bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Credit on Production Efficiency: Evidence from Cassava Smallholders Farmers in Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: R. Adeosun, D. , A. Adegbite, D. , A. Sanusi, R. , O. Ayansina, S.
Published: June 2022

Aims: This study evaluates credit impact on production efficiency of cassava farmers in southwest Nigeria.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in South West Nigeria, between June 2019 and July 2021.

Methodology: Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 210 small holder cassava farmers for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on respondents’ socio-economic characteristics, production efficiency and the efficiency distribution of cassava farmers.

Results: Results show that the mean technical, allocative and economic efficiencies were (\0.55,0.91\), and (\0.50\) respectively. Results of Stochastic production frontier show farm size (\(\gamma=0.664, p<0.01\) ), labour ( (\\gamma\) (\=0.183, \mathrm{p} \leq 0.01)\) and quantity of stem cutting (\(\gamma=0.160, \mathrm{p} \leq 0.05)\) increased cassava output, while sex (\(\delta\) (\=0.797, \mathrm{p}<0.01)\), marital status (\(\delta=0.600, \mathrm{p}<0.05)\), level of education (\(\delta=0.062, \mathrm{p} \leq 0.01)\), number of extension contacts (\(\delta=0.624, \mathrm{p}<0.05)\) and credit (\(\delta=0.000004, \mathrm{p}<0.05)\) significantly influenced efficiency among cassava farmers. Also, result of Maximum likelihood estimates of cost function shows rent on land (\(\omega=0.455, p<0.01)\), price of fertilizer (\(\omega=0.078, p<0.01)\) and price of herbicide \((\omega=0.069\), (\p<0.01\) ) had positive influence on total cost incurred on cassava production while marital status (\(\delta=\) (\0.600, p<0.05)\) and credit (\(\delta=0.000004, p<0.05)\) significantly influenced efficiency among cassava farmers.
The Impact of Incentives on Employee Engagement in an Insurance Industry at Colombo District
Authors: Shamila L. M. A.
Published: June 2022

Aims: Employee participation has emerged as one of the biggest challenges in the workplace today. With the complexities and strict regulations, the future of employee employment will be challenging for Insurance Companies. This aspect challenges management, as interventions are vital to the Insurance Companies’ vitality, survival, and profitability. Insurance Companies with high paying employees are more profitable. Insurance Companies that have a high level of employees increase customer satisfaction, profitability and employee productivity. The number of field employees increased left in Insurance Companies. Example Softlogic insurance employee’s 2016 left 2% but 2019 Left percentage 6%. It is clear. That field employees are not engagement with the Insurance Companies. To identify the level of employee incentives, employee engagement, at Colombo district and impact of employee incentives on employee engagement deductive process is used for the research study. Further, Quantitative method is used in the study.

Conclusion: As a researcher I need to identify the problem in correct manner with suitable correct & accurate data. Convenience sampling method is used in this study. Sample of this study is 100 employees who are in an Insurance Industry at Colombo District. I have chosen the sample in Ceylinco Insurance - Sales Agent 26, Union Assurance-Sales Agent 26, Softlogic Insurance - Sales Agent 26, Sri Lanka Insurance - Sales Agent 22. As per the impact of financial and non-finance incentives on employee engagement, the area is highly significant for Insurance Industry in Colombo District to continue while increasing the business activities in order to meet the firm’s objectives. Consequently, the contribution of employees is very significant due to number of reasons such as productivity, to meet challenges and familiarize innovative approaches to receive the competitive advantage.Result shows that there is a positive impact on “The Impact of Incentives on Employee Engagement in an Insurance Industry at Colombo District”.
Anthelmintic and Antioxidant Activities, Phytochemical Profile and Microscopic Features of Senna alata Collected in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Kasiama Giresse N. , Ikey Adam , Kabengele Carlos N. , Kilembe Jason T. , Matshimba Etienne N. , Bete Juvenal M. , Bahati Prudent B. , Inkoto Clément L. , Mutwale Paulin K. , Ngbolua K. N. , Tshibangu Damien S. T. , Tshilanda Dorothée D. , Mpiana Pius T.
Published: June 2022

Aim: The objective of this study was to determine the phytochemical profile of Senna alata LINN using chemical screening in solution and thin-layer chromatography, and to assess the antioxidant and anthelmintic activities of the plant’s aqueous extracts.

Methodology: All the analyses performed in this study were, respectively, done as described by the standard protocols. These were: the microscopic examination of the plant powders performed using a light microscope, the search for secondary metabolites carried out by chemical screening in solution and by thin-layer chromatography, the determination of the secondary metabolites, and the antioxidant activity carried out by UV-visible spectroscopy and the anthelmintic activity performed by dilution in decreasing order of concentration.

Results: Micrographic analysis of the powder of Senna alata revealed the histological elements rich in unicellular covering hairs with a punctate surface and in fragments of palisade parenchyma, with elongated cells. The presence of polyphenols (flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins, leuco anthocyanins, free quinones), steroids, terpenoids, and iridoids was detected by phytochemical screening in solution and confirmed by thin-layer chromatography. The determination of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, total tannins, and anthocyanins showed that Senna alata contains 254.64 mg EQ/g, 12.3%, 9.5%, and 6.5%, respectively, of these metabolites. The aqueous extract of the leaves of Senna alata showed a good anthelmintic activity after 41 minutes of exposure to 5.00 mg/mL of the extract and the antioxidant activity was reported, of which the value of IC50 (\(\mu\) g/mL) of the extract for the DPPH tests is 91.42  \(\pm\) 15.56.

Conclusion: Histological elements rich in unicellular covering hairs with a punctate surface and in fragments of palisade parenchyma, with elongated cells were revealed in the micrographic analysis of Senna alata. The plant’s leaf methanol extract showed good antioxidant activity, while the anthelmintic activity was demonstrated in its aqueous extract.
Severe Oligospermia Treatment with Testicular Sperm Using “ICSI”
Authors: Zakaria Mustafa , Al-ibraheemi Aya , Senhaji Wassym , Ennaji Mohammed , Louanjli Noureddine , Zarqaoui Mohammed
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Assisted reproductive technology has been developed significantly throughout the past few years, particularly diagnosing and treating male infertility. Many studies have been performed showing that Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a successful method to attain clinical pregnancy and live birth through impaired spermatozoa characteristics or low sperm count, such as severe oligospermia. Severe oligospermia indicates low sperm count, which in some cases leads to azoospermia. Severe oligospermia can be caused by several factors such as genetics or medication. In search of efficient treatment for couples with Severe oligospermia, numerous retrospective and prospective researches have reported high pregnancy and live birth rates through testicular sperm for men with severe oligospermia and cryptozoospermia with or without high sperm DNA damage. The research showed that the use of testicular sperm in combination with ICSI yielded a high pregnancy rate and live births over another source of sperm, such as ejaculated sperms. Moreover, the use of ICSI in severe oligospermia has shown successful fertilization and pregnancy.

Methods: In search for effective treatment for couples with severe male factor, a number of small retrospective and prospective studies have reported high pregnancy and live birth rates using testicular sperm for men with necrozoospermia, cryptozoospermia and oligozoospermia with or without elevated sperm DNA damage. Although the data suggest that there may be some benefit in performing testicular sperm retrieval (TSR)-ICSI in select groups of non-azoospermic infertile men, there are potential risks involved with TSR. Clinicians should balance these risks prior to the recommendation of TSR-ICSI on the result of a semen analysis or sperm DNA test alone. Careful evaluation and management of male factor infertility is important. The use of TSR-ICSI in the absence of specific sperm DNA defects is still experimental.

Discussion: In 1992 and subsequently, several reports indicated that ICSI was a successful technique to achieve clinical pregnancy and live birth using spermatozoa with severely impaired characteristics. The initial optimism over the ability of ICSI to overcome significant sperm abnormalities was later tempered by the findings of more recent publications suggesting that some sperm deficits may not be as effectively treated with ICSI.

Conclusion: Severe oligospermia indicates low sperm count, which can lead to male infertility; severe oligospermia which can be overcome through ICSI. Genetic factors like microdeletions of the Y chromosome (Yq) can cause severe oligospermia or chemotherapy molecules, affecting the sperm count directly.
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Biochemical Studies of Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.] under Sodic Soil
Authors: Shahi Shikha , Yadav R. K. , Kushwaha S. P. , Singh Mayanker , Singh Prabhat
Published: June 2022

A field study was conducted to evaluate the “Effect of plant growth regulators on biochemical parameters of mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.] under sodic soil.” An experiment was laid out in randomized block design with seven treatments and three replications. The field experiment treatments consist of foliar spray with GA3 (50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm) and salicylic acid (100ppm, 200ppm, 300ppm) were prepared on weight by volume basis as per desired concentration. Data confined to physiological changes like chlorophyll content, catalase activity were recorded at 40, 60 and 80 DAS. Oil content (%) in mature seeds was recorded at maturity. Significantly higher chlorophyll contents and catalase activity in leaves were estimated with the foliar spray of 100 ppm GA3 (2.51, 5.05, 2.24) chlorophyll content mg g-1 fresh weight and (69.17, 173.80, 171.30) catalase activity EU mg-1 protein min-1 and Significantly higher oil content (%) in mature seeds of mustard were estimated with the foliar application of 100 ppm GA3 (40.67 %) as compared to control. These biochemical parameters superior with foliar application of GA3 100ppm followed by Salicylic acid 200ppm.
Performance of Submergence Tolerant Shallow Lowland Rice Variety Swarna sub-1 under Frontline Demonstrations in East and South Eastern Coastal Plain Zone of Odisha, India
Authors: Phonglosa Amit , Sahoo Hemanta Kumar , Mishra Prasannajit , Sangramsingh Shiba Prasad , Patra Bishnupriya
Published: June 2022

Frontline demonstrations on rice crop in 15.4 ha area using submergence tolerant variety Swarna sub-1 were carried out in participatory mode in farmers’ field during Kharif season of 2016, 2017 and 2018 at Ranapur village of Khordha district under East and South Eastern Coastal Plain Zone of Odisha by University Extension Block programme (UEBP) of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha, India. Major constraints of traditional rice cultivation are low productivity in shallow lowland areas due to lack of knowledge and partial adoption of recommended package of practices by rice growing farmers. Therefore, present demonstration programmes have been undertaken to popularize/introduce stress tolerant rice var. Swarna sub-1 in flood prone and shallow lowland areas of Khordha district of Odisha, India. The present study revealed that there was 20.4% increase in average yield of demonstrated field over the farmers practice field of rice crop. An average yield of 45.68 q ha-1 was recorded in demonstration as compared to 37.84 q ha-1 in farmers practice during consecutive three years demonstrations. It might be due to considerable variation in the extent of adoption of improved/recommended technology which was resulted lower yield in farmers practice. Average technology gap, extension gap and technology index was found 12.32 q ha-1, 7.84 q ha-1 and 28.39%, respectively. The demonstrations with improved practice gave higher net return of Indian Rupee (INR) 18180, 26538 and 35605 ha-1 as compared to farmers practices with INR 12987, 16361 and 17294, respectively during Kharif seasons of 2016, 2017 and 2018. The benefit cost ratio (B:C ratio) of rice cultivation under improved practices were found to be 1.42, 1.60 and 1.80 as compared to 1.31, 1.38 and 1.39 under farmers practices. Moreover, the demonstration practice showed maximum 105.88% increase in net returns over farmers practice.
Compensatory Mechanism of Diet Containing Sulphur-Rich Amino Acids in Restoring Neurotoxico-Nutritional Deficits in Konzo Disease Rat Model
Authors: Amadi Hebinuchi , David Lekpa Kingdom , Oghenemavwe Loveday Ese
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The present study is aimed at assessing the effect of bitter cassava on blood biochemical parameters of konzo disease induced Wistar rats. Nutritional modification with suphur rich amino acids was used as a measure to correct the impact in rats induced konzo disease. Method: 25 adult male wistar rats were assigned to 5 experimental groups (i) Control n=5, (ii) cassava only n=5, (iii) cassava + animal feed n=5, (iv) cassava + Eggshell + Brown beans n=5, (v) Eggshell + Brown Beans only n=5. The bitter cassava foods were taken by oral ingestion for a period of 4 weeks. The weights of the rats were checked through the experiment and blood samples were taken from each group into EDTA-lined containers and analyses for blood cyanide, methionine and cysteine levels.

Results: There was significant difference in weight and there was a progressive increase in their success rate as against the cassava only group which decreased in their success rate, hence, differs statistically and significantly (p˂0.05) from the control group. It was observed that the cassava fed group had higher blood level of cyanide far above the normal blood reference range (2.60 – 2.90µg/ml) for cyanides, hence, was seen to be statistically significant as compared to that of the control group. The eggshell and brown beans only group showed high blood levels of methionine that statistically differ significantly (p<0.05) from both the control group and the cassava only group. Blood level of cysteine in the cassava plus eggshell and brown beans group differed significant statistically from the control group.

Conclusion: Sulphur amino acids such as methionine and cysteine are essential for detoxification of the residual cyanogens remaining in insufficiently processed cassava roots. Foods such as cereals and legumes as source of sulphur amino acids should be promoted to prevent paralytic neurotoxico-nutritional disease such as konzo among the poor population.
Pulsatile Delivery of Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Pulsincap by Box-Behnken Design
Authors: Ramadevi S. , Tamkeen Javeria , Rahman Aisha , Prasanthi D.
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to prepare and evaluate Methylphenidate hydrochloride pulsatile drug delivery system using pulsincap technique by applying Box-Behnken design. The drug is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Pulsincap system was prepared by using formaldehyde cross linked capsules. Capsules were filled with methylphenidate hydrochloride granules and hydrogel plug made of HPMC K100M is placed over granules to achieve desired drug release after lag time. The untreated cap was then fitted and sealed using 5% ethyl cellulose ethanolic solution to the formaldehyde treated capsule body. Granules were prepared by wet granulation technique using two polymers Ethyl cellulose and Eudragit RS100. Box-Behnken design was applied for optimization in which three independent variables, X1 = Drug: polymer ratio, X2 = Polymer: polymer ratio (Ethyl cellulose: Eudragit RS 100) and X3 = Plug weight were selected. Two dependent variables Y1 = lag time and Y2 = percent release were selected. The empty formaldehyde treated capsules were evaluated for physical appearance, solubility, capsule dimensions and formaldehyde content. Hydrogel plugs were evaluated for hardness & thickness of the plug, lag time and swelling index. Granules were evaluated for percentage yield, assay and flow properties. The prepared pulsincap formulations were evaluated for weight variation, content uniformity, capsule lock length, in-vitro dissolutions studies, drug kinetics and stability studies. Contour plots and Response surface plots indicated that with the increase in X1 and X3 there is increase in Lag time and decrease in % drug release and whereas with the increase in X2 the lag time was at moderate level and % drug release was increased. From this observation, formulation F11 was optimized as it provided desired lag time of 4.2\(\pm\)0.27 hours and least drug release of 72\(\pm\)0.09% for 8 hrs. The formulations were found to be physically compatible with excipients and stable.
Radionuclide Transfer Ratio from Soil to Crops in Selected Fertilized Farms and Estimation of Its Health Risk in Rivers State of Nigeria
Authors: Abayiga A. Nwii , Avwiri G. O. , Ononugbo C. P.
Published: June 2022

The study was carried out to investigate the transfer ratio of radionuclide from soil to crops of the selected fertilized farmers in Rivers State Nigeria. Using a well calibrated sodium iodide (NaI) detector. The activity concentrations of 40K, 234U, and 232Th in crops and soils of the selected fertilized farmers of Rivers State have been determined. The activity concentration of radionuclides of 40K, 234U, and 232Th were all higher than its respective control values, which show that the fertilized farms contain more radionuclide than the unfertilized farms(control) and this may be due to the long use of inorganic fertilizers during cultivation on the selected Agricultural Development programme farms (Fertilized Farms). This variation may be due to differences in organic matter, soil content and type of soil of the selected farms. The mean transfer factor obtained is of the order 234U < 232TH < 40K which shows that activity concentration of natural radio isotopes within the study area are high and also the rate at which the radionuclides are transfer from soil to crops is also high. The result obtained show that there is high transfer ratio of radionuclide from soil to crops of the selected fertilized farms and this requires that the uses of NPK fertilizers should be under radiological control for consumption safety.
Associations Between Dietary Intake of Vitamin K and Changes in Symptomatic and Structural Changes in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Liao Zetao , Chang Jun , Zhu Zhaohua , Han Weiyu , Meng Tao , Zheng Shuang , Tu Liudan , Antony Benny , Winzenberg Tania , Wluka Anita E. , Cicuttini Flavia , Ding Changhai
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate associations of dietary vitamin K intake with changes in knee symptoms and structures in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Participants with symptomatic knee OA were enrolled (n = 259) and followed up for 2 years (n = 212). Baseline dietary vitamin K intake was calculated from a validated food frequency questionnaire. Knee symptoms were assessed by using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores. Knee cartilage defects, bone marrow lesions, and effusion‐synovitis volume were measured from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Univariable and multivariable linear regressions were used for analyses.

Results

A higher vitamin K intake quartile was significantly associated with a greater decrease in the total WOMAC score and dysfunction score over 24 months. The subgroup analyses showed in patients with severe baseline visual analog scale (VAS) pain that a higher vitamin K intake quartile was associated with more improvement in all WOMAC scores. There were no overall significant associations between vitamin K intake and changes in MRI features. In subgroup analysis, vitamin K intake was negatively associated with changes in tibiofemoral, patellar, and total cartilage defects in participants with a severe baseline radiographic grade and was negatively associated with change in total and patellar cartilage defects in participants with severe baseline VAS pain and in female patients.

Conclusion

The association of higher vitamin K intake with decreased knee symptoms over 24 months in patients with knee OA suggests that clinical trials examining the effect of vitamin K supplementation for knee OA symptoms are warranted. Whether there is an effect on knee structure is unclear.
Conductive Hydrogel Conduits with Growth Factor Gradients for Peripheral Nerve Repair in Diabetics with Non‐Suture Tape
Authors: Cai Yuting , Huang Qun , Wang Penghui , Ye Kaichuang , Zhao Zhen , Chen Haomin , Liu Zhenjing , Liu Hongwei , Wong Hoilun , Tamtaji Mohsen , Zhang Kenan , Xu Feng , Jin Guorui , Zeng Lun , Xie Jianbo , Du Yucong , Hu Zhigang , Sun Dazhi , Qin Jinbao , Lu Xinwu , Luo Zhengtang
Published: June 2022

Diabetic patients suffer from peripheral nerve injury with slow and incomplete regeneration owing to hyperglycemia and microvascular complications. This study develops a graphene‐based nerve guidance conduit by incorporating natural double network hydrogel and a neurotrophic concentration gradient with non‐invasive treatment for diabetics. GelMA/silk fibroin double network hydrogel plays quadruple roles for rapid setting/curing, suitable mechanical supporting, good biocompatibility, and sustainable growth factor delivery. Meanwhile, graphene mesh can improve the toughness of conduit and enhance conductivity of conduit for regeneration. Here, novel silk tapes show quick and tough adhesion of wet tissue by dual mechanism to replace suture step. The in vivo results demonstrate that gradient concentration of netrin‐1 in conduit have better performance than uniform concentration caused by chemotaxis phenomenon for axon extension, remyelination, and angiogenesis. Altogether, GelMA/silk graphene conduit with gradient netrin‐1 and dry double‐sided adhesive tape can significantly promote repairing of peripheral nerve injury and inhibit the atrophy of muscles for diabetics.
A Cancer Cell Membrane‐Derived Biomimetic Nanocarrier for Synergistic Photothermal/Gene Therapy by Efficient Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 and Gold Nanorods
Authors: Huang Lin , Zhou Mengyang , Abbas Ghulam , Li Chao , Cui Mengmeng , Zhang Xian‐En , Wang Dian‐Bing
Published: June 2022

Bimodal synergistic therapy produces superadditive effect for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. However, how to efficiently and simultaneously deliver several kinds of therapeutic agents is still challenging. A cancer cell membrane‐derived nanocarrier (mCas9‐sGNRs) is proposed for synergistic photothermal/gene therapy (PTT/GT) by efficient delivery of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (Cas9) and gold nanorods (GNRs). In this approach, Cas9 proteins can be efficiently loaded inside the cell membranes (mCas9) by electrostatic interactions. Similarly, single‐guide RNAs, which target survivin, can be loaded onto GNRs (sGNRs) through electrostatic interactions and encapsulated by mCas9. As a result, the nanodelivery systems present advantages in biocompatibility, homologous targeting capacity and loading efficiency of cargoes. In addition, significant antitumor effects is achieved by gene editing of survivin which induces anticancer activity and reduces heat tolerance of cancer cells caused by GNRs mediated PTT due to the downregulation of HSP70. These results indicate the nanotherapeutic platform leads to enhanced PTT/GT efficacy. Therefore, this work not only provides a general strategy to construct a versatile nanoplatform for loading and target delivery of several therapeutic cargos but will also be valuable for PTT/GT and other bimodal synergistic therapy.
Reprogramming Mitochondrial Metabolism in Synovial Macrophages of Early Osteoarthritis by a Camouflaged Meta‐Defensome
Authors: Zhang Lei , Chen Xiang , Cai Pingqiang , Sun Han , Shen Siyu , Guo Baosheng , Jiang Qing
Published: June 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a low‐grade inflammatory and progressive joint disease, and its progression is closely associated with an imbalance in M1/M2 synovial macrophages. Repolarizing pro‐inflammatory M1 macrophages into the anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype is emerging as a strategy to alleviate OA progression but is compromised by unsatisfactory efficiency. In this study, the reprogramming of mitochondrial dysfunction is pioneered with a camouflaged meta‐Defensome, which can transform M1 synovial macrophages into the M2 phenotype with a high efficiency of 82.3%. The meta‐Defensome recognizes activated macrophages via receptor–ligand interactions and accumulates in the mitochondria through electrostatic attractions. These meta‐Defensomes are macrophage‐membrane‐coated polymeric nanoparticles decorated with dual ligands and co‐loaded with S‐methylisothiourea and MnO2. Meta‐Defensomes are demonstrated to successfully reprogram the mitochondrial metabolism of M1 macrophages by scavenging mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and inhibiting mitochondrial NO synthase, thereby increasing mitochondrial transcription factor A expression and restoring aerobic respiration. Furthermore, meta‐Defensomes are intravenously injected into collagenase‐induced osteoarthritis mice and effectively suppress synovial inflammation and progression of early OA, as evident from the Osteoarthritis Research Society International score. Therefore, reprogramming the mitochondrial metabolism can serve as a novel and practical approach to repolarize M1 synovial macrophages. The camouflaged meta‐Defensomes are a promising therapeutic agent for impeding OA progression in tclinic.
Intracellular Crowding by Bio‐Orthogonal Hydrogel Formation Induces Reversible Molecular Stasis
Authors: Macdougall Laura J. , Hoffman Timothy E. , Kirkpatrick Bruce E. , Fairbanks Benjamin D. , Bowman Christopher N. , Spencer Sabrina L. , Anseth Kristi S.
Published: June 2022

To survive extreme conditions, certain animals enter a reversible protective stasis through vitrification of the cytosol by polymeric molecules such as proteins and polysaccharides. In this work, synthetic gelation of the cytosol in living cells is used to induce reversible molecular stasis. Through the sequential lipofectamine‐mediated transfection of complementary poly(ethylene glycol) macromers into mammalian cells, intracellular crosslinking occurs through bio‐orthogonal strain‐promoted azide–alkyne cycloaddition click reactions. This achieves efficient polymer uptake with minimal cell death (99% viable). Intracellular crosslinking decreases DNA replication and protein synthesis, and increases the quiescent population by 2.5‐fold. Real‐time tracking of single cells containing intracellular crosslinked polymers identifies increases in intermitotic time (15 h vs 19 h) and decreases in motility (30 µm h−1 vs 15 µm h−1). The cytosol viscosity increases threefold after intracellular crosslinking and results in disordered cytoskeletal structure in addition to the disruption of cellular coordination in a scratch assay. By incorporating photodegradable nitrobenzyl moieties into the polymer backbone, the effects of intracellular crosslinking are reversed upon exposure to light, thereby restoring proliferation (80% phospho‐Rb+ cells), protein translation, and migration. Reversible intracellular crosslinking provides a novel method for dynamic manipulation of intracellular mechanics, altering essential processes that determine cellular function.
Progressive White Matter Injury in Preclinical Dutch Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
Authors: Shirzadi Zahra , Yau Wai‐Ying W. , Schultz Stephanie A. , Schultz Aaron P. , Scott Matthew R. , Goubran Maged , Mojiri‐Forooshani Parisa , Joseph‐Mathurin Nelly , Kantarci Kejal , Preboske Greg , Wermer Marieke J. H. , Jack Clifford , Benzinger Tammie , Taddei Kevin , Sohrabi Hamid R. , Sperling Reisa A. , Johnson Keith A. , Bateman Randall J. , Martins Ralph N. , Greenberg Steven M. , Chhatwal Jasmeer P. ,   DIAN Investigators
Published: June 2022

Autosomal‐dominant, Dutch‐type cerebral amyloid angiopathy (D‐CAA) offers a unique opportunity to develop biomarkers for pre‐symptomatic cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). We hypothesized that neuroimaging measures of white matter injury would be present and progressive in D‐CAA prior to hemorrhagic lesions or symptomatic hemorrhage. In a longitudinal cohort of D‐CAA carriers and non‐carriers, we observed divergence of white matter injury measures between D‐CAA carriers and non‐carriers prior to the appearance of cerebral microbleeds and >14 years before the average age of first symptomatic hemorrhage. These results indicate that white matter disruption measures may be valuable cross‐sectional and longitudinal biomarkers of D‐CAA progression. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:358–363
Homochiral Multiferroic Cyanido‐Bridged Dimetallic Complexes Assembled by C−F⋅⋅⋅K Interactions
Authors: Mao Yu , Chen Xiao‐Gang , Gu Zhu‐Xiao , Zhang Zhi‐Xu , Song Xian‐Jiang , Gu Ning , Xiong Ren‐Gen
Published: June 2022

Cyanido‐bridged dimetallic complexes are attracting attention due to their varied structures and properties. However, homochiral cyanido‐bridged dimetallic complexes are rare, and making them ferroelectric is a great challenge. Introducing C−F⋅⋅⋅K interactions between the guest chiral cations and the host [KFe(CN)6]2− framework, gives three‐dimensional cyanido‐bridged dimetallic multiferroics, [R‐ and S‐3‐fluoropyrrolidinium]2[KFe(CN)6] (R‐ and S‐3‐FPC). The mirror‐symmetric vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) signal shows their enantiomeric nature. R‐ and S‐3‐FPC crystallize in the same chiral‐polar space group P21 at 298 K. Piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM), polarizing optical microscopy, and temperature‐dependent second‐harmonic generation (SHG) measurements show their multiferroic properties (the coexistence of ferroelectricity and ferroelasticity), in line with the Aizu notation of 222F2. R‐3‐FPC shows excellent ferroelectricity with saturated polarization up to 9.4 μC cm−2.
Bioinspired Asymmetric Total Synthesis of Emeriones A–C**
Authors: Jänner Sven , Isak Daniel , Li Yuli , Houk Kendall N. , Miller Aubry K.
Published: June 2022

We report asymmetric bioinspired total syntheses of the fungal metabolites emeriones A–C via stereoselective oxidations of two bicyclo[4.2.0]octadiene diastereomers. The central bicyclic scaffolds are prepared in an 8π/6π electrocyclization cascade of a stereodefined pentaene, which contains the fully assembled side chains of the emeriones. The anti‐aldol side chain is made using a Paterson‐aldol addition, and the epoxide of the dioxabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane side chain via ring‐closure onto an oxidized acetal. Our work has enabled the structural revision of emerione C, and resulted in the synthesis of a “missing” family member, which we call emerione D. DFT calculations identified two methyl groups that govern torquoselectivity in the 8π/6π cascade.
Ultra‐Sensitive, Selective and Repeatable Fluorescence Sensor for Methanol Based on a Highly Emissive 0D Hybrid Lead‐Free Perovskite
Authors: Li Dong‐Yang , Song Jun‐Hua , Cheng Yu , Wu Xiao‐Min , Wang Yu‐Yin , Sun Chuan‐Ju , Yue Cheng‐Yang , Lei Xiao‐Wu
Published: June 2022

A convenient and rapid detection method for methanol in ethanol remains a major challenge due to their indistinguishable physical properties. Herein, a novel fluorescence probe based on perovskite was successfully designed to overcome this bottleneck. We report a new zero‐dimensional (0D) hybrid perovskite of [MP]2InxSb1−xCl7 ⋅ 6 H2O (MP=2‐methylpiperazine) displaying an unusual green light emission with near‐unity photoluminescence quantum yield. Remarkably, this 0D perovskite exhibits reversible methanol‐response luminescence switching between green and yellow color but fail in any other organic vapors. Even for blended alcohol solutions, the luminescent probe exhibits excellent sensing performance with multiple superiorities of rapid response time (30 s) and ultra‐low detection limit (40 ppm), etc. Therefore, this 0D perovskite can be utilized as a perfect fluorescence probe to detect traces of methanol from ethanol with ultrahigh sensitivity, selectivity and repeatability. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first perovskite as fluorescence probe for methanol with wide potential in environmental monitoring and methanol detection, etc.
Anatomy informs geology: Hydrodynamic dispersal of alligator bones, with implications for taphonomic interpretations of fossil deposits of crocodylians, dinosaurs, and other morphologically novel taxa
Authors: Blob Richard W. , Espinoza Isabel Z. G. , Iijima Masaya
Published: June 2022

Distinctive anatomical features of bones can influence not only how these structures perform in living animals but also the tendency of elements to be transported by flowing water after death. Such transport can be critical in the concentration of fossils from animals that live near freshwater habitats, providing important context for interpreting the composition of paleocommunities. Measurements of the tendency of flowing water to disperse skeletal elements have been collected for diverse taxa, including mammals, turtles, and birds. However, these extant models may not be entirely appropriate for many morphologically distinct extinct lineages, such as non‐avian dinosaurs. To expand the range of models available for evaluating the influence of hydrodynamic transport on the assembly of fossil deposits, we used a flow tank to measure the water speeds that disperse bones from a subadult American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), with the skull and mandible tested in multiple starting orientations. Alligator bones are sorted into three main dispersal groups: early (vertebrae, most girdle elements), intermediate (ribs, most limb bones), and late (pubis, femur), with the skull and mandible varying between intermediate and late depending on orientation. Late dispersing elements tended to be heavy or very flat. These results can refine interpretations of the taphonomic context for deposits of fossil crocodylians and morphologically similar taxa (e.g., choristoderes, phytosaurs) and provide an additional comparative model for deposits of non‐avian dinosaurs. Moreover, variation in hydrodynamic sorting across lineages highlights how distinctive anatomical features can influence the concentration of fossils, shaping understanding of assemblage composition and paleofaunal evolution.
Current Insight into 3D Printing in Solid‐State Lithium‐Ion Batteries: A Perspective
Authors: Ponnada Srikanth , Babu Gorle Demudu , Chandra Bose Rapaka S , Sadat Kiai Maryam , Devi Meghali , Venkateswara Raju Chikkili , Baydogan Nilgun , Kar Nanda Karuna , Marken Frank , Sharma Rakesh K
Published: June 2022

Compared to the state‐of‐art lithium‐ion batteries, the all‐solid‐state batteries offer improved safety along with high energy and power density. Although considerable research has been conducted, the inherent problems arising from solid electrolytes and the lack of suitable electrolytes hinder their development in practical applications. Furthermore, traditional synthesis routes have drawbacks due to limited control to fabricate the solid electrolytes with desired shape and size, impeding their maximum performance. In recent years, additive manufacturing or three‐dimensional (3D) printing techniques have played a vital role in constructing solid‐state batteries because of the rational design of functional electrode and electrolyte materials for batteries with increased performance. 3D printing in batteries may provide a new technology solution for existing challenges and limitations in emerging electronic applications. This process boosts lithium‐ion batteries by creating geometry‐optimized 3D electrodes. 3D printing offers a range of advantages compared to traditional manufacturing methods, including designing and printing more active and passive components (cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes) of batteries. 3D printing offers desired thickness, shape, precise control, topological optimization of complex structure and composition, and a safe approach for preparing stable solid electrolytes, cost‐effective and environmentally friendly.
Soft‐tissue landmarks for tibial baseplate rotational alignment in total knee arthroplasty: A cadaveric study
Authors: Eseonu Onyedikachi , Mactier Mhairi , Ferguson Eilidh , Quondamatteo Fabio , Blyth Mark , Jones Bryn
Published: June 2022

The tip of the tibial tubercle (TTT) is used to assess tibial baseplate rotation in total knee arthroplasty (TKA); however, it can be difficult to palpate and visualize intraoperatively. Several more easily accessible soft‐tissue structures have been proposed as intraoperative assessments, including the patellar tendon's medial border (MBPT) and the junction of the medial third of the patellar tendon (mt‐PT). No studies have described the relationship between the TTT and these proposed landmarks. The aims of the study were to (1) determine the relationship of the soft‐tissue landmarks to the TTT and (2) identify any sex differences in these measures. Measurements of the position of these soft‐tissue landmarks relative to the TTT were made on 56 cadaveric knees (28 female) by two observers at the level of the standard tibial cut (10 mm distal to the lateral tibial plateau). The results obtained were compared by sex and side. On average, 50.7% (SD 6.79, range 33.1%–63.1%) of the patellar tendon footprint was medial to the TTT. There were no significant differences between the sexes or left and right lower limbs. However, there was large variability in the position of all the soft‐tissue landmarks relative to the TTT. The results indicate that, on average, the patellar tendon footprint is evenly spread around the TTT. However, there is a large variability in the anatomical relationship between the soft‐tissue landmarks and the TTT. Caution is advised if relying on these structures intraoperatively.
Reversible, non‐plaque‐induced marginal bone loss around an osseointegrated implant: A case report
Authors: Lind Kristian H. , Ulvik Ingvild M. , Berg Einar , Leknes Knut N.
Published: June 2022

This case report documents a non‐plaque‐induced marginal bone loss around an osseointegrated implant. The loss of osseointegration, most likely caused by overload and/or suboptimal distribution of occlusal loading, may be reversed when the loading is reduced by optimally transmitting stress forces to the implant‐to‐bone interface and surrounding bone.
Single‐Stage Optimized Microwave‐Induced Activated Carbon from Coconut Shell for Cadmium Adsorption
Authors: Yusop Mohamad Firdaus Mohamad , Mohd Johan Jaya Erniza , Mohd Din Azam Taufik , Bello Olugbenga Solomon , Ahmad Mohd Azmier
Published: June 2022

The toxicity of heavy metals motivated the synthesis of coconut shell‐based activated carbon (CSAC) through single‐stage microwave irradiation technique to scavenge cadmium ions (Cd(II)). Response surface methodology revealed the optimum radiation power and radiation time which translated into 85.45 % of Cd(II) removal and 41.78 % of CSAC's yield. Isotherm and kinetic data were best described by Freundlich and pseudo‐first‐order (PFO) models, respectively. The changes of enthalpy, entropy, and activation energy were determined as well as the reduction of CSAC yield and Cd(II) removal after six regeneration cycles.
Visible‐Light Mediated Arbuzov‐Like Reaction with Thiophenols
Authors: Rahaman Rajjakfur , Nair Akshay M. , Volla Chandra M. R.
Published: June 2022

We hereby disclose, a visible light mediated addition of sulfenyl radicals to trialkyl phosphites to access functionalized phosphorothioates. The use of cheap and readily available Eosin Y as a photocatalyst under mild energy efficient conditions bypassing the use of external oxidants forms the chief highlight of the work. The protocol is scalable and mechanistic studies indicate that the reaction proceeds through an ionic‐Arbuzov like pathway from phosphoranyl radicals.
2D NMR‐based MatchNat Dereplication Strategy Enables Explosive Discovery of Novel Diterpenoid Alkaloids†
Authors: Yin Tian‐Peng , Yu Yi , Liu Qing‐Hua , Zhou Ming‐Yue , Zhu Guo‐Yuan , Bai Li‐Ping , Zhang Wei , Jiang Zhi‐Hong
Published: June 2022

Comprehensive Summary

The tribe Delphineae, comprising two genera, Aconitum L. and Delphinium L., is the richest source of bioactive diterpenoid alkaloids (DAs), while their highly similar chemical structures create a major challenge for dereplication from complex mixture. To solve the inefficient discovery process of natural DAs, a novel dereplication strategy based on pattern recognition of specific heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC) signals has been established in this study. This strategy utilized the diagnostic signals in the HMBC spectra of C19‐DAs, which could indicate the structural categories. The newly designed software MatchNat allowed in silico recognition of C19‐DA types. The developed dereplication system was demonstrated to be a practical strategy to dereplicate a variety of natural products from two Delphineae plants, including Aconitum vilmorinianum Kom. and Delphinium pachycentrum Hemsl. Known compounds could be rapidly recognized from the mixture, and novel DAs were found with the aid of MatchNat. Consequently, targeted isolation led to the explosive discovery of a series of novel DAs. This dereplication system has the potential to be adopted for dereplication of any other class of natural products and has shown promising application as a complementary tool in the nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of traditional Chinese medicines.
Accelerated mononuclear cell telomere attrition in breast cancer survivors with depression history: A 2‐year longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Carroll Judith E. , Olmstead Richard , Haque Reina , Irwin Michael R.
Published: June 2022

Background

Cancer treatments are thought to accelerate biological aging, although this trajectory is highly variable. Depression is more prevalent in breast cancer survivors and is thought to be a vulnerability factor for biological aging. A lifetime history of depression and cumulative lifetime number of depression episodes could hypothetically be associated with an accelerated rate of biological aging as indexed by attrition of telomere length in a prospective cohort of breast cancer survivors who were not currently depressed.

Methods

Breast cancer survivors (n = 206) without current depression were recruited from a large community‐based health plan and were assessed for depression history by a structured diagnostic interview. Blood specimens were provided at baseline and every 8 months over 24 months to measure peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) telomere length. Mixed linear models examined associations of depression history and number of depression episodes with change in telomere length, adjusting for demographic, comorbidity, and cancer‐specific factors.

Results

In the fully adjusted model, depression history predicted attrition of PBMC telomere length over 24 months (Beta [SE] = −.006 [.002], p = .001). Greater number of depressive episodes over the lifetime was also associated with accelerated attrition of PBMC telomere length over 24 months (Beta [SE] = −.004 [.001], p = .001).

Conclusions

In breast cancer survivors without current depression, telomere attrition over 24 months was greatest in those with a lifetime depression history, particularly those with the greatest number of episodes of major depressive disorder over their lifetime. Depression history and its cumulative burden may contribute to accelerated biological aging, with implications for risk of morbidity and mortality in breast cancer survivors.
Successful conversion surgery after FOLFIRINOX therapy in a patient with advanced pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma with a solitary peritoneal dissemination: A case report
Authors: Uemura Sunao , Maeda Hiromichi , Tanioka Nobuhisa , Yamaguchi Sachi , Munekage Masaya , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Namikawa Tsutomu , Yamamoto Shota , Kohsaki Takuhiro , Iguchi Mitsuko , Uchida Kazushige , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: June 2022

Background

Pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma is rare; it accounts for 1% of all malignant pancreatic exocrine tumors. Although surgical resection is an option for curative treatment, the safety and efficacy of conversion surgery in patients with pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma with metastasis remain unknown.

Case

A 67‐year‐old man with epigastric pain and a pancreatic tumor was referred to our hospital. Computed tomography revealed a large tumor with a maximum diameter of 67 mm at the pancreatic head and a 23‐mm mass in the left upper abdominal cavity. Because a definitive diagnosis could not be made based on endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsy findings, a diagnostic laparoscopy was performed. The tumor in the greater omentum at the left upper abdomen, resected under laparoscopy, was histopathologically diagnosed as pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma. Therefore, the pancreatic tumor was diagnosed as an unresectable pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma with a solitary peritoneal dissemination. The size of the main pancreatic tumor decreased to 15 mm after 18 courses of FOLFIRINOX (5‐fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin). Subsequently, the patient underwent conversion surgery, and the initial diagnosis of pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma was confirmed on pathological examination. The patient was discharged 31 days postoperatively, following which he received adjuvant chemotherapy with S‐1. No sign of recurrence has been observed for 32 months after surgical resection.

Conclusion

FOLFIRINOX may be effective in patients with pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma, and conversion surgery after FOLFIRINOX may be applicable to selective patients.
Immunofluorescence‐Mediated Detection of Respiratory Virus Infections in Human Airway Epithelial Cultures
Authors: Gagliardi Talita B. , Iverson Ethan , DeGrace Emma J. , Rosenberg Brad R. , Scull Margaret A.
Published: June 2022

A diverse collection of viral pathogens target airway epithelial cells for infection, with effects ranging from mild upper respiratory tract symptoms to death of the infected individual. Among these pathogens are recently discovered and/or emergent viruses that sometimes fail to infect commonly used, immortalized cell lines and for which infection phenotypes in the respiratory tract remain unknown. Human airway epithelial cultures have been developed over the past several decades and have proven to be a useful model system in culturing hard‐to‐grow viruses and assaying various features of infection in a physiologically relevant setting. This article includes methods for the generation of well‐differentiated human airway epithelial cell cultures at air‐liquid interface that recapitulate the mucosal epithelium of the trachea/bronchus in vivo. We further detail inoculation of these cultures with respiratory viruses—specifically rhinovirus, influenza virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)—and provide a protocol for the detection of double‐stranded RNA or viral antigen–positive cells by immunofluorescence microscopy. These techniques, together with a post‐imaging analysis, can be applied to characterize the efficiency of infection and kinetics of spread within the airway epithelium. Furthermore, these methods can be utilized in conjunction with antibodies against cellular targets to determine cell tropism and colocalization with specific host factors during infection. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Generation of human airway epithelial cultures at air‐liquid interface (HAE‐ALI)

Basic Protocol 2: Viral inoculation of HAE‐ALI

Basic Protocol 3: Immunofluorescence (IF)‐based detection of infected cells in HAE‐ALI