bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth and Yield Stability of Maize Varieties (Zea mays L.) as Affected by Different Rates of Nitrogen Fertilizer and Cow Dung in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Audu I. , Idris R.
Published: June 2020

A field experiment to study the growth and yield stability of maize varieties (Zea mays L.) to different rates of nitrogen fertilizer and cow dung in Mubi Adamawa State, Nigeria was conducted in 2014 and 2015 cropping seasons at the Food and Agricultural Organization/Tree crops Plantation (FAO/TCP) Farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Adamawa State University Mubi. Two maize varieties; viz. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) and Extra Early White (EEW) were selected for sowing. They were assigned to the main plots and nitrogen with cow dung assigned to the subplots in a factorial combination with nitrogen at the rates of 0, 60 and 120 kg N ha-1 and cow dung at 0, 1- and 2-ton ha-1 in split plot design. Data were collected on plant height, leaf area per plant, leaf area index and grain yield per hectare. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and treatment means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test. The result showed that EEW had the highest plant height (190.77 cm), higher leaf area per plant (535.6 cm2) and leaf area index (0.40 cm) than QPM. The effect of nitrogen fertilizer on the growth and yield parameters increased as the nitrogen fertilizer was increased. 120kg N ha-1 gave the highest plant height (195.68 cm) and grain yield (5658.3 kg). The control plot produced the least; 164.77 cm (plant height) and 2662.50 kg ha-1 (grain yield). Application of 1ton ha-1 cow dung exhibited the highest plant height, (95.00 cm), leaf area per plant (518.91 cm2) and leaf area index (0.37 cm). There was an interaction of variety with nitrogen on plant height and grain yield. High interaction of variety with cow dung on plant height and leaf area per plant was recorded. There was an interaction of nitrogen with cow dung on plant height, leaf area per plant and leaf area index. However, there was an interaction of variety with nitrogen and cow dung on plant height, leaf area per plant and leaf area index. Application of 120 kg N ha-1 significantly increased the yield of QPM maize along with 2-ton ha-1 of cow dung.
Influence of Time of Cowpea Introduction at the Establishment Phase of Pineapple on Performance of Pepper in a Pineapple-Pepper-Cowpea Intercropping System
Authors: Ajayi Ademola Johnson , Agele Samuel Ohikhena , Aiyelari O Peter
Published: June 2020

Cowpea was sown into pineapple-pepper intercrop at the establishment of pineapple in 2011 and 2012 to evaluate the effects of its time of sowing into pineapple-pepper intercrop on growth and yield components of pepper. In 2011, cowpeas were sown into pineapple-pepper intercropped plots at 3 week intervals in addition to the sole crop components of pepper, cowpea and pineapple. In 2012, the experiment was repeated with the inclusion of pineapple-pepper intercrop with no cowpea introduced. The experiments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications.

Early sowing of cowpea at the time of transplanting pepper and at 3 weeks after transplanting (WAP) pepper significantly reduced pepper leaf area by 97.5 and 80.1% respectively. The decline in the number of fruits per plant ranges from 90.4% with sowing of cowpea at transplanting of pepper to 35.6% sowing was delayed by 9 weeks in 2011 while decline in 2012 rages from 89.6 to 1.4%. Lower fruit weight decline was obtained with delayed introduction of cowpea with 29.1 and 14.5% decline when cowpea was sown 6 and 9 WAT respectively. It is recommended that pepper could be introduced into pineapple field at establishment phase. However, sowing of cowpea should be delayed up to six weeks after transplanting pepper in order to reduce competition and to enhance complementary use of resources by the component crops.
Economics of Yam Production in Gboyin Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Ariyo O. C. , Usman M. B. , Olorukooba M. M. , Olagunju O. E. , Oni O. B. , Suleiman R. , Adetunji A. J. , Ariyo M. O.
Published: June 2020

The study of economics of yam production was carried out in Gboyin Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of yam farmers, determine and analyse the profitability of yam production, determine the input and output relationship of yam production and identify constraints to yam production. Three- stage sampling procedure was used to obtain information from respondents. A total number of 140 respondents selected randomly from four towns (Ode- Ekiti, Agbado, Aisegba and Ilumoba) were used for the study. Data were collected with interview schedule administered to obtain information from the farmers. Descriptive statistics, budgetary, profitability and multiple regression analysis were used to analyse the data. The result of the study showed that both males and females are involved in yam production in the study area with mean age of 45 years and mean household size of 5 members. The mean faming experience and farm size was 10 years and 1.83 hectares respectively. Majority (83.57%) had formal education (primary, secondary and tertiary education) and had no access to loans. The result of budgetary analyses showed that yam production is profitable with an average net farm income of N 91, 876.50 per production season. The profitability indicators revealed that the enterprise is viable and worthwhile. The coefficient of both fertilizer and farm size were significant at (P< 0.001), labour at (P< 0.05) while the coefficient of seed was significant at (P< 0.10) probability level. These variables are very vital and crucial in yam production. Inadequate capital and planting materials, high cost and inaccessibility to inputs, and poor produce price etc are the problems of yam production in the study area. It was concluded that yam production is a profitable, viable and worthwhile enterprise which can be embarked upon by both the youths and adults of the study area.
Seasonal Variation in an Outpatient Antibiotic Prescription Rates in Alkharj
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J.
Published: June 2020

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the seasonal variations in dispensing antibiotic prescriptions in the outpatient setting of a public hospital in Alkharj.

Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. The outpatient prescriptions in 2017 and 2018 were collected from medical records in a public hospital in Alkharj.

The data include the number of prescribed antibiotics in general, the number of prescribed antibiotics in different months and seasons in the outpatient setting.

Results: In the outpatient setting in 2017 and 2018, antibiotics were prescribed excessively in most of the months. About 27.84 %of the prescriptions in 2017 were in spring season and about 26.64% of the prescriptions in 2018 were in autumn. Total number of antibiotics prescriptions in 2017 and 2018 were 5348 in spring followed by 5097 in autumn.

Conclusion: The results of the present study showed the widespread use of antibiotics by practitioners that was associated with season of prescribing. In general, there are excess use of antibiotics in all months. It is important to understand how the prescribing of antibiotic varies throughout the year to design an appropriate intervention to decrease incorrect antibiotic use.
Magnetic Modeling and Potential Hydrocarbon Trap Over Yola and Environs Upper Benue Trough Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Hayatudeen Musa , Bassey Nsikak Edet , Rasaq Bello
Published: June 2020

With a renewed interest to search for hydrocarbons in the hinter land of Nigeria’s inland basin climaxed after the discovery of a rewarding oil prospects around the Kolmani river II as recently announced by the National Oil Company, the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). This research was based on analyzing the high-resolution aeromagnetic data over the study area using the Oasis Montaj TM software, in order to get the total magnetic intensity map as well as the residual map, band pass filter map was used to generate magnetic aureoles. GM-SYS module of the Oasis montaj was used for the modeling exercise, the models reveal the horst and graben architecture of the basement with the grabens serving as depocentres, hydrocarbon potentials of the area were highlighted using magnetic aureoles mapping.
Bryozoa,
Cristatella Mucedo
: Introduction
Authors: Schwaha Thomas F.
Published: June 2020

Cristatella mucedo
, Cuvier 1798, is a characteristic worm‐shaped and mobile colony of freshwater bryozoans. It is the sole representative of the genus
Cristatella
and sole species of the family Cristatellidae. It is commonly found on plants or other substrates in ponds or other freshwater habitats.
Bryozoa,
Cristatella Mucedo
: Integument
Authors: Schwaha Thomas F.
Published: June 2020

This contribution describes the integument of the freshwater bryozoans
Cristatella mucedo
.
Bryozoa,
Cristatella Mucedo
: Nervous System
Authors: Schwaha Thomas F.
Published: June 2020

This contribution describes the nervous system of the freshwater bryozoans
Cristatella mucedo
.
Bryozoa,
Cristatella Mucedo
: Respiratory System
Authors: Schwaha Thomas F.
Published: June 2020

This contribution describes the respiratory system of the freshwater bryozoans
Cristatella mucedo
.
Eukoenenia spelaea
, Palpigradi: Sensory Structures
Authors: Franz‐Guess Sandra , Starck J. Matthias
Published: June 2020

Palpigradi are characterized by a unique set of sensory organs, i.e., frontal organ and lateral organs. Both are built from snesory setae, but their surface structure and internal organization is unique, suggesting bimodal receptive functions. Also trichobothria show peculiar ultrastructure with dentrites reaching far into the hair, also suggesting a bimodal sensory organ (mechanoreception and probably chemoreception).
Eukoenenia spelaea
, Palpigradi: Gametes
Authors: Franz‐Guess Sandra , Starck J. Matthias
Published: June 2020

This short section summarizes available data on female and male gametes in palpigradi. Unfortunately, very little and incomplete data is available. However, the spermatozoa can be characterized as aflegellate and vacuolated.
Cerebellar cognitive disorder parallels cerebellar motor symptoms in Friedreich ataxia
Authors: Naeije Gilles , Rai Myriam , Allaerts Nick , Sjogard Martin , De Tiège Xavier , Pandolfo Massimo
Published: June 2020

Dentate nuclei (DN) are involved in cerebellar modulation of motor and cognitive functions, whose impairment causes ataxia and cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome (CCAS). Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) disease progression relates to degeneration of the dentate nucleus and dentato‐thalamic pathways, causing cerebellar ataxia. Volumetric MRI also shows mild loss in the cerebellar cortex, brainstem, and motor cortex. Cognitive deficits occur in FRDA, but their relationship with ataxia progression is not fully characterized. We found a significant positive correlation between severity of patients’ ataxia and more marked CCAS as assessed with the CCAS‐Scale. This relation could be related to progressive DN impairment.
High angle of attack flight control based on switched prescribed performance
Authors: Wu Dawei , Chen Mou , Ye Hui
Published: June 2020

This article studies the high angle of attack (AOA) maneuver control based on an improved prescribed performance method, that is, switched prescribed performance control (SPP). Different from traditional prescribed performance control, multiple performance functions are considered in the SPP, which can appropriately adjust the output performance constraints. Furthermore, based on the SPP, an adjustable prescribed performance (APP) control method is developed, which requires only a continuous adjustable performance function. Then, based on the proposed APP and adaptive neural network (NN) technology, a robust adaptive NN flight control law is developed. To handle the input saturation, an improved auxiliary system is developed. According to the common Lyapunov function method, it can be concluded that the closed‐loop system is stable and the system output can meet the corresponding prescribed performance. Finally, simulations are given to illustrate the validity of the high AOA flight control law based on the proposed
APP.
Response to “Comment on Rapid Assembly of Small Materials Building Blocks (Voxels) into Large Functional 3D Metamaterials”
Authors: Hahn Vincent , Wegener Martin
Published: June 2020

In a previous publication, numerous different 3D printing technologies were reviewed, projection‐based temporal‐focusing 3D printing being one of them. There, one condensed paragraph is dedicated to discussing the proximity effect for said 3D printing approach, based on a publication by Saha et al. (2019). In a comment, Saha and Chen (2020) criticized the discussion on projection‐based temporal‐focusing 3D printing. In this response, the discussion on the proximity effect is expanded and aspects addressed in the comment by Saha and Chen (2020) are clarified.
Additive Manufacturing of a Point‐of‐Care “Polypill:” Fabrication of Concept Capsules of Complex Geometry with Bespoke Release against Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Pereira Beatriz C. , Isreb Abdullah , Isreb Mohammad , Forbes Robert T. , Oga Enoche F. , Alhnan Mohamed A.
Published: June 2020

Polypharmacy is often needed for the management of cardiovascular diseases and is associated with poor adherence to treatment. Hence, highly flexible and adaptable systems are in high demand to accommodate complex therapeutic regimens. A novel design approach is employed to fabricate highly modular 3D printed “polypill” capsules with bespoke release patterns for multiple drugs. Complex structures are devised using combined fused deposition modeling 3D printing aligned with hot‐filling syringes. Two unibody highly modular capsule skeletons with four separate compartments are devised: i) concentric format: two external compartments for early release while two inner compartments for delayed release, or ii) parallel format: where nondissolving capsule shells with free‐pass corridors and dissolution rate‐limiting pores are used to achieve immediate and extended drug releases, respectively. Controlling drug release is achieved through digital manipulation of shell thickness in the concentric format or the size of the rate limiting pores in the parallel format. Target drug release profiles are achieved with variable orders and configurations, hence confirming the modular nature with capacity to accommodate therapeutics of different properties. Projection of the pharmacokinetic profile of this digital system capsules reveal how the developed approach can be applied in dose individualization and achieving multiple desired pharmacokinetic profiles.
Liquid‐Metal‐Templated Synthesis of 2D Graphitic Materials at Room Temperature
Authors: Mayyas Mohannad , Li Hongzhe , Kumar Priyank , Ghasemian Mohammad B. , Yang Jiong , Wang Yifang , Lawes Douglas J. , Han Jialuo , Saborio Maricruz G. , Tang Jianbo , Jalili Rouhollah , Lee Sun Hwa , Seong Won Kyung , Russo Salvy P. , Esrafilzadeh Dorna , Daeneke Torben , Kaner Richard B. , Ruoff Rodney S. , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kourosh
Published: June 2020

Room‐temperature synthesis of 2D graphitic materials (2D‐GMs) remains an elusive aim, especially with electrochemical means. Here, it is shown that liquid metals render this possible as they offer catalytic activity and an ultrasmooth templating interface that promotes Frank–van der Merwe regime growth, while allowing facile exfoliation due to the absence of interfacial forces as a nonpolar liquid. The 2D‐GMs are formed at low onset potential and can be in situ doped depending on the choice of organic precursors and the electrochemical set‐up. The materials are tuned to exhibit porous or pinhole‐free morphologies and are engineered for their degree of oxidation and number of layers. The proposed liquid‐metal‐based room‐temperature electrochemical route can be expanded to many other 2D materials.
Selective Inhibition of Streptococci Biofilm Growth via a Hydroxylated Azobenzene Coating
Authors: Mori Dylan I. , Schurr Michael J. , Nair Devatha P.
Published: June 2020

Strategies to engineer surfaces that can enable the selective inhibition of bacterial pathogens while preserving beneficial microbes can serve as tools to precisely edit the microbiome. In the oral microbiome, this selectivity is crucial in preventing the proliferation of cariogenic species such as Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). In this communication, coatings consisting of a covalently tethered hydroxylated azobenzene (OH‐AAZO) on glassy acrylic resins are studied and characterized for their ability to selectively prevent the attachment and growth of oral Streptococci biofilms. The coating applied on the surface of glassy resins inhibits the growth and proliferation of cariogenic S. mutans and S. oralis biofilms while A. actinomycetemcomitans, S. aureus, and E. coli biofilms are unaffected by the coating . The antibacterial effect is characterized as a function of both the OH‐AAZO concentration in the coatings (≥50 mg mL−1) and the structure of the monomer in the coating. Preliminary mechanistic results suggest that the targeted bactericidal effect against Streptococci species is caused by a disruption of membrane ion potential, inducing cell death.
DNA‐Based pH‐Responsive Core–Shell Drug Nanocarrier for Tumor‐Targeted Chemo‐Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Cui Yun‐Xi , Sun Guo‐Ying , Li Yong‐Hui , Tang An‐Na , Zhu Li‐Na , Kong De‐Ming
Published: June 2020

Developing highly efficient and nontoxic drug carriers, which can work well for both chemotherapy drugs and photosensitizers, is an urgent demand to improve the efficacy of chemo‐photodynamic therapy and to promote its clinical applications. In this paper, a facile way is proposed to construct a DNA‐based nanocarrier, to achieve the synergetic loading and delivery of doxorubicine (Dox) and porphyrin/G‐quadruplex composited photosensitizer. The nanocarrier contains a gold nanoparticle (AuNP) core and a DNA layer. It is prepared via a nontemplated extension of short DNA primers on AuNP core through terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase catalysis and subsequent DNA hybridization. Through the intercalation of Dox in duplex DNA and the forming of porphyrin/G‐quadruplex complex, the drugs responsible for chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy are efficiently loaded in the nanocarrier, and then delivered to and accumulated at tumor sites. Inside tumor cells, i‐motif may form under acidic conditions, thus triggering pH‐responsive payload release, and making the drug concentration achieving the therapeutic limitation in a short time. Highly efficient drug delivery and antitumor performance of the nanocarrier system are well demonstrated by both in vitro and in vivo experiments. The proposed nanocarrier may be developed as a promising tool for clinical drug delivery and disease therapy.
Covalently‐Attached, Surface‐Eroding Polymer Coatings on Magnesium Alloys for Corrosion Control and Temporally Varying Support of Cell Adhesion
Authors: Chen Yingqi , Ye Sang‐Ho , Zhu Yang , Gu Xinzhu , Higuchi Shinichi , Wan Guojiang , Wagner William R.
Published: June 2020

For degradable magnesium (Mg) alloy‐based stents it would be desirable to delay early corrosion to maintain mechanical strength. Similarly, early after stent placement reduced thrombogenicity is an important feature, while chronically, endothelial cell adhesion and vessel integration are desirable. In this study, surface eroding polymers of amino‐grafted poly(1,3‐trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC‐NH2) and PTMC‐NH2 combined with sulfobetaine bearing polymer PSB (PTMC‐NHCO‐PSB) are developed, and these polymers are covalently attached onto 6‐phosphonohexanoic acid (PHA)‐coated AZ31 Mg alloy surfaces in sequence. In vitro degradation testing in ovine plasma shows PTMC, PTMC‐NH2, and PTMC‐NHCO‐PSB cast films experience a gradual thickness and mass loss with maintenance of smooth surfaces, confirming surface erosion behavior. The PTMC‐NH2 polymer is firmly bound to the PHA‐modified AZ31 surface and demonstrates a resistance to peeling. PTMC, PTMC‐NH2, and PTMC‐NHCO‐PSB coated AZ31 have a lower corrosion rate versus polylactide‐co‐glycolide coated and untreated AZ31. PTMC‐NHCO‐PSB coated AZ31 inhibits platelet deposition and smooth muscle cell adhesion and growth, but after 2‐week immersion in plasma, this surface supports endothelial cell adhesion and growth. These results suggest PTMC‐NHCO‐PSB surface eroding coating offers a means of controlling corrosion while providing a temporally varying bio‐functionality for biodegradable vascular stent applications.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of Li1.2[Mn0.54Co0.13Ni0.13]O2 Enabled by Synergistic Effect of Li1.5Na0.5SiO3 Modification
Authors: Nie Xiangkun , Xu Zhou , Chen Lina , Li Jianwei , Cheng Jun , Sun Qing , Qiao Ying , Xu Xiaoyan , Zhang Yamin , Li Deping , Peng Ruiqin , Ci Lijie
Published: June 2020

Surface coating is effective in improving the electrochemical properties of layered lithium‐rich Mn‐based oxide‐Li1.2[Mn0.54Co0.13Ni0.13]O2 (LLMO). In this work, a novel coating material‐Na+ doped Li2SiO3 (forming Li1.5Na0.5SiO3) is selected to modify LLMO. By means of the modification, the Na+ doping is realized along with the Li2−xNaxSiO3 coating on the surface of Li1.2−xNax[Mn0.54Co0.13Ni0.13]O2 (NLLMO). The higher electrochemical activity of Li2−xNaxSiO3 than Li2SiO3, and surface Na+ doping of LLMO, can significantly improve the battery performance of the LLMO cathode. Consequently, 1 wt% Li1.5Na0.5SiO3 modified LLMO exhibits much improved cycling stability than the others with the minimum voltage decay of only 0.198 V and the highest capacity retention of 83.9% after 100 cycles at 0.5C (1C = 200 mAh g−1). Moreover, it also exhibits an excellent rate performance (200.6 mAh g−1 at 1C). The outstanding electrochemical performance of 1 wt% Li1.5Na0.5SiO3 modified LLMO sheds more light on improving the properties of Li‐rich cathode materials.
Ni/Fe Clusters and Nanoparticles Confined by Covalent Organic Framework Derived Carbon as Highly Active Catalysts toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Xu Qing , Qian Jing , Luo Dan , Liu Guojuan , Guo Yu , Zeng Gaofeng
Published: June 2020

Developing bifunctional electrocatalysts with high activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of great significance for metal–air batteries. Herein, a covalent organic framework (COF)‐derived bifunctional electrocatalyst toward the ORR and the OER is demonstrated, in which the COF‐derived carbon on carbon nanotubes is used as the support to anchor active bimetal Ni/Fe clusters and nanoparticles. Since Ni/Fe ions are immobilized in the pore channels of the COFs, the aggregation and migration of ions under pyrolysis are effectively hindered. In addition, the COF‐derived carbon‐made catalyst features abundant nitrogen content and a high mesoporous volume. As a result, the catalyst displays ultrahigh ORR activity, with a half‐wave potential of 0.87 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode in 0.1 m KOH electrolyte. Moreover, the catalyst achieves a low operating potential of 1.55 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, with a Tafel slop of 61 mV decade−1 for OER in 0.1 m KOH, superior to most oxygen electrocatalysts. Furthermore, the catalyst also exhibits remarkable performance in Zn–air batteries. This work demonstrates a new insight into developing bifunctional catalysts from COFs.
Efficient Syntheses of 2D Materials from Soft Layered Composites Guided by Yield Prediction Model: Potential of Experiment‐Oriented Materials Informatics
Authors: Noda Kyohei , Igarashi Yasuhiko , Imai Hiroaki , Oaki Yuya
Published: June 2020

Exfoliation is a common route to synthesize 2D materials such as monolayered and few‐layered nanosheets. However, it is not easy to control the breaking‐down process. This work shows a new exfoliation strategy for generation of nanosheets from soft layered composites in high yield. Soft layered composites of inorganic hosts and organic guests are exfoliated into nanosheets in organic dispersion media. A simple yield prediction model is constructed on small‐scale experimental data by sparse modeling, a data‐scientific approach, combined with chemical perspective. The prediction model indicates the guest–medium combinations enabling high‐ and low‐yield syntheses of the nanosheets. The high‐ and low‐yield syntheses are actually achieved on different types of layered transition metal oxides in a minimum number of experiments. The number of experiments is reduced by 94%. The experimental optimization realizes further improvement of the yield, namely, shortening the exfoliation time. The present strategies can be applied to obtain a variety of 2D materials through exfoliation. Moreover, the present work suggests that combination of small experimental data, data‐scientific approach, and chemical perspective, i.e., experiment‐oriented materials informatics, has potentials for acceleration of materials design.
Systemic Nanoparticle‐Mediated Delivery of Pantetheinase Vanin‐1 Regulates Lipolysis and Adiposity in Abdominal White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Chen Siyu , Zhang Wenxiang , Sun Chen , Song Mingming , Liu Shuang , Xu Mengyi , Zhang Xiaojin , Liu Li , Liu Chang
Published: June 2020

Lipolysis in white adipose tissue (WAT) occurs in response to nutritional signals and helps to regulate lipid turnover/adiposity in animals. However, the causal relationships and the mechanisms controlling WAT morphology are not clear. In this report, Vanin‐1, a pantetheinase, is shown to be a novel determinant for lipolysis and adiposity. The expression of Vanin‐1 in the abdominal WAT is positively correlated with lipolysis both in mice and in humans. Mice with global Vanin‐1 deficiency exhibit adipocyte hypertrophy and impaired lipolysis. Use of a nanosystem comprising P3‐peptide, chitosan oligosaccharide lactate, and polyethylene glycol that controls Vanin‐1 expression in the abdominal WAT shows that WAT‐specific Vanin‐1 knockdown blocks fasting‐induced lipolysis and prevents WAT loss. However, WAT‐specific Vanin‐1 mRNA restoration rescues impaired lipolysis and improves glucose/insulin intolerance in diabetic db/db mice. Mechanistically, Vanin‐1 induces PPARγ activity and subsequently facilitates its activation on the proximal promoters of lipolytic genes. Thus, an essential role of Vanin‐1 in the regulation of lipolysis and adiposity is revealed, and a functional RNA delivering strategy for specific intervention of Vanin‐1 expression in WAT is shown. These findings provide a promising approach to treat metabolic diseases caused by dysregulation of Vanin‐1 and lipolysis.
Genetic screens reveal CCDC115 as a modulator of erythroid iron and heme trafficking
Authors: Sobh Amin , Loguinov Alex , Zhou Jie , Jenkitkasemwong Supak , Zeidan Rola , El Ahmadie Nader , Tagmount Abderrahmane , Knutson Mitchell , Fraenkel Paula G. , Vulpe Christopher D.
Published: June 2020

Transferrin‐bound iron (TBI), the physiological circulating iron form, is acquired by cells through the transferrin receptor (TfR1) by endocytosis. In erythroid cells, most of the acquired iron is incorporated into heme in the mitochondria. Cellular trafficking of heme is indispensable for erythropoiesis and many other essential biological processes. Comprehensive elucidation of molecular pathways governing and regulating cellular iron acquisition and heme trafficking is required to better understand physiological and pathological processes affecting erythropoiesis. Here, we report the first genome‐wide clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) screens in human erythroid cells to identify determinants of iron and heme uptake, as well as heme‐mediated erythroid differentiation. We identified several candidate modulators of TBI acquisition including TfR1, indicating that our approach effectively revealed players mechanistically relevant to the process. Interestingly, components of the endocytic pathway were also revealed as potential determinants of transferrin acquisition. We deciphered a role for the vacuolar‐type H+ − ATPase (V‐ ATPase) assembly factor coiled‐coil domain containing 115 (CCDC115) in TBI uptake and validated this role in CCDC115 deficient K562 cells. Our screen in hemin‐treated cells revealed perturbations leading to cellular adaptation to heme, including those corresponding to trafficking mechanisms and transcription factors potentiating erythroid differentiation. Pathway analysis indicated that endocytosis and vesicle acidification are key processes for heme trafficking in erythroid precursors. Furthermore, we provided evidence that CCDC115, which we identified as required for TBI uptake, is also involved in cellular heme distribution. This work demonstrates a previously unappreciated common intersection in trafficking of transferrin iron and heme in the endocytic pathway of erythroid cells.
Chemical Reaction Monitoring using Zero‐Field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Enables Study of Heterogeneous Samples in Metal Containers
Authors: Burueva Dudari B. , Eills James , Blanchard John W. , Garcon Antoine , Picazo‐Frutos Román , Kovtunov Kirill V. , Koptyug Igor V. , Budker Dmitry
Published: June 2020

We demonstrate that heterogeneous/biphasic chemical reactions can be monitored with high spectroscopic resolution using zero‐field nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. This is possible because magnetic susceptibility broadening is negligible at ultralow magnetic fields. We show the two‐step hydrogenation of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate with para‐enriched hydrogen gas in conventional glass NMR tubes, as well as in a titanium tube. The low frequency zero‐field NMR signals ensure that there is no significant signal attenuation arising from shielding by the electrically conductive sample container. This method paves the way for in situ monitoring of reactions in complex heterogeneous multiphase systems and in reactors made of conductive materials while maintaining resolution and chemical specificity.
Single‐Molecule Redox‐Targeting Reactions for a pH‐Neutral Aqueous Organic Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Zhou Mingyue , Chen Yan , Salla Manohar , Zhang Hang , Wang Xun , Mothe Srinivasa Reddy , Wang Qing
Published: June 2020

Aqueous organic redox flow batteries (AORFBs) have received considerable attention for large‐scale energy storage. Quinone derivatives, such as 9,10‐anthraquinone‐2,7‐disulphonic acid (2,7‐AQDS), have been explored intensively owing to potentially low cost and swift reaction kinetics. However, the low solubility in pH‐neutral electrolytes restricts their application to corrosive acidic or caustic systems. Herein, the single molecule redox‐targeting reactions of 2,7‐AQDS anolyte are presented to circumvent its solubility limit in pH‐neutral electrolytes. Polyimide was employed as a low‐cost high‐capacity solid material to boost the capacity of 2,7‐AQDS electrolyte to 97 Ah L−1. Through in situ FTIR spectroscopy, a hydrogen‐bonding mediated reaction mechanism was disclosed. In conjunction with NaI as catholyte and nickel hexacyanoferrate as the catholyte capacity booster, a single‐molecule redox‐targeting reaction‐based full cell with energy density up to 39 Wh L−1 was demonstrated.
Atomic Hydrogen Induced Chemical Vapor Deposition of Silicon Oxycarbide Thin Films Derived from Diethoxymethylsilane Precursor
Authors: Uznanski Pawel , Walkiewicz‐Pietrzykowska Agnieszka , Jankowski Krzysztof , Zakrzewska Joanna , Wrobel Aleksander M. , Balcerzak Jacek , Tyczkowski Jacek
Published: June 2020

Amorphous silicon oxycarbide (a‐SiOC:H) films produced by remote plasma RPCVD from diethoxymethylsilane (DEMS) were characterized in terms of their basic properties related to the coatings deposited using conventional plasma enhanced PECVD method. The effect of substrate temperature (TS) on the growth rate, chemical composition, structure, and properties of resulting a‐SiOC:H films is reported. Film growth is an adsorption‐controlled process, wherein two mechanisms can be distinguished with a transition at about TS=70°C. Depending on the temperature, films of different nature can be obtained, from polymer‐like to highly crosslinked material with C‐Si‐O network. The chemical structure of a‐SiOC:H films was characterized by FTIR, 13C and 29Si solid‐state NMR, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopes. The a‐SiOC:H films were also characterized in terms of their density, refractive index, surface morphology, conformality of coverage, hardness, adhesion to a substrate, and friction coefficient. The films were found to be morphologically homogeneous materials exhibiting good conformality of coverage and small surface roughness. Their refractive index exhibits anomalous effect revealing a minimum value at TS=125°C. Due to their exceptional physical properties a‐SiOC:H films produced by RPCVD from DEMS precursor seems to be useful as potential dielectric materials or coatings for various encapsulation applications.
Fischer–Tropsch synthesis using zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐7 and ZIF‐8)‐supported cobalt catalysts
Authors: Davoodian Negin , Nakhaei Pour Ali , Izadyar Mohammad , Mohammadi Ali , Salimi Alireza , Kamali Shahri Seyed Mehdi
Published: June 2020

The Fischer–Tropsch synthesis using cobalt catalysts supported on zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), ZIF‐7 and ZIF‐8, has been investigated. ZIF‐7, ZIF‐8 and corresponding cobalt‐containing catalysts, after preparation, were characterized using various techniques. Thermogravimetric analysis results show that ZIF‐7 and ZIF‐8 supports have good thermal stability for the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis reaction, and weaker interaction between cobalt and zinc in the ZIF‐7 and ZIF‐8 supports results in more cobalt reduction. The catalytic performance was evaluated in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis and compared with that of a cobalt catalyst supported on SBA‐15 promoted with zinc. The pore structure of the ZIF supports plays an essential role in product selectivity for the prepared catalysts. The carbon number in hydrocarbon products and olefin selectivity depend on cobalt dispersion and support structure owing to the impacts of site density and carrier skeleton on the speed of diffusion‐enhanced olefin re‐adsorption reactions.
Synthesis of novel thiazolo[3,2‐a]chromeno[4,3‐d]pyrimidine‐6(7H)‐ones by bioactive Fe3O4@gly@thiophen@Cu(NO3)2 as reusable magnetic nanocatalyst
Authors: Hosseinzadegan Sara , Hazeri Nourallah , Maghsoodlou Malek Taher
Published: June 2020

In this study, new Fe3O4@gly@thiophen@Cu(NO3)2 magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized. The final product was used as an efficient and novel magnetic nanocatalyst for synthesizing new derivatives of thiazolo[3,2‐a] chromeno[4,3‐d]pyrimidine‐6(7H) in a short time and with higher efficiency. In the synthesis of Fe3O4@gly@thiophen@Cu(NO3)2 magnetic nanoparticles, the use of glycine proved an inexpensive and readily available coating for Fe3O4 than previously reported materials, and the structure was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, energy‐dispersive x‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, EDX mapping, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis/derivative thermogravimetry, and vibrating sample magnetometry. The biological properties of magnetic nanoparticles were evaluated, and they exhibited acceptable antifungal and antibacterial properties in terms of minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum fungicidal concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration.
Synthesis and characterization of terbium doped TiO2 nanoparticles and their use as recyclable and reusable heterogeneous catalyst for efficient and environmentally sustainable synthesis of spiroannulated indolo[3,2‐c]quinolines‐ mimetic scaffolds of isocryptolepine
Authors: Verma Kanchan , Tailor Yogesh Kumar , Khandelwal Sarita , Agarwal Monu , Rushell Esha , Pathak Sakshi , Kumari Yogita , Awasthi Kamlendra , Kumar Mahendra
Published: June 2020

An efficient and environmentally sustainable domino protocol has been presented for the synthesis of structurally diverse spiroannulated indolo[3,2‐c]quinolines involving three component sequential reaction of phenylhydrazine, o‐aminoacetophenone and cyclic ketones using nanostructured terbium doped TiO2 as recyclable and reusable heterogeneous catalyst. The nanostructured catalyst was synthesized successfully and characterized by X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), EDX and Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR). The substitution of Ti+4 with Tb+3 and the formation of Ti‐O‐Tb bonds as a result of doping of Terbium with TiO2 NPs increases the catalytic efficiency and facilitates the reaction to provide the products in excellent yields. The present protocol with special features; operational simplicity, atom‐economy, mild reaction conditions, environmental sustainability and high synthetic efficiency with recyclability and reusability of catalyst has been reported for the first time to synthesize spiroannulated indoloquinolines and expecting to provide the library of promising new leads in drug discovery research.
Fcγ Receptor I–Coupled Signaling in Peripheral Nociceptors Mediates Joint Pain in a Rat Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Liu Fan , Shen Xinhua , Su Si , Cui Huan , Fang Yehong , Wang Tao , Zhang Lianfeng , Huang Yuguang , Ma Chao
Published: June 2020

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often accompanied by joint pain and inflammation. Previous studies have demonstrated that functional Fcγ receptor I (FcγRI) is expressed in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and might contribute to pain in rodent models of antigen‐induced arthritis (AIA). This study was undertaken to elucidate the roles of nociceptive neuronal FcγRI–coupled signaling in the development of joint pain in AIA.

Methods

RNA sequencing was used to investigate the transcriptome profile changes in the DRG in a rat model of AIA. A primary sensory neuron–specific Fcgr1a conditional‐knockout (CKO) rat was established by crossing rats carrying a loxP‐flanked Fcgr1a with a Pirt‐specific Cre line. Behavioral, morphologic, and molecular studies were conducted to evaluate the differences between wild‐type (WT) and CKO rats after AIA.

Results

We first showed that AIA induced a transcriptome profile change in the DRG, involving a number of key proteins downstream of the FcγRI‐related signaling pathway. Compared to the WT rats, both the IgG immune complex–induced acute pain and AIA‐induced pain were alleviated in CKO rats. Moreover, the AIA‐induced activation of FcγRI‐related signaling in DRGs was significantly reduced in CKO rats. In addition, CKO rats showed attenuated joint swelling after AIA.

Conclusion

These results indicate that activation of FcγRI‐coupled signaling in DRG neurons plays an important role in the development of joint pain in AIA. Our findings may provide novel insights into the interactions between the peripheral nervous system and the immune system in pathologic conditions and might suggest potential biotargets for the treatment of pain in RA.
Clinical and Molecular Spectrum of Nonsyndromic Early‐Onset Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ruault Valentin , Yauy Kevin , Fabre Aurélie , Fradin Mélanie , Van-Gils Julien , Angelini Chloé , Baujat Geneviève , Blanchet Patricia , Cuinat Silvestre , Isidor Bertrand , Jorgensen Christian , Lacombe Didier , Moutton Sébastien , Odent Sylvie , Sanchez Elodie , Sigaudy Sabine , Touitou Isabelle , Willems Marjolaine , Apparailly Florence , Geneviève David , Barat-Houari Mouna
Published: June 2020

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease worldwide. The etiology of OA is varied, ranging from multifactorial to environmental to monogenic. In a condition called early‐onset OA, OA occurs at an earlier age than is typical in the general population. To our knowledge, there have been no large‐scale genetic studies of individuals with early‐onset OA. The present study was undertaken to investigate causes of monogenic OA in individuals with nonsyndromic early‐onset OA.

Methods

The study probands were 45 patients with nonsyndromic early‐onset OA who were referred to our skeletal disease center by skeletal dysplasia experts between 2013 and 2019. Criteria for early‐onset OA included radiographic evidence, body mass index ≤30 kg/m2, age at onset ≤50 years, and involvement of ≥1 joint site. Molecular analysis was performed with a next‐generation sequencing panel.

Results

We identified a genetic variant in 13 probands (29%); the affected gene was COL2A1 in 11, ACAN in 1, and SLC26A2 in 1. After familial segregation analysis, 20 additional individuals were identified. The mean ± SD age at onset of joint pain was 19.5 ± 3.9 years (95% confidence interval 3–47). Eighteen of 33 subjects (55%) with nonsyndromic early‐onset OA and a genetic variant had had at least 1 joint replacement (mean ± SD age at first joint replacement 41 ± 4.2 years; mean number of joint replacements 2.6 per individual), and 21 (45%) of the joint replacement surgeries were performed when the patient was <45 years old. Of the 20 patients age >40 years, 17 (85%) had had at least 1 joint replacement.

Conclusion

We confirmed that COL2A1 is the main monogenic cause of nonsyndromic early‐onset OA. However, on the basis of genetic heterogeneity of early‐onset OA, we recommend next‐generation sequencing for all individuals who undergo joint replacement prior to the age of 45 years. Lifestyle recommendations for prevention should be implemented.
Comparison of random‐effects meta‐analysis models for the relative risk in the case of rare events: A simulation study
Authors: Beisemann Marie , Doebler Philipp , Holling Heinz
Published: June 2020

Pooling the relative risk (RR) across studies investigating rare events, for example, adverse events, via meta‐analytical methods still presents a challenge to researchers. The main reason for this is the high probability of observing no events in treatment or control group or both, resulting in an undefined log RR (the basis of standard meta‐analysis). Other technical challenges ensue, for example, the violation of normality assumptions, or bias due to exclusion of studies and application of continuity corrections, leading to poor performance of standard approaches. In the present simulation study, we compared three recently proposed alternative models (random‐effects [RE] Poisson regression, RE zero‐inflated Poisson [ZIP] regression, binomial regression) to the standard methods in conjunction with different continuity corrections and to different versions of beta‐binomial regression. Based on our investigation of the models' performance in 162 different simulation settings informed by meta‐analyses from the Cochrane database and distinguished by different underlying true effects, degrees of between‐study heterogeneity, numbers of primary studies, group size ratios, and baseline risks, we recommend the use of the RE Poisson regression model. The beta‐binomial model recommended by Kuss (2015) also performed well. Decent performance was also exhibited by the ZIP models, but they also had considerable convergence issues. We stress that these recommendations are only valid for meta‐analyses with larger numbers of primary studies. All models are applied to data from two Cochrane reviews to illustrate differences between and issues of the models. Limitations as well as practical implications and recommendations are discussed; a flowchart summarizing recommendations is provided.
Fluorescent probe sensor based on (R)‐(−)‐4‐phenyl‐2‐oxazolidone for effective detection of divalent cations
Authors: Baruah Shyamal , Aier Merangmenla , Puzari Amrit
Published: June 2020

Significant progress attained in sensor science in recent years has resulted in the development of highly efficient fluorescence probes for sensing metal ions. Fluorescent molecular probes based on (R)‐(−)‐4‐phenyl‐2‐oxazolidone are reported here. Fluorescence studies indicated that the molecular probe could be used successfully to sense divalent metal cations such as Cu2+, Co2+, Pb2+, and Zn2+. The addition of divalent metal cations to the molecular probe produced a specific interaction pattern under UV–visible and fluorescence spectroscopy. These molecules could detect metal cations using fluorescence quenching. Stern–Volmer plots were used to determine quenching rate coefficients, which were calculated to be 2 × 101, 1.06 × 103 and 7.39 × 102 M−1 s−1 for copper, cobalt, and zinc respectively. Calculation of limit of detection for heavy metal cations revealed that the reported molecular probes improved the limit of detection compared with available standard data. Limit of quantitation values were also well within the permissible range. The frontier energy gap of highest occupied molecular orbital to the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital was evaluated using the density functional theory approach and Gaussian 09 W software, which complemented the coordination of azetidinones with divalent metal ions.
Phenanthroimidazole‐based chromophores for organic light‐emitting diodes: synthesis, photophysical, and theoretical study
Authors: Tagare Jairam , Verma Niraj , Tarafder Kartick , Vaidyanathan Sivakumar
Published: June 2020

Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLED) are gaining attention and making a significant contribution to the area of lighting and displays technology. The synthesis of new materials that can act as a host as well as emissive materials is crucial and efforts have been made in this direction in this research. Here, four star‐shaped fluorophores, with a donor–acceptor (D–A) structure and with triphenylamine and phenanthroimidazole groups with different substitutions at the N1 position of the imidazole moiety, were designed and synthesized. Synthesized fluorophores showed sufficient thermal stability (10% Td in the range 230–280°C). Ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectra of the fluorophores showed multiple absorption bands (bands in the UV region, due to π–π* transitions of the conjugated aromatic portion) and all fluorophores showed blue emission in dichloromethane solution. Electrochemical analysis indicated that all fluorophores had excellent oxidation and reduction characteristics. Theoretical calculations were also performed to better understand the structural and electronic properties of the synthesized fluorophores. All fluorophores had higher triplet (T1) energy (ranging from 2.49–2.52 eV) than the widely used green (Ir(ppy)3 –2.4 eV) and red (Ir (piq)2 acac – 2.2 eV) dopant materials. These results indicated that these fluorophores would be useful as host materials for efficient green and red phosphorescent OLEDs.
Advances in Bacterial Biofilm Management for Maintaining Microbiome Homeostasis
Authors: Liu Zhao , Hong Can‐Jian , Yang Yongshuai , Dai Lei , Ho Chun Loong
Published: June 2020

Certain microbial biofilm in the human‐microbiota community can negatively impact the host microbiome. This gives rise to various methods to prevent the formation of biofilms or to facilitate biofilm dispersal from surfaces and tissues in the host. Despite all these efforts, these persistent microbial biofilms on surfaces and in the host tissue can result in health problems to the host and its microbiome. It is the adaptive behavior of microbes within the biofilm that confers on these tenacious microbes the resistance to harsh environments, antibiotic treatments, and the ability to evade the host immune system. In this review, the approaches to combat microbial biofilm in the last decade are discussed. The biochemical pathway regulating biofilm formation is first discussed, followed by the discussion of the three approaches to combat biofilm formation: physical, chemical, and biological approaches. The advances in these approaches have given rise to methods of effectively dispersing the microbial biofilm and preventing the adherence of these microbial communities altogether. As there are numerous approaches to target biofilm, in this review the attempt is to provide insights on how these approaches have been used to modulate the host‐microbiome by looking at the individual strengths and weaknesses.