bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disparities in access to health care in adults with sinusitis in the United States
Authors: Shah Jay P. , Youn Gun Min , Wei Eric X. , Patel Zara M.
Published: April 2023

Background

Sinusitis can significantly decrease quality of life, is costly in both health care expenditure and lost productivity, and can lead to complications if treatment is delayed. Our objective was to explore disparities in health care access among adults with sinusitis based on sociodemographic factors.

Methods

A total of 32,994 participants (representing 244,838,261 US adults) who completed the 2016 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were analyzed, of whom 12.17% were diagnosed with sinusitis at least once in the prior 12 months. Multivariate regression analyses were performed.

Results

In regression analyses, female sex (odds ratio [OR], 2.00 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.79‐2.24]; p < 0.001) and older age groups were associated with increased odds of having sinusitis. Within the sinusitis cohort, Asian race (OR, 5.97 [95% CI, 1.61‐22.12]; p = 0.008) and Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 6.97 [95% CI, 3.22‐15.06]; p < 0.001) were associated with increased odds of obtaining foreign medications. Individuals with Medicaid had decreased odds of delaying care (OR, 0.37 [95% CI, 0.25‐0.56]; p < 0.001) or not receiving care due to cost (OR, 0.40 [95% CI, 0.24‐0.65]; p < 0.001), but increased odds of delaying care due to transportation barriers (OR, 4.64 [95% CI, 2.52‐8.55]; p < 0.001). Uninsured individuals had higher odds for delaying care (OR, 4.97 [95% CI, 3.35‐7.38]; p < 0.001) and not receiving care (OR, 5.46 [95% CI, 3.56‐8.38]; p < 0.001) due to cost. Income >$100,000 was associated with a nearly 90% reduction in inability to obtain care due to cost (OR, 0.11 [95% CI, 0.05‐0.21]; p < 0.001) and an over 99% reduction in inability to obtain care due to transportation issues compared with income < $35,000 (OR, 0.01 [95% CI, 0.00‐0.04]; p< 0.001).

Conclusion

Significant disparities in health care access based on race, health insurance status, and income exist among adults with sinusitis in the United States.
Regioselective Difunctionalization and Annulation of Ynamide
Authors: Dutta Shubham , Mallick Rajendra K. , Sahoo Akhila K.
Published: April 2023

The use of ynamides in organic synthesis has gained significant attention due to their ability to provide access to complex molecular structures through transformations such as 1,2‐difunctionalization and annulation reactions. These reactions enable the formation of highly functionalized N‐bearing olefins and unusual N‐bearing heterocycles. In this minireview, we present a systematic overview of the regioselective difunctionalization and annulation reactions of ynamides. We discuss the multi‐component reactions, and radical‐triggered functionalizations across the ynamides carbon–carbon multiple bonds and the use of bifunctional reagents in annulation of ynamides, highlighting their potential in expanding the substrate scope. Furthermore, we provide insights into the mechanistic breakthroughs that have been achieved in recent years in the development of these reactions. Finally, we emphasize the promising future prospects of ynamides as versatile building blocks for the synthesis of complex molecular architectures.
Synthese komplexer thiazolinhaltiger Peptide durch CyclodesulfhydrierungN‐thioacylierter Mercaptoethylaminderivate
Authors: Meleshin Marat , Koch Lukas , Wiedemann Christoph , Schutkowski Mike
Published: April 2023

In diesem Bericht beschreiben wir eine milde, effiziente und epimerisierungsfreie Methode für die Synthese 2‐thiazolin‐ und 5,6‐dihydro‐4H‐1,3‐thiazinhaltiger Peptide durch Cyclodesulfhydrierung entsprechenderN‐thioacylierter 2‐Mercaptoethylamin‐ oder 3‐Mercaptopropylaminderivate. Die beschriebene Reaktion wird durch eine Änderung des pH‐Wertes ausgelöst, kann in wässrigen Lösungen und bei Raumtemperatur durchgeführt werden und führt in hervorragenden bis quantitativen Ausbeuten zu komplexen Thiazolin‐ und Dihydrothiazinderivaten. Die neue Methode kam erfolgreich bei der Totalsynthese des marinen Naturstoffes Mollamid F zum Einsatz, was eine Revision seiner Stereochemie zur Folge hatte.
Not So Innocent After All: Interfacial Chemistry Determines Charge‐Transport Efficiency in Single‐Molecule Junctions
Authors: Daaoub Abdalghani , Morris James M. F. , Béland Vanessa A. , Demay‐Drouhard Paul , Hussein Amaar , Higgins Simon J. , Sadeghi Hatef , Nichols Richard J. , Vezzoli Andrea , Baumgartner Thomas , Sangtarash Sara
Published: April 2023

Most studies in molecular electronics focus on altering the molecular wire backbone to tune the electrical properties of the whole junction. However, it is often overlooked that the chemical structure of the groups anchoring the molecule to the metallic electrodes influences the electronic structure of the whole system and, therefore, its conductance. We synthesised electron‐accepting dithienophosphole oxide derivatives and fabricated their single‐molecule junctions. We found that the anchor group has a dramatic effect on charge‐transport efficiency: in our case, electron‐deficient 4‐pyridyl contacts suppress conductance, while electron‐rich 4‐thioanisole termini promote efficient transport. Our calculations show that this is due to minute changes in charge distribution, probed at the electrode interface. Our findings provide a framework for efficient molecular junction design, especially valuable for compounds with strong electron withdrawing/donating backbones.
Synthesis of Complex Thiazoline‐Containing Peptides by Cyclodesulfhydration ofN‐Thioacyl‐2‐Mercaptoethylamine Derivatives
Authors: Meleshin Marat , Koch Lukas , Wiedemann Christoph , Schutkowski Mike
Published: April 2023

Herein we report a mild, efficient, and epimerization‐free method for the synthesis of peptide‐derived 2‐thiazolines and 5,6‐dihydro‐4H‐1,3‐thiazines based on a cyclodesulfhydration ofN‐thioacyl‐2‐mercaptoethylamine orN‐thioacyl‐3‐mercaptopropylamine derivatives. The described reaction can be easily carried out in aqueous solutions at room temperature and it is triggered by change of the pH, leading to complex thiazoline or dihydrothiazine derivatives without epimerization in excellent to quantitative yields. The new method was applied in the total synthesis of the marine metabolite mollamide F, resulting in the revision of its stereochemistry.
A review: Biological activities of novel cyanopyridine derivatives
Authors: Wu Yurou , Wu Tao , Huang Yong
Published: April 2023

The discovery of new therapeutic drugs is heavily reliant on the structural diversity and pharmacological properties of heterocyclic compounds. Pyridine heterocyclic‐related medicines, in particular, have garnered considerable attention due to their wide pharmacological activities and therapeutic effects. Among them, cyanopyridine derivatives have demonstrated diverse pharmacological effects. This review aims to systematically compile and discuss the diverse pharmacological effects of cyanopyridine derivatives. The review is divided into multiple sections, highlighting the biological activities of cyanide derivatives, with emphasis on anticancer, antimicrobial (i.e., antibacterial, insecticidal anticonvulsant, and antiviral activities), anticonvulsant, anti‐Alzheimer's, and enzyme inhibitory activities. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the interesting therapeutic potential of cyanopyridine derivatives as kinase inhibitors and cytotoxic agents, which are promising candidates for anticancer drug development. The relationship between structure and activity is also discussed, with molecular docking used to provide insights into the mechanism of action of these compounds.
Highly Regioselective Synthesis of N‐β‐trifluoromethyl 2‐pyridones via anti‐Markovnikov Hydroamination of α‐(trifluoromethyl)styrenes with 2‐pyridones
Authors: Zhang Yi , Sun Zhudi , He Jingjing , Deng Yupian , Liu Ying , Zheng Pai , Cao Song
Published: April 2023

A novel and facile method for the synthesis of N‐β‐CF3‐substituted 2‐pyridones via hydroamination of α‐(trifluoromethyl)styrenes with 2‐pyridones was described. The reaction proceeded smoothly at room temperature, affording a variety of N‐(β‐trifluoromethyl‐β‐arylethyl)pyridin‐2(1H)‐ones in moderate to good yields with excellent N‐regioselectivity.
Highly Regio‐ and Enantioselective Cu/Pd Co‐Catalyzed Allylic Alkylation of α‐pyridyl‐α‐fluoroesters: Construction of Quaternary C−F Stereocenters
Authors: Yan Xinlong , Li Zongwei , Fan Lin , Li Jiashan , Liu Guodu
Published: April 2023

New methods for preparation of chiral alkyl fluorides have been studied intensively in recent years due to the favorable physicochemical and biological properties of those structures. Herein, we describe the regio‐ and enantioselective allylic alkylation of α‐pyridyl‐α‐fluoroesters with allyl acetates promoted by Cu/Pd synergistic catalysis, constructing the carbon‐ fluorine quaternary stereocenters. In this co‐catalytic system, palladium catalyst mainly constructed the C−C bond, while chiral copper catalyst controlled the enantioselectivity. A series of aryl‐ and aliphatic‐substituted allyl acetates are applied, giving the corresponding products in high yield, excellent enantioselectivity, and E/Z (up to 98% yield, 98 : 2 er, E/Z>20 : 1).
Effects of Halogenation on Quinoline‐Malononitrile‐based AIEgens: Photophysical Properties Investigation and Wash‐Free Imaging
Authors: Feng Lu , Meng Fanda , Niu Guangle
Published: April 2023

Developing halogen‐functionalized fluorescent dyes with intriguing photophysical properties, including enhanced photostability, is particularly important for bioimaging. In this work, we synthesized two new halogen‐functionalized aggregation‐induced emission (AIE)‐active molecules, DQMF‐OH and DQMCl‐OH, based on the quinoline‐malononitrile chromophore. The halogen effect on the photophysical characteristics was detailedly studied by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, density functional theory calculations, and crystal structures. Compared with non‐halogen substituted AIE luminogen (AIEgen) DQM‐OH, the halogen substituted DQMF‐OH and DQMCl‐OH exhibited red‐shifted absorptions and emissions in the solution and solid state. In addition, DQMF‐OH and DQMCl‐OH also possessed enhanced fluorescence toward viscosity changes. These AIEgens served as remarkable imaging tools for cell tracking in a wash‐free manner. Furthermore, DQMF‐OH and DQMCl‐OH showed much more excellent photobleaching resistance than DQM‐OH. Our work sheds new light on developing fluorescent halogenated dyes with enhanced photophysical performances for biological applications.
Combination of PEG‐b‐PAA Carrier and Efficient Cationic Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Yang Hui , Shang Zhanhao , Shi Qiankun , Gao Jucai , Wang Xiaorui , Hu Fang
Published: April 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is recognized to be a promising strategy for anticancer treatment. Considering the progressive application of PDT in clinical trials, highly efficient photosensitizers (PSs) are in strong demand. Aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) based PSs are promising phototheranostic materials for tumor imaging and PDT due to their high fluorescence and photosensitizing efficiency. Herein, a PS, TPA‐2BCP with AIE characteristics is developed by adopting an acceptor‐π‐donor‐π‐acceptor (A–π–D–π–A) structure. However, the accumulation of ionic PSs in the tumor is poor due to non‐specific interactions with bio‐molecules. Therefore, we use a carboxyl‐rich polymer material, polyacrylate polyethylene glycol block copolymer (PEG‐b‐PAA) to encapsulate the cationic PSs into nanoparticles through ionic interactions. The cationic groups are blocked and the generated PS nanoparticles can accumulate well in the tumor site in vivo. Meanwhile, the photosensitizing efficiency of the PS is further enhanced in the nanoparticle format. The tumor growth can be obviously inhibited under 530 nm laser irradiation, demonstrating its potential application in antitumor PDT.
Understanding the pulsed laser‐induced modification processes of TiO2 nanomaterials in aqueous solution
Authors: An Hee Jun , Carl Nkenku , Yoo Youngdong , Kang Hyuk , Kim Yu Kwon
Published: April 2023

Three different types of TiO2 nanoparticles in anatase and rutile phases were subject to nanosecond 532‐nm laser pulses in aqueous solution for enhanced reactivity in photocatalytic applications. Color changes observed during the laser processes resulted from laser pulse‐induced heating of TiO2 surfaces to form surface disorder with surface defects. Interestingly, TiO2 nanoparticles with different size and bulk phases undergo different changes in surface morphology, bulk phase, and defect density under the same laser pulses. The results are related with the differences in the absorption by initial defects on the TiO2 surface. Our results show that the type and density of initial defects within TiO2 matrix are important in determining subsequent thermal equilibrium‐driven changes. It is suggested that nanosecond laser pulses with energies lower than the bandgap of the semiconductor materials provide a chance for selective modification of oxide nanomaterials such as TiO2 for a new photoresponsive functionality in diverse applications.
Sustainability orientation and firm growth as ventures mature
Authors: Chistov Valery , Aramburu Nekane , Florit María Eugenia Fabra , Peña‐Legazkue Iñaki , Weritz Pauline
Published: April 2023

This article revisits the dilemma between sustainability orientation and a firm's growth along the stages of the entrepreneurial process. We draw upon the recent research on sustainable entrepreneurship to determine whether entrepreneurial ventures can pursue sustainability objectives and still grow in terms of turnover and employment. Based on the data of 2 370 firms, we conclude that the relationship between sustainability orientation and a venture's growth is not straightforward. The results show that the stage of the entrepreneurship life cycle matters and that only the introduction of sustainability objectives in the mature stage of the entrepreneurial process (rather than during the early stage) significantly increases the likelihood of such ventures growing. We also find empirical evidence against combining environmental and social dimensions under one umbrella of sustainability, as each of these dimensions demonstrated distinctive behavior in our models. While our results show the importance of innovation for the firm's growth, it is not evident that it exerts any significant moderation effect on the relationship between sustainability orientation and a venture's growth. These findings provide insightful evidence for policymakers about the intrinsic difficulty of reconciling sustainability and economic objectives at the early stages of the process of entrepreneurship and also about the need to differentiate the multiple meanings and forms of sustainability orientation.
Optimal starting age of endoscopic screening for esophageal cancer in China: A multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Ru , Dou Lizhou , Zhou Jiachen , Song Guohui , Li Bianyun , Zhao Deli , Hua Zhaolai , Wang Xinzheng , Li Jun , Hao Changqing , Li Yanyan , Feng Xiang , Li Lin , Wei Wenqiang , Wang Guiqi
Published: April 2023

Background

Although endoscopic screening for esophageal cancer has been performed in high‐risk areas in China for decades, there is limited and inconsistent evidence regarding the starting age for individuals participating in screening. The aim of this study is to investigate the optimal starting age of esophageal cancer screening.

Methods

This study is based on a multicenter prospective cohort consisting 338,017 permanent residents aged 40–69 years in six high‐risk areas of esophageal cancer in China. The participation rate, detection rate, hazard ratios (HRs), cumulative incidence and mortality and number needed to screen (NNS) were calculated in each age group. Screening burden, benefit and risk were compared among screening strategies with different initiation ages to explore the optimal starting age for population‐based screening in high‐risk areas.

Results

Individuals aged 50–69 had a higher participation rate, a higher detection rate and improved screening effectiveness than those aged 40–49. The endoscopic screening had no significant effect on reducing the incidence of esophageal cancer in individuals under 55 and mortality in individuals under 45. Increasing the starting age to 50 years reduced the screening demand and NNS by 40% and 55%, and resulted in 12% of detectable positive cases, 16% of preventable incident cases, and 14% of preventable deaths being missed.

Conclusions

Postponing the starting age of endoscopic screening to 50 years might yield a more‐favorable balance between screening benefit and burden in high‐ risk areas with limited resources.
Perceived barriers and facilitators to health behaviors in European childhood cancer survivors: A qualitative PanCareFollowUp study
Authors: Bouwman Eline , Pluijm Saskia M. F. , Stollman Iridi , Araujo‐Soares Vera , Blijlevens Nicole M. A. , Follin Cecilia , Winther Jeanette F. , Hjorth Lars , Kepak Tomas , Kepakova Katerina , Kremer Leontien C. M. , Muraca Monica , van der Pal Helena J. H. , Schneider Carina , Uyttebroeck Anne , Vercruysse Gertrui , Skinner Rod , Brown Morven C. , Hermens Rosella P. M. G. , Loonen Jacqueline J. ,   the PanCareFollowUp Consortium
Published: April 2023

Background

Healthy behaviors, that is, engaging in regular physical activities, maintaining a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco and drug use, decrease the risk of developing late adverse health conditions in childhood cancer survivors. However, childhood cancer survivors may experience barriers to adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors. This study aimed to assess these barriers and facilitators to health behavior adoption and maintenance in childhood cancer survivors.

Methods

A focus group ( n  = 12) and semi‐structured telephone interviews ( n  = 20) were conducted with a selected sample of European and Dutch childhood cancer survivors, respectively. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was used to inform the topic guide and analysis. Inductive thematic analysis was applied to identify categories relating to barriers and facilitators of health behavior adoption and maintenance, after which they were deductively mapped onto the TDF.

Results

Ten TDF domains were identified in the data of which “Knowledge,” “Beliefs about consequences,” “Environmental context and resources,” and “Social influences” were most commonly reported. Childhood cancer survivors expressed a need for knowledge on the importance of healthy behaviors, possibly provided by healthcare professionals. They indicated physical and long‐term benefits of healthy behaviors, available professional support, and a supporting and health‐consciously minded work and social environment to be facilitators. Barriers were mostly related to a lack of available time and an unhealthy environment. Lastly, (social) media was perceived as both a barrier and a facilitator to healthy behaviors.

Conclusion

This study has identified education and available professional support in health behaviors and the relevance of healthy behaviors for childhood cancer survivors as key opportunities for stimulating health behavior adoption in childhood cancer survivors. Incorporating health behavior support and interventions for this population should therefore be a high priority.
The protective power of friendship, advocacy and activism: A short report on the experiences of Who Cares? members and allies
Authors: Roesch‐Marsh Autumn , Roxburgh Marissa , Bartlett Thomas , Nicholas Donna
Published: April 2023

Friendship is valued by most children and young people around the world. In research on happiness, it is often identified as an essential ingredient for a happy life. In this short report we go further by exploring the importance of friendship as an ingredient in advocacy and activism. The report is written by two care experienced young people and two adult allies. The report explores how friendship makes advocacy and activism more possible and more powerful. Drawing on our reflections and personal experiences we discuss how having a space to make friends with others who have care experience and allies, and working together to effect change around policy and practice, has a protective impact on those working for change and those they support. These friendships are protective in practical and emotional ways, but they are also protective because they help hope to grow. We argue that the protective power of friendship, advocacy and activism should be more widely recognised as an important function of advocacy organisations like Who Cares? Scotland.
QSAR Modelling of Biological Activity in Cannabinoids with Quantum Similarity Combinations of Charge Fitting Schemes and 3D‐QSAR
Authors: Navarro‐Acosta Daniela , Coba‐Jimenez Ludis , Pérez‐Gamboa Alfredo , Cubillan Néstor , Vivas‐Reyes Ricardo
Published: April 2023

Quantitative structure−activity relationship(QSAR) modeled the biological activities of 30 cannabinoids with quantum similarity descriptors(QSD) and Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (CoMFA). The PubChem[https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/] database provided the geometries, binding affinities(Ki) to the cannabinoid receptors type 1(CB1) and 2(CB2), and the median lethal dose(LD50) to breast cancer cells. An innovative quantum similarity approach combining (self)‐similarity indexes calculated with different charge‐fitting schemes under the Topo‐Geometrical Superposition Algorithm(TGSA) were used to obtain QSARs. The determination coefficient(R2) and leave‐one‐out cross‐validation[Q2(LOO)] quantified the quality of multiple linear regression and support vector machine models. This approach was efficient in predicting the activities, giving predictive and robust models for each endpoint [pLD50: R2=0.9666 and Q2(LOO)=0.9312; pKi(CB1): R2=1.0000 and Q2(LOO)=0.9727, and pKi(CB2): R2=0.9996 and Q2(LOO)=0.9460], where p is the negative logarithm. The descriptors based on the electrostatic potential encrypted better electronic information involved in the interaction. Moreover, the similarity‐based descriptors generated unbiased models independent of an alignment procedure. The obtained models showed better performance than those reported in the literature. An additional 3D‐QSAR CoMFA analysis was applied to 15 cannabinoids, taking THC as a template in a ligand‐based approach. From this analysis, the region surrounding the amino group of the SR141716 ligand is the more favorable for the antitumor activity.
Anti‐Inflammatory and Anti‐Osteoclastogenesis Activities of Different Kinds of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Seed Oil in Vitro
Authors: Zhang Baochao , Luo Shuhan , Wu Shanshan , Li Jingjing , He Fangting , Luo Ruocheng , Wu Yating , Pan Meiling , Yong Li , Pei Xiaofang
Published: April 2023

Our previous study has exhibited that one kind of Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed oil (ZSO), extracted from Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed, had inhibitory effects on osteoclastogenesis. However, the anti‐osteoclastogenesis activities of different kinds of ZSO are scarcely reported. Since inflammation is related to bone loss and osteoporosis, in this study, three kinds of ZSO, Zanthoxylum schinifolium Siebold et Zucc seed oil (ZSSO), Zanthoxylum armatum DC. seed oil (ZDSO) and Zanthoxylum bungeanum maximum seed oil (ZBSO), were obtained with Soxhlet extraction and their fatty acid constituents were detected by GC‐FID. RAW264.7 macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used to evaluate the inhibitory effects of three kinds of ZSO on inflammation via detecting the expression levels of inflammatory factors by RT‐qPCR. Moreover, RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis was applied to demonstrate the anti‐osteoclastogenesis activities of them through tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and RT‐qPCR. The GC‐FID results exhibited that the highest constituent in ZSSO and ZDSO was oleic acid (OA) and palmitoleic acid (PLA), respectively. While linoleic acid (LA) and α‐Linolenic acid (ALA) in ZBSO were dominant. At the concentration of 0.5 μL/mL, all three kinds of ZSO could decrease the expression levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) in LPS‐induced macrophages. At the concentration of 0.25 μL/mL, only ZSSO could decrease the expression levels of iNOS and COX‐2, which implied the inhibitory effects of ZSSO were stronger than other ZSOs. The number of RANKL‐induced osteoclasts and the expressions of nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB), TNF‐α and IL‐6 in the cells were decreased after being treated with ZSOs at the concentration of 0.5 μL/mL, while the number of RANKL‐induced osteoclasts after treated with ZBSO were less than those treated with other ZSOs, this indicated that the anti‐osteoclastogenesis effect of ZBSO were stronger than other ZSOs. In conclusion, the fatty acid compositions of three major kinds of ZSO were compared and the content of unsaturated fatty acids especially ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in ZBSO were the highest among them. All ZSOs tested had anti‐inflammatory and anti‐osteoclastogenesis activities. And their anti‐osteoclastogenesis effects might be related to the suppression of the NF‐κB pathway.
Impact of solid‐state fermentation by Aspergillus niger 4Q and Cyberlindnera fabianii J2 on antioxidant and flavor properties of whole grain barley
Authors: Zhai Xiao‐Tong , Wang Hui‐Qing , Han Lin , Wang Fu‐Ying , Zhang Yu‐Hong , Li Ji , He Cai‐An , Tan Bin , Wang Min
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives

Aspergillus niger 4Q and Cyberlindnera fabianii J2 were isolated from a traditional Chinese sweet rice wine starter because of their better fermentation characteristics and sensory properties of final products. To understand the impacts of the cofermentation with Aspergillus niger 4Q and Cyberlindnera fabianii J2 in a solid state on the nutritional and physico‐chemical properties of whole grain barley, yellow barley and black barley were used as raw materials. Content of chemical and nutritional compositions, in vitro antioxidant activity, color, and volatile flavor compound analysis of untreated, cooked and fermented barley samples were evaluated.

Findings

The contents of total phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, and anthocyanin of black barley were 1.25 times, 1.21 times, and 2.05 times higher than those in yellow barley (p < .05). After fermentation, the proteins, water‐soluble dietary fiber, and β‐glucan contents of both black barley and yellow barley samples were about respectively 1.3 times, 4.6 times, and 1.2 times higher than those in raw materials (p < .05). Total proportion of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, along with the antioxidant capacity, free radical scavenging rate and Fe2+ chelating activity were significantly increased (p < .05). Lighter and brighter color were observed in fermented barleys which might be credit to the reduced anthocyanins. The acidic methyl esters, uniquely existed in untreated barley, were transformed into acetate esters after fermentation. Ethyl 3‐methyl‐acetate, with a fruity aroma, was the major proportion of esters in fermented barley, endued the unique flavor to fermented barley.

Conclusions

Solid‐state fermentation of yellow barley and black barley by A. niger 4Q and C. fabianii J2 could effectively improve their nutritional and physico‐chemical properties.

Significance and Novelty

This study may contribute to providing a solution for improving the nutritional and sensory preterits of whole grain barley, as well as a theoretical support for promoting the direct utilization of barley in food processing.
Lupus anticoagulant hypoprothrombinemia syndrome: A case report
Authors: Acedo Natalia , Alonso Alejandro , Feijoó Eliana Samantha , García Cristina , Ortiz Ana M. , Alegre Adrián
Published: April 2023

Lupus anticoagulant hypoprothrombinemia syndrome (LAHPS) is a rare entity associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage. Corticosteroids have been used in its treatment with favorable results. We present the case of a 54‐year‐old female patient with a personal history of Lupus diagnosed with LAHPS following an episode of cerebellar hemorrhage.
Cutaneous granuloma annulare in an adult patient with macrophage activation syndrome
Authors: Deng Ruixin , Meng Xingye , Wang Aiping , Li Ruoyu
Published: April 2023

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a rare but life‐threatening disorder that is associated with multiple organ involvement. Here, we described cutaneous granuloma annulare in MAS. This novel histological finding is a reminder to explore the underlying mechanisms of skin involvement in MAS, which may reveal its pathogenesis.
Photocatalytic Ketyl Radical Initiated Cketyl−Csp2/Csp3 Coupling on ZnIn2S4
Authors: Han Chuang , Han Guanqun , Habibur Rahman Md , Mannodi‐Kanakkithodi Arun , Sun Yujie
Published: April 2023

Visible‐light‐driven C−C bond formation utilizing ketyl radical (Cketyl) species has attracted increasing attention recently, as it provides a direct route for the synthesis of complex molecules. However, the most‐developed homogeneous photocatalytic systems for the generation and utilization of ketyl radicals usually entail noble metal‐based (e. g., Ru and Ir) photosensitizers, which suffer from not only high cost but also potential degradation and hence pose challenges in product separation and purification. In contrast, readily accessible, inexpensive, and recyclable semiconductors represent a class of attractive and alternative photocatalysts but remain much less explored for photocatalytic ketyl radical initiated C−C bond formation. This work demonstrates that a wide range of industrially important chemicals, including substituted chromanes and tertiary alcohols, can be produced on ZnIn2S4 under visible light irradiation through intramolecular cyclization (Cketyl−Csp2) and intermolecular cross‐coupling (Cketyl−Csp3) reactions, respectively, using ketyl radicals. A suite of experimental studies aided by computational investigation were carried out to shed light on the mechanistic insights of these two types of ketyl radical initiated C−C coupling reactions on ZnIn2S4.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Study of Methyl Ammonium Bismuth Iodide Absorber Layer Based Lead Free Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ahmad Khursheed , Quasim Khan Mohd , Alsulmi Ali , Kim Haekyoung
Published: April 2023

In the past few years, there has been a significant increase in the development and production of perovskite or perovskite‐like materials that do not contain lead (Pb) for the purpose of constructing solar cells. The development and testing of lead‐free perovskite‐like structures for solar cells is crucial. In this study, we used the solar cell capacitance software (SCAPS) to simulate perovskite solar cells based on methyl ammonium bismuth iodide (MA3Bi2I9). The electron‐transport layer, hole‐transport layer, and absorber layer thickness were optimized using SCAPS. The simulated perovskite solar cells (FTO/TiO2/MA3Bi2I9/spiro‐OMeTAD/Au) performed well with a power conversion efficiency of 14.07 % and a reasonable open circuit voltage of 1.34 V, using the optimized conditions determined by SCAPS. Additionally, we conducted experiments to fabricate perovskite solar cells under controlled humidity, which showed a power conversion efficiency of 1.31 %.
Could theropod dinosaurs have evolved to a human level of intelligence?
Authors: Reiner Anton
Published: April 2023

Noting that some theropod dinosaurs had large brains, large grasping hands, and likely binocular vision, paleontologist Dale Russell suggested that a branch of these dinosaurs might have evolved to a human intelligence level, had dinosaurs not become extinct. I offer reasons why the likely pallial organization in dinosaurs would have made this improbable, based on four assumptions. First, it is assumed that achieving human intelligence requires evolving an equivalent of the about 200 functionally specialized cortical areas characteristic of humans. Second, it is assumed that dinosaurs had an avian nuclear type of pallial organization, in contrast to the mammalian cortical organization. Third, it is assumed that the interactions between the different neuron types making up an information processing unit within pallium are critical to its role in analyzing information. Finally, it is assumed that increasing axonal length between the neuron sets carrying out this operation impairs its efficacy. Based on these assumptions, I present two main reasons why dinosaur pallium might have been unable to add the equivalent of 200 efficiently functioning cortical areas. First, a nuclear pattern of pallial organization would require increasing distances between the neuron groups corresponding to the separate layers of any given mammalian cortical area, as more sets of nuclei equivalent to a cortical area are interposed between the existing sets, increasing axon length and thereby impairing processing efficiency. Second, because of its nuclear organization, dinosaur pallium could not reduce axon length by folding to bring adjacent areas closer together, as occurs in cerebral cortex.
How smart dinosaurs?
Authors: Reiner Anton
Published: April 2023

This commentary discusses the main points made in Reiner's article on the prospect that some theropod dinosaurs could have given rise to a lineage that achieved a human level of intelligence, and those made in Herculano‐Houzel's article on the potentially monkey‐like numbers of neurons in the pallium of large theropods, and the implications of this for their intelligence.
Investigation on the equi‐depth of color depth formulas based on color discrimination threshold and acceptable tolerance
Authors: Yang Hongying , Qi Mengyuan , Zhang Ge , Yang Zhihui , Feng Nuoya , Yang Yubin , Xu Changhai
Published: April 2023

Accurate characterization of color depth is important for assessing a dye's relative strength, color fastness, and so on. There are several formulas for color depth, however, with evaluation effects that are quite different. In this study, we attempt to investigate the equi‐depth properties of the color depth formulas so as to provide a reference for selection. One thousand two hundred and six color samples were dyed around six standard depths of three hues in SDC Standard Depth Scales. Sixteen observers were recruited for “Pass–Fail” psychophysical experiments. More than 30 000 experimental data points were obtained to calculate the values of discrimination thresholds and acceptable tolerances at six different standard depths for each formula. The equi‐depth properties of five main color depth formulas were statistically analyzed through their coefficients of variation (CV)% values. Results show that the Yang3 formula is optimal for both color depth discrimination threshold and acceptable tolerance, and its average wrong decision is less than the minimum wrong decision of all observers, as well as those of the other four formulas. Overall, Yang3 formula shows the best equi‐depth and highest relatively accuracy among the five formulas.
Optical Properties of PT‐Based Relaxor Ferroelectric Crystals
Authors: He Chongjun , Wen Ying , Wen Yiyang , Zhou Kai , Deng Chenguang , Li Qian , Lu Yuangang
Published: April 2023

During the last two decades, PT‐based relaxor ferroelectric crystals such as (1−x)Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 (PZN–PT), (1−x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 (PMN–PT), and (1−x−y)Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–yPb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 (PIN–PMN–PT or PIMNT) crystals, are widely studied due to their huge piezoelectric properties and super‐high electro‐mechanical coupling factors. They have excellent properties with compositions around the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB). It is gratifying that the PT‐based relaxor crystals are replacing traditional PZT piezo‐ceramics in many application fields. Most ferroelectrics with oxygen‐octahedral structure, which show outstanding electro‐mechanical properties, also have excellent optical performances. Ferroelectric single crystals with large electro‐optic (EO) modulation are widely applied in laser communication devices. For the practical applications, the knowledge of detailed optical parameters is desirable. This paper tries to show a global review on the optical properties of PT‐based relaxor ferroelectric crystals. In the present review, optical properties of the crystals are systematically summarized, including refractive index dispersion, transmittance, band gap, EO, acousto‐optic, and photorefractive properties. These properties change with the crystal composition, orientation, and poling condition. The purpose of the review is to provide a resource for the researchers who are concerned with basic physical investigation or optical device applications of the PT‐based relaxor ferroelectric crystals.
Recycling of All‐Solid‐State Li‐ion Batteries: A Case Study of the Separation of Individual Components Within a System Composed of LTO, LLZTO and NMC**
Authors: Waidha Aamir Iqbal , Salihovic Amila , Jacob Martine , Vanita Vanita , Aktekin Burak , Brix Kristina , Wissel Kerstin , Kautenburger Ralf , Janek Jürgen , Ensinger Wolfgang , Clemens Oliver
Published: April 2023

With the current global projection of over 130 million electric vehicles (EVs), there soon will be a need for battery waste management. Especially for all‐solid‐state lithium‐ion batteries (lithium ASSBs), aspects of waste management and circular economy have not been addressed so far. Within such ASSBs, the use of solid‐electrolytes like garnet‐type Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 (LLZTO) may shift focus on strategies to recover not only the transition metal elements but also elements like La/Zr/Ta. In this work, we present a two‐step recycling approach using citric acid as the leaching agent to separate and recover the individual components of a model cell comprising of Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) anode, Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 (LLZTO) garnet electrolyte and LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 (NMC) cathode. We observe that by adjusting the concentration of citric acid, it was possible to separate the materials from each other without strong mixing of individual phases and also to maintain their principle performance characteristics. Thus, the process developed has a potential for upscaling and can guide towards considering separation capability of battery components in the development of lithium ASSBs.
Anti‐β7 integrin treatment impedes the recruitment on non‐classical monocytes to the gut and delays macrophage‐mediated intestinal wound healing
Authors: Sommer Katrin , Heidbreder Karin , Kreiss Lucas , Dedden Mark , Paap Eva‐Maria , Wiendl Maximilian , Becker Emily , Atreya Raja , Müller Tanja M. , Atreya Imke , Waldner Maximilian , Schürmann Sebastian , Friedrich Oliver , Neurath Markus F. , Zundler Sebastian
Published: April 2023

Background

Closing mucosal defects to reach mucosal healing is an important goal of therapy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Among other cells, monocyte‐derived macrophages are centrally involved in such intestinal wound healing. We had previously demonstrated that the anti‐α4β7 integrin antibody vedolizumab blocks the recruitment of non‐classical monocytes as biased progenitors of wound healing macrophages to the gut and delays wound healing. However, although important for the interpretation of disappointing results in recent phase III trials in IBD, the effects of the anti‐β7 antibody etrolizumab on wound healing are unclear so far.

Methods

We analyzed the expression of etrolizumab targets on human and mouse monocyte subsets by flow cytometry and assessed their function in adhesion and homing assays. We explored wound‐associated monocyte recruitment dynamics with multiphoton microscopy and compared the effects of etrolizumab and vedolizumab surrogate (‐s) antibodies on experimental wound healing and wound‐associated macrophage abundance. Finally, we investigated wound healing macrophage signatures in the large intestinal transcriptome of patients with Crohn's disease treated with etrolizumab.

Results

Human and mouse non‐classical monocytes expressed more αEβ7 integrin than classical monocytes and were a target of etrolizumab‐s, which blocked non‐classical monocyte adhesion to MAdCAM‐1 and E‐Cadherin as well as gut homing in vivo. Intestinal wound healing was delayed on treatment with etrolizumab‐s along with a reduction of peri‐lesional wound healing macrophages. Wound healing macrophage signatures in the colon of patients with Crohn's disease were substantially down‐regulated on treatment with etrolizumab, but not with placebo.

Conclusions

Combined blockade of αEβ7 and α4β7 with etrolizumab seems to exceed the effect of anti‐α4β7 treatment on intestinal wound healing, which might help to inform further investigations to understand the recent observations in the etrolizumab phase III trial program.
Thermodynamic and transport properties of plasmas: Low‐density benchmarks
Authors: Röpke G.
Published: April 2023

Physical properties of plasmas, such as equations of state (EoS) and transport coefficients, are expressed in terms of correlation functions, which can be calculated using various approaches (analytical theory and numerical simulations). The method of Green's functions provides benchmark values for these properties in the low‐density limit. For the EoS and electrical conductivity, expansions with respect to density (virial expansions) are considered. The comparison of analytical results with numerical simulations is used to verify theory, to prove the accuracy of simulations, and establish interpolation formulas.
Genetic diversity and population structure among native, naturalized, and invasive populations of the common yellow monkeyflower, Mimulus guttatus (Phrymaceae)
Authors: Zimmer Elizabeth A. , Berg Jason A. , Dudash Michele R.
Published: April 2023

An ongoing controversy in invasion biology is the prevalence of colonizing plant populations that are able to establish and spread, while maintaining limited amounts of genetic variation. Invasive populations can be established through several routes including from a single source or from multiple introductions. The aim of this study was to examine genetic diversity in populations of Mimulus guttatus in the United Kingdom, where the species is considered invasive, and compare this diversity to that in native populations on the west coast of North America. Additionally, we looked at diversity in non‐native populations that have not yet become invasive (naturalized populations) in eastern North America. We investigated population structure among populations in these three regions and attempted to uncover the sources for populations that have established in the naturalized and invasive regions. We found that genetic diversity was, on average, relatively high in populations from the invasive UK region and comparable to native populations. Contrastingly, two naturalized M. guttatus populations were low in both genetic and genotypic diversity, indicating a history of asexual reproduction and self‐fertilization. A third naturalized population was found to be a polyploid Mimulus hybrid of unknown origin. Our results demonstrate that M. guttatus has likely achieved colonization success outside of its native western North America distribution by a variety of establishment pathways, including those with genetic and demographic benefits resulting from multiple introductions in the UK, reproductive assurance through selfing, and asexual reproduction in eastern North America, and possible polyploidization in one Canadian population.
Counting animals in aerial images with a density map estimation model
Authors: Qian Yifei , Humphries Grant R. W. , Trathan Philip N. , Lowther Andrew , Donovan Carl R.
Published: April 2023

Animal abundance estimation is increasingly based on drone or aerial survey photography. Manual postprocessing has been used extensively; however, volumes of such data are increasing, necessitating some level of automation, either for complete counting, or as a labour‐saving tool. Any automated processing can be challenging when using such tools on species that nest in close formation such as Pygoscelis penguins. We present here a customized CNN‐based density map estimation method for counting of penguins from low‐resolution aerial photography. Our model, an indirect regression algorithm, performed significantly better in terms of counting accuracy than standard detection algorithm (Faster‐RCNN) when counting small objects from low‐resolution images and gave an error rate of only 0.8 percent. Density map estimation methods as demonstrated here can vastly improve our ability to count animals in tight aggregations and demonstrably improve monitoring efforts from aerial imagery.
Effects of large‐scale disturbance on animal space use: Functional responses by greater sage‐grouse after megafire
Authors: Stevens Bryan S. , Roberts Shane B. , Conway Courtney J. , Englestead Devin K.
Published: April 2023

Global change has altered the nature of disturbance regimes, and megafire events are increasingly common. Megafires result in immediate changes to habitat available to terrestrial wildlife over broad landscapes, yet we know surprisingly little about how such changes shape space use of sensitive species in habitat that remains. Functional responses provide a framework for understanding and predicting changes in space use following habitat alteration, but no previous studies have assessed functional responses as a consequence of megafire. We studied space use and tested for functional responses in habitat use by breeding greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) before and after landscape‐level changes induced by a >40,000 ha, high‐intensity megafire that burned sagebrush steppe in eastern Idaho, USA. We also incorporated functional responses into predictive resource selection functions (RSFs) to map breeding habitat before and after the fire. Megafire had strong effects on the distribution of available resources and resulted in context‐dependent habitat use that was heterogeneous across different components of habitat. We observed functional responses in the use and selection of a variety of resources (shrubs and herbaceous vegetation) for both nesting and brood rearing. Functional responses in the use of nesting habitat were influenced by the overarching effect of megafire on vegetation, whereas responses during brood rearing appeared to be driven by individual variation in available resources that were conditional on nest locations. Importantly, RSFs built using data collected prior to the burn also had poor transferability for predicting space use in a post‐megafire landscape. These results have strong implications for understanding and predicting how animals respond to a rapidly changing environment, given that increased severity, frequency, and extent of wildfire are consequences of global change with the capacity to reshape ecosystems. We therefore demonstrate a conceptual framework to better understand space use and aid habitat conservation for wildlife in a rapidly changing world.