bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Pollinators on Production of Hybrid Apple Seed
Authors: Radoš Ljubomir , Novaković Dragana
Published: December 2017

Apple is an open pollinated entomofilic fruit species. For successful fruiting, it is necessary to provide two or more varieties which are good pollinators, in addition to being compatible with the main cultivar. The situation is similar with the artificial pollination of apples with the aim of obtaining hybrid seeds, the only difference is that for this kind of pollination insects do not have to be provided. In order to create new varieties of apples, we selected the varity Ajdared as the recipient of pollen (mother) and Topaz, Rubies and Pink Lady, as pollinators varieties for which we do not have data how they act as pollinators or what kind of impact they have on the production of hybrid seed. Based on the obtained data, we concluded that the varieties pollinators in all combinations have a high impact on the production of hybrid apple seeds
Making the Ethical Oversight of All Clinical Trials Fit for Purpose
Authors: Kass Nancy E. , Faden Ruth R. , Angus Derek C. , Morain Stephanie R.
Published: October 2024

Importance

With the increase in trials assessing comparative effectiveness of approved products and alternative care strategies, guidance is needed to ensure ethical oversight is fit for purpose for the risks, burdens, and constraints on choice this research presents.

Observations

US regulations governing human research emerged in response to horrific research abuses, reinforcing the view that research holds greater risks, uncertainties, and potential for abuse than clinical care, and thus protections and oversight are required for research, but not for care. The research oversight system established by these regulations has been effective, with most clinical research reviewed in advance for possible risk and burdens and for threats to autonomy and justice. For clinical research, however, it has become too much of a one-size-fits-all mechanism. As more comparative effectiveness and other research on widely used clinical interventions are conducted, research oversight should be fit for purpose for these kinds of trials, with the degree of oversight based on 2 morally relevant features of a trial. The first of these features is the degree to which risks and burdens increase or change when research is integrated into clinical care compared with what patient-participants would have experienced in care absent the research. The second is whether the activity restricts meaningful patient decision-making about care in morally important ways: (1) does the research restrict a choice or decision that patients ordinarily are or should be involved in and (2) does research participation remove from patients the ability to make a decision that may be meaningful to them, one based, at least in part, on their values, priorities, logistical or practical considerations, and the like? Whether clinical trials add risk or burden to what patients would otherwise have experienced, and whether studies restrict meaningful decisions patients would or should have had the opportunity to make, should help to determine whether clinical studies are designated as greater than vs minimal risk. Further, it is recommended that investigators and oversight bodies consider streamlined consent procedures for research presenting minimal additional risk or burden and that does not constrain meaningful patient decisions, rather than assuming that waiving all consent requirements is the only alternative.

Conclusions and Relevance

Ethical oversight of clinical research must be fit for purpose—with greater oversight for studies with greater risks, uncertainties, and impacts on meaningful patient decisions—and more streamlined oversight for other types of research.
World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki
Authors:   World Medical Association
Published: October 2024

This JAMA Special Communication presents the 2024 revision of the World Medical Association’s Declaration of Helsinki, a set of principles to guide the ethical treatment of participants in medical research.
Future-Proofing Research Ethics—Key Revisions of the Declaration of Helsinki 2024
Authors: Reis Andreas Alois , Upshur Ross , Moodley Keymanthri
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint discusses key revisions of the Declaration of Helsinki 2024 in the context of internationally accepted ethical guidance for human research.
The Revision of the Declaration of Helsinki Viewed From the Americas—Paving the Way to Better Research
Authors: Saenz Carla , Carracedo Sarah
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint explores the 2024 update to the Declaration of Helsinki from the perspective of the Americas and how countries in this region can implement the Declaration’s guidance to ethically govern scientific health research.
Adaptive Fault‐Tolerant Multiplicative Attitude Filtering for Small Satellites
Authors: Kinatas Hasan , Hajiyev Chingiz
Published: October 2024

This study tackles the problem of fault‐tolerant attitude estimation for small satellites. A probabilistic adaptive technique is presented for the multiplicative extended Kalman filter (MEKF) algorithm that is used in attitude estimation. The presented method is based on tracking the normalized measurement innovations in the filter and calculating the probability of the normal operation of the estimation system. Using this probability, the filter gain is corrected to maintain the tracking performance of the filter despite faulty measurements. In order to evaluate the performance of this method, several simulations are performed where different types of faults are introduced to the synthetic attitude sensor measurements (magnetometer and sun sensor) at different times. Simulation results are compared not only with a conventional EKF but also with another popular adaptive Kalman filter, an adaptive Kalman filter with multiple scaling factors (MSFs).
Understanding the Nonradiative Charge Recombination in Organic Photovoltaics: From Molecule to Device
Authors: Kong Yibo , Chen Hongzheng , Zuo Lijian
Published: October 2024

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have made significant strides with efficiencies now exceeding 20%, positioning them as potential competitors to inorganic solar technologies. One of the most critical challenges toward this goal is the severe open‐circuit voltage (Voc) loss caused by the nonradiative charge recombination (NRCR). Herein, this review comprehensively summarizes the NRCR mechanisms and suppression techniques of OPVs across various scales from molecule to device. Specifically, the origins of NRCR in a single molecule are first summarized, and molecular design principles toward high photoluminescence quantum yield are reviewed following the Marcus theory. Next, the effect of aggregation on NRCR is reviewed, as well as the molecular and processing strategies to modulate the film packing for NRCR suppression. Furthermore, the progresses in the avoidance of nonradiative loss pathways mediated by charge transfer states and triplet states in donor:acceptor bulk heterojunctions are tracked. Besides, the interfacial optimization and device structure design to maximize the electroluminescent quantum efficiency are presented. Finally, several potential pathways toward curtailing NRCR for high‐performance OPVs are outlined. Therefore, this review shows an insightful perspective to understand and mitigate the NRCR at multi‐scales, and is poised to provide a clear roadmap for the next breakthrough of OPVs.
Silicone‐Assisted Autonomous Growth of Strainless Perovskite Single Crystals for Integrated Low‐Dose X‐Ray Imaging Arrays
Authors: Wang Lixiang , Yan Yuchao , Bu Mingxuan , Wang Jing , Li Liqi , Li Yuyang , Liu Hui , Zhang Hui , Pi Xiaodong , Yang Deren , Fang Yanjun
Published: October 2024

Metal halide perovskite single crystals (SCs) have emerged as promising candidates for high‐performance X‐ray detectors. However, mitigating the adverse effects of thermal and interfacial stress during SC growth remains a significant challenge. In this study, the solution growth of high‐quality perovskite SCs using silicone containers through a constant‐temperature autonomous crystallization process is presented. Unlike conventional hard glass vessels, soft silicone containers significantly reduce the negative impact of thermal and interfacial stress on SC growth. Additionally, the microporous nature of silicone containers permits solvent leakage, facilitating autonomous SC growth at constant temperatures. The hydrophilic surface of the silicone further increases the interfacial nucleation barrier and enhances mass transfer, promoting the rapid growth of larger SCs. This multifaceted approach results in MAPbBr3 SCs with an exceptionally low defect density of 2.15×108 cm−3 and an optimal full‐width‐at‐half‐maximum of X‐ray diffraction rocking curves at 19.04 arcsec, consequently leading to an ultralow X‐ray detection limit of 850 pGyair s−1 for the X‐ray detectors. The superior quality of the SCs, combined with a low‐temperature flip‐chip bonding process, enables the integration of the crystals with pixelated arrays on a printed circuit board for both single‐photon detection and low‐dose X‐ray imaging.
Generation of Sulfamoyl Radicals via Visible‐Light Mediated Fixation of Sulfur Dioxide for the Synthesis of Sulfonamides
Authors: Rodrigues Arroio Thaís , Philipp Nau Jan , Hofman Kamil , Förster Christoph , Faber Stephanie L. , Becker Sabine , Heinze Katja , Cesar Clososki Giuliano , Manolikakes Georg
Published: October 2024

Herein, we report a new approach for the light‐mediated generation of sulfamoyl radicals using sulfur dioxide as key building block and the direct application of these radicals in the synthesis of sulfonamides. In the presence of different photoredox catalysts, sulfamoyl radicals can be generated directly from SO2 or the SO2 surrogate DABSO (1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane⋅bis (sulfur dioxide) adduct) and N‐aminopyridinium salts as nitrogen radical precursors. Trapping of the in situ generated sulfamoyl radicals with selected electron‐rich olefins affords different sulfonamides in up to 86% yield in a three‐component procedure. This transformation provides a complementary approach for the in situ generation of sulfamoyl radicals as synthetic intermediates for the assembly of the sulfonamide functionality, a privileged motif in active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Introduction of Phosphinine Ring into Aromatic Systems via Alkyne Cyclization
Authors: Mizerová Eliška , Kos Martin , Jakubec Martin , Pavlica Marek , Žádný Jaroslav , Církva Vladimír , Storch Jan , Beránek Tomáš
Published: October 2024

Recently developed synthetic protocols for the preparation of λ3‐phosphanaphthalenes have broadened the general scope of organophosphorus chemistry, but a versatile protocol is still missing. Here, we describe a scalable synthetic approach for the construction of various substituted phosphanaphthalenes. We have obtained 11 derivatives through rigorous study and have demonstrated the robustness of this method. The optical properties of these phosphorus compounds and their aza and carbo analogues have been experimentally compared. Here, we show the power of the method in extending the synthesis to even larger polycyclic aromatic systems with embedded phosphine rings toward its potential applicability to materials science.
Fluorescence‐Based Detector Design Principles for Low Vapor Pressure Analytes
Authors: Loch Alex S. , Burn Paul L. , Shaw Paul E.
Published: October 2024

Fluorescence‐based sensing is a promising method for detecting trace quantities (vapors) of chemical threats. However, direct detection at standard temperature and pressure of chemicals with low volatilities, such as the salts of illegal drugs, is difficult to achieve. Herein, the development of a testing platform designed to maximize the response from fluorescent material detection of low volatility analytes, using the salts of illicit drugs as exemplars, is described. The challenges encountered in detecting low‐volatility analytes are highlighted, and the hardware solutions employed to overcome them are detailed. The testing platform is composed of a swab heating unit, a sensing chamber, and optical components that enable detection of illicit drugs via a fluorescence quenching mechanism. The swab heating unit facilitates volatilization of the analytes, with the shape of the sensing chamber and its fabrication material optimized to maximize the interaction of the analyte with the sensing element, increasing sensitivity. The detection platform is able to detect trace amounts (down to 30 ng) of (±)‐3,4‐methylenedioxyamphetamine hydrochloride (MDA•HCl), along with other common illicit drug salts such as cocaine hydrochloride (cocaine•HCl), fentanyl•HCl, and methamphetamine•HCl (MA•HCl).
Farmers' Financial Literacy—Scale Development and Linkages to Accounting Practices and Financial Outcomes
Authors: Gottlieb Uliana , Hansson Helena
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the financial literacy (FL) of Swedish farmers, its linkages to farmer characteristics, management accounting practices and farm outcomes by surveying Swedish Farm Accountancy Data Network farmers. Using item response theory, we expand the existing FL measurement specifically to the farming context, assess measurement items and compare shorter and longer scales of FL. Our findings indicate high levels of FL among respondents. FL is positively associated with more extensive management accounting practices, greater farm profitability and lower cost of debt, independent of other farmer characteristics, including education, numeracy, need for cognition, and money vigilance. The findings suggest the relevance of FL as a farmer characteristic for both practices and outcomes, even when included through its shortest and more established measurement scale.
Machine learning boosted eutectic solvent design for CO2 capture with experimental validation
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Chen Jiahui , Qiu Yuxin , Xie Kunchi , Cheng Jie , You Xinze , Chen Guzhong , Song Zhen , Qi Zhiwen
Published: October 2024

Although eutectic solvents (ESs) have garnered significant attention as promising solvents for carbon dioxide (CO2) capture, systematic studies on discovering novel ESs linking machine learning (ML) and experimental validation are scarce. For the reliable prediction of CO2‐in‐ES solubility, ensemble ML modeling based on random forest and extreme gradient boosting with inputs of COSMO‐RS derived molecular descriptors is rigorously performed, for which an extensive experimental CO2‐in‐ES solubility database of 2438 data points in 162 ESs involving 106 ES systems are collected. With the best‐performing model obtained, the CO2 solubilities of 4735 novel combinations of ES components are first predicted for estimating their potential in CO2 capture. The top‐ranked candidate combinations are subsequently evaluated by examining the environmental health and safety properties of individual components and assessing the potential operating window based on solid–liquid equilibrium (SLE) prediction. Three most promising ES systems are finally retained, which are thoroughly studied by SLE and CO2 absorption experiments.
A Prevalent TMEM260 Deletion Causes Conotruncal Heart Defects, Including Truncus Arteriosus
Authors: Saijo Naoya , Yaoita Hisao , Takayama Jun , Ota Chiharu , Kawai Eiichiro , Kimura Masato , Ozawa Akira , Tamiya Gen , Kure Shigeo , Kikuchi Atsuo
Published: October 2024

Conotruncal heart defects are severe congenital malformations of the outflow tract, including truncus arteriosus (TA) and double‐outlet right ventricle (DORV). TA is a severe congenital heart disease (CHD) in which the main arterial outflow tract of the heart fails to separate. We recently reported TMEM260 (NM_017799.4), c.1617del (p.Trp539Cysfs*9), as a major cause of TA in the Japanese population (TMEM260 Keio‐Tohoku variant) comparable to the prevalence of the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, which accounts for 12%–35% of TA. However, no other major causes of TA have not been identified. Here, we report a family that included a TA patient and a DORV patient, harboring the compound heterozygous variants of TMEM260, a 7066‐bp deletion encompassing exons 6–7 and c.1393C > T, p.(Gln465*). The allele frequency of the 7066‐bp deletion was particularly high in the Japanese population (0.17%). Based on the allele frequency of this deletion and c.1617del (0.36%) in the Japanese population, TMEM260 variants might be associated with more than half of the Japanese patients with TA. This study showed that TMEM260 pathogenic variants might be the most common cause of TA in the Japanese population and could explain the wide spectrum of phenotypes associated with TMEM260‐related CHD, including DORV, demonstrating the usefulness of genetic testing in Japanese patients with TA.
Hidden in plain text: Uncovering hidden heterogeneity and social stratification in Ireland AD 1150–1800
Authors: Clark Melissa A. , Guatelli‐Steinberg Debra , Hubbe Mark , McDonnell Ciarán
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Between the Irish late medieval (AD 1150–c.1550) (LMP) and post‐medieval (AD c.1550–1800) (PMP) periods, colonial practices changed land ownership. Contextualizing these periods within a biocultural political economy framework supports increasing social inequality in the PMP, which we expect to be reflected in different skeletal markers of longevity and stress. Therefore, we hypothesized that widespread exposure to stressors and resource deprivation contributed to lower longevity in the PMP compared to the LMP, and that there would be greater variation between sites in the frequency of linear enamel hypoplasias (LEH) in the PMP.

Materials and Methods

We estimated age and counted matched pairs of LEH on 526 adult skeletons from the Irish counties of Dublin, Kildare, Louth, and Meath. Age‐at‐death was compared through Kaplan–Meier survival functions and non‐parametric tests. Linear enamel hypoplasias prevalences were analyzed with Mann–Whitney U tests and Generalized Linear Models.

Results

Age‐at‐death distribution changed between the LMP and PMP for males, with males experiencing an increase in median‐age‐at‐death. The same was untrue for females, who show no changes in median age‐at‐death. Analysis of LEH frequency per individual showed that variation between sites was significant in the post‐medieval period but not in the late medieval period.

Conclusion

These results suggest that social organization contributed to embodied health experiences that varied across time periods. Specifically, populations from the PMP appear to have embodied greater social inequality in their more varied susceptibility to stress. Our work demonstrates the strength of pairing historical texts with the analysis of skeletal remains to evaluate the impact of social structures on biological frailty.
Efficient Electrosynthesis of Valuable para‐Benzoquinone from Aqueous Phenol on NiRu Hybrid Catalysts
Authors: Liu Fuqiang , Chen Wei , Wang Tong , Zhang Juchao , Yang Deyong , Dai Yinhao , Liu Guizi , Zhou Jian , Wang Shuangyin , Guan Xiaohong
Published: October 2024

Electrocatalytic oxidation of aqueous phenol to para‐benzoquinone (p‐BQ) offers a sustainable approach for both pollutant abatement and value‐added chemicals production. However, achieving high phenol conversion and p‐BQ yield under neutral conditions remains challenging. Herein, we report a Ni(OH)2‐supported Ru nanoparticles (NiRu) hybrid electrocatalyst, which exhibits a superior phenol conversion of 96.5 % and an excellent p‐BQ yield of 83.4 % at pH 7.0, significantly outperforming previously reported electrocatalysts. This exceptional performance benefits from the triple synergistic modulation of the NiRu catalyst, including enhanced phenol adsorption, increased p‐BQ desorption, and suppressed oxygen evolution. By coupling a flow electrolyzer with an extraction‐distillation separation unit, the simultaneous phenol removal and p‐BQ recovery are realized. Additionally, the developed electrocatalytic system with the NiRu/C anode displays good stability, favorable energy consumption, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions for phenol‐containing wastewater treatment, demonstrating its potential for practical applications. This work offers a promising strategy for achieving low‐carbon emissions in phenol wastewater treatment.
Conformational Modulation of Efficient Macrocyclic Emitters Featuring Delayed Fluorescence by Conjugation Length and Cavity Dimensions
Authors: Xiao Jingping , Liu Denghui , Fu Yu , Xie Weijia , Mu Yingxiao , Chen Jia‐Xiong , Ye Zecong , Ji Shaomin , Huo Yanping , Su Shi‐Jian
Published: October 2024

The π‐conjugated macrocyclic emitters with thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) characteristics have attracted widespread attention in the field of organic electroluminescence (EL) materials due to their unique geometries and excellent luminescence performance. Despite the significant impact of conjugation length and cavity dimensions on molecular conformation, the influence of these factors on the excited‐state properties remains understudied. Herein, we formulated a strategy aimed at modulating the conformation of TADF macrocyclic molecules containing aniline as the donor (D) unit, and triazine as the acceptor (A), linked in D−A and D‐π‐A alternative macrocyclic construction (MC‐TNT and MC‐TST). Corroborated by experimental and theoretical analyses, the compact and conformationally twisted MC‐TNT exhibits efficient blue luminescence in crystalline state, facilitating EL at high doping concentrations with maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 13.9 %, leading the field of blue macrocyclic emitters. Notably, MC‐TST with π‐bridge and flat conformation, demonstrates diminished Coulombic repulsion, achieving nearly 100 % photoluminescence quantum yield and superior horizontal dipole orientation of 85 % in 5 wt % doped films, and the corresponding device‘s EQEmax reaches record‐high 32.7 % within the TADF macrocyclic domain.
Synchronous Modulation of H‐bond Interaction and Steric Hindrance via Bio‐molecular Additive Screening in Zn Batteries
Authors: Guo Wenyi , Xu Liang , Su Yiwen , Zhao Liming , Ding Yifan , Zou Yuhan , Zheng Guangping , Cheng Tao , Sun Jingyu
Published: October 2024

In addressing challenges such as side reaction and dendrite formation, electrolyte modification with bio‐molecule sugar species has emerged as a promising avenue for Zn anode stabilization. Nevertheless, considering the structural variability of sugar, a comprehensive screening strategy is meaningful yet remains elusive. Herein, we report the usage of sugar additives as a representative of bio‐molecules to develop a screening descriptor based on the modulation of the hydrogen bond component and electron transfer kinetics. It is found that xylo‐oligosaccharide (Xos) with the highest H‐bond acceptor ratio enables efficient water binding, affording stable Zn/electrolyte interphase to alleviate hydrogen evolution. Meanwhile, sluggish reduction originated from the steric hindrance of Xos contributes to optimized Zn deposition. With such a selected additive in hand, the Zn||ZnVO full cells demonstrate durable operation. This study is anticipated to provide a rational guidance in sugar additive selection for aqueous Zn batteries.
A novel Cu2O/palygorskite composite for advanced adsorption desulfurization
Authors: Chen Mingyan , Wang Wentao , Zhang Yao , Zhang Dehua , Liu Yucheng
Published: October 2024

In this work, a composite material for the adsorption removal of thiophenic sulfur compounds (TSCs) was prepared by loading Cu2O onto palygorskite using a simple and low‐cost impregnation method and characterized for its structure and morphology. The addition of Cu2O did not change palygorskite's structure, and the Cu+ was evenly dispersed in the palygorskite fibers. The palygorskite provided the adsorptive active centers Cu+ efficient surface and pore structure to increase the sulfur removal performance of palygorskite. The optimum desulfurization process conditions of the Cu2O/palygorskite were obtained experimentally and by response surface methodology. With solid/liquid mass ratio of 1/100 and temperature of 30°C, the maximum static adsorption capacity of the Cu2O/palygorskite in model oil, which was composed of n‐octane and a single TSC at 400 mg S/L, showed an increase of 639% for thiophene, 543% for benzothiophene, and 563% for dibenzothiophene compared to palygorskite alone. In addition, the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm model exhibited the most fitting results for thiophene adsorbing on the composite, indicating that chemisorption on a monolayer basis plays a key role in the adsorption process. To sum up, these results suggest the composite has some potential in the field of adsorption‐desulfurization materials.
Learning‐Based Vectorial Reconstruction of Orthogonal Polarization Components in a Structured Vector Optical Field Passing Through Scattering Media
Authors: Chen Yu‐Chen , Shen Li‐Hua , Qi Bote , Li Yu‐Hua , Hu Xiao‐Bo , Chew Khian‐Hooi , Chen Rui‐Pin , He Sailing
Published: October 2024

Optical imaging through scattering media has become important due to its fundamental physics interest and various applications. The reconstruction of a structured optical field with various states of polarization passing through a scattering medium with a speckle pattern behind the scattering medium remains challenging since existing restoring techniques only reconstruct the speckle in a single‐polarization state (scalar optical field). This work proposes a novel approach to simultaneously restore the initial orthogonally polarized components from a speckle pattern behind a scattering medium. The neural network Polarization‐DenseUnet (P‐DenseUnet) based on the vector transfer matrix is constructed to restore the two orthogonally linear (or circular) polarization components of a structured vector optical field from a speckle pattern behind the scattering medium. The generalization and effectiveness of this proposed method are tested for high fidelity with different phase distributions such as vortex, digits, and Fashion‐mnist.
Parametric Excitation and Instabilities of Spin Waves Driven by Surface Acoustic Waves
Authors: Geilen Moritz , Verba Roman , Hamadeh Abbass , Nicoloiu Alexandra , Narducci Daniele , Dinescu Adrian , Ender Milan , Mohseni Morteza , Ciubotaru Florin , Weiler Mathias , Müller Alexandru , Hillebrands Burkard , Adelmann Christoph , Pirro Philipp
Published: October 2024

The parametric excitation of spin waves by coherent surface acoustic waves in metallic magnetic thin film structures is demonstrated experimentally using Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy. Complementary micromagnetic simulations and analytical modeling reveal that, depending on the experimental conditions, the spin‐wave instabilities originate from different phonon‐magnon and magnon‐magnon scattering processes. This opens novel ways to create micro‐scaled nonlinear magnonic systems for logic and data processing that profit from the efficient excitation of phonons using piezoelectricity.
Dual Au/Ag Catalyzed Regiospecific Intramolecular Hydroacyloxylation and Hydroalkoxylation of Unactivated Geminal‐Substituted Olefins
Authors: Dhuri Akash D. , Kumar Pulukuri Kiran
Published: October 2024

A mild, regiospecific Gold‐Silver bimetallic catalytic system has been devised for the intramolecular hydroacyloxylation and hydroetherification of alkenoic acids and alcohols. This method exhibits precise specificity for the geminal substituted olefinic center and facilitates the synthesis of substituted phthalide and hydroisocoumarin derivatives. This method has been effectively applied for late‐state functionalization to produce bioactive natural products such as rumphellaone A, mycophenolate, and (−)‐ambrox. The successful gram‐scale synthesis of the anticonvulsant, hypnotic drug (±)‐ethyl phenyl butyro lactone (EPBL), (±)‐Boivinianin A and the ability to synthesize challenging spiro and bicyclic lactone underscores the synthetic potential of this methodology. Mechanistic insights into gold‐silver catalyzed lactonization of olefins have also been discussed.
How the USA can feasibly cut methane emissions 30% by 2030: anaerobic digestion of organic waste and various measures in oil and gas production
Authors: Lerner Michael Scott
Published: October 2024

The USA has committed to cutting its emissions of methane, an extremely potent greenhouse gas, by at least 30% by 2030 (‘30 × 30’). This is part of the Global Methane Pledge, signed by 155 countries, to keep global warming within 1.5 °C and thereby to forestall the disastrous effects of ‘runaway climate change’. It will be a major challenge for the USA to reach 30 × 30 and there is no consensus on how to do so. This paper provides a concrete, data‐driven roadmap to indicate how to reach 30 × 30 feasibly, focusing on two enormous sources of methane emissions: organic waste and oil and gas production. It calculates that building approximately 4700 anaerobic digesters (ADs) to process food waste and animal manure would cost about $74.2 billion in capital expenditure (capex) and cut 13.6% of total US methane emissions per year. On average, each project would take roughly 2–6 years to build. Of the various methane mitigation measures analyzed in the oil and gas sectors, the most impactful would be full compliance with the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) revised New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for oil and gas production by 2029. This would cut 17.5% of total US methane emissions annually, at a cumulative capex of $20.7 billion from 2024 to 2029. Together, the 13.6% cut from food waste and manure ADs and the 17.5% cut from full NSPS compliance would amount to a 31.5% reduction, exceeding the 30 × 30 goal. Greater clarity from the federal government on funding eligibility and additional incentives would accelerate the buildout of ADs.
Adjustment of the main biosynthesis modules to enhance the production of l‐homoserine in Escherichia coli W3110
Authors: Niu Kun , Zheng Rui , Zhang Miao , Chen Mao‐Qin , Kong Yi‐Ming , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: October 2024

l‐homoserine is an important platform compound of many valuable products. Construction of microbial cell factory for l‐homoserine production from glucose has attracted a great deal of attention. In this study, l‐homoserine biosynthesis pathway was divided into three modules, the glucose uptake and upstream pathway, the downstream pathway, and the energy supply module. Metabolomics of the chassis strain HS indicated that the supply of ATP was inadequate, therefore, the energy supply module was firstly modified. By balancing the ATP supply module, the l‐homoserine production increased by 66% to 12.55 g/L. Further, the results indicated that the upstream pathway was blocked, and increasing the culture temperature to 37°C could solve this problem and the l‐homoserine production reached 21.38 g/L. Then, the downstream synthesis pathways were further strengthened to balance the fluxes, and the l‐homoserine production reached the highest reported level of 32.55 g/L in shake flasks. Finally, fed‐batch fermentation in a 5‐L bioreactor was conducted, and l‐homoserine production could reach to 119.96 g/L after 92 h cultivation, with the yield of 0.41 g/g glucose and productivity of 1.31 g/L/h. The study provides a well research foundation for l‐homoserine production by microbial fermentation with the capacity for industrial application.
The Sperm‐Associated Antigen 11A (Spag11a) Knockout Mice Display Sub‐Fertility and Perturbations in the Sperm Proteome
Authors: Sangeeta Kumari , Aisha Jamil , Yenugu Suresh
Published: October 2024

Spermatogenesis and sperm maturation that occur in the testis and epididymis respectively are crucial for fertility. Factors secreted by the testicular and epididymal epithelial cells govern the processes of gametogenesis and maturation. Proteins encoded by the sperm‐associated antigen 11a (Spag11a) gene are implicated as having a possible role in sperm maturation. However, studies that demonstrate their definite role in fertility and sperm function using knockout models have not yet reported. In this study, Spag11a knockout mice were generated, genotyped and the reproductive parameters (fecundity, sperm count, capacitation, and acrosome reaction) and sperm proteome were determined. Litter size and sperm count were decreased in the Spag11a knockout mice when compared to the wild‐type controls. Spermatozoa from the knockout mice were able to undergo capacitation. However, acrosome reaction did not occur in sperm obtained from knockout mice. Structural abnormalities in the head and tail structures were evident in the spermatozoa of knockout mice. Perturbations in the expression of sperm proteins that are involved in gametogenesis were evident. The subfertility observed in Spag11a knockout mice could be a manifestation of lower sperm count, impaired acrosome reactions, and disturbances in the sperm proteome. The results of this study lend further support to the role of Spag11a gene in male gamete function.
Mechanistic Perspective on Oxygen Activation Chemistry by Flavoenzymes
Authors: Zhang Qiaoyu , Wang Binju
Published: October 2024

Flavin‐dependent enzymes catalyze a panoply of chemical transformations essential for living organisms. Through oxygen activation, flavoenzymes could generate diverse flavin‐oxygen species that mediate numerous redox and non‐redox transformations. In this review, we highlight the extensive oxygen activation chemistry at two sites of the flavin cofactor: C4a and N5 sites. Oxygen activation at the C4a site generates flavin‐C4aOO(H) species for various monooxygenation reactions, while activation at the N5 site produces negatively charged flavin‐N5OOH species, which act as highly reactive nucleophiles or bases. The selective oxygen activation at either the C4a or N5 site depends on the nature of substrates and is controlled by the active site architecture. These insights have expanded our understanding of oxygen activation chemistry in flavoenzymes and will serve as a foundation for future efforts in enzyme engineering and redesign.
A Novel Concept for Cleavable Linkers Applicable to Conjugation Chemistry – Design, Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Majumder Utpal , Zhu Xiaojie , Custar Daniel , Li Danyang , Fang Hui , McGonigle Sharon , Albone Earl , Cheng Xin , Lai Weidong , Amy Siu Y. , Bresciano Karen , Hart Andrew , Postema Maarten
Published: October 2024

Linkers with disulfide bonds are the only cleavable linkers that utilize physiological thiol gradients as a trigger to initiate the intracellular drug release cascade. Herein, we present a novel concept exploiting the thiol gradient phenomena to design a new class of cleavable linker with no disulfide bond. To support the concept, an electron‐deficient sulfonamide‐based cleavable linker amenable to conjugation of drug molecules with targeting agents, was developed. Modulating the electron‐withdrawing nature of the aryl sulfonamide was critical to the balance between the stability and drug release. Favorable stability and payload release in human serum under physiologically relevant thiol concentrations was demonstrated with two potent cytotoxics. Intracellular payload release was further validated in cell‐based assay in context of antibody‐drug conjugate generated from monoclonal antibody and sulfonamide containing linker. To support the proposed release mechanism, possible downstream by‐products formed from the drug‐linker adduct were characterized.
Efficacy and safety of levosimendan in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention: The LEVOCEST trial
Authors: Bosa Ojeda Francisco , Méndez Vargas Corabel , Lacalzada Almeida Juan , Izquierdo Gómez María M. , Jiménez Sosa Alejandro , Rodríguez Jiménez Consuelo , Sánchez‐Grande Flecha Alejandro , Bosa Santana Marta , Yanes Bowden Geoffrey
Published: October 2024

Background

Primary angioplasty is the standard procedure for patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, myocardial reperfusion results in additional cell damage. Levosimendan, due to its pleiotropic effects, may be a therapeutic alternative to prevent this damage. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether this drug can reduce infarct size in patients with STEMI.

Methods

Patients were randomized to receive a 24‐h infusion of either levosimendan (0.1 μg/kg/min) or placebo after the primary angioplasty. The main objective was to assess the size of the infarct by cardiac resonance at 30 days and 6 months after the event. Other variables such as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and adverse ventricular remodeling (AVR) were assessed by speckle‐tracking echocardiography and magnetic resonance. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were also collected.

Results

157 patients were analysed (levosimendan, n = 79; placebo, n = 78). We found that after 6 months, patients treated with levosimendan had a greater reduction in infarct size (13.19% ± 9.5% vs.11.79% ± 9%, p = 0.001), compared with those in the placebo group (13.35% ± 7.1% vs. 13.43% ± 7.8%, p = 0.38). There were no significant differences in MACE between both groups.

Conclusions

Levosimendan is a safe and effective therapeutic option for reducing infarct size in patients with STEMI.
Early‐onset familial hypercholesterolemia: A case of extensive xanthomas and premature coronary artery disease
Authors: Kalsi Harsimran , Singla Ankur , Kaur Sukhjot , Verma Amogh , Woldehana Nathnael Abera , Rustagi Sarvesh , Singh Mahendra Pratap
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Early recognition and management of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are crucial, especially in patients with extensive xanthomas and premature coronary artery disease. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive lipid‐lowering therapy can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality rates. Careful clinical assessment in resource‐limited settings is essential for optimal outcomes.

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder that causes chronically elevated levels of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Based on LDL levels, FH can be heterozygous or homozygous, further established through clinical features, laboratory findings, and genetic analysis. Elevated cholesterol levels cause atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and sudden death. Xanthomas are a clinical manifestation of FH that reveal the underlying systemic genetic disease. We present the case of a 47‐year‐old male with triple vessel coronary artery disease and widespread xanthomas, diagnosed with homozygous FH based on “The Dutch Lipid Clinic Network Diagnostic Criteria for Familial Hypercholesterolemia.” Lifelong therapy with lipid‐lowering medications and lifestyle changes is necessary in such cases.
Hydrogen‐assisted Synthesis of Defective Triazine/heptazine Homostructured Nanosheets for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zhang Wenxuan , Wang Jiangpeng , Hu Yingmo , Yu Xuelian , An Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2024

Homostructure construction has been proven to be an effective method for boosting the photocatalytic activity of polymeric carbon nitride. However, the contribution of the intrinsic activity of molecular fragments in the catalytic performance of homostructured carbon nitride is yet to be explored. In this paper, a facile hydrogen‐assisted strategy was used to synthesize triazine/heptazine intermolecular homojunctions (g‐C3N4(MU−H)) with an ultrathin and defective structure, via the co‐pyrolysis of melamine and urea precursors. Experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations indicated the copolymerization of triazine‐ and heptazine‐based carbon nitride generated a homostructured interface with a large build‐in electric field for efficient separation of photogenerated carriers. Owing to the synergestic effect between the homostructured interface and nitrogen vacancies, as‐synethesized g‐C3N4(MU−H) exhibited an outstanding activity for photocatalytic CO2 reduction, with 14.45 μmol h−1 CO yield, which was 23.5 and 3.64 times higher than those of bulk g‐C3N4 and g‐C3N4(M−H) synthesized from a single precursor, respectively. In this study, We provided a novel route for optimizing the charge separation efficiency of CO2 photoreduction catalysts by constructing intramolecular homojunction.
Comparison of Microcapillary Blood Sampling Devices for Use in Anti‐Doping
Authors: Lewis Laura , Smith Monika , Boutard Kristin , Fedoruk Matthew , Miller Geoff
Published: October 2024

Blood collection is an important facet of anti‐doping testing, forming the basis of the hematological module of the athlete biological passport (ABP). Presently, whole blood is collected via venepucture under standardized conditions, in accordance with the World Anti‐doping Agency's International Standard for Testing and Investigations (ISTI). Advances in capillary whole blood collection technology now afford the ability to collect microvolumetric capillary whole blood from the upper arm (or other suitable vascular location such as the abdomen) that is “needle‐free” and virtually painless. Previous work has demonstrated the suitability and feasibility of capillary whole blood compared with venous using the Tasso+ device. Recently, other microcapillary devices have received FDA approval increasing the options available to the anti‐doping community. The present study extends previous work, by collecting microliter capillary whole blood samples via two different FDA approved devices (RedDrop and the Tasso+ device) to compare with venous blood collected simultaneously. Ten participants provided three matched blood samples (2× capillary and 1× venous) in accordance with WADA ABP guidelines for blood sample collection, for a total of 30 samples. Capillary samples from both devices showed excellent laboratory agreement with venous blood for all CBC parameters, with the exception of platelets. Excellent laboratory agreement was also observed between the two microcapillary collection devices. Irrespective of the device, microcapillary blood collection provides a valid alternative to venous blood collection for ABP purposes.
Integrating Population Genetics With Long‐Term Environmental Monitoring to Evaluate and Guide Vernal Pool Creation for Amphibian Conservation
Authors: Winters Declan M. , Wilson Emily , Coster Stephanie S. , Rothenberger Megan B.
Published: October 2024

The decline of biodiversity, particularly among amphibians, is strongly associated with habitat loss and fragmentation. Vernal pools are a critical ecosystem for many pool‐breeding amphibians, but they are often overlooked in wetland protection guidelines. Mitigation efforts include vernal pool creation and restoration, but these efforts have varying success in replacing lost functions. This study investigates the success of created vernal pools through long‐term environmental monitoring of wood frogs and spotted salamanders (2014–2023) and integrates population genetics to assess the local population health of the wood frog. First, we monitored and compared environmental parameters and reproductive success of indicator species between natural and created pools in a Pennsylvania state park. We then used microsatellite loci to assess within‐ and between‐pool measures of genetic diversity, population structuring, and gene flow for wood frogs. We found two carefully designed created pools positively contributed to local amphibian population persistence by maintaining similar measures of genetic diversity as compared to natural pools. On the other hand, one poorly created pool was genetically distinct and acted as a population sink. Although our findings offer valuable insights, they are based on a limited sample and may not fully represent the broader landscape. However, by integrating genetic information into long‐term monitoring datasets, our interdisciplinary approach enhances our understanding of amphibian population dynamics in vernal pool ecosystems. Our findings imply that the most important factors for restoration practitioners to consider when creating or restoring vernal pools are hydroperiod (12–35 weeks), volume (> 50 m3), depth (≥ 30 cm), and surrounding forest land cover (> 60%). These variables are better predictors of indicator species success than pool type (i.e., natural or created). Ultimately, this study emphasizes the need to accompany restoration efforts with long‐term monitoring programs that can be used to make adaptive management decisions in an era of extreme environmental change.
Stable Zn‐Metal Anode Enabled by Solvation Structure Modulation and In‐Situ SEI Layer Construction
Authors: Wu Hao , Yin Hongting , Tian Han , Yang Jinlin , Liu Ruiping
Published: October 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries encounter impediments on their trajectory towards commercialization, primarily due to challenges such as dendritic growth, hydrogen evolution reaction. Throughout recent decades of investigation, electrolyte modulation by using function additives is widely considered as a facile and efficient way to prolong the Zn anode lifespan. Herein, N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)ethylenediamine is employed as an additive to attach onto the Zn surface with a substantial adsorption energy with (002) facet. The as‐formed in‐situ solid‐electrolyte interphase layer effectively mitigates hydrogen evolution reaction by constructing a lean‐water internal Helmholtz layer. Additionally, N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)ethylenediamine establishes a coordination complex with Zn2+, thereby modulating the solvation structure and enhancing the mobility of Zn2+. As expected, the Zn‐symmetrical cell with N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)ethylenediamine additive demonstrated successful cycling exceeding 1500 h under 1 mA cm−2 for 0.5 mAh cm−2. Furthermore, the Zn//δ‐MnO2 battery maintains a capacity of approximately 130 mAh g−1 after 800 cycles at 1 A g−1, with a Coulombic efficiency surpassing 98%. This work presents a streamlined approach for realizing aqueous zinc‐ion batteries with extended service life.
Quality Diagnosis for Rocket Body Structure Manufacturing Process Based on Product Quality DNA
Authors: Jiayu Yao , Haijiang Liu
Published: October 2024

In the current multivariety and small‐batch production mode, it is difficult to fully reflect the evolution law of the sampling population due to incomplete sample information in the manufacturing of the rocket body structure. By referring to the principle of biological DNA, a knowledge‐based quality diagnosis strategy is adopted, and a quality diagnosis method for the rocket body structure manufacturing process based on product quality DNA is proposed in this paper. The accumulated experience or knowledge in the past is stored in the product quality DNA knowledge base in the form of cases. Through knowledge retrieval, historical cases with the highest similarity to the product quality DNA to be diagnosed are found, and reasonable control and rectification schemes are provided for the quality problems in the production process, so as to avoid the same quality problems in the future. The feasibility of the method is verified by two case studies of two welds. The results show that the method can effectively and accurately diagnose weld quality.