bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metal‐Free and Diastereoselective Synthesis of 4‐Oxa‐δ‐Lactams with 2‐Aza‐3‐Silyloxy‐1,3‐Butadienes and Fluoroalkyl Acylsilanes
Authors: Song Dalu , Zhang Yunxiao , He Xiaoqian , Zhou Gang , Zhang Weilu , Shen Xiao
Published: January 2025

Herein, we report a diastereoselective [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of 2‐aza‐3‐silyloxy‐1,3‐butadienes and fluoroalkyl acylsilanes for the synthesis of fluoroalkyl 4‐oxa‐δ‐lactams without a metal catalyst or an additive under open‐to‐air conditions. The reaction features mild conditions, high efficiency and excellent diastereoselectivity, exhibiting a broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance.
Design of a Solar‐Wind Hybrid Renewable Energy System for Power Quality Enhancement: A Case Study of 2.5 MW Real Time Domestic Grid
Authors: Savio F. Max , Joshua S. Vinson , Usha K. , Faheem Muhammad , Kannadasan Raju , Khan Arfat Ahmad
Published: January 2025

The increasing global energy demand driven by climate change, technological advancements, and population growth necessitates the development of sustainable solutions. This research investigates the design, modeling, and simulation of a 2.5 MW solar‐wind hybrid renewable energy system (SWH‐RES) optimized for domestic grid applications. A survey conducted across 450 households identified a total energy demand of 2.3 MW, with distinct day and night usage profiles. In response, a hybrid system consisting of a 1.5 MW solar park and a 1 MW wind energy unit was designed to ensure continuous power supply. The system was modeled and simulated using MATLAB, and its performance was evaluated through a detailed Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) analysis. This research addresses the critical need for a sustainable and high‐quality power supply by designing, modeling, and simulating a 2.5 MW solar‐wind hybrid renewable energy system (SWH‐RES) optimized to meet the energy demand of a surveyed 2.3 MW domestic load, while also reducing THD to acceptable levels for improved power quality and grid stability. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in THD, with voltage THD decreasing from 45.48% to 26.20% and current THD from 8.32% to 2.88% after implementing filtering components. These findings underscore the effectiveness of the proposed SWH‐RES in providing stable, high‐quality power while addressing the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
Optimizing La₂MnXO₆ Double Perovskite for Superior Electrochemical Efficiency in Supercapacitors
Authors: Ali Ahmar , Gondal Mohammed A. , Khan Javed A. , Mustaqeem Mujahid , Almessiere Munerah A. , Baykal Abdulhadi
Published: January 2025

Double perovskite oxides (POs) are effective electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs). Nevertheless, adapting their unique architectures to boost the electrochemical performance remains tricky. Herein, we present exceptional La2MnXO6 (X = Co, Fe) double perovskites as SC electrode materials. The sol–gel method has prepared La2MnCoO6 (LMCO) and La2MnFeO6 (LMFO) nanorods. XRD revealed that LMCO and LMFO have monoclinic crystal structures with lattice constants of a = 5.517 Å, b = 5.528 Å, c = 7.805 Å, β = 89.926°, and a = 5.549 Å, b = 5.557 Å, c = 7.783 Å, β = 89.931°, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy indicated the existence of uniformly distributed nanorods. The bandgap using Tauc's plot was determined as 1.38 and 1.24 eV for La2MnCoO6 and La2MnFeO6, respectively. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy further characterized the prepared LMCO and LMFO nanorods. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation confirmed the existence of La3+, Mn3+, Fe3+, O2−, and La3+, Mn3+, Co3+, O2− ions on the surface of La2MnFeO6 and La2MnFeO6, respectively. The specific capacitance achieved was 333.86 and 880.5 F/g @ 2.5 A/g for La2MnCoO6 and La2MnFeO6, respectively, using 1 M KOH electrolyte. La2MnFeO6 demonstrated excellent energy and power density of 30.5 Wh/kg and 625 W/kg. The asymmetric CV curve shape proved that we have battery‐type SC behavior due to the indication of redox reactions. Furthermore, Dunn's technique evaluated the percentage contribution of capacitive and diffusion behavior. Our strategy using LMCO and LMFO nanorods material improved specific capacitance activity and significantly offered a facile guideline for targeting double perovskite electrodes for SC applications.
Late Triassic to Jurassic Tectonic Evolution of the Northern Sichuan Foreland Basin, South China Craton
Authors: Xiong Can , Yang Xiangyang , Dong Yunpeng , Xiao Ming , Wei Zhaoying , Feng Yanbo , Sun Jiaopeng , Xiang Lingzi , Yu Lin , Xie Songlin , Wang Cuifang , Zhang Songlin
Published: January 2025

The Northern Sichuan Foreland Basin, which is located in the northwest of South China Craton (SCC), was formed by the intracontinental thrusting between the Qinling Orogenic Belt (QOB) and SCC. The Upper Triassic to Jurassic sedimentary successions within this foreland basin, contain crucial information for revealing the intracontinental deformation sequence between the QOB and the SCC. In this study, based on a systematic dataset, including the palaeocurrent orientation, sandstone modal composition, and detrital zircons U–Pb age data, we attempt to reveal the tectonic processes during the Late Triassic to Jurassic interval. The palaeocurrent orientations, which is primarily directed in the southward and northwestward directions, indicate that the sediments were sourced from the north and southeast. The sandstone clastic components reveal multiple sources, including the magmatic arc and continental crust. Detrital zircons from six samples yield six major U–Pb age groups, including 2650–2350, 2050–1720, 1000–620, 520–380, 350–210, and 205–160 Ma. The Upper Triassic sediments contain a relatively high density of 2490, 1860, 810, 440, and 230 Ma, which are mostly consistent with the QOB, northern SCC and Jiangnan Suture Zone provenances. The majority age population of 2050–1750 Ma observed within the Xujiahe Formation, is considered to be primarily sourced from northern SCC, suggesting the uplift and erosion of the northern SCC, probably imply extreme shortening between the QOB and SCC. The Baitianba and Xintiangou formations, which contain lesser 2050–1720 Ma aged zircons, indicate a period of lacustrine expansion and tectonic quiescence after the shortening. The Middle Jurassic Shaximiao Formation, and the Upper Jurassic Suining and Penglaizhen formations, involve a major age population of 2050–1720 Ma that were sourced from northern SCC, indicate another phase of uplifting of the northern SCC related to a second stage of extreme intracontinental shortening and deformation between the SCC and the QOB. In summary, the above results indicate that, an initial phase of extensive shortening between the QOB and the SCC during the Late Triassic, was followed by a period of tectonic quiescence during the Early Jurassic, and another phase of extreme intracontinental shortening between the QOB and SCC during the Middle to Late Jurassic.
Assessing Thermal Gradients Across Archean Stratigraphy Using Raman Spectra of Carbonaceous Material Thermometry and Mineral Chemistry in the Western Dharwar Craton, India
Authors: Sreehari Lakshmanan , Kiran Sasidharan , Hokada Tomokazu , Satish‐Kumar Madhusoodhan , Toyoshima Tsuyoshi , Sajeev Krishnan , Rajkumar Perumal , Antony Justin K.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the metamorphic evolution of the Chitradurga Schist Belt (CSB) in the Western Dharwar Craton, India, emphasising its relationship with tectonic processes. Due to the limited availability of ideal mineral assemblages for calculating metamorphic temperatures, we selected metasedimentary rocks containing carbonaceous material (CM) from each stratigraphic unit in the CSB to understand the tectono‐metamorphic evolution. Raman spectra of carbonaceous material (RSCM) thermometry was integrated with mineral chemical analyses to elucidate the regional metamorphic conditions. These findings were then coupled with the microstructural evolution and deformation history of the CSB to clarify the tectonic evolution of the terrane. Our findings reveal a distinct metamorphic gradient, with the Bababudan Group exhibiting amphibolite‐facies metamorphism at temperatures exceeding 500°C. Other stratigraphic units in the study area recorded greenschist‐facies metamorphism at temperatures below 450°C. Detailed examinations of metamorphic mineral assemblages align with RSCM temperature estimates; hornblende is a major constituent in the Bababudan Group and is replaced by actinolite and chlorite during D2 or D3 deformation. Hydrous minerals such as muscovite and chlorite are distributed across all stratigraphic units, appearing along S2 or S3 foliation. The metamorphism in the Bababudan Group is likely linked to the early stages of collisional events/metamorphism of pre‐rift sequences. In contrast, the pervasive hydration and lower‐grade metamorphism are associated with the later stages of hinterland‐thrust belt formation. This study highlights the significant influence of plate tectonic processes on regional‐scale metamorphism and deformation in the Meso‐Neoarchean Dharwar Craton.
Service Quality in Iranian Hospitals From Patients' Perspectives Based on the SERVQUAL Model: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Alizadeh Tara , Noveiry Marzieh Jahani Sayad , Karkhah Samad , Leyli Ehsan Kazemnezhad , Kohan Kobra Salami , Vajargah Pooyan Ghorbani
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the service quality in Iranian hospitals from patients' perspectives based on the SERVQUAL model.

Materials and Methods

A thorough exploration of online electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, IranMedex, and the Scientific Information Database (SID), was undertaken using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as “Quality of Health Care,” “Hospital,” and “Patients” spanning from the earliest available records up to August 11, 2023.

Results

In the context of 25 cross‐sectional studies encompassing a collective participant pool of 8021 hospitalized patients in Iranian medical facilities, an assessment of patients' perspectives on the quality of hospital services revealed a mean perception score of 3.54 (SE = 0.08). Concurrently, the mean expectation score for the quality of services was determined to be 4.43 (SE = 0.06). Using the SERVQUAL model, the overall disparity between patients' perceptions and expectations was calculated as −0.89. Subsequent examination of specific dimensions within the SERVQUAL framework revealed gaps between patients' perceptions and expectations in the tangibility dimension (−0.84), reliability dimension (−0.94), responsiveness dimension (−0.91), assurance dimension (−0.89), and empathy dimension (−0.82).

Conclusion

Therefore, healthcare administrators consider the study's findings as a motivating force to initiate measures aimed at improving service quality in Iranian hospitals. Tackling the recognized shortcomings and areas requiring enhancement holds the promise of raising patient satisfaction levels and, consequently, improving overall healthcare outcomes.
Therapeutic Approaches to Tackle the Challenge of Depression That Is Resistant to Treatment–A Narrative Review
Authors: Rajdoula Rafe Md. , Waris Abdul , Saha Pranoy
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

The lack of therapeutic response characterizes treatment‐resistant depression despite undergoing at least two adequate monotherapy trials with medications from distinct pharmacologic classes. The inability to attain remission in patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) is a significant issue of concern within public health. Therefore, the management of treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) poses significant obstacles for both patients and healthcare professionals. Our goal was to investigate the published literature concerning different options for treatment for TRD, including those that do not involve the use of medications.

Methods

We thoroughly searched the literature in the Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases to find publications relevant to our narrative review and extracted data from appropriate data. For this review, literary works written solely in English were chosen.

Results

Ongoing research is being conducted to explore the treatment options for TRD, including pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions. Pharmacological interventions include a wide range of therapeutic approaches, including but not limited to investigating innovative medications and strategies such as augmentation, switching, and combination therapies involving established and emerging drugs. Nonpharmacological interventions, including brain stimulation such as theta burst stimulation, deep brain stimulation, electroconvulsive therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, intermittent transcranial magnetic stimulation, and magnetic seizure therapy, as well as psychotherapeutic approaches, are being explored for the management of TRD in both present and future contexts.

Conclusion

Researchers are dedicating significant resources to the aforementioned therapeutic interventions to advance the development of novel and efficacious treatment options for TRD and enhance our comprehension of the underlying disease. This review focused on looking at recent research concerning therapeutic interventions for TRD.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Associated Factors of Mpox Among Healthcare Professionals at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2024: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Kiros Teklehaimanot , Erkihun Mulat , Wondmagegn Mitikie , Almaw Andargachew , Assefa Ayenew , Berhan Ayenew , Tegegne Dessie , Fentie Alemie , Tiruneh Tegenaw , Malkamu Birhanemaskal , Shimelis Mahider , Dejen Eninur , Getie Birhanu , Damtie Shewaneh , Solomon Yenealem , Sharew Bekele
Published: January 2025

Background

Mpox is a zoonotic disease that has become a significant public health concern, especially in regions beyond its usual endemic areas in Africa. The rising global incidence and its classification as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization highlight the importance of healthcare professionals (HCPs) being knowledgeable and well‐prepared to effectively manage the virus. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and factors associated with HCPs regarding Mpox infections at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

Between June 13th and September 3rd, 2024, a cross‐sectional study was conducted, among 384 HCPs selected through convenience sampling. A pretested, and well‐structured, questionnaire was used to assess the sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes of HCPs. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. A p‐value of ≤ 0.05 was considered a statistically significant association.

Results

Out of the 384 participants, the majority were male (55.47%) and aged 31–39 years (33.85%). Nurses made up the largest professional group at 31.25%. Only 28.13% and 37.76% of HCPs demonstrated good knowledge and favorable attitudes toward the Mpox, respectively. Interestingly, HCPs with prior information sources about Mpox were likely to possess good knowledge (AOR = 1.45, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

The findings emphasize important gaps in the knowledge and attitude of HCPs. It is imperative to implement targeted educational initiatives such as information dissemination, training, and continuous professional development to improve the capacity of HCPs to effectively respond to Mpox and other emerging infectious diseases.
Understanding Hydrological Dynamics in Andean Basins: An Isotope‐Based Study in Arid North‐Central Chile
Authors: Oyarzún Ricardo , Duhalde Denisse , Arumí José Luis , Boll Jan , MacDonell Shelley
Published: January 2025

Mountain ranges cover approximately 24% of the Earth’s land mass. These environments have a special relevance in terms of global water supply. However, historically mountain groundwater processes have been generally overlooked or poorly understood, especially in the Andes cordillera. With this in mind, this work aimed to study hydrological processes in four Andean, semi‐arid headwater river basins. Along with monthly stable isotope data collection, we carried out a synoptic surface water sampling programme in each river on four specific dates for 3H analysis. The latter indicated water of similar age in the rivers of three sub‐basins (Derecho, Cochiguaz, Incaguaz), but much older in the fourth (Toro). We assessed different possible explanations for these differences such as effects of past mining activities (El Indio mine), physiographic factors and snow accumulation and glacier related factors, but none of these were satisfactory. Instead, our findings point to the activation of faults in response to seismic activity, which induces pumping of fluids (water) from deeper zones, facilitating exfiltration processes in the Toro River sub‐basin. This explains the presence of surface waters older than those associated with current meteoric processes. Such geological process should be assessed and eventually accounted for when studying mountain hydrogeological processes, especially in high fractured areas with direct or indirect evidence of geothermal activity.
Mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes mitigate amyloid β‐induced retinal toxicity: Insights from rat model and cellular studies
Authors: Qarawani Amanda , Naaman Efrat , Ben‐Zvi Elimelech Rony , Harel Michal , Sigal‐Dror Shahaf , Ben‐Zur Tali , Ziv Tamar , Offen Daniel , Zayit‐Soudry Shiri
Published: January 2025

Amyloid β (Aβ) has emerged as a pathophysiological driver in age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), emphasizing its significance in the aetiology of this prevalent sight‐threatening condition. The multifaceted nature of AMD pathophysiology, presumably involving diverse retinal cascades, corresponds with the complexity of Aβ‐induced retinopathy. Therefore, targeting a broad array of pathogenic processes holds promise for therapeutic intervention in AMD‐associated retinal pathology. This study investigates the potential of exosomes derived from adipose tissue mesenchymal stem cells (AT‐MSC‐Exosomes) in alleviating Aβ‐induced retinotoxicity. Through intravitreal injections in wild‐type rats and RPE‐like cell culture experiments, we examined the protective effects of AT‐MSC‐Exosomes against Aβ42 retinotoxicity. Our findings reveal that pre‐treatment with AT‐MSC‐Exosomes enabled nearly‐intact retinal function in vivo and maintained retinal cell viability in vitro, evidenced by longitudinal electroretinography (ERG) and XTT proliferation assays, respectively. Fluorescent labelling demonstrated increased migration of AT‐MSC‐Exosomes towards retinal cells under conditions of amyloid‐related toxicity. Proteomic analysis indicated a decrease in the retinal levels of heat‐shock proteins activated by pathogenic Aβ fibrils following AT‐MSC‐Exosome treatment. Similarly, immunostaining highlighted the modulation of α‐crystallin expression in retinal astrocytes by AT‐MSC‐Exosomes. These results suggest the potential therapeutic relevance of AT‐MSC‐Exosomes in Aβ‐related retinal pathology, offering a promising avenue for future AMD treatment strategies.
Noise Factor of a Transmission Line Subjected to Thermal Gradients
Authors: Colangeli Sergio , Ciccognani Walter , Longhi Patrick E. , Limiti Ernesto
Published: January 2025

A novel, analytical treatment of noise factor in ideal transmission lines subjected to thermal gradients is presented. Temperature dependence on the propagation direction is assumed linear, whereas line loss is initially considered constant. The latter restriction is then removed, in such a manner that, for the first time in the literature, linearly varying line losses are also addressed. In both cases, closed formulae are presented allowing to compute line noise factor for arbitrary source terminations. Previous numerical implementations of the underlying theory are also reappraised both as an introduction to the Reader and as a test bench of the closed‐form results. A discussion of the effects of a non‐uniform temperature distribution across the transverse section of the transmission line is provided upfront, so as to clarify the conditions under which the usual simplifications are valid. This discussion too is believed by the Authors to be original.
Gendered Artificial Intelligence in Marketing: Behavioral and Neural Insights Into Product Recommendations
Authors: Huang Jiayue , Gu Ruolei , Feng Yi , Luo Wenbo
Published: January 2025

Marketing research consistently demonstrates that gender stereotypes influence the effectiveness of product recommendations. When artificial intelligence (AI) agents are designed with gendered features to enhance anthropomorphism, a follow‐up question is whether these agents' recommendations are also shaped by gender stereotypes. To investigate this, the current study employed a shopping task featuring product recommendations (utilitarian vs. hedonic), using both behavioral measures (purchase likelihood, personal interest, and tip amount) and event‐related potential components (P1, N1, P2, N2, P3, and late positive potential) to capture explicit and implicit responses to products recommended by male and female humans, virtual assistants, or robots. The findings revealed that gender stereotypes influenced responses at both levels but in distinct ways. Behaviorally, participants consistently favored female recommenders across all conditions. Additionally, female recommenders received more tips than males for hedonic products in the virtual assistant condition and utilitarian products in the robot condition. Implicitly, the N1 and N2 components reflected a classic gender stereotype from prior research: utilitarian products recommended by male humans elicited greater attention and received more inhibition control. We propose that task design and cultural factors may have contributed to the observed discrepancies between explicit (consumer behaviors) and implicit responses. These findings provide insights for mitigating the impact of gender difference when designing the anthropomorphic appearance of AI agents, which would help the development of more effective marketing strategies.
Structuring the Prison Life Index Through Value Focused Thinking Methodology
Authors: Martin‐Moro Lola , Öztürk Meltem , Laufer Florence
Published: January 2025

Building a composite index (CI) is a task that requiring a series of decisions, the consequences of which will determine the scope of the tool. This is especially true for the very first steps of this construction: the definition of the theoretical framework and the selection of relevant indicators, usually referred to as the construction of the structure. However, the literature seems to focus more on the other aspects, quite often eluding those first steps or considering it a self‐evident process. How to ensure the soundness of those tools when the values that they convey are not even clearly expressed? How to ensure the completeness of the structure according to the reality that it ought to synthesise when it is a highly complex or abstract one? Each of these steps involves hypotheses and presuppositions that must be explained and evaluated with care. In this article, we seek to identify a coherent method that will allow us to build the structure of CI answering those demands. The construction of a composite indicator can be conceptualised as a multi‐criteria decision aiding problem (MCDA), given that it entails the aggregation of evaluations pertaining to distinct attributes. The MCDA is rich in structuring methodologies, such as Ralph Keeney's Value Focused Thinking (VFT) approach. Using a real‐life application, the construction of the Prison Life Index (PLI), we try to show the relevance of those primary hypotheses by displaying the structure of the index and summarising the stage of its construction. This adapted methodology can guide index builders in the determination of a structure that comprehensively fits its intended purpose and that is not overly dependent on available data. Our article endeavours to underscore the importance of the structuring phase, arguing that it should take priority according to the ethical and moral values of the decision‐maker. It should not be solely reliant on data availability, as it is the case with most composite indices. We demonstrate, through the implementation of the PLI structure developed using VFT, that it can achieve a high degree of conformity with internationally established standards pertaining to human rights. This approach not only facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the interconnections among various normative texts but also provides jurists with a visual representation of these relationships.
Furry neighbours: Acceptability of feeding and managing free‐ranging dogs and cats in an urban area
Authors: Nayeri Danial , Sardari Pourya , Raisi Fateme Zahra , Ghorbanian Zahra , Glikman Jenny Anne
Published: January 2025

There is an increasing interest in researching urban invasion. When invasive species establish and spread in urban areas, their management becomes particularly challenging given the influence of public presence and perceptions. Cultural, religious, and moral values play a crucial role in shaping public perceptions toward management strategies for invasive species. Free‐ranging dogs (FRDs) and free‐ranging cats (FRCs) are among the urban invasive species that bring health, safety, and wildlife conservation concerns. However, given their close relationship with people controlling their populations is challenging.

We surveyed 500 residents of Karaj city in northern Iran to understand the behaviour of feeding FRDs and FRCs by people, as well as to uncover residents' acceptability of different control measures, focusing on culling FRDs and FRCs under different scenarios. We used generalized linear mixed models and cumulative link mixed models to address the issues of feeding FRDs and FRCs and acceptability of culling them respectively.

We found that more than half of the respondents fed FRDs and FRCs (63% and 59%, respectively), and among those who fed FRDs and FRCs, 74.8% and 78.2% respectively used food leftovers from home to feed these animals. Furthermore, around half and one‐third of respondents provided FRDs and FRCs outside their neighbourhoods, respectively. We also found that the religious belief of dogs being ritually impure (Najis) was a significant predictor for both feeding and culling FRDs. People who held the belief that dogs are Najis were more inclined toward culling and less willing to feed FRDs. Moreover, we found polarized and conflicting views concerning culling in higher‐intensity scenarios involving attacks on people and disease spread. On the contrary, in less‐intense scenarios such as attacks on wildlife and population control in urban areas, most respondents disagreed with culling.

In the end, we recommend (1) an improved waste management system for food residuals and leftovers that provide resources for FRDs and FRCs, (2) effective communication with pet‐owners to reduce feeding FRDs and FRCs and (3) bottom‐up de‐escalation of the conflict between polarized groups about culling FRDs and FRCs before it reaches to a destructive phase.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
A functional helix shuffled variant of the B domain of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Bobolowski Hanna , Fiedler Erik , Haupts Ulrich , Lilie Hauke , Weininger Ulrich
Published: January 2025

The B domain of protein A is a biotechnologically important three‐helix bundle protein. It binds the Fc fragment of antibodies with helix 1/2 and the Fab region with helix 2/3. Here we designed a helix shuffled variant by changing the connectivity of the helices, in order to redesign the helix bundle, yielding altered helix–loop–helix properties. The new loops that generate the new connectivity were created in several protein libraries, and Fc binding variants were selected for a detailed biochemical characterization. We were able to create variants with Fc binding affinity at the same level as the wild type B but with significantly reduced thermal stability. The NMR structure proved that the overall three‐dimensional structure was maintained not only in the helix shuffled variant but also points to some potential local differences to wild‐type B, which could be the reason for the reduced thermal stability. Therefore, protein A is an example of an optimized structure being more important for stability than for function. Using the helix shuffled variant as a ligand on an affinity column facilitates a robust and straightforward purification of antibodies, but allows for a milder elution at less extreme pH. Therefore, the helix shuffled variant is a suitable ligand to purify more pH‐sensitive antibodies.
Methods for detecting, building, and improving tryptophan mannosylation in glycoprotein structures
Authors: Holland Lou , Pham Phuong Thao , Bagdonas Haroldas , Dialpuri Jordan S. , Schofield Lucy C. , Agirre Jon
Published: January 2025

Tryptophan mannosylation, the covalent addition of an α‐ᴅ‐mannose sugar to a tryptophan side chain, is a post‐translational modification (PTM) that can affect protein stability, folding, and interactions. Compared to other forms of protein glycosylation, it is relatively uncommon but is affected by conformational anomalies and modeling errors similar to those seen in N‐ and O‐glycans in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). In this work, we report methods for detecting, building, and improving mannose structures linked to tryptophans. These methods have been used to mine X‐ray crystallographic and cryo‐electron microscopy maps in the PDB looking for unmodeled mannosylation, resulting in a number of cases where the modification can be placed in the map with high confidence. Additionally, we address most conformational issues affecting this modification. Finally, the development of a structural template to recognize thrombospondin repeats (TSR) domains where tryptophan mannosylation occurs will allow for the mannosylation of candidate‐predicted models, for example, those predicted with AlphaFold.
Hijacking of plasminogen by dengue virus: The kringle‐4 and ‐5 domains of plasminogen binds synergistically to the domain I of envelope protein
Authors: Yuen Yee Jun , Sabitha Thekkoot , Li Lim Jian , Walvekar Varsha Ashok , Ramesh Karthik , Kini R. Manjunatha , Sivaraman J. , Mok Yu Keung
Published: January 2025

Dengue fever is a serious health issue, particularly in tropical countries like Singapore. We have previously found that dengue virus (DENV) recruits human plasmin in blood meal to enhance the permeability of the mosquito midgut for infection. Here, using biolayer interferometry, we found that neither kringle‐4 nor kringle‐5 plasmin domains alone binds well to dengue virus. However, the domains together lead to a synergistic effect, with both kringle‐4 and ‐5 domains required and sufficient for binding. Site‐directed mutagenesis experiments showed that the N‐terminal and C‐terminal aspartic acid residues in the “DXD” acidic motifs of the kringle‐4 and ‐5 domains likely have different roles when engaged with DENV. Hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry experiments on the plasmin:DENV complex led to the identification of two Lys‐containing regions on domain I of the E‐protein of DENV that are buried by plasmin and could be potential plasmin binding sites. These findings contradict with published literature that domain III of the DENV E‐protein interacts with the kringle‐1–3 domains of plasmin. We provide a plausible explanation for the observed discrepancies.
Synthesis, antifungal activity, and molecular simulation study of nootkatone‐based thiazole‐hydrazone compounds as novel succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor
Authors: Yang Maofang , Lin Guishan , Duan Wengui , Li Fangyao , Cui Yucheng , Man Yin , Lu Yuzhi , Meng Luqiong
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Plant diseases cause huge losses in agriculture worldwide every year, but the prolonged use of current commercial fungicides has led to the development of resistance in plant pathogenic fungi. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new, efficient, and green fungicides.

RESULTS

Twenty‐three nootkatone‐based thiazole‐hydrazone compounds were designed, synthesized, and characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR), proton (1H) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), carbon‐13 (13C) NMR, and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). The antifungal activities results showed that all the target compounds displayed certain antifungal activity against eight tested fungi. Among them, target compounds 3a (88.7%), 3b (92.5%), 3d (88.7%), 3f (84.9%), 3j (88.7%), and 3l (92.5%) were comparable or superior to the positive control boscalid (88.7%) in their inhibitory activities against Physalospora piricola. Meanwhile, target compound 3l had half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values of 18.0172, 18.8236, 16.5914, 18.5044, and 16.5660 μg/mL against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum, Alternaria solani, Gibberella zeae, Bipolaris maydis, and Colleterichum orbicalare, respectively, exhibiting outstanding and broad‐spectrum fungicidal activity. Moreover, a three‐dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) study was carried out to investigate the relationship between the molecular structures of target compounds 3a–3w and their antifungal activity. Furthermore, the target compound 3l [half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) = 4.936 μmol/L] showed significantly better inhibitory activity against succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) than boscalid (IC50 = 6.631 μmol/L). The possible binding mode between target compound 3l and homology‐modeling built SDH, was also explored by molecular docking.

CONCLUSION

Target compound 3l deserved further study as the promising candidate for the development of novel SDH inhibitor. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Improved method for isotopic measurement of free‐living nitrogen fixation
Authors: Zhou Qianchen , Mulvaney Richard L. , Nunes Vander L. N.
Published: January 2025

The use of 15N‐labeled dinitrogen (15N2) affords the only direct means of measuring free‐living nitrogen fixation (FLNF); however, progress in utilizing this approach has been impeded by methodological limitations arising from the presence of nitrogenous contaminants, a lack of atmospheric uniformity, and incomplete description of procedural details. Such constraints are eliminated with an ex situ technique comprehensively described herein, which involves circulating 15N2 generated by hypobromite oxidation through a closed system that includes chemical (sulfuric acid–potassium permanganate) and cryogenic (isopentane–liquid N2) traps for atmospheric purification and an incubation chamber consisting of a desiccator equipped with a pressure gauge. Studies to evaluate the circulation system described showed that a uniform atmosphere was readily achieved with a 10‐L desiccator by pumping for 30 min, and that both chemical and cryogenic traps were necessary to ensure complete (98.8%–99.6%) removal of gaseous contaminants subject to physicochemical retention by sterilized soil samples. The method proposed was successfully demonstrated in detecting the stimulatory effect of organic carbon (C) on FLNF in active soils, and can be further utilized to improve the reliability of ex situ assessment of FLNF in relation to soil processing and storage, climatic conditions, microbial dynamics, and land management practices.
Informal networks and information environments
Authors: Lee Yonghoon G. , Choi Joon Nak
Published: January 2025

Research Summary

Managers draw on their informal networks of peers outside of their firm to better understand uncertain markets and help their firms adapt. This helps firms enhance their performance in information environments characterized by idiosyncratic and difficult‐to‐standardize soft information. However, in information environments characterized by standardized hard information, joint discussions facilitated by informal networks can make managers and their firms maladaptive towards uncertain markets. Based on the performance of two different categories of hedge funds during the 2008 financial crisis, we find that long–short funds, which heavily draw on soft information, performed better when embedded into networks of closely connected managers. In contrast, relative value funds, which heavily draw on hard information, performed better when their managers were more disconnected.

Managerial Summary

When are managers’ professional networks with peers in the industry valuable to the firm? We examined how hedge fund managers performed during the 2008 financial crisis to find out. When fund managers worked primarily with idiosyncratic and difficult‐to‐standardized soft information, we found that their networks helped them make sense of such information. In contrast, when fund managers worked primarily with quantified and codified hard information (e.g., financial statements and ratings), we found that their networks became echo chambers reinforcing similar opinions, which caused managers to fail to adapt quickly to the market crisis. Our findings counterintuitively suggest that funds using hard information may better off hiring relatively isolated managers who are not deeply tied to the industry.
Real‐Time Unsupervised Learning and Image Recognition via Memristive Neural Integrated Chip Based on Negative Differential Resistance of Electrochemical Metallization Cell Neuron Device
Authors: Woo Dae‐Seong , Kim Jae‐Kyeong , Park Gwang‐Ho , Lee Woo‐Guk , Han Min‐Jong , Jin Soo‐Min , Shim Tae‐Hun , Kim Jae‐Joon , Park Jinsub , Park Jea‐Gun
Published: January 2025

Spiking neurons are essential for building energy‐efficient biomimetic spatiotemporal systems because they communicate with other neurons using sparse and binary signals. However, the achievable high density of artificial neurons having a capacitor for emulating the integrate function of biological neurons has a limit. Furthermore, a low‐voltage operation (<1.0 V) is essential for connecting with modern complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor‐field‐effect‐transistor‐based (C‐MOSFET—based) integrated circuits. Here, a capacitorless memristive‐neural integrated chip (MnIC) based on the negative differential resistance of the electrochemical metallization cell designed using a 28‐nm C‐MOSFET process in a foundry is reported. The fabricated MnIC exhibits extremely low‐voltage operation (<0.7 V) via the rupture dynamics of Ag filaments formed in the GeS2 chalcogenide layer, with a nonlinear increase in the action potential in a manner similar to a human sensory system. Moreover, to construct a fully‐structured spiking neural network (SNN), an oxygenated amorphous carbon‐based (α‐COx‐based) synaptic device having 32 multi‐level conductance states is designed. The designed MnIC and α‐COx‐based synaptic device demonstrate real‐time unsupervised learning via a spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity learning rule with an SNN. Using the trained SNN, the real‐time hand‐written digit image of a cell phone obtained from a live webcam is successfully classified, which suggests practical applications for brain‐like neuromorphic chips.
Concentration and Model Selection Consistency of the Group Lasso for α$$ \alpha $$‐Mixing Errors
Authors: Martens Robin , Steland Ansgar
Published: January 2025

The group lasso in linear regression models is studied for ‐mixing subexponential errors. Nonasymptotic guarantees are provided for the estimation error of the sparse coefficient vector and the associated predictions for the high‐dimensional regime where the number of regressors can grow much faster than the sample size. Further, the group lasso is model selection consistent; that is, it picks the right variables with arbitrarily high probability. The results are applied to the index tracking problem in finance and illustrated by analysing stock data from the United States and Asia.
Guiding Aquatic Reptile (Chelonian and Crocodylian) Conservation in the Face of Growing Light Pollution: Lessons From Experience
Authors: Khanduri Megha , Hölker Franz , Sah Ruchika , Hussain Syed Ainul , Badola Ruchi , Candolin Ulrika
Published: January 2025

Life on earth has evolved in response to the spatial, temporal, and spectral properties of natural light. However, with the advent of electricity and artificial lighting, the planet's nocturnal light environment has changed dramatically. This changing light environment is accompanied by altered behaviors in wild organisms, often resulting in drastic impacts on their fitness and population dynamics. Such effects have been demonstrated in a wide range of organisms, from plants to animals. However, there is a gap in our knowledge regarding freshwater reptiles. While extensive studies on sea turtles show alarming impacts of light pollution on their survival and recruitment, little is known about the effects on their freshwater counterparts and other aquatic reptiles, particularly crocodylians. Yet, these species face high extinction risk from anthropogenic stressors. The current lack of knowledge of their responses to the growing global pervasiveness of light pollution is a barrier to their effective conservation. Moreover, their responses could translate into ecosystem‐level alterations through top‐down effects, as have been observed for other species. Here, we synthesize the existing knowledge of the responses of aquatic reptiles, particularly freshwater crocodiles and turtles, to light pollution and discuss existing mitigation strategies to safeguard these species against the new threat. Knowledge gaps and existing mitigation strategies need to be addressed to promote species conservation in the face of the novel stressor, including in developing countries.
Analytical approach to control the irreversibilities in a chemically reactive nanofluid flow over a Darcy–Forchheimer medium with nonuniform heat source/sink
Authors: Devi A A , Chakraborty Tanmoy
Published: January 2025

In real‐world processes, such as heat transfer, fluid flow, and chemical reactions, irreversibility occurs frequently, which induces an augment in entropy. The optimization of the entropy generation in a mechanical system is one of the fundamental areas of research to channel the energy of the system for utilization. This research exhibits an entropy generation in a nanofluid flow drenched in a fluid‐saturated non‐Darcy porous medium toward a stagnation point. The flow line also experiences the existence of nonuniform heat generation/absorption following the first‐order chemical reaction, which enhances the applicability of this model in different domains of science and engineering. A special form of the Lie group approach is applied to revert the governing partial differential system into its self‐similar ordinary differential form. The solutions of the transformed nonlinear ODEs are acquired analytically through the DTM ‐Padé as well as numerically by the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg (RKF‐45) method coupled with the shooting process. The fallouts are vividly sketched graphically. One of the upshots reveals that the escalation of space and temperature‐reliant heat absorption parameters can optimize the thermal irreversibility of the system and so as the total entropy generation. Meanwhile, by incrementing the Darcy parameter from 0 to 0.8, the wall shear stress decays by 23.7%, whereas with the same hike in the Forchheimer resistance factor, declines the rate of heat and mass transfer approximately by 2.6% and 3.6%, respectively. Another upshot reveals that with the escalation of the space‐dependent heat source parameter from 0.1 to 0.5, the Nusselt number significantly decreased by 23.9%. Meanwhile boosting the temperature‐reliant heat sink parameter from ‐0.1 to ‐0.5 causes an inclination in the rate of heat transportation by 10.5%. Moreover, it is found that mass transport irreversibility can be controlled by enhancing the constructive chemical reaction rate. We hope that this study will be beneficial for many engineering and industrial processes, particularly in geothermal energy extraction, nuclear waste disposal management, groundwater filtration machinery and food processing equipment.
Numerical investigation of nanofluid flow over a bidirectional stretching surface in porous media
Authors: Ullah Waseef , Ahmed Zahid , Naeem Khowllah
Published: January 2025

Flow‐induced by bidirectional stretching surfaces has significant applications in various engineering processes. This study aims to address the research gap in understanding the three‐dimensional flow of nanofluid over a flat bidirectional stretching surface in a porous medium considering both axisymmetric and non‐axisymmetric scenarios. The analysis incorporates the effects of radiation, internal heat sources, viscous dissipation, and Joule heating. A single‐phase approach is utilized to model the problem. The governing nonlinear PDEs are non‐dimensionalized and transformed into a set of ordinary differential equations using appropriate proportional similarity transformations. A numerical solution is obtained using an implicit finite difference scheme. Using graphical representations, the influence of the Eckert and Prandtl numbers, along with parameters such as permeability, stretching, radiation, and heat sources, is inspected. The study reveals that porosity and magnetic parameters reduce fluid velocity while enhancing the temperature distribution. Conversely, the Eckert number, radiation, and heat source parameters increase the nanofluid temperature. Furthermore, the dimensionless friction coefficient and Nusselt numbers at the boundary are illustrated and computed. These findings offer valuable insights into the fluid dynamics and heat transfer characteristics of the system, enhancing the comprehension of these complex phenomena.
The Québec-U.S. Relationship: Contributing Forces and Policy Choices
Authors: Gagnon Frédérick , Kirkey Christopher , Paquin Stéphane
Published: January 2025

This chapter, which sets forth the scope and general framework of the book, considers Québec’s paradiplomatic activities in the international community, with specific reference to the United States. The essay further considers the work of previous scholars who have examined the Québec-U.S. relationship, and advances a summary of the theoretical constructs and empirical evidence featured in each chapter of the book.
20 Years of Climate Paradiplomacy Between Québec and the United States
Authors: Chaloux Annie , Boudreau Jennyfer
Published: January 2025

This chapter examines the evolution of relations between Québec and U.S. states over the past 20 years on the issue of climate change. Through the case studies of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian premiers, as well as the Western Climate Initiative, the authors illustrate that cooperation between Québec and its U.S. counterparts has been not only maintained but also strengthened over time. Shared energy and environmental interests (notably the export of hydroelectricity), along with similar constitutional powers and the institutionalization of these cooperative bonds, partly account for why, despite the political shifts of the last two decades, Québec's climate paradiplomacy with the U.S. states has been maintained without disruption.