bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Zagreb Skull Collection—The unique identified collection of human skulls from fetuses to centenarians
Authors: Štoković Nikola , Ivanjko Natalia , Bičanić Ivana , Jalšovec Dubravko , Katavić Vedran , Petanjek Zdravko
Published: July 2023

Skull anatomy and development have been extensively studied due to their significance in evolutionary biology, forensic anthropology, and clinical medicine. Bone collections are an indispensable resource for conducting such anthropological and anatomical studies. However, worldwide there are only few skull collections containing specimens covering the entire fetal and postnatal period. Herein we describe the Zagreb Skull Collection, an identified collection comprising more than 1100 skulls and skull bone sets from the early fetal period to centenarians. The Zagreb Skull Collection consists of two main parts: the unique Collection of Skull Bones containing 386 sets of separated skull bones from the early fetal period to adulthood and the Collection of Skulls containing 742 skulls (age range 4–101 years). The collection was the core source for numerous anatomical studies on the development, postnatal changes, and anatomical variations of the skull. However, the Zagreb Skull Collection is still an underexploited resource for anthropological, forensic, and anatomical studies with translatability to contemporary clinical practice.
North and South: Exploring isotopic analysis of bone carbonates and collagen to understand post‐medieval diets in London and northern England
Authors: Chidimuro Blessing , Doherty Sean , Finch Jonathan , Ponce Paola , Eggington Jack , Delaney Sarah , Speller Camilla , Collins Matthew J. , Holst Malin , Alexander Michelle
Published: July 2023

Objectives

We evaluate the potential of paired isotopic analysis of bone carbonate and collagen to examine the diet of post‐medieval human and animal populations from England (17th–19th c.), including, for the first time, manufacturing towns in northern England. The potential for identifying C4crop consumption is explored alongside regional and local patterning in diet by sex and socioeconomic status.

Materials and Methods

Humans (n = 216) and animals (n = 168) were analyzed from sites in London and northern England for both carbon and nitrogen isotopes of bone collagen (𝛿13Ccoll, 𝛿15Ncoll). Isotopic analysis of bone carbonates (𝛿13Ccarb, 𝛿18Ocarb) was carried out on all humans and 27 animals, using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy–attenuated total reflectance to assess diagenesis.

Results

Variations in diet were observed between and within different populations by geographical location and socioeconomic status. Three pigs and one cow consumed C4resources, indicating the availability of C4‐fed animal protein. Londoners consumed more animal and marine protein and C4resources. Middle‐ and upper‐class populations from both London and northern populations also had greater access to these foods compared to those of lower status in the same regions.

Discussion

This substantial multi‐isotope dataset deriving from bone carbonate and collagen combined from diverse post‐medieval urban communities enabled, for the first time, the biomolecular identification of the dynamics of C4consumption (cane sugar/maize) in England, providing insight into the dynamics of food globalization during this period. We also add substantially to the animal dataset for post‐medieval England, providing further insight into animal management during a key moment of agricultural change.
Large Interlayer Distance and Heteroatom‐Doping of Graphite Provide New Insights into the Dual‐Ion Storage Mechanism in Dual‐Carbon Batteries
Authors: Hu Xin , Ma Yitian , Qu Wenjie , Qian Ji , Li Yuetong , Chen Yi , Zhou Anbin , Wang Huirong , Zhang Fengling , Hu Zhengqiang , Huang Yongxin , Li Li , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: July 2023

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) is a promising technology for large‐scale energy storage. However, it is still questionable how material structures affect the anion storage behavior. In this paper, we synthesis graphite with an ultra‐large interlayer distance and heteroatomic doping to systematically investigate the combined effects on DIBs. The large interlayer distance of 0.51 nm provides more space for anion storage, while the doping of the heteroatoms reduces the energy barriers for anion intercalation and migration and enhances rapid ionic storage at interfaces simultaneously. Based on the synergistic effects, the DIBs composed of carbon cathode and lithium anode afford ultra‐high capacity of 240 mAh g−1 at current density of 100 mA g−1. Dual‐carbon batteries (DCBs) using the graphite as both of cathode and anode steadily cycle 2400 times at current density of 1 A g−1. Hence, this work provides a reference to the strategy of material designs of DIBs and DCBs.
A Rapidly Responsive Sensor for Wireless Detection of Early and Mature Microbial Biofilms
Authors: Shafaat Atefeh , Gonzalez‐Martinez Juan Francisco , Silva Wanderson O. , Lesch Andreas , Nagar Bhawna , Lopes da Silva Zita , Neilands Jessica , Sotres Javier , Björklund Sebastian , Girault Hubert , Ruzgas Tautgirdas
Published: July 2023

Biofilm‐associated infections, which are able to resist antibiotics, pose a significant challenge in clinical treatments. Such infections have been linked to various medical conditions, including chronic wounds and implant‐associated infections, making them a major public‐health concern. Early‐detection of biofilm formation offers significant advantages in mitigating adverse effects caused by biofilms. In this work, we aim to explore the feasibility of employing a novel wireless sensor for tracking both early‐stage and matured‐biofilms formed by the medically relevant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The sensor utilizes electrochemical reduction of an AgCl layer bridging two silver legs made by inkjet‐printing, forming a part of near‐field‐communication tag antenna. The antenna is interfaced with a carbon cloth designed to promote the growth of microorganisms, thereby serving as an electron source for reduction of the resistive AgCl into a highly‐conductive Ag bridge. The AgCl−Ag transformation significantly alters the impedance of the antenna, facilitating wireless identification of an endpoint caused by microbial growth. To the best of our knowledge, this study for the first time presents the evidence showcasing that electrons released through the actions of bacteria can be harnessed to convert AgCl to Ag, thus enabling the wireless, battery‐less, and chip‐less early‐detection of biofilm formation.
Proton/Mg2+ Co‐Insertion Chemistry in Aqueous Mg‐Ion Batteries: From the Interface to the Inner
Authors: Huang Meng , Wang Xuanpeng , Wang Junjun , Meng Jiashen , Liu Xiong , He Qiu , Geng Lishan , An Qinyou , Yang Jinlong , Mai Liqiang
Published: July 2023

Co‐insertion of protons happens widely and enables divalent‐ion aqueous batteries to achieve high performances. However, detailed investigations and comprehensive understandings of proton co‐insertion are scarce. Herein, we demonstrate that proton co‐insertion into tunnel materials is determined jointly by interface derivation and inner diffusion: at the interface, hdrated Mg2+ has poor insertion kinetics, and therefore accumulates and hydrolyzes to produce protons; in the tunnels, co‐inserted/lattice H2O molecules block the Mg2+ diffusion while facilitate the proton diffusion. When monoclinic vanadium dioxide (VO2(B)) anode is tested in Mg(CH3COO)2 aqueous solution, the formation of Mg‐rich solid electrolyte interphase on the VO2(B) electrode and co‐insertion of derived protons are probed; in the tunnels, the diffusion energy barrier of Mg2++H2O is 2.7 eV, while that of the protons is 0.37 eV. Thus, protons dominate the subsequent insertion and inner diffusion. As a consequence, the VO2(B) achieves a high capacity of 257.0 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1, a high rate retention of 59.1 % from 1 to 8 A g−1, and stable cyclability of 3000 times with a capacity retention of 81.5 %. This work provides an in‐depth understanding of the proton co‐insertion and may promote the development of rechargeable aqueous batteries.
A Nuclearity‐Dependent Enantiodivergent Epoxide Opening via Enthalpy‐Controlled Mononuclear and Entropy‐Controlled Dinuclear (Salen)Titanium Catalysis
Authors: Li Shengxiao , Zhu Hui , Li Longfei , Chen Wanjiao , Jiang Jie , Qu Zheng‐Wang , Grimme Stefan , Zhang Yong‐Qiang
Published: July 2023

A nuclearity‐dependent enantiodivergent epoxide opening reaction has been developed, in which both antipodes of chiral alcohol products are selectively accessed by mononuclear (salen)TiIII complex and its self‐assembled oxygen‐bridged dinuclear counterparts within the same stereogenic ligand scaffold. Kinetic studies based on the Eyring equation revealed an enthalpy‐controlled enantio‐differentiation mode in mononuclear catalysis, whereas an entropy‐controlled one in dinuclear catalysis. DFT calculations outline the origin of the enantiocontrol of the mononuclear catalysis and indicate the actual catalyst species in the dinuclear catalytic system. The mechanistic insights may shed a light on a strategy for stereoswichable asymmetric catalysis utilizing nuclearity‐distinct transition‐metal complexes.
Efficiencies of Various in situ Polymerizations of Liquid Electrolytes and the Practical Implications for Quasi Solid‐state Batteries
Authors: Li Peiying , Wang Shuya , Hao Jinjin , Wang Xiang , Hao Shu‐Meng , Lu Yuhao , Li Hong , Zhou Weidong , Li Yuliang
Published: July 2023

In situ polymerization of liquid electrolytes is currently the most feasible way for constructing solid‐state batteries, which, however, is affected by various interfering factors of reactions and so the electrochemical performance of cells. To disclose the effects from polymerization conditions, two types of generally used in situ polymerizing reactions of ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) and double bond radical polymerization (DBRP) were investigated on the aspects of monomer conversion and electrochemical properties (Li+‐conductivity and interfacial stability). The ROP generated poly‐ester and poly‐carbonate show a high monomer conversion of ≈90 %, but suffer a poor Li+‐conductivity of lower than 2×10−5 S cm−1 at room temperature (RT). Additionally, the terminal alkoxy anion derived from the ROP is not resistant to high‐voltage cathodes. While, the DBRP produced poly‐VEC(vinyl ethylene carbonate) and poly‐VC(vinylene carbonate) show lower monomer conversions of 50–80 %, delivering relatively higher Li+‐conductivities of 2×10−4 S cm−1 at RT. Compared two polymerizing reactions and four monomers, the VEC‐based F‐containing copolymer possesses advantages in Li+‐conductivity and antioxidant capacity, which also shows simultaneous stability towards Li‐metal with the help of LiF‐based passivating layer, allowing a long‐term stable cycling of high‐voltage quasi solid‐state cells.
Porphyrin Supramolecule as Surface Carrier Modulator Imparts Hole Transporter with Enhanced Mobility for Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Mu Xijiao , Liu Yajun , Xiao Guo‐Bin , Xu Chen , Gao Xingbang , Cao Jing
Published: July 2023

Modulating the surface charge transport behavior of hole transport materials (HTMs) would be as an potential approach to improve their hole mobility, while yet realized for fabricating efficient photovoltaic devices. Here, an oxygen bridged dimer‐based monoamine FeIII porphyrin supramolecule is prepared and doped in HTM film. Theoretical analyses reveal that the polaron distributed on dimer can be coupled with the parallel arranged polarons on adjacent dimers. This polaron coupling at the interface of supramolecule and HTM can resonates with hole flux to increase hole transport efficiency. Mobility tests reveal that the hole mobility of doped HTM film is improved by 8‐fold. Doped perovskite device exhibits an increased efficiency from 19.8 % to 23.2 %, and greatly improved stability. This work provides a new strategy to improve the mobility of HTMs by surface carrier modulation, therefore fabricating efficient photovoltaic devices.
Size‐Dependent Dispersion of Rhodium Clusters into Isolated Single Atoms at Low Temperature and the Consequences for CO Oxidation Activity
Authors: Albrahim Malik A. , Shrotri Abhijit , Unocic Raymond R. , Hoffman Adam S. , Bare Simon R. , Karim Ayman M.
Published: July 2023

Understanding the dynamic structural evolution of supported metal clusters under reaction conditions is crucial to develop structure reactivity relations. Here, we followed the structure of different size Rh clusters supported on Al2O3 using in situ/operando spectroscopy and ex situ aberration‐corrected electron microscopy. We report a dynamic evolution of rhodium clusters into thermally stable isolated single atoms upon exposure to oxygen and during CO oxidation. Rh clusters partially disperse into single atoms at room temperature and the extent of dispersion increases as the Rh size decreases and as the reaction temperature increases. A strong correlation is found between the extent of dispersion and the CO oxidation kinetics. More importantly, dispersing Rh clusters into single atoms increases the activity at room temperature by more than two orders of magnitude due to the much lower activation energy on single atoms (40 vs. 130 kJ/mol). This work demonstrates that the structure and reactivity of small Rh clusters are very sensitive to the reaction environment.
Bioleaching of oceanic manganese nodules: Current progress and future prospects
Authors: Xue Zhonghua , Feng Yali , Li Haoran , Xu Chenglong , Ju Jinrong
Published: July 2023

The extraction of manganese elements and other strategic elements from oceanic manganese nodules has become a strategic decision to ensure the security of global metal resources and the high‐quality green development of metal resource processing and metallurgy industry due to the gradual depletion of high‐quality terrestrial metal resources and the increase of difficult‐to‐select and difficult‐to‐smelt deposits. In order to achieve the enrichment and separation of diverse elements within oceanic manganese nodules, it is imperative to initiate chemical reactions that facilitate the breakdown of complex oxides, particularly manganese dioxide. Bioleaching is a viable treatment option for oceanic manganese nodules with low operating costs and environmental damage. However, the mechanism of oceanic manganese nodules bioleaching is not fully studied, and the prospect of technology development is uncertain. We have reviewed five influencing factors on bioleaching of oceanic manganese nodules: mineralogical characteristics, chemical reaction equilibrium, thermodynamic characteristics, microbial properties, and operational variables. It then makes new development recommendations and technological system suggestions for the future improvement of oceanic manganese nodule bioleaching, primarily focusing on the development of new technologies for challenging to select and difficult to smelt ores, the practicality of strategic energy metal development, the cell design and its materials revolution, environmental protection and management, and all‐round resource utilization. Solving the above critical technical issues will boost the high‐quality development of metal industry and environmental protection.
High stability PAM/glycerol hydrogels and its applications in lenses and actuators
Authors: Wei Cunyue , Li Kun , Lin Feng , Mi Shengli , Dong Lina , Song Yu , Zhang Ting
Published: July 2023

Hydrogels are characterized by high water content and are typically used in water environments. However, when used in air environments, hydrogels face limitations due to instability caused by water loss. This study reports the development of PAM/glycerol hydrogels with improved stability. By using water–glycerol bi‐solvents to lock in water internally, a closed environment was established to reduce water exchange with the outside world. The hydrogel was made by forming a single PAM crosslinking network using UV crosslinked acrylamide (AM) monomer. The weight of the hydrogel varied by no more than 2% within 6 days, and the visible light transmittance was higher than 90%. In addition, the hydrogel had adjustable refractive index and mechanical properties. The hydrogels with stable performance could be used to fabricate optical lens with practical function in air environment. Meanwhile, the gels also have certain advantages in making a fluid‐driven hydrogel actuator with stable performance.
Event‐Related Spectral Perturbation, Inter Trial Coherence, and Functional Connectivity in motor execution: A comparative EEG study of old and young subjects
Authors: Gyulai Adam , Körmendi Janos , Issa Mohamed F. , Juhasz Zoltan , Nagy Zoltan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The motor‐related bioelectric brain activity of healthy young and old subjects was studied to understand the effect of aging on motor execution. A visually cued finger tapping movement paradigm and high‐density EEG were used to examine the time and frequency characteristics.

Methods

Twenty‐two young and 22 healthy elderly adults participated in the study. Repeated trials of left and right index finger movements were recorded with a 128‐channel EEG. Event‐Related Spectral Perturbation (ERSP), Inter Trial Coherence (ITC), and Functional Connectivity were computed and compared between the age groups.

Results

An age‐dependent theta and alpha band ERSP decrease was observed over the frontal–midline area. Decrease of beta band ERSP was found over the ipsilateral central–parietal regions. Significant ITC differences were found in the delta and theta bands between old and young subjects over the contralateral parietal–occipital areas. The spatial extent of increased ITC values was larger in old subjects. The movement execution of older subjects showed higher global efficiency in the delta and theta bands, and higher local efficiency and node strengths in the delta, theta, alpha, and beta bands.

Conclusion

As functional compensation of aging, elderly motor networks involve more nonmotor, parietal–occipital, and frontal areas, with higher global and local efficiency, node strength. ERSP and ITC changes seem to be sensitive and complementary biomarkers of age‐related motor execution.
Effect of lawsone‐preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells on the regeneration of pancreatic β cells in Type 1 diabetic rats
Authors: Masnoon Javeria , Ishaque Aisha , Khan Irfan , Salim Asmat , Kabir Nurul
Published: July 2023

Diabetes is one of the major health issues globally. Type 1 diabetes mellitus develops due to the destruction of pancreatic β cells. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) having remarkable self‐renewal and differentiation potential, can regenerate β cells. MSCs preconditioned with bioactive small molecules possess enhanced biological features and therapeutic potential under in vivo environment. Interestingly, compounds of naphthoquinone class possess antidiabetic and anti‐inflammatory properties, and can be explored as potential candidates for preconditioning MSCs. This study analyzed the effect of lawsone‐preconditioned human umbilical cord MSCs (hUMSCs) on the regeneration of β cells in the streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced Type 1 diabetes (T1D) rats. hUMSCs were isolated and characterized for the presence of surface markers. MSCs were preconditioned with optimized concentration of lawsone. T1D rat model was established by injecting 50 mg/kg of STZ intraperitoneally. Untreated and lawsone‐preconditioned hUMSCs were transplanted into the diabetic rats via tail vein. Fasting blood sugar and body weight were monitored regularly for 4 weeks. Pancreas was harvested and β cell regeneration was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and gene expression analysis. Immunohistochemistry was also done to assess the insulin expression. Lawsone‐preconditioned hUMSCs showed better anti‐hyperglycemic effect in comparison with untreated hUMSCs. Histological analysis presented the regeneration of islets of Langerhans with upregulated expression of βcell genes and reduced expression of inflammatory markers. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong insulin expression in the preconditioned hUMSCs compared with the untreated hUMSCs. It is concluded from the present study that lawsone‐preconditioned hMSCs were able to exhibit pronounced anti‐hyperglycemic effect in vivo compared with hUMSCs alone.
A Co‐Ni‐CM Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Direct Synthesis of Amides from the Oxidative Coupling of Aldehydes with N‐Substituted Formamides
Authors: Huang Decai , Sun Hao , Li Jingwen , Xu Hongyan , Zhao Huaiqing
Published: July 2023

Given the importance of amides in pharmaceutical and chemical industries, a Co−Ni composites (Co−Ni‐CM) heterogeneous catalytic system for the synthesis of amides from the oxidative coupling of aldehydes with N‐substituted formamides has been developed under mild conditions. The catalyst was prepared by pyrolysis under ambient atmosphere using Co‐BTC supported NiCl2 as a precursor. The catalytic system possesses good catalytic ability and good compatibility with functional groups. The surface morphology and internal element composition of the catalyst were characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), BET adsorption, high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that the interaction of Co−Ni is a key factor for the good catalytic activity of the catalyst. Then control experiments related to the mechanism of this transformation indicate a free radical process is involved in this transformation. More importantly, the catalyst has an excellent recycling performance and can be recycled seven times without obvious loss of catalytic activity.
Accounting for Medicaid expansion and regional policy and programs to advance equity in cancer prevention in the United States
Authors: Eom Kirsten Y. , Koroukian Siran M. , Dong Weichuan , Kim Uriel , Rose Johnie , Albert Jeffrey M. , Zanotti Kristine M. , Owusu Cynthia , Cooper Gregory , Tsui Jennifer
Published: July 2023

Background

Many studies compare state‐level outcomes to estimate changes attributable to Medicaid expansion. However, it is imperative to conduct more granular, demographic‐level analyses to inform current efforts on cancer prevention among low‐income adults. Therefore, the authors compared the volume of patients with cancer and disease stage at diagnosis in Ohio, which expanded its Medicaid coverage in 2014, with those in Georgia, a nonexpansion state, by cancer site and health insurance status.

Methods

The authors used state cancer registries from 2010 to 2017 to identify adults younger than 64 years who had incident female breast cancer, cervical cancer, or colorectal cancer. Multivariable Poisson regression was conducted by cancer type, health insurance, and state to examine the risk of late‐stage disease, adjusting for individual‐level and area‐level covariates. A difference‐in‐differences framework was then used to estimate the differences in risks of late‐stage diagnosis in Ohio versus Georgia.

Results

In Ohio, the largest increase in all three cancer types was observed in the Medicaid group after Medicaid expansion. In addition, significantly reduced risks of late‐stage disease were observed among patients with breast cancer on Medicaid in Ohio by approximately 7% and among patients with colorectal cancer on Medicaid in Ohio and Georgia after expansion by approximately 6%. Notably, the authors observed significantly reduced risks of late‐stage diagnosis among all patients with colorectal cancer in Georgia after expansion.

Conclusions

More early stage cancers in the Medicaid‐insured and/or uninsured groups after expansion suggest that the reduced cancer burden in these vulnerable population subgroups may be attributed to Medicaid expansion. Heterogeneous risks of late‐stage disease by cancer type highlight the need for comprehensive evaluation frameworks, including local cancer prevention efforts and federal health policy reforms.

Plain Language Summary

This study looked at how Medicaid expansion affected cancer diagnosis and treatment in two states, Ohio and Georgia.

The researchers found that, after Ohio expanded their Medicaid program, there were more patients with cancer among low‐income adults on Medicaid.

The study also found that, among people on Medicaid, there were lower rates of advanced cancer at the time of diagnosis for breast cancer and colon cancer in Ohio and for colon cancer in Georgia.

These findings suggest that Medicaid expansion may be effective in reducing the cancer burden among low‐income adults.
Porphyrinic Porous Aromatic Frameworks for Carbon Dioxide Adsorption and Separation
Authors: Yang Jierui , Qiu Huiting , Huang Long , Meng Shuang , Yang Yunhui
Published: July 2023

The capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) from industrial process emissions is increasingly important for the mitigation and prevention of the disruptive effects of global warming. In this study, PAF (porous aromatic frameworks)‐TPB(1,3,5‐triphenylbenzene) and three‐dimensional PAF‐TPM (tetraphenylmethane) porphyrin‐based aromatic porous materials were synthesized through the Scholl reaction. The CO2 and N2 adsorption isotherms at 273 K and 298 K were studied to determine the performance in carbon dioxide capture at flue gas conditions. There is a significant difference in the adsorption capacity of the two materials for CO2 and N2, so they can be used for CO2/N2 adsorption separation. PAF‐TPM has better CO2/N2 separation at low pressure (150 mbar), while PAF‐TPB has the advantage of greater CO2/N2 separation at high pressure (1 bar). It can be applied to CO2 adsorption separation at low and high pressure, respectively. In particular, PAF‐TPB has a CO2/N2 separation efficiency of up to 100.9 at 1 bar and 273 K. This work provides ideas for the design and synthesis of organic porous materials for the adsorption separation of CO2 and N2.
Physicochemical and Nonlinear Optical Properties of a Stilbazolium Family Single Crystal with Third Order Nonlinear Optical Activity
Authors: Anand Sekar , Usha Rani Muthurakku
Published: July 2023

A novel counter anion group was incorporated with the organic stilbazolium cation (C16H19N2+) to yield a new third‐harmonic‐generation‐active single crystal of 4‐[2‐(4‐dimethylamino‐phenyl)‐vinyl]‐1‐methyl‐pyridinium 2‐nitroaniline‐4‐sulfonate (DSNA). The slow evaporation solution growth technique is employed to obtain DSNA crystals, whose nonlinear responses are analysed through a continuous wave laser Z scan experiment. The thermally induced strong reverse saturation absorption and self‐defocusing behaviour of the DSNA crystal suggests that the material could be used as an optical limiting device. Optical characterization shows that the lower absorption edge falls in the visible region (530 nm), with a broad transparency range of 0.53 to 1 μm. Exploration of other optical constants, such as extinction coefficient (k=10−4), emission wavelength (602 nm – red light), optical (σopt=1010 Ωm−1) and electrical conductivity (σelc=1011 Ωm−1) also concludes that the DSNA crystal could be potentially employed in optoelectronic devices. The various bonds and their corresponding lengths and angles involved in the formation of DSNA ionic crystal are evaluated by means of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD). Linear and nonlinear optical property findings undoubtedly affirm that the titular DSNA crystal is an effective nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal.
An NPC‐type fault‐tolerant MLI with symmetrical and asymmetrical voltage modes
Authors: Kumar Balram , Peddapati Sankar , K V. S. Prasadrao
Published: July 2023

Current studies have been challenging in reducing the number of devices and ensuring fault tolerance features of the multilevel inverters (MLIs). This article proposes a new fault‐tolerant neutral point clamped (NPC)‐type MLI using two three‐level NPC legs, which can work in symmetric and asymmetric modes to generate nine and 17‐level output voltage, respectively. The proposed converter has less device count and low total blocking voltage (TBV); further, the converter has different redundant switching states for tolerating different categories of faults. This article also implements a modified pulse width modulation (PWM) control strategy to ensure the zero‐dc offset at the output when asymmetrical voltage levels appear with the occurrence of switch faults. A detailed operation of the proposed converter under symmetric and asymmetric modes is presented for healthy and different categories of faults. The converter's feasibility is verified by its current and voltage characteristics obtained from the MATLAB‐SIMULINK software and the experimental prototype. Further, the efficiency of the converter is verified with the PLECS software. Finally, a comparison with recently proposed topologies is performed to emphasize converter performance.
Collaborative data gathering and recharging using multiple mobile vehicles in wireless rechargeable sensor network
Authors: Das Rupayan , Dash Dinesh
Published: July 2023

Many cutting‐edge studies on collaborative data gathering and charging (CDAC) assume that the mobile vehicle (MV) has enough energy to charge the sensors as well as collect data from them. The current studies also took into account that the sensors always receive full charge from the MV, resulting in a wireless rechargeable sensor network (WRSN) with very little dead period and very little data gathering latency. It is also believed that the energy consumption rates of the sensors are constant. However, in large‐scale WRSN, the aforementioned considerations are not always practical. In addition, the utilization of single base station (BS) in a large‐scale WRSN cannot guarantee improved network scalability, expedite charging decisions by minimizing the substantial overhead of the BS, and enhance the traveling distance for MV. In order to overcome the aforementioned problems, we present an effective on‐demand partial CDAC scheme using battery‐limited multiple MVs. The proposed scheme implements the CDAC process in such a way that the total dead periods of the sensors and the energy consumption of MVs are reduced. We use a multi‐objective‐based genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize the entire CDAC process. The simulation is carried out to demonstrate the usefulness and competitiveness of the proposed scheme. In comparison with existing works, the proposed work improves CDAC performance by reducing sensor dead time and energy consumption of MV.
Short‐term hindlimb unloading negatively affects dopaminergic transmission in the nigrostriatal system of mice
Authors: Naumova Alexandra A. , Oleynik Ekaterina A. , Khramtsova Anna V. , Nikolaeva Svetlana D. , Chernigovskaya Elena V. , Glazova Margarita V.
Published: July 2023

The nigrostriatal system composed of the dorsal striatum and the substantia nigra (SN) is highly involved in the control of motor behavior. Various extremal and pathological conditions as well as social isolation (SI) may cause an impairment of locomotor function; however, corresponding alterations in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway are far from full understanding. Here, we analyzed the effect of 3‐day hindlimb unloading (HU) and SI on the key players of dopamine transmission in the nigrostriatal system of CD1 mice. Three groups of mice were analyzed: group‐housed (GH), SI, and HU animals. Our data showed a significant decrease in the expression and phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the SN and dorsal striatum of HU mice that suggested attenuation of dopamine synthesis in response to HU. In the dorsal striatum of HU mice, the downregulation of TH expression was also observed indicating the effect of unloading; however, TH phosphorylation at Ser40 was mainly affected by SI pointing on an impact of isolation too. Expression of dopamine receptors D1 in the dorsal striatum of HU mice was increased suggesting a compensatory response, but the activity of downstream signaling pathways involving protein kinase A and cAMP response element‐binding protein was inhibited. At the same time, SI alone did not affect expression of DA receptors and activity of downstream signaling in the dorsal striatum. Obtained data let us to conclude that HU was the main factor which impaired dopamine transmission in the nigrostriatal system but SI made some contribution to its negative effects.
In vitro μ‐opioid receptor activation potential of U10 and β‐U10, positional isomers of the synthetic opioid naphthyl U‐47700
Authors: Vandeputte Marthe M. , Stove Christophe P.
Published: July 2023

New synthetic opioids (NSOs) with diverse chemical structures continue to appear on recreational drug markets worldwide. U‐type opioids have become one of the largest groups of non‐fentanyl‐related NSOs. Starting in 2020, a previously unreported U‐compound coined “β‐U10” (2‐naphthyl U‐47700; N‐[2‐(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]‐N‐methylnaphthalene‐2‐carboxamide) was identified in Australia and the United States. β‐U10 is a positional isomer of α‐U10 (1‐naphthyl U‐47700), more commonly known as “U10.” Here, the first comparative in vitro pharmacological characterization of naphthyl U‐47700 (U10 and β‐U10), together with the structural analogue U‐47700 and fentanyl, is reported. Application of a cell‐based μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) activation (β‐arrestin 2 recruitment) assay demonstrated β‐U10 (EC50 = 348 nM; Emax = 150% vs. hydromorphone) to be less potent than U‐47700 (EC50 = 116 nM; Emax = 154%) and fentanyl (EC50 = 9.35 nM; Emax = 146%) but considerably more active than the α‐isomer (EC50 value in the μM range). For the latter, maximum receptor activation could not be reached at 100 μM. The difference in MOR activation potential for U10 and β‐U10 stresses the importance of (analytical) differentiation between closely related analytes. The emergence of β‐U10 on the recreational drug market is an example of the continuing emergence of non‐fentanyl‐related NSOs and further emphasizes the need to closely monitor fluctuations in the drug supply.
Genetic structure of Ponto‐Caspian trout populations shows gene flow among river drainages and supports resident Salmo rizeensis as a genetically distinct taxon
Authors: Ninua Levan , Tarkhnishvili David , Anderson Cort Lewis
Published: July 2023

To assess the genetic structure of Ponto‐Caspian brown trout (Salmo trutta complex) populations, we analyzed both mitochondrial DNA sequences and genotypes at 10 microsatellite loci of fish caught in the Black Sea and from nine river catchments in Georgia, flowing into either the Black or Caspian seas. The results show that: (1) there is substantial genetic differentiation among Ponto‐Caspian trout populations, both among the populations of different nominal species and within those of the same species; (2) the genetic distance between conspecific populations from the Black and Caspian Sea basins exceeds that among the populations within the same basin. Moreover, within drainages, genetic distance correlates with the geographic distance; (3) the Black Sea itself is not a barrier to gene flow among the watersheds draining into the Black Sea; (4) some populations in the headwaters of the rivers draining into the Black Sea Basin fall out of this pattern and likely form a separate, non‐anadromous (resident) taxon, previously described from northeastern Turkey as Salmo rizeensis. This hypothesis is supported by mitochondrial DNA phylogeny. The presence of both anadromous and resident populations in a single river basin calls for a substantial re‐thinking of speciation patterns and taxonomy of Eurasian brown trout.
Pore structure and fluid mobility of tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin, China
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Zheng Yongxian , Wang Guo , Wang Yanzhi , Luo Xiangrong , Pan Qianhong , Wang Zhiguo , Ping Wanzhuo
Published: July 2023

Tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin have complex lithologies and pore structures. The oil–water mobility law in reservoirs has not yet been completely determined, restricting the formulation of rational reservoir development methods. To bridge this gap, in this study, we used several test methods, such as casting thin sections, mercury intrusion, and nuclear magnetic resonance, to obtain the pore structure and oil–water displacement characteristics of tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin. The pore structures of the reservoirs could be categorized into three types: microfractures + dissolved pores + micropores (MFD), microfractures + micropores (MF), and matrix (M). The characteristics of single‐phase oil seepage and water flooding in reservoirs with various pore structures differed evidently. For the MF‐ and M‐types, the water‐locking effect caused by the strong capillary force affected oil charging in the micropores. The effect of the pressure drop on the MFD‐type algal limestone was less than that on the MF‐type limestone (dolomite) because of the occurrence of a non‐Darcy flow. The MFD‐type, which contained microfractures, had preferential seepage channels, resulting in obvious fluid channeling and low water displacement efficiency. Oil−water displacement mainly occurred in the dissolved pores and microfractures, suggesting that starting oil accumulation in the micropores was crucial. This study will assist in efficient development of tight carbonate reservoirs in the Western Qaidam Basin.
Krill oil inhibited adipogenic differentiation by inducing the nuclear Nrf2 expression and the AMPK activity
Authors: Lee Hyun Jeong , Seo Ji Won , Chun Yoon Seok , Kim Jongkyu , Lim Tae‐Gyu , Shim Soon‐Mi
Published: July 2023

The current study investigated the antiadipogenic mechanism of krill oil from the 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. The krill oil adhered to the criteria as a food standard by showing 50.8% of the total phospholipid, 5.27% myristic acid, and 1.63% linoleic acid. The lipid accumulation that was measured in the 3T3‐L1 cells using oil red O staining was reduced up to 54% by the krill oil. The krill oil treatment reduced the adipogenic transcription factors by downregulating the sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC), phospho‐ACC, and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation. The current study confirmed that the krill oil inhibited adipogenesis by downregulating SREBP1 and ACC via the upregulation of the AMPK and nuclear factors E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway in the 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. These findings suggest that krill oil is a good source of phospholipid and phosphatidylcholine, which could be a potential natural antiobesity ingredient by inhibiting adipogenesis.
The causal relationship of depression, anxiety, and neuroticism with main indicators of sarcopenia: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Song Yang , Miao Yuhua , Liu Yixing , Han Dongran
Published: July 2023

Background

Observational studies have shown the relationship between sarcopenia and psychiatric disorders. However, due to the limitations of traditional research methods, the causal relationship between them has not been accurately concluded. At the same time, considering that sarcopenia is mainly manifested by low muscle strength and low muscle mass, we used Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis in this study to explore the causal relationship of anxiety, depression, and neuroticism with muscle strength and muscle mass, respectively.

Methods

Genetic variants associated with depression were obtained from FinnGen Biobank (Ncase = 33,812, Ncontrol = 271,380), those associated with anxiety were from FinnGen Biobank (Ncase = 21,519, Ncontrol = 307,558), and those associated with neuroticism, including 12 items, were from a large‐scale genome‐wide association study (N range: 366,301–375,913). Muscle strength was represented by the hand grip strength (HGS), and muscle mass was represented by the appendicular lean mass (ALM) and the body fat percentage. The inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary analysis method, and the Mendelian Randomization Egger (MR‐Egger) and the weighted median were used as supplementary methods to test whether the three psychological factors were causally related to these two main indicators of sarcopenia severity.

Results

Depression and neuroticism had different degrees of causal influence on muscle mass and strength, which was statistically significant. Specifically, the depression predicted by genes was significantly associated with ALM (beta = −0.043, p = 0.027), low hand grip strength (LHGS, measured for people of 60 years and older) (odds ratio (OR) = 1.129 (1.019–1.251), p = 0.019), right HGS (beta = −0.050, p = 0.001), left HGS (beta = −0.06, p = 0.001), and body fat percentage (beta = 0.035, p = 0.0138). The neuroticism predicted by genes was significantly associated with ALM (beta = −0.073, p = 0.034), LHGS (OR = 1.222 (1.085–1.377), p = 0.001), right HGS (beta = −0.058, p = 0.000), left HGS (beta = −0.080, p < 0.000), and body fat percentage (beta = 0.063, p = 0.008). However, anxiety was only significantly associated with LHGS (OR = 1.215 (1.008–1.465), p = 0.041) but not significantly associated with ALM (beta = 0.033, p = 0.313), right HGS (beta = −0.008, p = 0.678), left HGS (beta = 0.007, p = 0.712), or body fat percentage (beta = 0.022, p = 0.559).

Conclusion

This study supported the causal association of depression and neuroticism with muscle strength and mass, which are the two main indicators of sarcopenia. At the same time, there was no sufficient evidence for the causal relationship between anxiety and muscle strength or mass. The results of this study pointed to the need to intervene in the mental health of the elderly to prevent sarcopenia or reduce its severity.
Structural Determinants of the Binding and Activation of Estrogen Receptor α by Phenolic Thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidines
Authors: Reddy Sammeta Vamshikrishna , Anderson Brian M. , Norris John D. , Torrice Chad D. , Joiner Carstyn , Liu Shubin , Li Haoxi , Popov Konstantin I. , Fanning Sean W. , McDonnell Donald P. , Willson Timothy M.
Published: July 2023

Synthetic, structural, and computational approaches were used to solve the puzzle as to how a phenolic nonsteroidal estrogen 1 with only a single H‐bond to its receptor was more potent than an isomer 2 which formed an intricate network of H‐bonds. Synthesis of a series of substituted phenols revealed that pKa was not a determinant of estrogenic activity. First‐principles calculation also failed to explain the difference in activity of 1 and 2. Molecular dynamics revealed that 1 formed a more stable receptor complex compared to 2, which may explain its increased activity despite forming fewer apparent H‐bonds with the protein.
Evaluating the frequency of neurological symptoms in COVID‐19 patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rasouli Shima , Emami Payam , Azadmehr Farhad , Karimyan Farzaneh
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Due to the recent emergence of COVID‐19, the exact pathology of this disease has not been determined. Therefore, this study evaluated the frequency of neurological symptoms in patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 2200 in patients with COVID‐19 who were selected from an educational hospital in Sanandaj, Iran, from April 2020 to March 2021. The research samples were selected by census, all patients with COVID‐19 were admitted to the hospital. The data collection tool was a checklist of the studied variables (dizziness, headache, and impaired consciousness) prepared by the researchers based on the specialists' opinions. The researcher completed these checklists based on the patients' hospitalization records. The data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistical tests using SPSS Software Version 20. The quantitative variables were compared using the independent t‐test. The χ2 test was also used to compare qualitative variables. A p Value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 57.41 years old, of whom 53.1% were male. The average blood oxygen level of the patients was 88.10%, and most disease symptoms were related to shortness of breath and cough, with a frequency of 24.3%. In addition, 20.8% of patients needed hospitalization in intensive care unit. The highest frequency of central and peripheral nervous system manifestations was related to headache, ageusia (loss of sense of taste), hyposmia (A decreased sense of smell and anosmia (The complete loss of smell). Finally, 15.3% of patients died, and 84.7% recovered. The analytical findings showed a significant relationship between the disease outcome and patients' dizziness, consciousness disorder, seizure and ageusia. There was a significant relationship between gender and headache in patients. There was a significant difference between the mean age and oxygen level with central and peripheral nervous system manifestations (dizziness, headache, impaired consciousness, smell disorder) and the disease outcome in patients.

Conclusion

The pathophysiology of COVID‐19 virus infection involving the central nervous system is not fully understood. Neurological symptoms of this virus include delirium, headache, decreased level of consciousness, and seizures. Identifying the symptoms and mechanisms of neurological complications of COVID‐19 is necessary for proper screening and complete treatment because a patient infected by COVID‐19 may not show respiratory failure signs but may be a carrier. A complete and accurate knowledge of the symptoms and complications of this infection for proper screening of patients to prevent transmission and spread of this disease is critically needed.
The prevalence of and factors related to reinfection with COVID‐19 in Ahvaz, Iran: A comparative cross‐sectional study
Authors: Abedi Parvin , Afshari Poorandokht , Ansari Somayeh , Alavi Seyed Mohammad , Dashtpayma Shohreh , Amiri Homayon
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Reinfection with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) virus may be as serious as the first infection, exposing people to risks such as admission to hospital or even death. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of and the factors related to reinfection in Ahvaz, Iran.

Methods

This was a comparative cross‐sectional study that was conducted on 200 reinfected individuals and 200 people who had once been infected with COVID‐19. Infection with COVID‐19 was confirmed using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, and those with reinfection had to have a negative PCR test after recovery from the first infection and a positive PCR test for COVID‐19 > 90 days after the first infection. Data was collected using a questionnaire and a checklist. Data were analyzed using the Chi‐square test, independent t‐test, and logistic regression test.

Results

Around 7000 reinfections were observed in this study, and the prevalence of reinfection was 0.59% in Ahvaz City. A large proportion of the participants in the control group, 133 (66.5%) received two doses of COVID‐19 vaccines compared with 110 (55%) in the reinfected group (p = 0.003), and 43 (21.5%) of reinfected participants did not receive any vaccine. Older people were 0.982 times more likely to get reinfected with COVID‐19 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.966–0.997). Also, those receiving vaccination once or twice were 2.311 and 2.498 times less likely to get reinfected with COVID‐19, respectively (95% CI: 1.093–4.887 and 1.281–4.872, respectively).

Conclusion

The findings of this study showed that the prevalence of reinfection among people in Ahvaz City was 0.59%. Older individuals, those without vaccination or with suboptimal vaccination, and people with comorbidities were at a higher risk for reinfection. Health policymakers should pay more attention to factors related to reinfection with COVID‐19.