bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and excretion study of GL‐V9 and its glucuronide metabolite 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9 in Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Liu Guanlan , Sang Zechun , Jin Xiaoxin , Wang Yan , Guo Qinglong , Zhou Yuxin , Song Xiuming
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study is to explore the pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and excretion patterns of GL‐V9 and its glucuronide metabolite, 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9, following the administration of GL‐V9 to Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. In this research, we developed and validated rapid, sensitive, and selective ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) methods for quantifying GL‐V9 and 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9 in various biological samples, including SD rat plasma, tissue homogenate, bile, urine, and feces. Quantification of GL‐V9 and 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9 in plasma, tissue homogenate, bile, urine, and feces was performed using the validated LC–MS/MS methods. The bioavailability of GL‐V9 in SD rats ranged from 6.23% to 7.08%, and both GL‐V9 and 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9 exhibited wide distribution and rapid elimination from tissues. The primary distribution tissues for GL‐V9 and 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9 in rats were the duodenum, liver, and lung. GL‐V9 was predominantly excreted in urine, while 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9 was primarily excreted in bile. GL‐V9 exhibited easy absorption and rapid conversion to its glucuronide metabolite, 5‐O‐glucuronide GL‐V9, following administration.
QoS‐enhanced load balancing strategies for metaverse‐infused VR/AR in engineering education 5.0
Authors: Singh Kiran Deep , Singh Prabh Deep
Published: February 2024

The evolution of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies has ushered in a new era of immersive experiences, with applications ranging from entertainment to education. The proposed framework introduces a fog layer with an innovative, improved geographic load‐balancing algorithm. It optimizes load distribution and provides quality of service (QoS) parameters that are important for enhancing user experiences for AR/VR applications. The iFogSim toolkit experimentally validates the framework in electroencephalogram‐based VR/AR gaming applications. Also, the proposed framework is tested in a diverse range of scenarios. Results show that the proposed algorithm improves QoS for AR/VR applications with noticeable improvements on average latency, jitter, and packet loss. Future research should aim to address these limitations for a more comprehensive understanding of the proposed framework's practicality and effectiveness. The development of immersive technologies will continue to expand in multiple sectors, and future research will focus on energy efficiency, security, and real‐world applications.
Pulmonary tuberculosis in an adult presenting with severe hyponatremia: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Paudel Shailes , Dhanani Maulik , Patel Krish Hitesh , Vakkalagadda Naga Praneeth , Sanker Vivek , Damera Abhiram Rao , Gupta Umang , Bhandari Prakriti
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Identifying pulmonary pathology while evaluating electrolyte disorders is crucial for optimal patient management. Physicians working in endemic regions of tuberculosis should consider this pathology as a differential for electrolyte imbalances.

Hyponatremia, a common electrolyte imbalance, can arise from various underlying etiologies such as diuretics, diarrhea, vomiting, congestive heart failure, and liver and renal disease. We present a case report of a 74‐year‐old man highlighting the association between pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and the development of hyponatremia. GeneXpert assay of the patient's sputum sample led to the identification of underlying active pulmonary TB as the cause of hyponatremia. The patient was started on anti‐TB therapy, and concurrent fluid restriction and sodium supplementation were initiated to correct the electrolyte imbalance. Over the next 3 days, the patient demonstrated clinical improvement with the resolution of hyponatremia. This case also highlights the importance of considering TB as a potential etiology in patients presenting with hyponatremia, especially in endemic areas. Further research is warranted to explore the mechanistic pathways linking pulmonary TB and hyponatremia, aiding in the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.
The impact of dietary fat type on lipid profiles in lean mass hyper‐responder phenotype
Authors: Takemura Yuma , Inoue Tomoko , Matsunaga Keiji , Tani Ryosuke , Fu Hai Ying , Minamino Tetsuo
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Although the lean mass hyper‐responder (LMHR) phenotype is well known, its diagnosis is impeded by the influence of fat type and intake on the lipid profile. Accordingly, a detailed assessment is warranted if LMHR is suspected.

A 47‐year‐old man with suspected familial hypercholesterolemia presented with elevated triglyceride and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. He had adhered to a ketogenic diet and was suspected of a lean mass hyper‐responder phenotype; however, his lipid profile did not meet the definition. His lipid profile improved through dietary management without medication.
Lipoid proteinosis: A rare genodermatosis with multisystemic manifestations—A case report
Authors: Hashmi Farah Naaz , Huma Sumera , Singireddy Harshini , Zareen Nikhat , Suvvari Tarun Kumar , Ansari Mustafa Hussain , Sultana Nudrat , Hasibuzzaman Md. Al
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Lipoid proteinosis (LP) is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis, which is characterized by the deposition of amorphous hyaline material in various tissues, including the mucosa, visceral organs, and skin. We report a case of a 11‐year‐old girl born to consanguineous parents presented with multisystemic manifestations of the disorder. The patient presented with progressive skin lesions evolving from blisters to papules, distinctive beaded papules along eyelid margins, hoarseness of voice, impaired speech, hair loss, and a painful jaw swelling. Clinical examination revealed waxy skin, atrophic scars, and keratotic plaques. Histopathology report revealed amorphous hyaline eosinophilic material deposition. This case report highlights the multisystemic manifestations of LP and the importance of early diagnosis and management.
Pushing the Efficiency of the Selective and Base‐Free Air‐Oxidation of HMF by Varying the Properties of Carbon‐Based Supports
Authors: Neukum Dominik , Saraçi Erisa , Krause Bärbel , Lakshmi Nilayam Ajai Raj , Sinigalia Alisa , Grunwaldt Jan‐Dierk
Published: February 2024

The selective oxidation of 5‐(Hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF) to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is highly attractive for the production of renewable monomers as substitute for fossil‐based monomers. To achieve a sustainable synthesis, we report on advances for a base‐free approach, reducing waste from the process, using air as oxidant and heterogeneous catalysts. Various Carbon‐based supports, which can be bio‐sourced and cost‐efficient, for Pt particles were investigated as they allow for an easy reuse and at the end‐of‐life Pt can be recycled to enable a closed cycle. Commercially available supports with varying properties, which might replace the base, were studied with Pt particles of similar size and loading. Significant differences in the catalytic activity were observed, which were correlated with the O‐functionalities and graphitization degree of the supports derived from Raman spectroscopy, temperature‐programmed desorption, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. An activated carbon (Norit ROX) rich in quinone/pyrone‐type groups and a carbon black‐based catalyst with graphene‐layers pushed the efficiency with enhanced FDCA‐yields enabling the complete substitution of the homogeneous base. This allows to circumvent the base in this process which together with high selectivity, air as oxidant, a reusable catalyst, and the use of bio‐based feedstock contributes to the sustainability of the production of renewable monomers.
Studying the Structure‐Reactivity Relationship of CuO/CeO2 for Catalytic Soot Particulate Combustion: On the Monolayer Dispersion Threshold Effect
Authors: Shen Jiating , Zhang Shijing , Shen Hailing , Xu Xianglan , Fang Xiuzhong , Wang Xiang
Published: February 2024

To elucidate structure‐reactivity relationship and prepare improved catalysts for soot combustion, a series of CuO/CeO2 with different loadings have been fabricated by the impregnation method. With XRD and XPS extrapolation methods, it is disclosed that CuO disperses finely on the CeO2 support to form a monolayer with a capacity around 1.06 mmol 100 m−2, which equals to 2.9 wt. % CuO loading. Below this capacity, CuO is in a sub‐monolayer state. However, above this capacity, CuO micro‐crystallites are formed, and co‐exist with the monolayer CuO. By increasing CuO loading, soot combustion activity of the catalysts increases as well until it reaches the monolayer dispersion capacity. Further increasing the CuO loading to 5 % decreases the activity slightly, and then remains constant. Therefore, an apparent monolayer dispersion threshold effect is observed for soot combustion on CuO/CeO2 catalysts. It is found that the amount of surface‐active O2− sites plays critical role for the catalytic activity. To obtain the most active CuO/CeO2 catalyst, a monolayer amount of CuO should be loaded on the supports.
Preparation and sound absorption performance of low‐carbon fly ash cenosphere plates
Authors: Yi Yongli , Li Chu , Han Yu , Nie Jingkai , Fan Chao , He Qiang
Published: February 2024

A series of low‐carbon fly ash cenosphere plates was prepared using solid waste based cementitious material as binder through a simple process; meanwhile, effects of cenosphere's particle size and size distribution on microstructure and properties were investigated. In the range of 20–200 mesh, as particle size decreases, sound absorption performance decreases while strength improves. Appropriate particle grading can effectively improve the compressive strength, but it will lead to a significant decrease in sound absorption performance. Samples prepared from fly ash cenosphere with a particle size of 20–40 mesh show good sound absorption performance: when the cavity size is 0 mm, the maximum sound absorption coefficient is 0.64 and the average value is 0.36 in the range of 50–1 600 Hz; when the cavity size is 100 mm, sound absorption coefficient at 100 Hz is 0.47, the maximum sound absorption coefficient in the range of 50–1 600 Hz is 0.90, and the average value is 0.57 in the range of 100–500 Hz. The prepared low‐carbon fly ash cenosphere plates show excellent sound absorption performance at low‐frequency and are expected to have broad application prospects in low‐frequency noise reduction and absorption.
Development of Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE) ligands through target directed dynamic combinatorial chemistry: a novel class of possible antagonists
Authors: Dascalu Anca‐Elena , Furman Christophe , Landrieu Isabelle , Cantrelle François‐Xavier , Mortelecque Justine , Grolaux Gaëlle , Gillery Philippe , Tessier Frédéric , Lipka Emmanuelle , Billamboz Muriel , Boulanger Eric , Ghinet Alina
Published: February 2024

RAGE is a transmembrane receptor of immunoglobulin family that can bind various endogenous and exogenous ligands, initiating the inflammatory downstream signaling pathways, including inflammaging. Therefore, RAGE represents an attractive drug target for age‐related diseases. For the development of small‐molecule RAGE antagonists, we employed protein‐templated dynamic combinatorial chemistry (ptDCC) using RAGE′s VC1 domain as a template, the first application of this approach in the context of RAGE. The affinities of DCC hits were validated using microscale thermophoresis. Subsequent screening against AGE2 (glyceraldehyde‐modified AGE)‐sRAGE (solubleRAGE) (AGE2‐BSA/sRAGE) interaction using ELISA tests led to the identification of antagonists with micromolar potency. Our findings not only demonstrate the successful application of ptDCC on RAGE but also highlight its potential to address the pressing need for alternative strategies for the development of small‐molecule RAGE antagonists, an area of research that has experienced a slowdown in recent years.
Poly(vinyl chloride) Dechlorination Catalyzed by Zirconium
Authors: Normand Adrien T. , Wu Yue , Régnier Tiffanie , Fleurat‐Lessard Paul , Rousselin Yoann , Théron Benjamin , Le Gendre Pierre , Carta Mariolino
Published: February 2024

Poly(vinyl chloride) undergoes dechlorination in the presence of triethylsilane (Et3SiH) and a catalytic amount of [Cp2Zr(NPh2)][CH3B(C6F5)3] (1 b) at 40–80 °C, with up to 91 % efficiency. Stoichiometric reactivity studies conducted on cyclohexyl chloride as a model suggest that 1 b dechlorinates PVC by initial chloride abstraction, followed by hydride transfer to the cationic PVC chain from Et3SiH. Consumer items such as pipe fitting, vinyl disc or electric cable insulation undergo either dechlorination or hydrosilylation of the carbonyl‐containing copolymer (polyvinyl acetate) or plasticizer (phthalate).
Exploring the Theoretical Foundations of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence (TADF) Emission: A Comprehensive TD‐DFT Study on Phenothiazine Systems
Authors: Banerjee Moumita , Anoop Anakuthil
Published: February 2024

This study conducts a thorough theoretical investigation of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence (TADF) in phenothiazine‐based systems, examining ten molecular configurations recognized experimentally as TADF‐active. Employing Time‐Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD‐DFT), our analysis spans the investigation of singlet‐triplet energy gaps (ΔEST), spin‐orbit coupling, and excitation characteristics using Multiwfn. This approach not only validates the adherence to El Sayed's rule across these systems but also provides a detailed understanding of charge transfer dynamics, as visualized through heat maps. A significant aspect of our study is the exploration of different oxidation states of sulfur and site substitutions on phenothiazine. This systematic variation aims to identify additional TADF‐active compounds, drawing parallels with properties characterizing other known TADF emitters. Our investigation into Reverse Intersystem Crossing (rISC) rates and the analysis of dihedral angles in relation to ΔEST values offer nuanced insights into the TADF behaviours of these molecules. By integrating rigorous computational analysis with practical implications, we provide a foundational understanding that enhances the design and optimization of phenothiazine‐based materials for optoelectronic applications. This work not only advances our theoretical understanding of TADF in phenothiazine derivatives but also serves as a guide for experimentalists and industry professionals in the strategic design of new TADF materials.
A Pd‐Catalyzed Annulation Strategy to Linearly Fused Functionalized N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Hoteite Larry , Allen Benjamin D. W. , Elhajj Ms. Ergaiya A. , Meijer Anthony J. H. M. , Harrity Joseph P. A.
Published: February 2024

Linearly fused polycyclic piperidines represent common substructures in natural products and biologically active small molecules. We have devised a Pd‐catalyzed annulation strategy to these compounds that converts readily available 2‐tetralones and indanones into these scaffolds with the potential for control of both enantio‐ and diastereoselectivity. Importantly, these compounds can be chemoselectively functionalized, providing an efficient and robust methodology to these important nitrogen‐containing molecules.
Chiral acidic molecularly imprinted polymer for enantio‐separation of norepinephrine racemate
Authors: Abomuti May Abdullah
Published: February 2024

We are looking into how well a copolymeric material made of poly (maleic acid–co‐4‐vinylpyridine) cross‐linked with divinylbenzene can separate L‐norepinephrine (L‐NEP) from (±)‐NEP. The initial step in this direction was the synthesis and subsequent analysis of L‐NEP‐maleimide chiral derivative. A 4‐vinylpyridine/divinylbenzene combination was copolymerized with the resultant chiral maleimide. After heating the polymer materials in a high‐alkaline environment to breakdown the connecting imide bonds, they were acidified in an HCl solution to eliminate the incorporated L‐NEP species. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and a scanning electron microscope were used to examine the imprinted L‐NEP‐imprinted materials. The manufactured L‐NEP‐imprinted materials exhibited selectivity characteristics that were over 11 times greater for L‐NEP than D‐norepinephrine. The highest capacity observed in Langmuir adsorption studies was 170 mg/g at a pH of 7. After optical separation using a column technique, it was determined that the enantiomeric excess levels of D‐norepinephrine and L‐NEP in the first feeding and subsequent recovery solutions were 95% and 81%, respectively.
Effiziente Entgasung von keramischen Massen
Authors: Fahlbusch Fabian
Published: February 2024

Höhere Qualität, weniger Wartung und geringere Kosten bei die Extruder‐Entgasung bilanzieren die Verantwortlichen in der Porzellanfabrik Hermsdorf in Thüringen. Das Unternehmen ersetzte vier alte, energie‐ und wartungsintensive ölgeschmierte Pumpen durch zwei energiesparende und wartungsarme trockene Vakuumsysteme zum Entgasen der Keramikmassen.
SAF auf Methanolbasis
Authors: Lisson Matthias
Published: February 2024

Wie alle Branchen muss auch die Luftfahrt ihre Emissionen drastisch senken. Netto‐Null ist nur mit alternativen Kraftstoffen zu erreichen. Wie alle Branchen muss auch die Luftfahrt ihre Emissionen drastisch senken. Nachhaltiges Flugbenzin (Sustainable Aviation Fuel, SAF) ist bereits verfügbar und nahezu universell einsetzbar. Ein Anlagenbauer will auf einem ehemaligen Flugplatz im brandenburgischen Jänschwalde eine Anlage zur Produktion von grünem Wasserstoff und umweltfreundlichem Flugzeugtreibstoff errichten. Das JANGADA genannte Projekt soll 2027 in Betrieb gehen.
Messtechnik für die Energiewende
Authors: Kraftschik Florian , Effenberger Frederik
Published: February 2024

Im Rahmen der industriellen Energiewende muss der CO2‐Ausstoß verringert bzw. gänzlich vermieden und fossile Energieträger durch Strom und Wasserstoff ersetzt werden. Dazu benötigen Anlagenbetreiber nicht nur Messtechnik, um Messwerte und weitere Daten für die Prozessüberwachung und ‐steuerung zu erheben, sondern auch um präzise Informationen über Energieeinspeisung, ‐verbräuche und eine genaue Energiedistribution bis hin zur anlagenweiten Energiebilanzierung zu erfassen.
Diagnosing medullary thyroid carcinoma is facilitated by measuring calcitonin in FNA washout fluids: Alea iacta est
Authors: Trimboli Pierpaolo , Crescenzi Anna
Published: February 2024

The prognosis for patients diagnosed with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) varies significantly with the timing of detection: the earlier the diagnosis, the higher the likelihood of achieving a complete cure (or at least a better outcome). Ogmen et al. show that the routine measurement of calcitonin in serum could lead to an earlier MTC diagnosis.
Bioinformatics analysis proposes a possible role for long noncoding RNA MIR17HG in retinoblastoma
Authors: Wang Zijin , Liang Xiaotian , Yi Guoguo , Wu Tong , Sun Yuxin , Zhang Ziran , Fu Min
Published: February 2024

Background

Retinoblastoma (RB) is the most common prevalent intraocular malignancy among infants and children, particularly in underdeveloped countries. With advancements in genomics and transcriptomics, noncoding RNAs have been increasingly utilized to investigate the molecular pathology of diverse diseases.

Aims

This study aims to establish the competing endogenous RNAs network associated with RB, analyse the function of mRNAs and lncRNAs, and finds the relevant regulatory network.

Methods and Results

This study establishes a network of competing endogenous RNAs by Spearman correlation analysis and prediction based on RB patients and healthy children. Enrichment analyzes based on Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes are conducted to analyze the potential biological functions of lncRNA and mRNA networks. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) is employed to identify gene cluster modules exhibiting the strongest correlation with RB. The results indicate a significant correlation between the lncRNA MIR17HG (R = .73, p = .02) and the RB phenotype. ceRNA networks reveal downstream miRNAs (hsa‐mir‐425‐5p and hsa‐mir455‐5p) and mRNAs (MDM2, IPO11, and ITGA1) associated with MIR17Hg. As an inhibitor of the p53 signaling pathway, MDM2 can suppress the development of RB.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lncRNAs play a role in RB, and the MIR17HG/hsa‐mir‐425‐5p/MDM2 pathway may contribute to RB development by inhibiting the p53 signaling pathway.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Fasinumab in Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Pain Due to Osteoarthritis of the Knee or Hip
Authors: Lin Kuan‐Ju , Turner Kenneth C. , Hassan Hazem E. , Harnisch Lutz O. , Davis John D. , DiCioccio Albert Thomas
Published: February 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) pain management options are currently limited. Fasinumab, an anti‐nerve growth factor monoclonal antibody, has been investigated in healthy volunteers and patients with OA‐related pain, among other conditions. Data from 12 Phase I‐III clinical trials of 92 healthy volunteers and 7430 patients with OA were used to develop a population pharmacokinetic model to characterize fasinumab concentration‐time profiles and assess the covariates’ effect on fasinumab pharmacokinetic parameters. Participants received single or repeated fasinumab doses intravenously (IV)/subcutaneously (SC), based on body weight (0.03‐1 mg/kg IV or 0.1‐0.3 mg/kg SC)/fixed dose (9‐12 mg IV or 1‐12 mg SC). Fasinumab concentration‐time data following IV and SC administration in healthy volunteers and patients with OA‐related pain were adequately described by a 2‐compartment model. Bioavailability increased with higher doses; estimated at 55.1% with 1 mg SC dose, increasing in a greater‐than‐proportional manner above this. Body weight had the largest predicted impact on fasinumab steady‐state exposures, participants at the 5th and 95th percentiles had a 43%‐45% higher/22%‐23% lower exposure versus reference, respectively. Other covariates had small but clinically irrelevant impacts.
Covalent Tethering of Cobalt Porphyrins on Phenolic Resins for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions
Authors: Kong Jiafan , Qin Haonan , Yang Luna , Zhang Jieling , Peng Yuxin , Gao Yimei , Wu Yizhen , Nam Wonwoo , Cao Rui
Published: February 2024

Using functionalized supporting materials for the immobilization of molecular catalysts is an appealing strategy to improve the efficiency of molecular electrocatalysis. Herein, we report the covalent tethering of cobalt porphyrins on phenolic resins (PR) for improved electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). A cobalt porphyrin bearing an alkyl bromide substituent was covalently tethered on phenolic resins, through the substitution reaction of alkyl bromides with phenolic hydroxyl groups, to afford molecule‐engineered phenolic resins (Co‐PR). The resulted Co‐PR was efficient for electrocatalytic ORR and OER by displaying an ORR half‐wave potential of E1/2=0.78 V versus RHE and an OER overpotential of 420 mV to get 10 mA/cm2 current density. We propose that the many residual phenolic hydroxyl groups on PR will surround the tethered Co porphyrin and play critical roles in facilitating proton and electron transfers. Importantly, Co‐PR outperformed unmodified PR and PR loaded with Co porphyrins through simple physical adsorption (termed Co@PR). The zinc‐air battery assembled using Co‐PR displayed a performance comparable to that using Pt/C+Ir/C. This work is significant to present phenolic resins as a functionalized material to support molecular electrocatalysts and demonstrate the strategy to improve molecular electrocatalysis with the use of phenolic resin residues.
Spontaneous Charge Separation at the Metal‐Water Interface
Authors: Svensson Rasmus , Grönbeck Henrik
Published: February 2024

Reactions at the metal‐water interface are essential in a range of fundamental and technological processes. Using Density Functional Theory calculations, we demonstrate that water substantially affects the adsorption of H and O2 on Cu(111), Ag(111), Au(111), Pd(111) and Pt(111). In water, H is found to undergo a spontaneous charge separation, where a proton desorbs to the water solution while an electron is donated to the surface. The reaction is exothermic over Au and Pt and associated with low barriers. The process is facile also over Pd, albeit slightly endothermic. For O2, water is found to increase the metal‐to‐adsorbate charge transfer, enhancing the adsorption energy and O−O bond length as compared to the adsorption in the absence of water. The magnitudes of the effects are system dependent, which implies that calculations should treat water explicitly. The results elucidate previous experimental results and highlights the importance of charge‐transfer effects at the metal‐water interface; both to describe the potential energy landscape, and to account for alternative reaction routes in the presence of water.
Advances in Membrane Mimetic Systems for Manipulation and Analysis of Membrane Proteins: Detergents, Polymers, Lipids and Scaffolds
Authors: Woubshete Menebere , Cioccolo Sara , Byrne Bernadette
Published: February 2024

Extracting membrane proteins from the hydrophobic environment of the biological membrane, in a physiologically relevant and stable state, suitable for downstream analysis remains a challenge. The traditional route to membrane protein extraction has been to use detergents and the last 15 years or so have seen a veritable explosion in the development of novel detergents with improved properties, making them more suitable for individual proteins and specific applications. There have also been significant advances in the development of encapsulation of membrane proteins in lipid based nanodiscs, either directly from the native membrane using polymers allowing effective capture of the protein and protein‐associated membrane lipids, or via reconstitution of detergent extracted and purified protein into nanodiscs of defined lipid composition. All of these advances have been successfully applied to the study of membrane proteins via a range of techniques and there have been some spectacular membrane protein structures solved. In addition, the first detailed structural and biophysical analyses of membrane proteins retained within a biological membrane have been reported. Here we summarise and review the recent advances with respect to these new agents and systems for membrane protein extraction, reconstitution and analysis.
Bulk Heterojunction or Layer‐by‐Layer Structure PM6:L8‐BO Based Polymer Solar Cells Exhibiting an Efficiency of 17.84 % or 18.43 %
Authors: Zhang Junwei , Xu Wenjing , Tian Hongyu , Liu Zhongyuan , Zhang Fujun
Published: February 2024

Two kinds of polymer solar cells (PSCs) were fabricated with polymer donor PM6 and small molecule non‐fullerene acceptor L8‐BO as accepted based on bulk heterojunction (BHJ) or layer‐by‐layer (LbL) structure. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.43 % and 17.84 % can be achieved from the PSCs based on BHJ and LbL structure, respectively. Two kinds of PSCs exhibit the same open circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.88 V, which can be well explained from the same donor and acceptor materials and the same electrodes. The LbL based PSCs exhibit a relatively large short circuit current density (JSC) of 26.97 mA cm−2 and fill factor (FF) of 77.64 % in comparison with JSC of 26.64 mA cm−2 and FF of 76.07 % for BHJ based PSCs. The relatively high PCE of LbL based PSCs should be attributed to the sufficient exciton dissociation and charge collection efficiency, as well as the more balanced charge transport, which can be confirmed from the photogenerated current density dependence on the effective bias. This work demonstrates that layer‐by‐layer structure may have great potential in preparing highly efficient PSCs.
Methods for the Design and Analysis of Analytical Ultracentrifugation Experiments
Authors: Demeler Borries
Published: February 2024

Analytical ultracentrifugation experiments play an integral role in the solution‐phase characterization of biological macromolecules and their interactions. This unit discusses the design of sedimentation velocity and sedimentation equilibrium experiments performed with a Beckman Proteomelab XL‐A or XL‐I analytical ultracentrifuge and with a Beckman Optima AUC. Instrument settings and experimental design considerations are explained, and strategies for the analysis of experimental data with the UltraScan data analysis software package are presented. Special attention is paid to the strengths and weaknesses of the available detectors, and guidance is provided on how to extract maximum information from analytical ultracentrifugation experiments. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Transcriptome‐Wide Association Studies (TWAS): Methodologies, Applications, and Challenges
Authors: Evans Patrick , Nagai Taylor , Konkashbaev Anuar , Zhou Dan , Knapik Ela W. , Gamazon Eric R.
Published: February 2024

Transcriptome‐wide association study (TWAS) methodologies aim to identify genetic effects on phenotypes through the mediation of gene transcription. In TWAS, in silico models of gene expression are trained as functions of genetic variants and then applied to genome‐wide association study (GWAS) data. This post‐GWAS analysis identifies gene‐trait associations with high interpretability, enabling follow‐up functional genomics studies and the development of genetics‐anchored resources. We provide an overview of commonly used TWAS approaches, their advantages and limitations, and some widely used applications. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Self‐organization of earth's inner magnetospheric multi‐ion plasma
Authors: Shazad Usman , Iqbal M.
Published: February 2024

The self‐organization of a magnetized multi‐ion plasma, composed of inertialess electrons and inertial H+, He+, and O+ ions, leads to the formation of quadruple Beltrami (QB) field structures. The QB self‐organized state is a linear combination of four single Beltrami fields, and it is a non‐force‐free state that shows strong magnetofluid coupling. Moreover, the QB state is characterized by four relaxed state structures of different length scales. The investigation reveals that the generalized helicities of plasma species and the densities of ion species have a significant impact on the characteristics of the self‐organized vortices in the QB state. The study also highlights the potential consequences of QB field structures on earth's inner magnetosphere, including diamagnetic and paramagnetic trends as well as heating effects resulting from disparate length scales.
Developing an optimized routing protocol with rumor riding technique for detection of Sybil attack in VANET environment
Authors: Navinkumar V. R. , Somasundaram D.
Published: February 2024

An attack on VANET known as a Sybil attack involves the attacker claiming or stealing multiple identities with the intent of causing havoc on the network's operation by disseminating false information. To protect the VANET network from Sybil attack, a variety of methods have been proposed. In order to compensate for the Sybil attack on VANETs, a rumor riding with salp swarm optimization (SSO) based Routing protocol is developed in this research work. The primary goal of this investigation is to discover how VANETs are vulnerable to the Sybil attack in order to improve their security. Rumor riding will be used to identify the Sybil attack in the suggested strategy. VANETs are protected by the Blowfish Algorithm, which uses SSO to select the best key for each network. The collective intelligence and dynamic adaptation of SALP swarm optimization algorithm enable efficient identification of rumor sources in complex networks. The algorithm is scalable, flexible, and adept at reducing false positives and negatives, making it suitable for large‐scale monitoring. Its parallel processing capabilities and robustness ensure rapid and reliable detection. Using the NS2 platform, the proposed method is compared to existing benchmark in terms of delay, packet delivery ratio (PDR), packet loss, throughput, and attack detection rate. The proposed SSO has reduced the packet loss by nearly 5% and delay by nearly 7%, when compared with existing techniques. The delivery ratio of packet for proposed model is increased up to 8% of PDR, when compared with ACO, PSO, and FA. According to this evidence, it is clear that the proposed SSO outperformed existing approaches in a variety of performance metrics.
The dwarf neon rainbowfish Melanotaenia praecox, a small spiny‐rayed fish with potential as a new Acanthomorpha model fish: I. Fin ray ontogeny and postembryonic staging
Authors: Miyamoto Kazuhide , Abe Gembu , Tamura Koji
Published: February 2024

Background

Fish fins with highly variable color patterns and morphologies have many functions. In Actinopterygii, the free parts of fins are supported by “soft rays” and “spiny rays.” Spiny rays have various functions and are extremely modified in some species, but they are lacking in popular model fish such as zebrafish and medaka. Additionally, some model fish with spiny rays are difficult to maintain in ordinary laboratory systems.

Results

Characteristics of the small, spiny‐rayed rainbowfish Melanotaenia praecox render it useful as an experimental model species. Neither fish age nor body size correlate well with fin development during postembryonic development in this species. A four‐stage developmental classification is proposed that is based on fin ray development.

Conclusions

Melanotaenia praecox is an ideal species to rear in laboratories for developmental studies. Our classification allows for postembryonic staging of this species independent of individual age and body size. Development of each fin ray may be synchronized with dorsal fin development. We discuss the differences in mechanisms regulating soft, spiny, and procurrent ray development.
An outsider on the Antarctic Peninsula: A new record of the non‐native moth Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Benitez Hugo A. , Salinas Carla , Hernández Jordan , Contador Mejías Tamara , Kim Sanghee , Maturana Claudia S. , Rebolledo Lorena , Pérez Laura M. , Câmara Paulo E. A. S. , Alves Ferreira Vinícius , Lobos Isabel , Piñeiro Alejandro , Convey Peter
Published: February 2024

We report the first record of the microlepidopteran Plodia interpunctella beyond the South Shetland Islands at the Chilean Yelcho scientific station (64°52′33.1428″ S; 63°35′1.9572″ W), Doumer Island, close to the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. It is notable that P. interpunctella, a globally distributed stored product pest species, exhibits a remarkable capacity for prolonged viability within food storage facilities. The dual challenges of food transportation and storage in the context of Antarctica's challenging operational conditions may have facilitated P. interpunctella's initial arrival to the Antarctic region. Non‐perishable food items, such as grains, flour and rice, provide practical options for the bulk food transportation and storage required in the long‐term operation of Antarctic research stations. The presence of P. interpunctella in Antarctica, even if restricted to synanthropic environments within buildings, is a clear threat to Antarctic biodiversity, not only through being an invasive species itself but also as a potential vector for other non‐native species (bacteria, acari, between others.), which could carry diseases to the native species.
Accounting for unobserved population dynamics and aging error in close‐kin mark‐recapture assessments
Authors: Swenson John D. , Brooks Elizabeth N. , Kacev Dovi , Boyd Charlotte , Kinney Michael J. , Marcy‐Quay Benjamin , Sévêque Anthony , Feldheim Kevin A. , Komoroske Lisa M.
Published: February 2024

Obtaining robust estimates of population abundance is a central challenge hindering the conservation and management of many threatened and exploited species. Close‐kin mark‐recapture (CKMR) is a genetics‐based approach that has strong potential to improve the monitoring of data‐limited species by enabling estimates of abundance, survival, and other parameters for populations that are challenging to assess. However, CKMR models have received limited sensitivity testing under realistic population dynamics and sampling scenarios, impeding the application of the method in population monitoring programs and stock assessments. Here, we use individual‐based simulation to examine how unmodeled population dynamics and aging uncertainty affect the accuracy and precision of CKMR parameter estimates under different sampling strategies. We then present adapted models that correct the biases that arise from model misspecification. Our results demonstrate that a simple base‐case CKMR model produces robust estimates of population abundance with stable populations that breed annually; however, if a population trend or non‐annual breeding dynamics are present, or if year‐specific estimates of abundance are desired, a more complex CKMR model must be constructed. In addition, we show that CKMR can generate reliable abundance estimates for adults from a variety of sampling strategies, including juvenile‐focused sampling where adults are never directly observed (and aging error is minimal). Finally, we apply a CKMR model that has been adapted for population growth and intermittent breeding to two decades of genetic data from juvenile lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) in Bimini, Bahamas, to demonstrate how application of CKMR to samples drawn solely from juveniles can contribute to monitoring efforts for highly mobile populations. Overall, this study expands our understanding of the biological factors and sampling decisions that cause bias in CKMR models, identifies key areas for future inquiry, and provides recommendations that can aid biologists in planning and implementing an effective CKMR study, particularly for long‐lived data‐limited species.
American marten occupancy and activity patterns at the southern extent of their range in the eastern United States
Authors: Ashbrook Sarah , Hapeman Paul
Published: February 2024

The relatively recent rediscovery of an American marten (Martes americana) population that was reintroduced over 30 years ago in southern Vermont provides an opportunity to investigate the relative importance of other mesocarnivores, and forest stand (e.g., DBH, downed logs, vertical structure) and habitat variables to their presence on the Green Mountain National Forest. Marten are state‐listed as an endangered species in Vermont and occur there at the southern extent of their range in the eastern United States. We collected detection data from camera surveys in 5 km2 units between 2019 and 2021 (December–April; n = 40 units, 238 cameras). We examined activity patterns and applied an occupancy modeling framework to the detection data to assess the relative importance of covariates at unit and camera levels and assess interactions of marten with other mesocarnivores. We did not find any unit‐level occupancy models with significant covariates that were better supported than the base model in the single‐season unit‐level analysis. Distance to the nearest release site was the covariate most supported for detectability at both spatial scales, and marten occupancy at the camera level was positively influenced by the amount of canopy cover. Two species interaction models did not indicate any positive or negative association beyond random with other mesocarnivores and activity patterns among mesocarnivores had substantial overlap. Marten recovery since the time of the reintroduction appears slow, and even 30 years later, the marten distribution is limited and suggests that dispersal is restricted at some level. We recommend a further investigation of the possible impact of other mesocarnivores to juvenile survival or other vital demographic rate (e.g., recruitment) in marten that were not explicitly measured in this study.
Prey selection by leopards (Panthera pardus fusca) in the mid‐hill region of Nepal
Authors: Baral Kedar , Bhandari Shivish , Adhikari Binaya , Kunwar Ripu M. , Sharma Hari P. , Aryal Achyut , Ji Weihong
Published: February 2024

Information on prey selection and the diet of the leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) is essential for leopard conservation. We conducted an investigation into the prey species and the proportion of each species in the leopard's diet in a human‐dominated mid‐hill region of Nepal. The analysis of 96 leopard scats collected between August 2020 and March 2021 revealed that leopards consumed 15 prey species, including small‐ and medium‐sized mammals and livestock. In addition to these prey species, we also found plastic materials, bird feathers, and some unidentified items in the leopard scats. Wild ungulates (such as barking deer, Muntiacus muntjak and wild boar, Sus scrofa) constituted only 10% of the biomass in the scats, while livestock contributed 27%, and other wild prey contributed 50%. Among all species, domestic goats had the highest relative biomass in the scats, followed by the jungle cat (Felis chaus), domestic dog (Canis familiaris), and large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha). Similarly, the Indian hare (Lepus nigricollis) had the highest proportion of relative individuals present in the scat samples, followed by the jungle cat and the large Indian civet. A lower proportion of biomass from wild ungulates in the leopard's diet and a higher dependency of the leopard on domestic prey and other wild prey indicate a shortage of medium‐sized wild prey, such as barking deer and wild boar, in leopard habitats. Therefore, the conservation of wild prey species, especially medium‐sized prey, is crucial for reducing the leopard's dependence on livestock and mitigating human‐leopard conflicts in the future.
Effects of external limb compression and/or low‐load resistance exercise on post‐activation performance enhancement during countermovement jumps
Authors: Zheng Zhanfei , Wang Yang , Wei Hongwen , Zhang Jun , Yan Bing , Girard Olivier
Published: February 2024

The effects of low‐load resistance exercise combined with external limb compression (ELC) to augment post‐activation performance enhancement during countermovement jumps have yet to be examined. We assessed the separate and combined effects of ELC and sets of low‐load (back squats) resistance exercise (both compared with controls) during conditioning routines, and determine their subsequent neuromechanical consequences during countermovement jumps. On separate days, twenty strength‐trained men completed a familiarization session followed by four experimental trials in a randomized design that included one of the following conditioning routines: passive rest (Control [CON], no occlusion/standing), exercise (sets of low‐intensity resistance exercise [RE] with 30% 1RM, no occlusion/exercise), ELC ([ELC] at 80% of the individual arterial occlusion pressure, occlusion/standing), and combined ELC and exercise ([ELC + RE], occlusion/exercise). Countermovement jump performance (jump height, relative peak power output, vertical impulse, and rate of force development) was assessed at baseline, immediately after, and at the third, sixth, ninth and twelfth minute following each conditioning routine. Compared to baseline, jump height, relative peak power output and vertical impulse values were lower at 0 min for [RE] (−3.5%–8.2%; p ≤ 0.014) and higher at +3 min for [ELC] (+2.0%–3.8%; p ≤ 0.013). Regarding [ELC + RE], values for these three variables were lower at 0 min (−4.8%–8.0%; p < 0.001) but higher at +12 min (+2.9%–5.5%; p < 0.001) versus baseline. In strength‐trained men, using ELC either alone (while standing) or combined with low‐load resistance exercise sets (during back squats) can be a useful way to improve CMJ mechanics. However, the duration and magnitude of post‐activation potentiation performance benefits varied depending on the type of ELC protocol used.
Changes in perceived mental fatigue, physical fatigue and mood state during a 4‐day national junior orienteering competition preparation camp
Authors: Lam Hui Kwan Nicholas , Sproule John , Turner Anthony P. , Phillips Shaun M.
Published: February 2024

Mental fatigue (MF) has been shown to acutely impair the psychological responses and endurance running performance of orienteers. This study aimed to explore MF levels experienced by orienteers during a 4‐day competition preparation camp that consisted of simulated sprint, middle‐distance, long‐distance, relay and night races. Eleven national junior orienteers participated in the study (age: 15–17 years, height: 1.69 ± 0.07 m and body mass: 59.9 ± 5.22 kg). Subjective ratings of MF, motivation, stress, physical fatigue (PF) and tiredness were measured using a 100‐mm visual analogue scale. The Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) was utilized to assess the mood state of the orienteers. The self‐report measures were taken within 30 min of waking, immediately after the post‐training session, and after 24 and 48 h following the final training session. The pre–post orienteering training combined analysis showed that there was a moderate increase in perceived MF (ES = 1.06 [0.66, 1.45]), PF (ES = 1.07 [0.69, 1.45]) and BRUMS fatigue (ES = 0.74 [0.4, 1.1]) after orienteering training. At 48 h post the final training session, MF remained moderately elevated (ES = 0.86 [−0.07, 1.75]), while PF also remained elevated to a small extent (ES = 0.46 [−0.46, 1.39]) compared to the pre‐training values. A moderate impairment was still observed in BRUMS vigor (ES = −1.02 [−1.65, −0.36]), but BRUMS confusion scores were moderately lower (ES = −0.85 [−1.71, 0.04]) than pre‐training values. This study found that orienteering training induced acute MF, persisting for at least 48 h after the final session.