bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rigidly Locked Pyrene Excimers in Planar Chiral Pyrenophanes for Intense and Stable Circularly Polarized Photoluminescence and Electrochemiluminescence
Authors: Bao Lin‐Tao , Zhang Rui‐Hua , Yuan Xiaoyue , Wang Xueli , Wu Peicong , Wang Xu‐Qing , Chen Jinquan , Zhu Anwei , Yang Hai‐Bo , Wang Wei
Published: January 2025

Aiming at the construction of novel platforms with excellent performances in both circularly polarized photoluminescence (CP‐PL) and electrochemiluminescence (CP‐ECL), a new family of pyrenophanes with rigidly locked pyrene dimers and varied bridges has been designed and synthesized. Attributed to densely packed pyrene excimers, the resultant pyrenophanes revealed tunable bridge‐dependent emission behaviors, as investigated by femtosecond time‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopy. More importantly, all these planar chiral pyrenophanes display strong CP‐PL with large dissymmetry factor (gPL) values up to 0.034, and such excellent performances remain stable in a wide range of solvents, temperatures, and concentrations. Attractively, the highest gECL values up to 0.014 reported so far has been achieved for the CP‐ECL emissions of the chiral pyrenophanes. Attributed to their unique structural features and outstanding CPL performances, these novel pyrenophanes could serve as promising platforms for both fundamental investigations on pyrene excimers and practical applications such as chiral sensing.
CO2 Fertilisation Counteracts the Negative Effect of Poor Water Quality on the Growth and Photosynthesis of a Great Barrier Reef Coralline Alga
Authors: Lewis Bonnie , Bender‐Champ Dorothea , Dove Sophie , Diaz‐Pulido Guillermo
Published: January 2025

The global problem of ocean acidification and localised decline in water quality are major threats to coral reefs worldwide. This study examined the individual and interactive impacts of global and local stressors by investigating the effects of increased seawater pCO2, elevated nutrient concentrations and reduced light levels on linear growth and metabolic rates of the common branching crustose coralline alga Lithophyllum cf. pygmaeum. We found complex interactions between factors on algal growth and photosynthetic rates, but overall, growth was significantly enhanced by pCO2 enrichment under all light and nutrient combinations. This is the first study to report a positive growth response in coralline algae to elevated pCO2 using linear extension methods. In contrast, the combination of reduced light levels and high nutrient concentrations simulating poor water quality conditions reduced algal growth rates by up to 67% (compared to individuals exposed to high light, low nutrients and elevated pCO2). Decreased light levels reduced linear growth, Pgross and Pnet rates by 33%, 18% and 24%, respectively, highlighting the critical role of light in coralline algal physiology. We suggest that poor water quality may counteract any CO2 fertilisation effect under ocean acidification conditions on the growth of coralline algae, and this has implications for coral reef conservation as it emphasises the importance of improving water quality to maintaining coral reef functions. These results further highlight the need for multifactorial experiments to better understand the interplay between global and local processes on coralline algae growth.
Solid State Self‐Assembly of an Extended Curved‐Arm Nickel(II) Macrocycle with Fullerene C60
Authors: Ling Irene , Norret Marck , Sobolev Alexandre N. , Bond Charles S. , Raston Colin L.
Published: January 2025

Three new co‐crystalline structures are reported that contain fullerene C60 with the under‐represented Ni(II)‐dibenzotetraaza[14]annulene derivative, (5,14‐dihydro‐6,8,15,17‐tetrabenzyl‐2,3,11,12‐tetramethyldibenzo[b,i][1,4,8,11]tetraazacyclo‐tetradecine)nickel(II), [Ni(Bz4TMTAA)]. The single‐crystal X‐ray analysis shows that the three studied compounds crystallize in the monoclinic C2/c, Pnma orthorhombic and triclinic P
space groups, with the two former compounds being polymorphs that are isostructural but differ in their symmetries. From the crystallographic results, a common packing arrangement is established, with C60 and [Ni(Bz4TMTAA)] molecules organised around one‐dimensional hollow channels, associated 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 complexation of the macrocycle and the fullerene molecules, the latter being organised into hexagonal arrays. Interestingly, one of the structures showed a skewed hexagonal channel arrangement with the introduction of water molecules. Hirshfeld surface analyses have been used to investigate non‐covalent interactions and cumulative π…π, C−H…π, H…H, and N…C60 interactions between fullerene C60 and [Ni(Bz4TMTAA)] host molecule which are deemed the stabilizing factors for forming the sophisticated arrangements in the solid‐state. differences.
Highly Crystalline and Flexible Covalent Organic Frameworks: Advancing Efficient Iodine Adsorption
Authors: Song Jialong , Liu Jianchuan , Tuo Chao , Zhang Jianfeng , Huang Shibin , Lu Shiting , He Juntao , Liao Li , Fang Qianrong
Published: January 2025

Flexible covalent organic frameworks (COFs) offer distinct advantages in elasticity and adaptability over rigid COFs, but these benefits often come at the expense of crystallinity due to challenges in polymerization, complicating both synthesis and structural characterization. Current research primarily employs single flexible monomers, which limits the tunability of these frameworks. In this study, we introduce two highly crystalline, flexible COFs, ZCST‐102 and ZCST‐103, constructed from dual flexible monomers. These COFs exhibit large channels, permanent porosity, high chemical stability, and exceptional crystallinity, along with enhanced structural flexibility. Notably, they achieve an iodine vapor adsorption capacity of up to 4.71 g ⋅ g−1. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy further elucidate the interactions between iodine and the framework structures. This work emphasizes the value of incorporating flexible building blocks to maintain crystallinity while imparting functional versatility, advancing the design of dynamic porous materials.
Cascade Radical Cyclization of Propargylamines for Functionalized 3‐Arylthioquinoline Formation
Authors: Tong Jingjing , Zhang Weigang , Wu Zheng‐Guang , Pan Yi , Zou Zhenlei , Zheng You‐Xuan , Wang Yi
Published: January 2025

A novel and efficient strategy for the direct synthesis of 3‐arylthioquinoline derivatives via radical induced tandem cyclization of propargylamines with diaryl disulfides was developed. This protocol undergoes a cascade sulfuration/ cyclization/ oxidation/ aromatization pathway to afford the desired products in a broad substrate scope using readily available starting materials under mild conditions. Based on this strategy, we further modified 3‐arylquinolines to obtain two novel deep blue fluorescent molecules, QLSCz and QLSTCz, with good optical properties through two‐step synthesis by oxidation and electron donor modification.
Modeling the Emission and Polarization Properties of Pulsating Ultraluminous X‐Ray Sources
Authors: Conforti S. , Zampieri L. , Taverna R. , Turolla R. , Brice N. , Pintore F. , Israel G. L.
Published: January 2025

Pulsating Ultraluminous X‐ray Sources (PULXs) are a class of extragalactic sources with high X‐ray luminosity, in excess of erg , and showing pulsations that associate them with neutron stars accreting at a super‐Eddington rate. A simplified model is presented, which describes the thermal emission from an accreting, highly magnetized neutron star and includes the contributions from an accretion disk and an accretion envelope surrounding the star magnetosphere. Through numerical calculations, we determine the flux, pulsed fractions, polarization degree, and polarization angle considering various viewing geometries. The model is confronted with the XMM‐Newton spectra of M51 ULX‐7, and the best fitting viewing geometries are estimated. A measurement of the polarization observables, which will be available with future facilities, along with spectroscopic data obtained with XMM‐Newton, will provide considerable additional information on these sources.
Longitudinal Symptom Burden and Pharmacologic Management of Catatonia in Autism With Intellectual Disability: An Observational Study
Authors: Smith Joshua Ryan , Lim Seri , Bindra Snehal , Marler Sarah , Rajah Bavani , Williams Zachary J. , Baldwin Isaac , Hossain Nausheen , Wilson Jo Ellen , Fuchs D. Catherine , Luccarelli James
Published: January 2025

Catatonia is a highly morbid psychomotor and affective disorder, which can affect autistic individuals with and without intellectual disability. Catatonic symptoms are treatable with pharmacotherapy and electroconvulsive therapy, but the longitudinal effectiveness of these treatments in autistic individuals has not been described. We conducted a prospective observational cohort study of patients with autism and co‐morbid catatonia who received outpatient care in a specialized outpatient clinic from July 1, 2021 to May 31, 2024. Data investigating pharmacologic interventions, and clinical measures including the Bush Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS), Kanner Catatonia Severity Scale (KCS), Kanner Catatonia Examination (KCE), and Clinical Global Impression—Improvement (CGI‐I) were collected. Forty‐five autistic patients with co‐morbid catatonia were treated during the study period. The mean age was 15.6 (SD = 7.9) years [Mdn = 16.0, range 6.0–31.0]. Forty‐one patients (91.1%) met criteria for autism with co‐occurring intellectual disability. All patients received pharmacotherapy. Forty‐four (97.8%) were treated with benzodiazepines with a mean maximal daily dose of 17.4 mg (SD = 15.8) lorazepam equivalents. Thirty‐five patients (77.8%) required more than one medication class for treatment. Sixteen (35.6%) patients received electroconvulsive therapy. Fourteen patients (31.1%) attempted to taper off benzodiazepines after achieving clinical improvement during the study period; of these, 5 patients (11.1%) were successfully tapered off, and the remaining 9 (17.8%) discontinued the taper due to a return of catatonic symptoms. Statistically significant improvement was observed across all clinical domains except the KCS. However, the majority remained at least partially symptomatic over the study period. Three patients (6.7%) died over the study period. Despite clinical improvements while receiving the gold standard for psychopharmacologic management of catatonia, chronic symptoms remained for the majority of catatonia patients over the study period, and few were able to taper and discontinue benzodiazepine treatment. Notably, the open label design of this study is a limiting factor when interpreting the results.
Novel Strategy of Antibody Affinity Maturation and Enhancement of Nucleolin‐Mediated Antibody‐Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity Against Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Ribeiro Rita , Vítor Jorge M. B. , Voronovska Anastasiya , Moreira João N. , Goncalves João
Published: January 2025

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a clinically aggressive subtype of breast cancer that remains an unmet medical need. Because TNBC cells do not express the most common markers of breast cancers, there is an active search for novel molecular targets in triple‐negative tumors. Additionally, this subtype of breast cancer presents strong immunogenic characteristics which have been encouraging the development of immunotherapeutic approaches against the disease. In this context, nucleolin arises as a promising target for immunotherapy against TNBC. Our group has previously developed an anti‐nucleolin VHH‐Fc antibody capable of eliciting antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Moreover, we constructed and characterized an antibody library, that was screened against nucleolin‐overexpressing cells, originating an enriched anti‐nucleolin antibody pool. In this work, a strategy to select individual clones from the pool was designed, combining NGS data with 3D modeling. Two antibodies demonstrated a significant 4.4‐ and 6.1‐fold increase in binding to nucleolin‐overexpressing and TNBC cells, and an improvement in affinity to the sub‐micromolar range (0.19 µM and 83.69 nM). Additionally, an increment in 4.6‐ and 3.1‐fold in ADCC activity against respective cell lines was observed for the M2 antibody clone. Herein, the affinity maturation strategy developed was validated and corroborated a positive, but not proportional, correlation between antibody binding, affinity, and ADCC.
Targeting Antibacterial Resistance: Computational Exploration of Bioactive Compounds in Dipsacus asper Integrating Docking, ADMET Analysis, and Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Drakhshaan  , Chohan Tahir Ali , Ashfaq Khuram , Chohan Talha Ali , Gill Muhammad Shoaib Ali , Almehizia Abdulrahman A. , Zen Amer Alhaj
Published: January 2025

Natural compounds derived from plants offer a sustainable and promising solution to the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. This study focuses on Dipsacus asper (D. asper), a plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine, and investigates its bioactive potential to identify novel antibacterial agents. Leveraging comprehensive in silico analyses, 44 compounds previously isolated from D. asper were evaluated for their binding affinities against four key bacterial proteins: DNA gyrase B, tyrosyl‐tRNA‐synthetase, penicillin binding protein 2X (PBP2X), and penicillin binding protein 4 (PBP4). This integrated approach, combining molecular docking, ADMET profiling, DFT, and MESP studies, identified dipsalignan, cantleyoside, triplostoside A, and dipsanoside N as leading candidates. Dipsalignan demonstrated superior bioavailability and distinct electronic properties influencing its reactivity. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations validated the stability of protein–ligand interactions, with RMSD and RMSF analyses confirming equilibrium under physiological conditions. Binding free energy calculations revealed that van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions are critical in enhancing inhibitory potential. Biological significance was evident as the computationally identified compounds align with essential criteria for effective antibacterial agents, warranting further in vitro and in vivo studies. This research underscores the unique potential of D. asper‐derived compounds to address antimicrobial resistance and presents a robust framework for discovering plant‐based antibacterial agents. By expanding the repertoire of natural product‐based therapeutics, this study lays the foundation for future experimental validation and therapeutic applications.
Intramolecular Redox‐Driven Synthesis of Mono‐ and Diradical Iridium(III) Complexes: Insights into Molecular and Electronic Structure, Electrochemistry, and Spin‐Communication
Authors: Roy Sima , Ghorui Tapas , Jana Debashis , Chandra Patra Sarat , Pramanik Shuvam , Moorthy Shruti , Kumar Singh Saurabh , Mehta Sakshi , Mondal Abhishake , Pramanik Kausikisankar
Published: January 2025

Two π‐radical complexes containing bisazo‐aromatic‐centered radical anion (1⋅−) were synthesized through in‐situ electron transfer from metal‐to‐ligand using [IrI] and 2‐(2‐Pyridylazo)azobenzene (1) in inert hydrocarbon solvent. These are characterized as diradical [IrIII(1⋅−)2]+ [2]+ and monoradical [IrIII(1⋅−)Cl2(PPh3)] 3. In contrast, a rare metal‐mediated hydrolytic cleavage of the C(sp2)−N bond occurred in protic solvent resulting in quaternary radical complex [IrIII(1⋅−)(1′)(PPh3)]+ (4)+. This provides an easy way to synthesize stable unsubstituted pyridine‐2‐diazotate (1′), an otherwise unstable organic template. Theoretical scrutiny has been performed at (U)B3LYP/6–31G(d,p)/LANL2DZ level to explore the origin of redox and optical properties in radical complexes. Magnetic study of [2]+ reveals that a weak antiferromagnetic (AF) spin‐communication (J = −4.39 cm−1) exists between two radicals, leading to an open‐shell singlet ground state. Broken symmetry density functional theory (BS‐DFT) calculations were carried out to probe the nature of antiferromagnetic exchange interaction between the two radical centers in species [2]+. This method has been employed with different basis functionals (BP86, BLYP, OLYP, TPSS0, TPSSh, ωb97D and B3LYP) to comprehend the nature of the exchange in [2]+. The best result is obtained for pure functional OLYP with a J value −8.4 cm−1.
Tailored Nucleation‐Growth Strategy for Precise Self‐Assembly of Block Copolymers
Authors: Hu Lingjuan , Li Xiaoyu
Published: January 2025

The self‐assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) to form nanostructures of various morphologies and controllable dimensions has been a very promising research area in nanotechnology in recent decades. This concept mainly summarizes the recent advances in precise and controllable self‐assembly of BCPs through a tailored nucleation‐growth strategy to modulate the self‐assembly behavior of the BCPs. These efforts have led to a better understanding of the self‐assembly mechanisms and opened new possibilities for creating novel materials with designable properties. We hope that the concept is more than a periodical summary of previous research work and can provide valuable inspiration for the research field.
Enhanced Homogeneous Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution in a Binuclear Bio‐Inspired Ni‐Ni Complex Bearing Phenanthroline and Sulfidophenolate Ligands
Authors: Kamatsos Fotios , Drosou Maria , Zarkadoulas Athanasios , Bethanis Kostas , Mitsopoulou Christiana A.
Published: January 2025

The prominence of binuclear, bimetallic catalysts underlines the need for the design and development of diverse bifunctional ligand frameworks that exhibit tunable electronic and structural properties. Such strategies enable metal‐metal and ligand‐metal cooperation towards catalytic applications, improve catalytic activity, and are essential for advancing multi‐electron transfers for catalytic application. In this work we present the synthesis, crystal structure, and photocatalytic properties of a binuclear Ni(II) complex, [Ni2(1,10‐phenanthroline)2(2‐sulfidophenolate)2] (1). Complex 1 crystallizes in the centrosymmetric triclinic system (P‐1) showing extensive intra‐ and inter‐ non‐coordinated interactions. 1 is employed as a catalyst for light driven hydrogen evolution. Its catalytic efficiency in a noble‐metal‐free photo‐driven system using fluorescein as photosensitizer and triethanolamine as the electron donor, reaches TON 2900, threefold the efficiency of the corresponding homoleptic mononuclear complex [Ni(2‐sulfidophenolate)2]. Efficiency rises up to 9000 TONs when thioglycolic‐coated CdTe quantum dots are used as photosensitizers in the presence of ascorbic acid at pH 4.5. UV‐Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering techniques, and Hg‐poisoning measurements reveal that 1 maintains its molecular structure during catalysis. Electrochemical studies in DMF with TFA as the proton source were also performed for the elucidation of the mechanism of its catalytic action and its stability, suggesting that the proximity of two nickel ions plays a part in the increased catalytic activity, facilitating hydrogen evolution.
Arsenic Removal From Acid Mine Drainage Using Acid‐Tolerant Bacteria
Authors: Iwama Sohei , Takano Chikara , Nakashima Kazunori , Aoyagi Hideki , Kawasaki Satoru
Published: January 2025

Acid mine drainage (AMD) has a low pH and contains harmful metals, making it a severe problem in the mining industry. Neutralization treatment using slaked lime is widely applied to remove potentially toxic metals and adjust the pH. However, this generates neutralized sludge containing large amounts of harmful metals. Therefore, in this study, we propose a bacterial bioprocess for removing metals before neutralization. Acid‐ and metal‐tolerant bacteria were isolated from neutral soils and utilized as As removers from AMD. The Paenathrobacter sp. strain H1 removed As (43.6%) and Fe (10.6%) from AMD in a single‐batch test (pH 1.95; initial concentrations were 6.13 and 283 mg L−1, respectively). Repeated batch tests using fresh cells enhanced the As removal ratio, achieving successful removal of As (95.3%) and Fe (75.5%). Although further research is required, this study has substantial implications for the development of a sustainable AMD treatment to suppress harmful waste generation.
High‐Performance Ammonia Sensing with Citrus Hystrix‐Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles in TFT‐Based Devices
Authors: Narayana Ashwath , K Mahendra Prashanth , B N Veerabhadraswamy , Mareddi Bharathkumar , Khatavi Santosh Y , Prasad B L V , Yelamaggad C V
Published: January 2025

We present a sustainable green synthesis approach for zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) utilizing Citrus hystrix leaf extract and their application as an active medium in a thin film transistor (TFT)‐based ammonia gas sensor. For the first time, ZnO NPs derived from Citrus hystrix serve as a receptor layer in a thin film transistor (TFT) device, enabling selective ammonia detection at a significantly reduced initiation temperature. The synthesized ZnO NPs, with a wurtzite structure and an average crystallite size of approximately 14 nm, are deposited onto the TFT sensor without the need for an external conducting layer. The sensor demonstrates excellent sensitivity and selectivity, achieving a maximum response of ~85 % at 20 ppm, with a rapid response time of about 10 seconds at room temperature. Notably, the TFT device exhibits an electron mobility of ~10.2 cm2/V ⋅ s and a high on/off ratio (>10⁴) at room temperature. The sensing mechanism is attributed to the oxidation‐reduction interactions between surface‐adsorbed oxygen and NH₃ molecules on the ZnO NPs, which modulate the device's electrical conductivity. This work underscores the importance of eco‐friendly fabrication of high‐performance, durable devices, addressing contemporary environmental and economic concerns.
Open Rotaxane Surgery: What Molecular Editing Can Offer to Supramolecular Chemistry?
Authors: Perdek Jędrzej P. , Grzelczak Rafał A. , Szyszko Bartosz
Published: January 2025

The skeletal editing approach represents a paradigm shift in organic synthesis by directly targeting the molecular skeleton instead of relying on often long and complicated series of organic transformations. Recent advancements in nitrogen atom deletion reactions have enabled unprecedented late‐stage, precise modifications of bioactive compounds and complex natural products, influencing a seemingly distant field such as supramolecular chemistry. In a recent contribution, the Leigh group demonstrated the extrusion of a nitrogen atom from an axle of a [2]rotaxane, extending the applicability of molecular editing to complex, mechanically interlocked architectures. This highlight seeks to examine the significance of the skeletal editing method in supramolecular chemistry, address its challenges, and offer an outlook on future directions in this emerging field.
The Multiple Facets of Oxalate Dianion in Photochemistry
Authors: Russo Camilla , Volpe Carmine , Giustiniano Mariateresa
Published: January 2025

Oxalate salts are cheap and available reagents used in organic photochemistry as C1‐synthons, single‐electron transfer (SET) reductants, and hole scavengers. Relying on these multiple roles, a critical comparison of recent applications provides a roadmap to the diverse reductive functionalizations, highlighting the unmet challenges and the future developments.
Ancestral Sequence Reconstruction and Comprehensive Computational Simulations Unmask an Efficient PET Hydrolase with the Wobbled Catalytic Triad
Authors: Song Yibo , Li Anni , Cui Haiyang , Wu Luxuan , Zhou Bo , Li Xiujuan
Published: January 2025

Beyond directed evolution, ancestral sequence reconstruction (ASR) has emerged as a powerful strategy for engineering proteins with superior functional properties. Herein, we harnessed ASR to uncover robust PET hydrolase variants, expanding the repertoire of PET‐degrading enzymes and providing deeper insights into the underlying mechanisms of PET hydrolysis. As a result, ASR1‐PETase, featuring a unique cysteine catalytic site, was discovered. Despite having only 19.3 % sequence identity with IsPETase, ASR1‐PETase demonstrated improved PET degradation efficiency, with a finely‐tuned substrate‐binding cleft. Comprehensive experimental validation, including mutagenesis studies and comparisons with six state‐of‐the‐art PET hydrolases, combined with microsecond‐scale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and QM‐cluster calculations, revealed that ASR1‐PETase's C161 catalytic residue assisted with the wobbled H242 can simultaneously cleave both ester bonds of BHET – a feature not commonly observed in other PET hydrolases. This mechanism may serve as the primary driving force for accelerating PET hydrolysis while minimizing the accumulation of the intermediate MHET, thereby enhancing the efficiency of TPA production.
Research on Optimized Multi‐Objective FCS‐MPC Without Weighting Factors of NPC Three‐Level Inverter
Authors: Jin Ningzhi , Yang Jing , Hou Jiaowei , Gao Mingyang , Sun Dongyang
Published: January 2025

To address a series of issues in the application of finite control set model predictive control (FCS‐MPC) strategy for neutral point clamped (NPC) three‐level inverters, such as large amount of rolling optimization calculation, poor midpoint voltage balance effect, high common mode voltage, and complex design of weighting coefficients, this paper proposes an optimized multi‐objective FCS‐MPC strategy without weighting factors. First, the method applies the idea of space vector region division, to obtain the optimal region based on Lyapunov function, and combines with delay compensation, reducing the system's optimization time and enhancing the control precision of the system. Second, aiming at the issue of multi‐objective control for inverters, by constructing the objective function to control tracking reference current, midpoint voltage balance, and reduce common mode voltage, a hierarchical optimization control method is adopted. This approach eliminates the need to design complex weighting coefficients constrained in the objective function as constraints, thereby improving the accuracy of predicted currents. Finally, the optimized multi‐objective FCS‐MPC control strategy is validated through simulation and experimentation to achieve a better balance of midpoint voltage and reduce common mode voltage and harmonic content, thereby enhancing the control precision and dynamic/static performance of the system.
Neutrophil extracellular traps promote growth of lung adenocarcinoma by mediating the stability of m6A‐mediated SLC2A3 mRNA‐induced ferroptosis resistance and CD8(+) T cell inhibition
Authors: Xu Li , Kong Yi , Li Kang , Li Jia , Xu Fang , Xu Yan , Liang Shuzhi , Chen Bolin
Published: January 2025

To investigate the potential mechanisms underlying neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) confer ferroptosis resistance and CD8(+) T cell inhibition in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). By the intravenous injection of LLC cells into the tail vein, a LUAD mouse model was created. Phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate (PMA) stimulated neutrophils to facilitate NETs formation and combined with NETs inhibitor DNase I to explore NETs mechanism on LLC cell proliferation, migration, ferroptosis resistance, and CD8(+) T cell activity. CitH3, myeloperoxidase (MPO), cell‐free DNA, and MPO‐DNA levels in LUAD were increased, indicating an increase in NETs formation in LUAD. PMA promoted NETs formation in tumours of mice, increased the number of CD3(+)CD4(+) T cells, decreased perforin, granzyme A, granzyme B, IFNγ, and TNF‐α levels, and promoted LUAD growth and the number of lung tumour nodules, indicating that PMA promoted NETs formation, reduced the activity of CD8(+)T cells, and promoted LUAD growth. DNase I partially reversed the effects of PMA. NETs promoted LLC cell proliferation and migration, while DNase I reversed NETs effects. Erastin inhibited LLC cell proliferation and migration and promoted ferroptosis. NETs partially reversed Erastin effects. Further results showed that NETs promoted LLC cell proliferation and migration and inhibited ferroptosis by promoting YTHDF2‐mediated SLC2A3 mRNA degradation. Sh‐YTHDF2 partially reversed the effect of NETs on LLC cells, whereas si‐SLC2A3 partially reversed sh‐YTHDF2 effects on LLC cells. In addition, NETs inhibited LLC cell ferroptosis by inhibiting CD8(+) T cell activity. Sh‐YTHDF2 and DNase I inhibited NETs formation in tumours, increased the activity of CD8(+) T cells and inhibited LUAD growth. Our results suggested that NETs promoted the growth of LUAD through inhibiting ferroptosis and CD8(+) T cell activity by promoting YTHDF2‐mediated SLC2A3 mRNA degradation.
Does Differential Habitat Selection Facilitate Coexistence Between Badgers and Hedgehogs?
Authors: Lee Katie A. , Uzal Antonio , Gentle Louise K. , Baker Philip J. , Delahay Richard J. , Sévêque Anthony , Davis Robert S. , Yarnell Richard W.
Published: January 2025

Predicting the spatial and temporal responses of species exhibiting intraguild predation (IGP) relationships is difficult due to variation in potential interactions and environmental context. Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) are intraguild predators of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) and are implicated in their population decline via both direct predation and competition for shared food resources. Previous studies have shown spatial separation between these species and attributed this to hedgehogs experiencing a ‘landscape of fear’, but little is known about the potential role of differential habitat use. We estimated the density and occupancy of both species at 22 rural study sites in England and Wales, to explore whether food availability, habitat or the presence of badgers, explained hedgehog distributions. Hedgehog density varied significantly across major rural land uses, whereas badger density did not. Although both species coexisted at a regional (1 km2) scale, occupancy modelling showed spatial segregation at a finer (individual camera trap) scale, associated with differential habitat use. In contrast to badgers, hedgehogs were recorded near buildings, and in areas supporting lower invertebrate biomass. This is in agreement with IGP theory, whereby IG‐prey may occupy suboptimal habitat to avoid predation; however, hedgehog habitat use did not vary relative to the presence of badgers. Badger and hedgehog temporal activity showed no evidence of separation. Although these findings are consistent with hedgehogs avoiding badgers via a landscape of fear, they are also indicative of differential habitat use, highlighting the need for more holistic studies considering variation in habitat selection and food availability when investigating intraguild relationships. Future studies exploring alternative hypotheses for urban habitat selection by hedgehogs are needed to better understand how possible spatial niche partitioning may support their coexistence with badgers in some areas.
Spatial Patterns of Taxonomic, Functional, and Phylogenetic Diversity of Mammals in Southern Mexico
Authors: Martín‐Regalado Cintia Natalia , Lavariega Mario C. , Briones‐Salas Miguel
Published: January 2025

Biodiversity is multidimensional and should therefore be characterized using multiple approaches to understand the patterns at various temporal and spatial scales. Taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic measurements of diversity are now recognized as comprehensive methods for understanding the relationships among species diversity, associated ecological processes, and the evolutionary history of species within communities. However, spatial incongruence among these different dimensions of diversity has been found to be common at global and regional levels, posing challenges for conservation. By using species distribution models built with correlative method, we investigated whether downscaling spatial analyses of multidimensional diversity across mammal groups (flying mammals, small‐sized mammals, and medium and large‐sized mammals) maintain mismatch patterns in a megadiverse mammal unit (Oaxaca state, southern Mexico) at three spatial resolutions and how well diversity hotspots are protected. We found similar spatial patterns and high correlations across the analyzed resolutions, suggesting interchangeability. As expected, we observed incongruence in spatial patterns among multidimensional biodiversity measurements (average of 68.7%). Species richness partially matched the global pattern, as topographic heterogeneity facilitated refugia and speciation in mountains, while productivity in lowlands supported a high number of species. As observed globally, functional diversity was higher in temperate areas; however, redundancy was not found in tropical ecosystems but rather in semiarid ones, suggesting that environmental filtering plays an important role in structuring communities. Contrary to expectations, phylogenetic diversity increased in tropical ecosystems, where dispersal events allow species to accumulate through invasion processes. Among mammal groups, we also found disparate patterns, suggesting differences in dispersal potential and energy demand. Protected area systems overlapped very little with the proposed multidimensional conservation areas, with a higher overlap found in social initiatives than in governmental ones. Our findings support the notion that there is spatial incongruence between the dimensions of biodiversity, which has implications for subregional mammal conservation.
Grazing by non‐native ungulates negatively impacts vegetation important to a native species of concern
Authors: Street Phillip A. , Jaster Levi , Dilts Thomas E. , Behnke Tessa L. , Sedinger James S.
Published: January 2025

Non‐native grazers compete with native species across the globe. We present a novel approach to study the composition of the herbaceous understory across three study areas within the Great‐Basin with different historic and contemporary grazing regimes. We surveyed the landscape using distance sampling for livestock and horse feces as an index of use. In addition, we surveyed the herbaceous understory of random sites as well as sites chosen by female Greater sage‐grouse to nest and brood their chicks. We used a novel Bayesian hierarchical modeling framework to link vegetation metrics with the spatial–temporal distribution of horses and livestock while accounting for observation error. When livestock and feral horses were not present, we found that Greater sage‐grouse use sites with higher percentages of perennial grasses and forbs to build their nests and brood their chicks compared with what was available to them. As livestock increased, we found evidence for decreases in the percentage of perennial grasses, forbs, cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), and increases in the amount of bare ground. These effects were consistent at available sites and brood sites; however, we found less evidence for an impact of livestock at nest sites. As feral horses increased, we observed similar results at available sites, but at sites chosen by females to nest and brood their chicks, we observed increases in the amount of invasive cheatgrass as feral horses increased, which could reflect attempts by Greater sage‐grouse to compensate for reductions in protective cover. We present a noninvasive approach to assess space use that can be applied to other species. More importantly, we document that grazing by non‐native ungulates impacts components of the plant community important to Greater sage‐grouse reproduction. We provide spatial–temporal maps of livestock and feral horse use to aid managers attempting to balance the needs of livestock producers, feral horses, Greater sage‐grouse, and ecosystem function.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Performance of 2205 Base Equipment and Pipes
Authors: Li Yajun , Liu Nan , Tian Li , Lu Xuemei , Li Yanjiao
Published: January 2025

2205 dual‐phase stainless steel is widely used in petrochemical equipment. This paper simulates welding, post‐weld heat treatment, and operation conditions of 2205 steel. Microstructure evolution and properties were analyzed via metallography, impact testing, SEM, EDS, and electrochemical methods. Results showed microstructure degradation after 580°C heat treatment, with precipitate formation causing toughness loss. Precipitate diameter was ˜38 nm. Critical corrosion temperature and pitting resistance decreased with increasing heat treatment temperature. It is suggested that 2205 dual‐phase stainless steel should avoid post‐welding heat treatment during the fabricating process. For 2205 dual‐phase stainless steel equipment or parts that must or have completed post‐welding heat treatment, the risk assessment should be carried out based on the service temperature, etc. If necessary, solution treatment should be carried out to maximize the recovery of material properties.
Sediment dynamics of watershed urbanization and river restoration: Insights from 10 years of research in small gravel‐bed rivers
Authors: Papangelakis Elli , Raso Thommaso , Hassan Marwan A. , MacVicar Bruce , Ashmore Peter
Published: January 2025

Watershed urbanization frequently leads to river channel enlargement and incision. Mitigation strategies such as in‐channel restoration and stormwater management have been developed to counteract these problems, yet alternatives are rarely considered with respect to the sediment dynamics that underlie the process of river degradation. In the current paper, we revisit two heavily urbanized small gravel‐bed rivers where aggressive stormwater management and river restoration projects were completed. The goal is to consider how information from 10 years of research on sediment dynamics might change the adopted mitigation strategies. By synthesizing previous work and novel analyses, we provide a diagnosis of the effects of urbanization and existing restoration efforts on the channel morphology and sediment dynamics and develop a sediment augmentation strategy to restore the dynamic equilibrium of the study reach. Additionally, we model the cumulative impact of various stormwater management strategies on sediment dispersal. We place these river management strategies within a framework that seeks to address the root cause of urban river degradation by rebalancing the sediment supply and capacity of these channels.
Numerical Investigation of the Effect of the Mushy Zone Parameter and the Thermal Properties of Paraffin‐Based PCMs on Solidification Modeling Under T‐History Conditions
Authors: Jamal‐Abad Milad Tajik , Cortés Cristóbal , Martínez Arnold , Carmona Mauricio
Published: January 2025

Phase change materials (PCMs) are widely used in various critical applications because of their capacity to store thermal energy and regulate temperature effectively. A review of the literature on PCM solidification and melting simulations reveals that the accuracy of these simulations is highly dependent on the input parameters and underlying assumptions used in the software. Among the key factors influencing precise simulation results are the parameter of mushy zone () and the thermal properties of the material. This study numerically investigated the impact of the and thermal properties on the solidification behavior of a paraffin in the test tube under T‐history conditions. The analysis was conducted using the commercial CFD software ANSYS Fluent and the enthalpy‐porosity method is applied to simulation the solidification process. To accurately reflect the conditions of the T‐history experiment, radiative heat transfer between surfaces was employed for the boundary conditions, ensuring a realistic representation of the experimental setup. An evaluation of four thermal properties—thermal conductivity, density, latent heat, and specific heat—indicates that while an increase in latent heat, density, and specific heat slows down the rate of solidification, an increase in thermal conductivity has the opposite effect, accelerating the solidification process. The results further emphasize that selecting an appropriate value for is crucial for achieving accurate solidification simulations. Increasing from to enhanced the prediction accuracy of the solidification time by 10%. Additionally, the mushy zone parameter significantly affects the shape and progression of solidification. As increases, solidification in the lower layers decreases, concentrating the process more in the layers adjacent to the cold wall.
Impact of Technological Innovation on Global Crop Export Trade: The Example of Innovation in GM Technology
Authors: Jin Sen Sen , Sun Zhong Yi , Deng Feng , Yan Cao Zheng , Zhu Rui Na
Published: January 2025

Biological breeding technology is a significant scientific and technological innovation in the world. It is also a crucial strategic plan in China's efforts to improve its seed industry. This paper examines the impact of transgenic technology on global crop export trade since its introduction in the production field. The study analyzed the binary marginal data of genetically modified (GM) soybean technological innovation and export in 41 countries worldwide from 2002 to 2012. The analysis utilized a panel regression model. The results indicate that GM technological innovation has a significant and positive association with the intensive margin of soybean export growth. However, it has an insignificant effect on the export extensive margin. The impact of GM technological innovation on the export extensive margin of different crops is heterogeneous. The cultivation of GM crops (GMOs) has been found to have a nonsignificant impact on food crops like soybeans and corn but a positive and significant impact on industrial commodity crops such as cotton. Furthermore, additional analyses indicate that the policy of planting GMOs has a positive moderating effect on technological innovation that affects the export‐intensive margin while having a negative moderating effect on technological innovation that acts on the export‐extensive margin. Technological innovation affects market forces and impacts the intensive margin of export growth. The global trade of crops has been driven by innovations in genetically modified technology. Policy support and market power have also played a significant role in the success of each country.
Assisted Fermentation by a Modified Bacillus subtilis Strain Producing Protease Improved the Quality of Sufu
Authors: Xu Junfei , Hou Aixiang , Li Wenqi , Chen Binbin , Wu Hong , Tan Huan , Xiao Zhihong , Wu Xianjin , Zhang Juzuo
Published: January 2025

Traditionally fermented sufu is popular because of its flavor, abundance of nutrients, and long shelf life. However, traditional sufu is difficult to produce via industrial processes because of dominant microorganism attenuation during fermentation. Herein, specific protease‐producing strains were isolated from traditional sufu. After strain identification, mutation, and domestication, the strains were applied in fermentation. The taste, texture, and nutrient and flavor components of the fermentation products were investigated via organoleptic, textural HPLC and HS‐GC‐IMS analyses. Results revealed that Bacillus subtilis (DF1) and the derived strains DF1v and DF1vd had increased protease activity relative to other strains. When these strains were applied for sufu fermentation, the production period significantly shortened to 6–8 days for pehtzes and to 20–26 days for postripening. The nutrient and flavor compound composition of both sufu pehtzes and products improved, including increases in water‐soluble proteins, amino acids, and substances with beany and umami aromas and decreases in nonbeneficial biogenic amines and moldy odor‐imparting substances. Among the strains, DF1vd showed the greatest benefits in sufu‐assisted fermentation. In summary, a modified Bacillus subtilis strain (DF1vd) producing protease was isolated, which improved the nutrient profile and flavor of sufu and shortened the production period.
Direct Measurement of Greenhouse Gas Emission Rates From Manure Management in Different Livestock Production Systems in Cameroon
Authors: Ngwabie Ngwa Martin , Kwe Juliette N. , Mitin Sandrine Y. , Ngong Nancy F.
Published: January 2025

Direct measurements of greenhouse gas emissions from the increasingly intensified African livestock production are important to assess locally available mitigation strategies. As such, measurements were conducted from March to June using static flux chambers to quantify the emission rates of CH4, N2O, and CO2 from manure in poultry and pig production systems in Cameroon. Emissions were measured from two layer barns, two pig facilities, six broiler farms, and one farm with Brahman birds. Mean emission factors inside two layer barns were 0.06–0.21 and 602–958 mg animal−1 h−1 for CH4 and CO2, respectively, and 21–112 µg animal−1 h−1 for N2O. Mean emission factors inside four broiler barns with wood shavings as bedding material were 0.31–1.22 and 355–1884 mg animal−1 h−1 for CH4 and CO2, respectively, and 2.33–1052 µg animal−1 h−1 for N2O. Broiler N2O emissions were 971.38 ± 250.23 and 26.14 ± 30.27 µg animal−1 h−1 from manure underneath a meshed floor barn and a shelter with bare soil, respectively. Emissions from a storage tank with wastewater from a piggery were 8.30 ± 7.36 and 40.41 ± 5.54 mg m−2 min−1 for CH4 and CO2, respectively, and 2.80 ± 1.67 µg m−2 min−1 for N2O. Mean emissions from two outdoor storages of a mixture of poultry and pig manure were 0.76–0.9 and 69–136 mg m−2 min−1 for CH4 and CO2, respectively, and 10–15 µg m−2 min−1 for N2O. Emissions depended highly on manure production and management systems. CH4 emissions were lower from poultry compared to pig manure. Younger layers emitted higher CH4 compared to older layer hens. CH4 emissions were higher from slurry compared to solid manure, whereas N2O emissions were higher from solid compared to slurry manure storages. These findings indicate that mitigation strategies for greenhouse gas emissions should depend not only on the type of gases and manure management systems but also on the animal types and their ages.
Health Benefits in a Cohort of Children 6 Months After Tonsil Surgery in Relation to the Perioperative Period: An Observational Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Stefan Lundeberg , Ericsson Elisabeth
Published: January 2025

Background and Aim

Tonsil‐surgery is a common treatment for tonsillitis and upper‐airway obstruction. Health benefits are a key point of clinical concern. Aim: To evaluate health benefits 6‐months after pediatric tonsil‐surgery and to examine the influence of the perioperative period on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Method

Participants, 198 children (4–17 years) who underwent tonsillectomy ± adenoidectomy on infection‐related indications (TE ± Ainfec, n = 46), tonsillectomy ± adenoidectomy due to upper‐airway‐obstruction (TE ± Aobstr, n = 44), or tonsillotomy ± adenoidectomy due to upper‐airway‐obstruction (TT ± Aobstr, n = 108). Data were collected via a postoperative pain‐diary, and 6‐month‐questionnaires. The Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (GCBI) evaluated HRQoL. An additional questionnaire assessed disease‐specific benefits, including open‐ended‐questions to capture what the children wanted to convey to other children scheduled for surgery.

Results

QoL‐score after surgery was positive in all indication/surgical‐method groups. The highest GCBI‐scores were seen in the subscale‐scores for physical health and vitality. Comparing TE ± Aobstr and TT ± Aobstr, no significant differences were noted in the total‐score or in the subscores. No differences in GCBI‐scores were seen between subgroups of patients divided by postoperative pain intensity and duration. No differences in frequency or loudness of snoring or ENT‐infections were seen between the groups, and satisfaction rates were high. The information that the children considered essential to share with others covered details of the day of surgery, including the anesthesia, nutrition, pain and pain relief, and well‐being after surgery.

Conclusions

All indication/surgical‐method groups reported improvements regarding the health benefits of surgery, with the most pronounced effect being seen for physical health and vitality. TE ± A and TT ± A showed similar benefits in cases of obstructive and infection problems. Postoperative pain had no impact on QoL at the 6‐month follow‐up. Children's memories of the surgery can provide direction for management and improvements in children's care. Pain management needs to be optimized to improve recovery.