bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optomechanical Mapping of Ferroelectric Domains and the Piezo‐Photovoltaic Effect in Ba‐ and Ni‐Doped (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3
Authors: Vats Gaurav , Bai Yang , Seidel Jan
Published: May 2021

The piezo‐photovoltaic effect has been recently proposed as an analogy of the flexo‐photovoltaic effect in noncentrosymmetric ferroelectrics that are also piezoelectric in nature. It has been demonstrated to boost the photovoltaic performance of ferroelectrics under applied uniaxial mechanical loads. The impact of the piezo‐photovoltaic effect on ferroelectric domains, however, has not yet been studied. In this context, a nanoscale insight into mechanical as well as optomechanical control of domains in a novel bandgap‐engineered ferroelectric, namely—KNBNNO ((K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–2 mol% Ba(Ni0.5Nb0.5)O3−δ), is provided. It is found that the applied mechanical force of 1 μN (pressure: 0.25 GPa) using a scanning probe tip evinces a 67% amplification in piezoresponse in the material, and on removing mechanical load, the material retains 33% higher piezoresponse than the pristine state. Mechanically induced property changes in the material are found to be strongly influenced by light illumination. Applied mechanical stress due to an atomic force microscopy (AFM) tip is highly nonuniform and can induce additional polarization via the flexoelectric effect which further enhances the photovoltaic charge screening.
Preparation, Structure, and Reactivity of Pseudocyclic β‐Trifluorosulfonyloxy Vinylbenziodoxolone Derivatives
Authors: Yoshimura Akira , Huss Christopher D. , Liebl Mackenzie , Rohde Gregory T. , Larson Scott M. , Frahm Gunnar B. , Luedtke Mattew W. , Schumacher Tanner J. , Gardner Zachary S. , Zhdankin Viktor V. , Postnikov Pavel S. , Yusubov Mekhman S. , Kitamura Tsugio , Saito Akio
Published: May 2021

Pseudocyclic β‐trifluorosulfonyloxy vinylbenziodoxolones were prepared starting from hydroxybenziodoxolones and alkynes in the presence of trifluoromethanesulfonic acid. The reaction of these compounds with azide anion leads to β‐azido vinylbenziodoxolones as products of vinylic nucleophilic substitution in which addition‐elimination reactions occur and the double bond configuration is retained. The structures of β‐trifluorosulfonyloxy vinylbenziodoxolone and β‐azido vinylbenziodoxolone were established by single crystal X‐ray diffraction.

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Visible Light‐Mediated Functionalization of Selenocystine‐Containing Peptides
Authors: Lapcinska Sindija , Dimitrijevs Pavels , Lapcinskis Linards , Arsenyan Pavel
Published: May 2021

A straightforward and atom‐economic method for the functionalization of short selenocystine‐containing peptides is presented. This method is shown to be tolerant to unprotected peptides. The detailed protocol is based on the generation of a selenium radical via visible light‐initiated reaction in the presence of transition metal‐free photocatalyst. The selenium radical is further oxidized to an electrophile and trapped by N‐heterocycles. The mechanism is confirmed by NMR, HRMS, UV, EPR and cyclic voltammetry (CV) experiments and photocatalyst emission quenching studies. A visible light‐initiated reaction is employed for the synthesis of selenocysteine‐containing indole‐based macrocycles via intramolecular Se−C bond formation.

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The Effects of Airfoil Thickness on Dynamic Stall Characteristics of High‐Solidity Vertical Axis Wind Turbines
Authors: Bangga Galih , Hutani Surya , Heramarwan Henidya
Published: May 2021

The flow physics of high solidity vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) is influenced by the dynamic stall effects. The present study is aimed at investigating the effects of airfoil thickness on the unsteady characteristics of high solidity VAWTs. Seven different national advisory committee for aeronautics (NACA) airfoils (0008, 0012, 0018, 0021, 0025, 0030, 0040) are investigated. A high fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach is used to examine the load and flow characteristics in detail. Before the study is undertaken, the CFD simulation is validated with experimental data as well as large eddy simulation results with sound agreement. The investigation demonstrates that increasing the airfoil thickness is actually beneficial not only for suppressing the dynamic stall effects but also to improve the performance of high solidity turbines. Interestingly this is accompanied by a slight reduction in thrust component. The strength and radius of the dynamic stall vortex decrease with increasing airfoil thickness. The airfoil thickness strongly influences the pressure distributions during dynamic stall process, which is driven by the suction peak near the leading edge. The knowledge gained might be used by blade engineers for designing future turbines and for improving the accuracy of engineering models.
Recent Advances in Emerging Non‐Lithium Metal–Sulfur Batteries: A Review
Authors: Ma Lianbo , Lv Yaohui , Wu Junxiong , Chen Yuming , Jin Zhong
Published: May 2021

Rechargeable non‐lithium metal–sulfur batteries (MSBs) have gained tremendous attention because of their merits, including a high theoretical capacity, remarkable energy density, and low cost. However, the detrimental issues encountered by non‐lithium MSBs, such as polysulfide shuttle effects, volume expansion and the low electrical conductivity of elemental sulfur, and the serious side reactions between metal anodes and electrolytes, severely restrict their practical applications. To circumvent these issues, numerous effective strategies have been explored and utilized. In this review, the intractable obstacles that prevent the application of non‐lithium MSBs are first summarized. Recent pioneering studies on rechargeable non‐lithium MSBs are reported and discussed in terms of material design, fabrication methods, and electrochemical performance. The emerging characterization techniques used to reveal the working mechanisms of non‐lithium MSBs and the advantages of elaborately designed structures are highlighted. Finally, the remaining issues and possible future areas of research for practical applications are discussed.
Soil and plant growth response and trace elements accumulation in sweet corn and snow pea grown under fresh and carbonated coal fly ash amendment
Authors: Ukwattage Nadeesha L. , Lakmalie U.Vajini , Gamage Ranjith P.
Published: May 2021

With the recent focus of using coal combustion residue fly ash in mineral carbonation for C capture, an end product, carbonated coal fly ash is generated. The physicochemical changes occur in fly ash during carbonation is hypothesized to improve its soil application potential compared to original fly ash. Therefore, in the present study, we tested carbonated coal fly ash against non‐carbonated (fresh) ash for its effect on soil, plant production, and elemental accumulation in plant parts. Plant pots of sweet corn (Zea mays L.) and snow pea (Pisum sativum L.) added with fresh or carbonated Australian coal fly ash to sandy loam Podosol soil at 5% (w/w) and 10% (w/w) mixing rates were used in the study. Alkalinity of fly ashes attenuated the strong acidity of the soil into weakly acidic to slightly alkaline ranges. Either fresh or carbonated fly ashes added trace elements such as B, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, Mo, Cr, Pb, and Ni into the soil which significantly enhanced the plant growth and yield compared to fly ash absent pots. Accumulation of heavy metals in plant parts were observed in fly ash‐treated pots. Fresh fly ash at 10% (w/w) application rate increased the soil salinity above admissible range and retarded the crop growth and yield. Carbonated fly ash continued to enhance the crop production of sweet corn and snow pea up to 10% (w/w) mixing rate. Carbonation has improved the fly ash from its original state to make it a safer soil amendment at higher dosages such as 10% (w/w).
Macroevolutionary history predicts flowering time but not phenological sensitivity to temperature in grasses
Authors: Neto‐Bradley Barbara M. , Whitton Jeannette , Lipsen Linda P. J. , Pennell Matthew W.
Published: May 2021

Premise

Long‐term observations show that flowering phenology has shifted in many lineages in response to climate change. However, it remains unclear whether these results can be generalized to predict the presence, direction, or magnitude of responses in lineages for which we lack long time‐series data. If phenological responses are phylogenetically conserved, we can extrapolate from species for which we have data to predict the responses of close relatives. While several studies have found that closely related species flower at similar times, fewer have evaluated whether phylogenetically proximal species respond to environmental change similarly.

Methods

We paired flowering time data from 3161 manually scored herbarium specimens of 72 species of grasses (Poaceae) with historical climate data and analyzed the phylogenetic signal and phylogenetic half‐life of phenological sensitivity. We also ran these analyses on a subset of species showing statistically significant sensitivities, in order to assess the role of sampling bias on phylogenetic signal.

Results

Closely related grass species tend to flower at similar times, but flowering times respond to temperature changes in species‐specific ways. We also show that only including species for which there is strong evidence of phenological shifts results in overestimating phylogenetic signal.

Conclusions

In agreement with other recent studies, our results suggest caution in extrapolating from evidence of phylogenetic similarity to predicting shared responses in this ecologically relevant trait. Future work is needed to better understand the discrepancy between the phylogenetic signal in observed phenological shifts and absence of such signal in sensitivity.
Genotype–phenotype correlation in Phelan‐McDermid syndrome: A comprehensive review of chromosome 22q13 deleted genes
Authors: Ricciardello Arianna , Tomaiuolo Pasquale , Persico Antonio M.
Published: May 2021

Phelan‐McDermid syndrome (PMS, OMIM #606232), also known as chromosome 22q13 deletion syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by intellectual disability, hypotonia, delayed or absent speech, motor impairment, autism spectrum disorder, behavioral anomalies, and minor aspecific dysmorphic features. Haploinsufficiency of SHANK3, due to intragenic deletions or point mutations, is sufficient to cause many neurobehavioral features of PMS. However, several additional genes located within larger 22q13 deletions can contribute to the great interindividual variability observed in the PMS phenotype. This review summarizes the phenotypic contributions predicted for 213 genes distributed along the largest 22q13.2‐q13.33 terminal deletion detected in our sample of 63 PMS patients by array‐CGH analysis, spanning 9.08 Mb. Genes have been grouped into four categories: (1) genes causing human diseases with an autosomal dominant mechanism, or (2) with an autosomal recessive mechanism; (3) morphogenetically relevant genes, either involved in human diseases with additive co‐dominant, polygenic, and/or multifactorial mechanisms, or implicated in animal models but not yet documented in human pathology; (4) protein coding genes either functionally nonrelevant, with unknown function, or pathogenic through mechanisms other than haploinsufficiency; piRNAs, noncoding RNAs, miRNAs, novel transcripts and pseudogenes. Our aim is to understand genotype–phenotype correlations in PMS patients and to provide clinicians with a conceptual framework to promote evidence‐based genetic work‐ups, clinical assessments, and therapeutic interventions.
Self‐Sorting in Dynamic Combinatorial Libraries Leads to the Co‐Existence of Foldamers and Self‐Replicators
Authors: Liu Bin , Beatty Meagan A. , Pappas Charalampos G. , Liu Kai , Ottelé Jim , Otto Sijbren
Published: May 2021

Nature segregates fundamental tasks such as information storage/transmission and catalysis between two different compound classes (e.g. polynucleotides for replication and folded polyamides for catalysis). This division of labor is likely a product of evolution, raising the question of how simpler systems in which replicators and folded macromolecules co‐exist may emerge in the transition from chemistry to biology. In synthetic systems, achieving co‐existence of replicators and foldamers in a single molecular network remains an unsolved problem. Previous work on dynamic molecular networks has given rise to either self‐replicating fibers or well‐defined foldamer structures (or completely un‐sorted complex systems). We report a system in which two cross‐reactive dithiol (nucleobase‐ and peptide‐based) building blocks self‐sort into a replicator fiber and foldamer that both emerge spontaneously and co‐exist. The self‐sorting behavior remains prevalent across different building block ratios as two phases of emergence occur: replicator growth followed by foldamer formation. This is attributed to the autocatalytic formation of the replicator fiber, followed by enrichment of the system in the remaining building block, which is subsequently incorporated into a foldamer.
All‐Dielectric Nanostructures with a Thermoresponsible Dynamic Polymer Shell
Authors: Nikitina Anna A. , Milichko Valentin A. , Novikov Alexander S. , Larin Artem O. , Nandi Proloy , Mirsaidov Utkur , Andreeva Daria V. , Rybin Mikhail V. , Kivshar Yuri S. , Skorb Ekaterina V.
Published: May 2021

We suggest a new strategy for creating stimuli‐responsive bio‐integrated optical nanostructures based on Mie‐resonant silicon nanoparticles covered by an ensemble of similarity negatively charged polyelectrolytes (heparin and sodium polystyrene sulfonate). The dynamic tuning of the nanostructures’ optical response is due to light‐induced heating of the nanoparticles and swelling of the polyelectrolyte shell. The resulting hydrophilic/hydrophobic transitions significantly change the shell thickness and reversible shift of the scattering spectra for individual nanoparticles up to 60 nm. Our findings bring novel opportunities for the application of smart nanomaterials in nanomedicine and bio‐integrated nanophotonics.
Isolation, separation, identification, and quantification of bioactive methylated flavone regioisomers by UHPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Noreen Hafiza , Smith Edward N. , Farman Muhammad , Claridge Tim D.W. , McCullagh James S.O.
Published: May 2021

Methylated flavones, commonly found in many plants of the Brassicaceae family, have potent antioxidant and anticancer activity with diverse therapeutic potential. However, the specific regioisomers of methylated flavones can have significantly different biochemical and potentially therapeutic properties as shown by various bioassays but analytically differentiating these compounds has been technically challenging and rarely reported. In this study, we demonstrate differentiation and identification of selected bioactive methylated flavone regioisomers, namely 5,7,3′‐trihydroxy‐4′‐methoxyflavone, and 5,7,4′‐trihydroxy‐3′‐methoxyflavone extracted from Coronopus didymus, a member of the Brassicaceae family, using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS). Characteristic MS/MS product ions produced from neutral loss of carbon monoxide, and a methyl radical from the [M‐H]– ion, exhibited differential relative abundances attributed to different structural stabilities under the same activation and collision‐induced dissociation conditions. MS/MS also provided structural information which was sufficient to differentiate the methylated regioisomers and determine the position of the methyl group based on interpretation of their respective fragmentation patterns. Quantification showed 5,7,4′‐trihydroxy‐3′‐methoxyflavone was at least 1.60 mg per 10 g plant material in C. didymus extracts. This study demonstrates a straightforward and novel approach to rapidly differentiate, identify and quantify regio‐isomeric methylated flavone natural products using reversed‐phase UPLC‐MS/MS.
Facile fabrication of near‐infrared light‐responsive shape memory nanocomposite scaffolds with hierarchical porous structures
Authors: Wang Jingguang , Xia Zemin , Liu Jian , Zhang Naiyue , Zhou Wuyi , Zhong Zichong , Luo Zhitian , Li Wenyu , Yang Zhuohong , Hu Yang
Published: May 2021

In this work, the near‐infrared (NIR) light‐responsive shape memory scaffolds with hierarchical porous structures are designed and facilely formed by freeze drying of 3D printed viscous gel‐like pickering emulsions, which are stabilized by hydrophobically modified graphene oxide (g‐GO) and silica nanoparticles, and contain thermo‐responsive poly(d, l‐lactic acid‐co‐trimethylene carbonate) (PLMC) in the oil phase. The prepared scaffolds display an interconnected filament structure with hierarchical pores and high porosity. The incorporation of g‐GO nanoparticles into PLMC matrix prompts that the scaffold shape memory can be triggered by NIR light with fast shape recovery. Moreover, the in vitro mineralization experiment shows that the scaffolds have biological activity, and the drug release study demonstrates that the scaffolds can be used as drug carriers with efficient drug release capacity. Furthermore, cell culture assays based on mouse bone mesenchymal stem cells exhibit that the scaffolds own good cytocompatibility. Therefore, the facile preparation and remote activation of the shape memory nanocomposite scaffolds with hierarchical porous structure and multifunctionality represents a highly attractive candidate as minimally invasive implantation scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications.
A multi‐temporal satellite‐based risk analysis of archaeological sites in Qazvin plain (Iran)
Authors: Zaina Federico , Nabati Mazloumi Yasaman
Published: May 2021

In recent decades, we have witnessed a dramatic increase in the risks and damages to archaeological sites and heritage places across the globe. By analysing a case study (the Qazvin plain) in northern Iran, we propose a classification of the types of risks and damages to archaeological sites and we assess the impact of each type over the last 40 years (1980s–2020s). Our research methodology consists of the cross‐correlated multi‐temporal analysis of different sets of satellite imagery with 167 archaeological sites in the Qazvin plain to determine the types, extension and evolution of the damages over the time. This methodology allowed to develop a three‐tier hierarchical framework based on the drivers, threats, and actions jeopardizing the cultural heritage of the region. The result of this study permits to overturn current narratives inferring that the most impacting risks to archaeological sites and heritage places are caused by natural hazards, looting and violent destruction rather than agricultural activity or construction. Consequently, based on this evidence, we draw a distinction between ‘silent’ but constant and pervasive and ‘loud’ but short‐living and circumscribed risks.
The importance of socio‐emotional considerations in online communities, social informatics, and information science
Authors: Worrall Adam , Cappello Alicia , Osolen Rachel
Published: May 2021

Alongside cognitive and social phenomena, many scholars have examined emotional and affective considerations in information science, but a potential emotional or affective paradigm has not coalesced to the extent of the social or cognitive paradigms. We argue information science research should integrate the social paradigm, as offered by social informatics, with affective and emotional considerations: a socio‐emotional paradigm. A review of existing literature and findings from users' motivations to participate on the Academia section of the Stack Exchange social questioning‐and‐answering site make our case. We uncovered tensions between the intended information‐centric focus of the community and users who believed social, emotional, and affective considerations needed to be foregrounded, speaking to online communities acting as boundary objects, with the “fit” for one user or community not always the same as for another. An integrated socio‐emotional paradigm shows much strength for social informatics and information science research, including uncovering hidden concerns and differences in values, as in our study. Affective and emotional research, often bubbling under in information science, should rise to the surface is not so much a paradigm shift but an integration of social, emotional, and affective considerations into a socio‐emotional paradigm.
Antimony(III) Halide‐Assisted Stereospecific Coordination of Thione
Authors: Adinarayana Mannem , Prabusankar Ganesan
Published: May 2021

The antimony halide‐aided stereospecific coordination of a cyclic thiourea‐type of ligand is observed for the first time. The antimony(III) imidazole thione complexes syn‐[(L1)SbCl3] (syn‐1) and anti‐[(L1)SbBr3] (anti‐2) have been synthesized in very good yield by the reaction between the spatially defined steric impact ligand [(IPaul)S] (L1) ([(IPaul)S]=1,3‐bis(2,4‐methyl‐6‐diphenyl phenyl)imidazole thione) and corresponding antimony halide. The stereoselective formation of complexes syn‐1 and anti‐2 has been confirmed by both NMR and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Interestingly the stereospecific nature of syn‐1 and anti‐2 remains intact in solution. Furthermore, the thermal stability of antimony(III) imidazole thione complexes were examined by TGA analysis.
Interaction study of astilbin, isoastilbin and neoastilbin toward CYP2D6 by multi‐spectroscopy and molecular docking
Authors: Tao Yanzhou , Fan Yangyang , Liu Guiming , Zhang Yuhang , Wang Meizi , Wang Xiaolin , Li Li
Published: May 2021

Astilbin, isoastilbin and neoastilbin are the three flavonoid isomers prevalent in Rhizoma Smilax glabra. The interactions between human cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) and the three isomers were investigated by multiple spectroscopic coupled with molecular docking. As a result, the fluorescence intensity of CYP2D6 was quenched statically by the three isomers. Meanwhile, astilbin had the strongest binding ability to CYP2D6, followed by isoastilbin and neoastilbin under the identical temperature. Synchronous fluorescence, three‐dimensional fluorescence, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, circular dichroism and Fourier‐transform infrared spectra confirmed that the conformation and micro‐environment of CYP2D6 protein were changed after binding with the three isomers. As suggested from molecular docking, the three isomers had strong binding affinity to CYP2D6 via the bonding of hydrogen and van der Waals forces, and the results were in agreement with the fluorescence results. The findings here suggested that astilbin, isoastilbin and neoastilbin may cause the herb–drug interactions for their inhibition of CYP2D6 activity.
Persistence with medical treatment for Wilson disease in China based on a single center’s survey research
Authors: Zhou Zhi‐Hua , Wu Yun‐Fan , Yan Yan , Liu Ai‐Qun , Yu Qing‐Yun , Peng Zhong‐Xing , Wang Gong‐Qiang , Hong Ming‐Fan
Published: May 2021

Background

Wilson's disease (WD) is one of the few hereditary diseases that can be successfully treated with medicines. We conduct this survey research to assess treatment persistence among patients with WD and try to identify what factors affect the treatment persistence.

Methods

We employed WeChat which is the most popular social software in China to carry out this anonymous questionnaire research. The questionnaire included medication adherence scale. We also collected available medical records related to demographic and clinical characteristics. All the patients were divided into group of persistence with drug treatment (PDT) and nonpersistence with drug treatment (n‐PDT).

Results

We collected 242 qualified questionnaires. Only 66.5% of patients were PDT during the mean 12.6 years of follow‐up. In PDT group, better outcomes were observed: improvement (78.3%) and no change (16.1%) versus those in n‐PDT (55.6%; and 28.4%, respectively). In PDT group, only nine patients deteriorated (6.8%) in comparison with 13 patients in n‐PDT (16.0%). The adverse events (AEs) in PDT group were significantly less than those in n‐PDT group. There were no significant differences in clinical type, gender, age, education level, and family knowledge about WD between the two groups. There were significant differences in AEs and family position toward treatment.

Conclusion

Medication Adherence of Chinese WD patients was low. One third of the patients (33.5%) were unable to PDT, and it had an important negative effect on clinical outcome. AEs and family support had an important impact on treatment persistence.
Prognostic value of CCR2 as an immune indicator in lung adenocarcinoma: A study based on tumor‐infiltrating immune cell analysis
Authors: Wan Yi , Wang Xin , Liu Ting , Fan Tianyu , Zhang Zugui , Wang Bin , Zhang Bei , Tian Zibin , Mao Tao , Gong Zheng , Zhang Li
Published: May 2021

Background

Prognostic indicators in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) have been seeking under database analysis, and remarkable advance is on the way.

Methods

This study calculated the scores of stromal and immune components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in 551 LUAD samples using the ESTIMATE algorithm on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. R package ''limma'' was used to selected differentially expressed genes (DEG). We have analyzed the DEGs by means of Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichments. The protein‐protein network, univariate Cox analysis, and Lasso regression analysis were performed to selected survival‐related genes. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) represented the enriched pathway of CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2). The ratios of immune cells in the TME of each LUAD sample were obtained using the R package "limma" and CIBERSORT algorithm in R 4.0.2.

Results

The ImmuneScore was positively correlated with prognosis regarding survival rate, T classification of TNM stages, and clinicopathological staging characteristics. GO and KEGG enrichments showed DEGs were associated with immune‐related activities. Three genes of LUAD were selected from the PPI network and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. CCR2 was the most survival correlated gene by Lasso regression analysis. GSEA results showed that C2 kegg gene sets in the CCR2 high‐expression group were mainly enriched in the B cell or T cell receptor signaling pathway and natural killer cell‐mediated cytotoxicity. Correlation of CCR2 expression with prognosis was conducted, implicating a positive correlation with the prognosis of survival rate and M classification, negative correlation with the prognosis of T and N classifications. The correlation between CCR2 and tumor‐infiltrating immune cells (TICs) was analyzed, and 14 kinds of TICs were found closely correlated with CCR2 expression through difference analysis.

Conclusion

Therefore, CCR2 has prognostic value as an immune indicator in LUAD.
Corn distillers dried grains with solubles: Production, properties, and potential uses
Authors: Mohammadi Shad Zeinab , Venkitasamy Chandrasekar , Wen Zhiyou
Published: May 2021

Background and objectives

The grain‐based ethanol production has been increasing as the demand for biofuel additives increased, and the fossil fuel sources decreased. Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) are a primary coproduct of bioethanol plants of the conventional corn dry‐grind process. With increasing corn‐based ethanol production, DDGS production is increased, and it has become a global commodity. Despite the high nutritional value of DDGS, however, its uses are still not fully explored. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the DDGS production process, chemical and physical properties, nutritional value, and the potential of using DDGS in cattle, fish, poultry feed, and human foods. The challenges of using DDGS in animal feed and human food are discussed.

Findings

Distillers dried grains with solubles has been identified as a protein substitute that is both readily available and competitively priced (per unit protein) compared to other conventional alternative protein sources. Researchers have discovered measures to boost DDGS quality and safety. Several approaches have been proposed to improve the DDGS digestibility and nutritional value. Although the benefits and risks associated with the DDGS uses are identified, more research is required to regulate the quality and safety standards for DDGS.

Conclusions

Versatile applications of DDGS will valorize this coproduct. The development of DDGS utilization enhances health and functional benefits to animals and humans; it also assists bioethanol plants economically.

Significance and novelty

The information will not only provide knowledge of DDGS in terms of its production process, nutritional value, and applications but, more importantly, explore the opportunities of developing new uses of this under‐utilized commodity.
Coexistence of myelodysplastic syndrome and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia: An aggressive disease
Authors: Kasinathan Ganesh , Lee Bee Sun
Published: May 2021

Coexistent myelodysplastic syndrome and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia is an aggressive disease which often do not respond to standard chemotherapy due to the various molecular and cytogenetic abnormalities. Understanding of the molecular pathogenesis may lead to better therapeutic modalities as current conventional therapies are largely ineffective.
Effect of different beverages on color stability and surface properties of composite resin materials
Authors: Özyurt Esra , Kurt Ayşegül
Published: May 2021

The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of frequently consumed beverages on the color stability and surface properties of direct and indirect dental composite materials. The two dental composite materials (direct and indirect) and four beverages (distilled water, tea, coffee, cola) were assessed. The specimens were prepared for evaluating monomer conversion, water sorption, and color stability (n = 10) and taking scanning electron and atomic force microscopy images (n = 3). The data were analyzed using independent t‐test, Mann‐Whitney U test, two‐way analysis of variance, and Spearman's correlation (P < .05). Indirect dental composite materials had better monomer conversion, color stability, and surface roughness value when compared to direct dental composite materials (P < .001, P = .002, P = .002, respectively). The control group had lower ΔE00 values when compared to the tea (P < .001) and coffee (P < .001) groups. There was a negative correlation between monomer conversion and surface roughness (r = −0.481, P = .032). Color stability and surface roughness value of direct dental composite materials differed from indirect dental composite materials after immersed in different beverages. The tested beverages significantly influenced color stability.
Back to the Basics: Two Approaches for the Identification and Extraction of Lipid Droplets from Malassezia pachydermatis CBS1879 and Malassezia globosa CBS7966
Authors: Mantilla Maria Juliana , Cabrera Díaz Catherine Eliana , Ariza‐Aranguren Gabriela , de Cock Hans , Helms J. Bernd , Restrepo Silvia , Jiménez Elizabeth , Celis Ramírez Adriana Marcela
Published: May 2021

Malassezia spp. are lipid‐dependent yeasts that have been related to skin mycobiota and dermatological and systemic diseases. Study of lipid droplets (LDs) is relevant to elucidate the unknown role of these organelles in Malassezia and to gain a broader overview of lipid metabolism in Malassezia. Here, we standardized two protocols for the analysis of LDs in M. pachydermatis and M. globosa. The first describes co‐staining for confocal laser‐scanning fluorescence microscopy, and the second details extraction and purification of LDs. The double stain is achieved with three different neutral lipid fluorophores, namely Nile Red, BODIPY™ 493/503, and HCS LipidTOX™ Deep Red Neutral, in combination with Calcofluor White. For LD extraction, cell wall rupture is conducted using Trichoderma harzianum enzymes and cycles of vortexing with zirconium beads. LD purification is performed in a three‐step ultracentrifugation process. These standardizations will contribute to the study of the dynamics, morphology, and composition of LDs in Malassezia. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Lipid droplet fluorescence staining

Basic Protocol 2: Lipid droplet extraction and purification

Support Protocol: Malassezia spp. culture conditions
Emerging Strategies in Polyethylene Terephthalate Hydrolase Research for Biorecycling
Authors: Kawai Fusako
Published: May 2021

The research on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hydrolyzing enzymes started in 2005; several studies are now nearing the objective of their application in biorecycling of PET, which is an urgent environmental issue. The thermostability of PET hydrolases must be higher than 70 °C, which has already been established by several thermophilic cutinases, as higher thermostability results in higher activity. Additionally, pretreatment of waste PET to more enzyme‐attackable forms is necessary for PET biorecycling. This Minireview summarizes research on enzymatic PET hydrolysis from two viewpoints: 1) improvement of PET hydrolases by focusing on their thermostabilities by mutation of enzyme genes, their expression in several hosts, and their modifications; and 2) processing of waste PET to readily biodegradable forms. Finally, the outlook of PET biorecycling is described.
A reconfigurable flexible fractal‐based monopole antenna for portable applications
Authors: Al‐Adhami Ammar , Erçelebi Ergun
Published: May 2021

Design of a fractal printed circuit antenna structure for portable applications is presented in this paper. The proposed antenna consisted of a modified Hilbert patch printed on a flexible polyamide substrate. The antenna is surrounded with a defected electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) open loop. A parametric study based a numerical analysis is invoked to refine the proposed antenna performance. The proposed antenna is fabricated on polymer substrate with dimensions of 50 × 60 × 0.3 mm3. The proposed antenna performance is tested experimentally and compared to the simulated results from a commercial software package based on Computer Simulation Technology Microwave Studio (CST MW). The experimental results are found to agree well with simulated results. It is found that the proposed antenna design suites the applications of the frequency bands of UHF and ISM portable systems. The antenna shows two bandwidths from 0.8 to 1 GHz and from 2.3 to 2.6 GHz with average gain of around 3.1 and 7 dBi, respectively. The antenna performances are conducted based on analytical and numerical simulations. The fabricated prototype performances are measured experimentally to show excellent agreement with the simulated results. Finally, it is found that the proposed antenna frequency resonance and bandwidth are insignificantly affected when mounted in close to the human body; therefore, it would be excellent candidate to be in use with biomedical applications.
Diet pill and laxative use for weight control predicts first‐time receipt of an eating disorder diagnosis within the next 5 years among female adolescents and young adults
Authors: Hazzard Vivienne M. , Simone Melissa , Austin S. Bryn , Larson Nicole , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne
Published: May 2021

Objective

To replicate findings from a prior study which identified prospective associations between use of products for weight control and subsequent receipt of a first‐time eating disorder (ED) diagnosis among female adolescents and young adults.

Method

Data from a prospective cohort study, Project EAT (Eating and Activity in Teens and Young Adults), were used to examine prospective associations between self‐reported past‐year diet pill and laxative use for weight control and self‐reported receipt of an ED diagnosis among females without prior receipt of an ED diagnosis (N = 1,015). Participants were followed from early/middle adolescence (EAT‐I; Mage = 14.9 years) into late adolescence/emerging adulthood (EAT‐II; Mage = 19.5 years) and young adulthood (EAT‐III; Mage = 24.8 years).

Results

First‐time receipt of an ED diagnosis was reported by 2.4% of participants at EAT‐II and 4.0% at EAT‐III. After adjusting for demographics and weight status, participants using diet pills (risk ratio [RR] = 3.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.96–6.54) and laxatives (RR = 2.77, 95% CI: 1.01–7.64) had greater risk of receiving a first‐time ED diagnosis within 5 years than those not using these products.

Discussion

The present study replicated prior findings, providing further evidence for a prospective link between use of products for weight control and subsequent receipt of an ED diagnosis.
The Latent Dirichlet Allocation model with covariates (LDAcov): A case study on the effect of fire on species composition in Amazonian forests
Authors: Valle Denis , Shimizu Gilson , Izbicki Rafael , Maracahipes Leandro , Silverio Divino Vicente , Paolucci Lucas N. , Jameel Yusuf , Brando Paulo
Published: May 2021

Understanding and predicting the effect of global change phenomena on biodiversity is challenging given that biodiversity data are highly multivariate, containing information from tens to hundreds of species in any given location and time. The Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model has been recently proposed to decompose biodiversity data into latent communities. While LDA is a very useful exploratory tool and overcomes several limitations of earlier methods, it has limited inferential and predictive skill given that covariates cannot be included in the model. We introduce a modified LDA model (called LDAcov) which allows the incorporation of covariates, enabling inference on the drivers of change of latent communities, spatial interpolation of results, and prediction based on future environmental change scenarios. We show with simulated data that our approach to fitting LDAcov is able to estimate well the number of groups and all model parameters. We illustrate LDAcov using data from two experimental studies on the long‐term effects of fire on southeastern Amazonian forests in Brazil. Our results reveal that repeated fires can have a strong impact on plant assemblages, particularly if fuel is allowed to build up between consecutive fires. The effect of fire is exacerbated as distance to the edge of the forest decreases, with small‐sized species and species with thin bark being impacted the most. These results highlight the compounding impacts of multiple fire events and fragmentation, a scenario commonly found across the southern edge of Amazon. We believe that LDAcov will be of wide interest to scientists studying the effect of global change phenomena on biodiversity using high‐dimensional datasets. Thus, we developed the R package LDAcov to enable the straightforward use of this model.
Lewis Acidic Cationic Strontium and Barium Complexes
Authors: Thum Katharina , Martin Johannes , Elsen Holger , Eyselein Jonathan , Stiegler Lena , Langer Jens , Harder Sjoerd
Published: May 2021

Lewis acidic (BDI)Ae+ cations of the heavier metals Sr and Ba, which are not stabilized by polar solvents, have been obtained by double deprotonation of (BDI)H2+ with either SrN’’2 or BaN’’2; BDI = HC[C(Me)N(DIPP)]2, DIPP = 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl, Ae = alkaline earth, N’’ = N(SiMe3)2. Due to clathrate formation [(BDI)Ae+][B(C6F5)4−] could not be crystallized, but pyrene addition gave crystalline [(BDI)Ae+ ⋅ pyrene][B(C6F5)4−] which was structurally characterized for Ae = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba. (R2N)Ae+ cations of the heavier metals Sr and Ba were obtained by reaction of Ae(NR2)2 with [Ph3C+][B(C6F5)4−] or [PhNMe2H+][B(C6F5)4−]. Following complexes were structurally characterized: [N’’Ba+ ⋅ (tol)2][B(C6F5)4−], [N*Sr+ ⋅ PhNMe2][B(C6F5)4−], [N*Ba+ ⋅ tol][B(C6F5)4−] and [N*Ba+ ⋅ C6H6][B(C6F5)4−]; tol = toluene and N* = N(SiiPr3)2. DFT calculations show that Sr⋅⋅⋅PhNMe2 coordination is preferred over Sr⋅⋅⋅toluene bonding. The (R2N)Ae+ cations can be used as Brønsted bases (reaction with (BDI)H gave (BDI)Ae+) and may be useful precursors for a variety of Lewis base‐free RAe+ cations. DFT calculations, limited to monomeric model systems including B(C6F5)4− (ωB97XD/def2tzvpp//ωB97XD/def2svp), show that there is negligible electron transfer from the pyrene or toluene ligands to the Ae2+ cation. Electrostatic attraction originates from charge‐induced polarization of the
‐electron density in the toluene and pyrene ligands.
A privacy‐preserving mobile location‐based advertising system for small businesses
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed Abdelmoamen
Published: May 2021

Small‐to‐medium businesses are always seeking affordable ways to advertise their products and services securely. With the emergence of mobile technology, it is possible than ever to implement innovative Location‐Based Advertising (LBS) systems using smartphones that preserve the privacy of mobile users. In this paper, we present a prototype implementation of such systems by developing a distributed privacy‐preserving system, which has parts executing on smartphones as a mobile app, as well as a web‐based application hosted on the cloud. The mobile app leverages Google Maps libraries to enhance the user experience in using the app. Mobile users can use the app to commute to their daily destinations while viewing relevant ads such as job openings in their neighborhood, discounts on favorite meals, etc. We developed a client‐server privacy architecture that anonymizes the mobile user trajectories using a bounded perturbation strategy. A multi‐modal sensing approach is proposed for modeling the context switching of the developed LBS system, which we represent as a Finite State Machine model. The multi‐modal sensing approach can reduce the power consumed by mobile devices by automatically detecting sensing mode changes to avoid unnecessary sensing. The developed LBS system is organized into two parts: the business side and the user side. First, the business side allows business owners to create new ads by providing the ad details, Geo‐location, photos, and any other instructions. Second, the user side allows mobile users to navigate through the map to see ads while walking, driving, bicycling, or quietly sitting in their offices. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the scalability and performance of the mobile side. Our experimental evaluation demonstrates that the mobile app incurs low processing overhead and consequently has a small energy footprint.
Consistent safety and tolerability of Valtoco® (diazepam nasal spray) in relationship to usage frequency in patients with seizure clusters: Interim results from a phase 3, long‐term, open‐label, repeat‐dose safety study
Authors: Miller Ian , Wheless James W. , Hogan Robert E. , Dlugos Dennis , Biton Victor , Cascino Gregory D. , Sperling Michael R. , Liow Kore , Vazquez Blanca , Segal Eric B. , Tarquinio Daniel , Mauney Weldon , Desai Jay , Rabinowicz Adrian L. , Carrazana Enrique ,   The DIAZ.001.05 Study Group
Published: May 2021

Objective

Need for rescue therapy differs among patients with seizure clusters. Diazepam nasal spray is approved to treat seizure clusters in patients with epilepsy ≥6 years of age. This analysis used interim data from a phase 3 safety study to assess safety profile and effectiveness of diazepam nasal spray using average number of doses/month as a proxy measurement.

Methods

This phase 3, open‐label, repeat‐dose, safety study of diazepam nasal spray enrolled patients (6‐65 years) with epilepsy and need of benzodiazepine rescue. Patients were stratified by average number of doses/month (<2, moderate frequency; 2‐5, high frequency; >5, very‐high frequency). Safety was evaluated based on treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs), assessed nasal irritation, and olfaction. The proportion of treatments given as a second dose was used as an exploratory proxy for effectiveness.

Results

Of 175 enrolled patients (data cutoff, October 31, 2019), 158 received ≥1 dose of diazepam nasal spray. Frequency of use was moderate in 43.7% of patients, high in 50.6% of patients, and very high in 5.7% of patients. Patients treated 3397 seizure episodes (moderate frequency, 14.2%; high frequency, 59.9%; very high frequency, 25.8%). Nasal discomfort was the most common treatment‐related TEAE in all groups. No notable changes in nasal irritation or olfaction were observed. Second doses represented only 2.5%, 7.5%, and 17.2% of all doses in the moderate‐, high‐, and very‐high‐frequency groups, respectively. Overall retention rate was 82.9%, without an observed relationship to frequency of use.

Significance

Frequency of dosing diazepam nasal spray had little impact on the safety/tolerability profile across a range of <2 to >5 doses/month. Effectiveness was suggested for all dosing frequencies by the high proportion of seizure clusters not treated with a second dose. These results support the utility, safety profile, and effectiveness of diazepam nasal spray across frequencies of seizure cluster burden.
A new rapid titration protocol for lamotrigine that reduces the risk of skin rash
Authors: Jang Yoonhyuk , Moon Jangsup , Kim Narae , Kim Tae‐Joon , Jun Jin‐Sun , Shin Yong‐Won , Chang Hyeyeon , Kang Hye‐Ryun , Lee Soon‐Tae , Jung Keun‐Hwa , Park Kyung‐Il , Jung Ki‐Young , Chu Kon , Lee Sang Kun
Published: May 2021

Objective

Lamotrigine is one of the most widely used antiepileptic drugs, but it has a critical issue of a skin rash if the starting dose is too high or the escalation rate is too rapid. We investigated the efficacy and safety of a novel and rapid titration protocol for lamotrigine that takes only 11 days to reach a daily dose of 200 mg.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 33 adult patients (age 18‐85) who were diagnosed with epilepsy and started lamotrigine administration for the first time at a single tertiary hospital. Our new protocol starts with a subthreshold dose of the drug and then administers a stepwise‐incremental dose until reaching the full therapeutic dose within 11 days.

Results

Of 29 patients analyzed, only two (6.9%) experienced idiosyncratic skin rash before the first follow‐up visit at 2 weeks (±3 days). In addition, a therapeutic concentration was reached in more than 75% of studied patients after 2 weeks of lamotrigine administration.

Significance

These findings demonstrate the value of the novel tolerance induction protocol for lamotrigine, which could widen the available application of lamotrigine in various situations. However, this study is a preliminary study limited by a small number of patients and its nonrandomized and open‐label design, so the current protocol needs more rigorous clinical evaluations before the application to the real clinical setting.
Structural complexity influences the ecosystem engineering effects of in‐stream large wood
Authors: Cashman Matthew J. , Harvey Gemma L. , Wharton Geraldene
Published: May 2021

Large wood (LW) is an ecosystem engineer and keystone structure in river ecosystems, influencing a range of hydromorphological and ecological processes and contributing to habitat heterogeneity and ecosystem condition. LW is increasingly being used in catchment restoration, but restored LW jams have been observed to differ in physical structure to naturally occurring jams, with potential implications for restoration outcomes. This article examines the structural complexity and ecosystem engineering effects of LW jams at four sites with varying management intensity incorporating natural and restored wood. Our results reveal: (i) structural complexity and volume of jams was highest in the site with natural jams and low intensity riparian management, and lowest in the suburban site with simple restored jams; and (ii) that structural complexity influences the ecosystem engineering role of LW, with more complex jams generating the greatest effects on flow hydraulics (flow concentration, into bed flows) and sediment characteristics (D50, organic content, fine sediment retention) and the simplest flow deflector‐style restored jams having the least pronounced effects. We present a conceptual model describing a continuum of increasing jam structural complexity and associated hydromorphological effects that can be used as a basis for positioning and evaluating other sites along the management intensity spectrum to help inform restoration design and best practice.