bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid–Metal‐Superlyophilic and Conductivity–Strain‐Enhancing Scaffold for Permeable Superelastic Conductors
Authors: Zhuang Qiuna , Ma Zhijun , Gao Yuan , Zhang Yaokang , Wang Shuaichen , Lu Xi , Hu Hong , Cheung Chifai , Huang Qiyao , Zheng Zijian
Published: August 2021

Liquid metal (LM) has recently been used as an advanced stretchable material for constructing stretchable and wearable electronics. However, due to the poor wettability of LM and the large dimensional change during stretching, it remains very challenging to obtain a high conductivity with minimum resistance increase over large tensile strains. To address the challenge, an LM‐superlyophilic and stretchable fibrous thin‐film scaffold is reported, on which LM can be readily coated or printed to form permeable superelastic conductors. In contrast to conventional LM‐based conductors where LM particles are filled into an elastic matrix or printed on the surface of an elastic thin film, the LM can quickly infuse into the LM‐superlyophilic scaffold and form bi‐continuous phases. The LM‐superlyophilic scaffold shows unprecedented advantages of an extremely high uptake of the LM and a conductivity‐enhancement characteristic when stretched. As a result, the LM‐based conductor displays and ultrahigh conductivity of 155 900 S cm−1 and a marginal resistance change by only 2.5 fold at 2 500% strain. The conductor also possesses a remarkable durability over a period of 220 000 cycles of stretching tests. The printing of LM onto the LM‐superlyophilic scaffold for the fabrication of various permeable and wearable electronic devices is demonstrated.
Organic Semiconductor Crystal Engineering for High‐Resolution Layer‐Controlled 2D Crystal Arrays
Authors: Chen Zheng , Duan Shuming , Zhang Xiaotao , Geng Bowen , Xiao Yanling , Jie Jiansheng , Dong Huanli , Li Liqiang , Hu Wenping
Published: August 2021

2D organic semiconductor crystals (2DOSCs) have extraordinary charge transport capability, adjustable photoelectric properties, and superior flexibility, and have stimulated continuous research interest for next‐generation electronic and optoelectronic applications. The prerequisite for achieving large‐area and high‐throughput optoelectronic device integration is to fabricate high‐resolution 2DOSC arrays. Patterned substrate‐ and template‐assisted self‐assembly is an effective strategy to fabricate OSC arrays. However, the film thickness is difficult to control due to the complicated crystallization process during solvent evaporation. Therefore, the manufacturing of 2DOSC arrays with high‐resolution and controllable molecular‐layer numbers through solution‐based patterning methods remains a challenge. Herein, a two‐step strategy to produce high‐resolution layer‐controlled 2DOSC arrays is reported. First, large‐scale 2DOSCs with well‐defined layer numbers are obtained by a solution‐processed organic semiconductor crystal engineering method. Next, the high‐resolution layer‐controlled 2DOSC arrays are fabricated by a polydimethylsiloxane mold‐assisted selective contact evaporation printing technique. The organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) based on 2DOSC arrays have high electrical performance and excellent uniformity. The 2,6‐bis(4‐hexylphenyl)anthracene 2DOSC arrays‐based OFETs have a small variation of 12.5% in mobility. This strategy can be applied to various organic semiconductors and pattern arrays. These demonstrations will offer more opportunities for 2DOSCs for integrated optoelectronic devices.
A Motion Capturing and Energy Harvesting Hybridized Lower‐Limb System for Rehabilitation and Sports Applications
Authors: Gao Shan , He Tianyiyi , Zhang Zixuan , Ao Hongrui , Jiang Hongyuan , Lee Chengkuo
Published: August 2021

Lower‐limb motion monitoring is highly desired in various application scenarios ranging from rehabilitation to sports training. However, there still lacks a cost‐effective, energy‐saving, and computational complexity‐reducing solution for this specific demand. Here, a motion capturing and energy harvesting hybridized lower‐limb (MC‐EH‐HL) system with 3D printing is demonstrated. It enables low‐frequency biomechanical energy harvesting with a sliding block‐rail piezoelectric generator (S‐PEG) and lower‐limb motion sensing with a ratchet‐based triboelectric nanogenerator (R‐TENG). A unique S‐PEG is proposed with particularly designed mechanical structures to convert lower‐limb 3D motion into 1D linear sliding on the rail. On the one hand, high output power is achieved with the S‐PEG working at a very low frequency, which realizes self‐sustainable systems for wireless sensing under the Internet of Things framework. On the other hand, the R‐TENG gives rise to digitalized triboelectric output, matching the rotation angles to the pulse numbers. Additional physical parameters can be estimated to enrich the sensory dimension. Accordingly, demonstrative rehabilitation, human‐machine interfacing in virtual reality, and sports monitoring are presented. This developed hybridized system exhibits an economic and energy‐efficient solution to support the need for lower‐limb motion tracking in various scenarios, paving the way for self‐sustainable multidimensional motion tracking systems in near future.
In Memory Energy Application for Resistive Random Access Memory
Authors: Trotti Paola , Oukassi Sami , Molas Gabriel , Bernard Mathieu , Aussenac François , Pillonnet Gaël
Published: August 2021

This work explores the innovative concept of a hybrid dual‐behavior device, based on emerging nonvolatile memory technology, for both data retention and energy storage. RRAM (resistive random access memory) is considered a major candidate as next‐generation memory, thanks to its promising performances in terms of scalability and CMOS process compatibility. Its working mechanisms, based on faradaic processes, motivate the study on the feasibility of operating RRAM also as energy storage element. To evaluate the energy capability, various electrochemical characterizations on state‐of‐the‐art RRAM are presented. The highly resistive electrolyte, extremely small physical scale (nm), and current range (pA), put in quite a critical framework, far from conventional solid‐state batteries. Cyclic voltammetry tests reveal that although no oxidation peak appears during the redox cycle, the cells behave as standard electrochemical storage elements when investigating the impact of the scan rate, maximum positive voltage, and area on the reduction peak. Concentration and diffusion coefficients are derived, in the order of 10−12 cm2 s−1 and few mmol cm−3, respectively, while energy storage capability amounts to 3.5 pJ µm−2. Finally, design concepts are proposed, where RRAM “in‐memory energy” technology would be a newfangled approach to meet the needs of various emerging and standard applications.
Seeding rate effects on forage productivity and nutritive value of sorghum
Authors: Mekasha Aklilu , Min Doohong , Bascom Nathnael , Vipham Jessie
Published: August 2021

In Ethiopia, the use of traditional and improved grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] variety as green forage crop is limited mainly by the large stalk thickness and low nutritive values. An experiment was conducted to explore if forage biomass accumulation and nutritive values could be managed by seeding rates. Two improved dual‐purpose grain sorghum varieties (Melkam and Chelenko), and one traditional local variety (Masugi) each representing early and late maturity groups were sown for 2 yr at three locations in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications involving five seeding rates (12.5, 25, 50, 75, and 100 kg ha−1). The results showed significant effects of year, location, variety, seeding rate, and the interactions on different variables. These main effects contributed more and the interactions less to the total variation observed on different variables. Increasing the seeding rate significantly decreased stalk thickness, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL), but significantly increased in‐vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) concentration by up to 6.6% with no significant effect on forage dry matter accumulation. Among the varieties significantly more dry matter accumulation was observed for the late‐maturing varieties, whereas the early‐maturing variety showed significantly greater crude protein (CP) and IVOMD with significantly less NDF, ADF, and ADL concentrations across the different locations. Thus, increasing the seeding rate above the recommended 12.5 kg ha−1 for grain could help improve forage potential of dual‐purpose grain sorghum varieties in Ethiopia.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Spirocyclization of Maleimide with N‐Aryl‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐dione to Access Pentacyclic Spiro‐Succinimides
Authors: Karishma Pidiyara , Mandal Sanjay K. , Sakhuja Rajeev
Published: August 2021

A one‐pot spirocyclization of 2‐aryl‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐diones with maleimides was achieved via RhIII‐catalyzed sequential ortho‐alkenylation followed by intramolecular aza‐Michael‐type addition/protonation process. The featured strategy furnishes a series of diversely decorated spiro[indazolo[1,2‐b]phthalazine‐13,3′‐pyrrolidine]‐2′,5′,6,11‐tetraones in high yields from a variety of 2‐aryl‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐diones and N‐aryl/alkyl maleimides, which can be scaled‐up easily. Isolation and characterization of a maleimide‐coordinated five‐membered rhodacyclic intermediate provided a strong evidence for the proposed mechanism of the reaction.
Discovery and Characterisation of Highly Cooperative FAK‐Degrading PROTACs
Authors: Law Robert P. , Nunes Joao , Chung Chun‐wa , Bantscheff Marcus , Buda Karol , Dai Han , Evans John P. , Flinders Adam , Klimaszewska Diana , Lewis Antonia J. , Muelbaier Marcel , Scott‐Stevens Paul , Stacey Peter , Tame Christopher J. , Watt Gillian F. , Zinn Nico , Queisser Markus A. , Harling John D. , Benowitz Andrew B.
Published: August 2021

Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a key mediator of tumour progression and metastasis. To date, clinical trials of FAK inhibitors have reported disappointing efficacy for oncology indications. We report the design and characterisation of GSK215, a potent, selective, FAK‐degrading Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) based on a binder for the VHL E3 ligase and the known FAK inhibitor VS‐4718. X‐ray crystallography revealed the molecular basis of the highly cooperative FAK‐GSK215‐VHL ternary complex, and GSK215 showed differentiated in‐vitro pharmacology compared to VS‐4718. In mice, a single dose of GSK215 induced rapid and prolonged FAK degradation, giving a long‐lasting effect on FAK levels (≈96 h) and a marked PK/PD disconnect. This tool PROTAC molecule is expected to be useful for the study of FAK‐degradation biology in vivo, and our results indicate that FAK degradation may be a differentiated clinical strategy versus FAK inhibition for the treatment of cancer.
Halogen Bonding in Dithiane/Iodofluorobenzene Mixtures: A New Class of Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Peloquin Andrew J. , McCollum Jena M. , McMillen Colin D. , Pennington William T.
Published: August 2021

While research into deep eutectic solvents (DESs) has expanded over the previous two decades, the focus has remained on the utilization of hydrogen bond donors in these systems. Additionally, the majority of the known DESs rely on at least one ionic component. Through the combination of 1,3‐dithiane and 1,2‐diiodo‐3,4,5,6‐tetrafluorobenzene (1,2‐F4DIB), we report the first known DES based on halogen bonding. This mixture remains a liquid, with a eutectic melting temperature of 13.7 °C over a range of 1,3‐dithiane mole fraction (0.35 to 0.75). Additionally, cocrystals of 1,3‐ and 1,4‐dithiane with 1,2‐, 1,3‐, and 1,4‐F4DIB, as well as 1,3,5‐trifluoro‐2,4,6‐triiodobenzene were studied via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. These data reveal a wide range of halogen bonding strengths (0.85<RXB<0.99; RXB=normalized halogen bond distance parameter) and geometries about the sulfur atom. By including intermolecular interactions beyond hydrogen bonding, the scope of possible DES systems can be greatly expanded.
Reclaiming Inactive Lithium with a Triiodide/Iodide Redox Couple for Practical Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Jin Cheng‐Bin , Zhang Xue‐Qiang , Sheng Ou‐Wei , Sun Shu‐Yu , Hou Li‐Peng , Shi Peng , Li Bo‐Quan , Huang Jia‐Qi , Tao Xin‐Yong , Zhang Qiang
Published: August 2021

High‐energy‐density lithium (Li) metal batteries suffer from a short lifespan owing to apparently ceaseless inactive Li accumulation, which is accompanied by the consumption of electrolyte and active Li reservoir, seriously deteriorating the cyclability of batteries. Herein, a triiodide/iodide (I3−/I−) redox couple initiated by stannic iodide (SnI4) is demonstrated to reclaim inactive Li. The reduction of I3− converts inactive Li into soluble LiI, which then diffuses to the cathode side. The oxidation of LiI by the delithiated cathode transforms cathode into the lithiation state and regenerates I3−, reclaiming Li ion from inactive Li. The regenerated I3− engages the further redox reactions. Furthermore, the formation of Sn mitigates the corrosion of I3− on active Li reservoir sacrificially. In working Li | LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 batteries, the accumulated inactive Li is significantly reclaimed by the reversible I3−/I− redox couple, improving the lifespan of batteries by twice. This work initiates a creative solution to reclaim inactive Li for prolonging the lifespan of practical Li metal batteries.
Binuclear Ti(IV) complex with new compartmental ligand 2,6‐(bis‐CF3‐carbinol)‐4‐tert‐butylphenol as precatalysts for ethylene polymerization and its copolymerization with propylene and 5‐ethylidene‐norbornene
Authors: Tuskaev Vladislav A. , Gagieva Svetlana Ch. , Bogdanov Vyacheslav S. , Kurmaev Dmitry A. , Melnikova Elizaveta K. , Saracheno Daniele , Buzin Mikhail I. , Golubev Evgenii K. , Kechek'yan Alexander S. , Myagkova Kristina Z. , Denisov Gleb L. , Bulychev Boris M.
Published: August 2021

The coordination chemistry of a new compartmental ligand 2,6‐(bis‐CF3‐carbinol)‐4‐tert‐butylphenol with Ti(IV) and Zr(IV) has been studied. The structures of Al, Ti, and Zr complexes with the participation of this ligand were established by X‐ray diffraction. Upon activation with Et2AlCl or Et3Al2Cl3 and Bu2Mg, Ti(IV) complex exhibited moderate catalytic activity for ethylene polymerization. The obtained UHMWPE samples were processed into high‐strength (up to 2.7 GPa) and high‐modulus (up to 162 GPa) films through solid‐phase molding and orientation drawing. The mononuclear and binuclear Ti(IV) complexes catalyzed the ternary copolymerization of ethylene, propylene, and 5‐ethylidene‐norbornene. Tercopolymers with a content of propylene units up to 36 mol% and 5‐EBN up to 8.6 mol% were synthesized with a high activity (2.8–6.3 tons of copolymer/mol Ti h); the mechanical characteristics of elastomeric materials have been studied.
Synthesis, characterization, biological evaluation, and molecular docking approach of nickel (II) complexes containing O, N‐donor chelation pattern of sulfonamide‐based Schiff bases
Authors: Ramadan Ahmed M. , Bayoumi Hoda A. , Elsamra Rehab M. I.
Published: August 2021

A series of Schiff bases (L1–L4) that possess in their structure bioactive sulfonamide group and their nickel (II) complexes have been synthesized. Microanalytical analyses, various spectroscopic methods such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, UV–Vis, and MS, are used to explore the nature of bonding and to elucidate the chemical structures. The analytical and magnetic values suggest a range of stoichiometries 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 (M:L) for the synthesized complexes of almost square planar geometry. The spectral comparative interpretation reveals that L1 and L2 coordinate to the central Ni (II) in tetradentate ONON donor sequence, whereas L3 and L4 in bidentate ON pattern through deprotonated phenolic‐O and the azomethine‐N. Density functional theory (DFT) and MOE‐docking approaches are used to evaluate the molecular parameters and the binding propensity of the synthesized ligands and their complexes with 3s7s protein and to signify their inhibition strength. Besides, the anticancer, antimicrobial and antifungal activities have been screened against number of tumor cells and human pathogen strains. These in vitro studies reveal that Schiff base L4 and its complex, [Ni(L4‐H)(OAc)(H2O)], have superior activities reflecting the importance of inserting bioactive pendant substituents such as thiazole ring and 3‐fluorophenylazo to the pharmacophoric sulfonamide moiety. Moreover, some of the synthesized Ni (II) complexes display promising therapeutic effects as novel non‐platinum antitumor agents after further preclinical investigations.
Metal–organic frameworks as catalysts for fructose conversion into 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural: Catalyst screening and parametric study
Authors: Aljammal Noor , Lenssens Alexandra , de Reviere Arno , Verberckmoes An , Thybaut Joris W. , Verpoort Francis , Heynderickx Philippe M.
Published: August 2021

Hydroxymethylfurfural (5‐HMF) is a vital biomass‐derived platform chemical for the production of secondary value‐added chemicals. In this work, fructose conversion into 5‐HMF over metal–organic framework (MOF) has been considered. Several MOF‐based catalysts were synthesized and examined in fructose dehydration into 5‐HMF via a microwave‐assisted reactor. Each MOF's catalytic performance was evaluated concerning its surface area, pore size, and acid density. The results showed satisfactory fructose conversion levels for all studied MOFs in the range of 60%–99%. As a catalyst, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) resulted in excellent fructose conversion, but interestingly, higher quantities of side products such as formic and levulinic acids were produced. The higher 5‐HMF yields, up to 90%, were obtained over the MIL‐101 (MIL, Materials Institute Lavoisier) family, such as MIL‐101‐SO3H. This result is ascribed to the fact that functionalized MOF possesses hydrothermal stability, high surface area, and suitable pore sizes.
Tailoring the softness performance of polyethylene/polypropylene micro‐nanofibrous fabrics for skin contacts
Authors: Zhen Qi , Zhang Heng , Sun Huan‐Wei , Zhang Yi‐Feng
Published: August 2021

The softness of polypropylene (PP) fabrics, which is related to fiber properties and fabric structure, is a pivotal perception for their application in skin contacts. However, tailoring the softness of PP fabrics remains challenging. The effects of mixing different percentages of polyethylene (PE) and PP during the melt‐blowing process on the polymer properties and morphology characteristics, including the softness, preparation, and characterization of the micro‐nanofibrous fabrics were determined. Rheological tests and differential scanning calorimetry results showed that the addition of PE helped destroy the crystalline integrity of PP. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy images depicted a fluffy structure consisting of micro‐nanofibers with average diameters ranging from 1.3 to 3.2 μm. Furthermore, the softness scores ranged from 70.39 to 83.11 by changing the die temperature and PE mass ratio by applying a response surface model. Consequently, this micro‐nanofibrous fabric may become a good material for skin contacts, such as baby diapers, feminine sanitary, and other personal hygiene uses.
The year‐round distribution and habitat preferences of Campbell albatross (Thalassarche impavida)
Authors: Thompson David R. , Goetz Kimberly T. , Sagar Paul M. , Torres Leigh G. , Kroeger Caitlin E. , Sztukowski Lisa A. , Orben Rachael A. , Hoskins Andrew J. , Phillips Richard A.
Published: August 2021

The use of miniaturized electronic tracking devices has illuminated our understanding of seabird distributions and habitat use, and how anthropogenic threats interact with seabirds in both space and time. To determine the year‐round distribution of adult Campbell albatross (Thalassarche impavida), a single‐island endemic, breeding only at Campbell Island in New Zealand's subantarctic, a total of 68 year‐long location data sets were acquired from light‐based geolocation data‐logging tags deployed on breeding birds in 2009 and 2010.

During the incubation and chick‐guard phases of the breeding season, birds used cool (<10°C) waters over the Campbell Plateau, but also ranged over deeper, shelf‐break and oceanic waters (4,000–5,500 m) beyond the Plateau. Later in the breeding season, during post‐guard chick‐rearing, Campbell albatrosses exploited generally deep waters (4,000–5,000 m) beyond the Campbell Plateau.

During the non‐breeding period, adults tended to move northwards into warmer (approximately 15°C) waters and occupied areas beyond western Australia in the west to offshore from Chile in the east. Overall, about 30% of adults spent some of their non‐breeding period in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, substantially expanding the previously reported range for this species.

One bird, that failed in its breeding attempt in October 2009, departed Campbell Island and circumnavigated the southern oceans before being recaptured back at Campbell Island in October 2010. This is the first example of an annually‐breeding albatross species completing a circumnavigation between breeding attempts.

Overlap with fishing effort, using data from the Global Fishing Watch database, was assessed on a monthly and seasonal basis. Generally, levels of overlap between Campbell albatross and fishing effort were relatively low during the breeding season but were approximately 60% higher during the non‐breeding period, underlining the need for international initiatives to safeguard this species.
Face‐viewing patterns predict audiovisual speech integration in autistic children
Authors: Feng Shuyuan , Lu Haoyang , Wang Qiandong , Li Tianbi , Fang Jing , Chen Lihan , Yi Li
Published: August 2021

Autistic children show audiovisual speech integration deficits, though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The present study examined how audiovisual speech integration deficits in autistic children could be affected by their looking patterns. We measured audiovisual speech integration in 26 autistic children and 26 typically developing (TD) children (4‐ to 7‐year‐old) employing the McGurk task (a videotaped speaker uttering phonemes with her eyes open or closed) and tracked their eye movements. We found that, compared with TD children, autistic children showed weaker audiovisual speech integration (i.e., the McGurk effect) in the open‐eyes condition and similar audiovisual speech integration in the closed‐eyes condition. Autistic children viewed the speaker's mouth less in non‐McGurk trials than in McGurk trials in both conditions. Importantly, autistic children's weaker audiovisual speech integration could be predicted by their reduced mouth‐looking time. The present study indicated that atypical face‐viewing patterns could serve as one of the cognitive mechanisms of audiovisual speech integration deficits in autistic children.

Lay Summary

McGurk effect occurs when the visual part of a phoneme (e.g., “ga”) and the auditory part of another phoneme (e.g., “ba”) uttered by a speaker were integrated into a fused perception (e.g., “da”). The present study examined how McGurk effect in autistic children could be affected by their looking patterns for the speaker's face. We found that less looking time for the speaker's mouth in autistic children could predict weaker McGurk effect. As McGurk effect manifests audiovisual speech integration, our findings imply that we could improve audiovisual speech integration in autistic children by directing them to look at the speaker's mouth in future intervention.
Biodiesel production using Candida rugosa as biocatalytic lipase immobilized on p‐nitrobenzyl cellulose xanthate (NBXCel)
Authors: Rial Rafael C. , de Freitas Osmar N. , Cavalheiro Leandro F. , Nazário Carlos Eduardo D. , Viana Luíz Henrique
Published: August 2021

This work investigated the best reaction conditions to obtain biodiesel from soybean oil using Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) immobilized on p‐nitrobenzyl cellulose xanthate (NBXCel) support. The alcohols used were methanol and ethanol and the molar ratio used was 1:4 (n/n). The CRL immobilized on NBXCel support showed greater catalytic activity at pH 7.00 and at 45 °C. Thus, 23 experiments were carried out at this pH and at this temperature, varying the reaction time, type of alcohol, and amount of immobilized CRL to achieve a conversion equal to or greater than 96.5% as recommended by EN 14103. The highest conversions of methyl biodiesel were achieved using 4.31%mCRL/mNBXCel and with 3.89%mCRL/mNBXCel. Ethyl biodiesel was achieved at the highest conversion using 5.18% and 4.76%mCRL/mNBXCel. The results were explored with regression analysis to identify the best reaction conditions to obtain a good conversion, and the response surface graphs were plotted to visualize other reaction conditions. We also evaluated the number of reuse cycles of CRL immobilized on NBXCel support, to lower biodiesel production cost, and after 15 cycles of reuse the conversions obtained were above 50%, demonstrating the efficiency of CRL immobilized on the NBXCel support in catalyzing the synthesis of biodiesel. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Culture‐free biphasic approach for sensitive detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 from beef samples
Authors: Mostafa Ariana , Ganguli Anurup , Berger Jacob , Rayabharam Archith , Saavedra Carlos , Aluru Narayana R. , Bashir Rashid
Published: August 2021

Foodborne illnesses are a major threat to public health also leading to significant mortality and financial and reputational damage to industry. It is very important to detect pathogen presence in food products early, rapidly, and accurately to avoid potential outbreaks and economic loss. However, “gold standard” culture methods, including enrichment of pathogens, can take up to several days. Moreover, the food matrix often interferes with nucleic acid amplification methods of detection, requiring DNA extraction from the sample for successful molecular detection of pathogens. Here, we introduce a “biphasic” amplification method that can achieve high sensitivity detection with background noise from ground beef food samples without culture or other extraction methods in 2.5 h. Homogenized ground beef is dried resulting in an increase in porosity of the dried food matrix to allowing amplification enzymes and primers to access the target DNA and initiate the reaction within the dried food matrix. Using Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification, we demonstrate the detection of 1–3 cfu of Escherichia coli bacteria in 30 mg of dried food matrix. Our approach significantly lowers the time to result to less than a few hours and have a pronounced impact on reduction of instrumentation complexity and costs.
Risk prediction models for esophageal cancer: A systematic review and critical appraisal
Authors: Li He , Sun Dianqin , Cao Maomao , He Siyi , Zheng Yadi , Yu Xinyang , Wu Zheng , Lei Lin , Peng Ji , Li Jiang , Li Ni , Chen Wanqing
Published: August 2021

Background and aims

Esophageal cancer risk prediction models allow for risk‐stratified endoscopic screening. We aimed to assess the quality of these models developed in the general population.

Methods

A systematic search of the PubMed and Embase databases from January 2000 through May 2021 was performed. Studies that developed or validated a model of esophageal cancer in the general population were included. Screening, data extraction, and risk of bias (ROB) assessment by the Prediction model Risk Of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) were performed independently by two reviewers.

Results

Of the 13 models included in the qualitative analysis, 8 were developed for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and the other 5 were developed for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Only two models conducted external validation. In the ESCC models, cigarette smoking was included in each model, followed by age, sex, and alcohol consumption. For EAC models, cigarette smoking and body mass index were included in each model, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, uses of acid‐suppressant medicine, and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug were exclusively included. The discriminative performance was reported in all studies, with C statistics ranging from 0.71 to 0.88, whereas only six models reported calibration. For ROB, all the models had a low risk in participant and outcome, but all models showed high risk in analysis, and 60% of models showed a high risk in predictors, which resulted in all models being classified as having overall high ROB. For model applicability, about 60% of these models had an overall low risk, with 30% of models of high risk and 10% of models of unclear risk, concerning the assessment of participants, predictors, and outcomes.

Conclusions

Most current risk prediction models of esophageal cancer have a high ROB. Prediction models need further improvement in their quality and applicability to benefit esophageal cancer screening.
How Child‐Focused are Child Protection Conferences?
Authors: Richardson Foster Helen , Barter Christine , Stanley Nicky , Churchill Harriet
Published: August 2021

Child protection conferences (CPCs) are multiagency meetings that are central to child protection procedures in the UK. They bring together practitioners, parents and children to consider whether a child has experienced significant harm and, if so, what action is required to protect him or her in future. This article presents findings from a qualitative study of CPCs in two areas in central England which explored the extent to which conferences are ‘child‐focused’ events. Data were gathered from audio recordings and documentary analysis of 14 initial and review conferences, 15 interviews with conference staff and six focus groups with 35 practitioners from a range of agencies. A four‐part conceptualisation of child‐focused practice was used to analyse practice in conferences. Children's participation in CPCs was found to be low, and child‐focused decision‐making and planning were rarely achieved. The findings emphasise the importance of pre‐conference work with children and families, and the central role of the conference chair. These findings are compared to those of the landmark ‘studies in child protection’ research published by the Department of Health almost 26 years ago to determine if improvements in child protection conference practice have occurred.

‘Explore[s] the extent to which [child protection] conferences are ‘child‐focused’ events’

Key Practitioner Messages

Making CPCs more child‐focused requires greater support, preparation and planning from practitioners. In particular, mechanisms to facilitate children's participation in conferences should be identified and used.

While representation of children's views is critical, in order for the conference to be child‐focused, it must also consider the individual child's experience, including their daily lived experience and needs and outcomes in reports for conference, CPC discussion and child protection planning – please state preference.

The time allocated for planning and decision‐making should be ring‐fenced within the conference.
Nitrogen fertilization levels influence the physicochemical properties of floury rice varieties
Authors: Han Chae‐Min , Shin Jong‐Hee , Kwon Jung‐Bae , Won Jong‐Gun , Kim Jong‐Sang
Published: August 2021

Background and objectives

This study was conducted to determine the effect of nitrogen fertilization level during cultivation on physicochemical properties of two floury rice varieties (Shingil and Garumi 2) with different endosperm types under dry‐milling process.

Findings

In both varieties, the protein content was increased in proportion to the level of nitrogen fertilization, while the amylose content exhibited a slight decrease in the highest nitrogen fertilization level. Damaged starch and digestible starch fractions were decreased with increasing nitrogen fertilization for both varieties, maybe due to the reduction in total starch relative to the protein content. Nevertheless, the level of damaged starch increased in Shingil under the highest nitrogen fertilization of 270 kg/ha, suggesting that nitrogen fertilization level can affect the physicochemical characteristics of starch particles during dry milling. The proportion of short amylopectin chains (DP6‐12) decreased with increasing nitrogen fertilization. The difference was more prominent in Shingil than the other variety Garumi 2, indicating that Shingil could experience a greater increase in hardening and a faster retrogradation by increased nitrogen fertilization level than Garumi 2.

Conclusions

Nitrogen fertilization levels during rice growth affected the starch and protein contents in the endosperm, the chain length of amylopectin, which should, in turn, contribute to the processing properties of floury rice varieties.

Significance and novelty

This study will help develop fertilization strategies for the novel floury rice varieties and consequently provide helpful information to the rice‐processing food industry.
Chemical identification of microfossils from the 1.88‐Ga Gunflint chert: Towards empirical biosignatures using laser ablation ionization mass spectrometer
Authors: Lukmanov Rustam A. , Tulej Marek , Ligterink Niels F. W. , De Koning Coenraad , Riedo Andreas , Grimaudo Valentine , Neubeck Anna , Wacey David , Wurz Peter
Published: August 2021

In this contribution, we investigated the chemical composition of Precambrian microfossils from the Gunflint chert (1.88 Ga) using a miniature laser ablation ionization mass spectrometer (LIMS) developed for in situ space applications. Spatially resolved mass spectrometric imaging (MSI) and depth profiling resulted in the acquisition of 68,500 mass spectra. Using single mass unit spectral decomposition and multivariate data analysis techniques, we identified the location of aggregations of microfossils and surrounding inorganic host mineral. Our results show that microfossils have unique chemical compositions that can be distinguished from the inorganic chert with high fidelity. Chemical depth profiling results also show that with LIMS microprobe data, it is possible to identify chemical differences between individual microfossils, thereby providing new insights about nature of early life. Analysis of LIMS spectra acquired from the individual microfossils reveals complex mineralization, which can reflect the metabolic diversity of the Gunflint microbiome. An intensity‐based machine learning model trained on LIMS Gunflint data might be applied for the future investigations of putative microfossils from silicified matrices, where morphological integrity of investigated structures is lost, and potentially in the investigation of rocks acquired from the Martian surface.
Electrocatalytic H2 Generation from Water Relying on Cooperative Ligand Electron Transfer in “PN3P” Pincer‐Supported NiII Complexes
Authors: Norouziyanlakvan Somayeh , Rao Gyandshwar Kumar , Ovens Jeffrey , Gabidullin Bulat , Richeson Darrin
Published: August 2021

Water is the most sustainable source for H2 production, and the efficient electrocatalytic production of H2 from mixed water/acetonitrile solutions by using two new air‐stable nickel(II) pincer complexes, [Ni(κ3‐2,6‐{Ph2PNR}2(NC5H3)Br2] (R=H I, Me II) is reported. Hydrogen generation from H2O/CH3CN solutions is initiated at −2 V against Fc+/0, and bulk electrocatalysis studies showed that the catalyst functions with an excellent Faradaic efficiency and a turnover frequency of 160 s−1. A DFT computational investigation of the reduction behavior of I and II revealed a correlation of H2 formation with charge donation from electrons originating in a reduced ligand‐localized orbital. As a result, these catalysts are proposed to proceed by a novel mechanism involving electron/proton transfer between a Ni0I species bonded to an anionic PN3P ligand (“L−/Ni0I”) and a NiI‐hydride (“Ni−H”). Furthermore, these catalysts are able to reduce phenol and acetic acid, more active proton sources, at lower potentials that correlate with the substrate pKa.
Siliciumcarbid
Authors: Schubert Ulrich
Published: August 2021

Siliciumcarbid hat eine Reihe von Eigenschaften, die denen von Diamant gleichen, wie Härte, hohe chemische, thermische und mechanische Beständigkeit sowie ähnliche optische Eigenschaften. Wie elementares Silicium ist SiC aber auch ein Halbleiter, allerdings mit größerer Bandlücke. Aus dieser Kombination ergeben sich vielfältige technische Anwendungsmöglichkeiten. Die Ähnlichkeit mit Silicium und Diamant ist auf einen gleichen strukturellen Aufbau zurückzuführen, SiC zeichnet sich aber durch eine Vielzahl von Polytypen aus. Der größte Anteil an SiC, mit technischer Qualität, wird durch das Acheson‐Verfahren hergestellt, die Reaktion von SiO2 mit Kohlenstoff. Kristalle hoher Reinheit und definierter Struktur werden durch Sublimation von Acheson‐SiC erhalten. Zur Herstellung dünner SiC‐Schichten sind CVD‐Methoden am besten geeignet; SiC‐Fasern können durch Thermolyse von Polycarbosilanen erzeugt werden.
A sex‐specific feedback projection from aromatase‐expressing neurons in the medial amygdala to the accessory olfactory bulb
Authors: Inbar Tal , Davis Rachel , Bergan Joseph F.
Published: August 2021

The accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) plays a critical role in classifying pheromonal signals. Here we identify two previously undescribed sources of aromatase signaling in the AOB: (1) a population of aromatase‐expressing neurons in the AOB itself; (2) a tract of aromatase‐expressing axons which originate in the ventral medial amygdala (MEA) and terminate in the AOB. Using a retrograde tracer in conjunction with a transgenic strategy to label aromatase‐expressing neurons throughout the brain, we found that a single contiguous population of neurons in the ventral MEA provides the only significant feedback by aromatase‐expressing neurons to the AOB. This population expresses the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and displayed anatomical sex differences in the number of neurons (higher in male mice) and the size of cell bodies (larger in females). Given the previously established relationship between aromatase expression, estrogen signaling, and the function of sexually dimorphic circuits, we suggest that this feedback population is well‐positioned to provide neuroendocrine feedback to modulate sensory processing of social stimuli in the AOB.
Pattern2Vec: Representation of clickstream data sequences for learning user navigational behavior
Authors: Olmezogullari Erdi , Aktas Mehmet S.
Published: August 2021

Word embedding approaches represent data sequences to handle their contextual meaning in the NLP tasks. Nowadays, there is an emerging need to understand the user behavior patterns over navigational clickstream data. However, representing the URL data sequences utilizing existing embedding approaches to cluster users' behavior with unsupervised machine learning tasks is a challenging task. This study introduces the Patter2Vec embedding approach using a representation vector to construct contextual, precise, and interpretable clusters over the hidden and popular navigational patterns. To test the usability of the proposed representation in clustering tasks, we conduct an experimental study, which indicates that Pattern2Vec outperforms existing embedding approaches.
On the provenance extraction techniques from large scale log files
Authors: Tufek Alper , Aktas Mehmet S.
Published: August 2021

Numerical weather prediction (NWP) models are the most important instruments to predict future weather. Provenance information is of central importance for detecting unexpected events that may develop during the long course of model execution. Besides, the need to share scientific data and results between researchers also highlights the importance of data quality and reliability. The weather research and forecasting (WRF) Model is an open‐source NWP model. In this study, we propose a methodology for tracking the WRF model and for generating, storing, and analyzing provenance. We implement the proposed methodology—with a machine learning‐based parser, which utilizes classification algorithms to extract provenance information. The proposed approach enables easy management and understanding of numerical weather forecast workflows by providing provenance graphs. By analyzing these graphs, potential faulty situations that may occur during the execution of WRF can be traced to their root causes. Our proposed approach has been evaluated and has been shown to perform well even in a high‐frequency provenance information flow.
High‐throughput FPGA implementation for quadratic unconstrained binary optimization
Authors: Kagawa Hiroshi , Ito Yasuaki , Nakano Koji , Yasudo Ryota , Kawamata Yuya , Katsuki Ryota , Tabata Yusuke , Yazane Takashi , Hamano Kenichiro
Published: August 2021

Quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) is a combinatorial optimization problem. Since various NP‐hard problems such as the traveling salesman problem can be formulated as a QUBO instance, QUBO is used with a wide range of applications. The main contribution of this article is to propose high‐throughput FPGA implementations for the QUBO solver. We perform the local search using different bit‐selection strategies based on the simulated annealing in the proposed implementation. The hardware is a pipeline structure with no pipeline hazards using multiple instances, where the bit‐flip operation is always performed every clock cycle. We implemented the proposed circuit on Xilinx UltraScale+ FPGA VU9P. The implementation result shows that the circuit can search solutions per second. Besides, by sharing the block RAM that stores a weight matrix, we implemented a dual annealer architecture that has two QUBO solvers into the FPGA. As a result, the dual annealer architecture can search solutions per second.
Conductive Metal‐Organic Frameworks Bearing M−O4 Active Sites as Highly Active Biomass Valorization Electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Kornienko Nikolay
Published: August 2021

The electrochemical oxidation of the biomass platform 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), is an important reaction in the emerging area of renewable energy‐powered biomass valorization. A key limitation in this field is the ill‐defined nature of the catalytic sites of the highest‐performing materials that limits the fundamental insights that can be extracted. To this end, a conductive metal‐organic framework‐based electrocatalytic model system with well‐defined M−O4 active sites for electrochemical HMF oxidation was developed. These materials were found to be highly active towards FDCA generation, with product yields of over 95 %. In parallel, infrared spectroscopy was employed to capture a surface‐bound aldehyde group as the key intermediate in the catalytic cycle, which forms once M(II/III) oxidation occurs. This work illustrates the advantage of utilizing molecularly defined active sites coupled with operando spectroscopy to provide fundamental insights into a variety of electrosynthetic reactions and thus paves the way for future catalyst design.
A predictive power management scheme for hybrid energy storage system in electric vehicle
Authors: Katnapally Akhil , Manthati Udaya Bhasker , Chirayarukil Raveendran Arunkumar , Punna Srinivas
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a model predictive control (MPC) approach for energy management of a hybrid energy storage system (HESS), in an electric vehicle (EV). HESS constitutes the battery and the supercapacitor (SC) where the latter is used as an auxiliary source to reduce stress on the battery. Hence, an appropriate control strategy should be formulated for allocating low‐frequency power fluctuations to the battery and high‐frequency power fluctuations to SC. The conventional PI‐based control strategy has a difficult tuning process, and its performance is affected when the operating point fluctuates. Therefore, an MPC‐based control strategy is proposed because of its simplicity, intuitiveness, ease of implementation, and inclusion of nonlinearities and constraints. This paper provides a complete power management strategy for the HESS system, using a modified MPC approach which is simpler compared to the traditional MPC, for a multiple‐input bidirectional DC/DC converter. Firstly, the model of a dual input bidirectional DC/DC converter is developed, and a two‐loop control strategy is developed with predictive inner current control and outer voltage control for DC‐link voltage regulation and HESS energy management. Secondly, an SC voltage regulation loop is developed for enabling the charging and discharging of SC for reliable operation of the HESS system. Finally, simulation studies are done using MATLAB Simulink, and a prototype experimental setup is developed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy through the dSPACE platform.
Prevalence and correlates of weight gain attempts across five countries
Authors: Ganson Kyle T. , Nagata Jason M. , Lavender Jason M. , Rodgers Rachel F. , L. Cunningham Mitchell , Murray Stuart B. , Hammond David
Published: August 2021

Objective

To determine the prevalence and correlates of weight gain attempts in a pooled sample of adults aged 18 and older from Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Mexico.

Method

Data collected during 2 years (2018 and 2019) of the International Food Policy Study (N = 42,108) were analyzed. Unadjusted 12‐month prevalence of weight gain attempts was estimated based on body mass index (BMI; kg/m2), weight perception, country, survey year, and sex. Logistic regression analyses were estimated to determine the sociodemographic correlates (age, race/ethnicity, education, BMI, weight perception, weight perception accuracy, and self‐rated mental health) of weight gain attempts among the pooled sample stratified by sex.

Results

Men (10.4%) were significantly more likely than women (5.4%) to report weight gain attempts (p < .001). Nearly one in five (17.1%) men with a BMI in the “normal” range (≥18.5 to <25.0) reported weight gain attempts. Among both men and women, minority group identity was associated with higher odds, while older age and higher BMI category were associated with lower odds, of reporting weight gain attempts. Country differences over the two survey years showed the prevalence of weight gain attempts in 2019 (vs. 2018) was higher among women in Australia (p < .05) and men in the United States (p < .01).

Discussion

Weight gain attempts are more common among men, compared to women, across five countries, potentially reflecting the global salience of the pursuit of a muscular body.