bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lethal risk to birds from insecticide use in the United States—a spatial and temporal analysis
Authors: Mineau Pierre , Whiteside Mélanie
Published: April 2006

We used pesticide use data and previously published models to estimate the lethal risk to birds from insecticides used in U.S. agriculture. Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistical Service (NASS, Washington, D.C.) were used to assess how the lethal risk to birds has changed over the period 1991 to 2003 and to compare risk among crop types according to the most recently available surveys. Because the NASS data coverage is incomplete, both with respect to crop and state, we also used a database assembled by the National Center for Food and Agriculture Policy (NCFAP, Washington, D.C.) for the 1997 reference year, to which we added state-specific average application rates for crop/insecticide combinations. For each state/crop/insecticide combination (>6,000 entries), we assessed the proportion of crop area on which avian mortality was deemed probable, as well as the extended number of hectares this represented. The crops responsible for most potential bird mortality in the United States were corn and cotton, followed more distantly by alfalfa, wheat, potato, peanut, sugar beet, sorghum, tobacco, and citrus. Other crops represented a higher risk to birds on a per hectare basis. The southeast United States generally had the highest proportion of farmland with a lethal risk to birds. On a positive note, the lethal risk to birds has generally declined over the last decade in most crops, although there are exceptions such as small fruit crops. The reasons for this improvement vary from crop to crop, but usually entail the replacement of older more hazardous products with newer ones with lower acute toxicity to birds.
Ecological performance of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) larvae exposed to environmental levels of the insecticide malathion
Authors: Alvarez Maria del Carmen , Fuiman Lee A.
Published: April 2006

Malathion is a highly soluble or ganophosphate insecticide that is widely used in agriculture and mosquito eradication campaigns. Fish species, such as red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), that use seagrass beds as nursery areas could be affected by runoff waters contaminated with malathion. We exposed red drum larvae at the size they reach in estuarine nursery areas to environmentally realistic and sublethal levels of malathion (0, 1, and 10 μg/L). We evaluated the effects of such exposure on ecologically significant behaviors (routine swimming and predator evasion), growth, and resting metabolism. Malathion exposure to relatively low but ecologically realistic concentrations did not affect routine behavior, escape behavior, resting metabolic rate, or growth, indicating that reported environmental levels may be safe for young fishes. However, a recent substantial increase in the use of malathion may elevate surface-water concentrations to levels above those tested in the present study.
Effects of diethylstilbestrol and ethinylestradiol on gene transcription of very low-density apolipoprotein II in the liver of Japanese quail, Coturnix japonica
Authors: Hanafy Ahmed M. , Sasanami Tomohiro , Mori Makoto
Published: April 2006

Very low-density apolipoprotein II (apoVLDL) is one of the constituents of yolk in avian eggs. The expression of the apoVLDL gene is highly specific to the liver in mature female birds during the egg-laying period but is stimulated by exogenous estrogens in immature male birds. In the present study, we compared the effects of two estrogenic compounds, diethylstilbestrol and ethinylestradiol, on the expression of apoVLDL mRNA in the liver of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Three-week-old, immature male quail were treated with a single intraperitoneal injection of the estrogenic compounds, and the level of apoVLDL mRNA in the liver was measured by gene-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction. Diethylstilbestrol and ethinylestradiol had a similar effect on the level of mRNA, increasing it in a dose-dependent manner. Next, the levels of apoVLDL mRNA in the liver of male embryos, which were developed in fertile eggs laid by quail injected with the estrogenic compounds during yolk formation, were measured. Maternal exposure to ethinylestradiol caused an increase in the mRNA in embryos, whereas exposure to diethylstilbestrol had no effect. These results point out the importance of the route of administration to the evaluation of the estrogenic effects of endocrine disruptors in oviparous species.
Comparison of the applicability domain of a quantitative structure-activity relationship for estrogenicity with a large chemical inventory
Authors: Netzeva Tatiana I. , Saliner Ana Gallegos , Worth Andrew P.
Published: April 2006

The aim of the present study was to illustrate that it is possible and relatively straightforward to compare the domain of applicability of a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model in terms of its physicochemical descriptors with a large inventory of chemicals. A training set of 105 chemicals with data for relative estrogenic gene activation, obtained in a recombinant yeast assay, was used to develop the QSAR. A binary classification model for predicting active versus inactive chemicals was developed using classification tree analysis and two descriptors with a clear physicochemical meaning (octanol-water partition coefficient, or log Kow, and the number of hydrogen bond donors, or nhdon). The model demonstrated a high overall accuracy (90.5%), with a sensitivity of 95.9% and a specificity of 78.1%. The robustness of the model was evaluated using the leave-many-out cross-validation technique, whereas the predictivity was assessed using an artificial external test set composed of 12 compounds. The domain of the QSAR training set was compared with the chemical space covered by the European Inventory of Existing Commercial Chemical Substances (EINECS), as incorporated in the CDB-EC software, in the log Kow/nhdon plane. The results showed that the training set and, therefore, the applicability domain of the QSAR model covers a small part of the physicochemical domain of the inventory, even though a simple method for defining the applicability domain (ranges in the descriptor space) was used. However, a large number of compounds are located within the narrow descriptor window.
Two complementary sides of bioavailability: Accessibility and chemical activity of organic contaminants in sediments and soils
Authors: Reichenberg Fredrik , Mayer Philipp
Published: April 2006

Research during the last decade has led to several competing concepts of bioavailability and to many more methods to measure bioavailability. One reason for disagreement is the confusion of two fundamentally different parameters, accessible quantity and chemical activity. The accessible quantity describes a mass of contaminants, which can become available to, for example, biodegradation and biouptake. It can be determined with mild extraction schemes or depletive sampling techniques. The chemical activity, on the other hand, quantifies the potential for spontaneous physicochemical processes, such as diffusion, sorption, and partitioning. For instance, the chemical activity of a sediment contaminant determines its equilibrium partitioning concentration in sediment-dwelling organisms, and differences in chemical activity determine the direction and extent of diffusion between environmental compartments. Chemical activity can be measured with equilibrium sampling devices and, theoretically, is closely linked to fugacity and freely dissolved concentration. The distinction between accessibility and chemical activity is outlined, and the benefits and limitation of both endpoints are provided. Finally, examples of how to measure and apply them are presented.
Long-term signal of population disturbance after pulse exposure to an insecticide: Rapid recovery of abundance, persistent alteration of structure
Authors: Liess Matthias , Pieters Barry Johan , Duquesne Sabine
Published: April 2006

Little is known about the effect of pulse exposure to toxicants on populations when density regulation is present. Yet, for a more realistic risk assessment, it is necessary to include effect and recovery at the population level. Here, we investigate the long-term and delayed effects as well as the subsequent recovery of populations of Daphnia magna. A 24-h pulse of the pyrethroid fenvalerate reduced the abundance at a concentration of 1.0 μg/L and higher. However, abundance recovered and reached control levels after one to two generation times (GTs) following reproduction of surviving individuals (GT = 8 d, from birth until first reproduction). At high concentrations above the acute median lethal concentration (3.2 μg/L), abundance initially decreased even more strongly but was then elevated compared to control values for an extended period of time. Population structure (size distribution) was affected at lower concentrations than abundance (≥0.8 μg/L). In addition, the alteration of population structure lasted for a long time, so that control levels were approached only after approximately six or seven GTs. Our results show that pulse exposure to toxicants may lead to a long-term alteration of population structure even at sublethal concentrations. Possible mechanisms that sustain the effects of toxicants may be delayed life-history effects on the individual level and elevated competition because of altered population structure on the population level.
Colloid Mobilization from a Variably Saturated, Intact Soil Core
Authors: Levin Janna M. , Herman Janet S. , Hornberger George M. , Saiers James E.
Published: April 2006

Colloids may transport contaminants through unsaturated soils to the groundwater, and colloid mobilization is associated with transient hydrological events and sustained, steady flow. We examined mechanisms of colloid mobilization from an intact, unsaturated soil core during relatively steady flow. We collected the core from a site where soils contain 26% clay and infiltration occurs only at capillary‐pressure heads above −20 cm. We measured the colloid‐mass flux during consecutive, 1.5‐mo periods (P1, P2, and P3) distinguished by capillary‐pressure heads (ΨB) of −18.5, −11.5, and −18.5 cm, respectively. Mean mass flux values were 0.0886, 0.197, and 0.171 mg h−1 for P1, P2, and P3, respectively. Intervention analysis showed a significant increase in the mass flux of 0.079 mg h−1 as ΨB became less negative. Results indicate that the number of soil pores through which water flows has a greater influence on colloid mobilization than do shear forces associated with elevated pore water velocities. Thus, colloid mobilization most likely is affected by a diffusion‐limited, colloid‐supply mechanism dependent on the number of pores contributing to flow.
HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis With Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Among Cisgender Women
Authors: Marrazzo Jeanne , Tao Li , Becker Marissa , Leech Ashley A. , Taylor Allan W. , Ussery Faith , Kiragu Michael , Reza-Paul Sushena , Myers Janet , Bekker Linda-Gail , Yang Juan , Carter Christoph , de Boer Melanie , Das Moupali , Baeten Jared M. , Celum Connie
Published: March 2024

Importance

Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF) for HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective in cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) when adherence is high (>4 doses/week). Real-world effectiveness and adherence with F/TDF for PrEP in cisgender women is less well characterized.

Objective

To characterize the effectiveness of F/TDF for PrEP and its relationship with adherence in cisgender women.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Data were pooled from 11 F/TDF PrEP postapproval studies conducted in 6 countries that included 6296 cisgender women aged 15 to 69 years conducted from 2012 to 2020. HIV incidence was evaluated according to adherence level measured objectively (tenofovir diphosphate concentration in dried blood spots or tenofovir concentration in plasma; n = 288) and subjectively (electronic pill cap monitoring, pill counts, self-report, and study-reported adherence scale; n = 2954) using group-based trajectory modeling.

Exposures

F/TDF prescribed orally once a day. HIV incidence was analyzed in subgroups based on adherence trajectory.

Main Outcomes and Measures

HIV incidence.

Results

Of the 6296 participants, 46% were from Kenya, 28% were from South Africa, 21% were from India, 2.9% were from Uganda, 1.6% were from Botswana, and 0.8% were from the US. The mean (SD) age at PrEP initiation across all studies was 25 (7) years, with 61% of participants being younger than 25 years. The overall HIV incidence was 0.72 per 100 person-years (95% CI, 0.51-1.01; 32 incident HIV diagnoses among 6296 participants). Four distinct groups of adherence trajectories were identified: consistently daily (7 doses/week), consistently high (4-6 doses/week), high but declining (from a mean of 4-6 doses/week and then declining), and consistently low (less than 2 doses/week). None of the 498 women with consistently daily adherence acquired HIV. Only 1 of the 658 women with consistently high adherence acquired HIV (incidence rate, 0.13/100 person-years [95% CI, 0.02-0.92]). The incidence rate was 0.49 per 100 person-years (95% CI, 0.22-1.08) in the high but declining adherence group (n = 1166) and 1.27 per 100 person-years (95% CI, 0.53-3.04) in the consistently low adherence group (n = 632).

Conclusions and Relevance

In a pooled analysis of 11 postapproval studies of F/TDF for PrEP among cisgender women, overall HIV incidence was 0.72 per 100 person-years; individuals with consistently daily or consistently high adherence (4-6 doses/week) to PrEP experienced very low HIV incidence.
Coverage Denials in Medicare Advantage—Balancing Access and Efficiency
Authors: Gondi Suhas , Kadakia Kushal T. , Tsai Thomas C.
Published: March 2024

This essay compares Medicare Advantage’s claim denials and reversals with traditional Medicare and questions whether coverage obligations are being met.
Crystal structure and solution scattering of Geobacillus stearothermophilus S9 peptidase reveal structural adaptations for carboxypeptidase activity
Authors: Chandravanshi Khileshwari , Singh Rahul , Bhange Gauri N. , Kumar Ashwani , Yadav Pooja , Kumar Amit , Makde Ravindra D.
Published: March 2024

Acylaminoacyl peptidases (AAPs) play a pivotal role in various pathological conditions and are recognized as potential therapeutic targets. AAPs exhibit a wide range of activities, such as acylated amino acid‐dependent aminopeptidase, endopeptidase, and less studied carboxypeptidase activity. We have determined the crystal structure of an AAP from Geobacillus stearothermophilus (S9gs) at 2.0 Å resolution. Despite being annotated as an aminopeptidase in the NCBI database, our enzymatic characterization proved S9gs to be a carboxypeptidase. Solution‐scattering studies showed that S9gs exists as a tetramer in solution, and crystal structure analysis revealed adaptations responsible for the carboxypeptidase activity of S9gs. The findings present a hypothesis for substrate selection, substrate entry, and product exit from the active site, enriching our understanding of this rare carboxypeptidase.
NIDA on dramatic increase of mushroom seizures
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2024

From 2017 – 2022, law enforcement seizures across the United States of mushrooms containing psilocybin increased dramatically, according to a new study funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). The number of law enforcement seizures increased from 402 seizures in 2017 to 1,396 in 2022. In addition, the total weight of psilocybin mushrooms seized by law enforcement increased from 226 kg (498 lbs.) seized in 2017 compared with 844 kg (1,861 lbs.) in 2022. This analysis, published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence, was led by researchers at New York University (NYU) Langone Health in New York City, and the University of Florida, Gainesville. The data used for the analysis were collected through the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, a grant program aimed at reducing drug trafficking and misuse administered by the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Though law enforcement seizures do not necessarily reflect prevalence of use, they represent an indicator of the availability of illicit drugs. “We are in the middle of a rapidly evolving cultural, media, and legal landscape when it comes to psychedelics, and we need data to help shape informed and appropriate public health strategies,” said NIDA Director Nora D. Volkow, M.D., in announcing the research publication last week. “Moving forward, we must continue to track data on the availability of psychedelics, patterns in use, and associated health effects to guide efforts in promoting accurate education and reducing potential harms among people who do plan to use psychedelic drugs.” Adverse effects of psilocybin mushrooms, such as “bad trips,” are marked by “distorted thinking, perceptual changes, putting oneself in physical danger, and intense feelings of fear, anxiety, and confusion,” according to NIDA. “People who take psychedelic drugs like psilocybin may also experience short‐term side effects such as raised blood pressure and heart rate, agitation, confusion, vomiting, or nausea, which may be severe and require medical attention.” Joseph J. Palamar, Ph.D., M.P.H., associate professor at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, co‐investigator on the NIDA‐funded National Drug Early Warning System (NDEWS), and lead author on the paper, said “Research studies suggesting its effectiveness in treating mental health issues and extensive positive media coverage may lead some people to seek ‘shrooms’ outside of medical contexts. People who use psilocybin outside of medical supervision need to be educated about risks associated with use.”
Electropolymerized Bipolar Poly(2,3‐diaminophenazine) Cathode for High‐Performance Aqueous Al‐Ion Batteries with An Extended Temperature Range of −20 to 45 °C
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Shilin , Zhang Longhai , Wang Rui , Ma Quanwei , Li Hongbao , Hao Junnan , Zhou Tengfei , Mao Jianfeng , Zhang Chaofeng
Published: March 2024

Achieving reversible insertion/extraction in most cathodes for aqueous aluminum ion batteries (AAIBs) is a significant challenge due to the high charge density of Al3+ and strong electrostatic interactions. Organic materials facilitate the hosting of multivalent carriers and rapid ions diffusion through the rearrangement of chemical bonds. Here, a bipolar conjugated poly(2,3‐diaminophenazine) (PDAP) on carbon substrates prepared via a straightforward electropolymerization method is introduced as cathode for AAIBs. The integration of n‐type and p‐type active units endow PDAP with an increased number of sites for ions interaction. The long‐range conjugated skeleton enhances electron delocalization and collaborates with carbon to ensure high conductivity. Moreover, the strong intermolecular interactions including π–π interaction and hydrogen bonding significantly enhance its stability. Consequently, the Al//PDAP battery exhibits a large capacity of 338 mAh g−1 with long lifespan and high‐rate capability. It consistently demonstrates exceptional electrochemical performances even under extreme conditions with capacities of 155 and 348 mAh g−1 at −20 and 45 °C, respectively. In/ex situ spectroscopy comprehensively elucidates its cation/anion (Al3+/H3O+ and ClO4−) storage with 3‐electron transfer in dual electroactive centers (C═N and –NH–). This study presents a promising strategy for constructing high‐performance organic cathode for AAIBs over a wide temperature range.
Laser‐Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Online Quantitative Analysis for Laser Processing
Authors: Zhao Tianzhuo , Zhong Qixiu , Nie Shuzhen , Liu XiaoLong , Xiao Hong , Yin Chenxuan , Zhong Fanghui , Ke Yachen , Li Fei
Published: March 2024

Plasma fluctuations, the uncertainty of laser ablation, and bremsstrahlung limit the identification of online element analysis during laser processing and cause difficulty in achieving concentration results with sufficient accuracy and repeatability. A laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) online monitoring system with plasma spatial filtering and spectral screening is proposed to solve this problem. In this system, the high‐frequency ablation noise component of the plasma is eliminated using a specially designed optical Fourier filtering structure, and a spectral screening system based on plasma time waveform monitoring is used to suppress the influence of plasma fluctuations. Without noise filters or algorithm optimizations and based only on the basic internal standard method, the calibration curves of all nine elements in the alloy sample exhibits a Pearson's R2 value ranged from 0.91 to 0.99, with a mean of 0.94. The relative standard deviations are all in the range of 3.5%–8.4% with a mean of 5.4%. The accuracy and repeatability are comparable to those of typical LIBS systems.
Revolutionizing Papertronics: Advanced Green, Tunable, and Flexible Components and Circuits
Authors: Rafiee Zahra , Elhadad Anwar , Choi Seokheun
Published: February 2024

Papertronics introduce a sustainable, cost‐effective revolution in electronics, especially for the Internet of Things. This research overcomes the traditional challenges of paper's porosity, which has impeded electronic component fabrication and performance. A novel approach that harnesses paper's natural capillary action, combined with hydrophobic wax patterning, to achieve precise vertical integration of electronic components is introduced. This method marks a significant departure from conventional surface deposition techniques. This study demonstrates the successful creation of tunable resistors, capacitors, and field‐effect transistors, embedded within a single sheet of paper. Contrary to previous assumptions that impeded the use of paper, its rough and porous texture as a strategic advantage, facilitating the precise fabrication of intricate electronic components is leveraged. Machine learning algorithms play an important role in predicting and enhancing the performance of these papertronic components. This innovation facilitates the development of compact printed circuit boards with increased circuit density, enabling the integration of diverse analog and digital circuits in either single or multi‐layer paper formats. The resulting papertronic systems exceed performance benchmarks, offering eco‐friendly disposal through biodegradability or incineration. These breakthroughs establish papertronics as a feasible, eco‐friendly alternative in the electronics industry, permitting widespread adoption and continuous innovation in sustainable electronic solutions.
Prosocial or photo preferences? Gorillas' prosocial choices using a touchscreen
Authors: Vonk Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Three male Western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) were given the opportunity to select their own or conspecific photos on a touchscreen to indicate whether they wished the experimenter to deliver a food reward only to them or to them and the selected conspecific(s). This is only the second symbolic test of prosocial preferences with apes using a touchscreen, and the first with gorillas. The use of self and other photographs as symbols of prosocial choices was intuitive while controlling for the distraction of visible food rewards, and allowing for tests of transfer to further validate apparent prosocial intentions. Gorillas rapidly learned to avoid selecting a photograph of an empty enclosure that resulted in no rewards for any of the gorillas and transferred this learning to a novel photograph. The gorillas did not behave in a consistently self‐interested or prosocial manner but they clearly rejected the opportunity to choose spitefully. Their preferences for certain photographs did not necessarily reflect a preference to be prosocial toward that particular individual because these preferences did not transfer to novel photographs of the same individuals. The results call into question whether gorillas recognize themselves and conspecifics in photographs but cannot conclusively speak to whether gorillas have prosocial preferences. They do stress the importance of carefully probing alternative explanations when inferring intentions from observable behaviors.
A Terrylene Bisimide based Universal Host for Aromatic Guests to Derive Contact Surface‐Dependent Dispersion Energies
Authors: Rühe Jessica , Rajeevan Megha , Shoyama Kazutaka , Swathi Rotti Srinivasamurthy , Würthner Frank
Published: February 2024

π–π interactions are among the most important intermolecular interactions in supramolecular systems. Here we determine experimentally a universal parameter for their strength that is simply based on the size of the interacting contact surfaces. Toward this goal we designed a new cyclophane based on terrylene bisimide (TBI) π‐walls connected by para‐xylylene spacer units. With its extended π‐surface this cyclophane proved to be an excellent and universal host for the complexation of π‐conjugated guests, including small and large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as well as dye molecules. The observed binding constants range up to 108 M−1 and show a linear dependence on the 2D area size of the guest molecules. This correlation can be used for the prediction of binding constants and for the design of new host–guest systems based on the herewith derived universal Gibbs interaction energy parameter of 0.31 kJ/molÅ2 in chloroform.
Effect of pulverized coal/carbon black hybrid fillers on mechanical properties and thermal stability of styrene butadiene rubber composites
Authors: Cai Jing , Yang Xiaoyong , Jiao Ruimin , He Xiaofang , Cao Xinxin , Xu Fuqin , Hou Zhaoyang , Ma Zhihui , Zhang Xinyang
Published: February 2024

Pulverized coal (coal) possesses a layered structure similar to graphite and is a potential reinforcing filler. In this paper, ball milling is used to reduce the particle diameter of coal. The coal is modified with KH‐560 to obtain K‐COAL and prepared K‐COAL/styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) composites. In addition, carbon black (CB) is modified to obtain CB‐Si69, K‐COAL and CB‐Si69 are added to SBR in different ratios to prepare COAL/CB/SBR composites. The results show that the addition of K‐COAL can improve the vulcanization performance, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of SBR composites, but the reinforcing effect is weak. In the COAL/CB/SBR composites, the vulcanization and mechanical properties of the composites gradually increase with the increase of CB, while those of the thermal stability decrease. The tensile strength of the 10 phr COAL/30 phr CB/SBR composite is 24.1 MPa, which is elevated by 1105% and 205% compared with the pure SBR and 40 phr K‐COAL/SBR composites, respectively. The composites maintain high elasticity while the tensile strengths are greatly improved, and the mechanical properties are significantly enhanced. In conclusion, this paper provides a reference for the clean utilization of coal and shows new possibilities for finding new fillers to replace CB.
Novel benzene sulfonamides with acetylcholinesterase and carbonic anhydrase inhibitory actions
Authors: El Ati Rafika , Öztaşkın Necla , Çağan Ahmet , Akıncıoğlu Akın , Demir Yeliz , Göksu Süleyman , Touzani Rachid , Gülçin İlhami
Published: March 2024

A series of benzene sulfonamides 15–26 were synthesized and determined for their in vitro and in silico inhibitory profiles toward acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carbonic anhydrases (CAs). Commercially available 3,4‐dimethoxytoluene was reacted with chlorosulfonic acid to furnish benzene sulfonyl chloride derivatives. The reaction of substituted benzene sulfonyl chloride with some amines also including (±)‐α‐amino acid methyl esters afforded a series of novel benzene sulfonamides. In this study, the enzyme inhibition abilities of these compounds were evaluated against AChE and CAs. They exhibited a highly potent inhibition ability on AChE and ‐CAs (Ki values are in the range of 28.11 ± 4.55 nM and 145.52 ± 28.68 nM for AChE, 39.20 ± 2.10 nM to 131.54 ± 12.82 nM for CA I, and 50.96 ± 9.83 nM and 147.94 ± 18.75 nM for CA II). The present newly synthesized novel benzene sulfonamides displayed efficient inhibitory profiles against AChE and CAs, and it is anticipated that they may emerge as lead molecules for some diseases including glaucoma, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease.
Leukemia cancer cells and immune cells derived‐exosomes: Possible roles in leukemia progression and therapy
Authors: Salman Dyar Mudhafar , Mohammad Talar Ahmad Merza
Published: March 2024

Exosomes have a significant impact on tumor survival, proliferation, metastasis, and recurrence. They also open up new therapeutic options and aid in the pathological identification and diagnosis of cancers. Exosomes have been shown in numerous studies to be essential for facilitating cell‐to‐cell communication. In B‐cell hematological malignancies, the proteins and RNAs that are encased by circulating exosomes are thought to represent prospective sources for therapeutic drugs as well as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. Additionally, exosomes can offer a “snapshot” of the tumor and the metastatic environment at any given point in time. In this review study, we concluded that leukemia‐derived exosomes could be utilized as prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers for individuals suffering from leukemia. Moreover, clinical studies have demonstrated that immune cells like dendritic cells create exosomes, which have the ability to activate the immune system against leukemia.
O‐nitrobenzyl Caged Molecule Enables Photo‐controlled Release of Thiabendazole
Authors: Fu Wen , Shao Zhongli , Xu Zhiping , Li Zhong , Shao Xusheng
Published: March 2024

Pesticides are essential in agricultural development. Controlled‐release pesticides have attracted great attentions. Base on a principle of spatiotemporal selectivity, we extended the photoremovable protective group (PRPG) into agrochemical agents to achieve controllable release of active ingredients. Herein, we obtained NP‐TBZ by covalently linking o‐nitrobenzyl (NP) with thiabendazole (TBZ). Compound NP‐TBZ can be controlled to release TBZ in dependent to light. The irradiated and unirradiated NP‐TBZ showed significant differences on fungicidal activities both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the irradiated NP‐TBZ displayed similar antifungal activities to the directly‐used TBZ, indicating a factual applicability in controllable release of TBZ. Furthermore, we explored the action mode and microcosmic variations by SEM analysis, and demonstrated that the irradiated NP‐TBZ retained a same action mode with TBZ against mycelia growth.
Corrosion Modeling of Aluminum Alloys: A Brief Review
Authors: Ruiz‐Garcia A. , Esquivel‐Peña V. , Godínez F. A. , Montoya R.
Published: February 2024

Corrosion remains a critical concern in various industries, particularly in applications involving aluminum alloys due to their widespread usage as light structural materials. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in modeling techniques for better understanding the corrosion behavior of aluminum alloys. The present study encompasses the state‐of‐the‐art of computational approaches, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Special attention is given to transport models, galvanic couples, localized corrosion, and the incorporation of different factors, such as pH variations, electrolyte thicknesses and dynamic electrolytes into corrosion models. Furthermore, the review delves into both bulk and atmospheric corrosion models. On the other hand, this work also emphasizes a clear differentiation between models designed for bare aluminum alloys and those tailored for coated ones. Additionally, it addresses certain challenges associated with the experimental validation of such models. This review concludes with perspectives on both sophisticated transport models to bridge the gap between industrial and academic investigations, as well as the integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques in corrosion modeling, offering promising directions for future research in this field.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Application of Colloidal and Supported Manganese Nanoparticles
Authors: Zenner Johannes , Tran Kelly , Kang Liqun , Kinzel Niklas W. , Werlé Christophe , DeBeer Serena , Bordet Alexis , Leitner Walter
Published: February 2024

Colloidal and supported manganese nanoparticles were synthesized following an organometallic approach and applied in the catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) of aldehydes and ketones. Reaction parameters for the preparation of colloidal nanoparticles (NPs) were optimized to yield small (2–2.5 nm) and well‐dispersed NPs. Manganese NPs were further immobilized on an imidazolium‐based supported ionic phase (SILP) and characterized to evaluate NP size, metal loading, and oxidation states. Oxidation of the Mn NPs by the support was observed resulting in an average formal oxidation state of +2.5. The MnOx@SILP material showed promising performance in the CTH of aldehydes and ketones using 2‐propanol as a hydrogen donor, outperforming previously reported Mn NPs‐based CTH catalysts in terms of metal loading‐normalized turnover numbers. Interestingly, MnOx@SILP were found to lose activity upon air exposure, which correlates with an additional increase in the average oxidation state of Mn as revealed by X‐ray absorption spectroscopic studies.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 2B (eIF2B) Activators
Authors: Pei Yifeng , Liu Sentao , Wang Lixun , Chen Chao , Hu Mengqiu , Xue Yi , Guan Dezhong , Xie Lingfeng , Liao Hong , Zhou Jinpei , Zhang Huibin
Published: March 2024

The eukaryotic initiation factor 2B (eIF2B) is a key regulator in protein‐regulated signaling pathways and is closely related to the function of the central nervous system. Modulating eIF2B could retard the process of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and vanishing white matter disease (VWM) et al. Here, we designed and synthesized a series of novel eIF2B activators containing oxadiazole fragments. The activating effects of compounds on eIF2B were investigated through testing the inhibition of ATF4 expression. Of all the targeted compounds, compounds 21 and 29 exhibited potent inhibition on ATF4 expression with IC50 values of 32.43 nM and 47.71 nM, respectively, which were stronger than that of ISRIB (IC50=67.90 nM). ATF4 mRNA assay showed that these two compounds could restore ATF4 mRNA to normal levels in thapsigargin‐stimulated HeLa cells. Protein Translation assay showed that both compounds were effective in restoring protein synthesis. Compound potency assay showed that both compounds had similar potency to ISRIB with EC50 values of 5.844 and 37.70 nM. Cytotoxicity assay revealed that compounds 21 and 29 had low toxicity and were worth further investigation.
Nuclei and tracts in the thalamus of crocodiles
Authors: Pritz Michael B.
Published: March 2024

The thalamus is one of the most important divisions of the forebrain because it serves as the major hub for transmission of information between the brainstem and telencephalon. While many studies have investigated the thalamus in mammals, comparable analyses in reptiles are incomplete. To fill this gap in knowledge, the thalamus was investigated in crocodiles using a variety of morphological techniques. The thalamus consists of two parts: a dorsal and a ventral division. The dorsal thalamus was defined by its projections to the telencephalon, whereas the ventral thalamus lacked this circuit. The complement of nuclei in each part of the thalamus was identified and characterized. Alar and basal components of both the dorsal and ventral thalamus were distinguished. Although some alar‐derived nuclei in the dorsal thalamus shared certain features, no grouping could account for all of the known nuclei. However, immunohistochemical observations suggested a subdivision of alar‐derived ventral thalamic nuclei. In view of this, a different approach to the organization of the dorsal thalamus should be considered. Development of the dorsal thalamus is suggested to be one way to provide a fresh perspective on its organization.
Multifunctional Logic Operations Based Upon Congruent Ion Sensing Appended with a Strategic Molecular Device: Spectroscopic Approach
Authors: Samanta Saikat , Paul Provakar , Mahapatra Chinmoy , Biswas Bhaskar , Majumdar Tapas , Mallick Arabinda
Published: March 2024

A multi‐responsive smart molecular system is constructed using a newly synthesized Salen molecule, 1,3‐bis((E)‐2,3,4‐trimethoxy benzylideneamino) propan‐2‐ol (TMBP), to selectively recognize the presence and absence of Cu2+ ions aided by another selective metal ion, Zn2+. The emission efficiency of the non‐emissive probe is selectively and significantly enhanced in presence of Zn2+, while the improved emission of probe‐Zn2+ complex is completely quenched upon interaction with Cu2+. Thus, the probe acts as a reporter molecule for the selective detection of Cu2+ in the co‐presence of Zn2+. Comprehensive spectroscopic studies indicate that Zn2+ ion‐coordination significantly reduces the flexibility of the Schiff base unit and the extent of photoinduced electron transfer which in turn enhance the fluorescence intensity. While Cu2+, a d9 system, induces paramagnetic quenching over the enhanced emission through stable ground‐state complexation and metal‐ligand charge transfer. The spectroscopic results are translated into the designing of a multifunctional smart‐molecular system that could function as YES, NOT, INHIBIT, PASS 0, TRANSFER and NOT TRANSFER logic gates. Finally, a blueprint of a smart molecular device is proposed to present the relay sensing of Zn2+ and Cu2+ through logical outputs that would work in‐sync with the spectroscopic results.
Onset of Nitriles Hydration with an Environmentally Benign Catalyst: in‐Water versus on‐Water Conditions
Authors: Pollet Rodolphe , Andronaco Mathilde , Biswal Himansu S.
Published: March 2024

The reaction yield of nitriles hydration using a catalyst depends on the aqueous medium. Using ab initio molecular dynamics, we probed whether ”in‐water” (in bulk medium) or ”on‐water” (at the interface with vacuum) conditions can change the onset of the reaction. Investigating a hydrogen‐bond mediated mechanism, the lifetimes of the intermolecular interaction between benzonitrile and choline in the two protocols were compared, and the diffusion of the hydroxide anion around the cyano group was discussed.
The Influence of a Soil Sample Core
Authors: Larkin Michael
Published: March 2024

It is critical that we are careful, not casual, when sampling soils. Many dollars of fertilizer decision rest upon a good soil sample. Several years ago, I was curious about the influence of the number of sample cores that comprise a composite soil sample. A review of several soil‐sampling publications at the time recommended anywhere from 8 to 20 individual cores should comprise the sample. So I endeavored to look at the statistics behind this suggestion. What I discovered will be discussed in this article. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Soil & Water Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Eastern Canadian boreal forest soil and foliar chemistry show evidence of resilience to long‐term nitrogen addition
Authors: Houle Daniel , Moore Jean‐David , Renaudin Marie
Published: March 2024

The boreal forest is one of the world's largest terrestrial biome and plays crucial roles in global biogeochemical cycles, such as carbon (C) sequestration in vegetation and soil. However, the impacts of decades of N deposition on N‐limited ecosystems, like the eastern Canadian boreal forest, remain unclear. For 13 years, N deposition was simulated by periodically adding ammonium nitrate on soils of two boreal coniferous forests (i.e., balsam fir and black spruce) of eastern Canada, at low (LN) and high (HN) rates, corresponding to 3 and 10 times the ambient N deposition, respectively. We show that more than a decade of N addition had no strong effects on mineral soil C, N, P, and cation concentrations and on foliar total Ca, K, Mg, and Mn concentrations. In organic soil, C stock was not affected by N addition while N stock increased, and exchangeable Ca2+ and Mg2+ decreased at the balsam fir site under HN treatment. At both sites, LN treatment had nearly no impact on foliage and soil chemistry but foliar N and N:P significantly increased under HN treatment, potentially leading to foliar nutrient imbalance. Overall, our work indicates that, in the eastern Canadian boreal forest, soil and foliar nutrient concentrations and stocks are resilient to increasing N deposition potentially because, in the context of N limitation, extra N would be rapidly immobilized by soil micro‐organisms and vegetation. These findings could improve modeling future boreal forest soil C stocks and biomass growth and could help in planning forest management strategies in eastern Canada.
The relationship between niche breadth and phylogenetic characteristics of eight species of rhubarb on the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, Asia
Authors: Chen Kaiyang , Wang Bo , Chen Chen , Zhou Guoying
Published: March 2024

The relationship between spatial distribution and phylogeny has been widely debated in recent decades. To understand biogeographic and evolutionary history relationships and to explore the interspecific similarities and phylogenetic correlations of niche characteristics, we collected and recorded all distribution points for eight species of rhubarb on the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, used different methods to describe the ecological niche, and explored the relationship between phylogeny, ecological niche, and distribution range. The results reveal that: (1) the ranges of optimal environmental variables for species with close kinship are not exactly the same, ecologically similar species are not necessarily sister species, and the overlap of rhubarb has no significant correlation with phylogeny. Therefore, the impact of ecological dimensions on species formation is greater than that of geographical latitude for the eight species of rhubarb. (2) Among the eight species of rhubarb, the breadth of ecological niche is positively correlated with the current suitable habitat area and negatively correlated with fluctuations in future suitable habitat area. In the future, except for Rheum tanguticum and Rheum palmatum, the suitable planting areas for the other six species of rhubarb will decrease as greenhouse gas emissions concentrations and time increase. Therefore, species with smaller ecological niches are at a greater risk of habitat loss compared to species with larger ecological niches. (3) In both existing and future distribution prediction models of rhubarb, we observed that both the widely distributed Rheum spiciforme and the niche narrow Rheum nobile, all eight species of rhubarb are present in the Hengduan Mountains, based on our analysis, we propose that the Hengduan Mountains should be regarded as a priority conservation area for rhubarb, to preserve the species' biodiversity. Our study lays the groundwork for identifying evolutionary trends in ecological specialization.
Effects of grazing exclusion on soil properties, fungal community structure, and diversity in different grassland types
Authors: Zhou Shijie , Dong Yiqiang , Yang Helong , Yang Suwen , Julihaiti Asitaiken , Liu Zeyu , Nie Tingting , Jiang Anjing , Wu Yue , An Shazhou
Published: March 2024

Soil fungi are involved in the decomposition of organic matter, and they alter soil structure and physicochemical properties and drive the material cycle and energy flow in terrestrial ecosystems. Fungal community assembly processes were dissimilar in different soil layers and significantly affected soil microbial community function and plant growth. Grazing exclusion is one of the most common measures used to restore degraded grasslands worldwide. However, changes in soil fungal community characteristics during grazing exclusion in different types of grasslands are unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of a 9‐year grazing exclusion on soil properties, fungal community composition, and diversity in three grassland types (temperate desert, temperate steppe, and mountain meadow). The results showed that (1) in the 0–5 cm soil layer, grazing exclusion significantly increased the differences in SWC, SOC, KN, and N:P among the three grassland types, while the final pH, BD, TP, C:N, and C:P values were consistent with the results before exclusion. In the 5–10 cm soil layer, grazing exclusion significantly increased total phosphorus (TP) in temperate deserts by 34.1%, while significantly decreasing bulk density (BD) by 9.8% and the nitrogen: phosphorus ratio (N:P) by 47.1%. (2) The soil fungal community composition differed among the grassland types, For example, significant differences were found among the three grassland types for the Glomeromycota and Mucoromycota. (3) Under the influence of both grazing exclusion and grassland type, there was no significant change in soil fungal alpha diversity, but there were significant differences in fungal beta diversity. (4) Grassland type was the most important factor influencing changes in fungal community diversity, and vegetation cover and soil kjeldahl nitrogen were the main factors influencing fungal diversity. Our research provides a long‐term perspective for better understanding and managing different grasslands, as well as a better scientific basis for future research on grass–soil–microbe interactions.
Report of abnormal tail regeneration of Eremias yarkandensis (Sauria: Lacertidae) and its locomotor performance
Authors: Liang Tao , Ran Jiang‐miao , Liang Qian‐ru , Leng Lin , Du Jiang‐hao , Wang Jia , Shi Lei
Published: March 2024

Caudal autotomy is a phenomenon observed in many reptile taxa, and tail loss is a pivotal functional trait for reptiles, with potentially negative implications for organism fitness due to its influence on locomotion. Some lizard species can regenerate a lost tail, which sometimes can lead to the development of more than one tail (i.e., abnormal tail regeneration) in the process. However, little is currently known about the impact of abnormal tail regeneration on locomotor performance. In this study, we document abnormal tail regeneration in Eremias yarkandensis, a reptile species native to northwestern China. Additionally, we investigated the sprint speed and endurance performance of these lizards. This study provides the first report on abnormal tail regeneration and its locomotor performance on a Chinese reptile. We suggest that the abnormal regeneration of tails may contribute to the accumulation of food reserves in the species. In light of our findings, we propose that herpetologists continue to share their sporadic observations and assess the locomotor performance of species experiencing abnormal tail regeneration, further expanding our understanding of this intriguing phenomenon.