bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging IoT domains, current standings and open research challenges: a review
Authors: Ali Omer , Ishak Mohamad Khairi , Bhatti Muhammad Kamran Liaquat
Published: August 2021

Over the last decade, the Internet of Things (IoT) domain has grown dramatically, from ultra-low-power hardware design to cloud-based solutions, and now, with the rise of 5G technology, a new horizon for edge computing on IoT devices will be introduced. A wide range of communication technologies has steadily evolved in recent years, representing a diverse range of domain areas and communication specifications. Because of the heterogeneity of technology and interconnectivity, the true realisation of the IoT ecosystem is currently hampered by multiple dynamic integration challenges. In this context, several emerging IoT domains necessitate a complete re-modeling, design, and standardisation from the ground up in order to achieve seamless IoT ecosystem integration. The Internet of Nano-Things (IoNT), Internet of Space-Things (IoST), Internet of Underwater-Things (IoUT) and Social Internet of Things (SIoT) are investigated in this paper with a broad future scope based on their integration and ability to source other IoT domains by highlighting their application domains, state-of-the-art research, and open challenges. To the best of our knowledge, there is little or no information on the current state of these ecosystems, which is the motivating factor behind this article. Finally, the paper summarises the integration of these ecosystems with current IoT domains and suggests future directions for overcoming the challenges.
Usable comprehensive-factor authentication for a secure time attendance system
Authors: Vorakulpipat Chalee , Pichetjamroen Sasakorn , Rattanalerdnusorn Ekkachan
Published: August 2021

In information security, it is widely accepted that the more authentication factors are used, the higher the security level. However, more factors cannot guarantee usability in real usage because human and other non-technical factors are involved. This paper proposes the use of all possible authentication factors, called comprehensive-factor authentication, which can maintain the required security level and usability in real-world implementation. A case study of an implementation of a secure time attendance system that applies this approach is presented. The contribution of this paper is therefore to provide a security scheme seamlessly integrating all classical authentication factors plus a location factor into one single system in a real environment with a security and usability focus. Usability factors emerging from the study are related to a seamless process including the least number of actions required, the lowest amount of time taken, health safety during the pandemic, and data privacy compliance.
On the use of sequence-quality information in OTU clustering
Authors: Müller Robert , Nebel Markus
Published: August 2021

Background

High-throughput sequencing has become an essential technology in life science research. Despite continuous improvements in technology, the produced sequences are still not entirely accurate. Consequently, the sequences are usually equipped with error probabilities. The quality information is already employed to find better solutions to a number of bioinformatics problems (e.g. read mapping). Data processing pipelines benefit in particular (especially when incorporating the quality information early), since enhanced outcomes of one step can improve all subsequent ones. Preprocessing steps, thus, quite regularly consider the sequence quality to fix errors or discard low-quality data. Other steps, however, like clustering sequences into operational taxonomic units (OTUs), a common task in the analysis of microbial communities, are typically performed without making use of the available quality information.

Results

In this paper, we present quality-aware clustering methods inspired by quality-weighted alignments and model-based denoising, and explore their applicability to OTU clustering. We implemented the quality-aware methods in a revised version of our de novo clustering tool GeFaST and evaluated their clustering quality and performance on mock-community data sets. Quality-weighted alignments were able to improve the clustering quality of GeFaST by up to 10%. The examination of the model-supported methods provided a more diverse picture, hinting at a narrower applicability, but they were able to attain similar improvements. Considering the quality information enlarged both runtime and memory consumption, even though the increase of the former depended heavily on the applied method and clustering threshold.

Conclusions

The quality-aware methods expand the iterative, de novo clustering approach by new clustering and cluster refinement methods. Our results indicate that OTU clustering constitutes yet another analysis step benefiting from the integration of quality information. Beyond the shown potential, the quality-aware methods offer a range of opportunities for fine-tuning and further extensions.
Phytochemical Constituents of Carrot (Daucus carota) Fruit Juice and its Hepatoprotective Property in CCl4-Induced Liver Cirrhotic Rats
Authors: Na’Allah Asiat , Alabi Mutiu Adewunmi , Kareem Fatai A. , Obatoye Ayodeji O. , Attahir Shukuriyya , Umar Rahma
Published: August 2021

Aim: This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents of Carrot fruit juice (CFJ) and its hepatoprotective property in CCl4-induced liver cirrhotic rats.

Study Design: Sixty male rats of weight ranging from 150-180 g were completely randomized into six groups. All rats were administered 0.5 ml/kg CCl4 subcutaneously thrice weekly except groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 while rats in groups 3 and 6 and groups 4 and 5 orally received 2.5 and 5.0 ml/kg of CFJ on daily basis for 12 weeks.

Results: The preliminary qualitative phytochemical screening of extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, carbohydrate, saponin, phenolic compound and tannins. The extract treated groups significantly revealed an increase in liver cirrhotic emaciated body weight and reduction in the liver index, a reversal of liver marker enzymes activities, an increase in enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants with a decrease in malondialdehyde level reduction in C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, alpha-fetoprotein, and carcinoembryonic antigen. Exposure of animal to CCl4 induces oxidative stress, increases the generation of reactive oxygen species and myeloperoxidase activity, and reduces cell viability but was reversed by the CFJ.

Conclusion: The result showed that CFJ is a promising therapeutic option for treating liver failure.
Clomiphene Stair-Step Protocol versus Traditional Protocol for Ovulation Induction in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients
Authors: Kader Afaf S. Abd El , Dawood Ayman S. , Morsy Ahmed T. , Salem Hesham A.
Published: August 2021

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women in the reproductive period. It is one of the leading causes of infertility. The manifestations of PCOS include irregular or no menstrual periods, excess body weight and facial hair, acne, heavy periods and pelvic pain. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of stair step protocol compared to traditional protocol in ovulation induction of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients in terms of increasing rate of ovulation and pregnancy.

Methods: This study is non-blinded, multicenter, randomized controlled study and was carried out on infertile women attending the Fertility Clinic of Tanta University Hospital and Hurghada General Hospital. Two Hundred infertile patients with PCOS criteria and no other causes of infertility were enrolled according to inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results: Student t test was used for the continuous variables (FSH, LH, Prolactin, AMH, TSH, Free testosterone). Student t test was used for the continuous variables (Endometrial thickness, Time to ovulate (d)). Chi-square analysis was used for the categorical variables (Ovulation rate, Pregnancy rate). Chi-square analysis was used for the categorical variables (Ovulation rate per cycle). There was no significant difference between two groups as regards mild and severe side effects.

Conclusions: This study concluded that stair step regimen improves the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate without any detrimental side effects compared to traditional regimen. It helps to know the sensitivity and resistance of an individual to clomiphene citrate much earlier and helps to plan ahead with alternative treatment for desired outcome. The advantage of shorter treatment period with similar side effects makes the stair step protocol suitable for use in routine clinical practice.
Using Element Birth and Death Technique in Modeling Cumulative Molded Substrate Expansion before Singulation
Authors: Talledo Jefferson
Published: August 2021

Semiconductor packages are commonly assembled and molded in array format on a substrate strip before they are singulated into individual units. However, cumulative substrate expansion causes problems such as machine vacuum error or misaligned cut during singulation if the substrate expansion is not factored in. This study uses element birth and death technique in modeling the overall expansion of the molded substrate strip so that the predicted expansion could be considered in the singulation tooling design offsets. The expansion of the substrate was modeled with the different package assembly processes and thermal conditions. Modeling results showed that there is a cumulative increase in the length of the substrate as it passes through the different processes. The results are in agreement with actual substrate expansion prior to package singulation. This would not be captured when simulation is done only for the molded substrate without considering the cumulative contribution of the preceding processes. With the element birth and death technique in process-based thermomechanical modeling, substrate expansion could already be forecasted, and package assembly problems avoided.
Cactus‐Spine‐Inspired Sweat‐Collecting Patch for Fast and Continuous Monitoring of Sweat
Authors: Son Jonghyun , Bae Geun Yeol , Lee Siyoung , Lee Giwon , Kim Seong Won , Kim Daegun , Chung Sein , Cho Kilwon
Published: August 2021

A sweat sensor is expected to be the most appropriate wearable device for noninvasive healthcare monitoring. However, the practical use of sweat sensors is impeded by irregular and low sweat secretion rates. Here, a sweat‐collecting patch that can collect sweat efficiently for fast and continuous healthcare monitoring is demonstrated. The patch uses cactus‐spine‐inspired wedge‐shaped wettability‐patterned channels on a hierarchical microstructured/nanostructured surface. The channel shape, in combination with the superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic surface materials, induces a unidirectional Laplace pressure that transports the sweat to the sensing area spontaneously even when the patch is aligned vertically. The patch demonstrates superior sweat‐collecting efficiency and reduces the time required to fill the sensing area by transporting sweat almost without leaving it inside the channel. Therefore, a sensor based on the patch responds quickly to biochemicals in sweat, and the patch enables the continuous monitoring of changes in sweat biochemicals according to their changes in the wearer's blood.
Exceptionally High Blocking Temperature of 17 K in a Surface‐Supported Molecular Magnet
Authors: Paschke Fabian , Birk Tobias , Enenkel Vivien , Liu Fupin , Romankov Vladyslav , Dreiser Jan , Popov Alexey A. , Fonin Mikhail
Published: August 2021

Single‐molecule magnets (SMMs) are among the most promising building blocks for future magnetic data storage or quantum computing applications, owing to magnetic bistability and long magnetic relaxation times. The practical device integration requires realization of 2D surface assemblies of SMMs, where each magnetic unit shows magnetic relaxation being sufficiently slow at application‐relevant temperatures. Using X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and X‐ray magnetic circular dichroism, it is shown that sub‐monolayers of Dy2@C80(CH2Ph) dimetallofullerenes prepared on graphene by electrospray deposition exhibit magnetic behavior fully comparable to that of the bulk. Magnetic hysteresis and relaxation time measurements show that the magnetic moment remains stable for 100 s at 17 K, marking the blocking temperature TB(100), being not only in excellent agreement with that of the bulk sample but also representing by far the highest one detected for a surface‐supported single‐molecule magnet. The reported findings give a boost to the efforts to stabilize and address the spin degree of freedom in molecular magnets aiming at the realization of SMM‐based spintronic units.
Photonic Bandgap in Achiral Liquid Crystals—A Twist on a Twist
Authors: Pociecha Damian , Vaupotič Nataša , Majewska Magdalena , Cruickshank Ewan , Walker Rebecca , Storey John M. D. , Imrie Corrie T. , Wang Cheng , Gorecka Ewa
Published: August 2021

Achiral mesogenic molecules are shown to be able to spontaneously assemble into liquid crystalline smectic phases having either simple or double‐helical structures. At the transition between these phases, the double‐helical structure unwinds. As a consequence, in some temperature range, the pitch of the helix becomes comparable to the wavelength of visible light and the selective reflection of light in the visible range is observed. The photonic bandgap phenomenon is reported for achiral liquid crystals.
Nutrient Element Decorated Polyetheretherketone Implants Steer Mitochondrial Dynamics for Boosted Diabetic Osseointegration
Authors: Wang Hao , Fu Xinliang , Shi Jiacheng , Li Limei , Sun Jiyu , Zhang Xidan , Han Qiuyang , Deng Yi , Gan Xueqi
Published: August 2021

As a chronic metabolic disease, diabetes mellitus (DM) creates a hyperglycemic micromilieu around implants, resulting inthe high complication and failure rate of implantation because of mitochondrial dysfunction in hyperglycemia. To address the daunting issue, the authors innovatively devised and developed mitochondria‐targeted orthopedic implants consisted of nutrient element coatings and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Dual nutrient elements, in the modality of ZnO and Sr(OH)2, are assembled onto the sulfonated PEEK surface (Zn&Sr‐SPEEK). The results indicate the synergistic liberation of Zn2+ and Sr2+ from coating massacres pathogenic bacteria and dramatically facilitates cyto‐activity of osteoblasts upon the hyperglycemic niche. Intriguingly, Zn&Sr‐SPEEK implants are demonstrated to have a robust ability to recuperate hyperglycemia‐induced mitochondrial dynamic disequilibrium and dysfunction by means of Dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) gene down‐regulation, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) resurgence, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) elimination, ultimately enhancing osteogenicity of osteoblasts. In vivo evaluations utilizing diabetic rat femoral/tibia defect model at 4 and 8 weeks further confirm that nutrient element coatings substantially augment bone remodeling and osseointegration. Altogether, this study not only reveals the importance of Zn2+ and Sr2+ modulation on mitochondrial dynamics that contributes to bone formation and osseointegration, but also provides a novel orthopedic implant for diabetic patients with mitochondrial modulation capability.
In Vivo Clonal Analysis Reveals Development Heterogeneity of Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells Derived from Distinct Germinal Zones
Authors: Liu Rui , Jia Yinhang , Guo Peng , Jiang Wenhong , Bai Ruiliang , Liu Chong
Published: August 2021

Mounting evidence supports that oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) play important roles in maintaining the integrity of normal brains, and that their dysfunction is the etiology of numerous severe neurological diseases. OPCs exhibit diverse heterogeneity in the adult brain, and distinct germinal zones of the embryonic brain contribute to OPC genesis. However, it remains obscure whether developmental origins shape OPC heterogeneity in the adult brain. Here, an in vivo clonal analysis approach is developed to address this. By combining OPC‐specific transgenes, in utero electroporation, and the PiggyBac transposon system, the lineages of individual neonatal OPCs derived from either dorsal or ventral embryonic germinal zones are traced, and the landscape of their trajectories is comprehensively described throughout development. Surprisingly, despite behaving indistinguishably in the brain before weaning, dorsally derived OPCs continuously expand throughout life, but ventrally derived OPCs eventually diminish. Importantly, clonal analysis supports the existence of an intrinsic cellular “clock” to control OPC expansion. Moreover, knockout of NF1 could circumvent the distinction of ventrally derived OPCs in the adult brain. Together, this work shows the importance of in vivo clonal analysis in studying stem/progenitor cell heterogeneity, and reveals that developmental origins play a role in determining OPC fate.
Rheological properties of phase transitions in polydisperse and monodisperse colloidal rod systems
Authors: He Shiqin , Pascucci Dominic R. , Caggioni Marco , Lindberg Seth , Schultz Kelly M.
Published: August 2021

Rheological modifiers are added to formulations to tune rheology, enable function and drive phase changes requiring an understanding of material structure and properties. We characterize two colloidal rod systems during phase transitions using multiple particle tracking microrheology, which measures the Brownian motion of probes embedded in a sample. These systems include a colloid (monodisperse polyamide or polydisperse hydrogenated castor oil), surfactant (linear alkylbenzene sulfonate [LAS]), and nonabsorbing polymer (polyethylene oxide [PEO]) which drives gelation by depletion interactions. Phase transitions are characterized at all concentrations using time‐cure superposition. We determine that rheological evolution depends onLAS:colloid. The critical PEO concentration required to form a gel,cc/c*, is independent ofLAS:colloid, critical relaxation exponent,n, is dependent onLAS:colloid, and both are independent of colloid polydispersity.nindicates the material structure at the phase transition. AtLAS:colloid > 16, the scaffold is a tightly associated network and atLAS:colloid = 16 a loosely associated network.
Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Cascade C−H Activation/Annulation of N‐carbamoylindoles with Silyl Enol Ethers for the Construction of Dihydropyrimidoindolone Skeletons
Authors: Chen Lu , Wang Zhichao , Pang Binghan , Wang Yangyang , Xu Xiaobo , Wu Gaorong , Ji Yafei
Published: August 2021

A novel route to 3,4‐dihydropyrimido[1,6‐a]indol‐1(2H)‐one derivatives enabled by Rh(III)‐catalyzed cascade C−H activation/annulation of N‐carbamoylindoles with silyl enol ethers has been reported. The reaction features mild conditions, wide substrate scope, diverse functional group tolerance and moderate to good yields. Furthermore, a plausible reaction mechanism is confirmed by an available rhodacycle intermediate.
An Efficient Synthesis of Alkyl Dithiocarbamates through Michael‐type Addition of Tetraalkylthiuram Disulfides to Electrophilic Alkenes
Authors: Hao Shuai , Ding Songshuang , Wu Zhiyong , Bi Haoyang , Bai Feng , Yang Xinling , Wang Longfei , Wang Yiying , Shen Hongtao , Zhao Mingqin
Published: August 2021

A novel and efficient process for the synthesis of alkyl dithiocarbamates from electrophilic alkenes and tetraalkylthiuram disulfides was presented. The reactions proceed under mild conditions to afford the products in high yields, excellent functional group tolerance and step efficiency. This protocol realizes a pretty interesting methodology for alkyl dithiocarbamates synthesis under a Michael‐type addition progress.
Ring Distortion Diversity‐Oriented Approach to Fully Substituted Furoxans and Isoxazoles
Authors: Chaplygin Daniil A. , Gorbunov Yaroslav K. , Fershtat Leonid L.
Published: August 2021

A regioselective method for an assembly of pharmacologically relevant fully substituted furoxans and isoxazoles using the ring distortion diversity‐oriented approach through the one‐pot ring cleavage/nucleophilic addition/oxidation cascade of monosubstituted furoxans was developed. The described synthetic strategy is highly regioselective and provides single furoxan regioisomers upon utilization of N‐ or S‐nucleophiles. Utilization of the cyanide‐anion as a nucleophile in the same reaction cascade afforded a series of rather rare fully substituted isoxazoles incorporating vicinal nitro and amino functionalities. In addition, synthesized disubstituted furoxans revealed an ability to release NO indicating their strong potential as pharmacologically oriented drug candidates for various biomedical applications.
Effects of human variation on foot and ankle pain in rural Madagascar
Authors: Tasnim Noor , Schmitt Daniel , Zeininger Angel
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Foot and ankle dysfunction in barefoot/minimally shod populations remains understudied. Although factors affecting musculoskeletal pain in Western populations are well‐studied, little is known about how types of work, gender, and body shape influence bone and joint health in non‐Western and minimally shod communities. This study examines the effect of human variation on locomotor disability in an agrarian community in Madagascar.

Materials and methods

Foot measurements were collected along with height, weight, age, and self‐report data on daily activity and foot and ankle pain from 41 male and 48 female adults. A short form revised foot function index (FFI‐R), that measures functional disability related to foot pain, was calculated. Raw and normalized foot measurements were compared by gender and used in a multiple linear regression model to determine predictors of FFI‐R.

Results

Compared to men, women reported higher FFI‐R scores (p = 0.014), spent more time on their feet (p = 0.019), and had higher BMIs (p = 0.0001). For their weight, women had significantly smaller and narrower feet than men. Bimalleolar breadth (p = 0.0005) and foot length (p = 0.0223) standardized by height, time spent on feet (p = 0.0102), ankle circumference standardized by weight (p = 0.0316), and age (p = 0.0090) were significant predictors of FFI‐R score.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that human variation in anatomical and behavioral patterns serve as significant explanations for increased foot and ankle pain in women in this non‐Western rural population. Foot and ankle pain were prevalent at similar levels to those in industrialized populations, indicating that research should continue to examine its effect on similar barefoot/minimally shod communities.
Catalytically Active Gold Nanomaterials Stabilized byN‐heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Eisen Constantin , Chin Jia Min , Reithofer Michael R.
Published: August 2021

Solid supported or ligand capped gold nanomaterials (AuNMs) emerged as versatile and recyclable heterogeneous catalysts for a broad variety of conversions in the ongoing catalytic ′gold rush′. Existing at the border of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, AuNMs offer the potential to merge high catalytic activity with significant substrate selectivity. Owing to their strong binding towards the surface atoms of AuMNs, NHCs offer tunable activation of surface atoms while maintaining selectivity and stability of the NM even under challenging conditions. This work summarizes well‐defined catalytically active NHC capped AuNMs including spherical nanoparticles and atom‐precise nanoclusters as well as the important NHC design choices towards activity and (stereo‐)selectivity enhancements.
Diagnostic transcatheter aspiration for pulmonary artery tumor embolism using an INARI Triever aspiration catheter
Authors: Herron Christopher , J. Forbes Thomas , Kobayashi Daisuke
Published: August 2021

Pulmonary artery tumor embolism is a rare phenomenon and its diagnosis is important because of a poor prognosis. We report a 20‐year‐old male with history of metastatic osteosarcoma who presented with acute pulmonary embolism. He was urgently taken to the catheterization laboratory and underwent transcatheter aspiration of pulmonary artery mass using an INARI Triever aspiration catheter. Pathology of the aspirated specimen lead to the diagnosis of pulmonary artery tumor embolism, not thrombus. This case highlights the diagnostic utility of transcatheter aspiration for the pulmonary artery tumor embolism.
Modified tibial plateau levelling osteotomy to treat lateral patellar luxation and cranial cruciate ligament deficiency in a dog
Authors: Curuci Eloy H. P. , Bernardes Filippo J. L. , Minto Bruno W.
Published: August 2021

The use of modified tibial plateau leveling osteotomy adapted for correction of the lateral patellar dislocation was effective, allowing simultaneous treatment of lateral patellar luxation and cranial cruciate ligament deficiency.
Spontaneous intercostal artery bleeding in a patient with alcohol‐induced liver cirrhosis
Authors: Rahi Mandeep Singh , Pednekar Prachi , Parmar Gaurav , Keibel Lauren , Gunasekaran Kulothungan , Amoah Kwesi , Winterbottom Christopher
Published: August 2021

Spontaneous intercostal artery bleeding is a rare disease seen in cirrhosis and can present with hemodynamically significant blood loss anemia, hypotension, and shock. Transcatheter arterial embolization is an effective treatment for severe cases.
Contrast‐induced early repolarization pattern and ventricular fibrillation
Authors: Kariki Ourania , Kontonika Marianna , Miliopoulos Dimitrios , Bazoukis George , Vlachos Konstantinos , Dragasis Stylianos , Gouziouta Aggeliki , Letsas Konstantinos P. , Efremidis Michael , Voudris Vassilis
Published: August 2021

Malignant arrhythmias during coronary angiography consist a complication of the procedure. Clinicians should be aware that intracoronary infusion of contrast medium can lead to physiological changes that lower the ventricular fibrillation threshold.
Dicephalus parapagus conjoined twins
Authors: Karn Mitesh , Mahato Basant , Sah Pradip , Basnet Archana , Yonghang Sapana , Pandit Chandika
Published: August 2021

Dicephalus parapagus are conjoined twins with two separate heads. Proper identification helps in patient counseling and timely referral to specialist centers.
Laccase as a Tool in Building Advanced Lignin‐Based Materials
Authors: Agustin Melissa B. , de Carvalho Danila Morais , Lahtinen Maarit H. , Hilden Kristiina , Lundell Taina , Mikkonen Kirsi S.
Published: August 2021

Lignin is an abundant natural feedstock that offers great potential as a renewable substitute for fossil‐based resources. Its polyaromatic structure and unique properties have attracted significant research efforts. The advantages of an enzymatic over chemical or thermal approach to construct or deconstruct lignins are that it operates in mild conditions, requires less energy, and usually uses non‐toxic chemicals. Laccase is a widely investigated oxidative enzyme that can catalyze the polymerization and depolymerization of lignin. Its dual nature causes a challenge in controlling the overall direction of lignin‐laccase catalysis. In this Review, the factors that affect laccase‐catalyzed lignin polymerization were summarized, evaluated, and compared to identify key features that favor lignin polymerization. In addition, a critical assessment of the conditions that enable production of novel lignin hybrids via laccase‐catalyzed grafting was presented. To assess the industrial relevance of laccase‐assisted lignin valorization, patented applications were surveyed and industrial challenges and opportunities were analyzed. Finally, our perspective in realizing the full potential of laccase in building lignin‐based materials for advanced applications was deduced from analysis of the limitations governing laccase‐assisted lignin polymerization and grafting.
Catalytic Hydrogenolysis of Lignin: The Influence of Minor Units and Saccharides
Authors: Wang Zhiwen , Deuss Peter J.
Published: August 2021

The precise elucidation of native lignin structures plays a vital role for the development of “lignin first” strategies such as reductive catalytic fractionation. The structure of lignin and composition of the starting material has a major impact on the product yield and distribution. Here, the differences in structure of lignin from birch, pine, reed, and walnut shell were investigated by combining detailed analysis of the whole cell wall material, residual enzyme lignin, and milled wood lignin. The results of the 2D heteronuclear single quantum coherence NMR analysis could be correlated to the product from Ru/C‐catalyzed hydrogenolysis if monomeric products from ferulate and p‐coumaryl and its analogous units were also appropriately considered. Notably, residual polysaccharide constituents seemed to influence the selectivity towards hydroxy‐containing monomers. The results reinforced the importance of adequate structural characterization and compositional analysis of the starting materials as well as distinct (dis)advantages of specific types of structural characterization and isolation methods for guiding valorization potential of different biomass feedstocks.
Branched‐chain amino acids at supraphysiological but not physiological levels reduce myotube insulin sensitivity
Authors: Rivera Madison E. , Rivera Caroline N. , Vaughan Roger A.
Published: August 2021

Aims

Branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) are often emphasized in the diets of avid exercisers, yet population data demonstrates a correlation between circulating BCAA and insulin resistance. However, it is unclear if BCAA independently promote insulin resistance in otherwise healthy cells. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of a BCAA mixture on muscle insulin signaling in vitro in both insulin resistant and sensitive cells.

Materials and Methods

C2C12 myotubes were treated with a BCAA mixture containing leucine:isoleucine:valine at a ratio of 2:1:1 at 0.2, 2, or 20 mM (based on leucine content) for either 30 min, 1 day, or 6 days. Western blot was used to assess insulin sensitivity of cells treated with BCAA both with and without concurrent insulin resistance, and, with and without insulin stimulation.

Results

BCAA treatment for 1 day significantly reduced basal, but not insulin‐stimulated pAkt expression. BCAA treatment for 6 days resulted in significantly reduced basal insulin signaling in healthy cells and insulin‐stimulated insulin signaling in insulin resistant (but not insulin sensitive) cells.

Conclusion

Similar to previous observations demonstrating BCAA may correlate with insulin resistance during metabolically stressed conditions, we demonstrate excessively high BCAA exposure can negatively influence basal insulin signaling, as well as insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant myotubes. However, given the intentionally high concentrations of BCAA used in this study, the extent to which these observations translate to in vivo models is unclear and warrants further investigation.
Sublethal effects of a rapidly spreading native alga on a key herbivore
Authors: Bradley Daniel J. , Boada Jordi , Gladstone William , Glasby Timothy M. , Gribben Paul E.
Published: August 2021

Multiple anthropogenic stressors are causing a global decline in foundation species, including macrophytes, often resulting in the expansion of functionally different, more stressor‐tolerant macrophytes. Previously subdominant species may experience further positive demographic feedback if they are exposed to weaker plant–herbivore interactions, possibly via decreased palatability or being structurally different from the species they are replacing. However, the consequences of the spread of opportunistic macrophytes for the local distribution and life history of herbivores are unknown.

The green alga,Caulerpa filiformis, previously a subdominant macrophyte on low intertidal‐shallow subtidal rock shores, is becoming locally more abundant and has spread into warmer waters across the coast of New South Wales, Australia.

In this study, we measured (a) the distribution and abundance of a key consumer, the sea urchinHeliocidaris erythrogramma,across a seascape at sites whereC. filiformishas become dominant, (b) performed behavioral field experiments to test the role of habitat selection in determining the local distribution ofH. erythrogramma,and (c) consumer experiments to test differential palatability between previously dominant higher quality species likeEcklonia radiataandSargassumsp. andC. filiformisand the physiological consequences of consuming it.

At all sites, urchin densities were positively correlated with distance away fromC. filiformisbeds, and they actively moved away from beds. Feeding experiments showed that, while urchins consumedC. filiformis,sometimes in equal amounts to higher quality algae, there were strong sublethal consequences associated withC. filiformisconsumption, mainly on reproductive potential (gonad size). Specifically, the gonad size of urchins that fed onC. filiformiswas equivalent to that in starved urchins. There was also a tendency for urchin mortality to be greater when fedC. filiformis.

Overall, strong negative effects on herbivore life‐history traits and potentially their survivorship may establish further positive feedback onC. filiformisabundance that contributes to its spread and may mediate shifts from top‐down to bottom‐up control at locations whereC. filiformishas become dominant.
Cryptococcus gattii polysaccharide capsule: An insight on fungal‐host interactions and vaccine studies
Authors: Freitas Gustavo J. C. , Santos Daniel A.
Published: August 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii complexes are the main causative agents of cryptococcosis, a neglected disease with high lethality. The capsule, composed predominantly of the capsular polysaccharide (CP) GXM, is the main virulence factor of this pathogen. The role of CP is well described for C. neoformans and; however, there is a scarcity of studies focused on C. gattii, especially in the context of the fungal–host interaction. Understanding how the immune system recognizes C. gattii can generate meaningful information for diagnosing, preventing, and treating cryptococcosis. In the current issue of the European Journal of Immunology [Eur. J. Immunol. 2021. 51: 2281–2295], Ueno et al. demonstrate that CP inhibits C. gattii recognition by CD11b. In this commentary, we highlight the importance of deeply understanding the role of C. gattii CP during infection and how this knowledge would influence the strategies to develop new vaccines against cryptococcosis.
Investigation of viscoelastic focusing of particles and cells in a zigzag microchannel
Authors: Yuan Dan , Yadav Sharda , Ta Hang T. , Fallahi Hedieh , An Hongjie , Kashaninejad Navid , Ooi Chin Hong , Nguyen Nam‐Trung , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2021

Microfluidic particle focusing has been a vital prerequisite step in sample preparation for downstream particle separation, counting, detection, or analysis, and has attracted broad applications in biomedical and chemical areas. Besides all the active and passive focusing methods in Newtonian fluids, particle focusing in viscoelastic fluids has been attracting increasing interest because of its advantages induced by intrinsic fluid property. However, to achieve a well‐defined focusing position, there is a need to extend channel lengths when focusing micrometer‐sized or sub‐microsized particles, which would result in the size increase of the microfluidic devices. This work investigated the sheathless viscoelastic focusing of particles and cells in a zigzag microfluidic channel. Benefit from the zigzag structure of the channel, the channel length and the footprint of the device can be reduced without sacrificing the focusing performance. In this work, the viscoelastic focusing, including the focusing of 10 μm polystyrene particles, 5 μm polystyrene particles, 5 μm magnetic particles, white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), and cancer cells, were all demonstrated. Moreover, magnetophoretic separation of magnetic and nonmagnetic particles after viscoelastic pre‐focusing was shown. This focusing technique has the potential to be used in a range of biomedical applications.
Improved Symbiotic Organisms Search Algorithm for Optimal Operation of Active Distribution Systems Incorporating Renewables and Emerging Data‐Center Resources
Authors: Zeng Bo , Xu Hao , Wang Wenshi , Zhu Lei
Published: August 2021

The optimal operation analysis plays an important role in estimating the expected return of investment for power systems. However, this work could be highly challenging under the context of active distribution network, where a variety of renewable energy sources and emerging active loads (such as Internet data centers) could be penetrated that introduce a high level of nonlinearity and nonconvexity characteristics into the system modeling. To overcome such challenge, this paper presents a new methodological framework based on the improvements of symbiotic organisms search (SOS) algorithm to address the optimal operation problem of active distribution systems containing renewable energy sources and datacenter resources, aiming to provide a practical tool for system analysis, particularly subject to nonconvexity nature of system components. For this purpose, a generic model for the distribution system including wind power, PV, and datacenter resources is first developed, which not only captures the uncertain nature of system components but also accounts for their spatiotemporal flexibility during operation. On this basis, in order to improve the computation efficiency of the problem, the SOS algorithm is improved by designing the selection strategy of random parameters. By using the penalty function method, the concerned problem is expressed as a nonlinear unconstrained optimization problem. The performance of the proposed model and algorithm is examined through comparative studies. It is shown that the proposed method is able to schedule the renewable energy resources and flexible demand of datacenters coordinately to reduce the operation cost of the system significantly in the case study. In addition, the proposed algorithm demonstrates a higher level of accuracy as well as better convergence efficiency compared to other conventional techniques.
Soil erosion and sediment transport in Tanzania: Part II – sedimentological evidence of phased land degradation
Authors: Wynants Maarten , Patrick Aloyce , Munishi Linus , Mtei Kelvin , Bodé Samuel , Taylor Alex , Millward Geoffrey , Roberts Neil , Gilvear David , Ndakidemi Patrick , Boeckx Pascal , Blake William H.
Published: August 2021

Soil resources in parts of Tanzania are rapidly being depleted by increased rates of soil erosion and downstream sediment transport, threatening ecosystem health, water and livelihood security in the region. However, incomplete understanding to what effect the dynamics of soil erosion and sediment transport are responding to land‐use changes and climatic variability are hindering the actions needed to future‐proof Tanzanian land‐use practices. Complementary environmental diagnostic tools were applied to reconstruct the rates and sources of sedimentation over time in three Tanzanian river systems that have experienced changing land use and climatic conditions. Detailed historical analysis of sediment deposits revealed drastic changes in sediment yield and source contributions. Quantitative sedimentation reconstruction using radionuclide dating showed a 20‐fold increase in sediment yield over the past 120 years. The observed dramatic increase in sediment yield is most likely driven by increasing land‐use pressures. Deforestation, cropland expansion and increasing grazing pressures resulted into accelerating rates of sheet erosion. A regime shift after years of progressive soil degradation and convergence of surface flows resulted into a highly incised landscape, where high amounts of eroded soil from throughout the catchment are rapidly transported downstream by strongly connected ephemeral drainage networks. By integrating complementary spatial and temporal evidence bases, this study demonstrated links between land‐use change, increased soil erosion and downstream sedimentation. Such evidence can guide stakeholders and policy makers in the design of targeted management interventions to safeguard future soil health and water quality.
Assessing the usefulness of survey‐based data in forecasting firms' capital formation: Evidence from Italy
Authors: Giordano Claire , Marinucci Marco , Silvestrini Andrea
Published: August 2021

While there is a vast macroeconomic literature that singles out the main drivers of capital accumulation in advanced economies during and after the global financial and sovereign debt crises' recessionary phase, there is much less research seeking to identify both models and variables that possess out‐of‐sample forecasting ability for gross fixed capital formation. Moreover, micro‐founded variables are scarcely employed in macroeconomic forecasting of real investment. We fill this gap by considering a battery of univariate and multivariate time series models to forecast investment of nonfinancial corporations in Italy, an interesting case study due to its steep downturn during the two aforementioned crises. We find that a vector error correction model augmented with firm survey‐based variables accounting for business confidence, demand uncertainty and financing constraints generally outperforms the autoregressive benchmark, and a series of competing multivariate time series models in various, alternative, evaluation samples that take into account the impact of both the global financial crisis and the sovereign debt crisis on forecast accuracy.
Identification of the promising Ziziphus spina‐christi (L.) Willd. genotypes using pomological and chemical proprieties
Authors: Zandiehvakili Golnar , Khadivi Ali
Published: August 2021

Ziziphus spina‐christi (L.) Willd. is a multi‐purpose plant and is very popular found in local markets because of its high nutritional and medicinal values. The present work was carried out to study morphological and chemical properties of native accessions of this species. There were significant differences among the accessions investigated based on the morphological and chemical characters. Total phenolic content ranged from 4.84 to 49.58 mg/g fresh weight (FW). Total flavonoid content varied from 0.45 to 2.29 mg/g FW. Antioxidant activity measured with DPPH ranged from 0.32 to 16.99 mg/g FW, while it ranged from 6.64 to 84.15 µM FeSO4 FW with the FRAP method. The total phenol content showed significant and positive correlations with total flavonoid content (r = 0.33), antioxidant activity obtained with DPPH (r = 0.85), and antioxidant activity obtained with FRAP (r = 0.54). The ward dendrograms divided the accessions studied into two major clusters based on morphological and chemical characteristics. Based on the traits related to fruit quality such as fruit weight, fruit skin color, and fruit flavor, as well as in terms of chemical characteristics related to medicinal properties such as total flavonoids and antioxidant activity, 17 accessions were superior that could be used in breeding programs or cultivated directly. The present results can be used in defining conservation strategies, genetic improvement, and crop production.
A phylogenetic analysis of the wild Tulipa species (Liliaceae) of Kosovo based on plastid and nuclear DNA sequence
Authors: Hajdari Avni , Pulaj Bledar , Schmiderer Corinna , Mala Xhavit , Wilson Brett , Lluga‐Rizani Kimete , Mustafa Behxhet
Published: August 2021

In Kosovo, the genus Tulipa is represented by eight taxa, most of which form a species complex surrounding Tulipa scardica. To investigate the phylogenetic relationship of these Tulipa species a Bayesian analysis was undertaken using the ITS nuclear marker and trnL‐trnF, rbcL and psbA‐trnH plastid markers. The resulting phylogenetic trees show that Kosovarian Tulipa species consistently group into two main clades, the subgenera Eriostemones and Tulipa. Furthermore, our analyses provide some evidence that the subspecies of Tulipa sylvestris are genetically distinguishable, however not significantly enough to support their reclassification as species. In contrast, the markers provide some novel information to reassess the species concepts of the T. scardica complex. Our data provide support for the synonymisation of Tulipa luanica and Tulipa kosovarica under the species Tulipa serbica. Resolution and sampling limitations hinder any concrete conclusion about whether Tulipa albanica and T. scardica are true species, yet our data do provide some support that these are unique taxa and therefore should continue to be treated as such until further clarification. Overall, our work shows that genetic data will be important in determining species concepts in this genus, however, even with a molecular perspective pulling apart closely related taxa can be extremely challenging.
Deep seabed mining and communities: A transdisciplinary approach to ecological risk assessment in the South Pacific
Authors: Reichelt-Brushett Amanda , Hewitt Judi , Kaiser Stefanie , Kim Rakhyun E. , Wood Ray
Published: August 2021

Deep-sea mineral extraction is a fledgling industry whose guiding principles, legislation, protocols, and regulations are still evolving. Responsible management of the industry is difficult when it is not clearly understood what biological and environmental diversity or ecosystem services may be at risk. But the industry's infancy provides an opportunity to address this challenge by stakeholder-led development and implementation of a multidisciplinary risk assessment framework. This article aims to present the findings of a workshop held in New Zealand that hosted stakeholders from a broad range of interests and regions in the South Pacific associated with the deep-sea mineral activity. The outputs provide stakeholder-informed ecological risk assessment approaches for deep-sea mining activities, identifying tools and techniques to improve the relevance of risk assessment of deep seabed mining projects to communities in the South Pacific. Discussions highlighted the importance of trust or respect among stakeholders, valuing the “life force” of the ocean, the importance of scientific data, and the complications associated with defining acceptable change. This research highlighted the need for a holistic transdisciplinary approach that connects science, management, industry, and community, an approach most likely to provide a “social license” to operate. There is also a need to revise traditional risk assessment methods to make them more relevant to stakeholders. The development of ecotoxicological tools and approaches is an example of how existing practices could be improved to better support deep-sea mineral management. A case study is provided that highlights the current challenges within the legislative framework of New Zealand. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:664–673. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

The development of deep-sea mining requires a considered balance between the needs of society for mineral resources, the protection of ecosystems that are poorly understood, and confidence that local communities will not bear the social costs of poor or misunderstood implementation and management. Standard ecotoxicity tests using a few species need to be adapted to develop tests that assess risks to ecosystem structure and function using species that are valued by local communities in the South Pacific, and relevant to locations of proposed deep seabed mining. A fully accessible shared database of deep-sea knowledge including biodiversity, habitat structure, and ecosystem services should be available to all stakeholders. The new modeling method can be applied elsewhere to prepare for the adverse effects of rain following a bushfire by minimizing sediment in runoffs.