bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Biopolymer Solution Injectability Based on Pore Size Distribution and Injection Pressure Using Pore Network Model
Authors: Ryou Jae-Eun , Jung Jongwon
Published: December 2022

Biopolymers used for ecofriendly ground improvement lead to various effects, such as strength increase, hydraulic conductivity reduction, and vegetation enhancement. However, related studies evaluate the mechanical performance of a biopolymer-stabilized soil by simple mixing of the biopolymer and the soil. In this study, the injection performance of a biopolymer solution was evaluated by pore network modeling based on the pore size distribution and the injection pressure. The developed pore network model applies the power law behavior to a modified Hagen-Poiseuille equation to consider the rheological properties of the biopolymer solution. The pore size distribution was obtained by changing the average and standard deviation of the overall pore size. The results showed that as the average pore size increased, the pore saturation and injectivity increased. However, as the standard deviation of the pore size distribution increased, the pore saturation decreased. In addition, as the injection pressure increased, the effects of the standard deviation on the pore saturation and the injectivity decreased. The pore network model developed in this study can predict the injection properties of a grout material into the ground considering rheological properties.
Analysis of Residual Shear Strength Characteristics for Fine Content Using Ring Shear Test Apparatus
Authors: Lee Daewon , Ahn Kwangkuk , Kang Hongsig , Jung Jongwon
Published: December 2022

In Korea, the frequency of landslides and debris flow increases because of the concentration of rainfall in summer, which results in increased damage. Therefore, the shear characteristics of granite-weathered soil, including fine particles, were investigated using a ring shear test apparatus to evaluate the flowability of debris. For a reliable shear stress measurement, the shear rate was set by conducting a test with varying shear rates. The shear stress increased as the fine content increased at low normal stress, and softening behavior was clearly visible. However, as the normal stress increased, the hardening behavior changed, and the shear stress increased as the fine content decreased. In addition, as the fine content increased, the internal friction angle, which is the peak and residual stress coefficient, decreased, and the cohesion tended to increase.
Soil Water Characteristic Curve Analysis of Weathered Granite Soils with Various Fine Content
Authors: Lee Sangbeen , Ryou Jae-Eun , Jung Jongwon
Published: December 2022

Determining the parameters related to unsaturated soil properties considering capillary and adsorption phenomena is challenging. In addition, the matric suction generated in unsaturated soil increases the stability of the slope; however, the decrease in matric suction owing to heavy rain causes a decrease in slope stability. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the parameters of unsaturated soil accurately. In this study, the engineering characteristics in the unsaturated state were analyzed using weathered granite soil, which is typically distributed in mountainous areas in Korea. Four samples were prepared in which the compositions of the fine contents of weathered granite soil were 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, and a soil characteristic curve test was performed on the samples. In the coefficient prediction method, the widely applied van Genuchten model was used to analyze the air entry value and parameter values according to the fine content of weathered granite soil in the range of the drying process. As a result, a correlation between the fine content in the weathered granite soil and the air entrainment value and parameter values was identified.
A Study on the Carbon Neutral Effect and Improvement of River Water Quality through Non-point Source Pollution Control in Farmland
Authors: Park Kihak , Oa Seongwook , Kim Seohyun , Kim Keugtae
Published: December 2022

In Korea, the carbon emission from the agricultural, livestock, and fishery sectors were 24.7 million tCO2-eq in 2018. Following the 2050 carbon neutral declaration, the total carbon emissions from these sectors are expected to decrease to 15.4 million tCO2-eq by 2050, a reduction of 37.7%. Therefore, efforts are being made to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, soil nitrogen emissions, and greenhouse gases in the agricultural sector. In this study, we analyzed the effects of irradiation charges on greenhouse gas reduction and water quality improvement after rice cultivation without the addition of any fertilizer. The greenhouse gas emission for fertilizer during irradiation cultivation was estimated to be 237 kgCO2-eq/1,000m2, 4 kgCO2-eq/1,000m2 less than that by using a crop protection agent (241 kgCO2-eq/1,000m2). The measurement was based on the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (62.90, 22.83, and 19.31 kg, respectively) per 1,000 m2 barley cultivation. In addition, a reduction in fertilizer use was estimated to reduce eutrophication by approximately 25.47 kgPO43--eq. Thus, the eutrophication of rivers from farmland, a nonpoint pollution source, is predicted to reduce by expanding irradiation cultivation.
Determining Maintenance Project Priority Based on Disaster Risk Assessment: Case of TOPSIS Applications
Authors: Baek Woo-Hyun , Chung Eun-Sung , Choi Jae-Soon , Ahn Jae-Kwang
Published: December 2022

Recently, damage to steep slopes in Korea has been increasing because of abnormal regional torrential rains. The Ministry of Public Administration and Security amended the criteria for a comprehensive plan for natural disaster reduction and selected a technique for determining investment priorities. However, it did not properly reflect the calculation of the damaged area, disaster risk zone, and amount of damage. In this study, the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), a decision-making technique considering multiple criteria that are widely used in various fields, was applied to derive the results of priority selection for collapse risk zones. As a result, problems were derived through a comparative analysis of the results of existing investment priority techniques. Furthermore, a priority selection plan for the collapse risk zone improvement project was developed based on the Disaster risk assessment evaluation indicators, and a comprehensive natural disaster plan report was created.
Cluster Analysis of Drought Damage to Local Governments Across the Country Using the National Drought Information Statistics
Authors: Moon Gi Hoon , Jung Yu Jin , Jun Changhyun , Joo Jin Gul , Yoo Do Guen
Published: December 2022

Recently, Korea has regularly published statistics on the current state of annual droughts that have been occurring since 2018 in the National Drought Information Statistics. For a clear categorization of drought damage, it is necessary to first establish the major factors that affect the degree of damage. In this study, damage-related data from the National Drought Information Statistics Collection (2018-2020) were examined to obtain the regional characteristics of water use resulting in regional drought damage to 161 local governments in Korea. Cluster analysis was performed, and a hierarchical clustering algorithm was used for the regional classification of drought damage. The factor composition was analyzed by dividing it into four major methods to represent the drought damage caused by general, living, and agricultural droughts. The analysis confirmed that regional clustering appeared according to the characteristics of water use and past damage history. If such clustering-based regional damage classification information and factors affecting drought damage by water are considered, it is expected that the damage sensitivity of local governments according to the drought situation and regional water use characteristics can be presented quantitatively.
Improved Practical Methods for Considering Climate Change in Design Flood Estimation
Authors: Jeong Jongho , Kim JongChun
Published: December 2022

In practice, methods arbitrarily increasing probable design rainfall or return periods have been adopted to derive design flood increases due to climate change. However, the method of arbitrarily increasing probable design rainfall is inadequate because probable rainfall estimated by the common frequency analysis method usually cannot be accepted in trend tests, meaning there is no increasing trend due to climate change. In addition, the method of increasing return periods to increase design flood is problematic. Rising flood damages—an opportunity to recognize climate change—are caused by concentrated flooding due to urbanization rather than increased probable rainfall. Thus, we proposed new methods for considering climate change in design flood estimation, by changing the temporal distribution of design rainfall or adjusting parameters in the rainfall-runoff process. Furthermore, the method of raising the freeboard criteria is proposed as an alternative for considering climate change.
A Study on the Installation of Measuring Instruments for Early Warning of Small-scale Reservoirs
Authors: Kim Sunkuk , Jeong Inju , An Donghee
Published: December 2022

Climate change is causing the collapse of 101 reservoirs due to localized torrential rains and continuous heavy rains. To minimize the damage to human life and property, this article focuses on selecting appropriate local instruments for the efficient maintenance and proper arrangement of these instruments to maximize the efficiency of the early warning and predictive warning systems. In this study, six small-scale reservoirs were studied, and two cases were considered and compared, namely an embankment with a central clay core and a simply earth-filled embankment. The results showed that to predict the collapse of the reservoir by piping, it was considered appropriate to apply 50% of the wetness ratio (l/L) by calculating the wet length (l) on the length (L) of the downstream slope of the embankment. Finally, a methodology was presented for selecting the location of the measuring device.
A Numerical Experiment on the Occurrence of Atmospheric Hydraulic Jump at the Taebaek Mountains Downwind
Authors: Lee Jaeheon , Kang Songlak
Published: December 2022

Large-eddy simulation of the lee-side hydraulic jump at the downwind side of the Taebaek Mountains demonstrates the advection of a warm anomaly and the atmospheric reverse roller of negative vorticity. The lee-side hydraulic jump entrains the upper-level atmospheric air into the lower-level atmosphere. The simulated lee-side hydraulic jump occurs under the following conditions on the effective height ĥ and width â of an obstacle: ĥ ≥ 0.74 for â > 10, which are equivalent to Frh ≤ 1.35 for Fra < 0 .1, where Frh and Fra are the Froude numbers defined in terms of the height and width of the obstacle, respectively. In detail, the hydraulic jump occurs when the upwind-side mean wind (U) ≤ 12 ms- 1 for the buoyancy frequency (N) = 0.009 s- 1. The wind speed dramatically increases within the 30-minute period when the hydraulic jump occurs. The stronger upwind causes a warmer anomaly and stronger downslope wind gust. This study situates the atmospheric hydraulic jump phenomenon with regard ro wildfire occurrence, and describes it using the Froude number for the width and height of the obstacle. It is shown that a more vulnerable atmospheric environment can be formed when the hydraulic jump occurs, and the wave-breaking of mountain waves related to the hydraulic jump can be predicted by the Froude number.
Application of Water Stress Indicator and Evaluation of Water Resource Development Indicator for Stream Flow Management in Dry Season
Authors: Kang Seongkyu , Choi Sijung , Kim Gilho , Choi Cheonkyu
Published: December 2022

The water stress indicator represents the water withdrawal rate with respect to the available water excluding the environmental flow and is designed to provide an overview of a country's water management. To use this indicator in various regions during the dry season when water problems may arise, items are modified and applied with a low flow, an environmental flow, and stream water use. This method conforms to Korea's water use permit and instream flow system thus, it can be used practically. In addition, since stream water during the dry season is more vulnerable to use than water from reservoirs, a water resource development indicator is introduced. Based on this water resource development indicator and the water stress indicator, the Yeongsangang River area is the most susceptible to water shortage during the dry season. These two indicators are effective because only a few data types are needed to identify areas that are vulnerable during the dry season.
Development and Application of Digital Twin Analysis Module for Low Impact Development Techniques
Authors: Won Chang Yeon , Sim Inkyeong , Jun Hwandon , Park Jongpyo
Published: December 2022

In this study, a digital twin analysis module capable of LID (Low Impact Development) interpretation for various rainfall scenarios was developed. The low-impact development digital twin model consists of a rainfall input module, a SWMM (Storm Water Management Model) -based LID analysis module, a reservoir tracking-based LID analysis module, and a post-processing module. Rainfall scenarios that can be applied in the developed model can simulate stochastic rainfall by frequency and daily heavy rainfall over the last 10 years. Additionally, the results of rainfall-loss-outflow for subwatersheds and inflow-outflow for total LID facilities (five types) are provided. If the LID DT (Digital Twin) simulator developed in this way is used, various water environment information such as the water circulation improvement and water quality reduction effects in the target area can be provided in a series of processes from the low-impact development facility planning stage to the operation management stage.
Extension Methods for Non-stationary Time Series Based on Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Lee Jinwook , Yoo Chulsang
Published: December 2022

This study performed extensions of non-stationary time series based on wavelet analysis. The spectrum from the univariate wavelet analysis of raw time series was extended for a hypothetical long-term, and an inverse transform method was adopted. Three methods considered for spectral extraction were “Method (1): randomized by setting different block lengths for each scale,” “Method (2): randomized by setting the same block length for all scales,” and “Method (3): simultaneously randomized by setting same block length for all scales.” To verify these methods, we generated non-stationary time series through nonlinear moving average and nonlinear autoregressive models. The application results of the time series were compared with the distribution and bivariate analysis results of the raw data. Method (1) and (2) exhibited a part that could not mimic the raw data distribution owing to various reasons, such as the disconnection of the spectrum. However, bivariate wavelet analysis confirmed that the raw data distribution and co-movement characteristics of the spectrum could be sufficiently preserved in Method (3).
Simultaneous Realization of Good Piezoelectric and Strain Temperature Stability via the Synergic Contribution from Multilayer Design and Rare Earth Doping
Authors: Zhang Yumin , Yu Yungang , Zhang Nan , Zheng Ting , Wu Jiagang
Published: December 2022

Niobate‐based lead‐free piezoceramics have attracted wide attention due to their excellent piezoelectric properties. Although the temperature sensitivity of piezoelectricity or strain in one sample has been solved to a certain extent, how to simultaneously improve the temperature stability of both in one sample is still an issue. Herein, by constructing multilayer composite ceramics and doping Ho element, both improved piezoelectric and strain temperature stability (the variations are below 3% under 30–100 °C) are achieved, showing great property advantage compared with previous reports. Different from the compositionally graded composite ceramic design, the Ho doping can not only increase orthorhombic‐tetragonal phase transition temperature (TO‐T) and then create the condition for the formation of successive phase transition, but also stabilize the oriented domain state. Therefore, the excellent temperature stability of both piezoelectricity and strain can be attributed to the multistep phase transition induced by the multilayer design, the fine regulation of TO‐T interval by the optimization of lamination combination, and the stabilized polarization induced by Ho doping. The new strategy for solving both piezoelectric and strain temperature sensitivity can further promote the commercial application of potassium sodium niobate‐based lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics.
Recent Advances in Stimuli‐Responsive Smart Membranes for Nanofiltration
Authors: Yu Dehao , Xiao Xiao , Shokoohi Cyrus , Wang Yanxin , Sun Liyue , Juan Zhaoge , Kipper Matt J. , Tang Jianguo , Huang Linjun , Han Gill Sang , Jung Hyun Suk , Chen Jun
Published: December 2022

Nanofiltration membrane plays an increasingly important role in many industrial applications, such as water treatment and resource recovery. The performance of the smart nanofiltration membrane is largely controlled by pore size, the Donnan effect, and surface wettability, which are determined by the function of stimuli‐responsive components. Smart membranes, which contain stimuli‐responsive components, are capable of changing their physical and chemical properties in response to changes in the environment so that the microstructure of the membrane will have more efficient performances and broader application prospects than the current traditional nanofiltration membranes. Herein, the preparation methods of stimuli‐responsive membranes are described and they are systematically classified accordingly to their mechanisms. Moreover, the latest progress of stimuli‐responsive membranes in nanofiltration and the main mechanism of each stimuli‐response type through relevant examples are discussed and summarized. Finally, this review provides new insights into the remaining challenges and future directions of stimuli‐responsive membranes. Fueled by advances in chemistry and materials science, it is expected to build a smart and efficient nanofiltration membrane platform for the benefit of mankind.
An Ultrafast and Stable Li‐Metal Battery Cycled at −40 °C
Authors: Cheng Liwei , Wang Yingyu , Yang Jie , Tang Mengyao , Zhang Chenguang , Zhu Qiaonan , Wang Sicong , Li Yuting , Hu Pengfei , Wang Hua
Published: December 2022

Li‐metal battery (LMB) suffers from the unexpected Li dendrite growth and unstable solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI), especially in the extreme conditions, such as high rates and low temperatures (LT). Herein, a high‐rate and stable LT LMB is realized by regulating electrolyte chemistry. A weak Li+‐solvating solvent 2‐methyltetrahydrofuran is used as electrolyte solvent to mitigate the kinetic barrier for Li+ de‐solvation. Moreover, a co‐solvent tetrahydrofuran with a high donor number is incorporated to improve the LT solubility of Li salts, achieving an improved ionic conductivity while maintaining the weak Li+‐solvation effect. Furthermore, abundant FSI‐ anions in contact‐ion pairs are presented, facilitating the formation of a stable LiF‐enriched SEI. Consequently, the Li||Li battery can be operated at 10 mA cm‐2 with a small polarization of 154 mV at −40 °C. Meanwhile, an outstanding cumulative cycling capacity of 4000 mAh cm‐2 at 8.0 mA cm‐2 is achieved, reaching a record high level in LT alkali metal symmetric batteries. Also, rechargeable high‐rate and stable full batteries are achieved at −40 °C. This work demonstrates the superiority of electrolyte chemistry for synergistic regulation of both ion transfer kinetics and SEI toward ultrafast and stable rechargeable LMBs at LT.
Metal Halide Perovskite Alloy: Fundamental, Optoelectronic Properties and Applications
Authors: Wei Qianwen , Ghasemi Mehri , Wang Rongfei , Wang Chong , Wang Juan , Zhou Weijie , Jia Baohua , Yang Yu , Wen Xiaoming
Published: December 2022

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have demonstrated great advances for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications. However, owing to the presence of the synergy from lattice strain, defects of MHPs, and environment, MHPs suffer from phase transitions and degradation, resulting in the restriction of their practical applications and further commercialization. Multiple metal elements can coexist in MHPs to form alloys due to the high tolerance of lattice and the composition replaceability, which provides a novel strategy for improvement of performance and stability. In this review, the recent advances of alloy engineering of MHPs, focusing on the cation and the metal ion (A‐ and B‐site) alloy strategies, are reviewed. The alloy effects on the crystalline structure, optoelectronic properties, ferroelectricity, carrier dynamics, and stability of perovskites are interpreted. Finally, the prospect of this study is the challenges in the MHPs alloy engineering.
First‐Principles Study on Interfacial Bonding Characteristics and Tensile Deformation Behavior of Ni (001)/Ni3Al (001) in K418 Superalloy
Authors: Wang Qin , Liu Furong , Lin Xin , Song Jinxia , Feng Haoyuan
Published: December 2022

In order to theoretically explore the interfacial bonding properties between the main phase (γ) and the second precipitated phase (γ') in K418 superalloy formed by direct laser deposition. First‐principles calculation is utilized to study the adhesion work, interfacial energy, electronic structure, bonding properties, and tensile properties between γ phase (Ni (001)) and γ' phase (Ni3Al (001)). The results show that the interface energy of the NiAl‐center (0.35–1.19 J m−2) is the smallest and therefore it is with the highest interface bonding strength. The electronic analysis suggests that strong Ni‐Al covalent and ionic bonds as well as Ni‐Ni metal bonds at the interface of the NiAl‐center model are formed with the appearance of obvious orbital hybridization. The yield strength of the NiAl‐top model reaches up to 19.38 GPa under the uniaxial tensile test, which is further increased when doped with those atoms of Re, Ta, and W, up to 20.38, 20.42, and 20.93 GPa, respectively. A fundamental understanding is presented here for the design of superalloys.
A Self‐Sustaining Antioxidant Strategy for Effective Treatment of Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Sun Quan , Ma Hongqin , Zhang Jiaxiong , You Baiyang , Gong Xiaohui , Zhou Xiaolin , Chen Jin , Zhang Guogang , Huang Jia , Huang Qiong , Yang Yurong , Ai Kelong , Bai Yongping
Published: December 2022

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of death worldwide and can lead to the loss of cardiac function and heart failure. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a key role in the pathological progression of MI. The levels and effects of ROS are significantly different in three unique pathological stages of MI, and most antioxidants cannot make corresponding adjustments to eliminate ROS, which leads to a great compromise to treat MI with antioxidants. Herein, an innovative self‐sustaining antioxidant strategy is developed to treat MI with self‐sustaining selenium‐embedded nanoparticles (SSSe NPs). SSSe NPs possess unique self‐sustaining antioxidant effects at different pathological stages of MI. This strategy of on‐demand ROS elimination during different pathological stages demonstrated excellent MI treatment efficacy and effectively reversed heart failure to normal heart function. The therapeutic mechanism of SSSe NPs is intensively investigated through a series of experiments and mainly involved five critical aspects of myocardial repair: protecting mitochondria, reducing cardiomyocyte apoptosis and ferroptosis, reducing inflammation and fibrosis, and promoting angiogenesis. This strategy not only provides a promising treatment option for MI but also offers inspiration for other ischemic diseases.
A Class of Organic Units Featuring Matrix‐Controlled Color‐Tunable Ultralong Organic Room Temperature Phosphorescence
Authors: Zhang Xue , Qian Chen , Ma Zhimin , Fu Xiaohua , Li Zewei , Jin Huiwen , Chen Mingxing , Jiang Hong , Ma Zhiyong
Published: December 2022

A novel class of organic units (N‐1 and N‐2) and their derivatives (PNNA‐1 and PNNA‐2) with excellent property of ultralong organic room temperature phosphorescence (UORTP) is reported. In this work, N‐1, N‐2, and their derivatives function as the guests, while organic powders (PNCz, BBP, DBT) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) serve as the host matrixes. Amazingly, the color of phosphorescence can be tuned in different states or by varying the host matrixes. At 77 K, all molecules show green afterglow in the monomer state but yellow afterglow in the aggregated state because strong intermolecular interactions exist in the self‐aggregate and induce a redshift of the afterglow. In particular, PNNA‐1 and PNNA‐2 demonstrate distinctive photoactivated green UORTP in the PMMA film owing to the generation of their cation radicals. Whereas the PNNA‐1@PNCz and PNNA‐2@PNCz doping powders give out yellow UORTP, showing matrix‐controlled color‐tunable UORTP. In PNCz, the cation radicals of PNNA‐1 and PNNA‐2 can stay stably and form strong intermolecular interactions with PNCz, leading to a redshift of ultralong phosphorescence.
Disentangling the components of pollen limitation in a widespread herb with gametophytic self‐incompatibility
Authors: Cisternas‐Fuentes Anita , Dwyer Roslynn , Johnson Nicole , Finnell Lindsay , Gilman Jeffrey , Koski Matthew H.
Published: December 2022

Premise

Seed production is frequently limited by the receipt of insufficient or low‐quality pollen, collectively termed “pollen limitation” (PL). In taxa with gametophytic self‐incompatibility (GSI), incompatible pollen can germinate on stigmas but pollen tubes are arrested in styles. This allows for estimates of pollen performance before, during, and after self‐recognition, as well as insight into the factors underlying pollen quality limitation in GSI taxa.

Methods

We scored pollen performance following self and outcross pollinations in Argentina anserina to identify the location of self‐recognition and establish the relationship between pollen tubes and seed production. We then estimated quantity and quality components of PL from >3300 field‐collected styles. We combined our results with other studies to test the prediction that low pollen quality, but not quantity, drives higher PL in self‐incompatible (SI) taxa than in self‐compatible taxa (SC).

Results

Self and outcross pollen germinated readily on stigmas, but 96% of germinated self‐pollen was arrested during early tube elongation. Reproduction in the field was more limited by pollen quality than by quantity, and pollen failure near the location of self‐recognition was a stronger barrier to fertilization than pollen germination. Across 26 taxa, SI species experienced stronger pollen quality, but not quantity, limitation than SC species.

Conclusions

Evaluating pollen performance at multiple points within pistils can elucidate potential causes of pollen quality limitation. The receipt of incompatible pollen inhibits fertilization success more than insufficient pollen receipt or poor pollen germination in A. anserina. Likewise, pollen quality limitation drives high overall PL in other SI taxa.
Differences in individual flowering time change pollen limitation and seed set in three montane wildflowers
Authors: Schiffer Annie , Loy Xingwen , Morozumi Connor , Brosi Berry J.
Published: December 2022

Premise

Changes to flowering time caused by climate change could affects plant fecundity, but studies that compare the individual‐level responses of phenologically distinct, co‐occurring species are lacking. We assessed how variation in floral phenology affects the fecundity of individuals from three montane species with different seasonal flowering times, including in snowmelt acceleration treatments to increase variability in phenology.

Methods

We collected floral phenology and seed set data for individuals of three montane plant species (Mertensia fusiformis, Delphinium nuttallianum, Potentilla pulcherrima). To examine the drivers of seed set, we measured conspecific floral density and conducted pollen limitation experiments to isolate pollination function. We advanced the phenology of plant communities in a controlled large‐scale snowmelt acceleration experiment.

Results

Differences in individual phenology relative to the rest of the population affected fecundity in our focal species, but effects were species‐specific. For our early‐season species, individuals that bloomed later than the population peak bloom had increased fecundity, while for our midseason species, simply blooming before or after the population peak increased individual fecundity. For our late‐season species, blooming earlier than the population peak increased fecundity. The early and midseason species were pollen‐limited, and conspecific density affected seed set only for our early‐season species.

Conclusions

Our study shows that variation in individual phenology affects fecundity in three phenologically distinct montane species, and that pollen limitation may be more influential than conspecific density. Our results suggest that individual‐level changes in phenology are important to consider for understanding plant reproductive success.
Complete mitochondrialDNAsequence tries to settle hitherto putative history of Kayastha population of India
Authors: Sikdar Mithun
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Indian caste system is unique as it has an inimitable type of class system where the social ordering is done based on birth. Within the caste system, there is a distinct endogamous population known as the Kayastha, who have had inconclusive stratification records due to unidentified historical records.

Methods

To gain a more inclusive view on the history and genetic affinities of Kayastha people, complete mitochondrial genomes from 15 individuals of a Kayastha population from North‐western India have been sequenced.

Results

Interestingly, three novel sub‐clades (U2b2a, M3d2, and M33a3b) have been identified that represent unique Kayastha motifs.

Conclusion

The haplotype‐based analysis suggests that the Kayastha population shares genetic affinities with the Indo‐European and Sino‐Tibetan populations found in the trans‐Himalayan region. TheFSTbased population comparison and the MDS plot indicates that Kayastha people have close maternal genetic affinity with the available genetic database of Brahmins, Kashmiris, and Tharus. The maternal genetic lineages among Kayastha population shows deep in situ origin that emerged much before settled life developed on this sub‐continent. Both mtDNA and Y‐chromosome markers, trace the genetic lineages of Kayastha population with Tharus, who regard themselves Kshatriya, corroborated by the oral history of the Kayasthas for their Kshatriya affiliation. It also validates genetic heritage of earliest settlers of India in both indigenous tribal and caste populations.
Associations between ongoing COVID‐19 lockdown and the financial and mental health experiences of Australian families
Authors: Price Anna M. H. , Contreras‐Suárez Diana , Zhu Anna , Schreurs Natalie , Measey Mary‐Anne , Woolfenden Sue , Burley Jade , Bryson Hannah , Efron Daryl , Rhodes Anthea , Goldfeld Sharon
Published: December 2022

In 2020, Australia's successful COVID‐19 public health restrictions comprised a national “initial lockdown” (March–May) and “ongoing lockdown” (July–November) for metropolitan Victorian residents only. We evaluated associations between ongoing lockdown and family finances and mental health. In the June and September 2020 Royal Children's Hospital National Child Health Polls, caregivers of children in Victoria and New South Wales (NSW) reported the following: job/income loss; material deprivation (inability to pay for essential items); income poverty; mental health (Kessler‐6); perceived impact on caregiver/child mental health; and caregiver/child coping. Data from caregivers (N = 1207/902) in June/September were analysed using difference‐in‐difference modelling (NSW provided the comparator). During Victoria's ongoing lockdown, job/income loss increased by 11% (95%CI: 3%–18%); Kessler‐6 poor mental health by 6% (95%CI: −0.3%–12%) and perceived negative mental health impacts by 14% for caregivers (95%CI: 6%–23%) and 12% for children (95%CI: 4%–20%). Female (vs. male) caregivers, metropolitan (vs. regional/rural) families, and families with elementary school‐aged children (vs. pre‐/high‐school) were the most affected. The ongoing lockdown was associated with negative experiences of mental health, employment and income, but not deprivation or poverty, likely because of government income supplements introduced early in the pandemic. Future lockdowns require planned responses to outbreaks and evidence‐informed financial and mental health supports.
Association of impaired kidney function with dementia and brain pathologies: A community‐based cohort study
Authors: Wang Shuqi , Wang Jiao , Dove Abigail , Guo Jie , Yang Wenzhe , Qi Xiuying , Bennett David A. , Xu Weili
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The relationship between impaired kidney function (KF), dementia, and brain pathologies remains unclear.

Methods

A total of 1354 dementia‐ and kidney disease‐free participants including 895 with normal and 459 with impaired KF were followed from 2002 until 2020 (median [interquartile range]: 5 [2–9]) to detect incident dementia. KF was assessed at baseline and categorized as normal or impaired. Over the follow‐up, 453 participants died and underwent autopsies for neuropathological assessment.

Results

Compared to those with normal KF, the hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) of those with impaired KF was 1.48 (1.15, 1.90)/1.44 (1.10, 1.88) for dementia/Alzheimer's dementia. Furthermore, impaired KF was related to a significantly higher burden of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA; odds ratio = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.17, 3.30), but not to other brain pathologies.

Discussion

Impaired KF is associated with an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's dementia. CAA may underlie, in part, this association.

Highlights

Impaired kidney function (KF) was associated with higher dementia and Alzheimer's dementia risk.

Impaired KF anticipated dementia and Alzheimer's dementia onset by more than 1.5 years.

Impaired KF was significantly related to a higher burden of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) but not to other brain pathologies.
Non‐Flammable Electrolyte Enables High‐Voltage and Wide‐Temperature Lithium‐Ion Batteries with Fast Charging
Authors: Zou Yeguo , Ma Zheng , Liu Gang , Li Qian , Yin Dongming , Shi Xuejian , Cao Zhen , Tian Zhengnan , Kim Hun , Guo Yingjun , Sun Chunsheng , Cavallo Luigi , Wang Limin , Alshareef Husam N. , Sun Yang‐Kook , Ming Jun
Published: December 2022

Electrolyte design has become ever more important to enhance the performance of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, the flammability issue and high reactivity of the conventional electrolytes remain a major problem, especially when the LIBs are operated at high voltage and extreme temperatures. Herein, we design a novel non‐flammable fluorinated ester electrolyte that enables high cycling stability in wide‐temperature variations (e.g., −50 °C–60 °C) and superior power capability (fast charge rates up to 5.0 C) for the graphite||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) battery at high voltage (i.e., >4.3 V vs. Li/Li+). Moreover, this work sheds new light on the dynamic evolution and interaction among the Li+, solvent, and anion at the molecular level. By elucidating the fundamental relationship between the Li+ solvation structure and electrochemical performance, we can facilitate the development of high‐safety and high‐energy‐density batteries operating in harsh conditions.
Leveraging Crystalline and Amorphous States of a Metal‐Organic Complex for Transformation of the Photosalient Effect and Positive‐Negative Photochromism
Authors: Ma Yu‐Juan , Xiao Guowei , Fang Xiaoyu , Chen Tianhong , Yan Dongpeng
Published: December 2022

Uncovering differences between crystalline and amorphous states in molecular solids would both promote the understanding of their structure–property relationships, as well as inform development of multi‐functional materials based on the same compound. Herein, for the first time, we report an approach to leverage crystalline and amorphous states of a zero‐dimensional metal‐organic complex, which exhibited negative and positive photochromism, due to the competitive chemical routes between photocycloaddition and photogenerated radicals. Furthermore, different polymorphs lead to the on/off toggling of photo‐burst movement (photosalient effect), indicating the controllable light‐mechanical conversion. Three demos were further constructed to support their application in information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting. This work provides the proof‐of‐concept of a state‐ and polymorph‐dependent photochemical route, paving an effective way for the design of new dynamically responsive systems.
A comparative analysis of lecturers' satisfaction with Anatomage and Pirogov virtual dissection tables during clinical and topographic anatomy courses in Russian universities
Authors: Vasil'ev Yuriy L. , Dydykin Sergey S. , Kashtanov Artem D. , Molotok Ekaterina V. , Lyakisheva Alexandra A. , Kytko Olesya V. , Kapitonova Marina , Vorobyov Alexandr A. , Litvina Ekaterina V. , Filimonov Vladimir I. , Bezhin Alexandr I. , Kolsanov Alexandr V.
Published: December 2022

Anatomy is increasingly taught using computer‐assisted learning tools, including electronic interactive anatomy dissection tables. Anatomage was he first virtual anatomy dissection table introduced in Russian medical universities and gained popularity among lecturers and students. The Pirogov interactive anatomy table was recently released, but the strengths and weakness of each platform is currently unknown. The objective of this article is to survey lecturers in anatomy to understand their perspectives on the Pirogov versus Anatomage virtual dissection tables' application to teaching in medical universities. A total of 80 anatomy educators from 12 Russian universities, using Anatomage (n = 40) and Pirogov (n = 40) tables were surveyed regarding their satisfaction with the application of the respective tables. Using a five‐point Likert scale, both tables were assessed, and responses were statistically analyzed. In addition, qualitative analysis was performed on free response comments provided by survey respondents. There was no significant difference in overall satisfaction ratings between Pirogov (4.38 ± 0.53) and Anatomage (3.94 ± 0.60) interactive tables (p > 0.05). The Anatomage table ranked significantly higher on the accuracy of displayed anatomical details, resolution of the images, and its suitability for teaching senior medical and postgraduate students. Pirogov table performed significantly better on survey items measuring ergonomics, ability to assess students' performance, and teaching basic anatomy to junior first‐ and second‐year medical students. Thus, in summary, anatomists' responses indicated that while both tables are suitable for teaching anatomy, the Pirogov table was superior in undergraduate medical education and the Anatomage table was more beneficial for teaching more senior trainees.
Catalyst‐ and Additive‐Free Methodical Ring Expansion Protocol to Access Benzooxepino‐Fused Pyrroles
Authors: Karunakar Galla V. , Sunil Komalla , Bharath kumar Perla , Chandrappa Muneppa , Guduru Ravinder , Kantevari Srinivas , Sridhar Balasubramanian
Published: December 2022

An efficient metal‐free, additive‐free synthetic method was developed to access benzooxepino‐fused pyrrole derivatives from alkynyl substituted aziridines. In this organic transformation, two new C−C bonds were formed via initial cleavage of C−C bond of aziridine ring by in situ generated azomethine ylides. Moderate to excellent yields of benzooxepino‐fused pyrroles were obtained atom economically in the presence of t‐BuOH in one‐pot.
Equation of state and surface thermal emission of magnetized white dwarfs
Authors: Gao Zhi Fu , Wang Hui , Zhao Xin Jun , Yang Xiao Feng
Published: December 2022

The observation and theoretical study of massive magnetized white dwarfs is one of the most important topics in the field of astronomy. This paper aims to obtain a coupled magneto‐thermal evolution model of magnetized white dwarfs (B‐WDs). As a fiducial model, we choose a non‐magnetized WD with a baryonic mass M0 = 1.37 M⊙ (M⊙ is the solar mass) for comparison with the magnetized cases. Firstly, we give an overview of the WD cooling, then study the equation of the state of a B‐WD. We find that the WD mass increases with magnetic field strength B, while its radius decreases with B, and the minimum of B required to reach the Chandrasecka limit is about 3.2 × 1014 G. Finally, by introducing the magnetic‐to‐thermal conversion coefficient ξ, and taking the temperature effect on the stellar radius into consideration, we calculate the luminosities of thermal photons Lph and surface effective temperature, Teff due to Ohmic dissipation for B‐WDs. According to our calculations, magnetic field decay can definitely maintain a long‐term thermal evolution for massive B‐WDs. This study will be useful for the study of internal thermal evolution and internal stability of B‐WDs in the future.
Lobectomy versus sublobar resection for stage I (T1‐T2aN0M0) small cell lung cancer: A SEER population‐based propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Zhou Ning , Yang Lingqi , Zhang Bo , Zhu Shuai , Huo Huandong , He Jinling , Zu Lingling , Song Zuoqing , Xu Song
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study evaluated whether sublobar resection (sub‐L) is non‐inferior to lobectomy (L) for stage I (T1‐T2aN0M0) small cell lung cancer (SCLC) regarding long‐term overall survival (OS).

Methods

Clinicopathological and prognostic data of patients with stage I (pT1‐T2aN0M0) SCLC were retrieved. Kaplan–Meier curves and Breslow tests were performed for the assessment of OS. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to mediate the inherent bias of retrospective researches.

Results

A total of 188 patients with stage I SCLC were included in this study after PSM. For resected stage I SCLC, surgery plus adjuvant therapy was related to a better OS compared with surgery only (p = 0.016). For resected stage I SCLC, no matter adjuvant therapy was performed or not, no significant difference was observed in long‐term OS between the L and sub‐L groups (p = 0.181). Further subgroup analysis demonstrated that the OS disadvantage of sub‐L over L was not statistically significant for stage I SCLC patients underwent surgery only (p = 0.653), but also for the patients underwent surgery plus adjuvant therapy (p = 0.069). Moreover, in the subgroup analyses according to TNM stage (IA and IB), sex (male and female), and age (≥70 and <70 years), OS did not differ between the L and sub‐L groups except in female patients (p = 0.008). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that adjuvant therapy was positively associated with OS.

Conclusions

Surgery plus adjuvant therapy confers a better survival benefit than surgery only for stage I SCLC patients. However, as far as the range of surgical resection is concerned, sublobar resection may be non‐inferior to lobectomy regarding OS. Our study could conduce to the development of optimal therapeutic strategies for stage I SCLC patients. Further validation is warranted in larger retrospective and prospective cohort studies.
Antimycobacterial Compound of Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forsk.: Bioassay Guided Isolation, Molecular Docking, Synthesis of Analogs, and a Plausible Mechanism of Action
Authors: Zhao Xin , Wang Lei , Xia Meng‐Yu , Yang Zai‐Chang
Published: December 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major threat to human health. Due to the prevalence of drug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), it is urgent to discover drugs with new mechanisms of action (MOA) to ensure effectiveness against strains that are resistant to existing TB drugs. Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forsk was used to treat TB in Traditional Chinese Medicine. In this article, shikonin, the anti‐Mtb active component, was obtained from the whole herb extract of C. lanceolatum by bioassay‐guided isolation. Using the microplate alamar blue assay (MABA), the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of shikonin against Mtb was determined to be 128 μg/mL. In order to obtain a more efficient anti‐Mtb molecule, (E)‐1‐(6‐bromo‐2,3‐dihydrochromen‐4‐ylidene)thiosemicarbazide was synthesized based on the scaffold of shikonin, which exhibited potent activity against Mtb (MIC=4 μg/mL). These results highlight that both naphthalene‐1,4‐dione and chroman‐4‐one are pharmacophores with activities against Mtb. To investigate a plausible mechanism of action, the molecular docking was firstly performed against catalase‐peroxidase enzyme (KatG) of Mtb using AutoDock 4 software. The results demonstrated that both shikonin and (E)‐1‐(6‐bromo‐2,3‐dihydrochromen‐4‐ylidene)thiosemicarbazide could bind to the active site of Mtb KatG. KatG enzyme activity and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in Mtb cells were then measured by ultraviolet spectrophotometric method and fluorescence microplate reader assay, respectively. The experiments confirmed that above compounds could inhibit the catalytic activity of Mtb KatG, and cause the ROS accumulation in Mtb cells. Therefore, inhibition of KatG may be a novel mechanism of action for these two compounds to fight against Mtb.
Nitryl Radical‐Triggered Semipinacol‐Type Rearrangement, Lactonization, and Cycloetherification of Olefins
Authors: Giri Rahul , Patra Subrata , Katayev Dmitry
Published: December 2022

We report the development of a practical photocatalytic strategy to access various nitro‐containing cyclic compounds from olefins via semipinacol‐type rearrangement, cycloetherification, and lactonization reactions, employing N‐nitrosuccinimide as a bench‐stable, non‐metal‐based nitrating reagent. Mechanistic insights suggest that this light‐driven process occurs via NO2 radical pathway mediated by a photoredox catalyst, which triggers an N−N bond fragmentation. Subsequent Giese‐type addition of nitryl radicals to activated olefins takes place, leading to the formation of nitro‐containing β‐functionalized ketones, lactones and cycloethers. The reaction proceeds under mild reaction conditions and tolerates a wide range of functional groups and structural variations.