bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circularly Polarized Luminescence in Chiral π‐Conjugated Macrocycles
Authors: Hasegawa Masashi , Nojima Yuki , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: August 2021

The design and synthesis of novel π‐conjugated macrocycles have been an attractive topic in synthetic chemistry and material and supramolecular chemistry. The distortion caused by the strain of the rigid cyclic structure confers an intrinsic chirality to the π‐conjugated unit without a chiral center. In addition, due to the cyclic arrangement of multiple π‐conjugated units through the stereogenic elements, macrocyclic compounds have a configurationally stable symmetrical structure. They usually impart intensive circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) properties, and some of them exhibit outstanding dissymmetry factor (|glum|>0.1) for a simple organic molecule. This Minireview offers the first overview of a various range of CPL emitters based on chiral macrocycles. A focus is given to the relationship between molecular structure, symmetry, and CPL properties, derived from electric and magnetic transition dipole moments. It is hoped that this review will boost to the development of functional materials of these exotic organic CPL emitters.
Association mapping and pathway analysis of ear rot disease caused byAspergillus flavusin a panel of tropical maize germplasm
Authors: Bertagna Filipe Augusto Bengosi , Kuki Maurício Carlos , Zeni Neto Hugo , Tessmann Dauri José , Pinto Ronald José Barth , Scapim Carlos Alberto , Williams William Paul , Warburton Marilyn
Published: August 2021

The fungusAspergillus flavuscan produce high, unsafe levels of aflatoxin in maize (Zea maysL.) and other high‐oil seed crops under environmental conditions favoring fungal growth and sporulation. At high levels, aflatoxin can kill, and chronic exposure to lower levels causes liver cancer, stunted growth during childhood, and depressed immune systems in humans and animals. Aspergillus ear rot (AER) is especially problematic in tropical environments, but most gene identification studies have been done in temperate or subtropical maize. Thus, the objectives of this research include identifying and mapping chromosomal regions and genes associated with AER resistance in tropical maize inbred lines via genome‐wide association study (GWAS) and tying these genes to metabolic pathways and potential resistance mechanisms. A panel of 320 tropical field corn and popcorn inbred lines was analyzed with phenotypic data for AER collected in two environments after harvest, and a set of 291,633 high‐quality polymorphic single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) generated via genotyping by sequencing. Seven SNPs significantly associated with AER were identified. Pathway analysis identified 56 associated pathways, yielding possible resistance mechanisms related to flavonoid and phytoalexin plant compounds, plant signaling via hormones, starch biosynthesis, and general plant growth and metabolism. Many of the same genes were identified by both analyses, but GWAS and pathway analysis jointly identified more candidate genes than either alone.
Modeling of Electron‐Transfer Kinetics in Magnesium Electrolytes: Influence of the Solvent on the Battery Performance
Authors: Drews Janina , Jankowski Piotr , Häcker Joachim , Li Zhenyou , Danner Timo , García Lastra Juan Maria , Vegge Tejs , Wagner Norbert , Friedrich K. Andreas , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong , Fichtner Maximilian , Latz Arnulf
Published: August 2021

The performance of rechargeable magnesium batteries is strongly dependent on the choice of electrolyte. The desolvation of multivalent cations usually goes along with high energy barriers, which can have a crucial impact on the plating reaction. This can lead to significantly higher overpotentials for magnesium deposition compared to magnesium dissolution. In this work we combine experimental measurements with DFT calculations and continuum modelling to analyze Mg deposition in various solvents. Jointly, these methods provide a better understanding of the electrode reactions and especially the magnesium deposition mechanism. Thereby, a kinetic model for electrochemical reactions at metal electrodes is developed, which explicitly couples desolvation to electron transfer and, furthermore, qualitatively takes into account effects of the electrochemical double layer. The influence of different solvents on the battery performance is studied for the state‐of‐the‐art magnesium tetrakis(hexafluoroisopropyloxy)borate electrolyte salt. It becomes apparent that not necessarily a whole solvent molecule must be stripped from the solvated magnesium cation before the first reduction step can take place. For Mg reduction it seems to be sufficient to have one coordination site available, so that the magnesium cation is able to get closer to the electrode surface. Thereby, the initial desolvation of the magnesium cation determines the deposition reaction for mono‐, tri‐ and tetraglyme, whereas the influence of the desolvation on the plating reaction is minor for diglyme and tetrahydrofuran. Overall, we can give a clear recommendation for diglyme to be applied as solvent in magnesium electrolytes.
Versatile Pendant Polymer for Selective Charge Carrier Transport via Controlling the Supramolecular Self‐Assembly
Authors: Lim Jihyun , Kim Min‐Sung , Jang Woongsik , Park Jin Kuen , Wang Dong Hwan
Published: August 2021

Polyvinyl carbazole (P0)‐based pendant polymers were synthesized by modifying carbazole motifs with pyrene derivatives (P1 and P4) to manipulate the bandgap and frontier orbital energy levels. To establish the electronic properties of pendant polymers according to structural differences, the polymers were utilized as additional hole transport layers in planar‐type perovskite solar cells and organic photovoltaic cells. When P4 with thiophene‐pyrene pendant was used as hole transport layer, all device parameters, except open‐circuit voltage, were significantly improved in comparison with P0 and P1 (conjugated with t‐butyl pyrene derivatives). Since P4 had more electrically conductive thiophene units than benzene units with fewer alkyl groups, the supramolecular assembly of P4 was found to be more favorable in electronic devices. Furthermore, devices with P4 demonstrated lower dark current than others, which could potentially be useful for charge carrier transport and sensitive photo detecting devices.
Significance of hepatocyte atypia in liver fine needle aspiration
Authors: Shyu Susan , Ali Syed Z.
Published: August 2021

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) of the liver is frequently the diagnostic procedure of choice for sampling hepatic lesions. One of the main diagnostic challenges in the interpretation of liver FNA is distinguishing dysplastic lesions and well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (WD‐HCC) from benign processes, as they share significant cytomorphologic overlap. Furthermore, the diagnosis of HCC often requires evaluation of stroma for invasion, which may not be present on cytology and small needle biopsy specimens. A reporting system for liver cytopathology has yet to be instituted. Without standardized and well‐defined criteria for hepatocyte atypia, we recommend limiting the use of atypia in evaluation of liver FNA specimens to describe a diagnosis of exclusion, in which all known benign and neoplastic processes have been ruled out. The cytologic findings on the FNA of a liver nodule may be best reported as atypical hepatocytes in the absence of a core needle biopsy or cell block sufficient to render a definitive diagnosis of HCC.
Applying the ESC 2016, H2FPEF, and HFA‐PEFF diagnostic algorithms for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction to the general population
Authors: Nikorowitsch Julius , Bei der Kellen Ramona , Kirchhof Paulus , Magnussen Christina , Jagodzinski Annika , Schnabel Renate B. , Blankenberg Stefan , Wenzel Jan‐Per
Published: August 2021

Aims

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is common in patients presenting with dyspnoea. Recently, clinical tools were developed to facilitate the diagnosis of HFpEF. Here, we apply the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) 2016 heart failure guidelines and the H2FPEF and HFA‐PEFF scores to a middle‐aged sample of the general population and compared the different groups with each other.

Methods and results

This study included the first 10 000 participants of the population‐based Hamburg City Health Study. A total of 5613 subjects, aged 62 ± 8.7 years (51.1% women), qualified for the analysis. Unexplained dyspnoea was present in 407 (7.3%) subjects. In those, the estimated prevalence of HFpEF was 20.4% (ESC 2016), 12.3% (H2FPEF), and 7.6% (HFA‐PEFF). The majority of subjects was classified as HFpEF not excludable according to the HFA‐PEFF (57.7%) and H2FPEF (59.2%) scores. For all algorithms, subjects diagnosed with HFpEF showed elevated age and body mass index as well as a higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation, diabetes, and arterial hypertension compared with those without HFpEF or HFpEF not excludable. The distribution of those co‐morbidities and risk factors varied between the differently diagnosed HFpEF groups with the highest burden in the HFpEF group defined by the H2FPEF score. The overlap of subjects diagnosed with HFpEF according to the different algorithms was very limited.

Conclusions

Unexplained dyspnoea is common in the middle‐aged general population. The ESC 2016 algorithm and the H2FPEF and HFA‐PEFF scores detect different, discordant subpopulations of probands with breathlessness. Further classification of the HFpEF syndrome is desirable.
The potential of scanning electrochemical probe microscopy and scanning droplet cells in battery research
Authors: Daboss Sven , Rahmanian Fuzhan , Stein Helge S. , Kranz Christine
Published: August 2021

Spatially resolved characterization of electrode surfaces or electrode–electrolyte interfaces is of fundamental interest in battery research to unravel the complex underlying physicochemical processes. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques and derived methods have recently gained importance in in situ or operando studies of battery electrodes. This minireview provides an overview on well‐established and advanced SPM methods such as scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) and hybrid atomic force microscopy–scanning electrochemical microscopy (AFM‐SECM) and their future potential for in situ/operando studies providing correlated structure/reactivity information. Although, most studies so far are focusing on lithium (Li)‐ion batteries, the potential for post‐Li battery chemistries is clearly evident. Future approaches for rapid performance assessment using scanning droplet cell electrochemistry in combination with advanced scanning probe microscopy are proposed and contrasted with the emerging challenges in the characterization of novel battery chemistries, as SPM methods have not yet been much used in this research area.
Mutagenicity of a novel 2‐phenylbenzotriazole (non‐chlorinated 2‐phenylbenzotriazole‐9) in mice
Authors: Rodrigues Tanamachi Amanda , Fernandes Fábio Henrique , de Souza Vendemiatti Josiane Aparecida , Prediger Patrícia , Camparotto Natália Gabriele , Sousa Rocha Noeme , Aragão Umbuzeiro Gisela , Fávero Salvadori Daisy Maria
Published: August 2021

Dinitrophenylazo dyes can form 2‐phenylbenzotriazoles (PBTAs) in the textile dyeing process upon the addition of chemical reducing agents. Some dinitrophenylazo dyes, as well as their respective reduced (non‐chlorinated) and chlorinated PBTAs, are now found in rivers owing to wastewater from textile plants. This study aimed to investigate the genotoxicity of a new PBTA derived from C.I. Disperse Violet 93 azo dye, namely non‐Cl PBTA‐9. Primary DNA damage in the blood, liver, and colon cells, micronucleated cells in the bone marrow, and gene expression (NAT2, CYP1A1, TRP53, and CDKN1A) in liver cells were observed in mice, at acute oral exposure (gavage) doses of 5, 50, and 500 μg/kg body weight (b.w.). The non‐chlorinated PBTA‐9 caused DNA damage in the blood and liver (at 500 μg/kg b.w.) and in colon cells (at 5, 50, and 500 μg/kg), and increased the frequency of micronucleated cells in the bone marrow (at 5 and 50 μg/kg). No histological alterations or gene expression changes were observed. In conclusion, in vivo exposure to non‐chlorinated PBTA‐9 induced genetic damage in various rodent tissues, corroborating results previously obtained from the Ames test. Because this compound has been detected in rivers, exposure to humans and biota is a major concern.
Participants' experience of approach bias modification training with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation as a combination treatment for binge eating disorder
Authors: Gordon Gemma , Williamson Grace , Gkofa Vasiliki , Schmidt Ulrike , Brockmeyer Timo , Campbell Iain
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study explored participants' experience of approach bias modification training (ABM) with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) for binge eating disorder (BED) within a randomised controlled trial (RCT). A subset of participants who completed the RCT were interviewed to attain feedback on treatment experience and outcomes.

Method

15 participants with BED who completed the RCT were recruited, using purposive sampling. Participants received six sessions of concurrent ABM training with either real or sham tDCS. Semi‐structured interviews relating to study experience and treatment outcomes were conducted and data were analysed thematically.

Results

The combined ABM and tDCS intervention was deemed acceptable and worthwhile by participants interviewed across both intervention groups. Negative preconceptions of tDCS were an initial deterrent to study participation for some, yet the brain stimulation experience was found to be tolerable. Minor and transient sensations and side effects attributed to tDCS were reported by most participants during and after stimulation, in addition to less pleasant aspects of ABM training, with no significant adverse effects reported by interviewees. Positive outcomes were described by participants across both intervention groups, relating to changes in BED symptoms and to broader beneficial effects on associated cognitive and emotional factors. Two participants experienced a shift in autonomy, attributed to tDCS and the combined intervention respectively.

Conclusions

Adults with symptoms of BED found concurrent ABM and tDCS sessions to be acceptable, despite initial apprehension about the safety of tDCS. Findings are relevant to the neuroethics literature and may inform science communication strategies on neuromodulation treatments.
Burnout in microvascular reconstructive otolaryngology – head and neck surgeons: Potential modifiable workplace factors
Authors: Kejner Alexandra E. , Patel Rusha , McMullen Caitlin , Sykes Kevin J. , Shnayder Yelizaveta
Published: August 2021

Background

Burnout has been previously assessed in head and neck microvascular reconstructive surgeons (HNMVS), but not in the context of modifiable workplace factors.

Methods

Anonymous, cross‐sectional survey. The Abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory – Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel (aMBI‐HSS) was utilized to assess emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal achievement (PA). Modifiable risk factors were also evaluated.

Results

High risk of burnout by EE, DP, and PA was demonstrated in 24%, 9%, and 27% of respondents, respectively. EE was associated with <10% dedicated research time, lack of autonomy over clinic schedule, inadequate inpatient support, and lack of supportive clinical partner. DP was associated with >3 operative days, difficulty balancing academic commitments, and lack of supportive clinical partner. Dedicated research time and two or fewer days of block time were protective.

Conclusions

Burnout was associated with several modifiable workplace factors. Addressing these may prevent moderate to severe burnout in HNMVS.
Catalyst‐Controlled Chemoselective Nitrene Transfers
Authors: Noda Hidetoshi , Tang Xinxin , Shibasaki Masakatsu
Published: August 2021

Transition metal catalyzed nitrene transfers provide nitrogen containing compounds through C−H bond insertion, aziridination of olefins, and other types of reactions. Given the importance of these compounds in natural products and pharmaceuticals, tremendous efforts have been devoted to the development of efficient and reliable catalytic methods. In particular, the last decade has seen a remarkable progress in catalyst‐controlled chemoselective nitrene transfers, wherein different products can be obtained from a single substrate by the choice of catalyst. This Minireview covers this important and emerging area. We explain the principle of catalyst‐controlled synthesis, followed by highlighting literature examples for intra‐ and intermolecular reactions with an emphasis on the understanding of the nature of reactive intermediates and the strategy needed to realize selectivity. Finally, future directions are discussed based on the literature precedents.
Comparison of liver cancer incidence and survival by subtypes across seven high‐income countries
Authors: Rutherford Mark J. , Arnold Melina , Bardot Aude , Ferlay Jacques , De Prithwish , Tervonen Hannah , Little Alana , Bucher Oliver , St Jacques Nathalie , Gavin Anna , Engholm Gerda , Møller Bjørn , O'Connell Dianne L. , Merrett Neil , Parkin Donald Maxwell , Bray Freddie , Soerjomataram Isabelle
Published: August 2021

International comparison of liver cancer survival has been hampered due to varying standards and degrees for morphological verification and differences in coding practices. This article aims to compare liver cancer survival across the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership's (ICBP) jurisdictions whilst trying to ensure that the estimates are comparable through a range of sensitivity analyses. Liver cancer incidence data from 21 jurisdictions in 7 countries (Australia, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom) were obtained from population‐based registries for 1995‐2014. Cases were categorised based on histological classification, age‐groups, basis of diagnosis and calendar period. Age‐standardised incidence rate (ASR) per 100 000 and net survival at 1 and 3 years after diagnosis were estimated. Liver cancer incidence rates increased over time across all ICBP jurisdictions, particularly for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with the largest relative increase in the United Kingdom, increasing from 1.3 to 4.4 per 100 000 person‐years between 1995 and 2014. Australia had the highest age‐standardised 1‐year and 3‐year net survival for all liver cancers combined (48.7% and 28.1%, respectively) in the most recent calendar period, which was still true for morphologically verified tumours when making restrictions to ensure consistent coding and classification. Survival from liver cancers is poor in all countries. The incidence of HCC is increasing alongside the proportion of nonmicroscopically verified cases over time. Survival estimates for all liver tumours combined should be interpreted in this context. Care is needed to ensure that international comparisons are performed on appropriately comparable patients, with careful consideration of coding practice variations.
Extracellular acidity in tumor tissue upregulates programmed cell death ligand 1 expression on tumor cells via proton‐sensing G protein‐coupled receptors
Authors: Mori Daichi , Tsujikawa Takahiro , Sugiyama Yoichiro , Kotani Shin‐ichiro , Fuse Shinya , Ohmura Gaku , Arai Akihito , Kawaguchi Tsutomu , Hirano Shigeru , Mazda Osam , Kishida Tsunao
Published: August 2021

Acidity in the tumor microenvironment has been reported to promote cancer growth and metastasis. In our study, we examined a potential relation between extracellular acidity and expression level of the immune checkpoint molecule programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in murine squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma cell lines. PD‐L1 expression in the tumor cells was upregulated by culturing in a low pH culture medium. Tumor‐bearing mice were allowed to ingest sodium bicarbonate, resulting in neutralization of acidity in the tumor tissue, a decrease in PD‐L1 expression in tumor cells and suppression of tumor growth in vivo. Proton‐sensing G protein‐coupled receptors, T‐cell death‐associated gene 8 (TDAG8) and ovarian cancer G‐protein‐coupled receptor 1 (OGR1), were upregulated by low pH, and essentially involved in the acidity‐induced elevation of PD‐L1 expression in the tumor cells. Human head and neck SCC RNAseq data from the Cancer Genome Atlas also suggested a statistically significant correlation between expression levels of the proton sensors and PD‐L1 mRNA expression. These findings strongly suggest that neutralization of acidity in tumor tissue may result in reduction of PD‐L1 expression, potentially leading to inhibition of an immune checkpoint and augmentation of antitumor immunity.
Clinical outcomes in higher‐order multiples reduced to dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twins compared with primary twins and singletons: A prospective observational study
Authors: Singh Chanchal , Thakur Seema , Shahnaz Gazala , Dagar Savita , Shastri Aditi , Khurana Deeksha
Published: August 2021

Objective

To compare outcomes in higher‐order multiple pregnancies reduced to dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twins with primary DCDA twins and singleton pregnancies.

Methods

This prospective observational study included all higher‐order multiple pregnancies that underwent ultrasound‐guided transabdominal fetal reduction at 11–13 weeks of gestation from January 2018 to June 2020. Outcomes were compared with 100 primary DCDA twins and 1078 singletons.

Results

Sixty‐four higher‐order multiples underwent reduction at mean gestational age of 11.46 weeks. Of the reduced pregnancies, 3.12% resulted in miscarriage before 24 weeks compared with 2% (2/100) of primary twins and 0.74% of singletons (P = 0.09). The mean gestational age at delivery was 33.48 weeks for reduced twins, 34.52 weeks for primary twins (P = 0.10) and 38.14 weeks for singletons (P < 0.001). Compared with primary twins, the adjusted odds of preterm delivery before 34 weeks and before 36 weeks for reduced twins were 0.56 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.48–3.54, P = 0.62) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.78–8.85, P = 0.08), respectively. There was no significant difference in rates of pre‐eclampsia, Cesarean delivery, birth weight below the 10th and 3rd centiles, and perinatal mortality among primary and reduced twins. All risks were significantly lower in singleton pregnancies.

Conclusion

Reduced twins have similar obstetric and perinatal outcomes as primary twins, but adverse outcomes are significantly higher in both groups when compared with singleton pregnancies.
The bilateral trade effects of announcement shocks: Brexit as a natural field experiment
Authors: Douch Mustapha , Edwards Terence Huw
Published: August 2021

We analyse the effects of uncertainty and anticipation shocks associated with the 2016 Brexit vote as a treatment on trade between the UK and 14 EU and 14 non‐EU trading partners, using the synthetic control method (SCM). After controlling for exchange rate and GDP changes, UK exports to both groups of countries fell below those of the ‘synthetic Britain’, with much of the shortfall developing over the year prior to the referendum, following the 2015 Conservative general election win. The results indicate that UK exports to EU countries may have lost nearly 25% by early 2018, due to the Brexit shock, somewhat more than those to non‐EU countries. Imports from the EU and non‐EU countries also declined a little, although there is tentative evidence that UK consumers may have been avoiding countries with preferential trade agreements (PTAs) with the EU, and possibly turning towards the Commonwealth. Overall, the results confirm that policy uncertainty has a major effect upon trade and that uncertainty about supply chain costs is a potential explanation for at least some of the shortfall.
Size, size potential, and expected stock returns
Authors: Taussig* Roi D.
Published: August 2021

The financial literature shows that, on average, larger firms earn lower returns. This study examines the relationship between market capitalization and stock returns, as well as the size growth potential of firms according to their economies of scale (size and size potential are not correlated). According to generally accepted beliefs, larger firms do earn lower returns on average. This study adds to the literature by finding that firms’ size potential (according to their economies of scale) is also negatively related to firms' average returns. This new information is significant–both statistically and economically.
“It takes a community to save a child”: Child trafficking knowledge of the Portuguese community
Authors: Martinho Gabriela , Gonçalves Mariana , Matos Marlene
Published: August 2021

This study aims to explore the knowledge of the Portuguese community on child trafficking. Through an online inventory, with a sample of 492 community members, with a mean age of 40.53 and mostly female (70.7%), participants were more knowledgeable about forms of exploitation, risk and vulnerability factors, the profile of the victims, and the situation in Portugal about child trafficking. On the contrary, they were less knowledgeable about the dynamics of child trafficking. Having a college education, and contacting with the subject through informal or/and formal sources were predictors of a higher level of knowledge of child trafficking. This study reinforces the importance of the community as a whole in fighting child trafficking. To protect children against child trafficking, public policies should prioritize the role of the community. An empowered community can actively contribute to the prevention, signaling, and (re)integration of victims of child trafficking.
Melatonin effects on sleep quality and outcomes of COVID‐19 patients: An open‐label, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Abbas , Heydari Keyvan , Mehravaran Hossein , Saeedi Majid , Alizadeh‐Navaei Reza , Hedayatizadeh‐Omran Akbar , Shamshirian Amir
Published: August 2021

This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of adding melatonin to the treatment protocol of hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients. This was an open‐label, randomized controlled clinical trial in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients. Patients were randomized into a treatment arm receiving melatonin plus standard care or a control arm receiving standard care alone. The trial's primary endpoint was sleep quality examined by the Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire (LSEQ). The trial's secondary endpoints were symptoms alleviation by Day 7, intensive care unit admission, 10‐day mortality, white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, C‐reactive protein status, and peripheral capillary oxygen saturation. Ninety‐six patients were recruited and allocated to either the melatonin arm (n = 48) or control arm (n = 48). Baseline characteristics were similar across treatment arms. There was no significant difference in symptoms on Day 7. The mean of the LSEQ scores was significantly higher in the melatonin group (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in laboratory data, except for blood oxygen saturation, which has improved significantly in the melatonin group compared with the control group (95.81% vs. 93.65% respectively, p = 0.003). This clinical trial study showed that the combination of oral melatonin tablets and standard treatment could substantially improve sleep quality and blood oxygen saturation in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients.
An indirect approach for online identification of continuous time‐delay systems
Authors: Sharma Sudeep , Padhy Prabin K.
Published: August 2021

This article proposed an online identification technique, also known as a real‐time recursive identification technique for continuous time‐delay systems. The proposed approach is based on online output‐error modeling of unknown continuous time‐delay models, indirectly from discrete time‐delay models. The developed indirect formulation is employed to propose three online identification algorithms using least square, instrument variable, and prediction error minimization techniques. The proposed algorithms utilize auxiliary models and fixed or optimal filtering of input/output data samples to obtain unbiased fixed as well as time‐varying parameter estimates. An estimated error variance‐based stochastic approach is also incorporated to improve the parameter estimates. Extensive simulation experiments are conducted to validate the proposed algorithms' performance. Some useful guidelines are suggested to achieve improved identification accuracy, convergence consistency, and robustness in the presence of the measurement noise and modeling uncertainties. A real practical application for online identification of a heating system is also demonstrated.
Performance of surface winds from atmospheric reanalyses in the Southwestern South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Pescio Andrés E. , Dragani Walter C. , Martin Paula B.
Published: August 2021

Sea surface wind (10‐m high) is one of the most important variables for oceanic applications. The zonal and meridional surface wind components from seven global atmospheric reanalyses [National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP)/National Center for Atmospheric Research Reanalysis 1, NCEP/Department of Energy Reanalysis 2, NCEP/climate forecast system reanalysis (CFSR), European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Interim Reanalysis (ERA‐Interim), Japanese 55‐year Reanalysis (JRA‐55), the Modern‐Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Application V2, and the ERA5 Reanalysis] were compared with surface winds retrieved from QuikScat/SeaWinds and Ascat scatterometers, and with surface ground winds measured in eight coastal meteorological stations, at the Southwestern South Atlantic Ocean, between 35° and 55°S and 55° and 70°W, approximately. Bias, root mean squared error and the Pearson linear correlation coefficient for the zonal and meridional wind components were estimated in this study. The effects of the atmospheric stability, the surface currents and the discontinuity between land and sea roughness on the satellite data are discussed in this paper. It was concluded that Modern‐Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Application, Version 2 reanalysis is the product that better fitted with satellite data, and ERA5 follows it in performance. CFSR, ERA‐Interim and JRA‐55 reanalyses also presented very good performances. Surface winds from NR1 and NR2 reanalysis showed the largest differences with satellite data. ERA5 reanalysis was the database that better compared with the coastal observations measured at the meteorological stations. Surface winds measured at meteorological stations are, in general, worse represented by the reanalyses than satellite data. This last could be due to the discontinuity between land and sea roughness, and because the topography is not completely represented by the atmospheric global models.
Future changes in sub‐seasonal variability of Indian winter precipitation
Authors: Thayyil Mandodi Midhuna , Dimri Ashok Priyadarshan
Published: August 2021

The winter precipitation over north India is due to the passage of synoptic systems known as Western Disturbances (WDs), which are embedded in large‐scale subtropical westerly jet (SWJ). The winter (December, January, February [DJF]) precipitation is vital to maintaining glaciers, sustenance of rivers, replenishing downstream springs, and agriculture. Any change in winter precipitation has a profound impact on agriculture, socio‐economic status, and water security of the nation. Thus, a close understanding of future changes in winter precipitation is critical to the country. The present study evaluates the future changes in sub‐seasonal variability of winter precipitation over north India using ICHEC‐EC‐EARTH‐SMHI‐RCA4 CORDEX‐SA experiment. Wet bias in precipitation and cold bias in temperature are observed in model. Almost all days in the winter season witnessed a shift towards a warm‐wet climate in a future warming scenario. A large amount of precipitation is observed in February in model as well as observation. A 10‐day interval scale spanning during DJF is considered to evaluate these changes. Future changes in winter precipitation are analysed under RCP4.5 and 8.5 scenarios. The percentage change in winter precipitation shows a maximum increase during the first fortnight of December and the first week of February. Precipitation intensity weakens during January. Two hundred hectopascal wind, 850 hPa wind, and moisture flux influence the increase in precipitation over the region.
Comparative study of the effects of selenium yeast and sodium selenite on selenium content and nutrient quality in broccoli florets (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica)
Authors: Gui Jia‐Ying , Rao Shen , Gou Yuanyuan , Xu Feng , Cheng Shuiyuan
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Approximately 0.5–1 billion people worldwide face the risk of selenium (Se) deficiency because of the low Se concentration in their diets. Broccoli can accumulate Se and comprises a source of daily Se supplement for humans. Se biofortification is an effective strategy for enhancing Se content in crops. In the present study, the effects of Se yeast and selenite application on the Se content and nutrient quality of broccoli were investigated.

RESULTS

Broccoli growth was promoted by Se yeast but inhibited by selenite. The total Se content of broccoli florets remarkably increased with increasing exogenous Se fertilizer concentrations. The main Se species in broccoli florets were methyl‐selenocysteine and selenomethionine, and their contents were significantly higher under Se yeast treatments than under selenite treatments. Se(VI) was detected only under selenite treatments. Se yeast and selenite had different influences on soluble sugar, soluble protein, vitamin C and free amino acid contents in broccoli florets. The total phenolic acid and glucosinolate contents were substantially increased by Se yeast and selenite, although the total flavonoid content was reduced by Se yeast. Tests on antioxidant enzyme activities revealed that several antioxidant enzymes (catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) responded to Se yeast and selenite treatments.

CONCLUSION

Se yeast is preferred over selenite for maximizing Se uptake and nutrient accumulation in Se‐rich broccoli cultivation. However, an extremely high Se content in broccoli florets cannot be directly consumed by humans, although they can be processed into Se supplements. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Biopolymer nanoparticles: a strategy to enhance stability, bioavailability, and biological effects of phenolic compounds as functional ingredients
Authors: Nishimoto‐Sauceda Daniela , Romero‐Robles Laura E , Antunes‐Ricardo Marilena
Published: August 2021

Phenolic compounds are abundant in nature and have multiple beneficial effects on human health due to their antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antithrombotic, antiallergenic, anticancer, and antiatherosclerotic properties. For this reason, phenolics are becoming relevant functional ingredients for several industries, mainly the food industry, derived from food consumer exigencies and regulations. However, the use of their beneficial properties still presents some limitations, such as chemical instability under environmental and processing conditions, which leads to structural changes and compromises their biological activities. They also present poor water solubility and sensitivity to pH changes, decreasing their bioavailability in the organism. The technologies for extraction and stabilization of these compounds have evolved rapidly in the development of different delivery systems to encapsulate sensitive active molecules. Biopolymeric nanoparticles are biodegradable polymer‐based colloidal systems with sizes ranging from 1 to 1000 nm, and different techniques can be carried out to develop them. These systems have emerged as a green and effective alternative to improve stability, bioavailability, and biological effects of phenolic compounds. This comprehensive review aims to present an overview of recent advances in encapsulation processes of phenolic compounds within biopolymer nanoparticles as delivery systems and the impact on their physicochemical properties and biological effects after encapsulation. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Throughput and Combinatorial Approaches for the Development of Multifunctional Polymers
Authors: Baudis Stefan , Behl Marc
Published: August 2021

High‐throughput (HT) development of new multifunctional polymers is accomplished by the combination of different HT tools established in polymer sciences in the last decade. Important advances are robotic/HT synthesis of polymer libraries, the HT characterization of polymers, and the application of spatially resolved polymer library formats, explicitly microarray and gradient libraries. HT polymer synthesis enables the generation of material libraries with combinatorial design motifs. Polymer composition, molecular weight, macromolecular architecture, etc. may be varied in a systematic, fine‐graded manner to obtain libraries with high chemical diversity and sufficient compositional resolution as model systems for the screening of these materials for the functions aimed. HT characterization allows a fast assessment of complementary properties, which are employed to decipher quantitative structure–properties relationships. Moreover, these methods facilitate the HT determination of important surface parameters by spatially resolved characterization methods, including time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Here current methods for the high‐throughput robotic synthesis of multifunctional polymers as well as their characterization are presented and advantages as well as present limitations are discussed.
Flow Dynamics Influence Fish Recruitment in Hydrologically Connected River–Reservoir Landscapes
Authors: Dattilo J. , Brewer S. K. , Shoup D. E.
Published: August 2021

Hydrologic processes are often important determinants of successful recruitment of native fishes. However, water management practices can result in abnormal changes in daily and seasonal hydrology patterns. Rarely has fish recruitment across river–reservoir landscapes been considered in relation to flow management, despite the direct relationship between reservoir water management and the resulting upstream and downstream hydrology. We evaluated the relationships between lotic and lentic hydrology and recruitment of two native broadcast-spawning fishes, Freshwater Drum Aplodinotus grunniens and Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum. Four seasonal periods for each species were identified that related to the species’ spawning biology, from which we derived our remaining hydrology variables. Annual hydrology variables were also considered in our analysis. We developed regression models in conjunction with a model-selection procedure for each species and habitat type based on the catch-curve residuals from fish populations in hydrologically connected river–reservoir systems in the Ozark Highland and Ouachita Mountain ecoregions, USA. Our results indicated that recruitment of reservoir Freshwater Drum was negatively correlated to annual reservoir retention time. In lotic habitats, Freshwater Drum recruitment was positively correlated with prespawn discharge conditions and negatively correlated with annual flow variability. Similarly, riverine Gizzard Shad recruitment was positively correlated to the frequency of high-flow pulses during the spawning period. Our results indicate that releasing reservoir water to best mimic relatively natural flow patterns may benefit some broadcast-spawning species that occupy both lentic and downstream lotic environments, especially during the spring. This information, combined with future efforts on additional spawning guilds, will provide a foundation for developing holistic river–reservoir water-allocation plans.
Polymer nanolatexes for dyeing of soybean fabric
Authors: da Hora Luiz Felipe , Oliveira do Nascimento José Heriberto , Mendonça Fontes Galvão Felipe , de Souza Nunes Juliana
Published: August 2021

In this study, functionalized polymer nanolatexes based on P(MMA‐co‐BA‐co‐MAA) are synthesized by semicontinuous emulsion polymerization. An evaluation of the effect of reaction parameters such as monomer composition and initiators type on the latex properties is performed. Consideration of these effects allows the synthesis of low surfactant concentration‐high functionalized polymer nanoparticles as small as 29 nm. Then, a functionalized nanolatex is used as a binder in dyeing process of soybean protein fabric (SBF) using the cationic dye, Basic Red 46. Colorimetric tests show that the previous functionalization of soybean fibers with the nanolatex improves the efficiency of dyeing process by up to 13%. In addition, washing and rubbing fastness tests revealed that dyed functionalized fabrics had better performance than the one without nanolatex.
From the Atlantic coast to the lowland forests: Stable isotope analysis of the diet of forager–horticulturists in southern Brazil
Authors: Loponte Daniel , Carbonera Mirian
Published: August 2021

In this study, we analyze the diet of forager–horticulturalist societies of southeast South America through different isotopic markers (δ13Ccollagen, δ13Capatite, and δ15N). The economy of these populations was based on hunting, fishing, gathering, and, to a greater or lesser extent, horticulture, showing a different emphasis on each one of these options. The samples analyzed here were recovered from different environments, including the Atlantic coast, the highlands of the Brazilian plateau, and the lowland forests of the upper valleys of the Uruguay and Paraná rivers, within a general east–west sampling transect. Most of the samples correspond to individuals recovered from the Guarani and Itararé‐Taquara archeological units. We have also included a smaller sample of foragers clustered in the so‐called Vieira Tradition, perhaps with some food production, and two individuals buried in shell mounds (“sambaquis”) of the south Brazilian Atlantic coast (“Coastal Tradition”), whose economy was strongly based on marine resources and wild plants. The results indicate that, regardless of the archeological unit in question, the individuals recovered from the seashore settlements show a diet based mostly on marine protein, with a minor contribution of other resources, except in a Guarani sample, where a significant intake of maize is observed. The individuals recovered in the highlands of the Brazilian plateau (“Itararé‐Taquara”) present the highest incidence of plant consumption of the entire sample analyzed, within a C3 monoisotopic pattern, probably strongly influenced by the consumption of the araucaria pine nut, and no isotopic signals related to maize intake. Guarani samples recovered from sites located in tropical forests in the interior of the continent show an unquestionable and systematic impact of maize on the diet, in addition to an important consumption of C3 animal proteins. The individuals assigned to the so‐called Vieira Tradition show a diet based on C3 protein and both C3 and C4 lipids and carbohydrates. The latter could be related to a small consumption of maize. These results demonstrate the multidirectionality of subsistence strategies in southeastern South America during the late Holocene.
Fused filament fabrication process window for good interlayer bonding: Application to highly filled polymers in metallic powder*
Authors: Thézé Alexis , Guinault Alain , Régnier Gilles , Richard Sébastien , Macquaire Bruno
Published: August 2021

Extending the fused filament fabrication process to highly filled thermoplastics in metallic powder used in metal injection molding is a promising method to produce small series. However, the lack of adhesion between deposited filaments can cause ruptures during the fabrication or debinding process. We designed a simple device to measure the shear strength required to tear off a filament deposited on a substrate. This device makes it possible to quickly determine the processing window for a good welding of filaments. We developed a 2D thermal simulation using the finite difference method while integrating the enthalpy of fusion and crystallization kinetics of the material. We then fitted it to the thermal measurements at depths of 0.45 and 0.75 mm under the substrate surface using small‐diameter thermocouples. Simulation results highlight the key role of the thermal contact resistance between the filament and the substrate in the evolution of the interface temperature. This provides essential information to explain the process window that can be determined experimentally. The characteristic time of macromolecule diffusion was determined by rheological measurements and was found to be too small to play a role in filament bonding for the simulated cooling rates for the studied material. The methodology introduced in this work was used to improve highly filled polymers interlayer adhesion, but it can be used to improve other filled or unfilled polymers.
Performance analysis outcome of a 19‐MWp commercial solar photovoltaic plant with fixed‐tilt, adjustable‐tilt, and solar tracking configurations
Authors: Chandel Rahul , Chandel Shyam Singh
Published: August 2021

Photovoltaic (PV) plants are generally installed at optimum tilt angle for a location or using sun tracking for enhancing energy generation potential. The objective of the present study is to assess the practicability of these techniques for large commercial plants along with determining expected uncertainty in simulated energy yield estimation. In this study, performance analysis of a 19‐MWp (17‐MWac) PV plant is carried out which is installed in India with fixed‐tilt (FT), seasonal adjustable‐tilt (AT), and horizontal single‐axis solar tracking (HSAT) configurations. This study is the first‐time comparative power enhancement analysis of these three different configurations under real outdoor conditions for a single large scale power plant at one location. The operation and maintenance issues of these configurations are also analyzed. A reliability analysis of linear actuator of the industrial solar tracking system is carried out as the actuator is a critical part of the solar tracking system of the power plant. Major results of the study are annual performance ratio 79% (FT), capacity factors = 19% (FT), 20% (AT), and 22% (HSAT) respectively, final yields (Yf) = 4.58 h/day (FT), 4.85 h/day (AT), and 5.28 h/day (HSAT). The energy yield simulations are done on two widely used PV design software: PVSyst and PVSOL and results are analyzed in detail. The accuracy of predicted data is validated and found to be within acceptable limits of uncertainty. The results of this study are compared with previous studies.
Neuromorphic bioelectronics based on semiconducting polymers
Authors: Lee HaeRang , Won Yousang , Oh Joon Hak
Published: August 2021

The recent development of neuromorphic devices with low power consumption and rapid response has been driven primarily by the growing demand for brain‐inspired computing in human‐like machines and human‐machine interfaces. Remarkable progress has been made in developing neuromorphic bioelectronics that combine neuromorphic devices with electronic sensors. In this review, we provide an overview of semiconducting polymer‐based neuromorphic devices and their applications in neuromorphic bioelectronics. We focus on recent advances in semiconducting polymer‐based three‐terminal artificial synapses that mimic neural communication behaviors. Various types of semiconducting polymers and synaptic platforms have been investigated, allowing significant improvement in their performance and expansion of their functionality. Proper selection of materials and device structures can help artificial sensory synapses to react to various external stimuli and to further modulate electrical signals. Advances in semiconducting polymer‐based neuromorphic bioelectronics will accelerate the commercialization of human–machine interfacial systems, including intelligent prosthetics and implantable diagnostic devices.