bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐omics analyses reveal the signatures of metabolite transfers across trophic levels in a high‐CO2 ocean
Authors: Ye Mengcheng , Zhang Jiale , Xiao Mengting , Huang Jiali , Zhou Yunyue , Beardall John , Raven John A. , Gao Guang , Liang Xiao , Wu Fenghuang , Peng Baoyi , Xu Leyao , Lu Yucong , Liang Shiman , Wang Yipeng , Zhang Hao , Li Jingyao , Cheng Ling , Ruan Zuoxi , Xia Jianrong , Jin Peng
Published: June 2024

Although the diverse impacts of elevated dissolved CO2 and warming on organisms within various trophic levels in marine food webs are well documented, we have yet to explore the biological links across different levels of biological organization from primary producers to secondary producers on an evolutionary time scale in a high‐CO2 ocean. Here, we cultured a model marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum (primary producer) in predicted future high‐CO2 and/or warming conditions for ~ 1250 d with an experimental evolution approach and then fed them to the clam Coelomactra antiquata (secondary producer). We present an in‐depth multi‐omics analysis along the methylome (primary producer)–transcriptome (primary producer)–metabolome (primary producer)–metabolome (secondary producer) continuum. Our results showed that the downregulated terpenoid backbone biosynthesis in the methylome and transcriptome lead to decreased pyruvate levels and upregulation of some pathways (such as phenylalanine metabolism) in the metabolome of the primary producer in the long‐term warming conditions. These changes in metabolomic profile in the primary producer were then transferred to the secondary producer, resulting in changes in abundance of some metabolites, such as decreases in pyruvate, and in pyruvaldhyde (also known as methylglyoxal), and increases in 2‐hydroxylamino‐4,6‐dinitrotoluene. Our study provides a new insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the trophic transfer from primary to secondary producers in a future high‐CO2 ocean and may provide more accurate projections of marine ecosystem services and functions over the next century.
Optical Trapping of Few‐Layered Materials on Solid Substrates for In Situ and Dynamic Fabrication
Authors: Shi Zhangxing , Shen Tianci , Dou Lin , Gu Zhaoqi , Zhu Runlin , Dong Xinyi , Gu Fuxing
Published: June 2024

The performances of few‐layered (FL) material‐based devices are usually fixed after fabrication and difficult to be further dynamically tuned. As the thickness approaches the atomic scale, moving FL materials on solid substrates is challenging due to the substantial increase in interfacial friction and simultaneous decrease in stiffness. Here, believed to be the first, optical trapping of FL materials on dry solid substrates is demonstrated, with attractive advantages of ultralow excitation power (µW level), high precision, and wear‐free. The trapping mechanism relies on photothermal shock‐induced thermal gradient force traps. Precise motion control including translation and rotation is achieved, with step resolutions of ≈0.15 nm and ≈1.6 × 10−3 degrees per laser pulse, respectively. Direct locomotion of FL materials with a minimal thickness of 2.5 nm and indirect locomotion of tri‐layers MoS2 (≈1.9 nm thickness) by optically dragging multilayered sections are demonstrated. Furthermore, in situ construction of homo‐ and heterostructures and dynamic modulation of nanowire lasing spectra are showcased. This study will facilitate in situ fabrication of nanoelectronic/photonic devices with both structures and performances dynamically tuned.
Advancing High‐Power Laser Lighting: Designing a Novel YAGG:Ce Color Converter in Li–Al–Si Glass Ceramic
Authors: Zheng Jiaying , Liu Jiawei , Liang Yanrong , Sun Xiangjia , Liu Jiao , Zhu Tongtong , Lv Chunyan , Liang Xiaojuan , Xiang Weidong
Published: June 2024

In laser illumination, there is considerable interest in phosphor‐converted laser diodes that boast high efficiency and exceptional thermal stability. Phosphor‐in‐glass (PiG) and phosphor‐in‐glass film (PiF) are highly favored for their efficiency, cost‐effectiveness, and ease of fabrication. To tackle the issue of low thermal conductivity of glass, a novel lithium–aluminum–silicate glass is innovatively developed. This glass induces the precipitation of spodumene crystalline phase, enhancing material stability. Utilizing solid‐state sintering techniques, Y3Al3.5Ga1.5O12:Ce3+ (YAGG:Ce) PiG is fabricated, which exhibited a luminous flux (LF) of 866.76 lm under 450 nm blue light with 3.88 W input power. Benefiting from the high thermal conductivity of sapphire substrate and the high‐intensity glass system, YAGG:Ce PiF demonstrated a saturation threshold of 10.20 W, yielding an impressive LF of 2178.1 lm, which is 2.5 times that of PiG samples. Notably, the thermal conductivity increased significantly from 2.2 W m−1K−1 (PiG) to 7.0 W m−1K−1 (PiF), surpassing traditional organic resin materials. To validate the practicality of the two‐color converters, it integrates them into both starlight lamp and laser flashlight modules for encapsulation, thereby generating attractive green light in various environments. This design holds the potential to become the ideal choice for the next generation of high‐power, high‐brightness laser illumination.
System‐failing creativity in health care
Authors: Horck Stijn , Gifford Rachel E. , Fleuren Bram P. I. , Rathert Cheryl , Porter Tracy H. , Rauf Afshan , Lee Yuna S. H.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Health care professionals often generate novel solutions to solve problems during day‐to‐day patient care. However, less is known about generating novel and useful (i.e., creative) ideas in the face of health care system failure. System failures are high‐impact and increasingly frequent events in health care organizations, and front‐line professionals may have uniquely valuable expertise to address such occurrences.

Methods

Our interdisciplinary team, blending expertise in health care management, economics, psychology, and clinical practice, reviewed the literature on creativity and system failures in health care to generate a conceptual model that describes this process. Drawing on appraisal theory, we iteratively refined the model by integrating various theories with key concepts of system failures, creativity, and health care worker's well‐being.

Results

The SFC model provides a conceptualization of creativity from front‐line care professionals as it emerges in situations of failure or crisis. It describes the pathways by which professionals respond proactively to a systems failure with creative ideas to effectively address the situation and affect these workers' well‐being.

Conclusions

Our conceptual model guides health care managers and leaders to use managerial practices to shape their systems and support creativity, especially when facing system failures. It introduces a framework for examining system‐failing creativity (SFC) and general creativity, aiming to improve health care quality, health care workers' well‐being, and organizational outcomes.
Poly(butylene terephthalate) Copolyesters with Dilinoleic Derivatives: Solution Properties and Influence of Short‐Chain Branching
Authors: Mielke C. , Geisler M. , Komber H. , Kuhnigk J. , Voit B. , Lederer A. , Pospiech D.
Published: June 2024

The solution behavior of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) copolyesters with dilinoleic monomer units (dilinoleic diol (LD) / dilinoleic diacid (LA)) is studied to understand the processing behavior from melt. NMR investigations show that the short‐chain branches are characterized by a distribution of different alkyl chain lengths, where n‐butyl (C4) and longer chains have the largest content (>55 mol%). High‐temperature size exclusion chromatography with threefold detection (multi‐angle light‐scattering, refractive index, and viscosity detector) in 1,2,4‐trichlorobenzene is performed to determine molar masses, hydrodynamic radii, viscosity radii, and Kuhn–Mark–Houwink–Sakurada (KMHS) exponents α in dependence of the molar amount of short‐chain branched comonomers. Low concentrations of dilinoleic comonomers in PBT copolyesters improve the solubility of the copolyesters significantly. Higher amounts cause contraction of the polymer coils as illustrated by smaller hydrodynamic radii as well as lower KMHS exponents. The α values decrease with increasing amount of short‐chain branched comonomer except for very low concentrations. The solution behavior of LA and LD copolyesters with a higher aliphatic content shows different trends of the influence of short‐chain branches on the melt behavior, which reflects the influence of intramolecular versus intermolecular entanglements in solution and in melt.
How Depolymerization‐Based Plasticization Affects the Process of Cold Crystallization in Poly(P‐Dioxanone)
Authors: Svoboda Roman , Machotová Jana
Published: June 2024

The self‐plasticization, i.e., the increase in the polymer chains' mobility by including its monomer, has a major impact on a polymer's structural, thermal, and mechanical properties. In this study, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), optical and Raman microscopies, thermo‐mechanical analysis (TMA), size exclusion chromatography equipped with a multi‐angle light scattering detector (SEC‐MALS), and X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD) are used to investigate the effect of thermally induced self‐plasticization of poly‐(p‐dioxanone), PDX, on the crystal growths from the amorphous and molten states. Significant changes in the crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of PDX are found only for samples self‐plasticized at the depolymerization temperature (Td) above 150 °C. The intense self‐plasticization leads to the decrease of the crystallization temperature, increase of the crystal growth rapidity, disappearance of the distinct α→α’ polymorphic transition, reduction of the overall melting temperature, and segregation of the redundant monomer. Although the morphology of the crystalline phase has a major impact on the mechanical properties of PDX, the self‐plasticization itself does not seem to result in any major changes in the magnitude, localization, or morphology of formed crystallites (these are primarily driven by the temperature of crystal growth). The manifestation of the variable activation energy concept is discussed for the present crystallization data.
Age, growth, and mortality of Blackfin Tuna in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Gutierrez E. M. , Lang E. T. , Lovell M. S. , Lang J. , Falterman B. J. , Midway S. R. , Dance M. A.
Published: June 2024

Objective

An otolith-based aging approach was used to evaluate age and growth relationships, sexual dimorphism in growth, and derive mortality estimates for Blackfin Tuna Thunnus atlanticus in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM).

Methods

Blackfin Tuna (n = 395) were sampled from recreational fisheries and aged from 0 to 13 years, representing an increase over previous estimates of longevity for the species.

Result

Rapid growth was exhibited during the first two years of life, and the Richards growth function provided a better fit (L∞ = 907 mm, k = 0.112 /year, a = 1.05, b = 0.25) to the data compared with the von Bertalanffy growth model (L∞ = 824 mm, k = 0.365/year, t0 = −0.96). Sexual dimorphism in growth was observed, with males (907 mm) reaching a larger L∞ than females (857 mm), and otolith mass was a strong predictor of age in both sexes. Estimated instantaneous total (Z = 0.532/year) and natural (M = 0.467 year) mortality rates for Blackfin Tuna in the GOM were low relative to previous estimates in the southwestern Atlantic, where fishing mortality (F) is likely much higher.

Conclusion

Results represent critical baseline estimates of size-at-age, longevity, and natural mortality for Blackfin Tuna at relatively low levels of exploitation that can be used to inform future assessments.
A note on infinity norm bounds for the inverses of Nekrasov matrices
Authors: Lyu Zhenhua , Liu Dan , Wang Shiyun , Gao Feng
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we present several new upper bounds for the infinity norm of the inverse of Nekrasov matrices by using scaling matrices with two values on their diagonals, which improve the corresponding results of Gao et al. and Kolotilina. Numerical examples and comparisons with the existing bounds are included.
The Extracts from Two Antarctic Fish Species, Trematomus newnesi and Trematomus bernacchii, Enhance JEG‐3 Cell Migration and Invasion via MMP9 Activation Through Akt/Protein Phosphatase1/β‐Catenin Pathway
Authors: Khaliq Sana Abdul , Kim Jaewon , Kim Il‐Chan , Kim Jin‐Hyoung , Yoon Mee‐Sup
Published: June 2024

Scope

This study investigates the impact of extracts derived from Antarctic fish species, Trematomus newnesi and Trematomus bernacchii, on the migration of human placental trophoblast JEG‐3 cells, which is a crucial aspect of successful pregnancy.

Methods and results

The extracts, obtained from the muscles of these fish, significantly enhance the migration and invasion of JEG‐3 cells in in vitro wound healing, Transwell, and collagen invasion assays. These effects are accompanied by an increase in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 activity, as demonstrated by zymography. Furthermore, the extracts activated Akt and protein phosphatase 1, resulting in the dephosphorylation of β‐catenin at Ser33/37/Thr41, as confirmed by western blot analysis. Consequently, MMP9 is upregulated, while metallopeptidase inhibitor 1/3 is downregulated, as verified by western blot and qRT‐PCR analyses. Finally, utilizing ultraperformance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) analysis, followed by matching with the Global Natural Product Social Molecular Networking library, the study annotates the compound responsible for the observed migratory activity as taurocholic acid. Importantly, the study confirms that taurocholic acid enhances cell migration in JEG‐3 cells.

Conclusion

The results of this study emphasize the potential of Antarctic fish extracts in promoting extravillous trophoblast migration and invasion, which are critical for successful pregnancy.
Clinical homologous recombination repair gene reversion analysis identifies mechanisms of resistance to PARP inhibitors and platinum‐chemotherapy
Authors: Jia Yan , Yang Qiong , Ma Yutong , Wu Miaofang , Ou Qiuxiang , Lin Zhongqiu , Wu Yunyu , Li Jing
Published: June 2024

Identifying mechanisms underlying cancer resistance to therapy is vital for advancing treatment strategies. Pathogenic mutations of homologous recombination repair (HRR) genes are known biomarkers for platinum (Pt)‐based chemotherapy and poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) effectiveness. Yet, the dynamics of HRR reversion mutations, which may herald therapy resistance, are not fully elucidated. Addressing this gap, our study analyzed secondary HRR gene mutations in a comprehensive pan‐cancer data set of approximately 13,000 patients who underwent targeted next‐generation sequencing. We identified a subset of patients harboring secondary mutations, which were further categorized into three tiers based on their nature, and occur in the presence of a primary pathogenic mutation, notably in BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and RAD51D genes. Here we show that secondary BRCA2 mutations, indicative of adaptive resistance, emerge post‐Pt/Olaparib treatment. This challenges the prevailing notion that pathogenic HRR mutations uniformly predict therapeutic sensitivity, highlighting a nuanced genetic interplay that impacts treatment success. This investigation enriches our understanding of cancer's adaptive mechanisms against therapy, suggesting a pivotal shift towards more personalized, dynamic treatment strategies. It underscores the imperative of adapting to cancer's genetic evolution, aiming for a step ahead in the ongoing battle against this disease.
Brexpiprazole: A new option in treating agitation in Alzheimer's dementia—Insights from transgenic mouse models
Authors: Amada Naoki , Sato Shinji , Ishikawa Dai , Nakamura Mai , Suzuki Mikio , Futamura Takashi , Maeda Kenji
Published: June 2024

Aim

Brexpiprazole is the first FDA‐approved treatment for agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. Agitation in Alzheimer's dementia (AAD) occurs in high prevalence and is a great burden for patients and caregivers. Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of brexpiprazole were demonstrated in the AAD clinical trials. To demonstrate the agitation‐ameliorating effect of brexpiprazole in animals, we evaluated brexpiprazole in two AAD mouse models.

Methods

The resident–intruder test was conducted in 5‐ to 6‐month‐old Tg2576 mice, given vehicle or brexpiprazole (0.01 or 0.03 mg/kg) orally 1 h before the test. Locomotor activity was measured in 6‐month‐old APPSL‐Tg mice given vehicle or brexpiprazole (0.01 or 0.03 mg/kg) orally the evening before the start of locomotor measurement for 3 days.

Results

In the resident–intruder test, Tg2576 mice showed significantly higher attack number and shorter latency to first attack compared to non‐Tg mice. In the Tg mice, brexpiprazole treatment (0.03 mg/kg) significantly delayed the latency to first attack and showed a trend toward a decrease in attack number. APPSL‐Tg mice (≧6 months old) showed significantly higher locomotion during dark period Phase II (Zeitgeber time [ZT] 16–20) and Phase III (ZT20‐24) compared to non‐Tg mice, correlating with the clinical observations of late afternoon agitation in Alzheimer's disease. Brexpiprazole treatment (0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg) significantly decreased hyperlocomotion during the Phase III in APPSL‐Tg mice.

Conclusion

The suppression of attack behavior and the reduction of nocturnal hyperlocomotion in these Tg mice may be indicative of the therapeutic effect of brexpiprazole on AAD, as demonstrated in the clinical trials.
REDUCE missed oral healthcare: The outcomes of and learnings from an implementation project in an acute geriatric unit
Authors: Murray Joanne , Hunter Sarah C. , Conroy Tiffany , Kitson Alison L. , Splawinski Zita , Block Heather , Lewis Adrienne
Published: June 2024

Oral healthcare is one of the most missed aspects of fundamental care. Failure to provide reliable and effective daily oral healthcare for older patients can lead to hospital‐acquired pneumonias, longer hospital stays, increased health costs, and poor patient experience. The objective of this study was to codesign, implement, and evaluate an oral healthcare intervention for older adults in a geriatric unit. This mixed methods implementation project combined the hospital's quality improvement processes with the i‐PARIHS knowledge translation framework. Multilevel facilitation guided the development of multidisciplinary implementation strategies, which were co‐designed, tailored, and implemented at the ward and organizational level, targeting: awareness/engagement; clinical guideline development; building workforce capacity; access to appropriate products; patient awareness and support; utilization of multidisciplinary/dental referral pathways; and systematizing oral healthcare documentation. Gaps between evidence‐based and current oral healthcare practice were identified through audits of practice and interviews with patients. Interviews and surveys with staff evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the oral healthcare intervention and the success of implementation strategies. At the conclusion of the project, awareness, attitudes, and capacity of staff had increased, however, we could not demonstrate change in multidisciplinary oral healthcare practices or improvements for individual patients. Despite mixed success, the project informed discussions about including oral healthcare as a national healthcare standard for the acute care sector in Australia. Attempts to address oral healthcare may have started locally, but its impact was through policy change, which will empower health practitioners and managers to support practice change more widely.
Influence of ionic impurities on the dielectric properties of lignin
Authors: Khviyuzov Sergey S. , Volkov Aleksandr S.
Published: June 2024

Lignin is one of the most common biopolymers. The application of the electrophysical properties of the polymer is one of the directions of its use. The effect of impurities potassium bromide with an ionic crystal lattice on the electrophysical properties of lignin has been shown. The study of the frequency dependences of the specific electrical conductivity and the components of the complex dielectric permittivity in the frequency range from 6 × 10−2 to 6 × 107 rad s−1 was carried out. The nonadditivity of the electrophysical properties of the lignin‐potassium bromide system has been shown. It is established that the relaxation time of the π‐electrons of the aromatic rings of lignin depends on the content of potassium bromide in the mixture and varies from 1.6 × 10−7 (100% lignin) to 7.5 × 10−4 s (1% of KBr in mixture). The orientation of the positive charge of potassium atom of the KBr dipole atom to the π‐electrons of the benzene ring of lignin leads to change of high‐frequency relaxation time. This effect can be used in frequency filter to eliminate electronic polarization in the high‐frequency region. Thus, the polarization of ionic impurities has a significant effect on the dielectric properties of lignin in the region of medium and high frequencies of alternating electric field.
Analysis of cassine and spectaline in the Senna spectabilis ethanolic extracts by capillary zone electrophoresis with indirect UV detection
Authors: Barbosa Marilia Fontes , Pivatto Marcos , Cardoso Arnaldo Alves , da Silveira Petruci João Flávio
Published: June 2024

Introduction

2,6‐Disubstituted piperidin‐3‐ols are an important group of piperidine alkaloids found in species such as Senna spectabilis, whose main constituents include cassine and spectaline, compounds with relevant pharmacological activity. The analysis of these compounds is challenging due to the complexity of plant extracts and the absence of chromophores capable of absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Objective

This paper presents a new analytical method to separate and quantify the non‐UV‐absorbing alkaloids present in ethanol extracts from S. spectabilis flowers using capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) with indirect UV detection.

Methodology

The optimized CZE method employs a background electrolyte containing 60 mM histidine (His), 15 mM α‐cyclodextrin, 20% acetonitrile (ACN), and pH‐adjusted to 4.7 with acetic acid (AcOH).

Results

The limit of detection (LOD) values was 10.2 and 13.9 mg L−1 for cassine and spectaline, respectively. For both analytes, the precision data were better than 2% of relative standard deviation (RSD) for migration times and peak areas. To evaluate the applicability of the developed method, ethanolic extracts from S. spectabilis flowers were prepared and analyzed.

Conclusions

Thereby, the method proved to be efficient and complementary to conventional techniques, offering a cost‐effective alternative in the quantification of the non‐UV‐absorbing piperidine alkaloids present in plant extracts.
Effects of childhood experiences of parental attitude, depressive rumination, and sleep disturbances on adulthood depressive symptoms
Authors: Akiyama Shinichi , Ono Miki , Ishii Yoshitaka , Kikkawa Masayuki , Ito Shunichiro , Honyashiki Mina , Tamada Yu , Takeuchi Hironori , Inoue Takeshi , Masuya Jiro
Published: June 2024

Aim

Various factors are thought to be involved in the development of depression, but the mechanisms are not yet clear. Although several reports have demonstrated that parental attitude experienced in childhood, depressive rumination, and sleep disturbances each influence depressive symptoms, and the association between two of these four variables, to our knowledge, no reports to date have investigated the association among the four variables.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was administered to 576 adults who agreed to participate in this study between April 2017 and April 2018. Questionnaires assessed parental attitudes experienced in childhood, depressive rumination, sleep disturbances, and depressive symptoms in adulthood. The associations among the four variables were tested by structural equation modeling.

Results

Regarding the direct effects, the parental attitude of “care” had a negative influence on depressive rumination and depressive symptoms, whereas “overprotection” had a positive influence on depressive rumination. Depressive rumination had a positive influence on sleep disturbance and depressive symptoms, whereas sleep disturbances had a positive influence on depressive symptoms. Regarding indirect effects, depressive rumination mediated the association between parental attitudes and sleep disturbances or depressive symptoms. Furthermore, sleep disturbances mediated the association between depressive rumination and depressive symptoms. Care and overprotection showed opposite effects. The goodness of fit of this model was high.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrated that there were associations among the four variables. Clinical assessment and intervention of depressive rumination and sleep disturbances that are closely associated with previous parental attitudes may lead to an improvement of depressive symptoms.
Structure–Function Relationship and Stability of Latroeggtoxin‐VI: A Proteinaceous Toxin From the Eggs of Latrodectus tredecimguttatus
Authors: Chen Si , Sun Minglu , Yin Panfeng , Wang Xianchun
Published: June 2024

Latroeggtoxin‐VI (LETX‐VI), a peptide toxin discovered from the eggs of spider Latrodectus tredecimguttatus, was previously shown to promote the synthesis and release of dopamine in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells, showing potential applications in the neurobiology and medicine. To further understand the structure and properties of LETX‐VI, the key residues were identified and their roles in the structure, function, and stability of LETX‐VI were analyzed in the present work. Based on the protein molecular docking, our previous work, and the relevant literature, the potential key residues of LETX‐VI were selected and identified by alanine‐scanning mutagenesis. The wild‐type LETX‐VI and its 13 mutants, including a double mutant, were prepared by gene cloning and heterologous expression in Escherichia coli, followed by activity, structure, and stability determination. The results demonstrated that the activity of the mutants K25A, R35A, K40A/R41A, and L45A, particularly R35A, to promote dopamine release from PC12 cells was significantly decreased compared with that of the wild‐type LETX‐VI, indicating that these mutated residues are the key residues. Circular dichroism (CD) analysis showed that the secondary structure of these mutants was not obviously different from that of wild‐type LETX‐VI, suggesting that mutation‐caused decrease in the activity of LETX‐VI is due to the changes in the binding site on the molecule surface, rather than the abnormal alternation of the molecular conformation of LETX‐VI. Acetonitrile (ACN) did not obviously influence the activity of LETX‐VI; however, 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) treatment for 2 h significantly reduced its activity. Treatment with weakly acidic and basic buffers (pH ≥ 6.6) for 12 h was favorable for LETX‐VI and R35A to exert their activity. Higher temperatures (>37°C) decreased the activity of both wild‐type LETX‐VI and R35A. In conclusion, K25, R35, K40, R41, and L45 particularly R35 are the important functional site residues; during experiments, care should be taken to avoid the adverse influence of strong acid and high temperature on LETX‐VI. These observations have enhanced our understanding of the structure and properties of LETX‐VI and provided references for the subsequent modification of structure and function of LETX‐VI.
Forecasting habitat suitability and niche shifts of two global maize pests: Ostrinia furnacalis and Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: Li Bing , Dopman Erik B. , Dong Yanling , Yang Zhaofu
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Ostrinia furnacalis (ACB) and Ostrinia nubilalis (ECB) are devastating pests of the agricultural crop maize worldwide. However, little is known about their potential distribution and niche shifts during their global invasion. Since long‐term selection to past climate variability has shaped their historical niche breadth, such niche shifts may provide an alternative basis for understanding their responses to present and future climate change. By integrating the niche unfilling, stability, and expansion situations into a single framework, our study quantifies the patterns of niche shift in the spatial distribution of these two pests during the different periods.

RESULTS

Our results show that the overall suitable habitats of ACB and ECB in the future decrease but highly and extremely suitable habitat will become more widespread, suggesting these two insects may occur more frequently in specific regions. Compared with Southeast Asia and Australia, the ACB niche in China exhibited expansion rather than unfilling. For ECB, initial niches have a tendency to be retained in Eurasia despite there also being potential for expansion in North America. The niche equivalency and similarity test results further indicate that niche shifts were common for both ACB and ECB in different survival regions during their colonization of new habitat and their suitable habitat changes during the paleoclimate were associated with climatic changes.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings improve our understanding of the ecological characteristics of ACB and ECB worldwide, and will be useful in the development of prevention and control strategies for two insect pests worldwide. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Population pharmacokinetics of valproic acid in children with epilepsy: Implications for dose tailoring when switching from oral syrup to sustained‐release tablets
Authors: Wang Wei‐Jun , Li Yue , Hu Ya‐Hui , Wang Jie , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Fan Lin , Dai Hao‐Ran , Guo Hong‐Li , Ding Xuan‐Sheng , Chen Feng
Published: June 2024

Significant pharmacokinetic (PK) differences exist between different forms of valproic acid (VPA), such as syrup and sustained‐release (SR) tablets. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model for VPA in children with epilepsy and offer dose adjustment recommendation for switching dosage forms as needed. The study collected 1411 VPA steady‐state trough concentrations (Ctrough) from 617 children with epilepsy. Using NONMEM software, a PopPK model was developed, employing a stepwise approach to identify possible variables such as demographic information and concomitant medications. The final model underwent internal and external evaluation via graphical and statistical methods. Moreover, Monte Carlo simulations were used to generate a dose tailoring strategy for typical patients weighting 20–50 kg. As a result, the PK characteristics of VPA were described using a one‐compartment model with first‐order absorption. The absorption rate constant (ka) was set at 2.64 and 0.46 h−1 for syrup and SR tablets. Body weight and sex were identified as significant factors affecting VPA's pharmacokinetics. The final PopPK model demonstrated acceptable prediction performance and stability during internal and external evaluation. For children taking syrup, a daily dose of 25 mg/kg resulted in the highest probability of achieving the desired target Ctrough, while a dose of 20 mg/kg/day was appropriate for those taking SR tablets. In conclusion, we established a PopPK model for VPA in children with epilepsy to tailor VPA dosage when switching between syrup and SR tablets, aiming to improve plasma VPA concentrations fluctuations.
Nonlinear Hall Effect in Isotropic k‐Cubed Rashba Model: Berry‐Curvature‐Dipole Engineering by In‐Plane Magnetic Field
Authors: Krzyżewska Anna , Dyrdał Anna
Published: June 2024

The linear and nonlinear Hall effects in 2D electron gas are considered theoretically within the isotropic k‐cubed Rashba model. It is shown that the presence of an out‐of‐plane external magnetic field or net magnetization is a necessary condition to induce a nonzero Berry curvature in the system, whereas an in‐plane magnetic field tunes the Berry curvature leading to the Berry curvature dipole. Interestingly, in the linear response regime, the conductivity is dominated by the intrinsic component (Berry curvature component), whereas the second‐order correction to the Hall current (i.e., the conductivity proportional to the external electric field) is dominated by the component independent of the Berry curvature dipole.
The performance of the CoMorph‐A convection package in global simulations with the Met Office Unified Model
Authors: Lock A. P. , Whitall M. , Stirling A. J. , Williams K. D. , Lavender S. L. , Morcrette C. , Matsubayashi K. , Field P. R. , Martin G. , Willett M. , Heming J.
Published: June 2024

The impact on global simulations of a new package of physical parametrizations in the Met Office Unified Model is documented. The main component of the package is an entirely new convection scheme, CoMorph. This has a mass‐flux structure that allows initiation of buoyant ascent from any level and the ability for plumes of differing originating levels to coexist in a grid box. It has a different form of closure, where the mass flux of initiation is dependent on local instability, and an implicit numerical solution for detrainment that yields smooth timestep behaviour. The scheme is coupled more consistently to the cloud, microphysics, and boundary‐layer parametrizations and, as a result, significant changes to these have also been made. The package, called CoMorph‐A, has been tested in a variety of single‐column and idealized regimes. Here we test it in global configurations and evaluate it against observations using a range of standard metrics. Overall it is found to perform well against the control. Biases in the climatologies of the radiative fluxes are significantly reduced across the Tropics and subtropics, tropical and extratropical cyclone statistics are improved, and the Madden–Julian oscillation and other propagating tropical waves are strengthened. It also improves overall scores in numerical weather prediction trials, without revisions to the data assimilation. There is still work to do to improve the diurnal cycle of precipitation over land, where the peak remains too close to the middle of the day.
Observation of Superconductivity Up to 8.7 K in Reduced Potassium Tantalate
Authors: Cao Xueshan , Liu Zhongran , Lu Jiayi , Pan Wenze , Wang Yishuai , Shi Yuexin , Hong Siyuan , Qin Ming , Cao Guanghan , Zhang Meng , Tian He , Xie Yanwu
Published: June 2024

The observation of superconductivity with a transition temperature (Tc) up to 8.7 K in KTaO3 single crystals annealed with CaH2 at 900–1000 °C is reported. The superconductivity is confirmed by both resistance and magnetization measurements and is 3D in nature. Characterizations of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning transmission electron microscopy reveal that it locates in a 1‐µm‐order‐thick polycrystalline surface layer that shows a rock‐salt type structure, with a lattice constant of 0.454 nm, and can be chemically identified as KxTaOy (0.04 ≤ x ≤ 0.08, 1.24 ≤ y ≤ 1.35), depending on annealing conditions. Within the experimental ranges, the Tc is peaked at x ≈0.05, and increases with decreasing y, and the highest Tc is observed in K0.05TaO1.24. The Tc observed here is much higher than that of KTaO3, Ta, and pure TaO, and is also one of the highest among of all the known oxide superconductors with the same rock‐salt structure. The rather high Tc and its close connection with KTaO3 and Ta, both of which are promising materials for quantum computing, make KxTaOy potentially interesting as a building block in constructing future superconducting quantum devices.
Experimental assessment of elemental analyzer isotope ratio mass spectrometry normalization methodologies for environmental stable isotopes
Authors: Balint Sawyer , Schwartz Morgan , Fowler Drew N. , Linnekogel Stella , Clemons Sáde Cromratie , Burkemper Laura K.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

In stable isotope mass spectrometry, isotope delta values are normalized to internationally recognized reference scales using a combination of certified and in‐house isotope reference materials. Numerous techniques exist for performing this normalization, but these methodologies need to be experimentally assessed to compare their effect on reproducibility of isotope results.

Methods

We tested normalization methods by the number of reference materials used, their matrix, their isotope range, and whether normalization required extrapolating beyond the isotope range. We analyzed eight commercially available isotope reference materials on a ThermoFinnigan Delta‐V isotope ratio mass spectrometer (IRMS) and an Elementar VisION IRMS for nitrogen and carbon isotope composition via solid combustion with an elemental analyzer and computed every possible isotope normalization (n = 612). Additionally, we assessed how sample matrix affected linearity effects on both instruments using five in‐house reference materials.

Results

Normalizations exhibited the best performance when the reference materials spanning an isotope range of at least 20‰ were matrix matched with the samples and did not require extrapolation beyond the calibration curve. When these conditions were not met, the number of reference materials used had a significant effect on accuracy, with normalizations composed of two reference materials exhibiting particularly inconsistent performance at isotope ranges below 20‰. Linearity effects were found to exceed instrument precision by two orders of magnitude irrespective of matrix type and were not predicted by working gas diagnostics.

Conclusions

Interlaboratory comparability of isotope results is improved when operators of elemental analyzer isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EAIRMS) systems select reference materials spanning an isotope range of at least 20‰. Additionally, using three or more isotopic reference materials, avoiding extrapolation beyond the range of the normalization curve, and matching the matrix of the reference materials to the samples improve normalizations.
How do airports align with sustainability? An analysis of the world's 150 busiest airports
Authors: Jia Xibei , Macário Rosário , Buyle Sven
Published: June 2024

This study represents the first in‐depth analysis of the global airport industry's compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), assessing the SDG alignment of the world's 150 busiest airports across 48 countries, which collectively account for approximately 60% of global air traffic in 2019. We discovered a 42% overall alignment with the SDGs, illustrating the aviation sector's relatively slow incorporation of green technologies and sustainable practices, especially when contrasted with industries such as Oil and Gas (O&G), and banking. Notably, a subset of 23% of airports demonstrates high alignment, characterized by implementing targeted SDG actions and establishing comprehensive monitoring and evaluation frameworks, indicating a significant, albeit challenging, shift toward sustainability. Our analysis also pinpoints that airports in Europe and those handling larger passenger volumes exhibit more substantial alignment, attributing this to the influence of Europe's stringent sustainability regulations and the prioritization of passenger‐focused operations on enhancing SDG commitments. Conversely, an airport's alignment with the SDGs is not significantly predicted by its host country's national SDG scores, suggesting that regional sustainability pressures exert a more direct influence on airport practices than national achievements. These findings lead to recommendations for standardizing SDG reporting and developing specific metrics for tracking progress at airports, alongside advocating for governmental and international entities to establish regulatory frameworks, financial incentives, and certification programs to enhance global aviation sustainability.
Significant Enhancement of Negative Thermal Expansion Under Low Pressure in Cu2P2O7
Authors: Shi Naike , Fan Longlong , Xu Yuanji , Yin Wen , Chen Huaican , Yuan Bao , Zhou Chang , Chen Jun
Published: June 2024

Much effort is made to achieve the negative thermal expansion (NTE) control, but rare methods reached the improvement of intrinsic NTE. In the present work, a significantly enhanced NTE is realized in Cu2P2O7 by applying low pressure. Especially, the volumetric coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of Cu2P2O7 reached to −50.0 × 10−6 K−1 (150–325K) under 0.25 GPa, which is increased by 47.5% compared to its NTE in a similar temperature range under atmosphere pressure. This character enables a more effective manifestation of the thermal compensation role of Cu2P2O7 in composites. The enhanced NTE mechanisms are analyzed by high pressure synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, neutron diffraction at variable temperature and pressure, as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results show that applied pressure accelerates the contraction of the distance between adjacent CuO layers and CuO columns. Meanwhile, the low‐frequency phonon contribution to NTE in α‐Cu2P2O7 is improved. This work is meaningful for the exploration of methods to enhance NTE and the practical application of NTE materials.
Assessment of Microplastic Pollution Across the Malabar Coast, India
Authors: Mashirin Reeha , Chitra Kumari Chidambaran
Published: June 2024

Recent scientific investigations have highlighted concerning levels of microplastic contamination in marine ecosystems, posing significant risks to marine organisms and human populations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of microplastics in water, sediment, and tissues of commercially important fish species along the Malabar coast in Northwest Kerala, India. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), six predominant polymer types were identified, including HDPE, PET, and nylon. The investigation revealed notable abundances of transparent microplastic particles, measuring <1 mm in diameter, particularly in gastrointestinal and gill tissues, with gastrointestinal tissues exhibiting the highest concentration of microplastics. A diverse array of morphotypes, including fragments (48.08%), fibers (28.84%), filaments (19.23%), and granules (3.85%), were observed within the coastal zone. The study implicates various sources of contamination, such as direct discharges, runoff, and inadequate wastewater management practices, contributing to the substantial presence of microplastics in coastal environments. In light of these findings, the study emphasizes the urgent need for the implementation of effective regulatory measures to mitigate plastic pollution in marine ecosystems. These results underscore the critical importance of proactive intervention to safeguard the health of marine ecosystems and human populations in coastal regions.
Acid Treatment on Bentonite Clay for the Removal of Fast Green FCF Dye from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Bharali Panchali
Published: June 2024

The bentonite clay has been activated by acid treatment and utilized as a lower‐cost and eco‐friendly adsorbent required to remove Fast Green FCF dye from the aqueous solution. At first acid activated bentonite clay minerals were analyzed by various analytical techniques like Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. The batch adsorption research was performed to investigate the Fast Green FCF dye adsorption onto the acid‐treated (Bent) bentonite clay. Sorption studies investigated the impacts of adsorbent dosage, initial pH, and time of contact on Fast Green FCF color elimination. The adsorption capacity decreased as the pH was above 7 and then remained almost the same after a pH value of 9. At acidic conditions (below pH value 7), the capacity of adsorption diminished by a decrease in the pH of the solution. The results indicated that the maximum capacity of adsorption has been obtained at an adsorbent dosage of 0.1 g. As the dosage of the adsorbent was improved, several active sites that were available at the time of the dye adsorption increased. As a result, the dye percentage that was removed from the clay increased. Besides these, adsorption kinetics, adsorption equilibrium isotherm, and thermodynamics studies have been also conducted. While studying the adsorption kinetics pseudo‐2nd‐order kinetics has been seen to be more appropriate as compared to pseudo‐1st‐order model. The experimental findings indicated that the attachment of the dye to the clay surface followed the “Langmuir adsorption” isotherm rather than the Freundlich adsorption isotherm with a monolayer coverage of 18.93 mg/g. From the thermodynamics study, it was revealed that the process of adsorption takes place instantly at high temperatures.
Real‐Time Air Quality Index Detection through Regression‐Based Convolutional Neural Network Model on Captured Images
Authors: Sarkar Pritisha , Saha Duranta Durbaar Vishal , Saha Mousumi
Published: June 2024

Our research addresses the imperative need for an efficient air quality monitoring and forecasting system to mitigate the significant health risks of air pollution. Departing from conventional binary data collection methods, we employ image‐based techniques to overcome inherent limitations. A pioneering aspect of our work involves the development of a novel model capable of predicting six air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, O3, CO, SO2, NO2) along with Air Quality Index for Bengaluru, Delhi, and Tamil Nadu, achieving a commendable mean absolute error of 0.1432 on the test set. The efficacy of our approach is validated through a meticulously curated dataset comprising approximately 5455 images. We emphasize the significance of normalization by presenting outputs before and after, shedding light on the impact of parameters with varying ranges and strategies employed to mitigate such discrepancies. A detailed analysis of our model's best and worst outputs provides valuable insights into its strengths and limitations. To enhance user accessibility, we introduce an innovative image‐based, real‐time, user‐friendly dashboard that allows users to conveniently assess a location's air pollution levels by uploading an image. This holistic approach offers a promising avenue for accurate air quality prediction and real‐time monitoring.
Fishermen's willingness to accept compensation for conservation of Hilsha (Tenualosa ilisha) fish: Evidences from Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmad Babor , Rabbani Md. Golam , Siddiquee Muhammad Shahadat Hossain , Uddin Mohammad Main , Khanom Shuktara , Talukdar Shawon , Habiba Umme
Published: June 2024

Hilsha fish (Tenualosa ilisha) is one of Bangladesh's biggest economic and nutritious fish. Governments and planners are contemplating rewarding fishermen who conserve this precious resource. The government is economically helping fishermen to limit fishing Hilsha for 2 months in order to promote it from immature (Jatka) to mature Hilsha. No study has predicted the amount of economic incentive for fishermen in Bangladesh. This study estimates fishermen's willingness to accept (WTA) conserving Hilsha fishes and the associated problems that they encounter during the banning period. To achieve these goals, 255 fishermen from Chandpur were randomly sampled for collecting cross‐section data. This study uses a dichotomous contingent valuation using a logit model for WTA decision factors and problem facing index (PFI) to assess fishermen's hardships during the banning period. Findings reveal that WTA decisions are influenced by bidding amount, household distance from the nearest market, fishermen's educational status, previous awareness of Hilsha conservation, credit access, household size, training received, and fishing experience. The PFI shows that respondents' main issues during the fish‐catching prohibition are the lack of nutritional food, alternative jobs, clothing, credit, and livelihood capital. The mean per month WTA is found to be BDT 13,372, which should be implemented to minimize trade‐offs during banning and sustain Hilsha resources with support to and from fishermen. Policies such as technical training for alternative earning occupations, increased credit with low prerequisites, effective family planning, and Hilsha conservation awareness might help improve the livelihoods of the fishing community and sustain this valuable resource.