bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sedimentology and reservoir characterisation of Lower Jurassic clastic sedimentary rocks, Salt and Trans Indus Ranges, Pakistan: Evidence from petrography, scanning electron microscopy and petrophysics
Authors: Khattak Salman Ahmed , Khan Nasar , Khan Waseem , Dhas S. Sahaya Jude , Kontakiotis George , Islam Ihtisham , Janjuhah Hammad Tariq , Antonarakou Assimina
Published: December 2024

In this study, sandstones of the Lower Jurassic Datta Formation in the Salt and Trans‐Indus ranges are investigated regarding composition, diagenesis, provenance and reservoir properties using petrography, scanning electron microscopy and petrophysical analysis. The detrital mineral composition of the Datta Formation indicated that the sandstones are quartzose, lithic‐quartzose, lithic‐feldspatho‐quartzose, lithic‐quartzo‐feldspathic, quartzo‐lithic and feldspatho‐quartzose, primarily from the recycled orogen setting, including the Malani Igneous Suite, the Aravali Range and Nagar Parkar. The Datta Formation has sub‐angular to well‐rounded, fine to coarse and moderate to well‐sorted grains. Numerous diagnostic processes that occurred in the early to late stages of diagenesis, such as compaction, pressure solution, cementation, alteration, dolomitisation and dissolution, are supported by evidence in the Datta Formation. Dissolution, physical compaction, dolomitisation and alteration enhanced the reservoir quality, while pressure solution and cementation reduced the reservoir quality of the Datta Formation. The porosity types detected in the Datta Formation under scanning electron microscopy are vuggy, intracrystalline/intraparticle, dissolution and intercrystalline, with an average petrographic visual porosity of 11%. The petrophysical aspects of the Datta Formation in the Chonai‐01 well and the correlation between four wells indicated that the hydrocarbons had shifted up‐dip towards the Isa‐Khail‐01 well, so it is recommended for drilling because of the greater depositional thickness. The comparison of the Datta Formation with age‐equivalent units in other regions of eastern Tethys provided a better understanding of reservoir heterogeneities that can be applicable in areas with similar geological conditions for future petroleum exploration.
Evaluation of ATR–FTIR, HPLC–DAD, GC–MS, and GC–IR for the Analysis of 145 Street Drug Samples From Drug Checking Services
Authors: Monti Manuela Carla , Bauer Melanie , Koch Konrad , Scheurer Eva , Schlotterbeck Götz
Published: December 2024

Drug checking services (DCS) are entities that allow recreational drug users to have street drug samples analyzed. Diverse analytical methods are applied for DCS, ranging from test strips to mass spectrometry (MS). This work evaluates the performance and utility of common methodologies used for DCS operating with off‐site drug testing, while additionally assessing the potential of gas chromatography coupled to vapor phase infrared spectroscopy (GC–IR). Gas chromatography MS (GC–MS), GC–IR, and high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC–DAD) were evaluated based on the analysis of 145 street drug samples obtained from two Swiss DCS. Additionally, attenuated total reflection Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR–FTIR) was applied and is briefly discussed. A combined total of 245 analytes (including adulterants and cutting agents) were detected. GC–MS presented the greatest number of detected compounds, with a sensitivity of 96% compared with the sum of all analytes, followed by HPLC–DAD with 82%, while GC–IR showed limited sensitivity with 70%. GC–IR underperformed regarding the detection of low‐abundant adulterants and of the main active ingredients in strongly adulterated samples. This study discusses the limitations and strengths of the evaluated methods in the specific context of DCS, while providing insights into the occurrence of false declarations (differing analytical results compared with alleged drug identity) and the distributions of adulterants and cutting agents in street drug samples. Based on our results, complementary approaches are considered the most valuable. Finally, the promotion of comprehensive guidelines regarding the quality and suitability of analytical methods for DCS would be highly desired.
Valorizing Agro‐Food Waste for Nutraceutical Development: Sustainable Approaches for Managing Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and Related Co‐Morbidities
Authors: Comi Laura , Giglione Claudia , Klinaku Fationa Tolaj , Pialorsi Federico , Tollemeto Valentina , Zurlo Maria , Seneci Antonio , Magni Paolo
Published: December 2024

This comprehensive investigation delves into the interconnectedness of different features of cardiometabolic syndrome, such as metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and gut dysbiosis, highlighting the crucial role of nutraceuticals in their management and prevention. Given the significant overlap in the pathophysiology of these conditions, the treatment with nutraceuticals, especially those derived from agro‐food waste, offers a promising, sustainable, and innovative approach to healthcare. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the One Health concept are key frameworks for selecting the most interesting supply chain for the production of nutraceuticals from agro‐food waste, ensuring environmental sustainability, and innovative agricultural practices. In this review, the therapeutic potential of kiwifruit and apples has been explored, detailing how their bioactive compounds, like polyphenols, fiber, pectin, kaempferol, phloretin, and phlorizin, may contribute to the management of MASLD, ASCVD, and gut dysbiosis. Various extraction methods for active ingredients, including chemical, water, and enzyme extractions, are analyzed for their respective benefits and drawbacks. By integrating scientific research, sustainable agricultural practices, and innovative extraction methods, we can develop effective strategies to combat these pervasive health issues. This holistic approach not only enhances individual health outcomes but also supports broader environmental and societal goals, promoting a healthier future for all.
Development Characteristics of Fractures in the Upper Palaeozoic Along the Northeastern Edge of the Ordos Basin and Their Controlling Effects on Hydrocarbon Accumulation
Authors: Yin Shuai , Xu Ziqiang , Lu Yuanyuan , Radwan Ahmed E.
Published: December 2024

The northeastern edge of the Ordos Basin is characterised by low‐amplitude structures and the presence of intrusive rock bodies in the Upper Palaeozoic strata. Tectonic movements and stratal denudation during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic have resulted in the development of well‐defined and effective fractures in the area. However, the controlling role of fractures on the Upper Palaeozoic gas reservoirs is not yet clear. This paper uses the Linxing Block as a case study to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the role of fractures in controlling gas distribution. The study shows that the Upper Palaeozoic in this area is primarily characterised by the development of vertical fractures, which are of a tensile‐shear nature and have a low degree of filling. The formation and evolution of fractures are controlled by the generation of hydrocarbons, denudation, and tensile strain during the sedimentation‐erosion process. Tensile fractures are more likely to occur when the horizontal minimum principal stress is lower than the formation pressure during hydrocarbon generation. During the denudation process, the horizontal minimum principal stress in tight sandstone decreased, facilitating the formation of near‐vertical tensile fractures. At the same time, the strata also produce a stress tensor, with the reduction in sandstone strata being greater than that in mudstone strata. Ultimately, fractures are more developed in reservoirs with high brittle mineral (quartz and feldspar) content in the uplifted and sloped areas of low‐amplitude structures, which is favourable for the accumulation of natural gas. In contrast, fractures in the trough zones are usually underdeveloped, and fractures are extremely developed near the Zijinshan Pluton, which is detrimental to the preservation of natural gas.
Study on the Calculation of River Vertical Infiltration Based on Formula Simulation and Machine Learning
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Wanzi , Zuo Rui , Wang Jinsheng , Wang Yunlong , Yan Yulong
Published: December 2024

River infiltration is important to groundwater recharge. The vertical infiltration volume of rivers is an important index for studying the mutual recharge of surface water and groundwater. In this study, the factors influencing the vertical infiltration of heterogeneous sediments were identified, and a vertical infiltration model of heterogeneous sediments was constructed via mathematical functions and machine learning. This study also applied a calculation method to the calculation of tributaries in the upper reaches of the Wenyu River. The effective grain size d10 and the inhomogeneity coefficient Cu are the main controlling factors of the infiltration coefficient, and a genetic algorithm was introduced to fit a functional formula for the vertical infiltration volume based on the main controlling factors. It was found that the gradient boosting decision tree (GDBT) vertical infiltration model with the Lad function as the loss function was more effective than the back propagation neural network (BP) vertical infiltration model created with the Adam optimiser and ReLU activation function. The results of this study provide technical support for the quantitative calculation of natural sediment infiltration coefficients and principal support for the formulation of relevant standards for river ecological safety and management, which are of great theoretical significance and far‐reaching application value.
The Influence of Seismic Lines on Local Hydrology and Snow Accumulation in the Boreal Region of Northern Alberta
Authors: Weiland Lelia , Ketcheson Scott , Strack Maria , McDermid Gregory J.
Published: December 2024

Seismic lines are 1.5 to 10 m wide linear corridors associated with petroleum exploration that fragment the landscape of northern Alberta. After clearing, seismic lines frequently exhibit low seedling recruitment and growth rates, due in part to the altered hydrologic conditions on the line. This research quantifies how seismic lines alter soil hydrophysical properties, hydrologic properties and snow accumulation patterns at two sites south of Fort McMurray, Alberta. During 2021 and 2022, water table levels were measured weekly during the summer months and were paired with measurements of soil properties (bulk density, saturated hydraulic conductivity, porosity and specific yield) on seismic lines and in the adjacent matrix. Bulk density increased on seismic lines by 19% and 113% in lowland and upland ecosystems, respectively. Saturated hydraulic conductivity decreased on seismic lines by one order of magnitude for both upland and lowland ecosystems. Water table variability was increased on seismic lines, but depth to water table was related to external factors such as topographic position. Snow measurements in March 2022 indicated that snow water equivalent was greater on seismic lines that were oriented in the East–West (EW) direction and on lines that were widest compared to SWE within the adjacent matrix. Our results provide information to researchers and industry on the alteration of important ecosystem factors on seismic lines that may limit line recovery trajectories. This information will help to guide restoration planning decisions through an enhanced knowledge of limiting factors for vegetation growth on seismic lines.
Integrating farmers' knowledge with technology for sustainable irrigation management
Authors: Kanwal Anuj
Published: December 2024

This paper synthesizes the key discussions and insights from a special session held during the 25th International Congress on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) in Vishakhapatnam, focusing on the integration of farmers' knowledge with technology through participatory approaches in Indian irrigation.
Impact of fish farm drainage water reuse for irrigation on barley yield and water productivity: Field study and simulation using the SALTMED model
Authors: Ahmed Somya Said , Soussa Hoda Kamal , Hassan Nagy Ali Ali , Abdelraouf Ramadan Eid , Sallam Gehan , Ragab Ragab
Published: December 2024

Countries such as Egypt, which are situated in semi‐arid regions and have water constraints, primarily aim to repurpose unconventional water resources for irrigation. The aim of this research was to examine the feasibility and advantages of irrigating barley with fish farm drainage water (DWFF) rather than fresh irrigation water (IW). Four degrees of deficit irrigation [100% FI (full irrigation), 80% FI, 60% FI and 40% FI] were studied for the irrigation of barley via two types of water (DWFF and IW). The response of crops to a deficit irrigation approach involving the use of IW in the two seasons of 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 was demonstrated by the results. The yield of the barley produced with DWFF irrigation was greater than that produced with IW irrigation, ranging from 9% to 12% in 2020–2021 and from 9% to 13% in 2021–2022. This resulted from the higher concentration of dissolved biological nitrogen and other nutrients in DWFFs. There was a strong correlation between the observed and simulated crop yield values for both growing seasons, with R2 values of 0.963 and 0.960, respectively, for all the treatments. The SALTMED model was used to simulate the soil moisture content, water application efficiency, barley dry matter, yield and water productivity for all the treatments. The study concluded that DWFF is a useful irrigation substitute for IW. Higher yields were also attained with the use of less IW and chemical fertilisers because of the DWFF. In addition, there are other advantages, such as increasing farmer income and lowering discharge to the drainage network.
Construction and Application of Carbon Performance Evaluation Index System for Chinese Industrial Enterprises From the Perspective of Low‐Carbon Transition
Authors: Wang Liping , Chen Longjun , Gao Panpan , Li Chuang
Published: December 2024

The active implementation of low‐carbon practices by enterprises is essential for achieving the goals of carbon peak and carbon neutrality (“dual carbon”). These low‐carbon practices are reflected not only in the greening of resource inputs but also in the low‐carbon performance at the output level. Therefore, this study uses carbon cost calculations as a link and combines them with the relationship between inputs and outputs to conduct a multidimensional evaluation of the carbon performance of industrial enterprises from the perspective of low‐carbon transformation. The findings indicate that: (1) From 2010 to 2021, the carbon performance levels of Chinese industrial enterprises displayed a stable upward trend. (2) Across various dimensions from 2010 to 2021, notable achievements in the low‐carbon economic dimension were observed in terms of environmental investment and green invention patents, while there remains considerable room for optimising carbon costs. In the environmental management dimension, a disconnect persists between enterprises' environmental awareness and their low‐carbon actions; however, there is a gradual increase in the enthusiasm for environmental certifications, and significant progress has been made in implementing emergency response mechanisms. Regarding low‐carbon emission reduction, enterprises have significantly enhanced their pollution prevention capabilities, yet improving the energy consumption structure remains a critical challenge for achieving low‐carbon production. In the low‐carbon social impact dimension, while media and public oversight, as well as government environmental penalties, exert a deterrent effect on corporate environmental governance, their overall effectiveness is insufficient and requires strengthening. (3) From the overall annual performance of various indicators from 2010 to 2021, environmental investment and the implementation of the “three simultaneous” system received notably high scores of 0.055166667 and 0.0403524, respectively, underscoring their significant roles in enhancing the carbon performance levels of Chinese industrial enterprises. In contrast, the penalty degree received the lowest score of 0.0000939, indicating that the government's environmental penalty mechanisms need further improvement and enforcement. These research findings can provide a decision‐making foundation for the national dual carbon strategy and support enterprises in achieving sustainable development goals while offering a Chinese perspective for international emissions reduction.
Modifiable Clinical Dental Impression Methods to Obtain Whole‐Mouth and Detailed Dental Traits From Vertebrates
Authors: Wibisana Johannes N. , Sallan Ray A. , Ota Towa , Puchenkov Pavel , Kubo Tai , Sallan Lauren
Published: December 2024

Dental impressions, developed for accurate capture of oral characteristics in human clinical settings, are seldom used in research on nonlivestock, nonprimate, and especially nonmammalian vertebrates due to a lack of appropriate tools. Studies of dentitions in most vertebrate species usually require euthanasia and specimen dissection, microCT and other scans with size and resolution tradeoffs, and/or ad‐hoc individual impressions or removal of single teeth. These approaches prevent in‐vivo studies that factor in growth and other chronological changes and separate teeth from the context of the whole mouth. Here, we describe a non‐destructive method for obtaining high‐resolution dentition‐related traits that can be used on both living animals and museum specimens for almost all vertebrates, involving a customizable and printable dental impression tray. This method has repeatedly and accurately captured whole‐mouth morphology and detailed features at high resolution in the living non‐teleost actinopterygian fish, Polypterus senegalus, in a laboratory setting. It can be used for comparative morphology and to observe temporal changes such as the presence of microwear, tooth replacement rates, and occlusal and morphological changes through ontogeny.
Histological Study of Skin Structures From Selected Body Areas in the Varanus komodoensis
Authors: Lipińska A. , Tarnowska M. , Janeczek M. , Jawień P. , Goździewska‐Harłajczuk K. , Klećkowska‐Nawrot J. , Hrabska L. , Kuropka P.
Published: December 2024

The skin of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is covered by a form of armour formed mainly of scales, which often co‐occur with osteoderms. Scales are keratinized, non‐mineralized structures in the uppermost layer of the epidermis that are in contact with each other to form a system in which individual scales are isolated from each other by a softer skin fold zone. In the Varanus, the surface of the scales is flat and smooth (thoracic limb, abdomen, and tail areas), domed and smooth (head area) or domed with conical ornamentation (dorsal surface, pelvic limb—dorsal surface areas). In contrast, osteoderms are mineralized structures that are an integral part of the skin, located below the epidermal surface and positioned parallel (head, tail, thoracic limb‐dorsal surface, thoracic limb‐palmar surface, and tail) or obliquely (pelvic limb‐dorsal surface, groin, abdomen) to the surface. Regardless of the body region, osteoderms are structures that are completely anchored in the dermis, and their surface is smooth and devoid of ornamentation. Tangential sections of the osteoderms demonstrate concentric resting lines. Histological sections of the varanid dermis show the presence of collagen bundles, parallel interlacing or crossing bundles of collagen fibers of varying thickness and degree of compactness, accompanied by muscle fibers. In the area of skin close to the osteoderm, loosely arranged bundles of collagen fibers are present, while in the zone distal to the osteoderm, a compact arrangement of these fibers is present. This study documents the morphological diversity and distribution of osteoderms and scales in selected areas of the body of V. komodoensis. Scales are characterized by a high polymorphism related to body region, while osteoderms show a high morphological similarity independent of the area of occurrence.
Seronegative Vaccinees May Not Benefit From Multiple Booster Doses of MMR Vaccine in Restoring Immunity
Authors: Anichini Gabriele , Terrosi Chiara , Alessandri Giulia , Miceli Giovanni B. , Borrelli Emma , Fabrizi Simonetta , Savellini Gianni G. , Cusi Maria G.
Published: December 2024

Despite the availability of a highly efficacious vaccine, a global resurgence of measles infections has occurred, largely due to decreased vaccination coverage and waning immunity following the two‐dose vaccination schedule. This study aims to assess the cellular immune response in individuals who did not respond to the two‐dose MMR vaccine and evaluate the efficacy and durability of immune responses after booster doses. An observational study was conducted involving 24 individuals who were seronegative for measles years after completing the two‐dose MMR vaccine schedule. Of these, 11 seroconverted after a single booster dose, while 13 required an additional booster. Antibody levels were monitored 1 and 3 years post‐booster. Cellular immune responses were evaluated in 10 nonresponders by in vitro stimulation of PBMCs with UV‐inactivated measles virus. In nonresponders, measles virus stimulation did not induce significant alterations in T, B, or NK cell populations, indicating a lack of measles‐specific immune memory. However, stimulation with rubella induced a significant immune response. Booster doses in subjects with waning antibodies resulted in low IgG titers, which significantly declined over 3 years. Neutralizing antibody titers were also low for both double and single booster recipients. This study highlights the limited long‐term efficacy of booster doses in individuals with waning immunity or nonresponsiveness to the measles vaccine. Current vaccination strategies relying on booster doses may not be sufficient for sustained protection in these individuals. Improving vaccine formulations to elicit stronger and longer‐lasting immunity is essential for effective measles control and elimination.
Design and Optimization of Multilayered Microwave Absorber Structures for X‐Band Frequencies: Application on Composite Materials Comprising Ceramic, Polyaniline/Magnetite, and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Karim Benzaoui , Achour Ales , Youcef Amin Medjaouri , Abdelhalim Zaoui
Published: December 2024

The characteristics of multilayered microwave absorbing materials are very efficient compared with those of single layer. In this article, a hybrid optimization algorithm (genetic algorithm + pattern search) combined with transmission line matrix method has been presented. The selection of parameters, including the arrangement of layers, thickness of layers, absorption index, and shielding efficiency, forms the foundation of this process. The optimization algorithm was applied to two new multilayered structures. The first structure consists of conductive layers (CLs) of carbon nanotube (CNT) with ceramic layers of zirconium dioxide . The second structure includes CLs of CNT with layers based on magnetite polyaniline nanomaterial (PANI_). Performances of both structures were evaluated in the X‐band frequency range. Simulation results showed that both designs have higher absorption index picks (> 90%) and, low magnitude value with low layer thickness. This approach offers a solid foundation for future experimental trials in the development of efficient microwave absorbing and shielding structures with tunable electromagnetic performances suitable for X‐band applications.
Multi‐Model Projection of Climate Extremes under 1.5°C–4°C Global Warming Levels across Iran
Authors: Najafi Mohammad Reza , Abbasian Mohammad , Na Wooyoung , RahimiMovaghar Melika , Bakhtiari Soheil , Islam Md Robiul , Fereshtehpour Mohammad , Jalili Pirani Farshad , Rezvani Reza
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the spatial and temporal patterns of climate extremes in Iran and projects future changes using data from seven General Circulation Models (GCMs) that participated in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6). We assess the impacts of climate change under the SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5 emission scenarios, considering global warming levels of 1.5°C, 2°C, 3°C, and 4°C above preindustrial levels. Gridded observations are derived from ground measurements, using the SYMAP algorithm at a 1/8° latitude–longitude resolution. Subsequently, statistical downscaling of GCMs is performed using the Multivariate Bias Correction (MBC) and Bias Correction Constructed Analogues with Quantile Mapping Reordering (BCCAQ) approaches. Projected changes in extreme temperature and precipitation events are evaluated using the CLIMDEX indices. The findings indicate consistent rises in annual temperatures across Iran, with temperature indices such as warm spell duration and the monthly minimum value of daily temperature exhibiting substantial increases, about twofold by the +4.0°C period. Additionally, the study highlights a potential intensification in precipitation extremes (Rx1day, Rx5day, R90p, R95p), suggesting a heightened risk of more frequent and severe floods, particularly in the western, northern, and northwestern regions. These insights underline the critical need for region‐specific adaptation strategies to address the risks associated with climate change in Iran.
Leveraging Green Chromatography in Quality‐by‐Design‐Driven Study for the Simultaneous Analysis of Essential Single‐Pill Antidiabetic Drug Combinations
Authors: Ibrahim Adel Ehab , Alamir Samy G. , Maged Khaled , Magdy Galal , Salman Baher I. , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed
Published: December 2024

Micellar liquid chromatography (MLC) has proven beneficial efficiency and ecological impact for routine quality control activities. In the proposed study, cyrene was investigated for the first time, together with other green additives, as a novel safe organic solvent in reversed‐phase MLC. Quality‐by‐design (QbD) approach screened their effect on the separation performance. Six antidiabetic drugs from different classes, namely, metformin (MTF), empagliflozin (EMP), ertugliflozin (ERT), linagliptin (LNT), sitagliptin (SIT), and gliclazide (GCZ) were utilized to assess some newly approved antidiabetic drugs and combinations. An organic solvent‐free mobile phase consisting of (0.01 M Brij‐35, 0.09 M sodium dodecyl sulfate, and 0.01 M ammonium acetate, pH 5.0) separated the studied drugs using an RP‐C18 core–shell column. The flow rate was set at 1.2 mL/min, and analytes were detected using a photodiode array detector at 245, 270, and 225 nm. System suitability parameters demonstrated MLC capability to eliminate organic solvents without compromising separation efficiency. The method was validated across a concentration range of 2.0–30.0 µg/mL for EMP, ERT, and LNT, 20.0–120.0 µg/mL for GCZ and SIT, and 100.0–600.0 µg/mL for MTF. The method successfully determined analytes in different single and multicomponent tablets. Greenness assessment was performed using MoGAPI and AGREE metrics.
High‐Resolution Non‐Line‐of‐Sight Tracking By Comb‐Calibrated FMCW LiDAR
Authors: Ye Ruilin , Huang Xin , Li Jialin , Li Wenwen , Xu Feihu
Published: December 2024

Non‐line‐of‐sight (NLOS) tracking has the ability to detect and locate moving objects which are hidden from the direct line of sight. It has a number of potential applications in autonomous driving, security and search‐and‐rescue scenarios. The current approaches for NLOS tracking mostly rely on time‐of‐flight (ToF) LiDAR, mmWave radar or RGB camera. However, they may either have a limited resolution or need accumulation to detect the position and velocity. Here a real‐time comb‐calibrated frequency‐modulated‐continuous‐wave (FMCW) LiDAR system is proposed and demonstrated for high‐resolution NLOS tracking. A 3D positioning (and velocity) accuracy of 2 mm (and 2 mm s−1) and the capability to realize real‐time multi‐object tracking are demonstrated in experiment. Importantly, the FMCW‐LiDAR approach can obtain the position and velocity of multiple objects in a snapshot, thus resolving the problems of measurement origin uncertainty, false alarm, and detection overlap in multi‐target tracking. The proposed approach shows significant potential for practical applications in NLOS detection and sensing.
Marketization of Data Elements and Enterprise Green Governance Performance: A Quasi‐Natural Experiment Based on Data Trading Platforms
Authors: Wang Weilong , Xiao Deheng
Published: December 2024

Green corporate governance not only contributes to the sustainable development of enterprises but also promotes the overall environmental improvement of society, achieving a win–win situation for both the economy and the environment. With the development and progress of society, data factors have become a key motivator for corporate green governance, and the promotion of marketization of data elements (MDE) is of great significance in releasing data factor dividends and strengthening the green development system. It is particularly important to clarify the correlation between enterprise green governance performance (GGP) and data factor marketization as a necessary path for the sustainable development of Chinese enterprises. Using data from listed firms in Shanghai and Shenzhen A‐shares from 2010 to 2022, as well as the creation of a data trading platform as a quasi‐natural experiment for building data factor markets, this research investigates the impacts of MDE on GGP. We found that MDE significantly contributes to GGP. After going through several robustness tests, this conclusion holds up. The mechanism verifies that data factor marketization promotes GGP by enhancing firms' innovation capability, optimizing data utilization, and alleviating firms' financing constraints. Through heterogeneity analysis, this paper explores how enhancing human capital level, developing high‐tech firms, and developing digital finance can further contribute to the promotional effect of data factor marketization on firms' GGP. Finally, the analysis of economic consequences finds that data factor marketization not only enhances the GGP of enterprises but also brings about economic effects and enhances the value of enterprises. This paper effectively identifies the green governance effect of data factor marketization from the GGP perspective, which offers crucial policy recommendations for advancing GGP in the era of big data.
Optimizing enzyme thermostability by combining multiple mutations using protein language model
Authors: Bian Jiahao , Tan Pan , Nie Ting , Hong Liang , Yang Guang‐Yu
Published: December 2024

Optimizing enzyme thermostability is essential for advancements in protein science and industrial applications. Currently, (semi‐)rational design and random mutagenesis methods can accurately identify single‐point mutations that enhance enzyme thermostability. However, complex epistatic interactions often arise when multiple mutation sites are combined, leading to the complete inactivation of combinatorial mutants. As a result, constructing an optimized enzyme often requires repeated rounds of design to incrementally incorporate single mutation sites, which is highly time‐consuming. In this study, we developed an AI‐aided strategy for enzyme thermostability engineering that efficiently facilitates the recombination of beneficial single‐point mutations. We utilized thermostability data from creatinase, including 18 single‐point mutants, 22 double‐point mutants, 21 triple‐point mutants, and 12 quadruple‐point mutants. Using these data as inputs, we used a temperature‐guided protein language model, Pro‐PRIME, to learn epistatic features and design combinatorial mutants. After two rounds of design, we obtained 50 combinatorial mutants with superior thermostability, achieving a success rate of 100%. The best mutant, 13M4, contained 13 mutation sites and maintained nearly full catalytic activity compared to the wild‐type. It showed a 10.19°C increase in the melting temperature and an ~655‐fold increase in the half‐life at 58°C. Additionally, the model successfully captured epistasis in high‐order combinatorial mutants, including sign epistasis (K351E) and synergistic epistasis (D17V/I149V). We elucidated the mechanism of long‐range epistasis in detail using a dynamics cross‐correlation matrix method. Our work provides an efficient framework for designing enzyme thermostability and studying high‐order epistatic effects in protein‐directed evolution.
NAC4ED: A high‐throughput computational platform for the rational design of enzyme activity and substrate selectivity
Authors: Zhang Chuanxi , Feng Yinghui , Zhu Yiting , Gong Lei , Wei Hao , Zhang Lujia
Published: December 2024

In silico computational methods have been widely utilized to study enzyme catalytic mechanisms and design enzyme performance, including molecular docking, molecular dynamics, quantum mechanics, and multiscale QM/MM approaches. However, the manual operation associated with these methods poses challenges for simulating enzymes and enzyme variants in a high‐throughput manner. We developed the NAC4ED, a high‐throughput enzyme mutagenesis computational platform based on the “near‐attack conformation” design strategy for enzyme catalysis substrates. This platform circumvents the complex calculations involved in transition‐state searching by representing enzyme catalytic mechanisms with parameters derived from near‐attack conformations. NAC4ED enables the automated, high‐throughput, and systematic computation of enzyme mutants, including protein model construction, complex structure acquisition, molecular dynamics simulation, and analysis of active conformation populations. Validation of the accuracy of NAC4ED demonstrated a prediction accuracy of 92.5% for 40 mutations, showing strong consistency between the computational predictions and experimental results. The time required for automated determination of a single enzyme mutant using NAC4ED is 1/764th of that needed for experimental methods. This has significantly enhanced the efficiency of predicting enzyme mutations, leading to revolutionary breakthroughs in improving the performance of high‐throughput screening of enzyme variants. NAC4ED facilitates the efficient generation of a large amount of annotated data, providing high‐quality data for statistical modeling and machine learning. NAC4ED is currently available at http://lujialab.org.cn/software/.
Novel Stability and Stabilization Conditions for Fractional‐Order Systems With Mixed Delays
Authors: Chen Yi‐Nan , Lu Jun‐Guo , Zhang Qing‐Hao , Zhu Zhen
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the stability and stabilization of the fractional‐order systems with mixed delays (FOSMDs), including discrete delays and distributed delays. At first, an order‐dependent stability condition for FOSMDs is derived with the use of small gain theorem. Then, based on the stability condition, a robust stability condition for the uncertain FOSMDs with polytopic uncertainties is proposed. Next, with the robust stability condition and the designed state feedback controllers, a robust stabilization condition for the uncertain FOSMDs is proposed. At last, several numerical examples are put forward to manifest the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Fabrication and Characterization of Hybrid Bio‐Composites of Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Poly(L‐lactic acid) Blends With Cotton and Bleached Jute
Authors: Rahaman Md. Hafezur , Islam Md. Ariful , Islam Md. Monjurul , Khan G. M. Arifuzzaman , Gafur Md. Abdul , Alam S. M. Nur , Rahman Md. Aminur
Published: December 2024

First, due to the brittle nature of the PLLA‐fiber (poly(L‐lactic acid)‐fiber) composite and then the poorer physical properties of the PVA‐fiber (Poly(vinyl alcohol)‐fiber) composite, composites with balanced properties were prepared using PVA, PLLA, and cotton or bleached jute. Here PVA and PLLA will serve as matrices while composites of PVA/PLLA/Cotton or bleached jute were prepared with different compositions (85/10/5), (70/20/10) and (55/30/15). The composites' physical, mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties were analyzed. Composites with larger amounts of PVA have higher water absorption capacities while composites with higher amounts of PLLA exhibit greater bulk densities. Tensile strength and elongation of PVA/PLLA/Cotton composites decrease with an increase in fiber loading, whereas that of PVA/PLLA/Bleached jute composite increases with fiber loading up to 10%, followed by a decrease. Young's modulus diminishes when the percentage of fiber in the composites increases. The peak temperature related to the second step of decomposition for the neat matrix was highest for the composite containing 10% of cotton and lowest for the 15% jute. Thermal expansion coefficient decreases with increasing fiber percentages. SEM images show that interfacial adhesion between PVA/PLLA blends with bleached jute is stronger than that of cotton fiber; cotton fiber reinforced composites reveal fiber slips during failure.
Academic leaders should encourage good citizenship
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: December 2024

One of the main goals of education, particularly higher education, is to help students to become engaged and productive citizens. What does it mean to be a “productive” citizen? To me, a productive citizen is gainfully employed, pays taxes, votes on a regular basis, respects and follows the law, participates in community activities, establishes and raises families, is neighborly, and treats others as they want to be treated.
Finding connections to help students move forward
Authors: May Rachel
Published: December 2024

Jason Shrontz is a full‐time faculty member at Klamath Community College, where he teaches courses in research writing, film, screenwriting, and fiction. He also supports local high school teachers who offer writing courses for college credit, and works closely with administration and faculty to design and integrate ethical AI use in the classroom. He earned his PhD from the University of Rhode Island for a dissertation that examined corporeality and human connection in the digital world. He and his wife and four children spend time biking the trails in southern Oregon.
The use of bioresin composites created with five different vegetable oils such as soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, cottonseed oil, linseed oil in the automotive industry
Authors: Karacor Berkay , Ozcanli Mustafa
Published: December 2024

In this study, novel bioresin was prepared together with epoxy resin with five different plant oils such as soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, cottonseed oil, and flaxseed oil. The samples were formed by adding jute/flax intraply fiber to the bioresin formed by adding these vegetable oils to the epoxy at 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. While producing these composites, vacuum assisted resin transfer molding method was preferred. Tensile, flexural, impact test, thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetric analysis were applied to samples. Moreover, fiber behavior and delamination of composites were examined by morphological analysis. Tensile test outcomes showed cottonseed oil with 40% oil additive and canola oil with 10% oil addition gave higher strength values to the pure epoxy sample. In the impact test, samples with 20% oil added had an average of 2.7–3.44 times higher absorbed energy. Thermal analysis results indicated 10% and 20% oil addition to epoxy raised the glass transition temperature by an average of 6.65–18.6°C and lowered the decomposition temperatures by 11–24°C. These samples, created by adding vegetable oil to the epoxy without chemical treatment, give the composites considerable elasticity and will be used in areas such as the automotive, construction and aerospace industries.

Highlights

Adding plant oil to epoxy creates sustainable and environmentally composite.

The usage of plant oils will reduce dependence on petroleum‐based epoxy.

The use of plant oil will further pave the way for green composites.

Elasticity and energy absorption characteristics of the material are improved.

Elongation percent and glass transition temperature of the material improved.
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes filled pineapple/kenaf hybrid laminated composites structures for electromagnetic interface shielding applications
Authors: Sahu Dhaneshwar Prasad , Das Ramyaranjan , Mohanty Sukesh Chandra
Published: December 2024

The main objective of the present research is to investigate the mechanical and electrical properties of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) filled pineapple and kenaf fiber‐based hybrid laminated composite structures using the hand layup technique. 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 wt%. of MWCNTs are incorporated into the proposed composite structures. The incorporation of MWCNTs into the hybrid composite structure increases flexural, tensile and impact strength by 173%, 53%, and 29% respectively. The morphological studies are presented to understand fiber pull‐out, matrix breakage, delamination and debonding phenomena. Further, the addition of MWCNTs into the laminated composites decreased the water absorption properties from 8.3% to 4.3%; however, the density of the composites increased slightly due to a more compact structure. The incorporation of MWCNTs into the laminated composite structure enhances the electrical properties such as dielectric constant and AC conductivity by forming a conductive network. The and of developed composites increased by 3.0 and 6.8 times due to the interfacial polarization. The results from the study demonstrate that incorporating MWCNTS into pineapple and kenaf fiber‐based hybrid laminated composite structures helped to enhance both the mechanical and electrical properties, making it a primary choice for electromagnetic interface shielding applications.

Highlights

Laminated composites are fabricated using the hand layup technique.

, and of the composites are increased by 173%, 56%, and 29%.

The water absorption percentage decreased from 8.3% to 4.3%.

and of composites increased by 3.04 and 6.8 times.
Exploring the druggability of the UEV domain of human TSG101 in search for broad‐spectrum antivirals
Authors: Montero Fernando , Parra‐López Marisa , Rodríguez‐Martínez Alejandro , Murciano‐Calles Javier , Buzon Pedro , Han Ziying , Lin L.‐Y. , Ramos Maria C. , Ruiz‐Sanz Javier , Martinez Jose C. , Radi Marco , Moog Christiane , Diederich Sandra , Harty Ronald N. , Pérez‐Sánchez Horacio , Vicente Francisca , Castillo Francisco , Luque Irene
Published: December 2024

The ubiquitin E2 variant domain of TSG101 (TSG101‐UEV) plays a pivotal role in protein sorting and virus budding by recognizing PTAP motifs within ubiquitinated proteins. Disruption of TSG101‐UEV/PTAP interactions has emerged as a promising strategy for the development of host‐oriented broad‐spectrum antivirals with low susceptibility to resistance. TSG101 is a challenging target characterized by an extended and flat binding interface, low affinity for PTAP ligands, and complex binding energetics. Here, we assess the druggability of the TSG101‐UEV/PTAP binding interface by searching for drug‐like inhibitors and evaluating their ability to block PTAP recognition, impair budding, and inhibit viral proliferation. A discovery workflow was established by combining in vitro miniaturized HTS assays and a set of cell‐based activity assays including high‐content bimolecular complementation, virus‐like particle release measurement, and antiviral testing in live virus infection. This approach has allowed us to identify a set of chemically diverse molecules that block TSG101‐UEV/PTAP binding with IC50s in the low μM range and are able to disrupt the interaction between full‐length TSG101 and viral proteins in human cells and inhibit viral replication. State‐of‐the‐art molecular docking studies reveal that the active compounds exploit binding hotspots at the PTAP binding site, unlocking the full binding potential of the TSG101‐UEV binding pockets. These inhibitors represent promising hits for the development of novel broad‐spectrum antivirals through targeted optimization and are also valuable tools for investigating the involvement of ESCRT in the proliferation of different virus families and study the secondary effects induced by the disruption of ESCRT/virus interactions.
Cryo‐EM Structure of Human Hyaluronidase PH‐20
Authors: Im Seong‐Bin , Song Hyung Nam , Jeong Tae‐Kyeong , Kim Nayun , Kim Kyuwan , Park Soon‐Jae , Oh Byung‐Ha
Published: December 2024

PH‐20 is a specific type of hyaluronidase that plays a critical role in the fertilization process by facilitating the initial binding of sperm to the glycoprotein layer surrounding the oocyte and subsequently breaking down hyaluronic acid polymers in the cumulus cell layer. PH‐20 contains an epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐like domain, which may be involved in the recognition of the glycoprotein layer in addition to the catalytic domain. Herein, we report the structure of human PH‐20 determined by cryogenic electron microscopy. Comparative analyses of the PH‐20 structure with two other available hyaluronidase structures reveal a general similarity in the central catalytic domains, including the conservation of catalytically essential residues at the equivalent spatial positions. However, unique difference is found in the EGF‐like domain, characterized by a longer sequence that is likely to form a flexibly anchored β‐hairpin containing a disulfide bond.
Mechanistic Learning for Predicting Survival Outcomes in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Atsou Kevin , Auperin Anne , Guigay Jôel , Salas Sébastien , Benzekry Sebastien
Published: December 2024

We employed a mechanistic learning approach, integrating on‐treatment tumor kinetics (TK) modeling with various machine learning (ML) models to address the challenge of predicting post‐progression survival (PPS)—the duration from the time of documented disease progression to death—and overall survival (OS) in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). We compared the predictive power of model‐derived TK parameters versus RECIST and assessed the efficacy of nine TK‐OS ML models against conventional survival models. Data from 526 advanced HNSCC patients treated with chemotherapy and cetuximab in the TPExtreme trial were analyzed using a double‐exponential model. TK parameters from the first line and maintenance (TKL1) or after four cycles (TK4) were used to predict PPS and post‐cycle 4 OS (OS4), combined with 12 baseline parameters. While ML algorithms underperformed compared to the Cox model for PPS, a random survival forest was superior for OS prediction using TK4 and surpassed RECIST‐based metrics. This model demonstrated unbiased OS4 prediction, suggesting its potential for improving HNSCC treatment evaluation.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02268695.