bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blueberry Anthocyanin Functionalized CaMoO4:Tb3+ Nanophosphors for Dual‐Mode pH Sensing
Authors: Zhang Yi , Wei Yu‐chen , Zhang Na , Wang Cong , Li Xiao‐ling , Bian Zhen‐tao , Zhang Keying
Published: November 2024

A series of green phosphors, Ca1‐y%MoO4:y%Tb3+ (where y = 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) were successfully prepared via hydrothermal synthesis. The pH levels were used to modulate the luminescent of CMO:Tb. To confirm the potential application of proposed phosphors, Blueberry anthocyanin (BBA) was loading onto CMO:Tb surface to form a luminescence probe. The synthesized phosphors and probes were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), FT‐IR spectra, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high‐resolution TEM (HRTEM). As a proof‐of‐concept, the constructed probes were adopted to evaluate the acidity of solution. The results showed that luminescence emission intensity at 546 nm increased with pH value increasing in the range of 2–12. Meanwhile, the color of the sensor solution changed from bright red to pink, then to purple, and finally to yellow as the pH varies between 2 and 12. The above results indicated that the proposed probe could evaluate the acidity of solution via the dual‐mode luminescence detecting and naked eye to obtain accurate results. This proposed strategy gives an insight to design the efficient probes to precisely and sensitively evaluate the acidity in complex samples.
Dissecting Causal Links Between Gut Microbiota, Inflammatory Cytokines, and Parkinson's Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Caiyun Ma , Hebao Wen , Wenhao Ye , Changqing Liu , Changqing Li , Xiaojiang Zhao
Published: November 2024

Background

The association between gut microbiota (GM) and Parkinson's disease (PD) has been well established, but whether there is a causal relationship between the two and whether inflammatory cytokines (ICs) act as mediators remain unclear.

Methods:

We utilized the summary databases of large‐scale genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) conducting Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to investigate the causal relationships between GM, ICs, and PD. The inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) method was primarily used to identify GM and ICs associated with PD and to examine the mediating role of ICs, supplemented by MR Egger and weighted median.

Results:

Through MR analysis, we identified three positive causal relationships and six negative causal relationships between GM and PD. Additionally, there were three positive associations and five negative associations between ICs and PD. However, after adjusting for FDR, none of these associations were significant. In reverse MR analysis, we also found causal relationships between PD and various GM and ICs. Further, two‐step MR analysis indicated that the negative impact of phylum Actinobacteria on PD may be mediated through Fms‐related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand levels.

Conclusion:

This study strengthens the link between GM and the risk of PD, while also revealing the potential mediating role of ICs in the causal relationships between these factors.
Association Between Cognitive Function and Emotion, Sleep, Frailty, and Nutrition in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Wang Nan , Zhang Qunying , Li Peng , Guo Lilan , Wu Xiaoman , Tu Qiuyun
Published: November 2024

Background

With the rapid increase in China's aging population, cognitive impairment in the elderly has become a significant public health issue.

Aims

In this study we performed a cross‐sectional analysis to comprehensively investigate the relationship between cognitive function and emotion, sleep, frailty, nutrition, and clinical variables in hospitalized geriatric patients according to age group and sex. We determined the most important risk factors for cognitive impairment.

Method

A total of 1121 inpatients were recruited from the Department of Gerontology at the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen University, China, from August 2023 to April 2024. Cognitive assessment was performed using the Mini‐Mental State Examination scale and Montreal Cognitive Assessment. The sleep quality was evaluated based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and anxiety and depression were evaluated based on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and Hamilton Depression Scale.

Results

Sex and age differences existed with respect to cognition, emotion, and sleep quality. After full adjustment, age, education level, working status, hemoglobin level, activities of daily living, Hamilton Depression Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores were significantly and independently associated with cognitive impairment.

Discussion

Geriatric patients with a better mood, sleep and nutrition status, higher education level, and more social engagement performance had superior cognitive function. Interventions, such as valuing education, improving sleep, relaxing emotions, preventing anemia, and adjusting lifestyle, may help prevent the development of cognitive deficits. Elderly and female patients required special attention.

Conclusions

Various factors were shown to contribute to maintenance of cognitive function.
Protect student‐athletes from body‐shaming by coaches
Authors: O’Brien Timothy
Published: November 2024

A steady stream of media accounts during the last 15 years have described coaches “body‐shaming” members of their teams. Some of these incidents led to investigations of coaches accused of this type of misconduct while others resulted in lawsuits filed by student‐athletes who had been harmed by body‐shaming.
Did court dismiss tennis player's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2024

A student‐athlete enrolled at Baylor University, with the hopes of making the varsity women's tennis team. However, the women's tennis coach declined to put the tennis player on the team, encouraging her to play club instead. Shortly thereafter, she began practicing with a men's assistant coach.
Set realistic expectations to manage growing demands
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2024

Head coaches at the college level face ever‐increasing expectations. And it can create an “unsustainably consuming” situation, according to Jen Hughes, MBA, M.S., J.D., Assistant Athletic Director and Head Women's Soccer Coach at Amherst College, and member of the College Athletics and the Law Advisory Board.
Current Perspective and Mechanistic Insights on α‐Hederin for the Prevention and Treatment of Several Noncommunicable Diseases
Authors: El‐Shiekh Riham A. , Atwa Ahmed M. , Elgindy Ali M. , Ibrahim Kawther Magdy , Senna Mohamed Magdy , Ebid Nouran , Mustafa Aya M.
Published: November 2024

α‐Hederin, a naturally occurring compound found in various plant sources, has remarkable properties and therapeutic potential for human health. One notable attribute is its potent anti‐inflammatory activity, such as in arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. In addition, it exhibits notable antioxidant effects implicated in the development of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disorders and certain types of cancer. According to research, it may limit the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, making it a possible candidate for future cancer treatments. Moreover, it is a promising neuroprotective agent and enhances cognitive function, suggesting its potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The multifaceted benefits of α‐hederin make it an intriguing compound with significant therapeutic implications. As research progresses, exploring its mechanisms of action and clinical applications is warranted. Harnessing the potential of α‐hederin may pave the way for innovative treatment strategies and improved outcomes in the battle against various chronic diseases.
Exploring the Potential of Various Cyclodextrin‐Based Derivatives in Enzyme Supramolecular Engineering
Authors: Foroutan Kalourazi Ali , Amirabbas Nazemi Seyed , Unniram Parambil Ajmal Roshan , Ferrer Manuel , Shahangian S. Shirin , Shahgaldian Patrick
Published: November 2024

Enzyme stability and activity are pivotal factors for their implementation in different industrial applications. Enzyme supramolecular engineering relies on the fabrication of a tailor‐made enzyme nano‐environment to ensure enzyme stability without impairing activity. Cyclodextrins (CDs), cyclic oligomers of glucose, act as protein chaperones and stabilize, upon interaction with hydrophobic amino acid residues exposed at the protein surface, its three‐dimensional structure. When used to build an organosilica layer shielding an enzyme, they enhance the protective effect of this layer. In the present study, we systematically assessed the protective effects of three organosilane derivatives based on ɑ‐, β‐ and γ‐CDs. A model lipase enzyme was immobilized at the surface of silica nanoparticles and shielded in an organosilica layer containing these organosilanes. Besides layer thickness optimization, the effect of different stressors (i. e., temperature, SDS, urea) was tested. Our results showed that organosilica layers produced with CDs improve enzyme thermal stability. They also support enzyme refolding after denaturation under chaotic conditions. Additionally, we demonstrated that the protective effect of the smallest CD derivative tested, namely ɑ‐CD, surpassed the other macrocycles studied for conferring the immobilized enzyme with higher resistance to stress conditions. This protection strategy was also applied to a thermostable β‐galactosidase enzyme.
A Rare Case of Primary Vulvar Diffuse Large B‐Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report
Authors: Singh M. , Ngakhusi S. , Shrestha A. , Subedi P. , Khadka K. , Dhakal H. P.
Published: November 2024

Primary vulvar diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma is a diagnostically challenging malignant tumor due to its low incidence and diverse clinical presentations. It has a good prognosis and is usually radio‐chemotherapy‐responsive. This case report emphasizes considering lymphoma as a differential in vulvar inflammatory conditions.
Research advances of metal fluoride for energy conversion and storage
Authors: Zhang Runlin , Xu Zijin , Hao Zeyu , Meng Zeshuo , Hao Xiufeng , Tian Hongwei
Published: November 2024

In recent years, renewable energy sources, which aim to replace rapidly depleting fossil fuels, face challenges due to limited energy storage and conversion technologies. To enhance energy storage and conversion efficiency, extensive research has been conducted in the academic community on numerous potential materials. Among these materials, metal fluorides have attracted significant attention due to their ionic metal–fluorine bonds and tunable electronic structures, attributed to the highest electronegativity of fluorine in their chemical composition. This makes them promising candidates for future electrochemical applications in various fields. However, metal fluorides encounter various challenges in different application directions. Therefore, we comprehensively review the applications of metal fluorides in the field of energy storage and conversion, aiming to deepen our understanding of their exhibited characteristics in different electrochemical processes. In this paper, we summarize the difficulties and improvement methods encountered in different types of battery applications and several typical electrode optimization strategies in the field of supercapacitors. In the field of water electrolysis, we focus on surface reconstruction and the critical role of fluorine, demonstrating the catalytic performance of metal fluorides from the perspectives of reconstruction mechanism and process analysis. Finally, we provide a summary and outlook for this field, aiming to offer guidance for future breakthroughs in the energy storage and conversion applications of metal fluorides.
A Superior Ionic Conducting Plastic Crystal Near Room Temperature with Electrical Bistability and Magnetic Transition
Authors: Gao Yan , He Zhang‐Ni , Wei Wei , Feng Zi‐Heng , Qian Yin , Tian Zheng‐Fang , Ren Xiao‐Ming
Published: November 2024

Multifunctional ionic plastic crystals (IPCs) are a class of unique materials that exhibit a wide range of advanced applications. In this work, we proposed a strategy for the design of multifunctional, superior ion‐conducting IPCs with bistability in both magnetic and electric properties, moreover, we successfully prepared and thoroughly characterized such an IPC, [PMPyr][Ni(mnt)2] (1; PMPyr+=N‐propyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium, and mnt2−=maleonitriledithiolate). Plastic crystal 1 exhibits superior ion conduction near room temperature, and its ion conductivity reaches the order of 10−2 S cm−1 at 373 K. Remarkably, the crystal‐to‐plastic crystal transformation results in 1 simultaneously exhibiting electrical bistability and magnetic transition. Our study paves the way for the development of new IPCs with desirable functional properties.
Advances in Pyridine C−H Functionalizations: Beyond C2 Selectivity
Authors: Mohite Sachin Balaso , Mirza Yafia Kousin , Bera Partha Sarathi , Nadigar Siddaram , Yugendhar Soorni , Karpoormath Rajsekhar , Bera Milan
Published: November 2024

The pyridine core is a crucial component in numerous FDA‐approved drugs and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulated agrochemicals. It also plays a significant role in ligands for transition metals, alkaloids, catalysts, and various organic materials with diverse properties, making it one of the most important structural frameworks. However, despite its significance, direct and selective functionalization of pyridine is still relatively underdeveloped due to its electron‐deficient nature and the strong coordinating ability of nitrogen. Among the variety of synthetic transformation, direct functionalization of C−H bond is straightforward and atom economical approach and it's advantageous for late‐stage functionalization of pyridine containing drugs. In recent years, innovative strategies for regioselective C−H functionalization of pyridines and azines have emerged, offering numerous benefits such as high regioselectivity, mild conditions, and enabling transformations that were challenging with traditional methods. This review emphasizes the latest advancements in meta and para‐C−H functionalization of pyridines through various approaches, including pyridine phosphonium salts, photocatalytic methods, temporary de‐aromatization, Minisci‐type reactions, and transition metal‐catalyzed C−H activation techniques. We discuss the advantages and limitations of these current methods and aim to inspire further progress in this significant field.
Hybrid Strategies for Enhancing the Multifunctionality of Smart Dynamic Molecular Crystal Materials
Authors: Qi Haoqiang , Wu Wenbo , Zhu Jiaxuan , Zhao Hongtu , Yu Hui , Huang Xin , Wang Ting , Wang Na , Hao Hongxun
Published: November 2024

Dynamic molecular crystals are an emerging class of smart engineering materials that possess unique ability to convert external energy into mechanical motion. Moreover, they have being considered as strong candidates for dynamic elements in applications such as flexible electronic devices, artificial muscles, sensors, and soft robots. However, the inherent defects of molecular crystals like brittleness, short‐life and fatigue, have significantly impeded their practical applications. Inspired by the concept of “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” in the field of biology, building stimuli‐response composites materials can be regarded as one of the ways to break through the current limitations of dynamic molecular crystals. Moreover, the hybrid materials can exhibit new functionalities that cannot be achieved by a single object. In this review, the focus was placed on the analysis and discussion of various hybrid strategies and options, as well as the functionalities of hybrid dynamic molecular crystal materials and the important practical applications of composite materials, with the introduction of photomechanical molecular crystals and flexible molecular crystals as a starting point. Moreover, the efficiency, limitations, and advantages of different hybrid methods were compared and discussed. Furthermore, the promising perspectives of smart dynamic molecular crystal materials were also discussed and the potential directions for future work were suggested.
Self‐Assembly of a Perfluorinated Amphiphilic Cyanine Dye into Branched Tubular J‐Aggregates
Authors: Zoister Christian , Schade Boris , Ludwig Kai , Haag Rainer , Berlepsch Hans v. , Singh Abhishek K.
Published: November 2024

The self‐assembly process is governed by the individual constituents of molecules through precise non‐covalent interactions. Amphiphilic cyanines are intriguing in supramolecular chemistry due to the large polarizability of their delocalized π–electron systems, their tuneable optical properties and their ability to form well‐defined self‐assembled structures in different media. Here we present the synthesis of a novel tetrahydroxy amphiphilic carbocyanine dye with perfluoro alkylated chains −(CH2)2−(CF2)5−CF3 as hydrophobic segments and aminoproanediol as hydrophilic segment. The target molecule was synthesized in a multi‐step process, which illustrates the complexity and precision required to achieve the desired structure. This study focuses on the comparison of the influence of C8H17 and C8H4F13 tails and the effects of carboxylated and non‐ionic aminopropanediol head groups as substituents on self‐assembly of the TBC dye. Absorption and fluorescence measurements show similar spectroscopic properties to cyanine dyes studied previously. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM) reveals formation of multiple supramolecular aggregates. As supramolecular assembly is very sensitive to sample preparation, multilamellar or multivesicular vesicles are obtained preferentially in vigorously vortexed solutions. Moreover, time‐dependent tube formation was observed in gently mixed solutions. Thereby, we could follow the growing mechanism of the unprecedented Y‐junctions of supramolecular tubes.
Insight into the Simultaneous Super‐Stable Mineralization of AsO43−, Cd2+ and Pb2+ Using MgFe‐LDHs
Authors: Lin Tong , Wang Haoran , Song Zian , Huang Menghan , An Sai , Chen Wei , Song Yu‐Fei
Published: November 2024

Multiple‐heavy‐metal contamination in soil, such as the simultaneous presence of AsO43−, Cd2+ and Pb2+, which can reduce crop yields and damage human health, is a serious issue to be addressed. Herein, the MgFe‐LDHs (layered double hydroxides) intercalated with carbonate and nitrate (MgFe‐CO3 and MgFe‐NO3) were synthesized by Separate Nucleation and Aging Steps and ion‐exchange method, respectively. The MgFe‐CO3 demonstrated the maximum saturation adsorption capacity of 55.86, 543.48 and 1597.4 mg g−1 for single AsO43−, Cd2+ and Pb2+ in aqueous solution, while MgFe‐NO3 exhibited 92.50, 387.59 and 869.56 mg g−1, respectively. Kinetic and thermodynamic results for mineralization of single AsO43−, Cd2+ and Pb2+ fitted well with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model, indicating the occurrence of chemisorption and monolayer adsorption for both MgFe‐CO3 and MgFe‐NO3. Furthermore, simultaneous mineralization of AsO43−, Cd2+ and Pb2+ with >99.0 % efficiency in 240 min in aqueous solution and >81.1 % efficiency in 14 days in soil can be achieved by both MgFe‐CO3 and MgFe‐NO3. Preliminary red bean seedlings cultivation experiments indicated that the released Mg2+ ions from MgFe‐CO3 and MgFe‐NO3 were capable to promote the emergence and growth of red bean seedlings. Detailed XRD and XPS results demonstrated that the AsO43− anions were adsorbed on the laminate of LDHs, whereas the Pb3(OH)2(CO3)2 was the mineralization product for both MgFe‐CO3 and MgFe‐NO3. In terms of Cd2+, CdCO3 was obtained as a mineralization product for MgFe‐CO3, while CdCO3 and Cd(OH)2 can be detected due to the slow transformation of MgFe‐NO3 to MgFe‐CO3 in air.
C2 Product Selectivity by 2D‐nanosheet of Layered Zn‐doped Cu2(OH)3(NO3)‐A Pre‐catalyst for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Singh Pankaj Kumar , Thakur Jyotika , Yadav Pradeep Kumar , Gautam Akriti , Masakapalli Shyam K , Sharma Sudhanshu , Halder Aditi
Published: November 2024

The natural carbon cycle cannot mitigate and recycle the excess CO2 in the atmosphere, leading to a continuous rise in the global temperature. Electrochemical conversion of CO2 is one of the useful methods to utilise this anthropogenic CO2 and convert it into value‐added chemicals. However, this process suffers the challenges of product selectivity and good Faradaic efficiency. In our current work, we report the role of Zn‐doping in the 2D‐Nanosheet of Cu2(OH)3(NO3)‐a pre‐catalyst that undergoes the in‐situ transformation into a metallic state along with surface reconstruction. Our studies show, in the aqueous medium, the optimum amount of Zn plays a crucial role in the production of ethanol with the Faradaic efficiency of ∼45.2 % though C−C coupling. Temperature‐programmed desorption studies conclude that Zn increases the product selectivity for CO adsorption on Cu2(OH)3(NO3) nanosheets, further facilitating the C−C coupling at higher negative potential. The detailed XPS studies also reveal that the in‐situ conversion of Cu2+ to Cu0 and Cu+ at negative potential contributes to the production of C2 products. The post‐catalytic microstructural and spectroscopic studies converge to this point that the cumulative effect of oxidation state, surface reconstruction, as well as the presence of Zn modulate the overall Faradaic efficiency for ethanol formation.
Azolopyrimidine‐Based Thioethers: Synthesis via Cross‐Dehydrogenative C−S Coupling and In Silico Evaluation of Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 Activity
Authors: Akulov Alexey A. , Silaeva Anastasia I. , Varaksin Mikhail V. , Butorin Ilya I. , Lyapustin Daniil N. , Drokin Roman A. , Kotovskaya Svetlana K. , Zaykovskaya Anna V. , Pyankov Oleg V. , Rusinov Vladimir L. , Charushin Valery N. , Chupakhin Oleg N.
Published: November 2024

Azoloazine derivatives are known as promising small molecules that are potentially able to counteract a broad spectrum of RNA viruses including SARS‐CoV‐2. However, a pool of synthetic pathways to provide convenient structural modification of such compounds without de novo construction of the heterocyclic scaffold is rather limited so far. This work proposes an approach to the direct C(sp2)−H functionalization of azolopyrimidine substrates with aromatic thiol residues, mediated by the iodine/persulfate reagent system. The reported herein sulfenylation protocol has afforded a series of previously undescribed azolopyrimidine‐based thioethers obtained in yields of up to 87 %. Applicability of the approach to the selenium‐centered synthons has been demonstrated as well. Besides, the in silico study with regard to the achieved cross‐coupling products has suggested the possible affinity to the SARS‐CoV‐2 main protease (Mpro), as follows from the conducted pharmacophore search and the molecular docking experiments. As a result, the developed synthetic transformation is expected to be of utility in the design of novel antiviral agents based on small azaheterocyclic molecules.
Activation of tert‐Butyl Hydroperoxide by Zr(IV) Stabilized by Polyoxotungstate Scaffolds
Authors: Ivanchikova Irina D. , Maksimchuk Nataliya V. , Marikovskaya Sofia M. , Evtushok Vasilii Yu. , Antonov Artem A. , Yanshole Vadim V. , Kholdeeva Oxana A.
Published: November 2024

Zr‐monosubstituted polyoxometalates (Zr‐POMs) of the Keggin (Bu4N)8[{PW11O39Zr(μ‐OH)}2] (Zr‐K), Lindqvist (Bu4N)6[{W5O18Zr(μ‐OH)}2] (Zr‐L), and Wells‐Dawson (Bu4N)11H3[{P2W17O61Zr(μ‐OH)}2] (Zr‐WD) structures are capable of heterolytic activation of the environmentally benign oxidant tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) and catalyze epoxidation of alkenes and oxidation of alcohols to carbonyl compounds. Catalytic activity of corresponding Ti‐POMs is much lower. Among Zr‐POMs, Zr‐K revealed higher epoxide yields. All Zr‐POMs do not catalyze unproductive TBHP degradation, and epoxide yields with both aqueous and anhydrous TBHP are generally higher than with aqueous H2O2. Regioselectivity of the Zr‐K‐catalyzed limonene epoxidation with TBHP is different from that with H2O2: the more substituted and nucleophilic double bond is preferably epoxidized, pointing to an electrophilic oxygen transfer mechanism. The oxidation rates are first order in catalyst (Zr‐K) and substrate (cyclooctene or cyclohexanol) and show a saturation behavior with increasing concentration of TBHP. Studies by HR‐ESI‐MS, ATR‐FT‐IR, and 31P NMR spectroscopic techniques implicated the formation of zirconium alkylperoxo species upon interaction of Zr‐POMs with TBHP. HR‐ESI‐MS revealed the existence of monomeric and dimeric alkylperoxo complexes, [{PW11O39Zr}((CH3)3COO)]4− and [{PW11O39Zr((CH3)3COO)}2]8−, with predomination of the former, which is most likely the active species responsible for the selective oxidations.
Effects of Cannabidiol Isolated or in Association With Risperidone in an Animal Model of Autism
Authors: Costa Maiara de Aguiar da , Fernandes Gustavo Zanette , Maiochi Eduarda , Ebs Maria Fernanda Pedro , Darós Flávia da Silva , Bolan Sofia Januário , Costa Rosiane Ronchi Nascimento , de Rezende Victória Linden , da Silva Gláucia Crispim , Bitencourt Rafael Mariano , Gonçalves Cinara Ludvig
Published: November 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in communication, social interaction, and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, with no specific drug therapy available. Studies have found that cannabidiol (CBD) can improve hyperactive and cognitive symptoms in children with ASD. However, little is known about the effect of CBD in combination with other medications, such as risperidone (RISP). This study aimed to evaluate the behavioral and biochemical effects of CBD in animals using a valproic acid (VPA)‐induced ASD animal model. VPA was administered in pregnant Wistar rats on Day 12.5 of gestation to induce the ASD model. From the 10th to the 16th postnatal day (PND), the neurodevelopment of the animals was assessed through eye‐opening, olfactory discrimination, and negative geotaxis behavioral tests. From PNDs 9 to 54, the animals were weighed. They were treated for 21 days with CBD alone (100 mg/kg, by gavage, twice a day) or in combination with RISP (0.1 mg/kg, by gavage, once a day). At PND 55, the animals were evaluated in social interaction and locomotor activity experiments. Finally, after behavioral assessment, the animals were euthanized, the brain was isolated, and oxidative stress parameters were evaluated in the hippocampus and cortex posterior. Animals exposed to VPA showed neurodevelopmental delays in opening their eyes, difficulties in turning around their axis, and took longer time to find the original nest when compared to control animals. They also exhibited impaired sociability and reduced exploratory activity, which indicates model impairments. Interestingly, animals exposed to VPA treated with CBD + RISP significantly improved sociability parameters, whereas isolated CBD did not affect this parameter. In the biochemical analysis, a significant decrease in the hippocampal sulfhydryl content was noted in the CT + CBD group and an increase in the VPA + CBD group. In conclusion, these results suggest that CBD, in combination with RISP, may be an interesting pharmacological approach to reducing ASD‐related symptoms.

Summary: Besides the increased prevalence of ASD cases in recent years, there are no medications to improve the central symptoms of autism. Numerous studies discuss CBD as an important medication for improving ASD symptoms; however, it is not known how CBD interacts with commonly used drugs in ASD individuals, such as RISP. This study demonstrated that CBD therapy, only when combined with RISP, improved sociability in a VPA‐induced ASD animal model.
Beyond the Surface: Mesophotic Reefs as Potential Refuges for Shallow Fish Assemblages
Authors: Velasco‐Lozano Manuel Francisco , Ramírez‐Ortiz Georgina , Calderon‐Aguilera Luis Eduardo , Martínez‐Garza Benjamín Alonso , Valencia‐Méndez Omar
Published: November 2024

The deep reef refugia hypothesis suggests that the effects of disturbance decrease as depth increases; thus, reefs in the mesophotic zone potentially serve as refuges for communities in shallower zones. This study challenged this hypothesis by evaluating fish diversity in shallow and mesophotic reefs in a marine protected area in the Gulf of California. During 2021–2022, we conducted 189 5‐min video transects using remotely operated vehicles to document species richness and abundance. We evaluated six biological traits for each species (length, mobility, position, gregariousness, diet, and activity period) to estimate four functional indices (number of entities, richness, originality, and divergence), one phylogenetic index (Δ*), and Hill's numbers for taxonomic and functional indices. Benthic organisms were analyzed to explore relationships with ichthyofauna, while monthly water turbidity satellite data products were transformed into a light attenuation coefficient to identify the mesophotic zone (area between 10% and 0.1% of the incident light at the surface). At the study site, the mesophotic zone was identified to extend to 21 m under optimal conditions, which is shallower than what is typically observed in oligotrophic regions. Generalized linear models revealed significant variations in reef fish composition across spatial (site and zone) and temporal (season and year) dimensions. Additionally, generalized linear mixed models of functional richness and taxonomic Hill's numbers exhibited significantly higher values in the shallow zone. However, functional and phylogenetic indices showed similarities in fish assemblages. Despite differences in fish taxonomic diversity among zones that could be related to less environmental variation and resource availability in deep strata, mesophotic reef fish assemblages presented similar functions. Functions were maintained in mesophotic reefs, which suggests that the two zones are connected and that mesophotic reefs have the potential to act as partial refugia in the face of current and near‐future climate change‐related disturbances that could affect shallow zones.
Plastic Behaviour Buffers Climate Variability in the Wandering Albatross
Authors: Gillies Natasha , Thorley Jack , Weimerskirch Henri , Jenouvrier Stéphanie , Barbraud Christophe , Delord Karine , Patrick Samantha C.
Published: November 2024

Climate change has marked effects on global weather patterns and oceanic systems, impacting animal behaviour and fitness in potentially profound ways. Despite this, we lack detailed information about species' responses to climatic variation. Using an 11‐year tracking dataset of over 300 individual birds, we explore the consequences of variation in the southern annular mode (SAM) and southern oscillation index (SOI) for individual behaviour and fitness in wandering albatrosses Diomedea exulans breeding in the Southern Indian Ocean. Our results reveal distinct responses between males and females to climatic variation that align with the impacts of each climatic index on the distinct foraging ranges of each sex. In positive SAM phases, linked to poorer foraging conditions in female ranges and better conditions in male ranges, females exhibited behaviour consistent with reduced foraging success: that is, fewer prey capture attempts and more movement between feeding patches. Males, on the other hand, showed no behavioural change. During positive SOI phases, associated with good foraging conditions in both male and female foraging ranges, both sexes showed evidence of more successful foraging, with birds engaging in more search behaviour, and taking shorter trips with fewer prey capture attempts, together indicating increased food intake per unit time. We found limited evidence for a role of individual variation, as measured through differences in personality, suggesting that plastic responses to climate are sufficiently important so as to obscure inter‐individual variation. Supporting this was the finding that individual breeding success was unaffected by climatic variation, suggesting that plastic foraging behaviour allows albatrosses to mitigate climate impacts and maintain reproductive output.
Energy transfer efficiency rather than productivity determines the strength of aquatic trophic cascades
Authors: Zhou Libin , Luo Mingyu , Hong Pubin , Leroux Shawn , Chen Feizhou , Wang Shaopeng
Published: November 2024

Trophic cascades are important determinants of food web dynamics and functioning, yet mechanisms accounting for variation in trophic cascade strength remain elusive. Here, we used food chain models and a mesocosm experiment (phytoplankton–zooplankton–shrimp) to disentangle the relative importance of two energetic processes driving trophic cascades: primary productivity and energy transfer efficiency. Food chain models predicted that the strength of trophic cascades was increased as the energy transfer efficiency between herbivore and predator (predator efficiency) increased, while its relationship with primary productivity was relatively weak. These model predictions were confirmed by a mesocosm experiment, which showed that the strength of trophic cascade increased with predator efficiency but remained unaffected by nutrient supply rate or primary productivity. Combined, our results indicate that the efficiency of energy transfer along the food chain, rather than the total amount of energy fixed by primary producers, determines the strength of trophic cascades. Our study provides an integrative perspective to reconcile energetic and population dynamics in food webs, which has implications for both ecological research and ecosystem management.
Herbivory and allelopathy contribute jointly to the diversity–invasibility relationship
Authors: Wang Jiang , Gao Song , Hong Hefang , Xue Wei , Yuan Jiwei , Wang Xiao‐Yan , van Kleunen Mark , Li Junmin
Published: November 2024

Although herbivory and allelopathy play important roles in plant invasions, their roles in mediating the effect of plant diversity on invasion resistance remain unknown. In a 2‐year field experiment, we constructed native plant communities with four levels of species richness (one, two, four, and eight species) and used a factorial combination of insecticide and activated carbon applications to reduce herbivory and allelopathy, respectively. We then invaded the communities with the introduced plant Solidago canadensis L. One year after the start of the experiment, there was no statistically significant net effect of species richness on biomass of the invader. However, a structural equation model showed that species richness had a positive direct effect on invader biomass that was partially balanced out by a negative indirect effect of species richness via increased light interception. In the second year, the relationship between invader biomass and species richness was negative when we analyzed the treatment combination with herbivory and allelopathy separately. Therefore, we conclude that joint effects of herbivory and allelopathy may play major roles in driving the diversity–invasibility relationship and should be considered in future studies.
Comparative Effects of Crocin and Losartan on RAGE, TGF‐β, TNF‐α Gene Expression and Histopathological Changes of the Liver Tissue in Rats With Diabetes
Authors: Rajabi Shahnaz , Mohammadi Yaser , Kabiri‐rad Hamid , Rajabi‐moghaddam Mahdiyeh , Farimani Azam Rezaei
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives

AGEs, via RAGE, increase the development of hyperglycemia‐induced liver damage, and blocking this axis is associated with a reduction in liver disease progression. The goal of this study was to determine how crocin and losartan influenced RAGE, TNF‐α and TGF‐β gene expression in diabetic rats, as well as histological changes in liver tissue.

Materials and Methods

Diabetes was induced in 40 male Wistar rats using Streptozotocin (50 mg/kg, IP). There were five groups of rats: diabetic and healthy groups, diabetic rats given crocin (50 mg/kg), losartan (25 mg/kg) and both (crocin + Los). Serum glucose, ALT and AST levels were measured 4 weeks later. qPCR was used to examine the TNF‐α, TGF‐β and RAGE gene expression in liver tissue.

Results

Crocin was found to be effective in lowering FBG in the diabetes group. The serum levels of ALT and AST decreased in all treated groups, but this decrease was significant in the crocin + Los group (p < 0.05). The relative expression of RAGE, TNF‐α and TGF‐β genes was significantly higher in the diabetes group compared to the healthy group. The expression of these genes decreased in groups treated with crocin and Losartan compared to the diabetes group. The highest reduction in RAGE and TGF‐β gene expression was reported in those treated with crocin + Los. Histopathology results showed that the diabetes group had more bile ducts and necrosis than the healthy control group, which had no tissue changes. Hepatocyte degeneration, bile duct proliferation, inflammatory changes and hepatocyte necrosis were mild in the treated groups, but no hepatocyte necrosis was observed in the crocin + Los group.

Conclusion

Crocin may be a feasible therapeutic agent for treating diabetes and its symptoms when combined with pharmaceutical medications. Human research is still needed to reach clear conclusions.
Superior Energy Storage Performance in Crosslinked Binary Polymers at High Temperatures Via Confinement Effect
Authors: Liu Yongbin , Xu Yating , Gao Jinghui , Xu Jingzhe , Wu Ming , Liu Zhengwei , Wang Yilong , Lou Xiaojie , Zhong Lisheng
Published: November 2024

High‐temperature performance of energy storage dielectric polymers is desired for many electronics and electrical applications, but the trade‐off between energy density and temperature stability remains fundamentally challenging. Here, we report a general material design strategy to enhance energy storage performance at high temperatures by crosslinking a polar polymer and a high glass‐transition temperature polymer as a crosslinked binary blend. Such crosslinked binary polymers display a temperature‐insensitive and high energy density behavior of about 6.2 ~ 8.5 J cm−3 up to 110 °C, showing a significant enhancement in thermal resistant properties and consequently outperforming most of the other ferroelectric polymers. Further microstructural investigations reveal that the improved thermal stability stems from the confinement effect on conformational motion of the crosslinking network, which is evidenced by the increased rigid amorphous fraction and steady intermolecular distance of amorphous regions from temperature‐dependent X‐ray diffraction results. Our findings provide a general and straightforward strategy to attain temperature‐stable, high‐energy‐density polymer‐based dielectrics for energy storage capacitors.
Synthesis of 1,4‐Naphthoquinones via Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed Tertiary C−H Alkylation of Olefins Followed by C−C Bond Cleavage
Authors: Zhang Xu , Chang Mengfan , Ni Tongtong , Xu Xuefeng , Li Wenguang , Li Ting
Published: November 2024

An efficient method has been developed for the preparation of 1,4‐naphthoquinones via a palladium‐catalyzed reaction of 2‐aryl‐1,3‐indandiones with olefins. This reaction involves the tertiary C−H alkylation of 2‐aryl‐1,3‐indandiones with olefins to produce a tertiary alcohol, followed by C−C bond cleavage.
The association between resistance training volume load and session rating of perceived exertion in junior developmental female rugby league athletes
Authors: Flannery Layne , Compton Heidi R. , Dascombe Ben J. , West Millicent A. , Secomb Josh L.
Published: November 2024

Field‐based team sports typically perform mixed‐modality training, incorporating both field‐ and resistance‐based sessions. As such, the availability of useful and reliable methods to monitor the internal and external training loads of all modalities is essential for planning effective training. Twenty‐one junior developmental female rugby league athletes (age: 17.5 ± 0.5 years, height: 167.7 ± 4.6 cm, body mass: 71.1 ± 12.9 kg, and training age: 2.3 ± 1.1 year) performed two to three resistance training sessions a week for 20 weeks (9 weeks preseason and 11 weeks in‐season). The volume load method and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) were used to quantify the external and internal load of the resistance training sessions, respectively. Volume load was categorised into either dynamic, plyometric, maximal or repeated efforts. Multiple linear mixed models were performed to determine whether significant relationships were present between the changes in volume load components and sRPE throughout the season. Significant relationships were identified between a decrease in sRPE, with associated increases in absolute and relative overall volume load (T1,725.5 = −2.1, p = 0.04; T1,133.5 = −2.2, p = 0.03), and relative dynamic (T1,24.1 = −8.4, p < 0.01) and lower‐body plyometric efforts (T1,16.8 = −17.2, p < 0.01). Conversely, significant relationships were observed between an increase in sRPE, with associated increases in relative lower‐body (T1,20.3 = 12.9, p < 0.01) and upper‐body repeated efforts (T1,28.5 = 9.7, p = 0.03) as well as relative upper‐body plyometric (T1,71.1 = 2.9, p = 0.01) and maximal efforts (T1,75.3 = 3.4, p < 0.01). These findings highlight the practicality of the volume load method for planning and monitoring resistance training in field‐based team sport athletes, providing useful data for the planning of specific exercises within the in‐season training week.
When to Use Rectangular Waveforms in Dielectrophoresis Application to Increase Separation and Sorting Efficiency
Authors: Boldt Niklas P. , Weirauch Laura , Späth Jana M. , Kerst Uwe , Birkholz Mario , Baune Michael , Thewes Roland
Published: November 2024

In this study, the influence of using rectangular waveforms is comprehensively investigated on the separation and sorting efficiency of dielectrophoretic (DEP) processes. Besides positive effects on DEP experiments, cases of a diminished force due to rectangular waveforms are investigated and discussed. This investigation encompasses two primary experimental setups. First, microparticle‐focusing experiments are carried out using a pair of electrodes within a microfluidic channel. Second, separation experiments are performed using a macroscopic insulator‐based dielectrophoretic filter. The study reveals that harmonics of rectangular signals can have a positive impact on separation or sorting efficiency when compared to sinusoidal waveforms, provided that these harmonics contribute to the overall DEP force with the same sign. This positive effect is found to depend on the ratio between the applied fundamental frequency and the cross‐over frequency in the Clausius–Mossotti factor. However, violating related derived boundary conditions leads to negative effects and a decrease in the DEP net force.
Flow Rate Determination of the Nanoflow Sheath Liquid CE–MS‐Coupling Applying the nanoCEasy Interface
Authors: Höchsmann Alisa , Schairer Jasmin , Schott Oliver , Höneise Ralf , Neusüß Christian
Published: November 2024

In recent years, nanoflow sheath liquid (nanoSL) interfaces have been used more commonly for capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry (CE–MS) coupling due to their high sensitivity combined with flexibility in CE separation conditions. So far, the exact amount of sheath liquid (SL) and, thus, the dilution effect remain unknown due to the self‐supplying type of the nanoSL interfaces. To quantify the SL flow rates, we present here an approach for the determination of the flow rate based on isotopically labeled standards using the nanoCEasy interface. SL and pumped CE flow are spiked with atrazine and d5‐atrazine, respectively, enabling the determination of the total flow rate for different electrospray (ES) conditions. Generally, flow rates increase with higher ES voltages. Only at high ES voltages, larger emitter sizes lead to higher flow rates; for low voltages, flow rates are independent of emitter size. Additionally, smaller emitter sizes can generally be operated at lower ES voltages. Visualizing the ES, higher flow rates lead to a larger spray angle. Higher flow rates may decrease the signal intensity by diluting the CE‐separated analytes. Indeed, this effect is observed for the flow‐injected atrazine analytes and in the CE–MS analysis of an amino acid standard mix under aqueous acidic separation conditions. Therefore, lower flow rates are preferred for low electroosmotic flow (EOF) applications. However, in high EOF applications, higher voltages are required to prevent the accumulation of aqueous background electrolyte (BGE) at the emitter tip, which otherwise leads to peak broadening and inefficient ionization. Overall, the presented data enable the selection of stable and sensitive settings for nanoSL interfaces.
Stabilization of Highway Pavement Base Using Coal Ash, Experience of Georgia: Laboratory Characterization and Field Evaluation
Authors: Burduladze Aleks , Papushvili Tengiz , Rurua Nugzar , Khetsuriani Beqa , Romanovski Valentin
Published: November 2024

The development of the road network is a topical issue for any country. One of the promising areas in this area is the use of waste for the purpose of its disposal, as well as obtaining road surfaces of better quality. This approach allows not only to reduce the negative impact on the environment but also to reduce the cost of road surface production and to improve the transport and operational characteristics of the road surface. The article discusses the studies of secondary material slag ash from fuel combustion as a replacement for bitumen. The optimal ash additive was 12 wt%. When using ash to stabilize the base of the road surface, the dynamic deformation characteristic increases by 104%, and under static load, the deformation modulus by 51% and the elastic modulus by 89%. The performance of the coal ash‐stabilized mixtures was superior to traditional materials such as bitumen‐cement mixtures across multiple metrics. In terms of compressive strength, the coal ash mixture (12% ash, 4% cement) demonstrated a 20% improvement compared to the bitumen‐cement mixture. Similarly, its tensile strength was 18% higher due to the pozzolanic properties of coal ash, which enhanced bonding. The California bearing ratio (CBR) for the ash mixture was 127%, outperforming the bitumen‐cement mixture (118%) and untreated sand‐gravel mixture (71%). Under dynamic loading, the deformation modulus of the ash‐based mixture (125.43 MPa) was 1.2 times higher than the bitumen‐cement mixture (106.02 MPa) and more than double that of the untreated mixture (61.38 MPa). These results demonstrate that coal ash significantly improves the mechanical properties and durability of road base layers, providing a compelling case for its use over traditional materials.
Thermally Intense Cilia Generated Motion of Two‐Phase Biological Fluid in a Vertical Tube Under Wall Properties
Authors: Nazeer Mubbashar , Al‐Razgan Muna , Ali Yasser A. , Ibrahim Talib K. , Kamolova Nargiza , Gupta Manish
Published: November 2024

The exact solution is obtained for the unsteady fluid–particle suspension model of Rabinowitsch fluid through a vertical tube having ciliated walls. The flow inside the tube is produced by the metachronal waves of cilia. The lubricant approach is used to produce the solution of fluid phase velocity, particle phase velocity, stream function, and temperature. The pressure rise is calculated through a numerical analytical technique. The graphs are constructed to explore the characteristics of the velocity of both phases, thermal analysis, trapping phenomena, pressure gradient, and pressure rise. It is known that the slip parameter diminishes the velocity of both phases. The thermal slip parameter and density number upsurge the thermal profile. The particle phase velocity is less than the fluid phase. The present analysis can be useful in biomedical engineering to construct the heart and lung machines that are used to pump blood in arteries.