bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Polyphenols and Carotenoids Extraction from Leaves of Cassia auriculata for Natural Health Products
Authors: Gunathilake K. D. P. P. , Ranaweera K. K. D. S. , Rupasinghe H. P. V.
Published: August 2020

Aims: C. auriculata leaves contains polyphenols and carotenoids and also it posses various antioxidant activities towards free radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition and reducing potential. The present study investigated the optimization of polyphenols and carotenoids extraction from Cassia auriculata leaves by response surface methodology (RSM).

Study Design: A three-factor, three-levels central composite design (CCD) was performed to determine the effect of solvent concentration (30-100%), extraction temperature (30-60°C) and extraction time (30-90 min) to obtain the best extraction parameters.

Place and Duration of Study: Fresh C. auriculata leaves were collected from home gardens in Makandura area of Sri Lanka and the experiments were conducted at the Department of Food Science and Technology of Wayamba University of Sri Lanka between June 2016 and August 2016.

Methodology: Total polyphenol and carotenoid contents of the ethanolic extracts of the C. auriculata leaves were determined. Total polyphenols and carotenoids content in the extracts were used as the response variables.  According to the design used, twenty randomized experiments including six replicates as the center points were assigned based on the combinations of extraction variables used CCD and the values of independent process variables considered, as well as response variables. The optimal value of these factors was determined suing response surface methodology. Predicted values were compared with experimental values.

Results: The optimum extraction conditions for phenolics and carotenoids were 45.4% ethanol; 19.8°C; 110.5 min and 100% ethanol; 70.2°C; 9.5 min respectively. The optimal predicted contents for total polyphenols and carotenoids were 13.08 mg GAE/g-DW and 17.31 mg/g-DW respectively. Validation experiments results had good agreement with the predicted responses by RSM.

Conclusion: Ethanol concentration was the most significant factor affecting on total polyphenols and carotenoids extraction. Extraction temperatures and time did not significantly influence on carotenoids and polyphenols extraction from leaves of C. auriculata.  The estimated optimum extraction conditions; were established and they were very close to the experimental values. These parameters can be used as the guidelines for scale-up extraction of bioactives from the leaves of C. auriculata.
Molecular and Morphological Diversity Studies of Five Cola (Schott and Endl.) Species in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Wood ThankGod Timipanipiri , Ohimain Elijah Ige
Published: August 2020

Intra- and inter-species genetic diversity study was carried out comparing the molecular and morphological characters of five Cola species namely Cola acuminata, Cola nitida, Cola millenii, Cola lepidota and Cola gigantea collected from five locations in Ibadan, Nigeria. Sixteen Cola accessions were analysed based on 7 quantitative characters, 12 qualitative characters and 8 Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA primers. From the quantitative characters studied, high significant difference across the location and species was recorded as leaf length had the strongest variability while the species obtained from Botany Nursery showed strongest locational effect on the vegetative leaf characters. All quantitative characters analysed were good determinants for delimiting Cola species. Cola lepidota recorded the highest variability compared to the other Cola species. Qualitative characters studied revealed that leaf surface, seed colour, and floral colour are strong characters for delimiting Cola species. Molecular analysis showed that 309 fragments were recorded, of which 28.5% were polymorphic while 8.4% were monomorphic. Genetic similarities ranged from 0.44 to 0.93 for the 16 Cola accessions with a mean value of 0.67. Deductions from the combined effect of molecular and morphological characters showed high variability for the characters analysed and a likely monophyletic relationship for the 16 Cola accessions.  Molecular and morphological determinants observed in this study can help Cola breeders identify species of interest. We recommend further research on the variability of Cola species.
Optimization of Traditional Snack for Children, by Using Bio-Fortified Pearl Millet, Carrot and Sesame for Its Formulation
Authors: Bansal Tanvi , Kawatra Asha
Published: August 2020

Purpose: Malnutrition has been a major setback for the development of various countries for a very long time. Together with insufficient food accessibility, unawareness about making the right food choices is also one of the contributing factors to malnourishment. Meeting up the nutritional requirements is extremely important for all the age groups and this arises the need for nutrient-dense food products.

Methodology: Keeping this in view, the study was planned for the utilization of biofortified pearl millet varieties (HHB-299 and Dhanshakti) for formulating a traditional snack (gulgule), with incorporation of carrot powder and sesame. Four combinations of gulgule were prepared based on both the varieties of pearl millet separately. Control- Without carrot powder and sesame, Type-1, Type-2, and Type-3 contained 20%, 30 and 40% of carrot powder, respectively and 20% sesame. Organoleptic evaluation of all variants was done based on a nine-point hedonic scale. Nutritional parameters including proximate composition and total minerals were assessed for variants with highest organoleptic scores.

Findings: All the variants were found acceptable in terms of organoleptic attributes and the highest scores were obtained for H-Type-2 gulgule. The nutritional composition was evaluated for Control and Type-2 variants based on both the varieties of pearl millet. The results for moisture, crude protein, crude fat, ash, and crude fiber ranged from 30.65-32.62, 8.22-13.36, 33.86-39.18, 0.59-1.63 and 1.06-2.30 percent, respectively. Total mineral content increased significantly on the addition of carrot powder and sesame. The amount of calcium, iron, and zinc ranged between 39.44 & 320.33, 6.57 & 8.21, and 1.91. & 3.22 mg/100 g, respectively for both Control and Type-2.

Practical Implications: Just 50 grams of Type-2 gulgule accounts for almost 1/4thRDA of Calcium, iron, and zinc for 7-9 year children.

Value: The formulated product can be readily consumed by children, being rich in energy, protein, minerals, and β-carotene and convenient in preparation.
Fluctuation in Yam Nematodes Depending on the Phenological Stages of the Main Yam Species (Dioscorea alata L.) Cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Kouakou Yadom Y. F. R. , Kra Kouamé Daniel , Diallo Hortense Atta
Published: August 2020

The telluric factors favorable to nematode pathogenic diversity make yam nematode control ineffective. This work aims at studying the fluctuation in yam nematodes depending on yam phenological stages. Trials were implemented in four yam production areas in Côte d'Ivoire. After inventory of symptoms on yam tubers, the nematodes associated with the symptoms were extracted and identified. The correlation coefficients between the severity of symptoms on tubers and the size of the associated nematode populations were determined. The size of nematode populations associated with the symptoms were determined in 100 g of soil and 100 g of yam peel were determined depending on the phenological stages of yam plants. Galls, cracks, dry and wet rot were observed on harvested yam tubers. Globodera, Meloidogyne spp., Pratylenchus coffeae and Xiphinema were the nematodes associated with the symptoms. Pratylenchus coffeae was strongly involved in the development of cracks (r = 0.75) and dry rot (r = 0.86) then Meloidogyne spp. in that of galls (r = 0.78). Pratylenchus coffeae and Meloidogyne spp. fluctuation in cultivation soils and yam tubers is influenced by yam phenological stages. Their numbers increase in soils and tubers before tuberization initiation. Producers could draw on the results of this study to establish a schedule of nematicide treatments that could start as soon as yam seeds are planted.
Development of Instant Chutney Powder with Incorporation of Blanched Carrot and Green Leafy Vegetable Powders
Authors: Prasoona J. , Kumari B. Anila , Sarkar Supta , Kiran V. Kavitha , Swamy R.
Published: August 2020

Instant chutney powder, a palatable functional food adjunct, was developed by using carrot (Daucus carota L), basella (Basella alba L) and spinach (Spinacia oleracea) leaves and other selected spice ingredients. The carrot, basella and spinach were blanched for 1 to 3 minutes and dried. The dried powders were subjected to assessment of colour parameters to standardize the time period for blanching. The Hunter (a*) values of blanched samples became more positive, indicating that those samples were greener and intensity of greenness was more in samples blanched for 3min. Hunter (a*) values of carrot were significantly lower (P < 0.05) for blanched samples than for unbalanced samples which show the intensity of carotenoids. The dried carrot, basella and spinach powders were added to standard chutney powder in different ratios and subjected to sensory evaluation. The best combination which selected was CACP4 (Carrot: basella: spinach-1:1:2). It was noted that the combination of vegetable with greens were accepted better rather than only standard powder.
STRATEGI MENGHADAPI BENCANA TANAH LONGSOR DI DESA SNEPO KECAMATAN SLAHUNG KABUPATEN PONOROGO
Authors: Sarya Gede , Pramesti Tri , Arrowrichta Billy , Watu Hiasintus Bertus
Published: August 2020

Hampir setiap tahun saat musim hujan tiba, bencana tanah longsor menghantui penduduk Desa Snepo Kecamatan Slahung kabupaten Ponorogo. Tanah longsor terbesar terjadi pada tahun 2017 silam ketika puluhan rumah rusak berat dan puluhan ekor sapi menjadi korban serta terputusnya akses jalan yang menghubungkan antara dusun satu dengan dusun dan desa lain. Dari survei yang dilakukan, bencana akan semakin mengancam karena adanya perubahan penggunaan lahan yang semula berupa hutan rakyat berubah menjadi lahan pertanian. Pemanfaatan lahan sebagai lahan pertanian memanfaatkan lereng yang relatif curam, sehingga erosi akan sering terjadi dalam bentuk erosi alur dan gerakan massa tanah (longsor). Erosi pada tingkat lanjut ini menyebabkan dampak yang besar bagi kerusakan lingkungan, misalnya banjir, tanah longsor, dan daerah rawan longsor. Pada sisi yg lain pengetahuan masyarakat tentang pelestarian hutan dan sumberdaya air masih rendah. Permasalahan yang dihadapi warga Desa Snepo yang berkaitan dengan ancaman bencana yaitu: (1) Penduduk desa snepo, terutama yang bermukim di daerah rawan bencana selalu merasa was-was dan takut terhadap datangnya bahaya tanah longsor. (2) Pengetahuan masyarakat tentang pelestarian hutan sebagai daerah tangkapan air dan mitigasi bencana masih sangat rendah. Upaya untuk mengantisipasi dampak dari bencana tanah longsor dan banjir bandang adalah membuatkan peta lokasi rawan longsor dan peta aliran air hujan yang dijadikan pedoman masyarakat yang akan membangun rumah. Manfaat yang diharapkan adalah dapat membantu menciptakan ketentraman, kenyamanan dalam kehidupan masya­rakat Desa Snepo kecamatan Slahung kabupaten Ponorogo
PELATIHAN PENINGKATAN SUMBER DAYA MANUSIA BAGI KELOMPOK USAHA BERSAMA (KUBE) DI DESA SEMPU KABUPATEN KEDIRI JAWA TIMUR
Authors: Sutanto J.E , Ernawati Liya Dwi
Published: August 2020

Tujuan dilaksanakan program pelatihan bagi masyarakat khususnya warga Desa Sempu adalah ingin mempunyai kemampuan dan teknik menjual hasil pertaniannya. Kendala utama yang dihadapi petani adalah harga jatuh pada saat panen raya dan buah nanas merupakan salah satu hasil pertanian unggulan di Desa Sempu. Oleh karena itu adanya kepedulian para dosen Universitas Ciputra Surabaya, maka program pelatihan terkait peningkatan sumber daya manusia (SDM) perlu diadakan bagi masyarakat di Desa Sempu. Pelatihan peningkatan sumber daya manusia (SDM) adalah suatu rangkaian kegiatan kelompok yang dilaksanakan dalam interval waktu tertentu dan didesain untuk melahirkan perubahan sikap mental dan keahlian peserta, sehingga mereka mampu mengambil keputusan dan tanggung jawab. Pelatihan peningkatan sumber daya manusia (SDM) ini dilandaskan pada kenyataan bahwa setiap kelompok usaha bersama (KUBE) memerlukan pengetahuan, kompetensi, dan kebutuhan untuk berkembang supaya bisa melakukan pekerjaannya dengan baik. Kelompok usaha bersama (KUBE) adalah kelompok warga binaan sosial yang dibentuk oleh warga binaan sosial yang telah dibina untuk melakukan usaha ekonomi dalam semangat kebersamaan sebagai sarana untuk meningkatkan taraf kesejahteraan sosial. Hasil dari pelatihan tersebut diharapkan warga di Desa Sempu mempunyai kemampuan dan teknik menjual, sehingga penghasilan atau ekonomi warga menjadi lebih baik dan secara umum pertumbuhan ekonomi di Desa Sempu menjadi meningkat
PEMBENAHAN WEB PROFIL SINODE GEREJA KRISTEN JAWA
Authors: Susanto Budi
Published: August 2020

The GKJ Synod Web had undergone several modifications independently. It led to a vulnerability condition that cost system breaches. Building the web application independently in limited security resource was the main problem for GKJ Synod. In order to resolve the problem, the GKJ Synod collaborated with FTI UKDW. Wordpress was implemented to restore the the GKJ Synod web. The  restoration process, requirement and  content analysis, and information architecture design. Based on the information architecture design, the website had been setup and then the team empowered the Data and Multimedia Information Service Center of GKJ Synod to maintain the web application and the contents. The installed WordPress utilised the VPS service with an additional SSL security protocol that provides development support and security. Thie web application project will continue to the next  stage which is online document management services.
Technical note: Atlas‐based Auto‐segmentation of masticatory muscles for head and neck cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Zhang Xiangguo , Chen Haihui , Chen Wen , Dyer Brandon A. , Chen Quan , Benedict Stanley H. , Rao Shyam , Rong Yi
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The study aimed to use quantitative geometric and dosimetric metrics to assess the accuracy of atlas‐based auto‐segmentation of masticatory muscles (MMs) compared to manual drawn contours for head and neck cancer (HNC) radiotherapy (RT).

Materials and methods

Fifty‐eight patients with HNC treated with RT were analyzed. Paired MMs (masseter, temporalis, and medial and lateral pterygoids) were manually delineated on planning computed tomography (CT) images for all patients. Twenty‐nine patients were used to generate the MM atlas. Using this atlas, automatic segmentation of the MMs was performed for the remaining 29 patients without manual correction. Auto‐segmentation accuracy for MMs was compared using dice similarity coefficients (DSCs), Hausdorff distance (HD), HD95, and variation in the center of mass (∆COM). The dosimetric impact on MMs was calculated (∆dose) using dosimetric parameters (D99%, D95%, D50%, and D1%), and compared with the geometric indices to test correlation.

Results

DSCmean ranges from 0.79 ± 0.04 to 0.85 ± 0.04, HDmean from 0.43 ± 0.08 to 0.82 ± 0.26 cm, HD95mean from 0.32 ± 0.08 to 0.42 ± 0.16 cm, and ∆COMmean from 0.18 ± 0.11 to 0.33 ± 0.23 cm. The mean MM volume difference was < 15%. The correlation coefficient (r) of geometric and dosimetric indices for the four MMs ranges between −0.456 and 0.300.

Conclusions

Atlas‐based auto‐segmentation for masticatory muscles provides geometrically accurate contours compared to manual drawn contours. Dose obtained from those auto‐segmented contours is comparable to that from manual drawn contours. Atlas‐based auto‐segmentation strategy for MM in HN radiotherapy is readily availalbe for clinical implementation.
Microstructural Evolution Induced Mechanical Property Enhancement in Cryogenically Rolled Ce‐Modified SAF2507 Super Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Zhou Tian , Xiong Yi , Zha Xiao-qin , Lu Yan , He Tian-tian , Ren Feng-zhang , Rani Ekta , Singh Harishchandra , Kömi Jukka , Huttula Marko , Cao Wei
Published: August 2020

Thermomechanical deformation is one of the most efficient and facile routes to tailor microstructure in structural materials for mechanical property enhancement. Herein, the Ce‐modified SAF2507 super duplex stainless steel (Ce‐SAF2507) is deformed at different levels from 30% to 90% at a cryogenic temperature (–196 °C) to achieve superior mechanical performances. Cryogenic rolling increase fiber texture and induce ultra‐fine grain refinement which brings grains to ≈10 nm in the selected steel. The high‐density dislocations and deformation twins in the cryogenically rolled Ce‐SAF2507 lead to the nucleation and growth of martensite. Increases in the martensite volume fraction and nanoscale grain refinement occur at higher deformation levels. Cryogenically rolled deformation results in the overall increase in the Ce‐SAF2507 hardness. A higher hardness increment of austenite–martensite dual‐phase compared to that of ferrite is attributed to the austenite–martensite's higher work hardening ability. Furthermore, the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength increase with the deformation level, but the elongation decrease. Observed microstructural evolutions induced by cryogenic rolling enunciate the superiority of the present method over conventional ones to promote steel’ mechanical properties.
Lead‐Free Halide Perovskite Cs3Bi2xSb2–2xI9 (x≈ 0.3) Possessing the Photocatalytic Activity for Hydrogen Evolution Comparable to that of (CH3NH3)PbI3
Authors: Chen Guoqiang , Wang Peng , Wu Yaqiang , Zhang Qianqian , Wu Qian , Wang Zeyan , Zheng Zhaoke , Liu Yuanyuan , Dai Ying , Huang Baibiao
Published: August 2020

Lead‐free perovskites Cs3Bi2xSb2–2xI9 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9) are prepared by a co‐precipitation method and their photocatalytic performance for hydrogen production is studied in aqueous HI solution. Compared with the lead‐based perovskite (CH3NH3)PbI3, Cs3Bi2xSb2–2xI9 has a better catalytic performance under air mass 1.5 G (AM 1.5 G) simulated sunlight (100 mW cm−2), powders of Cs3Bi0.6Sb1.4I9 (100 mg) loaded with Pt nanoparticles show < H2 evolution rate of 92.6 µmol h−1, which greatly exceeds that of (CH3NH3)PbI3 powders loaded with Pt nanoparticles (100 mg catalyst, 4 µmol h−1). The Cs3Bi2xSb2–2xI9 has a high stability, with no apparent decrease in catalytic activity after five consecutive H2 evolution experiments. The doping of Sb in Cs3Bi2xSb2–2xI9 effectively reduces the contribution of Bi3+ on the conduction band, attenuating the effect of Bi vacancy on band structure. Compared with pure Cs3Bi2I9 and Cs3Sb2I9, Cs3Bi2xSb2–2xI9 has fewer midgap states and better optical absorption, which greatly enhances its performance for the hydrogen evolution reaction.
Emerging Roles of 1D Vertical Nanostructures in Orchestrating Immune Cell Functions
Authors: Chen Yaping , Wang Ji , Li Xiangling , Hu Ning , Voelcker Nicolas H. , Xie Xi , Elnathan Roey
Published: August 2020

Engineered nano–bio cellular interfaces driven by 1D vertical nanostructures (1D‐VNS) are set to prompt radical progress in modulating cellular processes at the nanoscale. Here, tuneable cell–VNS interfacial interactions are probed and assessed, highlighting the use of 1D‐VNS in immunomodulation, and intracellular delivery into immune cells—both crucial in fundamental and translational biomedical research. With programmable topography and adaptable surface functionalization, 1D‐VNS provide unique biophysical and biochemical cues to orchestrate innate and adaptive immunity, both ex vivo and in vivo. The intimate nanoscale cell–VNS interface leads to membrane penetration and cellular deformation, facilitating efficient intracellular delivery of diverse bioactive cargoes into hard‐to‐transfect immune cells. The unsettled interfacial mechanisms reported to be involved in VNS‐mediated intracellular delivery are discussed. By identifying up‐to‐date progress and fundamental challenges of current 1D‐VNS technology in immune‐cell manipulation, it is hoped that this report gives timely insights for further advances in developing 1D‐VNS as a safe, universal, and highly scalable platform for cell engineering and enrichment in advanced cancer immunotherapy such as chimeric antigen receptor‐T therapy.
Spin Wave Excitation, Detection, and Utilization in the Organic‐Based Magnet, V(TCNE)x (TCNE = Tetracyanoethylene)
Authors: Liu Haoliang , Malissa Hans , Stolley Ryan M. , Singh Jaspal , Groesbeck Matthew , Popli Henna , Kavand Marzieh , Chong Su Kong , Deshpande Vikram V. , Miller Joel S. , Boehme Christoph , Vardeny Z. Valy
Published: August 2020

Spin waves, quantized as magnons, have low energy loss and magnetic damping, which are critical for devices based on spin‐wave propagation needed for information processing devices. The organic‐based magnet [V(TCNE)x; TCNE = tetracyanoethylene; x ≈ 2] has shown an extremely low magnetic damping comparable to, for example, yttrium iron garnet (YIG). The excitation, detection, and utilization of coherent and non‐coherent spin waves on various modes in V(TCNE)x is demonstrated and show that the angular momentum carried by microwave‐excited coherent spin waves in a V(TCNE)x film can be transferred into an adjacent Pt layer via spin pumping and detected using the inverse spin Hall effect. The spin pumping efficiency can be tuned by choosing different excited spin wave modes in the V(TCNE)x film. In addition, it is shown that non‐coherent spin waves in a V(TCNE)x film, excited thermally via the spin Seebeck effect, can also be used as spin pumping source that generates an electrical signal in Pt with a sign change in accordance with the magnetization switching of the V(TCNE)x. Combining coherent and non‐coherent spin wave detection, the spin pumping efficiency can be thermally controlled, and new insight is gained for the spintronic applications of spin wave modes in organic‐based magnets.
Nano‐Twisted Double Helix Carbon Debris Improves the Wear Resistance of Ultra‐Thick Diamond‐Like Carbon Coatings
Authors: Sui Xudong , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Shuaituo , Yan Mingming , Li Wensheng , Hao Junying , Liu Weimin
Published: August 2020

Thick diamond‐like carbon (DLC) coatings with different silicon (Si) transition layer thickness are deposited by hollow cathode plasma immersion coating technology. The results show that the internal stress of the coating can be tuned by changing the deposition time of Si transition layer, thereby obtaining good adhesion strength. Friction and wear results show that all coatings have good tribological properties. The coating with 8 min Si transition layer (Si‐8) demonstrates the lowest friction coefficient (μ ≈ 0.03), even achieves ultralow friction (μ ≈ 0.008) for a short time. However, the wear rate of Si‐8 coating is found to be the largest (2.1 × 10−16 m3 (N m)−1. The low friction coefficient of Si‐8 coating is related to its high degree of graphitization, complete transfer film and fine wear debris. In contrast, the Si‐16 coating has the lowest wear rate of about 5.6 × 10−17 m3 (N m)−1 with a relatively high friction coefficient (μ ≈ 0.1). This is due to its high hardness and the formation of a nano‐twisted double helix carbon debris during the friction process. This nano‐twisted double helix structure can consume additional plastic deformation energy, while reducing the interface contact area and increasing the interface bearing capacity, thereby improving the wear resistance of the thick DLC coating.
Ambipolar Plasmon‐Enhanced Photodetector Built on Germanium Nanodots Array/Graphene Hybrid
Authors: Gao Min , Tian Ziao , Tang Shiwei , Han Xiaowen , Zhang Miao , Xue Zhongying , Zhu Wei , Mei Yongfeng , Chu Paul K. , Wang Gang , Di Zengfeng
Published: August 2020

Graphene with gate‐tunable electronic properties is promising as the channel materials in ambipolar multifunctional photodetectors. However, owing to the zero bandgap and weak light absorption, photodetectors fabricated on pristine graphene have low photoresponsivity. Herein, an ambipolar multifunctional photodetector with improved photocurrent and response speed is constructed on germanium (Ge) nanodots array‐decorated graphene. The photocurrent map and simulated electric field distributions reveal that the enhanced photo‐response is attributed to the localized surface plasmonic resonance effects by trapping light around the Ge nanodots. The photodetector exhibits ambipolar photo‐response and the photocurrents can be tuned from negative to positive by applying different gate voltages due to the gate‐tunable Fermi level of graphene. This ambipolar photodetector with fast response has excellent potential in imaging and sensing arrays as well as multifunctional photodetectors.
Self‐Assembled, 10 nm‐Tailored, Near Infrared Plasmonic Metasurface Acting as Broadband Omnidirectional Polarizing Mirror
Authors: Soria Esther , Gomez‐Rodriguez Pilar , Tromas Christophe , Camelio Sophie , Babonneau David , Serna Rosalia , Gonzalo José , Toudert Johann
Published: August 2020

Plasmonic metasurfaces tailored at the few‐nanometers scale and fabricated by high‐throughput lithography‐free methods are needed to efficiently produce optical components with optimal performance and small footprint. Herein, the design of such metasurfaces and their fabrication over cm2 areas by self‐assembly are reported. They present an optical cavity structure, in which a 2D array of parallel Au nanorods is coupled to a metal mirror through a thin spacer. The nanorods present a quasi‐monodisperse ≈10 nm diameter and separation, and a broad polydisperse length distribution. These remarkable nanostructural features, combining periodicity in one direction with randomness in another, endow the nanorod array with unconventional plasmonic and anisotropic effective optical properties. Thanks to these properties, for light polarized along the nanorods, the metasurface displays strong destructive optical interference and thus near‐perfect absorption over a broad range of angles of incidence and of wavelengths in the near infrared. In contrast, for light polarized perpendicular to the nanorods, no such interference occurs and thus the metasurface behaves as a metal mirror. In sum, the metasurface can be used as broadband omnidirectional polarizing mirror, an original thin and monolithic optical component merging the functionalities of a metal mirror and of a wire‐grid polarizer.
Diastereoselective Trapping of Transient Carboxylic Oxonium Ylides with α,β‐Unsaturated 2‐Acyl Imidazoles
Authors: Zhang Mengchu , Zhang Tianyuan , Zhang Dan , Hu Wenhao
Published: August 2020

By developing a diastereoselective reaction of cyclopropene carboxylic acids with α,β‐unsaturated 2‐acyl imidazoles, we reported here a Michael‐type trapping of transient carboxylic oxonium ylides. This transformation provides a direct approach for the construction of valuable γ‐butenolide derivatives in good yields (60–99%) with high diastereoselectivities (up to >95:5 dr) under mild reaction conditions.

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Functionalization of the Imidazole Backbone by Means of a Tailored and Optimized Oxidative Heck Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Cirillo Davide , Angelucci Francesco , Bjørsvik Hans‐René
Published: August 2020

A general and selective Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of aromatic boronic acids with vinyl‐imidazoles is disclosed. Unlike most cross‐coupling reactions, this method operates well in absence of bases avoiding the formation of by‐products. The reactivity is highly enhanced by the presence of nitrogen‐based ligands, in particular bathocuproine. The method involves MnO2 as oxidant for the oxidation Pd (0)→Pd (II), a much weaker oxidant than previously reported in the literature. This allows for the use of reactants that possess a multitude of functional groups. A scope and limitation study involving a series of 24 boronic acids, whereof 18 afforded TMs in yields in the range 41–95%. The disclosed method constitutes the first general method for the oxidative Heck cross‐coupling on the imidazole scaffold, which moreover operates with a selection of other heterocycles.

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A High Throughput and Unbiased Machine Learning Approach for Classification of Graphene Dispersions
Authors: Abedin Md. Joynul , Barua Titon , Shaibani Mahdokht , Majumder Mainak
Published: August 2020

Significant research to define and standardize terminologies for describing stacks of atomic layers in bulk graphene materials has been undertaken. Most methods to measure the stacking characteristics are time consuming and are not suited for obtaining information by directly imaging dispersions. Conventional optical microscopy has difficulty in identifying the size and thickness of a few layers of graphene stacks due to their low photon absorption capacity. Utilizing a contrast based on anisotropic refractive index in 2D materials, it is shown that localized thickness‐specific information can be captured in birefringence images of graphene dispersions. Coupling pixel‐by‐pixel information from brightfield and birefringence images and using unsupervised statistical learning algorithms, three unique data clusters representing flakes (unexfoliated), nanoplatelets (partially exfoliated), and 2D sheets (well‐exfoliated) species in various laboratory‐based and commercial dispersions of graphene and graphene oxide are identified. The high‐throughput, multitasking capability of the approach to classify stacking at sub‐nanometer to micrometer scale and measure the size, thickness, and concentration of exfoliated‐species in generic dispersions of graphene/graphene oxide are demonstrated. The method, at its current stage, requires less than half an hour to quantitatively assess one sample of graphene/graphene oxide dispersion.
Developmental transitions in body color in chacma baboon infants: Implications to estimate age and developmental pace
Authors: Dezeure Jules , Dagorrette Julie , Baniel Alice , Carter Alecia J. , Cowlishaw Guy , Marshall Harry H. , Martina Claudia , Raby Cassandra L. , Huchard Elise
Published: August 2020

Objectives

In many primates, one of the most noticeable morphological developmental traits is the transition from natal fur and skin color to adult coloration. Studying the chronology and average age at such color transitions can be an easy and noninvasive method to (a) estimate the age of infants whose dates of birth were not observed, and (b) detect interindividual differences in the pace of development for infants with known birth dates.

Materials and Methods

Using a combination of photographs and field observations from 73 infant chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) of known ages, we (a) scored the skin color of six different body parts from pink to gray, as well as the color of the fur from black to gray; (b) validated our method of age estimation using photographic and field observations on an independent subset of 22 infants with known date of birth; and (c) investigated ecological, social, and individual determinants of age‐related variation in skin and fur color.

Results

Our results show that transitions in skin color can be used to age infant chacma baboons less than 7 months old with accuracy (median number of days between actual and estimated age = 10, range = 0–86). We also reveal that food availability during the mother's pregnancy, but not during lactation, affects infant color‐for‐age and therefore acts as a predictor of developmental pace.

Discussion

This study highlights the potential of monitoring within‐ and between‐infant variation in color to estimate age when age is unknown, and developmental pace when age is known.
Evaluating Lipid‐Lowering Drug Targets for Parkinson's Disease Prevention with Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Williams Dylan M. , Bandres‐Ciga Sara , Heilbron Karl , Hinds David , Noyce Alastair J. ,   The 23andMe Research Team,   The International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium
Published: August 2020

Long‐term exposure to lipid‐lowering drugs might affect Parkinson's disease (PD) risk. We conducted Mendelian randomization analyses where genetic variants indexed expected effects of modulating lipid‐lowering drug targets on PD. Statin exposure was not predicted to increase PD risk, although results were not precise enough to support benefits for prevention clearly (odds ratio [OR] = 0.83; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.65, 1.07). Other target results were null, except for variants indicating Apolipoprotein‐A5 or Apolipoprotein‐C3 inhibition might confer protection. These findings suggest peripheral lipid variation may not have a prominent role in PD etiology, but some related drug targets could influence PD via alternate pathways. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:1043–1047
LipHosomes: Reporters for Ligand/Anti‐Ligand Assays Based On pH Readout
Authors: Tripepi Martina , Bennardi Paolo O. , Ferrauto Giuseppe , Aime Silvio , Delli Castelli Daniela
Published: August 2020

A new class of liposomes (LipHosomes) is designed to induce a change of pH upon releasing their content. pH‐readout reports on the number of LipHosomes in the specimen. LipHosomes were prepared by entrapping NaOH or bicarbonate buffer in the intravesicular compartment. The liposomes suspension was purified from unentrapped compounds and brought to pH 7.0. The pH gradient between intra‐ and extra‐liposomal compartments is maintained because the phospholipidic membrane works as a semipermeable membrane thus preventing diffusion of ions across the membrane. The release of the liposomal content triggers a quantifiable variation of the pH of the medium. This feature has been harnessed in analytical assays based on ligand/anti‐ligand molecular recognition by exploiting the biotin‐streptavidin binding scheme. A pH difference of 0.2 units was observed upon the release of the payload from biotinylated LipHosomes bound to streptavidinated plates. The test showed an excellent sensitivity being able to reveal a concentration of bound LipHosomes in the sub‐pM range.
Anomalously Slow Conformational Change Dynamics of Polar Groups Anchored to Hydrophobic Surfaces in Aqueous Media
Authors: Fu Tengfei , Xing Hao , Silver Eric S. , Itoh Yoshimitsu , Chen Shuo , Masuda Takuya , Uosaki Kohei , Huang Feihe , Aida Takuzo
Published: August 2020

Water molecules within a thin hydration layer, spontaneously generated on hydrophobic protein surfaces, are reported to form a poorly dynamic network structure. However, how such a water network affects the conformational change dynamics of polar groups has never been explored, although such polar groups play a critical role in protein‐protein and protein‐ligand interactions. In the present work, we utilized as model protein surfaces a series of self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) appended with polar (Fmoc) or ionic (FITC) fluorescent head groups that were tethered via a 1.5‐nm‐long flexible oligoether chain to a hydrophobic silicon wafer surface, which was densely covered with paraffinic chains. We found that, not only in deionized water but also in aqueous buffer, these oligoether‐appended head groups at ambient temperatures both displayed an anomalously slow conformational change, which required ∼10 h to reach a thermodynamically equilibrated state. We suppose that these behaviors reflect the poorly dynamic and low‐permittivity natures of the thin hydration layer.
The effects of video modeling on staff implementation of behavioral procedures in China
Authors: Lim Nataly , Hu Xiaoyi
Published: August 2020

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a video modeling (VM) procedure at teaching three staff members who were working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to implement a token economy, use an error correction procedure, and conduct a multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessment. The study was conducted at a summer camp for children with ASD located on a university campus and at a school for students with special needs in mainland China. All participants successfully generalized instructional skills learned during the VM intervention to sessions with children with ASD. Maintenance of instructional skills was also seen during follow‐up. These results indicate VM to be an economical and effective approach to training staff to implement various behavioral strategies. Moreover, the validity of VM as an effective intervention for staff training is increased by inclusion of blind ratings by five Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Using stimulus equivalence‐based instruction to teach young children their caregivers' contact information
Authors: LaFond Tiffany R. , Reeve Kenneth F. , Day‐Watkins Jessica , Reeve Sharon A. , Vladescu Jason C. , Jennings Adrienne M.
Published: August 2020

Stimulus equivalence‐based instruction (EBI) was used to teach young children of typical development three 4‐member equivalence classes containing contact information from three caregivers (e.g., mother, father, and grandmother). Each class comprised the caregiver's (a) photograph, (b) printed name, (c) printed phone number, and (d) printed name of employer. A pretest‐train‐posttest‐maintenance design with a nontreatment control group comparison was used. Pretests and posttests assessed the degree to which class‐consistent responding occurred across both visual–visual matching tasks and intraverbals. Intraverbal responding was also probed with a novel instructor. Overall, EBI participants scored significantly higher during the posttests than the control participants across both the derived relations and intraverbal tests. These differences maintained 2 weeks later. Thus, responding generalized to (a) a different topography (i.e., intraverbal), (b) auditory versions of the stimuli, and (c) in the presence of a novel instructor. How such procedures may benefit lost children are discussed.
Modeling and simulation‐based design of electroenzymatic batch processes catalyzed by unspecific peroxygenase from A. aegerita
Authors: Bormann Sebastian , Hertweck Dominik , Schneider Sabrina , Bloh Jonathan Z. , Ulber Roland , Spiess Antje C. , Holtmann Dirk
Published: August 2020

Unspecific peroxygenases have attracted interest due to their ability to catalyze the oxygenation of various types of C–H bonds using only hydrogen peroxide as a cosubstrate. Due to the instability of these enzymes at even low hydrogen peroxide concentrations, careful fed‐batch addition of the cosubstrate or ideally in situ production is required. While various approaches for hydrogen peroxide addition have been qualitatively assessed, only limited kinetic data concerning enzyme inactivation and peroxide accumulation has been reported so far. To obtain quantitative insights into the kinetics of such a process, a detailed data set for a peroxygenase‐catalyzed benzylic hydroxylation coupled with electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production is presented. Based on this data set, we set out to model such an electroenzymatic process. For this, initial velocity data for the benzylic hydroxylation is collected and an extended Ping‐Pong‐Bi‐Bi type rate equation is established, which sufficiently describes the enzyme kinetic. Moreover, we propose an empirical inactivation term based on the collected data set. Finally, we show that the full model does not only describe the process with sufficient accuracy, but can also be used predictively to control hydrogen peroxide feeding rates To limit the concentration of this critical cosubstrate in the system.
Diffusion tensor imaging study of brain precentral gyrus and postcentral gyrus during normal brain aging process
Authors: Zhou Ling , Tian Na , Geng Zuo‐Jun , Wu Bing‐Kun , Dong Li‐Ying , Wang Mei‐Rong
Published: August 2020

Objective

To study the changes of white matter tracts in precentral gyrus and postcentral gyrus during normal brain aging process by analyzing fractional anisotropy (FA) values obtained from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) technology.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) were conducted on 120 healthy right‐handed subjects. The subjects were separated into four age groups, namely Young Male/Female (<45 years old) and Senior Male/Female (>45 years old). Each subject undertakes routine MRI and DTI scans. Left/right precentral and left/right postcentral gyrus are automatically detected on the image. The area for region of interest (ROI) is set to be 18 ± 2 mm2.

Results

For each age group, the FA values of white matter in precentral gyrus and postcentral gyrus are statistically different (p < .05) in both left and right sides of the brain across different age groups and genders. Additionally, the FA values are statistically different (p < .05) between two young and senior age groups across different genders, brain regions, and hemispheres.

Conclusion

The FA values of precentral gyrus and postcentral gyrus are statistically different across genders, age groups, and hemispheres. Additionally, the FA values of both precentral gyrus and postcentral gyrus decrease over time, which is a strong indication of aging.
Sustainable product disposal: Consumer redistributing behaviors versus hoarding and throwing away
Authors: Sarigöllü Emine , Hou Chenxuan , Ertz Myriam
Published: August 2020

Business strategies involving sustainable product disposal have focused mostly on technical aspects but neglected to adequately incorporate the nature of consumers' behavior. The current study addresses this void. We study consumer product disposal behavior and subsequently offer insights to businesses on how to incorporate consumer input into their strategic decision making in the light of opportunities to mitigate environmental impacts. Consumers' redistributing of unwanted but still useful products to others by reselling, passing along, or donating, rather than hoarding or throwing away, contributes to product lifetime extension and waste management. We study factors influencing product redistribution and explore profile of consumers who engage in various disposal behaviors. Findings from two online surveys, on mobile phones and sunglasses, reveal that specific waste attitudes, that is, waste minimization and waste aversion, rather than general environmental concern, are key determinants of product redistribution choice. Product cost is positively related to reselling and giving behaviors. Furthermore, product quality and product self‐image congruency significantly reduce the odds of throwing away. The method of product redistribution is also influenced by consumers' demographic characteristics including age, education level, and income. This paper advances extant literature on product disposal from the perspective of the consumer and provides input into development of business strategies that incorporate consumers' sustainable disposal behaviors. We also offer input to policy makers on how to curb or delay waste and pollution.
Immune‐related signature predicts the prognosis and immunotherapy benefit in bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Yejinpeng , Chen Liang , Yu Mengxue , Fang Yayun , Qian Kaiyu , Wang Gang , Ju Lingao , Xiao Yu , Wang Xinghuan
Published: August 2020

Background

There is no good prognostic model that could predict the prognosis of bladder cancer (BCa) and the benefit of immunotherapy.

Methods

Through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm, we constructed a 13‐mRNA immune signature from the TCGA cohort (n = 406). We validated its prognostic value and predictive value for the benefit of immunotherapy with four independent validation cohort (GSE13507 [n = 256], GSE31684 [n = 93], GSE32894 [n = 308], and IMvigor210 cohort [n = 298]).

Results

Our results indicating that high‐risk group with higher inhibitory immune cell infiltration (regulatory T cells [Tregs] and macrophage, etc), higher expression of immune checkpoints, and more T cell suppressive pathways (transforming growth factor β [TGF‐β], epithelial‐mesenchymal transition [EMT], etc) were activated. Besides, the immune signature showed a good predictive value for the benefit of immunotherapy in a cohort of urothelial carcinoma patients treated with PD‐L1.

Conclusions

The immune signature constructed is convenient to classify the immunotherapeutic susceptibility of patients with BCa, so as to achieve precision immunotherapy for BCa.
The configurational influence mechanism of film consumption experience on customer satisfaction
Authors: Tang Zhongjun , Yu Lianghao
Published: August 2020

To ensure the quality of consumers' experience and realize the maximization of economic benefits in the short term, customer satisfaction has become increasingly significant in the film industry. This study clarifies the configurational influence mechanism between consumer expectation, brand image, and five experiential values toward film consumer satisfaction. With this aim, text data were mined and a new configurational customer satisfaction index model was constructed that integrates experiential value theory based on the European Consumer Satisfaction Index model. Additionally, fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis is employed to explore the influence mechanism of film consumer satisfaction from the perspective of configuration. The five configurations produced correspond to five equivalent paths, which can be further divided into four types to explain the influence mechanism of film consumer satisfaction. Regarding the antecedent conditions, the intrinsic value of a film, followed by the extrinsic value are the key factors affecting satisfaction. This study changes the passive survey questionnaire output form to active input of comment mining. Additionally, it abandons the traditional regression perspective for research; a new configurational perspective is used to explore the complexity of antecedent conditions and the equivalence of consequence of film consumer satisfaction.
The Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Rhododendron molle Leaf Extract in LPS‐Induced RAW264.7
Authors: Zong Luye , Zhang Jin , Dai Liangfang , Liu Jian , Yang Yan , Xie Jiankun , Luo Xiangdong
Published: August 2020

Rhododendron molle G.Don is a well‐known traditional medicine which has been used to treat rheumatic inflammation. In this study, an inflammatory model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells was established to analyze the anti‐inflammatory effect and potential mechanism of the methanol extract of R. molle leaves (RLE). The production of NO and the expression of tumor necrosis factor by LPS were detected by Griess reaction and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mRNA expression of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, COX‐2 and iNOS was measured by qRT‐PCR assay. Griess and qRT‐PCR showed that the RLE could significantly concentration‐dependently inhibit NO production and the expression of many pro‐inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory‐related enzymes. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis indicated that RLE could inhibit LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages activation. The protein level of TNF‐α and IL‐1β were decreased over 50 % at 100 μg/ml of RLE, as detected by ELISA. These results indicated that RLE had strong anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity.