bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of sourdough starters: ecology, practices, and sensory quality with applications for baking and recommendations for future research
Authors: Calvert Martha D. , Madden Anne A. , Nichols Lauren M. , Haddad Nick M. , Lahne Jacob , Dunn Robert R. , McKenney Erin A.
Published: May 2021

The practice of sourdough bread-making is an ancient science that involves the development, maintenance, and use of a diverse and complex starter culture. The sourdough starter culture comes in many different forms and is used in bread-making at both artisanal and commercial scales, in countries all over the world. While there is ample scientific research related to sourdough, there is no standardized approach to using sourdough starters in science or the bread industry; and there are few recommendations on future directions for sourdough research. Our review highlights what is currently known about the microbial ecosystem of sourdough (including microbial succession within the starter culture), methods of maintaining sourdough (analogous to land management) on the path to bread production, and factors that influence the sensory qualities of the final baked product. We present new hypotheses for the successful management of sourdough starters and propose future directions for sourdough research and application to better support and engage the sourdough baking community.
Biogeography of the Southern Ocean: environmental factors driving mesoplankton distribution South of Africa
Authors: Vereshchaka Alexander , Musaeva Eteri , Lunina Anastasiia
Published: May 2021

Spatial distribution of zooplankton communities depends on numerous factors, especially temperature and salinity conditions (hydrological factor), sampled depth, chlorophyll concentration, and diel cycle. We analyzed and compared the impact of these factors on mesoplankton abundance, biodiversity, quantitative structure based on proportion of taxa and qualitative structure based on presence/absence of taxa in the Southern Ocean. Samples (43 stations, three vertical strata sampled at each station, 163 taxa identified) were collected with a Juday net along the SR02 transect in December 2009. Mesoplankton abundance in discrete vertical layers ranged from 0.2 to 13,743.6 ind. m−3, i.e., five orders of magnitude, maximal and minimal values were recorded in the upper mixed and in the deepest layer, respectively. Within the combined 300-m layer, abundances ranged from 16.0 to 1,455.0 ind. m−3, i.e., two orders of magnitude suggesting that integral samples provide little information about actual variations of mesoplankton abundances. A set of analyses showed that depth was the major driver of mesoplankton distribution (abundance, biodiversity, quantitative structure), hydrological factors influenced two of them (quantitative and qualitative structure), chlorophyll concentration strongly affected only quantitative structure, and diel cycle had an insignificant effect on mesoplankton distribution. Using our current knowledge of the fine structure of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, we compared effects of four hydrological fronts, i.e., boundaries between different water-masses with distinct environmental characteristics, and eight dynamic jets (narrow yet very intense currents) on mesoplankton distribution. Subtropical, Polar, and Subantarctic Fronts drove quantitative and qualitative structure of mesoplankton assemblages (decreasing in order of influence), while the Southern Boundary affected only qualitative structure. Effects of dynamic jets were insignificant. We suggest that mesoplankton composition is driven by hydrological parameters and further maintained through compartmentalization by fronts. Impact of local eddies and meanders on biodiversity, abundance, qualitative and quantitative structure of mesoplankton is comparable to that of hydrological fronts. Qualitative structure of mesoplankton assemblages mirrors hydrological structure of the Southern Ocean better than quantitative structure and may be recommended for biogeographic analyses of the Southern Ocean. Comparisons with previous reports from the same area retrieved no significant changes in mesoplankton distribution during the period 1992–2009.
The Nature of Educational Tourism: The Aspects of Means-end Chain Approach
Authors: Yen Tsai-Fa , Zhang Qinglin , Zhang Yanxia
Published: May 2021

This study aimed at investigating the nature of educational tourism by the adoption of means-end chain approach. Data was collected by interviewing three college students who finished the survey at Panxi area in 2020. Means-end chain approach, then, was employed to analyze the data. Findings show that a total of six meaningful paths: professional competence - research work - the integrated value of knowing and doing, destination health tourism resources -research work - the integration of knowing and doing, professional competence - interpersonal communication -research motivation - the integration of knowing and doing, destination travel Impressions - research work – discovery, travel habits -research work – discovery, and interpersonal communication - research work - leisure and social value could be met to be the approached to the nature of educational tourism. For example, college students hope to bring together their knowledge and behavior by participating in educational tourism. By verifying their professional ability (attributes), completing the research work (results), and reflecting the study of tourism to use, and the integration of knowing and doing. Moreover, recommendations to the government, industry, and future research were drawn.
Early Impact of Lockdown on Daily Activity Behaviors and Sleep Pattern in Small Indian Population
Authors: Dwivedi Anshu , Jaiswal Saurabh , Malik Shalie , Rani Sangeeta
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Lockdown has resulted in unprecedented changes in daily behaviors including depression. We hypothesized that the lockdown would impact our daily behavior such as sleep-wake cycle, eating time, physical activities, work hours, sleep quality, etc. We also observed the depression among the population during the lockdown.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study was conducted after one month of the imposition of the lockdown (between April 26 – May 05, 2020) by an online questionnaire designed using a google form filled by individuals from different professions (N=251). The analysis was performed using one-way RM ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s multiple analysis post hoc test. Significance was taken at P< 0.0001.

Results: The sleep-wake cycle, breakfast time was significantly delayed during the lockdown compared to weekdays before lockdown days. Total 60% of volunteers reported good sleep, 32% had increased daytime nap, maximum time spent in the usage of social media 29%, and 79% showed increased usage of electronic gadgets. The physical activity and work hours were reduced to 57% and 58% respectively. It seems that lockdown forced people to undergo depression as 54% were depressed.

Conclusion: This is the first study to conclude the changes in daily behaviors including depression. Overall, delay in the sleep-wake cycle, breakfast timings, increased sedentary lifestyle, reduction in their work hours, addiction of electronic gadgets, spending maximum time on social media with increased depression. This study is helpful for the public health systems to create awareness regarding the sleep and health improvements during as well as after lockdown.
Utilization of Eight-Variable Karnaugh Maps in the Exploration of Problems of Qualitative Comparative Analysis
Authors: Rushdi Ali Muhammad Ali , Badawi Raid Salih
Published: May 2021

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is an emergent methodology of diverse applications in many disciplines. However, its premises and techniques are continuously subject to discussion, debate, and (even) dispute. We use a regular and modular Karnaugh map to explore a prominent recently-posed eight-variable QCA problem. This problem involves a partially-defined Boolean function (PDBF), that is dominantly unspecified. Without using the algorithmic integer-programming approach, we devise a simple heuristic map procedure to discover minimal sets of supporting variables. The eight-variable problem studied herein is shown to have at least two distinct such sets, with cardinalities of 4 and 3, respectively. For these two sets, the pertinent function is still a partially-defined Boolean function (PDBF), equivalent to 210 = 1024 completely-specified Boolean functions (CSBFs) in the first case, and to four CSBFs only in the second case. We obtained formulas for the four functions of the second case, and a formula for a sample fifth function in the first case. Although only this fifth function is unate, each of the five functions studied does not have any non-essential prime implicant, and hence each of them enjoys the desirable feature of having a single IDF that is both a unique minimal sum and the complete sum. According  to our scheme of first identifying a minimal set of supporting variables, we avoided the task of drawing prime-implicant loops on the initial eight-variable map, and  postponed this task till the map became dramatically reduced in size. Our map techniques and results are hopefully of significant utility in future QCA applications.
Serum Antioxidant Enzymes, Haematological Values and Uric Acid Concentrations in Prostatic Disease Patients: An Investigative Study
Authors: Agnes Agbugba N. , Christopher Ohaeri O. , Solomon Ijioma N. , Uroko R.  I. , Ngozi Achi K. , Edith Nwaogazi N.
Published: May 2021

Aim: In this study, the haematology, serum antioxidant enzymes, and uric acid concentrations in prostatic disease patients attending the Nephrology Department of Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba were evaluated.

Methodology: A total of one hundred and ten (110) adult males (aged 40-80 years) comprising of sixty (60) prostatic disease patients and 50 normal subjects were recruited. The prostatic disease patients comprised of 30 prostatitis, 20 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), and 10 prostate cancer patients. Haematological parameters, antioxidant enzyme levels, and uric acid concentration were determined on blood samples collected from the subjects between January 2017 and December 2019.

Results: Results obtained following analysis indicated a significant fall in red blood cell count, haematocrit levels and haemoglobin concentrations in all the prostatic disease patients when compared with control subjects (p<0.05) but no significant difference was observed between the values of these parameters in the three categories of patients studied (p>0.05). Leukocyte and lymphocyte counts in the patients also did not significantly differ from those of the control subjects (p>0.05) but platelets counts were significantly lower (p<0.05). Significant elevations were observed in monocytes and granulocytes counts of prostatitis and prostate cancer patients (p<0.05). Serum antioxidant enzymes activities including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were lower in the prostatic disease patients than in the control (p<0.05) with SOD and GPx levels being lowest in prostatitis and prostate cancer patients respectively while serum uric acid concentration was only higher than control in the prostatitis patients (p<0.05).

Conclusion: We, therefore, conclude that complications and deaths due to prostatic diseases may be due to the systemic effects of anaemia and fall in the body’s antioxidant defense line accompanying the conditions.
Effect of Legumes on Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Wheat in a Short Term Crop Rotation in Njoro Sub-County
Authors: Ooro P. A. , Birech R. J. , Malinga J. N. , Thuranira E.
Published: May 2021

Aims: The study determined the effect of legumes in short term crop rotation (cereal – legumes cropping systems) on nitrogen use efficiency of wheat.

Study Design: A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used in a split-split-plot arrangement replicated three times. Three factors evaluated included water harvesting (WH), crop rotation (CR) and soil fertility management (SFM). The data obtained were subjected to an analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Genstat statistical package while the mean separation was performed using least significance differences (P =.05).

Place and Duration of Study: The trial was conducted at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) fields based in Njoro for three years between 2014 and 2016 during rainy seasons.

Methodology: The treatments consisted of four pre-crops in the rotation systems (CR1 = Dolichos lablab (L. purpureus) as a pre-crop; CR2 = Green pea (Pisum sativum) as a pre-crop; potato (Solanum tuberosum) as a pre-crop; and CR4 = continuous wheat (Triticum aestivum), two water harvesting (WH) strategies (WH = flat beds; and WH= tied ridges) and  six soil fertility management (SFM) strategies (SFM1 = untreated control; SFM2 = FYM at 5 t ha-1;  SFM3 = Green manure (Leucaena trichandra) at 2.5 t ha-1; SFM4 =  inorganic source at 25 kg N ha-1; SFM5 = inorganic source at  50 kg N ha-1; and SFM6 = Inorganic source at 75 kg N ha-1)..

Results: The results revealed that the value of NUE significantly (p < 0.001) increased when P. sativum and L. purpureus preceded wheat in the short term crop rotation system.  The value of NUE increased by 39% and 44%, when wheat was preceded L. purpureus and P. sativum, respectively, relative to S. tuberosum.  Under continuous wheat, NUE value was increased by 54.17% relative to potato as a pre-crop. Overall, the contribution of legumes (L. purpureus and P. sativum) as precursor crops was greater than those observed with potato and wheat as pre-crops.
Conceptualized Improvement on Transparent Glass Die for a Robust Manufacturing Process
Authors: Dinglasan Jerome J. , Gomez Frederick Ray I. , Gablan Alyssa Grace S.
Published: May 2021

Glass die are one of the materials used by semiconductor plants during production of specialized quad-flat no-leads (QFN) products. With its transparent appearance and fragile characteristics, several challenges are encountered and analyzed to resolve unwanted issues and to have a robust process manufacturing. This paper will discuss a potential concept of process improvement on the side of the device’s manufacturing with pattern recognition capability as detection and identification of the material to be processed. The paper will also discuss different options that can be selectively considered with respect to the manufacturer’s capability of their process flow.
Development of Tropisetron Hydrochloride Orodispersible Tablet using Natural Superdisintigrants
Authors: Jani Rupalben K. , Krupa Gohil , Gandhi Aanal , Upadhye Vijay , Amin Roshani Pragnesh
Published: May 2021

The foremost objective of this research was to compare and evaluate natural super disintegrants with synthetic super disintegrants for the preparation of the orodispersible tablet. Tropisetron hydrochloride is widely used as an antiemetic drug, which is a potential drug candidate for developing an orodispersible tablet for quick onset of action. Various formulations were prepared using different concentrations (5%, 7.5%, and 10%) by direct compression method of natural super disintegrants (Banana power and Cassia tora powder) and synthetic super disintegrants (Croscarmellose sodium, Crospovidone, and Sodium starch glycolate). The compatibility studies between the drug and excipients were carried out using FTIR spectroscopy before tablet formulation. The pre-compression parameters were evaluated for additive properties. Standardization of banana powder was done by various parameters like extractive value, ash value, loss on drying, TLC identification test, etc. Post-compression parameters like hardness, weight variation, friability, thickness, the time required for disintegration, wetting time, the release of drug in-vitro, and in-vitro dispersion time of the tablets were evaluated. The disintegration time and in-vitro drug release of optimized formulation (F2) were found to be 4.66±1.15 secs and 99.25±0.15%. The optimized formulation (F2) was subjected to stability studies (40 C& 75 % RH) for one month. The results were shown that natural super disintegrants require less disintegration time as compared to synthetic super disintegrants. Hence present study reveals that the orodispersible tablets prepared using Banana powder and Cassia tora powder is super disintegrants that shown better appearance and rapid disintegration time.
Optimization of Cultural Conditions for Maximum Production of Fibrinolytic Enzymes from the Local Marine Bacterial Isolates and Evaluation of their Wound Healing and Clot Dissolving Properties
Authors: Gowthami K. , Madhuri R. Jaya
Published: May 2021

Fibrinolytic enzymes find necessary applications to treat and prevent cardiovascular diseases.  In this study, optimal conditions for enhancing the production of fibrinolytic enzyme from local marine bacterial strains were evaluated. The present study also focuses on screening of wound                  healing efficacy of the isolated fibrinolytic enzymes.Various physical parameters such as temperature, pH, incubation time and medium components viz. inoculum size, substrate (nitrogen and carbon) concentrations were optimized. A cultivation medium was designed using optimized conditions for mass production of fibrinolytic enzyme and specific activity of enzyme was analyzed. The maximum enzyme production was observed at 37 °C temperature, 8.0 pH,substrate concentration with 3 ml inoculum size and 32 h. of incubation time. Among the different carbon sources tested, Mannitol showed maximum enzyme activity i.e 538 U/ml.  yeast extract was found to be the best nitrogen source with an enzyme activity of 498 U/ml.  The best substrate for the production fibrinolytic enzyme was found to be kernelwith high  activity of 1056U/ml. The crude enzyme displayed potent activity and digested blood clot completely in in vitro condition and exhibited potent activity on wound healing property in macrophages.
Evaluation of the Microbiological and Physico-Chemical Quality of Soybean Flour (Glycine max L. Merrill) as a Food Supplement for Infants Sold in Daloa
Authors: Athanase Kouassi Kra , Thibaut Ouina Toualy Serge , Rodrigue Voko Bi Rosin Don , Clément Kouassi Kouassi , Ibourahema Coulibaly , Ibrahim Konate
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study is to assess the presence of harmful microorganisms and to characterize some physicochemical parameters in the soya flour sold in Daloa. To carry out the work, sixty (60) samples of soybean flour were collected by purchase in PMI (20), supermarkets (20) and in certain markets (20) made up of grains that will be transformed into flour according to the defined conditions. by ourselves. His samples will be transferred to the microbiology laboratory for analysis. A count to assess the microbiological quality was carried out. The assay of some chemical parameters and the determination of some physical parameters were performed. The different pH values ​​obtained are all alkaline. Microbiological analysis revealed compliance of average microbial loads of fungi (yeasts and molds) below 103 CFU / g and aerobic mesophilic bacteria below 105 CFU / g. On the other hand, the average microbial loads of total coliforms do not comply with the defined microbiological criteria. Furthermore, with regard to the potentially pathogenic germs in Bacillus cereus occurrences, there is no conformity of the average loads of the three types of flour. The defined criterion being 10 CFU / g. As for E. coli and S. aureus, only F1 flour complies with microbiological criteria. There is a presence of Salmonella in 60% of the samples of the F1 flour. Good practices should be observed in the processing of grains into flour in order to avoid possible contamination of the flour.
Potential for Neutralizing Chicken Egg Yolk (Igy) Generated against Mastitis Bovine, Caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Mahenthiran R. , Alamelu K. V. Sri , Ravi Sornambiga
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Mastitis is a complex disease, defined as an inflammation of parenchymal cells of mammary glands. It is a most common disease in dairy cattle. More than 250 microbes are found to cause mastitis. Recent report shows that total loss of about $2295/month in worldwide due to mastitis.

Researchgap/Challenges: Chicken egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) provides an inexpensive and effective source of antibodies for the passive immunization of animals. It is a promising alternative for the treatment and prevention of bacterial infections, and has shown to be effective against a number of pathogens.

Aim: To develop an inexpensive and effective source of antibodies by using chicken egg yolk against mastitis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in bovine.

Methodology: Bovine mastitis infected milk sample was collected in and around Coimbatore, India. Initial step was to isolate and identify the microbes like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa from milk samples of cattle infected with mastitis. Then to prepare and standardize the whole cell antigen of Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa followed by generation of antibodies against the prepared antigens in 21-weeks old white Leghorn chickens. Next step includes purification and characterization of anti-Klebsiella pneumoniae IgY and anti - Pseudomonas aeruginosa IgY antibodies from the egg yolk of immunized chickens. Finally, to evaluate the specificity of the purified IgY by Indirect ELISA and to measure the inhibitory activity of the IgY against the pathogens by growth inhibition assay.

Results: Cell antigen was prepared. Anti- Klebsiella pneumoniae IgY and anti - Pseudomonas aeruginosa IgY were recovered from chicken egg yolk that was detected by protein estimation (Lowry et al technique) and ELISA. In Lowry et al method (1951) total anti P. aeruginosa IgY was found to be 0.511 mg ml-1 and total anti K. pneumoniae IgY was found to be 0.522 mg ml-1.

Conclusion: Generated antibodies were identified as very specific to the immunization antigen. Based on invitro studies generated antibodies were specific to immunized antigen. It concluded that it will be useful or therapeutic after further conformation.
Phenotypic Characterization of Bacteria Isolated from the Recreational Sites of Two Rivers in Orashi Region, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Sampson T. , Giami L. K. , Okedike J. A.
Published: May 2021

Recreational water bodies are water bodies used for recreational activities such as swimming, surfing, water skiing, water diving and sailing. They include rivers, lakes, beaches, spas and swimming pools. This work was therefore aimed at determining the bacteriological profile of recreational water bodies in Orashi region of Rivers State, Nigeria. Surface water samples were collected from two different sites (Orashi River, Mbiama and Sombreiro River, Ahoada) using standard microbiological methods. Upstream, midstream and downstream samples were collected for a period of three months at monthly interval. Standard plate counts were used for total heterotrophic and coliform bacterial counts using standard microbiological media. The total heterotrophic bacterial count ranged from 4.1X104 to 9.5X104 for Orashi River and 3.0X103 to 4.0X103 for Sombreiro River. A significant statistical difference (p < 0.05) however, existed between total heterotrophic bacterial counts of the samples collected from Orashi River, while no statistical difference (p > 0.05) was observed in the total heterotrophic bacterial counts of samples from Sombreiro River. In the comparative analysis of the samples from the two water bodies, no statistical difference (p > 0.05) was recorded in the total coliform count in Orashi and Sombreiro Rivers. The phenotypic characterization identified the isolates to include Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Bacillus spp., Enterococcus spp. and Micrococcus spp., with Klebsiella pneumoniae as the most occurring (26.1%). Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus are known for their pathogenic potentials, hence their presence in these recreational sites are of public health importance. Provision of standard recreational facilities in localities will however reduce the dependency on river sites for recreational activities, and as well prevent recreational associated illnesses.
Mutated circulating tumor DNA as a liquid biopsy in lung cancer detection and treatment
Authors: Filipska Martyna , Rosell Rafael
Published: May 2021

Over the past decade, substantial developments have been made in the detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)—cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) fragments released into the circulation from tumor cells and displaying the genetic alterations of those cells. As such, ctDNA detected in liquid biopsies serves as a powerful tool for cancer patient stratification, therapy guidance, detection of resistance, and relapse monitoring. In this Review, we describe lung cancer diagnosis and monitoring strategies using ctDNA detection technologies and compile recent evidence regarding lung cancer‐related mutation detection in liquid biopsy. We focus not only on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) alterations, but also on significant co‐mutations that shed more light on novel ctDNA‐based liquid biopsy applications. Finally, we discuss future perspectives of early‐cancer detection and clonal hematopoiesis filtering strategies, with possible inclusion of microbiome‐driven liquid biopsy.
Hydrophobic MXene/Hydroxyethyl Cellulose/Silicone Resin Composites with Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Huang Jia‐jing , Wang Ting , Su Yu‐miao , Ding Yu‐lin , Tu Chao‐yang , Li Wen‐mu
Published: May 2021

Exploring a method to fabricate robust and stable 3D conductive networks in polymers matrix is still the challenge in the research and development of electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. Here, a feasible approach is provided to produce high‐performance, silicone‐doped MXene EMI shielding composites. The trace amount of hydroxyethyl cellulose is deliberately applied as gels to construct the MXene aerogels with a stable and highly conductive network by the freeze‐drying method. For more desirable mechanical and waterproof properties, the silicone resin is introduced into the MXene aerogels on purpose. The best silicone‐doped MXene EMI shielding composites display a superior electrical conductivity of 3166.4 S m−1, and EMI shield effectiveness of 74.5 dB at the X‐band (8.2–12.4 GHz). It is worth noting that the introduction of silicone resins sharply improves the hydrophobicity of EMI shielding materials to a range of water contact angle of about 151.5°–155.0°. This is a promising method to make MXene‐based EMI shielding composites with self‐cleaning function.
Enhanced Electrochemical Stability by Alkyldiammonium in Dion–Jacobson Perovskite toward Ultrastable Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Ngai Kwan Ho , Wei Qi , Chen Zefeng , Guo Xinlu , Qin Minchao , Xie Fangyan , Chan Christopher Chang Sing , Xing Guichuan , Lu Xinhu , Chen Jian , Wong Kam Sing , Xu Jianbin , Long Mingzhu
Published: May 2021

The electroluminescence efficiency of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) has gained notable achievements, but the poor stability under electric stress severely impedes future practical use. Here, an alkyldiammonium 1,4‐butanediamine (BDA) is incorporated into perovskite emitting layer, which substantially optimizes electrochemical stability and minimizes interfacial deep traps under large external bias. The BDA‐PeLED shows a record operational half‐lifetime T50 of 189.4 h at a high current density of 100 mA cm−2 and 681 h under 50 mA cm−2. Additionally, the device maintains its original performance upon 2500 cycles of voltage scan and withstands 10 000 times of ON–OFF under a pulsed voltage of 2.5 V. Further degradation mechanism study reveals that the main origins of the instability property of PeLEDs without BDA are the generation of deep traps at the interfaces and the infiltration of anions into adjacent layers under long‐term electric stress. The significantly enhanced electrochemical stability suggests that alkyldiammonium cation incorporation can provide a direction to solve the instability issue of PeLEDs.
Endowing Phosphor Materials with Long‐Afterglow Circularly Polarized Phosphorescence via Ball Milling
Authors: Hao Wenchao , Li Yuangang , Liu Minghua
Published: May 2021

Circularly polarized luminescent (CPL) materials have emerged as new advanced optical and photonic materials. While many efforts have been devoted to the organic CPL materials, it still remains a challenge to fabricate CPL active inorganic materials due to the difficulty in the introduction of the chiral units. Here, a simple approach for achieving CPL active inorganic persistent phosphor materials is reported. By modifying the inorganic persistent phosphor materials with enantiomeric cysteine via ball milling, the inorganic circularly polarized phosphorescence (CPP) materials with long afterglow characteristics are fabricated. Moreover, the circular polarization of the obtained phosphorescent materials can be controlled by the molecular chirality of the cysteine. The dissymmetry factor (glum) of the CPP materials can be up to 10−2. It is envisaged that this approach will afford a new insight into the designing of the inorganic functional chiral phosphorescent materials.
Operation Principles of ZnO/Al2O3‐AlDMP/ZnO Stacked‐Channel Ternary Thin‐Film Transistor
Authors: Kim So‐Young , Kim Kiyung , Kim A. Reum , Lee Ho‐In , Lee Yongsu , Kim Seung‐Mo , Yu Sung Ho , Lee Hae‐Won , Hwang Hyeon Jun , Sung Myung Mo , Lee Byoung Hun
Published: May 2021

For many decades, novel devices demonstrating step‐wise current–voltage characteristic at room temperature have been pursued to realize multi‐valued logic computing that has significant advantages such as extremely low power consumption and high‐density information‐processing capability. Recently, a novel ternary logic transistor has been constructed using an ultrathin ZnO/Al2O3‐AlDMP/ZnO channel exhibiting a mobility edge‐quantized conduction for the intermediate current level. This study investigates the operation principle of the ternary device using ZnO/Al2O3‐AlDMP/ZnO stack and concludes that the first ZnO layer controls the level of the intermediate current, while the second ZnO layer controls the threshold voltage of the ternary device. These controllable electrical properties of the intermediate state of the ternary device have been applied to an n‐type resistive‐load standard ternary inverter, demonstrating the feasibility to achieve a ternary logic circuit consuming extremely low power with an optimal noise margin.
Cardiac abnormalities in girls with Turner syndrome: ECG abnormalities, myocardial strain imaging, and karyotype–phenotype associations
Authors: Noordman Iris D. , Fejzic Zina , Bos Melanie , Duijnhouwer Anthonie L. , Weijers Gert , Kempers Marlies , Merkx Remy , van der Velden Janiëlle A. E. M. , Kapusta Livia
Published: May 2021

Turner syndrome (TS) is a chromosomal condition which is associated with an increased prevalence of cardiac morbidity and mortality. In this cross‐sectional study, Minnesota‐based electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities, aortic dimensions, routine‐ and myocardial strain echocardiographic parameters, and karyotype‐cardiac phenotype associations were assessed in girls with TS. In total, 101 girls with TS (0–18 years) were included. The prevalence of major ECG abnormalities was 2% (T‐wave abnormalities) and 39% had minor ECG abnormalities. Dilatation of the ascending aorta (z‐score > 2) was present in 16%, but the prevalence was much lower when using TS‐specific z‐scores. No left ventricular hypertrophy was detected and the age‐matched global longitudinal strain was reduced in only 6% of the patients. Cardiac abnormalities seemed more common in patients with a non‐mosaic 45,X karyotype compared with other karyotypes, although no statistically significant association was found. Lowering the frequency of echocardiography and ECG screening might be considered in girls with TS without cardiovascular malformations and/or risk factors for aortic dissection. Nevertheless, a large prospective study is needed to confirm our results. The appropriate z‐score for the assessment of aortic dilatation remains an important knowledge gap. The karyotype was not significantly associated with the presence of cardiac abnormalities, therefore cardiac screening should not depend on karyotype alone.
Y‐chromosome variability and genetic history of Commons from Northern Italy
Authors: Sarno Stefania , Boscolo Agostini Rajiv , De Fanti Sara , Ferri Gianmarco , Ghirotto Silvia , Modenini Giorgia , Pettener Davide , Boattini Alessio
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Genetic drift and admixture are driving forces in human evolution, but their concerted impact to population evolution in historical times and at a micro‐geographic scale is poorly assessed. In this study we test a demographic model encompassing both admixture and drift to the case of social‐cultural isolates such as the so‐called “Commons.”

Materials and methods

Commons are peculiar institutions of medieval origins whose key feature is the tight relationship between population and territory, mediated by the collective property of shared resources. Here, we analyze the Y‐chromosomal genetic structure of four Commons (for a total of 366 samples) from the Central and Eastern Padana plain in Northern Italy.

Results

Our results reveal that all these groups exhibit patterns of significant diversity reduction, peripheral/outlier position within the Italian/European genetic space and high frequency of Common‐specific haplogroups. By explicitly testing different drift‐admixture models, we show that a drift‐only model is more probable for Central Padana Commons, while additional admixture (~20%) from external population around the same time of their foundation cannot be excluded for the Eastern ones.

Discussion

Building on these results, we suggest central Middle Ages as the most probable age of foundation for three of the considered Commons, the remaining one pointing to late antiquity. We conclude that an admixture‐drift model is particularly useful for interpreting the genetic structure and recent demographic history of small‐scale populations in which social‐cultural features play a significant role.
Enhanced adsorption of perfluorooctanoic acid using functionalized imidazolium iodide ionic liquid‐based poly (glycidyl methacrylate)
Authors: Shahabi Nejad Mohaddeseh , Soltani Nejad Hossein , Arabnejad Saeid , Sheibani Hassan
Published: May 2021

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are among the emerging pollutants of public health and the environment due to environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential toxicity. Removal of PFAS under mild conditions is a challenge. Therefore, employment of organic functionality immobilized on polymeric sorbents has driven significant attention. Herein, new imidazolium‐based ionic liquid (IIL) covalently grafted on poly (glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) support was synthesized successfully and characterized by Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscope, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The functionalized imidazolium ionic liquid‐based PGMA was applied in perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) removal from an aqueous solution. The effect of contact time, adsorbent dose, temperature, pH, and counter anions investigated on the extent of adsorption has been investigated. The concentration of PFOA solutions was measured by ethyl violet active substances assay, and equilibrium data were analyzed by Langmuir, Freundlich and Tempkin isotherms. The experimental results have been fitted to Langmuir model at ambient temperature and the maximum monolayer coverage capacity (qm) was found to be 769.23 mg/g. Also the thermodynamic parameters were obtained, and observed that the adsorption of PFOA onto imidazolium iodide‐PGMA was an endothermic and spontaneous process at the temperatures under investigation.
The application of solid biofuels as a source of process energy in Mexico: case studies using agave and coffee waste
Authors: Duran García María D. , Weber Bernd , Jiménez García Juan , González‐Mora Eduardo
Published: May 2021

In recent years, the use of solid biofuels (SBF) in combustion systems to generate industrial heat has become more common as they are renewable, potentially carbon neutral, and able to support an energy transition away from fossil fuels. However, despite the ready availability of waste biomass in Mexico and its suitability for incineration, the development of SBFs as a fuel source had lagged behind other countries. Promoting the use of SBF requires technical, sustainability, and economic feasibility studies to identify optimization opportunities for known systems. This article presents two technical, economic, and environmental feasibility studies of the use of SBF for process heat. Carbon dioxide emissions and economic feasibility were compared to fossil fuels to ascertain whether SBFs could be useful as a transition fuel in the medium term. Finally, some circumstances where the implementation of SBF in an industrial process could be feasible were identified. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Reactions of 4‐Nitrophenyl 5‐substituted Furan‐2‐carboxylates with R2NH/R2NH2+ in 20 mol% DMSO(aq): Effect of Aryl Group on the Acyl‐Transfer Reaction
Authors: Pyun Sang Yong , Paik Kyu Cheol , Han Man So , Cho Bong Rae
Published: May 2021

Reactions of 4‐nitrophenyl 2‐furoates (1a–e) with R2NH/R2NH2+ in 20 mol% DMSO(aq) have been studied. The reactions produced aminolysis products and exhibited second‐order kinetics. The Brönsted plots were linear with βnuc values of 0.75–0.89, which remained nearly the same for all 5‐furyl substituents. The rate data showed excellent correlations on the Yukawa‐Tsuno plots with ρ(x) = 0.72–1.1, and r = 0.55–0.95, respectively. The ρ value increased and r value decreased with a stronger nucleophile, indicating an increase in the electron density at the CO bond and a decrease in the resonance contribution. The results have been interpreted with the addition–elimination mechanism in which the second step is the rds. By comparing with the data for ArC(O)OC6H4‐4‐NO2 (Ar = Ph, thienyl), the effect of the aryl group on the acyl transfer reaction was assessed.
Analysis of Agglomeration Kinetics of Magnetic Nanoparticles With Boltzmann Distribution of Energy Barrier
Authors: Kim Hackjin
Published: May 2021

The agglomeration kinetics of magnetic nanoparticles under the magnetic field is studied by measuring the temporal change of the magnetic weight. The kinetics of stretched exponential is observed for the growth of the magnetic weight, which results from the distribution of the energy barrier. The agglomeration kinetics is simulated with the Boltzmann distribution function of the energy barrier. The Boltzmann distribution seems plausible for the agglomeration of nanoparticles where the diffusion of low energy barrier is dominant. The comparison with the experimental results indicates that the Boltzmann distribution is inappropriate for energy barrier distribution function even though the dynamics close to the stretched exponential is reproduced. The kinetic parameters deduced from the simulation results suggest that the complex structural relaxation of the agglomerate with higher energy barrier is more dominant than the diffusion in the growth of the magnetic weight.
A Comparison of Bayesian Inference Strategies for Parameterisation of Large Amplitude AC Voltammetry Derived from Total Current and Fourier Transformed Versions
Authors: Gundry Luke , Kennedy Gareth , Keith Jonathan , Robinson Martin , Gavaghan David , Bond Alan M. , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2021

Use of carefully designed computer supported parameterisation methods in voltammetric studies can provide highly robust and accurate methods for simultaneously quantifying the large number of parameters present in complex electrochemical reactions. In this study, a computer program has been developed to parameterise large amplitude AC voltammetric data using mathematical optimisation in combination with Bayesian inference algorithms for calculating posterior distributions of parameters and hence uncertainties in parameter values. The computer program has been applied to objective functions, relevant to total AC current, frequency domain data in the form of the power spectrum derived from Fourier transformation and multivariate based methods using the resolved harmonic data. The robustness of the objective functions have been confirmed and Bayesian inference methods have been validated using “noisy” synthetic and experimental data for the [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− reduction process in aqueous 3.0 M KCl electrolyte at a gold electrode. It was found that the harmonic based Bayesian inference methods outperformed other methods in parameterisation of the thermodynamics and electrode kinetics of the close to reversible [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− process due to their ability to compensate for non‐ideality in the modelling and the superior parameter sensitivities available in the higher harmonics. The computer supported and heuristic methods were compared. Their advantages and limitations are discussed.
Merging N‐Hydroxyphthalimide into Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Highly Efficient and Environmentally Benign Aerobic Oxidation
Authors: Wang Man , Liang Gan , Wang Yunhao , Fan Tao , Yuan Baoling , Liu Mingxian , Yin Ying , Li Liangchun
Published: May 2021

Two highly efficient metal‐organic framework catalysts TJU‐68‐NHPI and TJU‐68‐NDHPI have been successfully synthesized through solvothermal reactions of which the frameworks are merged with N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) units, resulting in the decoration of pore surfaces with highly active nitroxyl catalytic sites. When t‐butyl nitrite (TBN) is used as co‐catalyst, the as‐synthesized MOFs are demonstrated to be highly efficient and recyclable catalysts for a novel three‐phase heterogeneous oxidation of activated C−H bond of primary and secondary alcohols, and benzyl compounds under mild conditions. Based on the high efficiency and selectivity, an environmentally benign system with good sustainability, mild conditions, simple work‐up procedure has been established for practical oxidation of a wide range of substrates.
Hypermonones A—I, New Polyprenylated Acylphloroglucinols from Hypericum monogynum with Multidrug Resistance Reversal Activity
Authors: Zeng Yan‐Rong , Li Ya‐Nan , Yang Jue , Yi Ping , Huang Lei , Huang Lie‐Jun , Gu Wei , Hu Zhan‐Xing , Li Yan‐Mei , Yuan Chun‐Mao , Hao Xiao‐Jiang
Published: May 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Eleven biogenetically related polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs), including four novel skeletons (1—4) and five new compounds (5—9), were isolated from the flowers of Hypericum monogynum. Hypermonones A—D (1—4) represented the first example of a unique dilactone structure containing carbonyl bonded single δ‐lactone and tricyclic γ‐lactone moieties. Their structures were elucidated by NMR analysis, X‐ray crystallography, and ECD calculations. Moreover, we revised the structure of hyperibrin B to hypermonone I (9) via NMR analysis, a quantum computational chemistry method, and hypothetic biosynthetic considerations. Three compounds (5, 6, and 9) with significant MDR reversal activity (RF ranging from 61 to 223) were superior to the positive control verapamil (MCF‐7/ADR, RF: 53; HepG2/ADR, RF: 124). Mechanism study for compound 5 indicated that this compound could inhibit the function of P‐gp transport rather than its expression, and the possible recognition mechanism between compound 5 and P‐gp was predicted by molecular docking.
MYC amplifications are common events in childhood osteosarcoma
Authors: De Noon Solange , Ijaz Jannat , Coorens Tim HH , Amary Fernanda , Ye Hongtao , Strobl Anna , Lyskjær Iben , Flanagan Adrienne M , Behjati Sam
Published: May 2021

Osteosarcoma, the most common primary malignant tumour of bone, affects both children and adults. No fundamental biological differences between paediatric and adult osteosarcoma are known. Here, we apply multi‐region whole‐genome sequencing to an index case of a 4‐year‐old child whose aggressive tumour harboured high‐level, focal amplifications of MYC and CCNE1 connected by translocations. We reanalysed copy number readouts of 258 cases of high‐grade osteosarcoma from three different cohorts and identified a significant enrichment of focal MYC, but not CCNE1, amplifications in children. Furthermore, we identified four additional cases of MYC and CCNE1 coamplification, highlighting a rare driver event which warrants further investigation. Our findings indicate that amplification of the MYC oncogene is a major driver of childhood osteosarcoma, while CCNE1 appears recurrently amplified independent of age.
The Historical Dyestuff Collection at the Technical University Dresden: A Cultural–Historical Treasure and a Rich Source of Light‐Absorbing Materials with Great Prospects for Current and Future Research
Authors: Hartmann Horst
Published: May 2021

The Historical Dyestuff Collection at the Technical University Dresden houses a large collection of colorants, such as more than 20 000 synthetic organic dyes, more than 500 natural organic dyes and a comprehensive collection of inorganic natural and synthetic pigments, as well as more than 3 000 shade cards and a variety of other objects related to dyestuff chemistry. Moreover, all theses performed at the Institute of Color and Textile Chemistry, the home of the Dyestuff Collection, together with all substance probes prepared during the qualification works of the students, were deposited here and can be used on demand. From the theses and much additional literature collected here, the history of industrial dyestuff chemistry and the photographic industry as well as the contributions of the scientists working at the Institute since 1892, including W. König and H. T. Bucherer as some of the more famous examples, can be reflected upon and studied in detail.