bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term crop rotation effects on winter and spring cereals productivity
Authors: Butkevičienė Lina Marija , Auželienė Ingė , Bogužas Vaclovas
Published: October 2019

A long-term field experiment was carried out at the Experimental Station of the VDU Agriculture Academy (formerly Aleksandras Stulginskis University), Institute of Agroecosystems crop rotation collection (equipped in 1967), during 2015–2017. The soil of the Experimental site is moderately fine textured Calc(ar)i-Endohypogleyic Luvisol. The research was carried out on winter rye (Secale cereale L.) ‘Matador’, winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) ‘Skagen’ and 71 spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) ‘Orphelija’, which were sown in 8 different crop rotations after different preceding crops and rye monoculture. The aim of the experiment was to investigate the effect of long-term crop rotation combinations on testing crops yield and productivity indicators. In many cases, rye productivity indicators were lower during 50-year monocropping. The best productivity indicators were obtained by growing rye in them in grass and fallow crop sequences, and for winter wheat in fallow with vetch–oat mixture for fodder and after manure application. In rye these indicators were more dependent on the precipitation amount and the amount of the sum of temperature during the period of generative organ formation. Among these indicators and the number of productive stems, a statistically strong and medium strength correlation interaction was identified: r = 0.83, P ≤ 0.01; r = 0.90, P ≤ 0.05; r = 0.58, P ≤ 0.05; r = 0.85, P ≤ 0.01; and winter weat r = 0.87, P ≤ 0.01; r = 0.89, P ≤ 0.01. The highest winter wheat productivity was established in crop rotation after perennial grasses and leguminous crops. Crop yield in monoculture decreases, but the optimal amount of mineral fertilizers saves lower but stable yields. Spring barley is less dependent on preceding crop, so it can be grown after winter cereals. However, they are more productive when sown after row crops and in crop rotations where one of the rotation members is fertilized with organic fertilizers.
Uma perspectiva das ações sustentáveis realizadas por uma empresa do ramo de agronegócio
Authors: Fernandes Sandra Beatriz Vicenci , Kischner Patricia , Vione Cristiane Ivete Bugs
Published: October 2019

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar as ações e estratégias que uma empresa do ramo de agronegócio têm empreendido em direção à redução de seus impactos ambientais. A análise empírica foi realizada em uma organização de porte médio localizada na região Noroeste do Estado do RS. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e a pesquisa é de caráter qualitativa. Os resultados demonstram que as empresas, de modo geral, têm buscado cumprir as exigências legais, correspondendo ao conceito de ação reativa, no entanto, percebe-se que há iniciativas, mesmo que em estágio inicial, de ações voltadas à preservação ambiental que correspondem ao segundo grupo: ações proativas. A pesquisa confirma que a identificação e avaliação dos impactos ambientais nas organizações, independente do setor e tamanho do empreendimento, constitui uma ferramenta importante na criação de diretrizes que codificam a gestão ambiental fundamentada na preservação do meio ambiente, contribuindo assim, para o desenvolvimento sustentável local e regional.
Adesão dos idosos cadastrados no Projeto ‘Faculdade Integrada da Terceira Idade’ frente à hipertensão arterial
Authors: Rodrigues Wellington Pereira , Soares Ana Paula Gomes , Gonçalves Priscila Dantas , Carvalho Elisângela Oliveira de , Soares Leonardo Fabrício Gomes , Soares Cinthia Caldas Rios , Faria Humberto Aparecido , Rosa Gilmara Souza Santa , Pereira Renan Sallazar Ferreira
Published: October 2019

Existem vários conceitos que irão presidir a forma de o indivíduo enfrentar o processo de envelhecer bem, como compreender todas as mudanças existentes durante esse evento. O trabalho visa identificar a incidência de idosas hipertensas participantes do Projeto ‘Faculdade Integrada da Terceira Idade’ (FINATI) existente na Universidade UniAGES. Esse trabalho é um estudo descritivo, exploratório, transversal, de campo, com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa. O trabalho foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa da Faculdade de Ciências Humanas e Sociais, sob parecer de número 850215. Em relação aos hábitos e estilo de vida, 76,7% informou não fazer uso de bebida alcoólica; e 66,7% não possui o habito de fumar. As idosas participantes do estudo classificaram o seu estado de como bom (23,3%); regular (76,7%). Dores nas costas (90%) e a presença de varizes (60%) foram as condições de saúde mais presentes no histórico pessoal dessas idosas além a HAS como já foi referido. Dentre as 29 idosas hipertensas, (n=23; 79,3%) afirmam ter interrompido o tratamento em algum momento do curso terapêutico em contra partida das (n=6; 20,7%) que assumem não ter interrompido a dinâmica terapêutica; remédios muito caros (n=18; 62,1%); indisponibilidade nas farmácias, UBS e hospitais (n=25; 86,2%); assintomatologia da doença (n=7; 24,1%) e esquecimento (n=23; 79,3%) foram as variáveis mais relevantes que justificou a interrupção do tratamento medicamento na população estudada o que de certo modo provoca prejuízos para o controle da HAS. Entre os motivos pelo quais as idosas tenham faltado às consultas médicas, temos o horário de atendimento (n= 7; 24,1%), a insatisfação pelo profissional que as atende (n= 9; 31,0%), o tempo de espera pelas consultas (n=9; 31,0%) e as consultas muito rápidas (n=41,4%). Desse modo, fomenta-se a necessidade de uma consciência entre a prescrição médica e o comportamento adotado pelo paciente, o que não afasta a participação efetiva dos familiares e de toda a equipe de saúde frente às mudanças que serão necessárias no decorrer do plano terapêutico.
Perfil epidemiológico das vítimas de intoxicação exógena em Porto Nacional (TO) no período de 2013 a 2017
Authors: Guimarães Tarcis Roberto Almeida , Lopes Renata Karoliny Batista , Burns Guilherme Vaz
Published: October 2019

As intoxicações são ações químicas que podem lesar o corpo, através da exposição a substâncias químicas do ambiente ou isoladas, como medicamentos, produtos químicos, plantas, pesticidas, entre outros. Ela pode ser causada de forma acidental ou intencional, onde a tentativa de suicídio é a principal circunstância da forma intencional. Devido à intoxicação exógena poder levar a óbito, a mesma está inserida na lista das doenças de agravos de notificação compulsória. Seus dados podem ser encontrados por meio do DATASUS do SINAN. Desse modo, buscou-se uma investigação no DATASUS do perfil epidemiológico das vítimas de intoxicação exógena em Porto Nacional (TO), para contribuir para o desenvolvimento de estratégias e ações preventivas, visto que não há artigos que evidenciem este perfil para o município. Identificou-se que a maior parte das vítimas são mulheres, de cor parda, entre 20 e 39 anos, que buscam a tentativa de suicídio principalmente por meio de medicamentos.
Dynamique de co-création des politiques publiques dans des contextes institutionnels complexes : le cas des Chemins de Compostelle en France et en Espagne
Authors: Lorey Thierry , Dosquet Frédéric , Errami Youssef , Chantelot Sébastien
Published: October 2019

Cette recherche étudie, dans le cas des Chemins de Compostelle, les conditions d’émergence d’une dynamique de co-création des politiques publiques dans des contextes institutionnels complexes. Par la mobilisation des concepts de co-création, de leadership et d’innovation managériale et d’une étude longitudinale intégrant 35 interviews, nos résultats montrent que : (1) la co-création des politiques publiques est un processus de long terme lié à la mutation du leadership des acteurs; (2) elle est rendue possible par l’émergence d’acteurs-frontières associatifs, vecteurs d’innovations managériales. Nous proposons une grille d’évaluation de la co-création publique ainsi qu’une typologie des innovations managériales.
Idéaltype de l’émergence collective des opportunités d’affaires sous l’angle intersubjectif
Authors: Casanova Sophie , Messeghem Karim , Sammut Sylvie
Published: October 2019

L’entrepreneuriat n’est plus le fait d’un individu isolé, il doit être considéré comme un individu entouré d’un collectif (Venkataraman et al. 2012). Il est primordial de comprendre plus en profondeur le passage de l’individuel au collectif, afin de pouvoir favoriser les arrangements organisationnels ou interindividuels qui pourraient venir partager le risque et diminuer l’incertitude, liés à l’action entrepreneuriale (Busenitz et al. 2014). En nous appuyant sur le concept d’intersubjectivité, nous posons alors la question de l’influence de l’intersubjectivité sur l’émergence collective d’opportunités. Nous proposons un idéaltype de l’émergence collective d’opportunités sous l’angle intersubjectif.
Urban Modes of Assemblage: The Changing Spaces of Innovation in Shanghai
Authors: Renaud Clément , Fernandez Valerie , Puel Gilles , Feng Zhen
Published: October 2019

The present article considers the evolution of relationships between four organizations located in Shanghai (two coworking spaces, a hackerspace and a public network of spaces dedicated to education) between the years 2011 and 2015. We start by describing how Shanghai’s urban policies lead to the development of vast real estate that failed at supporting smaller and less formal initiatives. Drawing from previous research and fieldwork, we show how groups of individuals started to organize with the goal of defining new spaces for discussions and activities around technological innovation and entrepreneurship. For each of the four organizations selected, we give a detailed account of their spatial and organizational developments over time, and how they relate to each other. We propose what we called “modes of assemblage” to understand how discrete and partial associations between them helped to change Shanghai’s discourse and positioning about innovation, prefiguring major national programs.
Le lobbying en France : une approche par le concept de corégulation
Authors: Sachet-Milliat Anne , Igalens Jacques
Published: October 2019

Contrairement aux pays anglo-saxons, ce n’est que très récemment (loi Sapin 2, 2016) que la France s’est dotée d’une définition officielle et d’un cadre réglementaire concernant les activités de lobbying des entreprises. En mobilisant le concept de corégulation, l’objectif de cet article est d’analyser comment s’articulent les systèmes de normes volontaires et contraignantes régulant le lobbying et d’identifier les différents acteurs publics et privés à leur origine. Les limites auxquelles se heurte cette nouvelle forme de régulation du lobbying seront soulignées, en les inscrivant dans une réflexion plus large sur les enjeux RSE du lobbying et les paradoxes du concept récent de lobbying responsable.
Introduction au dossier thématique
Authors: Milliot Éric , Nivoix Sophie , Lemaire Jean-Paul
Published: October 2019

Replacées dans le champ du management international, les problématiques qu’Atlas AFMI s’attache à développer, depuis près de dix ans, s’expriment au fil des thèmes de ses conférences annuelles. L’analyse des thématiques et des méthodes des 89 contributions retenues pour sa conférence 2015, sur le thème Transitions et management international, vise à faire ressortir les voies de recherche qui y sont privilégiées. Le cadre ESO est mobilisé pour relier les thématiques clés de l’environnement international (E), des stratégies développées par les acteurs (S) et des conditions organisationnelles (O). En complément, le modèle PREST permet de situer les niveaux – macro, méso et micro-économiques – auxquels se positionnent ces contributions.
SYNCOPER LA PHRASE, DÉPORTER LE TEMPS FAIBLE
Authors: Bissonnette Thierry
Published: October 2019

Le décalage, qui est une donnée de base de l’oeuvre de Patrice Desbiens, est ici envisagé à la fois comme une donnée géographique, existentielle, syntaxique et sonore. À partir d’analogies musicales et de la poétique performative dégagée par Pierre Alferi dans Chercher une phrase, c’est en particulier l’approche du débit verbal qui est fouillée, notamment sous les angles de l’enjambement et de la syncope rythmique. Ces procédés permettent de relier des patterns d’écriture à une dialectique du lieu et du non-lieu qui traverse une majorité de recueils de l’auteur, où le phrasé minimaliste et la découpe en vers souvent très brefs peuvent être lus en convergence avec un équivoque renversement de la faiblesse identitaire.
Communauté et subjectivité politiques
Authors: Furukawa Marques Dan
Published: October 2019

La mística du Mouvement des travailleurs ruraux sans-terre (MST) au Brésil peut être interprétée comme l’incarnation pratique d’idéaux politiques et existentiels ayant pour effet de faire communauté. Tout en considérant les analyses socio-anthropologiques du phénomène, le présent article met davantage l’accent sur les perceptions et les effets subjectifs à travers une analyse phénoménologico-politique, jusqu’ici très peu explorés. À l’aide d’une enquête ethnographique, il s’agira de comprendre l’expérience de la mística, par-delà les performances, comme une relation entre les sujets et le monde : un vécu quotidien, un état d’esprit de groupe et des « moments mystiques ». Pour ce faire, il est central d’examiner l’articulation du lien politique entre les sujets et l’expérience de faire communauté. Je mobilise ainsi la théorie politique de Maurice Merleau-Ponty pour réfléchir à la dimension politique de notre manière d’être au monde et d’entrer en relation avec autrui.
INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY RANKINGS AS A SОCIOECONOMIC PHENOMENON AND A NEW INSTRUMENT OF GLOBAL GOVERNMENT SOFT POWER
Authors: Nikolić Marijana
Published: October 2019

One of the fundamental determinants of the last waveof the globalization process is the emergence and expansionof international country (economy) rankings.The popularity of these lists is increasing day by day.However, despite their widespread use, the existingbody of scientific knowledge about this complex socioeconomicphenomenon is modest, at best. Since internationalcountry rankings represent a relatively newphenomenon and an “industry” characterized by explosivegrowth, the paper will present the basic theoreticalfoundations of the phenomenon, with particular emphasison the economic dimension. The concept will beanalyzed through the context of mechanisms that determinethe appearance and functioning of global societytoday. It will also be noted that the international rankinglists which use the economic systems of countriesas the basic unit of analysis, i.e. certain elements of thegiven system, are a suitable instrument for shaping aneconomic reality and development flows of a modernsociety in accordance with the goals of certain interestgroups and centers of power. The findings that will bepresented in this paper constitute a prerequisite and astarting point for extensive research on the issues of internationalcountry rankings, especially regarding theimpact of this phenomenon on the economic sphere ofsociety.
ANALYSIS OF THE BRAND VALUATION BASED ON THE ASSESSMENT BY INTERBRAND, BRAND FINANCE AND MILWARD BROWN OPTIMOR
Authors: Terzić Svetlana , Đalić Irena
Published: October 2019

Brands are significant category in the department ofmarketing and finance of the company. They also playthe key role in the segment of consumer behavior whenit comes to decision making during the purchase. Marketingmanagers in domestic companies still do not haveenough experience in using the modern methods for estimationof the brand value. From this, the conclusioncan be drawn that the operational structure do not receivean adequate support from marketing departmentin decision making. Analysis in this work will be basedon the research of the concept of the brand value and themethodology of evaluation. The goal is to analyze advantagesand disadvantages of different methodologiesof well-known consultant agencies for estimation of thebrand value. The work consists of a few parts. Attentionis first directed towards the concept of the brand valueand the classification of the evaluation methods. It isfollowed by the analysis of necessary measuring of thebrand value in domestic practice and the current state ininternational practice. Then a more detailed analysis ofthe mode of operations for global agencies follows: Interbrand,Brand Finance and Millward Brown Optimor.Results of the empirical research will be shown throughthe comparative analysis of the values for the world’sfamous brands, which are obtained by using the mentionedmethodologies in the same time period.
Barn med og uten funksjonsnedsettelser og deltagelse i forskergrupper – når og hvordan kan ulike kvalitative forskningsmetoder få alle barn til å delta i forskning?
Authors: Ytterhus Borgunn , Åmot Ingvild
Published: October 2019

Artikkelen diskuterer når og hvordan det er mulig å engasjere barn med og uten funksjonsnedsettelser til deltagelse i forskning i barnehager. Gjennom empiriske eksempler fra det å drive forskergrupper med barn analyserer vi ulike kvalitative forskningsmetoders evne til å engasjere barn med stort spenn i funksjonsnivå til å delta i forskning. Resultatene viser at deltagende observasjon i barneguidede turer og digitale fotosesjoner gir alle barn likeverdige deltagelse i forskning. Videre finner vi det nødvendig å innta et pragmatisk forhold til lek og pendler mellom leklogikk og forskerlogikk. En forutsetning for å gi alle barn mulighet til deltagelse er å akseptere at barns samtykke er situert i forhold til situasjoner, pågående aktiviteter og kontekst.Nøkkelord: barns deltakelse, barn med funksjonshemming, kvalitative forskningsmetodiske utprøvinger, leklogikk
Divergent water sources of three dominant plant species following precipitation events in enclosed and mowing grassland steppes
Authors: Bao Tiejun , Zheng Yunnuan , Zhang Ze , Sun Heyang , Chao Ran , Zhao Liqing , Qing Hua , Yang Jie , Li Frank Yonghong
Published: October 2019

Understanding of the dynamic patterns of plant water use in a changing environment is one of foci in plant ecology, and can provide basis for the development of best practice in restoration and protection of ecosystem. We studied the water use sources of three coexisting dominant plant speciesLeymus chinensis, Stipa grandisandCleistogenes squarrosagrowing in both enclosed and mowing grassland in a typical steppe. The oxygen stable isotope ratios (δ18O) of soil water and stem water of these three species were determined, along with soil moisture, before and after precipitation events. The results showed that (1) mowing had no significant effect on the soil moisture and its δ18O, whereas precipitation significantly changed the soil moisture though no significant effect detected on its δ18O. (2)C. squarrosatook up water majorly from top soil layer due to its shaollow root system;L. chinensistook up relative more water from deep soil layer, andS. grandistook up water from the middle to deep soil layers. (3)L. chinensisandS. grandisin mowing grassland tended to take up more water from the upper soil layers following precipitation events, but showed no sensitive change in water source from soil profile following the precipitation in the enclosed grassland, indicating a more sensitive change of soil water sources for the two species in mowing than enclosed grassland. The differences in root morphology and precipitation distribution may partly explain the differences in their water uptake from different soil layers. Our results have important theoretical values for understanding the water competition among plants in fluctuating environment and under different land use in the typical steppe.
AVALIAÇÃO DO DESEMPENHO DE TRÊS ALGORITMOS NA CLASSIFICAÇÃO DE USO DO SOLO A PARTIR DE GEOTECNOLOGIAS GRATUITAS
Authors: Duarte Miqueias Lima , Silva Tatiana Acácio da
Published: October 2019

O uso de sensores remotos aliados ao Sistema de Informação Geográfica tem sido de suma importância na classificação e monitoramento do uso e ocupação do solo, permitindo obter importantes produtos que podem subsidiar o planejamento e gestão do território. Assim, este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o desempenho dos classificadores supervisionados Minimum Distance-MD, o Maximum Likelihood-ML e o Spectral Angle Mapping-SAM na classificação do uso do solo em uma área do sul do estado do Amazonas através do uso de geotecnologias gratuitas. Utilizou-se uma imagem do sensor Sentinel-2, na qual foram identificadas seis classes de uso e ocupação. A qualidade dos classificadores foi testada a partir de três índices, exatidão global, Kappa e Tau. Apesar do bom desempenho apresentado pelos métodos utilizados, o método ML foi o mais eficiente, apresentando valores de exatidão global, índices Kappa e Tau superiores a 92%.
On Summing Formulas For Generalized Fibonacci and Gaussian Generalized Fibonacci Numbers
Authors: Soykan Yüksel
Published: October 2019

In this paper, closed forms of the summation formulas for generalized Fibonacci and Gaussian generalized Fibonacci numbers are presented. Then, some previous results are recovered as particular cases of the present results. As special cases, we give summation formulas of Fibonacci, Lucas, Pell, Pell-Lucas, Jacobsthal, Jacobsthal-Lucas numbers and Gaussian Fibonacci, Gaussian Lucas, Gaussian Pell, Gaussian Pell-Lucas, Gaussian Jacobsthal, Gaussian Jacobsthal-Lucas numbers.
Plasmid Profile Analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Wound Infections in a General Hospital in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Uyanga F. Z. , Ibanga I. A.
Published: October 2019

Background/Purpose: Open wound infection is a serious problem especially with extended-spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) producing Gram negative bacteria such as P. aeruginosa. The purpose of this research was to identify open wound infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and also determine their plasmid profile.

Methods:  A total of 50 Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were obtained from clinical wound swabs in a secondary health care facility. Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were identified using Microbact 24E system kit. Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing by disc diffusion method. ESBL production was detected using Double Disk Synergy Test (DDST) and CHROMagar ESBL (France). Six different antibiotic discs were used to determine the susceptibility pattern of the isolates. Plasmids were extracted using ZR plasmid Miniprep classic extraction Kit. Electrophoresis of the DNA was carried out on 0.8% w/v agarose gel.

Results: The prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was 63%. The antibiotic resistance pattern showed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa was highly resistant against cefotaxime (90%), ofloxacin (80%), ceftazidime (55%), azetronam (60%), imipenem (25%), amoxicillin clavulanic acid (35%) and amikacin (30%). Plasmid profile was carried out on 20 selected multidrug resistant isolates; those resistant to three or more classes of antibiotics. Plasmid content of the isolates were found to be 90%. All isolates that had plasmid were resistant to cefotaxim, ceftazidime, azetronam, ofloxacin and amikacin.

Conclusion: Antibiotic resistance by P. aeruginosa is increasingly high in wound infections and appears to be linked to the presence of plasmid and ESBL enzymes.
Identifying characteristics of indicators of sedentary behavior using objective measurements
Authors: Yamamoto Kojiro , Matsuda Fumiko , Matsukawa Tsuyoshi , Yamamoto Nao , Ishii Kenji , Kurihara Takahiro , Yamada Shota , Matsuki Taro , Kamijima Michihiro , Ebara Takeshi
Published: October 2019

Objective

Recent attention has been focused on sedentary behavior (SB) affecting health outcomes, but the characteristics of indicators reflecting SB remain to be identified. This cross-sectional study aims to identify the characteristics of indicators of SB, focusing on the examination of correlations, reliability, and validity of sedentary variables assessed by the smartphone app.

Method

Objectively measured data of SB of eligible 46 Japanese workers obtained from smartphones were used. We assessed the characteristics of current indicators being used with a 10-minute or 30-minute thresholds, in addition to the conventional indicators of total sedentary time, mean sedentary bout duration, and total number of sedentary bouts. They were evaluated from three perspectives: (a) association among the indicators, (b) reliability of the indicators, and (c) criterion validity.

Results

Total sedentary time under 10 minutes (U10) and U30 had negative associations with Total sedentary time (r = −.47 and −.21 respectively). The correlation between Mean sedentary bout duration and Total number of sedentary bouts was −.84, whereas between Mean sedentary bout duration 10, 30 and Total number of sedentary bouts were −.54 and −.21, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficients of almost all indicators were around .80. Mean sedentary bout duration, Mean sedentary bout duration 10, Total number of sedentary bouts, Total sedentary time 30, U30 and U10 have significant differences between three BMI groups.

Conclusion

This study comprehensively revealed the rationale of advantage in the current indicator being used with a 10-minute or 30-minute threshold, rather than the conventional total amount of SB.
The gelatinase biosynthesis‐activating pheromone binds and stabilises the FsrB membrane protein in Enterococcus faecalis quorum sensing
Authors: Littlewood Sean , Tattersall Helena , Hughes Charlotte S. , Hussain Rohanah , Ma Pikyee , Harding Stephen E. , Nakayama Jiro , Phillips‐Jones Mary K.
Published: October 2019

Quorum‐sensing mechanisms regulate gene expression in response to changing cell‐population density detected through pheromones. In Enterococcus faecalis, Fsr quorum sensing produces and responds to the gelatinase biosynthesis‐activating pheromone (GBAP). Here we establish that the enterococcal FsrB membrane protein has a direct role connected with GBAP by showing that GBAP binds to purified FsrB. Far‐UV CD measurements demonstrated a predominantly α‐helical protein exhibiting a small level of conformational flexibility. Fivefold (400 μm) GBAP stabilised FsrB (80 μm) secondary structure. FsrB thermal denaturation in the presence and absence of GBAP revealed melting temperatures of 70.1 and 60.8 °C, respectively, demonstrating GBAP interactions and increased thermal stability conferred by GBAP. Addition of GBAP also resulted in tertiary structural changes, confirming GBAP binding.
Ionic Tactile Sensors for Emerging Human‐Interactive Technologies: A Review of Recent Progress
Authors: Amoli Vipin , Kim Joo Sung , Kim So Young , Koo Jehyoung , Chung Yoon Sun , Choi Hanbin , Kim Do Hwan
Published: October 2019

Ionic tactile sensors (ITS) represent a new class of deformable sensory platforms that mimic not only the tactile functions and topological structures but also the mechanotransduction mechanism across the biological ion channels in human skin, which can demonstrate a more advanced biological interface for targeting emerging human‐interactive technologies compared to conventional e‐skin devices. Recently, flexible and even stretchable ITS have been developed using novel structural designs and strategies in materials and devices. These skin‐like tactile sensors can effectively sense pressure, strain, shear, torsion, and other external stimuli with high sensitivity, high reliability, and rapid response beyond those of human perception. In this review, the recent developments of the ITS based on the novel concepts, structural designs, and strategies in materials innovation are entirely highlighted. In particular, biomimetic approaches have led to the development of the ITS that extend beyond the tactile sensory capabilities of human skin such as sensitivity, pressure detection range, and multimodality. Furthermore, the recent progress in self‐powered and self‐healable ITS, which should be strongly required to allow human‐interactive artificial sensory platforms is reviewed. The applications of ITS in human‐interactive technologies including artificial skin, wearable medical devices, and user‐interactive interfaces are highlighted. Last, perspectives on the current challenges and the future directions of this field are presented.
Biodegradable Fluorescent Nanoparticles for Endoscopic Detection of Colorectal Carcinogenesis
Authors: Rogalla Stephan , Flisikowski Krzysztof , Gorpas Dimitris , Mayer Aaron T. , Flisikowska Tatiana , Mandella Michael J. , Ma Xiaopeng , Casey Kerriann M. , Felt Stephen A. , Saur Dieter , Ntziachristos Vasilis , Schnieke Angelika , Contag Christopher H. , Gambhir Sanjiv S. , Harmsen Stefan
Published: October 2019

Early and comprehensive endoscopic detection of colonic dysplasia—the most clinically significant precursor lesion to colorectal adenocarcinoma—provides an opportunity for timely, minimally invasive intervention to prevent malignant transformation. Here, the development and evaluation of biodegradable near‐infrared fluorescent silica nanoparticles (FSN) that have the potential to improve adenoma detection during fluorescence‐assisted white‐light colonoscopic surveillance in rodent and human‐scale models of colorectal carcinogenesis is described. FSNs are biodegradable (t1/2 of 2.7 weeks), well‐tolerated, and enable detection and delineation of adenomas as small as 0.5 mm2 with high tumor‐to‐background ratios. Furthermore, in the human scale, APC1311/+ porcine model, the clinical feasibility and benefit of using FSN‐guided detection of colorectal adenomas using video‐rate fluorescence‐assisted white‐light endoscopy is demonstrated. Since nanoparticles of similar size (e.g., 100–150 nm) or composition (i.e., silica and silica/gold hybrid) have already been successfully translated to the clinic, and clinical fluorescent/white‐light endoscopy systems are becoming more readily available, there is a viable path towards clinical translation of the proposed strategy for early colorectal cancer detection and prevention in high‐risk patients.
Hydrogel Bioink Reinforcement for Additive Manufacturing: A Focused Review of Emerging Strategies
Authors: Chimene David , Kaunas Roland , Gaharwar Akhilesh K.
Published: October 2019

Bioprinting is an emerging approach for fabricating cell‐laden 3D scaffolds via robotic deposition of cells and biomaterials into custom shapes and patterns to replicate complex tissue architectures. Bioprinting uses hydrogel solutions called bioinks as both cell carriers and structural components, requiring bioinks to be highly printable while providing a robust and cell‐friendly microenvironment. Unfortunately, conventional hydrogel bioinks have not been able to meet these requirements and are mechanically weak due to their heterogeneously crosslinked networks and lack of energy dissipation mechanisms. Advanced bioink designs using various methods of dissipating mechanical energy are aimed at developing next‐generation cellularized 3D scaffolds to mimic anatomical size, tissue architecture, and tissue‐specific functions. These next‐generation bioinks need to have high print fidelity and should provide a biocompatible microenvironment along with improved mechanical properties. To design these advanced bioink formulations, it is important to understand the structure–property–function relationships of hydrogel networks. By specifically leveraging biophysical and biochemical characteristics of hydrogel networks, high performance bioinks can be designed to control and direct cell functions. In this review article, current and emerging approaches in hydrogel design and bioink reinforcement techniques are critically evaluated. This bottom‐up perspective provides a materials‐centric approach to bioink design for 3D bioprinting.
Photochemical Strain‐Release‐Driven Cyclobutylation of C(sp3)‐Centered Radicals
Authors: Ernouf Guillaume , Chirkin Egor , Rhyman Lydia , Ramasami Ponnadurai , Cintrat Jean‐Christophe
Published: October 2019

A new photoredox‐catalyzed decarboxylative radical addition approach to functionalized cyclobutanes is described. The reaction involves an unprecedented formal Giese‐type addition of C(sp3)‐centered radicals to highly strained bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes. The mild photoredox conditions, which make use of a readily available and bench stable phenyl sulfonyl bicyclo[1.1.0]butane, proved to be amenable to a diverse range of α‐amino and α‐oxy carboxylic acids, providing a concise route to 1,3‐disubstituted cyclobutanes. Furthermore, kinetic studies and DFT calculations unveiled mechanistic details on bicyclo[1.1.0]butane reactivity relative to the corresponding olefin system.
Luminescence and Light‐Driven Energy and Electron Transfer from an Exceptionally Long‐Lived Excited State of a Non‐Innocent Chromium(III) Complex
Authors: Treiling Steffen , Wang Cui , Förster Christoph , Reichenauer Florian , Kalmbach Jens , Boden Pit , Harris Joe P. , Carrella Luca M. , Rentschler Eva , Resch‐Genger Ute , Reber Christian , Seitz Michael , Gerhards Markus , Heinze Katja
Published: October 2019

Photoactive metal complexes employing Earth‐abundant metal ions are a key to sustainable photophysical and photochemical applications. We exploit the effects of an inversion center and ligand non‐innocence to tune the luminescence and photochemistry of the excited state of the [CrN6] chromophore [Cr(tpe)2]3+ with close to octahedral symmetry (tpe=1,1,1‐tris(pyrid‐2‐yl)ethane). [Cr(tpe)2]3+ exhibits the longest luminescence lifetime (τ=4500 μs) reported up to date for a molecular polypyridyl chromium(III) complex together with a very high luminescence quantum yield of Φ=8.2 % at room temperature in fluid solution. Furthermore, the tpe ligands in [Cr(tpe)2]3+ are redox non‐innocent, leading to reversible reductive chemistry. The excited state redox potential and lifetime of [Cr(tpe)2]3+ surpass those of the classical photosensitizer [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine) enabling energy transfer (to oxygen) and photoredox processes (with azulene and tri(n‐butyl)amine).
Expanding the Arsenal of PtIV Anticancer Agents: Multi‐action PtIV Anticancer Agents with Bioactive Ligands Possessing a Hydroxy Functional Group
Authors: Yempala Thirumal , Babu Tomer , Karmakar Subhendu , Nemirovski Alina , Ishan Maisaloon , Gandin Valentina , Gibson Dan
Published: October 2019

Most multi‐action PtIV prodrugs have bioactive ligands containing carboxylates. This is probably due to the ease of carboxylating the OH axial ligands and because following reduction, the active drug is released. A major challenge is to expand the arsenal of bioactive ligands to include those without carboxylates. We describe a general approach for synthesis of PtIV prodrugs that release drugs with OH groups. We linked the OH groups of gemcitabine (Gem), paclitaxel (Tax), and estramustine (EM) to the PtIV derivative of cisplatin by a carbonate bridge. Following reduction, the axial ligands lost CO2, rapidly generating the active drugs. In contrast, succinate‐linked drugs did not readily release the free drugs. The carbonate‐bridged ctc‐[Pt(NH3)2(PhB)(Gem‐Carb)Cl2] was significantly more cytotoxic than the succinate‐bridged ctc‐[Pt(NH3)2(PhB)(Gem‐Suc)Cl2], and more potent and less toxic than gemcitabine, cisplatin, and co‐administration of cisplatin and gemcitabine.
Ion‐Specific Assembly of Strong, Tough, and Stiff Biofibers
Authors: Mittal Nitesh , Benselfelt Tobias , Ansari Farhan , Gordeyeva Korneliya , Roth Stephan V. , Wågberg Lars , Söderberg L. Daniel
Published: October 2019

Designing engineering materials with high stiffness and high toughness is challenging as stiff materials tend to be brittle. Many biological materials realize this objective through multiscale (i.e., atomic‐ to macroscale) mechanisms that are extremely difficult to replicate in synthetic materials. Inspired from the architecture of such biological structures, we here present flow‐assisted organization and assembly of renewable native cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), which yields highly anisotropic biofibers characterized by a unique combination of high strength (1010 MPa), high toughness (62 MJ m−3) and high stiffness (57 GPa). We observed that properties of the fibers are primarily governed by specific ion characteristics such as hydration enthalpy and polarizability. A fundamental facet of this study is thus to elucidate the role of specific anion binding following the Hofmeister series on the mechanical properties of wet fibrillar networks, and link this to the differences in properties of dry nanostructured fibers. This knowledge is useful for rational design of nanomaterials and is critical for validation of specific ion effect theories. The bioinspired assembly demonstrated here is relevant example for designing high‐performance materials with absolute structural control.
Pyridiniumsalze als redoxaktive Reagenzien zur Übertragung funktioneller Gruppen
Authors: Rössler Simon L. , Jelier Benson J. , Magnier Emmanuel , Dagousset Guillaume , Carreira Erick M. , Togni Antonio
Published: October 2019

In diesem Aufsatz sind die jüngsten Fortschritte beim Verständnis und Design von N‐funktionalisierten Pyridiniumsalzen als redoxaktivierte Einelektronentransfer‐Reagenzien zur Übertragung funktioneller Gruppen zusammengefasst. Anhand einer Auswahl an repräsentativen Methoden werden Reaktivität und grundlegende Fortschritte in diesem sich rasch entwickelnden Bereich diskutiert. Diese Reagenzien weisen zwei grundsätzlich divergierende Reaktionspfade auf: homolytische Fragmentierung zur Freisetzung des N‐gebundenen Substituenten als entsprechendes Radikal oder eine alternative, heterolytische Fragmentierung zur Freisetzung eines radikalischen Pyridiniumkations. Die elementaren Schritte der durch Einelektronentransfer induzierten Fragmentierung werden kritisch diskutiert.
A Triazole‐Substituted Aryl Iodide with Omnipotent Reactivity in Enantioselective Oxidations
Authors: Abazid Ayham H. , Nachtsheim Boris J.
Published: October 2019

A widely applicable triazole‐substituted chiral aryl iodide is described as catalyst for enantioselective oxidation reactions. The introduction of a substituent in ortho‐position to the iodide is key for its high reactivity and selectivity. Besides a robust and modular synthesis, the main advantage of this catalyst is the excellent performance in a plethora of mechanistically diverse enantioselective transformations, such as spirocyclizations, phenol dearomatizations, α‐oxygenations, and oxidative rearrangements. DFT‐calculations of in situ generated [hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo]arene isomers give an initial rational for the observed reactivity.
Effect of pH on the physicochemical properties of starch films
Authors: Sakkara Seema , Nataraj Divya , Venkatesh Krishna , Xu Yixiang , Patil Jagadish H. , Reddy Narendra
Published: October 2019

We demonstrate a simple approach of using highly alkaline starch solutions to obtain films with high flexibility and improved water resistance. Extensive studies have been done to develop films from starch, primarily for food applications. However, films developed from starch are brittle and generally chemical modifications or plasticizers are used to improve the flexibility and other properties of starch films. Such modifications make starch expensive, decrease biodegradability, and affect the morphology and subsequent processing of starch. In this research, we have prepared films using starch solutions at pH between 3 and 11. Starch solutions having different pHs were made into films and the tensile, thermal properties, and resistance to water were studied. It was found that preparing starch with pH 11 solution imparts high flexibility without any apparent physical damage. Films prepared under strong acidic and alkaline conditions also had considerably reduced hydrophilicity, which is required for food packaging and other applications. The films prepared at alkaline pH show nearly 50% reduction in water sorption and an increase in elongation. The films obtained from alkaline pH are flexible and water resistant and can potentially be used to develop various bioproducts. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48563.
Fabrication of althea officinalis loaded electrospun nanofibrous scaffold for potential application of skin tissue engineering
Authors: Ghaseminezhad Keyhan , Zare Mohadeseh , Lashkarara Saba , Yousefzadeh Maryam , Aghazadeh Mohandesi Jamshid
Published: October 2019

The Althea Officinalis (AO) extract is well known as a traditional herbal drug for its wound healing ability owing to the anti‐inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, its mucilaginous properties provide moisturizing and nutritional effects on skin cell proliferation. Therefore, AO extract can be applied in the temporary skin substitute for the ability to expedite the therapy duration. In this study, different concentrations of AO extract (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt %) were incorporated into the nanofibrous scaffolds to study their potential for the skin tissue repairing. The desired scaffolds were prepared by electrospinning the blend of poly(ε‐caprolactone) and gelatin as a synthesized and natural polymer. The electrospun nanofibers were characterized by SEM, FTIR, DSC, TGA, tensile, AO extract release, and cellular culture tests. This study proposed incorporating the AO extract into the nanofibrous scaffolds for accelerating the skin tissue repairing and the optimized amount of AO extract as about 15% was introduced for offering the most desirable electrospun scaffolds for this application. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48587.
Effects of compatibilizer on the mechanical, rheological, and shape memory behaviors of poly(lactic acid) and poly(MnBM) blends
Authors: Kim Sung Kyu , Jang Robin , Kim Woo Nyon
Published: October 2019

The effects of compatibilizer on the morphological, mechanical, rheological, and shape memory properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(methyl methacrylate‐block‐n‐butyl acrylate‐block‐methyl methacrylate) (Poly(MnBM)) (80/20) blend were investigated. From the morphological results, the addition of 1 wt% SAN‐MAH as a compatibilizer showed minimum Poly(MnBM) domain size among the blends with the SAN‐MAH in the amounts from 0 to 7 wt%. Tensile and flexural strengths, and complex viscosity of the blends showed maximum when the SAN‐MAH content was 1 wt%, which suggested the increased compatibility between the PLA and Poly(MnBM) phases. From the above results, the optimum compatibilizer content of the PLA and Poly(MnBM) blend was 1 wt%. The recovery ratio of tensile energy was found to be 83 and 56% for the PLA/Poly(MnBM) blend with and without the SAN‐MAH (1 wt%), respectively. Upon blending the PLA and Poly(MnBM) (80/20) with SAN‐MAH (1 wt%), the increase of recovered tensile energy was observed, and that the brittleness of PLA was improved to be ductile which resulted an improved shape memory behavior of the blend. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2020,137, 48591.
Green contents in English language textbooks in Pakistan: An ecolinguistic and ecopedagogical appraisal
Authors: Zahoor Mehwish , Janjua Fauzia
Published: October 2019

The belief that English language teaching (ELT), for its global scope, should not only focus on furnishing learners’ language skills but also on raising their awareness about critical global issues, like environmental crises, led to the ‘greening’ of ELT textbooks. However, the ecopedagogical import of the green contents in ELT textbooks has a bearing on the linguistic/discursive representation of nature and the human–nature relationship in them as it conditions the way we humans perceive and treat the natural environment. Ecolinguistics, an emerging paradigm in linguistic research, offers the premise to analyse the construction of ecology in texts. This study conducted an ecolinguistic and ecopedagogical appraisal of the environmental texts in English language textbooks used in Pakistani schools at primary level, adapting Gaard’s ecopedagogical framework for children’s texts and Halliday’s transitivity analysis model. The study found that the construction of nature and the human–nature relationship in the selected textbooks principally propagated an anthropocentric worldview, thus lacking in ecopedagogical import.
Sitagliptin protects liver against aflatoxin B1‐induced hepatotoxicity through upregulating Nrf2/ARE/HO‐1 pathway
Authors: Ji Yujiang , Nyamagoud Sanatkumar B. , SreeHarsha Nagaraja , Mishra Anurag , Gubbiyappa Shiva K. , Singh Yogendra
Published: October 2019

Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP‐4 inhibitor) such as sitagliptin has been presented as antidiabetic drugs and has numerous restorative advantages over different diseases; however, its defensive role against aflatoxin b1 (AFB1) liver toxicity has not been previously examined. Wistar rats (65 weeks, male) were utilized in the investigation. Animals were divided into five different groups (n = 10): control; AFB1; AFB1 + Sita (50); AFB1 + Sita (100); and Sita (100). Sitagliptin significantly (*p ≤ .05, **p ≤ .01, and ***p ≤ .001) altered the levels of various serum liver enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphate, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase). It decreased the concentration of an oxidative stress marker, that is, malondialdehyde and increased the level of antioxidant enzymes such as reduced glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in AFB1‐administered rats. It also improved the Nrf2 expression and HO‐1 level in AFB1‐intoxicated rats. This investigation discusses innovative evidence on the protective role of sitagliptin against AFB1‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats.
Intestine‐on‐chip device increases ECM remodeling inducing faster epithelial cell differentiation
Authors: De Gregorio Vincenza , Corrado Brunella , Sbrescia Simone , Sibilio Sara , Urciuolo Francesco , Netti Paolo A. , Imparato Giorgia
Published: October 2019

An intestine‐on‐chip has been developed to study intestinal physiology and pathophysiology as well as intestinal transport absorption and toxicity studies in a controlled and human similar environment. Here, we report that dynamic culture of an intestine‐on‐chip enhances extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling of the stroma, basement membrane production and speeds up epithelial differentiation. We developed a three‐dimensional human intestinal stromal equivalent composed of human intestinal subepithelial myofibroblasts embedded in their own ECM. Then, we cultured human colon carcinoma‐derived cells in both static and dynamic conditions in the opportunely designed microfluidic system until the formation of a well‐oriented epithelium. This low cost and handy microfluidic device allows to qualitatively and quantitatively detect epithelial polarization and mucus production as well as monitor barrier function and ECM remodeling after nutraceutical treatment.
A Platelet Graphitic Nanofiber‐Carbon Nanotube Hybrid for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Ali Zulfiqar , Mehmood Mazhar , Ahmad Jamil , Li Xin , Majeed Abdul , Tabassum Hassina , Hou Peng‐Xiang , Liu Chang
Published: October 2019

Carbon nanostructures with a high‐density of active sites are needed as catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Here we report a platelet graphitic nanofiber‐carbon nanotube (PGNF‐CNT) hybrid electrocatalyst prepared by chemical vapor deposition. The material is composed of interconnected CNTs and nanofibers consisting of graphitized carbon layers stacked at different angles to the fiber axis with a large number of exposed edges. These unique structural characteristics give the hybrid a high density of active sites, fast electron transfer and a large number of mass transport paths. As a result, the material has an excellent electrocatalytic activity for OER with an overpotential of 0.28 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, which is much better than those of Ir/C and previously‐reported carbonaceous catalysts.