bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De Novo Design of Tryptophan Containing Broad‐Spectrum Cationic Antimicrobial Octapeptides
Authors: Sarkar Tanumoy , Vignesh S. R. , Kumar Sundaravadivelu Pradeep , Thummer Rajkumar P. , Satpati Priyadarshi , Chatterjee Sunanda
Published: October 2024

With the advent of antibiotic resistant organisms, development of alternate classes of molecules other than antibiotics to combat microbial infections, have become extremely important. In this context, antimicrobial peptides have taken center stage of antimicrobial therapeutic research. In this work, we have reported two cationic antimicrobial octapeptides WRL and LWRF, with broad spectrum antimicrobial activities against several strains of ESKAPE pathogens. Both the peptides were membrane associative and induced microbial cell death through membranolysis, being selective towards microbial membranes over mammalian membranes. The AMPs were unstructured in water, adopting partial helical conformation in the presence of microbial membrane mimics. Electrostatic interaction formed the primary basis of peptide‐membrane interactions. WRL was more potent, salt tolerant and faster acting of the two AMPs, owing to the presence of two tryptophan residues against that of one in LWRF. Increased tryptophan number in WRL enhanced its membrane association ability, resulting in higher antimicrobial potency but lower selectivity. This experimental and computational work, established that an optimum number of tryptophan residues and their position was critical for obtaining high antimicrobial potency and selectivity simultaneously in the designed cationic AMPs. Understanding the peptide membrane interactions in atomistic details can lead to development of better antimicrobial therapeutics in future.
Utility of The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology in patients with HPV‐positive urinary tract carcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Kara , Kayraklioglu Neslihan , Chan Emily , Ding Chien‐Kuang C. , Vohra Poonam
Published: October 2024

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive urinary tract carcinomas (UTCas) have distinct morphology and molecular features with potential treatment implications. Cytomorphologic analysis of these tumors on urine cytology specimens has not yet been reported. The authors evaluated the cytomorphologic findings of HPV‐positive UTCa on urine cytology using The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology (TPS) criteria.

Methods

HPV‐positive cases were identified by a retrospective review of surgical specimens that had UTCa confirmed by HPV in situ hybridization. Cases that had concurrent urine cytology were reviewed using TPS. Cytomorphologic features of high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC) were evaluated as well as the presence of atypical squamous cells (ASCs) and basaloid features.

Results

Sixteen cytology specimens from eight patients with HPV‐positive UTCa were included. On original diagnosis, none of the cytology specimens were suggested to be HPV‐associated. TPS diagnostic criteria identified eight cases with at least atypical findings, including five HGUC cases, one case that was suspicious for HGUC, and two atypical urothelial cases. Common cytomorphologic features included basaloid clusters (six of eight cases; 75%) and ASCs (four of eight cases; 50%) that matched the corresponding surgical specimens. Most cases exhibited urothelial cell hyperchromasia (seven of eight cases; 88%), and hypochromasia was a frequently observed variant (four of eight cases; 50%), either alone or in addition to hyperchromasia.

Conclusions

HPV‐positive UTCa can be identified reliably as HGUC by using TPS criteria; however, these cases may not be recognized as HPV‐associated. The presence of basaloid cells or ASCs can help suggest screening for HPV in urine specimens. Larger scale studies are warranted to validate cytomorphologic differences and determine the impact of HPV infection on clinical outcomes for patients with UTCa.
Trichosanthes Cucumerina Derived Activated Carbon: The Potential Electrode material for High Energy Symmetric Supercapacitor
Authors: Joseph Anit , Mathew Arshitha , Thomas Tiju
Published: October 2024

High surface area porous activated carbons obtained from sustainable biomass are excellent functional materials for energy storage applications. This is the first report on snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina) pericarp as a raw material of activated carbon and supercapacitor electrode material. Herein, a simple KOH activation and carbonisation method is used. The obtained SGC900 sample has a surface area of 1841 m2/g and an average pore volume of 0.52 cm3/g. SGC900 based supercapacitor exhibits good electrochemical storage capacity in 1 M H2SO4 with a specific capacitance of 206 F/g at 1 A/g. The symmetric device delivered an energy density of 11 Wh/kg at a power density of 1.6 kW/kg. It provides a series resistance (Rs) of 1.2 Ω and a charge transfer resistance Rct of 1.9 Ω. Furthermore, the device retains 95 % of capacitance over 5000 cycles. This work presents an easy and feasible approach for producing value‐added activated carbon from sustainable biomass, potentially used in high‐performance energy storage.
Genetic Modification of Mice Using Prime Editing
Authors: Salem Amr R. , Xie Xiaoling , Griffin Susan H. , Gan Lin , Miano Joseph M
Published: October 2024

Genetically modifying mice traditionally involved complex methods of designing and validating targeting constructs, embryonic stem cell electroporation and selection, blastocyst injection, and breeding chimeras for germline transmission. Such arduous steps were best carried out by specialized gene targeting cores in academia or through expensive commercial vendors. Further, the time from initiation to completion of a project often took at least 1 year and, in some cases, much longer (or never), with no guarantees of success. The RNA‐programmable CRISPR system of gene editing has greatly streamlined the generation of gene modifications (e.g., small substitutions, insertions, and deletions) in the mouse with high rates of success. Several editing platforms exist for gene/genome targeting in mice and other animal models previously difficult or impossible to alter. Here, we provide a simplified method of generating genetically modified mice using the prime editing platform. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Design, cloning, and synthesis of engineered pegRNA (epegRNA)

Basic Protocol 2: Microinjection of PE2 components into mouse zygote

Basic Protocol 3: Genotyping founder mice and breeding for germline transmission
Preparation and Photophysical Properties of Znq2 Metallic Nanomaterials
Authors: Li Fulian , Long Yunshuai , Huang Xin , Ma Penghui , Huang Guiyi , Song Yumin
Published: October 2024

Bis(8‐hydroxyquinolates) Zinc (Znq2) can be used as a light‐emitting layer material in OLED devices to achieve its efficient electroluminescence effect. In this paper, Znq2 powder has been successfully synthesized and modified by the physical vapor deposition (PVD) method. Precursors and nano‐materials are characterized by XRD, SEM, PL, and so on. The performance of the modified material has been significantly improved. The emission intensity and absorption intensity in the deposited products increased with the increase in PVD temperature. At 453 K, luminous properties such as luminous intensity reach the optimal value including its fluorescence lifetime. Fluorescence lifetime values vary from 13 to 17 ns with the increase in temperature. The luminescence mechanism is also discussed. The energy gap and absorption spectrum of HOM‐LUMO are calculated by the DFT/UB3LYP method. The experimental values agree well with the theoretical values. The nanomaterial crystals modified by PVD technology are more orderly, impurities are reduced, and the luminous stability of the material is improved, which may be one of the reasons for the relatively slow decline in product life. The research combined with theoretical simulation is expected to be helpful to the research and promotion of such materials.
Repotrectinib: Redefining the therapeutic landscape for patients with ROS1 fusion‐driven non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Desilets Antoine , Repetto Matteo , Drilon Alexander
Published: October 2024

The ROS1 proto‐oncogene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase with structural homology to other oncogenic drivers, including ALK and TRKA‐B‐C. The FDA‐approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) crizotinib and entrectinib have demonstrated efficacy in treating ROS1 fusion‐positive NSCLC. However, limitations such as poor blood‐brain barrier penetration and acquired resistance, particularly the ROS1 G2032R solvent‐front mutation, hinder treatment durability. Repotrectinib, a next‐generation macrocyclic TKI, was rationally designed to overcome on‐target resistance mutations and improve brain distribution through its low molecular weight. In the TRIDENT‐1 clinical trial, repotrectinib demonstrated significant efficacy in both TKI‐naïve and TKI‐pretreated patients with ROS1‐rearranged NSCLC, including those with CNS metastases and G2032R resistance mutations. In the TKI‐naïve cohort (n = 71), 79% of patients achieved an objective response, with a median progression‐free survival (PFS) of 35.7 months, surpassing all previously approved ROS1 TKIs. In patients who had received one prior ROS1 TKI but were chemotherapy‐naïve (n = 56), objective responses were observed in 38%, and median PFS was 9.0 months. The safety profile of repotrectinib was consistent with earlier‐generation ROS1 TKIs and common adverse events included anemia, neurotoxicity, increased creatine kinase levels, and weight gain. These findings underscore the potential of repotrectinib to address unmet needs in ROS1‐rearranged NSCLC, offering durable responses and improved intracranial activity. Future research should prioritize developing next‐generation, selective ROS1 inhibitors to reduce Trk‐mediated toxicities and improve treatment tolerance.
MDM‐Incorporated Quad Donut Modes OCDMA‐FSO Scheme for Secure High‐Altitude Platforms‐To‐Satellite Scenarios
Authors: Kumari Meet , Mishra Satyendra K.
Published: October 2024

The next generation of communication networks is envisioned to be driven by high‐altitude platform (HAP)‐to‐satellite systems. License‐free narrow beam free space optics (FSO) can provide uninterrupted connectivity in satellite‐enabled Internet of Things scenarios. This work proposes a HAP‐to‐satellite hybrid mode division multiplexing–optical code division multiple access (MDM‐OCDMA) scheme employing zero cross‐correlation (ZCC) and multidiagonal (MD) codes. In high‐speed satellite communications, a 12 × 10‐Gbps hybrid MDM‐OCDMA scheme carrying four donut modes (0, 1, 2, and 3) enables high channel capacity, sufficient spectral efficiency, and data security under severe link conditions. Based on simulations, the hybrid MDM‐OCDMA scheme using the ZCC code achieves a greater FSO link distance of 420 m compared with when using the MD code at a 10e‐9 error correction limit under clear air and weak turbulent scenario. The reliable transmission distance of 250 m is achievable with the 120‐Gbps proposed system, assuming pointing errors of 2 mrad, 1‐dB receiver, and 2.5‐dB transmitter losses. The results also show that the system can sustain an additional loss of 1.5–2 dB over 250 m for all donut modes. Additionally, the system using ZCC code contributes to low power consumption over MD and variable weight ZCC code and thus requires a minimum received power of −4.02 dBm. It also offers high optical signal to noise of 42–52 dB, −11.58 to −22.20 dB of gain, 11.58–22.20 dB of noise figure, and −48.11 to −58.73 dBm of signal power at output over 200–700 m range up to 2 dB of additional loss. Comparative analysis indicates that the proposed system is more efficient, less complex, adequately distance‐friendly (=420 m), and capable of higher data rates (=120 Gbps) compared with other works. This makes it a promising solution for future high‐speed satellite communications considering the impact of link losses and atmospheric conditions.
RecQ protein‐like 4 drives cisplatin chemosensitivity of cervical cancer cells by modulating annexin A2
Authors: Wang Ruixue , Zhang Yunyan
Published: October 2024

Cervical cancer is a common malignant tumor in women with high morbidity and mortality. Chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin (DDP) are easy to cause chemotherapy resistance and affect the therapeutic effect. Hence, it is critical to design new therapies that can reverse chemotherapy resistance and increase sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs. This study investigated the function of RecQ protein‐like 4 (RECQL4) in DDP‐resistant cervical cancer cells and its regulatory mechanism. By constructing DDP‐resistant Hela and CaSki cell lines, it was found that RECQL4 expression was elevated. RECQL4 knockdown is able to promote apoptosis, DNA damage, and increase the DDP sensitivity in cervical cancer cells. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that knockdown of RECQL4 suppresses tumor growth and promotes tumor apoptosis. Next, we investigated the potential regulatory relationship of RECQL4 to Annexin A2 (ANXA2). The results demonstrated that RECQL4 binds to ANXA2. Knockdown of RECQL4 downregulates the ANXA2 expression via promoting ubiquitination. Furthermore, we also found that ANXA2 overexpression partially abolished the role of RECQL4 knockdown in promoting apoptosis and DNA damage of cervical cancer cells, suggesting that RECQL4 plays a role in DDP sensitivity of cervical cancer cells by mediating ANXA2. In conclusion, the present study suggests that knocking down RECQL4 reduces DDP sensitivity in cervical cancer cells by modulating ANXA2. Targeting RECQL4 therapy may be a new strategy to improve chemosensitivity of cervical cancer cells.
Response of Leaf Traits and Photosynthetic Fluorescence Characteristics of Fraxinus malacophylla Seedlings to Rainfall Patterns During Dry and Rainy Seasons in Southwestern China
Authors: Zeng Huiping , Cha Xiaofei , Sun Lijuan , Guo Huanxian , Zheng Shaojie , Li Xingze , Dong Qiong
Published: October 2024

Global climate change has led to a shift in rainfall patterns. And as water is an essential ingredient for plant photosynthesis, shifts in rainfall patterns will inevitably affect plant growth. This study was conducted in Kunming, southwest China. In this study, the response of leaf traits and photosynthetic fluorescence properties of Fraxinus malacophylla seedlings to rainfall patterns during the dry and rainy seasons was investigated using a natural rainfall interval of 5 days (T) and an extended rainfall interval of 10 days (T+) as rainfall interval treatments and a monthly average rainfall as a control (W), with the corresponding rainfall treatments of a 40% increase in rainfall (W+) and a 40% decrease in rainfall (W−). The results showed that Pn, Gs, and Tr basically all tended to increase and then decrease with increasing rainfall in the dry season and generally reached the highest under the W treatment; Pn, Gs, Ci, and Tr mostly remained high at 5 days relative to 10 days; PI was overall higher under the W treatment throughout the dry season. Extending the rainfall interval at the beginning of the rainy season significantly reduced Fm; throughout the rainy season, Gs, Ci, and Tr basically showed a decreasing trend with increasing rainfall, reaching the highest under the W‐treatment and mostly higher at 5 days than at 10 days. These results suggest that natural rainfall intervals and natural rainfall amounts are more favorable to the growth of Fraxinus malacophylla seedlings in the dry season; reduced rainfall and multiple rainfalls in the rainy season tend to promote photosynthesis in Fraxinus malacophylla. This study reflects the different survival strategies of Fraxinus malacophylla under different rainfall patterns, as well as provides a theoretical basis for understanding how Fraxinus malacophylla can grow better under rainfall variability and for future management.
Antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activities of Sanghuangporus vaninii compounds in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice via modulation of intestinal microbiota
Authors: Huang Zirui , Chen Kewen , Li Tiantian , He Xiaoyu , Ge Xiaodong , Liu Xiaoyan , Liu Bin , Zeng Feng
Published: October 2024

Sanghuangporus vaninii is a traditional edible and medicinal fungi with a long history in China. Recent studies have focused on its potential in treating diabetes, although the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of the formula of S. vaninii compounds (SVC) in diabetic mice and explore the potential improvement in the intestinal microbiota. Oral administration of SVC significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and improved insulin sensitivity and lipid indexes. In addition to its direct effects on glucose levels and insulin sensitivity, SVC was found to have an impact on the intestinal microbiota. The levels of short‐chain fatty acids receiving SVC intervention increased, and 16S rRNA sequencing revealed changes in the abundances of certain bacteria, such as Harryflintia, Helicobacter, Candidatus_Soleaferrea, Klebsiella, and Candidatus_Stoquefichus. These bacteria were found to be negatively associated with glucose and lipid indexes and positively related to body weight and insulin sensitivity. Overall, this study highlights the potential of SVC in treating diabetes and provides a novel perspective for understanding its antidiabetic mechanism through modulation of the intestinal microbiota.
Doping Strategies for Improving Performance of Li‐Argyrodite Solid‐State Electrolyte
Authors: Huang Qianjin , Wu Yinglei , He Zhongyi , Wang Sirui , Zhu Jinhui , Zhuang Xiaodong
Published: October 2024

Li‐argyrodite solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) holds promise for all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLB) but faces limitations in room‐temperature ionic conductivity, electrode/electrolyte interface compatibility, and air stability. Doping strategies offer a viable approach to address these challenges. This article provides a comprehensive review of the structure–property relationships and recent doping strategies for Li‐argyrodite electrolytes. First, the crystal structural features are analyzed to elucidate the intrinsic relationship between the structure and key properties, including ionic conductivity and the electrochemical window. Second, the mechanisms by different dopants affecting the performance of Li‐argyrodite electrolytes are investigated, focusing on ionic conductivity, air stability, thermal stability, electrochemical performance, and interfacial stability. Finally, the current status and future development trends of Li‐argyrodite SSE are summarized, and targeted strategies are proposed to enhance the application in ASSLB.
An experimental exploration of modified basin solar still performance through integration of flat plate collector and built condenser
Authors: Kerfah Rabah , Benabdelaziz Ferhat Kamel , Tigrine Zahia , Hamrat Oussama
Published: October 2024

This study experimentally investigates the integration of a flat plate solar collector and a condensation chamber into a basin solar still. Three prototypes were designed and constructed for evaluation: a basin solar still coupled to both a solar collector and a condensation chamber, a basin coupled with a solar collector, and a simple basin solar still as a reference. The experiments, conducted from July 24 to 28, 2016, at the UDES site in Bouismail, Algeria, used seawater from the Fouka region. Solar radiation emerged as the primary influencer on the solar desalination system, with active solar stills, particularly those equipped with a flat plate collector, showing significant temperature increases. Daily cumulative production analysis revealed the condensation chamber as a significant contributor, representing 58% of total production. Incorporating a flat plate collector resulted in a 110% increase in daily production compared to the conventional solar still. Simultaneously incorporating both the flat plate collector and the condensation chamber showcased an impressive 176% increase in daily production. Daily production quantified at 5.9 kg/m2 for the active with a condensation chamber, 4.5 kg/m2 for the active solar still, and 2.1 kg/m2 for the simple solar still. Economic analysis indicated that the active solar still with the condensation chamber enables more cost‐effective freshwater production than the active solar still alone. Water analyses demonstrated the efficiency of solar distillation, converting high‐salinity saltwater (31.4%) into exceptionally pure distillate (0.00%).
Executive hour or political competition in times of crisis?—An analysis of public crisis reporting on the COVID‐19 lockdowns in Germany
Authors: Demler Katja
Published: October 2024

While much work has looked at how governments responded to the Corona pandemic, little consideration has been given to how the crisis affected party competition and what positions political actors took during this period. How were political actors' positions on COVID‐19 portrayed in daily newspapers? And how can we explain these patterns? To answer these questions, this article examines the discourse surrounding both German lockdown decisions by analyzing the public coverage of two German daily newspapers. By means of discourse network analysis, the most central actors of the public discourse are revealed at first. Second, relevant factors influencing the discourse centrality of political actors are analyzed. Therefore, a linear regression is performed to identify party‐political factors that have a significant influence on political actors' discourse centrality. Participation in the executive branch in the Länder and federal level as well as having candidate status emerge as central factors influencing discourse centrality.
Experimental study on the utilization of Fly ash solid waste in tunnel shotcrete materials
Authors: Juncai Zan , Wanxing Ren , Qing Guo
Published: October 2024

Fly ash has emerged as a prominent solid waste in China, leading to various environmental concerns and posing a threat to the health of living organisms, including humans. To enhance the industrial applicability of this waste material, a novel approach has been proposed wherein sand is replaced with fly ash as the primary raw material for wall grouting of coal mine roadways. To address the issue of low compressive strength and to improve the properties of fly ash shotcrete materials, a method employing an alkali activator to stimulate the chemical activity of fly ash has been put forward. The long‐term effectiveness of the shotcrete material has been evaluated using compressive strength testing and scanning electron microscopy testing methods. The impact of replacing sand with fly ash on the compressive strength of shotcrete and the activation effect of sodium sulfate (Na2SO4), NaOH, and Na2SiO3 on fly ash shotcrete have been studied. The results indicate that the compressive strength of fly ash shotcrete shows optimal improvement when the content of Na2SO4 is 3%. The ideal ratio of cement to fly ash is 1:3. Therefore, incorporating an appropriate amount of alkaline activator could effectively address the compressive strength issues of fly ash shotcrete materials.
Experimental Study of Single‐Pass Fluid Flow With Convective and Sensible Thermal Energy Storage in a Porous Curved Channel Solar Air Heater
Authors: Chamarthi Subbarao , Singh Satyender , Chander Subhash
Published: October 2024

In this experimental research, a single‐pass solar air heater comprising a porous curved channel is investigated to reveal the scope of high thermal performance during the winter season. The investigation explores the geometrical parameters for the porous channel maintained by using steel wiremesh layers of wire diameter of 0.45 mm and pitch of 2.35 mm, and the number of layers ranging from 3 to 12, which presents the channel porosity, , from 99% to 96%, respectively. The curved porous channel offers additional fluid mixing, thermal backup, and high heat transfer area, thereby increasing the convective heat transfer to the air and consequently the thermal performance. A series of experiments were carried out under real outdoor conditions to examine the various factors such as variable channel porosity, air flow rate, and the amount of solar energy received. The findings revealed that the curved porous channel with a channel porosity of 96% results in the maximum thermal and thermohydraulic efficiencies of about 85% and 79%, respectively, and the outlet air temperature of 79°C.
Place‐based and people‐centred: Principles for a socially inclusive Net Zero transition
Authors: Middlemiss Lucie , Snell Carolyn , Theminimulle Samanthi , Carregha Tania , Morrison Emily , Chzhen Yekaterina , Kennedy Kelli , Owen Anne
Published: October 2024

The transition to Net Zero marks a radical reshaping of many aspects of everyday life in the effort to reduce human‐caused climate change. It also has the potential to influence positively a number of social challenges: improving public health, reducing the effects of poverty, increasing well‐being and bringing neighbourhoods together. However, these positive outcomes are by no means a given. Households on low incomes are less resilient than ever following austerity, COVID‐19 and the cost‐of‐living crisis. In this paper, we report on research undertaken in seven low‐income neighbourhoods in Leeds and Newcastle in the UK, in which we ran a series of workshops to understand perspectives and concerns on this issue. We found that people's perceived ability to engage in Net Zero was shaped by the neighbourhood they live in (due to its geographical location, local services and infrastructure), their housing (the building and its tenure) and household (the people they live with) as well as by their inability to access funds. It is clear from our data that people have big concerns about their ability to participate in the substantial changes they can see ahead. Our research suggests that ensuring a successful Net Zero transition for low‐income neighbourhoods will require a place‐based and people‐centred approach. We conclude by offering three principles for tailoring research and policy to specific geographic and socio‐economic needs, including (1) recognising patterns of difference and their spatial and social roots, (2) bringing whole life experiences into narratives of the future and (3) prioritising social inclusion in climate policy.
The amended international health regulations: Implications and challenges for domestic legal frameworks
Authors: Emami Sarah , Aperce Cedric
Published: October 2024

The World Health Organisation's International Health Regulations were amended in May 2024, with a number of implications for countries to amend their legal and institutional frameworks. This perspective highlights two key areas of focus in the amendments—the importance of multisectoral coordination and subnational work ‐ and explores their links to health security challenges and to concrete country experiences. National legal and institutional frameworks constitute a key enabling mechanism for effective public health systems capable of preventing, detecting, and responding promptly to public health events and emergencies, and the recent IHR amendments provide a new impetus for WHO Member States to make these changes.
Characteristics of deep soil layer water deficit under different artificial vegetation types of the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Zhao Jiongchang , Shen Mingshuang , Zhang Jianjun , Yu Yang
Published: October 2024

Soil water is a crucial factor for the growth of vegetation and sustainable development in water‐limited areas. After large‐scale vegetation restoration on the Chinese Loess Plateau, understanding the relationship between vegetation and deep soil moisture has become a crucial focus in current research. In this study, artificial forest (Pinus tabulaeformis [PT], Robinia pseudoacacia [RP] and Platycladus orientalis [PO]), apple orchard (AO), secondary forest (SF) and farmland (FL) were selected as the research objects, and grassland (GL) as the control, using soil‐drilling techniques. We systematically monitored the soil water content of 0–10 m soil layer over two hydrological years, and explored the effects of different vegetation types on soil water deficiency. The results showed that: (1) The deep soil water various significantly among different vegetation types. Compared with GL, the soil water content in all forest land was generally lower, and this difference became more pronounced in deeper soil layer (>7 m), which indicating the depth of the influence of vegetation on soil water has reached 10 m. (2) The mean soil water deficit size (SWDS) values of PT (0.14), RP (0.17), PO (0.07), AO (0.15), SF (0.10) and FL (0.27) in 0–1 m were all positive, indicating that surface soil water had accumulated during more than half of the sampling periods. In the 2–10 m soil layer, mean SWDS was negative in all vegetation types except in FL, leading to soil desiccation. SWDS was found to fluctuate with soil depth. (3) SWDS was affected by a combination of soil properties and vegetation growth. Our results indicate that the current afforestation model could lead to the deficiency of deep soil water. Therefore, it is imperative to make reasonable vegetation structure according to the available local soil and water resources in future vegetation allocation and management.
Integrated omics revealed the altered colonic microenvironment after inhibition of peripheral serotonin synthesis by LP533401
Authors: Ling Yidan , Liu Ziyu , Han Shuibing , Wu Haiqin , Mu Chunlong , Zhu Weiyun
Published: October 2024

Gut‐derived 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT), known as serotonin, plays a crucial role in regulating gastrointestinal functions. However, the impact of disruptions in gut‐derived 5‐HT synthesis on the early gut microbiome and intestinal microenvironment remains unclear. In this study, LP533401, an inhibitor targeting peripheral 5‐HT synthesis, was administered orally to neonatal rats starting at 4 days post‐birth. By day 11, inhibition of gut‐derived 5‐HT resulted in altered colonic morphology, characterized by increased crypt depth and reduced myenteric thickness. To investigate the mechanisms underlying these alterations, we employed a combination of metagenomics, mucosal transcriptome, and untargeted metabolomics on colonic samples. Metagenome profiling revealed an upregulation in the microbial two‐component system (ko02020) and tyrosine metabolism (ko00350), with minimal effects on taxa abundances. Transcriptome profiling analysis indicated the discriminant expression of genes enriched in pathogen infection‐responsive signaling (e.g., Salmonella and Yersinia infection) and the Wnt signaling pathway that affected stem cell proliferation. Consistent with increased crypt depth, marker genes related to cell proliferation were excessively activated. Metabolomics analysis indicated lower ascorbate level and higher succinic acid level, correlating with 5‐HT concentrations and increased crypt depth. Additionally, altered metabolic pathways (e.g., nucleotide metabolism, signal transduction, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins) suggested an impact on the colonic function. In summary, early inhibition of gut‐derived 5‐HT may unfavorably reshape the colonic microenvironment, affecting gut morphology, microbial function, stem cell proliferation, and mucosal metabolism.
Self‐healing polymers in rigid and flexible perovskite photovoltaics
Authors: Liang Fang‐Cheng , Akman Erdi , Aftab Sikandar , Mohammed Mustafa K. A. , Hegazy H. H. , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhang Fei
Published: October 2024

Over the past 10 years, perovskite solar cell (PSC) device technologies have advanced remarkably and exhibited a notable increase in efficiency. Additionally, significant innovation approaches have improved the stability related to heat, light, and moisture of PSC devices. Despite these developments in PSCs, the instability of PSCs is a pressing problem and an urgent matter to overcome for practical application. Recently, polymers have been suggested suggestion has been presented to solve the instability issues of PSCs and increase the photovoltaic parameters of devices. Here, first, the fundamental chemical bond types of self‐healing polymers are presented. Then, a comprehensive presentation of the ability of self‐healing polymers in rigid and flexible PSCs to enhance the various physical, mechanical, and optoelectronic properties is presented. Furthermore, valuable insights and innovative solutions for perovskite‐based optoelectronics with self‐healing polymers are provided, offering guidance for future optoelectronic applications.

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Blockchain Enabled Secure Data Transmission With NB‐IoT Deployment in Smart Agriculture Crop Watch
Authors: Mohammed Chand Pasha , Chopra Shakti Raj , Albadri Nehad , Dekeyser Stijn , Jha Sudan , Roy Ajay , Pradhan Nihar Ranjan
Published: October 2024

The integration of Narrowband Internet of Things (NB‐IoT) and blockchain technology presents a promising solution to address security and efficiency concerns in data transmission within the Internet of Things (IoT). This research focuses on its application in crop Watch, an agricultural monitoring system. The IoT has revolutionized various industries, including agriculture, by facilitating the collection and transmission of extensive data through sensors and devices. However, ensuring secure and efficient data transmission remains a critical challenge. NB‐IoT boasts advantages such as improved coverage in challenging areas, massive connectivity with up to 100 000 links, low energy usage through prolonged discontinuous receipt (eDRX), and cost‐effectiveness. Despite these benefits, NB‐IoT faces security issues, including authentication, anonymity, and fault tolerance. To enhance data security, public key cryptography is proposed to be incorporated into the NB‐IoT framework. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized and immutable nature, can potentially address these security concerns and enhance data accountability. By creating a trust‐less and transparent infrastructure, blockchain complements NB‐IoT's capabilities and provides a robust mechanism for data verification and integrity. This research paper emphasizes the logical integration of NB‐IoT, public key cryptography, and blockchain technology, offering a secure and efficient data transmission framework for agricultural applications like crop Watch. Bridging the gap between data connectivity and security holds promise for advancing agricultural monitoring and driving IoT innovations.
Neurobehavioral and bioaccumulative toxicity in adult in‐vivo zebrafish model due to prolonged cadmium exposure in the presence of ketoprofen
Authors: Madesh S. , Sudhakaran Gokul , Meenatchi Ramu , Manikandan K. , Dhayanithi Nagarajan Balachandran , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Almutairi Bader O. , Guru Ajay , Arockiaraj Jesu
Published: October 2024

Increasing industrial activity causes the release of chemical compounds into aquatic habitats, including toxic heavy metals like cadmium and medications like ketoprofen, posing considerable ecological concerns. Although previous studies have shown that cadmium and ketoprofen individually cause cognitive impairment, there is a lack of information on the combined neurological effects of the two substances. We investigated the neurological consequences of persistent cadmium exposure in the presence of ketoprofen on adult zebrafish, providing an essential model for understanding cumulative impacts on vertebrate organisms. Behavioral assessments, bioaccumulation rates, biochemical studies, and histopathological exams were conducted over 42 days in authentic environmental settings. The results of our study show that cadmium (10 µg/L) and ketoprofen (10 and 100 µg/L) at environmentally relevant concentrations had a significant impact on locomotor activity, social interactions, and cognitive responses, indicating cumulative neurotoxicity in co‐exposure groups compared to single pollutant groups. Biochemical tests show disturbances in antioxidant defense systems, while histological examinations reveal structural changes in zebrafish brain regions. Ketoprofen influences cadmium accumulation in the brain, underscoring the importance of conducting complete evaluations to understand the intricate interactions between environmental pollutants. This study improves our understanding of the complex interactions between heavy metals and medications, stressing the need to consider combined exposure when assessing the neurological effects on vertebrate models.
High‐throughput molecular simulations of SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor binding domain mutants quantify correlations between dynamic fluctuations and protein expression
Authors: Ovchinnikov Victor , Karplus Martin
Published: October 2024

Prediction of protein fitness from computational modeling is an area of active research in rational protein design. Here, we investigated whether protein fluctuations computed from molecular dynamics simulations can be used to predict the expression levels of SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor binding domain (RBD) mutants determined in the deep mutational scanning experiment of Starr et al. [Science (New York, N.Y.) 2022, 377, 420] Specifically, we performed more than 0.7 milliseconds of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of 557 mutant RBDs in triplicate to achieve statistical significance under various simulation conditions. Our results show modest but significant anticorrelation in the range [−0.4, −0.3] between expression and RBD protein flexibility. A simple linear regression machine learning model achieved correlation coefficients in the range [0.7, 0.8], thus outperforming MD‐based models, but required about 25 mutations at each residue position for training.
Cutoff Values for Glycated Albumin, 1,5‐Anhydroglucitol, and Fructosamine as Alternative Markers for Hyperglycemia
Authors: Yu Hui‐Jin , Park Chang‐Hun , Shin Kangsu , Woo Hee‐Yeon , Park Hyosoon , Sung Eunju , Kwon Min‐Jung
Published: October 2024

Background

Glycated albumin (GA), 1,5‐anhydroglucitol (1,5‐AG), and fructosamine have attracted considerable interest as markers of hyperglycemia. This study aimed to evaluate the optimal cutoff values for GA, 1,5‐AG, and fructosamine and to determine their respective diagnostic efficacies in relation to hyperglycemia.

Methods

We enrolled 6012 individuals who had undergone fasting blood glucose (FBG) and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) tests along with at least one alternative glycemic marker. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the upper or lower limit of the reference range (97.5 or 2.5 percentiles) were used to ascertain the optimal cutoff values. Follow‐up data from healthy individuals were used to identify patients who developed diabetes mellitus (DM).

Results

The ROC cutoff values for GA, 1,5‐AG, and fructosamine were 13.9%, 13.3 μg/mL, and 278 μmol/L, respectively, with corresponding area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.860, 0.879, and 0.834. The upper limits of the reference intervals for GA and fructosamine were 15.1% and 279 μmol/L, respectively, and the lower limit for 1,5‐AG was 5.3 μg/mL. Among the GA cutoff values, the ROC cutoff had the highest sensitivity. Analyzing the follow‐up data showed that lowering the GA cutoff from 16.0% to 13.9% identified an additional 40 people with DM progression.

Conclusions

Lowering the GA cutoff values significantly increased the sensitivity of DM diagnosis and enhanced its potential as a screening marker by identifying more individuals with diabetes progression. Conversely, modifications to the cutoff values for 1,5‐AG and fructosamine did not confer any discernible diagnostic or predictive advantages.
Exploring the Impact of Developmental Clearance Saturation on Propylene Glycol Exposure in Adults and Term Neonates Using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling
Authors: Olafuyi Olusola , Michelet Robin , Garle Michael , Allegaert Karel
Published: October 2024

Propylene glycol (PG) is a pharmaceutical excipient which is generally regarded as safe (GRAS), though clinical toxicity has been reported. PG toxicity has been attributed to accumulation due to saturation of the alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)‐mediated clearance pathway. This study aims to explore the impact of the saturation of ADH‐mediated PG metabolism on its developmental clearance in adults and neonates and assess the impact of a range of doses on PG clearance saturation and toxicity. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models for PG in adults and term neonates were developed using maximum velocity (Vmax) and Michaelis–Menten's constant (Km) of ADH‐mediated metabolism determined in vitro in human liver cytosol, published physicochemical, drug‐related and ADH ontogeny parameters. The models were validated and used to determine the impact of dosing regimen on PG clearance saturation and toxicity in adults and neonates. The Vmax and Km of PG in human liver cytosol were 1.57 nmol/min/mg protein and 25.1 mM, respectively. The PG PBPK model adequately described PG PK profiles in adults and neonates. The PG dosing regimens associated with saturation and toxicity were dependent on both dose amount and cumulative in standard dosing frequencies. Doses resulting in saturation were higher than those associated with clinically observed toxicity. In individuals without impaired clearance or when PG exposure is through formulations that contain excipients with possible interaction with PG, a total daily dose of 100–200 mg/kg/day in adults and 25–50 mg/kg/day in neonates is unlikely to result in toxic PG levels or PG clearance saturation.
Social discounting in a symmetric giving and taking frame: An artifactual field experiment with young South African adults
Authors: Booysen Frederik , Guvuriro Sevias , van Eyssen Combrink Herkulaas Morkel
Published: October 2024

In the dictator game, the evidence that giving is equivalent to taking is mixed. The purpose of this study was to investigate framing effects (giving/taking) on social‐discounting rates among young African adults from an informal settlement in South Africa. Employing a within‐participant design, these young adults completed a series of incentivized dictator games with an isomorphically equivalent giving and taking frame at each of eight social distances. Altruism was measured by the social‐discounting rate, and framing effects were assessed using generalized linear regression. The study provides empirical evidence that prosocial behavior among young South African adults is subject to framing because exponential, hyperbolic, and q‐exponential social‐discounting rates in all instances were lower in the taking than in the giving frame. This difference may be the result of greater “egalitarianism” and “selflessness” elicited by the taking frame, which likely is a product of the experiment's particular social and economic field context. More comparative research is required to establish the working of specific mechanics of morality that may operate differently in diverse socioeconomic contexts, thus contributing to elucidating the heterogeneous nature of findings in this area of study.
Application of synchronous music reinforcement to increase walking speed: A novel approach for training intensity
Authors: Pinkston Jonathan W. , Cook Jennifer L. , Baruni Rasha R. , Rapp John T. , Deshmukh Shreeya , Miltenberger Raymond G.
Published: October 2024

Walking is a common and preferred form of exercise. Although there are current recommendations for walking volume (e.g., steps per day), recent research has begun to distinguish volume from intensity (e.g., “brisk” walking) as an important dimension of exercise. Increasing intensity may confer health advantages beyond volume measures because it shifts cardiovascular performance to more vigorous training zones. Reinforcement‐based approaches have been valuable in increasing volume measures of exercise, and the present study sought to develop a corresponding reinforcement approach to training walking intensity. For this study, we used a continuous reinforcement paradigm where music played only while walking met specified criteria; otherwise, music playback stopped. As a result, music was synchronized with walking performance. Seventeen participants walked on a nonmotorized treadmill at a self‐selected pace. Across the session, different conditions arranged for music to play independent of walking speed or contingent on speed increases or decreases. An extinction component assessed performance when music was withdrawn completely. Walking speed was selectively increased and decreased by adjusting the contingencies that were arranged for music, and variability in speed increased during extinction, with both findings indicating that music was a reinforcer. Heart rate was also increased to moderate–vigorous intensities during reinforcement. The findings provide a compelling case that walking intensity can be modified by music reinforcement. We suggest that synchronous schedules may be an important foundation for future exercise technologies that are based on reinforcement.
Post‐Space Disinfectants With Sodium Hypochlorite and Methylene Blue Loaded in Silver and Quartz Nanoparticles Activated by Photodynamic Therapy. A SEM Analysis
Authors: Alkhudhairy Fahad , AlFawaz Yasser F.
Published: October 2024

Post‐space disinfectants methylene blue loaded with silver (Ag) and Quartz nanoparticles (NPs) and MB alone activated by photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the survival of Enterococcus faecalis, smear layer (SL) removal efficacy, and extrusion bond strength (EBS) of fiber posts to canal dentin. Hundred mandibular premolars underwent root canal treatment using the rotary ProTaper system. The canals were obturated and post‐space was prepared up to a length of 8 mm, maintaining a 5 mm seal. To assess antibacterial efficacy E. faecalis were inoculated in the canal (n = 20). The samples were then randomly allocated into four groups according to the canal disinfectant used to sterilize the canals. Group 1: 2.5% NaOCl+17% EDTA, Group 2: MB‐PDT, Group 3: MB@QP‐PDT, and Group 4: MB@AgNP‐PDT (n = 25). SEM analysis was conducted on five samples from each disinfectant group to assess the removal of the SL. Survival rates were calculated (n = 5 from each group). Glass fiber post (GFP) was cemented to the root dentin of the remaining samples followed by artificial aging. Sectioning of the specimens was performed in all three‐thirds of the canals. PBS was assessed followed by failure evaluation. ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test were used to compare the E. faecalis survival rate and PBS of fiber post among different investigated groups. Group 4 (MB@AgNP‐PDT) treated canals exhibited the minimum survival rate (0.30 ± 0.04 CFU/mL) of E. faecalis and maximum PBS. However, the highest survival rate and minimum bond strength of GFP were observed in Group 1 (NaOCl+17% EDTA) and Group 2 (MB‐PDT) treated teeth respectively. The highest SL removal was recorded in the coronal section of the samples of Group‐4 disinfected with MB@AgNP‐PDT. The lowest removal of SL was recorded in Group 2 samples sterilized with MB‐PDT at apical one‐third. Silver nanoparticles when utilized as nano‐carriers to enhance the efficiency of MB activated by PDT, have been shown to exhibit the highest antimicrobial potency, improved capacity for SL removal and improved PBS.