bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the correlation of dorsal root ganglia and spinal nerves with clinical symptoms in patients with postherpetic neuralgia using magnetic resonance neurography
Authors: Cao Xueqin , Jiao Bo , Wen Donglin , Duan Guangyou , Zhang Mi , Zhang Caixia , Wu Gang , Zhang Xianwei
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To assess changes of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal nerves in patients with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), and investigate the correlation between DRG morphology and clinical symptoms in PHN patients using magnetic resonance neurography (MRN).

Methods

In this case-control study, forty-nine lesioned DRG in 30 patients and 49 normal DRG in 30 well-matched (age, sex, height, weight) healthy controls were assessed. Clinical symptoms of patients (pain, allodynia, itching, and numbness) were assessed. MRN features (DRG volume (VDRG), the largest diameter (Dmax) of spinal nerves, signal intensity of DRG and spinal nerves (M-value)) were measured in all participants. Multilinear regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between the DRG morphology and clinical symptoms in patients.

Results

The volume and relative M-value of lesioned DRG in patients were significantly higher than those on the same side of healthy controls (p = 0.013, p < 0.001, respectively). The mean Dmax and relative M-value of spinal nerves on the lesioned side were significantly higher than those on the contralateral and same side of healthy controls (p < 0.0001, p = 0.0001, p = 0.0011, p = 0.0053, respectively). No difference was found between the mean VDRG of the lesioned and contralateral sides. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that disease duration was independent risk factor for the maximum rate of VDRG differences (p = 0.013).

Conclusions

DRG and spinal nerves on the lesioned side are swollen during PHN. Disease duration is an independent risk factor for morphological differences in the lesioned DRG of PHN patients. This study provides important guidance for individualized treatments of PHN.
Preparation and Characterization of Fish Protein Isolate from Tiger Tooth Croaker (Otholithus ruber) Obtained through PH Shift Method
Authors: Likhar Varsha , Chudasama B. G. , Patel Nidhi , Tandel Bhavyata , Tandel Bhavika
Published: August 2023

Development of Fish Protein Isolate (FPI) from tiger tooth croaker (Otholithus ruber) fish meat using the pH shift method was carried out during this study. Tiger tooth croaker was used as raw material because of their abundance and comparatively low price. During the study, the physical characteristics and proximate composition of the fresh fish were analysed. The average length of fish was 19.95 cm and weighed 94.6 g. respectively. FPI treated at different pH treatments (2.5, 4, 7, 11.5 and 12.5) were analyzed for proximate composition, peroxide value and functional characteristics. In the present work, Tiger tooth croaker (Otolithes ruber) fish was found to be suitable for fish protein isolate production using acid or alkali processing and isoelectric precipitation. During storage at ambient temperature for 120 days in a 200 gauge LDPE pouch, Fish Protein Isolates treated at different pH treatments (2.5, 4, 7, 11.5 and 12.5) indicated an increase in moisture content, reduction in protein and lipid content and no significant reduction in ash content. The total protein content was specifically high for pH 7 followed by pH 12.5, 11.5, 4 and 2.5. The effect of different pH on PV of fish protein isolates showed increasing content with increasing storage. The functional properties such as water-holding capacity (WHC), oil-holding capacity (OHC), emulsifying capacity (EC) and foam measurements (Foaming capacity (FC) and foam stability (FS) exhibit high values for all the samples of fish protein isolates. The quality attribute of functional properties of all fish protein isolates samples showed a trend of decreasing during the storage of 120 days.
Anti–SARS-CoV-2 Pharmacotherapies Among Nonhospitalized US Veterans, January 2022 to January 2023
Authors: Yan Lei , Streja Elani , Li Yuli , Rajeevan Nallakkandi , Rowneki Mazhgan , Berry Kristin , Hynes Denise M. , Cunningham Francesca , Huang Grant D. , Aslan Mihaela , Ioannou George N. , Bajema Kristina L.
Published: August 2023

Importance

Several pharmacotherapies have been authorized to treat nonhospitalized persons with symptomatic COVID-19. Longitudinal information on the use of these therapies is needed.

Objective

To analyze trends and factors associated with prescription of outpatient COVID-19 pharmacotherapies within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study evaluated nonhospitalized veterans in VHA care who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from January 2022 through January 2023 using VHA and linked Community Care and Medicare databases.

Exposures

Demographic characteristics, underlying medical conditions, COVID-19 vaccination, and regional and local systems of care, including Veterans Integrated Services Networks (VISNs).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Monthly receipt of any COVID-19 pharmacotherapy (nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, molnupiravir, sotrovimab, or bebtelovimab) was described. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with receipt of any vs no COVID-19 pharmacotherapy.

Results

Among 285 710 veterans (median [IQR] age, 63.1 [49.9-73.7] years; 247 358 males [86.6%]; 28 444 Hispanic [10.0%]; 61 269 Black [21.4%] and 198 863 White [69.6%]) who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between January 2022 and January 2023, the proportion receiving any pharmacotherapy increased from 3285 of 102 343 veterans (3.2%) in January 2022 to 5180 of 21 688 veterans (23.9%) in August 2022. The proportion declined to 2194 of 10 551 veterans (20.8%) by January 2023. Across VISNs, the range in proportion of patients who tested positive who received nirmatrelvir-ritonavir or molnupiravir during January 2023 was 41 of 692 veterans (5.9%) to 106 of 494 veterans (21.4%) and 2.1% to 120 of 1074 veterans (11.1%), respectively. Veterans receiving any treatment were more likely to be older (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for ages 65-74 vs 50-64 years, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.14-1.22; aOR for ages ≥75 vs 50-64 years, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.15-1.23) and have a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score (aOR for CCI ≥6 vs 0, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.44-1.59). Compared with White veterans, Black veterans (aOR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02-1.09) were more likely to receive treatment, and compared with non-Hispanic veterans, Hispanic veterans (aOR 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11) were more likely to receive treatment.

Conclusions And Relevance

This study found that prescription of outpatient COVID-19 pharmacotherapies in the VHA peaked in August 2022 and declined thereafter. There were large regional differences in patterns of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and molnupiravir use.
SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Hospitalization, and Mortality in Adults With and Without Cancer
Authors: Hosseini-Moghaddam Seyed M. , Shepherd Frances A. , Swayze Sarah , Kwong Jeffrey C. , Chan Kelvin K. W.
Published: August 2023

Importance

Patients with cancer are at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2–associated adverse outcomes.

Objective

To determine the associations of tumor type with SARS-CoV-2 infection, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, population-based cohort study included community-dwelling adults aged at least 18 years in Ontario, Canada, ICES-linked provincial health databases from January 1, 2020, to November 30, 2021. Data were analyzed from December 1, 2021, to November 1, 2022.

Exposures

Cancer diagnosis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was SARS-CoV-2 infection, and secondary outcomes included all-cause 14-day hospitalization, 21-day ICU admission, and 28-day death following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cox proportional hazards models were used to obtain adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% CIs.

Results

Of 11 732 108 people in the ICES-linked health databases, 279 287 had cancer (57.2% female; mean [SD] age, 65.9 [16.1] years) and 11 452 821 people did not have cancer (45.7% female; mean [SD] age, 65.9 [16.0] years). Overall, 464 574 individuals (4.1%) developed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Individuals with hematologic malignant neoplasms (33 901 individuals) were at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (aHR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.13-1.25), 14-day hospitalization (aHR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.57-1.96), and 28-day mortality (aHR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.74-2.38) compared with the overall population, while individuals with solid tumors (245 386 individuals) were at lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (aHR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.91-0.95) but increased risk of 14-day hospitalization (aHR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.05-1.18) and 28-day mortality (aHR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.19-1.44). The 28-day mortality rate was high in hospitalized patients with hematologic malignant neoplasms (163 of 321 hospitalized patients [50.7%]) or solid tumors (486 of 1060 hospitalized patients [45.8%]). However, the risk of 21-day ICU admission in patients with hematologic malignant neoplasms (aHR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.93-1.40) or solid tumors (aHR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.82-1.05) was not significantly different from that among individuals without cancer. The SARS-CoV-2 infection risk decreased stepwise with increasing numbers of COVID-19 vaccine doses received (1 dose: aHR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.62-0.63; 2 doses: aHR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.16-0.16; 3 doses: aHR, 0.05; 95% CI, 0.04-0.06).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings highlight the importance of prioritization strategies regarding ICU access to reduce the mortality risk in increased-risk populations, such as patients with cancer.
Recollected in Tranquillity: Brendan Neiland – Changing Sensibilities
Authors: Finch Paul
Published: August 2023

Artist Brendan Neiland's art is exuberant. It rejoices in the world and in beautiful juxtapositions of the manmade and the natural, revelling in anything from the blooms of flowers to the neon nights of the city, high‐speed trains and the sensuous lines of some cars. He likes high‐code aesthetics conjoined with the low, all of which he renders in a palette of vivacious, spray‐painted colour. It is not possible to pass a Neiland without admiring it. Paul Finch, founder of the World Architecture Festival, tracks his recent work and preoccupations.
Ultrashort‐Pulsed‐Laser Annealing of Amorphous Atomic‐Layer‐Deposited MoS2 Films
Authors: Becher Malte Jonas Marius Julian , Jagosz Julia , Neubieser Rahel-Manuela , Wree Jan-Lucas , Devi Anjana , Michel Marvin , Bock Claudia , Gurevich Evgeny L. , Ostendorf Andreas
Published: August 2023

To implement 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) in the flexible electronic industry, large, uniform, and crystalline films on flexible substrates are needed. Thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) generates large‐area uniform MoS2 films at low temperatures directly on temperature‐sensitive substrates. But if the grown films are amorphous, a high‐temperature posttreatment of the whole sample, which may cause thermal degradation of the substrate or other layers, needs to be avoided. In this article, the crystallization of amorphous MoS2 layers deposited by thermal ALD processed with picosecond laser pulses (λ = 532 nm), in a “cold” annealing process, is reported. The laser fluence range varies from  = 8.73 mJ cm−2 to  = 18.25 mJ cm−2 with scanning speeds from  = 240 mm s−1 to  = 2640 mm s−1. The crystallization and the influence of the processing parameters on the film morphology are analyzed in detail by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, a transition of amorphous MoS2 by laser annealing to self‐organized patterns is demonstrated and a possible process mechanism for the ultrashort‐pulsed (usp)‐laser annealing is discussed. Finally, the usp laser annealed films are compared to thermally and continuous‐wave‐laser‐annealed samples.
Programmable Melt Electrowriting to Engineer Soft Connective Tissues with Prescribed, Biomimetic, Biaxial Mechanical Properties
Authors: Mirani Bahram , Mathew Sean O. , Latifi Neda , Labrosse Michel R. , Amsden Brian G. , Simmons Craig A.
Published: August 2023

Appropriate load‐bearing function of soft connective tissues is provided by their nonlinear and often anisotropic mechanics. Recapitulating such complex mechanical behavior in tissue‐engineered structures is particularly crucial, as deviation from native tissue mechanics can trigger pathological biomechanical pathways, causing adverse tissue remodeling and dysfunction. Here, a novel method combining computational modeling, melt electrowriting (MEW), and design of experiments (DOE) is reported to generate scaffolds composed of sinusoidal fibers with prescribed biaxial mechanical properties, recapitulating the distinct nonlinear, anisotropic stress–strain behavior of three model tissues: adult aortic valve, pediatric pulmonary valve, and pediatric pericardium. Finite element analysis is used to efficiently optimize scaffold architecture over a broad parameter space, representing up to 65 conditions, to define MEW print parameters to achieve polycaprolactone scaffolds with target mechanical properties. Architectural parameters are further optimized experimentally using DOE and regression to account for uncertainties involved in the simulation, yielding functional scaffolds with accurate, prescribed mechanics. The prescribed architecture also primarily governs the mechanics of hybrid structures generated by casting cell‐laden fibrin hydrogel within the scaffolds. This high‐fidelity approach recapitulates biaxial mechanical properties over a broad range of mechanical nonlinearity and anisotropy and is generalizable for programmed biofabrication in a variety of tissue engineering applications.
Highly Flexible Tribovoltaic Nanogenerator Based‐on P‐N Junction Interface: Comparative Study on Output Dependency Dominated by Photovoltaic Effect in Freestanding‐Mode
Authors: Sriphan Saichon , Worathat Supakarn , Pharino Utchawadee , Chanlek Narong , Pakawanit Phakkhananan , Choodam Kanokwan , Kanjanaboos Pongsakorn , Maluangnont Tosapol , Vittayakorn Naratip
Published: August 2023

The emergence of tribovoltaic nanogenerators (TVNGs) paves the way for developing a new kind of semiconductor‐based energy harvester that overcomes the restriction of low output current in a conventional approach. The traditional TVNG generally depends on the frictional pair between two rigid semiconductors (or metal‐semiconductor), limiting the practicability of flexible and portable electronics. Recent developments require the fundamental understanding of charge generation in diverse operating modes and structures. Here, a flexible TVNG based on the p‐Cu2O/n‐g‐C3N4 interface is presented. Operating in a freestanding mode, the proposed TVNG can generate a stable signal in any optical conditions including UV illumination, dark, and ambient. Under UV illumination, the electrical outputs of the TVNG reach 0.43 V and 2.1 µA cm−2, which are significantly larger than those obtained from dark and ambient conditions. The results demonstrate the coupling effect of three phenomena: tribovoltaic, photovoltaic, and triboelectric effects, and the unique mechanism to the observed signal is proposed. Additionally, the TVNG shows the practical feasibility of energy harvesting with capacitor charging and charge‐boosting circuits. This study showcases the unique concept with potential for developing a novel flexible nanogenerator in many aspects, including material, structure, and fundamental mechanism.
Rapid 2D Patterning of High‐Performance Perovskites Using Large Area Flexography
Authors: Huddy Julia E. , Scheideler William J.
Published: August 2023

Solution processing of metal halide perovskites offers the potential for efficient, high‐speed roll‐based manufacturing of emerging optoelectronic devices such as lightweight photovoltaics and light emitting diodes at lower cost than achievable with incumbent technologies (e.g., Silicon). However, current perovskite fabrication methods are limited in their speed, uniformity, and patterning resolution, relying on subtractive postdeposition scribing for integration of modules and device arrays. Here, a method for flexographic printing of MA0.6FA0.4PbI3 at 60 m min−1, the fastest reported perovskite absorber deposition and the first report of inline drying integrated with roll‐based printing, is presented. This process delivers high‐resolution patterning (< 3 µm line edge roughness) and precise thickness control through rheological design of precursor inks, allowing scalably printed 50 µm features over large areas (140 cm2), while obviating damaging scribing steps. 2D scanning photoluminescence (PL) is applied to resolve correlations between ink leveling dynamics and optoelectronic quality. Integrating these highly uniform printed perovskite absorbers into n‐i‐p planar perovskite solar cells, photovoltaic conversion efficiency up to 20.4% (0.134 cm2), the highest performance yet reported for any roll‐printed perovskite cells is achieved. This study, thus, establishes flexography as a scalable approach to deposit precisely‐patterned high‐quality perovskites extensible to applications in emitter and detector arrays.
Ultra‐Fine Nano‐Mg(OH)2 Electrodeposited in Flexible Confined Space and its Enhancement of the Performance of LiFePO4 Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Jinwang , Zhang Bo , Zhang Shipeng , Zhao Yuxiang , Qian Yulong , Zeng Jinbo , Suo Ling , Ma Yue , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Wanzhen , Song Lulu , Li Wu
Published: August 2023

To improve the Li‐ion diffusion and extreme‐environment performance of LiFePO4 (LFP) lithium‐ion batteries, a composite cathode material is fabricated using ultra‐fine nano‐Mg(OH)2 (MH). First, a flexible confined space is designed in the local area of the cathode surface, through the transition of charged xanthan gum polymer molecules under electric field force and the self‐assembly of the xanthan gum network. Then, the 20 nm nano‐Mg(OH)2 is prepared through cathodic electrodeposition within the local flexible confined space, and subsequent in situ surface modification as it traverses the xanthan gum network under gravity. LFP‐MH significantly changes the density and homogeneity of the cathode electrolyte interphase film and improves the electrolyte affinity. The Li||LFP‐MH half‐cell demonstrates excellent rate capability (110 mAh g−1 at 5 C) and long‐term cycle performance (116.6 mAh g−1 at 1 C after 1000 cycles), and maintains over 100 mAh g−1 after 150 cycles at 60 °C, as well as no structural collapse of the cathode material after 400 cycles at 5 V high cut‐off voltage. The cell also shows an obvious decrease in inner resistance after 100 cycles (99.53/133.12 Ω). This work provides a significant advancement toward LiFePO4 lithium‐ion batteries with excellent electrochemical performance and tolerance to extreme‐environment.
Reversed Spillover Effect Activated by Pt Atom Dimers Boosts Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lin Zhiping , Wang Zongpeng , Gong Junjie , Jin Tianchen , Shen Shijie , Zhang Qinghua , Wang Jiacheng , Zhong Wenwu
Published: August 2023

The hydrogen spillover effect has garnered considerable attention as a promising avenue to enhance the activity of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in metal‐support compound materials. Herein, Pt atom dimers on the NiOOH support are successfully synthesized with a reversed hydrogen spillover effect, demonstrating much better alkaline HER activity than Pt single atoms and Pt clusters. Atomic and electronic structure characterizations unequivocally verify the anchoring of Pt atom dimers on NiOOH through Pt─O bonds, thus obtaining a reversed and enhanced hydrogen spillover effect. Theoretical and experimental results indicate that NiOOH exhibits pronounced water dissociation capability, while the Pt atom dimers, in comparison to Pt single atoms and Pt clusters, demonstrate superior hydrogen desorption ability. The reversed spillover with Pt atom dimers leads to remarkable HER activity in alkaline solutions, as evidenced by an ultra‐small overpotential of 13 mV at 10 mA cm−2. These findings not only provide insights into the potential use of atom dimers for HER, but also shed light on reversed spillover in designing high‐performance catalysts.
Impact of Silicon Ion Irradiation on Aluminum Nitride‐Transduced Microelectromechanical Resonators
Authors: Lynes David D. , Young Joshua , Lang Eric , Chandrahalim Hengky
Published: August 2023

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) resonators use is widespread, from electronic filters and oscillators to physical sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes. These devices' ubiquity, small size, and low power consumption make them ideal for use in systems such as CubeSats, micro aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, and micro‐robots operating in radiation environments. Radiation's interaction with materials manifests as atomic displacement and ionization, resulting in mechanical and electronic property changes, photocurrents, and charge buildup. This study examines silicon (Si) ion irradiation's interaction with piezoelectrically transduced MEMS resonators. Furthermore, the effect of adding a dielectric silicon oxide (SiO2) thin film is unveiled. Aluminum nitride on silicon (AlN‐on‐Si) and AlN‐SiO2‐Si bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators are designed and fabricated. The devices are irradiated using 2 MeV Si+ions at various fluxes up to a total fluence of 5 × 1014 cm−2. A time anneal is conducted to characterize device recovery. Scattering (S‐) parameters are measured in situ. Specific damage coefficients are derived to describe the radiation effect on resonant frequency (fr), quality factor (Q), motional resistance (Rm), and electromechanical coupling factor (). Furthermore, the damage coefficients for the bulk material properties of elastic modulus (E) and the piezoelectric coefficient (d31) are found.
3D Architectural MXene‐based Composite Films for Stealth Terahertz Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Performance
Authors: Theja Vaskuri C. S. , Assi Dani S. , Huang Hongli , Alsulami Raghad Saud , Chen Bao Jie , Chan Chi Hou , Shek Chan‐Hung , Karthikeyan Vaithinathan , Roy Vellaisamy A. L.
Published: August 2023

The terahertz frequency range is gaining popularity in security, stealth technology, and the future 6G network communication. For the control of severe terahertz electromagnetic interference (EMI) pollution, frequency‐selective stealth‐capable shielding materials are being explored to mask terahertz signals. For the realization of masking terahertz signals, the robustness, lightweight, and shape‐conformable materials with excellent terahertz EMI shielding/absorption are crucial. Here, the study reports the fabrication of 3D symmetric pyramidal architectural MXene composite films with frequency‐selective stealth performance characteristics via the facile drop casting method. With the high absorption capability of 2D MXene layers, the MXene composite films exhibit substantial terahertz stealth performance. 3D pyramidal microstructure design leads to frequency selective surface‐assisted reflection resonance in the frequency range of 0.6–1.1 THz. The MXene composite film demonstrates an outstanding maximum terahertz shielding effectiveness (SE) of up to 70.4 dB and a specific SE of 0.55 dB µm−1. These terahertz SE values exceed all of those for MX‐based shielding material designs reported in the literature. The investigation will open a new direction toward developing terahertz EMI shielding thin films with easy integration into any surface for stealth capabilities.
Author Guide for Addressing Animal Methods Bias in Publishing
Authors: Krebs Catharine E. , Camp Celean , Constantino Helder , Courtot Lilas , Kavanagh Owen , McCarthy Janine , Ort Melanie‐Jasmin , Sarasija Shaarika , Trunnell Emily R.
Published: August 2023

There is growing recognition that animal methods bias, a preference for animal‐based methods where they are not necessary or where nonanimal‐based methods may already be suitable, can impact the likelihood or timeliness of a manuscript being accepted for publication. Following April 2022 workshop about animal methods bias in scientific publishing, a coalition of scientists and advocates formed a Coalition to Illuminate and Address Animal Methods Bias (COLAAB). The COLAAB has developed this guide to be used by authors who use nonanimal methods to avoid and respond to animal methods bias from manuscript reviewers. It contains information that researchers may use during 1) study design, including how to find and select appropriate nonanimal methods and preregister a research plan, 2) manuscript preparation and submission, including tips for discussing methods and choosing journals and reviewers that may be more receptive to nonanimal methods, and 3) the peer review process, providing suggested language and literature to aid authors in responding to biased reviews. The author's guide for addressing animal methods bias in publishing is a living resource also available online at animalmethodsbias.org, which aims to help ensure fair dissemination of research that uses nonanimal methods and prevent unnecessary experiments on animals.
Image‐based measurement of engulfment vortex to quantitatively assess micromixing efficiency in a gas–liquid stirred tank
Authors: Huang Dingwang , Duan Xiaoxia , Feng Xin , Zhang Weipeng , Li Zheng , Mao Zai‐Sha , Yang Chao
Published: August 2023

Micromixing in reactors is typically characterized by chemical test reactions. A novel image‐based measurement system of engulfment vortex (IMEV system) is developed to assess the micromixing efficiency. Over 2000 vortices were recognized from images captured under various experimental cases, and key frames for their formation, engulfment and dissipation were identified. Inspired by the engulfment model (i.e., E model), this work quantified the micromixing time and local turbulent energy dissipation rate with the vortex lifetimes. The micromixing time obtained through the IMEV method is comparable to its value estimated by the micromixing model and segregation index of the test reaction, with a deviation of less than 20%. In turbulent gas–liquid systems, bubbles play a dual role on the local micromixing due to frequent disturbance and phase interface limitation. To summarize, this work offers an alternative approach for micromixing studies and provides valuable insights into dispersed phase effects on the micromixing efficiency.
Race matters in addressing homelessness: A scoping review and call for critical research
Authors: Richard Molly K.
Published: August 2023

Structural racism contributes to homelessness in the United States, as evidenced by the stark racial disparities in who experiences it. This paper reviews research at the intersections of race and homelessness to advance efforts to understand and address racial inequities. Part 1 offers a synthesis of homelessness research from the 1980s to 2015, where several scholars examined the role of race and racism despite mainstream efforts to present the issue as race‐neutral. Part 2 presents the results of a systematic scoping review of research at the intersections of race and homelessness from 2016 to 2021. The 90 articles included demonstrate a growing, multidisciplinary body of literature that documents how needs and trajectories of people experiencing homelessness differ by race, examines how the racialized structuring of society contributes to homelessness risk, and explores how programs, policies, and grassroots action can address inequities. In addition to charting findings and implications, included studies are appraised against research principles developed by Critical Race Theory scholars, mapping the potential of existing research on race and homelessness to challenge racism.
Limb and hip morphology of two African colobine monkeys and its relationship to the mechanics of leaping and bounding locomotion
Authors: Polvadore Taylor , McGraw W. Scott , Daegling David J.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Although a bounding gait is practiced by a diversity of animals, the morphological characteristics, kinematics, and energetics associated with this locomotor form remain poorly understood. This study focuses on the locomotor anatomy of two species of African colobine monkeys (Piliocolobus badius, a leaper, and Colobus polykomos, a leaper–bounder) in an effort to assess if bounding should be considered a unique primate locomotor category or is better viewed as a behavior on a leaping continuum.

Materials and Methods

A total of 53 femora, 28 humeri, and 45 ossa coxae from the two species provide comparative morphological data. Free‐body models of bounding and leaping are presented to characterize loading conditions. Species differences in morphometric traits are evaluated via parametric and nonparametric tests (i.e., analysis of variance, resampling).

Results

C. polykomos exhibits traits that align more closely with putative leaping specializations when compared to P. badius (e.g., large femoral head, long femur, low femoral neck angle), while also possessing certain traits that are not (e.g., long femoral neck and reduced relative femoral robusticity). Consequently, C. polykomos likely experiences absolutely greater joint forces at the hip and higher bending at the femoral neck both when it leaps and bounds, given equivalent accelerations in bounding and leaping.

Discussion

Bounding is best described as a form of low‐acceleration leaping. If bounding has lower acceleration requirements relative to leaping, C. polykomos achieves locomotor competence with less energy, relatively smaller bending moments, and reduced joint forces.
An RNA‐Cleaving DNAzyme That Requires an Organic Solvent to Function
Authors: Chang Tianjun , Li Guangping , Chang Dingran , Amini Ryan , Zhu Xiaoni , Zhao Tongqian , Gu Jimmy , Li Zhongping , Li Yingfu
Published: August 2023

Engineering functional nucleic acids that are active under unusual conditions will not only reveal their hidden abilities but also lay the groundwork for pursuing them for unique applications. Although many DNAzymes have been derived to catalyze diverse chemical reactions in aqueous solutions, no prior study has been set up to purposely derive DNAzymes that require an organic solvent to function. Herein, we utilized in vitro selection to isolate RNA‐cleaving DNAzymes from a random‐sequence DNA pool that were “compelled” to accept 35 % dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a cosolvent, via counter selection in a purely aqueous solution followed by positive selection in the same solution containing 35 % DMSO. This experiment led to the discovery of a new DNAzyme that requires 35 % DMSO for its catalytic activity and exhibits drastically reduced activity without DMSO. This DNAzyme also requires divalent metal ions for catalysis, and its activity is enhanced by monovalent ions. A minimized, more efficient DNAzyme was also derived. This work demonstrates that highly functional, organic solvent‐dependent DNAzymes can be isolated from random‐sequence DNA libraries via forced in vitro selection, thus expanding the capability and potential utility of catalytic DNA.
Fabrication and characterization of (PVDF/PEO)/AgBiSe2 polymeric membrane with enhanced visible light photocatalytic performance
Authors: Ismail A. M. , Nasr R. A. , Hameed Talaat A.
Published: August 2023

Driven by the visible band gap, silver bismuth selenide (AgBiSe2) was loaded in PVDF/PEO blend to enhance the photodegradation of Maxilon blue dye. AgBiSe2 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by facile solvothermal approach and then loaded to PVDF/PEO (80/20) by 10, 20, and 30 wt%, by evaporative casting method. The X‐ray results in tandem with the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) established the successful fabrication of (PVDF/PEO)/x(AgBiSe2) polymer nanocomposites. The X‐ray analysis verified the formation of hexagonal AgBiSe2 of a crystallite size ranging from 14.3 to 23.24 nm. The FT‐IR results manifested an overlap between functional groups that corroborated the interaction between PVDF and PEO. Peaks of the AgSe, and SeO modes confirmed that the nanofiller and PVDF/PEO blend were successfully incorporated. The micrograph images by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) unraveled the high tendency of AgBiSe2 to form a uniform cluster. The optical band gap was found to be a direct band gap of 2.86 eV for 30 wt% AgBiSe2 proving its validity as visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts. The removal percentages of the prepared membrane are 4.1, 59, 82, and 98 for 0, 10%, 20%, and 30% AgBiSe2 after 300 min of irradiation under simulated sunlight at pH 6.
Catalysis Under Alternating Magnetic Field: Rethinking the Origin of Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Activities
Authors: Liu Sitong , Zhang Yudi , Sun Wen , Ma Dandan , Ma Jinfu , Wei Zhiyang , Huo Juntao , Zhang Dengsong , Li Guowei
Published: August 2023

Magnetic fields are proposed to be a clean and powerful tool to boost the heterogeneous reaction processes, from the simple two‐electron transfer hydrogen evolution to the complicated proton‐coupling of multi‐electron transfer reactions. Although many mechanisms are proposed to explain the field‐assistant enhancement of activities, it remains an open question of how to understand the contradictory experiment results. In this study, the interplay between the alternating magnetic field (AMF) and the working electrodes from the viewpoint of their relative geometric positions is investigated. It is found that the HER current is almost doubled at an AMF of 25 mT when Pt foil and AMF are parallelly arranged, which is more significant than the perpendicularly arranged configuration. A significant increase in solution resistance is observed, which is in contradiction to previous works. The changing of currents with the AMF strength is investigated for the diamagnetic Cu, ferromagnetic Ni, and paramagnetic Ti and Pt wire, all suggesting the vital role of the induced electromotive force, which is a result of the relative geometric positions between the electrode and AMF. The findings provide an alternative mechanism for the magnetic field‐assisted electrocatalytic processes, which is helpful for the rational design of high‐performance catalysts.
Dihydromyricetin alleviates intestinal inflammation by changing intestinal microbial metabolites and inhibiting the expression of the MyD88/NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Wen Chaoyu , Zhang Fan , Yang Kang , Han Sufang , Jian Shiyan , Deng Baichuan
Published: August 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a common chronic gastrointestinal disease in humans, has emerged as a global public health challenge. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) has anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can alleviate inflammation. In this study, we explored the effect and underlying mechanism of DHM on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in mice and porcine jejunum epithelial cells (IPEC‐J2) exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found that DHM alleviated loss of weight, diarrhea, and damage of colon structure in colitis mice. For the intestinal microbial, a significant rise in the amount of the potentially beneficial genera and a decline in the amount of harmful genera were observed in DHM‐treated colitis mice. Metabolomic analysis of cecal content revealed that DHM restored phenylalanine metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, and arachidonic acid metabolism disorders caused by intestinal inflammation. Moreover, DHM decreased the level of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species in LPS‐treated IPEC‐J2 cells. DHM also reduced the expression of MyD88 and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB). In summary, we found that 125 mg/kg DHM administration alleviated diarrhea, reinstated intestinal barrier function, modulated intestinal dysbiosis, and suppressed the expression of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and NF‐κB. Therefore, DHM may be a potentially therapeutic agent for IBD.
Über die Verwendung der Diffusion zur Erkennung und Trennung von Fettsäuren
Authors: Heiduschka A. , Ripper J.
Published: August 2023

Es wurde experimentell folgendes festgestellt: Gemische von Palmitinsäure‐Stearinsäure und Gemische von Laurinsäure‐Stearinsäure in Äthylalkohol gelöst, verhalten sich bei der Diffusion dem Eulerschen Gesetz entsprechend, d. h. die Diffusionsgeschwindigkeit ihrer Komponenten nimmt mit zunehmendem Molekulargewicht ab, dagegen ist die Diffusionsgeschwindigkeit nicht immer proportional dem Konzentrationsverhältnis. Auf die quantitative Zusammensetzung des bei halbstündiger Diffusion erhaltenen Säuregemenges ist das prozentige Mischungsverhältnis des als Ausgangsmaterial verwendeten Palmitinsäure‐Stearinsäuregemisches von Einfluß. Palmitinsäurereichere Gemische ergeben palmitinsäureärmere Diffusate als Gemische, bei denen die Stearinsäure überwiegt.
Unsere Vorstellungen über die Kinetik von Elektrodenprozessen
Authors: Vetter Klaus J.
Published: August 2023

In der Elektrodenkinetik entspricht die Stromdichteider Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit, die bei festem Potential von den Konzentrationencimit einer Reaktionsordnungz0,i,zr,iusw. abhängt. Die Änderung des Potentials entspricht bei der Durchtrittsüberspannung einer Änderung der Aktivierungsenergie mit einem Durchtrittsfaktor 0 < α < 1. Die Durchtrittsüberspannung ηDhängt nur von der Austauschstromdichtei0und dem Durchtrittsfaktor α ab. Unmittelbar maßgebend für die Größe des Potentials oder der Überspannung η = ϵ ‐ ϵ0sind die Vorgänge in der Durchtrittsreaktion. Andere Vorgänge wirken nur mittelbar durch Veränderungen in der Durchtrittsreaktion ein.

Die Potentialeinstellung erfolgt sowohl bei den Redoxelektroden (Elektronendurchtritt durch die Doppelschicht) wie bei den Metallionenelektroden (Metallionendurchtritt) durch zwei entgegengesetzte potentialabhängige anodische und kathodische Teilstromdichteni+> 0 undi‐< 0. Einige aufgeklärte Mechanismen werden als Beispiel für verschiedene Elektrodenarten angegeben.

Die Gesamtüberspannung wird in Durchtritts‐, Diffusions‐ und Reaktionsüberspannung aufgeteilt und es werden hierfür weitere Beispiele mit Reaktionsgrenzströmen gegeben. Ihre Beziehung zu älteren Überspannungsarten wird diskutiert. Die Kristallisationsüberspannung wird als Reaktionsüberspannungsart gedeutet. Der Volmersche Mechanismus führt zu reiner Durchtrittsüberspannung und der Tafelsche Mechanismus der Wasserstoffüberspannung zu reiner Reaktionsüberspannung.
Eine Einführung in die Methoden zur Untersuchung der Kinetik von Elektrodenprozessen
Authors: Gerischer Heinz
Published: August 2023

Es wird über einige wichtige Untersuchungsmethoden zur Messung der Geschwindigkeit von Teilprozessen einer Elektrodenreaktion berichtet. Behandelt werden: die stationäre Strom‐Spannungs‐Kurve und nichtstationäre Einstellvorgänge mit konstantem Strom, konstantem Potential oder einfach‐periodischem Wechselstrom. An leicht verständlichen Beispielen wird gezeigt, wie man insbesondere die Geschwindigkeitsparameter der eigentlichen Phasengrenzreaktion, der sogenannten Durchtrittsreaktion, mit diesen Methoden ermitteln kann.
Über die Inhibitorwirkung bei Elektrodenprozessen
Authors: Schwabe K.
Published: August 2023

Es wurde die Polarisation an reinen und amalgamierten Zinkelektroden in Abhängigkeit von der Stromdichte, der Zusammensetzung des Elektrolyten, vom Lösungsmittel und von Zusätzen an Dibenzylsulfoxyd untersucht.

Wasserstoff‐Ionen, zugesetzter Alkohol und Dibenzylsulfoxyd zeigten inhibierende Wirkung, die vom anwesenden Anion stark abhängig war und sowohl anodisch als auch kathodisch in der Reihenfolge Perchlorat‐Sulfat‐Chlorid abnahm. In reinen wäßrigen Zinksalzlösungen geringer Wasserstoffionenaktivität war die Polarisation weitgehend vom Anion unabhängig und verschwand an amalgamierten Elektroden ganz. Aus den Ergebnissen muß geschlossen werden, daß Inhibitoren Teilvorgänge des Elektrodenprozesses hemmen, an denen Anionen beteiligt sind. Den Anionen selbst kann keine inhibierende Wirkung zugeschrieben werden.
Wechselstrom‐ und Impulsmessungen an passiven Eisenelektroden
Authors: Engell H.‐J. , Ilschner B.
Published: August 2023

Durch Überlagerung von Gleichstrom mit Wechselstrom und Gleichstromimpulsen wurde an Eisenelektroden in 1 n‐Schwefelsäure die Elektrodenimpedanz in Abhängigkeit vom Potential der Elektroden und der Frequenz des Wechselstromes gemessen. Zur Auswertung der Messungen wurde ein Ersatzschaltbild der Elektrode zugrunde gelegt, das den Elektrolytwiderstand, die Elektronenleitfähigkeit und die Ionenleitfähigkeit der Passivschicht berücksichtigt sowie die Kapazität zwischen Metall und Elektrolyt und den von der elektrolytischen Doppelschicht und der Passivschicht gebildeten Kondensator. Der Imaginärteil der Elektrodenimpedanz ist zwischen Fladepotential und beginnender Sauerstoffentwicklung dem Elektrodenpotential umgekehrt, der Realteil direkt proportional. Die Messungen lassen sich mit den von U. F. Franck und K. Weil sowie K. J. Vetter entwickelten Vorstellungen in Einklang bringen. Die Auswertung gleichartiger Messungen, die im Verlauf der Aktivierung der Elektroden nach Ausschalten des Gleichstroms durchgeführt wurden, führt zu einer geringfügigen Abänderung der bisherigen Theorie.
Ein stationäres Feldverfahren zur Untersuchung von Dissoziationsprozessen in Flüssigkeiten und Festkörpern
Authors: Eigen M. , De Maeyer L.
Published: August 2023

Mit Hilfe starker elektrischer Felder lassen sich in sehr dünnen Schichten schwach dissoziierender Medien die Ionenkonzentrationen so weit verringern, daß der sich einstellende Sättigungsstrom ein direktes Maß für die Dissoziationsgeschwindigkeit wird. Unter Ausnutzung der gleichzeitig auftretenden Raumladungserscheinungen und des Dissoziationsfeldeffektes können so die Lage des Dissoziationsgleichgewichtes, die Reaktionsgeschwindigkeiten und die Ladungsträgerbeweglichkeiten in dem betreffenden System (Ionenhalbleiter, sehr schwache, insbesondere nichtwäßrige Elektrolyte) bestimmt werden. Nach einer ausführlicheren Diskussion der theoretischen Grundlagen werden verschiedene Meßverfahren sowie eine entsprechende Versuchsanordnung beschrieben. Eine Anwendung zur Messung der Dissoziationsgeschwindigkeit der Wassermoleküle sowie der Protonenbeweglichkeit und ‐konzentration in sehr reinem Eis wird diskutiert. Die ersten (vorläufigen) Ergebnisse führen zur Annahme einer sehr hohen Proteonenbeweglichkeit in H‐Brücken. Die Übergangshäufigkeit erreicht die Größenordnung von Ultrarotfrequenzen (1013 bis 1014 sec−1). Die Dissoziationsgeschwindigkeit der H2O‐Moleküle im Eisgitter wird dagegen um Größenordnungen kleiner gefunden als im Wasser.
Protective films in passivity
Authors: Evans U. R.
Published: August 2023

An “Inhibitor” is something added to a corrosive liquid to render it non‐corrosive; “passivity” is a change in the metal remaining after it has emerged from the “inhibiting” bath, enabling it to resist liquids which normally would corrode it. The object of the paper is to ask whether passivity is due to (1) a three‐dimensional film (2) a two‐dimensional film (chemisorbed material) or (3) a change within the metal or alloy.

The evidence supports the idea that a three‐dimensional film is usually necessary. For instance, iron which has been rendered passive in chromic acid, or has remained in water containing chromate long enough to make it safe to reduce the chromate concentration without risk of rusting, does carry a three‐dimensional film. Doubtless the “decision” between the formation of a protective film or of a soluble salt will be reached at the “chemi‐sorption” stage; but a chemi‐sorbed film does not seem to be capable of protecting the metal from further action by the film‐forming agent or by any liquid which would normally corrode it.

There seems to be no clearly established case where intrinsic corrosion‐resistance is obtained by alloying, independent of film‐formation; but the possibility deserves further investigation.
Paramagnetische Relaxation in Flüssigkeiten
Authors: Hausser K. H.
Published: August 2023

Bei Untersuchungen der Elektron‐Spin‐Resonanz ist eine Kenntnis der Relaxationsvorgänge besonders wegen des engen Zusammenhangs zwischen Relaxation und Linienbreite notwendig. Es erscheint zweckmäßig, zwei Gruppen von Verbindungen zu unterscheiden: Solche mit erheblicher Spin‐Bahn‐Kopplung, durch die elektrische Wechselwirkungen auf das Spin‐System übertragen werden können, und solche Verbindungen, bei denen die Spin‐Bahn‐Kopplung vernachlässigbar klein ist. Bei ersteren kann man ein Minimum der Linienbreite und dementsprechend optimale Auflösung der Hyperfeinstruktur durch Aufsuchen des günstigsten Temperaturbereichs erreichen. Bei letzteren wird die Relaxation vor allem durch den gelösten molekularen Sauerstoff bestimmt. Durch Entfernen desselben läßt sich bei freien Radikalen in vielen Fällen eine Relaxationszeit T2 von etwa 10−6 erreichen, was einer Linienbreite von 70 Milligauß entspricht. Information über das Relaxationsverhalten von Lösungen freier Radikale und den Einfluß des Sauerstoffs kann auch aus Untersuchungen des Overhauser‐Effekts gewonnen werden.
Die Assoziation von Methanol in Tetrachlorkohlenstoff (nach Dampfdruckmessungen)
Authors: Wolff H. , Höppel H.‐E.
Published: August 2023

Die Ermittlung der Aktivitätskoeffizienten des Systems Methanol‐Tetrachlorkohlenstoff aus den zwischen 20 und 80°C gemessenen Dampfdruckisothermen zeigt bei Verwendung einer ausreichenden Anzahl von Druckmessungen, daß die Darstellung der Koeffizienten mit den Redlich‐Kisterschen Ansätzen bei 20°C 10‐11, bei 80°C aber nur noch etwa 5 Konstanten erfordert. In Übereinstimmung mit den Ergebnissen einer numerischen Integration der Duhem‐Margulesschen Gleichung mit dem für die elektronische Rechenmaschine programmierten Verfahren von Runge und Kutta wird die große Zahl der bei den niedrigeren Temperaturen benötigten Konstanten aus der extremen Form der Isothermen erklärt.

Berechnung der Daten, die mit den Aktivitätskoeffizienten aus der Theorie idealer assoziierter Lösungen unter der Annahme eines polynären Gleichgewichts erhalten werden, erweist die Assoziation des Methanols in Tetrachlorkohlenstoff schwächer als in Hexan. Zugleich zeigt die Berechnung, daß die Assoziationsenergie mit 5,0‐5,9 kcal/mol um 0,5‐1,0 kcal/mol kleiner, die Solvatationsenergie aber mit 3,4 bis 3,6 kcal/mol um einen entsprechenden Betrag größer als bei Methanol‐Hexan ist. Ermittlung der Exzeßfunktionen ergibt bei weitgehender Übereinstimmung mit kalorimetrischen Daten einen stark unsymmetrischen Verlauf der Mischungsenthalpie mit negativen Werten bei großem Methanolmolenbruch unterhalb etwa 40°C, liefert außerdem einen Betrag der integralen Lösungswärme des Methanols bis zu unendlicher Verdünnung, der mit etwa 5,4 kcal/mol wieder um 0,5‐1,0 kcal/mol kleiner als bei Methanol‐Hexan ist. Auch aus der Aufteilung der freien Exzeßenthalpie in einen auf die Selbstassoziation und einen auf die Komplexbildung bezüglichen Term wird ein Differenzbetrag von ähnlicher Größe berechnet. Die Ergebnisse entsprechen der Vorstellung, daß Methanol‐Tetrachlorkohlenstoff bei Ausschluß der Selbstassoziation des Methanols nicht in gleichem Maß wie Methanol‐Hexan als ideales System angesehen werden kann.