Herein, we describe a 7‐year‐old boy with TEN, heart failure, and sepsis treated with the guidance of an invasive hemodynamic monitoring device.
A unique sonographic presentation of prenatal volvulus associated with malrotation
Authors: Green Tamar , Chen Daniela , Mishael Tali , Shen Ori
Published: July 2021

This is a unique case of prenatal diagnosis of bowel malrotation suspected by an abnormal course of the duodenum. Early detection of volvulus was enabled, leading to timely intervention and a favorable outcome.
Synthesis of Activated Carbon Using Bagasse and Recycled Carbon Fibers
Authors: Yamamoto Tetsuya , Makino Yuta , Irisawa Toshihira
Published: July 2021

Activated carbon was prepared using bagasse and carbon fiber (RCF) recycled from carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). The RCF surface has a sufficient amount of functional groups and can be used as a catalyst for the hydrolysis of bagasse cellulose. An RCF‐bagasse composite was fabricated by ultrasonic irradiation. During cellulose hydrolysis, carbon from the bagasse was activated with sulfuric acid, which impregnated the cellulose pores. When bagasse was subjected to high temperatures, the impregnated pores decomposed, resulting in micropores. The addition of RCF increased the specific surface area of activated carbon by up to 20 % when heat treatment was performed at a temperature higher than the carbonization temperature of bagasse.
Electrochemical Cleaning Stability and Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity of 1‐2 nm Dendrimer‐Encapsulated Au Nanoparticles
Authors: Strasser Juliette W. , Hersbach Thomas J. P. , Liu Jing , Lapp Aliya S. , Frenkel Anatoly I. , Crooks Richard M.
Published: July 2021

Here we show that just three electrochemical scans to modest positive potentials result in substantial growth of 1–2 nm Au dendrimer‐encapsulated nanoparticles (DENs). We examined two sizes of Au DENs, denoted as G6‐NH2(Au147) and G6‐NH2(Au55), where G6‐NH2 represents a sixth‐generation, amine‐terminated, poly(amidoamine) dendrimer and the subscripts, 147 and 55, represent the average number of atoms in each size of DENs. Ex situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) results indicate that G6‐NH2(Au55) DENs grow to the same size as the G6‐NH2(Au147) DENs following these scans. Importantly, this growth occurs prior to the onset of detectable faradaic Au oxidation or reduction current. The observed growth in the size of the DENs directly correlates to changes in the electrocatalytic ORR activity. The key point is that after just three positive scans the G6‐NH2(Au147) and G6‐NH2(Au55) DENs are essentially indistinguishable in terms of both physical and electrocatalytic properties.
Recovery of High Purity Chlorine by Cu‐Doped Fe2O3 in Nitrogen Containing Carbon Matrix: A Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for HCl Electrolysis
Authors: Gupta Divyani , Kafle Alankar , Chaturvedi Akansha , Nagaiah Tharamani C.
Published: July 2021

An environmentally benign approach towards synthesis of a non‐noble metal and/or metal oxide doped incorporated in nitrogen containing carbon matrix (Cu−Fe2O3/NC) is premeditated in this study. In‐situ incorporation of Cu, Fe2O3 as well as nitrogen into the carbon matrix using a single gel precursor simplified the synthetic route and divulged bifunctional activity assisting chlorine evolution at anode and oxygen reduction reaction at cathodic counterpart during HCl electrolysis. As a result of synergy between Cu and Fe2O3 in N‐ doped carbon matrix, enhanced activity and stability is stimulated. Catalyst optimization was executed by varying the weight percentage of metal reactants added during precursor synthesis (2, 5 and 10 wt. %), which rendered different composition of Cu, Fe2O3 and N in the composite with flake‐like morphology at same thermal treatment conditions. Electrochemical studies were performed in 0.4 M HCl analogous to industrial waste HCl, to investigate the bifunctional activity of catalyst where Cu−Fe2O3 (5 %)/NC came out to be the most active and exhibited long term stability for 24 hours at onset potential of chlorine evolution. It offered a higher current density of 92.1 mA cm−2 at 1.7 V vs. RHE during chlorine evolution and comparable activity to that of benchmark noble metal based catalyst along with more positive onset potential and high diffusion limiting current density of 0.78 V vs. RHE and 6 mA cm−2 during oxygen reduction respectively.
Promotion and Tuning of the Electrochemical Reduction of Hetero‐ and Homobimetallic Zinc Complexes
Authors: Kelsey Shaun R. , Kumar Amit , Oliver Allen G. , Day Victor W. , Blakemore James D.
Published: July 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. James Blakemore from the University of Kansas. The photo above shows co‐authors Amit Kumar, Victor Day, Shaun Kelsey, and James Blakemore in the back row. Co‐author Allen Oliver is not pictured, but undergraduate Claire Dopp is also shown in the photo—she recently joined the research team working on heterobimetallic chemistry in Prof. Blakemore's group. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202100358.
Controlling Antibacterial Activity Exclusively with Visible Light: Introducing a Tetra‐ortho‐Chloro‐Azobenzene Amino Acid
Authors: Just‐Baringo Xavier , Yeste‐Vázquez Alejandro , Moreno‐Morales Javier , Ballesté‐Delpierre Clara , Vila Jordi , Giralt Ernest
Published: July 2021

The introduction of a novel tetra‐ortho‐chloroazobenzene amino acid (CEBA) has enabled photoswitching of the antimicrobial activity of tyrocidine A analogues by using exclusively visible light, granting spatiotemporal control under benign conditions. Compounds bearing this photoswitchable amino acid become active upon irradiation with red light, but quickly turn‐off upon exposure to other visible light wavelengths. Critically, sunlight quickly triggers isomerisation of the red light‐activated compounds into their original trans form, offering an ideal platform for self‐deactivation upon release into the environment. Linear analogues of tyrocidine A were found to provide the best photocontrol of their antimicrobial activity, leading to compounds active against Acinetobacter baumannii upon isomerisation. Exploration of their N‐ and C‐termini has provided insights into key elements of their structure and has allowed obtaining new antimicrobials displaying excellent strain selectivity and photocontrol.
PROTOCOL: The effects of empowerment‐based nutrition interventions on the nutritional status of women of reproductive age in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Riddle Alison , Ramage Abby , Kroeger Cynthia M. , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Kristjansson Elizabeth , Taljaard Monica , Vlassoff Carol , Wuehler Sara , Skidmore Becky , Bennett Alexandria L. , Rizvi Anita , Welch Vivian , Wells George A.
Published: July 2021

The systematic review will answer the follow research questions: (1) What is the effectiveness of different empowerment approaches employed within nutrition interventions on the nutritional status of women of reproductive age in low‐ and middle‐income countries? (2) What implementation and contextual factors contribute to or detract from the effectiveness of these interventions?
PROTOCOL: Effectiveness of interventions for improving livelihood outcomes for people with disabilities in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Hunt Xanthe , Saran Ashrita , Banks Lena Morgon , White Howard , Kuper Hannah
Published: July 2021

The objectives of this review are to answer the following research questions: (1) What is the effect size of the effectiveness of interventions to improve livelihood outcomes for people with disabilities in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), and what is the quality of the evidence base? (2) What works to improve livelihood outcomes for people with disabilities in LMICs? (3) Which interventions appear most effective for different categories of disability? (4) What are the barriers and facilitators to the improvement of livelihood outcomes to people with disabilities?
Advancement in Organic Synthesis Through High Throughput Experimentation
Authors: Biyani Shruti A. , Moriuchi Yuta W. , Thompson David H.
Published: July 2021

Exploration of synthetic transformations using high throughput experimentation (HTE) can accelerate the rapid discovery of optimal conditions for organic reactions and improve our understanding of those processes and synthetic routes for different applications. The surge in high throughput techniques has been applied to a broad range of methods and target‐oriented reaction optimizations across a diverse array of bond‐constructions. In this Minireview, we describe HTE based workflows, discuss different transformations that have been evaluated using HTE platforms with a focus on homogeneous catalytic reactions, and highlight challenges reported in the field since 2016. The HTE efforts are grouped by the type of bonds being formed, for instance, carbon‐carbon (C−C), carbon‐nitrogen (C−N), carbon‐halogen or carbon‐oxygen (C−X) bonds, as well as photochemical transformations and hydrogenations. The potential of HTE to rapidly guide the optimization of multiple synthetic challenges makes it a very attractive and powerful tool for synthetic organic chemists.
What's new in pediatric melanoma and Spitz tumors? Pretty much everything
Authors: Sondak Vernon K. , Messina Jane L.
Published: July 2021

Lay Summary

Pathologists sometimes have great difficulty in determining whether a mole biopsied from the skin of a child is benign or malignant.

New molecular technologies have helped pathologists to identify pediatric melanomas, but there are still some atypical moles that cannot be definitively classified as benign or malignant.

With further research, it is hoped that the number of these atypical tumors can be decreased and that the treatment for all children with moles and melanoma can be improved.
Assessing Soil Health: Putting It All Together
Authors: Morgan Cristine , Cappellazzi Shannon
Published: July 2021

The following article is the last in a six‐part series on assessing soil health. It synthesizes measurement information and provides an example of how a minimal set of soil health measurements can reflect multiple aspects of soil functioning. It is part of a larger Soil Science Society of America webinar series produced in partnership with The Soil Health Institute and sponsored by The Walton Family Foundation. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Soil & Water Management by reading the article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/1010.
False negative results in testosterone doping in forensic cases: Sensitivity of the urinary detection criteria T/E and T/LH
Authors: Lood Yvonne , Aardal Elisabeth , Gustavsson Sara , Prasolov Ilya , Josefsson Martin , Ahlner Johan
Published: July 2021

At the Swedish national forensic toxicology laboratory, a measured testosterone/epitestosterone (T/E) ratio ≥ 12 together with testosterone/luteinizing hormone (T/LH) in urine > 400 nmol/IU is considered as a proof of exogenous testosterone administration. However, according to the rules of the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA), samples with T/E ratio > 4 are considered suspicious and shall be further analysed by gas chromatography–combustion–isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC‐C‐IRMS) to confirm the origin of testosterone and its metabolites. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of false negative results and to estimate the frequency of negative results using the current criteria for detection of abuse of testosterone in forensic investigations. Urine and serum samples were collected by the police at suspected infringement of the doping law in Sweden. Fifty‐eight male subjects were included in the study. Urinary testosterone was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), serum testosterone and LH—by immunoassay. The origin of testosterone and its metabolites was confirmed by means of GC‐C‐IRMS. Twenty‐six of the 57 analysed subjects tested positive for exogenous testosterone using the criteria T/E ≥ 12 combined with T/LH > 400 nmol/IU. The IRMS analyses confirmed 47 positives; thus, 21 were considered false negatives. Negative predictive value was 32% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16%–50%) and sensitivity 55%. No false positive subjects were found. The number of false negative cases using the current criteria for the detection of testosterone abuse and hence the low sensitivity indicates a need to discuss introduction of new strategies in forensic doping investigations.
Using near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to estimate carbon and nitrogen stable isotope composition in animal tissues
Authors: Ancin‐Murguzur Francisco Javier , Tarroux Arnaud , Bråthen Kari Anne , Bustamante Paco , Descamps Sébastien
Published: July 2021

Stable isotopes analysis (SIA) of carbon and nitrogen provides valuable information about trophic interactions and animal feeding habits.

We used near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) and support vector machines (SVM) to develop a model for screening isotopic ratios of carbon and nitrogen (δ13C and δ15N) in samples from living animals. We applied this method on dried blood samples from birds previously analyzed for δ13C and δ15N to test whether NIRS can be applied to accurately estimate isotopic ratios.

Our results show a prediction accuracy of NIRS (R2 > 0.65, RMSEP < 0.28) for both δ13C and δ15N, representing a 12% of the measurement range in this study.

Our study suggests that NIRS can provide a time‐ and cost‐efficient method to evaluate stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen when substantial differences in δ13C or δ15N are expected, such as when discriminating among different trophic levels in diet.
Vegetation resistance and resilience to a decade‐long dry period in the temperate grasslands in China
Authors: Liang Minqi , Cao Ruochen , Di Kai , Han Daorui , Hu Zhongmin
Published: July 2021

The duration of climate anomalies has been increasing across the globe, leading to ecosystem function loss. Thus, we need to understand the responses of the ecosystem to long‐term climate anomalies. It remains unclear how ecosystem resistance and resilience respond to long‐term climate anomalies, for example, continuous dry years at a regional scale. Taking the opportunity of a 13‐year dry period in the temperate grasslands in northern China, we quantified the resistance and resilience of the grassland in response to this periodic dry period. We found vegetation resistance to the dry period increased with mean annual precipitation (MAP), while resilience increased at first until at MAP of 250 mm and then decreased slightly. No trade‐off between resistance and resilience was detected when MAP < 250 mm. Our results highlight that xeric ecosystems are most vulnerable to the long‐term dry period. Given expected increases in drought severity and duration in the coming decades, our findings may be helpful to identify vulnerable ecosystems in the world for the purpose of adaptation.
Duration and timing interactions of early‐life stress and the potential for recovery
Authors: Seifarth Jack , Inamine Hidetoshi , Buckling Angus , Shea Katriona
Published: July 2021

Stress comprises three sequential stages: the event (stressor), which leads to an initial effect on a focal organism (stress), followed by the organism's ultimate response (recovery or not). Using this framework, we test how the duration and timing of a stressor individually and interactively affect the initial and asymptotic organism outcomes. We applied either long or short water restrictions either early or later in the life of Lepidium sativum. While several of these water restriction treatments caused a noticeable initial effect, all were able to recover fully, except for those exposed to a long early water restriction. While long early stressors led to decreased height, a growth model revealed that both long and short early stressors changed the rate of growth and prolonged the inflection point, findings that would have been missed had effect and response not been analyzed separately. Both the stressor and the magnitude of the initial effect in part explained the change in the growth model parameter estimates. Overall, timing, duration, and, more importantly, the interaction of these two temporal aspects of stress significantly affects an organism's initial response to a stressor and its ability to ultimately recover from stress. Our findings highlight the importance of explicitly studying the interactions of stressor aspects and of examining the immediate stress effects, as well as long‐term responses.
Changes in plant communities of low‐salinity tidal marshes in response to sea‐level rise
Authors: Humphreys Abbey , Gorsky Adrianna L. , Bilkovic Donna M. , Chambers Randolph M.
Published: July 2021

As sea‐level rises, low‐salinity tidal marshes experience greater flooding with more saline water. In the Chesapeake Bay estuary, we compared the 1980 and 2014 tidal marsh inventories (TMIs) of plant communities from James City County, Virginia, USA, with respect to the spatial distribution of two species—the invasive reed Phragmites australis and native salt marsh grass Spartina alterniflora–plus overall species richness. Since the 1980 TMI, the total area of low‐salinity tidal marshes in which P. australis occurred increased from 0.46 km2 to 6.30 km2 in 2014. Between TMIs, however, the total area of low‐salinity marshes occupied by S. alterniflora increased by only 0.02 km2. Species richness in low‐salinity tidal marshes decreased from 41 to 25 between TMIs. To assess seedling emergence under increased flooding and salinity, we completed two seed bank germination experiments using soil samples collected from six low‐salinity marshes containing established P. australis stands. In the first experiment, more seedlings emerged in the two low‐salinity (0 vs. 5 ppt) treatments after seven weeks, irrespective of flooding (water 3.75 cm below vs. at soil surface), but no P. australis or S. alterniflora germinated. For the second experiment, we added seeds of P. australis and S. alterniflora to soils exposed to the same flooding and salinity treatments to test the impact of these plant competitors on seedling emergence. No difference in number of seedlings was detected among treatments, but the number of species and their relative abundance was significantly affected by flooding (ANOSIM, R = 0.138, P < 0.001). The presence of P. australis and S. alterniflora seedlings appeared to shift the physical factor more influential on seedling emergence from salinity to flooding. For both seed bank experiments, more seedlings but not more species emerged from soils collected from marshes where P. australis coverage was <50%. High diversity plant communities of low‐salinity tidal marshes along the upper reaches of this estuary are gradually being replaced by those dominated by P. australis and S. alterniflora—a trend expected to continue here and in other riverine estuaries of the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.
Contrasting effects of land cover on nesting habitat use and reproductive output for bumble bees
Authors: Pugesek Genevieve , Crone Elizabeth E.
Published: July 2021

Understanding habitat quality is central to understanding the distributions of species on the landscape, as well as to conserving and restoring at‐risk species. Although it is well known that many species require different resources throughout their life cycles, pollinator conservation efforts focus almost exclusively on forage resources. In this study, we evaluate nesting habitat for bumble bees by locating nests directly on the landscape. We compared colony density and colony reproductive output for Bombus impatiens, the common eastern bumble bee, across three different land cover types (hay fields, meadows, and forests). We also assessed nesting habitat associations for all Bombus nests located during surveys to tease apart species‐specific patterns of habitat use. We found that B. impatiens nested under the ground in two natural land cover types, forests, and meadows, but found no B. impatiens nests in hay fields. Though B. impatiens nested at similar densities in both meadows and forests, colonies in forests had much higher reproductive output. In contrast, B. griseocollis tended to nest on the surface of the ground and was almost always found in meadows. B. perplexis was the only species to nest in all three habitat types, including hay fields. For some bumble bee species in this system, meadows, the habitat type with abundant forage resources, may be sufficient to maintain them throughout their life cycles. However, B. impatiens might benefit from heterogeneous landscapes with forests and meadows. Results for B. impatiens emphasize the longstanding notion that habitat use is not always positively correlated with habitat quality (as measured by reproductive output). Our results also show that habitat selection by bumble bees at one spatial scale may be influenced by resources at other scales. Finally, we demonstrate the feasibility of direct nest searches for understanding bumble bee distribution and ecology.
Kinetics on the Oxidation of Aminoiminomethanesulfonic Acid by Hypochlorous Acid: A Novel Product in the Chlorination of Aminoiminomethanesulfonic Acid
Authors: Hu Ying , Li Wei , Wang Guichang , Pan Changwei , Ji Chen , Gao Qingyu
Published: July 2021

The oxidation of aminoiminomethanesulfonic acid (AIMSOA) by HOCl is too fast to be traced in both acidic and neutral solutions, while extreme alkalinity will hasten the decomposition of AIMSOA. Nonetheless, in weakly alkaline solutions the oxidation kinetics were monitored successfully by stopped flow at 25 °C. The results show that the rate law is first order with respect to both [HOCl]tot and [AIMSOA] but shows an inverse dependence on [OH−]. The calculated kHOCl values of (9.2±0.2)×106 M−1 s−1 and a statistically insignificant kOCl‐ value indicate that the conjugate acid HOCl is regarded as the primary oxidant. The reaction is supposed to be a Cl+ transfer mechanism followed by the formation of a novel unreported oxidation product, AIMSOA‐chloramine. Various technologies were employed to investigate the structure and decomposition of AIMSOA‐chloramine. The above evidence showed that the product, a kind of chloramine rather than sulfate, was characterized by a distinct structure consisting of N−Cl bond. The chloramine could also slowly decompose to sulfate and chloride due to the cleavage of both C−S and N−Cl bonds. Based on the results, the mechanism involving the production of chloride and sulfate from the oxidation of AIMSOA in Cl‐containing oxides ‐ thiourea system should be excluded. In addition, the results also provide additional insights into the bromination for the HOBr‐AIMSOA reaction, in which priority may be given to the formation of bromamine.
Highly efficient heterogeneous V2O5@TiO2 catalyzed the rapid transformation of boronic acids to phenols
Authors: Upadhyay Rahul , Singh Deepak , Maurya Sushil K.
Published: July 2021

A V2O5@TiO2 catalyzed green and efficient protocol for the hydroxylation of boronic acid into phenol has been developed utilizing environmentally benign oxidant hydrogen peroxide. A wide range of electron‐donating and the electron‐withdrawing group‐containing (hetero)aryl boronic acids were transformed into their corresponding phenol. The methodology was also applied successfully to transform various natural and bioactive molecules like tocopherol, amino acids, cinchonidine, vasicinone, menthol, and pharmaceuticals such as ciprofloxacin, ibuprofen, and paracetamol. The other feature of the methodology includes gram‐scale synthetic applicability, recyclability, and short reaction time.
Novel guar‐gum electrolyte to aggrandize the performance of LaMnO3 perovskite‐based zinc‐air batteries
Authors: Bhardwaj Upasana , Sharma Aditi , Mathur Ankita , Halder Aditi , Kushwaha Himmat Singh
Published: July 2021

The felicitous electrolyte with advance electrodes (cathode and anode) results in the development of an improved and efficacious battery/fuel cell. Perovskite based zinc‐air batteries with biological gel electrolyte prove to outperform the aqueous batteries. In this research, a zinc‐air battery was developed using a novel biocompatible electrolyte, Guar‐gum employing LaMnO3 (LMO) perovskite as a bi‐functional electro‐catalyst. The performance of the developed perovskite catalyst in guar‐gum electrolyte was obtained and compared with the performance of the material in both polymer gel (polyvinyl alcohol‐KOH) and aqueous medium. The bi‐functional catalyst shows enhanced catalytic activity, endurance and durability in alkaline medium with an open circuit voltage of 1.40 V, power density of 9.77 mW cm−2 at the current density of 11.12 mA cm−2 and a specific capacity of 2624 mAh g−1 comparatively competent with respect to the PVA‐based battery with the specific capacitance of 753 mAh g−1. Also, the rechargeable LMO zinc‐air battery exhibited excellent cycling stability at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Thus, the results obtained proved the competent performance of the guar‐gum electrolyte compared to the previous developed polymer electrolyte. This is how the combination of LMO in the guar‐gum electrolyte is seen to be successful for commercial use in metal‐air batteries and fuel cells.