bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power-free plasma separation based on negative magnetophoresis for rapid biochemical analysis
Authors: Zeng Lin , Liu Chao , Yang Yi , Hu Shi , Li Ruihan , Tan Xiaotian , Shen Jienan , Zhang Yi , Huang Shaohui , Yang Hui
Published: December 2024

We present a versatile platform for label-free magnetic separation of plasma, tailored to accommodate diverse environments. This innovative device utilizes an advanced long-short alternating double Halbach magnetic array, specifically engineered for optimal magnetic separation. The array’s adaptability allows for seamless integration with separation channels of varying sizes, enabling static separation of whole blood. The platform has a highly flexible processing throughput, spanning from 100 μL to 3 mL per separation cycle without sacrificing separation efficiency. A key aspect of this device is its power-free operation throughout the separation process, obviating the complexity of conventional separation devices. Its effectiveness is demonstrated by the extraction of 40 μL of plasma from 100 μL of rat whole blood within 8 min. The separated plasma proved effective for subsequent analysis of antibody concentration and size in the separated plasma for pharmacokinetic investigations, yielding results on par with those obtained via centrifugation. Furthermore, the device’s high-throughput capability was validated using human whole blood, achieving 3 mL of plasma separation in just 1 min. In a follow-up study on COVID-19 IgG antibody detection, the results matched those from centrifugation. The device demonstrates a separation efficiency of 99.9% for cells larger than 1 μm in both rat and human blood samples, with a plasma recovery rate of 72.7%. In summary, our magnetic separation device facilitates rapid plasma extraction from whole blood, with a capacity of up to 3 mL per minute in human blood, without compromising subsequent plasma-based analyses, thereby highlighting its broad applicability across diverse settings.
Unraveling the associations between voice pitch and major depressive disorder: a multisite genetic study
Authors: Di Yazheng , Rahmani Elior , Mefford Joel , Wang Jinhan , Ravi Vijay , Gorla Aditya , Alwan Abeer , Kendler Kenneth S. , Zhu Tingshao , Flint Jonathan
Published: December 2024

Major depressive disorder (MDD) often goes undiagnosed due to the absence of clear biomarkers. We sought to identify voice biomarkers for MDD and separate biomarkers indicative of MDD predisposition from biomarkers reflecting current depressive symptoms. Using a two-stage meta-analytic design to remove confounds, we tested the association between features representing vocal pitch and MDD in a multisite case-control cohort study of Chinese women with recurrent depression. Sixteen features were replicated in an independent cohort, with absolute association coefficients (beta values) from the combined analysis ranging from 0.24 to 1.07, indicating moderate to large effects. The statistical significance of these associations remained robust, with P values ranging from 7.2 × 10–6 to 6.8 × 10–58. Eleven features were significantly associated with current depressive symptoms. Using genotype data, we found that this association was driven in part by a genetic correlation with MDD. Significant voice features, reflecting a slower pitch change and a lower pitch, achieved an AUC-ROC of 0.90 (sensitivity of 0.85 and specificity of 0.81) in MDD classification. Our results return vocal features to a more central position in clinical and research work on MDD.
An isothermal calorimetry assay for determining steady state kinetic and Ensitrelvir inhibition parameters for SARS-CoV-2 3CL-protease
Authors: Mazzei Luca , Ranieri Sofia , Silvestri Davide , Greene-Cramer Rebecca , Cioffi Christopher , Montelione Gaetano T. , Ciurli Stefano
Published: December 2024

This manuscript details the application of Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC) to characterize the kinetics of 3CLpro, the main protease from the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), and its inhibition by Ensitrelvir, a known non-covalent inhibitor. 3CLpro is essential for producing the proteins necessary for viral infection, which led to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ITC-based assay provided rapid and reliable measurements of 3CLpro activity, allowing for the direct derivation of the kinetic enzymatic constants K

M
and k

cat
by monitoring the thermal power required to maintain a constant temperature as the substrate is consumed. The manuscript highlights several advantages of the proposed ITC-based assay over traditional methods used to study 3CLpro, such as Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS) and overcomes the need for non-biological substrates or discontinuous post-reaction steps. The ease of application of the ITC method allowed for the determination of the temperature dependence of the catalytic constants, enabling the estimation of the reaction activation energy. Additionally, the assay was used to determine the inhibition mode and kinetic parameters for 3CLpro inhibition by Ensitrelvir. This molecule was revealed to act as a slow- and tight-binding inhibitor that forms an initial E•I complex (K

I
 = 9.9 ± 0.7 nM) quickly transitioning to a tighter E•I* assembly (K

I
* = 1.1 ± 0.2 nM). This versatile calorimetric method is proposed for general use in the discovery and development of drugs targeting 3CLpro.
Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 spike trimers towards optimized heparan sulfate cross-linking and inter-chain mobility
Authors: Froese Jurij , Mandalari Marco , Civera Monica , Elli Stefano , Pagani Isabel , Vicenzi Elisa , Garcia-Monge Itzel , Di Iorio Daniele , Frank Saskia , Bisio Antonella , Lenhart Dominik , Gruber Rudolf , Yates Edwin A. , Richter Ralf P. , Guerrini Marco , Wegner Seraphine V. , Grobe Kay
Published: December 2024

The heparan sulfate (HS)-rich extracellular matrix (ECM) serves as an initial interaction site for the homotrimeric spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 to facilitate subsequent docking to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors and cellular infection. More recent variants, notably Omicron, have evolved by swapping several amino acids to positively charged residues to enhance the interaction of the S-protein trimer with the negatively charged HS. However, these enhanced interactions may reduce Omicron’s ability to move through the HS-rich ECM to effectively find ACE2 receptors and infect cells, raising the question of how to mechanistically explain HS-associated viral movement. In this work, we show that Omicron S proteins have evolved to balance HS interaction stability and dynamics, resulting in enhanced mobility on an HS-functionalized artificial matrix. This property is achieved by the ability of Omicron S-proteins to cross-link at least two HS chains, allowing direct S-protein switching between chains as a prerequisite for cell surface mobility. Optimized HS interactions can be targeted pharmaceutically, as an HS mimetic significantly suppressed surface binding and cellular infection specifically of the Omicron variant. These findings suggest a robust way to interfere with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection and potentially future variants.
A computational deep learning investigation of animacy perception in the human brain
Authors: Duyck Stefanie , Costantino Andrea I. , Bracci Stefania , Op de Beeck Hans
Published: December 2024

The functional organization of the human object vision pathway distinguishes between animate and inanimate objects. To understand animacy perception, we explore the case of zoomorphic objects resembling animals. While the perception of these objects as animal-like seems obvious to humans, such “Animal bias” is a striking discrepancy between the human brain and deep neural networks (DNNs). We computationally investigated the potential origins of this bias. We successfully induced this bias in DNNs trained explicitly with zoomorphic objects. Alternative training schedules failed to cause an Animal bias. We considered the superordinate distinction between animate and inanimate classes, the sensitivity for faces and bodies, the bias for shape over texture, the role of ecologically valid categories, recurrent connections, and language-informed visual processing. These findings provide computational support that the Animal bias for zoomorphic objects is a unique property of human perception yet can be explained by human learning history.
Perennial flower strips in agricultural landscapes strongly promote earthworm populations
Authors: Vaupel Anna , Bednar-Konski Zita , Olivera Matías , Herwig Nadine , Hommel Bernd , Beule Lukas
Published: December 2024

The loss of soil biodiversity through agricultural intensification is a major contributor to the collapse of ecosystem services. Despite their wide application to promote biodiversity, the impact of flower strips on soil organisms is largely unknown. Here, we studied the effects of perennial flower strips on earthworm communities at 46 sites with paired croplands and perennial flower strips. Earthworm population densities in flower strips were on average 231% greater than in adjacent croplands. Flower strips can enable the establishment of anecic and epigeic populations at sites at which they are absent in croplands. Furthermore, flower strips likely serve as a habitat for the reproduction of endogeic earthworms. We expect that the promotion of earthworms through flower strips improves soil functions and benefits higher trophic taxa. We propose that optimized seed mixtures, improved spatial configuration, and establishment of temporal continuity of flower strips can further promote soil ecosystem services.
Debris flows in the northern Tien Shan, Central Asia: regional database, meteorological triggers, and trends
Authors: Shahgedanova Maria , Saidaliyeva Zarina , Mussina Ainur , Kapitsa Vassily , Raimbekova Zhanar , Donskikh Denis , Kissebayev Daulet , Kasenov Murat , Petrov Maxim
Published: December 2024

Debris flows, caused by Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) or extreme weather, threaten lives and infrastructure in the northern Tien Shan. A geo-referenced database of 458 debris flow events of different geneses was compiled for the region. Between 1887 and 2020, there were 55 GLOF events, all resulting in debris flow formation. Their frequency peaked in the 1970s and declined afterwards. These events were associated with high air temperatures but not heavy rainfall. Debris flows unrelated to GLOFs were documented in the central Ile Alatau for the 1931–2020 period. They were predominantly caused by short-duration intense rainfall (pluvial debris flows) and/or intense glaciers and snowmelt. The median rainfall intensity triggering pluvial debris flows was 22–28 mm/day, depending on the catchment. There was no long-term trend in the frequency of pluvial debris flows, but their formation is increasingly observed at higher elevations.
An electrochemical sensor integrated lab-on-a-CD system for phenylketonuria diagnostics
Authors: Akyilmaz Ipek , Celebi-Birand Dilan , Demir Naim Yagiz , Bas Deniz , Elbuken Caglar , Duman Memed
Published: December 2024

A portable and highly efficient lab-on-a-CD system was developed for the diagnosis and monitoring of Phenylketonuria.
Benzothiazolium salts as versatile primary alcohol derivatives in Ni-catalyzed cross-electrophile arylation/vinylation
Authors: Ye Cheng , Lin Quan , Chen Yunrong , Wu Fan , Gong Hegui
Published: December 2024

A Ni-catalyzed cross-electrophile coupling of aryl/vinyl halides with benzothiazolium salts derived from alcohols is presented.
Improving the ferroelectric and dielectric properties of barium strontium titanate thin films via local chemical design
Authors: Yan Fei , Tu Ziting , Wang Weiwei , Zhu Zhiwei , Chen Yang , Liao Jiajia , Zhang Sirui , Liao Min , Zhou Yichun
Published: December 2024

Significantly enhanced dielectric constant, TCC25 °C (<6.8%) and polarization along with low dielectric loss in barium strontium titanate-based thin films via local chemical design.
J-dimers of phthalocyanine analogues: structural characterization and their use for determination of association constants between ligands and the central cation
Authors: Demuth Jiri , Bednarik Stefan , Machan Radek , Mocak Ivan , Malinsky Tibor , Abo El Dahabova Mona , Holcak Jakub , Miletin Miroslav , Labuta Jan , Novakova Veronika , Zimcik Petr
Published: December 2024

J-dimers of phthalocyanine analogues are disassembled by various coordinating ligands with distinct changes in absorption and emission spectra.
Vacancy formation mechanism and synergy with doping in NiS2-based electrocatalysts for benzyl alcohol oxidation and hydrogen evolution
Authors: Li Fang , Lin Haili , Yu Huiqin , Du Pengfei , Wang Yang , Cao Jing
Published: December 2024

The formation mechanisms of Ni3+ and Svac caused by P dopant are fully elucidated experimentally and theoretically. The synergistic effect of dopant and vacancy facilitated the electrocatalytic performance of Svac–P–NiS2.
Remarkably short intermolecular Se⋯Se contacts in Ni(ii) diselenophosphinates: interplay of electrostatic and dispersion forces
Authors: Tupikina Elena Yu. , Davydova Maria P. , Mulloyarova Valeriya V. , Sukhikh Taisiya S. , Samsonenko Denis G. , Tolstoy Peter M. , Artem'ev Alexander V.
Published: December 2024

Remarkably short non-covalent Se⋯Se contacts are revealed in Ni(ii) diselenophosphinates, showing a new supramolecular pattern, in which two types of Se⋯Se attractive interactions are realized by either dispersive or electrostatic forces.
Organelle-targeting activity-based hemicyanine derivatives for enhanced and selective type-I photodynamic therapy under hypoxia conditions
Authors: Dirak Musa , Saymaz Ayca , Acari Alperen , Akkoc Yunus , Kocak Haluk Samet , Yenici Cansu M. , Gozuacik Devrim , Gunduz Hande , Kolemen Safacan
Published: December 2024

Two organelle-targeted and hydrogen sulfide responsive type-I photodynamic therapy agents are developed for selective and effective treatment of hypoxic cancer cells.
Enhancement of photoinduced reactive oxygen species generation in open-cage fullerenes
Authors: Castanyer Cristina , Çelik Çetin , Artigas Albert , Roglans Anna , Pla-Quintana Anna , Stasyuk Anton J. , Yamakoshi Yoko , Solà Miquel
Published: December 2024

Photodynamic therapy can advance with open-cage C60 fullerenes for ROS generation. Enhanced efficiency arises from improved intersystem crossing and favorable electrochemical properties, outperforming pristine C60 and its derivatives.
Exploring the diffusion of DNA strands into nanoporous structures for establishing a universal electrochemical biosensor
Authors: Zhao Cong-Lin , Gao Runlei , Niu Yinzheng , Cai Bin , Zhu Ye
Published: December 2024

A universal DNA-based NPG electrochemical sensing platform was developed for the sensitive and specific detection of different types of biomolecules, ensuring a comprehensive and robust detection approach for nucleic acid-based molecular diagnosis.
Data-driven parametrization of molecular mechanics force fields for expansive chemical space coverage
Authors: Zheng Tianze , Wang Ailun , Han Xu , Xia Yu , Xu Xingyuan , Zhan Jiawei , Liu Yu , Chen Yang , Wang Zhi , Wu Xiaojie , Gong Sheng , Yan Wen
Published: December 2024

ByteFF, an Amber-compatible force field developed using a modern data-driven approach, offers precise potential energy surface predictions for expansive chemical space.
Development of 3D-printed conducting microneedle-based electrochemical point-of-care device for transdermal sensing of chlorpromazine
Authors: Kadian Sachin , Sahoo Siba Sundar , Shukla Shubhangi , Narayan Roger J.
Published: December 2024

We have demonstrated a straightforward and scalable manufacturing process for the development of a 3D-printed conducting microneedle array-based electrochemical point-of-care device for the minimally invasive sensing of chlorpromazine.
Concurrent targeted delivery of doxorubicin and curcumin to the cancer cells using simple and versatile ligand-installed multifaceted chitosan-based nanoconjugates
Authors: Barman Sourav , Roy Sayoni Maitra , Kishore Purvi , Ghosh Malabika , Bag Pousali , Sarkar Ankan Kumar , Ghatak Tapas , Maji Partha Sona , Basu Arnab , Mukherjee Rupam , Ghosh Surya K. , Chowdhury Ankan Dutta , Maity Amit Ranjan
Published: December 2024

Targeted nanoconjugates loaded with combination of drugs delivered to cancer cells and exhibited significant cytotoxic effects.
SMGNFORMER: Fusion Mamba‐graph transformer network for human pose estimation
Authors: Li Yi , Wang Zan , Niu Weiran
Published: December 2024

In the field of 3D human pose estimation (HPE), many deep learning algorithms overlook the topological relationships between 2D keypoints, resulting in imprecise regression of 3D coordinates and a notable decline in estimation performance. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a novel approach to 3D HPE, termed the Spatial Mamba Graph Convolutional Neural Network (GCN) Former (SMGNFormer). The proposed method utilises the Mamba architecture to extract spatial information from 2D keypoints and integrates GCNs with multi‐head attention mechanisms to build a relational graph of 2D keypoints across a global receptive field. The outputs are subsequently processed by a Time‐Frequency Feature Fusion Transformer to estimate 3D human poses. SMGNFormer demonstrates superior estimation performance on the Human3.6M dataset and real‐world video data compared to most Transformer‐based algorithms. Moreover, the proposed method achieves a training speed comparable to PoseFormerv2, providing a clear advantage over other methods in its category.
Clean generations in sub‐synchronous resonance damping: Mathematical modelling, control, and analysis of tidal power generation
Authors: Mokhtari Maghsoud , Davoudkhani Iraj Faraji , Golshannavaz Sajjad , Yazdaninejadi Amin
Published: December 2024

The increased deployment of doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)‐based tidal power generation systems (TPGSs) offers a promising avenue for clean energy generation within smart grid frameworks. This technology not only contributes to renewable energy production but also can tackle the challenges associated with power system stability, particularly concerning sub‐synchronous resonance (SSR). Therefore, the contribution of TPGSs on power system stability needs to be modelled and analysed in depth. Given a special emphasis on SSR damping, this article undertakes the mathematical modelling and control of energy system in conjunction with the utility‐scale DFIG‐based TPGS where the parameters of auxiliary SSR damping controller implemented on main control loops of TPGS are optimised. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategies, two primary analytical methods are employed. The eigenvalue and fast Fourier transform analyses are used to assess the efficiency of the proposed control strategy on SSR suppression. Extensive simulation studies, performed on IEEE second benchmark test‐system, are devised to interrogate the performance of DFIG‐based TPGS on stability enhancement. Results are discussed in depth.
First unambiguous detection of ammonia in the atmosphere of a planetary mass companion with JWST/MIRI coronagraphs
Authors: Mâlin Mathilde , Boccaletti Anthony , Perrot Clément , Baudoz Pierre , Rouan Daniel , Lagage Pierre-Olivier , Waters Rens , Güdel Manuel , Henning Thomas , Vandenbussche Bart , Absil Olivier , Barrado David , Charnay Benjamin , Choquet Elodie , Cossou Christophe , Danielski Camilla , Decin Leen , Glauser Adrian M. , Pye John , Olofsson Goran , Glasse Alistair , Patapis Polychronis , Royer Pierre , Scheithauer Silvia , Serabyn Eugene , Tremblin Pascal , Whiteford Niall , van Dishoeck Ewine F. , Ostlin Göran , Ray Tom P. , Wright Gillian
Published: December 2024

Context. The newly accessible mid-infrared (MIR) window offered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) for exoplanet imaging is expected to provide valuable information to characterize their atmospheres. In particular, coronagraphs on board the JWST Mid-InfraRed instrument (MIRI) are capable of imaging the coldest directly imaged giant planets at the wavelengths where they emit most of their flux. The MIRI coronagraphs have been specially designed to detect the NH3 absorption around 10.5 µm, which has been predicted by atmospheric models and should be detectable for planets colder than 1200 K.

Aims. We aim to assess the presence of NH3 while refining the atmospheric parameters of one of the coldest companions detected by directly imaging GJ 504 b. Its mass is still a matter of debate and depending on the host star age estimate, the companion could either be placed in the brown dwarf regime of ∼20 MJup or in the young Jovian planet regime of ∼4 MJup.

Methods. We present an analysis of new MIRI observations, using the coronagraphic filters F1065C, F1140C, and F1550C of the GJ 504 system. We took advantage of previous observations of reference stars to build a library of images and to perform a more efficient subtraction of the stellar diffraction pattern. We used an atmospheric grid from the Exo-REM model to refine the atmospheric parameters by combining archival near-infrared (NIR) photometry with the MIR photometry.

Results. We detected the presence of NH3 at 12.5 σ and measured its volume mixing ratio of 10−5.3±0.07 in the atmosphere of GJ 504 b. These results are in line with atmospheric model expectations for a planetary-mass object and observed in brown dwarfs within a similar temperature range. The best-fit model with Exo-REM provides updated values of its atmospheric parameters, yielding a temperature of Teff = 512 ± 10 K and radius of R = 1.08−0.03+0.04 RJup.

Conclusions. These observations demonstrate the capability of MIRI coronagraphs to detect NH3 and to provide the first MIR observations of one of the coldest directly imaged companions. Overall, NH3 is a key molecule for characterizing the atmospheres of cold planets, offering valuable insights into their surface gravity. These observations provide valuable information for future spectroscopic observations planned with JWST, in particular, with the MIRI medium-resolution spectrometer (MRS), which will allow us to characterize the atmosphere of GJ 504 b in depth.
Impact of Technological Advancements on Short-term Outcomes in Flap Reconstruction after Soft Tissue Sarcoma Resection: A Retrospective Comparative Analysis
Authors: Karakawa Ryo , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Fuse Yuma , Kurosawa Norio , Saito Masanori , Hayakawa Keiko , Tanizawa Taisuke , Ae Keisuke , Matsumoto Seiichi , Yano Tomoyuki
Published: December 2024

Background Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare malignancies requiring extensive surgical resection, often leading to significant soft tissue defects. Flap reconstruction is crucial for restoring function and appearance. Recent reconstructive microsurgery advancements, including high-resolution indocyanine green (ICG) imaging and ultra-high frequency ultrasonography (UHFU), have revolutionized preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance. We aimed to compare the surgical procedures and short-term outcomes of patients undergoing immediate flap reconstruction before and after our department's adoption of these technologies.

Methods We retrospectively analyzed 276 patients who underwent immediate flap reconstruction post-sarcoma resection between May 2014 and December 2023. They were categorized into pre- and post-technology groups based on the introduction of ICG angiography and UHFU in July 2019. We collected demographic, surgical, and postoperative data and compared outcomes using Fisher's exact and t-tests.

Results The muscle preservation rate at the donor site was significantly higher in the post-Tech than in the pre-Tech group (no muscle damage: 65% vs. 37%, incision muscle damage: 25% vs. 26%, and muscle resection: 10% vs. 37%; p < 0.01). The proportions of complications (21% vs. 36%, p = 0.01), flap complications (17% vs. 30%, p = 0.01), partial flap loss (5% vs. 17%, p < 0.01), and flap dehiscence (9% vs. 25%, p < 0.01) were low in the post-Tech group. In the stratified analysis of free-flap reconstruction, the post-Tech group had a shorter operative time (7:01 vs. 8:13, p = 0.03) and fewer takebacks due to compromised flap perfusion (4% vs. 15%, p = 0.03) compared with the pre-Tech group.

Conclusion The introduction of ICG angiography and UHFU has improved surgical outcomes in STS flap reconstructions. These technologies facilitate precise preoperative planning and intraoperative decision-making, resulting in reduced operative times, low complication rates, and enhanced muscle preservation at the donor site.
A Decade of Piperazine-Based Small Molecules Approved by U.S. FDA: Exploring the Medicinal Chemistry Impact of this Versatile Pharmacophore
Authors: Dwivedi Ashish Ranjan , Goel Kapil Kumar , Singhal Peeush , Marianesan Arockia Babu , Pandey Sarvesh Kumar , Kumar Roshan , Singh Thakur Gurjeet , Tyagi Yogita , Gaidhane Shilpa , Singh Mahendra Pratap
Published: December 2024

Heterocyclic scaffolds, particularly azaheterocycles, are part of numerous clinically relevant drugs. We have explored U.S. FDA approved small-molecule drugs (2012–2023) containing piperazine as a core ring system. The analysis revealed that 36 drugs approved in the last decade possess piperazine ring systems, with 15 drugs falling within the anticancer category. The CYP3A4 was found to be the primary enzyme responsible for the metabolism of these drugs, and most of them undergo fecal excretion. Considering stereochemical aspects, nine piperazine-containing drugs were found to be with chiral centers. The perspective is a concerted effort to cover not only the drugs bearing piperazine rings containing drugs but also provides a thorough discussion and commentaries on their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics aspects. This enriches the article’s medicinal chemistry aspect and makes it a good read for the medicinal and allied science community.

1 Introduction

2 Insights into the Chemistry of Piperazine and Comparative Analysis of Molecular and Chemical Spacing Descriptors

3 Synthetic Strategies to Develop Piperazine Derivative

4 Comparative Analysis of the Pharmacological Class of the Approved Drugs Possessing a Piperazine Ring System

5 Delving Deeper into the Approved Drugs Bearing the Piperazine-Based Core Systems

6 Analysis

7 Conclusion
Stereoselective Synthesis of (–)-Cinmethylin
Authors: Hasegawa Kakeru , Ogawa Narihito
Published: December 2024

We synthesized optically active (–)-cinmethylin with a high stereoselectivity. Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation of g-terpinene afforded an optically active diol with 98% ee. This diol was converted into (–)-cinmethylin in seven reaction steps. Dehydroxylation by the Barton–McCombie method was applicable, depending on the type of substituent, with the reaction affording the desired product when the substrate bore an OTBS group, but not when the substrate contained a benzyl ether. Decarbonylation gave the desired product regardless of the type of substituent. Furthermore, the stereoselectivity of the epoxidation reaction of an olefin with m-CPBA depended on the substituent, and up to 31% of the desired epoxide was obtained. Cyclization of the epoxide with PPTS proceeded with a good yield.
Effect of Particulate Matter 2.5 on Primary Gingival Keratinocyte and Human Gingival Fibroblast Cell Lines
Authors: Mala Supaporn , Buranapraditkun Supranee , Sooklert Kanidta , Sereemaspun Amornpun , Lapthanasupkul Puangwan , Rungraungrayabkul Dulyapong , Kitkumthorn Nakarin
Published: December 2024

Objective Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), an important air pollution particle, has been previously studied for its effects on various normal and cancer tissues. However, research on the impact of PM2.5, specifically on normal cavity tissue, is still limited. This study aimed to assess the effects of PM2.5 on cell vitality, cell cycle, and apoptosis in PGK (normal oral keratinocyte) and HGF (human gingival fibroblast) cell lines.

Materials and Methods The effect of PM2.5 was examined through cell vitality using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay, while cell cycle and apoptosis were determined via flow cytometry. Cells incubated with 0.05% dimethyl sulfoxide were used as the negative control.

Results In a concentration-dependent manner, PM2.5 inhibited the proliferation of HGF and PGK cells. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of PM2.5 after 24 hours of incubation was 400 ng/µL for HGF cells and 100 ng/µL for PGK cells. This particulate matter arrested the cell cycles of both HGF and PGK cells at the G0/G1 phase. Additionally, PM2.5 was found to trigger apoptosis in both HGF and PGK cell lines and also cause necrosis in the PGK cell line at higher concentrations.

Statistical Analysis Kruskal-Wallis tests were employed to evaluate all quantitative data.

Conclusion The findings indicated that PM2.5 decreases cell viability, halts cell cycle progression, and triggers apoptosis in normal oral cavity cell lines. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid PM2.5 exposure in order to mitigate potential health risks. To understand PM2.5-induced oral cellular damage, more research is needed.
Induction of Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Periodontitis Rat Model
Authors: Alanbari Basma F. , Al-Taweel Firas B. , Cooper Paul R. , Milward Mike R.
Published: December 2024

Objectives Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process that shifts cellular phenotype. It is linked to several different inflammatory diseases including periodontitis. This study was conducted to investigate the involvement of the EMT process in an experimental periodontitis (EP) model.

Materials and Methods Second upper molars of Wistar albino male rats were ligated to induce periodontitis, while controls were not ligated. The animals were sacrificed after 0, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days (n = 6 for each time point). The maxillae were resected, posterior to the incisor teeth, and the gingival tissue surrounding teeth were analyzed. Alveolar bone loss (ABL), epithelial thickness, and the number of inflammatory cells were measured at each time point. Expressions of EMT-related biomarkers (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Snail1, Twist1, and vimentin) were assessed using the immunohistochemical technique. All experiments were performed in triplicate.

Statistical Analysis Inferential comparisons were performed by the kruskall-wallis test. To determine the correlation between the dependent and independent variables ,Spearman's correlation test was used.

Results ABL, epithelial thickness, and inflammatory cell count were gradually increased throughout the EP study period. Switching of E-cadherin/N-cadherin was evident and associated with increased nuclear expression of Snail1 and Twist1. Additionally, positive cytoplasmic expression of vimentin was detected from day 7 and increased at subsequent time points. Histoscore of E-cadherin was negatively and significantly correlated with N-cadherin and Snail1. Furthermore, Snail1 and Twist1 histoscores were significantly and positively correlated.

Conclusion The results demonstrated induction of an EMT phenotype in the EP model. This was supported by cadherin switching and positive vimentin expression along with nuclear translocation of Snail1 and Twist.
Calcium Carbonate from Anadara granosa Shells Stimulates FGF2, TGF-β1, and Collagen Type 1 Expression in Rat Dental Pulp
Authors: Saraswati Widya , Yahya Azlin Noor , Yonas Yovita , Cindananti Ganiezha , Rahardia Nabiela , Ramadani Rania Rizka , Ambarwati Venny Lusanda , Kusumawardhani Devy Putri , Sutela I Gede Marantika Yogananda , Putri Larasati Kianti , Baskoro Brian Dwi , Pratama Putu Krisnanda , Setiady Dawailatur Rahman
Published: December 2024

Objectives Calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a major inorganic component in bones and teeth, offers potential protection against demineralization. This study investigates the effect of CaCO3 from Anadara granosa shells on the expression of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and collagen type 1 in the rat dental pulp.

Materials and Methods The first maxillary molars of Rattus norvegicus were perforated and subsequently pulp capped with CaCO3 extracted from A. granosa shells. The cavities were then filled with glass ionomer cement, while the control group received calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). Teeth were extracted after 7 and 14 days of treatment, and the expression of FGF2, TGF-β1, and collagen type 1 in the dental pulp was analyzed using immunohistochemistry staining.

Results The group treated with CaCO3 from A. granosa shells exhibited significantly higher expression of FGF2, TGF-β1, and collagen type 1 in the dental pulp at both 7 and 14 days compared with the group treated with Ca(OH)2 (p < 0.01).

Conclusion The application of CaCO3 derived from A. granosa shells enhances the proliferative phase in the dental pulp after pulp perforation and perhaps promotes reparative dentine formation.
Comparative Efficacy of Unilateral vs. Bilateral Approaches in Percutaneous Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures
Authors: Cine Hidayet Safak , Uysal Ece , Aladdam Mohammed , Herdan Emre , Gunaydin Mehmet Emre , Demir Huseyin , Karaarslan Numan
Published: December 2024

Background Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) significantly affect the quality of life of elderly patients by causing severe pain and functional loss. Percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) and percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) are minimally invasive surgical techniques for the treatment of OVCFs. It can be performed unilaterally or bilaterally for prevention of kyphosis without morbidity. This study aims to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes of unilateral versus bilateral approaches in PKP/PVP procedures.

Methods This retrospective observational study included 230 unilateral (n = 110) and bilateral (n = 120) patients from three spinal centers who underwent PCP or PVP for OVCF treatment between 2018 and 2024. During the operation, operative time, cement volume, and frequency of fluoroscopy were recorded. The duration of hospital stay was recorded. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were used for clinical evaluation at preoperative, postoperative day 1, and final follow-up. Vertebral height and kyphotic angle were used for radiological evaluation.

Results The unilateral approach had significantly shorter operative times (43.4 ± 9.01 minutes, p < 0.001) compared to the bilateral approach (59.9 ± 11.5 minutes), required less cement (4.44 ± 1.01 mL vs. 7.53 ± 0.911 mL, p < 0.001), and had fewer fluoroscopy (26.2 ± 6.58 vs. 55.6 ± 9.98, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups in VAS scores (p = 0.663), ODI scores (p = 0.650), vertebral height restoration (p = 0.720), or kyphotic angle correction (p = 0.129). However, the bilateral group had a higher rate of cement leakage (35 vs. 12%, p = 0.035).

Conclusion These findings suggest that the unilateral approach offers procedural advantages without compromising clinical efficacy, making it a preferable option for elderly patients with OVCFs.
Early versus Delayed Surgical Decompression in Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vasquez-Paredes Gino , Zavaleta-Corvera Carlos , Caballero-Alvarado José
Published: December 2024

Spinal cord injury is a devastating clinical condition that causes secondary damage, which can be prevented with some treatments. Early surgical decompression may have a beneficial effect and lead to a better neurological outcome. This study aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of early compared with delayed surgical decompression to evaluate neurological improvement in patients with traumatic spinal cord injury. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA-2020 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Until April 2024, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase were searched for randomized controlled clinical trials. The primary outcome is an improvement of one grade or more on the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale at 12 months' follow-up. Secondary outcomes included hospital stay, postoperative complications, and mortality. Of the 4,101 records identified, 4 studies and 430 patients were included. A statistically significant difference was found in favor of the early surgical decompression group regarding neurological improvement (mean difference 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] = –0.03 to 1.73, p = 0.04). Also, in patients with complete spinal cord injuries (relative risk [RR] 3.65, 95% CI = 1.10–12.17, p = 0.03) reduction of postoperative complications was observed in the early group (RR 0.42; 95% CI = 0.20–0.88, p = 0.02). Regarding hospital stay, there were no significant differences between the two groups (RR –7.95, 95% CI = –18.53 to 2.63, p = 0.14) and mortality (RR = 1.27, 95% CI = 0.30–5.38, p = 0.75). Our study demonstrates that early surgical decompression within the first 24 hours after spinal cord injury leads to better neurological outcomes with statistical significance. Furthermore, statistically significant results were found in favor of early surgical decompression in patients with complete spinal cord injuries and to statistically reduce the risk of complications in the early group.
Demographic Profile of Traumatic Spine Injuries at a Level 1 Trauma Center of Eastern India: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Tiwari Varun , Sadique Shahid Iftekhar
Published: December 2024

Background Trauma is a leading cause of hospitalization worldwide, with spinal injuries resulting from traumatic events having severe and lasting repercussions. The high incidence of these injuries places a significant burden on families and health care systems. Disparities in epidemiological findings often occur due to the location- or culture-specific factors. This study aims to address the inadequate attention given to morphological patterns and their impact on neurological damage severity, which affects functional outcomes over time.

Objectives The main objective of this study was to identify the injury patterns and detect associated spinal or extraspinal injuries in traumatic spine injury (TSI) patients who visited a level 1 trauma care facility in eastern India. Additionally, it aimed to establish a correlation between the severity, morphology, and grades of neurological damage with demographic characteristics.

Materials and Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the neurosurgery unit of the trauma and emergency department (TED) at a level 1 trauma center in eastern India. It involved TSI patients admitted between March 15, 2023, and March 14, 2024. Data were collected from paper-based records and compiled into a structured Excel format. The study included adult patients admitted to the TED with traumatic spinal cord injuries and excluded those from outpatient departments or those with incomplete data. Data analysis utilized the Muller AO classification, Injury Severity Score (ISS), and ASIA classification, with statistical analysis performed using IBM SPSS version 19.0.

Results Out of 320 patients, 309 met the inclusion criteria. The majority were males (263) with a median age of 39 years. Falling from a height (43.7%) was the most common mechanism of injury, followed by road traffic accidents (37.9%). Polytrauma was present in 73% of patients, with multilevel injuries more severe than single-region injuries. Type A fractures were most common (53.4%), and 67.6% of patients underwent surgery. A significant correlation was found between the ISS and ASIA scores.

Conclusion The study revealed differences in spinal injury epidemiology in eastern India compared to other regions, with multiple vertebral level injuries being more common. The findings highlight the need for government health care strategies focused on treatment and rehabilitation, especially for the younger age group that is predominantly affected. Preventive measures should also be strictly enforced to reduce the incidence of such injuries.
Parametric excitation of the charged surface of liquid helium
Authors: Nazin S. S. , Shikin V. B.
Published: December 2024

The instability of the charged surface of superfluid helium in a time-alternating normal electric field of the form E⊥=E⊥0+δE⊥cos2Ωt is investigated. The δE⊥ instability threshold for parametric resonance is calculated in the hydrodynamic approximation to within η3/2 (η is the first viscosity coefficient) in the first order with respect to δE⊥/E⊥0.Explicit relations obtained for δE⊥ as a function of E⊥0 by numerical calculations are given for the case T = 0.9 °K, ns = 108 cm−2 (ns is the surface density of electrons) at Ω = 100 and 400 Hz.
Superconducting transition temperature in amorphous alloys
Authors: Bataronov I. L. , Roshchupkin A. M. , Rudyĭ S. D.
Published: December 2024

The effect that lattice softening during the transition to the amorphous state has on Tc is analyzed. A linear dependence of In Tc on Young’s modulus during the structural relaxation of an amorphous alloy is predicted and the prediction is checked on the alloy Zr90B3Si7.
Spin-glass state in copper-nickel-iron paramagnetic alloys
Authors: Vedyaev A. V. , Cherenkov V. A.
Published: December 2024

Spin-glass effects have been observed in copper-nickel-iron paramagnetic alloys with a nickel concentration of 20−30 at.% and an iron concentration of 0.6−1.4 at.%. It was determined that a disordered ferromagnetic phase appears in copper-nickel-iron alloys as the percolation threshold is approached.
Spin-flop phase transition in an oblique magnetic field
Authors: Bar’yakhtar V. G. , Ivanov B. A.
Published: December 2024

New phases and phase transitions in a uniaxial antiferromagnet in an external magnetic field, oriented at an angle to the easy axis, are predicted.
Magnetic susceptibility and sound velocity in strong paramagnets
Authors: Timofeev A. A. , Povzner A. A. , Gel’d P. V.
Published: December 2024

The influence of magetostrictive interaction on the sound-velocity polytherms in an external magnetic field is investigated within the framework of the theory of spin fluctuations in weak energy-band magnetic materials. It is shown that allowance for the temperature dependence of the exchange-enhancement factor and the magnetostriction contribution to the sound velocity makes it possible to explain the experimental data on the magnetic susceptibility and sound velocity in strong paramagnets.
Peculiarities of Dicke optical superradiance in pyrene-doped biphenyl crystal under narrow-band and wide-band excitation
Authors: Zinov’ev P. V. , Malyukin Yu. V. , Naboikin Yu. V. , Rudenko E. N. , Samartsev V. V. , Silaeva N. B.
Published: December 2024

The effect of coherence and the exciting radiation linewidth on the formation of superradiance has been investigated, using a pyrene-doped molecular biphenyl crystal as an example. Three types of lasers with various degrees of coherence and substantially different emission linewidths provided the excitation. The formation of superradiance is shown to be independent of the degree of pumping coherence and its spectral composition is shown to depend on the exciting radiation bandwidth. The investigations demonstrate that optical superradiance holds out promise in high-resolution spectroscopy.
Transitions between stationary states of systems of magnons with parametric excitation
Authors: Gol’dshtein E. V. , Tsukernik V. M.
Published: December 2024

The quantum characteristics of a system of magnons in a magnetically ordered crystal with parametric excitation are studied. Exact expressions are obtained with the help of the representation of the coherent states (independently of the nature of the excitation) for the probability of transitions between stationary states of the unperturbed system under the action of pumping, as well as for the population of the levels (the statistical distribution of the probabilities over the magnon occupation numbers). In finding the explicit time-dependence of these characteristics the excitation by a sinusoidal field is studied in the resonance approximation.
Low-temperature specific heat of a crystal with impurities under conditions of the collective spectral rearrangement
Authors: Ivanov M. A. , Loktev V. M. , Pogorelov Yu. G.
Published: December 2024

We consider the behavior of the low temperature specific heat C of a crystal containing heavy impurity atoms at a rather high concentration c > c0, where a collective rearrangement of the phonon spectrum occurs. It is shown that in this case the concentration dependence of the relative change in specific heat ΔC/Clat (where CSat is the specific heat of the ideal lattice and ΔC = C—Clat) is significantly nonlinear, in contrast to the case c≪c0.
X-ray diffraction studies of N2–Ar solid solutions
Authors: Yantsevich L. D. , Prokhvatilov A. I. , Krupskiĭ I. N. , Baryl’nik A. S.
Published: December 2024

X-ray studies of the phase diagram of nitrogen–argon solid solutions have been carried out. It was established that near the solidus line there is an almost infinite mutual solubility of the components in the N2–Ar system, which rapidly decreases as the temperature is lowered. It is shown that the solubility diagram obtained earlier by Barrett and his co-workers is not the equilibrium one. A region of coexistence of two phases of hexagonal symmetry was found at high temperatures, bounded by a binodal curve with the critical point at T≃56 °K. The conditions for obtaining supercooled hexagonal solutions containing 40−60% N2 are explained. From the results obtained it can be suggested that at low temperatures states with a “frozen-in” position of the molecular axes are formed in the orientational subsystem.
Dislocation scattering and charge transport in copper
Authors: Dem’yanov S. E. , Sobol’ V. R. , Drozd A. A. , Matveev V. N.
Published: December 2024

Galvanomagnetic measurements have been carried out on plastically deformed single-crystal copper specimens. Effective small-angle scattering of the conduction electrons has been found. Point and extended defects, generated for small degrees of low-temperature plastic deformation, change the form of the magnetoresistance both for the open and closed electron trajectories. The scattering of electrons becomes predominantly isotropic for relatively large densities of deformation defects.
Absorption of a stochastic acoustic signal in a superconductor
Authors: Bratus’ E. N. , Gredeskul S. A. , Pastur L. A. , Shumeiko V. S.
Published: December 2024

The dissipated power of an irregular acoustic signal in a superconductor is much greater than for a regular (periodic) signal and is practically independent of the signal amplitude. The reason for this is the localization of quasiparticle states in the random field of the signal in ordinary scattering and the peculiar delocalization of those states in the anomalous scattering region.
Viscosity of normal liquid helium-3 near T
c
Authors: Krusius M. , Nenonen S. , Salmelin R. , Haavasoja T. , Tsakadze Dzh. S. , Nadirashvili Z. Sh.
Published: December 2024

The paper gives the results of viscosity measurements of normal liquid 3He by axial oscillations of a sphere for the temperature range Tc < T ≲ 0.09° K and at the saturation vapor pressure of the liquid. It is shown that near Tc when Tc < T ≲ 5 · 10−3° K a deviation from the law ηT2 = const is observed. The experimental cell and the measuring system are described.
Critical current of SNS junctions
Authors: Golub A. A. , Grimal’skiĭ O. V.
Published: December 2024

The critical current of “dirty” SNS junctions in the intermediate temperature range T/Tc < 0.3 is calculated. Results are obtained for different values of the parameters of the normal interlayer and the superconducting sides. Junctions with a quite thick normal region, for which the mutual effect of superconducting boundaries can be neglected, are studied.