bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro Interactive Toxicity of Binary Mixtures of Selected Herbicides on Lysinibacillusfusiformis
Authors: Okafor Franca Ngozi , Orji Michael Uchenna , Onuorah Samuel Chinedu , Uba Bright Obidinma , Dokubo Chinweike Unoma , Ofunnwa Joypat Ogechukwu
Published: August 2021

Aims: To assess the toxicities of some herbicides as individuals and in binary mixtures to Lysinibacillus fusiformis isolated from Oryzasativa plant using dehydrogenase activity as an endpoint.

Study Design: The binary mixture consists of combination of any two herbicides selected from the three herbicides (drysate, weedcut and aminoforce) for the study The binary mixture ratios (%) were designed as: 50%:50%; 80%:20% and 20%:80% for the respective mixtures in the concentration range of 0 -10, 000 mg/L.

Place and Duration of Study: Silver Press Laboratory, Owerri Nigeria between July, 2016 and August, 2019.

Methodology: A laboratory scale study was carried on three toxicants using dehydrogenase inhibition test. The inhibition of dehydrogenase activity of the isolate by toxicant was calculated relative to the control. All the dose-response relationships of the individual toxicants and that of themixtures were described by logistic dose model and Weibullcum model parameter.

Results: The results revealed that the median inhibitory concentrations (IC50) observed were 1,067.33 ± 36.68 mg/L for drysate; 2,180.00 ± 147.31 mg/L for weedcut and 4,550.00 ± 62.45 mg/L for aminoforce. Duncan tests indicated that the IC50 of the toxicants were significantly different from each other. Among the individual toxicants, the ascending toxicities ranking were aminoforce > weedcut > drysate. The responses of the test organism to the stresses of the toxicants were dose-dependent and the toxicants also progressively repressed the dehydrogenase activity as the concentration increased. All binary mixtures were strongly synergistic against the organism.

Conclusion: Thus, the toxicity of individual compound and synergistic effects of the mixtures of the toxicants indicates potential deleterious effects of both the individual chemicals and their mixtures to the rhizobacteria of Oryza sativa plant.
Manganese-Doped Carbon Dots Via Inner Filter Effect for the Sensitive Detection of Tetracycline in Poultry Meat Samples
Authors: Su Ke , Xiang Guoqiang , Zhang Yunlong , Wang Xin , Wang Linhui , Jin Xinrong , Li Bocong , Huang Gao
Published: August 2021

In this study, a rapid and sensitive analytical method has been developed to detect tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) using manganese-doped carbon dots (Mn-CDs) prepared by one-step hydrothermal procedure using 1-(2-pyridinylazo)-2-naohthalenol (PAN) and MnCl2 as precursor reagents. The obtained Mn-CDs showed an ultraviolet emission at 360 nm with an excitation wavelength of 300 nm. TC has a strong characteristic absorption peak at 356 nm, which has a large spectral overlap with the emission band of the Mn-CDs. The fluorescence intensity (FI) of Mn-CDs at 360 nm is linearly quenched within the TC concentration range of 0.1-200 µM. The developed assay for the detection of TC was based on an inner filter effect (IFE) mechanism and is rapid, sensitive, and was successfully applied for the determination of TC in different poultry meat samples with satisfactory results.
Asymptotic Distribution of Unit Root Tests Base on ESTAR Model with Flexible Fourier Form
Authors: Muhammad Murtala Adam , Hu Junjuan
Published: August 2021

In this paper, the asymptotic distribution of Fourier ESTAR model (FKSS) proposed by [1], which was not given in the original paper are derived. Result shows that the asymptotic distributions are functions of brownian motion, only depends on K and free from nuisance parameters.
Advancements in Food Technology Using Artificial Intelligence- Deep Learning
Authors: Nicholas-Okpara Viola A. Nwachukwu , Ubaka Adaeze Joy , Adegboyega Maryam Olanshile , Utazi Ifesinachi Anastacia , Chibudike C. E. , Chibudike H. O.
Published: August 2021

The food industry has continued to evolve in terms of technologies employed in food processing. These advancements are because of increasing demand of food. Many industries are beginning to explore new technologies to enhance maximum efficiency and productivity across the food value chain. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the emerging technologies that have found great relevance in the food sector. AI is simply the creation of smart machines capable of exhibiting human intelligence. This technology uses algorithms like machine learning and deep learning to mimic human behavior. AI has continued to find relevance in food processing and has proven to be an added advantage to the industry. In this article, we considered the relevance of AI to the food industry, its various applications in food processing, benefits, and setbacks to its adoption in the food industry.
Study of Genetic Diversity for Selected Genotypes in Rice
Authors: Raju Ch Sai Nayan , Lal Gabrial M. , Raju Ch. Damodar
Published: August 2021

The present investigation was undertaken to study the 54 rice genotypes to estimate the diversity, among selected rice genotypes for yield and its component characters. The experiment was carried out during Kharif, 2020, in a randomized block design with three replications at the Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad voluntary center (Kampasagar), in Telangana State. The data was collected on characters viz and salt-tolerant score 0-9 scale. The 54 genotypes of rice were grouped into twelve clusters. Clusters with their genotypes are presented in. Cluster I had 15 genotypes, Cluster II had 13 genotypes, whereas Cluster III had 4 genotypes Cluster IV, V had 4 genotypes and cluster VI had 6 genotypes cluster VII had 1 genotype cluster VIII had three genotypes cluster Ⅸ, Ⅹ, Ⅺ had 1 genotypes cluster Ⅻ had 3 genotypes Highest inter-cluster distance was exhibited between clusters VIII and Ⅺ. and lowest cluster divergence found between the clusters Ⅳ and VII Greater the distance, wider the genetic diversity among the genotypes of those clusters. For high heterotic recombinants performing genotypes would be used as parents in the recombination breeding program.
Effect of Water Management, Systems of Cultivation on Grain Yield and Energy Budget of Rice Varieties
Authors: Nayaka G. V. Venkataravana , Reddy G. Prabhakara , Kumar R. Mahender
Published: August 2021

Aims of Study: This research focused on assessing the grain yield and energy performance of four rice cultivars under different irrigation regimes and systems of cultivation for suitability of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Experiment Design: The split-split plot design with three replications was performed for this study. The treatment comprised of two irrigation regimes viz., Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and saturation as the main plot treatments, three systems of cultivation viz., System of Rice Intensification (SRI), Drum Seeding (DS) and Normal Transplanting (NTP) as the subplot treatments, and four cultivars namely DRR Dhan 42, DRR Dhan 43, MTU-1010, and NLR-34449 as the sub-sub plot treatments.

Place and Duration of Study: An experiment was conducted at the Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad, during the Autumn 2017 and 2018.

Result: Among the irrigation regimes, AWD recorded higher grain yield than saturation, Gross output energy, and net energy as compared to saturation. SRI significantly recorded higher grain yield over the NTP method. Among the different rice cultivars, DRR Dhan 43 registers remarkably higher grain yield than other cultivars during 2017 and 2018. The cultivar DRR Dhan 43 recorded higher gross output energy, net energy compared to other rice cultivars.
Study on Psychiatric Evaluation of Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Elshazly Asmaa Reda Elsayed , Seleem Mohammad Abdelhakeem , Abo-Ryia Mohamed Hamdy , Badawy Adel Abdel-Kareem
Published: August 2021

Background: Obesity is becoming an important issue for health promotion. The World Health Organization estimated that around 1.5 billion adults were overweight (body mass index (BMI) 25 kg/m2) and about 500 million people were obese (BMI 30 kg/m2) in 2008. The relationship between obesity and mental health is also considered important. In a community-based study, obesity was positively associated with several mental disorders, especially mood disorders and anxiety disorders. The aim of the study is the assessment of current and lifetime psychiatric disorders among morbidly obese patients.

Methods: This case control study was conducted on 60 participants from outpatient clinic of GIT surgery unit and community. All participants were subjected to: Body weight and body mass index, Psychiatric interview for diagnosis of psychiatric disorders by Arabic version of MINI, Scale for diagnosis of Bulimia nervosa by Shokeer, Scale for diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa by Shokeer, Binge Eating Disorder Screener-7, Eating attitude test, Hamilton Depressions Rating Scale and Hamilton anxiety scale.

Results: There was a significant increase in anxiety in patients with morbid obesity compared to control group. There was a significant difference between both groups showing the high prevalence of depression in patients with morbid obesity. Based on EAT test, there was a significant prevalence of abnormal eating behaviors in patients group compared to none of control group. A screening test for the presence of Binge eating symptoms revealed significant increase of symptoms in patients’ group.

Conclusions: Psychiatric disorders are prevalent in morbidly obese patients and are associated with significantly worse quality of life. In addition, morbidly obese patients had significantly worse physical and mental health relative to control group from general population. High rates of psychiatric disorders among morbidly obese patients seem to be the rule rather than an exception.
Evaluation of Chronic Administration of Metronidazole on the Morphological and Biochemical Parameters on the Cerebral Cortex of Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Ajibade A. J. , Ayanlade I .J.
Published: August 2021

Metronidazole has been implicated in diverse neurologic syndromes such as; cerebellar syndrome, encephalopathy, seizures, optic neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy.  Metronidazole is an antibiotic drug used to treat infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, heart, bone joint, lung, blood, nervous system and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This study therefore, investigated the effects of metronidazole on the cerebral cortex of adult wistar rats.

Thirty-two (32) adult wistar rats of average weight of 180g of both sexes were distributed into four groups of eight (8) animals per group. Group A was the control group while group B, C and D rats were treated with 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg of metronidazole respectively. Metronidazole was administered orally on daily basis to the animals for 28 days. The weights of the rats were taken weekly using a weighing scale. On the 28th day of the treatment, the animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. The skulls were excised and the brains were harvested, weighed immediately using a sensitive weighing balance and then fixed in 10% formolcalcium for routine histological techniques and the other parts were processed for biochemical analysis of Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric Oxide (NO) and Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH).

The results showed that there was a significant increase in the body weights of wistar rats in A and B while the mean body weights of the wistar rats reduced significantly in group C and D. The brain weights in group B and C increased insignificantly while brain weight in group D increased significantly when compared with group A. The biochemical analysis showed significant increase (P<0.05) in the level of MDA, NO and SDH in group B, C and D as compared with group A. Histological study of the cerebral cortex revealed conspicuous degenerative changes in group B while group C and D showed increased degenerative cerebral cortical layers with peripheral and central degenerative changes.

The study concluded that metronidazole exhibited a neurodegenerative effect on the cerebral cortex of the wistar rats investigated. It is recommended that other studies should be carried out to corroborate these findings.
Inguinal Hernia Repairs in a Rural Setting in East Africa
Authors: Wismayer Richard
Published: August 2021

Background: Inguinal hernias are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the developing world. In resource limited settings in rural Africa the clinical management of inguinal hernias may pose a therapeutic challenge to the surgeon due to the late presentation of this condition and lack of availability and affordability of mesh and laparoscopy. In our environment there is a lack of data and literature regarding the surgical management of inguinal hernias. The purpose of this study was to outline the clinical profile and outcomes among patients undergoing inguinal hernia repairs in our hospital.

Methods: A descriptive retrospective study was carried out between 1st April 2008 to the 31st July 2012 on all patients ≥15 years of age that underwent an inguinal hernia repair were eligible in this study. The patients were reviewed on the surgical ward postoperatively and in the surgical out-patients clinic 3 months post-operatively. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire on the following variables: age, sex, recurrence of hernia, post-operative pain and post-operative complications. Physical examination was used to determine post-operative recurrence and evidence of haematomas, seromas or severe wound sepsis requiring operative intervention.

Results: One hundred and fifty eight patients following repair of inguinal hernia using the Modified Bassini technique were analyzed. Mean age was 44.84 years. The male:female ratio was 3.65:1 with male predominance. Emergency inguinal hernia repairs were carried out in 4(2.53%) and the majority of patients, 154(97.47%) were elective inguinal hernia repairs. One(0.63%) mortality and the morbidity included 1(0.63%) seroma, 1(0.63%) haematoma, 1(0.63%) necrotizing fasciitis and 1(0.63%) enterocutaneous fistula. The overall complication rate was 3.16%.

Conclusions: In rural Africa patients with inguinal hernias should be encouraged to present early with signs and symptoms of inguinal hernia. Elective hernia repair of inguinal hernias, irrespective of the type of repair, will reduce the morbidity and mortality from this common problem in East Africa.
Protective Effect of Cucurbita maxima against Maximal Electroshock Induced Convulsions
Authors: Kadam Nagnath R. , Mohanty P. K. , Jain Ashish
Published: August 2021

In the present investigation, an indigenous plant, Cucurbita maxima was studied for its protective effect against maximal electroshock (MES) induced convulsions in Wistar albino rats. The rats were pretreated with different doses (100, 200, 400 mg/kg) of hydroalcoholic extract of seeds of Cucurbita maxima for 14 days and then, they were subjected to maximal electroshock seizures (40 mA for 0.2 sec) treatment. Hydroalcoholic extract of Cucurbita maxima seeds at 200 and 400 mg/kg doses significantly reduced the duration of hind limb extension along with the protection of rats against maximal electroshock induced seizures. The reference standard i.e., phenytoin (20 mg/kg) provided complete protection. Thus, present study revealed anticonvulsant effect of Cucurbita maxima against maximal electroshock-induced convulsions in rats.
Assess the Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Alternative System of Medicine among the Adults in Rural Community Area
Authors: Wankhede Pratibha , Khelpande Nayan , Khode Dipali , Khode Neha , Khunkar Shubhangi , Khewale Dharti
Published: August 2021

Introduction: The folk medicine which is available such as herb, flora, found and minerals. The people taking some treatment for improving health and treat the person which lies in ancient times. Some of the people of the alternative system such as homeopathy, Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, naturopathy and yoga. The alternative system of medicine is widespread. This leads to improving knowledge regarding the alternative system of medicine in the rural community area.

Background: The present study has been designed to capture the knowledge and attitude towards the Alternative health care system of medicine in its user and non-users to compare the differences in its source of knowledge among the rural community people. Knowledge regarding the alternative therapies that are living in the rural community area. The person has some knowledge regarding alternative health such as naturopathy, homeopathy, yoga, Unani and Siddha. The people will have known about alternative therapies.

Objective: To assess the knowledge of adults in rural community areas regarding the alternative system of medicine. To assess the attitude towards an alternative system of medicine among rural community areas.  

Methods: The sample size is 100 among the adults in the rural community area.

Results: In the present study 98% of the adults were having a positive attitude and only 2% of them had a negative attitude. Association of knowledge score and attitude score with the selected demographic variables there is a significant in the gender and not significantly associated with education, occupation, caste regarding the alternative system of medicine and significant association between attitude score the gender and not significantly associate with education, occupation, caste regarding the alternative system of medicine.

Conclusion: This study revealed that in wardha city, there is relatively high public interest in complementary and alternative medicine and a significant number has a produce good awareness attitude toward complementary and alternative medicine.
Evaluation of the Microbiological Quality of Soy Cheeses Sold at the Dantokpa Market in the Municipality of Cotonou in Benin
Authors: Tchekessi Célestin C. K. , Konfo Christian T. R. , Bleoussi Roseline T. M. , Seho Kévin C. M. , Djogbe Anayce A. M. , Sachi Pivot S. A. , Banon Jultesse S. B. , Assogba Karl T. , Ahoussi Edwige , Yaou Innocent P. Bokossa
Published: August 2021

The objective of this study is to contribute to improving the health quality of soy cheese produced and sold in Benin, through the evaluation of the microbiological quality of samples taken at the Dantokpa market in southern Benin. Samples were taken from the women producers and sellers of this cheese in this market. A total of two hundred and forty (240) samples were collected from five producer-sellers. The cheese samples were sent under suitable conditions to the laboratory where various microbiological analyzes were performed. The results revealed that salmonella, sulfite-reducing anaerobic bacteria (SRA), Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were absent in all samples. In contrast, aerobic mesophilic bacteria and total coliforms were present at loads above the limit values ​​established for food intended for human consumption. The microbiological quality of the products analyzed was generally unsatisfactory. Consequently, it is necessary to put in place a policy to raise awareness among producers-sellers of the markets on hygiene rules in order to guarantee the safety of consumers.
Carbon ion radiotherapy using fiducial markers for prostate cancer in Osaka HIMAK: Treatment planning
Authors: Tsubouchi Toshiro , Hamatani Noriaki , Takashina Masaaki , Wakisaka Yushi , Ogawa Atsuhiro , Yagi Masashi , Terasawa Ayumi , Shimazaki Kazuyuki , Chatani Masashi , Mizoe Jun’etsu , Kanai Tatsuaki
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Carbon ion radiotherapy for prostate cancer was performed using two fine needle Gold Anchor (GA) markers for patient position verification in Osaka Heavy Ion Medical Accelerator in Kansai (Osaka HIMAK). The present study examined treatment plans for prostate cases using beam‐specific planning target volume (bsPTV) based on the effect of the markers on dose distribution and analysis of target movements.

Materials and Methods

Gafchromic EBT3 film was used to measure dose perturbations caused by markers. First, the relationships between the irradiated film density and absolute dose with different linear energy transfer distributions within a spread‐out Bragg peak (SOBP) were confirmed. Then, to derive the effect of markers, two types of markers, including GA, were placed at the proximal, center, and distal depths within the same SOBP, and dose distributions behind the markers were measured using the films. The amount of internal motion of prostate was derived from irradiation results and analyzed to determine the margins of the bsPTV.

Results

The linearity of the film densities against absolute doses was constant within the SOBP and the amount of dose perturbations caused by the markers was quantitatively estimated from the film densities. The dose perturbation close behind the markers was smallest (<10% among depths within the SOBP regardless of types of markers) and increased with depth. The effect of two types of GAs on dose distributions was small and could be ignored in the treatment planning. Based on the analysis results of internal motions of prostate, required margins of the bsPTV were found to be 8, 7, and 7 mm in left–right (LR), anterior–posterior (AP), and superior–inferior (SI) directions, respectively.

Conclusion

We evaluated the dose reductions caused by markers and determined the margins of the bsPTV, which was applied to the treatment using fiducial markers, using the analysis results of prostate movements.
Evaluation of radiophotoluminescent glass dosimeter response for therapeutic spot scanning proton beam: suggestion of linear energy transfer‐based correction
Authors: Nagata Junya , Yasui Keisuke , Omachi Chihiro , Toshiyuki Toshito , Shimizu Hidetoshi , Aoyama Takahiro , Hayashi Naoki
Published: August 2021

A radiophotoluminescent glass dosimeter (RGD) is used for a postal audit of a photon beam because of its various excellent characteristics. However, it has not been used for scanning proton beams because its response characteristics have not been verified. In this study, the response of RGD to scanning protons was investigated to develop a dosimetry protocol using the linear energy transfer (LET)‐based correction factor. The responses of RGD to four maximum‐range‐energy‐pattern proton beams were verified by comparing it with ionization chamber (IC) dosimetry. The LET at each measurement depth was calculated via Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. The LET correction factor () was the ratio between the uncorrected RGD dose () and the IC dose at each measurement depth. can be represented as a function of LET using the following equation: . showed a linear under‐response with increasing LET, and the maximum dose difference between the IC dose and was 15.2% at an LET of 6.07 keV/μm. The LET‐based correction dose () conformed within 3.6% of the IC dose. The mean dose difference (±SD) of and was –2.5 ± 6.9% and 0.0 ± 1.6%, respectively. To achieve accurate dose verification for scanning proton beams using RGD, we derived a linear regression equation based on LET. The results show that with appropriate LET correction, RGD can be used for dose verification of scanning proton beams.
Influence of Multimorbidity on New Treatment Initiation and Achieving Target Disease Activity Thresholds in Active Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cohort Study Using the Rheumatology Informatics System for Effectiveness Registry
Authors: England Bryant R. , Yun Huifeng , Chen Lang , Vanderbleek Jared , Michaud Kaleb , Mikuls Ted R. , Curtis Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To determine whether multimorbidity is associated with treatment changes and achieving target disease activity thresholds in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults with active RA within the Rheumatology Informatics System for Effectiveness (RISE) registry. Multimorbidity was measured using RxRisk, a medication‐based index of chronic disease. We used multivariable logistic regression models to assess the associations of multimorbidity with the odds of initiating a new disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) in active RA, and among those initiating a new DMARD, the odds of achieving low disease activity or remission.

Results

We identified 15,626 patients using the Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data 3 (RAPID3) cohort and 5,733 patients using the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) cohort. All patients had active RA, of which 1,558 (RAPID3) and 834 (CDAI) initiated a new DMARD and had follow‐up disease activity measures. Patients were middle aged, female, and predominantly White, and on average received medications from 6 to 7 RxRisk categories. Multimorbidity was not associated with new DMARD initiation in active RA. However, a greater burden of multimorbidity was associated with lower odds of achieving treatment targets (per 1‐unit RxRisk: RAPID3 cohort odds ratio [OR] 0.95 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.91, 0.98]; CDAI cohort OR 0.94 [95% CI 0.90, 0.99]). Those with the highest burden of multimorbidity had the lowest odds of achieving target RA disease activity (RAPID3 cohort OR 0.54 [95% CI 0.34, 0.85]; CDAI cohort OR 0.65 [95% CI 0.37, 1.15]).

Conclusion

These findings from a large, real‐world registry illustrate the potential impact of multimorbidity on treatment response and indicate that a more holistic management approach targeting multimorbidity may be needed to optimize RA disease control in these patients.
CelluMOFs: Green, Facile, and Flexible Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Versatile Applications
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chen Hongwen , Hu Qiuhui , Jiang Liming , Shen Youqing , Zhao Dan , Zhou Zhuxian
Published: August 2021

Natural cellulose fiber‐based materials have been widely used in daily life for a broad application owing to their intrinsic merits such as easy availability, eco‐friendly, good processability, and outstanding physical–mechanical properties. Surface modification of natural fibers with nanostructures is an effective strategy to integrate the textile substrates with many favorable functionalities. Here, a green, facile, and universal method is introduced for the in situ growth of γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CD) metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) in cellulose fiber‐based materials (CelluMOFs). Compared to the pristine fibers, the resulting CelluMOFs have high porosity with up to 50 times larger specific surface area and enhanced loading capacity to functional molecules (essential oils, antibacterial agents, and active drugs) with 23–36 times higher loading content. The CelluMOFs also exhibit high adsorption capability to volatile organic compounds and carbon dioxide. Moreover, the CelluMOFs textiles loaded with a model drug (doxorubicin) show a steady release profile and deep skin permeation capability. These CelluMOFs combine the advantages of both cellulose fibers and CD‐MOFs, which greatly extend their applications in the fragrance industry, antimicrobial, pollutant removal, and biomedical textiles.
Frontiers in Theoretical Analysis of Solid Electrolyte Interphase Formation Mechanism
Authors: Takenaka Norio , Bouibes Amine , Yamada Yuki , Nagaoka Masataka , Yamada Atsuo
Published: August 2021

Solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is an ion conductive yet electron‐insulating layer on battery electrodes, which is formed by the reductive decomposition of electrolytes during the initial charge. The nature of the SEI significantly impacts the safety, power, and lifetime of the batteries. Hence, elucidating the formation mechanism of the SEI layer has become a top priority. Conventional theoretical calculations reveal initial elementary steps of electrolyte reductive decomposition, whereas experimental approaches mainly focus on the characterization of the formed SEI in the final form. Moreover, both theoretical and experimental methodologies could not approach intermediate or transient steps of SEI growth. A major breakthrough has recently been achieved through a novel multiscale simulation method, which has enriched the understanding of how the reduction products are aggregated near the electrode and influence the SEI morphologies. This review highlights recent theoretical achievements to reveal the growth mechanism and provides a clear guideline for designing a stable SEI layer for advanced batteries.
Spectroscopic Perception of Trap States on the Performance of Methylammonium and Formamidinium Lead Iodide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Yong , Gao Lei , Wei Xin , Zhao Weijie , Wang Wenhui , Wang Mengchen , Zheng Ting , Liu Hongwei , Lu Junpeng , Ni Zhenhua
Published: August 2021

To enhance the efficiency and stability of the organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite (OIHP) solar cells, doping has been demonstrated as a straightforward method. Nevertheless, the perception of trap states regulated by doping and their effects on the performance of solar cells is not in‐depth. Herein, typical OIHPs (CH3NH3PbI3 and Cs0.05FA0.85MA0.10Pb(I0.97Br0.03)3) doped with RbI are employed to expound the doping mechanism in affecting the efficiency of devices. Systematic spectroscopic characterizations indicate that doping significantly influences the photocarrier dynamics via directly regulating the trap states. The results indicate that doping would reduce the trap density by passivating defects and induce extra trapping centers. This directly manipulates the transient transport of the photocarriers and finally influences the output of devices. The optimization of solar cell performance requires the tradeoff of competitive relation between the passivation and introduction of trapping centers. The results provide the spectroscopic perception on how doping concentration affects trap density, carrier dynamics, transport behavior, and ultimately the parameters of devices. It provides a straightforward guidance to the design and optimization of OIHP‐based solar cells.
Controllable Heterojunctions with a Semicoherent Phase Boundary Boosting the Potassium Storage of CoSe2/FeSe2
Authors: Shan Hui , Qin Jian , Ding Yingchun , Sari Hirbod Maleki Kheimeh , Song Xuexia , Liu Wen , Hao Youchen , Wang Jingjing , Xie Chong , Zhang Jiujun , Li Xifei
Published: August 2021

Heterostructure construction is an efficient method for reinforcing K+ storage of transition metal selenides. The spontaneously developed internal electric fields give a strong boost to charge transport and significantly reduce the activation energy. Nevertheless, perfection of the interfacial region based on the energy level gradient and lattice matching degree is still a great challenge. Herein, rich vacancies and ultrafine CoSe2–FeSe2 heterojunctions with semicoherent phase boundary are simultaneously obtained, which possess unique electronic structures and abundant active sites. When employed as anodes for potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs), CoSe2–FeSe2@C composites display a reversible potassium storage of 401.1 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 and even 275 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1. Theoretical calculation also reveals that the potassium‐ion diffusion can be dramatically promoted by the controllable CoSe2–FeSe2 heterojunction.
A Universal Strategy toward the Precise Regulation of Initial Coulombic Efficiency of Li‐Rich Mn‐Based Cathode Materials
Authors: Guo Weibin , Zhang Chenying , Zhang Yinggan , Lin Liang , He Wei , Xie Qingshui , Sa Baisheng , Wang Laisen , Peng Dong‐Liang
Published: August 2021

Li‐rich Mn‐based cathode materials (LRMs) are potential cathode materials for high energy density lithium‐ion batteries. However, low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) severely hinders the commercialization of LRM. Herein, a facile oleic acid‐assisted interface engineering is put forward to precisely control the ICE, enhance reversible capacity and rate performance of LRM effectively. As a result, the ICE of LRM can be precisely adjusted from 84.1% to 100.7%, and a very high specific capacity of 330 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, as well as outstanding rate capability with a fascinating specific capacity of 250 mAh g−1 at 5 C, are harvested. Theoretical calculations reveal that the introduced cation/anion double defects can reduce the diffusion barrier of Li+ ions, and in situ surface reconstruction layer can induce a self‐built‐in electric field to stabilize the surface lattice oxygen. Moreover, this facile interface engineering is universal and can enhance the ICEs of other kinds of LRM effectively. This work provides a valuable new idea for improving the comprehensive electrochemical performance of LRM through multistrategy collaborative interface engineering technology.
A First Wide‐Open LDH Structure Hosting InP/ZnS QDs: A New Route Toward Efficient and Photostable Red‐Emitting Phosphor
Authors: Valleix Rodolphe , Zhang Qian , Boyer Damien , Boutinaud Philippe , Chadeyron Geneviève , Feng Yongjun , Okuno Hanako , Réveret François , Hintze‐Bruening Horst , Leroux Fabrice
Published: August 2021

The architecture of Zn‐Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs), organo‐modified with bola‐amphiphiles molecules, is matching its interlayer space to the size of narrow‐band red‐emitting InP/ZnS core–shell quantum dots (QDs) to form original high‐performance functional organic–inorganic QD‐bola‐LDH hybrids. The success of size‐matching interlayer space (SMIS) approach is confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), TEM, STEM‐HAADF, and photoluminescence investigations. The QD‐Bola‐LDH hybrid exhibits a photoluminescence quantum yield three times higher than that of pristine InP/ZnS QDs and provides an easy dispersion into silicone‐based resins, what makes the SMIS approach a change of paradigm compared to intercalation chemistry using common host structures. Moreover, this novel hybrid presents low QD–QD energy transfer comparable to that obtained for QDs in suspension. Composite silicone films incorporating InP/ZnS (0.27 wt%) QD‐bola‐LDH hybrids further show remarkable improved photostability relative to pristine QDs. An LED overlay consisting of a blue LED chip and silicone films loaded with QD‐bola‐LDH hybrids and YAG:Ce phosphors exhibits a color rendering index close to 94.
Engineered Multivalent Nanobodies Potently and Broadly Neutralize SARS‐CoV‐2 Variants
Authors: Zupancic Jennifer M. , Schardt John S. , Desai Alec A. , Makowski Emily K. , Smith Matthew D. , Pornnoppadol Ghasidit , Garcia de Mattos Barbosa Mayara , Cascalho Marilia , Lanigan Thomas M. , Tessier Peter M.
Published: August 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic continues to be a severe threat to human health, especially due to current and emerging SARS‐CoV‐2 variants with potential to escape humoral immunity developed after vaccination or infection. The development of broadly neutralizing antibodies that engage evolutionarily conserved epitopes on coronavirus spike proteins represents a promising strategy to improve therapy and prophylaxis against SARS‐CoV‐2 and variants thereof. Herein, a facile multivalent engineering approach is employed to achieve large synergistic improvements in the neutralizing activity of a SARS‐CoV‐2 cross‐reactive nanobody (VHH‐72) initially generated against SARS‐CoV. This synergy is epitope specific and is not observed for a second high‐affinity nanobody against a non‐conserved epitope in the receptor‐binding domain. Importantly, a hexavalent VHH‐72 nanobody retains binding to spike proteins from multiple highly transmissible SARS‐CoV‐2 variants (B.1.1.7 and B.1.351) and potently neutralizes them. Multivalent VHH‐72 nanobodies also display drug‐like biophysical properties, including high stability, high solubility, and low levels of non‐specific binding. The unique neutralizing and biophysical properties of VHH‐72 multivalent nanobodies make them attractive as therapeutics against SARS‐CoV‐2 variants.
Forage potential of winter‐hardy perennial ryegrass populations in monoculture and binary alfalfa mixture
Authors: Wiering Nicholas P. , Ehlke Nancy J. , Catalano Devan , Martinson Krishona , Sheaffer Craig C.
Published: August 2021

Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is a cool‐season grass valued for its grazing characteristics and nutritive value. MSP3984 and MSP4029, breeding populations selected for winter‐hardiness, were evaluated for biomass and nutritive value in monoculture and grass–alfalfa mixtures (Medicago sativa L.). Plots were sampled at conventional hay harvest intervals at three Minnesota locations for two production years, 2017 and 2018. Persistence was evaluated in the spring of the 3rd year, 2019. MSP3984 and MSP4029 were compared to commercial cultivars of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis Huds.), tall fescue (F. arundinacea Schreb.), and orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). Location and year × location effects largely influenced grass monoculture yields (p < .001) and botanical composition of mixtures (p < .001). In general, perennial ryegrass monocultures yielded less and were less persistent (p < .05) compared to the other cool‐season grasses. Biomass, nutritive value, and persistence did not differ among MSP3984, MSP4029, and the perennial ryegrass check ‘Remington’. However, MSP4029 was less competitive in grass–alfalfa mixtures than ‘Remington’ (p = .01). Perennial ryegrasses had lower neutral detergent fiber (NDF) concentrations than meadow fescue (p = .001) and orchardgrass (p < .001). Perennial ryegrasses also had lower acid detergent fiber (ADF) values on average than the other grasses, but cultivar effects were influenced by a year × location interaction (p = .02). This research reinforces (a) the importance of evaluating cool‐season forage grasses across latitudinal and precipitation gradients, (b) the value of grass–legume mixtures for yield stability compared to monocultures across locations and production years, and (c) the sustained need to improve forage production and persistence of perennial ryegrass for cold environments.
Macronutrient composition of olive baboon (Papio anubis) milk: A comparison to rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) milk
Authors: Glick Virginia J. , Bentley‐Condit Vicki K. , Power Michael L.
Published: August 2021

This study was designed to (1) characterize the macronutrient composition of olive baboon (Papio anubis) milk, (2) compare baboon milk composition to that of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), and (3) evaluate the association between the proportion of milk energy derived from protein and relative growth rate within anthropoid primates. A single milk sample was collected from each of eight lactating olive baboons ranging between 47‐ and 129‐days postparturition and six rhesus macaques from 15‐ to 92‐days living at the same institution under identical management conditions. Macronutrient composition (water, fat, protein sugar, and ash) was determined using standard techniques developed at the Nutrition Laboratory at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. Baboon milk on average contained 86.0% ± 0.6% water, 4.7% ± 0.5% fat, 1.6% ± 0.04% protein, 7.3% ± 0.07% sugar, and 0.165% ± 0.007% ash. Baboon milk gross energy (GE) averaged 0.81 ± 0.04 kcal/g with 51.9% ± 2.6% from fat, 11.8% ± 0.7% from protein, and 36.2% ± 2.0% from sugar. Baboon milk demonstrated strong similarity to milk composition of the closely phylogenetically related rhesus macaque (86.1% ± 0.3% water, 4.1% ± 0.4% fat, 1.69% ± 0.05% protein, 7.71% ± 0.08% sugar, 0.19% ± 0.01% ash, and 0.78 kcal/g). There was no statistical difference between baboon and macaque milk in the proportions of energy from fat, sugar, and protein. Baboon milk can be described as a high sugar, moderate fat, and low protein milk with moderate energy density, which is consistent with their lactation strategy characterized by frequent, on‐demand nursing and relatively slow life history compared to nonprimate mammal taxa. The milk energy from protein of both baboon and macaque (12.8% ± 0.3%) milk was intermediate between the protein milk energy of platyrrhine (19.3%–23.2%) and hominoid (8.9%–12.6%) primates, consistent with their relative growth rates also being intermediate. Compared to these cercopithecid monkeys, platyrrhine primates have both higher relative growth rates and higher milk energy from protein, while apes tend to be lower in both.
Commentary on Allegations of child sexual abuse: An empirical analysis of published judgements from the Family Court of Australia 2012–2019
Authors: Sheehan Rosemary
Published: August 2021

This commentary responds to Webb et al.’s (Australian Journal of Social Issues, 2021) study of published judgements of allegations of child sexual abuse from the Family Court of Australia 2012–2019. The study offers important empirical data to inform critical debates about the challenges associated with legal decision making about children alleged to be at risk of sexual harm in the context of parental separation. The research findings form the outcomes of 521 published judgements highlight that more needs to be known about how to respond to alleged sexual harm, raised by a parent, to assist the court in identifying factors attached to cases and what are effective responses.
What is paradoxical lucidity? The answer begins with its definition
Authors: Peterson Andrew , Clapp Justin , Largent Emily A. , Harkins Kristin , Stites Shana D. , Karlawish Jason
Published: August 2021

Paradoxical lucidity in dementia is a clinically significant but understudied phenomenon. A provisional definition was proposed by the 2018 National Institute on Aging expert workshop and published in Alzheimer's and Dementia. However, several conceptual features of this definition remain vague, creating barriers to robust clinical research. Here, we critically analyze the provisional definition and present a refined definition that can be applied in clinical research. The refined definition is based on an analytic process our research group recently undertook to operationalize paradoxical lucidity for our own study protocol. Our goal is to facilitate debate and potentially harmonize interpretations of paradoxical lucidity among research groups.
Hard X‐Ray Nanotomography for 3D Analysis of Coking in Nickel‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Weber Sebastian , Batey Darren , Cipiccia Silvia , Stehle Matthias , Abel Ken L. , Gläser Roger , Sheppard Thomas L.
Published: August 2021

Understanding catalyst deactivation by coking is crucial for knowledge‐based catalyst and process design in reactions with carbonaceous species. Post‐mortem analysis of catalyst coking is often performed by bulk characterization methods. Here, hard X‐ray ptychographic computed tomography (PXCT) was used to study Ni/Al2O3 catalysts for CO2 methanation and CH4 dry reforming after artificial coking treatment. PXCT generated quantitative 3D maps of local electron density at ca. 80 nm resolution, allowing to visualize and evaluate the severity of coking in entire catalyst particles of ca. 40 μm diameter. Coking was primarily revealed in the nanoporous solid, which was not detectable in resolved macropores. Coke formation was independently confirmed by operando Raman spectroscopy. PXCT is highlighted as an emerging characterization tool for nanoscale identification, co‐localization, and potentially quantification of deactivation phenomena in 3D space within entire catalyst particles.
Skeletal Editing—Nitrogen Deletion of Secondary Amines by Anomeric Amide Reagents
Authors: Zippel Christoph , Seibert Jasmin , Bräse Stefan
Published: August 2021

Late‐stage modification is highly desirable for the diversification and modification of biologically active compounds. Peripheral editing (e.g., C−H activation) has been the predominant methodology, whereas skeletal editing is in its infancy. The single‐atom N‐deletion using anomeric amide reagents constitutes a powerful tool to modify the underlying molecular skeletons of secondary amines. N‐pivaloyloxy‐N‐alkoxyamide is easily prepared on a large scale and promotes C−C bond formation in good yields under the extrusion of N2 for a variety of (cyclic) aliphatic amines. The exploitation of widely available amines allows the use of existing amine synthesis protocols to translate into the construction of new C−C bonds, enabling ring contraction and the potential for structure optimization of biologically active compounds.
A CRET‐Based Multicolor Sensing Nanoplatform for Simultaneously and Sensitively Visualizing Multiple Circulating MicroRNAs
Authors: Xu Jie , Shi Lin , Wang Han , Li Tao
Published: August 2021

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Prof. Tao Li at the University of Science and Technology of China. The cover picture shows the imaging strategy of multicolor chemiluminescence sensing platform for multiple miRNA sensing, which employs a smartphone as the detector. More information can be found in the 10.1002/anse.202100012.
Involving local people in the conservation of the critically endangered freshwater turtle Dermatemys mawii in southern Mexico
Authors: Tovar‐De la Cruz Mariana Yanel , Castro‐Pérez José Manuel , Rosas‐Luis Rigoberto
Published: August 2021

The Central American river turtle Dermatemys mawii is one of the most endangered species in the world, and continues to decline. In Mexico, this turtle is legally protected but, in the rural areas where it is found, local people are not aware of why it is important to conserve it.

This study confirmed that D. mawii inhabits lakes in southern Mexico, and that these areas are among the last refuges for this species inside and outside protected areas in the wild.

A lack of knowledge about its endangered status among local people means that a strategy of environmental education is needed.
The Magnetism of Metal–Organic Frameworks for Spintronics
Authors: Lee Kangmin , Park Jumin , Song Intek , Yoon Seok Min
Published: August 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) consist of metal nodes and organic linkers by coordinative bonding, which have diverse and fascinating applications including gas storage/separation, catalysis, sensor, and so on. Recent achievements in enhancing MOFs' electrical conductivity have lead MOFs to be also applied toward electronic and energy devices. MOF magnets have been also developed in conjunction with the improved electrical conductivity, and MOFs have been in the limelight as attractive materials for spintronics, which is an emerging field for next‐generation nanoelectronics to reduce their power consumption and increase memory‐processing capabilities. Thanks to the MOFs' chemically tunable porous structures and rationally designable structures with strong p‐d hybridization, MOFs can be a significant component in spintronic devices to support long‐lifetime and long‐range alignment of spin‐polarized electrons. This account gives an overview of the magnetism of MOFs and the recent progress in developing MOFs‐based spintronics, and the challenges and future perspectives of MOF‐based spintronics are discussed.
Co2‐xRhxP Nanoparticles for Overall Water Splitting in Basic Media: Activation by Phase‐Segregation‐Assisted Nanostructuring at the Anode
Authors: Mutinda Samuel I. , Batugedara Tharanga N. , Brown Benjamin , Brock Stephanie L.
Published: August 2021

The application of Co2‐xRhxP nanoparticles as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and overall water splitting in basic media is reported. The experimental design seeks to dilute rhodium with earth‐abundant cobalt as a means to lower the cost of the material and achieve catalytic synergism, as reported for related bimetallic phosphides. The HER activity of Co2‐xRhxP is found to be composition‐dependent, with the rhodium‐rich compositions being more active as compared to their cobalt‐rich counterparts, with overpotentials (η) at 10 mA/cm2geometric of 58.1–63.9 mV vs. 82.1–188.1 mV, respectively. In contrast, Co‐rich Co2‐xRhxP nanoparticles are active for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) process in basic media, with η= 290 mV for x=0.25. A full water electrolysis cell was created using the most active compositions for OER and HER as the anode and cathode, respectively, generating an overall η= 390 mV. Notably, the cell became more active over a 50 h stability test, increasing by 2 mV/cm2geometric at a constant applied voltage of 1.62 V vs NHE. This enhanced activity correlates with nanoscale phase segregation of Rh in the anode. Thus, the lower overpotential achieved for Co1.75Rh0.25P relative to Co2P, and the augmented activity over time in the former, may be a consequence of restructuring of the anode driven by Rh phase‐segregation. The augmentation in activity at the anode more than compensates for small losses at the cathode.