bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sign Detection and Signed Integer Comparison for the 3-Moduli Set {2^n±1,2^(n+k)}
Authors: Torabi Zeinab , Timarchi Somaye
Published: September 2021

Comparison, division and sign detection are considered complicated operations in residue number system (RNS). A straightforward solution is to convert RNS numbers into binary formats and then perform complicated operations using conventional binary operators. If efficient circuits are provided for comparison, division and sign detection, the application of RNS can be extended to the cases including these operations.For RNS comparison in the 3-moduli set , we have only found one hardware realization. In this paper, an efficient RNS comparator is proposed for the moduli set  which employs sign detection method and operates more efficient than its counterparts. The proposed sign detector and comparator utilize dynamic range partitioning (DRP), which has been recently presented for unsigned RNS comparison. Delay and cost of the proposed comparator are lower than the previous works and makes it appropriate for RNS applications with limited delay and cost.
Influence of cluster shaped defects on fracture process of fiber bundle
Authors: Cao Zhen , Hao Da-Peng , Tang Gang , Xun Zhi-Peng , Xia Hui ,   School of Materials and Physics, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
Published: September 2021

Defects that exist inside composites have an important effect on the tensile fracture properties of composites. The fiber bundle model is a theoretical model commonly used to study the tensile fracture properties of disorder materials. Existing work on fiber bundle models with single fiber defects shows that after single fiber defects are introduced into the fiber bundle model, the defects have a significant effect on the tensile fracture properties of the model. Since there are more complex microscopic defect structures in actual materials, such as voids, gaps, impurities, dislocations, micro-cracks, etc, it is necessary to build a multi-size defect model. In order to study the defects of different sizes and damage degrees existing in actual materials, the spatial size of the defect, the degree of defect and the distribution of fiber damage levels within the defect and other influencing factors are introduced to construct an extended fiber bundle model with cluster shaped defects. For the model, it is first assumed that the degree of defect of the fiber inside each cluster decays linearly from the center to the outside in two spatial attenuation forms: exponential decay and constant degree of defect. In the fiber bundle model of this cluster-shaped defect, the two most important factors are the number of defects α and the upper limit of defect size β. The numerical simulation method is used to analyze the influence of the number of defects, the upper limit of defect size, and spatial distribution of degree of defective fibers inside defect on the macroscopic mechanical properties and statistical properties of fracture when the model is subjected to quasi-static load borne under the nearest neighbor stress redistribution. Through the simulation analysis, it is found that owing to the overlapping competition mechanism of the defect spatial distribution, when the upper limit β of the defect size is large, the influence of the number of defects on the system load capacity trends to saturation. Since the defect degree of the defect center fiber is proportional to the defect size, with the upper limit β of the defect size increasing, its influence on the load capacity of the model becomes more and more significant. When large size defects exist, even if the number of defects is small, the load bearing performance of the material will be significantly reduced. The spatial distribution function of the damage degree of fiber inside the defect has no substantial influence on the above rules, and only changes the specific value of each fracture property. The simulation analysis results in this paper have certain theoretical significance in improving the mechanical properties of composite materials.
Comparison of Several Filtering Approaches on Water Treatment Processes
Authors:   Research Center for Systems and Technologies (SYSTEC), Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal, Pedro Aguiar António , Hadj-Abdelkader Oussama ,   Research Center for Systems and Technologies (SYSTEC), Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Published: September 2021

This paper addresses the state estimation problem of a bioreactor in wastewater treatment processes. The state variables of this process are the concentrations of the organic pollutants and of the bacteria inside the bioreactor. A specific growth rate function is used to describe the variation of the bacteria concentration when the amount of pollutants increases. This rate can also represent the speed of the biological degradation of the pollutants. Most research work in this field uses only deterministic models that do not conveniently account for uncertainties. These models are often obtained using several simplifications during the modeling procedure such as neglecting the measurement noises. In this paper, we consider stochastic models and study the state estimation problem using three approaches: the Extended Kalman filter, the Unscented Kalman filter and the Particle filter. These methods are adapted to the models in study and compared to understand which is the most adequate for this type of processes considering their slow evolution, discrete time measurements and high-intensity noises. Further, we also apply a Multiple Model Adaptive method which adapts the filters to the correct growth rate type. This method is also used to automatically choose the most efficient estimation method for this type of biological processes.
First-principles model of optimal translation factors stoichiometry
Authors: Lalanne Jean-Benoît , Li Gene-Wei
Published: September 2021

Enzymatic pathways have evolved uniquely preferred protein expression stoichiometry in living cells, but our ability to predict the optimal abundances from basic properties remains underdeveloped. Here, we report a biophysical, first-principles model of growth optimization for core mRNA translation, a multi-enzyme system that involves proteins with a broadly conserved stoichiometry spanning two orders of magnitude. We show that predictions from maximization of ribosome usage in a parsimonious flux model constrained by proteome allocation agree with the conserved ratios of translation factors. The analytical solutions, without free parameters, provide an interpretable framework for the observed hierarchy of expression levels based on simple biophysical properties, such as diffusion constants and protein sizes. Our results provide an intuitive and quantitative understanding for the construction of a central process of life, as well as a path toward rational design of pathway-specific enzyme expression stoichiometry.
Members of the ELMOD protein family specify formation of distinct aperture domains on the Arabidopsis pollen surface
Authors: Zhou Yuan , Amom Prativa , Reeder Sarah H , Lee Byung Ha , Helton Adam , Dobritsa Anna A
Published: September 2021

Pollen apertures, the characteristic gaps in pollen wall exine, have emerged as a model for studying the formation of distinct plasma membrane domains. In each species, aperture number, position, and morphology are typically fixed; across species they vary widely. During pollen development, certain plasma membrane domains attract specific proteins and lipids and become protected from exine deposition, developing into apertures. However, how these aperture domains are selected is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that patterns of aperture domains in Arabidopsis are controlled by the members of the ancient ELMOD protein family, which, although important in animals, has not been studied in plants. We show that two members of this family, MACARON (MCR) and ELMOD_A, act upstream of the previously discovered aperture proteins and that their expression levels influence the number of aperture domains that form on the surface of developing pollen grains. We also show that a third ELMOD family member, ELMOD_E, can interfere with MCR and ELMOD_A activities, changing aperture morphology and producing new aperture patterns. Our findings reveal key players controlling early steps in aperture domain formation, identify residues important for their function, and open new avenues for investigating how diversity of aperture patterns in nature is achieved.
Turf performance and physiological responses of native Poa species to summer stress in Northeast China
Authors: Chen Yajun , Guo Zhixin , Dong Lili , Fu Zhenxuan , Zheng Qianjiao , Zhang Gaoyun , Qin Ligang , Sun Xiaoyang , Shi Zhenjie , Fahad Shah , Xie Fuchun , Saud Shah
Published: September 2021

Rapid rise in temperature in summer causes severe injury to cool-season turfgrass of both native species and introduced ones in Heilongjiang of Northeast China. The objectives of this study were to compare physiological responses to seasonal heat stresses and turf performances between native and introduced commercial Poa accessions. Three Chinese native Poa species (i.e., P. pratensis, P. sibirica and P. sphondylodes) and three USA Kentucky bluegrass cultivars (ie. ‘Midnight’, ‘Moonlight’ and ‘BlueChip’) were evaluated under field conditions in 2017 and 2018. All accessions showed unique characteristics and considerable seasonal differences in response to temperatures. However, performances over all accessions were largely similar in early spring and autumn. In summer, native P. pratensis performed similar to ‘Midnight’, ‘Moonlight’ or ‘BlueChip’, with respect to such traits or parameters as quality, coverage, color intensity, growth rate, osmolytes, ROS and anti-oxidant production. Native P. pratensis could be used as a new turf resource for further improvement and application under the specific climatic conditions in Heilongjiang; native P. sphondylodes may be used in repairing damaged environments or for alternative seasonal greenness.
Costs and Returns Analysis of Sesame Production in Northern Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Oniah M. O. , Edem T. O.
Published: September 2021

The study examined costs and returns in sesame production in Northern Agricultural Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria during the 2020 cropping season. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 140 respondents using purposive and random selection. A well-structured questionnaire was the main tool for data collection. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers, gross margin analysis was used to determine gross returns per hectare of sesame production. Results showed that males were dominant (61.4%) in sesame production in the area and some (39.3%) were between 41-50 years. Majority of the farmers (75.5%) were married, 50.7% had no formal education while 42.9% had farming experience of 6-10 years. Also, the results found that majority (94.3%) sourced their farm capital from personal savings. The study revealed that a total of 116.7 hectares were put under sesame production in the 2020 cropping season by the respondents representing 2.5% of the total land area of the three Local Government Areas of the State. Constraints on sesame production were found to include lack of credit facility, high cost of labour, low yielding varieties, and high cost of planting seeds.
Copolymerization of Butadiene with Ethylene in the Presence of Ni-containing Organometallic Catalytic Systems and Different Modifiers
Authors: Akhundov İlkin , Nasirov Fuzuli , Tagiyeva Almaz , Yusifov Yusif , Mammadov Fakhraddin
Published: September 2021

Copolymerization of ethylene with butadiene was carried out in the presence of nickel diethyldithiocarbamate and various modifiers. Triphenylphosphines were selected as modifiers. Solutions of nickel diethyldithiocarbamates and said modifiers in aromatic solvents of various concentrations have been prepared. Their physicochemical parameters, particle sizes in solutions, as well as mutual solubility were determined. It was demonstrated that these complexes are readily soluble in aromatic solvents, and the particle size in solution is in the nanometer range. These complexes were tested in the processes of copolymerization of ethylene with butadiene in combination with various cocatalysts - (tri-, diethylaluminum chloride). The products synthesized in their presence were analyzed by various physicochemical methods and their structure was confirmed. It has been shown that oligomeric and copolymer products with the required structure can be in fact synthesized in the presence of these catalytic systems. The activity and selectivity of catalytic systems have been comparatively tested in liquid phase (co) polymerization processes. The composition and conditions have been found to have a significant effect on the activity and structure of the resulting products.
Field Evaluation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in the Management of Orobanche: A Parasitic Weed in Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)
Authors: Waratadar Asif , Nirmalnath P. Jones , Matiwade P. S. , Navi Vithal
Published: September 2021

An investigation was carried out to evaluate the methods of application of AMF cultures in the management of Orobanche viz., planting of pre colonized tobacco seedling; soil application and the combination of both. The experiment was carried out in Orobanche infested soils of tobacco growing areas of Belagavi district. The results of the present investigations have revealed that the treatment received STD AMF had reduced the emergence of Orobanche (1.33 plot-1) compared to UASDAMFT (1.67 plot-1) and UASDAMFS (2.89 plot-1). The results with respect to different methods of applications of AMF on Orobanche numbers revealed that planting of pre colonized tobacco seedling plus soil application at the time of planting suppressed the Orobanche emergence (0.00 plot-1) compared to planting of pre colonized seedlings (1.67 plot-1) and direct soil application of AMF cultures at the time of planting (4.22 plot-1).The results pertaining to the interactive effect between mycorrhizal cultures in conjunction with the methods of application of AMF cultures significantly reduced the population of Orobanche with the treatment received planting of pre colonized seedling along with soil application of UASDAMFT, UASDAMFS and STD AMF recorded zero emergences of Orobanche at 60 DAP. However, the highest numbers of weeds were recorded in uninoculated control (68.67plot-1). Furthermore, mycorrhizal parameters like spore count and percent of root colonization were found to be the highest in the plots received mycorrhization in the form of pre-colonization and soil application with STD AMF at the time of transplanting in the main field compared to uninoculated control.
Characterization of Agropastoral Dam Lakes in the Bounkani Region, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Carine Ettien Yah , Blaise Yao Koffi , Fernand Kouame Koffi , Marie-Solange Oga Yéi
Published: September 2021

The North-East region (Bounkani) of Côte d'Ivoire is the least watered region of the country with an average annual rainfall of 945 mm. The rainfall deficits observed in Côte d'Ivoire since 1970s could constitute a real threat to the environment and to water resources in general, and to dam lakes in particular. The main aim of this study was to follow the evolution of the dam lakes in the region over the years, i.e,(1986, 2002 and 2017) with reference to their spatial distribution (their densities and their limnological ratios). The approach adopted consisted of mapping and monitoring through remote sensing technology which involves processing satellite images for automatic extraction of these agropastoral structures on the various images. The results showed that these dam lakes were unevenly distributed both at the level of the departments and the watersheds, with 73.43% in the Black Volta and 28.57% in the Comoé. The density was higher in Doropo and varied from one department to another from 1986 to 2017, for the department of Bouna, it ranged from 9.34.10-4 to 3.74.10-3 per km2. The departments of Doropo and Tehini showed 1.51.10-3 to 1.01.10-2 per km2 and 1.05.10-3 to 4.53.10-3 per km2 respectively. Nassian department displayed a value of 1.42.10-3 per km2 and remained constant from 2002 to 2017. Like the density, Doropo Department had the highest limnological ratio which changes from 7.09.10-5 to 2.71.10-4 per km2 over the same period. The mapping of these agropastoral structures showed 18 agropastoral structures where 57 (28.07%) were functional or even contained water in the dry season in the region in 2017 including 2 in Nassian; 4 in Tehini; 9 in Doropo and 3 in Bouna.
A Microfluidics‐Based Screening Tool to Assess the Impact of Blood Plasma Factors on Microvascular Integrity
Authors: Junaid Abidemi , van Duinen Vincent , Stam Wendy , Dólleman Sophie , Yang Wei , de Rijke Yolanda , Endeman Hendrik , van Kooten Cees , Mashaghi Alireza , de Boer Hetty , van Gils Janine , Hankemeier Thomas , van Zonneveld Anton Jan
Published: September 2021

This study provides a method to assess the impact of circulating plasma factors on microvascular integrity by using a recently developed microvessel‐on‐a‐chip platform featuring the human endothelium that is partly surrounded by the extracellular matrix. The system is high‐throughput, which allows parallel analysis of organ‐level microvessel pathophysiology, including vascular leakage. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid plasma samples are mixed with inhibitors for recalcification of the plasma samples to avoid activation of the coagulation‐ or complement system. Moreover, the assay is validated by spiking vascular endothelial growth factor, histamine, or tumor necrosis factor alpha to recalcified plasma and confirms their modulation of microvessel barrier function at physiologically relevant concentrations. Finally, this study shows that perfusing the microvessels with recalcified plasma samples of coronavirus disease‐2019 patients, with a confirmed proinflammatory profile, results in markedly increased leakage of the microvessels. The assay provides opportunities for diagnostic screening of inflammatory or endothelial disrupting plasma factors associated with endothelial dysfunction.
Polymerized Hybrid Perovskites with Enhanced Stability, Flexibility, and Lattice Rigidity
Authors: Chen Wenjing , Shi Yongliang , Chen Jia , Ma Pingchuan , Fang Zhibin , Ye Dan , Lu Yiyang , Yuan Yongbo , Zhao Jin , Xiao Zhengguo
Published: September 2021

The intrinsic soft lattice nature of organometal halide perovskites (OHPs) makes them very tolerant to defects and ideal candidates for solution‐processed optoelectronic devices. However, the soft lattice results in low stability towards external stresses such as heating and humidity, high density of phonons and strong electron–phonon coupling (EPC). Here, it is demonstrated that the OHPs with unsaturated 4‐vinylbenzylammonium (VBA) as organoammonium cations can be polymerized without damaging the perovskite structure and its tolerance to defects. The polymerized perovskites show enhanced stability and flexibility compared to regular three‐dimensional and two‐dimensional (2D) perovskites. Furthermore, the polymerized 4‐vinylbenzylammonium group improves perovskite lattice rigidity substantially, resulting in a reduced non‐radiative recombination rate because of suppressed electron–phonon coupling, and enhanced carrier mobility because of suppressed phonon scattering. 2D polymerized perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) with strong electroluminescence at room temperature, and quasi‐2D PeLEDs with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 23.2% and enhanced operation stability are demonstrated. The work has opened a new way of enhancing the intrinsic stability and optoelectronic properties of OHPs.
A Sessile Drop Method for Facile and Robust Spheroid Cultures
Authors: Sun Bangyong , Zhao Yi , Zhao Qiang , Li Gang
Published: September 2021

In this work, an innovative sessile drop (SD) strategy for facile, robust, and long‐term cell spheroid cultures is proposed. Unlike the conventional hanging drop (HD) method, this strategy employs a superhydrophobic perforated microwell plate (SHPMP) to spatially confine arrays of cell suspension droplets for 3D spheroid cultures. Benefitting from a combination of upward positioning of cell suspension droplets and non‐wettability of the microwell surface, the SD culture platform not only maintains the technical simplicity and high oxygen availability of the HD method, but also provides high mechanical stability and ease of medium exchange, thus enabling a robust long‐term spheroid culture in a high‐throughput manner. In a proof of concept application, the convenience and simplicity of the SD approach is demonstrated by producing 384 uniform spheroids of MHCC97H cell with SHPMP. To validate the utility of this method, it is further demonstrated that spheroids fabricated by this method can be used for drug testing. With convenient liquid handling, low reagent/sample consumption, high droplet stability, adequate oxygen supply, and good in situ monitoring compatibility, the SD platform is beneficial for long‐term cell spheroid culture in a high throughput manner and provides a powerful tool for tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and drug screening.
Electro‐Oxidative Coupling of Azoles with 2‐ and 3‐Haloindoles/Thiophenes Providing Access to 2/3‐Halo(Azol‐1‐Yl)Indoles/Thiophenes
Authors: Zhou Naifu , Yu Jianchao , LiyuanHou  , Wu Xing , Ruan Zhixiong , Feng Pengju
Published: September 2021

This report discloses an electrochemical oxidative C−H/N−H cross coupling method for the synthesis of C‐2/C‐3 azolated halo‐indoles/thiophenes under metal catalyst‐free and external chemical oxidant free condition. Hydrogen gas was the only byproduct of this C−H/N−H cross‐coupling reaction. The synthetic utility of this electrochemical approach is highlighted by its easy scalabity and compatibility with highly functional indoles and azoles. The retention of halogen on the heterocycles could serve as a useful functional group for future late‐stage modifications.

magnified image
A New Class of Carbon Nanostructures for High‐Performance Electro‐Magnetic and ‐Chemical Barriers
Authors: Park Jae Hui , Oh Yun Ji , Park Dong Yoon , Lee Joonsik , Park Jae Seo , Park Chong Rae , Kim Jae Ho , Kim Taehoon , Yang Seung Jae
Published: September 2021

It is of importance to explore a new carbon nanomaterial possessing vital functions to fulfill the high standards for practical achievement of the electromagnetic (EM) barrier for blocking EM waves and the electrochemical (EC) barrier as a functional separator for EC energy storage. Herein, facile synthesis of a new class of carbon nanostructures, which consist of interconnected N‐doped graphitic carbon nanocubes partially embedded by nickel nanoparticles, is described. The hollow interior of graphitic nanocube induces internal reflection of EM waves and confines active materials of EC energy storage. Nitrogen functionalities implanted in graphitic structure enhance electrical conductivity as well as improve chemical interaction with active materials. Furthermore, nickel nanoparticles in graphitic nanocube function as an EM wave‐absorbing material and an electrocatalyst for EC energy storage. Through comprehensive assessments, remarkable performances originating from distinctive nanostructures give new insights into structural design for the carbon nanostructure‐based high‐performance EM and EC barriers.
Temperature‐Controlled Divergent Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Alkenes and Pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indole Derivatives via Iridium Catalysis
Authors: Liu Siyu , Mao Hui , Qiao Jin , Zhang Xiaoning , Lu Yangbin , Gong Xin , Jia Aiqiong , Gu Linghui , Wu Xiaowei , Zhao Fei
Published: September 2021

We have achieved an Ir(III)‐catalyzed temperature‐controlled divergent synthesis of tetrasubstituted alkenes and pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indole derivatives through C−H alkenylation/DG migration and [3+2] annulation, respectively. This method has various advantageous features: a) excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivity and good functional group tolerance, b) broad substrate scope and moderate to excellent yields, c) mild redox‐neutral reaction conditions and operational simplicity.
Fusiform Gyrus Phospho‐Tau is Associated with Failure of Proper Name Retrieval in Aging
Authors: Tennant Victoria R. , Harrison Theresa M. , Adams Jenna N. , La Joie Renaud , Winer Joseph R. , Jagust William J.
Published: September 2021

Difficulty retrieving proper names is common in older adults, coinciding with the accumulation of aggregated proteins in mid‐life. We investigated the ability of healthy older adults to retrieve the names of famous faces in relation to positron emission tomography measurements of amyloid‐β plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles. More tau in the left fusiform and parahippocampal gyrus was related to reduced proper name retrieval performance and this effect was potentiated by amyloid‐β. These findings provide an explanation for a common complaint of older adults and link proper name retrieval to neural systems involved in face perception, memory, and naming. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:988–993
Comparative Effectiveness of Stereotactic Electroencephalography Versus Subdural Grids in Epilepsy Surgery
Authors: Jehi Lara , Morita‐Sherman Marcia , Love Thomas E. , Bartolomei Fabrice , Bingaman William , Braun Kees , Busch Robyn M. , Duncan John , Hader Walter J. , Luan Guoming , Rolston John D. , Schuele Stephan , Tassi Laura , Vadera Sumeet , Sheikh Shehryar , Najm Imad , Arain Amir , Bingaman Justin , Diehl Beate , de Tisi Jane , Rados Matea , Van Eijsden Pieter , Wahby Sandra , Wang Xiongfei , Wiebe Samuel
Published: September 2021

Objective

The aim was to compare the outcomes of subdural electrode (SDE) implantations versus stereotactic electroencephalography (SEEG), the 2 predominant methods of intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) performed in difficult‐to‐localize drug‐resistant focal epilepsy.

Methods

The Surgical Therapies Commission of the International League Against Epilepsy created an international registry of iEEG patients implanted between 2005 and 2019 with ≥1 year of follow‐up. We used propensity score matching to control exposure selection bias and generate comparable cohorts. Study endpoints were: (1) likelihood of resection after iEEG; (2) seizure freedom at last follow‐up; and (3) complications (composite of postoperative infection, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, or permanent neurological deficit).

Results

Ten study sites from 7 countries and 3 continents contributed 2,012 patients, including 1,468 (73%) eligible for analysis (526 SDE and 942 SEEG), of whom 988 (67%) underwent subsequent resection. Propensity score matching improved covariate balance between exposure groups for all analyses. Propensity‐matched patients who underwent SDE had higher odds of subsequent resective surgery (odds ratio [OR] = 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05, 1.84) and higher odds of complications (OR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.34, 3.74; unadjusted: 9.6% after SDE vs 3.3% after SEEG). Odds of seizure freedom in propensity‐matched resected patients were 1.66 times higher (95% CI 1.21, 2.26) for SEEG compared with SDE (unadjusted: 55% seizure free after SEEG‐guided resections vs 41% after SDE).

Interpretation

In comparison to SEEG, SDE evaluations are more likely to lead to brain surgery in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy but have more surgical complications and lower probability of seizure freedom. This comparative‐effectiveness study provides the highest feasible evidence level to guide decisions on iEEG. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:927–939
Construction of Tricyclic Nitrogen Heterocycles by a Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Cascade Cyclization of Allenynes and Application to Polycyclic π‐Electron Systems
Authors: Komatsu Hiroki , Ikeuchi Takaya , Tsuno Hitomi , Arichi Norihito , Yasui Kosuke , Oishi Shinya , Inuki Shinsuke , Fukazawa Aiko , Ohno Hiroaki
Published: September 2021

A novel approach to the direct construction of tricyclic nitrogen heterocycles based on gold‐catalyzed cascade cyclization of aminoallenynes is described. The expected biscyclization reaction of hydroxyisobutyryl‐protected aminoallenynes was efficiently promoted by a catalytic amount of BrettPhosAuNTf2 in the presence of iPrOH to produce 1,2‐dihydrobenzo[cd]indole derivatives in good yields. When the reaction was combined with Friedel–Crafts acylation or palladium‐catalyzed N‐arylation, the resulting tricyclic products were efficiently converted into nitrogen‐containing polycyclic aromatic compounds (N‐PACs) with highly conjugated π‐electron systems. A newly obtained hexacyclic indolium salt showed characteristic concentration‐dependent absorption and emission properties.
Conformational Control of a Metallo‐Supramolecular Cage via the Dissymmetrical Modulation of Ligands
Authors: Yu Hao , Li Jiaqi , Shan Chuan , Lu Tong , Jiang Xin , Shi Junjuan , Wojtas Lukasz , Zhang Houyu , Wang Ming
Published: September 2021

In nature as well as life systems, the presence of asymmetrical and dissymmetrical structures with specific functions is extremely common. However, the construction of metallo‐supramolecular assemblies based on dissymmetrical ligands still remains a considerable challenge for avoiding the generation of unexpected isomers with similar thermodynamic stabilities, especially for three‐dimensional supramolecular structures. In this study, a strategy for the conformational control of metallo‐supramolecular cages via the enhancement of ligand dissymmetry was proposed. Four dissymmetrical ditopic ligands were designed and synthesized. By increasing the dissymmetry of length or angle, conformations of assemblies were precisely controlled to form discrete cis‐PdnL2n molecular cages.
Pharmaco‐metabolomics opportunities in drug development and clinical research
Authors: Phapale Prasad
Published: September 2021

Pharmaco‐metabolomics uses metabolic phenotypes for the prediction of inter‐individual variations in drug response and helps in understanding the mechanisms of drug action. The field has made significant progress over the last 14 years with numerous studies providing clinical evidence for personalised medicine. However, discovered pharmaco‐metabolomic biomarkers are not yet translated into clinics due to a lack of large‐scale validation. Integration of targeted and untargeted metabolomics workflows into pharmacokinetic analysis and drug development can advance the field from bench to bedside. Also, Indian pharmaceutical research and its bioanalytical infrastructure are in a position to take on these opportunities by addressing challenges such as appropriate training and regulatory compliance.
A water‐soluble micropatterned MoS2 quantum dots/polyvinyl alcohol film as a transient contact (pressure) and non‐contact (humidity) as touch and proximity sensor
Authors: Bokka Naveen , Khush Mahendrakumar Gohel , Sahatiya Parikshit
Published: September 2021

Water‐soluble electronics have become increasingly popular due to their potential applications in various fields such as biodegradable and wearable‐stretchable electronics. Flexible polymers such as polydimethylsiloxane are hydrophobic. Hence, water‐soluble polymers like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) have been extensively utilized as substrates for water‐soluble electronics. However, the patterning of the PVA has never been achieved to enhance the sensing capabilities for such devices. Herein we report for the first time the micro‐pyramid patterning of PVA film embedded with MoS2 quantum dots (QDs) for improved pressure‐sensing capabilities. The fabricated sensor displayed superior sensitivity of 1.44 kPa−1 compared to the sensitivity of 0.51 kPa−1 unpatterned PVA films. This enhanced performance can be attributed to the easier transport of the charge carriers from QD‐PVA‐QD film and the decrement in the tunneling resistance between adjacent MoS2 QDs due to localized stress on the micropattern. Further, the fabricated sensor was tested for real‐time application as a touch sensor in both contact (pressure) and noncontact mode (humidity), which finds potential application in security and personal healthcare, and so forth. The fabricated film is subjected to ~1200 stimulus cycles to manifest good reproducibility of sensor responses. Moreover, the device dissolves in water within ~300 s exhibiting magnificent transient behavior.
The first evidence of pituitary gland tumor in ground sloth Valgipes bucklandi Lund, 1839
Authors: do Amaral Roberta Veronese , Carvalho Luciana Barbosa De , Azevedo Sergio Alex Kugland De , Delcourt Rafael
Published: September 2021

Bone diseases are commonly found in the fossil record, especially in mammals of the Pleistocene megafauna, which exhibit signs of overload in the articulations. However, pathologies that affect soft tissues are not usually reported, even due to the nature of fossilization that rarely preserves such materials. In paleoneurological research using CT scan and three‐dimensional reconstructions of Pleistocene sloths, an anomaly is discovered in the space that houses the pituitary gland, the sella turcica. The tomographic analysis of a Valgipes bucklandi skull revealed a great enlargement at the sella turcica, at the medial region in the body of the basisphenoid bone. The images delimit an enlarged dorsal–ventral projection, measuring approximately 15 mm height, at the tridimensional reconstructed endocranium. Taphonomic processes, such as the action of necrophagous agents, were discarded due to the shape and conditions of the structure, which also showed signs of bone remodeling. Thus, it is possible to affirm that a paleopathological process altered the size of the pituitary gland of the specimen MCT 3993‐M, being probably a pituitary tumor.
Time delay compensation control using a Taylor series compound robust scheme for a semi‐active suspension with magneto rheological damper
Authors: Wang Jun‐Cheng , Lv Lin‐Feng , Ren Jie‐Yu , Chen Shi‐An
Published: September 2021

Time delay significantly degrades the control performances of semi‐active magneto rheological damper. However, the robust control approaches combined with the Taylor series are difficult to perform time delay compensation because it has strict application conditions. In this study, two Taylor series compound robust control schemes are presented to address the robust control and time delay compensation problems for the semi‐active magneto rheological damper with time delay. The formulation of a quarter vehicle model with a magneto rheological damper is described by a hyperbolic tangent model. Given the mechanical characteristics, an experimental test was conducted to fit the hyperbolic tangent model parameters. As a prototype, the Taylor series‐H2/H∞ control approach is proposed through establishing a first‐order Taylor series‐delay equation in augmented state equation and using the H2/H∞ norms to constrain the predictive control force. Moreover, the Taylor series‐H2/H2 controller is proposed to reduce the conservatism and suppress the predictive control force amplification. Simulation results corroborate the efficacy of both control strategies. Specifically, compared with the Taylor series‐H2/H∞ control, the Taylor series‐H2/H2 control can obtain a better control effect for time delay compensation.
The impact of COVID‐19 on the mental health and wellbeing of caregivers of autistic children and youth: A scoping review
Authors: Lee Vivian , Albaum Carly , Tablon Modica Paula , Ahmad Farah , Gorter Jan Willem , Khanlou Nazilla , McMorris Carly , Lai Jonathan , Harrison Cindy , Hedley Teresa , Johnston Pari , Putterman Connie , Spoelstra Margaret , Weiss Jonathan A.
Published: September 2021

Caregivers and families of autistic people have experienced stress and increase in demands due to the COVID‐19 pandemic that may have long‐term negative consequences for both their own and their children's mental health. A scoping review was conducted to identify pandemic related demands experienced by caregivers and families of autistic children and youth. The review also consolidated information on coping strategies and parenting‐related guidelines that have emerged to help parents meet these demands. Search strategies were approved by a research librarian and were conducted in peer‐reviewed and gray literature databases between May 2020 and February 2021. Additional resources were solicited through author networks and social media. All articles were published between December 2019 and February 2021. Article summaries were charted, and a thematic analysis was conducted with confirmation of findings with our knowledge users. Twenty‐three published articles and 14 pieces of gray literature were included in the review. The majority of articles characterized and highlighted the increase in demands on caregivers of autistic children and youth during the pandemic globally. Both quantitative and qualitative studies suggest that parents have experienced an increase in stress and mental health‐related symptoms during lockdown measures. Findings suggest that families are employing coping strategies, but there no evidence‐based supports were identified. The review highlighted the potential long‐term impact of prolonged exposure to increasing demands on the mental health and wellbeing of caregivers and families of autistic people, and pointed to a need for the rapid development and evaluation of flexible and timely support programs.

Lay Summary

Caregivers and families of autistic children and youth have faced increased demands due to pandemic‐related lockdown measures. We reviewed the literature to outline sources of stress, links to their influence on caregiver mental health, and if support programs have emerged to help them. Our findings suggest a number of demands have increased caregivers' risk to mental health challenges, and their potential impact on family wellbeing. Ongoing development of evidence‐based supports of all families of autistic children and youth are needed.
Kinetic model of a newly‐isolated Lysinibacillus sp. strain YL and elastic properties of its biogenic CaCO3 towards biocement application
Authors: Ekprasert Jindarat , Pongtharangkul Thunyarat , Chainakun Poemwai , Fongkaew Ittipon , Khanthasombat Kamonwan , Kamngam Rungtiwa , Boonsuan Wachiraya , Ditta Zerlinda Mara , Seemakram Wasan , Boonlue Sophon
Published: September 2021

Background

Biocement, calcifying bacteria‐incorporated cement, offers an environmentally‐friendly way to increase the cement lifespan. This work aimed to investigate the potential use of Lysinibacillus sp. strain YL towards biocement application in both theoretical and experimental ways.

Methods and results

Strain YL was grown using calcium acetate (Ca(C2H3O2)2), calcium chloride (CaCl2) and calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2). Maximum bacterial growth of ~0.09 hr‐1 and the highest amount of CaCO3 precipitation of ~8.0 g/L were obtained when using Ca(C2H3O2)2. The SEM and XRD results confirmed that biogenic CaCO3 were calcites. The bulk, Young’s and shear moduli of biogenic CaCO3 calculated via the VRH approximation were ~1.5‐2.3 times larger than those of ordinary Portland cement. The Poisson’s ratio was 0.382 and negative in some directions, suggesting its ductility and auxetic behaviors. The new model was developed to explain the growth kinetic of strain YL in the presence of Ca(C2H3O2)2, whose concentration was optimized for biocement experiments. Strain YL could increase the compressive strength of cement up to ~50% higher than that of the uninoculated cement.

Conclusion

Strain YL is a promising candidate for biocement applications. This work represents the trials of experiments and models allowing quantitatively comparison with large‐scale production in the future.
Single in‐line biomass probe detects CHO cell growth by capacitance and bacterial contamination by conductivity in bioreactor
Authors: Morris Caitlin , Madhavarao Chikkathur N. , Yoon Seongkyu , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: September 2021

Background

Real time process data facilitates timely decisions, enables better process control, and can increase quality assurance. Biological drugs (mol. Wt. ≥ 40 kDa) are manufactured using mammalian cells such as Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells in bioreactors and have significant risks of contamination during processing. In such processes, in‐line monitoring of biomass can provide real‐time cell growth profiles and indications of bioreactor health.

Methods

An in‐line conductivity/capacitance probe (Aber Instruments, Aberystwyth, UK) for monitoring CHO cell growth during fed batch cultures for producing an IgG1 monoclonal antibody was employed. Cell growth was measured in real‐time using the capacitance probe (pF cm−1) while being compared with off‐line measurements using a metabolic analyzer (Nova Biomedical, Waltham, MA, USA). Conductivity measurements (mS cm−1) detected variations in the solute concentrations in the bioreactor due to nutrient feed, bicarbonate buffer, and cellular metabolism by‐products.

Results and conclusion

Abnormal increases in conductivity were found to consistently correspond to bacterial contamination, which was confirmed by orthogonal methods. The contaminated bioreactor runs exhibited sharp increases in conductivity rates hours before dissolved oxygen levels precipitously decreased due to bacterial growth. It is proposed that in‐line measurement of conductivity could be employed for early detection of bacterial contaminations. The probe may be adopted in pharmaceutical aseptic aqueous liquid handling processes.
Synthesis and analysis of thermally degradable polybutadiene containing Diels–Alder adduct
Authors: Chang Sanghoon , Kim Yongkyun , Park Haneul , Park Kwangyong
Published: September 2021

The thermoreversible Diels–Alder reaction, a type of stimuli‐responsive reversible organic reaction, is attractive because its direction can be easily controlled. In this study, the cross‐linked Diels–Alder adduct‐containing polybutadiene (DAPBD) was synthesized by the SN2 reaction of bromine‐terminated polybutadiene with a furan‐bismaleimide Diels–Alder adduct, and their thermodegradable behavior was analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis. DAPBD was dissociated by the retro‐Diels–Alder reaction and dissolved in chlorobenzene at 132 °C to generate furan‐terminated polybutadiene (FTPB) and bismaleimide that were identified by 1H NMR spectroscopy. This synthetic method using premade Diels–Alder adducts is expected to enhance the thermoreversibility of the materials by significantly increasing the concentration of the Diels–Alder adduct moieties in the final DAPBD. The polymerization performed at 35 °C will help widen the scope of the use of such materials.
Assessment of shock pretreatment and alkali pretreatment on corn stover using enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Olokede Opeyemi , Hsu Shen‐chun , Schiele Simon , Ju Huang , Holtzapple Mark
Published: September 2021

This study investigates digestibility enhancements of lignocellulose from shock pretreatment, alkaline pretreatment, and combination. Shock pretreatment subjects aqueous slurries of lignocellulose to shock waves, which disrupts its structure rendering it more susceptible to hydrolysis. Alkaline pretreatment submerges the biomass in aqueous alkali (NaOH, Ca(OH)2), which removes lignin and acetyl groups. As indicators of digestibility, cellulase (CTec3) and hemicellulase (HTec3) were used to saccharify the pretreated corn stover and the resulting filtrate which contains about 10% of the sugars. Shock is most effective when it precedes alkaline pretreatment, presumably because it opens the biomass structure and enhances diffusion of pretreatment chemicals. Lignocellulose digestibility from calcium hydroxide treatment improves significantly with oxygen addition. In contrast, sodium hydroxide is a more potent alkali, and thereby eliminates the need for oxygen to enhance pretreatment. At low hydroxide loadings (<4 g OH−/100 g dry biomass), both NaOH and Ca(OH)2 provide similar increases in digestibility; however, at high hydroxide loadings, NaOH is superior. For animal feed, Ca(OH)2 treatment is recommended, because residual calcium ions are valuable nutrients. In contrast, for methane‐arrested anaerobic digestion, NaOH treatment is preferred because NaHCO3 is a stronger buffer. At 50°C, shock pretreatment improves sugar yields at all NaOH loadings. The effect of shock is most pronounced when the no‐shock control employed the same soaking‐and‐drying procedure as the shock treatment. The recommended conditions are shock treatment (5.52 bar [abs] initial H2/O2 pressure) followed by 50°C alkaline treatment with NaOH loading of 4 g OH−/100 g dry biomass for 1 h.
MicroRNA‐501‐3p inhibits the proliferation of kidney cancer cells by targeting WTAP
Authors: He Liujia , Chen Shiming , Ying Yufan , Xie Haiyun , Li Jiangfeng , Ma Xueyou , Wang Weiyu , Shen Haixiang , Wang Xiao , Zheng Xiangyi , Xie Liping
Published: September 2021

Background

Emerging evidence suggests that miR‐501‐3p plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of various carcinomas. However, its role and underlying mechanisms in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remain to be elucidated.

Methods

Quantitative RT‐PCR, western blot, and bioinformatics methods were used to evaluate the expression of miR‐501‐3p and Wilms’ tumor 1‐associating protein (WTAP) in RCC cell lines and clinical tissues. The effects of miR‐501‐3p on the proliferation of RCC cells were investigated using flow cytometric, colony formation, and CCK8 assays. The target gene of miR‐501‐3p was confirmed by western blotting, qRT‐PCR, and dual‐luciferase reporter assays. The levels of RNA methylation with N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) following miR‐501‐3p overexpression or knockdown of its target gene were quantified using a dot‐blot assay.

Results

miR‐501‐3p expression was significantly downregulated in human RCC cell lines and tissues. In contrast, its overexpression markedly inhibited cancer cell proliferation in vitro by inducing G1 phase arrest. Moreover, WTAP was verified as a direct target gene of miR‐501‐3p. WTAP gene knockdown alone efficiently produced the same cancer‐inhibiting effects as miR‐501‐3p overexpression, with the level of m6A in RCC cells being decreased under both scenarios. The intermolecular interaction between miR‐501‐3p and WTAP was further substantiated by rescue experiments.

Conclusion

RCC progression is regulated via the miR‐501‐3p/WTAP/CDK2 axis and is inhibited by the overexpression of miR‐501‐3p.