bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Herbicides on Yield of Direct-Seeded Rice and Microbial Population in Soil
Authors: Dubey Santosh Kumar , Kumar Arun , Singh Mahendra , Singh Ashok Kumar , Prakash Ved
Published: October 2023

The herbicides used in direct-seeded rice (DSR) may be change the soil’s biotic balance, which could have an impact on the soil nutrient status, health, and productivity. During Kharif season 2016 and 2017, the field trials were carried out using 14 treatment combinations at Agriculture Research Farm of BAU, Sabour, Bihar, India. The findings showed that the various weed management methods used during both years had variable effects on the viable microbial community. The Bispyribac-Na 30 g a.i. ha-1 applied as a post-emergence (PoE) and Pendimethalin 1000 g. a.i. ha-1 applied as a pre-emergence (PE) significantly improved by 121.71% and 134.08% and 74.59% and 91.33% actinomycetes population after compared with weed free and weedy check, respectively at 90 days after sowing (DAS). Whereas highest grain (6667 kg ha-1) and straw (9777 kg ha-1) yields and harvest index (HI) (40.54%) was observed under Bispyribac-Na 15 g a.i. ha-1fb one hand weeding (1HW) at 40 days and was statistically at par with Azimsulfuron 17.5 g a.i. ha-1 fb 1HW at 40 DAS. The herbicides, viz. Almix, Ethoxysulfuron, Bispyribac-Na and Azimsulfuron as PoE and Pendimethalin and Pyrazosulfuron as PE were innocent for soil microbial populations at recommended dose.
Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) Associated Cross Resistance Patterns in South Indian Crop Ecosystem
Authors: Upendhar S.  , Satyanarayana J.  , Vani Sree K.
Published: October 2023

Aim: To study the cross resistance patterns associated with Mahaboobnagar, Raichur, Nagpur  populations of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner).

Study design: Bioassay

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was carried out from February 2010 to May 2011 at Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana.

Methodology: Helicoverpa armigera was selected for indoxacarb in F1 and F2 continuously then the population subjected to different selected insecticides to know the cross resistance patterns associated.

Results: Mahaboobnagar population recorded 1.109 and 0.816 fold resistance at LD50 and LD90, respectively, while Raichur population has developed still higher levels of relative resistance by 1.591 and 0.846 fold when compared with the Nagpur population at LD50 and LD90, respectively. Similarly, the Raichur population has developed 1.435 and 1.037 folds relative resistance at LD50­ and LD90, respectively as compared with the Mahaboobnagar population.

The Mahaboobnagar population resistant to indoxacarb at F3, when subjected to selected insecticides like cypermethrin, methomyl, spinosad showed a negative cross resistance ratio of  0.665, 0.830, 0.916  to cypermethrin, methomyl, spinosad respectively, and a positive cross resistance ratio of 1.019  to  indoxacarb, while similar trend was displayed by Raichur population showing a negative cross resistance ratio of 0.932, 0.565, 0.803 to cypermethrin, methomyl, spinosad respectively and positive cross resistance of 1.036  indoxacarb further, same trend was shown by Nagpur population by displaying a negative cross resistance ratio of 0.610, 0.735, 0.519 to cypermethrin, methomyl, spinosad and positive cross resistance ratio of 1.026  to indoxacarb.

Conclusion: Continuous application of single insecticide belonging to a specific group across the generations increases the resistance from F1 to F3. Alternating the new chemistries with old conventional chemicals resulted in no cross resistance development as it was observed in all test populations.
Screening of Diesel Oil Degrading Species of Aspergillus for the Production of Different Enzymes Using Agar Plate Assay Method
Authors: Ruchika  , Garg Amar P.
Published: October 2023

We have earlier isolated Aspergillus luchuensis, A. violaceofuscus, A. niveus, A. terreus, A. japonicus  and A. ustus from naturally degraded diesel oil in the soils using nutrient rich technique. These species were cultured to produce enzyme complexes on 10% (w/v) diesel oil broth containing 0.5 and 1.0% (w/v) jaggery at 37 and 45℃ temperature  separately for 7, 14 and 21 days. It was observed that all 6 species of Aspergillus produced luxuriant mycelial growth at day-7 on both temperatures, however, at 45℃, the liquid broth dried on 14th day of incubation, and therefore, secretory extracellular enzymes produced at 37℃ were screened to test the activities of amylases, gelatinases, lipases, cellulases, pectinases, proteases and manganese peroxidases using agar plate assay method. These enzymes are responsible for beaking down different bonds of the complex hydrocarbons. It was found that all 6 test species of Aspergillus produced all 7 enzymes at higher concentration at day 21 on diesel oil containing 1.0% jaggery. The production of enzyme increased with increasing period of incubation from day 7 to day 21. A. luchuensis produced highest activities of proteases, A. violacefuscus - amylases, A. niveus - gelatinases, A. terreus and A. ustus - pectinases, and A. japonicus produced highest activities of manganese peroxidases. All these enzymes contribute in the degradation of diesel oil in nature. This study revealed that the production of varying amounts of different enzymes by all these 6 species of Aspergillus has significant ecological and bioremediation potential.
Influence of Varieties and Nutrient Levels on Growth, Yield and Profitability of Palak (Beta vulgaris var. Bengalensis)
Authors: Khedkar Ilal , Sharma R. K. , Kushwah S. S. , Gallani Roshan
Published: October 2023

A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (M.P.) during Rabi season of year 2019-20 to study the “Influence of varieties and nutrient levels on growth, yield and profitability of palak (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis)”. The experiment comprised of two varieties V1 (Pusa Bharati), V2 (All Green) and 6 different nutrient levels (N1- 00:00:00 NPK kg/ha, N2- 40:30:20 NPK kg/ha, N3- 60:40:30 NPK kg/ha, N4- 80:50:40 NPK kg/ha, N5- 100:60:50 NPK kg/ha and N6- 120:70:60 NPK kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications. The variety Pusa Bharati was found significantly better plant height (26.87 cm, 31.88 cm and 32.12 cm), maximum number of leaves per plant (8.18, 13.70 and 14.02), maximum leaf area (31.28 cm2, 76.53 cm2 and 79.88 cm2), maximum fresh green yield per plant (19.12 g, 20.64 g and 21.79 g), maximum fresh green yield per hectare (191.19, 206.36 and 217.90 q/ha) at 1st, 2nd and 3rd cuttings, respectively. The significantly higher economic performance in terms of gross income (Rs. 246180.00/ha), net income (Rs. 196695.63/ha) and B:C ratio (3.95) was observed with variety Pusa Bharti.Among nutrient levels, N6 (120:70:60 NPK kg/ha) found better for growth, yield and economics i.e., plant height (30.92 cm, 35.04 cm and 35.66 cm), maximum number of leaves per plant i.e. 9.60, 16.10 and 17.99, maximum leaf area i.e. 34.16 cm2, 83.31 cm2 and 88.76 cm2, maximum fresh green yield per plant i.e. 20.27 g, 22.31 g and 24.46 g, maximum fresh green yield per hectare i.e. 202.72, 223.12 and 224.62 q/ha at 1st, 2nd and 3rd cuttings, respectively, highest gross income (Rs. 268180/ha), net income (Rs. 215587.30 /ha) and B:C ratio (4.10) was found with nutrient level N6 (120:70:60 NPK kg/ha). It may be concluded that variety V1 (Pusa Bharati) and nutrient level N6­ (120:70:60 NPK kg/ha) showed better performance for growth, yield and economics in spinach.
Effect of Different Sowing Time and Cultivars on Oil Content, Yield Attributes and Yield of Safflower
Authors: Kamle Rinku , Gehlot Yashwant , Aakash  , Kamle Sonali , Singh Veer , Kumar Narendra
Published: October 2023

The present experiment was conducted at All India Coordinated Research Project on safflower, College of Agriculture, Indore, (M.P.) during rabi season 2015-16 to study the effect of date of sowing and cultivars on number of capitula plant-1, total seed weight, 100 seed weight, seed yield, biological yield, straw yield, harvest index, oil content and oil yield. The experiment was performed in split plot design using three sowing dates and three cultivars. The maximum capitula (31.26 plant-1) and total seed weight (25.11 g plant-1) were recorded with 1st November sown crop. The cultivar A-1 registered the highest 100 seed weight (5.42 g) which was significantly superior over cultivar NARI-6 and NARI-57. The highest seed yield (1565.42 kg ha-1), straw yield (7771 kg ha-1) and biological yield (9336.42 kg ha-1) were obtained under 1st November of sowing. The maximum oil content (35.36 %) was received with NARI-57 followed by NARI-6 and A-1. The highest oil yield (509.35 kg ha-1) was observed with 1st November sown crop. Based on the findings it is concluded that for obtaining maximum yield of safflower, use of A-1 cultivar and sowing done at 1st November is recommended.
A Comprehensive Approach to Manage Eriophyes prosopidis Mite induced Flower Galls in Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce
Authors: Bhatnagar Shiwani , Singh Sangeeta , Khan Ameen Ullah , Sharma Neha , Kumar Bundesh
Published: October 2023

The Khejri tree (Prosopis cineraria), is a vital resource in the Thar Desert. Sangri, the name of its pods, is the key ingredient in the Rajasthani vegetable dishes Panchkutta and Trikuta. There is severe gall formation and significant pod reduction in P. cineraria caused by the eriophyid mite Eriophyes prosopidis. The gall-infested trees look unwell because they have a lot of disorganized and deformed green galls hanging from them. During the field trials of the present study, we found that the infestation of this mite can be managed by an integrated management approach. The mechanical removal of dried galls fallen on surface and lopping at an interval of one year can reduce the infestation considerably. Treatment with botanicals Putranjiva roxburgii (10%) leaf extract, Balanites aegyptiaca (10%) leaf extract, spray of Metarhizium anisopliae 2.5 x 107 conidia /ml and chemicals Abamectin 1.9% EC @1ml/L and Diafenthiuron 25% WW + Pyriproxyfen 5% WW @ 2ml/L can be utilized for effective management of flower galls of P. cineraria.
Flood Tolerance of Hybrid Napier (Pennisetum purpureum x Pennisetum glaucum) Cultivars
Authors: Thampi Akhila C. , Prameela P. , Antony Savitha , Sekhar Lekshmi
Published: October 2023

A pot culture study was conducted from February to May 2020 at the Agronomy Farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala to study the effects of short-term flooding on the growth, physiology, and yield of four high-yielding cultivars of hybrid napier (Pennisetum purpureum x Pennisetum glaucum) cultivated in Kerala. The experiment followed a 4 x 2 factorial Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The treatments comprised two factors: varieties and flooding treatments. The four hybrid napier varieties used in the study were CO-3 (V1), CO-5 (V2), IGFRI -3 (V3), and Suguna (V4). The flooding treatments included no flooding (F0) as a control and short-term flooding stress treatment (F1) at three different growth stages: 30 days after planting (DAP), 60 DAP and just after the first harvest (75 DAP). Flooding stress was imposed for seven days by inundating water in the pots up to 3-4 cm above the soil level. Flooding at all three stages resulted in a significant reduction in plant height, tiller number, leaf number and above-ground biomass for all varieties. A severe reduction in growth and yield parameters was observed when flooding stress was imposed immediately after the first harvest. Among the varieties, CO-5 had the tallest plants, followed by Suguna, CO-3, and IGFRI-3. When exposed to flooding stress, variety CO-5 was also found to be significantly superior in terms of above-ground biomass production, followed by CO-3. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased in all varieties due to flooding stress, with a pronounced increase observed in Suguna. Variety CO-5, which exhibited greater plant height and above-ground biomass production, was found to be more tolerant to flooding stress, while variety IGFRI-3, with a dwarf plant stature and the lowest biomass yield, was identified as sensitive to short-term flooding stress.
Effect of Different Concentrations of Nano-Fungicides on Mycelial Radial Growth of Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Pratap Gajendra , Biswas Samir Kumar , Verma Bipin , Kumar Naimish , Kumar Mukesh , Singh Vivek
Published: October 2023

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) popularly known as the “King of Vegetables” is a starchy, tuberous crop, that belongs to the family Solanaceae. Potatoes play an important role in the daily human diet because they are a copious source of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and micronutrient. The potato is a basically temperate crop, but it grows under a wide range of climatic conditions. Potato crop is generally affected by different types of biotic and abiotic diseases. Among all diseases, Late blight of potato, caused by the Phytophthora infestans (Mont) de Barry is one of the most devastating diseases of potato worldwide. In India, the losses caused by the disease are 10-20% in Uttar Pradesh, 10-15% in West Bengal and Punjab, 10-15% in Karnataka and Uttrakhand also have been reported during 2013-14. The management of the disease can be done through cultural, mechanical, use of the resistant variety, biological and chemical, etc. The efficacy of current strategies for the management of disease is limited. Considering the destructive nature of pathogen and lack of efficient control measures, the development of alternative or complementary approaches for the management of this disease is highly desirable. However reported use of the same chemicals may raise resistant strain among the pathogens. Therefore, the use of Nano-fungicidal control of spot blotch disease cannot be overstated. However, the disease can be managed with various nanofungicides under in vitro conditions assessed for their efficacy against the disease. The effect of four nanofungicides i.e., Agritec nanofungicide, Silver nanofungicide, Selenium nanofungicide and Nickel nanofungicide against P. infestance was evaluated at different concentrations (50, 75 and 100 ppm) by poison food technique. The in vitro experiment revealed a noticeable reduction in the radial mycelial growth of P. infestance as the concentration of nanofungicides increased. Specifically, at 7 days after inoculation (DAI), the following nanofungicides at a concentration of 100 ppm exhibited the highest levels of mycelial growth inhibition when compared to the control: Silver nanofungicide (72.45%), Agritec nanofungicide (70.21%), Selenium nanofungicide (68.77%), and Nickel nanofungicide (64.65%).
Evaluating the Effect of Different Planting Dates on Growth and Yield Performance of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.)] Walp in Buea, Cameroon
Authors: Tolefack Christabel Kalzembo , Tabi Oben Tom , Andoh Mbah Alma , Neba Ntonifor Nelson
Published: October 2023

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata, (L) Walp) is an important grain legume widely grown in sub-Saharan Africa including Cameroon, providing food for humans and livestock. Timing of planting is an important cultural practice that increases plant growth and yields. This study therefore, aimed at planting cowpeas different dates in order to determine the most appropriate planting time for this crop in terms of growth and yield performance in Buea. Research The research was carried out from March to June and September to December cropping seasons of 2021. It was a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications in which, a medium maturing cowpea variety “Fekem” was sown at four planting dates (15th March, 22nd March, 5th April and 12th April) in the first season and (7th September, 14th September, 21st September and 28th September) in the second season. Two hundreds seeds were sown per experimental unit. Data for growth parameters include number of leaves, number of branches and weight of plant biomass while that for yield components include number of flowers, number of pods, weights of pods and seeds. Data obtained was subjected to descriptive analysis, analysis of variance using the SPSS statistical package and means separated using Duncan test at 5% probability. Results showed that there was a significant difference (P>0.05) in number of leaves of cowpeas planted during the first season compared to the second season. The number of branches significantly different (P>0.05) in the second season compared to first season. The weight of plant biomass had a significant difference (P>0.05) in the first season compared to second season. In terms of yield components, flowers, pods and grain weight were significantly higher in the second season compared to the first season. Overall, it is preferable to plant cowpea in the second season because grain quantity and quality will be higher and thereby, farmers will generate more income from their fields.
Distribution and Characterization of Sulphur fractions in Entisols, Inceptisols and Alfisols Soil Orders of India
Authors: Tripathi Luxmi Kant , Gupta Arbind Kumar , Ghosh S. K. , Patra P. K.
Published: October 2023

The present investigation was conducted to distribute and characterization of different Sulphur (S) fractions in selected soil orders of India. Soil samples were collected from cultivated fields in different states of India, covering West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. These states belong to the soil orders Entisols, Inceptisols, and Alfisols. A total of two hundred seventy composite soil samples were collected from ten locations of each order, representing three depths: 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm, and 30-45 cm, with thrice replication. After analyzing the various sulfur fractions, the results showed that there was no distinct distribution of sulfur reported in the various locations. In Entisols soil order, non-sulphate sulfur contributes highest fraction with a mean of 2744.99 mg kg-1 while lowest contribution was found in available sulfur with a mean of 25.24 mg kg-1 of total S followed by organic sulfur (112.54 mg kg-1), adsorbed sulfur (97.79 mg kg-1). A similar pattern was observed in Inceptisols and Alfisols soil orders. Available S was positive and significantly correlated with organic Sulphur in Entisol and Inceptisol while negative correlated with remaining fraction of S. Based on the sulfur availability index, the dominant fraction of sulfur in all three soil orders was non-sulfate sulfur.
Estimation of Magnitude of Heterosis for Grain Yield and Related Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Yogameenakshi P. , Sheeba A. , Tamilselvi C. , Vijayashanthi V. A. , Jayaramachandran M.
Published: October 2023

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important oilseed crop which is native to India and cultivated in around 2.3 million ha across its several states. India stands way below in terms of productivity compared to several other countries across the globe. Being an often-cross pollinated crop, heterosis even in a marginal magnitude could be exploited in sesame in varietal development. Hence, the present study was performed with the objective of estimating the extent of relative heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis in eight cross combinations for important yield attributing traits in sesame in order to select promising cross combinations for utilization in heterosis breeding and/or selection of superior segregants in segregating generations. Eight cross combinations derived out of crossing high yielding parents viz., TMV (Sv) 7 and VRI (Sv) 2 as female and E8, DSS 9, DS 5 and Prachi as male in L × T fashion were utilized for the analysis considering TMV (Sv) 7 as the Standard parent. The analysis showed significant differences between the genotypes for all the characters studied. The hybrids showed Relative/ Mid parental heterosis ranging from 2.02 to 26.05 per cent; heterobeltiosis from -4.55 to 15.85 per cent and standard heterosis from -11.27 to 15.85 per cent for grain yield /ha. Mid Parental Heterosis (RH) was found to be positive and significant for the characters no. of branches/plant, no. of capsules / plant, grain yield (kg/ha) in all the hybrid combinations except VRI (Sv) 2 / Prachi. Based on heterobeltiosis, the hybrids TMV (Sv) 7 / E 8, TMV (Sv) 7 / DSS 9, TMV (Sv) 7 / DS 5, VRI (Sv) 2 / DS 5 could be selected since they showed significant heterobeltiosis for important yield contributing characters viz., no. of branches / plant, no. of capsules /plant and grain yield. With respect to the Standard heterosis for grain yield and contributing characters like no. of branches/plant, no. of capsules/plant and grain yield/ha the hybrids viz., TMV (Sv) 7 / E 8, TMV (Sv) 7 / DS 5 and TMV (Sv) 7 / DSS 9 showed positive and significant heterosis. Considering all the three types of heterosis, the hybrids TMV (Sv) 7 / E 8, TMV (Sv) 7 / DS 5 and TMV (Sv) 7 / DSS 9 may be selected for yield enhancement in Sesame.
A Diet that is Gone too Far
Authors: Khan Asma Sagheer , Zulfiqar Nazish , Tariq Iqra , Nazir Fazeelat , Bashir Tayyaba
Published: October 2023

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by extreme food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. This literature review synthesizes key research on the psychological, neurobiological, and genetic factors associated with anorexia nervosa. The disorder predominantly affects adolescent girls and young women and can have severe medical and psychological consequences. Research shows that psychological factors like perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, and low self-esteem contribute to the development and maintenance of anorexia. Neuroimaging studies reveal differences in brain regions related to reward processing and cognitive control in individuals with anorexia compared to healthy controls. These neural patterns may underlie the rigid, ritualistic eating behaviors and difficulties in changing thought patterns associated with the disorder. There is also evidence for a genetic component, with studies identifying associations between anorexia and variations in genes related to serotonin regulation, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and other psychiatric disorders. Integrating psychological, neurobiological, and genetic research provides greater insight into the multifaceted origins of anorexia nervosa. Understanding the complex factors that lead to and perpetuate the disorder can inform more effective, evidence-based treatments. Family-based therapy and cognitive-behavioral approaches focused on normalizing eating, addressing thought distortions, and building coping skills show promise. With comprehensive treatment, recovery from anorexia is possible, but early intervention is critical.
Risk Factors Predicting Prognosis in Moderate and Severe Traumatic Brain Injury in Pediatrics in Tanta University Hospital
Authors: El Sebaie Nahla El-Sebaie Mostafa , Nassar Esraa Hamdy , Ibrahim Mohamed Amer , Heniedy Mohamed Ahmed El , Saber Ahmed Mohamed Hamed
Published: October 2023

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is well recognized as the primary cause of mortality and impairment in cases of pediatric trauma. TBI is the prevailing cause of both disability and mortality associated with trauma in children within industrialized nations. The objective of this research was to identify radiological and clinical criteria indicators that might serve as prognostic factors for pediatric patients with severe and moderate TBI.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on hundred fifty pediatric individuals younger than eighteen years old with severe and moderate TBI within twenty-four hours. The obtained computerized tomography (CT) and clinical data findings were compared with outcome and the outcome categorized into unfavourable and favourable. Unfavourable defined as death, deterioration in Glasgow coma scale (GCS) and discharge with severe disability. Favourable defined as discharging without complications.

Results: GSC, hypotension, hypoxia, unequal pupil, WBCs, and some of the CT findings were demonstrated to be statistically important linked with unfavourable findings.

Conclusions: Low initial GCS score, Hypotension, hypoxia, unequal pupil, hemiplegia, and the presence of midline shift or subdural haemorrhage of five mm or more in the initial CT were found to be poor prognostic factors.
Key Risk Factors Associated With Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Use Among Adolescents
Authors: Le Thuy T. T.
Published: October 2023

Importance

The prevalence of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use among US youths has increased significantly during the past decade. Identifying key factors highly associated with ENDS use is essential in monitoring and preventing this harmful behavior among youths.

Objective

To identify the most important risk factors in wave 4.5 (ie, December 2017 to December 2018) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study (PATH) data that are associated with ENDS use in wave 5 (ie, December 2018 to November 2019) among adolescents who were tobacco-naive at baseline.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prognostic study examined data from waves 4.5 and 5 of the PATH youth data set using machine learning techniques. The PATH study is a nationally representative longitudinal cohort study of tobacco use and health in the United States among individuals aged 12 years and older. The data analysis was carried out between January and April 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Wave 5 current ENDS use status of wave 4.5 adolescents who were tobacco-naive.

Results

The analyzed data set comprised 7943 individuals who were tobacco-naive in wave 4.5. Among this group, 332 participants (4.2%) indicated their present use of ENDS in wave 5, 5047 (63.5%) were aged 12 to 14 years, 4066 (51.2%) were male, and 2455 (30.9%) were Hispanic. The most important risk factors of ENDS use in wave 5 among adolescents who were tobacco-naive in wave 4.5 were the likelihood of using ENDS if offered by a best friend (mean SHAP value, 0.184), the number of best friends using e-cigarettes (mean SHAP value, 0.167), household tobacco usage (mean SHAP value, 0.161), curiosity about ENDS use (mean SHAP value, 0.088), future intention to use ENDS (mean SHAP value, 0.068), youth’s total average weekly earnings (mean SHAP value, 0.060), and perceptions of tobacco product safety (mean SHAP value, 0.026).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this study suggest that family and friends play an important role in ENDS use among adolescents. The top-ranking factors associated with ENDS use in this study are areas for further exploration, given the increasing prevalence of ENDS use among youths in recent years. Additionally, these findings highlight the important role of families and schools in shaping adolescents’ tobacco-related knowledge, which can protect them from using ENDS.
Young Adult Physical Activity Trajectories and Midlife Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: de Brito Junia N. , McDonough Daniel J. , Mathew Mahesh , VanWagner Lisa B. , Schreiner Pamela J. , Gabriel Kelley Pettee , Jacobs David R. , Terry James G. , Carr John Jeffrey , Pereira Mark A.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Physical activity (PA) is recommended for preventing and treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Yet, how long-term patterns of intensity-based physical activity, including moderate-intensity PA (MPA) and vigorous-intensity PA (VPA), might affect the prevalence of NAFLD in middle age remains unclear.

Objective

To identify distinct intensity-based PA trajectories from young to middle adulthood and examine the associations between PA trajectories and NAFLD prevalence in midlife.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort of 2833 participants used the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study data. The setting included field clinics in Birmingham, Alabama; Chicago, Illinois; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Oakland, California. Data analysis was completed in March 2023.

Exposures

PA was self-reported at 8 examinations over 25 years (1985-1986 to 2010-2011) and separately scored for MPA and VPA.

Main Outcomes and Measures

NAFLD was defined as liver attenuation values less than 51 Hounsfield units after exclusion of other causes of liver fat, measured using computed tomography in year 25 (2010-2011).

Results

Among a total of 2833 participants included in the sample, 1379 (48.7%) self-identified as Black, 1454 (51.3%) as White, 1206 (42.6%) as male, and 1627 (57.4%) as female from baseline (1985-1986) (mean [SD] age, 25.0 [3.6] years) to year 25 (2010-2011) (mean [SD] age, 50.1 [3.6] years). Three MPA trajectories were identified: very low stable (1514 participants [53.4%]), low increasing (1096 [38.7%]), and moderate increasing (223 [7.9%]); and 3 VPA trajectories: low stable (1649 [58.2%]), moderate decreasing (1015 [35.8%]), and high decreasing (169 [6.0%]). After adjustment for covariates (sex, age, race, study center, education, smoking status, and alcohol consumption), participants in the moderate decreasing (risk ratio [RR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.54-0.85) and the high decreasing (RR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.44-0.80) VPA trajectories had a lower risk of NAFLD in middle age, relative to participants in the low stable VPA trajectory. Adjustments for baseline body mass index and waist circumference attenuated these estimates, but the results remained statistically significant. The adjusted RRs across the MPA trajectories were close to null and not statistically significant.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study of Black and White participants found a reduced risk of NAFLD in middle age for individuals with higher levels of VPA throughout young to middle adulthood compared with those with lower VPA levels. These results suggest the need for promoting sustainable and equitable prevention programs focused on VPA over the life course to aid in lowering NAFLD risk.
Radical‐Mediated Scission of Thioaminals for On‐Demand Construction‐Then‐Destruction of Cross‐Linked Polymer Networks
Authors: Hernandez Juan J. , Sama Gopal Reddy , Hu Yunfeng , Soars Shafer , Niemet Claire E. , Sanchez Cassandra M. , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: October 2023

Two‐stage polymerizing‐then‐degrading networks are achieved by exposure to a single near UV light source, by sequentially performing thiol–ene photopolymerization and radical‐mediated thioaminal scission. To understand the mechanisms involved, synthesis of model thioaminal small molecules shows photo‐activated thioaminal scission produces thioamide moieties, identifiable by distinct NMR singlets at 3.29 and 3.26 ppm and a Fourier Transform IR (FTIR) peak ≈1530 cm−1. The scission process is proposed to occur via ß‐scission of the carbon next to the sulfur atom and is found to be influenced by thiol substitution on the thioaminal, leading to scission conversion increasing from 5 ± 1 to 39 ± 3% and scission time decreasing from 6 to 2 min as the thiols become progressively more substituted. Thioaminal scission occurs semi‐orthogonally with radical‐mediated thiol–ene reactions; the thiol–ene reaction achieves near quantitative yield within the first 0.5 min while thioaminal scission requires a further 5–15 min. This semi‐orthogonality is exploited to create two‐stage polymerizing‐then‐degrading networks, with both regimes dependent on total light dose from a single light source and the transition occurring ≈2 J cm−2 under these exposure and polymerization conditions. This work establishes thioaminals as a new photo‐mediated scission chemistry and a means to create multi‐stage, light‐activated networks.
Highly Reconfigurable Logic‐In‐Memory Operations in Tunable Gaussian Transistors for Multifunctional Image Processing
Authors: Sang Weihui , Xiang Du , Cao Yi , Tan Feixia , Han Zichao , Songlu Wenyu , Zhou Peng , Liu Tao
Published: October 2023

Reconfigurable logic‐in‐memory device, albeit a promising hardware platform for constructing parallel computing architectures, still suffers from high power‐consumption and low area‐efficiency arising from the circuit redundancy in silicon (Si) based technical path. 2D materials are identified as potential building blocks to significantly reduce the circuit footprints with outstanding power‐efficiency, owing to their atomically thin nature and unique electronic properties. However, the present 2D logic devices are primarily based on single channel materials with homogeneous transport polarities, limiting the device reconfigurability for multi‐functional applications. Here, 2D p–n junction based dual‐gate Gaussian‐type transistors for simplified reconfigurable logic circuits are reported. All fundamental Boolean logic operators are implemented in a single device with electrically driven reconfigurability, giving rise to an ultra‐low transistor consumption down to 13% of the traditional circuits. The device is also demonstrated as a reliable image processing unit for various computing tasks (pixel processing, comparing, and ciphering) by executing the corresponding logic operations. Moreover, in situ memory of the Boolean logics is achieved by engineering the dielectric properties of the transistor without compromising its reconfigurability. These findings provide a potential approach to achieving reconfigurable logic‐in‐memory operations at the hardware level, with significant implications for the advancement of parallel computing.
Two‐Photon Pumped Single‐Mode Lasing in CsPbBr3 Perovskite Microwire
Authors: Lu Junfeng , He Xiaopeng , Xu Juan , Li Fangtao , Tang Qingbin , Wang Xiaoxuan , Dai Jun , Yao Qiushi , Qin Feifei , Xu Chunxiang
Published: October 2023

Achieving high‐quality, frequency‐upconversion single‐mode lasing output is an important requirement for developing new nonlinear optoelectronic devices, such as on‐chip optical communication, nonlinear optical switches, and optical parametric amplifiers. Here, an individual CsPbBr3 microwire prepared by the anti‐solvent method is served as both gain media and microresonator to achieve two‐photon pumped frequency upconversion single‐mode lasing with the side‐mode suppression ratio of 18 dB. Meanwhile, the refractive index of orthorhombic perovskite is theoretically calculated based on first principles, and determining its square whispering‐gallery oscillation type by combining with the plane wave model and the steady‐state oscillation conditions of laser. The extracted exciton binding energy of 33.15 meV higher than the thermal ionization energy of room temperature (≈26 meV) suggests that the as‐grown CsPbBr3 microwires possess the capacity to achieve two‐photon pumped lasing output, as well further gaining deeper insights into the role of exciton‐phonon coupling in light emission.
Comprehensive Understanding of Structure Transition in LiMnyFe1−yPO4 during Delithiation/Lithiation
Authors: Li Shuzhen , Zhang Hao , Liu Yong , Wang Li , He Xiangming
Published: October 2023

The complexity of structural changes in LiMnyFe1−yPO4 (LMFP) during delithiation/lithiation poses unique challenges in kinetics and cycling, distinguishing it significantly from LiFePO4. Therefore, comprehending the delithiation/lithiation mechanism of LMFP is essential to optimize material design, synthesis, and battery application management. However, existing reports show apparent discrepancies and contradictions. This paper elucidates the relaxation property of LMFP, providing a comprehensive review of crystal structure and electronic structure change mechanisms during delithiation/lithiation based on in situ characterization. Regarding crystal structure transition, variations in LMFP's compositional uniformity across different literature, stemming from differences in the synthesis process, may contribute to multiple mechanisms. Concerning electronic structure changes, the chemical environments between Fe and Mn are mutual interaction, and the sluggish kinetics of the Mn2+/Mn3+ reaction suggest partial charge compensation by oxygen in the phosphate group. Building on these findings, the paper addresses existing research deficiencies and identifies potential directions for future investigations into the delithiation/lithiation mechanism of LMFP, aiming to provide a solid theoretical foundation for developing new olivine‐type cathode materials with superior electrochemical performance.
A Biomimetic Follicle‐Based Design for Engineering Reproductive Technologies
Authors: Sánchez‐Ajofrín Irene , Andreu Carlos M. , Galindo Josué M. , San‐Millán Irene , Merino Sonia , Soler Ana Josefa , Herrero M. Antonia , Vázquez Ester
Published: October 2023

In the field of assisted reproductive technologies, oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) has emerged as a potential alternative to overcome the limitations associated with standard ovarian stimulation treatments. However, current IVM protocols lack standardization and yield oocytes of inferior quality compared to those matured in vivo. To address this issue, novel biomaterials like hydrogels offer distinct advantages in cell culture by providing a 3D cellular environment and facilitating easy adjustment and characterization of mechanical properties, such as hydrogel stiffness. Herein, a novel and reusable bilayer hydrogel system is presented that accurately mimics the mechanical properties of the microenvironment surrounding oocyte maturation. The system comprises an outer layer fabricated from either a 3D‐printed synthetic polymer (2‐vinyl‐4,6‐diamino‐1,3,5‐triazine, (VDT)) or a natural polymer (chitosan), along with an inner layer composed of alginate. By faithfully replicating the mechanical properties of native tissue within a 3D culture environment, this system significantly improves the quality and developmental capacity of oocytes, thus resulting in successful embryo development. Overall, this innovative system holds great potential for future medical research and applications in cell culture, thus representing a significant advancement in assisted reproductive technologies.
Superior Energy Storage Performance in Antiferroelectric Epitaxial Thin Films via Structural Heterogeneity and Orientation Control
Authors: Zhang Tianfu , Si Yangyang , Deng Shiqing , Wang Hailin , Wang Tao , Shao Junda , Li Yijie , Li Xudong , Chen Qianxin , Liu Chenhan , Zhong Gaokuo , Huang Yan , Wei Jun , Chen Lang , Das Sujit , Chen Zuhuang
Published: October 2023

Dielectric capacitors are desired for electronics and electrical power systems because of their fast charge–discharge speed and high‐power density. Nevertheless, dielectric capacitors typically exhibit lower energy densities in comparison to other energy storage systems like batteries or fuel cells. Among dielectrics, antiferroelectrics have shown great promise for high energy density because of their characteristic double hysteresis loops. However, current antiferroelectric capacitors still face challenges of low efficiency and low breakdown strength due to their large hysteresis, which is harmful to energy efficiency and reliability of the system. Herein, by engineering the nanoscale heterogeneity to mitigate hysteresis and controlling orientation to enhance the polarization, the exceptional energy storage performance of antiferroelectric (Pb0.97La0.02)(Zr0.55Sn0.45)O3 epitaxial thin films is demonstrated. Atomic‐resolution transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray reciprocal space mapping confirm the presence of nanoscale structural heterogeneity, characterized by fragmented antipolar nanodomains. These films exhibit remarkable energy densities, reaching up to ≈84.5 J cm−3, coupled with ultrahigh efficiencies of up to ≈98.5% and superior stability, maintaining efficiencies above 92% across a wide field range of ≈5 MV cm−1. Notably, these findings surpass the capabilities of previously reported dielectric materials, opening new avenues for advanced energy storage applications.
Green‐Based Modifications of Polyethylene Surfaces Enhancing Antifouling Properties in Water‐Related Systems
Authors: Vieira Ana , Rodríguez‐Lorenzo Laura , Garrido‐Maestu Alejandro , Espiña Begoña , Barreiros dos Santos Marília
Published: October 2023

The effects of fouling in plastics, such as polyethylene (PE), can have a major economic impact due to tube clogging and other issues. Surface properties, both chemical and physical, can substantially influence biofilm formation, so developing antifouling materials through engineering these properties is very promising. In this work, two main approaches are evaluated for reducing the fouling on PE surfaces: chemical modification with green coating (polyethylene glycol (PEG) and different chitosan nanoparticles (CS NPs)) and physical modification with distinct micro‐topographies. First, the antibacterial adhesion is tested with Escherichia coli. The results reveal that CS NPs result in a considerable decrease in adhesion depending on which source of chitosan is used. PEG coating only reduced adhesion by 26%, while CS NPs with a high molecular weight (CS3) decreased adhesion by 88% in relation to non‐modified surfaces. Moreover, lozenges topographic modification (T2) has the highest effect on the bacteria adhesion within the physically‐modified PE surfaces. Finally, CS3 and T2 surfaces are tested in water samples in dynamic conditions for 27 days and results showed lower bacterial adhesion than unmodified surfaces. Overall, both strategies offer eco‐friendly and cost‐effective solutions for preventing fouling and extending the lifetime of polymeric surfaces for environmental applications.
Template‐free Formation of Hybrid Dielectric for Flexible Capacitive Sensors with Wide‐Pressure‐Range Linear Detection
Authors: Lei Ming , Ji Bing , Ding Sen , Liu Ruolin , Zhou Bingpu
Published: October 2023

Wearable and flexible capacitive pressure sensors have recently attracted significant attention in the fields of healthcare monitoring and intelligent human‐machine interaction. While considerable progress is made in achieving high‐pressure resolution over a wide linearity range, practical implementation still faces significant challenges due to complex manufacturing processes, as well as limited accuracy and stability for information transmission. To address these issues, inspiration is drawn from human skin and develop a new hybrid dielectric comprising a low‐permittivity (low‐k) micro‐cilia array and a high‐permittivity (high‐k) foam. Without assistance from an elaborate fabrication methodology, the template‐free method provides a cost‐effective and convenient way to realize the functional dielectric for flexible capacitive sensors. The hybrid dielectric exhibits a pressure‐induced series‐parallel conversion mechanism, enabling effective manipulation of the linear effective dielectric constant and controlled initial/resultant capacitance. Through systematic optimization, the sensor demonstrates a high sensitivity of 0.236 kPa−1within an ultrabroad linearity range of up to 1100 kPa. Thanks to the unique characteristics of the hybrid dielectric, this device showcases potential applications in various domains including human joint motion analysis, healthcare monitoring, accurate message transmission, and convenient Morse code communication utilizing non‐overlapping capacitance signals.
Unraveling the Cooperative Activity of Hydrophilicity, Conductivity, and Interfacial Active Sites in Alginate‐CNT‐Cuo Self‐Standing Electrodes with Benchmark‐Close Activity for Alkaline Water Splitting
Authors: Sanad Mohamed Fathi , Chava Venkata S.N. , Zheng Ting , Pilla Srikanth , Joddar Binata , Sreenivasan Sreeprasad T.
Published: October 2023

Designing electrocatalysts that excel in hydrogen and oxygen electrochemistry is crucial for sustainable hydrogen generation through electrochemical water splitting. This study presents a novel tricomponent catalyst composed of an alginate hydrogel (AL) infused with single‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles. The catalyst exhibits benchmark‐close bifunctional activity toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) under alkaline conditions. The aerophobic nature of the AL‐gel facilitates superior bubble release from the electrode, while the inclusion of CNTs mitigates charge transfer resistance. Moreover, heterojunctions of CuO and CNTs create unique interfacial active sites, culminating in high electrocatalytic water‐splitting activity. The structural rigidity of the composite permits its use as self‐standing electrodes (SSE) without using substrates or binders, enabling a direct evaluation of its activity. The composite electrode demonstrates exceptional electrocatalytic HER activity in an alkaline solution, with onset potentials of 93 mV and moderate OER activity with an onset of 155 mV. Moreover, a water electrolysis cell featuring the bifunctional SSE exhibits an open circuit voltage of 1.85 V at 100 mA.cm−2, and only 8% efficiency loss after 100 h marking this a significant stride in developing self‐standing nonprecious electrocatalysts with impressive catalytic performance.
Neuropeptide Y‐Mediated Gut Microbiota Alterations Aggravate Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Chen Zhijie , Lv Mengyuan , Liang Jing , Yang Kai , Li Fan , Zhou Zhi , Qiu Minglong , Chen Haoyi , Cai Zhengwei , Cui Wenguo , Li Zhanchun
Published: October 2023

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) is often accompanied by neuroendocrine changes in the hypothalamus, which closely associates with the microbial diversity, community composition, and intestinal metabolites of gut microbiota (GM). With the emerging role of GM in bone metabolism, a potential neuroendocrine signal neuropeptide Y (NPY) mediated brain‐gut‐bone axis has come to light. Herein, it is reported that exogenous overexpression of NPY reduced bone formation, damaged bone microstructure, and up‐regulated the expressions of pyroptosis‐related proteins in subchondral cancellous bone in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, but Y1 receptor antagonist (Y1Ra) reversed these changes. In addition, it is found that exogenous overexpression of NPY aggravated colonic inflammation, impaired intestinal barrier integrity, enhanced intestinal permeability, and increased serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in OVX rats, and Y1Ra also reversed these changes. Most importantly, NPY and Y1Ra modulated the microbial diversity and changed the community composition of GM in OVX rats, and thereby affecting the metabolites of GM (e.g., LPS) entering the blood circulation. Moreover, fecal microbiota transplantation further testified the effect of NPY‐mediated GM changes on bone. In vitro, LPS induced pyroptosis, reduced viability, and inhibited differentiation of osteoblasts. The study demonstrated the existence of NPY‐mediated brain‐gut‐bone axis and it might be a novel emerging target to treat PMO.
Accelerating Ru0/Ru4+ Adjacent Dual Sites Construction by Copper Switch for Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xi Wenshan , Jin Lujie , Mahmood Asif , Zhang Weikai , Li Youyong , Li Hui , An Pengfei , Zhang Jing , Ma Tianyi , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Yan Junqing
Published: October 2023

The alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) always needs the nearby dual sites of water adsorption and H2 generation, and Ruthenium‐based electrocatalysts are promising alternatives to platinum‐based materials. However, achieving both high efficiency and long‐term stability in the construction of the dual sites is still challenging. Herein, Cu‐doped RuO2 (Cu‐RuO2) is reported and undergoes instant activation for Ru0 production at the low potential state preceding the HER. The Cu2+ ions are demonstrated to work as the switch for obtaining the activated sample of Cu‐RuO2‐AC, which possesses the Ru‐RuO2 structure. The sample of Cu‐RuO2‐AC gives an overpotential of only 19 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 with a Tafel slope of 32.8 mV dec−1. Moreover, at the mass activity of 1 A mgRu−1, it only needs 88 mV, which is lower than the 343 mV of commercial 40% Ru/C, or the 154 mV of activated bare RuO2 (RuO2‐AC). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that Cu2+ doping activates the nearby Ru4+. A two‐electrode H‐cell device of Cu‐RuO2‐AC||Cu‐RuO2 needs only 1.66 and 1.78 V versus RHE to achieve a current density of 100 and 200 mA cm−2 of overall water splitting. This research can help design more efficient dual‐site HER electrocatalysts.