bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing rhizoma peanut–bahiagrass mixtures
Authors: Shepard Erin M. , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Kohmann Marta M. , da Silva Liliane Severino , Harling, John F. , Dubeux, Jose C. B. , Vendramini João M. B.
Published: June 2022

Rhizoma peanut (RP;Arachis glabrataBenth.) is a perennial legume with ability to persist and spread in mixtures with C4grasses. Most RP establishment studies focus on its use as a monoculture hay crop, and more information is needed on establishment strategies for RP–grass mixtures. The objectives of this study were to compare techniques for establishing RP–grass mixtures and quantify their effects on RP shoot emergence, frequency of occurrence (percentage of quadrats containing RP shoots), percentage ground cover, and RP shoot and root‐rhizome biomass. Treatments were (a) RP planted in monoculture (MRP; control), (b) RP planted simultaneously with bahiagrass (Paspalum notatumFlügge; RP‐BG), or (c) RP strip planted into existing bahiagrass pasture following removal of bahiagrass sod strips (Strip). There was no treatment or sampling date effect on RP shoot density (29.5 shoots m–2) during 10 wk after spring planting. By October, RP ground cover was greater for Strip (43%) than MRP (32%) and for MRP than RP‐BG (18%), and Strip and MRP had greater RP frequency than RP‐BG (82, 72, and 58%, respectively). Strip and MRP (1.39 and 1.10 Mg ha–1, respectively) had greater year‐of‐planting RP shoot mass than RP‐BG (0.52 Mg ha–1), but root‐rhizome biomass was not affected by treatment. Measures of establishment success for Strip generally were equal or superior to MRP, and Strip is a viable option for establishing RP–grass mixtures. Weed competition reduced RP establishment success in RP‐BG relative to the other treatments because herbicides tolerated by both bahiagrass seedlings and emerging RP shoots are unavailable.
Sense of community improves community participation in Chinese residential communities: The mediating role of sense of community responsibility and prosocial tendencies
Authors: Deng Xiangshu , Wei Zhenyu , Tu Chunfang , Yin Yujuan
Published: June 2022

Community participation is essential for community development and enhancing quality of life. Several studies have focused on the relationship between sense of community (SOC) and community participation in organizational settings. Guided by the community experiences framework, this study aims to examine how a SOC improves community participation in Chinese residential communities. Moreover, the study aims to assess the mediating role of SOC responsibility (SOC‐R) and prosocial tendencies in that relationship. A sample of 433 residents completed questionnaires regarding their SOC, sense of community responsibility, prosocial tendencies, and community participation. Using a linear regression model, we found that a SOC can positively predict the level of community participation. Mediation effect analysis revealed that a SOC‐R mediated the relationship between SOC and community participation. In addition, prosocial tendencies mediated the association between the SOC and community participation. Using multiple mediation analysis, we found that SOC‐R and prosocial tendencies mediated the link between a SOC and community participation in a sequential manner. The findings of this study complement existing research by uncovering the mechanism underlying the relationship between a SOC and community participation.
Intrinsic Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Activate the In Situ Synthesis of Trimethine Cyanines in Cancer Cells
Authors: Heng Hao , Song Gang , Cai Xuetong , Sun Jian , Du Ke , Zhang Xiaoran , Wang Xia , Feng Fude , Wang Shu
Published: June 2022

Environment‐responsive in situ synthesis of molecular fluorescent dyes is challenging. Herein, we develop a photoextension strategy to make trimethine cyanines with decent conversion efficiency (up to 81 %) using 1‐butyl 2,3,3‐trimethyl 3H‐indole derivatives as the sole precursors, and demonstrate a free radical mechanism. In the inducer‐extension stage, free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were able to mediate similar reactions with no assistance of light. We explored a Mito‐extension strategy to in situ synthesize trimethine cyanines in the living cells. The cellular ROS‐dependence provided a foundation for preferential cyanine expression in cancer cells. Finally, we applied an iodized precursor as an intrinsic ROS‐activated theranostic agent that integrated mitochondria‐targeted cyanine synthesis, cell imaging and phototherapy.
Stereodivergent Construction of 1,4‐Nonadjacent Stereocenters via Hydroalkylation of Racemic Allylic Alcohols Enabled by Copper/Ruthenium Relay Catalysis
Authors: Chang Xin , Cheng Xiang , Liu Xue‐Tao , Fu Cong , Wang Wei‐Yi , Wang Chun‐Jiang
Published: June 2022

An unprecedented hydroalkylation of racemic allylic alcohols and racemic ketimine esters enabled by Cu/Ru relay catalysis has been developed via merging the ruthenium‐catalyzed asymmetric borrowing‐hydrogen reaction with a copper‐catalyzed asymmetric Michael addition in a one‐pot procedure. The current method enables the efficient preparation of highly functionalized δ‐hydroxyesters bearing 1,4‐nonadjacent stereocenters in good yields with high levels of diastereoselectivity and excellent enantioselectivity under mild reaction conditions. The full complement of the four stereoisomers of hydroalkylation products could be readily accessed by orthogonal permutations of two chiral metal catalysts. The current work highlights the power of relay catalysis for the stereodivergent construction of 1,4‐nonadjacent stereocenters that were otherwise inaccessible.
Synthesis, characterization, theoretical study, and anticancer application of a new asymmetric ligand, N‐trans‐cinnamylidene‐1,2‐phenylenediamine, and its complexes
Authors: Hojjati Ahmad , Mansournia Mohammadreza
Published: June 2022

In this work, a new asymmetric ligand, N‐trans‐cinnamylidene‐1,2‐phenylenediamine via the condensation reaction of 1,2‐phenylenediamine and trans‐cinnamaldehyde, and its complexes have been successfully synthesized. The ligand and its complexes were characterized by spectroscopic techniques including FT‐IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI‐mass, UV‐vis, and physicochemical methods, such as molar conductivity, elemental analysis, and melting point. Based on the identification results, the general formula of MLX2 (X = Cl−, Br−, and M = Zn2+, Hg2+, Cd2+) was proposed for the complexes. Differential scanning calorimetric analysis was also used to investigate the thermal properties of the as‐synthesized compounds. Further, theoretical studies were performed on the ligand and its complexes. Molecular electrostatic potential surface analysis was done to distinguish the electrophilic and nucleophilic sites of the products. Nonlinear optical properties of the ligand and complexes were calculated and then compared with the standard nonlinear optical material. The frontier molecular orbitals were theoretically determined and the energy gap, global electrophilicity index, electronic chemical potential, ionization potential, absolute electronegativity, electron affinity, absolute hardness, and softness were calculated. Finally, thermodynamic properties of the compounds were evaluated. Moreover, the assessment of cytotoxicity effects of all compounds against HCT116 cancer cells was performed by the MTT assay. In vitro studies showed that HgLCl2 could considerably reduce cell viability and increase induction apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.
Hydrogenation of vegetable oil using highly dispersed Pt/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst: Effects of key operating parameters and deactivation study
Authors: Troncoso Franco David , Costilla Ignacio Oscar , Tonetto Gabriela Marta
Published: June 2022

In the present work, Pt/γ‐Al2O3 catalysts with high metal dispersion were prepared and characterized using chloroplatinic acid and platinum acetylacetonate as metal precursors. The activity and selectivity of the catalysts were evaluated in the hydrogenation of sunflower oil. A comprehensive analysis of the effects of key operational parameters on catalytic performance was carried out. The experimental variables were hydrogen pressure (275.8–551.6 kPa), temperature (160–200°C), and catalyst loading (0.005–0.015 kg Ptexp/m3oil). Platinum catalysts were active, with a double bond conversion of 28% at 2 h. The metal precursor affected catalyst selectivity. The catalyst prepared with chloroplatinic acid exhibited a lower formation of trans‐isomers compared with Pt acetylacetonate. The γ‐Al2O3 supported platinum catalyst with a metal loading of 0.51 wt.% and a metal dispersion of 98% maintained its initial catalyst activity and selectivity after 10 consecutive uses (1200 min accumulate operation time), without changes in its catalytic properties. The obtained results suggested that Pt catalysts are an attractive alternative to conventional nickel catalysts for the hydrogenation of vegetable oil.
Sustainable copper oxide/Tragacanth gum bionanocomposites with multi‐purpose catalytic activities on textile
Authors: Kahali Panid , Montazer Majid , Kamali Dolatabadi Mehdi
Published: June 2022

In this study, a bionanocomposites layer was created on polyester textile through the insitu synthesis of copper nanoparticles using copper acetate in an alkaline solution and Tragacanth gum polymer. The chemical structure and surface morphology of samples were studied by XRD, FTIR, XPS, SEM, and EDX patterns. Moreover, the photocatalytic and antibacterial features, cytotoxicity, the release of nanoparticles, color coordinates, water absorption, thermal behavior, and tensile strength of samples were investigated. In addition, the effect of polymer coating on the created properties on the surface of samples was explored. Based on the obtained results, the prepared fabric with copper oxide/Tragacanth gum bionanocomposites created the fairly suitable photo, bio, hydro, and heat‐catalytic activities granting environment safety.
Records, trust, and misinformation: Using birtherism to understand the influence of conspiracy theories on human information interactions
Authors: Donaldson Devan Ray , LeFevre Colin Bradley
Published: June 2022

Records are persistent representations of activities created by partakers, observers, or their authorized proxies. People are generally willing to trust vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates. However, conspiracy theories and other misinformation may negatively impact perceptions of such documents, particularly when they are associated with a significant person or event. This paper explores the relationship between archival records and trustworthiness by reporting results of a survey that asked genealogists about their perceptions of 44th U.S. President Barack Obama's birth certificate, which was then at the center of the “birtherism” conspiracy. We found that although most participants perceived the birth certificate as trustworthy, others engaged in a biased review, considering it not trustworthy because of the news and politics surrounding it. These findings suggest that a conspiracy theory can act as a moderating variable that undermines the efficacy of normal or recommended practices and procedures for evaluating online information such as birth certificates. We provide recommendations and propose strategies for archivists to disseminate correct information to counteract the spread of misinformation about the authenticity of vital records, and we discuss future directions for research.
Combustion timing control of HCCI engine based on NNPC and Elman‐NN model under complex conditions
Authors: Zhang Liangbin , Zheng Taixiong , Ma Ying , Li Yongfu , He Ji
Published: June 2022

Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) combines the characteristics of gasoline engine and diesel engine with high thermal efficiency and low emissions. However, since there is no direct initiator of combustion, it is difficult to control the combustion timing in HCCI engines under complex working conditions. In this paper, Neural Network Predictive Control (NNPC) for combustion timing of the HCCI engine is designed and implemented. First, the black box model based on Elman neural network is designed and developed to estimate the combustion timing. The fuel equivalence ratio, intake valve closing timing, intake manifold temperature, intake manifold gas pressure, and engine speed are chosen as the system inputs. Then, a NNPC controller is designed to control combustion timing by controlling the intake valve closing timing. Simulation results show that the Elman neural network black box model is capable of estimating the HCCI engine combustion timing. In addition, regardless of whether the HCCI engine is in constant or complex condition, the designed NNPC controller is capable of keeping the combustion timing within the ideal range. In particular, under New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) working conditions, the maximum overshoot of the controller is 28.95% and the average error is 1.03 crank angle degree. It is concluded that the controller has good adaptability and robustness.
The pathological risk score: A new deep learning‐based signature for predicting survival in cervical cancer
Authors: Chen Chi , Cao Yuye , Li Weili , Liu Zhenyu , Liu Ping , Tian Xin , Sun Caixia , Wang Wuliang , Gao Han , Kang Shan , Wang Shaoguang , Jiang Jingying , Chen Chunlin , Tian Jie
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To develop and validate a deep learning‐based pathological risk score (RS) with an aim of predicting patients' prognosis to investigate the potential association between the information within the whole slide image (WSI) and cervical cancer prognosis.

Methods

A total of 251 patients with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Stage IA1–IIA2 cervical cancer who underwent surgery without any preoperative treatment were enrolled in this study. Both the clinical characteristics and WSI of each patient were collected. To construct a prognosis‐associate RS, high‐dimensional pathological features were extracted using a convolutional neural network with an autoencoder. With the score threshold selected by X‐tile, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was applied to verify the prediction performance of RS in overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in both the training and testing datasets, as well as different clinical subgroups.

Results

For the OS and DFS prediction in the testing cohort, RS showed a Harrell's concordance index of higher than 0.700, while the areas under the curve (AUC) achieved up to 0.800 in the same cohort. Furthermore, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis demonstrated that RS was a potential prognostic factor, even in different datasets or subgroups. It could further distinguish the survival differences after clinicopathological risk stratification.

Conclusion

In the present study, we developed an effective signature in cervical cancer for prognosis prediction and patients' stratification in OS and DFS.
Interventions to promote home radon testing: A randomized clinical trial of a smartphone app vs. printed brochures
Authors: Kim Soojung , Chiu Tiffany , Klug Marilyn G. , Schmitz David , Schwartz Gary G.
Published: June 2022

Radon is a preventable cause of lung cancer, but the percentage of homes tested for radon is low. We previously developed a smartphone app that informs users about radon and allows them to request a free radon test. Here we conducted a randomized, controlled trial comparing the radon app versus printed brochures on radon knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, including the proportion of participants requesting radon tests. Participants (N = 138) were undergraduates at a midwestern university. Data were analyzed by t‐tests, general linear models, and logistic regression. App users showed significantly greater increases in radon knowledge (p = 0.010) and self‐efficacy (p < 0.001) and requested tests three times more often than brochure recipients (41.4% vs. 13.2%, p < 0.001). However, the rate of test usage in each condition was low, ~3%. In conclusion, the radon app markedly outperformed brochures in increasing knowledge and requests for radon tests. Future work should focus on methods to increase test usage.
The application of leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF) in maxillary sinus augmentation
Authors: Powell Charles A. , Casarez‐Quintana Alicia , Zellner Jacob , Al‐Bayati Omar , Font Kerri
Published: June 2022

Background

Since the introduction of sinus augmentation in the 1970s the procedure has been performed with or without biomaterials. Autologous blood products (ABPs) for use in sinus augmentation was first introduced in the 2000s, to aid potentially in bone and soft tissue healing.

Methods

Three different applications of leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF) in maxillary sinus augmentation are presented in this case series. In case 1, L‐PRF is used in bilateral sinus augmentation to support placement of implants to support a maxillary hybrid denture. Case 2 highlights the use of L‐PRF in a complication associate with Schneiderian membrane elevation. Case 3 provides histology taken at the time of implant placement 6 months following L‐PRF/xenograft sinus augmentation.

Results

All cases resulted in the successful placement of dental implants. In case 2, an osseodensification procedure was performed with freeze‐dried bone allograft, which provided an approximate 4 mm of additional vertical height for implant placement. Histology from case 3 at 6 months post sinus augmentation demonstrated the presence of new vital bone in contact with the xenograft.

Conclusion

To date, there is only a limited amount of evidence reporting on platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) or L‐PRF use in maxillary sinus augmentation. Bone gain from either product has ranged from 3.2 to 11.8 mm, with the percentage of newly formed bone reported in case series as 33% ± 5%. Despite the lack of strong evidence, L‐PRF appears to have beneficial effects on bone regeneration when used in sinus augmentation.
Narratives of Neglect in Social Work with Children and Families: The Relationship between Voice and Narrative
Authors: Revell Lisa
Published: June 2022

This article reports findings from a study which sought to offer primacy to the voice of the child, using narrative approaches to encourage children and young people to share their lived experiences of neglect. Using a constructivist approach, this paper explores the relationship between the voice of the child and their narrative of neglect. Drawing on the notion of ‘family narrative’, the discussion examines how children's views are constructed and reconstructed through the process of telling. This research documents that whilst practitioners seek to present the authentic voice of the child, our understanding of ‘voice’ should be problematized to take account of the fact that it is mediated through a number of filters and lenses. By attending to the voice of the child in the context of their narrative, practitioners may move closer to understanding the lived experience of the individual by exploring feelings, motivations and the myriad of factors which may influence how and for what purpose voice is shared. Engagement with the voice of their child in the context of their narrative, facilitates the development of a social work meta‐narrative to inform effective intervention.
Gender Differences in Cumulative Abuse, Bystander Intervention and Long‐Term Effects on Health and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Cho Hyunkag , Seon Jisuk , Lee Jungeun Olivia , Son Esther , Yun Sung Hyun , Kwon Ilan
Published: June 2022

This study examines gender differences in cumulative abuse, measured by the Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire, bystander intervention outcomes and survivors' long‐term health, using student survey data from seven universities (N = 4080). By conducting chi‐squared tests, t‐tests and regression analyses, the results show that more female students reported higher cumulative abuse than male students. Survivors of cumulative abuse reported higher intimate partner violence (IPV) victimisation. Female survivors reported poorer mental health, while male survivors were more involved in alcohol and drug use. Most survivors remembered the bystander presence at the incident of abuse as neither helpful nor harmful, which was not significantly different by gender. Findings suggest that campus service providers need to tailor services considering the gendered effects of cumulative abuse on IPV and its long‐term health ramifications to enhance the effectiveness of services for college students.
DPA‐Substituted Carbazole Derivative as a Fluorescent Ligand for G4 DNA
Authors: Wang Ming , Zhang Feng , Luo Yang , Shuo Li , Wang Ming‐Qi
Published: June 2022

Herein a conjugated dipicolylamine/carbazole (Car‐DPA) molecule was designed and synthesized to enhance the performance for the application as a G4 fluorescent ligand. This ligand has been found to display distinct and specific fluorescence enhancements in the presence of various G4 DNA structures, but limited with ssDNA or dsDNAs. The detail binding characteristics of the ligand with c‐MYC G4 DNA were investigated by fluorescence, UV/VIS absorption, CD spectroscopy, and molecular docking. The present study demonstrated that Car‐DPA bound to c‐MYC G4s with a two‐step complex formation, in which the binding mode appeared to be end‐stacking. Confocal fluorescence images indicated that ligand Car‐DPA could locate in nucleus, which is quite prominent from the cellular internalization studies.
The relationship between parents' personality traits and leaving unequal bequests to children
Authors: Sommer Matthew , Lim HanNa
Published: June 2022

This study investigated the relationship between the five‐factor model personality traits and parents' intentions to leave unequal bequests to their children. A sample of 1229 was drawn from the 2016 wave of the health and retirement study. As predicted by the study's hypotheses, the results found that conscientiousness was negatively related to unequal bequests, while extraversion was positively related to unequal bequests. Opposite of the study's prediction, however, was a positive relationship between agreeableness and unequal bequests. Although the effect sizes were small, financial planners can easily use these findings to better understand how their clients' personality traits may play a role in their wealth transfer intentions.
Spectroscopic Signature of Dynamical Instability of the Aqueous Complex in the Brown‐Ring Nitrate Test**
Authors: Banerjee Ambar , Coates Michael R. , Odelius Michael
Published: June 2022

The chemistry of the brown‐ring test has been investigated for nearly a century. Though recent studies have focused on solid state structure determination and measurement of spectra, mechanistic details and kinetics, the aspects of solution structure and dynamics remain unknown. We have studied structural fluctuations of the brown‐ring complex in aqueous solution with ab‐initio molecular dynamics simulations, from which we identified that the classically established pseudo‐octahedral [Fe(H2O)5(NO)]2+complex is present along with a square‐pyramidal [Fe(H2O)4(NO)]2+complex. Based on the inability in multi‐reference calculations to reproduce the experimental UV‐vis spectra in aqueous solution by inclusion of thermal fluctuations of the [Fe(H2O)5(NO)]2+complex alone, we propose the existence of an equilibrium between pseudo‐octahedral and square‐pyramidal complexes. Despite challenges in constructing models reproducing the solid‐state UV‐vis spectrum, the advanced spectrum simulation tool motivates us to challenge the established picture of a sole pseudo‐octahedral complex in solution.
Transformations of Strained Three‐Membered Rings a Common, Yet Overlooked, Motif in Heavy‐Atom Tunneling Reactions
Authors: Schleif Tim
Published: June 2022

Quantum mechanical tunneling has long been recognized as an important phenomenon when considering transformations dominated by a lightweight hydrogen atom. Tunneling of heavier atoms like carbon, initially dismissed as negligible, has seen a quickly increasing number of computationally predicted and/or experimentally confirmed examples over the last decade, thus highlighting its importance for a wide variety of reactions. However, no common structural motif has been pointed out within these seemingly unconnected examples, strongly limiting the predictability of the impact of heavy‐atom tunneling on a given reaction. This Concept article will provide this perspective and showcase how the recognition of the formation and cleavage of three‐membered rings as common motif can inform the prediction of and research into heavy‐atom tunneling reactions.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: Hazard and operability analysis—HAZOP
Authors: Mocellin Paolo , De Tommaso Jacopo , Vianello Chiara , Maschio Giuseppe , Saulnier‐Bellemare Thomas , Virla Luis D. , Patience Gregory S.
Published: June 2022

Hazards and operability analysis (HAZOP) is one of a dozen‐structured Process Hazards Analysis (PHA) methodologies that assess risks associated with operating processes to mitigate their consequences. HAZOP applies to all six stages of process design from discovery to decommissioning. Industry massively adopted PHA methodologies as a consequence of several industrial disasters in the 1970s that increased society's scrutiny of chemical operations. HAZOPs are conducted by multidisciplinary teams that rely on a set of guide words in combination with the system parameters to identify deviations from the design intent. The team discuss the causes and consequences of deviations, and the project owner modifies the process accordingly. It relies on heuristics rather than algorithms, so the formal structure gives practitioners the false sense that the analysis is comprehensive. Academic institutions increasingly apply PHAs to experimental work, but the scope of a HAZOP is often ill‐suited for this environment as it requires dedicated personnel with particular expertise. Here, we outline the essential features of a HAZOP analysis for early career researchers engaging in process development for conditions that include, for example, high temperature, high pressure, toxic compounds (Hg, phosgene, CO), and potentially explosive and flammable mixtures like organic peroxides. Web of Science indexed over 100 000 documents that mention safety in 2021 and assigned 1500 to chemical engineering. A bibliometric analysis grouped them into five clusters: (1) lithium ion batteries and nanoparticles, (2) fire, simulation, and combustion, (3) models, risk, systems, and techniques (including HAZOP), (4) water treatment, and (5) mechanisms and thermal runaway. [Correction added on 01 September 2022, after first online publication: The item number 3 in the preceding sentence was duplicated in the original published article and has been deleted in this version.]
Vildagliptin‐Derived Dipeptidyl Peptidase 9 (DPP9) Inhibitors: Identification of a DPP8/9‐Specific Lead
Authors: Benramdane Siham , De Loose Joni , Beyens Olivier , Van Rymenant Yentl , Vliegen Gwendolyn , Augustyns Koen , De Winter Hans , De Meester Ingrid , Van der Veken Pieter
Published: June 2022

Vildagliptin is a marketed DPP4 inhibitor, used in the management of type 2 diabetes. The molecule also has notable DPP8/9 affinity, with some preference for DPP9. Therefore, we aimed to use vildagliptin as a starting point for selective DPP8/9 inhibitors, and to engineer out the parent compound's DPP4‐affinity. In addition, we wanted to identify substructures in the obtained molecules that allow their further optimization into inhibitors with maximal DPP9 selectivity. Various 2S‐cyanopyrrolidines and isoindoline were investigated as P1 residues of vildagliptin analogs. The obtained set was expanded with derivatives bearing O‐substituted, N‐(3‐hydroxyadamantyl)glycine moieties at the P2 position. In this way, representatives were discovered with DPP8/9 potencies comparable to the parent molecule, but with overall selectivity towards DPP4, DPP2, FAP, and PREP. Furthermore, the most promising molecules in this series have a 4‐ to 7‐fold preference for DPP9 over DPP8. Finally, a molecular dynamics study was carried out to maximize our insight into experimental selectivity data.
Oxytocin receptors are widely distributed in the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) brain: Relation to social behavior, genetic polymorphisms, and the dopamine system
Authors: Inoue Kiyoshi , Ford Charles L. , Horie Kengo , Young Larry J.
Published: June 2022

Oxytocin regulates social behavior via direct modulation of neurons, regulation of neural network activity, and interaction with other neurotransmitter systems. The behavioral effects of oxytocin signaling are determined by the species‐specific distribution of brain oxytocin receptors. The socially monogamous prairie vole has been a useful model organism for elucidating the role of oxytocin in social behaviors, including pair bonding, response to social loss, and consoling. However, there has been no comprehensive mapping of oxytocin receptor‐expressing cells throughout the prairie vole brain. Here, we employed a highly sensitive in situ hybridization, RNAscope, to construct an exhaustive, brain‐wide map of oxytocin receptor mRNA‐expressing cells. We found that oxytocin receptor mRNA expression was widespread and diffused throughout the brain, with specific areas displaying a particularly robust expression. Comparing receptor binding with mRNA revealed that regions of the hippocampus and substantia nigra contained oxytocin receptor protein but lacked mRNA, indicating that oxytocin receptors can be transported to distal neuronal processes, consistent with presynaptic oxytocin receptor functions. In the nucleus accumbens, a region involved in oxytocin‐dependent social bonding, oxytocin receptor mRNA expression was detected in both the D1 and D2 dopamine receptor‐expressing subtypes of cells. Furthermore, natural genetic polymorphisms robustly influenced oxytocin receptor expression in both D1 and D2 receptor cell types in the nucleus accumbens. Collectively, our findings further elucidate the extent to which oxytocin signaling is capable of influencing brain‐wide neural activity, responses to social stimuli, and social behavior.

Key points

Oxytocin receptor mRNA is diffusely expressed throughout the brain, with strong expression concentrated in certain areas involved in social behavior.

Oxytocin receptor mRNA expression and protein localization are misaligned in some areas, indicating that the receptor protein may be transported to distal processes.

In the nucleus accumbens, oxytocin receptors are expressed on cells expressing both D1 and D2 dopamine receptor subtypes, and the majority of variation in oxytocin receptor expression between animals is attributable to polymorphisms in the oxytocin receptor gene.
Light‐Induced and Thermal Isomerization of Azobenzenes on Immobilized Gold Nanoparticle Aggregates
Authors: Kunfi Attila , Ábrahám Ágnes , Gyulai Gergő , Kiss Éva , London Gábor
Published: June 2022

Morphologically different gold nanoparticle (AuNP) aggregates were prepared on macroscopic surfaces covered with a layer of polydopamine (PDA). The extent of particle aggregation and the particle size distribution could be controlled by the Au(III) reduction times, while the reduction process was triggered solely by the redox active polymer. Shorter reaction times led to smaller particles along with lower levels of aggregation, while longer reductions resulted in larger average particle diameter and heavier aggregation. The prepared surfaces were characterized by UV‐Vis, AFM and KPFM techniques. These surfaces were used as solvent‐free condensed phases to probe the photochemical and thermal isomerization processes of attached azobenzenes with different spacer lengths. Fast and reversible light‐induced switching was observed in each case. The thermal cis‐to‐trans isomerization was found to be accelerated for particle‐bound azobenzenes compared to those in solution.
Synthetic Strategy towards a Carbocyclic N‐Acetylneuraminic Acid
Authors: de Saint Aulaire Pieter , Hoogenboom Jorin , Uiterweerd Michiel T. , Zuilhof Han , Wennekes Tom
Published: June 2022

In the study of glycosidases, a class of activity‐based probes (ABPs), that are carbocyclic mimics of natural carbohydrates and can covalently bind the enzyme, have proven to be useful tools. This type of ABP has however not yet been reported for sialidases, glycosidases involved in various important biological processes in both health and disease, which hydrolyse terminal sialic acids. Here we present our study towards the synthesis of a carbocyclic sialic acid suitable for conversion into ABPs. We developed a route starting from a chiral furanone that includes a key early stage nitrone [3+2] cycloaddition to install most of the chiral centres present in N‐acetylneuraminic acid. The final stereocentre is installed via a Barbier alkylation, after which a ring closing metathesis forms the pivotal carbocyclic intermediate. Due to challenges in the final stretch, we were not able to convert this intermediate into an N‐acetylneuraminic acid ABP. However, the work presented here still represents a versatile route to potential future carbocyclic sialic acid derivatives.
A randomized controlled trial on long‐term effectiveness of a psychosocial aftercare program following paediatric chronic pain treatment: Who benefits the most?
Authors: Dogan Meltem , Hirschfeld Gerrit , Blankenburg Markus , Frühwald Michael , Ahnert Rosemarie , Braun Sarah , Marschall Ursula , Zernikow Boris , Wager Julia
Published: June 2022

Background

For paediatric chronic pain patients, intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT) is a well‐established treatment. The treatment's short‐term effectiveness can be improved by an additive psychosocial aftercare (PAC). However, neither the program's long‐term effectiveness nor the patients in particular need have been investigated yet.

Methods

This study aimed at determining the long‐term effects of PAC and detecting predictors of treatment outcome within a multicentre randomized controlled trial measured at five time points up to 12 months after discharge. At inpatient admission to IIPT, patients (N = 419, 14.3 years of age, 72.3% female) were randomly assigned to intervention or control group. After IIPT discharge, the intervention group received PAC, whereas the control group received treatment as usual (TAU). Patient‐reported outcomes included pain and emotional characteristics. Clinicians assessed potential psychosocial risk factors and their prognosis of treatment outcome. Statistical analyses included mixed‐models and univariable logistic regressions.

Results

Data at the 12‐month follow‐up (n = 288) showed a significant benefit of PAC compared with TAU; the majority (59.0%) of patients in the PAC‐group reported no chronic pain compared to 29.2% of TAU‐patients (p < 0.001). Patients with a single parent specifically benefited from PAC compared to TAU. Clinicians were able to make a reliable prognosis of treatment outcome, but did not successfully predict which patients would benefit the most from PAC.

Conclusions

Study results suggest that PAC is highly effective irrespective of patient characteristics, but particularly for patients with single parents. Its broad implementation could help to improve the long‐term outcomes of youth with severely disabling chronic pain.

Significance

A psychosocial aftercare following paediatric IIPT leads to significantly better pain and emotional outcomes compared to treatment as usual up to 12 months after discharge, especially for patients with single parents.
The explanatory role of sedentary screen time and obesity in the increase of chronic back pain amongst European adolescents: The HBSC study 2002–2014
Authors: Roman‐Juan Josep , Roy Rubén , Jensen Mark P. , Miró Jordi
Published: June 2022

Background

Previous research has shown that chronic back pain amongst European adolescents is increasing. Determining the factors associated with this increasing trend is crucial for developing prevention strategies. In this study, we used data from the Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children (HBSC) survey to examine whether increases in screen time and/or obesity between 2002 and 2014 were associated with the increase in the prevalence of chronic back pain amongst European adolescents during the 12‐year period.

Methods

Data from 423,092 adolescents from 27 European countries/regions were drawn from the HBSC questionnaire‐based surveys conducted in 2002, 2006, 2010 and 2014. The Karlson–Holm–Breen method was used to examine the explanatory role of increases in screen time and obesity on the increase in the prevalence of chronic back pain whilst controlling for sex and age.

Results

Increases in both screen time and obesity between 2002 and 2014 were associated with increases in the prevalence of chronic back pain (p < 0.001). The percent of chronic back pain prevalence increase accounted for by screen time and obesity was 3.98% and 1.65%, respectively.

Conclusions

The increase in the prevalence of chronic back pain amongst European adolescents may be explained, in part, by the rising trends in both sedentary screen time and obesity. The fact that screen time and obesity only accounted for a small part of the increase in the prevalence of chronic back pain indicates that other unmeasured factors also play a role.

Significance

More screen time and obesity are slightly associated with more chronic back pain (CBP) prevalence in adolescents across the WHO European Region. The findings may be used to identify ways to prevent or reduce the rising trend of CBP in adolescents.
An Integrated Flow–Electric–Thermal Model for a Cylindrical Li‐Ion Battery Module with a Direct Liquid Cooling Strategy
Authors: Yin Litao , Geng Zeyang , Björneklett Are , Söderlund Elisabeth , Thiringer Torbjörn , Brandell Daniel
Published: June 2022

An integrated model is constructed for a Li‐ion battery module composed of cylindrical cells by coupling individual first‐order equivalent circuit models (ECMs) with a 3D heat transfer model, also considering the fluid flow dynamics of the applied cooling liquid, and bench‐marked against experimental data. This model simulates a representative unit of the battery module with direct liquid cooling in a parallel configuration. Instead of assigning specific values to the featured parameters involved in the ECMs, they are here defined as 4D arrays. This makes it possible to simultaneously consider the effect of the state of charge, current rate, and temperature on the battery dynamics, making the model more adaptive, versatile, and connectable to the battery cell electrochemistry. According to the simulation results, the model employing state‐dependent battery properties fits better with the experimental cooling results. Additionally, the temperature uniformity of the module with a parallel cooling configuration is improved compared to a serial configuration. However, the increase of the absolute core temperature cannot be directly controlled by the surface cooling due to the slow heat transport rate across the battery material. The simulations also provide directions for the modification of module design, to the potential benefit of battery pack developers.
Enhanced Thermal Stability of Low‐Temperature Processed Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells by a Combined Antisolvent/Polymer Deposition Method
Authors: Aung Soe Ko Ko , Vijayan Anuja , Boschloo Gerrit , Seetawan Tosawat
Published: June 2022

Low‐temperature processed carbon‐based perovskite solar cells have received great attention due to low‐cost, high stability, and simple preparation processes that can be employed in large‐scale manufacturing. Carbon paste is deposited by techniques such as doctor blading or screen printing. However, solvents from this paste can damage the perovskite or underlying layers resulting in poor performance of solar cells. Furthermore, carbon is not an ideal hole‐selective contact. To overcome these issues, the antisolvent treatment is combined with the deposition of a polymeric hole conductor. Specifically, poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT), added into the chlorobenzene antisolvent, improves perovskite morphology and reduces interfacial carrier recombination. As a result, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of solar cells with the device structure SnO2/MAPbI3/P3HT/carbon increases to 12.16% from 10.6% of pristine devices without P3HT, using pure antisolvent. For poly(triarylamine) hole conductor in the same method, PCE improves only slightly to 11.1%. After 260 h of thermal stress at 82 °C, the P3HT‐additive devices improve PCE up to 13.2% in air and maintain 91% of their initial efficiency over 800 h.
Maltose as an Ecofriendly Modifier of the Buried Interface for Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Boping , Pan Yili , Ding Yu , Ouyang Dan , Zhang Hong
Published: June 2022

A new concept of modifying the buried interface with ecofriendly material to improve the photovoltaic performance of inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is proposed. A low‐cost and ecofriendly maltose with multihydroxyl groups is facilely chosen for the proof of our concept. The maltose modification not only improves the hole mobility of hole transporting layer, but also regulates the formation of a high‐quality perovskite film with a low density of gain boundary and trap states. The resulting inverted PSCs show a champion power conversion efficiency of 20.65% with negligible hysteresis, accompanied by enhanced thermal and operational stability. This work shows that buried interface engineering with ecofriendly materials opens a new avenue to further improve the efficiency and stability of sustainable PSCs.
Overview of evolutionary algorithms and neural networks for modern mobile communication
Authors: Kouhalvandi Lida , Shayea Ibraheem , Ozoguz Serdar , Mohamad Hafizal
Published: June 2022

The sixth generation (6G) of mobile networks must support the huge growth of mobile connections and provides various intelligent services in future mobile networks. For that, designing high‐performance network architecture and communication systems (CSs) as well as finding coherent solutions for the determined problems is critical demand that needs to be achieved in 6G networks. Optimal solutions are mainly sought by using modifiable, smart, and perceptive algorithms aimed at optimizing more specific tasks. Therefore, advanced optimization methods are highly required to accommodate the requirements of CSs efficiently. That will be in various parts of the future networks such as advanced mobility management, multi communication links, efficient power consumption, ultra‐lower latency, ultra‐security, high speed, and reliable connectivity. Accordingly, highly accurate and smart functions must be modeled to optimize the required communication parameters in the network. This study provides a comprehensive overview of optimization methods that may need further investigations and developments to be applied in 6G networks at various parts of networks. A detailed theoretical description for each method is presented and discussed to elucidate future research directions for optimizing specific characteristics with multi‐objective optimizations. Moreover, this article illustrates the conceptual and structural viewpoints of reported optimization methods. Also, the capability of various optimization methods that can offer industrial solutions in 6G is discussed. The potential applications of each method are also analyzed. Finally, this article presented the research issues and future directions of optimization technology and research gaps that need to be addressed before the standardization of 6G networks.
How real can we get in generating real world evidence? Exploring the opportunities of routinely collected administrative data for evaluation of medical devices
Authors: Pongiglione Benedetta , Torbica Aleksandra
Published: June 2022

Real‐world data are considered a potentially valuable source of evidence for assessing medical technologies in clinical practice, but their widespread use is hampered by numerous challenges. Using the case of coronary stents in Italy, we investigate the potential of administrative databases for estimating costs and health outcomes associated with the use of medical devices in real world conditions. An administrative dataset was created ad hoc by merging hospital records from patients admitted between 2013 and 2019 for stent implantations with ambulatory records, pharmaceutical use data and vital statistics. Health outcomes were multifold: all‐cause and cardiac mortality and myocardial infarction, within 30 days, 1, 2, 5 years. Costs were estimated from the National Health System perspective. We used multivariable Cox models and propensity score (PS) methods (PS matching; stratification on PS; inverse probability of treatment weighting using PS; PS adjustment). 257,907 coronary stents were implanted in 113,912 patients. For all health outcomes and follow‐up times, and across all methods, patients receiving drug‐eluting stents (DES) presented lower risk. For all‐cause mortality, the DES patient advantage over bare‐metal stent (BMS) patients declined over time but remained significant even at 5 years. For myocardial infarction, results remained quite stable. The DES group presented lower cumulative total costs (ranging from 3264 to 2363 Euros less depending on methods). Our results confirm the consolidated evidence of the benefits of DES compared to BMS. The consistency of results across methods suggests internal validity of the study, while highlighting strengths and limitations of each depending on research context. Administrative data yield great potential to perform comparative effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness analysis of medical devices provided certain conditions are met.
Controlled Deposition of a Functional Piezoelectric Ultra‐Aromatic Peptide Layer
Authors: Finkelstein‐Zuta Gal , Shitrit Rotem , Gilead Sharon , Rencus‐Lazar Sigal , Gazit Ehud
Published: June 2022

Peptide assemblies have attracted significant attention due to their high piezoelectric performance and biocompatibility. However, since piezoelectricity is an orientation‐dependent property, the alignment of these structures presents a major challenge for their use in piezoelectric applications. We recently showed an ultra‐aromatic peptide derivative termed Boc−Dip−Dip to exhibit notably high piezoelectric properties. Here, by obtaining an aligned Boc−Dip−Dip array, we were able to realize the potential of the peptide to form an active piezoelectric layer. The voltage coefficient of the piezoelectric layer calculated using an in‐house measurement set‐up was more than 2‐fold higher compared to poled polyvinylidene−fluoride, the gold standard for piezoelectric biocompatible materials. Our findings pave the way for the utilization of novel piezoelectric biomaterials, bearing the potential to replace lead‐based toxic piezoelectric materials, especially in the field of bio‐application.