bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Texture recognition based on multi-sensory integration of proprioceptive and tactile signals
Authors: Rostamian Behnam , Koolani MohammadReza , Abdollahzade Pouya , Lankarany Milad , Falotico Egidio , Amiri Mahmood , V. Thakor Nitish
Published: December 2022

The sense of touch plays a fundamental role in enabling us to interact with our surrounding environment. Indeed, the presence of tactile feedback in prostheses greatly assists amputees in doing daily tasks. In this line, the present study proposes an integration of artificial tactile and proprioception receptors for texture discrimination under varying scanning speeds. Here, we fabricated a soft biomimetic fingertip including an 8 × 8 array tactile sensor and a piezoelectric sensor to mimic Merkel, Meissner, and Pacinian mechanoreceptors in glabrous skin, respectively. A hydro-elastomer sensor was fabricated as an artificial proprioception sensor (muscle spindles) to assess the instantaneous speed of the biomimetic fingertip. In this study, we investigated the concept of the complex receptive field of RA-I and SA-I afferents for naturalistic textures. Next, to evaluate the synergy between the mechanoreceptors and muscle spindle afferents, ten naturalistic textures were manipulated by a soft biomimetic fingertip at six different speeds. The sensors’ outputs were converted into neuromorphic spike trains to mimic the firing pattern of biological mechanoreceptors. These spike responses are then analyzed using machine learning classifiers and neural coding paradigms to explore the multi-sensory integration in real experiments. This synergy between muscle spindle and mechanoreceptors in the proposed neuromorphic system represents a generalized texture discrimination scheme and interestingly irrespective of the scanning speed.
Using microartifacts to infer Middle Pleistocene lifeways at Schöningen, Germany
Authors: Venditti Flavia , Rodríguez-Álvarez Bárbara , Serangeli Jordi , Cesaro Stella Nunziante , Walter Rudolf , Conard Nicholas J.
Published: December 2022

While archeologists usually favor the study of large and diagnostic lithic artifacts, this study illustrates the invaluable contribution of lithic microartifacts for interpreting hominin lifeways. Across a 64 m2area of the Middle Pleistocene lakeshore site of Schöningen 13 II-3 in Northern Germany, we recovered a total of 57 small and micro flint artifacts, four small debris pieces, three natural fragments and three bone retouchers in close association with the skeleton of an extinct Eurasian straight-tusked elephant (Palaeoloxodon antiquus). This area lacks the type of formal knapped stone tools that would normally constitute the focus of archeological interpretations. By adopting a holistic approach, including morpho-technical analysis, experimental archeology, and use-wear and residue analyses, we demonstrate that these small and microartifacts are resharpening flakes that tell the story of the site. Fifteen resharpening flakes preserve microwear traces of processing wood. Microscopic residues of wood adhered to the former working edges of the tools corroborate this observation. Additionally, hominins used a sharp-edged, natural fragment of flint to process fresh animal tissue, which likely originates from the butchery of the elephant. These results provide unique, 300,000-year-old evidence for the functionally interconnected use of lithic, osseous and wood technologies. Furthermore, we documentin-situtransformations of stone tools and the presence of both curational and expedient behaviors, thereby demonstrating the temporal depth of hominin activities at the lakeshore where the elephant died, and in the broader landscape as a whole.
Effect of teriparatide on drug treatment of tuberculous spondylitis: an experimental study
Authors: Lee Subum , Seo Ye-Jin , Choi Je-Yong , Che Xiangguo , Kim Hyun-Ju , Eum Seok-Yong , Hong Min-Sun , Lee Sun-Kyoung , Cho Dae-Chul
Published: December 2022

Tuberculous spondylitis often develops catastrophic bone destruction with uncontrolled inflammation. Because anti-tuberculous drugs do not have a role in bone formation, a combination drug therapy with a bone anabolic agent could help in fracture prevention and promote bone reconstruction. This study aimed to investigate the influence of teriparatide on the effect of anti-tuberculous drugs in tuberculous spondylitis treatment. We used the virulentMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) H37Rv strain. First, we investigated the interaction between teriparatide and anti-tuberculosis drugs (isoniazid and rifampin) by measuring the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) against H37Rv. Second, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of anti-tuberculosis drugs and teriparatide on our previously developed in vitro tuberculous spondylitis model of an Mtb-infected MG-63 osteoblastic cell line using acid-fast bacilli staining and colony-forming unit counts. Selected chemokines (interleukin [IL]-8, interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa [IP-10], monocyte chemoattractant protein [MCP]-1, and regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted [RANTES]) and osteoblast proliferation (alkaline phosphatase [ALP] and alizarin red S [ARS] staining) were measured. Teriparatide did not affect the MIC of isoniazid and rifampin. In the Mtb-infected MG-63 spondylitis model, isoniazid and rifampin treatment significantly reduced Mtb growth, and cotreatment with teriparatide did not change the anti-tuberculosis effect of isoniazid (INH) and rifampin (RFP). IP-10 and RANTES levels were significantly increased by Mtb infection, whereas teriparatide did not affect all chemokine levels as inflammatory markers. ALP and ARS staining indicated that teriparatide promoted osteoblastic function even with Mtb infection. Cotreatment with teriparatide and the anti-tuberculosis drugs activated bone formation (ALP-positive area increased by 705%,P = 0.0031). Teriparatide was effective against Mtb-infected MG63 cells without the anti-tuberculosis drugs (ARS-positive area increased by 326%,P = 0.0037). Teriparatide had no effect on the efficacy of anti-tuberculosis drugs and no adverse effect on the activity of Mtb infection in osteoblasts. Furthermore, regulation of representative osteoblastic inflammatory chemokines was not changed by teriparatide treatment. In the in vitro Mtb-infected MG-63 cell model of tuberculous spondylitis, cotreatment with the anti-tuberculosis drugs and teriparatide increased osteoblastic function.
A prospective dual-centre intra-individual controlled study for the treatment of burns comparing dermis graft with split-thickness skin auto-graft
Authors: Dogan Sinan , Elmasry Moustafa , El-Serafi Ahmed , Sjöberg Folke , Vuola Jyrki , Kankuri Esko , Grigoriadi Marina Perdiki , Valtonen Jussi , Abdelrahman Islam , Steinvall Ingrid , Karlsson Matilda , Olofsson Pia , Lindford Andrew
Published: December 2022

To investigate if donor and recipient site morbidity (healing time and cosmesis) could be reduced by a novel, modified split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) technique using a dermal component in the STSG procedure (DG). The STSG technique has been used for 150 years in surgery with limited improvements. Its drawbacks are well known and relate to donor site morbidity and recipient site cosmetic shortcomings (especially mesh patterns, wound contracture, and scarring). The Dermal graft technique (DG) has emerged as an interesting alternative, which reduces donor site morbidity, increases graft yield, and has the potential to avoid the mesh procedure in the STSG procedure due to its elastic properties. A prospective, dual-centre, intra-individual controlled comparison study. Twenty-one patients received both an unmeshed dermis graft and a regular 1:1.5 meshed STSG. Aesthetic and scar assessments were done using The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and a Cutometer Dual MPA 580 on both donor and recipient sites. These were also examined histologically for remodelling and scar formation. Dermal graft donor sites and the STSG donor sites healed in 8 and 14 days, respectively (p < 0.005). Patient-reported POSAS showed better values for colour for all three measurements, i.e., 3, 6, and 12 months, and the observers rated both vascularity and pigmentation better on these occasions (p < 0.01). At the recipient site, (n = 21) the mesh patterns were avoided as the DG covered the donor site due to its elastic properties and rendered the meshing procedure unnecessary. Scar formation was seen at the dermal donor and recipient sites after 6 months as in the standard scar healing process. The dermis graft technique, besides potentially rendering a larger graft yield, reduced donor site morbidity, as it healed faster than the standard STSG. Due to its elastic properties, the DG procedure eliminated the meshing requirement (when compared to a 1:1.5 meshed STSG). This promising outcome presented for the DG technique needs to be further explored, especially regarding the elasticity of the dermal graft and its ability to reduce mesh patterns.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT05189743) 12/01/2022.
The underlying neural bases of the reversal error while solving algebraic word problems
Authors: Ventura-Campos Noelia , Ferrando-Esteve Lara , Epifanio Irene
Published: December 2022

Problem solving is a core element in mathematical learning. The reversal error in problem solving occurs when students are able to recognize the information in the statement of comparison word problems, but they reverse the relationship between two variables when building the equations. Functional magnetic resonance images were acquired to identify for the first time the neural bases associated with the reversal error. The neuronal bases linked to this error have been used as inputs in 13 classifiers to discriminate between reversal error and non-reversal error groups. We found brain activation in bilateral fronto-parietal areas in the participants who committed reversal errors, and only left fronto-parietal activation in those who did not, suggesting that the reversal error group needed a greater cognitive demand. Instead, the non-reversal error group seems to show that they have developed solid algebraic knowledge. Additionally, the results showed brain activation in the right middle temporal gyrus when comparing the reversal error vs non-reversal error groups. This activation would be associated with the semantic processing which is required to understand the statement and build the equation. Finally, the classifier results show that the brain areas activated could be considered good biomarkers to help us identify competent solvers.
Sparse inference and active learning of stochastic differential equations from data
Authors: Huang Yunfei , Mabrouk Youssef , Gompper Gerhard , Sabass Benedikt
Published: December 2022

Automatic machine learning of empirical models from experimental data has recently become possible as a result of increased availability of computational power and dedicated algorithms. Despite the successes of non-parametric inference and neural-network-based inference for empirical modelling, a physical interpretation of the results often remains challenging. Here, we focus on direct inference of governing differential equations from data, which can be formulated as a linear inverse problem. A Bayesian framework with a Laplacian prior distribution is employed for finding sparse solutions efficiently. The superior accuracy and robustness of the method is demonstrated for various cases, including ordinary, partial, and stochastic differential equations. Furthermore, we develop an active learning procedure for the automated discovery of stochastic differential equations. In this procedure, learning of the unknown dynamical equations is coupled to the application of perturbations to the measured system in a feedback loop. We show that active learning can significantly improve the inference of global models for systems with multiple energetic minima.
Nuclear and magnetic spin structure of the antiferromagnetic triangular lattice compound LiCrTe2 investigated by $$\mu ^+$$SR, neutron and X-ray diffraction
Authors: Nocerino E. , Witteveen C. , Kobayashi S. , Forslund O. K. , Matsubara N. , Zubayer A. , Mazza F. , Kawaguchi S. , Hoshikawa A. , Umegaki I. , Sugiyama J. , Yoshimura K. , Sassa Y. , von Rohr F. O. , Månsson M.
Published: December 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) triangular lattice antiferromagnets (2D-TLA) often manifest intriguing physical and technological properties, due to the strong interplay between lattice geometry and electronic properties. The recently synthesized 2-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide LiCrTe$$_2$$

2

, being a 2D-TLA, enriched the range of materials which can present such properties. In this work, muon spin rotation ($$\mu ^+$$

μ
+

SR) and neutron powder diffraction (NPD) have been utilized to reveal the true magnetic nature and ground state of LiCrTe$$_2$$

2

. From high-resolution NPD the magnetic spin order at base-temperature is not, as previously suggested, helical, but rather collinear antiferromagnetic (AFM) with ferromagnetic (FM) spin coupling within the ab-plane and AFM coupling along the c-axis. The value if the ordered magnetic Cr moment is established as $$\mu _{\textrm{Cr}}= 2.36~\mu _{\textrm{B}}$$

μ
Cr

=
2.36

μ
B

. From detailed $$\mu ^+$$

μ
+

SR measurements we observe an AFM ordering temperature $$T_{\textrm{N}}\approx 125$$

T
N

≈
125

 K. This value is remarkably higher than the one previously reported by magnetic bulk measurements. From $$\mu ^+$$

μ
+

SR we are able to extract the magnetic order parameter, whose critical exponent allows us to categorize LiCrTe$$_2$$

2

in the 3D Heisenberg AFM universality class. Finally, by combining our magnetic studies with high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD), we find a clear coupling between the nuclear and magnetic spin lattices. This suggests the possibility for a strong magnon–phonon coupling, similar to what has been previously observed in the closely related compound LiCrO$$_2$$

2

.
Improvement of power quality parameters using modulated-unified power quality conditioner and switched-inductor boost converter by the optimization techniques for a hybrid AC/DC microgrid
Authors: Khosravi Nima , Abdolvand Abdollah , Oubelaid Adel , Khan Yawer Abbas , Bajaj Mohit , Govender Scott
Published: December 2022

This study aims to improve the quality of operation parameters of the stand-alone hybrid microgrids (HMGs). The proposed module for the AC microgrid (ACMG) is a modulated-unified power quality conditioner (M-UPQC). Furthermore, the suggested component for the DC microgrid (DCMG) is a switched-inductor boost converter module (S-IBCM). The M-UPQC control method is based on inverter modules and the system resonant features. The aim of S-IBCM applied is to improve DC microgrid (DCMG) efficiency. In this paper, the research challenge consists of two sections: first, adjusting the control parameters of M-UPQC by the black hole optimization (BHO), Harris hawk optimization (HHO), and grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) techniques, respectively; second, presenting a new design of the BC module called S-IBCM to increase DCMG efficiency. The programmed multi-objective functions (MOFs) for M-UPQC contain the harmonic parameters. Finally, according to output results, the performance conditions for ACMG and DCMG divisions achieve significantly improved by the proposed modules adopted. Furthermore, the performance of the M-UPQC operating under static and dynamic disturbances is tested through an experimental setup.
Networked lymphatic endothelial cells in a transplanted cell sheet contribute to form functional lymphatic vessels
Authors: Nagahara Ayumi Inoue , Homma Jun , Ryu Bikei , Sekine Hidekazu , Higashi Yuhei , Shimizu Tatsuya , Kawamata Takakazu
Published: December 2022

This study evaluated whether cell sheets containing a network of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) promoted lymphangiogenesis after transplantation in vivo. Cell sheets with a LEC network were constructed by co-culturing LECs and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) on temperature-responsive culture dishes. A cell ratio of 3:2 (vs. 1:4) generated networks with more branches and longer branch lengths. LEC-derived lymphatic vessels were observed 2 weeks after transplantation of a three-layered cell sheet construct onto rat gluteal muscle. Lymphatic vessel number, diameter and depth were greatest for a construct comprising two ASC sheets stacked on a LEC/ASC (3:2 ratio) sheet. Transplantation of this construct in a rat model of femoral lymphangiectomy led to the formation of functional lymphatic vessels containing both transplanted and host LECs. Further development of this technique may lead to a new method of promoting lymphangiogenesis.
Strain tunable quantum emission from atomic defects in hexagonal boron nitride for telecom-bands
Authors: Shaik Akbar Basha Dhu-al , Palla Penchalaiah
Published: December 2022

This study presents extending the tunability of 2D hBN Quantum emitters towards telecom (C-band − 1530 to 1560 nm) and UV-C (solar blind − 100 to 280 nm) optical bands using external strain inducements, for long- and short-range quantum communication (Quantum key distribution (QKD)) applications, respectively. Quantum emitters are the basic building blocks of this QKD (quantum communication or information) technologies, which need to emit single photons over room temperature and capable of tuning the emission wavelength to the above necessary range. Recent literature revealed that quantum emitters in 2D hBN only has the ability to withstand at elevated temperatures and aggressive annealing treatments, but density functional theory (DFT) predictions stated that hBN can only emit the single photons from around 290 to 900 nm (UV to near-IR regions) range. So, there is a need to engineer and further tune the emission wavelength of hBN quantum emitters to the above said bands (necessary for efficient QKD implementation). One of the solutions to tune the emission wavelength is by inducing external strain. In this work, we examine the tunability of quantum emission in hBN with point defects by inducing three different normal strains using DFT computations. We obtained the tunability range up to 255 nm and 1589.5 nm, for the point defects viz boron mono vacancies (VB) and boron mono vacancies with oxygen atoms (VBO2) respectively, which can enhance the successful implementation of the efficient QKD. We also examine the tunability of the other defects viz. nitrogen mono vacancies, nitrogen mono vacancy with self-interstitials, nitrogen mono vacancy with carbon interstitials, carbon dimers and boron dangling bonds, which revealed the tunable quantum emission in the visible, other UV and IR spectrum ranges and such customized quantum emission can enhance the birth of other quantum photonic devices.
Long non-coding RNAs as the regulatory hubs in rice response to salt stress
Authors: Mirdar Mansuri Raheleh , Azizi Amir-Hossein , Sadri Amir-Hossein , Shobbar Zahra-Sadat
Published: December 2022

Salinity seriously constrains growth and fertility of rice worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in plant abiotic stress response. However, salt responsive lncRNAs are poorly understood in rice. Herein, salt responsive lncRNAs (DE-lncRNAs) were identified in FL478 (salt tolerant) compared to its susceptible parent (IR29) using RNA-seq in root tissues at seedling stage. In FL478 and IR29, 8724 and 9235 transcripts with length of > 200 bp were nominated as potential lncRNAs, respectively. Rigorous filtering left four (in FL478) and nine (in IR29) DE-lncRNAs with only 2 DE-lncRNAs in common. ATAC-seq data showed that the genomic regions of all four lncRNAs in FL478 and 6/9 in IR29 are significantly accessible for transcription. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that lncRNA.2-FL was highly correlated with 173 mRNAs as trans-targets and a gene encoding pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) protein was predicted as cis-target of lncRNA.2-FL. In silico mutagenesis analysis proposed the same transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) in vicinity of the trans- and cis-regulatory target genes of lncRNA.2-FL, which significantly affect their transcription start site (TSS). This study provides new insights into involvement of the DE-lncRNAs in rice response to salt stress. Among them, lncRNA.2-FL may play a significant regulatory role in the salt stress tolerance of FL478.
Driving pressure-guided ventilation improves homogeneity in lung gas distribution for gynecological laparoscopy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Feifei , Zhao Zhanqi , Shao Chunqing , Xu Xin , Ma Jiajia , Han Ruquan
Published: December 2022

To investigate whether driving pressure–guided ventilation could contribute to a more homogeneous distribution in the lung for gynecological laparoscopy. Chinese patients were randomized, after pneumoperitoneum, to receive either positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 5 cm H2O (control group), or individualized PEEP producing the lowest driving pressure (titration group). Ventilation homogeneity is quantified as the global inhomogeneity (GI) index based on electrical impedance tomography, with a lower index implying more homogeneous ventilation. The perioperative arterial oxygenation index and respiratory system mechanics were also recorded. Blood samples were collected for lung injury biomarkers including interleukin-10, neutrophil elastase, and Clara Cell protein-16. A total of 48 patients were included for analysis. We observed a significant increase in the GI index immediately after tracheal extubation compared to preinduction in the control group (p = 0.040) but not in the titration group (p = 0.279). Furthermore, the GI index was obviously lower in the titration group than in the control group [0.390 (0.066) vs 0.460 (0.074), p = 0.0012]. The oxygenation index and respiratory compliance were significantly higher in the titration group than in the control group. No significant differences in biomarkers or hemodynamics were detected between the two groups. Driving pressure–guided PEEP led to more homogeneous ventilation, as well as improved gas exchange and respiratory compliance for patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopy.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04374162; first registration on 05/05/2020.
Real-time, multi-spectral motion artefact correction and compensation for laser speckle contrast imaging
Authors: Heeman Wido , Maassen Hanno , Dijkstra Klaas , Calon Joost , van Goor Harry , Leuvenink Henri , van Dam Gooitzen. M. , Boerma E. Christiaan
Published: December 2022

Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) is so sensitive to motion that it can measure the movement of red blood cells. However, this extreme sensitivity to motion is also its pitfall as the clinical translation of LSCI is slowed down due to the inability to deal with motion artefacts. In this paper we study the effectiveness of a real-time, multi-spectral motion artefact correction and compensation by subduing an in vitro flow phantom and ex vivo porcine kidney to computer-controlled motion artefacts. On the in vitro flow phantom, the optical flow showed a good correlation with the total movement. This model results in a better signal-to-noise ratios for multiple imaging distances and the overestimation of perfusion was reduced. In the ex vivo kidney model, the perfusion overestimation was also reduced and we were still able to distinguish between ischemia and non-ischemia in the stabilized data whereas this was not possible in the non-stabilized data. This leads to a notably better perfusion estimation that could open the door to a multitude of new clinical applications for LSCI.
Intense chorus waves are the cause of flux-limiting in the heart of the outer radiation belt
Authors: Chakraborty S. , Mann I. R. , Watt C. E. J. , Rae I. J. , Olifer L. , Ozeke L. G. , Sandhu J. K. , Mauk B. H. , Spence H.
Published: December 2022

Chorus waves play a key role in outer Van Allen electron belt dynamics through cyclotron resonance. Here, we use Van Allen Probes data to reveal a new and distinct population of intense chorus waves excited in the heart of the radiation belt during the main phase of geomagnetic storms. The power of the waves is typically ~ 2–3 orders of magnitude greater than pre-storm levels, and are generated when fluxes of ~ 10–100 keV electrons approach or exceed the Kennel–Petschek limit. These intense chorus waves rapidly scatter electrons into the loss cone, capping the electron flux to a value close to the limit predicted by Kennel and Petschek over 50 years ago. Our results are crucial for understanding the limits to radiation belt fluxes, with accurate models likely requiring the inclusion of this chorus wave-driven flux-limiting process, that is independent of the acceleration mechanism or source responsible for enhancing the flux.
Hypoxia, acidification and oxidative stress in cells cultured at large distances from an oxygen source
Authors: D’Aiuto Natali , Hochmann Jimena , Millán Magdalena , Di Paolo Andrés , Bologna-Molina Ronell , Sotelo Silveira José , Arocena Miguel
Published: December 2022

Hypoxia is a condition frequently encountered by cells in tissues, whether as a normal feature of their microenvironment or subsequent to deregulated growth. Hypoxia can lead to acidification and increased oxidative stress, with profound consequences for cell physiology and tumorigenesis. Therefore, the interplay between hypoxia and oxidative stress is an important aspect for understanding the effects of hypoxic microenvironments on cells. We have used a previously developed variant of the method of coverslip-induced hypoxia to study the process of acidification in a hypoxic microenvironment and to simultaneously visualize intracellular levels of hypoxia and oxidative stress. We observed high accumulation of CO2in hypoxic conditions, which we show is the main contributor to acidification in our model. Also, increased levels of oxidative stress were observed in moderately hypoxic cells close to the oxygen source, where the mitochondrial membrane potential was preserved. Conversely, cells at large distances from the oxygen source showed higher levels of hypoxia, milder oxidative stress and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. Our results contribute to characterize the interplay between reduced oxygen levels, acidification and oxidative stress in a simple in vitro setting, which can be used to model cell responses to an altered environment, such as the early tumor microenvironment.
A fast kernel independence test for cluster-correlated data
Authors: Song Hoseung , Liu Hongjiao , Wu Michael C.
Published: December 2022

Cluster-correlated data receives a lot of attention in biomedical and longitudinal studies and it is of interest to assess the generalized dependence between two multivariate variables under the cluster-correlated structure. The Hilbert–Schmidt independence criterion (HSIC) is a powerful kernel-based test statistic that captures various dependence between two random vectors and can be applied to an arbitrary non-Euclidean domain. However, the existing HSIC is not directly applicable to cluster-correlated data. Therefore, we propose a HSIC-based test of independence for cluster-correlated data. The new test statistic combines kernel information so that the dependence structure in each cluster is fully considered and exhibits good performance under high dimensions. Moreover, a rapid p value approximation makes the new test fast applicable to large datasets. Numerical studies show that the new approach performs well in both synthetic and real world data.
Socio-economic inequalities in minimum dietary diversity among Bangladeshi children aged 6–23 months: a decomposition analysis
Authors: Kundu Satyajit , Das Pranta , Rahman Md. Ashfikur , Al Banna Md. Hasan , Fatema Kaniz , Islam Md. Akhtarul , Srivastava Shobhit , Muhammad T. , Dey Rakhi , Hossain Ahmed
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to measure the socio-economic inequalities in having minimum dietary diversity (MDD) among Bangladeshi children aged 6–23 months as well as to determine the factors that potentially contribute to the inequity. The Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) 2017–2018 data were used in this study. A sample of 2405 (weighted) children aged 6–23 months was included. The overall weighted prevalence of MDD was 37.47%. The concentration index (CIX) value for inequalities in MDD due to wealth status was positive and the concentration curve lay below the line of equality (CIX: 0.1211, p < 0.001), where 49.47% inequality was contributed by wealth status, 25.06% contributed by the education level of mother, and 20.41% contributed by the number of ante-natal care (ANC) visits. Similarly, the CIX value due to the education level of mothers was also positive and the concentration curve lay below the line of equality (CIX: 0.1341, p < 0.001), where 52.68% inequality was contributed by the education level of mother, 18.07% contributed by wealth status, and 14.69% contributed by the number of ANC visits. MDD was higher among higher socioeconomic status (SES) groups. Appropriate intervention design should prioritize minimizing socioeconomic inequities in MDD, especially targeting the contributing factors of these inequities.
Myopia: why the retina stops inhibiting eye growth
Authors: Swiatczak Barbara , Schaeffel Frank
Published: December 2022

In myopia, the eye grows too long, and the image projected on the retina is poorly focused when subjects look at a distance. While the retina normally controls eye growth by visual processing, it seems to give up during myopia development. But what has changed? To determine whether the sharp image is in front or behind the retinal plane, a comparison of image sharpness in red and blue would provide a reliable cue because focal planes are about 1.3 D apart due to longitudinal chromatic aberration (LCA). However, up to now, it could not be demonstrated that the retina does, in fact, such a comparison. We used a new approach: movies were digitally filtered in real time to present either the blue channel of the RGB color format unfiltered while green and red were blurred (“blue in focus”), or the red channel was unfiltered while green and blue were blurred (“red in focus”) accordingly to the human LCA function. Here we show that, even though filtered movies looked similar, eyes became significantly shorter when the movie was sharp in the red plane but became longer when it was presented sharp in the blue plane. Strikingly, the eyes of young subjects who were already myopic did not respond at all—showing that their retina could no longer decode the sign of defocus based on LCA. Our findings resolve a long-standing question as to how the human retina detects the sign of defocus. It also suggests a new non-invasive strategy to inhibit early myopia development: keeping the red image plane on a computer screen sharp but low pass filtering the blue.
High-resolution tracking of hyrax social interactions highlights nighttime drivers of animal sociality
Authors: Bordes Camille N. M. , Beukeboom Rosanne , Goll Yael , Koren Lee , Ilany Amiyaal
Published: December 2022

Network structure is a key driver of animal fitness, pathogen transmission, information spread, and population demographics in the wild. Although a considerable body of research applied network analysis to animal societies, only little effort has been devoted to separate daytime and nighttime sociality and explicitly test working hypotheses on social structures emerging at night. Here, we investigated the nighttime sociality of a wild population of rock hyraxes (Procavia capensis) and its relation to daytime social structure. We recorded nearly 15,000 encounters over 27 consecutive days and nights using proximity loggers. Overall, we show that hyraxes are more selective of their social affiliates at night compared to daytime. We also show that hyraxes maintain their overall network topology while reallocating the weights of social relationships at the daily and monthly scales, which could help hyraxes maintain their social structure over long periods while adapting to local constraints and generate complex social dynamics. These results suggest that complex network dynamics can be a by-product of simple daily social tactics and do not require high cognitive abilities. Our work sheds light on the function of nighttime social interactions in diurnal social species.
Promoting economic and environmental resilience in the post-COVID-19 era through the city and regional on-road fuel sustainability development
Authors: Yang Chuxiao , Wu Haitao , Guo Yunxia , Hao Yu , Wang Zhaohua
Published: December 2022

How to control the global temperature rise within 1.5 °C in the post-COVID-19 era has attracted attention. Road transport accounts for nearly a quarter of global CO2 emissions, and the related sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions also trigger air pollution issues in population-intensive cities and areas. Many cities and states have announced a timetable for phasing out urban-based fossil fuel vehicles. By combining a Markov-chain model with a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, the impacts of on-road energy structural change led by phasing out fossil fuel vehicles in the road transportation sector are evaluated. The impact of automobile emissions (both CO2 and SO2) on the environment is evaluated, taking into consideration of variation between cities, regions, and countries. Two other major driving forces in addition to CO2 emissions reduction in promoting fossil fuel vehicles’ transition toward net-zero carbon are identified and analyzed with multiple different indicators. Under the framework of the DSGE model, climate policy instruments’ effects on economic development, energy consumption, and their link to economic and environmental resilience are evaluated under exogenous shocks as well.
Effect of grip-enhancing agents on sliding friction between a fingertip and a baseball
Authors: Yamaguchi Takeshi , Nasu Daiki , Masani Kei
Published: December 2022

Friction between a pitcher’s fingers and the leather surface of a baseball is a key factor that influences ball delivery, causing Major League Baseball in the United States to recently enhance enforcement of rules banning the unauthorized use of friction-enhancing agents or sticky substances. Here, we examine how the application of rosin powder and sticky substances alters the friction coefficient between a fingertip and the leather of a baseball. We find that sticky substances increase friction which can positively affect ball spin rate, while rosin has the advantage of keeping friction consistent within and between individuals. Additionally, we find that baseballs used by the Nippon Professional Baseball Organization in Japan are less slippery compared with the ones used in Major League Baseball, suggesting that grip-enhancers may have a larger impact on friction for baseballs used in the United States compared to Japan. Furthermore, our results indicate that changing the characteristics of the leather the baseball is made from may increase friction, reducing the unauthorized use of sticky substances.
Isobaric 6-plex and tosyl dual tagging for the determination of positional isomers and quantitation of monounsaturated fatty acids using rapid UHPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Armbruster Michael R. , Mostafa Mahmoud Elhusseiny , Caldwell Rhea N. , Grady Scott F. , Arnatt Christopher K. , Edwards James L.
Published: December 2022

Dual tagging and fragmentation of fatty acids produced isotope encoded reporters which change in mass depending on double bond position. This allowed for ultrafast analysis without reporter contamination from co-isolated double bond isomers.
Peptide-crosslinked molecularly imprinted polymers for efficient separation of immunoglobulin G from human serum
Authors: Dong Qiujing , Yang Mengmeng , Wang Yafei , Guan Ying , Zhang Wangqing , Zhang Yongjun
Published: December 2022

New IgG-imprinted polymers for efficient separation of immunoglobulin G from human serum were successfully synthesized.
Recent advances in 8π electrocyclization reactions
Authors: Liu Lei , Du Luan , Li Baosheng
Published: December 2022

This feature article focuses on the description of 8π and 8π/6π electrocyclization reactions and their mechanisms, while various diverse syntheses based on these reactions are also discussed in detail.
Solid-state NMR – a complementary technique for protein framework characterization
Authors: Cerofolini Linda , Ramberg Kiefer O. , Padilla Luis C. , Antonik Paweł , Ravera Enrico , Luchinat Claudio , Fragai Marco , Crowley Peter B.
Published: December 2022

Microcrystalline protein–calixarene co-crystals, obtained at low pH, result in high quality solid-state NMR spectra, providing an alternative strategy for protein framework characterization.
Intramolecular cyclization of m-homoprenylphenols through oxidative nucleophilic aromatic substitution
Authors: Deguchi Hiroki , Hanaya Kengo , Sugai Takeshi , Higashibayashi Shuhei
Published: December 2022

A cyclization of m-homoprenylphenols through an oxidative nucleophilic aromatic substitution using the prenyl group as a carbon nucleophile was developed.
Semirigid discotic dimers: flexible but not flexible enough?
Authors: Zellman Carson O. , Williams Vance E.
Published: December 2022

A pair of diastereomeric discotic dimers were found to exhibit dramatically different phase behaviors, with the chiral derivative assembling into a columnar liquid crystal, while the achiral isomer formed an isotropic glass.
Ab initio investigations of a CoBiS monolayer with and without point defects
Authors: Said H. , Garbouj H. , Debbichi M. , El Hog S. , Lebègue S.
Published: December 2022

The spatial decomposition of the magnetic anisotropy energy for the VBi, VCo, and VS structures.
An efficient algorithm for capturing quantum effects in classical reactive scattering: application to D + H+3 → H2D+ + H
Authors: Braunstein Matthew , Bonnet Laurent
Published: December 2022

Thermal rate constant versus temperature for 1GB-Cav, ZPE-Cav, RPMD (RPMDdir: [Bulut et al., J. Phys. Chem. A, 2019, 123, 8766]), and experimentally derived results (Bowen [Bowen et al., J. Chem. Phys., 2021, 154, 084307]).
End-of-life MoS2-enabled device and material transformation in landfill leachate and its effect on the landfill microbiome
Authors: Sabaraya Indu Venu , Li Xintong , Perreault François , Dolocan Andrei , Incorvia Jean Anne C. , Kirisits Mary Jo , Saleh Navid B.
Published: December 2022

MoS2-enabled membranes and transistors when exposed to landfill leachate can attach to leachate residues but do not undergo major chemical decay. Complex environments like leachates are robust, resisting microbiome changes upon exposure to MoS2.
Structural ordering enhances highly selective production of acetic acid from CO2 at ultra-low potential
Authors: Sarkar Shreya , Raj Jithu , Bagchi Debabrata , Cherevotan Arjun , Vinod C. P. , Peter Sebastian C.
Published: December 2022

The production of acetic acid from CO2 is tuned by the atomic ordering and optimized chemical bonding in ternary chalcogenides.
Preparation of a cattle bone collagen peptide–calcium chelate by the ultrasound method and its structural characterization, stability analysis, and bioactivity on MC3T3-E1 cells
Authors: Zhang Hongru , Qi Liwei , Wang Xiaodan , Guo Yujie , Liu Jiqian , Xu Yang , Liu Chengjiang , Zhang Chunhui , Richel Aurore
Published: December 2022

A collagen peptide–calcium chelate was prepared by the ultrasound method for boosting the osteoblast activity.
β-NaVO3 as a pseudocapacitive anode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Yan Danlin , Huang Yingbo , Yu Yanxia , Cao Gengyu
Published: December 2022

A NaVO3/Gr composite exhibits enhanced electrochemical performance in SIB.
A 3D carbon black disposable electrochemical sensor modified with reduced graphene oxide used for the sensitive determination of levofloxacin
Authors: Lisboa Thalles Pedrosa , Oliveira Raylla Santos , de Oliveira Wallace Burger Veríssimo , de Souza Cassiano Cunha , Alves Guilherme Figueira , Matos Maria Auxiliadora Costa , Matos Renato Camargo
Published: December 2022

In this work, a simple method for the fabrication of an electrochemical sensor using a conductive carbon black and polylactic acid-based filament (3D-CB/PLA) printed with a 3D-pen is presented.
Palladium(ii)-complexes of bi- and tri-dentate phosphine ligands: precursor for palladium–phosphorous nanoparticles and activity towards Suzuki–Miyaura coupling
Authors: Rao Gyandshwar Kumar , Dutta Anirban , Yadav Nisha , Oswal Preeti , Kumar Arun , Singh Ajai K.
Published: December 2022

Pd7P3/Pd3P0.8 NPs and their precursor complexes were investigated for Suzuki–Miyaura coupling, which involves both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalytic processes.
Synergistic effect of Nd doping and plasmonic Au nanoparticles on BiFeO3thin film photoanodes for enhancing photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Xiang Dongxue , Wang Sen , Bai Liqun , Li Dan , Luo Qiuyue , Song Wenlong , Chen Da
Published: December 2022

The synergistic effect of Au NPs and Nd doping could improve the light utilization, promote the separation of photogenerated carriers and inhibit the recombination of photogenerated carriers, thus greatly improving the PEC performance of BFO.
Rare-earth-doped indium oxide nanosphere-based gas sensor for highly sensitive formaldehyde detection at a low temperature
Authors: Ma Xiangyun , Zhu Houjuan , Yu Long , Li Xin , Ye Enyi , Li Zibiao , Loh Xian Jun , Wang Suhua
Published: December 2022

Various rare-earth-doped indium oxide nanospheres are fabricated as gas sensors with enhanced sensing performance for highly sensitive HCHO detection with a detection limit of 10.9 ppb and a high response value at 170 °C.
A pH/GSH dual responsive nanoparticle with relaxivity amplification for magnetic resonance imaging and suppression of tumors and metastases
Authors: Zhu Xianglong , Xiong Hehe , Yang Pei , Wang Songwei , Zhou Qiuju , Zhang Pengbo , Zhao Zhenghuan , Shi Saige
Published: December 2022

We report an intelligent theranostic nanoprobe based on Mn3O4tetragonal bipyramids, which boost MRI relaxivity and chemodynamic capacity upon simultaneous responding to H+and GSH, for precise diagnosis and suppression of solid tumor and metastasis.
NiS2 nanoparticles by the NaCl-assisted less-liquid reaction system for the magnesium-ion battery cathode
Authors: Guo Zijie , Wei Wutao , Shi Juan , Wang Pengpeng , Ye Zisen , Mi Liwei
Published: December 2022

NiS2 nanomaterials were successfully prepared in a less-liquid reaction system based on NaCl. It has excellent electrochemical performance when used as cathode material of magnesium ion battery.
Unveiling the nucleation and evolution of twinned intermetallic nanocrystals for CO-tolerant selective hydrogenation
Authors: Wang Kun , Liu Haojie , Zhang Luyao , Yu Boyuan , Hu Yang , Yang Feng
Published: December 2022

The nucleation and dynamic evolution of twinned intermetallic nanocrystals are critical for regulating the interface structures and modulating the CO tolerant hydrogenation.
Bandgap engineering strategy through chemical strain and oxygen vacancies in super-tetragonal BiFeO3 epitaxial films
Authors: Ding Jiaqi , Li Hangren , Xi Guoqiang , Tu Jie , Tian Jianjun , Zhang Linxing
Published: December 2022

Tetragonality increase and bandgap reduction in super-tetragonal BFO-based films are simultaneously obtained through chemical strain and oxygen vacancies, due to the reduced the bottom of conduction band confirmed by DFT calculations.
Carbon nanotube–titanium dioxide nanocomposite support for improved activity and stability of an iridium catalyst toward the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Kim Eom Ji , Kim Ki hyun , Bak Junu , Lee KwangHo , Cho EunAe
Published: December 2022

To improve the electrocatalytic activity and stability of an iridium nanoparticle catalyst toward the oxygen evolution reaction, carbon nanotube and titanium dioxide nanocomposites (CNT@TiO2) are presented as a high-performance support.
Computational analysis, Urbach energy and Judd–Ofelt parameter of warm Sm3+complexes having applications in photovoltaic and display devices
Authors: Kumari Poonam , Lather Vaishnavi , Khatri Savita , Ahlawat Pratibha , Sehrawat Harkesh , Khatkar S. P. , Taxak V. B. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: December 2022

Six reddish orange Sm3+complexes were synthesized with the help of organic ligand and secondary ligandsviaone-step significant liquid-assisted grinding method and characterized spectroscopically.
Synthesis of novel hybrid mesoporous gold iron oxide nanoconstructs for enhanced catalytic reduction and remediation of toxic organic pollutants
Authors: El-Boubbou Kheireddine , Lemine O. M. , Jaque Daniel
Published: December 2022

Development of highly-efficient, rapid, and recyclable hybrid mesoporous Au–IO NPs nanocatalysts for elimination of toxic environmental contaminants. Thanks to synergistic cooperation of their well-dispersed AuNPs, large surface area/pore volume, and mesoporosity.
A novel poly(2-mercaptobenzothiazole) coated magnetic nanoadsorbent derived from ZIF-8 for preconcentration/determination of palladium and silver
Authors: Mohseni Seyedeh Fatemeh , Manoochehri Mahboobeh , Afshar Taromi Faramarz
Published: December 2022

A novel poly(2-mercaptobenzothiazole) coated magnetic nanoadsorbent derived from zeolitic-imidazole framework-8 was synthesized and then employed for the extraction/preconcentration of trace amounts of palladium and silver in various real matrixes.
Nitrogen and titanium-codoped porous carbon nanocomposites derived from metal–organic framework as cathode to address polysulfides shuttle effects by Ti-assisted N-inhibiting strategy
Authors: Li Meng-Ting , Chen Jun , Ren Ke , Li Xian-Hong , Gao Hai-Yang , Sun Da-Qiang , Yu Yang
Published: December 2022

Utilize NH2-MIL-125(Ti) as precursor to form N- and Ti-codoped host matrix that exhibits strong binding capabilities with polysulfides.
Ce-modified Co–Mn oxide spinel on reduced graphene oxide and carbon black as ethanol tolerant oxygen reduction electrocatalyst in alkaline media
Authors: Wolf Sigrid , Roschger Michaela , Genorio Boštjan , Garstenauer Daniel , Radić Josip , Hacker Viktor
Published: December 2022

Synergistic effects from modifications of cobalt manganese oxide with Ce and use of rGO boost ethanol tolerance and ORR activity/stability.
The importance of tetrel bonding interactions with carbon in two arrestive iso-structural Cd(ii)–Salen coordination complexes: a comprehensive DFT overview in crystal engineering
Authors: Majumdar Dhrubajyoti , Roy Sourav , Frontera Antonio
Published: December 2022

Two preeminent iso-structural Cd(ii)–Salen complexes were synthesized and structurally characterized. The unique tetrel bonding interactions involving the CH3 group have been reported in a reassessed dimension of the DFT.
Comment on “The oxidation state in low-valent beryllium and magnesium compounds” by M. Gimferrer, S. Danés, E. Vos, C. B. Yildiz, I. Corral, A. Jana, P. Salvador and D. M. Andrada, Chem. Sci. 2022, 13, 6583
Authors: Pan Sudip , Frenking Gernot
Published: December 2022

Metal–ligand bonds in M(cAACDip)2 (M = Be, Mg) are best described with dative bonds between neutral ligands L⇄M⇄L but not with charged species L(−1)→E(+2)←L(−1) as previously stated. The oxidation state of the metals is zero but not +2.
Reply to the ‘Comment on “The oxidation state in low-valent beryllium and magnesium compounds”’ by S. Pan and G. Frenking,Chem. Sci., 2022,13, DOI: 10.1039/D2SC04231B
Authors: Gimferrer Martí , Danés Sergi , Vos Eva , Yildiz Cem B. , Corral Inés , Jana Anukul , Salvador Pedro , Andrada Diego M.
Published: December 2022

This work discusses on the correct assignment of the oxidation state in low-valent group 2 compounds. Additionally, we elaborate on common pitfalls describing the correct wavefunction and its implications.
Correction: Tyrosine bioconjugation with hypervalent iodine
Authors: Declas Nina , Maynard John R. J. , Menin Laure , Gasilova Natalia , Götze Sebastian , Sprague Jakob L. , Stallforth Pierre , Matile Stefan , Waser Jerome
Published: December 2022

Correction for ‘Tyrosine bioconjugation with hypervalent iodine’ by Nina Declas et al., Chem. Sci., 2022, 13, 12808–12817, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04558C.