bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Temporal Study of Environmental DNA and Acoustic Data Reveals Coexistence of Sympatric Bat Species in a North American Ecosystem
Authors: Suresh Vrinda M. , Hébert Trevor , Verster Kirsten Isabel , Hadly Elizabeth A. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBats are a species‐rich mammalian order that provide a host of ecosystem services, but presently face threats from habitat loss, disease, climate change, and insect declines. Bat species often co‐occur with other ecologically similar bats, making them a suitable group in which to study niche overlap and partitioning. This study aimed to compare different non‐invasive sources of data on wildlife populations, while examining dietary, temporal, and spatial partitioning patterns among sympatric bat species. We used two different methods to assess niche partitioning among insectivorous bats at a site in the San Francisco Bay Area, California: (1) eDNA sequencing of bat feces that were collected weekly from a bat roost, and (2) nightly acoustic recordings of ultrasonic bat calls from recorders at multiple sites. Both the eDNA and acoustic data were collected over the course of an entire roosting season in 2020. We hypothesized that the insectivorous bats at this site would rely on one or more niche partitioning mechanisms to promote interspecific coexistence and limit competition. We found evidence of fine‐scale spatial partitioning of the broad community of bat species in our study area based on acoustic data, as well as temporal differences in activity of different species. The two species using the roosting site, Tadarida brasiliensis and Eptesicus fuscus, displayed some differences in the identities and relative abundances of prey species consumed, but both ultimately exhibited a strong reliance on dipterans and aquatic‐dependent insects. We demonstrate differences between the acoustic data and eDNA data, which has implications for how such datasets may be interpreted in future research. The study finds evidence of some types of niche partitioning in this community and characterizes baseline interactions between species, providing a foundation for future efforts to non‐invasively monitor for unexpected biological change in local ecosystems.
B Cells With Complementary B Cell Receptors Can Kill Each Other
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Ramakrishna Prabhu , Østrøm Marius Sigurdsson , Skjeldal Frode Miltzow , Bakke Oddmund , Bogen Bjarne , Huszthy Peter Csaba 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTB cells differentiate from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow (BM) and migrate as transitional cells to the spleen where final maturation takes place. Due to the enormous diversity in variable (V) regions of B cell receptors for antigen (BCR), B cells with complementary BCRs are likely to be generated. These could encounter each other in the BM or in secondary lymphoid organs. The outcome of such an event is unknown. To study this issue, we used two strains of gene‐modified mice whose B cells display complementary BCRs. B cells of one strain express an idiotype+ (Id+) BCR while B cells of the other strain display an anti‐idiotypic (αId) BCR. In vitro, B cells with complementary BCRs killed each other in a mechanism that required physical binding between BCR V‐regions. In contrast, killing was unilateral in vivo: αId B cells with a follicular (FO) B cell phenotype were expanded, while Id+ B cells with a marginal zone (MZ) phenotype became deleted. The results show that B cells with complementary BCRs can recognize and regulate each other in vivo. This mechanism should be taken into account in theories for idiotypic regulation of the immune system.
Batch to Continuous Flow Visible‐Light Photooxidations Using Alumina Supported Hydroxyanthraquinones
Authors: Al Ayi Yahya , Pirenam Atakpa Augustin , Arab Cylia , Lancel Maxime , Amara Zacharias 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe discovery of new environmentally friendly recyclable photosensitizers is key to develop future applications in photooxidation chemistry. We report here the evaluation of a set of differently substituted biobased hydroxyanthraquinones in the context of visible light mediated singlet oxygen (1O2) photochemistry. This class of compounds is efficiently immobilized on alumina supports, which offers a simple way of removing them from the reaction mixture downstream. An integrated process using a flow reactor with a fixed catalytic bed is also evaluated and its performance is compared with homogeneous conditions.
Acceptor End‐functionalization of Naphthalenediimide Bithiophene Oligomers
Authors: Matsidik Rukiya , Komber Hartmut , Burkhard Paul , Beer Daniel , Deibel Carsten , Sommer Michael 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOligomeric materials combine advantageous properties of both their small molecule and polymeric counterparts. Utilizing oligomers as non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) has been shown to be extremely useful for the development of organic solar cells with high efficiency, reproducible performance and long‐term stability. Here we report on two series of synthetically simple acceptor‐terminated oligomers A−T2‐(NDI−T2)n‐A with naphthalene diimide (NDI) and bithiophene (T2) cores up to the trimer (n =1,2,3). Termination of the oligomers is done using the strong acceptors (A) dicyanomethylene‐indanone (IC) and rhodanine (RD). Upon acceptor termination in the presence of piperidine (pip) as base, oligomers with pip‐substituted tricyclic end groups are obtained in high yield. We investigate the effect of oligomer length and acceptor end group on opto‐electronic properties and crystallinity. Both IC‐ and RD‐termination increase electron affinity compared to the parent, non‐functionalized cores. UV‐vis absorption in solution slightly redshifts as the chain length increases without showing a distinct aggregation. Asymmetric termination with hexylphenyl‐substituted indacenodithiophene (IDT) and IC is also possible. All symmetric oligomers show a strong tendency for crystallization, with the oligomer having the tricyclic end group exhibiting the highest melting enthalpy and temperature. The asymmetric IDT−T2‐NDI−T2‐IC oligomer is amorphous.
Aryl Radicals Generated from Aryl Pinacol Boronates Modify Peptides and Proteins
Authors: Chen Haoyu , Wu Dongqing , Holzinger Julian , Götz Rainer , Didier Dorian , Schütz Anne K. , Schneider Sabine , Kielkowski Pavel 
Published: November 2024

AbstractWe report here a distinct reaction, which generates aryl radicals from aryl pinacol boronates under mild aqueous conditions and can be used for peptide and protein modifications. The strategy leverages the versatile reactivity of aryl pinacol boronates to form aryl radicals in presence of ammonium persulfate (APS). The formed aryl radicals insert readily into peptide disulfide bonds while tolerating other functionalities. On the protein level, the reactivity extends beyond the disulfide bonds. The methodology benefits from the accessibility of starting aryl pinacol boronates, as well as biocompatible conditions. In contrast to conventional methods used for aryl radical generation, the strategy is metal‐free, does not require photoinduction and can be readily performed under aqueous conditions. The mechanism of the reactions was investigated by radical‐trapping experiments, spectroscopic analysis and oxygen scavenging. The presented approach broadens the application of aryl pinacol boronate esters in radical reactions.
Effects of concentric and eccentric exercise regimens on bioenergetic efficiency of lymphocytes in sedentary males
Authors: Peng Sheng‐Chiao , Lin Yu‐Ting , Hsu Chih‐Chin , Fu Tieh‐Cheng , Wang Jong‐Shyan 
Published: November 2024

AbstractEccentric exercise training (EET) increases physical performance while having lower metabolic demand than concentric exercise training (CET). Whether EET influences bioenergetic efficiency in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) remains unclear. This study investigates the effects of EET and CET on PBMC phenotypes and mitochondrial functions in blood. Thirty three sedentary healthy males were randomly assigned to either EET (n = 11) or CET (n = 11) that performed at progressively increased from 60% to 80% of maximal absolute workload for 30 min/day, 5 days/week for 6 weeks, or a control group (n = 11) that did not receive any exercise intervention. A graded exercise stress test (GXT) was performed before and after the intervention. PBMC phenotypes and mitochondrial respiratory capacity were analyzed using flowcytometry and high‐resolution respirometry, respectively. In the same absolute workload, EET elicited lower heart rate and rating of perceived exertion than CET. However, EET as CET increased the VO2 level at the ventilatory threshold. Notably, both EET and CET increased central memory (CD45RO+/CD62+/CD3+) T cells and decreased effector memory T cells reexpressing CD45RA (CD45RA+/CD62‐/CD3+). Moreover, the two exercise regimens diminished the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) caused by GXT, increased maximal/reserve O2 consumption rates (OCR), and bioenergetic health index in intact PBMCs and enhanced complex I‐/II‐related OCR in PBMCs with a substrate‐rich environment. EET improves aerobic fitness with a lower cardiovascular response to exercise than CET. Moreover, EET as CET reduces senescent T‐cell distribution in blood and improves PBMC bioenergetic efficiency by stabilizing ΔΨm and increasing capacity of oxidative phosphorylation.
Green Computation Offloading With DRL in Multi‐Access Edge Computing
Authors: Yin Changkui , Mao Yingchi , Chen Meng , Rong Yi , Liu Yinqiu , He Xiaoming 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIn multi‐access edge computing (MEC), computational task offloading of mobile terminals (MT) is expected to provide the green applications with the restriction of energy consumption and service latency. Nevertheless, the diverse statuses of a range of edge servers and mobile terminals, along with the fluctuating offloading routes, present a challenge in the realm of computational task offloading. In order to bolster green applications, we present an innovative computational task offloading model as our initial approach. In particular, the nascent model is constrained by energy consumption and service latency considerations: (1) Smart mobile terminals with computational capabilities could serve as carriers; (2) The diverse computational and communication capacities of edge servers have the potential to enhance the offloading process; (3) The unpredictable routing paths of mobile terminals and edge servers could result in varied information transmissions. We then propose an improved deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithm named PS‐DDPG with the prioritized experience replay (PER) and the stochastic weight averaging (SWA) mechanisms based on deep deterministic policy gradients (DDPG) to seek an optimal offloading mode, saving energy consumption. Next, we introduce an enhanced deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithm named PS‐DDPG, incorporating the prioritized experience replay (PER) and stochastic weight averaging (SWA) techniques rooted in deep deterministic policy gradients (DDPG). This approach aims to identify an efficient offloading strategy, thereby reducing energy consumption. Fortunately, algorithm is proposed for each MT, which is responsible for making decisions regarding task partition, channel allocation, and power transmission control. Our developed approach achieves the ultimate estimation of observed values and enhances memory via write operations. The replay buffer holds data from previous time slots to upgrade both the actor and critic networks, followed by a buffer reset. Comprehensive experiments validate the superior performance, including stability and convergence, of our algorithm when juxtaposed with prior studies.
Numerical Prediction of Cavitation Erosion Risk Based on a New Erosion Indicator
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Ma Junqi , Wang Tian , Sun Qiang 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTCavitation erosion would degrade the performance of the fluid machinery. To improve the reliability and prolong the life span of fluid machinery, it is necessary to study the mechanism of cavitation erosion and predict the possibility of erosion. Since the erosion power to be measured and calculated is closer to the actual state of cavitation, a new cavitation erosion indicator epp model based on erosion power is proposed, which can reflect the size and region of the erosion generated by cavitation more precisely. Concerning the cases of the axisymmetric nozzle and venturi tube, the prediction of cavitation erosion based on the newly proposed indicator is illustrated. It is found that cavitation erosion mainly occurs near the maximum margin of the cavitation region. This research indicates the possible erosion state of fluid machinery in a cavitation environment and provides a new approach to estimate the state of cavitation erosion.
Forecasting Equity Premium in the Face of Climate Policy Uncertainty
Authors: Ali Hyder , Naz Salma 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThis study examines the role of the US climate policy uncertainty (CPU) index in forecasting the equity premium, employing shrinkage methods such as LASSO and elastic net (ENet) to dynamically select predictors from a dataset spanning April 1987 to December 2022. Alongside CPU, other uncertainty predictors like economic policy uncertainty (EPU), geopolitical risk (GPR), and the volatility index (VIX) are considered to assess their complementary roles in out‐of‐sample (OOS) equity premium forecasting. The results reveal that while CPU alone cannot consistently predict the equity premium, it provides crucial complementary information when combined with other predictors, leading to a statistically significant OOS
of 1.231%. The relationship between CPU and the equity premium is time varying, with a stronger influence observed during periods of economic downturn or heightened uncertainty, as demonstrated by wavelet coherence analysis. This study also identifies CPU's significant impact on industry‐specific returns, particularly in climate‐sensitive sectors, offering valuable insights for investment strategies and risk management in an era of increasing CPU.
Guidelines for anti‐obesity assays in Drosophila melanogaster model
Authors: Ma Wanning , Cao Hui 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAccumulating evidence showed that obesity leads to severe and various diseases chronically. Although the long list of mechanisms that obesity can harm us is still elongating, more rapid animal models are desired to investigate and illustrate obesity and help us to screen potential treatments. Drosophila melanogaster compared to other commonly used model for in vivo investigations shares many homologous genes and has been used for anti‐obesity research. In this guideline, we summarized the most commonly used assays containing behavioral assays, quantification of body fat, and quantification of glucose, transcriptional activation of genes assays and discussed the future work for anti‐obesity research with D. melanogaster to introduce it as a potential model organism for short‐term anti‐obesity treatment investigations.
Jujube Syrup and Starter YF‐L922 Co‐Fermentation of Yak Yogurt: Effects of Quality Properties, Antioxidative Activities and Structure
Authors: Liang Xiaolin , Ding Bo , Li Songxuan , Zhang Hao , Bai Jialin , Yang Jutian , Gao Dandan , Song Jiajia , Liu Hongna 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTDifferent percentages of jujube yrup (0%, 3%, 6% and 9%) were incorporated into yak milk and fermented using the fermenting agent YF‐L922. The quality characteristics and antioxidant activity of the resulting yogurt were evaluated at days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. The results indicated that the pH and acidity of the yogurt were not significantly influenced by the varying additions of jujube syrup during storage (p > 0.05). However, the addition of jujube syrup significantly reduced the water‐holding capacity of the yogurt (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of jujube syrup were significantly and positively correlated with both antioxidant activity and free radical scavenging ability (p < 0.05). The live bacterial count of the yogurt decreased significantly by day 28, although the count of live lactic acid bacteria remained above 106 CFU/mL. Notably, yak yogurt with a 3% addition of jujube syrup achieved a favorable sensory score. The incorporation of jujube syrup resulted in a firmer texture and a more porous microstructure, demonstrating a higher degree of syneresis. Additionally, the inclusion of jujube syrup substantially diminished the animalic odor associated with yak milk, improved flavor acceptability and enhanced the antioxidative properties of yak yogurt. Therefore, yak yogurt augmented with jujube syrup represents a novel product with high nutritional value.
Loneliness as a Predictor of Disability in Older Adults: Implications of the UCLA Loneliness Scale Cutoff Score Across Cultural Contexts
Authors: Chiu Ju‐Ling , Wei Lien‐Chung 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThis letter responds to the study by Tomida et al. (2024) that validates the optimal cutoff score for the UCLA Loneliness Scale (UCLA‐LS) to predict disability among older Japanese adults. The study identifies a cutoff score of 44, providing a significant indicator for the early detection of at‐risk individuals.ObjectiveTo discuss the implications of the identified cutoff score for public health and clinical practice, including its potential for early intervention and cross‐cultural validation.MethodsThis commentary critically analyzes the findings of Tomida et al. (2024) and situates them within the broader literature on loneliness, disability, and aging. It also considers the multifactorial aspects of loneliness and disability in older adults.ResultsThe UCLA‐LS cutoff score of 44 serves as a practical benchmark for clinicians, which can be integrated into routine health assessments to identify individuals at risk. We underscore the need for additional research on cross‐cultural validation and mechanisms linking loneliness to disability.ConclusionWe advocate for incorporating social support measures into standard care for older adults to mitigate the effects of loneliness on disability. This letter suggests future research directions, including exploring the causal pathways between loneliness and disability and developing culturally appropriate interventions.
Recurrence Detection by Hybrid [18F]FDG‐PET in Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sutter Oliver P. , Maurer Alexander , Stadler Thomas M. , Lanzer Martin , Huellner Martin W. , Broglie Martina A. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundIn the clinical management of advanced stage head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, the use of hybrid [18F]FDG‐PET imaging is well established. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the optimal frequency of hybrid PET scans to be included in follow‐up protocols, particularly if the initial post‐therapeutic scan is negative.MethodsWe conducted a single‐center 10‐year retrospective study involving all patients who underwent hybrid PET scans for the follow‐up of advanced stage head and neck cancer. A total of 285 patients were included.ResultsOut of 199 patients with a negative 3‐month hybrid PET, 15% subsequently developed a recurrence during further follow‐up. Notably, 90% of these recurrences were detected by hybrid PET.ConclusionFifteen percent of patients with a negative 3‐month hybrid PET experienced a recurrence. Given that the majority of recurrences were detected by hybrid PET scans, there is a compelling argument for incorporating regular repetitive scans during follow‐up.
Power dynamics and social enterprises: A case study of an international NGO
Authors: Zarestky Jill , Deer Shannon , Ray Sarah M. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractHuman Resource Development (HRD) scholarship and practice include attention to social justice and human rights, which are critical in international workspaces, including social enterprises. HRD principles could help such organizations better foster intercultural collaboration and respect, while promoting both economic prosperity and social good. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore, through a critical national HRD lens, how HRD principles could enhance the operations of an international social enterprise, focused on skills development, capacity building, and empowerment for women entrepreneurs in Ghana. This study highlights the role HRD principles could play in addressing challenges the entrepreneurs faced and in enhancing economic and social development. We apply an integrated critical national HRD framework consisting of three components: (1) global awareness, (2) holistic, socially conscious economic development, and (3) the negotiated power and performance. We find that HRD practices, such as cross‐cultural training and development programs, could mitigate challenges entrepreneurs experienced due to cultural conflict based on language, mismatched expectations regarding production quality, and a lack of predictability or control over workload and compensation. Yet, the work of the nongovernmental organization (NGO) did support their financial independence and stability and work to consider the role of gender in the support women received. Attention to socially conscious economic development as viewed through the critical national HRD can support such organizations as they seek to address women's holistic needs. We offer recommendations for research, policy, and practice to help NGOs minimize sociocultural confusion, develop meaningful programming, and bridge the economic and social missions of the organization.
Pioneering sustainable treatment delivery in childhood leukemia through synchronous telemedicine—A pilot study
Authors: Meryk Andreas , Salvador Christina , Kropshofer Gabriele , Hetzer Benjamin , Rumpold Gerhard , Haid Alexandra , Schneeberger‐Carta Verena , Holzner Bernhard , Crazzolara Roman 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCancer care places a heavy economic burden on families and health systems, driven by high treatment costs, lengthy hospital stays, and the necessity for extensive travel to specialized facilities. To address this challenge, an integrated health care network (IHCN) was implemented for maintenance treatment in acute leukemia. The IHCN encompassed outpatient services provided by local physicians and synchronous telemedicine consultation with pediatric oncologists. This study included twenty‐two pediatric patients (eleven [50.0%] females; twenty [90.9%] with B‐ALL and two [9.1%] with AML). The IHCN was offered to all rural patients (n = 17) with a one‐way driving distance more than 30 km, while urban patients (n = 5) received regular cancer care. Throughout the study, rural patients had a total of 510 routine clinical visits, with 367 (72%) conducted through the IHCN. Physical examinations revealed similar frequency of new abnormal findings for urban and rural patients (22.4% vs. 17.8%; p = .31). Laboratory tests indicated no significant difference in the frequency of abnormal values for various parameters between both groups. Similarly, there was no discrepancy of drug modifications or interruption in maintenance therapy between the two settings (p = .85). Moreover, patients' health‐related quality of life remained within the normative range, and user satisfaction with the IHCN was notably high. The implementation of the IHCN resulted in savings of 70,158 km, 950 h of travel, and 12,277 kg CO2 emissions. This pilot study underscores the efficacy of a telemedicine‐based IHCN, ensuring safety, quality of care, cost reduction, and satisfaction for both families and health care providers in pediatric leukemia management.