bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of Maize/Rice Intercrop as Affected by Maize (Zea mays L.) Spacing and Weed Control
Authors: Berdjour Albert , Dzomeku Israel Kwame , Dokurugu Fuseini , Yemyoliya HarunaAlhassan , Yaro Richard Naabe
Published: June 2020

This trial was conducted to determine maize spacing and weed control effect on the performance of maize/rice intercrop in the Guinea Savanna of Ghana. The study was a 4 x 4 factorial experiment laid out in Randomised Complete Block Design with 3 replications. Four maize spacing’s: 90 x 40 cm, 85 x 40 cm, 80 x 40 cm and 75 x 40 cm and four weed control regimes: weeding at 3 & 6 WAP, weeding at 3, 6 & 9 WAP, weed free and weedy check (no weeding) were used as treatments. Rice was planted at 20 x 20 cm within maize rows, resulting in a 1:2 row arrangement. Data were collected on growth parameters, grain yield, weed biomass and weed species richness. Days to 50% flowering of rice, panicle weight and rice grain yield were significantly enhanced by the interaction effect of maize spacing and weed control. It was evident that, weeding at 3 & 6 WAP and 3, 6 & 9 WAP were best for controlling weeds and resulted in significant influence in almost all of the data taken likewise rice in maize spacing of 85 x 40 cm and 80 x 40 cm. Therefore, to ensure that plant densities are not reduced, farmers are adviced to intercrop maize with rice, using maize spacing of 80 x 40 cm. Similarly, to save time, small-scale farmers are advised to weed only twice at 3 & 6 WAP. However, it was prudent not to suggest any recommendation from the two and three hand weeding’s in interaction with maize spacing, since the results for the interaction appeared not consistent.
Mitigating Wafer Edge Cut Defect through Tensionless Tape Lamination Technique
Authors: Bacquian Bryan Christian S. , Gomez Frederick Ray I.
Published: June 2020

Thinner and smaller packages require thinner vertical structure of the integrated circuit (IC) design with the wafer playing essential role in package thinning. As the wafer goes thinner, problems may occur in the pre-assembly or wafer preparation. With the introduction of new pre-assembly technology such as laser die attach film (DAF) cut and dicing before grinding, technical challenges were expected. The paper focused on eliminating the edge cutting issue by considering the appropriate taping lamination technique. Tensionless lamination helped eliminate the horizontal pressure applied into the tape thus mitigating the edge cutting problem.  For future works, the configuration shared in this paper could be applied on wafers with comparable technology.
Prevalence and Histopathological Effects of Fascioliasis in Cattle Slaughtered in Ikot Eneobong Abattoir, Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Ukam Usang Anok , Enogiomwan Imalele Edema , Offiong Effanga Emmanuel , Chinyere Osondu-Anyanwu
Published: June 2020

Aims: Studies were carried out to determine the prevalence, intensity, economic loss and histopathological effects of fascioliasis in cattle slaughtered in Ikot Eneobong abattoir, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

Study Design: The study involved Post-Mortem examination of 384 liver samples from slaughtered cattle.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, between April – July, 2015.

Methodology: A total of384 liver samples were examined for individuals of Fasciola gigantica by making length-wise incision on the ventral side of the liver. Recovered flukes were counted and grouped into different levels of intensity. Infected livers recovered were subjected to histopathological analysis using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining technique. The economic loss due to the infection was determined based on the current market price per kg weight of cattle liver.

Results: Out of the 384 livers examined, 64 (16.67%) were found positive for fascioliasis. The month of July had the highest prevalence of infected livers (25.64%) while the month of April which had the lowest prevalence of infected livers (11.02%) (P=.05). Out of the 64 diseased livers, 58 (90.6%) had light worm load, 5 (7.8%) had moderate worm load and 1 (1.6%) had heavy worm load with numbers significantly higher in July compared with April, May and June (P=.05). In the four months study period, 320kg of livers from 64 cattle valued at ₦256,000 were lost due to infection. Histological examination of infected livers revealed necrosis, fibrosis, degenerated hepatocytes, proliferation of the bile ductules and marked infiltration of mononuclear inflammatory cells.

Conclusion: This study has established the prevalence, economic loss and histopathological consequences of fascioliasis in Ikot Eneobong abattoir. As such it is important that the routine examination of slaughtered ruminants be conducted prior to their presentation for public consumption.
Detecting early warnings of pressure on an African lion (Panthera leo) population in the Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area, Uganda
Authors: Braczkowski Alexander , Gopalaswamy Arjun M. , Nsubuga Mustafa , Allan James , Biggs Duan , Maron Martine
Published: June 2020

African lions are declining across much of their range, yet robust measures of population densities remain rare. The Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area (QECA; 2,400 km2) in East Africa's Albertine Rift has potential to support a significant lion population. However, QECA lions are threatened, and information on the status of lions in the region is lacking.

Here, we use a spatially explicit search encounter approach to estimate key population parameters of lions in the QECA. We then compare home range sizes estimated from our models to those from a radio‐collaring study implemented a decade earlier.

We recorded 8,243.5 km of search effort over 93 days, detecting 30 individual lions (16 female and 14 male) on 165 occasions at a rate of 2 lion detections/100 km2. Lion density in the QECA was 2.70 adult lions/100 km2 (SD = 0.47), while mean abundance was 71 individuals (SD = 11.05).

Worryingly, the movement parameter for male lions was 3.27 km and 2.22 km for females, suggesting > 400%, and > 100% increases in home range size, respectively, compared to a decade earlier. Sex ratio of lions in the QECA was lower (1 male: 0.75 females), when compared to a previously published review (mean = 1:2.33).

The large movements and skewed sex ratios we report on in this paper are likely a result of human‐driven prey depletion. Our results suggest lions in the QECA are in a precarious state, and the lion densities are significantly lower than what they could be.

As lions are under pressure throughout much of Africa, our study presents the utility of a census technique that could be used elsewhere as an early warning of lion declines.
An adaptive dynamic surface control of output constrained stochastic nonlinear systems with unknown control directions
Authors: Shen Fei , Wang Xinjun , Yin Xinghui , Jin Lingling
Published: June 2020

This article is concerned about an adaptive dynamic surface control (DSC) of output constrained stochastic nonlinear systems with unknown control directions and unmodeled dynamics. Nonlinear mapping‐based backstepping control design is presented for stochastic nonlinear systems with output constraint. The explosion of complexity exists in tradition backstepping method is avoided by using the DSC technique. The radial basis function neural networks are employed to deal with unknown nonlinear functions. Nussbaum gain technique is employed to handle the unknown control directions. And a dynamic signal is employed to dominate the unmodeled dynamics. The adaptive controller is designed can ensure that the tracking error converges on a small region of the origin. And all signals of the closed‐loop systems are semiglobal uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, the results of the simulation cases are provided to show the effectivity of the designed controller scheme.
Recent Advancements of Nanomedicine in Neurodegenerative Disorders Theranostics
Authors: Mukherjee Sudip , Madamsetty Vijay Sagar , Bhattacharya Dwaipayan , Roy Chowdhury Sayan , Paul Manash Kumar , Mukherjee Anubhab
Published: June 2020

Recent times have witnessed an upsurge in the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Prion disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The treatment of the same remains a daunting challenge due to the limited access of therapeutic moieties across the blood–brain barrier. Engineered nanoparticles with a size less than 100 nm provide multifunctional abilities for solving these biomedical and pharmacological issues due to their unique physico‐chemical properties along with capability to cross the blood–brain barrier. Needless to mention, there is a scarcity of review articles summarizing recent developments of various nanomaterials including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, and bio‐nanoparticles toward the therapeutic and theranostics applications for various neurodegenerative disorders. Here, a broad spectrum of nanomedicinal approaches to eradicate neurodegenerative disorders is provided, along with a brief account of neuroprotection and neuronal tissue regeneration, current clinical status, issues related to safety, toxicity, challenges, and future outlook.
Biodegradable MRI Visible Drug Eluting Stent Reinforced by Metal Organic Frameworks
Authors: Hamideh Rezvani Alanagh , Akbari Babak , Fathi Parinaz , Misra Santosh K. , Sutrisno Andre , Lam Fan , Pan Dipanjan
Published: June 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have applications in numerous fields. However, the development of MOF‐based “theranostic” macroscale devices is not achieved. Here, heparin‐coated biocompatible MOF/poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) “theranostic” stents are developed, where NH2‐Materials of Institute Lavoisier (MIL)‐101(Fe) encapsulates and releases rapamycin (an immunosuppressive drug). These stents also act as a remarkable source of contrast in ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to the invisible polymeric stent. The in vitro release patterns of heparin and rapamycin respectively can ensure a type of programmed model to prevent blood coagulation immediately after stent placement in the artery and stenosis over a longer term. Due to the presence of hydrolysable functionalities in MOFs, the stents are shown to be highly biodegradable in degradation tests under various conditions. Furthermore, there is no compromise of mechanical strength or flexibility with MOF compositing. The system described here promises many biomedical applications in macroscale theranostic devices. The use of MOF@PCL can render a medical device MRI‐visible while simultaneously acting as a carrier for therapeutic agents.
Antagomir‐155 Attenuates Acute Cardiac Rejection Using Ultrasound Targeted Microbubbles Destruction
Authors: Yi Luyang , Chen Yihan , Jin Qiaofeng , Deng Cheng , Wu Ya , Li Huiling , Liu Tianshu , Li Yuman , Yang Yali , Wang Jing , Lv Qing , Zhang Li , Xie Mingxing
Published: June 2020

Antagomir‐155 is an artificial inhibitor of miRNA‐155, which is expected to be a promising therapeutic target to attenuate acute cardiac rejection (ACR). However, its vulnerability of being degraded by endogenous nuclease and potential off‐target effect make the authors seek for a more suitable way to delivery it. In attribution of efficiency and safety, ultrasound targeted microbubbles destruction (UTMD) turns out to be an appropriate method to deliver gene to target tissues. Here, cationic microbubbles to deliver antagomir‐155 downregulating miRNA‐155 in murine allograft hearts triggered by UTMD are synthesized. The viability of this therapy is verified by fluorescent microscopy. The biodistribution of antagomir‐155 is analyzed by optical imaging system. The results show antagomir‐155 delivered by UTMD which significantly decreases the levels of miR‐155. Also, this therapy downregulates the expression of cytokines and inflammation infiltration. And allograft survival time is significantly prolonged. Therefore, antagomir‐loaded microbubbles trigged by UTMD may provide a novel platform for ACR target treatment.
Humidity‐Triggered Relaxation of Polyelectrolyte Complexes as a Robust Approach to Generate Extracellular Matrix Biomimetic Films
Authors: Wang Jing , Xue Yun‐Fan , Chen Xia‐Chao , Hu Mi , Ren Ke‐Feng , Ji Jian
Published: June 2020

Generating a biofunctional film that can mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) in an efficient and robust technique that may have great potential for medical devices, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicines. Herein, a facile approach to generate ECM biomimetic films based on the humidity‐triggered relaxation of polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) nanoparticles is reported. The poly(l‐lysine) and hyaluronan are precomplexed and sprayed onto a substrate, which, via a trigger of vaporous water, can be transformed into an even and stable film. The spontaneous polymer chain interfusion (diffusion coefficient ≈1.01 × 10−9 cm2 s−1) under saturated humidity, allowing for the rapid reorganization (within 30 min) of film morphology and structure is demonstrated. A controllable and scalable way for the loading of diversified bioactive agents, as well as on‐demand modulation of stiffness is further presented. Moreover, the high‐throughput arrays and programmed patterns can be easily completed, suggesting huge potentials that surpass those of state‐of‐the‐art methods. Combined with high efficiency and flexible functionalization, it is believed that this approach should be beneficial for extending the practical applications of PEC films, such as medical implants, chip detectors, and so on.
Nucleolus‐Targeted Photodynamic Anticancer Therapy Using Renal‐Clearable Carbon Dots
Authors: Pang Wen , Jiang Pengfei , Ding Shihui , Bao Zhouzhou , Wang Ningtao , Wang Hongxia , Qu Junle , Wang Dan , Gu Bobo , Wei Xunbin
Published: June 2020

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which utilizes light excited photosensitizers (PSs) to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and consequently ablate cancer cells or diseased tissue, has attracted a great deal of attention in the last decades due to its unique advantages. In order to further enhance PDT effect, PSs are functionalized to target specific sub‐cellular organelles, but most PSs cannot target nucleolus, which is demonstrated as a more efficient and ideal site for cancer treatment. Here, an effective carbon dots (C‐dots) photosensitizer with intrinsic nucleolus‐targeting capability, for the first time, is synthesized, characterized, and employed for in vitro and in vivo image‐guided photodynamic anticancer therapy with enhanced treatment performance at a low dose of PS and light irradiation. The C‐dots possess high ROS generation efficiency and fluorescence quantum yield, excellent in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility, and rapid renal clearance, endowing it with a great potential for future translational research.
Modification of Mesoporous LiMn2O4 and LiMn2−xCoxO4 by SILAR Method for Highly Efficient Water Oxidation Electrocatalysis
Authors: Karakaya Irmak , Karadas Ferdi , Ulgut Burak , Dag Ömer
Published: June 2020

Iridium, ruthenium, and cobalt oxides are target materials as efficient and stable mesoporous metal oxide electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, they are costly, toxic, and not practical for an efficient OER process. Here, a two‐step method is introduced, based on earth‐abundant manganese; molten salt‐assisted self‐assembly process to prepare mesoporous LiMn2−xCoxO4 (x = 0–0.5) modified electrodes, in which a systematic incorporation of Co(II) into the structure is performed using successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction followed by an annealing (SILAR‐AN) process. Applying SILAR‐AN over a stable m‐LiMn1.6Co0.4O4 electrode improves the OER performance; the Tafel slope and overpotential drop from 66 to 46 mV dec−1 and 304 to 265 mV (at 1.0 mA cm−2), respectively. The performance of the modified electrodes is comparable to benchmark IrO2 and RuO2 catalysts and much better than cobalt oxide electrodes. Electronic interactions between the neighboring Mn and Co sites synergistically amplify the OER performance of the m‐LiMn2−xCoxO4 electrodes. The data are compatible with an eight steps nucleophilic acid‐base reaction mechanism during OER.
Carbon Dots@rGO Paper as Freestanding and Flexible Potassium‐Ion Batteries Anode
Authors: Zhang Erjin , Jia Xinxin , Wang Bin , Wang Jue , Yu Xinzhi , Lu Bingan
Published: June 2020

Carbonaceous materials, especially with graphite‐layers structure, as anode for potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs), are the footstone for industrialization of PIBs. However, carbonaceous materials with graphite‐layers structure usually suffer from poor cycle life and inferior stability, not to mention freestanding and flexible PIBs. Here, a freestanding and flexible 3D hybrid architecture by introducing carbon dots on the reduced graphene oxide surface (CDs@rGO) is synthesized as high performance PIBs anode. The CDs@rGO paper has efficient electron and ion transfer channels due to its unique structure, thus enhancing reaction kinetics. In addition, the CDs provide abundant defects and oxygen‐containing functional groups, which can improve the electrochemical performance. This freestanding and flexible anode exhibits the high capacity of 310 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1, ultra‐long cycle life (840 cycles with a capacity of 244 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1), and excellent rate performance (undergo six consecutive currents changing from 100 to 500 mA g−1, high capacity 185 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1), outperforming many existing carbonaceous PIB anodes. The results may provide a starting point for high‐performance freestanding and flexible PIBs and promote the rapid development of next‐generation flexible batteries.
Facile Production of Large‐Area Cell Arrays Using Surface‐Assembled Microdroplets
Authors: Perez‐Toralla Karla , Olivera‐Torres Angel , Rose Mark A. , Esfahani Amir Monemian , Reddy Keerthana , Yang Ruiguo , Morin Stephen A.
Published: June 2020

Techniques that enable the spatial arrangement of living cells into defined patterns are broadly applicable to tissue engineering, drug screening, and cell–cell investigations. Achieving large‐scale patterning with single‐cell resolution while minimizing cell stress/damage is, however, technically challenging using existing methods. Here, a facile and highly scalable technique for the rational design of reconfigurable arrays of cells is reported. Specifically, microdroplets of cell suspensions are assembled using stretchable surface‐chemical patterns which, following incubation, yield ordered arrays of cells. The microdroplets are generated using a microfluidic‐based aerosol spray nozzle that enables control of the volume/size of the droplets delivered to the surface. Assembly of the cell‐loaded microdroplets is achieved via mechanically induced coalescence using substrates with engineered surface‐wettability patterns based on extracellular matrices. Robust cell proliferation inside the patterned areas is demonstrated using standard culture techniques. By combining the scalability of aerosol‐based delivery and microdroplet surface assembly with user‐defined chemical patterns of controlled functionality, the technique reported here provides an innovative methodology for the scalable generation of large‐area cell arrays with flexible geometries and tunable resolution.
Redox‐Active Organic Compounds for Future Sustainable Energy Storage System
Authors: Lee Sechan , Hong Jihyun , Kang Kisuk
Published: June 2020

Utilizing redox‐active organic compounds for future energy storage system (ESS) has attracted great attention owing to potential cost efficiency and environmental sustainability. Beyond enriching the pool of organic electrode materials with molecular tailoring, recent scientific efforts demonstrate the innovations in various cell chemistries and configurations. Herein, recent major strategies to build better organic batteries, are highlighted: diversifying charge‐carrying ions, modifying electrolytes, and utilizing liquid‐type organic electrodes. Each approach is summarized along with their advantages over Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). An outlook is also provided on the practical realization of organic battery systems, which hints at possible solutions for future sustainable ESSs.
Manganese adsorption, availability, and uptake in citrus under microsprinkler irrigation
Authors: Uthman Q. O. , Kadyampakeni D. M. , Nkedi‐Kizza P.
Published: June 2020

Manganese deficiencies have been observed in shallow soils with high water tables and in well‐drained sandy soils of Florida. This study investigated Mn leaf uptake in citrus trees on a Florida sandy soil through modified Mn fertilization methods and rates. Tree rows were supplied with three N rates and Mn at single and double the recommended rates (recommended rate: 10.08 kg ha−1) using foliar and soil application methods. The double foliar application rate increased leaf Mn by 20% over the single application rate. The leaf concentration of Mn was within the optimum concentration, according to the IFAS guidelines for optimal leaf Mn concentration, for summer 2018 and winter 2019. The Mn sorption coefficient was 22 times higher at the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth compared with the 15‐ to 60‐cm soil depths. Thus, Mn would be retained in the top 0‐ to 15‐cm soil depth. An increase in the foliar application improved Mn concentration in leaves, whereas soil application limited Mn availability in the root zone for plant uptake.
Third‐Generation Anti–Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies Improve Prediction of Clinical Arthritis in Individuals at Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Di Matteo Andrea , Mankia Kulveer , Duquenne Laurence , Mahler Michael , Corscadden Diane , Mbara Katie , Garcia‐Montoya Leticia , Nam Jacqueline L. , Emery Paul
Published: June 2020

Objective

To 1) determine the prevalence of anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide 3 (anti‐CCP3) antibodies in anti‐CCP2 antibody–positive (anti‐CCP2+) at‐risk individuals, and 2) explore the additional value of anti‐CCP3 antibodies in anti‐CCP2+ at‐risk individuals for predicting progression to inflammatory arthritis.

Methods

Stored serum samples obtained from 347 anti‐CCP2+ (BioPlex 2200; Bio‐Rad) at‐risk individuals without clinical synovitis were tested for anti‐CCP3 antibodies. Anti‐CCP2 titers were categorized as low or high, and anti‐CCP3 titers were categorized as negative, low, or strong. Progression to inflammatory arthritis was defined as the development of clinical synovitis in ≥1 joint. Only subjects with ≥1 follow‐up visit were included in the progression analysis (n = 291).

Results

In the 347 samples included, anti‐CCP3 antibody titers tended to be either negative (n = 138 [39.7%]) or strongly positive (n =189 [54.4%]), with very few subjects showing a low titer (n = 20 [5.7%]). In contrast, for anti‐CCP2 antibodies, more low titers were observed (n = 103 [29.7%]). Eighty‐eight of 291 subjects (30.2%) developed inflammatory arthritis. The rate of progression to inflammatory arthritis in the low‐titer anti‐CCP2 group and the high‐titer anti‐CCP2 group fell from 7.5% to 3.3% and from 38.9% to 9.8%, respectively, when anti‐CCP3 was negative. Progression in the high‐titer anti‐CCP2 group increased from 38.9% to 48.4% when anti‐CCP3 was strongly positive. The area under the curve was 0.72 for anti‐CCP2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.66, 0.78) and 0.76 for anti‐CCP3 (95% CI 0.70, 0.81) for assessment of progression. In the multivariable analysis, the odds ratio for the development of inflammatory arthritis in anti‐CCP3+ subjects was 1.73 (95% CI 1.20, 2.51) (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Anti‐CCP3 antibodies improve the prediction of inflammatory arthritis in anti‐CCP2+ at‐risk individuals. The impact of anti‐CCP3 antibody status for the risk stratification of individuals with high‐titer anti‐CCP2 is particularly notable.
A new distribution‐free adaptive sample size control chart for a finite production horizon and its application in monitoring fill volume of soft drink beverage bottles
Authors: Khatun Mahfuza , Khoo Michael B.C. , Saha Sajal , Castagliola Philippe
Published: June 2020

Nonparametric control charts have received increasing attention in process monitoring. In this article, a new nonparametric sign (SN) control chart with variable sample size (VSS) for a finite horizon process is developed. The novelty of this research lies in the incorporation of the VSS technique into the nonparametric SN chart for a finite horizon process, hence, resulting in the development of a more sensitive nonparametric short run chart. The statistical performance of the new nonparametric VSS SN control chart is evaluated and compared with the existing fixed sample size (FSS) SN chart for a finite horizon process. The charts' performances are compared using the truncated average run length (TARL) and truncated standard deviation of the run length (TSDRL) criteria. The results obtained show that the nonparametric VSS SN short run chart is always quicker than the FSS SN short run chart in detecting process shifts for various underlying process distributions, hence, reducing scrap and rework cost. Finally, an application of the proposed control charting scheme is shown through a real‐life example on the fill volume of soft drink beverage bottles.
Networks of planar symmetric periodic orbits in a barred galaxy model
Authors: Zotos Euaggelos E. , Jung Christof , Papadakis Konstandinos E. , Saeed Tareq
Published: June 2020

We present the networks of planar symmetric periodic orbits in a single barred galaxy model. More specifically, we determine how the numerical value of the bar's semimajor axis affects not only the positions but also the linear stability of the periodic solutions. The atlas of the periodic orbits, with multiplicity up to 10, is presented on the (x, E) plane so as to be able to understand the importance of the total orbital energy on the periodic networks. For every orbital family, we also compute the horizontal and vertical critical solutions of the system, from which new periodic families bifurcate. Our analysis indicates that several periodic families contain orbits, which qualify as x1 type orbits and stabilize the barred structure of the galaxy. Furthermore, the numerical results suggest that the semimajor axis of the bar highly influences the overall orbital properties of the dynamical system.
Graphitic‐Based Solid‐State Supercapacitors: Enabling Redox Reaction by In Situ Electrochemical Treatment
Authors: Amjadipour Mojtaba , Su Dawei , Iacopi Francesca
Published: June 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Integrated Nano Systems Lab (INSys Lab), part of the Centre for Clean Energy Technology, University of Technology Sydney. The cover picture illustrates an efficient in situ pathway to generate and attach oxygen functional groups to graphitic electrodes for supercapacitors by inducing hydrolysis of water molecules within the gel electrolyte. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/batt.201900204.
Adapting with Microbial Help: Microbiome Flexibility Facilitates Rapid Responses to Environmental Change
Authors: Voolstra Christian R. , Ziegler Maren
Published: June 2020

Animals and plants are metaorganisms and associate with microbes that affect their physiology, stress tolerance, and fitness. Here the hypothesis that alteration of the microbiome may constitute a fast‐response mechanism to environmental change is examined. This is supported by recent reciprocal transplant experiments with reef corals, which have shown that their microbiome adapts to thermally variable habitats and changes over time when transplanted into different environments. Further, inoculation of corals with beneficial bacteria increases their stress tolerance. But corals differ in their ability to flexibly associate with different bacteria. How scales of microbiome flexibility may reflect different metaorganism adaptation mechanisms is discussed and future directions for research are pinpointed. It is posited that microbiome flexibility is a broad phenomenon that contributes to the ability of organisms to respond to environmental change. Importantly, adapting with microbial help may provide an alternate route to organismal adaptation that facilitates rapid responses.
A comprehensive model for the diffusion and hybridization processes of nucleic acid probes in fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Lima Joana F. , Maia Paulo , T. Magalhães Beatriz , Cerqueira Laura , Azevedo Nuno F.
Published: June 2020

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has been extensively used in the past decades for the detection and localization of microorganisms. However, a mechanistic approach of the whole FISH process is still missing, and the main limiting steps for the hybridization to occur remain unclear. In here, FISH is approached as a particular case of a diffusion‐reaction kinetics, where molecular probes (MPs) move from the hybridization solution to the target RNA site within the cells. Based on literature models, the characteristic times taken by different MPs to diffuse across multiple cellular barriers, as well as the reaction time associated with the formation of the duplex molecular probe‐RNA, were estimated. Structural and size differences at the membrane level of bacterial and animal cells were considered. For bacterial cells, the limiting step for diffusion is likely to be the peptidoglycan layer (characteristic time of 7.94 × 102 – 4.39 × 103 s), whereas for animal cells, the limiting step should be the diffusion of the probe through the bulk (1.8–5.0 s) followed by the diffusion through the lipid membrane (1 s). The information provided here may serve as a basis for a more rational development of FISH protocols in the future.
iFR uncovers profound but mostly reversible ischemia in CTOs and helps to optimize PCI results
Authors: Kayaert Peter , Coeman Mathieu , Drieghe Benny , Bennett Johan , McCutcheon Keir , Dens Jo , Ungureanu Claudiu , Zivelonghi Carlo , Agostoni Pierfrancesco , Bataille Yoann , de Hemptinne Quentin , Gevaert Sofie , De Pauw Michel , Haine Steven
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The study aimed to demonstrate through instant wave‐free ratio (iFR) measurements that myocardium distal to a chronic total occlusion (CTO) is ischemic, that ischemia is reversible by PCI, and that iFR assessment after PCI can be used to optimize PCI results.

Background

The greatest benefit of revascularization is found in patients with low fractional flow reserve. In patients with CTOs, iFR measurement may be more appropriate to evaluate ischemia as it does not require maximal microvascular vasodilation, which may be hampered by microvascular dysfunction.

Methods

The iFR was measured in 81 CTO patients, both pre‐ and post‐PCI in 63 patients, and only post‐PCI in the following 18 patients. A pressure wire pullback was performed post‐PCI if iFR ≤0.89.

Results

The first 63 patients all had significant ischemia distal to the CTO with a median iFR of 0.33 [0.22; 0.44], improving significantly post‐PCI to a median iFR of 0.93 [0.89;0.96] (p < .001). In the complete cohort, the median iFR post‐PCI was 0.93 [0.86;0.96] but still ≤0.89 in 23 patients (30%). 12 of these patients had further PCI optimization because of a residual focal pressure gradient on pullback, after which only two had a final iFR ≤0.89.

Conclusions

In CTO patients with an indication for PCI, iFR consistently demonstrated profound myocardial ischemia. Successful PCI immediately relieved ischemia in 70% of patients. In the remaining 30% of cases, a manual iFR pullback proved helpful in guiding further optimization of the PCI result.
Coordination Chemistry and Methylation of Mixed‐Substituted Tetraphosphetanes (RP−PtBu)2 (R=Ph, Py)
Authors: Schoemaker Robin , Kossatz Philipp , Schwedtmann Kai , Hennersdorf Felix , Weigand Jan J.
Published: June 2020

Synthesis of mixed‐substituted tetraphosphetanes (RP−PtBu)2 (R=Ph (4), Py (5); Py=2‐pyridyl) is achieved from the condensation of dipyrazolylphosphanes RPpyr2 (R=Py (1), Ph (3); pyr=3,5‐dimethylpyrazolyl) as P1‐building block (R−P) and tBuPH2 in an equimolar ratio. Compound 5 is of special interest since the presence of two pyridyl‐substituents as well as the P4‐core allows for a rich coordination chemistry with coinage metal salts [Cu(MeCN)4][OTf], Ag[OTf] and in situ formed [Au(tht)][OTf] (tht=tetrahydrothiophene). Both tetraphosphetanes undergo alkylation reaction with MeOTf to give a series of tetraphosphetanium and tetraphosphetanediium triflate salts with additional methylation of the pyridyl‐moiety in case of 5 resulting in interesting novel cyclic trications. Harsh reaction condition and an excess of MeOTf converts 5 into the cyclic trication [‐P(MePy)PMe2P(MePy)PtBu‐]3+ (133+; MePy=1‐methylpyridiniumyl) through the elimination of isobutene. This salt undergoes a complicated rearrangement reaction involving a P−P/P−P bond metathesis to form trication [‐P(MePy)3PtBu‐]3+ (173+) when reacted with Me2PPMe2.
Controlling PROTACs with Light
Authors: Verma Shreya , Manna Debasish
Published: June 2020

Proteolysis targeting chimeras, PROTACs, are emerging as a powerful strategy for exerting exogenous control over protein levels, allowing small molecules to exploit the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway for targeted protein degradation. This highlight focuses on the fusion of photochemistry with these bifunctional compounds, which has provided a novel pathway for spatiotemporally tuning the activation of PROTACs in the form of their photocaged and photoswitchable versions. Photocaged PROTACs consist of a hindered optolabile group that detaches only upon irradiation at a specific wavelength, releasing the active PROTAC. These modified PROTACs are inactive in the dark. Photoswitchable PROTACs are photoisomerizable molecules with azobenzene linkages that are active in either the cis or trans form and inactive in the other. The isomers interconvert upon irradiation with an appropriate wavelength of light and relax to the thermodynamically stable isomer in the dark or with another wavelength of light. Although photocaged PROTACs only permit activation control for protein degradation, photoswitching PROTACs offer reversible activation and deactivation by using suitable wavelengths of light.
Reprogramming of Human Hepatic Non‐Parenchymal Cells: Step‐by‐Step Protocol
Authors: Kirchner Varvara A. , Twaroski Kirk , Wysoglad Kelli , Algoo Jenna , LeCluyse Edward L. , Song Gi‐Won , Tak Eunyoung , Chen Weili , Lee Sung‐Gyu , Pruett Timothy L. , Tolar Jakub
Published: June 2020

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (h‐iPSCs) represent a potentially unlimited source for the generation of human hepatocyte‐like cells (h‐iHLCs) for the establishment of platforms to study drug‐induced hepatotoxicity, liver disease modeling, and ultimately the application of h‐iHLCs in treatment of patients with end‐stage liver disease. To understand the impact of donor‐specific factors on the generation of h‐iHLCs, the model for the direct comparison of h‐iHLCs and primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) from the same human donor is needed. This study proposes a step‐by‐step protocol for plating, expansion, and characterization of primary human hepatic non‐parenchymal cells (h‐NPCs) isolated from the human liver, the reprogramming of generated h‐NPCs into h‐iPSCs and subsequent differentiation of reprogrammed h‐iPSCs into h‐iHLCs. The ultimate goal is to compare the gene expression involved in hepatocyte metabolism between h‐iHLCs and PHHs from the same human donor thus eliminating interdonor variability. This newly developed protocol of h‐NPC culture, expansion, and reprogramming into h‐iPSCs allows: (1) utilization of a single organ source (i.e., liver) for isolation of PHHs and h‐NPCs and (2) the in‐depth study of donor factors involved in the generation of h‐iHLCs with direct comparison to PHHs from the same donor. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Plating and expansion of human hepatic NPCs in culture

Basic Protocol 2: Reprogramming of h‐NPCs to h‐NPC‐derived induced pluripotent stem cells (h‐iPSCs)

Basic Protocol 3: Culture, passaging, and freezing of h‐iPSCs

Support Protocol 1: Confirmation of h‐NPC ability to uptake Sendai virus: GFP‐Sendai infection

Support Protocol 2: Characterization of h‐NPCs amenable to transduction with Sendai particles

Support Protocol 3: Characterization of h‐iPSCs: Clearance of viral reprogramming vectors

Support Protocol 4: Preparation of Matrigel‐coated plates
Postmarketing Safety‐Related Regulatory Actions for New Therapeutic Biologics Approved in the United States 2002–2014: Similarities and Differences With New Molecular Entities
Authors: Bulatao Ilynn , Pinnow Ellen , Day Brendan , Cherkaoui Sanae , Kalaria Manish , Brajovic Sonja , Dal Pan Gerald
Published: June 2020

We examined the relationship of regulatory and review characteristics to postmarketing safety‐related regulatory actions for 61 new therapeutic biologics (NTBs) approved between October 1, 2002 and December 31, 2014. We also compared NTBs with small‐molecule new molecular entities (NMEs) on these measures. Postmarketing safety‐related regulatory actions were defined as a safety‐related withdrawal or a safety‐related update to a safety section of the label through June 30, 2018. Four NTBs were withdrawn, two for safety reasons. At least one safety‐related update was added to the labels of 54 (88.5%) NTBs. Label updates occurred throughout the follow‐up period. Time to the first safety‐related regulatory action was shorter for NTBs approved under accelerated approval. The occurrence of safety events was more likely to occur with NTBs than with NMEs. This may be explained in part by the higher proportion of NTBs in the anatomical therapeutic chemical classification categories with higher frequency of safety‐related updates. NTBs also had shorter time to safety events than NMEs. These findings underscore the importance of continued development of the life cycle safety surveillance system for both drugs and biologics with consideration for product type and its characteristics, including pharmacologic action.
The Emergence of Actinide Cyclobutadienyl Chemistry
Authors: Boronski Josef T. , Liddle Stephen T.
Published: June 2020

Since its inception in the 1950s, the field of organoactinide chemistry has developed and is still burgeoning today. A plethora of molecular actinide cyclopentadienyl (C5), arene (C6), cycloheptatrienyl (C7), and cyclooctatetraenyl (C8) complexes are known. However, the first f‐element cyclobutadienyl complex, a uranium derivative, was only reported as recently as 2013, which contrasts to transition metal chemistry where the first cyclobutadienyl derivatives were realised in the 1950s. A small but growing number of uranium and thorium cyclobutadienyl complexes are now known, so now is an opportune time to review progress to date. This Minireview addresses bonding considerations for the cyclobutadienyl ligand, surveys synthetic routes to crystallographically authenticated actinide cyclobutadienyl complexes and their novel bonding features, and highlights future directions that merit development.
Synthesis and Structures of [2.n]Metacyclophan‐1‐enes and their Conversion to Highly Strained [2.n]Metacyclophane‐1‐ynes
Authors: Akther Thamina , Islam Md. Monarul , Kowser Zannatul , Matsumoto Taisuke , Tanaka Junji , Rahman Shofiur , Alodhayb Abdullah , Georghiou Paris E. , Redshaw Carl , Yamato Takehiko
Published: June 2020

The syntheses of syn‐[2.n]metacyclophan‐1‐enes (n = 5, 6, 8) in good yields using the McMurry cyclization of 1,n‐bis(3‐formyl‐4‐methoxyphenyl)alkanes are reported. Conversion of syn‐[2.6]‐ and [2.8]metacyclophan‐1‐enes to the corresponding highly strained syn‐type [2.6]‐ and [2.8]metacyclophane‐1‐ynes was achieved by successive bromination and dehydrobromination reactions. An attempted trapping reaction of the putative corresponding [2.5]metacyclophane‐1‐yne by Diels–Alder reaction with 1,3‐diphenylisobenzofuran failed due to its smaller ring size and strained structure. X‐ray crystallographic analyses show that the triple bonds in syn‐[2.6]‐ and [2.8]metacyclophane‐1‐ynes are distorted from linearity with bond angles of 156.7° and 161.4°, respectively. A DFT (Density Functional Theory) computational study was conducted to determine the stabilities of different conformations of the target compounds.
Synthesis of S‐Trifluoromethyl S‐Arylsulfoximine Thioglycosides through Pd‐Catalyzed Migita Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Bennai Nedjwa , Ibrahim Nada , Marrot Jérôme , Belkadi Mohamed , Alami Mouad , Magnier Emmanuel , Anselmi Elsa , Messaoudi Samir
Published: June 2020

A general protocol for the synthesis of S‐trifluoromethyl S‐arylsulfoximine thioglycosides has been reported. This protocol is based on a Pd‐catalyzed Migita cross‐coupling between o‐iodo S‐trifluoromethyl S‐arylsulfoximines and a broad range of 1‐thiosugars. This method gives access to a series of functionalized S‐trifluoromethyl S‐arylsulfoximine thioglycosides in moderate to good yields. Moreover, both diastereoisomers were easily separated by simple crystallization or by HPLC and full characterizations are provided for each pure trifluoromethylsulfoximine.
Application of essential oil of Pistacia atlantica Gum, polypropylene and silica nanoparticles as a new milk packaging
Authors: Ellahi Hasan , Khalili Sadrabad Elham , Hekmatimoghaddam Seyedhossein , Jebali Ali , Sarmast Elham , Akrami Mohajeri Fateme
Published: June 2020

The aim of current study was to investigate the antimicrobial effect of gum essential oil of Pistacia atlantica (wild pistachio) tree (GEO) and design a new film based on polypropylene polymer coated with silica nanoparticles and GEO. The antimicrobial activity of the packaging film was evaluated with or without milk on Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes during 35 days. The results showed that GEO has significant antibacterial properties. It was most effective on Salmonella enterica, while its effect on Listeria monocytogenes was the weakest. Antimicrobial activity of the film without milk showed no significant differences among the different sizes of nanoparticles used (0.05, 0.025, and 0.051 g) (p ≥ .05). It can be concluded that polypropylene incorporated with GEO and silica nanoparticles active film had antimicrobial properties up to 35 days, while using with milk or without milk. Therefore, this type of packaging is effective to enhance the shelf life of milk.
Petrography and geochemistry of siliciclastic rocks of the Middle Eocene Gercus Formation, northern Iraq: Implications for provenance and tectonic setting
Authors: Kettanah Yawooz A. , Armstrong‐Altrin John S. , Mohammad Farhad A.
Published: June 2020

Red coloured Middle Eocene Gercus Formation is a widely exposed rock unit in northern Iraq, southeastern Turkey, and northwestern Iran. Siliciclastic rocks (mudstones and sandstones) are the predominant rocks of this formation which were studied petrographically and geochemically. The Gercus Formation also contains a few beds of limestone, gypsum, and conglomerate. The sandstones are of two types, red and white, mostly immature litharenites, consisting of lithics (85%), quartz (12%), and feldspars (3%). The rock fragments consist dominantly of angular chert and rounded limestone and smaller amounts of sedimentary, magmatic, volcanic, and metamorphic lithics indicating proximity of their source rocks. The provenance discrimination diagrams of the detrital grain counts in sandstones show recycled and collision orogen sources. Petrographic, heavy minerals and major and immobile trace element (e.g. La, Th, Sc, Zr, Hf, and Ti) discrimination diagrams indicated that the Gercus Formation was originated under a collision tectonic setting above a subduction zone as part of an Oceanic Island Arc (OIA), where its sediments were derived from mixed sources, including recycled sediments of chert‐ and carbonate‐rich formations and igneous‐metamorphic ophiolitic complexes of north to north‐east Iraq and adjacent Iranian and Turkish counterparts. The results also indicated a mixed marine (lacustrine and deltaic) and non‐marine (fluviatile) origin for the Gercus Formation. The red sandstones, white sandstones, and mudstones show minor differences in their major, trace, and rare‐earth element (REE) contents and have generally similar Post Archean Australian Shale (PAAS)‐, Upper Continental Crust (UCC)‐, and CI‐chondrite‐normalized distribution patterns indicating their common origin. The average of elements in the siliciclastic rocks is depleted in the high‐field‐strength elements (HFSE), the large‐ion lithophile elements (LILE), and REE; and enriched in some rock‐forming elements (RFE) and mantle rock‐forming elements (MRFE) (Mg, Ca, Cr, Co, Ni) and depleted in others (Si, Al, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ga) relative to PAAS and UCC; whereas, they are depleted in Fe, Mn, Mg, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Na, and P, and enriched in all other RFE, MRFE, LILE, HFSE, and REE compared to CI‐Chondrite. The REE content of these rocks is very low (23–34 ppm) and their LREEs are enriched six times relative to HREEs. These geochemical characteristics suggest a provenance dominated by basic/ultrabasic rocks. The U/Th, V/Cr ratios and the authigenic U values show an oxic depositional environment for the studied siliciclastic rocks.
Risk stratification in oral squamous cell carcinoma using staging of the eighth American Joint Committee on Cancer: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Almangush Alhadi , Pirinen Matti , Youssef Omar , Mäkitie Antti A. , Leivo Ilmo
Published: June 2020

The eighth edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC8) staging manual has major changes in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We searched PubMed, OvidMedline, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies that examined the performance of AJCC8 in OSCC. A total of 40 808 patients were included in the studies of our meta‐analysis. A hazard ratio (HR) of 1.87 (95%CI 1.78‐1.96) was seen for stage II, 2.65 (95%CI 2.51‐2.80) for stage III, 3.46 (95%CI 3.31‐3.61) for stage IVa, and 7.09 (95%CI 4.85‐10.36) for stage IVb. A similar gradual increase in risk was noted for the N classification. For the T classification, however, there was a less clear variation in risk between T3 and T4. AJCC8 provides a good risk stratification for OSCC. Future research should examine the proposals introduced in the published studies to further improve the performance of AJCC8.