bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi‐rational engineering of D‐allulose 3‐epimerase for simultaneously improving the catalytic activity and thermostability based on D‐allulose biosensor
Authors: Li Zijie , Hu Yangfan , Yu Cheng , Fei Kangqing , Shen Liqun , Liu Yishi , Nakanishi Hideki
Published: August 2024

Background

D‐Allulose is one of the most well‐known rare sugars widely used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. The most popular method for D‐allulose production is the conversion from D‐fructose catalyzed by D‐allulose 3‐epimerase (DAEase). To address the general problem of low catalytic efficiency and poor thermostability of wild‐type DAEase, D‐allulose biosensor was adopted in this study to develop a convenient and efficient method for high‐throughput screening of DAEase variants.

Results

The catalytic activity and thermostability of DAEase from Caballeronia insecticola were simultaneously improved by semi‐rational molecular modification. Compared with the wild‐type enzyme, DAEaseS37N/F157Y variant exhibited 14.7% improvement in the catalytic activity and the half‐time value (t1/2) at 65°C increased from 1.60 to 27.56 h by 17.23‐fold. To our delight, the conversion rate of D‐allulose was 33.6% from 500‐g L−1 D‐fructose in 1 h by Bacillus subtilis WB800 whole cells expressing this DAEase variant. Furthermore, the practicability of cell immobilization was evaluated and more than 80% relative activity of the immobilized cells was maintained from the second to seventh cycle.

Conclusion

All these results indicated that the DAEaseS37N/F157Y variant would be a potential candidate for the industrial production of D‐allulose.
Addressing stability issues of vildagliptin: Method optimization and validation for accurate analysis in human plasma
Authors: Tawari Santosh , Shah Ujashkumar
Published: August 2024

This research paper introduces novel strategies to address the stability issues arising with vildagliptin, marking the first attempt to tackle this challenge comprehensively. The study incorporates malic acid into the human plasma, a crucial step in stabilizing vildagliptin and preventing its degradation. Additionally, optimization of the elution process on a C18 Asentis Express column, fine‐tuned with a combination of acetonitrile and ammonium trifluoroacetate 5mM, ensures optimal chromatographic conditions. For detection and quantification, electrospray ionization (ESI) is employed, monitoring multiple reactions for vildagliptin (304.2 → 154.2) and vildagliptin D7 (311.1 → 161.2). Meticulous validation of the method demonstrates high accuracy (97.30%–104.15%) and precision [(0.32%–3.09% coefficient of variance (CV)] for vildagliptin calibration curve standards (CC STD), establishing its sensitivity and reliability in measuring vildagliptin levels. This refined methodology offers numerous advantages, including the elimination of stability concerns, reduced human plasma sample volume (100 μL), exceptional reproducibility, shortened run time (~2.2 min), and a wide concentration range (1.00 to 851.81 ng/mL). These attributes make it exceptionally well‐suited for diverse research applications, spanning from extensive sampling in therapeutic drug monitoring units to bioequivalence and bioavailability studies, as well as pharmacokinetic investigations of vildagliptin.
FLIGBY for graduates' employability enhancement in Computer Engineering
Authors: Almeida Fernando , Buzady Zoltan
Published: August 2024

Serious games can play a crucial role in developing competencies for the job market, offering an innovative and engaging approach to learning. This study uses FLIGBY to develop employability skills among computer engineering graduates. FLIGBY is a serious game that simulates a virtual company environment where players make strategic decisions, emphasizing the principles of flow and positive psychology. Immersion in realistic scenarios provides practical experience, contributing to the development of market‐ready skills. A quantitative methodology based on descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing was adopted to measure the development of competencies for the job market using the Systems Engineering Competency Framework. The results show that competence development occurs mainly in the professional and managerial dimensions. In contrast, there is no development of core and technical competencies. Furthermore, the perception of the development of these competencies occurs mainly for students with more years of professional experience. The experiential nature of FLIGBY allows users to develop practical knowledge, promoting adaptability and resilience. This gamified approach accelerates the learning curve, preparing individuals for real‐world challenges in the computer engineering workplace.
The effect of healthy eating on the development of stomach and colorectal cancer by the smoking and drinking status: Results from the Korean National Cancer Center (KNCC) community cohort study
Authors: Han Yuri , Oh Jin‐Kyoung , Lim Min Kyung
Published: August 2024

Background

Determining the effect of dietary factors on cancer is a crucial issue when accounting for the effect of other major risks, such as smoking and drinking.

Method

A total of 15,563 adults from the Korean National Cancer Center Community Cohort were analyzed to determine and to compare the effect of dietary factors on stomach and colorectal cancer in overall and in the subgroup of non‐smokers (or urinary cotinine concentrations <5 ng/mg) and non‐drinkers with Cox proportional‐hazard models.

Results

During the mean follow‐up (13.7 years), 469 and 299 cases of stomach and colorectal cancer were identified, respectively. The preventive effect of vegetable, fish, and soybean/tofu intake on colorectal cancer was found in women after adjustment for smoking, drinking, BMI, and sociodemographic factors. In the subgroup analysis of non‐smokers and non‐drinkers, the effect on colorectal cancer was increased in women (≥1 time/week vs. almost never, vegetables: hazard ratio (HR) 0.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13–0.69; fish: HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.83), and the fresh fish intake effect on stomach cancer was newly identified in men (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15–0.86). These effects were more pronounced and additionally shown in other dietary factors such as soybean or tofu in women and vegetables and fish in men, when subjects with <5 ng/mg urinary cotinine concentrations applied.

Conclusion

The protective effect of healthy eating on the risk of stomach and colorectal cancer were different by smoking and drinking status. Rigorous control of smoking and drinking effects is necessary when measuring the effect of dietary factors on cancer, properly.
Efficacy and safety of PD‐1 monoclonal antibody combined with interferon‐alpha 1b and anlotinib hydrochloride as the second‐line therapy in patients with unresectable advanced melanoma: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Bolun , Zhang Mengyu , Tang Jingyi , Zou Daopei , Liu Fang , Shi Qiong , Gao Tianwen , Li Chunying , Zhu Guannan
Published: August 2024

Background

Immune‐checkpoint inhibitors are now used more commonly in combination than monotherapy as the first‐line choice in patients with unresectable advanced melanoma. Nevertheless, for cases that progressed after the initial combination therapy, the subsequent regimen option can be very difficult. Herein, we reported the efficacy and safety of a triple combination regimen in Chinese unresectable advanced melanoma patients who had poor responses to the first‐line immune therapy.

Methods

We reviewed the clinical profiles of patients diagnosed with stage IIIC‐IV melanoma between June 1, 2020, and September 30, 2023. The patients who failed the prior immune therapies and received anti‐PD‐1 mono antibody plus interferon(IFN)‐alpha 1b and anlotinib hydrochloride as the second‐line therapy were enrolled in the retrospective analysis. Additionally, we examined the exhaustion of T‐cells using mIHC staining in available tumor samples.

Results

Fifty‐five patients were included in this study. The median follow‐up period was 13.6 months. The objective response rate evaluated by the investigators was 9.1%(1CR, 4PR). The disease control rate was 47.3%. The median overall survival was 17.6 months, and the median progression‐free survival was 2.8 months. The adverse events rate of any grade was 100%. Grade 3 or 4 irAEs were observed in 29.1% of cases. Multiplex immunohistochemical staining revealed an increased trend of TIM3 expression on tumor‐infiltrating T cells in patients without objective response.

Conclusion

PD‐1 monoclonal antibody plus interferon‐alpha 1b plus anlotinib showed acceptable tolerability and anticancer benefits in Chinese metastatic melanoma patients as a second‐line therapy.
Multidisciplinary care meeting practices across diverse international settings
Authors: Pershad Alisha R. , Graetz Dylan , Le Mai An , Forrest Heather , Gonzalez‐Guzman Miriam , Friedrich Paola
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Multidisciplinary care (MDC) meetings improve the quality of cancer care by providing a space for interdisciplinary communication. The Pediatric Oncology Facility Integrated Local Evaluation (PrOFILE) tool assesses MDC meetings as part of the Service Integration module. We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of MDC meetings at institutions that completed PrOFILE.

Methods

From 2019 to 2021, 112 institutions from 23 countries collected data by utilizing the abbreviated version of PrOFILE. Within a secondary data analysis, we descriptively analyzed the characteristics of MDC meetings stratified by income level.

Results

Participating institutions were located in low‐income countries (LICs) (n = 6), lower‐middle‐income countries (LMICs) (n = 34), upper‐middle‐income countries (UMICs) (n = 55), and high‐income countries (HICs) (n = 17). Of the 112 participating facilities, 79% reported having MDC meetings. The existence of an MDC varied with income, with 50% of LICs and 100% of HICs hosting MDCs. The frequency of MDC meetings also differed, with 100% of MDCs in LICs occurring weekly, while 53% of MDCs in HICs occurred monthly. Specialties regularly represented at MDC meetings across all participating institutions were hematology/oncology (93%), pathology (52%), radiology (60%), general surgery (57%), and radiation oncology (51%). All MDC meetings in LICs reported representation from these specialties. Availability of test results and discussion of new cases did not vary with income. Residual disparities were identified for the following characteristics: discussion of new and interesting cases, inclusion of patient preferences, and ability to meet urgently.

Conclusions

The existence and components of a functional MDC meeting may vary between countries' income levels. Variation in certain components, such as access to tests, may be due to differences in resource distribution, but other factors such as inclusion of patient preferences and ability to meet urgently can be optimized in all settings to foster high‐quality teamwork and communication.
Mental health needs assessment for youth in out of school programs: A scoping review
Authors: Brodkin Sabrina , Sibalis Annabel , Bedard Anne‐Claude V. , Deluca Anthony , Suri Anjali , Balter Alice‐Simone , Racine Nicole , Al‐Khooly Dina , Sylvestre Desiree , Andrade Brendan F.
Published: August 2024

Out‐of‐school programs are an accessible option to bolster the mental well‐being of youth, who may be at risk of developing further emotional and behavioural concerns. Developing a more nuanced understanding of the tools and methods available to understand youth mental health needs, in the context of out‐of‐school programs is needed to provide relevant services. However, many out‐of‐school programs do not include such an assessment. One barrier to doing so may be a lack of knowledge regarding the tools that can be used in this specialised context. The present scoping review was conducted to identify the tools that have been used to determine the emotional and behavioural needs of youth attending out‐of‐school programs and to synthesise information regarding the context in which these tools have been used. Fifty‐seven articles met the criteria for the review, and within these articles, 69 unique measures of emotional and behavioural needs were identified. The measures were sorted into six thematic categories (self‐concept, emotion and behaviour regulation, mood, general mental health, social skills and resilience) and relevant characteristics were described. The findings of the present review may be helpful to out‐of‐school programs as a step to best meet the needs of participating youth. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Antibacterial Properties and Application of Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO Composite Photocatalytic Materials
Authors: Ji Yuhao , Li Jingmei , Xian Baitao , Liu Jianlai , Qu Deye , Han Deming
Published: August 2024

In this experiment, Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO composite photocatalytic materials were synthesized by a hydrothermal method and characterized by XRD, SEM, and EDS, etc. The prepared Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO has a nanorod structure and high phase purity. The photocatalytic antimicrobial performance of Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO against bacteria and fungi under visible light was significantly better than that of single Bi2Sn2O7 and ZnO. In particular, 1000 mg/L 1 : 3 Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO showed an antimicrobial rate of more than 97 % against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, which are widely present in the nature. The free radical trapping experiments were selected and the antimicrobial mechanism was investigated, and the results showed that the antimicrobial process of the Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO system was regulated by the free radicals such as ⋅OH, h+, and e−, which were generated by its unique photocatalytic activity. Finally, MTT cytotoxicity experiments demonstrated that the Bi₂Sn₂O₇/ZnO composite was not toxic to cells. In addition, the antimicrobial performance of Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO on real livestock wastewater and the real‐life application of the prepared Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO PCL composite antibiotic film for antimicrobial treatment of freshly cut fruits’ surfaces under visible light were experimentally investigated. This study provides a new idea for Bi2Sn2O7/ZnO as a photocatalytic antimicrobial agent.
Biotemplated Platinum Nanozymes: Synthesis, Catalytic Regulation and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Lei Yanli , Yu Lihong , Yang Zeyang , Quan Ke , Qing Zhihe
Published: August 2024

Platinum (Pt) nanozymes with multiple intrinsic enzyme‐mimicking activities have attracted extensive attention in biomedical fields due to their high catalytic activity, ease of modification, and convenient storage. However, the Pt nanozymes synthesized by the traditional method often suffer from uncontrollable morphology and poor stability under physicochemical conditions, resulting in unsatisfactory catalytic behavior in practical applications. To optimize the catalytic ability, biological templates have been introduced recently, which can guide the deposition of platinum ions on their surface to form specific morphologies and then stabilize the resulting Pt nanozymes. Given the promising potential of biotemplated Pt nanozymes in practical applications, it is essential to conduct a systematic and comprehensive review to summarize their recent research progress. In this review, we first categorize the biological templates and discuss the mechanisms as well as characteristics of each type of biotemplate in directing the growth of Pt nanozyme. Factors that impact the growth of biotemplated Pt nanozymes are then analyzed, followed by summarizing their biomedical applications. Finally, the challenges and opportunities in this field are outlined. This review article aims to provide theoretical guidance for developing Pt nanozymes with robust functionalities in biomedical applications.
A collision tumor of basal cell carcinoma and atypical fibroxanthoma: A case report
Authors: Suzuki‐Ueno Mariko , Fujikawa Yoshiaki , Hamaoka Dai , Umemura Kaoru , Ohnishi Takamasa
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

An 83‐year‐old man presented an elevated skin lesion in the left temporal area. The resected specimen was identified between a basal cell carcinoma and an atypical fibroxanthoma. A final diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma and atypical fibroxanthoma was made. This study reports a rare case of a cutaneous collision.
Cholestatic hepatitis in acute Epstein–Barr virus infection: A case report
Authors: Joshi Amey , Jha Divij , Wari Eki , Saeed Moiz , Hussain Murtaza , Hiatt Tadd Kaeo
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Cholestatic hepatitis is a rare complication of Epstein–Barr virus infection and is often self‐limiting. Systemic signs, including viral prodrome and lymphadenopathy, can provide crucial diagnostic cues and avoid unnecessary invasive investigations or aggressive medical therapy unless indicated.
Ruthenium Catalyzed Additive‐Free N‐Formylation of Amines with CO2 and H2: Exploring Carbon Neutral Hydrogen Cycle
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Misbahur , Dutta Indranil , Gholap Sandeep Suryabhan , Ngô Giao N. , Rachuri Yadagiri , Alrais Lujain , Huang Kuo‐Wei
Published: August 2024

The N‐formylation of amines using CO2 hydrogenation, conducted under additive‐free conditions, represents a crucial methodology in organic synthesis. Herein, we demonstrated a highly efficient ruthenium pincer complex for the selective conversion of a wide array of amines into their corresponding formamides under additive‐free condition with a turnover number (TON) of 980,000 within a single‐batch. Controlled studies suggested the initial reduction of CO2 to ammonium formate, followed by dehydration to generate formamide. NMR experiments revealed the potential intermediates and indicated the involvement of metal‐ligand cooperativity of catalyst during substrate activation. In addition, this methodology was examined to establish a carbon neutral hydrogen storage cycle by capitalizing on the reversible transformation of formamides.
Nickel Hydroxysulfide Electrocatalyst Promotes Urea Oxidation for Energy‐Saving Hydrogen Production
Authors: Li Huamei , Li Mengyuan , Xiang Kun , You Wen , Xie Mingjiang
Published: August 2024

The occurrence of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) almost consumes most of the electric energy of hydrogen production by electrocatalytic water splitting. The energy required in the process of electrochemical hydrogen production can be reduced by choosing urea oxidation reaction (UOR) instead of OER. In this work, nickel hydroxysulfide is synthesized on nickel foam (NiSOH/NF) and its electrocatalytic performance was tested in UOR. Experimental results show that the vulcanization catalyst requires a low potential of 1.38 V (vs RHE) to achieve a current density of 100 mA cm−2 in an electrolyte containing 0.5 M urea, which is 270 mV lower than the conventional OER process. This innovative approach has yielded a substantial reduction in the cell voltage necessary for overall water splitting under two electrode system, thereby enhancing its efficiency and feasibility.
Non‐Enzymatic Detection of Cardiac Troponin‐I with Graphene Oxide Quenched Fluorescent Iron Nanoclusters (FeNCs)
Authors: Ibrahim Shkhair Ali , Madanan Anju S. , Varghese Susan , Abraham Merin K. , Indongo Geneva , Rajeevan Greeshma , Arathy B. K. , Muneer Abbas Sara , George Sony
Published: August 2024

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is the most resorted biomarker for the detection of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The means of rapid quantification of cTnI levels in the blood can substantially minimize the risk of acute myocardial infarction and heart failure. A sensor for the non‐enzymatic evaluation of cardiac troponin‐I has been developed using fluorescent iron nanoclusters via a one‐pot synthesis employing (BSA) as the template and reducing agent, and hydrogen peroxide as the additive. The fluorescence of Iron Nanocluster is quenched with graphene oxide (GO) via fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between conjugate iron nanoclusters and graphene oxide. The sensor shows a low detection limit of 0.011 ng/mL. The benefits of utilizing a non‐enzymatic probe for detecting cardiac troponin I is that it avoids the need for enzymes and hence is economical, stable, and less impacted by environmental conditions such as temperature and pH. Non‐enzymatic probes are more useful for clinical use since they are more stable and have a longer shelf life. The developed non‐enzymatic probes are also highly selective and sensitive to the target analyte, making them suitable for the direct detection of cardiac troponin I in actual biological samples.
Diels‐Alder Reaction Mechanisms of La@C60 and Gd@C60 Studied Using Density Functional Theory
Authors: Cui Cheng‐Xing , He Jun‐Ru , Qu Ling‐Bo , Li Chun‐Xiang , Peng Jia‐Li , Maseras Feliu
Published: August 2024

Encapsulation of transition metals represents a crucial method for modifying the electronic structure and regulating the reactivity of fullerene, thereby expanding its applications. Herein, we present calculations with density functional theory methods to investigate the mechanisms of the Diels‐Alder (DA) reactions of cyclopentadiene and La@C60 or Gd@C60 as well as their tricationic derivatives. Our findings indicate that the encapsulation of La and Gd into the C60 cage is thermodynamically favorable. The DA reactions are favored by the presence of La and Gd, with lower barriers, though the regioselectivity, favoring 6−6 bonds in the fullerene, is not affected. The effect of external electric fields has been also considered.
Recent Advances in Electrolytes for Magnesium Batteries: Bridging the gap between Chemistry and Electrochemistry
Authors: Riedel Sibylle , Wang Liping , Fichtner Maximilian , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong
Published: August 2024

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) have the potential to provide a sustainable and long‐term solution for large‐scale energy storage due to high theoretical capacity of magnesium (Mg) metal as an anode, its competitive redox potential (Mg/Mg2+:−2.37 V vs. SHE) and high natural abundance. To develop viable magnesium batteries with high energy density, the electrolytes must meet a range of requirements: high ionic conductivity, wide electrochemical potential window, chemical compatibility with electrode materials and other battery components, favourable electrode‐electrolyte interfacial properties and cost‐effective synthesis. In recent years, significant progress in electrolyte development has been made. Herein, a comprehensive overview of these advancements is presented. Beginning with the early developments, we particularly focus on the chemical aspects of the electrolytes and their correlations with electrochemical properties. We also highlight the design of new anions for practical electrolytes, the use of electrolyte additives to optimize anode‐electrolyte interfaces and the progress in polymer electrolytes.
Glycerol as Reaction Medium for Sonogashira Couplings: A Green Approach for the Synthesis of New Triarylamine‐Based Materials with Potential Application in Optoelectronics
Authors: Raglione Venanzio , Palmeri Federica , Mattioli Giuseppe , Porcelli Francesco , Caschera Daniela , Zanotti Gloria
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on the design, eco‐friendly synthesis, and characterization of several novel three‐legged triphenylamine derivatives. By performing Sonogashira couplings of functionalized aryl iodides with tris(4‐ethynylphenyl)amine in glycerol, a readily available bio‐derived solvent, we achieved the synthesis of target products in short times and high yields, up to 94 %, with consistently lower E‐factors and reduced costs compared to standard conditions using toluene as the reaction medium. The target molecules possess a D‐(π‐A)₃ or D‐(π‐D)₃ structure, where an electron‐donating core connects to three electron‐donating (D) or electron‐accepting (A) peripheral aromatic subunits through an acetylene spacer. Their main optical and electronic properties have been determined experimentally and by DFT simulations and suggest a possible implementation in energy conversion technologies such as luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
Stacked dynamic target regularization enhanced autoencoder for soft sensor in industrial processes
Authors: Guo Xiaoping , Zhao Xiaofeng , Li Yuan
Published: August 2024

Stacked autoencoders (SAEs) have great potential in developing soft sensors due to their excellent feature extraction capabilities. However, the pre‐training stage of SAE is unsupervised and some important information related to target variables may be discarded. Meanwhile, as the depth of the network increases, reconstruction errors continue to accumulate, resulting in incomplete feature representations of the original input. In addition, the dynamic nature of the data affects the predictive results of the model. To address these issues, the stacked dynamic target regularization enhanced autoencoder (SDTR‐EAE) method is proposed, which adds the DTR and the original input information layer by layer to enhance the feature extraction. To adapt to the dynamic changes in data and extract target‐related features, entropy weight grey relational analysis (EW‐GRA) is used as the DTR term to constrain the weight matrix and suppress irrelevant features. To reduce the accumulation of information loss during the reconstruction, an information enhancement layer is introduced, where the original inputs and the information of the hidden layers of previous DTR‐EAE units are added to the follow‐up DTR‐EAE unit. Finally, in the regression process, the DTR term is used again to fully utilize depth features for quality prediction and prevent overfitting. Experimental verifications using the debutanizer column and thermal power plant are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed modelling method.
Does the transparency of sustainability reports matter? A quantitative assessment
Authors: Demartini Maria Chiara , Beretta Valentina , Larisch Anna
Published: August 2024

Despite the recognized advantages of sustainability disclosure and transparency in reducing information asymmetries, the quality of sustainability reports often falls short. Measuring sustainability disclosure transparency is challenging due to its multidimensional nature, necessitating a comprehensive approach. Moreover, the impact of sustainability reporting transparency on firm performance remains ambiguous. Therefore, this study examines 177 reports from companies listed in the Dow Jones sustainability index (DJSI) World index, manually collecting information on transparency indicators and subdimensions. Grounded on the disclosure, clarity, and accuracy (DCA) framework introduced by Schnackenberg and Tomlinson, a factor analysis is conducted to construct the transparency index, followed by testing research hypotheses using a linear regression model via ordinary least squares (OLS). By providing a quantitative assessment of sustainability report transparency, this study investigates its influence on firm performance. Our findings support existing research linking firm performance to the transparency of sustainability reports. Surprisingly, contrary to expectations, our study reveals that increased transparency efforts are associated with lower firm performance.
An efficient hybrid bat sand cat swarm optimization‐based node localization for data quality improvement in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Soundari Dasappagounden Pudur Velusamy , Chenniappan Poongodi
Published: August 2024

Node localization in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) ensures that the collected data is contextually accurate, enabling effective monitoring and management of various applications. Recently, there has been a surge in research focused on addressing node localization within WSNs. Emerging trends in this field involve the application of metaheuristic optimization techniques to refine node location determination accuracy. However, existing techniques often struggle with balancing accuracy, energy consumption, network lifetime, and computational efficiency, particularly in challenging WSN environments. Therefore, this research introduces a novel approach called efficient hybrid bat sand cat swarm optimization (EHBSCSO) to address node localization within WSNs. The hybrid method leverages the exploration capabilities of the bat optimization algorithm and the exploitation strengths of the sand cat swarm optimization algorithm. This combination allows for efficient determination of node positions, significantly improving localization accuracy while minimizing energy consumption. The EHBSCSO utilizes the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and time of flight (ToF) approaches to assess distances among nodes accurately. Accurate node localization directly improves data quality by ensuring spatially precise data collection, reducing communication overhead, and enhancing the overall reliability of the collected data. Compared to conventional methods, the proposed EHBSCSO algorithm demonstrates superior performance, with a mean localization error of 0.18%, energy consumption of 7.2 J, computational time of 8.9 s, and localization time of 0.19 s. These metrics underscore its efficiency and precision. The research indicates that EHBSCSO not only optimizes localization accuracy but also contributes to energy efficiency and faster computational times, addressing key challenges in WSN node localization.
Analysis of squeezing‐induced failure in a water tunnel and measure of rehabilitation: A case study of Tishreen tunnel, Syria
Authors: Mhanna Mohannad , Hussein Hussein Hadi
Published: August 2024

Squeezing phenomena can lead to severe loads in deep tunnels, especially in the presence of a low ratio of surrounding rock strength to overburden pressure. For this reason, it is highly imperative to analyze and identify a suitable methodology to estimate the squeezing potential and select a proper support system of rock mass. This study aims to reveal the causes of failure of Tishreen tunnel in the west of Syria and develop remediation measures accordingly so as to bring the tunnel back into service. The tunnel in question was subjected to successive failures such as buckling and spalling of side walls, floor heave, and extremely large convergence reaching the failure state of the tunnel lining. In this study, an effective way was demonstrated to evaluate the squeezing potential of the tunnel lining and appropriate modeling of the long‐term response of a tunnel excavated in weak rock. Specifically, the causes of failure of Tishreen tunnel were first evaluated by empirical approaches. Then, a numerical model was developed using a time‐dependent constitutive model to investigate the time‐dependent response of the tunnel lining. On this basis, this study proposed an effective reinforcement schemes including steel ribs, grout injection, ground anchors, and new lining of reinforced concrete. The results show that the Burger viscoplastic model simulates effectively the resulting deformation and creep behavior of squeezing ground. It is also observed that using a combined heavy support system can provide efficient control over squeezing deformation and maintain the serviceability of the tunnel under study.
When enough is enough: Optimising monitoring effort for large‐scale wolf population size estimation in the Italian Alps
Authors: Boiani M. V. , Dupont P. , Bischof R. , Milleret C. , Friard O. , Geary M. , Avanzinelli E. , von Hardenberg A. , Marucco F.
Published: August 2024

The ongoing expansion of wolf (Canis lupus) populations in Europe has led to a growing demand for up‐to‐date abundance estimates. Non‐invasive genetic sampling (NGS) is now widely used to monitor wolves, as it allows individual identification and abundance estimation without physically capturing individuals. However, NGS is resource‐intensive, partly due to the elusive behaviour and wide distribution of wolves, as well as the cost of DNA analyses. Optimisation of sampling strategies is therefore a requirement for the long‐term sustainability of wolf monitoring programs. Using data from the 2020–2021 Italian Alpine wolf monitoring, we investigate how (i) reducing the number of samples genotyped, (ii) reducing the number of transects, and (iii) reducing the number of repetitions of each search transect impacted spatial capture‐recapture population size estimates. Our study revealed that a 25% reduction in the number of transects or, alternatively, a 50% reduction in the maximum number of repetitions yielded abundance estimates comparable to those obtained using the entire dataset. These modifications would result in a 2046 km reduction in total transect length and 19,628 km reduction in total distance searched. Further reducing the number of transects resulted in up to 15% lower and up to 17% less precise abundance estimates. Reducing only the number of genotyped samples led to higher (5%) and less precise (20%) abundance estimates. Randomly subsampling genotyped samples reduced the number of detections per individual, whereas subsampling search transects resulted in a less pronounced decrease in both the total number of detections and individuals detected. Our work shows how it is possible to optimise wolf monitoring by reducing search effort while maintaining the quality of abundance estimates, by adopting a modelling framework that uses a first survey dataset. We further provide general guidelines on how to optimise sampling effort when using spatial capture‐recapture in large‐scale monitoring programmes.
Long‐distance post‐release movements challenge the metapopulation restoration of Bearded Vultures
Authors: Tréhin Cécile , Duriez Olivier , Sarrazin François , Betton Benoit , Fonderflick Jocelyn , Loercher Franziska , Marlé Etienne , Seguin Jean‐Francois , Traversier Julien , Ziletti Noémie , Mihoub Jean‐Baptiste
Published: August 2024

Restoring ecological dynamics is a key objective of conservation translocations. Exemplarily, reconnecting the reintroduced alpine populations with native Pyrenean populations through re‐establishing locally extinct populations in between, in the Causses and the Pre‐Alps, is a major goal for the long‐term conservation of Bearded Vultures in Europe. Understanding Bearded Vultures' post‐release movements and foraging behavior is critical to understanding the settlement of newly restored populations and to supporting conservation measures. The telemetric monitoring of 43 translocated and wild‐born juveniles allowed us to investigate whether differences exist in post‐release movements and foraging behavior during the first year of life between reintroduced and native populations. Medium‐ and long‐distance exploration movements start during the spring following fledging for both translocated and wild‐born individuals. However, birds translocated in the most distant release site (Causses) exhibited greater exploration distances with no clear directional movement pattern, had smaller home ranges, and had a stronger preference for supplementary feeding stations than those from other populations. Although some birds translocated in the Pre‐Alps displayed similar behaviors, the pattern is not as strong as in the Causses, likely because of the proximity to the breeding populations reintroduced in the Alps or differences in the number and management of supplementary feeding stations. Preference for supplementary feeding stations (SFS) mostly occurred in the Pre‐Alps and the native populations, but was lower in the Causses. Seasonal variations in SFS preference were consistent among populations, with a peak in the first spring following fledging. Beyond documenting post‐release movements in Bearded Vultures, we suggest better accounting for the demographic consequences of behaviors to track conservation translocation effectiveness, at both local and regional scales.
Responses of C4 grasses to aridity reflect species‐specific strategies in a semiarid savanna
Authors: Havrilchak Nicole A. , West Jason B.
Published: August 2024

The C4 Poaceae are a diverse group in terms of both evolutionary lineage and biochemistry. There is a distinct pattern in the distribution of C4 grass groups with aridity; however, the mechanistic basis for this distribution is not well understood. Additionally, few studies have investigated the functional strategies of co‐occurring C4 grass species for dealing with aridity in their natural environments. We explored the coordination of leaf‐level gas exchange, water use, and morphology among five co‐occurring semiarid C4 grasses belonging to divergent clades, biochemical subtypes, and size classes at three sites along a natural aridity gradient. More specifically, we measured predawn and midday water potential, stomatal conductance, water use efficiency, and photosynthesis. Leaf tissue was also collected for the analysis of stable isotopes of carbon and oxygen as well as for measurement of specific leaf area (SLA) and leaf width. Species differences in responsiveness of stomata to changes in vapor pressure deficit (VPD) were also assessed. It was expected that NAD‐me species would maintain higher rates of photosynthesis, higher water use efficiency, and have more responsive stomata than other co‐occurring species based on observed biogeographic patterns and past greenhouse studies. We found that Aristidoideae and Chloridoideae NAD‐me‐type grasses had greater stomatal sensitivity to VPD, consistent with a more isohydric strategy. However, midgrasses had both greater apparent water access and water use efficiency, regardless of subtype or lineage. PCK‐type species had less responsive stomata and maintained lower levels of photosynthesis with increasing aridity. There were strong interspecific differences in δ13C, leaf width, and SLA; however, these were not significantly correlated with water use efficiency. C4 grasses in our study did not fit discretely into functional groups as defined by lineage, biochemistry, or size class. Interspecific differences, evolutionary legacy, and biochemical pathway are likely to interact to determine water use and photosynthetic strategies of these plants. Control of water loss via highly responsive stomata may form the basis for dominance of certain C4 grass groups in arid environments. These findings build on our understanding of contrasting strategies of C4 grasses for dealing with aridity in their natural environments.
Punicalagin prevents the bone loss of diabetic mice induced by high‐fat diet via the metabolism of gut microbiota
Authors: Gao Jie , Hua Qinglian , Chen Lingling , Zhang Junwei , Zhao Haifeng , Meng Xiangyuan , Zhong Feng , Gao Tianlin
Published: August 2024

Diabetes often induces bone loss and the dysregulation of gut microbiota (GM) is an important cause. Punicalagin (PU) was reported to regulate GM. Therefore, we hypothesized that PU could alleviate diabetes‐induced bone loss through GM and their metabolites. In this study, high‐fat diet‐induced diabetic mice showed bone erosion and poor biomechanical properties, while PU intake significantly improved the bone condition of diabetic mice. Further investigation revealed that the abundance of some beneficial bacteria, such as Akkermansia and Ruminiclostridium_9, was higher after PU intake and highly positively correlated with the concentrations of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and serum vitamin K2, respectively. In addition, these bacteria were associated with the levels of bone metabolism‐related markers such as procollagen type I N‐terminal propeptide (P1NP) and runt‐related transcription factor‐2 (Runx2). Mechanistically, PU, on the one hand, promotes the metabolism of SCFAs, thereby increasing the levels of bone synthesis markers and inhibiting the secretion of bone absorption markers. On the other hand, the higher level of vitamin K2 greatly accelerated bone mineralization and enhanced bone strength. This work provides a new perspective to explore the mechanism by which PU intervention alleviates diabetes‐induced bone loss by regulating the GM and their metabolic products.
Chiral Effect on the Spin Crossover Behavior in a Pair of Co(II) Enantiomers and their Racemic Complex
Authors: Zhang Xin‐Yang , Sun Hui‐Ying , Chen Du‐Yong , Li Xin‐Feng , Xiao Jing‐Yi , Meng Yin‐Shan , Liu Tao
Published: August 2024

The combination of spin crossover (SCO) with chirality has caught increasing research interest owing to its potential applications in the fields of multifunctional magnetic molecular materials and devices. In this work, we synthesized a pair of homochiral Co(II) SCO complexes and their racemic complex by applying chiral Schiff base terimine ligands modified by naphthyl group. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction results showed that the chiral ligands retained chirality after coordination with Co(II) ion, giving rise to a pair of enantiomeric Co(II) complexes in the RR and SS configurations, respectively. The circular dichroism spectroscopy demonstrated the enantiomeric nature of the homochiral complexes. The enantiomers exhibited similar thermally induced SCO, while the racemate was trapped in the high spin state. The differences in SCO behavior between the homochiral and racemic complexes are attributed to different supramolecular interactions. This work provides a feasible approach to constructing new chiral SCO materials and offers perspectives in developing switchable nonlinear optical magnetic materials.
Ultrafast Structural Dynamics of a Photoexcited Mn−Fe Charge‐Transfer Material in the Polaronic and Phase Transition Regimes
Authors: Hervé Marius , Privault Gaël , Trzop Elzbieta , Akagi Shintaro , Watier Yves , Zerdane Serhane , Chaban Ievgeniia , Torres Ramírez Ricardo G. , Mariette Celine , Volte Alix , Cammarata Marco , Levantino Matteo , Tokoro Hiroko , Ohkoshi Shin‐ichi , Collet Eric
Published: August 2024

The Rb0.94Mn0.94Co0.06[Fe(CN)6]0.98 material was designed to exhibit a 75 K wide thermal hysteresis around room temperature, associated with a bistability between the low temperature MnIIIFeII tetragonal phase and the high temperature MnIIFeIII cubic phase. We have recently shown that a single laser pulse can be used to drive, at room temperature, the photoinduced phase transition from the MnIIIFeII tetragonal phase to the MnIIFeIII cubic phase. By using a specific powder sample streaming technique, we could monitor by time‐resolved X‐ray diffraction how the ultrafast out‐of‐equilibrium dynamics, imposed by the structural relaxation around the local photoinduced charge transfer, changes with the fluence of the laser pulse. In this paper we present a detailed structural analysis of the crystalline reorganizations associated with the charge‐transfer in different regimes of photoexcitation. In the low excitation polaronic regime, the photoinduced charge transfer is local and accompanied by an anisotropic distortion of the Mn coordination sphere and of the tetragonal lattice. In the high excitation regime, a macroscopic and cooperative charge‐transfer phase transition occurs towards the cubic lattice, where the coordination around the Mn reaches octahedral symmetry.
Experimental study on the shear characteristics of frozen soil‐concrete interface under the constant normal stiffness
Authors: Yuan Shibin , Cong Jiaming , Fang Xuguang , Wu Yue , Yu Huaichen
Published: August 2024

The interaction between the structure and soil is a crucial factor in infrastructure stabilization in cold region engineering, both transversely and vertically. During interface deformation, the transverse action is reflected in the change of constraints, including normal stiffness, normal stress, and normal volume, while the vertical action is reflected in the change of shear properties. However, the study of different transverse constraints is not systematic, especially considering the normal stiffness and shear properties at different hydrothermal states. This study investigated the shear behavior of the interface between concrete and frozen soil under different normal stiffness, temperature, and water content using the interface direct shear test under temperature‐controlled conditions. The results show that with the increase in temperature and water content, the initial shear stiffness of the interface shear stress‐shear displacement curve gradually increases, and the interface shear strength gradually increases. Different normal stiffnesses have a small effect on the morphology of the interfacial shear stress‐shear displacement curve but significantly affect the peak shear strength. The peak shear strength increases significantly with the increase of normal stiffness, and this trend is more obvious with the decrease in temperature. The corresponding interfacial cohesion and friction angle also increases with the increase in normal stiffness.
Flexible Nanocarbon Electrodes for Holistically Engineered Solar Cell and Battery Integrated Piezoresistive Sensor
Authors: Ramasubramanian Brindha , Reddy Vundrala Sumedha , Ye Zhen , Peng Goh Wei , Le Yang , Ramakrishna Seeram , Chellappan Vijila
Published: August 2024

Herein, a sustainable graphitic carbon derived from waste polystyrene plastics (PS‐G) has been developed and a proof of concept for the integration of organic solar cells, Al‐ion batteries, and piezoresistive sensors based on PS‐G electrodes has been provided. First, a flexible organic solar cell (OSC) with the PS‐G interfacial layer between the photoactive material and the Al metal has enhanced charge extraction mobility with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 3.5%. A new range of possibilities in metal:semiconductor:carbon:metal contact and interfacial tuning in OSCs are made possible by the fact that pure PS‐G without Al can successfully extract electrons with a PCE of 0.89%. Second, when used as the cathode in an Al–carbon battery, PS‐G demonstrates a specific capacity of 148 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1. At different current densities, PS‐G cathodes demonstrate high cycling stability (with 65% capacity retention over 100 cycles). Finally, the best of the fabricated OSCs and the Al–carbon batteries are then combined with a piezoresistive sensor that includes an active PS‐G electrode. The battery‐powered sensor has a resistance of 40–45 × 104 Ω while the solar‐powered sensor has a resistance of 32–35 × 104 Ω, when subjected to mechanical stimuli, with a tensile strength of 20 N.
How Model Organisms and Model Uncertainty Impact Our Understanding of the Risk of Sublethal Impacts of Toxicants to Survival and Growth of Ecologically Relevant Species
Authors: Ivan Lori N. , Jones Michael L. , Albers Janice L. , Carvan Michael J. , Garcia-Reyero Natalia , Nacci Diane , Clark Bryan , Klingler Rebekah , Murphy Cheryl A.
Published: August 2024

Understanding how sublethal impacts of toxicants affect population-relevant outcomes for organisms is challenging. We tested the hypotheses that the well-known sublethal impacts of methylmercury (MeHg) and a polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB126) would have meaningful impacts on cohort growth and survival in yellow perch (Perca flavescens) and Atlantic killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus) populations, that inclusion of model uncertainty is important for understanding the sublethal impacts of toxicants, and that a model organism (zebrafish Danio rerio) is an appropriate substitute for ecologically relevant species (yellow perch, killifish). Our simulations showed that MeHg did not have meaningful impacts on growth or survival in a simulated environment except to increase survival and growth in low mercury exposures in yellow perch and killifish. For PCB126, the high level of exposure resulted in lower survival for killifish only. Uncertainty analyses increased the variability and lowered average survival estimates across all species and toxicants, providing a more conservative estimate of risk. We demonstrate that using a model organism instead of the species of interest does not necessarily give the same results, suggesting that using zebrafish as a surrogate for yellow perch and killifish may not be appropriate for predicting contaminant impacts on larval cohort growth and survival in ecologically relevant species. Our analysis also reinforces the notion that uncertainty analyses are necessary in any modeling assessment of the impacts of toxicants on a population because it provides a more conservative, and arguably realistic, estimate of impact. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2122–2133. © 2024 SETAC