bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agronomic Techniques and Mechanized Harvesting Techniques for Yams Status and Countermeasures
Authors: Cai Peifang
Published: July 2023

Yams are increasingly recognized for their good health benefits as people increasingly focus on healthy eating and wholesome eating. However, the high cost of yam cultivation and harvesting, as well as the limited level of mechanization, severely restricted the development of the industry. For this deep rhizomatous, brittle, and breakable yam crop, mechanized harvesting is prone to breakage, skin breakage, and low damage rates to the intact crop. In this paper, we have analyzed the characteristics of yam, the current situation of the yam economy in China, the development of mechanized techniques for yam harvesting at home and abroad, and the constraints. In addition, the development of casing yam cultivation techniques and mechanization of harvest is also promising. It mainly introduced plowshare furrow openers, disc furrow openers, spiral furrow openers and chain furrow openers, double-row chain yam planting and harvesting machines, spiral yam harvesting and planting machines, fully hydraulically suspended single-row yam harvesters and vibrating yam harvesters.
Status of Sulphur, Zinc and Boron in Onion Growing Soils of Dharwad Taluk, Karnataka, India
Authors: Sujaina M. , Math K. K. , Hiremath S. M. , Hebbara Manjunatha , Mirajkar Kiran K. , Sowjanya T. V.
Published: July 2023

Survey was undertaken during rabi 2021-22, to study the sulphur, zinc and boron status in onion growing fields in selected villages of Dharwad taluk, Karnataka. One hundred surface soil samples were collected from selected ten villages of Dharwad taluk using GPS. The results revealed that soils were neutral to alkaline in reaction, low in total soluble salts, low to high organic carbon content, low in available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus, potassium and sulphur and 49.00 and 77.00 per cent of the soils were deficient in DTPA extractable zinc and hot water soluble boron, respectively.
An Assessment of Net Returns from Rice Production Practiced through Conventional and System of Rice Intensification (SRI) Methods in the Light of Climate Change in Bhandara District of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Panchabhai S. N. , Acharya Saumyesh , Mandal T. K. , Tayade Rahul
Published: July 2023

Indian farming witnessed surplus production of cereals along with other food commodities. The production of rice across the Indian subcontinent has a subsistent impact on achieving food security and attaining judicious socio-economic growth for the farming community. However, it also faces certain challenges and difficulties. The phenomenon of climate change has been creating a menace against the sustainable growth of food crops. Due to this, it has become necessary to assess the economic impact of farmers practicing rice crops in terms of net returns from rice. By applying ex post facto research design, this study aimed to estimate the inter and intra-level of interaction between sets of predicted variables, Net returns from rice (both conventional and SRI methods), and predictor variables (x1-x35) and to generate policy at the micro-level. To conduct the study, the State, District, Blocks, and Villages were selected using purposive sampling techniques. Two hundred (200) respondents were selected from two talukas of the Bhandara district of Maharashtra using a simple random sampling method. For the purpose of data analysis, following statistical tools were used: Coefficient of Correlation, Stepwise regression analysis and Path analysis. The correlation coefficients found that farmers having a higher level of education have been showcasing higher net returns from rice produced by conventional methods. Regression results implied that 35 causal variables together have contributed 32 percent and 83.8 percent of the variance in the consequent variable, net returns from rice (y) practiced by conventional and SRI methods respectively. The results of a path analysis revealed that the variable farm size has got the highest indirect individual effect on net returns from rice practiced by both the conventional and SRI methods.
Impact of Nutrient Application and Bagging on Development and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.)
Authors: Afroz Shaik , Mishra Saket , Bahadur Vijay
Published: July 2023

Guava is a tropical fruit known for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. Guava is also recognized for its potential health benefits, including improved digestion and immune system support. The benefits of using calcium nitrate and potassium sulphate spraying in guava includes improved fruit size, enhanced nutrient uptake, increased fruit firmness, and better overall plant health. Calcium nitrate promotes cellular development and strengthens cell walls, while potassium sulphate along with bagging aids in fruit development and improves water uptake. These sprays can result in larger, firmer, and healthier guava fruits, contributing to better market value and consumer satisfaction. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out at the Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during the Rainy-2022-23 with a view to determine the effect of different nutrient applications and bagging on guava variety Allahabad Safeda for its growth quality and to work out the economics of various treatments. Under this experiment, overall, 10 treatment was prepared by spraying of different nutrients on plants and bagging of fruits with different polythene bags. From the above experimental finding it may be concluded that the treatment T7 (Ca (NO3)2 @ 2% + Bagging (Red colour Polythene) was found to be best in terms of physical parameters like fruit weight (147.27 g), fruit polar length (8.91 cm), fruit equatorial length (9.46 cm), fruit diameter (8.14 cm), fruit volume (697.02 cm3) among different treatment combinations of guava while T6 (Ca (NO3)2 @ 2% + Bagging (Yellow colour Polythene) and T9 (K2SO4 @ 2% + Bagging (Yellow colour Polythene) was found to be best in terms of quality parameters like TSS (10.12 °Brix), acidity (1.27%), ascorbic acid content (153.17 mg/100 g), reducing sugar (5.24%), total sugar (9.51%).
Efficacy of Biopesticides for the Management of Rice Yellow Stem Borer Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) in Rice at Prayagraj, U.P, India
Authors: Roopwan  , Yadav Usha , Madhu Buduru
Published: July 2023

The present experiment was conducted to highlight the Efficacy of biopesticides for the management of rice yellow stem borer [scirpophaga incertulas (Walker)] at prayagraj, U.P, India.  The eight treatments comprised of different insecticides and biopesticides. Metarhizium anisopliae (T1), Bacillus thuringiensis 1.15% (T2), Beauveria bassiana 1.15% (T3), Verticillium lecanii1.15% (T4), Neem oil 5% (T5), Eucalyptus oil5% (T6), Imidacloprid 17.8%SL (T7), one untreated Control (T8) were evaluated against rice stem borer. The different insecticides and biopesticides treatments revealed that the minimum dead hearts, were recorded in synthetic insecticides, Imidacloprid 17.8%SL followed by Beauveria bassiana 1.15%, Metarhizium anisopliae. The minimum dead heart percentages Imidacloprid 17.8%SL were observed in as compared to the natural dead heart of  per cent being noticed in untreated control. The percent of the dead heart infestation among the treatments are notices as Metarhizium anisopliae (T1)  Bacillus thuringiensis 1.15%WP (T2), Beauveria bassiana 1.15%WP (T3),  Verticillium lecanii1.15%WP (T4), Neem oil 5% (T5), Eucalyptus oil5% (T6), Imidacloprid 17.8%SL(T7), The yield and cost benefit ratio of the data revealed that the highest yield was recorded in the Imidacloprid 17.8%SL @46.66q/ha with highest Benefit-cost ratio of 1:3.47 followed by Bacillus thuringiensis 1.15% @ 38.33 q/ha with benefit cost ratio of 1:2:77 Beauveria bassiana 1.15% @ 43.33q/ha with benefit cost ratio of 1:3:27,  Verticillium lecanii 1.15%@ 36.66q/ha with benefit cost ratio of 1:2:73,  Neem oil 5% @ 33.33q/ha with benefit cost ratio of 1:2:46, Eucalyptus oil5%@ 31.66 q/ha with benefit cost ratio of 1:2:35, Metarhizium anisopliae @41.66q/ha with benefit cost ratio of 1:3:13. The chemicals shows better results in combating to the pest infestation compare to biopesticides and botanicals.
Effect of Oxalic Acid on Control of Post-harvest Browning of Litchi (Litchi chinensis L.)
Authors: Sahu Vinita , Topno Samir E. , Kerketta Anita
Published: July 2023

Post-harvest browning of litchi is a common phenomenon that occurs due to enzymatic and non-enzymatic reactions. Enzymatic browning is primarily caused by polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, leading to the formation of brown pigments. Non-enzymatic browning is caused by the Maillard reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and mechanical damage can accelerate browning. Proper handling, storage, and the use of antioxidants can help minimize post-harvest browning, extending the shelf life and maintaining the visual appeal of litchi fruits. The present investigation was laid out in the post-harvest laboratory of horticulture department, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during the year 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in the CRBD with 8 treatments and 3 replications. Litchi fruit, Cv. Purvi (about 80%- matured stage), were harvest from a Local market Prayagraj, fruit was selected for uniformity of size and colour, and blemished and diseased fruit were discarded. The selected fruit were dipped in different oxalic acid concentration solution (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0mM) and Bavistin (0.05mg) as the control) for 10 mint 4 h of harvest, and then air dried. Each 10 fruit of the treated fruit was packed into a plastic punnet and wrapped with a 0.2-mm polyethylene bag, and then stored in an ambient condition. Post-harvest storage studies revealed that under ambient and refrigerated storage conditions T8 Oxalic acid (4.0mM) + Bavistin (0.05%) treatment showed slower rate of reduction on fruit length (cm) and fruit weight (g), browning (%) were significantly affected by treatments. There was significant effect of treatments on chemical parameters like pH, TSS (0Brix), acidity (%), ascorbic acid (mg100g), reducing sugar under ambient and refrigerated storage at different day’s intervals.
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Micro Nutrient on Quality of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Gola
Authors: Singh Ritesh , Pathak Sanjay , Pandey Lavkush , Kumar Alok
Published: July 2023

The present experiment was carried out on twenty eight year old ber orchard planted under sodic soil condition, which is located at the Main Experiment Station Horticulture, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. The objective of experiment was to assess the effect of Plant growth regulators and micro nutrient on quality of ber.The application of different growth regulators affected different characters of ber significantly i.e., fruit weight, fruit size, TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and Total sugar. The maximum fruit size, length (3.87 and 3.92 cm) and breadth (3.38 and 3.41 cm) was recorded under the treatment of T8- 0.15 % Promalin + 0.5% Borax, which was statistically at par with T10-15 ppm GA4 + 7 + 0.5 % Borax (3.79 and 3.84 cm) and (3.33 and 3.36 cm) during 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively. The maximum fruit weight was noted (27.69g and 28.89g) under the treatment of T8- 0.15 % Promalin + 0.5% Borax, which was statistically similar with T10-15 ppm GA4 + 7 + 0.5% Borax (26.30 g). The higher TSS (19.42 and 19.49) 0Brix was recorded under the treatment of T8- 0.15 % Promalin + 0.5 % Borax, which was statistically at par with T10-15 ppm GA4 + 7 + 0.5 % Borax (19.02 and 19.09) 0Brix. The minimum Acidity (0.24% and 0.23 %) was recorded under the treatment of T8- 0.15 % Promalin + 0.5 % Borax, which was statistically at par with T10- 15 ppm GA4 + 7 + 0.5 % Borax. The maximum ascorbic acid (85.33 and 86.02) was recorded under the treatment of T8- 0.15 % Promalin + 0.5 % Borax, which was statistically at par with T10- 15 ppm GA4 + 7 + 0.5 % Borax (84.71 and 84.62). The maximum reducing sugar (6.23 and 6.25) was recorded under the treatment of T7- 0.13 % Promalin + 0.5 % Borax. The maximum non-reducing sugar (7.92 and 7.95) was recorded under the treatment of T7- 0.13% Promalin + 0.5 % Borax. The maximum Total sugar (14.15 and 14.20 %) was recorded under the treatment of T7- 0.13 % Promalin + 0.5 % Borax.
Bioproduction and Application of Orange and Yellow Pigments Obtained from Chryseomicrobium palamuruense and Micrococcus luteus
Authors: Daramola Ifeoluwa V. , Awojobi Kehinde O.
Published: July 2023

Colour is a fundamental and most likely one of the primary attributes to be observed by the human senses, making it an essential part of human life and culture. This study investigates the bioproduction and potential application of bacterial pigments obtained from abattoir wastewater.  Bacteria isolates recovered from abattoir wastewater were screened for pigment production and identified using the 16S rRNA gene sequence. Optimal physicochemical conditions of parameters were investigated and harnessed for bulk pigment production. Pigments produced were characterised using UV-Visible Spectrophotometer and Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) Analysis.  The antibacterial and dyeing ability of the extracted pigments were evaluated. Two bacteria namely, Chryseomicrobium palamuruense strain PUI and Micrococcus luteus strain 1k produced orange and yellow pigments respectively. The UV-visible spectrum of the orange pigment produced by Chryseomicrobium palamuruense showed surface plasmon resonance peaks at 262, 426, and 453 nm while that of the yellow pigment produced by Micrococcus luteus showed a single peak at 260 nm. The FTIR analysis of the extracted pigments indicated the presence of some functional groups namely hydroxyl (OH), C-H, primary and secondary C-O, and skeletal C-C vibrations.  Chryseomicrobium palamuruense and Micrococcus luteus showed no antibacterial activity against the selected typed bacterial isolates assessed in this study. The orange pigment extracted from Chryseomicrobium palamuruense was retained on cotton and polyester producing different shades of colour on the two fabrics when used as a dyeing agent. The pigment-producing potentials of these organisms suggest their relevance as promising dyes in textile industry.
Integration of COVID 19 Vaccination into Routine Immunization Services in Belize
Authors: Oladeji Olusola , Beer Natalia Largaespada , Baitwabusa Angella , Middleton Lilia , Parker Alison , Diaz-Musa Melissa
Published: July 2023

The study described the process and outcome of integration of COVID 19 vaccination into routine immunization services in Belize which was initiated in April 2022. The process was guided using the five components of the immunization system; program management and coordination; service delivery, vaccine supply and cold chain logistic, Surveillance and monitoring; and advocacy and social mobilization and communication as the implementation framework.  Collaboration between COVID-19 vaccination and other existing immunization delivery platforms targeting different age groups was the service delivery approach adopted for the integration. Fixed health facilities, mobile clinics and home visits were used as the delivery strategies for integration. The fixed health facilities offered both routine and COVID19 vaccination daily and the same time while the mobile teams were deployed based on schedule to villages that are far to reach from the fixed health facilities and communities with lowest vaccination coverages were prioritized for both routine and COVID19 vaccination. The mobile and home visit teams also tracked and provided mop up vaccination for missed children to reduce the zero-dose children. The results showed that the integration of COVID 19 vaccination has no negative effect on the coverage of routine vaccination, with increase in the coverage of both routine immunization and COVID 19 vaccination following integration. The coverage of 1st dose   and 3rd dose of Pentavalent vaccine increased by 7 percent and 10 percent respectively between April 2021- March 2022 (pre-integration) and April 2022- March 2023(post integration) though not statistically significant (p>0.5). The coverage of population who received at least one dose of COVID 19 vaccine and those fully vaccinated increased from 54.3 percent and 51 percent to 65 percent and 55.7percent respectively between 31st March 2022 and 31st March 2023.

The study contributes to the existing literature on integration of COVID 19 vaccination into routine immunization services which is essential to ensure sustained and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccine and improve uptake of other routine vaccines to address the continued backslide in routine vaccination due to the COVID 19 pandemic.
Kendali Gerak Prosthetic Hand Menggunakan Flex Sensor dan Accelerometer
Authors: Danudiningrat I Gusti Lanang Ngurah Agung Pramadi , Khoswanto Handry , Santoso Petrus
Published: July 2023

Prosthetic hand adalah mekanisme yang dibuat menyerupai tangan manusia. Pengendalian akan lebih efektif apabila prosthetic hand dapat meniru pergerakan tangan manusia. Maka dibuat alat yang memanfaatkan flex sensors dan accelerometer yang telah melalui proses filter untuk membaca gerakan tangan manusia. Sistem ini terdiri dari dua bagian yaitu bagian prosthetic hand dan bagian kontrol yang memanfaatkan gerakan tangan manusia yang berkomunikasi menggunakan bluetooth. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian, gerakan tangan manusia dapat ditiru oleh prosthetic hand dengan cukup baik. Ditambah lagi penggunaan eksponensial filter saat pembacaan flex sensors membuat pembacaan pergerakan jari manusia menjadi lebih baik.
Pembuatan Robot Mobil Yang Mengikuti Langkah Manusia
Authors: Djabumir Kevin Adrian , Lim Resmana , Khoswanto Handry
Published: July 2023

Pada saat ini teknologi robot yang mengikuti langkah manusia telah berkembang pesat. Pada artikel ini akan menjelaskan tentang pembuatan robot yang mengikuti langkah manusia dengan menggunakan sensor inframerah. Metode yang digunakan pada sistem ini adalah dengan menggunakan tiga sensor IR receiver dan menggunakan remote TV sebagai IR transmitter. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian metode yang digunakan pada sistem ini gagal, karena penggunaan metode tiga sensor IR receiver yang telah diusulkan dalam sistem ini tidak dapat digunakan untuk menentukan posisi robot sehingga gerak robot menjadi tidak beraturan. Pada pengujian menunjukan bahwa dalam suatu sitem jika menggunakkan lebih dari satu IR receiver maka IR transmitter harus mengirimkan data yang berbeda pada setiap receiver yang digunakan. Tetapi hasil pengujian tiga tombol dengan arah berbeda menunjukkan pola pada robot. Namun medote ini belum di implementasikan pada sistem ini.
Ultrastrong Ionotronic Films Showing Electrochemical Osmotic Actuation
Authors: Li Lengwan , Tian Weiqian , VahidMohammadi Armin , Rostami Jowan , Chen Bin , Matthews Kyle , Ram Farsa , Pettersson Torbjörn , Wågberg Lars , Benselfelt Tobias , Gogotsi Yury , Berglund Lars A. , Hamedi Mahiar Max
Published: July 2023

A multifunctional soft material with high ionic and electrical conductivity, combined with high mechanical properties and the ability to change shape can enable bioinspired responsive devices and systems. The incorporation of all these characteristics in a single material is very challenging, as the improvement of one property tends to reduce other properties. Here, a nanocomposite film based on charged, high‐aspect‐ratio 1D flexible nanocellulose fibrils, and 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene is presented. The self‐assembly process results in a stratified structure with the nanoparticles aligned in‐plane, providing high ionotronic conductivity and mechanical strength, as well as large water uptake. In hydrogel form with 20 wt% liquid, the electrical conductivity is over 200 S cm−1 and the in‐plane tensile strength is close to 100 MPa. This multifunctional performance results from the uniquely layered composite structure at nano‐ and mesoscales. A new type of electrical soft actuator is assembled where voltage as low as ±1 V resulted in osmotic effects and giant reversible out‐of‐plane swelling, reaching 85% strain.
Modulating the Active Hydrogen Adsorption on Fe─N Interface for Boosted Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction with Ultra‐Long Stability
Authors: Luo Hongxia , Li Shuangjun , Wu Ziyang , Liu Yanbiao , Luo Wei , Li Wei , Zhang Dieqing , Chen Jun , Yang Jianping
Published: July 2023

The electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate (NO3−) to nitrogen (N2) is an environmentally friendly approach for efficient N‐cycle management (toward a nitrogen‐neutral cycle). However, poor catalyst durability and the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction significantly impede its practical application. Interface‐chemistry engineering, utilizing the close relationship between the catalyst surface/interface microenvironment and electron/proton transfer process, has facilitated the development of catalysts with high intrinsic activity and physicochemical durability. This study reports the synthesis of a nitrogen‐doped carbon‐coated rice‐like iron nitride (RL‐Fe2N@NC) electrocatalyst with excellent electrocatalytic nitrate‐reduction reaction activity (high N2 selectivity (≈96%) and NO3− conversion (≈86%)). According to detailed mechanistic investigations by in situ tests and theoretical calculations, the strong hydrogenation ability of iron nitride and enhanced nitrate enrichment of the system synergistically contribute to the rapid hydrogenation of nitrogen‐containing species, increasing the intrinsic activity of the catalyst and reducing the occurrence of the competing hydrogen‐evolution side reaction. Moreover, RL‐Fe2N@NC shows excellent stability, retaining good NO3−‐to‐N2 electrocatalysis activity for more than 40 cycles (one cycle per day). This paper could guide the interfacial design of Fe‐based composite nanostructures for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction, facilitating a shift toward nitrogen neutrality.
The Role of Optical Phonon Confinement in the Infrared Dielectric Response of III–V Superlattices
Authors: Matson Joseph R. , Alam Md Nazmul , Varnavides Georgios , Sohr Patrick , Knight Sean , Darakchieva Vanya , Stokey Megan , Schubert Mathias , Said Ayman , Beechem Thomas , Narang Prineha , Law Stephanie , Caldwell Joshua D.
Published: July 2023

Polar dielectrics are key materials of interest for infrared (IR) nanophotonic applications due to their ability to host phonon‐polaritons that allow for low‐loss, subdiffractional control of light. The properties of phonon‐polaritons are limited by the characteristics of optical phonons, which are nominally fixed for most “bulk” materials. Superlattices composed of alternating atomically thin materials offer control over crystal anisotropy through changes in composition, optical phonon confinement, and the emergence of new modes. In particular, the modified optical phonons in superlattices offer the potential for so‐called crystalline hybrids whose IR properties cannot be described as a simple mixture of the bulk constituents. To date, however, studies have primarily focused on identifying the presence of new or modified optical phonon modes rather than assessing their impact on the IR response. This study focuses on assessing the impact of confined optical phonon modes on the hybrid IR dielectric function in superlattices of GaSb and AlSb. Using a combination of first principles theory, Raman, FTIR, and spectroscopic ellipsometry, the hybrid dielectric function is found to track the confinement of optical phonons, leading to optical phonon spectral shifts of up to 20 cm−1. These results provide an alternative pathway toward designer IR optical materials.
Co‐Delivery of Metabolic Modulators Leads to Simultaneous Lactate Metabolism Inhibition and Intracellular Acidification for Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Lee Bowon , Park Ok Kyu , Pan Limin , Kim Kang , Kang Taegyu , Kim Hyunjoong , Lee Nohyun , Choi Seung Hong , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: July 2023

Simultaneous lactate metabolism inhibition and intracellular acidification (LIIA) is a promising approach for inducing tumor regression by depleting ATP. However, given the limited efficacy of individual metabolic modulators, a combination of various modulators is required for highly efficient LIIA. Herein, a co‐delivery system that combines lactate transporter inhibitor, glucose oxidase, and O2‐evolving nanoparticles is proposed. As a vehicle, a facile room‐temperature synthetic method for large‐pore mesoporous silica nanoparticles (L‐MSNs) is developed. O2‐evolving nanoparticles are then conjugated onto L‐MSNs, followed by immobilizing the lactate transporter inhibitor and glucose oxidase inside the pores of L‐MSNs. To load the lactate transporter inhibitor, which is too small to be directly loaded into the large pores, it is encapsulated in albumin by controlling the albumin conformation before being loaded into L‐MSNs. Notably, inhibiting lactate efflux shifts the glucose consumption mechanism from lactate metabolism to glucose oxidase reaction, which eliminates glucose and produces acid. This leads to synergistic LIIA and subsequent ATP depletion in cancer cells. Consequently, L‐MSN‐based co‐delivery of modulators for LIIA shows high anticancer efficacy in several mouse tumor models without toxicity in normal tissues. This study provides new insights into co‐delivery of small‐molecule drugs, proteins, and nanoparticles for synergistic metabolic modulation in tumors.
Engineering nano‐clustered multivalent agonists to cross‐link TNF receptors for cancer therapy
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhao Gui , Chen Yi‐Fang , Zhou Shi‐Kun , Wang Yue , Sun Yi‐Qun , Shen Song , Xu Cong‐Fei , Wang Jun
Published: July 2023

Tumor necrosis factor receptors (TNFRs) are promising targets for cancer therapy. However, activating their downstream signaling requires cross‐linking of TNFRs. Herein, to devise strong agonists of TNFRs, ligands targeting TNFRs, such as OX40L and tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL), were fused with a multivalent protein scaffold (MV) to prepare multivalent agonists for cross‐linking TNFRs. The nano‐clustered multivalent‐OX40L (MV‐OX40L) and MV‐TRAIL could promote T cell activation and directly induce tumor cell apoptosis. Moreover, to develop a universal nano‐adaptor for the rapid preparation of multivalent agonists of different TNFRs, the Fc receptor that could immobilize antibodies was fused with MV to prepare MV‐FcR, which could multimerize commercial agonist antibodies targeting TNFRs, such as anti‐OX40 antibody (αOX40). Simply incubating αOX40 with MV‐FcR could prepare MV‐αOX40 to enhance its antitumor efficacy. In addition, MV‐FcR could multimerize with other therapeutic antibodies, such as anti‐PD‐L1 antibody, to enhance their valency. This study provides a promising strategy for engineering multivalent antitumor protein drugs.
CCR5 deficiency: Decreased neuronal resilience to oxidative stress and increased risk of vascular dementia
Authors: Tournier Benjamin B. , Sorce Silvia , Marteyn Antoine , Ghidoni Roberta , Benussi Luisa , Binetti Giuliano , Herrmann François R , Krause Karl‐Heinz , Zekry Dina
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

As the chemokine receptor5 (CCR5) may play a role in ischemia, we studied the links between CCR5 deficiency, the sensitivity of neurons to oxidative stress, and the development of dementia.

METHODS

Logistic regression models with CCR5/apolipoprotein E (ApoE) polymorphisms were applied on a sample of 205 cognitively normal individuals and 189 dementia patients from Geneva. The impact of oxidative stress on Ccr5 expression and cell death was assessed in mice neurons.

RESULTS

CCR5‐Δ32 allele synergized with ApoEε4 as risk factor for dementia and specifically for dementia with a vascular component. We confirmed these results in an independent cohort from Italy (157 cognitively normal and 620 dementia). Carriers of the ApoEε4/CCR5‐Δ32 genotype aged ≥80 years have an 11‐fold greater risk of vascular‐and‐mixed dementia. Oxidative stress‐induced cell death in Ccr5−/− mice neurons.

DISCUSSION

We propose the vulnerability of CCR5‐deficient neurons in response to oxidative stress as possible mechanisms contributing to dementia.
Enhanced electrocatalytic CO2 reduction performance of Co‐porphyrin derivatives supported on CNTs with methylation of the hydroxyl and carboxyl groups
Authors: Hao Yongchao , Li Hongfang , Tian Ming , Zhao Jun , Xing Cuijuan
Published: July 2023

Metal‐porphyrin complexes with a well‐defined M‐N4 structure are a class of electrocatalyst materials that can be reasonably designed to exhibit high electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction (CO2RR) performance. The substituent effect of metal‐porphyrin complexes plays an important role in CO2RR. Herein, Co‐porphyrins with different substituents of ‐COOCH3, ‐OCH3, ‐COOH, and ‐OH (denoted as CoTCMePP, CoTOMePP, CoTCPP, and CoTOPP) were prepared and uniformly anchored on carbon nanotubes. CoTCMePP/CNTs exhibited a higher FE (CO) of 94.5% with a current density of 12.9 mA cm−2 and a TOF of 705 h−1 at −0.77 V versus RHE in 0.5 M KHCO3 than that of CoTCPP/CNTs. Meanwhile, the performance of CoTOMePP/CNTs was superior to CoTOPP/CNTs in FE (CO) and stability. The methylated derivatives exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic CO2 reduction performance, for the methylation of the hydroxyl and carboxyl might increase the solubility and suppress the aggregation of metal‐porphyrin, helping Co‐porphyrins disperse on the carbon nanotubes better.
Dynamics of drop formation and characterization of additive manufactured CS/AgNP/PVA composite membranes
Authors: Ogazi Anthony C. , Osifo Peter O.
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the dynamics of drop formation and the printability of chitosan/silver nanoparticles composite fluid (CS/AgNP) modified with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) using an inkjet 3D printer. It specifically investigated the relationship between rheological properties and fluid mechanical properties in determining the minimum drop velocity for 3D printing of modified CS ink. Proper matching of modified CS fluid rheological properties to the established physical parameters generated adequate droplets on glass substrates and formed membrane composites. The dynamic viscosity of the CS ink decreased with an increase in the concentration of PVA, which resulted in the disruption of existing molecular forces within the CS/AgNP polymer chains, suggesting that the solvent (PVA) was responsible for reducing the shear stress, surface tension, and viscosity of the composite membranes and subsequently improving the flow rates of the CS matrix at the nozzle orifice. Optimized drop velocity of 1.77 m/s yielded adequate formation of the CS/AgNP/PVA membrane composite with enhanced surface morphology, while an increase in drop velocity to 2.5 m/s brought about the formation of satellite droplets with irregular surface structures in printed CS composites. Therefore, adherence to minimum fluid drop velocity is fundamental to effective inkjet printing of composite membranes.
Investigation into ameliorative dielectric properties of silicon/poly(vinylidene fluoride) composites by engineering insulating aluminum oxide shell as an interlayer
Authors: Lin Na , Yin Ronghua , Zhou Wenying , Zhang Mengyuan , Kong Fanrong , Gong Ming , Lei Xiaoyan , Cao Zichen , Di‐wu Jingyu , Li Weiwei , Zhao Yingying
Published: July 2023

Flexible electronic materials with high‐dielectric constant (ɛ) and breakdown strength (Eb) but low loss is pursued. Encapsulation of conductive fillers with various insulating shells represents a promising strategy to inhibit dielectric loss or leakage current. In this work, aluminum oxide (Al2O3) encapsulated silicon (Si) core‐shell structured particles were prepared through a sol–gel approach, and then were incorporated with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). The dielectric properties of PVDF composites with various fillers are investigated under varying frequencies. The findings demonstrate that a Al2O3 shell was formed outside the original Si, and that the Si@Al2O3/PVDF exhibit a high ɛ and elevated Eb but signally suppressive loss and restrained conductivity when compared with raw Si. The Al2O3 interlayer not only enhances the interface compatibility between the filler and the matrix and promotes interface polarizations, but also suppresses the loss and leakage current through preventing adjacent Si from directly contacting. The optimized dielectric performances can be achieved via tailoring the Al2O3 shell thickness. Furthermore, the theoretic fitting of experimental results by the Havriliak‐Negami equation deciphers the Al2O3 interlayer’ impact on the polarization mechanism. The resulting Si@Al2O3/PVDF composites with high ε but low loss, as well as boosted Eb, reveal potential applications in electrical systems.
Investigation of the spectral characteristics of Sm3+ ions in lead borosilicate glass for photonic applications
Authors: Nallamala Kiran , Shaik Nayab Rasool , Baddela Munisudhakar , Shaik Shabeena , Midde Reddi Babu
Published: July 2023

Different concentrations of Sm2O3‐doped lead borosilicate glass were synthesized using a melt–quenching method and their characteristics were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy absorption, emission, and decay curves. From the XRD patterns, the noncrystalline nature of titled glass was confirmed. The structural groups that existed in the host glass were observed from FTIR spectra. The Judd–Ofelt (JO) intensity parameters and oscillator strengths were derived from the absorption spectra and compared with various reported systems. The excitation luminescence levels of the Sm3+ ion radiative properties were further computed using the JO intensity parameters. Effective bandwidth, emission cross‐sections (σe), and several lasing properties were assessed from emission spectra and compared with other reported glass systems. The decay curves of the 4G5/2 level of Sm3+ ion were also been measured and examined. Additionally, the colour coordinates of the Commission International de I'Éclairage chromaticity were assessed. The titled glass were suitable for visible reddish orange luminescence devices based on all obtained parameters.
The physical and psychological aspects of quality of life mediates the effect of radiation‐induced urgency syndrome on disability pension in gynecological cancer survivors
Authors: Noor Baloch Adnan , Hagberg Mats , Thomée Sara , Steineck Gunnar , Sandén Helena
Published: July 2023

Background

Radiation‐induced fecal urgency syndrome is highly prevalent in gynecological cancer survivors. It is associated with decreased quality of life (QoL) and with disability pension. The literature remains unclear about the mediating role of physical and psychological aspects of QoL in the association between urgency syndrome and disability pension. Identifying the pathways between urgency syndrome and disability pension may help to create effective and timely interventions for increasing QoL and reducing disability pension among gynecological cancer survivors.

Methods

We used patient‐reported outcome measures from working‐age gynecological cancer survivors (n = 247) and data on their disability pension from the official register. The mediating role of physical and psychological aspects of QoL was studied by utilizing mediation analysis based on the counterfactual framework, appropriate for binary outcome, binary mediator with an exposure–mediator interaction. The total effect (TE) was divided into direct and indirect effects using single mediation analysis. Adjusted relative risks and percentage mediated (95% confidence intervals) were calculated. All statistical tests were two‐sided.

Results

Urgency syndrome increased the risk of disability pension both directly and indirectly (via QoL). Satisfaction with sleep mediated half of the TE (RR = 2.2 (1.1–4.1)) of urgency syndrome on disability pension. Physical health also mediated a similar proportion of the TE (RR = 2.1 (1.2–3.9)). The proportions mediated were higher for physical aspects of QoL (35%–71%) than for psychological aspects (2%–47%).

Conclusions

The investigated aspects of the self‐assessed QoL of gynecological cancer survivors may play a role in these women's continuing work‐life. It appears that physical health, satisfaction with sleep, psychological well‐being, and other investigated aspects of QoL mediate the urgency syndrome–disability pension association.
[4.3.1]Bicyclic FKBP Ligands Inhibit Legionella Pneumophila Infection by LpMip‐Dependent and LpMip‐Independent Mechanisms**
Authors: Deutscher Robin C. E. , Safa Karagöz M. , Purder Patrick L. , Kolos Jürgen M. , Meyners Christian , Oki Sugiarto Wisely , Krajczy Patryk , Tebbe Frederike , Geiger Thomas M. , Ünal Can , Hellmich Ute A. , Steinert Michael , Hausch Felix
Published: July 2023

Legionella pneumophila is the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease, a serious form of pneumonia. Its macrophage infectivity potentiator (Mip), a member of a highly conserved family of FK506‐binding proteins (FKBPs), plays a major role in the proliferation of the gram‐negative bacterium in host organisms. In this work, we test our library of >1000 FKBP‐focused ligands for inhibition of LpMip. The [4.3.1]‐bicyclic sulfonamide turned out as a highly preferred scaffold and provided the most potent LpMip inhibitors known so far. Selected compounds were non‐toxic to human cells, displayed antibacterial activity and block bacterial proliferation in cellular infection‐assays as well as infectivity in human lung tissue explants. The results confirm [4.3.1]‐bicyclic sulfonamides as anti‐legionellal agents, although their anti‐infective properties cannot be explained by inhibition of LpMip alone.
Photo‐induced Desulfurative Processes for Carbon Radical Generation
Authors: Geniller Lilian , Taillefer Marc , Jaroschik Florian , Prieto Alexis
Published: July 2023

Thiols constitute an important family among sulfur‐containing compounds, with well‐established applications in various fields ranging from medicine to material science. For instance, thiol residues are good hydrogen donors which reduce radical species in biological or chemical processes. However, even though the S−H bond activation of thiols for providing access to thiyl radicals has been largely studied, desulfurative processes affording carbon‐based radicals by C−S bond activation have been less explored. In recent years, photoredox catalysis has become the prevalent method for the generation of radicals under soft reaction conditions from readily available starting materials under visible light. In this context, recent studies have been devoted to the development of photocatalytic procedures aiming at the desulfurization of thiol derivatives leading to new C−H, C−C or C‐Het bond formation reactions. This review will cover the synthetic methodologies and strategies for photo‐mediated desulfurization of native thiols, thioethers, sulfonium salts and xanthates to access new organic compounds. This emerging field is especially interesting for new transformations of cysteine and peptide derivatives.
Surface Modification of ITO with N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Precursors Results in Electron Selective Contacts in Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Das Mowpriya , Kohlstädt Markus , Enders Maria , Burger Stephan , Sasmal Himadri Sekhar , Zimmermann Birger , Schäfer Andreas , Tyler Bonnie J. , Arlinghaus Heinrich F. , Krossing Ingo , Würfel Uli , Glorius Frank
Published: July 2023

Surface modification of indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes with organic molecules is known to tune their work function which results in higher charge carrier selectivity in corresponding organic electronic devices and hence influences the performance of organic solar cells. In recent years, N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have also been proven to be capable to modify the work function of metals and semimetals compared to the unfunctionalized surface via the formation of strong covalent bonds. In this report, we have designed and performed the modification of the ITO surface with NHC by using the zwitterionic bench stable IPr‐CO2 as the NHC precursor, applied via spin coating. Upon modification, the work function of ITO electrodes was reduced significantly which resulted in electron selective contacts in corresponding organic photovoltaic devices. In addition, various characterization techniques and analytical methods are used to elucidate the nature of the bound species and the corresponding binding mechanism of the material to the ITO surface.
Hexakis‐TIPS‐Alkynylated Nonacenes: Persistent and Processible
Authors: Zeitter Nico , Hippchen Nikolai , Weidlich Anna , Jäger Patrick , Ludwig Philipp , Rominger Frank , Dreuw Andreas , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: July 2023

Four substituted nonacenes were prepared and characterized by UV‐vis and EPR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography. The compounds are the most stable and soluble nonacenes to date – due to six strategically placed triisopropylsilyl(TIPS)‐ethynyl groups. They are stable for several weeks in the solid state. In dilute solution their half‐life is 5–9 h. Crystal structure analyses of two nonacenes prove their structures. A nonacene derivative was tested in a solution‐processed transistor and exhibits ambipolar charge transport (μe=0.007 cm2/Vs; μh=0.023 cm2/Vs).
Iron‐Catalyzed Amide Bond Formation from Carboxylic Acids and Isocyanates†
Authors: Zi Lingjian , Zhang Jing
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

We describe an iron‐catalyzed amide bond formation from readily available carboxylic acids and isocyanates. This method utilizes an abundant and biocompatible iron catalyst and easily accessible starting materials, generates CO2 as the only byproduct, and features broad substrate scopes with good functional group compatibility. Therefore, it provides a cost‐effective and practical protocol to access a diverse variety of amides.
Racism and health among cancer survivors
Authors: Smith Stephanie M. , Schapira Lidia
Published: July 2023

Dedicated efforts are needed to measure the impact of racism and discrimination on the health of cancer survivors and simultaneously to develop tools and resources to mitigate adverse health effects. Interventions to improve mental health outcomes for cancer survivors, with special emphasis on those at increased risk because of social and structural factors, should begin now.
Cobalt Hydroxide Spindle Nanosheet Amorphous Electrocatalysts via In‐Situ Fast Reduction Release/Oxidization Mechanistic Method for Efficient Overall Water Electrolysis
Authors: Ashok Venkatachalam , Sangamithirai Muthukumaran , Vijayarangan Murugan , Gayathri Arunagiri , Jayabharathi Jayaraman
Published: July 2023

Water electrolysis focused with electricity or sunlight is one of the sustainable methods to produce hydrogen; this helps to address the global energy demand whereas sluggish OER and HER kinetic barriers hamper this process. Here, we report an earth abundant Co(OH)2 spindle nanosheet electrocatalyst synthesized via surfactant with boron‐assisted release/oxidize mechanistic process and employed it as a bifunctional electrocatalyst (OER/HER) with small overpotential (258 mV/156 mV), low Tafel slope (78 mV dec−1/71 mV dec−1), higher turnover frequency (0.235 s−1/0.100 s−1) and low charge transfer resistance (4.7 Ω). The higher electrochemical active surface area (45 cm2) of the catalyst exploits the potential electrocatalyst nature with overall cell voltage 1.64 V at 10 mA cm−2.
Refined fiber inulin promotes inflammation‐associated colon tumorigenesis by modulating microbial succinate production
Authors: Tian Sangshan , Paudel Devendra , Hao Fuhua , Neupane Rabin , Castro Rita , Patterson Andrew D. , Tiwari Amit K. , Prabhu K. Sandeep , Singh Vishal
Published: July 2023

Background and Aim

There is an increased risk of colon cancer associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Dietary fibers (DFs) naturally present in vegetables and whole grains offer numerous beneficial effects on intestinal health. However, the effects of refined DFs on intestinal health remain unclear. Therefore, we elucidated the impact of the refined DF inulin on colonic inflammation and tumorigenesis.

Methods

Four‐week‐old wild‐type (WT) mice were fed diets containing insoluble DF cellulose (control) or refined DF inulin for 4 weeks. A subgroup of mice was then switched to drinking water containing dextran sulfate sodium (DSS, 1.4% wt/vol) for colitis induction. In another subgroup of mice, colitis‐associated colorectal cancer (CRC) was initiated with three 7‐day alternate cycles of DSS following an initial dose of mutagenic substance azoxymethane (AOM; 7.5 mg/kg body weight; i.p.). Post 7 weeks of AOM treatment, mice were euthanized and examined for CRC development.

Results

Mice consuming inulin‐containing diet exhibited severe colitis upon DSS administration, as evidenced by more body weight loss, rectal bleeding, and increased colonic inflammation than the DSS‐treated control group. Correspondingly, histological analysis revealed extensive disruption of colon architecture and massive infiltration of immune cells in the inulin‐fed group. We next examined the effect of inulin on CRC development. Surprisingly, significant mortality (~50%) was observed in the inulin‐fed but not in the control group during the DSS cycle. Consequently, the remaining inulin‐fed mice, which completed the study exhibited extensive colon tumorigenesis. Immunohistochemical characterization showed comparatively high expression of the cell proliferation marker Ki67 and activation of the Wnt signaling in tumor sections obtained from the inulin‐fed group. Gut microbiota and metabolite analysis revealed expansion of succinate producers and elevated cecal succinate in inulin‐fed mice. Human colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT116) proliferated more rapidly when supplemented with succinate in an inflamed environment, suggesting that elevated luminal succinate may contribute to tumorigenesis.

Conclusions

Our study uncovers that supplementation of diet with refined inulin induces abnormal succinate accumulation in the intestinal lumen, which in part contributes to promoting colon inflammation and tumorigenesis.
Shattering versus metastability in spin glasses
Authors: Arous Gérard Ben , Jagannath Aukosh
Published: July 2023

Our goal in this work is to better understand the relationship between replica symmetry breaking, shattering, and metastability. To this end, we study the static and dynamic behaviour of spherical pure p‐spin glasses above the replica symmetry breaking temperature . In this regime, we find that there are at least two distinct temperatures related to non‐trivial behaviour. First we prove that there is a regime of temperatures in which the spherical p‐spin model exhibits a shattering phase. Our results holds in a regime above but near . We then find that metastable states exist up to an even higher temperature as predicted by Barrat–Burioni–Mézard which is expected to be higher than the phase boundary for the shattering phase . We develop this work by first developing a Thouless–Anderson–Palmer decomposition which builds on the work of Subag. We then present a series of questions and conjectures regarding the sharp phase boundaries for shattering and slow mixing.