bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison between Chicken Viscera and Housefly Maggot Cultured from this By-products for Nile Tilapia Diets: Growth Performance, Feed Utilization and Whole Body Composition
Authors: Alofa Cayen S. , Abou Youssouf
Published: January 2020

Aims: The feeding trials were conducted to compare the effects of partial fishmeal replacement by two different animal protein sources on growth performance, feed utilization efficiency and body composition of juvenile Nile tilapia.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Aquaculture Research Center, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences and Technics, University of Abomey-Calavi for a period of 84 days.

Methodology: Three isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated containing fishmeal (CD), chicken viscera meal (CVM) and housefly maggot meal (HMM), as partial fishmeal replacement. Commercial diet Skretting (SK) was used as reference diet. All male Oreochromis niloticus with an average initial body weight of 8.65 g were fed thrice a day to apparent satiation. Each treatment was randomly attributed to three replicates.

Results: Fish fed all experimental diets showed no effects (P>.05) on survival rate (91.33-96.00 %), condition factor (1.85-1.9), protein efficient ratio (2.05-2.37) and feed conversion ratio (1.21-1.40), although higher values were observed with control diets. Final mean weight and daily weight gain of fish fed HMM diet (88.31 g ; 0.95 g. days-1) were not significantly different from those fed control diets C (88.54 g; 0.95 g/j) and Sk (87.59 g; 0.94 g/j) respectively. Growth performances significantly decreased (P<.05) in CVM group (75.09 g; 0.75 ± g/j). Whole-body protein contents were similar in all groups, whereas lipid content was highest in those fed CVM.

Conclusion: The results indicated that 200 g fishmeal per kilo diet can be successfully replaced with 250 g.Kg-1 of HMM without adverse effect on growth and feed utilization whereas CVM inclusion did not perform also well.
A Study of the Lipid Structure of Castor Seed Oil (Ricinus communis L), Biodiesel and Its Characterization
Authors: Bello K. , Airen F. , Akinola A. O. , Bello E. I.
Published: January 2020

The paper characterized and transesterified castor seed oil. The resulting product was tested as feedstock for biodiesel production. It was carried out at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria, over a period of eight months. The oil was extracted in a soxhlet extractor with n-hexane as the solvent. The oil obtained was filtered and then characterized. Transesterification was carried out using a laboratory scale biodiesel processor. The fuel and physico-chemical properties of the oil and its biodiesel were determined following ASTM, EN and AOCS methods. The results revealed that all the properties of the biodiesel are within the ASTM limits for biodiesel except the kinematic viscosity. The oil contains 89% ricinoleic acid and has high solubility in methanol due to the hydroxyl group and requires minimum amount of catalyst to give maximum biodiesel yield. The heating value obtained for the oil and its biodiesel were 32 MJ/kg and 38 MJ/kg. The castor seed oil investigated has oil content of 34%, and the properties characterized are all within the limits for biodiesel.  Castor oil has excellent solubility in methanol and hence theoretically an ideal feedstock for biodiesel production.
Conservation Agriculture Mechanization Practices for Small Holders under Soybean-wheat Cropping Pattern
Authors: Kumar Manish , Din M. , Magar A. P. , Singh Dushyant
Published: January 2020

The field study was conducted under wheat-soybean cropping pattern during Kharif and Rabi with wheat crops at ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering Bhopal to identify the appropriate package of animal drawn implements suitable to small and marginal farmers for conservation agriculture. Different tillage treatments viz. no-tillage, minimum tillage and conventional tillage system were adopted using animal power during the field experiments. The grain yield was found significantly higher in minimum tillage and conventional tillage as compared to no-till for all cropping patterns. Additionally, minimum tillage saves 20% more operational cost and 34% operational energy as compared to conventional tillage. The average soil cone index was found in the range of 1.32 to 1.42 MPa with different tillage treatments. The soil bulk density was found in the range of 1.20 to 1.22 for all tillage conditions. The soil organic carbon was found significantly higher in the next after second year of practice in the case no-tillage (0.64) and minimum tillage (0.60) as compared to conventional (0.55).The result indicated that practice of conservation agriculture through minimum tillage is possible in soybean-wheat crop rotation through animal power that could be benefited for small and marginal farmers and performed better timeliness in operations.
Evaluation of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Hybrids for Quality Traits, Yield and Fruit under Polyhouse Conditions
Authors: Singh Mohan , D. Ameta K. , A. Kaushik R. , S. Rajawat K.
Published: January 2020

An experiment was conducted at Hi-Tech Unit, Department of Horticulture, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur during the year 2017-18 to evaluate the yield and quality traits of tomato hybrids under polyhouse condition. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design with nine hybrids replicated four times. The analysis of variance revealed significant variation among the hybrids for all the characters. The experiment results revealed that hybrid Dev was performed extremely well under polyhouse condition with respect to yield parameters viz. yield per plant (5.50 kg) and yield per square meter (24.42 kg). The observation recorded for biochemical analysis showed that maximum titratable acidity (0.509%), ascorbic acid (17.76 mg/100 g) and lycopene content (5.80 mg/100 g) were recorded in hybrid Arka Samrat. Based on the above experiment Dev and Arka Samrat are promising hybrids under polyhouse cultivation.
FT-IR Spectroscopic Characteristics of Ganoderma lucidum Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Sangeetha B. , Krishnamoorthy A. S. , Amirtham D. , Sundara Sharmila D. Jeya , Renukadevi P. , G. Malathi V.
Published: January 2020

Ganoderma lucidum is an important medicinal mushroom widely used in pharmaceuticals for their antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer and immunoregulatory properties and also used in agriculture as an antiviral and antibacterial agent. Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is a tool widely used in the researches for the identification of organic compounds in the organism. In our study, we used FT-IR Spectroscopy for determination the chemical nature of Ganoderma lucidum, and their standards Squalene and Ganoderic acid A. In the FT-IR spectrum for the G. lucidum obtained in the region of 3782.69 cm-1 to 568.898 cm-1 the absorptions peak represents the alcohols, halogens, silicon and phosphorus groups present in the sample. In the squalene standard, ketones, amides, and guanidine, nitrile and azine stretches were found in the wavelength 1655-1550 cm-1. In the Ganoderic acid A sulfur compounds with weak stretching intensity were obtained in the wavelength 500-400 cm-1. We have concluded that FT-IR spectroscopy is an effective method to analyze the chemical nature of the organic groups present in the samples.
Therapeutic Effect of Ethanol Extract of Anthocleista vogelii Stem Bark in the Treatment of Jaundice on Paracetamol-induced Hepatotoxicity in Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Olatunji B. A. , Ogunka-Nnoka C. U.
Published: January 2020

This study investigated therapeutic effect of ethanol extract of Anthocleista vogelii stem bark (EEAV) in the treatment of jaundice on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in adult wistar rats. A total of 30 wistar rats weighing between 160-200 g were distributed into 6 groups comprising group 1 (normal control), group 2 (paracetamol 2 g/Kg bw), group 3 (paracetamol 2 g/Kg bw + Silymarin 100mg/Kg bw) and groups 4-6 (paracetamol 2 g/Kg bw each + 250, 500, & 1000 mg/Kg bw of EEAV, respectively). Experiment lasted for a period of 16 days. Paracetamol induction elevated liver indices and enzyme activities. However, administration of EEAV significantly reduced (p≤0.05) these effects in groups 3-6 when compared to group 2. A significant elevation (p≤0.05) was reported in creatinine, urea, sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) when group 2 was compared with group 1. Haematological study showed that packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) and red blood cell (RBC) levels significantly increased (p≤0.05) in treatment groups 3-6 when compared to group 2. The catalase (CAT) activity increased significantly (p≤0.05) in groups 3, 4 and 6 when compared to group 2. Liver histology showed normal hepatocytes architecture with normal central vein in group 1. Group 2 revealed a histologically distorted liver tissue while there was regeneration of hepatic cells in groups 3-6. The study revealed that EEAV could serve as potent herbal therapeutic agent in the treatment of jaundice triggered by paracetamol induction in adult wistar rats.
Intra Ocular Lens Technology - A Review of Journey from Its Inception
Authors: Kumari Ragni , Ranjan Srivastava Mrinal , Garg Pragati , Janardhanan Rajiv
Published: January 2020

Aim: To understand the advancement and development in Intraocular lens.

Introduction: Now a day cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in the world. Removing the opaque, cataractous lens and replacing it with an artificial lens to achieve near to normal visual acuity post operatively is not only accepted but by and large a mandatory norm.

Findings: The lenses used for the purpose are called Intra Ocular Lens. Ridley’s brilliance has improved the lives of many millions of people. The gradual improvement in IOL design, first in making flexible lenses, then the ever-improving optical outcomes have meant that vision after cataract surgery has never been better – in the developed world.

Conclusion: We have come a long way in terms of IOL design, but many people with cataracts in rural areas of the developing world, need help to catch up.
Advantages of Surface Ablation in Excimer Laser Surgery
Authors: Chraibi Fouad
Published: January 2020

In this article, we review the advantages of corneal laser surface surgery to explain the current trend toward this technique. The excimer laser in corneal surface surgery can be used for two reasons. On the one hand, to correct a refractive error by photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and its two variants; Laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) and Epithelial Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Epi-lasik).

On the other hand, it is used to perform superficial corneal capacities photoablation, among other uses, by Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK).

PRK is regaining popularity thanks to its better safety profile, mitomycin C usage and improvement of photoablation profiles. Lasek and Epilasik are less frequently performed nowadays.

PTK is an important element in the techniques used to improve visual acuity in a wide range of corneal conditions such as corneal scars, recurrent erosion syndrome and corneal dystrophies.
Understanding the role of OXPHOS dysfunction in the pathogenesis of ECHS1 deficiency
Authors: Burgin Harrison James , McKenzie Matthew
Published: January 2020

Mitochondria provide the main source of energy for eukaryotic cells, oxidizing fatty acids and sugars to generate ATP. Mitochondrial fatty acid β‐oxidation (FAO) and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) are two key pathways involved in this process. Disruption of FAO can cause human disease, with patients commonly presenting with liver failure, hypoketotic glycaemia and rhabdomyolysis. However, patients with deficiencies in the FAO enzyme short‐chain enoyl‐CoA hydratase 1 (ECHS1) are typically diagnosed with Leigh syndrome, a lethal form of subacute necrotizing encephalomyelopathy that is normally associated with OXPHOS dysfunction. Furthermore, some ECHS1‐deficient patients also exhibit secondary OXPHOS defects. This sequela of FAO disorders has long been thought to be caused by the accumulation of inhibitory fatty acid intermediates. However, new evidence suggests that the mechanisms involved are more complex, and that disruption of OXPHOS protein complex biogenesis and/or stability is also involved. In this review, we examine the clinical, biochemical and genetic features of all ECHS1‐deficient patients described to date. In particular, we consider the secondary OXPHOS defects associated with ECHS1 deficiency and discuss their possible contribution to disease pathogenesis.
The brain acid‐soluble protein 1 (BASP1) interferes with the oncogenic capacity of MYC and its binding to calmodulin
Authors: Hartl Markus , Puglisi Kane , Nist Andrea , Raffeiner Philipp , Bister Klaus
Published: January 2020

The MYC protein is a transcription factor with oncogenic potential controlling fundamental cellular processes such as cell proliferation, metabolism, differentiation, and apoptosis. The MYC gene is a major cancer driver, and elevated MYC protein levels are a hallmark of most human cancers. We have previously shown that the brain acid‐soluble protein 1 gene (BASP1) is specifically downregulated by the v‐myc oncogene and that ectopic BASP1 expression inhibits v‐myc‐induced cell transformation. The 11‐amino acid effector domain of the BASP1 protein interacts with the calcium sensor calmodulin (CaM) and is mainly responsible for this inhibitory function. We also reported recently that CaM interacts with all MYC variant proteins and that ectopic CaM increases the transactivation and transformation potential of the v‐Myc protein. Here, we show that the presence of excess BASP1 or of a synthetic BASP1 effector domain peptide leads to displacement of v‐Myc from CaM. The protein stability of v‐Myc is decreased in cells co‐expressing v‐Myc and BASP1, which may account for the inhibition of v‐Myc. Furthermore, suppression of v‐Myc‐triggered transcriptional activation and cell transformation is compensated by ectopic CaM, suggesting that BASP1‐mediated withdrawal of CaM from v‐Myc is a crucial event in the inhibition. In view of the tumor‐suppressive role of BASP1 which was recently also reported for human cancer, small compounds or peptides based on the BASP1 effector domain could be used in drug development strategies aimed at tumors with high MYC expression.
Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Mollayeva Tatyana
Published: January 2020

Traumatic brain injury, generally defined as an alteration in brain function, or other evidence of brain pathology as a result of an external force, has established itself as a significant threat to public health. It impacts survivors and their families, and demonstrates clear economic repercussions at the societal level, costing hundreds of billions of dollars annually worldwide. To detect, manage and prevent this complex and often lifelong disabling injury, it is essential to understand its distribution and patterns, and have comprehensive knowledge of persons at risk of injury and adverse outcomes.

Key Concepts

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is on the rise worldwide.

The lack of a universal definition of TBI presents a problem for quantification of true TBI burden.

The baseline clinical severity measures for TBI are often based on symptomatology, loss of consciousness and post‐traumatic amnesia; discordance between clinical severity and evidence of injury based on neuroimaging is common; investment in biomarkers of neuronal and glial integrity is growing.

Persons with similar injury severity and acute presentation can experience significantly different clinical course and functional outcomes.

Certain groups of people are more vulnerable to TBI and adverse outcomes than others, owing to unique interactions between their biological, behavioural, social and cultural standing before and after the injury.

Clinicians, researchers and policy leaders dealing with critical injuries with long‐lasting effects such as TBI cannot afford to leave its probability in the future to chance; greater investment in injury prevention is timely.
Integration of Graphene Electrodes with 3D Skeletal Muscle Tissue Models
Authors: Kim Yongdeok , Pagan‐Diaz Gelson , Gapinske Lauren , Kim Yerim , Suh Judy , Solomon Emilia , Harris Jennifer Foster , Nam SungWoo , Bashir Rashid
Published: January 2020

Integration of conductive electrodes with 3D tissue models can have great potential for applications in bioelectronics, drug screening, and implantable devices. As conventional electrodes cannot be easily integrated on 3D, polymeric, and biocompatible substrates, alternatives are highly desirable. Graphene offers significant advantages over conventional electrodes due to its mechanical flexibility and robustness, biocompatibility, and electrical properties. However, the transfer of chemical vapor deposition graphene onto millimeter scale 3D structures is challenging using conventional wet graphene transfer methods with a rigid poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) supportive layer. Here, a biocompatible 3D graphene transfer method onto 3D printed structure using a soft poly ethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) supportive layer to integrate the graphene layer with a 3D engineered ring of skeletal muscle tissue is reported. The use of softer PEGDA supportive layer, with a 105 times lower Young's modulus compared to PMMA, results in conformal integration of the graphene with 3D printed pillars and allows electrical stimulation and actuation of the muscle ring with various applied voltages and frequencies. The graphene integration method can be applied to many 3D tissue models and be used as a platform for electrical interfaces to 3D biological tissue system.
High‐Aspect‐Ratio Nanostructured Surfaces as Biological Metamaterials
Authors: Higgins Stuart G. , Becce Michele , Belessiotis‐Richards Alexis , Seong Hyejeong , Sero Julia E. , Stevens Molly M.
Published: January 2020

Materials patterned with high‐aspect‐ratio nanostructures have features on similar length scales to cellular components. These surfaces are an extreme topography on the cellular level and have become useful tools for perturbing and sensing the cellular environment. Motivation comes from the ability of high‐aspect‐ratio nanostructures to deliver cargoes into cells and tissues, access the intracellular environment, and control cell behavior. These structures directly perturb cells' ability to sense and respond to external forces, influencing cell fate, and enabling new mechanistic studies. Through careful design of their nanoscale structure, these systems act as biological metamaterials, eliciting unusual biological responses. While predominantly used to interface eukaryotic cells, there is growing interest in nonanimal and prokaryotic cell interfacing. Both experimental and theoretical studies have attempted to develop a mechanistic understanding for the observed behaviors, predominantly focusing on the cell–nanostructure interface. This review considers how high‐aspect‐ratio nanostructured surfaces are used to both stimulate and sense biological systems.
Piezocapacitive Flexible E‐Skin Pressure Sensors Having Magnetically Grown Microstructures
Authors: Asghar Waqas , Li Fali , Zhou Youlin , Wu Yuanzhao , Yu Zhe , Li Shengbin , Tang Daxiu , Han Xintong , Shang Jie , Liu Yiwei , Li Run‐Wei
Published: January 2020

Flexible pressure sensors are highly desirable in artificial intelligence, health monitoring, and soft robotics. Microstructuring of dielectrics is the common strategy employed to improve the performance of capacitive type pressure sensors. Herein, a novel, low‐cost, large‐area compatible, and mold‐free technique is reported in which magnetically grown microneedles are self‐assembled from a film of curable magnetorheological fluid (CMRF) under the influence of a vertical curing magnetic field (Bcuring). After optimizing the microneedles' fabrication parameters, i.e., magnetic particles' (MPs') concentration and Bcuring intensity, piezocapacitive sensors capable of wide range pressure sensing (0–145 kPa) with ultrafast response time (50 ms), high cyclic stability (>9000 cycles), as well as very low detection limit (1.9 Pa) are obtained. Sensor properties are found dependent on microneedles' fabrication parameters that are controllable, produce variable‐sized microneedles, and allow to govern sensing properties according to desired applications. Finally, the sensor is employed in holding a bottle with different weights, human breath, and motion monitoring, which demonstrate its great potential for the applications of human–machine interaction, human health monitoring, and intelligent soft robotics.
High‐Efficiency Formamidinium Lead Bromide Perovskite Nanocrystal‐Based Light‐Emitting Diodes Fabricated via a Surface Defect Self‐Passivation Strategy
Authors: Chen Hongting , Fan Lianwei , Zhang Rui , Bao Chunxiong , Zhao Haifeng , Xiang Wei , Liu Wei , Niu Guangda , Guo Runda , Zhang Louwen , Wang Lei
Published: January 2020

Formamidinium lead bromide (FAPbBr3) nanocrystals (NCs) demonstrate great potential in light‐emitting diode (LED) applications due to their pure green emission and excellent stability. However, the abundant defects at the surface of the NCs act as charge trapping centers and significantly increase the trap‐assisted nonradiative recombination channels, hampering the performance improvement of LEDs based on FAPbBr3 NCs. Herein, a facile self‐passivation strategy of the surface defects is developed by introducing excess formamidinium bromide (FABr) during the colloidal synthesis of NCs, leading to much improved photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of the obtained NCs. In addition, enhanced charge transport property is measured in the assembled films owing to the simultaneously declined insulating ligands at the surface of NCs. The molar ratio of FABr and PbBr2 is rationally optimized during the synthesis of NCs and high‐efficient green‐emissive LEDs are fabricated with a champion current efficiency of 76.8 cd A−1, corresponding to an external quantum efficiency of 17.1%, which is among the best‐performing green LEDs based on perovskite NCs so far.
Sampling probes affect bulk density and soil organic carbon measurements
Authors: Sharma Sumit , Wilson Tracy , Ochsner Tyson , Warren Jason G.
Published: January 2020

Soil sampling equipment can be a major source of bias in soil organic carbon (SOC) stock estimations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of sampling probes on soil bulk density (BD) and SOC stocks calculated using fixed depth (FD) and equivalent soil mass (ESM) methods. Soil samples were collected to 30 cm using three probes with different diameters and divided into 0–10‐, 10–20‐, and 20–30‐cm layers. The probe with smallest diameter measured higher BD at 0–10 cm in 42% of fields and was significantly different when averaged across fields, while no consistent differences were observed at lower depths. This study shows that sampling probes with different diameters may introduce biases in BD and SOC measurements at individual or combined soil layers when calculated using the FD approach. The ESM approach reduced the differences in mean SOC stocks calculated using different probes.
Spin‐Orbit Torque Driven Magnetization Switching and Precession by Manipulating Thickness of CoFeB/W Heterostructures
Authors: Kim Changsoo , Chun Byong Sun , Yoon Jungbum , Kim Dongseuk , Kim Yong Jin , Cha In Ho , Kim Gyu Won , Kim Dae Hyun , Moon Kyoung‐Woong , Kim Young Keun , Hwang Chanyong
Published: January 2020

The switching of magnetization via spin‐orbit torque has attracted much attention because of its fast switching and low power consumption. Numerous studies have focused on increasing the conversion efficiency from charge to spin current and out‐of‐plane magnetization cases. Recently, there have been reports on the fast and deterministic switching of in‐plane magnetization devices. It is reported that an in‐plane spin‐orbit torque (SOT) device can archive the oscillation, precession, and direct switching by a combination of torques—controlling the thickness of the ferromagnet and normal metal. With proper layer thicknesses, the device can show the three dynamics listed above at each current density in a macro spin simulation. Based on an understanding of the role of torque‐driving magnetization dynamics, a dynamic map of an in‐plane SOT device depending on torque efficiency and current density is shown.
Synergistic Regulation of Phonon and Electronic Properties to Improve the Thermoelectric Performance of Chalcogenide CuIn1−xGaxTe2:yInTe (x = 0–0.3) with In Situ Formed Nanoscale Phase InTe
Authors: Li Min , Luo Yong , Hu Xiaojuan , Cai Gemei , Han Zhongkang , Du Zhengliang , Cui Jiaolin
Published: January 2020

Most ternary Cu‐In‐Te chalcogenides have large bandgaps and high Seebeck coefficients, hence they have received much attention in the thermoelectric (TE) community. However, it is still challenging to reduce their thermal conductivities while sustaining their electrical properties; therefore, much work needs to be done. The phonon and electronic properties in ternary CuInTe2‐based chalcogenides CuIn1−xGaxTe2:yInTe (x = 0–0.3) with in situ formed nanoscale phase InTe precipitated in the grain boundaries is synergistically regulated. This regulation reduces the lattice thermal conductivity by a factor of ≈2 compared to pristine CuInTe2, due to phonon–phonon interaction and point defect scatterings introduced in the main phase at high temperatures for samples at x ≤ 0.2, combined with the phonon blocking effect from InTe at low and middle temperatures. At the same time, the power factor enhances by 73%. As a result, the TE performance improves significantly with a peak figure of merit value of 1.22 at ≈850 K.
A mesoporous silica nanoparticle technology applied in dilute nutrient solution accelerated establishment of zoysiagrass
Authors: Adams Curtis B. , Erickson John E. , Bunderson Landon
Published: January 2020

Use of nanoparticles in agriculture is anticipated to have beneficial outcomes, including the potential for improving nutrient delivery. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) are hydrophilic porous materials with high surface area and charge and have been shown to be taken up and mobilized by plants. Untreated MSNPs have interacted with plant nutrition in controlled studies, but little research has been conducted in the field. In this study, we tested the impact of a commercially available MSNP technology on establishment of two turfgrasses from sprigs in North Central Florida. Treatments included combinations of MSNPs (–NP, with no nanoparticles; +NP, with nanoparticles), which were foliarly applied in dilute nutrient solution, and two rates of background fertility (high and low fertility), which were applied by granular fertilizer. All treatments were applied weekly. The MSNPs were effective in enhancing the rate of establishment in zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) in combination with both high and low fertility. For the low fertility +NP treatment, this substantially improved nutrient‐use efficiency, as establishment was reduced by just 7.6% compared to the high fertility –NP treatment with 75% less fertilizer. No impact was observed on bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. Transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy). Tissue nutrient concentrations indicated the nutrients most likely limiting growth were K, Mg, Ca, Zn, and Mn. The results suggest MSNPs provided more effective delivery of one or more limiting nutrients to zoysiagrass than nutrients from other sources, enhancing the rate of growth. The MSNPs offer the potential to establish turfgrasses with lower fertilizer inputs.
Transgenerational impacts of herbivory and inbreeding on reproductive output in Solanum carolinense
Authors: Nihranz Chad T. , Walker William S. , Brown Steven J. , Mescher Mark C. , De Moraes Consuelo M. , Stephenson Andrew G.
Published: January 2020

Premise

Plant maternal effects on offspring phenotypes are well documented. However, little is known about how herbivory on maternal plants affects offspring fitness. Furthermore, while inbreeding is known to reduce plant reproductive output, previous studies have not explored whether and how such effects may extend across generations. Here, we addressed the transgenerational consequences of herbivory and maternal plant inbreeding on the reproduction of Solanum carolinense offspring.

Methods

Manduca sexta caterpillars were used to inflict weekly damage on inbred and outbred S. carolinense maternal plants. Cross‐pollinations were performed by hand to produce seed from herbivore‐damaged outbred plants, herbivore‐damaged inbred plants, undamaged outbred plants, and undamaged inbred plants. The resulting seeds were grown in the greenhouse to assess emergence rate and flower production in the absence of herbivores. We also grew offspring in the field to examine reproductive output under natural conditions.

Results

We found transgenerational effects of herbivory and maternal plant inbreeding on seedling emergence and reproductive output. Offspring of herbivore‐damaged plants had greater emergence, flowered earlier, and produced more flowers and seeds than offspring of undamaged plants. Offspring of outbred maternal plants also had greater seedling emergence and reproductive output than offspring of inbred maternal plants, even though all offspring were outbred. Moreover, the effects of maternal plant inbreeding were more severe when plant offspring were grown in field conditions.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that both herbivory and inbreeding have fitness consequences that extend across generations even in outbred progeny.
Utility of the global CDR® plus NACC FTLD rating and development of scoring rules: Data from the ARTFL/LEFFTDS Consortium
Authors: Miyagawa Toji , Brushaber Danielle , Syrjanen Jeremy , Kremers Walter , Fields Julie , Forsberg Leah K. , Heuer Hilary W. , Knopman David , Kornak John , Boxer Adam , Rosen Howard J. , Boeve Bradley F. , Appleby Brian , Bordelon Yvette , Bove Jessica , Brannelly Patrick , Caso Christina , Coppola Giovanni , Dever Reilly , Dheel Christina , Dickerson Bradford , Dickinson Susan , Dominguez Sophia , Domoto‐Reilly Kimiko , Faber Kelley , Ferrell Jessica , Fishman Ann , Fong Jamie , Foroud Tatiana , Gavrilova Ralitza , Gearhart Debra , Ghazanfari Behnaz , Ghoshal Nupur , Goldman Jill S. , Graff‐Radford Jonathan , Graff‐Radford Neill , Grant Ian , Grossman Murray , Haley Dana , Hsiung Robin , Huey Edward , Irwin David , Jones David , Jones Lynne , Kantarci Kejal , Karydas Anna , Kaufer Daniel , Kerwin Diana , Kraft Ruth , Kramer Joel , Kukull Walter , Litvan Irene , Lucente Diane , Lungu Codrin , Mackenzie Ian , Maldonado Miranda , Manoochehri Masood , McGinnis Scott , McKinley Emily , Mendez Mario F. , Miller Bruce , Multani Namita , Onyike Chiadi , Padmanabhan Jaya , Pantelyat Alexander , Pearlman Rodney , Petrucelli Leonard , Potter Madeline , Rademakers Rosa , Ramos Eliana M. , Rankin Kate , Rascovsky Katya , Roberson Erik D. , Rogalski Emily , Sengdy Pheth , Shaw Leslie , Tartaglia Maria C. , Tatton Nadine , Taylor Joanne , Toga Arthur , Trojanowski John Q. , Wang Ping , Weintraub Sandra , Wong Bonnie , Wszolek Zbigniew
Published: January 2020

Introduction

We created global rating scoring rules for the CDR® plus NACC FTLD to detect and track early frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and to conduct clinical trials in FTLD.

Methods

The CDR plus NACC FTLD rating was applied to 970 sporadic and familial participants from the baseline visit of Advancing Research and Treatment in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (ARTFL)/Longitudinal Evaluation of Familial Frontotemporal Dementia Subjects (LEFFTDS). Each of the eight domains of the CDR plus NACC FTLD was equally weighed in determining the global score. An interrater reliability study was completed for 40 participants.

Results

The CDR plus NACC FTLD showed very good interrater reliability. It was especially useful in detecting clinical features of mild non‐fluent/agrammatic variant primary progressive aphasia participants.

Discussion

The global CDR plus NACC FTLD score could be an attractive outcome measure for clinical trials in symptomatic FTLD, and may be useful in natural history studies and clinical trials in FTLD spectrum disorders.
How Lewis Acids Catalyze Diels–Alder Reactions
Authors: Vermeeren Pascal , Hamlin Trevor A. , Fernández Israel , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: January 2020

The Lewis acid(LA)‐catalyzed Diels–Alder reaction between isoprene and methyl acrylate was investigated quantum chemically using a combined density functional theory and coupled‐cluster theory approach. Computed activation energies systematically decrease as the strength of the LA increases along the series I2<SnCl4<TiCl4<ZnCl2<BF3<AlCl3. Emerging from our activation strain and Kohn–Sham molecular orbital bonding analysis was an unprecedented finding, namely that the LAs accelerate the Diels–Alder reaction by a diminished Pauli repulsion between the π‐electron systems of the diene and dienophile. Our results oppose the widely accepted view that LAs catalyze the Diels–Alder reaction by enhancing the donor–acceptor [HOMOdiene–LUMOdienophile] interaction and constitute a novel physical mechanism for this indispensable textbook organic reaction.
Coenzymes and Their Role in the Evolution of Life
Authors: Kirschning Andreas
Published: January 2020

The evolution of coenzymes, or their impact on the origin of life, is fundamental for understanding our own existence. Having established reasonable hypotheses about the emergence of prebiotic chemical building blocks, which were probably created under palaeogeochemical conditions, and surmising that these smaller compounds must have become integrated to afford complex macromolecules such as RNA, the question of coenzyme origin and its relation to the evolution of functional biochemistry should gain new impetus. Many coenzymes have a simple chemical structure and are often nucleotide‐derived, which suggests that they may have coexisted with the emergence of RNA and may have played a pivotal role in early metabolism. Based on current theories of prebiotic evolution, which attempt to explain the emergence of privileged organic building blocks, this Review discusses plausible hypotheses on the prebiotic formation of key elements within selected extant coenzymes. In combination with prebiotic RNA, coenzymes may have dramatically broadened early protometabolic networks and the catalytic scope of RNA during the evolution of life.
Phosphonium Boranes for the Selective Transport of Fluoride Anions across Artificial Phospholipid Membranes
Authors: Park Gyeongjin , Gabbaï François P.
Published: January 2020

With the view of developing selective transmembrane anion transporters, a series of phosphonium boranes of general formula [p‐RPh2P(C6H4)BMes2]+ have been synthesized and evaluated. The results demonstrate that variation of the R group appended to the phosphorus atom informs the lipophilicity of these compounds, their Lewis acidity, as well as their transport activity. Anion transport experiments in POPC‐based large unilamellar vesicles show that these main‐group cations are highly selective for the fluoride anion, which is transported more than 20 times faster than the chloride anion. Finally, this work shows that the anion transport properties of these compounds are extremely sensitive to the steric crowding about the boron atom, pointing to the crucial involvement of the Group 13 element as the anion binding site.
Comparative Study of Fatty Acid Composition, Total Phenolics, and Antioxidant Capacity in Rapeseed Mutant Lines
Authors: Channaoui Souhail , Hssaini Lahcen , Velasco Leonardo , Mazouz Hamid , El Fechtali Mohamed , Nabloussi Abdelghani
Published: January 2020

There is limited variability within rapeseed germplasm in Morocco. Induced mutation was recently used to generate novel genetic variability and develop mutant lines combining desirable traits. In this context, nine promising advanced rapeseed M2 mutant lines and the wild‐type variety “INRA‐CZH2” were evaluated for their seed oil content, fatty acid composition, total phenolic content (TPC), and free‐radical scavenging activity (FRSA) by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) methods. The results showed significant variability among all mutants in seed oil content (38.14–42.04%) and fatty acids (SAFA = 5.49–10.99%, MUFA = 50.33–71.62%, PUFA = 22.89–8.68%). The mutant H2M‐5 exhibited the highest fraction of MUFA and the lowest proportion of SAFA and PUFA, while the mutant H2M‐4 showed the highest SAFA and PUFA amounts and the lowest MUFA level. TPC varied from 2.16 to 4.35 mg GAE/100 g. The highest amount was found in the mutant H2M‐1, which is about twice that of other mutants and the wild‐type variety. FRSA differed significantly among the samples, and the variations observed for DPPH and ABTS methods were 40.5–59.28% and 40.31–59.86%, respectively. FRSA was positively correlated to TPC in the sampled oils (r = 0.801 and 0.802, P < 0.01). This is the first report emphasizing the biochemical potential of rapeseed varieties and novel mutants in Morocco. H2M‐1, H2M‐4, and H2M‐5 were proposed for the Rapeseed National Breeding Program, as they showed higher levels in some biochemical traits of interest.
On the nature of the quantum chromodynamics phase transition in hybrid compact stars
Authors: Köpp Fabio , Zen Vasconcellos César A. , Machado Magno
Published: January 2020

In this contribution, we study the nature of the quantum chromodynamics (QCD) phase transition in hybrid compact stars. In our approach, we consider a microscopic hadron–quark hybrid equation of state (EoS) to describe the structure of compact stars composed of a quark core and a hadronic shell assuming a structural first‐order phase transition at their interface. Our primary purpose in this contribution is to delineate, for a hybrid compact star, the relevant ingredients of their EoSs that simultaneously have the required stiffness and satisfy the constraints of thermodynamics (stability conditions on the free energy, accordance with the laws of thermodynamics and Gibbs' criteria for phase equilibrium). The quark matter structural description is based on the standard MIT bag model, and for the hadron phase modeling, we consider a statistical model for the EoS, which consists of an ensemble of interacting nucleons in statistical equilibrium. In the calculations, the relativistic mean field approximation is used, and the parameters of the approach are taken from experimental data and from nuclear structure calculations. Moreover, exclusion volume effects are implemented in a thermodynamically consistent way so that the transition to uniform nuclear matter can be described in a physically coherent way. We investigate the implications on the structure of a compact hybrid star of considering a Bag constant dependence on the nuclear density, as well as subsidiary aspects of the nature of QCD phase transition as the Gibbs and Maxwell construction realizations of the first‐order deconfinement phase transition inside a compact star and observational signals.
Some recent results on neutrino osillations in hypercritical accretion
Authors: Uribe Juan David , Rueda Jorge Armando
Published: January 2020

The study of neutrino flavor oscillations in astrophysical sources has been boosted in the last two decades thanks to achievements in experimental neutrino physics and in observational astronomy. We here discuss two cases of interest in the modeling of short and long gamma‐ray bursts: hypercritical, that is, highly super‐Eddington spherical/disk accretion onto a neutron star/black hole. We show that in both systems, the ambient conditions of density and temperature imply the occurrence of neutrino flavor oscillations, with a relevant role of neutrino self‐interactions.
Processing of Real‐World, Dynamic Natural Stimuli in Autism is Linked to Corticobasal Function
Authors: Webster Paula J. , Frum Chris , Kurowski‐Burt Amy , Bauer Christopher E. , Wen Sijin , Ramadan Jad H. , Baker Kathryn A. , Lewis James W.
Published: January 2020

Many individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been shown to perceive everyday sensory information differently compared to peers without autism. Research examining these sensory differences has primarily utilized nonnatural stimuli or natural stimuli using static photos with few having utilized dynamic, real‐world nonverbal stimuli. Therefore, in this study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to characterize brain activation of individuals with high‐functioning autism when viewing and listening to a video of a real‐world scene (a person bouncing a ball) and anticipating the bounce. We investigated both multisensory and unisensory processing and hypothesized that individuals with ASD would show differential activation in (a) primary auditory and visual sensory cortical and association areas, and in (b) cortical and subcortical regions where auditory and visual information is integrated (e.g. temporal‐parietal junction, pulvinar, superior colliculus). Contrary to our hypotheses, the whole‐brain analysis revealed similar activation between the groups in these brain regions. However, compared to controls the ASD group showed significant hypoactivation in the left intraparietal sulcus and left putamen/globus pallidus. We theorize that this hypoactivation reflected underconnectivity for mediating spatiotemporal processing of the visual biological motion stimuli with the task demands of anticipating the timing of the bounce event. The paradigm thus may have tapped into a specific left‐lateralized aberrant corticobasal circuit or loop involved in initiating or inhibiting motor responses. This was consistent with a dual “when versus where” psychophysical model of corticobasal function, which may reflect core differences in sensory processing of real‐world, nonverbal natural stimuli in ASD.Autism Res2020, 13: 539–549. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

To understand how individuals with autism perceive the real‐world, using magnetic resonance imaging we examined brain activation in individuals with autism while watching a video of someone bouncing a basketball. Those with autism had similar activation to controls in auditory and visual sensory brain regions, but less activation in an area that processes information about body movements and in a region involved in modulating movements. These areas are important for understanding the actions of others and developing social skills.
Treatment of Adults with Autism and Major Depressive Disorder Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: An Open Label Pilot Study
Authors: Gwynette McLeod Frampton , Lowe Danielle W. , Henneberry Erin A. , Sahlem Gregory L. , Wiley Melanie Gail , Alsarraf Hussam , Russo Sarah Brice , Joseph Jane E. , Summers Philipp M. , Lohnes Laura , George Mark S.
Published: January 2020

Patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at high risk for comorbid major depressive disorder (MDD), which can severely impair functioning and quality of life. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique, which is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared for the treatment of MDD in adults. Despite demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of depression, there are limited data on the use of rTMS in patients with ASD and comorbid MDD. We hypothesized that a standard rTMS protocol for MDD would reduce depressive symptoms for adults with ASD and MDD. Secondarily, we investigated whether this treatment would also reduce core ASD symptoms. Participants of 18–65 years old with ASD and MDD without any medication changes in the last month were eligible for this open‐label trial. Participants underwent 25 sessions of rTMS (figure‐of‐eight coil, 100–120% resting motor threshold, 10 Hz, 3,000 pulses per session) applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Thirteen participants enrolled in the study, with two withdrawing due to tolerability, and one excluded from analysis. Overall, side effects were mild and rTMS was well tolerated. The Hamilton rating scale for depression (HAM‐D17) improved 13.5 points (IQR 5–15), and 40% of participants achieved remission (HAM‐D17 ≤ 7) after rTMS treatment. Informant clinical scales of core symptoms of autism also suggested improvement with rTMS, though no change was observed by the participants themselves. Thus, this open‐label trial suggests that high‐frequency rTMS is well tolerated by adults with autism and MDD, with improvement in depressive symptoms and possible effects on core autism symptoms. Autism Res 2020, 13: 346–351. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research,Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

This study evaluated the safety and effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on depression and autism symptoms in individuals with both major depressive disorder and autism spectrum disorder. rTMS was well tolerated by the participants, depression improved with treatment, and family members' assessment of autism symptoms improved as well. This study supports the need for further work to evaluate rTMS in individuals who have both autism and depression.
A sensitive amperometric detection of neurotransmitter acetylcholine using carbon dot‐modified carbon paste electrode
Authors: Bodur Onur Can , Dinç Saliha , Özmen Mustafa , Arslan Fatma
Published: January 2020

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter, which is located at the intersections of the nerve and muscles in the lymph nodes of the internal organs motor systems and in various parts of the central nervous system. A decrease of acetylcholine in brain is associated with Alzheimer‘s disease. That is why it is an important agent for this disease. In this study, a bienzymatic biosensor system with acetylcholine esterase and choline oxidase was prepared with carbon paste electrode modified with carbon nano Dot‐(3‐Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (CDs‐APTES) for determination of the amount of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine esterase and choline oxidase enzymes were immobilized onto a modified carbon paste electrode by cross‐linking with glutaraldehyde. Determination of acetylcholine was carried out by the oxidation of enzymatically produced H2O2 at 0.4 V versus Ag/AgCl. The effect of temperature, pH, and substrate concentration on the acetylcholine response of the prepared biosensor was investigated. In addition, the optimum CDs‐APTES amount, the linear operating range of the biosensor, and the interference effect were also investigated.
Arbitrary social comparison, malicious envy, and generosity
Authors: Moyal Adiel , Motsenok Marina , Ritov Ilana
Published: January 2020

Existing work on the effects of social comparison on envy and generosity typically involves manipulation of social comparison with respect to dimensions that carry personal meaning and reflect upon the self, for example, performance, ability, or achievement. In the current work, we examine the effects of social comparison based on a purely arbitrary, manipulated situation. We measure malicious envy via monetary decisions that have real consequences for the target of comparison, in place of a self‐reported questionnaire. In addition, we test the effects of the preliminary social comparison on generosity in a subsequent and ostensibly unrelated situation. In Experiment 1 we demonstrate the effect of randomly manipulated upward social comparison on a monetary allocation decision, and we establish the link between this allocation decision and malicious envy. In Experiment 2 we show that upward comparison affects not only malicious envy towards the target of the comparison but also decreases generosity towards a third party in a subsequent, ostensibly unrelated situation. Experiment 3 shows the effect of this type of social comparison, beyond a specific direction, on reducing generosity towards a third party.