bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using active learning methodologies to teach sequence analysis and molecular phylogeny
Authors: Ortiz Martín Inmaculada , Del Espino Pérez Ángel , García Luque Estefanía , Viguera Mínguez Enrique
Published: October 2024

The great development of high‐throughput molecular biology techniques and the consequent generation of massive data have made Bioinformatics essential for undergraduate Bioscience students. The importance of this scientific discipline is evidenced by the huge number of specialized publications, tools, and databases available. Training in Bioinformatics equips undergraduates with transferable skills that can be applied in all fields of Biology, such as programming abilities, data analysis, database management, biological knowledge, statistics, problem solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in the number of higher education institutions worldwide that have adopted a competency‐based curricula. This approach places a significant emphasis on the actions and skills that students are expected to develop, rather than merely focusing on the information, they are required to memorize. In this educational context, the use of active learning strategies has been demonstrated to enhance student comprehension and competency development. This paper describes the implementation of an active learning approach in a hands‐on lesson performed by undergraduate students of Biology at the University of Malaga (Spain). Its main objective is to introduce students to molecular databases and information search systems on genes, proteins, and phylogeny. This is achieved within the framework of a smart campus, which integrates technological and sustainable resources to promote a positive and productive learning environment for the university community. This work presents the content and procedure of this practical activity, as well as the evaluation method and the results of a student survey to assess their opinions.
miR‐4448/Girdin/Akt/AMPK axis inhibits EZH2‐mediated EMT and tumorigenesis in small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Koyama Nobuyuki , Ishikawa Yuichi , Ohta Hiromitsu , Aoki Takuya , Kyoyama Hiroyuki , Aoshiba Kazutetsu , Uematsu Kazutsugu
Published: October 2024

Background

Small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) shows high enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) expressions. EZH2‐mediated epigenetics promote epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), enhancing invasive and metastatic potential in malignancies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs, modulate EMT, determining tumor phenotypes. However, the association between miRNAs and EZH2 in SCLC remains to be clarified—we aimed to identify a novel tumorigenic mechanism through miRNAs, EZH2, and EMT in SCLC, leading to future therapeutic applications.

Methods

We analyzed EZH2 and E‐cadherin expressions in lung cancer cell lines and tumor tissues from 34 SCLC patients and confirmed EZH2 siRNA‐mediated EMT inhibition. miRNA expression profiles were compared between EZH2 knockdown SCLC cells and negative control SCLC cells using miRNA array. We identified a target miRNA of EZH2 showing expressional differences in EZH2‐knockdown cells and analyzed the impact of the miRNA on EZH2‐mediated EMT and tumorigenesis.

Results

All SCLC cells showed increased EZH2 and decreased E‐cadherin expressions. SCLC tissues had higher EZH2 and lower E‐cadherin expressions than other lung cancer tissues. miRNA array revealed that miR‐4448 expression increased in EZH2‐knockdown SCLC cells. miR‐4448 overexpression reduced tumor cell growth and prevented EMT. miR‐4448 bound to the 3′UTR of the girdin gene and suppressed its expression, thereby decreasing Akt phosphorylation at Ser473. Attenuated Akt phosphorylation resulted in AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation at Thr172 and 183, enhancing EZH2 phosphorylation at Thr311.

Conclusion

SCLC characterized high EZH2 expression and promoted EMT, compared with non‐small cell lung cancer. miR‐4448 inhibited Girdin expression, reducing Akt phosphorylation, and enhancing AMPK and EZH2 phosphorylation. Eventually, miR‐4448 prevented EZH2‐mediated EMT and tumorigenesis by modulating the Girdin/Akt/AMPK axis in SCLC. miR‐4448 might be a potential SCLC inhibitor.
The expression and role of SUZ12 in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Xingsheng , Hu Chunhong , Zhong Ping
Published: October 2024

Background

SUZ12 is one of the core members of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), but its expression and role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are unclear. We aimed to explore the expression, prognosis, biological functions and roles of SUZ12 in LUAD.

Methods

The expression of SUZ12 was detected by immunohistochemical staining, qRT‐PCR, and western blotting in LUAD tissues and cells. The biological functions and molecular mechanisms of SUZ12 were characterized by a range of in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results

SUZ12 was overexpressed in LUAD tissues, and high SUZ12 expression was correlated with worse clinicopathological features and a poorer prognosis. Knockdown of SUZ12 significantly inhibited cell growth, colony formation, invasion, and migration, and induced apoptosis and G1/S phase arrest, while overexpression of SUZ12 had the opposite effects. Knockdown of SUZ12 decreased the tumorigenic capacity of A549 cells in vivo. The expression of key signaling molecules related to the cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and immunity were altered by the knockdown or overexpression of SUZ12. SUZ12 can directly bind to the Bax promoter region, EZH2 and H3K27me3 levels dependents on SUZ12. The expression levels of SUZ12 and Bax were negatively correlated in LUAD tissues.

Conclusions

SUZ12 is a new oncogene related to the poor prognosis of LUAD. SUZ12 regulates LUAD progression by regulating the expression of related signaling molecules, and as a part of the PRC2 complex, it may bind to the Bax promoter to silence Bax expression.
Prevalence and Description of High‐Grade Intraepithelial Lesions of Cervical Mucosa Cells in a Screening Programme for Cervical Cancer in Isère, France
Authors: Balamou Christian , Zysman Karine , Olicard Cécile , Garnier Anne , Seigneurin Arnaud
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aims to analyse high‐grade intraepithelial lesions (LIEHG) observed in a screening programme from 2010 to 2018 to more accurately describe them and formulate recommendations for best practices in the context of screening evolution following the introduction of an HPV test in primary cervical cancer screening in 2020.

Methods

This study included 305,940 asymptomatic women aged 25–65 years. The eligible population was invited to undergo a screening cervico‐uterine‐smear every 3 years. If this smear was normal, the woman received a new invitation. In the case of a positive screen, the patient underwent further diagnostic procedures, such as colposcopy and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Only those diagnosed with LIEHG and above proceeded to treatment. The diagnoses associated with LIEHG were those related to the WHO Classification of tumours of the uterine cervix.

Results

Positive smears led to the diagnosis of 3230 LIEHG. The prevalence of LIEHG in the screened population was 0.4%. The LIEHG distribution varied significantly according to the age of the women. The probability of diagnosing LIEHG in young women was 12.2% at 25–29 years. This probability decreased by half after 50 years. We observed that the type of smear was significantly associated with LIEHG detection. The positive predictive value for diagnosing LIEHG was 70.3% for high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) smears and 35.1% for atypical squamous cells cannot exclude HSIL (ASC‐H) smears.

Conclusion

In the study population, the prevalence of LIEHG was high in women under 35 years. Low‐grade smears were correlated with the risk of LIEHG and should prompt screening facilities to allocate resources to ensure active follow‐up of LSIL and ASC‐US smears. Adherence to cytological screening recommendations was associated with a reduced risk of LIEHG in multivariate analysis.
Prognostic Role of Hemoglobin Combined With Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index in Patients With Vater Ampulla Carcinoma Undergoing Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Ying Jieping , Zhu Suwen , Cheng Yingchun , Wang Bei , Wang Yueqin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the prognostic importance of the combination of preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) levels and Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) in forecasting postoperative survival outcomes for patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) due to Vater ampulla carcinoma (VPC).

Methods

The GNRI nutritional screening was conducted for all patients, and patient outcomes, including overall survival (OS), were subsequently monitored. An H‐ GNRI scoring system was established using the optimal critical values of 125.5 g/L for Hb and 91.72 for GNRI, as determined by X‐tile software. According to the H‐GNRI score, the patients were categorized into three groups, namely low H‐GNRI group (H‐GNRI score = 0, n = 47) with Hb < 125.5 g/L and GNRI < 91.72; medium H‐GNRI group (H‐GNRI score = 1, n = 77) with Hb < 125.5 g/L and GNRI ≥ 91.72, or Hb ≥ 125.5 g/L and GNR < 91.72; and high H‐GNRI group (H‐GNRI score = 2, n = 51) with Hb ≥ 125.5 g/L and GNRI ≥ 91.72. The Kaplan–Meier analysis and log‐rank tests were employed to evaluate the OS rate and compare survival disparities among various groups. Additionally, both univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted utilizing the Cox regression model, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Finally, to evaluate the predictive effectiveness of Hb, GNRI, and H‐GNRI, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed to compare the area under curve (AUC) values.

Results

The OS rate was higher in patients with high Hb levels (≥ 125.5 g/L) compared to those with low Hb levels (< 125.5 g/L). Likewise, patients in the high GNRI group (≥ 91.72) exhibited significantly superior OS compared to those in the low GNRI group (< 91.72). Compared with both the medium and low H‐GNRI groups, the high H‐GNRI group demonstrated a notably higher OS rate. The T stage (HR = 2.523, 95% CI: 1.694–3.757, p < 0.001), N stage (HR = 2.018, 95% CI: 1.255–3.246, p = 0.004), and the H‐GNRI score (H‐GNRI score of 2 used as the baseline; H‐GNRI score of 0: HR = 2.569, 95% CI: 1.499–4.402, p < 0.001; H‐GNRI score of 1: HR = 1.835, 95% CI: 1.118–3.014, p = 0.016), after adjusting for gender, were determined to be independent significant predictors affecting the OS of patients with VPC. The AUC of H‐GNRI was 0.677, exceeding that of Hb levels (0.631) and GNRI (0.615).

Conclusions

The combination of preoperative Hb levels and GNRI demonstrates superior predictive efficacy for VPC patients undergoing PD, compared with either Hb levels or GNRI score alone. Therefore, the H‐GNRI score can be utilized to promptly identify high‐risk patients, establish comprehensive nutritional pre‐rehabilitation plans through interdisciplinary collaboration, and inform decisions regarding additional adjunctive therapies.
To understand the experiences of autistic counsellors: A United Kingdom phenomenological study
Authors: Taylor Jade Rita , Sims Michael
Published: October 2024

Aim

The study was designed to explore the experiences of autistic counsellors living and working in the United Kingdom (UK). The research question was split into four aims: exploring presenting differences, strategies and modalities preferences, challenges and barriers, and training and support needs.

Method

Seven autistic counsellors, either self‐identified or diagnosed, completed semi‐structured questionnaires. Patterns and themes were then extracted from the data using a thematic analysis procedure.

Findings

The data analysis identified four themes: the practical differences of working as an autistic counsellor, working with a similar neurotype, understanding and accommodation within the counselling profession, and representation.

Conclusion

Participants felt that being autistic brings unique strengths to the counselling process, and it was identified that while they have been trained to work with allistic (non‐autistic) clients, they found strength in supporting and being supported by those of a similar neurotype. Participants challenged the deficit depiction of autism and, subsequently, the lack of recognition, understanding, accommodation and representation of autistic counsellors within the profession. The participants called for a change in training, within professional bodies, counselling organisations, workplaces and colleagues.

Recommendations

Counselling training needs to include autistic trainers, represent and accommodate autistic trainees, as well as support the needs of autistic clients.

Counselling bodies need to create safe spaces for autistic counsellors, including the ability to advertise within directories and support the endorsement of neurological differences as strengths. These spaces need to challenge the archaic beliefs around autism through lived experience and the hiring of autistic professionals. Inclusivity should be encouraged within organisations and workplaces, consequently filtering to allistic colleagues.
LC‐HRMS Profiling of Phytochemicals with Assessment of Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase, and Antimicrobial Potentials of Astragalus Brachystachys DC
Authors: Ersoy Ezgi , Boga Mehmet , Kaplan Alevcan , Mataraci Kara Emel , Eroglu Ozkan Esra , Demirci Kayiran Serpil
Published: October 2024

Astragalus species are ubiquitous in the pharmacopeia of numerous countries, signifying their widespread medicinal applications. Türkiye is esteemed as one of the principal epicenters of diversity for this genus with 483 taxa, and many of these plants have been traditionally utilized for diseases including coughing, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and aches. Although there is a considerable body of chemical and biological research available on several Astragalus species, studies focusing on Astragalus brachystachys DC are exceedingly rare. In this context, This study provides the first comprehensive report on this medicinal plant the chemical constituents and biological activities of an important medicinal plant, Astragalus brachystachys DC. The aerial part samples were collected from Adana, Türkiye, and an ethanol extract was prepared with these parts. The secondary metabolites of the extract were determined by an LC‐HRMS analysis. The LC‐HRMS analysis showed the presence of 39 different constituents, hyperoside (303.419±10.50 μg/g extract), p‐coumaric acid (256.975±8.51 μg/g extract), and rutin (72.684±2.23 μg/g extract) were determined as major compounds in the aerial parts ethanol extract. Attributed to its high total phenolic (58.53±1.30 μg PEs/mg extract) and total flavonoid content (29.98±0.83 μg QEs/mg extract), the extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity according to three different assays namely DPPH free (IC50: 33.08±0.61 μg/mL), and ABTS cation radical scavenging (IC50: 15.39±0.72 μg/mL) and CUPRAC activity (A0.5: 36.25±0.28 μg/mL) methods. In vitro assays showed that cholinesterase inhibitory activity results were found to be exceptional with 85.95±0.52 % inhibition on acetylcholinesterase and 66.32±1.33 % inhibition on butyrylcholinesterase at 200 μg/mL. Regarding antimicrobial properties, Astragalus brachystachys DC extract was found to be effective against Enterococcus faecalis with a MIC value of 39.06 μg/mL.
Novel Tricyclo[4.2.1]Nonane and Bicyclo[2.2.1]Heptane Derivatives: Synthesis, in Vitro Biological Activities and in Silico Studies
Authors: Kececi Sarıkaya Meryem , Sahin Yaglioglu Ayse , Ceylan Mustafa , Yırtıcı Ümit
Published: October 2024

The target benzothiazole derivatives (8a‐g) were synthesized starting from norbornene. The addition of dichloroketene to norbornene followed by the reduction of chlorine atoms were synthesized tricyclo[4.2.1.02,5]non‐7‐en‐3‐one (4). The condensation of benzaldehyde derivatives with compound 4 were obtained chalcone analogs (6a‐g). Finally, benzothiazole derivatives (8a‐g) were obtained by the reaction of the chalcone analogs with 2‐aminobenzothiol in an acidic medium. The antiproliferative activities of compounds 6a‐g and 8a‐g were determined against C6 (rat brain tumor) and HeLa (human cervical carcinoma) cell lines using a BrdU cell proliferation ELISA assay with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) as a standard. In both series, when compared with 5‐FU (IC50=3.8 μM for C6 and 16.33 μM for HeLa), the most active compounds against C6 cells were 6a and 8g with IC50 values of 14.13 μM and 29.99 μM, respectively. With this, 6a, 6e, 6f, and 8b were the most active compounds against HeLa cells with IC50 values of 0.8, 1.21, 19.33 and 18.13 μM, respectively. Additionally, the SwissADME online web tool was used to predict the physicochemical and ADME properties of the tested compounds. The results showed that all compounds possess promising predicted physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties and comply with Lipinski's rule of 5, indicating that they are predicted to be orally bioavailable that they possess a predicted bioavailability score of 0.55. Furthermore, in the SwissADME Boiled‐Egg chart, all compounds showed high predicted GIT absorption, while compounds 6a‐g showed blood‐brain barrier (BBB) permeation, and compounds 8a‐g did not. Moreover, none of the compounds was (P‐gp) substrates. This study investigated the potential interactions between the antiapoptotic proteins Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xl, Bcl‐w, Brag‐1, Bfl‐1, and Mcl‐1 and compounds 6a, 8b, and 8g through molecular docking studies. The findings suggest that these compounds may effectively inhibit antiapoptotic proteins, as evidenced by significant hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, particularly with Bcl‐xl.
Formulation and Release of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Using a Supramolecular Self‐Healing Two‐Component Gel
Authors: El‐Qarra Lamisse H. , Cosottini Niccolò , Tangsombun Chayanan , Smith David K.
Published: October 2024

A two‐component low‐molecular‐weight gelator (LMWG) formed from a modified amino acid and an aldehyde was formulated with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Basic APIs (propranolol, atropine) can be mixed with the LMWG prior to gel assembly while acidic APIs (naproxen, rosuvastatin) inhibit assembly by disrupting the LMWG imine bond and were loaded by diffusion after gel assembly. For diffusion‐loaded gels, the API in the liquid‐like phase was rapidly released, with the remainder, interacting with gel fibres, retained in the gel. Rosuvastatin release was particularly low with Saturation Transfer Difference (STD) NMR indicating interactions between the aromatic ring and the self‐assembled gel network. Propranolol also interacted with the gel via its aromatic unit, and its release led to gel erosion. Using agarose as a polymer gelator additive reinforced the gel, restricting erosion. In contrast, atropine was readily released over a period of hours ‐ it is primarily in the liquid‐like phase with STD NMR indicating no interactions with the gel network. The atropine‐loaded gel retained its thixotropic properties. Overall, APIs must be carefully chosen to optimise formulation/release. Of the APIs investigated, atropine has most potential for further development. Atropine has applications in treating myopia, and our results suggest potential ophthalmic applications of supramolecular gels.
Photochemistry with Plane‐Polarized Light: Controlling Selectivity of a Photochemical Rearrangement
Authors: Barashkin Aleksandr A. , Amadou Harouna , Nesterov Evgueni E.
Published: October 2024

Over the past 50 years, a principal approach to controlling conventional photochemical reactions has relied on imposing geometric constraints on reactant or transition state via conducting photochemistry in the organized or constraining media. Herein, we describe a fundamentally different approach to affect the course of photochemical reactions (photochemical rearrangements) by utilizing spatially selective excitation of specific electronic transitions with plane‐polarized light in the reactant molecules uniformly aligned in the nematic liquid crystal phase. In particular, we focused on the Type B enone rearrangement of 4,4‐diarylcyclohexenones – one of the most common photochemical rearrangements. We demonstrated that the aryl migratory aptitude in this reaction was attenuated in response to changing an angle between the polarization plane of the incident light and the alignment direction of the nematic liquid crystal, with the enhanced aryl migration achieved when the polarization plane coincided with the transition dipole moment leading to the excited state responsible for this migration. The spatially‐selective initial excitation therefore was overruling the electronic factors responsible for the relative ratio of the two alternative photoproducts. The experimental findings were further supported by the results of a computational study. This work showcases a new fundamental paradigm in controlling photochemical reactivity and selectivity of photoreactions.
Anisotropic Porosity and Interface Synergy Enhanced Gas Permselectivity in Heterolayer Metal‐Organic Framework Membrane
Authors: Kundu Susmita , Maity Tanmoy , Panda Suvendu , Haldar Ritesh
Published: October 2024

The pursuit of sustainable, carbon‐free separation technology hinges on the efficient separation of gas mixtures with high separation factors and flow rates, i. e. high permselectivity. However, achieving this objective is arduous due to the meticulous engineering at the angstrom scale and intricate chemical manipulation required to design the pores within membranes. To address this challenge, a proof‐of‐concept for an anisotropic porous membrane has been devised. Employing a meticulous step‐by‐step methodology, two distinct porous metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are integrated to form a monolithic anisotropic membrane. By harnessing pore anisotropy (3.4 to 6 Å) aligned with the gas permeation direction and a unique interface characterized by cross‐linked pores derived from the two distinct MOFs, this membrane transcends the performance limitations inherent in the individual MOF membranes (~45 % enhanced selectivity). This approach not only sheds light on the heterolayer membrane design strategy but also elucidates the intricate CO2/N2 permselectivity relationship inherent in the interface structure.
Enantioselective Separation and Pharmacokinetics of a Chiral 1,4‐Dihydropyrimidine Derivative in Rats: A Combined Chromatography and Docking Approach
Authors: Sri Chiriki Devi , Faizan Syed , Chandra Muttavarapu Rohit , Kumar B. R. Prashantha , Gurupadayya B. M.
Published: October 2024

Chirality in 1,4‐Dihydropyrimidines influences their pharmacological properties and synthetic strategies. Enantiomers of chiral drugs often exhibit different pharmacokinetic profiles. Therefore, separating and studying individual enantiomers is crucial to optimize drug efficacy and safety. Enantiomeric separation of ±4‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐6‐methyl‐2‐oxo‐N‐(O‐toyl)‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydropyrimidine‐5‐carboxamide (DP‐1), which is a 1,4‐Dihydropyrimidine derivative is achieved on CHIRALCEL® OD‐H column (particle size: 5 μm, inner diameter: 4.6 mm, length:150 mm), following by investigating the kinetic properties of (R) and (S) enantiomers. The separation was achieved with a mobile phase composed of 70% (v/v) isopropyl alcohol and 30% (v/v) n‐hexane. For the bioanalytical study, acetonitrile was used to precipitate the rat plasma samples and validated the method according to USFDA guidelines. The validated bioanalytical method was then successfully applied to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of the drug in biological samples. Molecular modeling techniques, specifically docking simulations, were employed to predict the elution order of DP‐1 enantiomers. The docking results revealed moderate binding interactions between the enantiomers and the chiral stationary phase (CSP), which aligns with the theoretical expectation that stronger interactions lead to longer retention times on the column.
Recurrent tick bites induce high IgG1 antibody responses to α‐Gal in sensitized and non‐sensitized forestry employees in Luxembourg
Authors: Chakrapani Neera , Swiontek Kyra , Hübschen Judith M. , Fischer Jörg , Ruiz‐Castell Maria , Codreanu‐Morel Francoise , Hannachi Farah , Morisset Martine , Ollert Markus , Kuehn Annette , Muller Claude P. , Hilger Christiane
Published: October 2024

Background

The α‐Gal syndrome (AGS) is characterized by the presence of specific IgE‐antibodies to the carbohydrate galactose‐α‐1,3‐galactose (α‐Gal). Sensitization to α‐Gal has been associated with tick bites and individuals exposed to ticks have an elevated risk of sensitization. The aim of this study was to analyze IgG and IgE antibody responses to α‐Gal in a high‐risk cohort of forestry employees (FE) in Luxembourg.

Methods

Questionnaires and serum samples of FE from Luxembourg (n = 219) were retrospectively analyzed. α‐Gal specific IgE was quantified by ImmunoCAP, α‐Gal specific IgG and subclasses IgG1–4 were determined by ELISA. Additionally, sera from population‐based controls (n = 150) and two groups of food‐allergic patients, patients with AGS (n = 45) and fish‐allergic patients (n = 22) were assessed for IgG antibody responses to α‐Gal and cod extract.

Results

Twenty‐one percent of FE was sensitized to α‐Gal (sIgE ≥ 0.1 kUA/L). Both sensitized and non‐sensitized FE exhibited high levels of α‐Gal specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG3 compared with controls, indicating a stimulation of IgG responses by recurrent tick bites, independent of the sensitization status. AGS patients had the highest levels of IgG1 and IgG2 antibodies, whereas the profile of fish‐allergic patients was similar to the profile of the controls for which anti‐α‐Gal responses were dominated by IgG2 antibodies. α‐Gal sIgG4 levels were either very low or undetectable in all groups.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence for a continuous stimulation of α‐Gal related immune responses by repeated tick bites, translating into highly elevated levels of IgG1 antibodies directed against α‐Gal.
Female chief financial officers (CFOs) and environmental decoupling. The moderating impact of sustainability board committees
Authors: Velte Patrick
Published: October 2024

This study analyses the link between chief financial officer (CFO) gender and environmental decoupling. Moreover, the moderator effect of sustainability board committees is tested. Based on upper echelons theory, a sample of listed firms headquartered in the European Union (2312 firm‐year observations) from the business years 2017–22 is used. In line with the theoretical framework and based on correlation and regression analyses, CFO gender is significantly and negatively linked with environmental decoupling. The existence of sustainability board committees strengthens this relationship. The results are robust to various robustness tests and endogeneity checks. This study contributes to the increasing research activity on the influence of corporate governance on environmental decoupling. Future research should analyze specific environmental decoupling dimensions and the impact of other CFO characteristics (e.g., expertise) on environmental decoupling. Regarding the stakeholder concerns on corporate environmental decoupling in recent years, firms should increase the quality of their environmental reports to build up increased stakeholder relations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first empirical study on the relationship between CFO gender and corporate environmental decoupling. Moreover, the moderator effect of sustainability board committees is included as an innovative complementary driver.
From Green to Black Gold: Highly Microporous Carbons from Pistachio Shells by a Controlled Physical Activation Process
Authors: Fernández‐Lera Ana , Casal María Dolores , Judalet Quentin , Díez Noel , Valdés‐Solís Teresa , Sevilla Marta
Published: October 2024

Highly microporous carbons with BET surface areas of up to ca. 3300 m2 g−1 and pore volumes of up to 1.6 cm3 g−1 have been successfully synthesized from pistachio shells, a waste whose generation is growing on account of the nutritive value of pistachios and the resilience of this crop to climate change. Such a high pore development has been achieved by a simple and benign CO2 physical activation process assisted by a custom pre‐treatment of the biomass. Different approaches have been explored in this work for the transformation of pistachio shells into carbon materials with diverse microstructures, mineral matter content and particle size/morphology, tuning thereby their reactivities towards CO2 and diffusion kinetics and, in this way, pore development. In particular, the most efficient route for the production of highly microporous carbons from pistachio shells involves a hydrothermal carbonization process which increases the degree of aromatization and effectively removes the mineral matter, enhancing thereby the efficiency of both carbon production and porosity generation. By increasing the activation temperature, substantial shortening of the operation time can be achieved without compromising pore development. This work provides new integral strategies towards the production of biomass‐based, CO2‐activated carbons with a focus on optimizing pore structure, minimizing energy consumption and maximizing product yield.
Rutile‐Phase Sn‐Ti Mixed Oxides as Acid Catalysts for the Condensation of C2‐C3 Oxygenated Compounds in Water
Authors: Fernández‐Arroyo A. , Domine Marcelo E.
Published: October 2024

The design of new cost‐effective and water‐resistant acid catalysts is crucial for valorizing aqueous side‐streams to increase the efficiency and competitiveness of bio‐refineries in a sustainable way. In this work, Sn−Ti mixed oxides are prepared via a green and scalable co‐precipitation method. This synthesis procedure allows obtaining homogeneous rutile‐phase Sn−Ti mixed oxides with enhanced textural properties and a higher amount of Lewis acid sites. More importantly, the catalytic behavior of these Sn−Ti mixed oxides is investigated by using an aqueous mixture of C2‐C3 representative oxygenated compounds, closer to real industrial conditions and differing from usual individual probe molecules studies performed even in the absence of water. Catalytic experiments combined and correlated with spectroscopic measurements (i. e., XRD, TEM, FT‐IR with pyridine adsorption‐desorption and N2 adsorption) are performed to better understand the properties of different Sn−Ti catalysts. These materials show promising results in the condensation of light oxygenated compounds present in aqueous fractions. Homogeneous and robust rutile‐phase structures with inherent hydrophobic characteristics turn these Sn−Ti materials into active and highly resistant catalysts capable to transform these low‐value oxygenated compounds into a mixture of hydrocarbons and aromatics useful for blending with automotive fuels, especially under complex acidic aqueous environments and moderate process conditions.
Treatment Targets and Strategies for Eating Disorders Recovery: A Delphi Consensus With Lived Experience, Carers, Researchers, and Clinicians
Authors: Hanegraaf Lauren , Anderson Alexandra , Neill Erica , Giddens Emily , Boon Evelyn , Bryant Emma , Calvert Shannon , Carroll Bronwyn , Fernandez‐Aranda Fernando , Ikin Sam , Luna Maya , Mitchell Fiona , Murphy Rebecca , Phillipou Andrea , Robinson Julian , Wierenga Christina , Wilksch Simon , Maguire Sarah , Verdejo‐Garcia Antonio
Published: October 2024

Objective

Long‐term recovery rates following eating disorders (EDs) treatment remain low. This might be partly due to a lack of agreement between key stakeholder groups, including people with lived experience, carers, clinicians, and researchers, regarding optimal therapeutic targets and strategies. We aimed to reach a consensus across these diverse groups on the most valued treatment targets and strategies for fostering ED recovery.

Method

We used the Delphi method with two phases: (i) Survey development and (ii) Expert rating. The survey development phase included the design of an initial set of items through scoping review and feedback from a committee of 14 experts. During the survey rating, we engaged a larger panel of 185 experts who comprised the stakeholder groups: Individuals with lived ED experience (n = 49), carers (n = 44), researchers (n = 46), and clinicians (n = 46).

Results

Thirty‐one targets and 29 strategies reached consensus (> 70% agreement over three rounds). Psychological‐emotional–social targets including quality of life, sense of purpose, and emotion regulation, along with ED behaviors, reached the highest agreement (> 90%). Strategies reflecting an individualized approach to treatment (i.e., considering diversity, assessing comorbidities, and enhancing rapport) achieved the highest agreement (> 90%). Responses across groups were similar, except researchers leaning more towards consideration of weight‐ and eating‐related targets.

Discussion

Holistic targets and individualized therapeutic strategies have consistent support from the different stakeholder groups involved in ED treatment. The agreed set of targets/strategies may be used, in triangulation with other sources of evidence, to design and evaluate coproduced and personalized interventions.
Ecometrics demonstrates that the functional dental traits of carnivoran communities are filtered by climate
Authors: Siciliano‐Martina Leila , McGuire Jenny L. , Hurtado‐Materon Maria A. , Short Rachel A. , Lauer Daniel A. , Schap Julia A. , Müller Johannes , Manthi Fredrick K. , Head Jason J. , Lawing A. Michelle
Published: October 2024

Terrestrial carnivorans, with their diverse diets and unique adaptations such as the carnassial tooth, offer insights into the connections between functional traits and the climatic and environmental conditions they inhabit. They shed light on functional trait‐environment relationships at the highest trophic levels across a broad range of environmental conditions. In this study, we evaluate the relationship between relative blade length (RBL) of the lower carnassial tooth, a key dietary adaptation among terrestrial carnivorans for slicing and grinding food items, and climate. We propose RBL as an ecometric trait and test the hypothesis that community‐level RBL is correlated with climate and mediated by environmental effects on food availability. Our findings show that communities with higher mean and broader variance of RBL are typically located in warmer and wetter climates, suggesting a relationship between carnivoran dietary diversity and climate. Conversely, communities with a lower mean and narrower variance of RBL predominantly occupy cooler, drier places. This indicates that community‐level carnivoran dietary traits have the potential to serve as indicators of environmental conditions. Given the robust fossil record associated with carnivorans, we also show how RBL can be used as a proxy for reconstructing paleoclimates by examining trait change at seven sites in North America to estimate changes in temperature and precipitation over time in relation to changes in carnivoran community assembly. Understanding the nature of trait‐environment relationships can help us anticipate biological impacts of ongoing environmental change and the geographic regions at the greatest risk of ecological disruption.
Climate Futures for Lizards and Snakes in Western North America May Result in New Species Management Issues
Authors: Pilliod David S. , Jeffries Michelle I. , Arkle Robert S. , Olson Deanna H.
Published: October 2024

We assessed changes in fundamental climate‐niche space for lizard and snake species in western North America under modeled climate scenarios to inform natural resource managers of possible shifts in species distributions. We generated eight distribution models for each of 130 snake and lizard species in western North America under six time‐by‐climate scenarios. We combined the highest‐performing models per species into a single ensemble model for each scenario. Maps were generated from the ensemble models to depict climate‐niche space for each species and scenario. Patterns of species richness based on climate suitability and niche shifts were calculated from the projections at the scale of the entire study area and individual states and provinces, from Canada to Mexico. Squamate species' climate‐niche space for the recent‐time climate scenario and published known ranges were highly correlated (r = 0.81). Overall, reptile climate‐niche space was projected to move northward in the future. Sixty‐eight percent of species were projected to expand their current climate‐niche space rather than to shift, contract, or remain stable. Only 8.5% of species were projected to lose climate‐niche space in the future, and these species primarily occurred in Mexico and the southwestern U.S. We found few species were projected to lose all suitable climate‐niche space at the state or province level, although species were often predicted to occupy novel areas, such as at higher elevations. Most squamate species were projected to increase their climate‐niche space in future climate scenarios. As climate niches move northward, species are predicted to cross administrative borders, resulting in novel conservation issues for local landowners and natural resource agencies. However, information on species dispersal abilities, landscape connectivity, biophysical tolerances, and habitat suitability is needed to contextualize predictions relative to realized future niche expansions.
Centurial Variation in Size at Maturity of Eastern Baltic Cod (Gadus morhua) Mirrors Conditions for Growth
Authors: Svedäng Henrik , Hornborg Sara , Grimvall Anders
Published: October 2024

The status of Eastern Baltic cod (EBC) Gadus morhua has remained poor despite low fishing mortality for over a decade, including a fishing ban since 2019. Although the decline in productivity can be explained by lower individual growth and survival rates, other aspects of life‐history changes such as maturation patterns for EBC has so far not been sufficiently explored. According to current stock assessments, the median size at maturity (L50) has halved from 40 to around 20 cm in total length since the 1990s, while the overall size distribution has become increasingly truncated. It has previously been suggested that changes in L50 can be attributed to both fishing‐induced evolution and phenotypic plasticity induced by growth rates. However, since L50 is currently occurring around 20 cm, the maturation process must have been initiated at much smaller sizes, that is, long before the fish could be caught in the dominant trawl fishery at around 35 cm. In this study, we aimed to further investigate what drivers may have led to reduced productivity in EBC by determining variations in size at sexual maturity in longer time series than has been done before (1930s to 1980s) and include prey productivity and quality. We found that L50 declined already in the 1930s and thereafter remained stable at around 40 cm up to the 1990s. On a centurial perspective, L50 has been positively correlated to growth potential (L95), length diversity, total stock biomass, total catch and yield per recruit, while Fulton's condition factor was not related to L50. Our results suggest that the links between life‐history parameters and external drivers are complex, but the present unprecedented early onset of maturity and hence decline in L50 since the 1990s signals a decline in growth potential, which also has hampered the productivity of EBC.
Urbanization drives partner switching and loss of mutualism in an ant–plant symbiosis
Authors: Youngsteadt Elsa , Prado Sara Guiti , Duran Aquino Alexandra Karlyz , Peña Valdeiglesias Joel , Gonzales Ojeda Therany , Garate Quispe Jorge Santiago
Published: October 2024

Mutualistic interactions between species underpin biodiversity and ecosystem function, but may be lost when partners respond differently to abiotic conditions. Except for a few prominent examples, effects of global anthropogenic change on mutualisms are poorly understood. Here we assess the effects of urbanization on a symbiosis in which the plant Cordia nodosa house ants in hollow structures (domatia) in exchange for defense against herbivores. We expected to find that mutualist ants would be replaced in the city by heat‐tolerant opportunists, leaving urban plants vulnerable to herbivory. In five protected forest sites and five urban forest fragments in southeast Perú, we recorded the identity and heat tolerance (CTmax) of ant residents of C. nodosa. We also assayed their plant‐defensive behaviors and their effects on herbivory. We characterized the urban heat‐island effect in ambient temperatures and within domatia. Forest plants housed a consistent ant community dominated by three specialized plant ants, whereas urban plants housed a suite of 10 opportunistic taxa that were, collectively, about 13 times less likely than forest ants to respond defensively to plant disturbance. In the forest, ant exclusion had the expected effect of increasing herbivory, but in urban sites, exclusion reduced herbivory. Despite poor ant defense in urban sites, we detected no difference in total standing herbivory, perhaps because herbivores themselves also declined in the city. Urban sites were warmer than forest sites (daily maxima in urban domatia averaged 1.6°C hotter), and the urban ant community as a whole was slightly more heat tolerant. These results illustrate a case of mutualism loss associated with anthropogenic disturbance. If urbanization is representative of increasing anthropogenic stressors more broadly, we might expect to see destabilization of myrmecophytic mutualisms in forest ecosystems in the future.
Multifunctional Copper Sulfide Urchin‐Like Nanostructures for Adsorption and Photocatalysis of Water Contaminants
Authors: Lopes Joana L. , Estrada Ana C. , Trindade Tito
Published: October 2024

We reported here a one‐step chemical route to prepare nanocomposites comprising CuS nanophases supported on GO sheets with magnetic properties. The synthesis reported here combines such materials in single‐nanostructures that show morphological features well‐suited for wastewater treatment. The photocatalytic performance of CuS/GO nanocomposites was first investigated towards the removal of a common organic dye (rhodamine B) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX), which is an antibiotic considered a water contaminant of emerging concern. The RhB and SMX adsorption efficiency of CuS/GO and Fe3O4/GO/CuS hybrids, as well as of CuS particles, was significantly higher than GO or Fe3O4/GO. Overall, the CuS‐based magnetic and CuS/GO hybrids have shown the capacity to uptake more than 80 % of RhB or SMX, after 120 minutes. Under blue‐led irradiation, almost complete degradation of RhB was achieved in the presence of CuS/Fe3O4/GO, after 180 minutes; and higher than 85 % degradation of SMX, after 240 minutes of irradiation. The photocatalytic behaviour of nanocomposites was best described by the first–order kinetic model, for which k values for degradation of RhB and SMX followed the order: CuS/Fe3O4/GO>CuS/GO>CuS. The tricomponent CuS/Fe3O4/GO can be easily recovered after use and be reused maintain their high photocatalytic performance, thus providing a sustainable and cost‐effective hybrid solution for water treatment.
Ground and Low‐Lying Excited States of Nickel Monocarbonyl Obtained by Anion Photoelectron Velocity Map Imaging Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Ya , Yang Yufeng , Yan Yonghong , Yao Xiaoyue , Liu Zhiling
Published: October 2024

The photodetachment of nickel monocarbonyl anion was investigated with photoelectron velocity map imaging spectroscopy and analyzed using the existing and new theoretical calculations. The photodetachment experiment conducted at three detachment photon energies (i. e. 1064, 532, and 355 nm) revealed a wealth of spectroscopic information about both the ground state and low‐lying excited states of NiCO. Franck‐Condon simulations were performed to assist the spectral assignment of the vibrationally resolved ground‐state transition. The electron affinity of NiCO is measured to be 0.775±0.002 eV. Three stretching vibrational modes were determined to be activated upon photodetachment, with frequencies of 2016±100, 597±10, and 564±10 cm−1. The higher‐energy electronic transitions were divided into two congested spectral bands, falling in the ranges of 1.8~2.8 and 2.8~3.5 eV, respectively. The current VMI provided valuable benchmark data for the theoretical calculations on the nickel carbonyls.
Power or speed: Which metric is more accurate for modelling endurance running performance on track?
Authors: Ruiz‐Alias Santiago A. , Ñancupil‐Andrade Alberto A. , Pérez‐Castilla Alejandro , García‐Pinillos Felipe
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to compare the accuracy of the power output, measured by a power meter, with respect to the speed, measured by an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) sport watch to determine the critical power (CP) and speed (CS), work over CP (W') and CS (D'), and long‐duration performance (i.e., 60 min). Fifteen highly trained athletes randomly performed seven time trials on a 400 m track. The CP/CS and W'/D' were defined through the inverse of time model using the 3, 4, 5, 10, and 20 min trials. The 60 min performance was estimated through the power law model using the 1, 3, and 10 min trials and compared with the actual performance. A lower standard error of the estimate was obtained when using the power meter (CP: 2.7 [2.1–3.3] % and W': 13.8 [10.4–17.3] %) compared to the speed reported by the IMU (CS: 3.4 [2.5–4.3] %) and D': 20.7 [16.6–24.7] %) and GNSS sport watch (CS: 3.4 [2.5–4.3] % and D': 20.6 [16.7–24.7] %). A lower coefficient of variation was also observed for the power meter (4.9 [3.7–6.1] %) Regarding the speed reported by the IMU (10.9 [7.1–14.8] %) and GNSS sport watch (10.9 [7.0–14.7] %) in the 60 min performance estimation, the power meter offered lower errors than the IMU and GNSS sport watch for modelling endurance performance on the track.
Power‐to‐Ethanol Using Bimetallic Catalysts: Reaction Paths, Transfer to Gas Diffusion Electrode, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Gräfin von Westarp Elisabeth , Hecker Burkhard , Tempel Hermann , Eichel Rüdiger‐A.
Published: October 2024

Ethanol is a promising product for the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), as ethanol as a value‐added product can help to enable the near‐term feasibility of this technique, thus Power‐to‐ethanol can act as a pioneering process for the CO2RR. Furthermore, CO2RR offers a green production process for ethanol in addition to biomass fermentation. However, the formation of ethanol via electrolysis often competes with ethylene production, which makes the selective formation of ethanol more difficult. We show that this problem can be circumvented by using a bimetallic catalyst that provides abundant *CO and thus activates an alternative and selective reaction path for ethanol. However, this study was carried out in an aqueous‐fed H‐type electrolyzer, which has mass transport limitations and thus insufficient current densities. To solve this issue, the studied catalyst is transferred to a gas diffusion electrode. Here we emphasize that, in addition to other relevant parameters, the choice of the binder also can have a high impact on the performance of the electrode. As an outlook, various enhanced reactor designs and their influence on ethanol formation are presented.