bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proposal of circuit configuration to reduce power supply voltage and circuit scale for CMOS exponentiation conversion IC utilizing weak inversion operation
Authors: Matsui Fumiya , Nishiyama Naoya , Sano Yuji
Published: August 2022

We proposed elemental technique for reducing power supply voltage and circuit scale for CMOS exponentiation conversion IC utilizing weak inversion operation to mount it on microcomputer chip. This IC implements to change the power exponent to any value by amplifying with adjusting gain after converting signal logarithmically, and finally converting it exponentially. We showed that the circuit scale can be reduced to several tenth times in order to generate a weak inversion current by cascading multiple stages of current‐dividing current mirror circuits. Due to this current mirror circuit, circuit scale was reduced to 34.4%. We also proposed an exponential converting circuit that can halve the input voltage by using one pair of weak inversion MOSFETs. However, the proposed control method of the exponential value by utilizing the substrate effect was found to have about 8% of narrow control range. Although measured result shows that this IC does exponentiation conversion, power exponent value was 56% smaller than simulation result.
Comparative Effect of Amino Functionality on the Performance of Isostructural Mixed‐Ligand MOFs towards Multifunctional Catalytic Application
Authors: Parmar Bhavesh , Patel Parth , Bhadu Gopala Ram , Suresh Eringathodi
Published: August 2022

Two isostructural MOFs {[Cd(BDC)(L)] ⋅ CH3OH}n (1) and {[Cd(NH2‐BDC)(L)] ⋅ CH3OH}n (1‐NH2) involving Cd metal center and different dicarboxylate ligands (1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate (BDC) in 1 and 2‐amino‐1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate (NH2‐BDC) in 1‐NH2) and a common amide functionalized N‐donor ligand ((E)‐N′‐(pyridin‐3‐ylmethylene)nicotinohydrazide (L)) has been synthesized in bulk by diverse routes with phase‐purity. The MOFs were characterized by spectroscopic methods such as FT‐IR, elemental, TGA analysis, PXRD, and SXRD analysis. Amide functionality of L in 1 and both amide/‐NH2 functional groups attached to the ligands in 1‐NH2 of the interpenetrated isostructural 3D framework has been found to be catalytically active basic site towards multiple organic transformations. Both 1 and 1‐NH2 showed good catalytic activity towards both CO2‐epoxide cycloaddition and Biginelli reaction. A comparative study of the catalytic activity of 1 and 1‐NH2 for cycloaddition and Biginelli reaction revealed that the amine‐functionalized framework 1‐NH2 showed better catalytic performance than 1 due to the existence of additional amino site. Presence of accessible functionally decorated Lewis basic ‐NH2 and amide sites on BDC and N‐donor ligands of 1‐NH2 synergistically activate the substrate making this framework interesting and efficient heterogeneous base catalyst. Excellent product yield under moderate conditions with reusability is the highlight in both catalytic reactions.
A Solid Alkylation: Highly Recyclable, Flow Chemistry‐Ready, Resin‐Supported Thioimidazoliums Alkylate Sulfur‐Centered Nucleophiles
Authors: Cataldo Vincenzo Alessandro , Taimoory S. Maryamdokht , Mohammadzadeh Sanam , Guterman Ryan , Trant John F.
Published: August 2022

A series of readily regenerable thioimidazolium‐based ionic liquids, which can transfer alkyl groups to nucleophiles, are immobilized on crosslinked polystyrene beads. Different alkyl groups can be loaded onto the resin, highlighting the tunability of the material. The efficiency of these materials is demonstrated by their screening against a series of nucleophiles, showing a particular preference for thiols. Finally, these materials were evaluated for use under continuous flow conditions. The flexibility, ease of use, safety, and recyclability of these alkylating resins shows promise for their use in large scale and automated applications.
Schiff Bases and Multidentate Organic Compounds as Fluorescent Sensors of Al3+: Photophysical, Fluorescent Bioimaging and the Mechanisms
Authors: Berrones‐Reyes Jessica C. , Muñoz‐Flores Blanca M. , Treto‐Suárez Manuel A. , Hidalgo‐Rosa Yoan , Schott Eduardo , Páez‐Hernández Dayán , Gurubasavaraj Prabhuodeyara M. , Zarate Ximena , Jiménez‐Pérez Víctor M.
Published: August 2022

Aluminium is the most abundant metal in the earth crust and so far, there is no evidence on an important role in the human body. However, the relation of aluminium exposure on human health and aluminium‐related diseases is well known. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent advances on multidentate organic compounds such as naphthalene, coumarin, quinoline, Schiff bases, benzothiazole, benzimidazole, rhodamine, pyrene carbazole, and julolidine derivatives as Al3+ fluorescent sensor starting from an analytical viewpoint (sensibility, selectivity), their application in fluorescent bioimaging in vitro or/and in vivo, and photophysical mechanisms.
4,4‐Difluorospiro[2.2]pentan‐1‐yl – A Fluorinated Substituent To Expand the Synthetic and Medicinal Chemists’ Toolbox
Authors: Melnykov Kostiantyn P. , Voloshyna Olena V. , Vashchenko Bohdan V. , Demchuk Oleksandr P. , Hryshchuk Oleksandr V. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: August 2022

Functionalized 4,4‐difluorospiro[2.2]pentan‐1‐yl derivatives are proposed as promising building blocks for synthetic and medicinal chemistry. Scalable, efficient, and diastereoselective approach to their preparation via the difluorocyclopropanation of (2‐methylenecyclopropyl)methanol is developed. Stability of the title scaffolds towards common reaction conditions is confirmed by a series of typical functional group transformations. Physicochemical characteristics (pKa, logP, and aqueous solubility) and structural features of the key 4,4‐difluorospiro[2.2]pentan‐2‐yl derivatives are established and compared with those of non‐fluorinated analog, 2,2‐difluorinated isomer, as well as monocyclic gem‐difluorinated counterparts.
Research on driving visual comfort of two‐lane mountainous road based on traffic safety evaluation
Authors: Meng Yunwei , Cai Hongqi , Chen Lei , Liu Tangzhi , Zheng Shilun , Zheng Boren , Qing Guangyan
Published: August 2022

In order to obtain the quantitative relationship between multisource data from road landscape and driving visual comfort in two‐lane mountainous road, we collected the driver's eye movement data and road environment data through real vehicle tests. The threshold segmentation method and the target landscape area ratio method are used to process the visual image, and the spatial enclosure degree is used to express the driver's sense of spatial closure. In addition, an HSV color model is established to characterize the driver's visual perception of the mountain highway landscape environment. Combining the target landscape area ratio of road landscape with the amount of color information, the calculation method of road landscape information is obtained. According to the characteristics of normal distribution of pupil area ratio, five grades of driver's visual comfort level are proposed, and the regression relationship between comfort level and landscape information is established. The study found that there is a significant negative correlation between the amount of road landscape information and the driver's visual comfort. When the amount of road landscape information is less than 0.338, the driving comfort is higher, which is conducive to driving safety. However, when the amount of landscape information in the road area exceeds 0.644, the driving comfort decreases significantly, which is detrimental to driving safety.
From model selection to maps: A completely design‐based data‐driven inference for mapping forest resources
Authors: Di Biase Rosa Maria , Fattorini Lorenzo , Franceschi Sara , Grotti Mirko , Puletti Nicola , Corona Piermaria
Published: August 2022

A completely data‐driven, design‐based sampling strategy is proposed for mapping a forest attribute within the spatial units tessellating a survey region. Based on sample data, a model is selected, and model parameters are estimated using least‐squares criteria for predicting the attribute of interest within units as a linear function of a set of auxiliary variables. The spatial interpolation of residuals arising from model predictions is performed by inverse distance weighting. The leave‐one‐out cross validation procedure is adopted for selecting the smoothing parameter used for interpolation. The densities of the attributes of interest within units are estimated by summing predictions and interpolated residuals. Finally, density estimates are rescaled to match the total estimate over the survey region obtained by the traditional regression estimator with the total estimate obtained from the map as the sum of the density estimates within units. A bootstrap procedure accounts for the uncertainty. The consistency of the strategy is proven by incorporating previous results. A simulation study is performed and an application for mapping wood volume densities in the forest estate of Rincine (Central Italy) is described.
Sustainable management of fall armyworm in smallholder farming: The role of a multi‐channel information campaign in Rwanda
Authors: Tambo Justice A. , Uzayisenga Bellancile , Mugambi Idah , Onyango David O. , Romney Dannie
Published: August 2022

In recent years, fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, has emerged as one of the most serious invasive species in many countries across Africa, Asia and Oceania. The pest is causing extensive damage to maize production and the intensification of pesticide use. In this paper, we examined the effectiveness of three mass‐extension channels (plant health rallies, radio drama and SMS) in enhancing farmers' knowledge and management of FAW and in increasing maize productivity. Applying matching techniques to data from 720 smallholder farmers and 1077 maize plots in Eastern Rwanda, we found that exposure to the information channels is significantly associated with increased knowledge outcomes, including knowledge of the correct identification of FAW and the use of cultural practices as the first resort to pest management. Moreover, the information channels showed positive effects on the adoption of environmentally friendly management practices. Generally, the treatment effects are larger for households exposed to multiple (especially all) channels, indicating complementary effects of the channels. We also found suggestive evidence that the information channels are associated with maize yield increases ranging from 10% to 34%, depending on the channel. Overall, the results imply that multi‐channel information campaigns can be effective in enhancing farmers' knowledge on how to identify and sustainably manage the FAW pest. Our findings also suggest that while there is a growing popularity in the use of digital extension approaches to deliver timely information to farmers in a cost‐effective manner, much greater gains can be achieved if they are combined with other low‐cost face‐to‐face extension methods, such as plant health rallies.
Where's the Transmission?
Authors: Makholm Jeff D.
Published: August 2022

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) recently released two Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR), on April 21 and June 16, 2022, on national electricity transmission and related matters. The NOPRs ostensibly deal with the issues that I wrote about in March 2022 regarding the failures of US policy makers to identify the unique geographic problems of what I label “Transmission III.” However, the NOPRs are immensely frustrating documents, both in their form and in their thin—and essentially retrograde—substance in the context of the largest problem facing US electricity transmission today: the failure to define a pathway for speeding the entry of renewable electricity generation on to the larger US transmission grid.
Indurated soil nodules: A vestige of ancient agricultural practices?
Authors: Giosa Alain , Delbey Thomas , Menbrivès Clément , Rasmussen Kaare L. , Elliott Michelle , Petit Christophe
Published: August 2022

The identification of controlled fires in ancient agricultural systems is important for understanding how past societies managed the landscape. Although the use of fire in agriculture is documented in recent historical records, and combustion markers can persist in soils over a long time scale, this is a complex issue because combustion traits in general are ubiquitous. Archaeopedological surveys undertaken in an ancient forest in Burgundy (France) have led to the recovery of several red indurated nodules scattered in the soils. Gallo‐Roman housing structures and parcels were recognized using light detection and ranging mapping, stimulating questions about the understanding of the nature of these nodules. Elemental and structural analyses by  X‐ray fluorescence and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the local origin of these features by comparing their composition with on‐site sediments, and thermoluminescence dating placed the samples in the Medieval period. The results cast light on the nature of the nodules and how they can be related to controlled fires used in agricultural practices. Even though questions remain about which processes lead to the formation of the nodules, the firing temperature estimated via XRD analysis seems to be in agreement with that used in the “paring‐and‐burning” technique. The present study provides new information about medieval agriculture practices from the 10th to the 12th centuries CE and shows how past societies managed the opening and maintenance of agricultural fields using natural resources and “archaeological” remains from the antique period.
Life near the water: Geoarchaeological investigation of site formation processes and occupation patterns at the near‐bank mound of Liangzhu City, China
Authors: Lian Huiru , Égüez Natalia , Chen Minghui , Yan Kaikai , Wang Yonglei , Wang Ningyuan , Liu Bin , French Charles
Published: August 2022

The Liangzhu City site, located in the center of the Liangzhu Culture (3300–2300 cal. BC), is characterized by gigantic earthen mounds containing about 10 million m3 of earth, as well as crisscrossed waterways that flow through the mounds. This study presents a geoarchaeological study of a mound structure adjacent to the South Zhongjiagang channel of Liangzhu City. By applying soil micromorphological and associated bulk sedimentological analyses, this study reconstructed the site formation processes and multiple occupations of the mound structure together with related hydrological changes. The results suggest that this site is in a near‐bank activity area formed due to the build‐up of sequential settlement buildings and activity deposits. At least six intact activity surfaces have been recognized based on the presence of intact matting materials and the trampling of fine anthropogenic debris. This study thus reports the first detailed micromorphological study of Neolithic floor sequences in East China. In addition, lipid and isotope analyses of the plant material shed light on how Liangzhu people exploited grass materials, especially bamboo, for both long‐term and short‐term occupation near waterways. This study has demonstrated the potential of micromorphological studies for reconstructing site formation processes and identifying different types of human activities in a landscape that was highly modified by Neolithic people. The findings have far‐reaching implications for archaeological research around the Tai Lake region and investigations of other large earthen mound archaeological sites around the world.
Neuromodulation of the right temporoparietal junction alters amygdala functional connectivity to authority pressure
Authors: Cheng Yawei , Chen Yu‐Chun , Fan Yang‐Teng , Chen Chenyi
Published: August 2022

Past historical events and experimental research have shown that complying with orders from an authority has a strong impact on harming/destructive behavior, but no one has ever looked into the potential intervention and its neural underpinning to reveal the toll of coercion. We used a paradigm of virtual obedience to authority, in which an experimenter ordered a volunteer to press a handheld button to initiate actions that carried different consequences, including harming or helping others. In this study, we scanned the brain with functional neuroimaging and applied transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to modulate the activation of the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ) in healthy volunteers in a single‐blinded, sham‐controlled, crossover trial with anodal, cathodal, and sham stimulation. We observed that cathodal stimulation, compared to anodal and sham stimulation, significantly reduced reaction times (RTs) to initiating harming actions. The effect of tDCS on the rTPJ, orbitofrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex had opposite directions depending on coercive harming or helping actions. Cathodal tDCS‐induced changes in the strength of the functional connectivity between the rTPJ and amygdala predicted the effect of cathodal tDCS on harming RTs. The findings provide evidence supporting the rTPJ having a role in coercion‐induced changes in the sense of agency. Neuromodulation with tDCS might help in unveiling the power of authority and assisting in the emergence of prosocial behavior, thus shedding light on coping strategies against coercion beyond merely examining its effects.
Mouse model of NASH that replicates key features of the human disease and progresses to fibrosis stage 3
Authors: St. Rose Kristy , Yan Jun , Xu Fangxi , Williams Jasmine , Dweck Virginia , Saxena Deepak , Schwabe Robert F. , Caviglia Jorge Matias
Published: August 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease in the United States and the world; with no Food and Drug Administration–approved pharmacological treatment available, it remains an area of unmet medical need. In nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the most important predictor of clinical outcome is the fibrosis stage. Moreover, the Food and Drug Administration recommends that clinical trials for drugs to treat this disease include patients with fibrosis stage 2 or greater. Therefore, when using animal models for investigating the pathophysiology of NAFLD and for the preclinical evaluation of new drugs, it is important that the animals develop substantial fibrosis. The aim of this study was to develop a mouse model of NAFLD that replicated the disease in humans, including obesity and progressive liver fibrosis. Agouti yellow mutant mice, which have hyperphagia, were fed a Western diet and water containing high‐fructose corn syrup for 16 weeks. Mice became obese and developed glucose intolerance. Their gut microbiota showed dysbiosis with changes that replicate some of the changes described in humans with NASH. They developed NASH with activity scores of 5–6 and fibrosis, which was stage 1 after 16 weeks, and stage 3 after 12 months. Changes in liver gene expression assessed by gene‐set enrichment analysis showed 90% similarity with changes in human patients with NASH. Conclusion: Ay mice, when fed a Western diet similar to that consumed by humans, develop obesity and NASH with liver histology, including fibrosis, and gene expression changes that are highly similar to the disease in humans.
Health‐promoting pedagogy: Using reflexivity to support learning and action in planetary health education
Authors: Hickman Amy Christine , Johnson Rebecca Lauren , Lawler Sheleigh Patricia
Published: August 2022

Issue Addressed

International competencies for health promotion education require ethical practice that is supported by reflexive health promotion practitioners, yet professional bodies do not codify how health promotion curriculum should support students' skill development in reflexive practice.

Methods

Reflexivity in teaching and learning was scaffolded through short, progressive reflective blogs assessments, supportive feedback/feedforward mechanisms, and nested assessment design.

Results

Student feedback is offered to demonstrate the impact of reflexive pedagogy in health promotion education.

Conclusion

Reflexivity in teaching and learning supports students in learning the role of health promotion in planetary health and developing skills in planetary health advocacy.

So What

Explicitly teaching the practice and process of critical reflexivity can help students develop personal insight, support professional practice, and promote positive change in the health of people and our planet.
Tail artifacts removal of three‐dimensional optical coherence tomography angiography with common parts extraction method
Authors: Zhang Wenxin , He Bin , Wu Yangkang , Tao Yuxiu , Zhu Fu , Cai Wenchao , Liu Ning , Zhao Qiang , Xue Ping
Published: August 2022

In optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), each blood vessel has a tail artifact. These tails of superficial vessels will shadow underlying the deep vascular images and make it difficult to reconstruct the three‐dimensional (3D) image of the vessels. As 3D structure can provide much more information than two‐dimensional (2D) images, it is important to develop a method to remove the artifacts. In this letter, we introduce an image processing technique based on common parts extraction to remove the artifacts. With the help of subtraction operation and erode operation, our method can reconstruct the 3D image of vascular network by extracting the common parts of adjacent B‐Scan OCTA images. Vessels of palm are used as samples to experimentally demonstrate our technique. In the 3D image, we can see the interesting phenomenon that the ends of the blood vessels which close to the surface of the skin point toward the surface.
Bio‐fabricated chromium (III) oxide nanorods for catalytic and bactericidal applications in water treatment
Authors: Bukhari Syeda Farah , Ali Syed Nawazish , Dildar Nazish , Tauseef Saima , Khan Salman Tariq , Sara  , Zia Ambreen , Hasan Erum , Ali Sundus , Shehzadi Mehreen
Published: August 2022

The treatment of chemical and biological contaminants in water through bio‐fabricated metal nanoparticles is one of the promising sustainable methods. Herein, an efficient synthesis of novel chromium oxide nanorods is introduced by Illicium verum fruit extract as a bio‐reducing, capping, and stabilizing agent. The morphological, optical, catalytic, and bactericidal properties of nanorods are investigated by various techniques. The UV–visible spectra displayed strong absorption peak in the region of 309.8 nm, whereas Fourier transform infrared presented the characteristic vibrations at 605.65 and 651.94 cm−1 attributed to CrO binding mode. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that chromium oxide nanoparticles are well‐dispersed with small rod‐shaped morphology. The average size of nanorods was found to be ~15 to 20 nm in length. Due to their ultra‐large surface area and strong π–π interaction, the plant‐coated nanorods were tested for the catalytic removal of methyl orange (MO), a common water‐soluble textile dye. Adsorption potential of Cr2O3 nanoparticles was monitored by UV–visible spectrophotometer, which showed 90–95% successive decrease in the absorption maxima of aqueous MO (1 μM). The elimination rate of MO was drastically improved from 45 to 30 min, while a combination of Cr2O3 nanorods and sodium borohydride NaBH4 was used. Bactericidal activities of these nanorods were tested against vast number of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. The significant results were obtained with 27 mm zone of inhibition against Klebsiella. oxytoca and Serratia. marcescens. This quick and simple procedure can be scaled up for commercial applications of new, eco‐friendly, and cost‐effective water treatment process.
αvβ1 integrin is enriched in extracellular vesicles of metastatic breast cancer cells: A mechanism mediated by galectin‐3
Authors: Zhang Daniel Xin , Dang Xuan T. T. , Vu Luyen Tien , Lim Claudine Ming Hui , Yeo Eric Yew Meng , Lam Brenda Wan Shing , Leong Sai Mun , Omar Noorjehan , Putti Thomas Choudary , Yeh Yu Chen , Ma Victor , Luo Jia‐Yuan , Cho William C. , Chen Gang , Lee Victor Kwan Min , Grimson Andrew , Le Minh T. N.
Published: August 2022

Breast cancer cells release a large quantity of biocargo‐bearing extracellular vesicles (EVs), which mediate intercellular communication within the tumour microenvironment and promote metastasis. To identify EV‐bound proteins related to metastasis, we used mass spectrometry to profile EVs from highly and poorly metastatic breast cancer lines of human and mouse origins. Comparative mass spectrometry indicated that integrins, including αv and β1 subunits, are preferentially enriched in EVs of highly metastatic origin over those of poorly metastatic origin. These results are consistent with our histopathological findings, which show that integrin αv is associated with disease progression in breast cancer patients. Integrin αv colocalizes with the multivesicular‐body marker CD63 at a higher frequency in the tumour and is enriched in circulating EVs of breast cancer patients at late stages when compared with circulating EVs from early‐stage patients. With a magnetic bead‐based flow cytometry assay, we confirmed that integrins αv and β1 are enriched in the CD63+subsets of EVs from both human and mouse highly metastatic cells. By analysing the level of integrin αv on circulating EVs, this assay could predict the metastatic potential of a xenografted mouse model. To explore the export mechanism of integrins into EVs, we performed immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry and identified members of the galectin family as potential shuttlers of integrin αvβ1 into EVs. In particular, knockdown of galectin‐3, but not galectin‐1, causes a reduction in the levels of cell surface integrins β1 and αv, and decreases the colocalization of these integrins with CD63. Importantly, knockdown of galectin‐3 leads to a decrease of integrin αvβ1 export into the EVs concomitant with a decrease in the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells. Moreover, inhibition of the integrin αvβ1 complex leads to a reduction in the binding of EVs to fibronectin, suggesting that integrin αvβ1 is important for EV retention in the extracellular matrix. EVs retained in the extracellular matrix are taken up by fibroblasts, which differentiate into cancer associated fibroblasts. In summary, our data indicate an important link between EV‐bound integrin αvβ1 with breast cancer metastasis and provide additional insights into the export of integrin αvβ1 into EVs in the context of metastasis.
Synthesis of novel 9‐amino/aryl/oxo‐2‐(het)arylthiazolo[4,5‐b]quinolines via palladium catalyzed N‐arylation‐cyclization protocol
Authors: Iniyavan Pethaperumal , Avadhani Anusha , Kumar Yogendra , Chakravarthy Arkalagud Satyanarayana Jeevan , Palluruthiyil Mary Antony , Ila Hiriyakkanavar
Published: August 2022

An efficient approach for the facile synthesis of novel hitherto unexplored 2‐(het)aryl‐9‐amino/aryl‐thiazolo[4,5‐b]quinolines and the corresponding thiazolo[4,5‐b]quinolin‐9(4H)‐ones via synthetic elaboration of 2‐substituted‐4‐amino‐5‐cyano/aroyl/carboethoxy thiazoles have been developed. The overall strategy involves palladium catalyzed N‐arylation of these 4‐aminothiazoles to the corresponding 4‐(N‐aryl)thiazoles, and their subsequent triflic acid mediated intramolecular‐cyclocondensation to the target compounds. This new and straightforward protocol displays broad substrate scope, and is applicable for the synthesis of 9‐amino/aryl and 9‐(4H)quinolones from the respective 5‐cyano/aroyl/carboethoxy thiazoles in good yields.
Inhibitory effect and possible mechanism of phenyllactic acid on Aspergillus flavus spore germination
Authors: Li Minghua , Yao Binbin , Meng Xiumei
Published: August 2022

Phenyllactic acid (PLA) has gained a lot of attention due to its broad antimicrobial activity, but the mechanism of its antifungal action has been barely reported until now. Herein, the inhibitory activity of PLA against Aspergillus flavus spore germination and its mechanism were preliminarily investigated. Results indicated that PLA had a strong antifungal activity against A. flavus with the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 6 and 12 mg/ml, respectively. As observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the A. flavus spores displayed wrinkled and shrunken appearance after treatment with PLA. In addition, the permeability and integrity of A. flavus cell membrane were changed obviously after PLA treatment as indicated by the propidium iodide (PI) staining results, which was further confirmed by a rise in electric conductivity and increased leakage of intracellular protein and nucleic acid. Furthermore, reduced activities of mitochondrial ATPase and dehydrogenases caused by PLA were also observed in A. flavus spores, with a result of remarkable decrease in ATP synthesis. Therefore, it could be concluded that PLA was effective in inhibiting spore germination of A. flavus mainly by disrupting cell membrane and interfering with mitochondrial energy metabolism.
Pedigree Analysis of an Integrated Hatchery Steelhead Program from the Mad River, California, Provides Insight into Life History Patterns and Informs Management
Authors: Kinziger Andrew P. , Fong Steven R. , Garza John Carlos
Published: August 2022

The Mad River Hatchery supports one of the most important fisheries for steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss in California. Although the Mad River Hatchery has stated goals of operating an integrated hatchery program that addresses demographic and genetic risks, very little monitoring of these goals has taken place. We applied parentage-based tagging methods to assess the origin (wild versus hatchery), age structure, and spawn-date heritability of steelhead returning to the Mad River Hatchery. We generated single nucleotide polymorphism genotypes at 96 loci for all adult steelhead broodstock spawned at Mad River Hatchery over a 9-year period (2009–2017; N = 1,572) and identified 965 trios (mother, father, and offspring) using parentage analysis. Although the hatchery attempts to release 100% adipose-fin-clipped hatchery steelhead, our analysis uncovered a large difference in the proportion of hatchery-origin broodstock individuals as estimated by pedigrees (0.87) and traditional adipose fin clipping (0.58). This difference presumably resulted from failure to clip or identify a clip in 100% of hatchery-produced fish. Our analysis revealed the complete age structure of six cohorts of hatchery broodstock and showed substantial differences in different years for Mad River Hatchery steelhead. Pedigree-based estimates of narrow-sense heritability for spawn date were 0.242 to 0.470, indicating moderate to high heritability, and highlighting the opportunity for a strong response to selection on this trait imposed by hatchery spawning. The application of parentage-based tagging provided critical information for understanding life history variation and the efficacy of management actions for Mad River Hatchery steelhead and provides a framework for minimizing domestication selection and associated reductions in fitness for naturally spawning fish in this integrated population.
Melt spinning of polyamide 4
Authors: Nagahama Takahiro , Yagi Shinichi , Yamane Hideki , Xu Huaizhong
Published: August 2022

Polyamide 4 (PA 4), a biobased and biodegradable polymer, is firstly produced into fibers by melt spinning. PA 4 is a thermally‐sensitive polymer that is difficult to be processed by melting methods, while through mixing with an ionic liquid (IL)—1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride (BmimCl), the melting point of the PA 4 decreases 40°C when 30 wt% ILs are incorporated. Homogeneous and circular cross‐sectional PA 4 fibers are produced at winding speeds of 19, 79, 228 and 396 m/min. The as‐spun PA 4 fibers produced at 19 m/min winding speed can maximally be drawn four times in a water bath with temperatures ranging 60–75°C. The mechanical properties of the PA 4 fiber reach an optimum value as the fiber is drawn at 65°C. The ILs are fully removed when the fibers immerse in water for 3 min. In the meanwhile, the melting point of PA 4 is gradually enhanced with washing. Moreover, the crystallization of the washed PA 4 fibers increases, while the orientation of the crystals slightly decreases. The application of IL can be extended to improve the processibility of thermally‐sensitive polymers that cannot be directly manufactured by melt‐extrusion based technologies.
Aberrant resting‐state functional connectivity of major depressive disorder with higher risk of suicide
Authors: Ishikawa Kazuhiro , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Shiratori Yuki , Sodeyama Noriko , Kodama Kikuko , Usuniwa Hitoshi , Yamada Noriko , Yaguchi Chie , Hori Takafumi , Arai Tetsuaki , Tachikawa Hirokazu
Published: August 2022

Aim

Suicide prevention for depressive patients is an important clinical issue in psychiatry. However, not all depressive patients plan or attempt suicide. In this study, we investigated the differences of functional brain networks between a high‐risk group and a low‐risk group for suicide by comparing resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC).

Methods

The subjects were 29 patients with major depressive disorder, nine of whom had attempted suicide. The suicidal ideation of all subjects was assessed with the Columbia‐Suicide Severity Rating Scale, then the subjects were divided into two groups based on the most severe suicidal ideation (MSI) in their lifetime. We compared rsFC between the two groups.

Results

Of the 29 subjects, 16 were in the severe MSI group. We found that the severe MSI group members had significantly smaller rsFC in two networks: one comprised the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the default‐mode network, and the other comprised the left rostrolateral prefrontal cortex and the striatum, amygdala, and hippocampus. These regions are reported to be associated with rumination, retrieval suppression, and delay discounting (DD).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that functional networks related to rumination, retrieval suppression, and DD might be impaired in depressive patients with severe suicidal ideation. It might be beneficial for psychiatrists to assess these characteristics in terms of suicide prevention for depressive patients.
Kidney function and prescribed dose in middle‐aged and older patients starting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
Authors: Zhu Nanbo , Lisinski Alexander , Lagerberg Tyra , Johnell Kristina , Xu Hong , Carrero Juan Jesús , Chang Zheng
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To avoid adverse drug reactions, dose reductions are recommended when prescribing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to patients with impaired kidney function. The extent of this practice in routine clinical care is however unknown. We aimed to evaluate the starting and maintenance SSRI doses prescribed to patients stratified by levels of kidney function in real‐world practice.

Methods

Using data from the Stockholm CREAtinine Measurements (SCREAM) project, we identified 101 409 new users of antidepressants (including 52 286 SSRI users) in the region of Stockholm during 2006–2019, who were ≥50 years of age and had a recent creatinine test taken in order to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). SSRI dose reduction was defined as a prescribed SSRI dose of ≤0.5 defined daily doses, according to current recommendations. We examined the associations between eGFR and reductions in initial dose and maintenance dose of SSRIs using logistic regression models.

Results

Overall, reductions in initial and maintenance dose were observed among 54.1% and 34.1% of new SSRI users. Nevertheless, about 40% of individuals with an eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2 were prescribed an SSRI without dose reduction. After adjusting for age and other covariates, lower eGFR was associated with moderately higher odds of dose reduction, for both initial and maintenance dose. Compared to individuals with an eGFR of 90–104 ml/min/1.73 m2, the adjusted odds ratios for those with an eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2 were 1.18 (95% CI: 1.03, 1.36) for initial dose reduction, and 1.49 (1.29, 1.72) for maintenance dose reduction. Stratified analyses showed stronger associations between lower eGFR and SSRI dose reduction among individuals aged 50–64 years and in those receiving prescriptions from psychiatric care.

Conclusions

Lower kidney function was moderately associated with a reduced SSRI dose, independently of age. Prescribing SSRIs to middle‐aged and older patients should not only consider patients' age but also their kidney function.
Fractal dimension analysis: A link between porous polystyrene films patterns and cancer cell patterns
Authors: Catarino‐Centeno Rafael , Patiño‐Herrera Rosalba , García‐Hernández Erwin , Pérez Elías
Published: August 2022

To produce patterns of porous polystyrene films that can be used as standards to be compared with cancer cell patterns, thin films were made by dissolving polystyrene (PS) and polybutylmethacrylate (PBMA) in tetrahydrofuran, then PBMA phase was removed using acetic acid (AA) to generate rough surfaces. The mixture of %PS/%PBMA was formed from the following weight ratios 1/99, 5/95,…, 90/10, 99/1. The highest water contact angle (WCA) for 40/60 porous polystyrene film was (139.4 ± 1°), exceeding the WCA of the film before removing the PBMA by 95.2 ± 0.2°; at the same concentration, the film roughness increases 80% by removing the PBMA. The topography of porous polystyrene films is similar to that of cancer cells and the fractal dimension (Df) of the 20/80, 30/70, 35/65, 38/62, 40/60, 43/57, 45/55, and 50/50 porous polystyrene films range between 1.6 and 2, which agrees with those reported in the literature for cancerous structures. Thus, Df data and polystyrene film topography with different porosity degrees can be used as patterns in digital recognition techniques for cancer diagnosis.
Novel C‐arm‐based planning robotic spinal surgery in a cadaver model using quantitative accuracy assessment methodology
Authors: Park Sangman , Kim Hyung Cheol , Jeong Yeongha , Kim Dongyun , Ryu Seungjae , Lee Seongpung , Cha Yongyeob , Hwang Sungteac , Woo Donggi , Kim Hongho , Shin Dong Ah , Ha Yoon , Kim Keung Nyun , Yoon Do Heum , Yi Seong
Published: August 2022

Background

This preclinical study emulating the clinical environment quantitatively analysed the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion using a navigated robotic system.

Methods

Pedicle screws were placed from T7 to L5 in the whole‐body form of a cadaver. After the insertion of multiple artificial markers into each vertebra, errors between the planned insertion path and the inserted screw were quantified using the Gertzbein‐Robbins system (GRS) and offset calculation.

Results

A total of 22 screws were placed. Almost all (95.45% [21/22]) were classified as GRS A or B, while one (4.55%) was GRS C. The mean and standard deviations of entry, tip, and angular offset were 1.78 ± 0.94 mm, 2.30 ± 1.01 mm, and 2.64 ± 1.05°, respectively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that pedicle screw insertion using a navigated robotic system had high accuracy and safety. A future clinical study is necessary to validate our findings.
Periodically intermittent H∞ control for discrete‐time switched interval type‐2 fuzzy systems with dwell time constraints: A switching‐path‐dependent Lyapunov function approach
Authors: Li Yang , Zhang Hongbin , Xu Xiaozeng , Zheng Qunxian
Published: August 2022

This article studies the periodically intermittent control problem of discrete‐time switched interval type‐2 fuzzy systems (DSIT2FSs) with dwell time constraints. A novel switching‐path‐dependent Lyapunov functions (SPDLFs) approach, which utilizes the switching path information over multiple controller operation periods, is proposed. First, the ‐mode DSIT2FS with periodic intermittent control inputs is regarded as a switched system with controller‐busy modes and controller‐free modes. Then, by constructing a class of non‐increasing SPDLFs, sufficient conditions on the existence of intermittent interval type‐2 (IT2) fuzzy controllers are obtained for DSIT2FS with minimum dwell time constraints. The controller gains can be gotten by solving a set of strict linear matrix inequalities. It is shown that the designed IT2 fuzzy controllers work intermittently but still can guarantee stability and performance of the close‐loop systems. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness and advantages of the results.
Bioreduction and Stabilization of Nanosilver using Chrysanthemum Phytochemicals for Antibacterial and Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Wan Hong , Huang Qinglin , Mia Rony , Tao Xing , Mahmud Sakil , Liu Huihong
Published: August 2022

An easy, sustainable, and one‐step method has been explored to synthesize colloidal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Chrysanthemum (CT) flower extract and applied for antibacterial treatment and azo dye catalysis. The synthesis parameters (effect of CT extract concentration, reaction temperature, time, and pH) were thoroughly examined via a one‐variable‐at‐a‐time (OVAT) method to identify an optimization condition. The characterization of AgNPs produced at as‐obtained optimum condition found that the nanoparticles are primarily spherical/oval shape, nanometer size (1.98±0.57 nm), very crystalline (d‐spacing=0.236 nm), significantly stabilized (zeta potential=−22.1 mV). The characterizations also indicated that the AgNPs were produced by the redox reaction between plant phytochemicals and metal cations and stabilized via encapsulation of plant phytochemicals. The bacterial resistivity AgNPs was monitored by the agar disk diffusion test and found to be highly effective towards both Staphylococcus aureus (+ev) and Escherichia coli (−ev) bacteria. Moreover, the synthesized AgNPs displayed an innate catalytic reduction of azo dyes such as acid red 1 (AR1) and acid blue 29 (AB29). The degradation reactions were followed pseudo‐first‐order kinetics model and the rate constants k were calculated to be 0.45528 min−1 (r2=0.94465) for AR1 and 0.28214 min−1 (r2=0.88764) for AB29, respectively. This study reveals the prospect of CT flower extract as a botanical source for the biosynthesis of AgNPs and its potential application in bacterial reduction and azo‐contaminated wastewater treatment.
In vitro Anticancer and Insilico Studies of Quinoxaline‐sulfonyl‐1,2,4‐triazole Hybrids
Authors: Dasari Gouthami , Bandari Srinivas , Kumar Nukala Satheesh , Swamy Thirukovela Narasimha , Sirassu Narsimha , Badithapuram Vinitha , Manchal Ravinder
Published: August 2022

New quinoxaline‐sulfonyl‐1,2,4‐triazole hybrids were synthesized (5 a–n) via systematic step‐wise sequence. Later, the in vitro cytotoxicity screening of all these compounds revealed that 2‐((4‐morpholino‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐yl)sulfonyl)‐1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)ethenone (5 b), 1‐(4‐methoxy phenyl)‐2‐((4‐morpholino‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐yl)sulfonyl) ethenone (5 d),4‐(2‐((4‐morpholino‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a] quinoxaline‐1‐yl)sulfonyl)acetyl)benzonitrilen (5 g), 1‐(3,4‐dichloro phenyl)‐2‐((4‐morpholino[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐yl) sulfonyl) ethenone (5 j) and 1‐(2,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐2‐((4‐morpholino[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]quinoxalin‐1‐yl)sulfonyl) ethenone (5 k) were found to more active against the four human cancer cell lines like Hep‐G2 (liver), A‐549 (lung), MCF‐7 (breast) and DU‐145 (prostate) with IC50 values ranging from 1.95±1.34 to 9.61 ±1.72 μM, whereas standard drug displayed IC50 values ranging from 1.97±0.45 to 3.08±0.13 μM. Predominately, compound 5 j displayed superior cytotoxicity against all cell lines than the standard etoposide. As well, the insilico studies of compounds 5 b, 5 d, 5 g, 5 j, and 5 k on EGFR receptor revealed that most potent compound 5 j strongly binds to protein EGFR (pdbid:4HJO). Finally, compounds 5 j and 5 g displayed superior inhibitory activity against tyrosine kinase EGFR than the standard erlotinib.
Advances in Tetrazole Synthesis – An Overview
Authors: Vishwakarma Rakhi , Gadipelly Chandrakanth , Mannepalli Lakshmi Kantam
Published: August 2022

Most of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) contain the tetrazole ring, thus making them of vast significance in new drug design descriptors. With this importance in view, enormous studies are being carried out on the synthesis of tetrazole derivatives. The methods of its synthesis are [3+2] cycloaddition, multicomponent reactions, microwave‐assisted synthesis using heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. Hence, it is necessary to highlight the green catalysis that would be more environmentally benign and economically viable. In this review, we discuss the tetrazole synthesis processes carried out in the presence of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. These catalytic materials gave higher product yield in a shorter reaction time and were reusable.
Enhancing the Efficiency of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) by Nanostructured Ag‐doped ZnO Electrodes
Authors: Rathnasekara Rusiri , Hari Parameswar
Published: August 2022

Silver (Ag) ‐ doped ZnO nanoparticles (0 % to 20 %) were synthesized by the microwave method. The structural, optical, and electrochemical properties were observed through Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X‐ray (EDX), UV‐Visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence, and Cyclic‐Voltammetry (C−V) techniques. The platinum metal counter electrode was replaced by using dip coating, spin coating, and electrochemical method electrodes. The best current‐voltage performance was exhibited by the 5 % Ag‐doped ZnO DSSCs constructed by the electrochemical method counter electrode with a conversion efficiency (η) of 6.19 %, open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.58 V, short circuit current density (Jsc) of 19.12 mA/cm2 and fill factor of 55.08 %. This performance is superior to the counter electrodes made from the spin coating (1.45 %) and dip coating (0.91 %). The higher catalytic behavior of the electrochemical method counter electrode and appearing plasmons peaks in all Ag‐doped ZnO nanoparticles influence the enhancement of current density and overall conversion efficiency.
Synthesis and Proton Conductivity of Two Molybdate Polymers Based on [Mo8O26]4− Anions
Authors: Ren Wei‐Bo , Li Bo , Li Siqi , Li Ying , Gao Zhixin , Chen Xinyu , Zang Hong‐Ying
Published: August 2022

Two kinds of octamolybdate‐based NiII‐coordination polymers were synthesized by hydrothermal methods: H2[Ni(Mo8O26)(bimb)3] ⋅ H2O and H2[Ni(Mo8O26)(bibp)2] ⋅ 4H2O, (1, bimb)=1,4‐Bis(imidazole‐l‐ylmethyl)benzene), (2, bibp)=4,4′‐di(1H‐iMidazol‐1‐yl)‐1,1′‐biphenyl). The Single crystal X‐ray diffraction indicates that compounds 1 and 2 are the 2D layer based on γ‐[Mo8O26]4− type and a 1D chain based on β‐[Mo8O26]4− type polyoxomolybdate anions, respectively. At 85 °C and 98 % RH, the optimal conductivities of the two compounds are 1.03×10−2 S cm−1 and 1.12×10−2 S cm−1, respectively. They exhibit good proton conductivity due to the rich imidazole units as carriers and continuous hydrogen bond networks as proton transport pathway. In this work, two molybdate‐based proton conducting materials are designed.
Determination of Arsenic by ICP‐OES after Cloud Point Extraction with Salt Induced Phase Separation: Application to Gadolinium Based MRI Contrast Agent**
Authors: Bunina Zinaida , Varchenko Victoria , Bryleva Kateryna , Chornyi Vasyl , Belikov Konstantin
Published: August 2022

A new separation and preconcentration procedure based on cloud point extraction was developed for arsenic trace analysis using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Arsenic in +5 oxidation state was complexed with ammonium molybdate, Triton X‐100 was used as a surfactant. Optimal parameters such as pH value and Triton X‐100 concentration were determined. Phase separation was induced by adding a salting‐out agent to avoid an analyte loss because of temperature changes. The combination of Triton X‐100 with ammonium sulphate as a salting‐out agent was firstly suggested as an extraction system for arsenic quantification. Conditions for arsenic (III) into arsenic (V) oxidation were established. The proposed procedure was successfully applied for arsenic quantification in a gadolinium based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent gadobutrol at the level indicated in the guideline for elemental impurities approved by International council for harmonisation of technical requirements for pharmaceuticals for human use (ICH Q3D) as a limit concentration.