bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐Temperature N‐Alkylation of Amines with Alcohols in Protic Solvents Catalyzed by Iridium Complexes Bearing N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Furukawa Shohichi , Morishima Namino , Fujita Ken‐ichi
Published: January 2024

Amines are important compounds found in natural products, pharmaceuticals, and fine chemicals. Therefore, the development of elegant, environmentally friendly, and simple synthetic methods is desirable. Recently, the borrowing‐hydrogen (BH) strategy has received considerable attention for C−N bond formations because of its high atomic efficiency and the absence of toxic waste generation. Researchers have recently reported that the use of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands with strong electron‐donating properties and protic solvents can increase the catalytic activity in the BH strategy. Therefore, herein, we focused on the versatility of the synthetic methods, such as a synthetic system that allows simple synthesis, operates at low reaction temperatures, and involves the use of effective solvent simultaneously. The catalyzed N‐alkylation of alcohols and amines in protic solvents under mild conditions was investigated using simple NHC complexes developed by our group. We achieved the synthesis of various alkylamines under mild conditions, such as 40–60 °C, using iridium complexes comprising NHC ligands with simple structures and protic solvents such as 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol and 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoroisopropanol.
Unveiling facial kinship: The BioKinVis dataset for facial kinship verification and genetic association studies
Authors: Yu Jian , Jin Xiaozhe , Du Weijie , Bai Yantong , Zhou Xin , Gao Mengli , Li Shuwen , Qin Jiarui , Chen Xuanlong , Liu Yuhao , Yu Jianing , Chen Chen , Xie Qiheng , Xie Sumei , Kong Xiaochao , Zhan Wenxuan , Yu Yanfang , Li Kai , Ji Qiang , Chen Feng , Chen Peng
Published: January 2024

Facial image–based kinship verification represents a burgeoning frontier within the realms of computer vision and biomedicine. Recent genome‐wide association studies have underscored the heritability of human facial morphology, revealing its predictability based on genetic information. These revelations form a robust foundation for advancing facial image–based kinship verification. Despite strides in computer vision, there remains a discernible gap between the biomedical and computer vision domains. Notably, the absence of family photo datasets established through biological paternity testing methods poses a significant challenge. This study addresses this gap by introducing the biological kinship visualization dataset, encompassing 5773 individuals from 2412 families with biologically confirmed kinship. Our analysis delves into the distribution and influencing factors of facial similarity among parent–child pairs, probing the potential association between forensic short tandem repeat polymorphisms and facial similarity. Additionally, we have developed a machine learning model for facial image–based kinship verification, achieving an accuracy of 0.80 in the dataset. To facilitate further exploration, we have established an online tool and database, accessible at http://120.55.161.230:88/.
Multilayer track‐etched membrane‐based electroosmotic pump for drug delivery
Authors: Yang Qian , Zhang Zebo , Lin Junshu , Zhu Boyu , Yu Rongying , Li Xinru , Su Bin , Zhao Bo
Published: January 2024

Herein, we report an electroosmotic pump (EOP) based on a multilayer track‐etched polycarbonate (PC) membrane. A remarkable increase of maximum backpressure (198.2–2400 mmH2O) of a fundamental pump unit was obtained at 0.8 mA, when the number of PC membranes was increased from 1 to 10. Meanwhile, the corresponding flow rate was increased from 80.3 to 111.7 µL/min. Furthermore, multiple pump units were assembled in series to obtain a multistage EOP. For a three‐stage EOP (EOP‐3), the operating voltage and power can be decreased significantly by 52%–72% under different driving currents, with a minimum power of 26.7 µW. Thus, EOP‐3 can run stably over 35 h at a pulse current of 0.1 mA without the generation of gas bubbles. The pump was further integrated into a miniature device, which was successfully used to decrease the blood glucose level of diabetic rats by subcutaneous delivery of fast‐acting insulin. This work brings a facile and efficient strategy to enhance the backpressure and lower the operating voltage and power of EOPs, which may find promising applications in drug delivery.
An analysis of causative factors for road accidents using partition around medoids and hierarchical clustering techniques
Authors: Manasa Pendyala , Ananth Pragya , Natarajan Priyadarshini , Somasundaram K. , Rajkumar E. R. , Ravichandran Kattur Soundarapandian , Balasubramanian Venkatesh , Gandomi Amir H.
Published: January 2024

Insufficient progress in the development of national highways and state highways, coupled with a lack of public awareness regarding road safety, has resulted in prevalent traffic congestion and a high rate of accidents. Understanding the dominant and contributing factors that may influence road traffic accident severity is essential. This study identified the primary causes and the most significant target‐specific causative factors for road accident severity. A modified partitioning around medoids model determined the dominant road accident features. These clustering algorithms will extract hidden information from the road accident data and generate new features for our implementation. Then, the proposed method is compared with the other state‐of‐the‐art clustering techniques with three performance metrics: the silhouette coefficient, the Davies–Bouldin index, and the Calinski–Harabasz index. This article's main contribution is analyzing six different scenarios (different angles of the problem) concerning grievous and non‐injury accidents. This analysis provides deeper insights into the problem and can assist transport authorities in Tamil Nadu, India, in deriving new rules for road traffic. The output of different scenarios is compared with hierarchical clustering, and the overall clustering of the proposed method is compared with other clustering algorithms. Finally, it is proven that the proposed method outperforms other recently developed techniques.
Evaluation of the energy performance of a shallow geothermal facility through a second‐order cone programming
Authors: Dhaundiyal Alok , Bercesi Gabor
Published: January 2024

Energy consumption and operational cost are two decision‐making factors which evaluate the feasibility of any energy system. Whether a thermal unit is efficiently working or not depends on the state properties of the thermodynamic system. Therefore, operational research on a geothermal site was performed. Most research pivots around the basic energy conservation equation to determine the parameters. However, finding the parameters does not serve the purpose of an investor. Investment of capital in any project depends on the return and feasibility of the task performed under the project. In the same direction, this article focuses on the optimisation of the performance of a shallow geothermal site in terms of energy and plant economics using the concept of a second‐order cone program (SOCP). The site was used to operate the hybrid heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC) installed in an academic building. The second‐order cone programming was considered to minimize the energy requirement and cost of energy generation during the winter season. It is to be noted that the solver‐based approach was considered to examine the unit. The optimized energy consumption of GSHP was 24.29 kW⋅h. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE/kW⋅h) derived from SOCP would vary from $ 0.38 to $ 0.58 for the shallow geothermal plant. The rate of return for air conditioning in the building through the geothermal plant would be 1.74%. The optimized upfront cost per m2 was estimated to be $ 1440.87.
Mapping damages from inspection images to 3D digital twins of large‐scale structures
Authors: von Benzon Hans‐Henrik , Chen Xiao
Published: January 2024

This study develops a methodology to create detailed visual Digital Twins of large‐scale structures with their realistic damages detected from visual inspection or nondestructive testing. The methodology is demonstrated with a transition piece of an offshore wind turbine and a composite rotor blade, with surface paint damage and subsurface delamination damage, respectively. Artificial Intelligence and color threshold segmentation are used to classify and localize damages from optical images taken by drones. These damages are digitalized and mapped to a 3D geometry reconstruction of the large‐scale structure or a CAD model of the structure. To map the images from 2D to 3D, metadata information is combined with the geo placement of the large‐scale structure's 3D model. The 3D model can here both be a CAD model of the structure or a 3D reconstruction based on photogrammetry. After mapping the damage, the Digital Twin gives an accurate representation of the structure. The location, shape, and size of the damage are visible on the Digital Twin. The demonstrated methodology can be applied to industrial sectors such as wind energy, the oil and gas industry, marine and aerospace to facilitate asset management.
Green synthesis capacitor of carbon quantum dots from Stachys euadenia
Authors: Baslak Canan , Demirel Serkan , Dogu Suleyman , Ozturk Gulsah , Kocyigit Adem , Yıldırım Murat
Published: January 2024

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a new type of carbon nanomaterial that has recently attracted great attention as a potential competitor to standard semiconductor quantum dots. There are various ways to synthesis CQDs, and one of harmless way is undoubtedly green synthesis. In this study, hydrothermal synthesis based on the green way was employed to synthesize CQDs. The CQDs were obtained using the green leaves of the Stachys euadenia plant extract, an endemic species located in Turkey. The CQDs were characterized by fluorescent and UV‐Visible spectroscopy, and results confirmed blue emission (430–480 nm) and absorption around 280 nm. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed C=C, C–N and C–O interactions. X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) patterns confirmed structure of carbon with a broad peak of (002) plane. High resolution tunneling electron microscopy (HRTEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis was used to determine the shape and size of CQDs. The CQDs obtained from Stachys euadenia were employed as electrode materials for capacitor application, and they were tested in Swagelok‐type cell by cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. CQD capacitors exhibited 2.12 F/g charge and 1.24 F/g discharge capacitances were obtained with ~58% coulombic efficiency rate for the first cycle. Results highlights that CQDs are synthesized successfully by green synthesis method and can be used for capacitor applications.
A control strategy incorporating multiple EV charging stations for an islanded micro‐grid energy management and voltage regulation
Authors: Gupta Ankush , Suhag Sathans
Published: January 2024

An electric vehicle (EV) charging station control strategy (CSCS) is proposed for proper power‐sharing among various components of an islanded microgrid (MG), consisting of the photovoltaic (PV) system, the wind energy conversion system (WECS), variable load (critical and non‐critical), multiple charging stations (CSs) and the dump load (LD). The proposed control strategy is examined in three distinct cases with varying operating conditions owing to solar irradiance, wind speed and load variations. For proper energy management (EM) and voltage regulation (VR), the diverse EVs have varying battery capacities parked in the multiple CSs to either absorb or deliver power through a two‐way power flow between the islanded MG system and the EV‐based CSs, which is reliant on the supply and demand (S&D) energy difference. The simulation is executed via the MATLAB software and two different modes—excess power mode (EPM) and deficient power mode (DPM)—are employed to validate the proposed CSCS's competency. For a realistic assessment of the proposition, the results are also verified by using a hardware‐in‐loop (HIL) real‐time (RT) OPAL‐RT simulator (OP5700). Furthermore, the findings from MATLAB and the OPAL‐RT simulator are compared to establish the robustness of the proposed strategy.
Curcuminoids: Composition, extraction, health benefits, delivery systems, and relation to COVID‐19 treatment
Authors: Basha Shaik Jakeer , Kaur Kamaljit , Kaur Prabhjot , Rehal Jagbir
Published: January 2024

Curcuminoids, resevetrol, and quericitin are naturally occurring compounds in various foods that contain antiviral functionalities. Among them, curcuminoids are the lipophilic phenolic compounds extracted from rhizomes of Curcuma longa. L, a perennial plant from the Zingiberaceae family. Industrial applications and popularization of curcuminoids are still developing slowly due to the unacceptable bitter taste and poor bioavailability of these components. Appropriate extraction conditions play a central role to obtain extracts and preserve the biological activity of curcuminoids. Green extraction technologies can be of great value to extract these bioactive compounds. Curcuminoids are biologically effective in terms of molecular targets and physiological effects against some of the main global diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and arthritis. Being nutraceutical, curcuminoids and its food products could be a new challenge to combat the COVID‐19 like viral infections. This review summarized the latest data related to chemical composition, production, extraction methods, potential health benefits, and relation of curcuminoids to COVID‐19 treatment.
Collective loneliness: The impact of the social network on loneliness and depression during the coronavirus pandemic in older Europeans
Authors: Altweck Laura , Freund Justus , Hahm Stefanie , Schmidt Silke , Tomczyk Samuel
Published: January 2024

Objectives

We examined the impact of the social network before the coronavirus pandemic on loneliness and depressed mood during the pandemic in older European individuals, and how these relationships differ between different European countries.

Methods

Data of N = 19,999 persons (age: M = 69.18 years; 51% female) from the pan‐European longitudinal survey of health, ageing and retirement in Europe, interviewed between October 2019 and March 2020 (Wave 8) and between June and August 2020 (Corona Questionnaire 1), were used. To test the models we employed path analyses, controlling for age, gender, education, and occupational status. Models were also run separately in collectivistic (Romania, Slovenia, Croatia, and Greece) and individualistic (Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and France) country groups.

Results

A larger social network before the pandemic reduced the probability of an increase in loneliness and depression. The negative association between social network size and increase in loneliness was stronger in collectivist countries than in individualist ones. Moreover, an increase in loneliness increased the probability of feeling depressed.

Conclusions

It appears that pre‐pandemic social networks served as a buffer to negative mental health consequences of the pandemic in older Europeans. In fact, this association was stronger in collectivist than for individualist countries. While this underscores the importance of social connectedness, it also stresses the vulnerability of socially isolated individuals regarding loneliness and depression. Future work should thus focus on supporting social networks in older adults.
The integrated analysis and underlying mechanisms of FNDC5 on diabetic induced cognitive deficits
Authors: Xiang Qiong , Tao Jia‐Sheng , Fu Chuan‐Jun , Liao Li‐Xiu , Liu Li‐Ni , Deng Jing , Li Xian‐Hui
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Chronic hyperglycemia is considered as an important factor to promote the neurodegenerative process of brain, and the synaptic plasticity as well as heterogeneity of hippocampal cells are thought to be associated with cognitive dysfunction in the early process of neurodegeneration. To date, fibronectin type III domain‐containing protein 5 (FNDC5) has been highlighted its protective role in multiple neurodegenerative diseases. However, the potential molecular and cellular mechanisms of FNDC5 on synaptic plasticity regulation in cognitive impairment (CI) induced by diabetics are still need to known.

Methods/Design

To investigate the heterogeneity and synaptic plasticity of hippocampus in animals with CI state induced by hyperglycemia, and explore the potential role of FNDC5 involved in this process. Firstly, the single cell sequencing was performed based on the hippocampal tissue from db diabetic mice induced CI and normal health control mice by ex vivo experiments; and then the integrated analysis and observations validation using Quantitative Real‐time PCR, western blot as well as other in vitro studies.

Results

We observed and clarified the sub‐cluster of type IC spiral ganglion neurons expressed marker genes as Trmp3 and sub‐cluster of astrocytes with marker gene as Atp1a2 in hippocampal cells from diabetic animals induced CI and the effect of those on neuron‐glial communication. We also found that FNDC5\BDNF‐Trk axis was involved in the synaptic plasticity regulation of hippocampus. In high glucose induced brain injury model in vitro, we investigated that FNDC5 significantly regulates BDNF expression and that over‐expression of FNDC5 up‐regulated BDNF expression (p < 0.05) and can also significantly increase the expression of synapsin‐1 (p < 0.05), which is related to synaptic plasticity, In addition, the unbalanced methylation level between H3K4 and H3K9 in Fndc5 gene promoter correlated with significantly down‐regulated expression of FNDC5 (p < 0.05) in the hyperglycemia state.

Conclusion

The current study revealed that the synaptic plasticity of hippocampal cells in hyperglycemia might be regulated by FNDC5\BDNF‐Trk axis, playing the protective role in the process of CI induced by hyperglycemia and providing a target for the early treatment of hyperglycemia induced cognitive dysfunction in clinic.
Field testing Australian bat lyssavirus risk communication resources
Authors: Uren Alexandra M. , Young Megan K.
Published: January 2024

Issue Addressed

Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV) is a fatal zoonosis, which can be transmitted to humans through scratches or bites from infected bats. Currently, there is a lack of research evaluating risk communication resources about ABLV or the dangers from handling bats. The purpose of this study was to field test resources aimed at educating the public about risks to humans and bats from human‐bat interaction, then update these resources based upon feedback to ensure they were relevant and appropriately targeted to the public.

Methods

Thirteen semi‐structured interviews with a purposive sample of participants chosen for maximum variation of age and sex were conducted. Two investigators analysed the data independently using a deductive approach and then came to consensus by discussion.

Results

The main themes were a wide‐ranging level of knowledge and opinions about bats, the resources having an effect on people, and messaging in relation to children and pets being particularly important.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the complexities of risk communication to a broad audience with varied experience and knowledge about bats, and the importance of evaluation prior to implementation to ensure risk communication is relevant and appealing to the intended audience.

So What?

Field testing of health education material prior to implementation is an effective way to ensure key messages are understood, and is important when communicating about fatal but preventable zoonoses such as ABLV.
Efficacy of remote audio‐visual system versus standard onsite buddy system to monitor the doffing of personal protective equipment during COVID‐19 pandemic: An observational study
Authors: Lazar Michelle Shirin , Ganesh Venkata , Naik B Naveen , Singh Ajay , Puri G. D. , Kaur Sukhpal
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Literature states a higher self‐contamination rate among healthcare workers (HCWs) while doffing personal protective equipment (PPE). During the Covid‐19 pandemic, onsite trained observers were not always available to monitor PPE compliance. The remote audio‐visual doffing surveillance (RADS) system has the potential to overcome this limitation. We aimed to compare the efficacy of this real‐time RADS system against the onsite buddy system for monitoring the doffing of PPE.

Methods

This prospective, observational study was carried out at our tertiary care centre in northern India. 200 HCWs who cared for Covid‐19 patients in the intensive care units/operation theatres were included. Group A included HCWs who performed doffing with the help of an onsite trained observer and group B included HCWs who performed doffing with the RADS system. An independent observer noted the error at any step using the CDC doffing checklist, in both groups. An online questionnaire to analyse the level of satisfaction post‐doffing was also surveyed.

Results

The proportion of errors committed during doffing was significantly lower in group B compared to group A with a low relative risk of 0.34 (95% CI 0.22–0.51) (p < 0.001) (Figure 1A,B). In both groups, there was no difference in HCWs feedback regarding the ease of the system and fear of committing an error. Though the perceived quality of monitoring was felt better with onsite buddy, the overall confidence rating of being safe after doffing was better with the RADS system.

Conclusion

Real‐time RADS system may be more effective than the onsite buddy system for ensuring the safety of HCWs during doffing PPE. HCWs level of satisfaction related to the ease and anxiety with the monitoring systems were comparable. RADS system can reduce reliance on HCW resources and can integrate well into existing healthcare systems.
Gut microbiota reshapes cancer immunotherapy efficacy: Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Xie Jindong , Liu Manqing , Deng Xinpei , Tang Yuhui , Zheng Shaoquan , Ou Xueqi , Tang Hailin , Xie Xiaoming , Wu Minqing , Zou Yutian
Published: January 2024

Gut microbiota is essential for maintaining local and systemic immune homeostasis in the presence of bacterial challenges. It has been demonstrated that microbiota play contrasting roles in cancer development as well as anticancer immunity. Cancer immunotherapy, a novel anticancer therapy that relies on the stimulation of host immunity, has suffered from a low responding rate and incidence of severe immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). Previous studies have demonstrated that the diversity and composition of gut microbiota were associated with the heterogeneity of therapeutic effects. Therefore, alteration in microbiota taxa can lead to improved clinical outcomes in immunotherapy. In this review, we determine whether microbiota composition or microbiota‐derived metabolites are linked to responses to immunotherapy and irAEs. Moreover, we discuss various approaches to improve immunotherapy efficacy or reduce toxicities by modulating microbiota composition.
Intelligent point of care testing for medicine diagnosis
Authors: Gao Qiya , Li Shuang
Published: January 2024

Intelligent point‐of‐care testing (iPOCT) is a rapidly advancing technology that combines molecular detection and bio‐sensing techniques to achieve instant and accurate analysis through advanced sensors and intelligent algorithms. Molecular detection technologies, such as nucleic acid isothermal amplification, biochip and microfluidics, enable rapid analysis of the chemical composition and concentration of samples, thereby determining their presence. Bio‐sensing technology utilizes the recognition properties of biomolecules in conjunction with sensors to detect specific biomolecules or biological processes. iPOCT technology holds broad prospects for application in the field of healthcare and is expected to enhance detection sensitivity, accuracy, and intelligence through further development. In this review, we delineate the developmental journey of iPOCT, followed by a discussion on the principles of molecular detection and bio‐sensing technology, as well as the design of iPOCT devices for health monitoring and disease diagnosis. Furthermore, we showcased illustrative examples of iPOCT applications in disease diagnosis, highlighting the integration of iPOCT technology with wearable devices and smartphones for attaining more precise and personalized diagnostic results.
Targeted antibacterial photodynamic therapy with aggregation‐induced emission photosensitizers
Authors: Wu Biru , Kenry  , Hu Fang
Published: January 2024

With the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases caused by drug‐resistant bacteria, there is an urgent need to develop innovative therapies alternative to antibiotics. Among these alternatives, the aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) photosensitizers (PSs) stand out with their integrated imaging and therapeutic functionalities, allowing for early monitoring and image‐guided ablation of bacteria. AIE fluorescent probes with unique optical properties excel in selective bacterial imaging. Furthermore, AIE‐enabled reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated antibacterial photodynamic therapy can operate on multiple targets to oxidize bacteria. Also, as they are able to specifically target bacteria, AIE PSs can ameliorate the limitations of the small‐scale action of ROS. This review methodically discusses the different strategies that can be employed using AIE PSs for targeting bacteria, including sheltered bacteria. The challenges and future opportunities of using AIE PSs in this emerging field are also briefly discussed.
Experimental analysis of efficacy of carrier aggregation
Authors: Reddy Krishna , Bhattacharjee Arup
Published: January 2024

3GPP introduced carrier aggregation (CA) in Release‐10 to mitigate the increasing bandwidth demand of users. The efficacy of CA in meeting user demand for higher throughput in real‐life scenarios is an important consideration. This letter undertakes a simulation route using NS3 to understand the impact of variations in specific parameter values on the performance of CA in 3GPP‐specified scenarios. This work further establishes an empirical relation between throughput and some varying parameters. The work also shows that maintaining steady cell throughput in a densely populated cell comes at the cost of an individual user throughput. Simulation results exhibit that optimal CA design by tuning physical layer parameters alone cannot provide sustained throughput to the users.
Rational prediction of immunogenicity clustering through cross‐reactivity analysis of thirteen SARS‐CoV‐2 variants
Authors: Liang Ziteng , Tong Jincheng , Sun Ziqi , Liu Shuo , Wu Jiajing , Wu Xi , Li Tao , Yu Yuanling , Zhang Li , Zhao Chenyan , Lu Qiong , Nie Jianhui , Huang Weijin , Wang Youchun
Published: January 2024

SARS‐CoV‐2 breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals underscore the threat posed by continuous mutating variants, such as Omicron, to vaccine‐induced immunity. This necessitates the search for broad‐spectrum immunogens capable of countering infections from such variants. This study evaluates the immunogenicity relationship among SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, from D614G to XBB, through Guinea pig vaccination, covering D614G, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, BA.1, BA.2, BA.2.75, BA.2.75.2, BA.5, BF.7, BQ.1.1, and XBB, employing three immunization strategies: three‐dose monovalent immunogens, three‐dose bivalent immunogens, and a two‐dose vaccination with D614G followed by a booster immunization with a variant strain immunogen. Three distinct immunogenicity clusters were identified: D614G, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta as cluster 1, BA.1, BA.2, and BA.2.75 as cluster 2, BA.2.75.2, BA.5, BF.7, BQ.1.1, and XBB as cluster 3. Broad‐spectrum protection could be achieved through a combined immunization strategy using bivalent immunogens or D614G and XBB, or two initial D614G vaccinations followed by two XBB boosters. A comparison of neutralizing antibody levels induced by XBB boosting and equivalent dosing of D614G and XBB revealed that the XBB booster produced higher antibody levels. The study suggests that vaccine antigen selection should focus on the antigenic alterations among variants, eliminating the need for updating vaccine components for each variant.
Mpox patients' experience from infection to treatment and implications for prevention and control: A multicenter qualitative study in China
Authors: Zhang Weijie , Qi Xiao , Yang Liuqing , Meng Xiaojun , Xu Guangyong , Luo Sitong , Wu Ke , Tang Jiapeng , Wang Bingyi , Fu Leiwen , Han Baihui , He Jinbo , Zhang Ye , Wang Fuxiang , Lin Yuanlong , Cao Wanxian , Liu Siyang , He Longtao , Gao Yong , Lv Fan , Lu Hongzhou , Qian Jun , Zou Huachun
Published: January 2024

Monkeypox (mpox), a viral zoonotic disease, is spreading worldwide. However, evidence that informs prevention and control strategies in the Asia Pacific Region is very limited. Our study aims to investigate the experiences of mpox patients from infection to treatment to provide scientific basis for the prevention and control. A multicenter qualitative design was used. A total of 15 mpox patients were recruited between July 6 and July 25, 2023, from six cities in China. Semistructured interviews were conducted by telephone and analyzed using the thematic analysis. The interview was divided into two sections: patients' experiences (prediagnosis experience, treatment‐seeking experience, and quarantine experience) and advice. Prediagnosis experience was summarized into three themes: symptoms, possible routes of infection, and knowledge of mpox. Treatment‐seeking experience was summarized into three themes: time of visit to hospital, diagnostic difficulties, and attitude toward diagnosis. Quarantine experience was summarized into three themes: body and mind reactions, reluctance to self‐disclose infection status, and factors facilitating recovery. Themes identified from patients' advice were as follows: (1) Increase in testing channels and methods, (2) Development and introduction of vaccines, (3) Adjustment of quarantine program, (4) Improvement of treatment measures, and (5) Improvement of publicity and education. To effectively curb the mpox epidemic, structured measures are urgently needed to address the mpox‐related stigma and discrimination. Targeted health education should be provided to MSM, focusing on the prevention, detection, and treatment services. Hospitals should enhance the training of clinicians in key departments including infectious disease and dermatology, to improve diagnostic capability and sensitivity. Furthermore, given the absence of specific antiviral medications, supervised home quarantine may be a good option.
Vaccination against influenza viruses reduces infection, not hospitalization or death, from respiratory COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pontiroli Antonio E. , Scovenna Francesco , Carlini Valentina , Tagliabue Elena , Martin‐Delgado Jimmy , La Sala Lucia , Tanzi Elisabetta , Zanoni Ivan
Published: January 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) causes COVID‐19 and has brought a huge burden in terms of human lives. Strict social distance and influenza vaccination have been recommended to avoid co‐infections between influenza viruses and SARS‐CoV‐2. Scattered reports suggested a protective effect of influenza vaccine on COVID‐19 development and severity. We analyzed 51 studies on the capacity of influenza vaccination to affect infection with SARS‐CoV‐2, hospitalization, admission to Intensive Care Units (ICU), and mortality. All subjects taken into consideration did not receive any anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine, although their status with respect to previous infections with SARS‐CoV‐2 is not known. Comparison between vaccinated and not‐vaccinated subjects for each of the four endpoints was expressed as odds ratio (OR), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs); all analyses were performed by DerSimonian and Laird model, and Hartung‐Knapp model when studies were less than 10. In a total of 61 029 936 subjects from 33 studies, influenza vaccination reduced frequency of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection [OR plus 95% CI = 0.70 (0.65−0.77)]. The effect was significant in all studies together, in health care workers and in the general population; distance from influenza vaccination and the type of vaccine were also of importance. In 98 174 subjects from 11 studies, frequency of ICU admission was reduced with influenza vaccination [OR (95% CI) = 0.71 (0.54−0.94)]; the effect was significant in all studies together, in pregnant women and in hospitalized subjects. In contrast, in 4 737 328 subjects from 14 studies hospitalization was not modified [OR (95% CI) = 1.05 (0.82−1.35)], and in 4 139 660 subjects from 19 studies, mortality was not modified [OR (95% CI) = 0.76 (0.26−2.20)]. Our study emphasizes the importance of influenza vaccination in the protection against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Multipole Excitation of Localized Plasmon Resonance in Asymmetrically Coated Core–Shell Nanoparticles Using Optical Vortices
Authors: Tanaka Daisuke , Harajiri Shungo , Fujita Yuto , Forbes Kayn A. , Pham Tien Thanh , Andrews David L.
Published: January 2024

Plasmonic interactions between an asymmetrically coated core–shell (ACCS) nanoparticle and an optical vortex produce a novel engagement of the spin angular momentum (SAM) and the orbital angular momentum (OAM) of the input. Simulations based on a discrete dipole approximation (DDA) indicate that the SAM and the OAM of the incident beam determine the modal order of resonance, correctly identifying the peak wavelength, and both the direction and magnitude of optical torque exerted upon the excited, localized plasmon resonance in the ACCS particle. These simulations also indicate higher‐order resonances, including hexapole and octupole modes, and a zero‐order resonance (expressible as a monopole mode), can be excited by judicious selection of the SAM and OAM. A detailed symmetry analysis shows how the multipoles associated with eigenmode excitations connect to the radiation multipoles at the heart of the multipole expansion. It is also shown how additional, distorted resonance modes due to the asymmetricity of the structure are also exhibited. These specific plasmonic characteristics, which cannot be realized by plane wave excitation, become possible through the ACCS asymmetry engaging with the distinct optical vortex nature of the excitation.
Constructing Efficient and Thermostable Red‐NIR Emitter via Cross Relaxation and Crystal‐Field Engineering of Holmium‐Based Perovskite‐Type Half Metal
Authors: Sun Ranran , Jia Mochen , Chen Xu , Zhang Fei , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Liu Ying , Zhang Jibin , Lian Linyuan , Han Yanbing , Li Mengyao , Yang Dongwen , Li Xinjian , Zhang Yu , Shan Chongxin , Shi Zhifeng
Published: January 2024

Lanthanide ions, as dopants, have evoked widespread research interest owing to the rich optical, magnetic, and electrical properties, but their luminescent intensity is always limited by typical concentration quenching. Herein, a holmium‐based double perovskite of Cs2NaHoCl6 is reported, which surprisingly breaks through this barrier and achieves efficient red‐NIR emission by virtue of the large unit cell, low phonon energy, high content of activators, and cross relaxation phenomenon between Ho3+. The heavy Ho3+ also endows the intriguing half‐metallic nature with a down‐spin conducting band and an up‐spin insulating band. After performing ion doping on crystallographic sites of Na+ and Ho3+, the photoluminescence quantum yield of such red‐NIR emitter under 450 nm excitation is dramatically promoted to 82.3%, benefiting from the improved crystal field environment that alleviates the parity forbidden rule and suppresses non‐radiative recombination loss. Furthermore, the heat‐favorable phonon‐assisted population processes enable the robust photostability against thermal quenching. By combining a 450 nm chip, the red‐NIR light‐emitting diodes are fabricated, in which the wide‐coverage NIR emissions are ideally suited for medical light source, night vision, nondestructive examination, and transmission imaging. It is believed that this work will open an avenue for enhancing the fluorescence of lanthanide ions and developing advanced spintronic materials.
Preparation of Alginic Acid/Poly(2‐Oxazoline) Hybrid Gels and Their Use in Cell Preservation
Authors: Tsurube Makoto , Takasu Akinori
Published: January 2024

A hybrid gel is developed aiming to extend the storage period for cell preservation compared with an alginate gel. The introduction of poly(2‐oxazoline)s into alginic acid promises to improve functional materials by changing their functional groups (e.g., poly(2‐isopropyl‐2‐oxazoline) has the lower critical solution temperature behavior). This study demonstrates chemical modification of a carboxylate of sodium alginate by 1,3‐diaminopropane‐terminated poly(2‐oxazoline)s using 3‐ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) and N‐hydroxy succinimide (NHS) as the condensation reagents for the aminations. The incorporated ratio of poly(2‐oxazoline)s side chains into the carboxylates estimated by 1H NMR is ca. 5–12% and the remaining pendent carboxylates are used for gelation by adding calcium salts (CaCl2). Gelation is observed within 30 min producing 93–99% gel fractions that swell in water. Similar gelation occurs in the cultivation medium of green‐fluorescence protein (GFP)‐encoded and COVID‐19 spike protein‐encoded DNA recombinant E.coli in both the absence and presence of isopropyl β‐D‐1‐thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). Even in the presence of IPTG, fluorescence ascribed to GFP is not observed while the cells are kept at 25 °C for 3 weeks. After solvation by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), fluorescence intensity at 508 nm is clearly observed and cell preservation at room temperature is thereby demonstrated.
Novel Calcium‐Binding Peptide from Bovine Bone Collagen Hydrolysates and Its Potential Pro‐Osteogenic Activity via Calcium‐Sensing Receptor (CaSR)
Authors: Qi Liwei , Zhang Hongru , Guo Yujie , Zhang Chunhui , Xu Yang
Published: January 2024

Scope

This paper aims to explore the osteogenic activity and potential mechanism of the peptide‐calcium chelate, and provides a theoretical basis for peptide‐calcium chelates as functional foods to prevent or improve osteoporosis.

Methods and results

In this research, a novel peptide (Phe‐Gly‐Leu, FGL) with a high calcium‐binding capacity is screened from bovine bone collagen hydrolysates (CPs), calcium binding sites of which mainly included carbonyl, amino and carboxyl groups. The FGL‐Ca significantly enhances the osteogenic activity of MC3T3‐E1 cells (survival rate, differentiation, and mineralization). The results of calcium fluorescence labeling and molecular docking show that FGL‐Ca may activate calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR), leading to an increase in intracellular calcium concentration, then enhancing osteogenic activity of MC3T3‐E1 cells. Further research found that FGL‐Ca significantly promotes the mRNA and protein expression levels of CaSR, transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β1), TGF‐β‐type II receptor (TβRII), Smad2, Smad3, osteocalcin (OCN), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteoprotegrin (OPG), and collagen type I (COLI). Subsequently, in the signal pathway intervention experiment, the expression levels of genes and proteins related to the TGF‐β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway that are promoted by FGL‐Ca are found to decrease.

Conclusions

These results suggest that FGL‐Ca may activate CaSR, increase intracellular calcium concentration, and activate TGF‐β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, which may be one of the potential mechanisms for enhancing osteogenic activity.
Polypropylene nanocomposites produced by in‐situ grafting of maleic anhydride using different mixing procedures
Authors: Merchán Sandoval Julie , Failla Marcelo Daniel , Quinzani Lidia Maria
Published: January 2024

Nanocomposites (NC) of polypropylene (PP) and organophilic montmorillonite (oMt) are produced by reactive mixing with simultaneous grafting of maleic anhydride (MA) onto PP using organic peroxide as initiator. Five different strategies of incorporating reactants and clay into a laboratory mixer are used. The structure of composites is examined by FT‐IR spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Rotational rheometry, thermogravimetry and oxygen permeability are used to evaluate properties. The preparation method has a remarkable influence on NC's structure. Simultaneous addition of peroxide and MA to molten PP followed by incorporation of clay 20 minutes later produces the best degree of clay exfoliation/disaggregation. The NCs obtained using this procedure are highly transparent and have very thin tactoids with interlayer spacing more than 50% larger than the original oMt. The incorporation of just 2 wt% of clay gives place to more than 30% reduction in PP oxygen permeability. Additionally, the temperature at the maximum thermal degradation rate in nitrogen reduces in about 60°C while the temperature at which the thermal degradation process begins is not affected.

Highlights

Highly intercalated/exfoliated PP/oMt nanocomposites are synthesized

Reactive mixing procedure affects the quality of nanocomposite's structure

A initial period of grafting before clay addition is the most effective method

Highly transparent materials with small tactoids of d001>4 nm is generated

PP oxygen permeability is highly reduced by the use of just 2 wt% of nanoclay
Novel compound heterozygous variants in EMC1: Overlapping phenotypes of left ventricular noncompaction and long QT syndrome warranting in‐depth exploration
Authors: Dai Xiaohui , Wang Yu , Liu Hanmin , Chen Jiao
Published: January 2024

A couple was referred for prenatal counseling at the gestational age of 35 weeks of a male fetus (II‐2) with sinus bradycardia and suspected first degree atrioventricular block with left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC). A previous pregnancy for the couple of a female fetus (II‐1) was diagnosed prenatally as sinus bradycardia at the gestational age of 30 weeks. Both fetuses were confirmed to have long QT syndrome (LQTS) with LVNC after birth, and died of heart failure during infancy. The genetic cause of the combined cardiovascular disorders was investigated by trio whole‐exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing on DNA extracted from parental blood samples and umbilical cord serum of the proband. Compound heterozygous variants were identified in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex subunit 1 gene (EMC1, NM_015047.3), including paternally inherited c.245C>T (p. Thr82Met) and maternally inherited c.1459delC (p. Arg487Alafs*49). Pathogenic variants in EMC1 have been associated with a recessive neurodevelopmental disorder, whereas Emc10 knockout mice exhibit cardiovascular issues. The present study shows that EMC1 variation potentially causes the overlapping phenotypes of LVNC and LQTS and may expand the spectrum of diseases caused by EMC1 variation.
Prevalence of corpus callosum pathology in an unselected population. Should assessment of the corpus callosum be included in the routine 20 weeks scan?
Authors: Rodríguez Mª Angeles , Echevarría Mónica , Perdomo Laura , Gómez‐Chiari Marta , García Sandra , Prats Pilar , Serra Bernat , Albaiges Gerard
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of abnormalities of the corpus callosum (AbnCC) in a non‐selected population, to propose a systematic screening protocol for AbnCC in all populations through direct assessment, and to describe the follow‐up and prognosis of all AbnCC cases diagnosed in our clinical setting.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of the prevalence of AbnCC over 11 years. We included a sagittal assessment of the corpus callosum (CC) in the second‐trimester scan. AbnCC was classified into complete agenesis of CC (ACC) and dysgenesis of CC (DCC; including small, partial agenesis, thick and with lipoma).

Results

Of the 38,586 second‐trimester scans performed during our screening, 43 cases of AbnCC were detected (prevalence of 0.8/1000). Of the AbnCC cases, 10 cases were identified as ACC (29.40%) and 24 as DCC (70.59%). Follow‐up investigations showed that in the 43 cases with AbnCC, 76.5% had other associated ultrasound abnormalities, 26.5% had genetic abnormalities, 11.8% had other MRI abnormalities, and 25% of the children had neurodevelopmental delays (8.8% of the total), which were severe in only one case.

Conclusions

AbnCC is found in approximately 0.8/1000 of cases in an unselected population. The findings suggest that systematic and direct assessment of the CC as part of screening ultrasound in the second trimester of gestation should be recommended as a routine practice.
Cyclic stress accelerated life test method for mechatronic products
Authors: Wang Yashun , Hu Jingwen , Zhang Shufeng , Chen Xun
Published: January 2024

The reliability requirements for mechatronics continue to increase. Traditional life test methods make it difficult to obtain the data required to assess or predict the reliability of these mechatronic products within a reasonable time. Accelerated life tests can speed up the failure process of the product by using accelerated stress conditions. And then test data is obtained to predict the reliable life of the product under normal service conditions through modeling and analysis. The test efficiency of the accelerated life tests is higher than that of the life test. So, the method of accelerated life tests has become a solution for life and reliability prediction of highly reliable and long‐life mechatronic products. However, mechatronic products usually undergo cyclic stress during service. The use of cyclic stress as an accelerating stress in accelerated life tests can provide a realistic representation of service conditions and achieve higher test efficiency. Cyclic stress accelerated life test is an accurate and efficient solution for predicting the life and reliability of such mechatronic products. Current relative research is focused on constant stress, step stress and sequential stress accelerated life tests. A great challenge in engineering is modeling and analysis of cyclic stresses accelerated life tests. In this paper, we first describe the cyclic stress accelerated life test profile and its key parameters, then propose model assumptions and establish a modelling and analysis method for cyclic stress accelerated life test data, followed by an illustrative example to apply and validate the proposed method. The research results can provide technical support for the life and reliability assessment of mechatronic products under cyclic stress service conditions.
Global Room‐Temperature Superconductivity in Graphite
Authors: Kopelevich Yakov , Torres José , da Silva Robson , Oliveira Felipe , Diamantini Maria Cristina , Trugenberger Carlo , Vinokur Valerii
Published: January 2024

Room temperature superconductivity under normal conditions has been a major challenge of physics and material science since its discovery. Here the global room‐temperature superconductivity observed in cleaved highly oriented pyrolytic graphite carrying dense arrays of nearly parallel surface line defects is reported. The multiterminal measurements performed at the ambient pressure in the temperature interval 4.5 K ≤ T ≤ 300 K and at magnetic fields 0 ≤ B ≤ 9 T applied perpendicular to the basal graphitic planes reveal that the superconducting critical current Ic(T, B) is governed by the normal state resistance RN(T, B) so that Ic(T, B) is proportional to 1/RN(T, B). Magnetization M(T, B) measurements of superconducting screening and hysteresis loops together with the critical current oscillations with temperature that are characteristic for superconductor‐ferromagnet‐superconductor Josephson chains, provide strong support for the occurrence of superconductivity at T > 300 K. A theory of global superconductivity emerging in the array of linear structural defects is developed which well describes the experimental findings and demonstrate that global superconductivity arises as a global phase coherence of superconducting granules in linear defects promoted by the stabilizing effect of underlying Bernal graphite via tunneling coupling to the three dimensional (3D) material.