bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting responses of soil organic and inorganic carbon pools under plant invasion in tropical coral islands
Authors: Li Tengteng , Yan Biyue , Cai Hongyue , Mou Zhijian , Kuang Luhui , Zhang Jing , Wu Wenjia , Li Yue , Wang Jun , Lu Hongfang , Jian Shuguang , Ren Hai , Liu Zhanfeng
Published: November 2024

Plant invasions pose significant threats to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, but their impact on soil carbon (C) pools in island ecosystems remains underexplored. This study examined the responses of soil total C (TC), organic C (SOC), inorganic C (SIC), and microbial‐derived C (i.e., amino sugars (ASs) and glomalin‐related soil proteins (GRSP)) in tropical island forests invaded by Cassytha filiformis, Eupatorium odoratum, and Wedelia biflora. Results revealed that invasions substantially reduced aboveground and belowground biomasses of local plant communities with increasing invasion degree, yet the soil TC pool size remained nearly unaffected due to increased SIC offsetting decreased SOC. The effects on soil C pools depended on the invasive species and sampling season. E. odoratum and W. biflora invasions significantly reduced microbial‐derived C concentrations (ASs and GRSP) but increased their contribution to the SOC pool during the wet season, whereas C. filiformis invasion reduced microbial‐derived C only in the dry season. The study highlights the tradeoff between SOC and SIC in regulating soil C pools and emphasizes the need for context‐specific management strategies. Despite the stable soil TC pool, the loss of SOC's multifunctional benefits necessitates targeted strategies to mitigate invasions' adverse effects on ecosystem health and carbon storage.
The Role of Carbon Trading in Enhancing Enterprise Green Productivity and ESG Performance: A Quasi‐Natural Evidence From China
Authors: Hongbin Ying , Hongmei Yang , Cifuentes‐Faura Javier , Rauf Abdur
Published: November 2024

The carbon emission trading system (CETS) efficiency in increasing enterprise green productivity is attracting significant interest. This study proposes implementing a carbon‐emissions pricing system in China, viewing it as a quasi‐natural experiment. It investigates the aforementioned prone from a corporate green total factor productivity (GTFP) perspective. This article uses a sample of A‐share listed businesses from 2005 to 2021 from the Shenzhen and Shanghai exchanges. The research confirms that the CETS enhances the GTFP. Furthermore, the CETS has a threshold effect on enterprise green total factor productivity determined by carbon market efficiency. It also reveals that green innovation and resource allocation efficiency mediate the CETS‐GTFP link. Further analysis shows that the CETS promotes GTFP more when firms are more diversified, state‐owned, and have lower Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) ratings. This article highlights the microeconomic implications of the carbon emission pricing system, which can help construct a national carbon market and enhance green development initiatives.
Exploring How Parasocial Intergroup Contact With Transgender Influencers on TikTok Reduces Transgender Conspiracy Beliefs
Authors: Jolley Daniel , Paterson Jenny L. , Deric Dona , Lovato Talayah , McCarthy Jemma
Published: November 2024

As harmful conspiracy beliefs against transgender people are becoming increasingly popular, three experiments examined how cisgender people's contact with transgender individuals might reduce these beliefs. In Study 1a (N = 222), positive parasocial contact with transgender creators on TikTok (vs. no contact) was found to increase perspective‐taking, which was associated with lower transgender conspiracy beliefs when controlling for frequency of contact and prejudice. Study 1b (N = 302) replicated this effect when controlling for frequency of contact. Study 2 (N = 220) aimed to manipulate perspective‐taking. Contrary to predictions, asking participants to actively perspective‐take (vs. no perspective‐taking) did not increase perspective‐taking (manipulation check) or reduce conspiracy beliefs. However, as all the studies measured participants’ frequency of positive and negative contact with transgender people, we pooled the data to explore whether these forms of contact were also linked with perspective‐taking and conspiracy beliefs (combined N = 743). A positive relationship between frequency of positive contact with transgender people and perspective‐taking was found, which was then associated with lower transgender conspiracy beliefs when controlling for prejudice and experimental conditions. Our findings underscore the potential of positive contact, including via TikTok, to foster perspective‐taking, which may mitigate conspiracy beliefs against transgender people.
Young Adult Resilience for Recovery From Substance Addiction in Assam, India: Lived Experience Insights From a Photo‐Led Interview Study
Authors: Graber Rebecca , Duara Raginie , Goswami Sangeeta , Hugh‐Jones Siobhan , Chowdhury Diptarup , Madill Anna
Published: November 2024

Substance addiction can be considered a form of social injustice grounded in interactions between individual, family and community‐level risk factors. Although prevention and treatment of substance use disorder is a key target of the United Nations sustainable development goal Good Health and Well‐Being, many low‐and‐middle‐income countries lack a culturally validated approach for its management. We contend that a resilience approach may provide a sound basis from which to develop such an approach in non‐western, low‐resource settings. Hence, the aim of this study is to identify factors supporting resilience for recovery from substance addiction in the lived experience of young adults in Assam, India. We used photo‐led interviews to centre the lived experience of young adult addicts‐in‐recovery (11 men, 5 women; 19–24 years) recruited through two rehabilitation services and their networks. Reflexive thematic analysis of the data produced three clusters of themes: (i) precursors to recovery; (ii) repairing relationships; and, (iii) structuring a life of recovery. Findings are discussed and potential areas for intervention are identified to support a multi‐level, culturally informed, community‐driven approach to recovery from substance addiction.
Cutaneous Wound‐Healing Activity of Quercetin‐Functionalized Bimetallic Nanoparticles
Authors: Yadav Ekta , Neupane Netra Prasad , Otuechere Chiagoziem A. , Yadav Jagat Pal , Bhat Mashooq A. , Al‐Omar Mohamed A. , Yadav Pankajkumar , Verma Amita
Published: November 2024

Quercetin, a natural flavonol, is reported to have significant antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity, which further aids in its good wound‐healing properties via acting on acute as well as chronic inflammatory phases. The current study is focused on understanding the potential of the green‐synthesized iron and zinc oxide bimetallic (i.e., zinc ferrite) nanoparticles of quercetin (ZFQNP) on wound healing by an in vivo study model. Bimetallic quercetin nanoparticles were prepared by the co‐precipitation method and characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyses. Synthesized ZFQNP was utilized to prepare the ointment for topical application, and wound‐healing activity was evaluated by using the excisional wound method in Wistar rats. The binding affinity of quercetin was ascertained against various wound‐healing protein targets by molecular docking. Characterization data confirmed the synthesis of bimetallic ZFQNP of an irregular shape. Molecular docking studies showed satisfactory binding potential of quercetin with selected molecular targets. The study results of various parameters corroborated the significant wound‐healing properties of ZFQNP, possibly attributed to the promising binding potential of quercetin with vital wound‐healing targets. The study demonstrated that the quercetin bimetallic nanoparticles could provide a promising wound‐healing effect.
A Spontaneous Arterial Venous Fistula in a Patient on Hemodialysis: Case Report
Authors: Alemu Getasew Kassaw , Ejigu Addisu Melkie , Kassa Beniam Yohannes
Published: November 2024

Arteriovenous fistula is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins occurring usually following surgery, trauma, catheterization, or local procedures. Spontaneous arteriovenous fistulas are a rare clinical entity with very few cases reported in the literature with unclear mechanisms. We present a case report of a 54‐year‐old Ethiopian female with known chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis for 2 years thrice a week who presented with progressive pulsatile right thigh mass of 7 months duration in the absence of trauma, catheter insertion previously, or surgery. The arteriovenous fistula was confirmed by computed tomography angiography and it was intervened with open surgery with no complication.
Steroid‐Induced Psychosis in a Child With Nephrotic Syndrome Secondary to Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis: A Case Report
Authors: Pokharel Sushan , Bhusal Amrit , Bhattarai Himal Bikram , Yogi Tek Nath , Bhandari Prabha , Pandit Deepti
Published: November 2024

Corticosteroid‐induced psychosis is rare and less reported in children compared to adults. However, psychosis is considered a severe adverse effect of corticosteroids in pediatric nephrotic syndrome. Steroid‐induced psychosis is dose‐dependent and should be treated by tapering the dose of steroids and usually initiating an atypical antipsychotic. A 13‐year‐old male child presented to the pediatrics outpatient department with complaints of anxiety, fearfulness, and seeing images of an old man crawling into his room and threatening to strangle him with a red rope, which led to decreased sleep. He was initiated on oral prednisolone 3 weeks ago after being diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome. A diagnosis of steroid‐induced psychosis was made, and he was tapered on steroids over 6 weeks. He was then initiated on tacrolimus, quetiapine, and lorazepam and was discharged after a week. At follow‐up in 4 weeks, his psychosis had resolved, and nephrotic syndrome was found to improve. Children on steroids should be closely monitored for psychotic symptoms over a prolonged duration. Although tapering the dose of steroids is the gold standard treatment of steroid‐induced psychosis, cases like nephrotic syndrome demand the continuous use of an immunosuppressant. In such cases, tacrolimus has been found to be an effective alternative, although continuous monitoring for nephrotoxicity is necessary. Similarly, atypical antipsychotics (like quetiapine) are preferred for psychosis because of their lesser risk for extrapyramidal side effects compared to typicals. Parental counseling and informed consent are utmost for children on steroids or tacrolimus.
Moyamoya Disease and Carotid Web in a Young Adult With Ischemic Stroke: A Case Report
Authors: Zhuang Sheng , Xu Jiaping , Cao Yongjun , Shi Jijun
Published: November 2024

A rare case of ischemic stroke in a young adult demonstrating coexistence of moyamoya disease and carotid web in angiography was reported. Early recognition and prompt intervention should be stressed in individuals with cryptogenic stroke.
Role of Interfacial Potential Drops on Redox‐Couple Dependent Voltages Using Hybridized Si(111)–(Bis)Anthracene Photoelectrodes
Authors: Jin Kim Hark , Rose Michael J.
Published: November 2024

We investigate the flat band voltage (VFB) of silicon (Si) surfaces functionalized with methyl (Me), 9‐anthracene (Anth), 1,8‐anthracene (DiAnth; two attachment points), and 9‐bianthracene (BiAnth) on n‐type and p‐type Si substrates. Flat band potential (EFB, by Mott‐Schottky) provided VFB (or VBI) dependent on the contacted redox couple (ERedox). On p‐type Si, VFB increased linearly until a limiting value was reached; similarly, the n‐type Si VFB decreased linearly until it plateaued at more negative potentials. Notably, the slope of VFB depended on the surface modifier, exhibiting opposite trends for p‐type and n‐type Si. Curiously, anthracene‐functionalized p‐Si exhibited an unexpectedly more shallow (and beneficial) slope than ‐methyl, attributed to the polarizability of the anthracene π electron cloud and a potential drop across the molecular interface. On n‐type Si, anthracene‐functionalized surfaces displayed a higher slope than ‐methyl, suggesting a gradual cancellation of the voltage shift effect due to a fixed surface dipole. We also quantified the interfacial potential drop across p‐Si–Anth as 275 mV using variable frequency (10 kHz vs 1 kHz) Mott‐Schottky analysis. The interfacial potential drop and dipoles that result from molecular functionalization are thus critical design parameters for PEC cells that utilize moderate‐potential redox couples or reactions; however, such effects are negligible with redox couples that reside at or beyond the semiconductor band‐edge.
New railway Dresden–Prague: Ore Mountains tunnel—Preliminary design using BIM
Authors: Stöckl Christian , Hanz Stefan , Hammer Anna‐Lena , Sabata Roman , Lenz Gerold
Published: November 2024

The Dresden–Prague railway line is an important part of the core TEN‐T Orient/Eastern Mediterranean corridor and a major link between Germany and the Czech Republic. The aim of the project is to reduce journey times for international passenger trains and increase capacity for freight trains. At the same time, it will extend the railway network in Central Europe and develop high‐speed transport in the Czech Republic. The project will also provide a flood‐safe alternative to the Elbe Valley, encouraging a modal shift from road to rail. The core element of this project is the cross‐border base tunnel under the Ore Mountains. During the preliminary design, two basic alternatives (“full tunnel” and “partial tunnel”) are being examined. It was announced on November 20, 2023, that the preferred option for the new Dresden–Prague line is the “full tunnel” alternative. For this reason, the article focuses mainly on the technical solutions for the Ore Mountain Tunnel of the “full tunnel” alternative. The BIM methodology was a key element in the preliminary design phase. The model was to be used as the main source of information in the design process and in the development of solutions. It also allowed detailed decisions to be made at an early stage.
Evaluating the feasibility of using a rapeseed oil‐derived anionic polymeric surfactant for enhanced oil recovery from carbonate/sandstone composite reservoirs
Authors: Nowrouzi Iman , Mohammadi Amir H. , Khaksar Manshad Abbas
Published: November 2024

This study aims to investigate enhanced oil recovery from carbonate/sandstone composite (CSC) reservoirs using a negative‐charged rapeseed oil‐based polymeric surfactant. The polymeric surfactant was first synthesized and characterized. Temperature stability and salt tolerance were then measured. The experiments of interfacial tension (IFT), viscosity, contact angle, and injection of chemical slugs into the CSC plugs were performed. Based on the results, the surfactant remained stable at reservoir temperature and salinity up to 90,000 ppm, and increased viscosity to optimal levels at the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 4000 ppm and higher. At concentrations ≥3000 ppm, it exhibited non‐Newtonian behaviour, and the IFT was significantly reduced to 62 × 10−3 mN/m at CMC and 21 × 10−3 mN/m at optimum salinity and alkalinity. It also altered the wettability of the rock, reducing the contact angle to 56.29° at CMC. After injecting the polymeric surfactant into a rock plug, oil recovery increased by 26.5%, and water‐cut was minimized to 20%.
Fast and cool: “Cold Synthesis” of the agent paracetamol in chemistry lesson
Authors: Diekemper Dominik , Hennings Helge
Published: November 2024

Schmerzmittel (Analgetika) begegnen Lernenden vielfach im Alltag, sodass nunmehr einige Bundesländer diese und andere pharmazeutische Themen in ihren Lehr‐ und Bildungsplänen für das Fach Chemie vorsehen. Das hier vorgestellte Experiment ermöglicht die einfache und sicherheitskonforme Synthese des Schmerzmittels Paracetamol im Chemieunterricht. Paracetamol, eines der prominentesten Schmerzmittel, wird in einem geschlossenen System mit minimalem apparativem Aufwand synthetisiert und das Syntheseprodukt mit den Lernenden auf Reinheit mittels Schmelzpunktbestimmung untersucht.
The incidence of pancreatic cancer in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
Authors: Katona Bryson W. , Lubinski Jan , Pal Tuya , Huzarski Tomasz , Foulkes William D. , Moller Pal , Eisen Andrea , Randall Armel Susan , Neuhausen Susan L. , Raj Rebecca , Aeilts Amber , Singer Christian F. , Bordeleau Louise , Karlan Beth , Olopade Olufunmilayo , Tung Nadine , Zakalik Dana , Kotsopoulos Joanne , Fruscio Robert , Eng Charis , Sun Ping , Narod Steven A. ,   the Hereditary Breast Cancer Clinical Study Group
Published: November 2024

Background

The lifetime risk of pancreatic cancer in women with a germline mutation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 is not well established. In an international prospective cohort of female carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, the cumulative incidence of pancreatic cancer from age 40 until 80 years was estimated.

Methods

A total of 8295 women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation were followed for new cases of pancreatic cancer. Subjects were followed from the date of baseline questionnaire or age 40 years (whichever came last) until a new diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, death from another cause, or date of last follow‐up.

Results

Thirty‐four incident pancreatic cancer cases were identified in the cohort. The annual risk of pancreatic cancer between age 40 and 80 years was 0.04% for BRCA1 carriers and 0.09% for BRCA2 carriers. Via the Kaplan–Meier method, the cumulative incidence from age 40 to 80 years was 2.2% (95% CI, 1.1%–4.3%) for BRCA1 carriers and 2.7% (95% CI, 1.3%–5.4%) for BRCA2 carriers. Only two of the 34 cases reported a first‐degree relative with pancreatic cancer (hazard ratio, 4.75; 95% CI, 1.13–19.9; p = .03). Risk factors for pancreatic cancer included alcohol intake and a history of diabetes. The 5‐year survival rate for the 34 cases was 8.8%.

Conclusions

The lifetime risk of pancreatic cancer is approximately 2% in women with a BRCA1 mutation and 3% for women with a BRCA2 mutation. The poor survival in hereditary pancreatic cancer underscores the need for novel antitumoral strategies.
Nuclear Expression of Dynamin 2 Is Associated With Tumor Aggressiveness in Bladder Cancer Patients: A Bioinformatics and Experimental Approach
Authors: Razmi Mahdieh , Saeednejad Zanjani Leili , Rahimi Mandana , Sajed Roya , Safaei Sadegh , Madjd Zahra , Ghods Roya
Published: November 2024

Background

Dynamin 2 (DNM2) is aberrantly expressed in different malignancies and exerts a function in tumor progression.

Aims

This study, for the first time, aimed to evaluate the clinical and prognostic value of DNM2 in the pathophysiology of bladder cancer using bioinformatics analysis and experimental evaluation.

Methods and Results

We analyzed gene expression of DNM2 in bladder tumor by GEPIA2 and GENT2 platforms. Cluster subnetworks were recognized from the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network using the MCODE plugin to screen the key genes. Subsequently, the pathway enrichment analysis was evaluated. Then, the immunohistochemical examination was conducted on 209 paraffin‐embedded bladder cancer samples to determine the expression pattern and clinical importance of DNM2. Our data mining findings demonstrated dysregulation of DNM2 gene expression in bladder cancer. The results of pathway and PPI network analyses indicated that DNM2 might be involved in the development of bladder cancer by influencing various signaling pathways. Our IHC results represented remarkably higher DNM2 expression in bladder tumor samples compared to normal tissue samples adjacent to tumor. A statistically significant association was identified between DNM2 expression in the nucleus and higher histological grade (p = 0.026), advanced pT stage (p = 0.016), muscular invasion (p = 0.007), tumor recurrence (p = 0.030), and distant metastasis (p < 0.001). Moreover, the nuclear DNM2 expression was observed to have prognostic significance for disease‐specific survival (DSS) using a log‐rank test (p = 0.028).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that nuclear DNM2 expression could be a putative indicator of bladder tumor progression owing to its association with elevated cancer aggressiveness.
Choice of activation protocol impacts the yield and quality of CAR T cell product, particularly with older individuals
Authors: Mehta Palak H , Trollope Gemma S , Leung Patrick , Chinni Shivali Savita , Iasinskaia Anna , Harrison Aaron J , Hughes‐Parry Hannah , Jenkins Misty R , Kershaw Michael H , Jaworowski Anthony , Slaney Clare Y , Koldej Rachel M , Ritchie David S , Quinn Kylie M
Published: November 2024

Objectives

In clinical chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, one of the strongest correlates of favorable patient responses is lower levels of differentiation in T cells from the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) starting material or the CAR T cell product. T cells from older patients are inherently more differentiated, but we hypothesised that specific activation protocols could be used to limit CAR T cell differentiation during manufacturing, particularly in older patients.

Methods

We used PBMCs from young (20–30 years old) and older (60+ years old) healthy donors to generate CAR T cells using two activation protocols: soluble anti‐(α) CD3 monoclonal antibody (mAb) vs immune complexes of αCD3 and αCD28 mAbs. Products were assessed for yield, function and differentiation, which was used as a measure of CAR T cell quality. T cells in PBMCs were assessed for CD28 expression and correlative analyses were performed.

Results

Older samples generated fewer, more differentiated CAR T cells than young samples, and the αCD3/CD28 mAb protocol exacerbated this, further reducing yield and quality. CD28 expression by T cells correlated with CAR T cell differentiation, but T cell differentiation in PBMC starting material was a stronger correlate of CAR T cell differentiation.

Conclusions

Choice of activation protocol can substantially impact on the yield and quality of CAR T cells during manufacturing. This is a key consideration for older patients whose samples already generate a poorer yield and lower quality of CAR T cells.
Squamous cell carcinoma is associated with reduced IL34 expression, alterations in the Langerhans cell antigen‐processing‐presentation machinery and poor patient survival
Authors: Dang Thi Viet Trinh , Gillinder Kevin R , Nguyen Quan , Mulay Onkar , Vo Tuan , Mehdi Ahmed M , Zhou Chenhao , Brooks Andrew J , Leggatt Graham R , Hume David A , Frazer Ian H , Chandra Janin
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Langerhans cells (LCs) are epithelial antigen‐presenting cells (APC) contributing to immune surveillance. LCs depend on interleukin 34 (IL34) production by epithelial cells. This study aimed to uncover mechanisms of alteration of IL34 and LC function in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

Cancer cohort data were used to identify associations between SCC and IL34. ATAC‐seq of keratinocytes (KCs) and LCs from a murine model of epithelial hyperplasia, driven by HPV16 E7 oncoprotein (K14E7), was analysed. Transcriptomic data were used to validate findings. RNAscope, RT‐qPCR, ELISA and confocal imaging was used to analyse IL34 expression and LCs in a spatial context.

Results

IL34 mRNA is downregulated in human SCCs of the head and neck, the cervix, the lung and the oesophagus, and low IL34 expression is associated with poor survival. We demonstrate that KCs of K14E7 mice have reduced Il34 gene accessibility, mRNA and protein, as well as broad changes in promotor accessibility associated with cell adhesion and immune responses. Chromatin accessibility was substantially changed in LCs, including increased accessibility of the Csf1r gene, and changes in promotors associated with cytoskeleton arrangement and antigen processing and presentation. We discovered altered spatial LC dendrite organisation in hyperproliferative epithelium.

Conclusion

Squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, head and neck, oesophagus and lung demonstrate downregulation of IL34, which is associated with poor survival, and with alterations in LC spatial organisation and function. These findings suggest that reduced IL34 expression in SCC may contribute to impaired local immunity through LC dysregulation.
A symbiotic mosquito‐gut bacterium for flavivirus control
Authors: Wang Jinglin , Zhu Yibin , Leng Jun , Yuan Yulin , Cao Yingyi , Cheng Gong , Xia Xueshan
Published: November 2024

Dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) have emerged as major global public health challenges, causing numerous infections and fatalities each year. However, current measures, including vaccines and treatments, are often limited or ineffective. This highlights the urgent need for novel preventive strategies to control the spread of key mosquito‐borne viruses like DENV and ZIKV. In a recent study published in Science, Zhang et al. isolated a bacterium named Rosenbergiella_YN46 from the gut of field‐caught Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in Yunnan Province, China. This commentary reviews their findings, published on April 19, 2024, which describe the symbiotic bacterium Rosenbergiella_YN46 and its ability to block flavivirus transmission, including both DENV and ZIKV. The bacterium shows promising potential for future dengue fever prevention and provides valuable insights into a novel biological approach for controlling mosquito‐borne viral diseases.
Performance Improvement of NOMA Under Imperfect CSI and Inter‐Network Interference for Future Cellular Networks
Authors: Raeisidehkordi Ehsan , Bakhshi Hamidreza
Published: November 2024

Future communications networks, including sixth‐generation (6G) and the internet of things (IoT), are expected to support higher capacity, quality of service, and user demands. However, serving a massive number of users in future networks poses the bandwidth limitation challenge. Non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) has been proposed for the future IoT and 6G networks to address the mentioned problem by serving multiple users in one resource block. However, the practical approach for a multi‐cell network is to consider inter‐network interference and imperfect channel state information (CSI), which significantly deteriorates NOMA performance. This paper analyzes NOMA performance in terms of network outage probability, base station (BS) activity detection, and network sum rate under imperfect CSI and the presence of interference. In this regard, it proposes a method to improve the BS activity detection and network sum rate of NOMA networks, which exploits a lower computation complexity compared to similar research in the literature. The analytical and simulation results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method over conventional NOMA and orthogonal multiple access (OMA) schemes in terms of network sum rate and base station detection activity.
Genomics identifies koala populations at risk across eastern Australia
Authors: McLennan Elspeth A. , Kovacs Toby G. L. , Silver Luke W. , Chen Zhiliang , Jaya Frederick R. , Ho Simon Y. W. , Belov Katherine , Hogg Carolyn J.
Published: November 2024

Koalas are an iconic, endangered, Australian marsupial. Disease, habitat destruction, and catastrophic mega‐fires have reduced koalas to remnant patches of their former range. With increased likelihood of extreme weather events and ongoing habitat clearing across Australia, koala populations are vulnerable to further declines and isolation. Small, isolated populations are considered at risk when there is increased inbreeding, erosion of genomic diversity, and loss of adaptive potential, all of which reduce their ability to respond to prevailing threats. Here, we characterized the current genomic landscape of koalas using data from The Koala Genome Survey, a joint initiative between the Australian Federal and New South Wales Governments that aimed to provide a future‐proofed baseline genomic dataset across the koala's range in eastern Australia. We identified several regions of the continent where koalas have low genomic diversity and high inbreeding, as measured by runs of homozygosity. These populations included coastal sites along southeast Queensland and northern and mid‐coast New South Wales, as well as southern New South Wales and Victoria. Analysis of genomic vulnerability to future climates revealed that northern koala populations were more at risk due to the extreme expected changes in this region, but that the adaptation required was minimal compared with other species. Our genomic analyses indicate that continued development, particularly linear infrastructure along coastal sites, and resultant habitat destruction are causing isolation and subsequent genomic erosion across many koala populations. Habitat protection and the formation of corridors must be employed for all koala populations to maintain current levels of diversity. For highly isolated koala populations, active management may be the only way to improve genomic diversity in the short term. If koalas are to be conserved for future generations, reversing their genomic isolation must be a priority in conservation planning.
Unpacking the Controversies of Weight Loss and Dietary Restraint With Binge‐Eating Disorder: Commentary on Grilo and Pittman
Authors: Balantekin Katherine N. , Hayes Jacqueline F.
Published: November 2024

The study by Grilo and Pittman highlights two related controversies affecting the eating disorders field: (1) Is it ever appropriate to recommend behavioral weight loss (BWL) interventions to patients with binge‐eating disorder (BED); and (2) Is dietary restraint beneficial or harmful? This paper explores reasons underlying these controversies and underscores the important nuances within these constructs within the context of Grilo and Pittman's findings. For example, people often subsume BWL as part of the umbrella term “dieting,” but extensive research shows clear differences between self‐directed “dieting” and BWL intervention on both weight loss efficacy and on eating disorder psychopathology. In addition, it is critical to consider and understand the different types of dietary restraint. Increases in rigid restraint are often considered a negative outcome in the eating disorder field; however, Grilo and Pittman identify increases as beneficial for individuals with BED and obesity participating in a BWL intervention. There is a critical need in the eating disorders field to work together to better understand the nuance underlying these frequently used constructs.
On the Relationship Between the Gini Coefficient and Skewness
Authors: Lian Meng , Chen Long , Hui Cang , Zhu Fuyuan , Shi Peijian
Published: November 2024

Skewness, a measure of the asymmetry of a distribution, is frequently employed to reflect a biologically important property. Another statistic, the Gini coefficient (GC), originally used to measure economic inequality, has been validated in measuring the inequality of biological size distributions. Given that the GC and skewness control overlapping domains and interact with each other, researchers are perplexed by their relationship (varying with the biological [organ, tissue or cell] size distributions) and use both of them together to provide a more complete picture of the data. This study provides analytical forms of the GC for biological size distributions, including two‐parameter Weibull, uniform, normal, two‐parameter lognormal, gamma, three‐parameter Weibull, three‐parameter lognormal, and three‐parameter gamma distributions. Two empirical data sets and simulation data sets were used to clarify the GC–skewness relationships under different distributions. For the aforementioned distributions, the GC–skewness relationships can be divided into three types: (i) for a symmetrical distribution, the skewness is 0, and the GC ranges from 0.56 to 0.58 multiplied by the standard deviation divided by the mean irrespective of its relationship with the skewness; (ii) for an asymmetric distribution with a zero threshold, the GC is a monotonously increasing function of the skewness, and the two measures are equivalent; (iii) for an asymmetric distribution with a non‐zero threshold, the GC is determined by the skewness and an additional correction factor. We showed the differences in improving the accuracy of GC calculations based on small‐sample adjustments among various calculation methods, including the polygon (trapezoidal set) area method and the rotated Lorenz curve method. The present study turns the GC into a property of the distribution and offers a clear understanding for the GC–skewness relationship. This work provides insights into selecting and using the GC to measure inequality in ecological data, facilitating more accurate and meaningful analyses.
A Future Without Control Basins: Compound Forest Disturbance and the Disappearance of Undisturbed Forested Catchments in the Western United States
Authors: Schneider Katie E. , Hogue Terri
Published: November 2024

In recent decades, forest disturbances caused by wildfire, insect and disease‐induced forest mortality and drought have increased in frequency and magnitude, especially in the Western United States. Forest disturbances have been shown to alter water budget partitioning. However, the water budget response to disturbance is inconsistent and is still being characterized within forest disturbance hydrology (FDH) literature. In this review and synthesis, we evaluate how FDH literature has grown in recent decades (2000–2021), and we extract papers discussing compound (or overlapping) forest disturbances in the Western United States. We then compare literature findings with the actual prevalence of forest disturbance (caused by wildfire, insects and disease) in forested catchments in the Western United States, at HUC‐8, −10 and −12 scales. We find that 94% of HUC‐8 basins, 85% of HUC‐10 basins, and 60% of HUC‐12 basins have experienced compound wildfire and insect/disease disturbance over the period 2000–2022, and virtually, no basins remain undisturbed. These figures contrast with recent FDH literature, where relatively few studies evaluate the hydrologic implications of compound disturbances. These findings suggest that FDH literature is not ‘meeting the moment’ and perhaps, more critically, that true control (or ‘static’) basins are nearly nonexistent in the Western United States. We highlight that as a community of ecohydrologists, we must rethink how we assess post‐disturbance water budget partitioning. This will require better tools (e.g., models) to assess post‐disturbance hydrology, more observations and especially cross‐disciplinary collaborations between hydrology and forestry communities.
Time since fire interacts with herbivore intake rates to control herbivore habitat occupancy
Authors: Donaldson Jason E. , Anderson T. Michael , Munuo Norbert , Holdo Ricardo M.
Published: November 2024

Smaller grazers consistently show greater preference for recently burned patches than larger species. Energy optimization theory posits that this pattern is driven by small‐ versus large‐bodied herbivores seeking to maximize energy intake by choosing high‐quality recently burned grasses, or high‐quantity unburned grasses, respectively. We propose that if burn preference is driven by an energy‐maximization mechanism, then preference should change over time as grass regrows and progresses across the optimal feeding heights of herbivores of increasing body size. To test this, we used a camera trap array in the Serengeti National Park to quantify changes in the relative preference for burned patches of seven ruminant herbivore species. We compared observed patterns to simulation results from a grass production‐herbivore patch selection model. Burn preference and herbivore body size scaled negatively for 6 months after fire, but this relationship disappeared after 7 months when smaller species stopped selecting burns, and larger herbivores selected burns after 10 months, in a reversal of classic grazer succession. Simulations recreated the former but not the latter relationship, suggesting that an energy‐maximization mechanism can drive allometric scaling of burn preference immediately after fire, but over longer periods, grazer‐driven feedbacks are required to explain large herbivore burn preferences.
Abrupt demographic change affects projected population size: Implications for an endangered species in a protected area
Authors: Strier Karen B. , Ives Anthony R.
Published: November 2024

Understanding how demographic parameters change with density is essential for predicting the resilience of small populations. We use long‐term, individual‐based life history data from an isolated population of the Critically Endangered Northern Muriqui (Brachyteles hypoxanthus) inhabiting a 1000‐ha protected forest to evaluate density‐dependent demographic rates before and after an abrupt population decline. We found no effect of density on fertility or birth sex ratio, but mortality rates increased linearly with log density over the 33 years of population growth (1983–2015) and the subsequent 7 years of population decline (2016–2022). We used an age‐ and sex‐structured logistic growth model to project population sizes to 2060. Under the 1983–2015 demographic profile, the projected size was 500 individuals, but this dropped to 200 when including the abrupt change. Although the abrupt decline coincided with the end of a 2‐year drought and a yellow fever outbreak, we found no statistical effects of climate or disease on the continued population decline after 2016. However, the lower projected carrying capacity for muriquis is consistent with reduced forest productivity and increased predator pressures. These findings demonstrate the value of long‐term monitoring for identifying demographic changes that affect the sustainability of wildlife populations in small protected areas.
IL1R2 Acts as a Negative Regulator of Monocyte Recruitment During Inflammation
Authors: Cros Adeline , Segura Elodie
Published: November 2024

IL1‐β plays a central role in inflammation but its biological action needs to be tightly controlled. Such negative regulation can be exerted by the decoy receptor IL1R2. However, IL1R2 biology in immune cells remains poorly characterized, in particular in monocytes. Using conditional deficient mice, we show that Il1r2 deficiency in monocytes does not affect their steady‐state life cycle but dysregulates their trafficking to inflamed tissues in models of peritonitis and neuro‐inflammation. Mechanistically, we found that Il1r2 deficiency in monocytes increases CCL2 secretion in the inflamed peritoneum, thereby amplifying monocyte recruitment from blood. In autoimmune neuro‐inflammation, Il1r2 deficiency in monocytes exacerbates disease severity. Our findings suggest that the specific action of IL1R2 in monocytes contributes to a feedback mechanism for fine‐tuning the numbers of recruited monocytes during inflammation.
Rh(II)‐Catalyzed Tandem Reaction of 2‐Trimethylsiloxy‐pyridine and α‐Trifluoromethyl Diazomethane: An Approach to Tetrasubstituted gem‐Difluoro Olefins
Authors: Li Guang‐Hui , Huang Xin‐Yu , Lv Jun‐Xi , Zhao Xue‐Di , Yang Shengchao , Liu Lu
Published: November 2024

Herein, we describe a Rh2(OAc)4‐catalyzed reaction of 2‐trimethylsiloxy‐pyridine and fluorinated diazomethanes, which provides an effective and straightforward approach to the synthesis of 2‐oxopyridinyl tetrasubstituted gem‐difluoro olefins. This protocol features good functional group compatibility, mild reaction conditions, good yield, and readily available substrates.
Direct Reductive N‐alkylation of Amines with Carboxylic Esters
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Bonku Emmanuel Mintah , Yang Xingbang , Zhu Fuqiang , Jiang Xiangrui , Abduahadi Safomuddin , Yang Peng , Aisa Haji Akber , Shen Jingshan , Qin Hongjian
Published: November 2024

We report herein a facile direct method for the reductive N‐alkylation of amines with carboxylic esters, using tert‐butylmagnesium chloride (t‐BuMgCl) as a mediator and Red‐Al as the reducing agent. The direct amidation of esters with amines and t‐BuMgCl generates the intermediate amides. Subsequently, without the need for isolation or purification, these intermediates reacted with Red‐Al in the same reaction flask to generate amines up to 90 % yield. This process is characterized by the rapid reaction time, quantitative conversion, and broad ester scope with various functional groups. Notably, this method enables the successful transformation of amine with carboxylic esters to produce cariprazine, a pivotal antipsychotic drug substance.
Optical Determination of the Internal Capillary Diameter Used in Taylor Dispersion Analysis
Authors: Roca Sébastien , Leclercq Laurent , Gonzalez Philippe , Somnin Chutintorn , Alvarez Marta Garrido , Dhellemmes Laura , Chamieh Joseph , Cottet Hervé
Published: November 2024

In this work, we describe an optical setup to determine the internal diameter of narrow bore fused silica capillary used in capillary electrophoresis and Taylor dispersion analysis (TDA). Indeed, fluctuations up to about ±3–4 µm on the capillary I.D. can generate important inaccuracy on the hydrodynamic radius determination by TDA. Calibration of the optical set‐up, impact of the operator and of the placement of the capillary in the focal plane, and the influence of the way to cut the capillary were investigated and discussed. This optical set‐up was next used to determine capillary I.D. on a 60 m long capillary spool. Relatively small variations were observed along a 60 m capillary spool (0.3 µm maximum variation), while important I.D. fluctuations can be observed from capillary batch to batch. Taking three capillaries of three different nominal I.D. values, Rh values of sodium benzoate obtained by TDA were not significantly different if the capillary I.D. were optically measured, while significant variations were observed with the nominal I.D. values. A protocol based on TDA of sodium benzoate was proposed for calibrating narrow bore fused silica capillary I.D. without the use of optical measurements for researchers that would not have access to such optical equipment.
Annual energy, exergy, and efficiency analyses for conical solar still combined with N number of evacuated collectors
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Kumar Rajesh
Published: November 2024

The utilization of solar energy technology for obtaining clean water for use of society in remote locations will help in fulfilling the sustainable development goals of the United Nations. Also, promotion of solar energy for the use of society will subside dependency on the fossil fuel or conventional energy. This article deals with the annual energy, exergy, and efficiency analyses of N identical ETCs incorporated conical solar still (NETC‐CSS). The thermal model for the proposed system has been developed based on equating input and output heats for different elements. The developed fundamental equations are fed to the MATLAB computational code. The four weather situations in each month of year for New Delhi climate is considered for the annual analysis. The annual energy, exergy, thermal efficiency, and exergy efficiency for NETC‐CSS are computed to be 1796.61, 170.19 kWh, 38.79%, and 3.94% under optimized values of mass flow rate and number of collectors. Results are compared with earlier published research. Concludingly, the increase in annual energy, exergy, thermal efficiency, and exergy efficiency for NETC‐CSS is 68.03% than modified solar still, 74.14% than conventional conical solar still, 61.12% than modified solar still, and 72.59% than solar still with parabolic trough collector.
A simulation based water quality parameter control of aquaponic system employing model predictive control strategy incorporation with optimization technique
Authors: Debroy Pragnaleena , Majumder Priyanka , Seban Lalu
Published: November 2024

Aquaponics is an integration of aquaculture and hydroponics systems, utilizing recirculating water to connect these two processes. Maintaining optimal water quality parameters is critical for the life of fish and plants and crucial for the optimal production in the aquaponics. However, this is difficult due to the complex dynamics in each system and the recirculations. Atmospheric temperature significantly impacts fish and plant growth by affecting water quality parameters. To address this, a mathematical model for key parameters, such as temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO), is introduced, along with a model predictive controller (MPC) that is designed to maintain these parameters at optimal levels. The ideal operating points for temperature and DO are identified by optimizing the aquaponics dynamics. The MPC's performance is compared to that of a traditional proportional‐integral (PI) controller, utilizing two performance indices: relative absolute deviation (RAD) and mean relative deviation (MRD). The MPC demonstrates a reduction in RAD values for both FT and NFT water parameters by 40%–60%, and MRD values by 8%–43%. These results show that the MPC effectively mitigates disturbances and addresses model mismatches, outperforming the PI controller. Implementing the proposed strategies in aquaponic systems enhances overall performance, boosts food production rates, maximizes profit, and reduces labour.
Construction Risk Assessment of Tunnel Crossing Goaf Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process‐Extension Theory Model
Authors: Yuan Chao , Li Lian‐xin , Su Xiao‐wei , Du Rong‐jie
Published: November 2024

In the tunnel construction project, it is possible to encounter coal mine goaf. The goaf is often accompanied by a large number of toxic and harmful gases such as gas, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. These factors undoubtedly increase the occurrence of geological disaster risk accidents such as gas combustion and explosion, resulting in tunnel excavation shutdown, plan delay and even a large number of casualties. To grasp the risk status of tunnel construction safety in coal mine goaf, we selected 11 risk factors as evaluation indicators on the basis of investigation and analysis of risk factors in a large number of engineering cases of tunnel crossing coal mine goaf. The construction risk evaluation indicator system of tunnel crossing coal mine goaf is constructed, the weight of construction risk evaluation indicator is calculated, and the risk evaluation grade of tunnel construction is determined. On this basis, the construction risk assessment judgment matrix is established by using the analytic hierarchy process, and the calculation system of the weight of each indicator in the risk assessment system is developed by using the Java programming language. Based on the theory of extension evaluation, a matter‐element extension model for the construction risk assessment of tunnel crossing coal mine goaf is established, and the construction risk assessment of Wanmin tunnel is carried out by using this model. The results of risk assessment grade provide an important theoretical basis and guidance for the selection of safe construction methods for subsequent tunnels crossing coal mine goaf. The successful application of the matter‐element extension model established in this paper provides a new idea for the quantitative evaluation of the construction risk of tunnel uncovering coal mine goaf.
Top Ten Resolutions for Energy Industry Executives in 2025
Authors: Price Jason , Shah Niki
Published: November 2024

Now in its fifth year in this publication, the Top Ten Resolutions for Energy Industry Executives continues to have no shortage of thoughts and examples on how the industry can rebuild the nation's energy systems to support customers and combat climate change. The 2025 list highlights industry areas requiring more attention and focus. We hope these thoughts and examples are considered while defining strategic and investment priorities for 2025.