bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the relationship between genetic diversity and population size suggests natural selection cannot explain Lewontin’s Paradox
Authors: Buffalo Vince
Published: August 2021

Neutral theory predicts that genetic diversity increases with population size, yet observed levels of diversity across metazoans vary only two orders of magnitude while population sizes vary over several. This unexpectedly narrow range of diversity is known as Lewontin’s Paradox of Variation (1974). While some have suggested selection constrains diversity, tests of this hypothesis seem to fall short. Here, I revisit Lewontin’s Paradox to assess whether current models of linked selection are capable of reducing diversity to this extent. To quantify the discrepancy between pairwise diversity and census population sizes across species, I combine previously-published estimates of pairwise diversity from 172 metazoan taxa with newly derived estimates of census sizes. Using phylogenetic comparative methods, I show this relationship is significant accounting for phylogeny, but with high phylogenetic signal and evidence that some lineages experience shifts in the evolutionary rate of diversity deep in the past. Additionally, I find a negative relationship between recombination map length and census size, suggesting abundant species have less recombination and experience greater reductions in diversity due to linked selection. However, I show that even assuming strong and abundant selection, models of linked selection are unlikely to explain the observed relationship between diversity and census sizes across species.
Estimation of deracinated trees area in temperate forest with satellite images employing machine learning methods
Authors: Doi Hideyuki , Hirai Tomoki
Published: August 2021

Climate change can increase the number of uprooted trees. Although there have been an increasing number of machine learning applications for satellite image analysis, the estimation of deracinated tree area by satellite image is not well developed. Therefore, we estimated the deracinated tree area of forests via machine-learning classification using Landsat 8 satellite images. We employed support vector machines (SVMs), random forests (RF), and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) as potential machine learning methods, and tested their performance in estimating the deracinated tree area. We collected satellite images of upright trees, deracinated trees, soil, and others (e.g., waterbodies and cities), and trained them with the training data. We compared the accuracy represented by the correct classification rate of these methods, to determine the deracinated tree area. It was found that the SVM and RF performed better than the CNN for two-class classification (deracinated and upright trees), and the correct classification rates of all methods were up to 93%. We found that the CNN and RF performed significantly higher for the four- and two-class classification compared to the other methods, respectively. We conclude that the CNN is useful for estimating deracinated tree areas using Landsat 8 satellite images.
Connectivity in Spanish metapopulation of Dupont’s lark may be maintained by dispersal over medium-distance range and stepping stones
Authors: García-Antón Alexander , Garza Vicente , Traba Juan
Published: August 2021

Background

Dupont’s Lark is an endangered bird, whose fragmented distribution in Europe is entirely restricted to Spain. This lark, suffering pronounced population decline and range contraction, inhabits steppes that have long been used for grazing sheep and are now threatened by rural abandonment and land use changes. Thus, for conservation of the lark, increasing knowledge about the connectivity of the Spanish metapopulation and identifying the most important connectivity nodes are crucial.

Methods

The study was carried out in Spain, using over 16,000 Dupont’s Lark georeferenced observations. We used distance buffers to define populations and subpopulations, based on the available scientific information. We identified potential stepping stones using a MaxEnt probability of presence model. Connectivity was assessed using Conefor software, using the centroid of each subpopulation and stepping stone as nodes. Each node was assigned a quantitative attribute based on total habitat area, within-node habitat quality and internal fragmentation. We evaluated different connectivity scenarios by potential movement thresholds (5–20–100 km) and presence or absence of stepping stones in the network.

Results

Dupont’s Lark Iberian metapopulation comprises 24 populations and 100 subpopulations, plus 294 potential stepping stones. Movement thresholds and stepping stones had a strong influence in the potential network connectivity. The most important nodes are located in the core of the metapopulation, which shows connectivity among subpopulations in the different indices and scenarios evaluated. Peripheral populations are more isolated and require stepping stones or medium (20 km) or long (100 km) potential movement thresholds to join the network.

Discussion

Metapopulation connectivity may be greater than expected, thanks to stepping stones and potential medium-distance movements. Connectivity is crucial for conservation and can be increased by preserving or improving adequate habitat in the most important nodes. Given the current species decline, steppe habitat should be urgently protected from land use changes and agriculture intensification, at least in the critical subpopulations and stepping stones. Long-term conservation of steppe lands and Dupont’s Lark in Spain requires the recovery of traditional grazing and more research on juvenile dispersion. Meanwhile, the conservation of potentially critical stepping stones should be incorporated to management plans.
A new species ofPhrynoglossusPeters, 1867; Dicroglossidae) from southeastern Bangladesh, with comments on the generaOccidozygaandPhrynoglossus
Authors: Trageser Scott , Al-Razi Hassan , Maria Marjan , Nobel Fahimuzzaman , Asaduzzaman Md. , Rahman Shahriar Caesar
Published: August 2021

We describe a new cryptic species ofPhrynoglossusfrom Chattogram Division, Bangladesh based on an integrative taxonomic analysis based on morphology, phylogenetics, and bioacoustics which unambiguously support the placement of the species in the genusPhrynoglossus. We also present a compilation of published morphological characters for all twelvePhrynoglossusspecies and two species ofOccidozygaas well as comments on taxonomy, morphology, and geographic distribution for the two genera. The new species is found to be most morphologically similar toP. martensii, however a provided set of character states visibly differentiates these two species. Finally, habitat forPhrynoglossus swanbornorumsp. nov. is highly fragmented and faces imminent threats from development and agriculture, and although it is confirmed to occur within government protected areas in the southeastern region of Bangladesh, few wildlife regulations are enforced within them. Thus, following IUCN criteria, we consider the new species as Endangered based on criteria B1ab(i,ii,iii,iv) + 2ab(i,ii,iii,iv).
The relationship between characteristics of root morphology and grain filling in wheat under drought stress
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Zhu Yu , Ding Yuan , Pan Rumo , Shen Wenyuan , Yu Xurun , Xiong Fei
Published: August 2021

Drought is a common yield limiting factor in wheat production and has become a significant threat to global food security. Root system is the organ responsible for water uptake from soil and root growth is closely associated with yield and quality of wheat. However, the relationship between morphological and structural characteristics of root growth and caryopsis enrichment in wheat under drought stress is unclear. In this study, two wheat cultivars (YM13 and YN19) were treated with drought from flowering to caryopsis maturity stage. The changes in morphological structure of roots and characteristics of endosperm enrichment were investigated. Drought stress significantly reduced the root length, plant height, root dry weight and aboveground parts dry weight, whereas the root-shoot ratio of YM13 and YN19 increased by 17.65% and 8.33% under drought stress, respectively. The spike length, spike weight, grains number per spike and 1,000-grains weight of mature wheat also significantly declined under drought stress. Meanwhile, the cross section structure of roots was changed with the enlargement of vascular cylinder and dense distribution of xylem vessels under drought stress. Additionally, drought stress affected the substance enrichment in wheat caryopses, decreasing starch accumulation and increasing protein accumulation of endosperm. Correlation analysis suggested that the root length was closely correlated with the relative areas of amyloplast (0.51) and protein body (0.70), and drought stress increased the correlation coefficient (0.79 and 0.78, respectively). While the root dry weight had a significantly positive correlation with the plant height and aboveground parts dry weight. The results can provide theoretical basis for root architecture optimization, water-saving and high-yield cultivation and quality improvement in wheat.
Anaesthetic Management of a Patient with Myasthenia Gravis Posted for Tonsillectomy- A Case Report
Authors: Chauhan Dinesh K , Vasudeva Vibhakar , Shah Pooja , Kishnani Priya
Published: August 2021

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disease of neuromuscular junction which causes skeletal muscle weakness and fatigability, characterised by decrement in postsynaptic acetylcholine receptor at neuromuscular junction caused by auto-antibodies destruction. There are three types of myasthenia gravis in children- transient neonatal, congenital and juvenile. Juvenile Myasthenia Gravis (JMG) is an autoimmune disorder that can affect the all skeletal muscles including extraocular muscles, which may lead to fatigability and generalised weakness. This report is about a case of seven-year-old patient weighing 25 kg presented with throat pain since one and half month. Patient was a known case of congenital myasthenia gravis and diagnosis was confirmed by Edrophonium test. He underwent tonsillectomy and was successfully managed under general anaesthesia with no muscle relaxant technique. Tonsillectomy in paediatric patients is not an uncommon surgical procedure. In spite of being a common surgery, it is still challenging to the surgeon as well as the anaesthesiologist as there is a shared airway between the two. Also, in the postoperative period there are chances of post-tonsillectomy bleeding causing airway obstruction, if not diagnosed and treated early could risk the life of the patient. Therefore, this surgery poses an increased risk of mortality and morbidity.
Synthesis, Characterization, Swiss ADME and Antimicrobial Activity of Copper (II) Complex with 2-Sulfanilamidopyrimidine: Through DFT Spectroscopic with Profound Biological Implications
Authors: Khan Mohd. Washid , Mishra Ravi Prakash , Patel Bhavesh , Patel Shradha , Gupta Sujit , Sen Souvik
Published: August 2021

Sulphadiazine and their copper metal complexes are dexterous ligands, which are condensation products of primary amines with carbonyl compounds gaining importance day by day in the present scenario. Spectral characterization and examination of the potential antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the synthesized complex were performed. The imine Cu(II) complex is characterized by FTIR and UV/Vis spectroscopy. The Stoichiometric M:L ratio was determined by Joe and Jones method. These compounds and their copper metal complex are very important in various biological systems and their medicinal and pharmaceutical fields. Schiff foundations show beneficial natural functions such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, anticonvulsant, antitubercular, anticancer, antioxidant, anthelmintic, and antiglycation. The present review summarizes information on the diverse biological activities and also highlights the recently synthesized numerous Schiff bases and their metal complex  as potential bioactive core.
Efficacy of Affination on Quality Parameters of White Sugar During Refining Process
Authors: Hammam T. S. A. , Zaghlool M. M. , El-sherif Sanaa A. , EL-Naggar E. A. , Ferweez H.
Published: August 2021

At laboratories of Delta Sugar Company, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt, as well as Food science Department Faculty of Agriculture, Minia University, Egypt during 2019 working season was carried out this work.  It was particularly designed to evaluate the affination process of raw sugar at different temperatures on refined sugar quality parameters during sugar refining process under prevailing industrial conditions.

The obtained results revealed that there were a significant differences among raw cane sugar samples in the all studied physiochemical traits, i.e. moisture,  sucrose, reducing sugars, starch, dextran and color (ICUMSA units) except total sugars and ash % , Significant effect of dextran addition for sugar type, where white sugar was affected more than raw sugar, and added dextran level, significant effect of affination syrup temperature on physiochemical properties of white sugar, i.e. dextran, starch, sucrose, ash, and colour, except reducing sugars percent was non-significant     

it can be concluded from the present research that affination syrup temperature at 70oC is the best treatment under the study conditions regarding white sugar quality and can be recommended to the industry for further processing and quite near to the standards of white sugar.
Edge-Complement Graphs – Another Approach
Authors: Kumar Sanal , Vatsalya Henah E.
Published: August 2021

The collection of edge complement spanning subgraphs of a simple graph is an abelian group with respect to the symmetric difference operation.
Impact of Chitosan and Alginate Based Edible Coating on Shelf Life and Postharvest Quality of Kinnow Mandarin
Authors: Puri Himanshu , Kumar Arun
Published: August 2021

The Kinnow mandarin (Citrus nobilis x Citrus deliciosa) was highly perishable citrus fruit, after harvest the quality of Kinnow fruits undergoes rapid changes due to the sharpen rate of ripening, respiration and transpiration. Edible coating formulation of chitosan (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%), alginate (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%), composite formulation of chitosan and alginate (0.5% chitosan+0.5% alginate & 1% chitosan+0.5% alginate) were evaluated in relation to enhancing and improving shelf life and postharvest quality of Kinnow respectively. Kinnow fruit shelf life efficiency was evaluated on the basis of postharvest quality parameters like weight loss percent, firmness, pH, total soluble solids, total acidity and ascorbic acid from 6th to 24th day during incubation at ambient room temperature (20-25°C). The results signifies that the Kinnow fruit coated with alginate 1% have higher shelf life efficiency up to 24 days; however chitosan 1% coated fruits shown to have higher ascorbic acid retention as compared to untreated Kinnow fruits. The principal component analysis of different quality parameters for studied treatment shows 65.7 % variation in component 1 and 16.6% variation in component 2. PCA plot elucidate that coated fruit samples were high positive values and completely different from untreated samples.
Assessment of Bio-efficacy of Insecticides against Mites and Thrips Insect Pest of Chilli
Authors: Thakur Deepak , Upadhyay V. R. , Ahirwar Annu
Published: August 2021

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2018-19 in Samajik Vigyan Kendra, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Bordi, Sehore (M.P.) – INDIA. To assess the bio-efficacy of insecticides against mites and thrips insect pest of chilli pests. The bio-efficacy of three different insecticides, namely (i) Chlorfenapyr 240 SC - spray four time with different-different doses, (ii) Fipronil 5% SC and (iii) Imidacloprid 17.8 SL. One untreated plot was also used to   investigate against Mites and Thrips. Among these insecticides, Chlorfenapyr 240SC doses 288 g.a.i/hac gram active ingredient per hactare) has reduced maximum mites and thrips population and it is most effective  insecticides in chilli. The highest reduction of mites population recorded in treatment T4- (97.17%) followed by T3- chlorofenapyr (95.13%), T6- Imidacloprid (91.67%), T5- Fipronil 5% SC (85.35%), T2- chlorofenapyr (85.27%) and it was least in T1- chlorofenapyr (81.40%. Further, the thrips number  was maximum reduced in treatment T4- chlorofenapyr (90.69%) followed by T3- chlorofenapyr (89.80%), T5- Fipronil 5% SC (89.51%), T6- Imidacloprid (74.18%), T2- chlorofenapyr (69.74%) and T1- chlorofenapyr (68.44 %). Hence, present study was clearly indicated that the treatment T4- chlorofenapyr 240SC@288 proved, the most effective insecticides. The cost benefit ratio was noted higher in Fipronil 5% SC@ 10 g.a.i ha-1 (3.20) followed by imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 50 g.a.i ha-1 (2.99).
Capsaicin Encapsulated Chitosan Nanoparticles Augments Anticarcinogenic and Antiproliferative Competency Against 7,12 Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene Induced Experimental Rat Mammary Carcinogenesis
Authors: Dhamodharan Kalaiyarasi , Vengaimaran Manobharathi , Sankaran Mirunalini
Published: August 2021

Background: Capsaicin is a powerful phytochemical spotted in chilies, starkly tied up with a bunch of health benefits but its clinical applications in cancer therapy are limited due to its poor solubility, and low bioavailability. Nanotechnology offers a strategy to discover new formulations for hydrophobic agent.

Aim: The main intent of the current research was to investigate the effect of Capsaicin encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles (CAP@CS-NP) on 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced mammary carcinogenesis in rats.

Methodology: Mammary tumor was induced in female rats by injecting DMBA (25mg/kg b.wt) at the first week of the experiment. After 7 weeks, CAP@CS-NP (4mg/kg b.wt) was administered orally to DMBA induced tumor bearing rats for 21 days (thrice per week). The experiment was terminated at the end of the 14th week and their plasma and tissue sections were analyzed.

Results: We found that significantly elevated levels of lipid peroxidation and diminished levels of antioxidant status in plasma, liver and mammary tissues. Increased levels of detoxification phase I enzymes and dropped levels of phase II enzymes in liver and mammary tissues in DMBA induced tumor bearing rats. As a result, oral administration of CAP@CS-NP suppressed the tumor growth, significantly raised body weight and restored abnormal enzymatic levels to near normal ranges. Additionally, histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis were also confirmed that CAP@CS-NP protects DMBA mediated cellular disruption and also inhibits abnormal cell proliferation.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that nano encapsulation of CAP@CS-NP could be useful in targeted drug delivery and act as a promising chemotherapeutic agent to treat mammary carcinogenesis.
Genome‐scale metabolic modelling of SARS‐CoV‐2 in cancer cells reveals an increased shift to glycolytic energy production
Authors: Yaneske Elisabeth , Zampieri Guido , Bertoldi Loris , Benvenuto Giuseppe , Angione Claudio
Published: August 2021

Cancer is considered a high‐risk condition for severe illness resulting from COVID‐19. The interaction between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and human metabolism is key to elucidating the risk posed by COVID‐19 for cancer patients and identifying effective treatments, yet it is largely uncharacterised on a mechanistic level. We present a genome‐scale map of short‐term metabolic alterations triggered by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection of cancer cells. Through transcriptomic‐ and proteomic‐informed genome‐scale metabolic modelling, we characterise the role of RNA and fatty acid biosynthesis in conjunction with a rewiring in energy production pathways and enhanced cytokine secretion. These findings link together complementary aspects of viral invasion of cancer cells, while providing mechanistic insights that can inform the development of treatment strategies.
Optical emission‐based phantom to verify coincidence of radiotherapy and imaging isocenters on an MR‐linac
Authors: Andreozzi Jacqueline M. , Brůža Petr , Cammin Jochen , Alexander Daniel A. , Pogue Brian W. , Green Olga , Gladstone David J.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Demonstrate a novel phantom design using a remote camera imaging method capable of concurrently measuring the position of the x‐ray isocenter and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) isocenter on an MR‐linac.

Methods

A conical frustum with distinct geometric features was machined out of plastic. The phantom was submerged in a small water tank, and aligned using room lasers on a MRIdian MR‐linac (ViewRay Inc., Cleveland, OH). The phantom physical isocenter was visualized in the MR images and related to the DICOM coordinate isocenter. To view the x‐ray isocenter, an intensified CMOS camera system (DoseOptics LLC., Hanover, NH) was placed at the foot of the treatment couch, and centered such that the optical axis of the camera was coincident with the central axis of the treatment bore. Two or four 8.3mm x 24.1cm beams irradiated the phantom from cardinal directions, producing an optical ring on the conical surface of the phantom. The diameter of the ring, measured at the peak intensity, was compared to the known diameter at the position of irradiation to determine the Z‐direction offset of the beam. A star‐shot method was employed on the front face of the frustum to determine X‐Y alignment of the MV beam. Known shifts were applied to the phantom to establish the sensitivity of the method.

Results

Couch translations, demonstrative of possible isocenter misalignments, on the order of 1mm were detectable for both the radiotherapy and MRI isocenters. Data acquired on the MR‐linac demonstrated an average error of 0.28mm(N=10, R2=0.997, σ=0.37mm) in established Z displacement, and 0.10mm(N=5, σ=0.34mm) in XY directions of the radiotherapy isocenter.

Conclusions

The phantom was capable of measuring both the MRI and radiotherapy treatment isocenters. This method has the potential to be of use in MR‐linac commissioning, and could be streamlined to be valuable in daily constancy checks of isocenter coincidence.
Hierarchical recursive least squares algorithms for Hammerstein nonlinear autoregressive output‐error systems
Authors: Kang Zhen , Ji Yan , Liu Ximei
Published: August 2021

This article considers the parameter estimation problem of Hammerstein nonlinear autoregressive output‐error systems with autoregressive moving average noises. Applying the key term separation technique, the original system is decomposed into three subsystems: the first subsystem contains the unknown parameters related to the output, the second subsystem contains the unknown parameters related to the input, and the third subsystem contains the unknown parameters related to the noise model. A hierarchical recursive least squares algorithm is proposed based on the hierarchical identification principle for interactively identifying each subsystem. The simulation results confirm that the proposed algorithm is effective in estimating the parameters of Hammerstein nonlinear autoregressive output‐error systems.
3D Bioprinting Constructs to Facilitate Skin Regeneration
Authors: Daikuara Luciana Y. , Chen Xifang , Yue Zhilian , Skropeta Danielle , Wood Fiona M. , Fear Mark W. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: August 2021

In the last decade, the advent of 3D printing for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine has engendered great interest for those involved in skin repair and regeneration. 3D bioprinting allows spatial distribution of skin cells into predefined custom‐made structures to produce living skin mimics on the bench for grafting or drug testing. The key aspect of 3D bioprinting lies in the formulation of printable bioinks serving as matrix mimics to house skin cells, alongside an appropriate combination of cells. In this review, bioink formulations, cell combinations, as well as manufacturing methods exploited to develop 3D bioprinted constructs for skin regeneration are summarized. Issues to do with the selection of suitable materials and cells to ensure the functionality of the resulting skin constructs and fabrication of skin appendages are also addressed.
Ultra‐Stretchable Self‐Healing Composite Hydrogels as Touch Panel
Authors: Han Chuang , Yang Fan , Guo Xingkui , Bai Yujiao , Liu Guanjun , Sun Huiqi , Wang Peipei , Liu Wenbo , Wang Rongguo
Published: August 2021

Development of ultra‐stretchable and sensitive soft touch panel is of great importance for broad applications in artificial intelligence, wearable devices, and soft robotics. However, traditional human‐computer interfaces (HCIs) suffer from the discomfort and asynchronous signals in current application scenarios. Herein, a hydrogel‐based self‐healing touch panel, which is highly deformable, and both mechanically and electrically self‐healable, has been successfully developed from a poly(N,N′‐dimethylacrylamide)/silica hydrogel which possesses an ultra‐high stretchability >3800%. A surface‐capacitive touch mechanism is adopted to sense a touched position. The panel can be operated under high areal strain without sacrificing its functionalities. Skin touch panel is constructed and adhered to human skin, with the strong performance and self‐healing ability demonstrated by writing words and playing games.
Integration of Organic Electrochemical Transistors with Implantable Probes
Authors: Han Sanggil , Polyravas Anastasios G. , Wustoni Shofarul , Inal Sahika , Malliaras George G.
Published: August 2021

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) are widely used as amplifying transducers of biological signals due to their high transconductance and biocompatibility. For implantable applications that penetrate into tissue, OECTs need to be integrated onto narrow probes. The scarcity of real estate necessitates the use of small local gate electrodes and narrow interconnects. This work shows that both of these factors lead to a decrease in the maximum transconductance and an increase in gate voltage required to attain this maximum. This work further shows that coating the gate electrode with a thick conducting polymer improves performance. These findings help guide the development of efficient OECTs on implantable probes.
Syntheses of the (±)‐, (+)‐, and (−)‐Forms of 2‐Amino‐3‐(8‐hydroxyquinolin‐3‐yl)propanoic Acid (8HQ‐3Ala) from a Common Dehydroamino Acid Methyl Ester Precursor
Authors: Banwell Martin G. , Schwartz Brett D. , Bissember Alex C. , Herlt Tony , Willis Anthony C. , Gardiner Michael G. , Illesinghe Jayamini , Robinson Andrea J.
Published: August 2021

The (±)‐, (+)‐ and (−)‐forms of 2‐amino‐3‐(8‐hydroxyquinolin‐3‐yl)‐propanoic acid (1 or 8HQ‐3Ala) have been prepared from o‐methoxyacetanilide (2). A combination of Vilsmeier‐Haack, Erlenmeyer‐Plöchl and methanolysis reactions was used to convert compound 2 into the Z‐configured dehydroamino acid derivative 5. Catalytic hydrogenation of the latter compound then gave, after reductive dechlorination and demethylation steps, compound (±)‐1. Asymmetric hydrogenation of compound 5 using a rhodium precatalyst and an enantiopure DuPhos‐type ligand selectively delivered either acid (+)‐1 or (−)‐1. The structure, including absolute configuration, of the latter product was confirmed through single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of the corresponding HBr mono salt.
Skeletal evidence of structural violence among undocumented migrants from Mexico and Central America
Authors: Beatrice Jared S. , Soler Angela , Reineke Robin C. , Martínez Daniel E.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

We examine the prevalence and sociodemographic risk factors of skeletal indicators of stress in forensic samples of undocumented migrants from Mexico and Central America.

Materials and methods

Cranial and dental remains of 319 migrants recovered in the Arizona and Texas borderlands were assessed for porotic hyperostosis (PH), cribra orbitalia (CO), and linear enamel hypoplasias (LEH). Logistic regression models for each condition were estimated to test for associations with biological sex, age, recovery location, and whether individuals were identified. Additional models estimated for a subsample of identified migrants included region of origin, residential context, and community indigeneity.

Results

The full sample shows moderate crude prevalence of CO (9.6%) and LEH (34.1%), and a high prevalence of PH (49.6%). Significantly higher odds of PH are associated with being male (2.16 times higher), unidentified (1.89 times higher), and recovered in Arizona (3.76 times higher). Among identified migrants, we fail to find associations significant at thep < 0.05 level between skeletal stress and all sociodemographic variables except age.

Discussion

The factors associated with PH may be related to influences on decisions to migrate and diversity among migrant sending regions. The skeletal evidence for early life stress is generally consistent with common public health concerns among impoverished communities in the region. The lesions themselves are viewed as embodied risk of physiological disturbance when resource access is structured by higher‐level social, economic, and political forces. Forensic anthropologists would benefit from increased sensitivity to embodied structural violence among the vulnerable individuals and communities they serve.
Iron‐Catalyzed Reductive Cyclization by Hydromagnesiation: A Modular Strategy Towards N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Loup Joachim , Larin Egor M. , Lautens Mark
Published: August 2021

A reductive cyclization to prepare a variety of N‐heterocycles, through the use of ortho‐vinylanilides, is reported. The reaction is catalyzed by an inexpensive and bench‐stable iron complex and generally occurs at ambient temperature. The transformation likely proceeds through hydromagnesiation of the vinyl group, and trapping of the in situ generated benzylic anion by an intramolecular electrophile to form the heterocycle. This iron‐catalyzed strategy was shown to be broadly applicable and was utilized in the synthesis of substituted indoles, oxindoles and tetrahydrobenzoazepinoindolone derivatives. Mechanistic studies indicated that the reversibility of the hydride transfer step depends on the reactivity of the tethered electrophile. The synthetic utility of our approach was further demonstrated by the formal synthesis of a reported bioactive compound and a family of natural products.
Anodische dehydrierende Cyaniminierung von Thioethern: eine einfache und nachhaltige Synthese von N‐Cyansulfiliminen
Authors: Klein Martin , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: August 2021

Es wurde ein neuer und einfach durchzuführender elektrochemischer Ansatz zur Herstellung einiger N‐Cyansulfilimine in guten bis exzellenten Ausbeuten entwickelt. Diese Methode ermöglicht einen Zugang zu biologisch aktiven Sulfoximinen durch Folgeoxidation mit elektrochemisch erzeugtem Periodat. Die Synthese kann problemlos in Gramm‐Maßstäbe hochskaliert werden. Die S,N‐Kupplung wird dabei durch direkte Oxidation des Sulfids an einer kosteneffizienten Kohlenstoffelektrode durchgeführt. Der so etablierte Prozess besitzt eine gute Atomeffizienz und stellt eine neue und “grünere” Methode zur Synthese von Sulfiliminen und Sulfoximinen dar.
Media‐Driven Pd‐Catalyzed Reaction Cascades with 1,3‐Diynamides Leading Selectively to Either Indoles or Quinolines
Authors: Lenko Illia , Mamontov Alexander , Alayrac Carole , Legay Rémi , Witulski Bernhard
Published: August 2021

Divergent Pd‐catalyzed reaction cascades with various 1,3‐diynamides yielding either 2‐amino‐3‐alkynylindoles or 2‐amino‐4‐alkenylquinolines were established. Omitting or adding TBAF (tetrabutylammonium fluoride) to the reaction of N,N‐(2‐iodophenyl)(4‐toluenesulfonyl)‐1,3‐diynamides with secondary or primary amines in the presence of KOH in THF and catalytic amounts of Pd(PPh3)4 completely changed the outcome of the reaction. In the absence of TBAF, 2‐amino‐3‐alkynylindoles were the sole products, while the presence of TBAF switched the product formation to 2‐amino‐4‐alkenylquinolines. Deuterium labeling proceeded selectively at the C3 and C11 positions of the 2‐amino‐4‐alkenylquinoline products and this suggests the unprecedented formation of [4]cumulenimines from 1,3‐diynamides as reactive key intermediates.
Single Particle Nanoelectrochemistry Reveals the Catalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction Activity of Co3O4 Nanocubes
Authors: Quast Thomas , Varhade Swapnil , Saddeler Sascha , Chen Yen‐Ting , Andronescu Corina , Schulz Stephan , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: August 2021

Co3O4 nanocubes are evaluated concerning their intrinsic electrocatalytic activity towards the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) by means of single‐entity electrochemistry. Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) provides data on the electrocatalytic OER activity from several individual measurement areas covering one Co3O4 nanocube of a comparatively high number of individual particles with sufficient statistical reproducibility. Single‐particle‐on‐nanoelectrode measurements of Co3O4 nanocubes provide an accelerated stress test at highly alkaline conditions with current densities of up to 5.5 A cm−2, and allows to derive TOF values of up to 2.8×104 s−1 at 1.92 V vs. RHE for surface Co atoms of a single cubic nanoparticle. Obtaining such high current densities combined with identical‐location transmission electron microscopy allows monitoring the formation of an oxy(hydroxide) surface layer during electrocatalysis. Combining two independent single‐entity electrochemistry techniques provides the basis for elucidating structure–activity relations of single electrocatalyst nanoparticles with well‐defined surface structure.
Effect of different aromatic groups on photovoltaic performance of 1,1′‐bis (diphenylphosphino)ferrocene functionalized Ni (II) dithiolates as sensitizers in dye sensitized solar cells
Authors: Singh Amita , Dutta Archisman , Srivastava Devyani , Kociok‐Köhn Gabriele , Chauhan Ratna , Gosavi Suresh W. , Kumar Abhinav , Muddassir Mohd.
Published: August 2021

A series of five new heteroleptic 1,1′‐bis (diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (dppf) appended nickel (II) dithiolates namely, [Ni (dppf)(benzylcyanidedithiolate)] (Bz‐Ni), [Ni (dppf)(2‐cyanobenzylcyanidedithiolate)] (CN‐Ph‐Ni) and [Ni (dppf)(pyridine‐2‐cyanidedithiolate)] (2‐Py‐Ni), [Ni (dppf)(pyridine‐3‐cyanidedithiolate)] (3‐Py‐Ni), Ni (dppf)(thiophene‐2‐cyanidedithiolate)] (Th‐Ni) have been prepared and characterized using spectroscopic techniques and in one case by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis for CN‐Ph‐Ni. The geometry around Ni (II) in CN‐Ph‐Ni is distorted square planar which is fulfilled by two S and two P centers of dithiolate and dppf ligand, respectively. The electronic absorption spectra for sensitizers display major bands between 400 and 550 nm that could be ascribed to an intra‐molecular charge transfer (ICT) between the ferrocene and functionalized dithiolates to engender an efficient charge separated state. All these newly synthesized compounds are used as sensitizers in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The photovoltaic performances for the five featured sensitizers follow the order 3‐Py‐Ni>2‐Py‐Ni˃CN‐Ph‐Ni˃Bz‐Ni˃Th‐Ni. The assembly fabricated with 3‐Py‐Ni displays Jsc of 13.15 mA cm−2 and Voc of −0.633 with conversion efficiency (η) and incident photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency (IPCE) of 5.05% and 52%, respectively. The relatively slower charge recombination, greater dye loading capacity on TiO2 nano‐particulate and relative smaller total resistance are the possible reasons behind the superior photovoltaic performance of the cell fabricated using the 3‐Py‐Ni as sensitizer. Also, density of states calculations have been performed which suggested that in the best performer 3‐Py‐Ni+(TiO2)30 cell set‐up, the minimum inter‐band excitation energy lies ~1.4 eV. Also, efficient electron coupling between sensitizer and (TiO2)30 results in efficient sensitization of TiO2 nanocluster.
Assessing the societal benefits of mahseer (Tor spp.) fishes to strengthen the basis for their conservation
Authors: Everard Mark , Pinder Adrian C. , Claussen Julie E. , Orr Stuart
Published: August 2021

Mahseer (Tor spp., Cyprinidae) are iconic, large‐bodied, migratory freshwater fishes of Asian rivers. Long valued as a food source and serving other societal roles, these fishes are severely threatened by a broad range of interacting and escalating human impacts, including dam construction, water pollution, over‐exploitation, and habitat destruction. Mahseer fishes are therefore beneficial to people, both directly and as indicators of ecosystem functionality and the associated ecosystem service benefits provided by the rivers that they inhabit.

A literature review demonstrated that wild mahseer populations have a direct role in 11 of the 36 ecosystem services assessed and are indicative of a further 18 ecosystem services provided by the habitats that support them.

Recognition of this range of ecosystem service benefits is helpful in describing to non‐specialist public and policy‐making communities the diversity of values provided by mahseer fishes and their supporting habitats, and hence the importance of their conservation.

Assessment of the broad range of ecosystem services to which mahseer contribute is an approach that could usefully be applied to promote the benefits of conserving other ‘umbrella’ taxa and the habitats that support them.
Selective Synthesis and Characterization of the Highly Energetic Materials 1‐Hydroxy‐5H‐tetrazole (CHN4O), its Anion 1‐Oxido‐5H‐tetrazolate (CN4O−) and Bis(1‐hydroxytetrazol‐5‐yl)triazene
Authors: Klapötke Thomas M. , Kofen Moritz , Schmidt Laszlo , Stierstorfer Jörg , Wurzenberger Maximilian H. H.
Published: August 2021

For the first time, an adequate selective synthesis, circumventing the formation of 2‐hydroxy‐5H‐tetrazole, of 1‐hydroxy‐5H‐tetrazole (HTO), as well as the synthesis of bis(1‐hydroxytetrazol‐5‐yl)triazene (H3T) are reported. Several salts thereof were synthesized and characterized which resulted in the formation of new primary and secondary explosives containing the 1‐oxidotetrazolate unit. Molecular structures are characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, 1H and 13C NMR, IR, and elemental analysis. Calculation of the detonation performance using the Explo5 code confirmed the energetic properties of 1‐hydroxy‐5H‐tetrazole. The detonation properties can be adjusted to the requirements for those of a secondary explosive by forming the hydroxylammonium (6) or hydrazinium (7) salts, or to meet the requirements of a primary explosive by forming the silver salt 4, which shows a fast DDT on contact with a flame. The sensitivities of all compounds towards external stimuli such as impact, friction, and electrostatic discharge were measured.
Simulation Study of the Conformational Properties of Diblock Polyelectrolytes in Salt Solutions
Authors: Dabhade Akash , Chaudhury Srabanti
Published: August 2021

Coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulations are performed to understand the behavior of diblock polyelectrolytes in solutions of divalent salt by studying the conformations of chains over a wide range of salt concentrations. The polymer molecules are modeled as bead spring chains with different charged fractions and the counterions and salt ions are incorporated explicitly. Upon addition of a divalent salt, the salt cations replace the monovalent counterions, and the condensation of divalent salt cations onto the polyelectrolyte increases, and the chains favor to collapse. The condensation of ions changes with the salt concentration and depends on the charged fraction. Also, the degree of collapse at a given salt concentration changes with the increasing valency of the counterion due to the bridging effect. As a quantitative measure of the distribution of counterions around the polyelectrolyte chain, we study the radial distribution function between monomers on different polyelectrolytes and the counterions inside the counterion worm surrounding a polymer chain at different concentrations of the divalent salt. Our simulation results show a strong dependence of salt concentration on the conformational properties of diblock copolymers and indicate that it can tune the self‐assembly behaviors of such charged polyelectrolyte block copolymers.
XR game development as a tool for authentic, experiential, and collaborative learning
Authors: Cook Jim , Brown Martin , Sellwood Matthew , Campbell Craig , Kouppas Paul , Poronnik Philip
Published: August 2021

This brief review provides insights into the recent advances made by the Unity game engine into education and the ways that learning resources can be used to teach novice bioscience students to use the VR/AR affordances of the platform. We present our own practises for implementation of a novel gamification task for final‐year bioscience students and reflect on the changes we have had to make in order to overcome challenges presented by the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Fourth‐generation glucose sensors composed of copper nanostructures for diabetes management: A critical review
Authors: Naikoo Gowhar A. , Awan Tasbiha , Salim Hiba , Arshad Fareeha , Hassan Israr U. , Pedram Mona Zamani , Ahmed Waqar , Faruck Hakkim L. , Aljabali Alaa A. A. , Mishra Vijay , Serrano‐Aroca Ángel , Goyal Rohit , Negi Poonam , Birkett Martin , Nasef Mohamed M. , Charbe Nitin B. , Bakshi Hamid A. , Tambuwala Murtaza M.
Published: August 2021

More than five decades have been invested in understanding glucose biosensors. Yet, this immensely versatile field has continued to gain attention from the scientific world to better understand and diagnose diabetes. However, such extensive work done to improve glucose sensing devices has still not yielded desirable results. Drawbacks like the necessity of the invasive finger‐pricking step and the lack of optimization of diagnostic interventions still need to be considered to improve the testing process of diabetic patients. To upgrade the glucose‐sensing devices and reduce the number of intermediary steps during glucose measurement, fourth‐generation glucose sensors (FGGS) have been introduced. These sensors, made using robust electrocatalytic copper nanostructures, improve diagnostic efficiency and cost‐effectiveness. This review aims to present the essential scientific progress in copper nanostructure‐based FGGS in the past 10 years (2010 to present). After a short introduction, we presented the working principles of these sensors. We then highlighted the importance of copper nanostructures as advanced electrode materials to develop reliable real‐time FGGS. Finally, we cover the advantages, shortcomings, and prospects for developing highly sensitive, stable, and specific FGGS.
Gastric adenocarcinoma burden and late‐stage diagnosis in Latino and non‐Latino populations in the United States and Texas, during 2004–2016: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Long Parma Dorothy , Schmidt Susanne , Muñoz Edgar , Ramirez Amelie G.
Published: August 2021

Background

Gastric cancer disproportionately affects Latinos, but little is known about regional effects and risk factors. We compared primary incidence, late‐stage diagnosis, and risk factors for gastric adenocarcinoma (GCA) from 2004 to 2016 in Latinos and non‐Latinos in the United States, Texas (TX), and South Texas (STX).

Methods

We collected case data from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) and the Texas Cancer Registry. We generated average annual age‐adjusted incidence rates, rate ratios (RRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using SEER*Stat software and analyzed the cases by anatomic site, demographics, and county‐level risk factors using SAS 9.4. We constructed multilevel logistic regression models for late‐stage GCA, adjusting for patient‐ and county‐level characteristics.

Results

Latinos had higher overall GCA incidence rates in all regions, with the greatest disparities in overlap GCA in STX males (RR 4.39; 95% CI: 2.85, 6.93). There were no differences in cardia GCA rates for non‐Hispanic Whites (NHWs) and Latino women in all regions. Younger patients, patients with overlapping or not otherwise specified (NOS) lesions, and patients diagnosed during 2012–2016 had higher odds of late‐stage GCA. The stratification by location showed no differences in late‐stage disease between NHWs and Latinos. The stratification by anatomic site showed Latinos with cardia GCA were more likely to have late‐stage GCA than NHWs (OR: 1.13, p = 0.008). At the county level, higher odds of late‐stage GCA were associated with medium and high social deprivation levels in TX without STX (OR: 1.25 and 1.20, p = 0.007 and 0.028, respectively), and medium social deprivation index (SDI) in patients with NOS GCA (OR: 1.21, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

STX Latinos experience greater GCA disparities than those in TX and the United States. Younger age and social deprivation increase the risk for late‐stage GCA, while Latinos and women are at higher risk specifically for late‐stage cardia GCA. There is a need for population‐specific, culturally responsive intervention and prevention measures, and additional research to elucidate contributing risk factors.
Biochemical Investigation of 3‐Sulfopropionaldehyde Reductase HpfD
Authors: An Junwei , Wei Yifeng , Liu Jiayi , Lui Ang Ee , Zhao Huimin , Zhang Yan
Published: August 2021

Sulfoquinovose is the polar headgroup of plant sulfolipids and is a globally abundant organosulfur compound, and its degradation by bacteria is an important component of the sulfur cycle. Sulfoquinovose degradation by certain bacteria, including Escherichia coli, produces dihydroxypropanesulfonate (DHPS), which is further converted by anaerobic bacteria into 3‐hydroxypropanesulfonate (3‐HPS), through the catalytic action of DHPS dehydratase (a member of the glycyl radical enzyme family), and sulfopropionaldehyde reductase HpfD (a member of the metal‐dependent alcohol dehydrogenase family). Here we report biochemical investigation of Hungatella hathewayi HpfD. In addition to 3‐HPS, HpfD also displayed high catalytic activities for NAD+‐dependent oxidation of 4‐hydroxybutanesulfonate (4‐HBS) and γ‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB). The highest activity was obtained with Fe2+ or Mn2+ as the divalent metal cofactor. Bioinformatics studies suggest that, in addition to DHPS degradation, 3‐HPS and γ‐aminobutyrate (GABA) degradations also involve HpfD homologs.
30‐day readmission following urgent and elective transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A Nationwide Readmission Database analysis
Authors: Amgai Birendra , Patel Neelkumar , Chakraborty Sandipan , Bandyopadhyay Dhrubajyoti , Hajra Adrija , Koirala Soniya , Ghosh Raktim K. , Aronow Wilbert S. , Lavie Carl J. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Abbott J. Dawn , Kapadia Samir
Published: August 2021

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is being increasingly used for decompensated severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Data on urgent and elective TAVR readmission is scarce in the literature. Here, we have performed a retrospective cohort study with the Nationwide Readmission Database of 2016 to identify the rate of 30‐day all‐cause readmission, common causes of readmission, and distribution of morbidity in index admission and readmission after urgent and elective TAVR.

Methods

We used International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes (02R.F38H, 02R.F38Z, 02R.F48Z) for identification of all TAVR procedures done in 2016 in patients >18 years old. We found 8379 patients who underwent urgent TAVR and 32,006 patients who underwent elective TAVR in 2016.

Result

The mean age of patients undergoing urgent TAVR was 79 ± 9.97 years with 44.6% women. The mean age of patients undergoing elective TAVR was 80.7 ± 8.25 years with 46.2% women. We found the 30‐day all‐cause readmission rate of 15.5% and 9.5% in patients undergoing urgent and elective TAVR, respectively (p < 0.001). The cardiac cause was the predominant cause of readmission in both groups (43.77% vs. 42.11%, p = 0.57), followed by pulmonary cause, gastrointestinal (GI) cause, and renal cause. Among cardiac causes, congestive heart failure (CHF) was predominant cause of readmission and was similar in both groups (18.73 in urgent TAVR vs. 15.73 in elective TAVR, p = 0.12).

Conclusion

We found that the all‐cause 30‐day readmission rate was higher in patients who had undergone urgent TAVR. Further studies are needed to better understand this difference.