bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmable Amine Synthesis via Iterative Boron Homologation
Authors: Xie Qiqiang , Zhang Rui , Dong Guangbin
Published: July 2023

The value of Matteson‐type reactions has been increasingly recognized for developing automated organic synthesis. However, the typical Matteson reactions almost exclusively focus on homologation of carbon units. Here, we report the detailed development of sequential insertion of nitrogen and carbon atoms into boronate C−B bonds, which provides a modular and iterative approach to access functionalized tertiary amines. A new class of nitrenoid reagents is uncovered to allow direct formation of aminoboranes from aryl or alkyl boronates via N‐insertion. The one‐pot N‐insertion followed by controlled mono‐ or double‐carbenoid insertion has been realized with widely available aryl boronates. The resulting aminoalkyl boronate products can undergo further homologation and various other transformations. Preliminary success on homologation of N,N‐dialkylaminoboranes and sequential N‐ and C‐insertions with alkyl boronates have also been achieved. To broaden the synthetic utility, selective removal of a benzyl or aryl substituent permits access to secondary or primary amine products. The application of this method has been demonstrated in the modular synthesis of bioactive compounds and the programmable construction of diamines and aminoethers. A plausible reaction mechanism, supported by preliminary NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) and computational studies, is also proposed.
N‐doped flexible triazine‐based porous polymer for thermal energy storage
Authors: Jiang Xiaowei , Liu Zhihong , Tan Yujiao , Chen Xiaosong , Huang Ping , Ma Libo , Xiong Xu , Gao Weibin , Tao Yu , Lu Hongxia , Dai Zheng
Published: July 2023

Nitrogen atoms has been widely adopted in preparation of porous organic polymers (POPs). In our study, flexible nitrogen porous organic polymers (FNPOPs) with high nitrogen content are synthesized by using acetic acid both as solvent and catalyst. The materials show moderate Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area and outstanding thermal stabilities (Td: 330°C). FNPOP‐2 is prepared into phase change material (PCM) composites by self‐adsorption method. From differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, the PCM composites show high encapsulation ratio (55.2 wt%) and latent heat (135.7 J g−1) due to flexible structure and high nitrogen atomic content. Furthermore, the thermal energy storage properties of all PCM composites remained after several thermal cycles. In general, FNPOPs have potential applications in phase change materials adsorption and thermal energy storage.
Spatial patterns of intrinsic brain activity in rats with capsular stroke
Authors: Ma Jie , Li Xue‐Jia , Liu Wen‐Xin , Teng Fei , Hua Xu‐Yun
Published: July 2023

Background

To explore the neural changes of brain activity in rats with circumscribed capsular infarcts to find a new therapeutic target for promoting the functional recovery.

Methods

A total of 18 capsular infarct rats and 18 normal rats were conducted in this study. All animal use procedures were strictly in accordance with the guide for the care and use of laboratory animals. After establishing the photothrombotic capsular infarct model, the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were collected and analyzed.

Results

The fMRI results indicated that the passive movement would induce strong activation in caudate, putamen, frontal association somatosensory cortex, thalamus dorsolateral, and thalamus midline dorsal in control group, and the passive movement would only induce limited activation mostly in somatosensory cortex, thalamus dorsolateral, and thalamus midline dorsal in capsular infarct models. Capsular infarct makes the cortical activity weaken in sensory‐related cortex and subcortical nuclei, including capsular area and thalamus.

Conclusions

Such findings imply that the posterior limb of internal capsule (PLIC) is connected to these structures in function, interacts together with them, and, accordingly, the lesion of PLIC manifests the related symptoms.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Occurrences in Biomass Char and Its Mitigation Approaches: A Mini Review
Authors: Mohd Nor Azman Nur Aina Najwa , Asmadi Mohd , Amin Nor Aishah Saidina , Shamjuddin Amnani , Mohammad Zainol Muzakkir , Phaiboonsilpa Natthanon , Kawamoto Haruo
Published: July 2023

Biochar is a porous fine‐grained substance produced from the pyrolysis technology of biomass that can be commercially used as a soil conditioner to promote soil fertility. Biochar is characterized by high carbon content, stability, and porosity. However, organic pollutants residue of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is also formed during the pyrolysis of biochar. The high concentration of PAHs adversely degrades the quality of biochar for soil amendment application. Meanwhile, highly toxic‐PAHs concentration may pose a potential threat to both human health and the environment. The total PAHs yield is mainly influenced by the pyrolysis condition and feedstock resource. This review aims to discuss the conversion pyrolysis technology of biochar and factors that may influence the PAHs formation. The key research findings from this literature will lead to some strategies to minimize the PAHs compound in biochar by controlling the pyrolysis conditions through higher pyrolysis temperature, carrier gas flow, and prolonged pyrolysis time or by selecting suitable feedstock with lower lignin content.
Nanocarbon in Sodium‐ion Batteries – A Review. Part 2: One, Two, and Three‐dimensional Nanocarbons
Authors: Thangaraj Baskar , Solomon Pravin Raj , Hassan Jamal
Published: July 2023

Nanocarbons play a significant role in the development of alternative, clean and sustainable energy technologies. The utility of low‐dimensional nanostructured carbons (one‐, two‐ and three‐dimensional) in the new generation of batteries have shown great potential due to their physicochemical and electrochemical properties as well as high safety. The electrodes made from nanostructured carbon materials with different dimensions, size and structures offer enhanced ionic transport and electronic conductivity as compared to conventional batteries. They also enable the occupation of all intercalation sites available in the particle which leads to high specific capacities, fast ion diffusion, superior rate capability and long‐term cyclability. The carbonaceous nanosized active materials are important to enhance the electrical conductivity of the electrode materials and buffer the structural change and strain during sodium insertion and extraction. Application potentialities of different low‐dimensional nanostructured carbons in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are discussed in this part II. It also deals with the modifications made on the carbonaceous material by doping with heteroatoms, expressing diversified morphologies with porous materials or compositing with organic or inorganic species.
E3 ubiquitin ligase neural precursor cell‐expressed developmentally downregulated gene 4 motivates FOXA1 ubiquitination and restrains proliferation of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma cells via the Wnt/β‐Catenin pathway
Authors: Yang Li , Li Jun Nan
Published: July 2023

Neural precursor cell‐expressed developmentally downregulated gene 4 (NEDD4) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that recognizes substrates via protein–protein interactions and takes part in tumor development. This study aims to clarify NEDD4's functions in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and its downstream mechanisms. Collection of 53 DLBCL tissues and adjacent normal lymphoid tissues, and detection of NEDD4 and Forkhead box protein A1 (FOXA1) in the tissues were conducted. The selection of DLBCL cells was for FARAGE, and test of cells' advancement was after transfection. Analysis of NEDD4 and FOXA1's link, and test of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway were implemented. In vivo tumor xenograft experiments were put into effect. Detection of the pathological conditions of tumor tissues and the positive Ki67 in the family was implemented. It came out NEDD4 was reduced in DLBCL tissues and cell lines, and FOXA1 was elevated; Enhancing NEDD4 or repressing FOXA1 refrained DLBCL cells' advancement; NEDD4 could combine with FOXA1 and trigger its ubiquitination and degradation; NEDD4 inactivates the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway by motivating FOXA1 ubiquitination; NEDD4 enhancement refrained DLBCL growth in vivo. In conclusion, the E3 ubiquitin ligase NEDD4 accelerates FOXA1 ubiquitination but refrains DLBCL cell proliferation via the Wnt/β‐Catenin pathway.
Superhydrophilic and Superaerophobic Ru‐Loaded NiCo Bimetallic Hydroxide Achieves Efficient Hydrogen Evolution over All pH Ranges
Authors: Zhang Mingyue , Gao Yong , Li Jingjing , Xia Yujiao , Yang Ling , Jiang Cheng , Huang Xianli , Wang Tao , He Jianping
Published: July 2023

Realizing an effective, binder‐free, and super‐wetting electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at full pH is essential for the creation of clean hydrogen. In this study, the Ru‐loaded NiCo bimetallic hydroxide (Ru@NiCo‐BH) catalyst was prepared by spontaneous redox reaction. The chemical interaction between Ru NPs and NiCo‐BH by the Ru−O−M (M=Ni, Co) interface bond, the electron‐rich Ru active site, and the multi‐channel nickel foam carrier make the superhydrophilic and superaerophobic surface advantageous for mass transfer in the HER process. Therefore, Ru@NiCo‐BH has remarkable HER activity, with low overpotential of 29, 68 and 80 mV, a 10 mA cm−2 current density can be obtained in alkaline, neutral and acidic electrolytes respectively. This work provides a reference for the rational development of universal electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution in the all pH ranges through simple design strategies.
Diastereoselective Petasis‐Borono‐Mannich Crotylation Reactions of Chiral α‐Heteroatom (F, OBz, OH) Aldehydes: Rapid Access to Valuable Mono and Bicyclic Heterocyclic Scaffolds
Authors: Chevis Philip J. , Chao Chi Bong Eric , Richardson Christopher , Hyland Christopher J. T. , Lee Richmond , Pyne Stephen G.
Published: July 2023

The crotylation reactions of chiral α‐F, α‐OBz and α‐OH aldehydes under Petasis‐borono‐Mannich conditions using (E)‐ or (Z)‐crotylboronates and primary amines resulted in γ‐addition products in high dr and high er. α‐F and α‐OBz aldehydes gave 1,2‐anti‐2,3‐syn and 1,2‐anti‐2,3‐anti, products, respectively while an α‐OH aldehyde gave 1,2‐syn‐2,3‐syn products. The stereochemical outcomes of reactions of the former aldehydes can be explained using a six‐membered ring transition state (TS) model in which a Cornforth‐like conformation around the imine intermediate is favoured resulting in 1,2‐anti products. The 2,3‐stereochemical outcome is dependent upon the geometry of the crotylboronate. These TS models were also supported by DFT calculations. The stereochemical outcomes of reactions employing an α‐OH aldehyde can be rationalised as occurring via an open‐TS involving H‐bonding in the imine intermediate between the α‐OH group and the imine N atom. Representative products were converted to highly functionalized 1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridines and 3H‐oxazolo[3,4‐a]pyridine‐3‐ones which will be valuable scaffolds in synthesis.
Investigations of the Photothermal Properties of a Series of Molecular Gold‐bis(dithiolene) Complexes Absorbing in the NIR‐III Region
Authors: Pluta Jean‐Baptiste , Guechaichia Romain , Vacher Antoine , Bellec Nathalie , Cammas‐Marion Sandrine , Camerel Franck
Published: July 2023

The photothermal properties of a series of neutral radical gold‐bis(dithiolene) complexes absorbing in the near‐infrared‐III window (1550–1870 nm) have been investigated. This class of complexes was found to be good photothermal agents (PTAs) in toluene under 1600 nm laser irradiation with photothermal efficiencies around 40 and 60 % depending on the nature of the dithiolene ligand. To the best of our knowledge, these complexes are the first small molecular photothermal agents to absorb so far into the near infrared. To test their applicability in water, these hydrophobic complexes have been encapsulated into nanoparticles constituted by amphiphilic block‐copolymers. Stable suspensions of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulating the gold‐bis(dithiolene) complexes have been prepared which show a diameter around 100 nm. The encapsulation rate was found to be strongly dependent on the nature of the dithiolene ligands. The photothermal properties of the aqueous suspensions containing gold‐bis(dithiolene) complexes were then studied under 1600 nm laser irradiation. These studies demonstrate that water has strong photothermal activity in the NIR‐III region that, cannot be overcome even with the addition of gold complexes displaying good photothermal properties.
Facile Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure P‐Chiral 1‐Alkoxy‐2,3‐dihydrophospholes via Nucleophilic P−N Bond Cleavage of a 1‐Phospha‐2‐azanorbornene
Authors: Ramazanova Kyzgaldak , Lönnecke Peter , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: July 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Prof. Evamarie Hey‐Hawkins at Leipzig University. The image depicts a deer with diastereomeric antlers. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202300790.
Characterization of membrane‐interaction mechanisms of proteins using vacuum‐ultraviolet circular dichroism spectroscopy
Authors: Kumashiro Munehiro , Matsuo Koichi
Published: July 2023

Protein‐membrane interactions play an important role in various biological phenomena, such as material transport, demyelinating diseases, and antimicrobial activity. We combined vacuum‐ultraviolet circular dichroism (VUVCD) spectroscopy with theoretical (e.g., molecular dynamics and neural networks) and polarization experimental (e.g., linear dichroism and fluorescence anisotropy) methods to characterize the membrane interaction mechanisms of three soluble proteins (or peptides). α1‐Acid glycoprotein has the drug‐binding ability, but the combination of VUVCD and neural‐network method revealed that the membrane interaction causes the extension of helix in the N‐terminal region, which reduces the binding ability. Myelin basic protein (MBP) is an essential component of the myelin sheath with a multi‐layered structure. Molecular dynamics simulations using a VUVCD‐guided system showed that MBP forms two amphiphilic and three non‐amphiphilic helices as membrane interaction sites. These multivalent interactions may allow MBP to interact with two opposing membrane leaflets, contributing to the formation of a multi‐layered myelin structure. The antimicrobial peptide magainin 2 interacts with the bacterial membrane, causing damage to its structure. VUVCD analysis revealed that the M2 peptides assemble in the membrane and turn into oligomers with a β‐strand structure. Linear dichroism and fluorescence anisotropy suggested that the oligomers are inserted into the hydrophobic core of the membrane, disrupting the bacterial membrane. Overall, our findings demonstrate that VUVCD and its combination with theoretical and polarization experimental methods pave the way for unraveling the molecular mechanisms of biological phenomena related to protein‐membrane interactions.
Hirschhornsalz (baker's ammonia) and the chemical equilibrium – experiments using digital pressure sensors
Authors: Rautenstrauch Hanne , Rebenstorff Anne
Published: July 2023

Digitale Messsensoren bieten das Potential, schwer verständliche oder schwer beobachtbare Phänomene, wie die Bildung farbloser Gase oder die Erhöhung oder Erniedrigung des Drucks, während einer chemischen Reaktion sichtbar und somit besser begreifbar zu machen. Zudem kann durch den Einsatz digitaler Messsensoren ein neuer Blick auf altbewährte Experimente ermöglicht werden. In diesem Beitrag werden dazu Experimente zum chemischen Gleichgewicht mit Hirschhornsalz unter Verwendung eines digitalen Drucksensors vorgestellt.
Generalization of waving‐plate theory to multiple interacting swimmers
Authors: Baddoo Peter J. , Moore Nicholas J. , Oza Anand U. , Crowdy Darren G.
Published: July 2023

Early research in aerodynamics and biological propulsion was dramatically advanced by the analytical solutions of Theodorsen, von Kármán, Wu and others. While these classical solutions apply only to isolated swimmers, the flow interactions between multiple swimmers are relevant to many practical applications, including the schooling and flocking of animal collectives. In this work, we derive a class of solutions that describe the hydrodynamic interactions between an arbitrary number of swimmers in a two‐dimensional inviscid fluid. Our approach is rooted in multiply‐connected complex analysis and exploits several recent results. Specifically, the transcendental (Schottky–Klein) prime function serves as the basic building block to construct the appropriate conformal maps and leading‐edge‐suction functions, which allows us to solve the modified Schwarz problem that arises. As such, our solutions generalize classical thin aerofoil theory, specifically Wu's waving‐plate analysis, to the case of multiple swimmers. For the case of a pair of interacting swimmers, we develop an efficient numerical implementation that allows rapid computations of the forces on each swimmer. We investigate flow‐mediated equilibria and find excellent agreement between our new solutions and previously reported experimental results. Our solutions recover and unify disparate results in the literature, thereby opening the door for future studies into the interactions between multiple swimmers.
Protein‐Inspired Control over Synthetic Polymer Folding for Structured Functional Nanoparticles in Water
Authors: Wijker Stefan , Palmans Anja R. A.
Published: July 2023

The folding of proteins into functional nanoparticles with defined 3D structures has inspired chemists to create simple synthetic systems mimicking protein properties. The folding of polymers into nanoparticles in water proceeds via different strategies, resulting in the global compaction of the polymer chain. Herein, we review the different methods available to control the conformation of synthetic polymers and collapse/fold them into structured, functional nanoparticles, such as hydrophobic collapse, supramolecular self‐assembly, and covalent cross‐linking. A comparison is made between the design principles of protein folding to synthetic polymer folding and the formation of structured nanocompartments in water, highlighting similarities and differences in design and function. We also focus on the importance of structure for functional stability and diverse applications in complex media and cellular environments.
The cost‐effectiveness of a virtual intervention to prevent eating disorders in young women in Sweden
Authors: Martínez de Alva Patricio , Ghaderi Ata , Andersson Gerhard , Feldman Inna , Sampaio Filipa
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine the cost‐effectiveness of a virtual version of the Body Project (vBP), a cognitive dissonance‐based program, to prevent eating disorders (ED) among young women with a subjective sense of body dissatisfaction in the Swedish context.

Method

A decision tree combined with a Markov model was developed to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of the vBP in a clinical trial population of 149 young women (mean age 17 years) with body image concerns. Treatment effect was modeled using data from a trial investigating the effects of vBP compared to expressive writing (EW) and a do‐nothing alternative. Population characteristics and intervention costs were sourced from the trial. Other parameters, including utilities, treatment costs for ED, and mortality were sourced from the literature. The model predicted the costs and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) related to the prevention of incidence of ED in the modeled population until they reached 25 years of age. The study used both a cost‐utility and return on investment (ROI) framework.

Results

In total, vBP yielded lower costs and larger QALYs than the alternatives. The ROI analysis denoted a return of US $152 for every USD invested in vBP over 8 years against the do‐nothing alternative and US $105 against EW.

Discussion

vBP is likely to be cost‐effective compared to both EW and a do‐nothing alternative. The ROI from vBP is substantial and could be attractive information for decision makers for implementation of this intervention for young females at risk of developing ED.

Public Significance

This study estimates that the vBP is cost‐effective for the prevention of eating disorders among young women in the Swedish setting, and thus is a good investment of public resources.
eDNA metabarcoding reveals differences in fish diversity and community structure in heterogeneous habitat areas shaped by cascade hydropower
Authors: Cheng Ruli , Luo Yang , Zhang Yufeng , Li Qinghua , Li Yingwen , Shen Yanjun
Published: July 2023

Freshwater ecosystems are under great threat from humans, among which habitat heterogeneity is the most obvious, being one of the important reasons for the decline of fish diversity. This phenomenon is particularly prominent in the Wujiang River, where the continuous rapids of the mainstream have been divided into 12 mutually isolated sections by 11 cascade hydropower reservoirs. Based on the fact that conventional survey methods are more harmful to the ecological environment, the efficient and noninvasive environmental DNA metabarcoding (eDNA) approach was used in this study to conduct an aquatic ecological survey of the 12 river sections of the mainstream of the Wujiang River. A total of 2299 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained, corresponding to 97 species, including four nationally protected fish species and 12 alien species. The results indicate that the fish community structure of the Wujiang River mainstream, which was originally dominated by rheophilic fish species, has been changed. And there are differences in fish species diversity and species composition among the reservoir areas of the mainstream of the Wujiang River. The fish species in the area have gradually declined under the influence of anthropogenic factors such as terraced hydropower and overfishing. The fish populations consequently have demonstrated a tendency to be species miniaturized, and the indigenous fish are severely threatened. In addition, the fish composition monitored by the eDNA approach was found to be close to the fish composition of historical information on the Wujiang River, indicating that eDNA approach may be used as a complementary tool to conventional methods in this basin.
The Evolution of Phosphite‐Oxazoline Ligands for the Pd‐Allylic Substitution and Their Application in Building Chiral Molecules
Authors: Biosca Maria , Tarr Daniel , Pàmies Oscar , Diéguez Montserrat
Published: July 2023

Pd‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic substitution (AAS) is a highly effective method for producing chiral molecules with alkene‐substituted frameworks which can be further derivatized. However, its stereochemical outcome is affected by the steric requirements of the substrate and only a narrow set of nucleophiles yield excellent enantioselectivities. In this regard, phosphite‐oxazolines have emerged as strong candidates to be privileged ligands for this process, providing results that surpass most of the previously published studies. They have provided high enantiocontrol when used in the Pd‐AAS of several hindered and unhindered substrates, using a wide range of C‐, O‐, and N‐nucleophiles. In this concept, we review and discuss the current progress made in the design of tailor‐made phosphite‐oxazoline ligand libraries for the Pd‐AAS of a broad range of substrates and nucleophiles and its application in the construction of chiral complex molecules.
Total Synthesis of Spiroalkaloids Lycibarbarines A–C
Authors: Nie Pengpeng , Zhao Chuanfang , Yu Shuai , Liu Jun , Du Yuguo
Published: July 2023

The concise and efficient synthesis of tetrahydroquinoline alkaloids lycibarbarines A−C has been accomplished in four steps from a common intermediate derived from commercially available 2‐deoxy‐D‐ribose and 8‐hydroxyquinoline. For the synthesis of the unique tetracyclic spiro‐heterocycle skeleton we employed a synthetic strategy that features two key transformations: iodomethyllithium‐based homologation of lactone / N‐alkylation to access tetracyclic spiro‐heterocycle skeleton in one step and one‐pot acetonide deprotection, hemiacetal formation, and spirocyclization cascade process.
A novel application for magnetite tailings and municipal sludge in ceramsite preparation
Authors: Shi Xianfeng , Geng Chao , Li Quanming , Wei Jie , Chu Yanyu
Published: July 2023

Magnetite tailings and municipal sludge is two different solid wastes. Large stockpiles of magnetite tailings and municipal sludge create serious environmental problems. In this study, a new method for preparing ceramsite from magnetite tailings and municipal sludge is proposed. The effects of factors including preheating temperature, preheating time, roasting temperature, roasting time, and municipal sludge dosage on the physical properties of ceramsite were investigated. The optimal conditions for ceramsite preparation were determined as follows: magnetite tailings:municipal sludge quality ratio of 85:15, preheating temperature of 325°C, preheating time of 40 min, roasting temperature of 1120°C, and roasting time of 6 min. Under these conditions, the ceramsite with an apparent density of 1.22 g/cm3, bulk density of 0.63 g/cm3, 1‐h water absorption of 3.58%, particle strength of 231 N, and cylinder pressure strength of 3.5 MPa was obtained; the resulting ceramsite met the standard requirements and was evaluated as having high quality. A toxic leaching test indicated that the ceramsite had a much lower concentration of heavy metals than the limits described by the USA Environmental Protection Agency, meeting the environmental quality standard requirements for surface water.
Probabilistic seismic performance assessment of steel moment‐resisting frames considering exposed column‐base plate connections with ductile anchor rods
Authors: Song Biao , Hassan Ahmad , Kanvinde Amit , Galasso Carmine
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a numerical study assessing the seismic performance of steel moment‐resisting frames (SMRFs) designed with ductile exposed column‐base plate (ECBP) connections employing yielding anchor rods. For their potential use as weak bases, the proposed ECBP detail is designed to accommodate plastic deformations in the anchors. The seismic performance of 2‐ and 4‐story archetype SMRFs with ECBPs is investigated to examine the effects of various base‐connection strengths on the frame collapse mechanisms and probabilities. To this aim, the ECBP connections of each frame are designed for a set of three strength levels, ranging from reduced seismic loads to capacity‐designed forces of the adjoining columns. These designs enable the base responses to vary from highly inelastic (i.e., weak‐base design) to elastic (i.e., strong‐base design) when subjected to earthquake‐induced ground shaking. Nonlinear time history analysis (NLTHA) is extensively performed, applying a suite of assembled ground‐motion sequences (i.e., two ground motions in series) to assess the ECBP connection response and the corresponding frame behavior. Fragility analyses accounting for only the first ground motions in each considered sequence (to derive fragility curves), and the entire ground‐motion sequences (to derive fragility surfaces) are also performed to evaluate the probabilities of frame collapse and base connection failure. Finally, key findings regarding the seismic performance of ductile ECBP connections and their effects on the frame collapse are discussed. The limitations of the study are also outlined.
Direct loss‐based seismic design of reinforced concrete frame and wall structures
Authors: Gentile Roberto , Calvi Gian Michele
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a procedure to design reinforced concrete (RC) buildings to achieve an acceptable target level of earthquake‐induced loss (e.g., deaths, dollars, downtime) under a site‐specific hazard profile. The procedure is called “direct” since the target loss level is specified at the first step of the process, and virtually no iteration is required. The procedure is based on a simplified loss assessment involving a surrogate model for the seismic demand (i.e., probability distribution of peak horizontal deformation given ground‐motion intensity) and simplified loss models for direct and indirect losses. For an arbitrarily‐selected target loss level and structural geometry, the procedure provides the force‐displacement curve of the corresponding equivalent single degree of freedom system. The principles of displacement‐based design are adopted to provide member detailings (beams, columns, walls) consistent with such force‐displacement curve. The procedure is applied to 16 realistic RC case studies with a lateral resisting system composed of frames in one direction and cantilever walls in the perpendicular one. They show different geometries, hazard profiles, and target values of direct economic expected annual loss. A benchmark loss estimation is obtained using cloud‐based non‐linear time‐history analyses of multi‐degree of freedom models. The procedure is conservative since the benchmark loss levels are always smaller than the targets. Such discrepancy is within 10% for 12 out of 32 case studies, between 10% and 20% for 13, between 20% and 31% for the remaining six. Therefore, the proposed procedure is deemed dependable for preliminary design.
Research on spectral method of lost circulation layer located by transient pressure wave
Authors: Wang Beijing , Zhu Zhongxi , Lei Wanneng , Wu Yanxian
Published: July 2023

Leakage in the wellbore annulus during drilling operations can affect normal production operations, resulting in a severe waste of resources and economic loss, so it is crucial to adopt a fast and effective leak identification method for subsequent plugging operations. For the complex problem of judging the location of the leakage layer, we proposed the method of excitation pressure wave to identify the location of the leakage layer. By analyzing the transfer of pressure waves within the annular pipe system and the pressure head response spectrum, the leak's location is identified based on the location of the resonance point and the change in resonance amplitude. The pressure wave signal contains too much noise. The variational mode decomposition (VMD) algorithm and the Hilbert joint spectrum were used to extract the main frequency components to reconstruct the signal to achieve the denoising effect. On this basis, the reconstructed signal is processed by fast Fourier transform (FFT) to obtain the pressure wave response spectrum, analyze the frequency domain features, and then determine the location of the leakage layer. The experimental results verify that: ① When a leak occurs in the wellbore annulus, the pressure wave will generate additional resonance points in the frequency domain due to the presence of the leak point. ② The combination of the VMD algorithm, FFT, and Hilbert joint spectrum can effectively remove the noise of the pressure wave signal. ③ The method effectively avoids the difficulty of identifying negative pressure waves in the time domain analysis of pressure wave signals. It can effectively locate the leaky layer in the frequency domain analysis. It is concluded that the principle of the method is feasible and has practical significance for field application.
Resting state network connectivity alterations in HIV: Parallels with aging
Authors: Lew Brandon J. , McCusker Marie C. , O'Neill Jennifer , Bares Sara H. , Wilson Tony W. , Doucet Gaelle E.
Published: July 2023

The increasing incidence of age‐related comorbidities in people with HIV (PWH) has led to accelerated aging theories. Functional neuroimaging research, including functional connectivity (FC) using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI), has identified neural aberrations related to HIV infection. Yet little is known about the relationship between aging and resting‐state FC in PWH. This study included 86 virally suppressed PWH and 99 demographically matched controls spanning 22–72 years old who underwent rs‐fMRI. The independent and interactive effects of HIV and aging on FC were investigated both within‐ and between‐network using a 7‐network atlas. The relationship between HIV‐related cognitive deficits and FC was also examined. We also conducted network‐based statistical analyses using a brain anatomical atlas (n = 512 regions) to ensure similar results across independent approaches. We found independent effects of age and HIV in between‐network FC. The age‐related increases in FC were widespread, while PWH displayed further increases above and beyond aging, particularly between‐network FC of the default‐mode and executive control networks. The results were overall similar using the regional approach. Since both HIV infection and aging are associated with independent increases in between‐network FC, HIV infection may be associated with a reorganization of the major brain networks and their functional interactions in a manner similar to aging.
Only the fit survive recessions: Estimating labor market penalties for the obese over the business cycle
Authors: Inafuku Rachel
Published: July 2023

The obesity epidemic is a growing concern in the United States. Aside from the detrimental health effects of obesity, previous work has also documented a negative relationship between obesity and various labor market outcomes. Given that the American adult obesity rate is roughly 40%, obesity affects a large portion of the US labor market. In this study, I analyze the impact of obesity on income and employment over business cycle fluctuations. I find that during economic downturns, obese workers experience larger declines in income and employment relative to their healthy weight peers. These effects exist for both genders and are concentrated amongst younger adults.
Synthesis, Characterisation, and in vitro Cytotoxic Activity of Dithiocarbamato Glycoconjugate Half‐Sandwich Ruthenium and Osmium Complexes
Authors: Soldevila‐Barreda Joan J. , Pettenuzzo Andrea , Azmanova Maria , Rafols Laia , Attia Amr A. A. , Lupan Alexandru , Ronconi Luca , Barry Nicolas P. E. , Pitto‐Barry Anaïs
Published: July 2023

The synthesis by transmetallation and in‐depth characterisation by IR spectroscopy of five half‐sandwich ruthenium and osmium dithiocarbamato isonipecotamide glycoconjugate complexes are presented herein. The evaluation of their in vitro cytotoxicity and of the zinc precursors’ in vitro cytotoxicity towards ovarian cancer (A2780 and A2780cisR) and normal prostate (PNT2) cells is reported. While the cytotoxicity of the compounds is rather limited, some selectivity is observed.
Comparison of H‐Hayman uterine compression suture with conventional vertical sutures: A cross‐sectional study in a tertiary center
Authors: Denizli Ramazan , Farısoğulları Nihat , Sakcak Bedri , Özkavak Osman Onur , Kara Özgür , Tanaçan Atakan , Şahin Dilek
Published: July 2023

Objective

To compare H‐Hayman, a modified uterine compression suturing technique (UCS) that we describe for the first time in the literature, with conventional vertical UCS techniques.

Methods

The H‐Hayman technique was used in 14 women and the conventional UCS technique in 21 women. In order to provide standardization in the study, only patients who had developed upper‐segment atony during cesarean section were recruited for the study.

Results

Bleeding control was achieved in 85.7% (12/14) of the cases using the H‐Hayman technique. In the remaining two patients with persistent hemorrhage in this group, bleeding control was provided with bilateral uterine artery ligation, and a hysterectomy was avoided in all cases. With the conventional technique, bleeding control was achieved in 76.1% (16/21) of the patients, and the overall success rate was 95.2% after bilateral uterine artery ligation in those with persistent hemorrhage. In addition, the estimated blood loss and the need for erythrocyte suspension transfusion were significantly lower in the H‐Hayman group (P = 0.01 and P = 0.04, respectively).

Conclusion

We found the H‐Hayman technique to be at least as successful as conventional UCS. In addition, patients who underwent suturing with the H‐Hayman technique had less blood loss and a lower requirement for erythrocyte suspension transfusion.
Loxenatide attenuates ROS‐mediated vascular endothelial progenitor cell damage and mitochondrial dysfunction via SIRT3/Foxo3 signaling pathway
Authors: Yuan Junfang , Wang Yuzhong , Wang Defeng , Yan Han , Wang Ning
Published: July 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM), becomes a main public health issue worldwide due to the rapid increase in DM patient numbers. The dysfunction of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in DM patients plays a critical role in endothelial repair and the progression of DM‐related vascular complications. Loxenatide is an a glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonist, which is used to control glycemic in type 2 diabetes patients. However, the role of Loxenatide in EPCs remains to be investigated. EPCs were isolated, characterized, and treated with Loxenatide, high‐glucose, or 3‐TYP. quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, western blot, and cell counting kit‐8 assay were employed to validate the expression of gene and protein expressions and cell viability, respectively. Application of Seahorse XFp to measure oxygen consumption and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were measured by Seahorse XFp and MMP assay. Loxenatide attenuated high‐glucose‐induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial‐dependent apoptosis of EPCs in a concentration‐dependent manner. The EPC mitochondrial respiration dysfunction induced by high glucose was also repressed by the loxenatide treatment. The protection effect of Loxenatide on EPCs against high‐glucose was applied by activating the sirtuin 3 (SIRT3)/Foxo3 signaling pathway. We demonstrated the regulatory role of Loxenatide in mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis of EPCs. We elucidated that Loxenatide protects EPC from high‐glucose‐induced apoptosis via ROS‐mediated mitochondrial pathway through the SIRT3/Foxo3 signing pathway. This may provide a new therapeutical target for the treatment of DM‐related vascular complications.
Optimum collision energies for proteomics: The impact of ion mobility separation
Authors: Nagy Kinga , Gellén Gabriella , Papp Dávid , Schlosser Gitta , Révész Ágnes
Published: July 2023

Ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) is a widespread separation technique used in various research fields. It can be coupled to liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) methods providing an additional separation dimension. During IMS, ions are subjected to multiple collisions with buffer gas, which may cause significant ion heating. The present project addresses this phenomenon from the bottom‐up proteomics point of view. We performed LC–MS/MS measurements on a cyclic ion mobility mass spectrometer with varied collision energy (CE) settings both with and without IMS. We investigated the CE dependence of identification score, using Byonic search engine, for more than 1000 tryptic peptides from HeLa digest standard. We determined the optimal CE values—giving the highest identification score—for both setups (i.e., with and without IMS). Results show that lower CE is advantageous when IMS separation is applied, by 6.3 V on average. This value belongs to the one‐cycle separation configuration, and multiple cycles may supposedly have even larger impact. The effect of IMS is also reflected in the trends of optimal CE values versus m/z functions. The parameters suggested by the manufacturer were found to be almost optimal for the setup without IMS; on the other hand, they are obviously too high with IMS. Practical consideration on setting up a mass spectrometric platform hyphenated to IMS is also presented. Furthermore, the two CID (collision induced dissociation) fragmentation cells of the instrument—located before and after the IMS cell—were also compared, and we found that CE adjustment is needed when the trap cell is used for activation instead of the transfer cell. Data have been deposited in the MassIVE repository (MSV000090944).
Optimal delivery of endothelial progenitor cells in a rat model of critical‐size bone defects
Authors: Godbout Charles , Ryan Gareth , Ramnaraign David J. , Hegner Christian , Desjardins Sarah , Gagnon Stéphane , Bates Brent D. , Whatley Ian , Schemitsch Emil H. , Nauth Aaron
Published: July 2023

Nonunion and segmental bone defects are complex issues in orthopedic trauma. The use of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), as part of a cell‐based therapy for bone healing is a promising approach. In preclinical studies, culture medium (CM) is commonly used to deliver EPCs to the defect site, which has the potential for immunogenicity in humans. The goal of this study was to find an effective and clinically translatable delivery medium for EPCs. Accordingly, this study compared EPCs delivered in CM, phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), platelet‐poor plasma (PPP), and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in a rat model of femoral critical‐size defects. Fischer 344 rats (n = 35) were divided into six groups: EPC+CM, EPC+PBS, EPC+PPP, EPC+PRP, PPP alone, and PRP alone. A 5 mm mid‐diaphyseal defect was created in the right femur and stabilized with a miniplate. The defect was filled with a gelatin scaffold impregnated with the corresponding treatment. Radiographic, microcomputed tomography and biomechanical analyses were performed. Overall, regardless of the delivery medium, groups that received EPCs had higher radiographic scores and union rates, higher bone volume, and superior biomechanical properties compared to groups treated with PPP or PRP alone. There were no significant differences in any outcomes between EPC subgroups or between PPP and PRP alone. These results suggest that EPCs are effective in treating segmental defects in a rat model of critical‐size defects regardless of the delivery medium used. Consequently, PBS could be the optimal medium for delivering EPCs, given its low cost, ease of preparation, accessibility, noninvasiveness, and nonimmunogenic properties.
Driving factors of soil bacterial biogeographical distribution in three alpine grassland types
Authors: Wang Qi , Chen Xiaoer , Sun Haoran , Zhou Yuting , Tao Ke , Hou Taiping
Published: July 2023

The biogeographic distribution of plants and animals on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau (QTP) has been extensively studied; however, the biogeographic patterns and factors affecting bacterial communities in alpine grassland ecosystems over large scales were not fully understood. In this paper, we explored the biogeographic patterns of soil bacterial communities in wet meadow, meadow, and steppe. The results showed that bacterial α‐diversity was similar in the three grassland types, while bacterial β‐diversity differed significantly. The dominant bacteria were Proteobacteria (29.86%), Acidobacteriota (17.76%), and Actinobacteriota (16.42%), which were caused by the changes in soil pH, C/N, and soil moisture. In addition, the significant distance–decay of bacterial communities was found across environmental and geographical distances. Partial Mantel test showed that the differences of bacterial community in wet meadow and meadow were influenced by environmental and geographical factors, while the difference of bacterial community in steppe was only affected by geographical distance. The MRM accounted for 38.7%, 37.2%, and 11.8% of the variability in wet meadow, meadow, and steppe, respectively. In wet meadow and meadow, geographic distance was the most powerful factor in explaining the similarity of bacterial communities, while soil moisture was the most critical factor in steppe. It was obvious that environmental and geographical factors played different roles in shaping structures of bacterial community in wet meadow, meadow, and steppe, which provided new insights for the effective management of alpine grassland.
Influence of the Stoichiometric Ratio on the Curing Kinetics and Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Resin Cured with a Rosin‐Based Anhydride
Authors: Rothenhäusler Florian , Kettenbach Marcel , Ruckdaeschel Holger
Published: July 2023

Bio‐based alternatives for petroleum‐based epoxy resin curing agents, such as maleopimaric acid (MPA), are indispensable for sustainable fiber reinforced polymer composites with thermosetting matrices. However, previous investigations disregarded the importance of choosing the right stoichiometric ratio R between the anhydride groups in the rosin‐based curing agent and the epoxy groups in the resin. Therefore, the influence of R on the curing kinetics and mechanical properties of an epoxy resin cured with a rosin‐based anhydride is studied. Here, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR) indicates that for R ⩾ 0.9 unreacted anhydride groups are present in the thermoset. Consequently, the network density decreases and the glass transition temperature Tg drops by about 40 °C. On the other hand, the steric hindrance of unreacted functional groups for R ⩾ 0.9, increases the flexural modulus and the reduced network density improves fracture toughness. The results indicate that the best R for overall high mechanical performance and good processability is preferably low (R ⩽ 0.7). Here, a low R results in a high Tg and good processability due to a low viscosity. However, the latency of the mixtures is low and therefore, the mixtures are not fit for processing via prepreg technology.
Impact of nutritional‐behavioral and supervised exercise intervention following bariatric surgery: The BARI‐LIFESTYLE randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jassil Friedrich C. , Carnemolla Alisia , Kingett Helen , Doyle Jacqueline , Kirk Amy , Lewis Neville , Montagut Gemma , Marvasti Parastou , Boniface David , Brown Adrian , Chaiyasoot Kusuma , Zakeri Roxanna , Mok Jessica , Devalia Kalpana , Parmar Chetan , Batterham Rachel L.
Published: July 2023

Objective

The study's aim was to investigate the impact of a 12‐month adjunctive lifestyle intervention on weight loss and health outcomes after bariatric surgery.

Methods

A total of 153 participants (78.4% females; mean [SD], age 44.2 [10.6] years; BMI 42.4 [5.7] kg/m2) were randomized to intervention (n = 79) and control (n = 74). The BARI‐LIFESTYLE program combined 17 nutritional‐behavioral tele‐counseling sessions plus once‐weekly supervised exercise for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was percentage weight loss at 6 months post surgery. Secondary outcomes included body composition, physical activity levels, physical function and strength, health‐related quality of life, depressive symptomatology, and comorbidities.

Results

Longitudinal analysis of the entire cohort showed significant reductions in body weight, fat mass, fat‐free mass, and bone mineral density at the total hip, femoral neck, and lumbar spine (all p < 0.001). The 6‐minute walk test, sit‐to‐stand test, health‐related quality of life, and depressive symptomatology improved significantly (all p < 0.001). The time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity and sedentary behavior remained the same as before surgery (both p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the primary outcome between the intervention versus control (20.4% vs. 21.2%; mean difference = −0.8%; 95% CI: −2.8 to 1.1; p > 0.05) and no between‐group differences in secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

An adjunctive lifestyle program implemented immediately after surgery had no favorable impact upon weight loss and health outcomes.