bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chlorophylls as Molecular Semiconductors: Introduction and State of Art
Authors: Buscemi Gabriella , Vona Danilo , Trotta Massimo , Milano Francesco , Farinola Gianluca M.
Published: June 2021

Chlorophylls (Chls) and their derivatives are the most common pigments used for light absorption, energy transfer, and charge separation in photosynthetic organisms. Their functions change upon different aggregation states and specific pigment–protein interactions. Differences in the aromatic π‐system and substituents finely tune Chls electronic, spectroscopic, and supramolecular characteristics. The varieties of Chls species and the possibility of chemical manipulation, together with their exceptional absorption cross section, make them attractive materials for applications as sensitizer in energy conversion devices. Moreover, when deposited as thin films, Chls and their semi‐synthetic derivatives exhibit the typical behavior of molecular organic semiconductors with good charge carrier mobility and Fermi level suitable for their use in optoelectronic devices like phototransistors. This review aims at bridging the possible knowledge and language gap between biochemists and biophysicists working on Chls, and material scientists developing organic optoelectronic devices. Starting from the structural features, and proceeding towards optoelectronic devices, the review offers a critical overview on the uses of Chls as light‐responsive molecular semiconductors known so far. Exploiting the high efficiency of these renewable, biocompatible, and recyclable natural systems can pave the way for next generation biooptoelectronics, including artificial light energy converters, photodetectors, and, more in general, forward‐thinking technologies.
Mucin‐Like Glycoproteins Modulate Interfacial Properties of a Mimetic Ocular Epithelial Surface
Authors: Liu Chunzi , Madl Amy C. , Cirera‐Salinas Daniel , Kress Wolfgang , Straube Frank , Myung David , Fuller Gerald G.
Published: June 2021

Dry eye disease (DED) has high personal and societal costs, but its pathology remains elusive due to intertwined biophysical and biochemical processes at the ocular surface. Specifically, mucin deficiency is reported in a subset of DED patients, but its effects on ocular interfacial properties remain unclear. Herein a novel in vitro mucin‐deficient mimetic ocular surface (Mu‐DeMOS) with a controllable amount of membrane‐tethered mucin molecules is developed to represent the diseased ocular surfaces. Contact angle goniometry on mimetic ocular surfaces reveals that high surface roughness, but not the presence of hydrophilic mucin molecules, delivers constant hydration over native ocular surface epithelia. Live‐cell rheometry confirms that the presence of mucin‐like glycoproteins on ocular epithelial cells reduces shear adhesive strength at cellular interfaces. Together, optimal surface roughness and surface chemistry facilitate sustainable lubrication for healthy ocular surfaces, while an imbalance between them contributes to lubrication‐related dysfunction at diseased ocular epithelial surfaces. Furthermore, the restoration of low adhesive strength at Mu‐DeMOS interfaces through a mucin‐like glycoprotein, recombinant human lubricin, suggests that increased frictional damage at mucin‐deficient cellular surfaces may be reversible. More broadly, these results demonstrate that Mu‐DeMOS is a promising platform for drug screening assays and fundamental studies on ocular physiology.
Resistive Switching Effects of Crystal‐Ion‐Slicing Fabricated LiNbO3 Single Crystalline Thin Film on Flexible Polyimide Substrate
Authors: Huang Shitian , Luo Wenbo , Pan Xinqiang , Zhao Jinyan , Qiao Shijun , Shuai Yao , Zhang Kaisheng , Bai Xiaoyuan , Niu Gang , Wu Chuangui , Zhang Wanli
Published: June 2021

The fabrication process and resistive switching properties of flexible single crystalline LiNbO3 (LN) thin films are reported in this paper. Single crystalline LN thin films are transferred onto polyimide (PI) substrate by crystal‐ion‐slicing (CIS) technique using benzocyclobutene (BCB) as bonding layer. Low energy Ar+ irradiation is carried out to introduce a layer with high concentration oxygen vacancies. Uniform and stable resistive switching behaviors are observed in different memristor cells on the same thin film, which can be attributed to the single crystalline properties of the fabricated LN thin films. The on/off ratio is almost the same even when the LN thin film is bended either to different radii or thousand times. Thus, based on CIS technique and Ar+ irradiation, the fabrication method of flexible single crystalline thin films for flexible memristor is established. These results indicate that single crystalline LN thin film on PI substrate is a promising candidate structure for flexible memristor devices. A novel conduction model combined filamentary mechanism and Schottky emission mechanism is proposed to explain the resistive switching behavior.
A Self‐Test for Your Conflict Management Capabilities
Authors: Shell G. Richard
Published: June 2021

Editor's Note: The adaptation below is from G. Richard Shell's new HarperCollins Leadership book, “The Conscience Code: Lead With Your Values. Advance Your Career.” The book, published last month, sets out to help readers “deal more effectively with an increasingly urgent problem in professional life: standing up for core values such as honesty, personal dignity, fairness, and justice when the pressure is on to look the other way.”
Is It Time to Modernize Witness Statements in Arbitration?
Authors: Lampert Michael A.
Published: June 2021

Direct testimony in arbitration, especially international arbitration, is often in the form of a written witness statement, rather than orally at a hearing. So, too, in the courts of England and Wales.
Genome‐Wide Association Study Identifies Risk Loci for Cluster Headache
Authors: O'Connor Emer , Fourier Carmen , Ran Caroline , Sivakumar Prasanth , Liesecke Franziska , Southgate Laura , Harder Aster V. E. , Vijfhuizen Lisanne S. , Yip Janice , Giffin Nicola , Silver Nicholas , Ahmed Fayyaz , Hostettler Isabel C. , Davies Brendan , Cader M. Zameel , Simpson Benjamin S. , Sullivan Roisin , Efthymiou Stephanie , Adebimpe Joycee , Quinn Olivia , Campbell Ciaran , Cavalleri Gianpiero L. , Vikelis Michail , Kelderman Tim , Paemeleire Koen , Kilbride Emer , Grangeon Lou , Lagrata Susie , Danno Daisuke , Trembath Richard , Wood Nicholas W. , Kockum Ingrid , Winsvold Bendik S. , Steinberg Anna , Sjöstrand Christina , Waldenlind Elisabet , Vandrovcova Jana , Houlden Henry , Matharu Manjit , Belin Andrea Carmine
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study was undertaken to identify susceptibility loci for cluster headache and obtain insights into relevant disease pathways.

Methods

We carried out a genome‐wide association study, where 852 UK and 591 Swedish cluster headache cases were compared with 5,614 and 1,134 controls, respectively. Following quality control and imputation, single variant association testing was conducted using a logistic mixed model for each cohort. The 2 cohorts were subsequently combined in a merged analysis. Downstream analyses, such as gene‐set enrichment, functional variant annotation, prediction and pathway analyses, were performed.

Results

Initial independent analysis identified 2 replicable cluster headache susceptibility loci on chromosome 2. A merged analysis identified an additional locus on chromosome 1 and confirmed a locus significant in the UK analysis on chromosome 6, which overlaps with a previously known migraine locus. The lead single nucleotide polymorphisms were rs113658130 (p = 1.92 × 10−17, odds ratio [OR] = 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.37–1.66) and rs4519530 (p = 6.98 × 10−17, OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.34–1.61) on chromosome 2, rs12121134 on chromosome 1 (p = 1.66 × 10−8, OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.22–1.52), and rs11153082 (p = 1.85 × 10−8, OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.19–1.42) on chromosome 6. Downstream analyses implicated immunological processes in the pathogenesis of cluster headache.

Interpretation

We identified and replicated several genome‐wide significant associations supporting a genetic predisposition in cluster headache in a genome‐wide association study involving 1,443 cases. Replication in larger independent cohorts combined with comprehensive phenotyping, in relation to, for example, treatment response and cluster headache subtypes, could provide unprecedented insights into genotype–phenotype correlations and the pathophysiological pathways underlying cluster headache. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:193–202
Broadband, High‐Efficiency and Wide‐Incident‐Angle Anomalous Reflection in Groove Metagratings
Authors: Liu Chuanbao , He Jingjin , Zhou Ji , Xu Jianchun , Bi Ke , Chen Junhong , Qiao Lijie , Bai Yang
Published: June 2021

In this paper, some nonplanar metagratings with multilevel asymmetric grooves are demonstrated to produce broadband and high‐efficiency anomalous reflection in wide‐incident‐angle range. First, bipartite metagrating with two asymmetric grooves per unit cell is proposed and optimized by machine learning. It can not only realize a high efficiency (≈88.8%) and large‐angle (≈70°) anomalous reflection under normal incidence, but also preserve the high performance over broad bandwidth (12.0–20.0 GHz) and wide‐incident‐angle range. Furthermore, to improve the large‐angle anomalous reflection at low frequencies, a tripartite metagrating is designed. The participation of more cavity modes makes the metagrating achieve the anomalous reflection with an efficiency greater than 90% over a broader bandwidth from ±1st Rayleigh anomalies to 20.0 GHz (even higher) and a wide range of incident angles from −70° to 70°, which is verified by the experimental measurement. Especially at an incident angle of 20°, the high‐efficiency anomalous reflection is sustained over an ultrabroad frequency range from 9.7 to 21.2 GHz, i.e., a fractional bandwidth of 74.4%. The excellent performance of anomalous reflection and relatively simple structures endow the asymmetric groove metagratings with abundant functions, such as ideal three‐channel retroreflector and abnormal reflector, and make them attractive in highly efficient and extreme wave manipulation.
Task‐adaptive eigenvector‐based projection (EBP) transform for compressed sensing: A case study of spectroscopic profiling sensor
Authors: Zhang Yinsheng , Wang Haiyan , Cheng Yongbo , Qin Xiaolin
Published: June 2021

The compressed sensing (CS) theory requires the signal to be sparse under some transform. For most signals (e.g., speech and photos), the non‐adaptive transform bases, such as discrete cosine transform (DCT), discrete Fourier transform (DFT), and Walsh‐Hadamard transform (WHT), can meet this requirement and perform quite well. However, one limitation of these non‐adaptive transforms is that we cannot leverage domain‐specific knowledge to improve CS efficiency. This study presents a task‐adaptive eigenvector‐based projection (EBP) transform. The EBP basis has an equivalent effect of the principal component loading matrix and can generate a sparse representation in the latent space. In a Raman spectroscopic profiling case study, EBP demonstrates better performance than its non‐adaptive counterparts. At the 1% CS sampling ratio (k), the reconstruction relative mean square errors of DCT, DFT, WHT and EBP are 0.33, 0.68, 0.32, and 0.00, respectively. At a fixed k, EBP achieves much better reconstruction quality than the non‐adaptive counterparts. For specific domain tasks, EBP can significantly lower the CS sampling ratio and reduce the overall measurement cost.
Thermal and dynamic mechanical behavior of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)‐based electrospun scaffolds for tissue engineering
Authors: Ciarfaglia Nicola , Laezza Antonio , Lods Louise , Lonjon Antoine , Dandurand Jany , Pepe Antonietta , Bochicchio Brigida
Published: June 2021

Electrospun scaffolds can find numerous applications, including biomedical; for example, tissue engineering. Poly‐L‐lactic acid is considered suitable for these applications, but its low‐thermal stability and its poor mechanical properties limit this polymer use. The aim of this work is to obtain a modulation of the final scaffolds characteristics such as fibers dimension, wettability, elasticity, and resistance to rupture through the choice of the polymers to be electrospun. Different electrospun scaffolds containing gelatin, Poly‐DL‐lactic acid, different percentages of cellulose nanocrystals and an elastin peptide have been produced. Thermal stability, physical structure, and its mechanical behavior have been studied. Results suggest that the electrospun scaffolds show better thermal and mechanical properties than bulk materials; that is, the scaffolds with the best hydrophilic and thermomechanical properties are the samples containing 3% (wt/wt) of CNCs and elastin peptide.
Inter‐relationships between trait resilience, coping strategies, and mental health outcomes in autistic adults
Authors: Muniandy Melanie , Richdale Amanda L. , Arnold Samuel R. C. , Trollor Julian N. , Lawson Lauren P.
Published: June 2021

Resilience has been depicted as a key characteristic in the promotion of mental health in the face of stress and adversity. Despite high levels of stress encountered in the autistic population, resilience studies remain scarce. Using data from an Australian longitudinal adult study, this study explored the inter‐relationships between trait resilience, coping, and mental health in a sample of autistic adults (N = 78). In particular, we examined the relationship between resilience and use of coping strategies, and the potential mediating role of coping strategies in the relationship between resilience and mental health outcomes. Our findings suggested that increased use of engagement coping (e.g., problem‐solving, positive appraisal) and decreased use of disengagement coping (e.g., self‐blame, being in denial) strategies were associated with higher levels of resilience. Further, mediation analysis results suggest that disengagement coping mediated the associations between resilience and all three mental health outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety, and well‐being), while engagement coping strategies mediated the relationship between resilience and well‐being only. Our results illustrate that coping strategies may be an important mechanism in explaining the resilience‐mental health relationship in autistic adults, highlighting the importance of considering stress‐related constructs together (i.e., trait resilience and coping) when addressing support and intervention options for mental health difficulties in the autistic adult population.

Lay Summary

This research explored how resilience and coping strategies influence the mental health and well‐being of autistic adults. We found that resilient autistic adults used more engagement coping strategies, less disengagement coping strategies, and reported better mental health and well‐being. Considering stress‐related factors together (i.e., resilience and coping) offers a novel perspective to mental health difficulties in autistic adults and may be a vital step in the development of support options in this population.
Torsionstragverhalten von Betonhohlquerschnitten in geschlossenen und klaffenden Segmentfugen – Teil 2: Die Umlagerung der Torsionsschubspannungen
Authors: Loh Lutz , Garg Andreas
Published: June 2021

Beim Bau von Segmentbrücken oder Türmen von Windenergieanlagen werden Betonfertigteile häufig trocken gestoßen und die Fugen mit einer Vorspannung überdrückt. Durch trockene Reibung müssen die meist glatten Betonoberflächen auch Schubspannungen aus Querkraft und Torsion übertragen. Im ersten Teil dieses Aufsatzes [1] wurden zwei bestehende Nachweismodelle zum Torsionstragverhalten von trockenen Betonfugen am Beispiel des Turms einer Windenergieanlage vorgestellt und zudem ein eigener Ansatz auf Grundlage der Theorie der Wölbkrafttorsion aufgezeigt. Aufbauend auf diesem Ansatz wird nachfolgend ein neues konsistentes Nachweiskonzept vorgestellt, welches eine sehr gute Übereinstimmung mit Versuchsdaten aufweist.
On the Origin of the Plasmonic Properties of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Kim Seokheon , Yoon Sangwoon
Published: June 2021

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely used as biological imaging agents, colorimetric sensors, surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates, photothermal anti‐cancer agents, visible wavelength photocatalysts, and photovoltaic materials. These applications are based on the plasmonic properties of AuNPs. Therefore, a fundamental understanding of the origin of the plasmonic behavior of AuNPs allows us to control the properties of AuNPs and widen their applications. In this review, we discuss the origin of the color, SERS, and hot‐carrier generation of AuNPs. We start with the free‐electron Drude model and the dielectric constant of AuNPs, which defines the material properties. We then explain the mechanism that determines the colors of bulk and nanosized gold, enhancement of the electric fields outside the AuNPs, and generation of hot carriers during the decay of plasmons.
Molecular Recognition of Nerve Agents and Their Organophosphorus Surrogates: Toward Supramolecular Scavengers and Catalysts
Authors: Finnegan Tyler J. , Gunawardana Vageesha W. Liyana , Badjić Jovica D.
Published: June 2021

Nerve agents are tetrahedral organophosphorus compounds (OPs) that were developed in the last century to irreversibly inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and therefore impede neurological signaling in living organisms. Exposure to OPs leads to a rapid development of symptoms from excessive salivation, nasal congestion and chest pain to convulsion and asphyxiation which if left untreated may lead to death. These potent toxins are prepared on a large scale from inexpensive staring materials, making it feasible for terrorist groups or states to use them against military and civilians. The existing antidotes provide limited protection and are difficult to apply to a large number of affected individuals. While new prophylactics are currently being developed, there is still need for therapeutics capable of both preventing and reversing the effects of OP poisoning. In this review, we describe how the science of molecular recognition can expand the pallet of tools for rapid and safe sequestration of nerve agents.
Studying Fluid Characteristics Atop Surface Patterned Membranes via Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Denizer Didem , ElSherbiny Ibrahim M. A. , Ulbricht Mathias , Panglisch Stefan
Published: June 2021

Surface patterning is a recent promising approach to promote performance of pressure‐driven membranes in water treatment and desalination. Nevertheless, knowledge about foulant deposition mechanisms, especially at early stage of filtration, is still lacking. The applicability of particle imaging velocimetry to study fluid characteristics atop surface patterned thin‐film composite membranes was investigated at different operating conditions. This work is an important first step toward reliable understanding of the impacts of topographical membrane surface modification on hydrodynamic conditions and foulant deposition mechanisms.
Effect of melatonin supplementation on endothelial function in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: A randomized, double‐blinded clinical trial
Authors: Hoseini Shervin Ghaffari , Heshmat‐Ghahdarijani Kiyan , Khosrawi Saeid , Garakyaraghi Mohammad , Shafie Davood , Roohafza Hamidreza , Mansourian Marjan , Azizi Elham , Gheisari Yousof , Sadeghi Masoumeh
Published: June 2021

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect of melatonin supplementation on endothelial function in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods

This is an analysis of the MeHR trial, a randomized double‐blinded placebo‐controlled clinical trial with two parallel arms of 1:1. Oral 10 mg melatonin tablets or placebo was administered for 24 weeks. Deference in the percentage of flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) after the intervention was the primary outcome.

Results

Ninety‐two patients were included in the study (age: 62.7±10.3 years, 87.0% male, ejection fraction (EF): 28.6±8.1). After adjustment for baseline FMD and age, a statistically significant difference in post‐treatment FMD in favor of the melatonin group was seen (estimated marginal means [95%CI], melatonin: 7.84% [6.69–8.98], placebo: 5.98% [4.84–7.12], p = .027). There was no significant difference in the mean of post‐treatment systolic/diastolic blood pressure, serum total antioxidant capacity, and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) between groups. Subgroup analysis showed significant improvement in FMD and MDA in the melatonin group in nondiabetic patients, while no difference was seen between study groups in diabetic patients.

Conclusions

Melatonin supplementation in HFrEF might improve endothelial function; however, this beneficial effect might not be seen in diabetic patients.
Hemodynamic effects of size and location of basilar artery fenestrations associated to pathological implications
Authors: Tong Xinyu , Dong Jia , Zhou Guojing , Zhang Xuyang , Wang Ancong , Ji Zhi , Jiao Liqun , Mei Yuqian , Chen Duanduan
Published: June 2021

Fenestration is a rare congenital abnormality that refers to a segmental duplication of arteries. It is still not clear about the role of fenestrations in the etiology and pathological evolution of vascular diseases. This study aims to investigate the hemodynamic influence brought by various sizes and locations of fenestration in basilar artery models. A series presumptive fenestration models were established based on a normal basilar artery model with various sizes and locations. Identical boundary conditions were utilized in the computational fluid dynamics simulations and different flow patterns in the fenestration and bifurcation regions were comprehensively analyzed. Wall shear stress (WSS)‐related parameters such as oscillatory shear index (OSI) and aneurysm formation index (AFI) were computed and compared. The value of WSS on fenestration increased by the fenestration's tortuosity, and nearly‐circular fenestration suffered higher WSS than narrow‐strips one. Also, high OSI and low AFI value mainly occurred in the bifurcation region, indicating a high level of turbulence and high risk of aneurysm formation. The location of fenestration mainly changed the impact force of blood flow on the bifurcation and the disorder characteristics of blood flow, while the size of fenestration changed the WSS distribution on the proximal inner wall and bifurcation region of fenestration. In summary, the nearly‐circular fenestration should be stratified carefully which may results in a high risk inducing unfavorable vascular wall remodeling.
Molecular and Spectroscopic Characterization of Green and Red Cyanine Fluorophores from the Alexa Fluor and AF Series**
Authors: Gebhardt Christian , Lehmann Martin , Reif Maria M. , Zacharias Martin , Gemmecker Gerd , Cordes Thorben
Published: June 2021

The use of fluorescence techniques has an enormous impact on various research fields including imaging, biochemical assays, DNA‐sequencing and medical technologies. This has been facilitated by the development of numerous commercial dyes with optimized photophysical and chemical properties. Often, however, information about the chemical structures of dyes and the attached linkers used for bioconjugation remain a well‐kept secret. This can lead to problems for research applications where knowledge of the dye structure is necessary to predict or understand (unwanted) dye‐target interactions, or to establish structural models of the dye‐target complex. Using a combination of optical spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, we here investigate the molecular structures and spectroscopic properties of dyes from the Alexa Fluor (Alexa Fluor 555 and 647) and AF series (AF555, AF647, AFD647). Based on available data and published structures of the AF and Cy dyes, we propose a structure for Alexa Fluor 555 and refine that of AF555. We also resolve conflicting reports on the linker composition of Alexa Fluor 647 maleimide. We also conducted a comprehensive comparison between Alexa Fluor and AF dyes by continuous‐wave absorption and emission spectroscopy, quantum yield determination, fluorescence lifetime and anisotropy spectroscopy of free and protein‐attached dyes. All these data support the idea that Alexa Fluor and AF dyes have a cyanine core and are a derivative of Cy3 and Cy5. In addition, we compared Alexa Fluor 555 and Alexa Fluor 647 to their structural homologs AF555 and AF(D)647 in single‐molecule FRET applications. Both pairs showed excellent performance in solution‐based smFRET experiments using alternating laser excitation. Minor differences in apparent dye‐protein interactions were investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. Our findings clearly demonstrate that the AF‐fluorophores are an attractive alternative to Alexa‐ and Cy‐dyes in smFRET studies or other fluorescence applications.
Genomewide Association Studies in Pharmacogenomics
Authors: McInnes Gregory , Yee Sook Wah , Pershad Yash , Altman Russ B.
Published: June 2021

The increasing availability of genotype data linked with information about drug‐response phenotypes has enabled genomewide association studies (GWAS) that uncover genetic determinants of drug response. GWAS have discovered associations between genetic variants and both drug efficacy and adverse drug reactions. Despite these successes, the design of GWAS in pharmacogenomics (PGx) faces unique challenges. In this review, we analyze the last decade of GWAS in PGx. We review trends in publications over time, including the drugs and drug classes studied and the clinical phenotypes used. Several data sharing consortia have contributed substantially to the PGx GWAS literature. We anticipate increased focus on biobanks and highlight phenotypes that would best enable future PGx discoveries.
Functional inhibition of lactate dehydrogenase suppresses pancreatic adenocarcinoma progression
Authors: Cheng Chien‐shan , Tan Hor‐Yue , Wang Ning , Chen Lianyu , Meng Zhiqiang , Chen Zhen , Feng Yibin
Published: June 2021

Background

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) a highly lethal malignancy. The current use of clinical parameters may not accurately predict the clinical outcome, which further renders the unsatisfactory therapeutic outcome.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical‐pathological characteristics and prognosis of 253 PAAD patients. Univariate, multivariate, and Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses were conducted to assess risk factors and clinical outcomes. For functional study, we performed bidirectional genetic manipulation of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) in PAAD cell lines to measure PAAD progression by both in vitro and in vivo assays.

Results

LDHA is particularly overexpressed in PAAD tissues and elevated serum LDHA‐transcribed isoenzymes‐5 (LDH‐5) was associated with poorer patients’ clinical outcomes. Genetic overexpression of LDHA promoted the proliferation and invasion in vitro, and tumor growth and metastasis in vivo in murine PAAD orthotopic models, while knockdown of LDHA exhibited opposite effects. LDHA‐induced L‐lactate production was responsible for the LDHA‐facilitated PAAD progression. Mechanistically, LDHA overexpression reduced the phosphorylation of metabolic regulator AMPK and promoted the downstream mTOR phosphorylation in PAAD cells. Inhibition of mTOR repressed the LDHA‐induced proliferation and invasion. A natural product berberine was selected as functional inhibitor of LDHA, which reduced activity and expression of the protein in PAAD cells. Berberine inhibited PAAD cells proliferation and invasion in vitro, and suppressed tumor progression in vivo. The restoration of LDHA attenuated the suppressive effect of berberine on PAAD.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that LDHA may be a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target of human PAAD.
Hybrid swarm optimization algorithm based on task scheduling in a cloud environment
Authors: Eldesokey Heba M. , Abd El‐atty Saied M. , El‐Shafai Walid , Amoon Mohammed , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E.
Published: June 2021

Cloud computing is the current computing standard, which provides information technology (IT) services over the Internet on demand. In the cloud environment, a task is mapped with an available resource to attain a good result. Task scheduling is the technique that is used to allocate tasks on virtual machines (VMs) of a server based on its capacity of workload. Tasks are scheduled to the server in such a way to minimize traffic and time delay. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is the best existing algorithm used to schedule a task to an existing resource on the environment of the cloud. By PSO, the task is scheduled for an existing resource to reduce computational cost. In this paper, a hybrid swarm optimization (HSO) algorithm, which is the combination of PSO and salp swarm optimization (SSO), is proposed to resolve task scheduling issues in the cloud environment. The main goal of HSO is to schedule the task to the available resource in such a way to reduce the execution time and computation cost. Multilayer logistic regression (MLR) is an approach used to detect the overloaded VMs, so that a task can be scheduled to a VM according to its capacity of workload. The proposed HSO algorithm with MLR is simulated on the cloudsim toolkit, and the results reveal the efficiency of the proposed algorithm in terms of cost, execution time, and makespan. Compared to the existing algorithms such as the genetic algorithms (GAs), the improved efficiency evolution (IDEA), and the PSO, the proposed algorithm reveals superiority in terms of efficiency, resource utilization, and speed.
Book Reviews
Authors: McGeorge Donna
Published: June 2021

The 25‐Minute Meeting: Half the Time, Double the Impact
Comprehensive investigations for a potential natural prophylaxis—A cellular and murine model for apple cider vinegar against hydrogen peroxide and scopolamine induced oxidative stress
Authors: Tripathi Smriti , Mitra Mazumder Papiya
Published: June 2021

Oxidative stress is the critical marker of neurological complications such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known to have health benefits due to its antidiabetic, anti‐inflammatory, and high antioxidant properties. Therefore, we hypothesized that regular consumption of ACV would protect against AD‐like neurological diseases via inhibition of oxidative stress. Authors have compared the efficacy of ACV with that of Chrysin and Rivastigmine in cellular and animal studies. In the cellular study, oxidative stress was induced in Neuro2A cells (1 × 107) via H2O2 (50 μM) treatment. Subsequently, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was performed, and cell viability, SOD, GSH, lipid peroxidation (MDA) levels were measured. Similarly, in the animal study, oxidative stress was introduced in Swiss albino mice (10–11 weeks old, 20–25 g, n = 30) via scopolamine (1 mg/kg). Subsequently, histopathological experiments were performed; cognitive ability, AChE activity, and SOD, GSH, and MDA levels were measured. The in vitro results indicated that ACV (2 μM) provided better protection than Chrysin and Rivstigmine in cell viability. ACV has also performed better in restoring the antioxidants markers (SOD, GSH levels) and reducing MDA and AChE levels. In the in vivo study, test compounds (ACV, Chrysin, and Rivastigmine) improved cognitive impairment, increased the SOD and GSH level, reduced the MDA level and AChE activity, and protected the cortex‐hippocampal neurons from degeneration. Here also, ACV (0.7%) showed better neuroprotection than the other two compounds. Therefore, these results supported our hypothesis that moderate consumption of ACV might prove to be beneficial prophylaxis against AD‐like neurological diseases.
Positive outcomes from integrating telehealth into routine clinical practice for eating disorders during COVID‐19
Authors: Raykos Bronwyn C. , Erceg‐Hurn David M. , Hill James , Campbell Bruce N.C. , McEvoy Peter M.
Published: June 2021

Background

The coronavirus pandemic (COVID‐19) has required telehealth to be integrated into the delivery of evidence‐based treatments for eating disorders in many services, but the impact of this on patient outcomes is unknown.

Objective

The present study examined the impact of the first wave of COVID‐19 and rapid transition to telehealth on eating disorder symptoms in a routine clinical setting.

Method

Participants were 25 patients with a confirmed eating disorder diagnosis who had commenced face‐to‐face treatment and rapidly switched to telehealth during the first wave of COVID‐19 in Western Australia. Eating disorder symptoms, clinical impairment and mood were measured prospectively before and during lockdowns imposed due to COVID‐19.

Hypotheses

We predicted that patients would experience poorer treatment outcomes during COVID‐19 and would perceive poorer therapeutic alliance and poorer quality of treatment compared to face‐to‐face therapy.

Results

Our hypotheses were not supported. On average, patients achieved large improvements in eating disorder symptoms and mood, and the magnitude of improvement in eating disorder symptoms was comparable to historical benchmarks at the same clinic. Patients rated the quality of treatment and therapeutic alliance highly.

Discussion

Providing evidence‐based treatment for eating disorders via telehealth during COVID‐19 lockdown is acceptable to patients and associated with positive treatment outcomes.
FGFgene family characterization provides insights into its adaptive evolution in Carnivora
Authors: Wei Qinguo , Dong Yuehuan , Sun Guolei , Wang Xibao , Wu Xiaoyang , Gao Xiaodong , Sha Weilai , Yang Guang , Zhang Honghai
Published: June 2021

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) encoded by theFGFgene family can regulate development and physiology in animals. However, their evolutionary characteristics in Carnivora are largely unknown. In this study, we identified 660 sequences of three types ofFGFgenes from 30 unannotated genomes of Carnivora animals (before 7th May 2020), and theFGFgenes from 52 Carnivora species were analyzed through the method of comparative genomics. Phylogenetic and selective pressure analyses were carried out based on theFGFgenes of these 52 Carnivora species. The phylogenetic analysis results demonstrated that theFGFgene family was divided into 10 subfamilies and thatFGF5formed one clade rather than belonging to the subfamilies ofFGF4andFGF6. The evolutionary analysis results showed that theFGFgenes were prominently subjected to purifying selection and were highly conserved in the process of Carnivora evolution. We also carried out phylogenetic comparative analyses, which indicated that the habitat was one of the factors that shaped the evolution of CarnivoraFGFgenes. TheFGF1andFGF6genes were positively selected in the Carnivora animals, and positive selection signals were detected for theFGF19gene in semiaquatic Carnivora animals. In summary, we clarified the phylogenetic and evolutionary characteristics of CarnivoraFGFgenes and provided valuable data for future studies on evolutionary characterization of Carnivora animals.
Nonhost species reduce parasite infection in a focal host species within experimental fish communities
Authors: Ahn Sangwook , Goater Cameron P.
Published: June 2021

The dilution effect describes the negative association between host biodiversity and the risk of infectious disease. Tests designed to understand the relative roles of host species richness, host species identity, and rates of exposure within experimental host communities would help resolve ongoing contention regarding the importance and generality of dilution effects. We exposed fathead minnows to infective larvae of the trematode, Ornithodiplostomum ptychocheilus in minnow‐only containers and in mixed containers that held 1–3 other species of fish. Parasite infection was estimated as the number of encysted worms (i.e., brainworms) present in minnows following exposure. The results of exposure trials showed that nonminnow fish species were incompatible with O. ptychocheilus larvae. There was no reduction in mean brainworm counts in minnows in mixed containers with brook sticklebacks or longnose dace. In contrast, brainworm counts in minnows declined by 51% and 27% in mesocosms and aquaria, respectively, when they co‐occurred with emerald shiners. Dilution within minnow + shiner containers may arise from shiner‐induced alterations in minnow or parasite behaviors that reduced encounter rates between minnows and parasite larvae. Alternatively, shiners may act as parasite sinks for parasite larvae. These results highlight the role of host species identity in the dilution effect. Our results also emphasize the complex and idiosyncratic effects of host community composition on rates of parasite infection within contemporary host communities that contain combinations of introduced and native species.
Soil microarthropods respond differently to simulated drought in organic and conventional farming systems
Authors: Meyer Svenja , Kundel Dominika , Birkhofer Klaus , Fliessbach Andreas , Scheu Stefan
Published: June 2021

In Central Europe, summer droughts are increasing in frequency which threatens production and biodiversity in agroecosystems. The potential of different farming systems to mitigate detrimental drought effects on soil animals is largely unknown. We investigated the effects of simulated drought on the abundance and community composition of soil microarthropods (Collembola and Oribatida and Meso‐, Pro‐, and Astigmata) in winter wheat fields under long‐term conventional and organic farming in the DOK trial, Switzerland. We simulated drought by excluding 65% of the ambient precipitation during the wheat‐growing season from March to June 2017. The abundance of Collembola and Oribatida declined more consistently in conventionally managed fields compared to organically managed fields under simulated drought. The abundance of Collembola as well as Meso‐, Pro‐ and Astigmata, but not the abundance of Oribatida, increased in deeper soil layers due to simulated drought, suggesting vertical migration as a drought avoidance strategy. The species composition of Oribatida communities, but not of Collembola communities, differed significantly between drought treatments and between farming systems. Soil carbon content was a major factor structuring Oribatida communities. Our results suggest that organic farming buffers negative effects of drought on soil microarthropods, presumably due to higher soil carbon content and associated higher soil moisture and improved soil structure. This potential of organic farming systems to mitigate consequences of future droughts on soil biodiversity is promising and needs further exploration across larger climatic and spatial scales and should be extended to other groups of soil biota.
NMR‐Spectroscopic Detection of an Elusive Protonated and Coinage Metalated Silicide [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)H]2− in Solution
Authors: Streitferdt Verena , Tiefenthaler Susanne M. , Shenderovich Ilya G. , Gärtner Stefanie , Korber Nikolaus , Gschwind Ruth M.
Published: June 2021

A simultaneously protonated and functionalized silicide cluster [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)H]2− was detected and characterized in liquid ammonia by NMR spectroscopy. Key NMR results were corroborated by theoretical calculations. 1H‐NMR line‐widths at variable temperatures revealed that proton hopping in the metalated complex [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)H]2− is less pronounced than in the non‐complexed silicide [HSi9]3−. Besides [HSi9]3− and [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)H]2− also the unprotonated analogous cluster [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)]3− was detected in solution. In addition, a new 29Si‐NMR signal was obtained in the course of 29Si‐NMR studies that we assigned to [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)]3−. The isolation of crystals of (K[2.2.2]‐crypt)2K0.48Rb3.52[NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)]2 prove the availability of the non‐protonated NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9) fragment in solution. To the best of our knowledge the detection of [NHCDippCu(η4‐Si9)H]2− represents the first case of a protonated and coinage metalated group 14 Zintl cluster in solution so far.
Model‐based evaluation of climate change impacts on rice grain quality in the main European rice district
Authors: Cappelli Giovanni Alessandro , Bregaglio Simone
Published: June 2021

Crop simulation models are used to forecast the impacts of climate change on yield levels and to identify adaptation strategies. Nevertheless, crop quality has been almost neglected in available studies, despite its relevance on the economic and nutritional value of agricultural products. We present here a modeling study to evaluate the future trends of rice quality in the main European rice district, placed in Northern Italy. A rice growth model was coupled with a library of models of rice milling and cooking suitability, using current farmer management and baseline/future climatic scenarios as input for the simulations. Four general circulation models (NOResm, MIROC‐ESM, HadGEM2‐ES, and GISS‐ES) and two CO2 representative concentration pathways (2.6, 8.5) were used to generate 20‐year future climatic data centered on 2030 and 2070. Spatially distributed simulations were run at 2 × 2 km spatial resolution considering a Japonica (Loto) and a Tropical Japonica (Gladio) rice cultivar. The results depicted an overall decline in rice quality, especially for Loto (−5% of milling suitability considering GISS‐ES‐2.6 in all time frames; −8% in 2030 and −20% in 2070 under HadGEM2‐ES‐8.5). While the revenues of millers are expected to decrease of about 50 € t−1 in 2030 and 100 € t−1 in 2070 for Loto, minor changes are projected on Gladio milling and cooking suitability, except in the worst scenario in 2070 (−10 to −5% of cooking suitability, corresponding to −30 to −72 € t−1). Despite the need of reducing models uncertainty, this study provides variety‐specific indications on rice grain quality ready‐to‐use for crop specialists, farmers, and millers and that could raise the interest of different stakeholders of the agri‐food sector, including food scientists, geneticists, and policy makers.
Antibiotic resistance pattern of the allochthonous bacteria isolated from commercially available spices
Authors: György Éva , Laslo Éva , Antal Márta , András Csaba Dezső
Published: June 2021

Spices are often used in dried form, sometimes with significant microbial contamination including pathogenic and food spoilage bacteria. The antibiotic resistance represents an additional risk for food industry, and it is worthy of special attention as spices are important food additives. During our work, we examined the microbiological quality of 50 different spices with cultivation methods on diverse selective media. The identification of the most representative bacteria was carried out using 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. Antibiotic resistance profiling of twelve identified Bacillus species (B. subtilis subsp. stercoris BCFK, B. licheniformis BCLS, B. siamensis SZBC, B. zhangzhouensis BCTA, B. altitudinis SALKÖ, B. velezensis CVBC, B. cereus SALÖB isolate, B. tequilensis KOPS, B. filamentosus BMBC, B. subtilis subsp. subtilis PRBC2, B. safensis BMPS, and B. mojavensis BCFK2 isolate) was performed using the standard disk‐diffusion method against 32 antibiotics. The study showed that the majority resistance was obtained against penicillin G (100%), oxacillin (91.67%), amoxyclav (91.67%), rifampicin (75%), and azithromycin (75%). Our findings suggest that spices harbor multidrug‐resistant bacteria.
Ancient anthropogenic soils and activity areas of the Colombian Andean region: A geoarchaeological approach
Authors: Godoy‐Toro Andrés , Loaiza‐Usuga Juan C. , Monsalve‐Marín Carlos , Weber‐Scharff Marion , Torres‐Guerrero Carlos A.
Published: June 2021

The Monte Azul archaeological site is located in the inter‐Andean Aburrá Valley of the upper Medellín River in Colombia and it is dated from the Middle Ceramic period to the Republican period. In this study area, it is common to find evidence of disturbed soils that is related to ancient use and erosion. In Monte Azul, the pedogenesis is associated with the presence of fast‐weathering eolian volcanic ash deposits, extreme acidity, low base saturation, strong leaching, high precipitation, and high temperature; hence, some of these tropical conditions are responsible for the low conservation of the archaeological record. Consequently, we used a geoarchaeological approach with paleoenvironmental, sedimentary, geochemical, and soil micromorphological proxies as integral units of analysis to understand site formation processes. Micromorphological and paleobotanical records indicate soil use dynamics and changes in paleoenvironmental conditions from humid conditions to small and persistent clearings around a domestic unit. This approach sheds light on the development of possible pre‐Hispanic activity areas and cultivation techniques related to the ancient use of the Ferrería pottery style in the Central Mountain Range of Colombia.
Knowledge gaps in our perceptual model of Great Britain's hydrology
Authors: Wagener Thorsten , Dadson Simon J. , Hannah David M. , Coxon Gemma , Beven Keith , Bloomfield John P. , Buytaert Wouter , Cloke Hannah , Bates Paul , Holden Joseph , Parry Louise , Lamb Rob , Chappell Nick A. , Fry Matthew , Old Gareth
Published: June 2021

There is a no lack of significant open questions in the field of hydrology. How will hydrological connectivity between freshwater bodies be altered by future human alterations to the hydrological cycle? Where does water go when it rains? Or what is the future space–time variability of flood and drought events? However, the answers to these questions will vary with location due to the specific and often poorly understood local boundary conditions and system properties that control the functional behaviour of a catchment or any other hydrologic control volume. We suggest that an open, shared and evolving perceptual model of a region's hydrology is critical to tailor our science questions, as it would be for any other study domain from the plot to the continental scale. In this opinion piece, we begin to discuss the elements of and point out some knowledge gaps in the perceptual model of the terrestrial water cycle of Great Britain. We discuss six major knowledge gaps and propose four key ways to reduce them. While the specific knowledge gaps in our perceptual model do not necessarily transfer to other places, we believe that the development of such perceptual models should be at the core of the debate for all hydrologic communities, and we encourage others to have a similar debate for their hydrologic domain.