bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sequence of Monomers and Position of Stereocenters Matter for Thermal Properties of Stereocontrolled Oligourethanes
Authors: Forysiak Weronika , Lizak Agnieszka , Szweda Róża 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPolyurethanes are commodity materials used for multiple applications. In recent years, a new category of polyurethane material has emerged, characterized by the lack of polymer molar mass dispersity, control of the monomer arrangement in the chain, and even full stereocontrol. Various multistep synthesis strategies have been developed to fabricate sequence‐defined polyurethanes. However, synthesizing stereocontrolled polyurethanes with a controlled sequence is still a challenge. Polyurethanes with structural precision, as represented by biopolymers, i. e. proteins or nucleic acids, have opened new application directions for these groups of materials. It has been shown that polyurethanes can be used as biomimetics, information carriers, molecular tags, and materials with strictly controlled properties. Precise synthesis of macromolecules allows us to fine‐tune the properties of polymers to specific needs. Therefore, it is essential to collect information on the sequence‐structure relationship of polymers. In our work, we present synthetic pathways to make sequence and stereo‐defined oligourethanes. We demonstrate that structural details, i. e., the monomer sequences and position of the stereocenter, have a tremendous effect on the thermal properties of model oligourethanes. We show that the introduction of chirality by constitutional isomerization can be used to program the thermal characteristics of polymers, which are key features for material applications.
Recombinant Human Proteoglycan Aggrecan‐G1 Domain‐induced Arthritis (GIA) Mouse Model
Authors: Olasz Katalin , Boldizsar Ferenc 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe recombinant human proteoglycan aggrecan‐G1 domain (rhG1)‐induced arthritis (GIA) mouse model is a complex model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In GIA, autoimmune arthritis is induced by repeated intraperitoneal immunization of genetically susceptible BALB/c mice with the rhG1 antigen emulsified in the adjuvant dimethyldioctadecylammonium (DDA). This article describes the steps for producing and purifying the rhG1 antigen, the immunization protocol, methods for following the clinical picture of arthritis, and the evaluation of relevant laboratory parameters. In this model, the autoimmune arthritis develops stepwise, similar to RA: First is the preclinical stage (after the first immunization, days 0‐20) with no sign of inflammation but detectable T and B cell activation; next, the stage of early arthritis (after the second immunization, days 21‐41), where the first definitive signs of arthritis appear together with autoantibody production; and then the severe late‐stage arthritis (after the third immunization, after day 42), which presents with massive inflammation of the limbs, leading to cartilage and bone destruction and finally ankylosis. The protocols described here provide sufficient information for investigators to use the GIA model to study different aspects of autoimmune arthritis. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.Basic Protocol: Induction of recombinant human proteoglycan aggrecan‐G1 domain (rhG1)‐induced arthritis (GIA)Support Protocol 1: Production of rhG1‐Xa‐mFc2a fusion protein with CHOK1 mammalian expression systemSupport Protocol 2: Purification of the rhG1‐Xa‐mFc2a fusion protein by affinity chromatographySupport Protocol 3: Preparation of DDA adjuvantSupport Protocol 4: Clinical assessment of arthritisSupport Protocol 5: Measurement of serum antibody levels and cytokinesSupport Protocol 6: Measurement of rhG1‐induced proliferation and cytokine production in spleen cell cultureSupport Protocol 7: Histological assessment of arthritic limbsSupport Protocol 8: Evaluation of arthritis with micro‐computed tomography
Improved Compatibility of α‐NaMnO2 Cathodes at the Interface with Ionic Liquid Electrolytes
Authors: Maresca Giovanna , Ottaviani Michela , Ryan Kevin M. , Brutti Sergio , Appetecchi Giovanni B. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe behaviour and compatibility of monoclinic sodium manganite, α‐NaMnO2, cathodes at the interface with electrolytes based on the 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (EMIFSI) and N‐trimethyl‐N‐butylammonium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (N1114FSI) ionic liquids is presented and discussed. The Na+ insertion process was analysed through cyclic voltammetry tests combined with impedance spectroscopy measurements and the cell performance was tested by charge‐discharge cycles. XPS and FIB‐SEM measurements allowed analysis of the surface composition and the morphology of post‐mortem cathodes. Overall, the α‐NaMnO2 cathode showed high reversibility in N1114FSI‐based electrolyte, delivering 60 % of the initial capacity after 1200 cycles in conjunction with a Coulombic efficiency above 99 %. To our knowledge, these very promising results are the best result obtained till now for monolithic α‐NaMnO2 cathodes, are ascribable to the formation of a stable passive layer onto the electrode surface, as confirmed by spectroscopic analysis.
Distribution pattern of large old Ginkgo biloba in China under climate change scenarios
Authors: Xie Chunping , Liu Chang , Wang Houhe , Liu Dawei , Jim Chi Yung 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLarge old Ginkgo biloba trees (LOGTs), with profound ecological and cultural significance in China, face increasing threats from climate change and human activities. We employed the BIOCLIM and DOMAIN species distribution models to predict their spatial patterns under the present climate and doubled‐CO2 climate change scenario in 2100. We collected 604 validated LOGT occurrence records and data on 19 bioclimate factors for the analysis. Our study yielded a LOGT geographic distribution pattern covering a wide latitudinal belt extending from south subtropical to temperate zones in central and eastern China, concentrating in low elevations and coastal regions. The principal component analysis identified the dominant bioclimatic factors shaping their distribution, namely annual precipitation and low winter temperatures. BIOCLIM and DOMAIN generated predicted suitable habitats that match the present distribution range well. However, under the future climate scenario, the models indicated habitat retentions mainly in the core distribution areas and habitat losses mainly in the southern edge of the present range and scattered pockets elsewhere. Some retained habitats, including excellent ones, will suffer from fragmentation. The predicted new habitats may permit some range expansion and migration but are beset by small patch size and large interpatch distance, bringing fragmentation and gene flow restrictions. The anticipated projected range decline highlights considerable threats climate change poses to the long‐term survival of the precious natural‐cum‐cultural resource. Understanding the distribution patterns and underlying drivers and distillation of practical conservation measures can foster sustainable management vis‐a‐vis the looming global change.
Evaluation of self‐regulation by the hunting community: A case study on the voluntary restraint of woodcock hunting in the UK
Authors: McNicol Cat M. , Ellis Matt B. , Madden Joah R. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBehaviour change through voluntary action can be an important approach to reducing human impacts on biodiversity. One example is self‐regulation in hunting, potentially a vital contributory factor in improving the sustainability of wild bird harvest. There has been a growing realisation among woodcock Scolopax rusticola hunters, reinforced by advice from sector organisations, that components of the UK woodcock populations are declining and that some aspects of woodcock hunting, specifically timing of harvest, may contribute to these. This study utilised five qualitative and quantitative data sets, collected for different purposes, to assess the behaviour and attitudes of woodcock hunters, both currently and over the past century. In the UK, relatively few woodcock are harvested and few hunters or species‐specific shoots target them. An estimated 26%–29% of lowland shoots advertise or harvest woodcock, with fewer than 5% of shoots or hunters participating in ‘woodcock specific’ shoot days. The number of birds harvested has fallen in recent years and is estimated to be between 62,000 and 140,000. Qualitative data suggests that over 90% of hunters now report shooting woodcock only after the recommended date of 1st December, or not at all. This is reflected in bag data which shows that, since 2018, fewer than 3%–13% of woodcock shot were harvested prior to 1st December. Around a third of hunters have reported stopping shooting woodcock and it is likely the harvest will decline in coming years due to voluntary restraint. This work demonstrates both through self‐report data and independent harvest data that behaviour change among hunters can be effected. This provides a working example where self‐regulation in response to a collective sector‐led effort has the potential to conserve wild quarry.
Spatiotemporal variation in the gut microbiomes of co‐occurring wild rodent species
Authors: Brown Bianca R. P. , Khasoha Leo M. , Lokeny Peter , Jakopak Rhiannon P. , Reed Courtney G. , Dyck Marissa , Wambua Alois , Newsome Seth D. , Palmer Todd M. , Pringle Robert M. , Goheen Jacob R. , Kartzinel Tyler R. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMammalian gut microbiomes differ within and among hosts. Hosts that occupy a broad range of environments may exhibit greater spatiotemporal variation in their microbiome than those constrained as specialists to narrower subsets of resources or habitats. This can occur if widespread host encounter a variety of ecological conditions that act to diversify their gut microbiomes and/or if generalized host species tend to form large populations that promote sharing and maintenance of diverse microbes. We studied spatiotemporal variation in the gut microbiomes of three co‐occurring rodent species across an environmental gradient in a Kenyan savanna. We hypothesized: (1) the taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional compositions of gut microbiomes as predicted using the Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt) differ significantly among host species; (2) microbiome richness increases with population size for all host species; and (3) host species exhibit different levels of seasonal change in their gut microbiomes, reflecting different sensitivities to the environment. We evaluated changes in gut microbiome composition according to host species identity, site, and host population size using three years of capture–mark–recapture data and 351 microbiome samples. Host species differed significantly in microbiome composition, though the two species with more specialized diets and higher demographic sensitivities showed only slightly greater microbiome variability than those of a widespread dietary generalist. Total microbiome richness increased significantly with host population size for all species, but only one of the more specialized species also exhibited greater individual‐level microbiome richness in large populations. Across co‐occurring rodent species with diverse diets and life histories, large host population sizes were associated both with greater population‐level microbiome richness (sampling effects) and turnover in the relative abundance of bacterial taxa (environmental effects), but there was no consistent pattern for individual‐level richness (individual specialization). Together, our results show that maintenance of large host populations contributes to the maintenance of gut microbiome diversity in wild mammals.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement for aortic regurgitation: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Ran , Fu Zhaolin , Jiang Zhengming , Yan Yunfeng , Yao Jing , Liu Xinmin , Yan Xiaowei , Song Guangyuan 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe efficacy and safety of new‐generation devices (NGDs) for severe aortic regurgitation (AR) have mostly been based on single‐arm studies with limited sample sizes. Our goal was to summarize the current evidence on NGDs and compare the safety and efficacy of ‘off‐label’ and ‘on‐label’ devices in NGDs. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus for articles on transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with AR. A total of 31 studies that included 1851 patients were identified through April 2023. Among these, 1067 (57.6%) patients received treatment with ‘on‐label’ devices (JenaValve and J‐Valve). For NGDs, the total device success rate at 30 days was 94.5% (on‐label: 97.8%, off‐label: 89.9%; P < 0.001), the all‐cause mortality was 4.2% (on‐label: 2.6%, off‐label: 5.1%; P = 0.006), permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) was 8.8% (on‐label: 6.9%, off‐label: 18.4%; P < 0.001), and the rate of greater‐than‐mild paravalvular leak (PVL) was 1.2% (on‐label: 0.9%, off‐label: 3.8%; P = 0.003). On‐label devices showed significantly better safety and efficacy in terms of the success rate, PPI, greater‐than‐mild PVL, and 30 day mortality than off‐label devices.
Time‐dependent analysis and stability evaluation of plane rotary landslides: Insights from a case study
Authors: Huang Junjie , Chen Guoqing , Zheng Hai Jun , Yang Xin , Wu Lei 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPlane rotary landslides are characterized by their concealment and challenges in prevention, having caused considerable impacts in recent years. This study aims to elucidate the causative factors behind plane rotary landslides and develop a novel method for assessing their stability through a case. Our focal case, a landslide with weak interlayers, occurred on 1 April 2020, in an open‐pit limestone mine in Sichuan Province, China. The landslide demonstrated distinctive rotational behaviour deviating 45° from the expected direction, presenting a unique case of plane rotary deformation. Employing a multifaceted approach, including geological data analysis, UAV aerial photography, field investigations, laboratory experiments and displacement monitoring, we delved into the deformation and failure mechanisms. Furthermore, A three‐dimensional discrete element method was employed to examine the evolution of the landslide and its relationship with the stable rock mass barrier. The study unravelled the structural alterations of the slope due to mining activities and the degradation of physical and mechanical properties in weak interlayers, which were instrumental in triggering this geological event. The presence of the stable rock mass barrier causes the resultant forces acting on the sliding mass not to pass through its centre of gravity during deformation, thereby generating a moment that induces the rotation. The additional resistance also causes the landslide displacement to transition from being initially dominated by the leading edge to being driven by the trailing edge. This unique displacement pattern serves as a crucial reference for identifying plane rotary landslides.
Systems management strategies for increasing alfalfa use in warm‐humid regions
Authors: Tucker Jennifer J. , Mullenix Mary K. , Rios Esteban , Basigalup Daniel , Bouton J. H. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAlfalfa use (Medicago sativa L.; “lucerne”) in warm, humid regions of the world represents a potential area of expansion for the alfalfa industry. The objective of this review paper is to demonstrate how alfalfa forage breeding and systems research efforts have identified opportunities for increasing alfalfa contributions in these regions, along with potential pathways for seed industry and farming operations to increase adoption. Our review draws primarily on reports from the Southeast United States and Argentina. Significant technological advancements in plant screening and selection have identified alfalfa plant populations that are more adapted to the growing conditions experienced in these regions, which are often characterized by mild temperature, long growing seasons, and multiple other abiotic and biotic stressors. Management systems research conducted in the United States and Argentina has demonstrated the use of alfalfa for conserved forage, grazing, or dual‐purpose use in monoculture or mixtures with warm‐season grasses such as bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.). These trials report increased forage production, nutritive value, and ecosystem services of alfalfa–grass mixtures when compared with traditionally N‐fertilized warm‐season grass‐based systems. Grazing‐based alfalfa systems in Argentina have demonstrated methods for utilizing alfalfa as part of beef, dairy, and finishing systems. Some approaches for expanding alfalfa production in the region include targeted marketing efforts for adapted varieties and demonstrating alfalfa applications within existing farming frameworks. This includes educational programming efforts and on‐farm demonstrations to promote alfalfa use as a component of the livestock diets, integration into grass‐based systems, crop rotations, and wildlife use. Continued emphasis on a systems approach to alfalfa inclusion represents an opportunity for improved forage and livestock production in warm, humid regions of the world.
Localizing and quantifying groundwater‐surface water interactions at different scales: A tracer approach at the River Moselle, Germany
Authors: Engel Michael , Mischel Simon , Quanz Sabrina , Frei Sven , Radny Dirk , Voelpel Rike , Schmidt Axel 
Published: May 2024

AbstractGroundwater‐surface water interactions (GSI) connect rivers and streams with riparian areas and the adjacent aquifer. Although these interactions exert a substantial control of quantity and quality of both groundwater and surface water, knowledge on GSI along rivers at the regional scale, particularly for inland waterways, is still limited. We investigated GSI along the river Moselle, an important federal inland waterway in Germany, by using radon and tritium to identify gaining (water flux from the aquifer to the surface water) and losing (water flux from the surface water to the aquifer) stream conditions, respectively. Gaining stream conditions were identified by continuously measuring radon along the river during boat surveys with a high spatial resolution (every 2 km) during intermediate (October 2020) and near low flow conditions (August/September 2021). The tritium concentrations in surface water and groundwater and the resulting tritium inventories were used to characterize losing stream conditions Monthly tritium inventories from 2017 to 2022 revealed a mean loss for the whole period of 20.3 % and a mean gain of 21.8%. Both were probably triggered by a combination of losing stream conditions and flood‐induced mass transfer of water from the aquifer back into the river as well as discharge fluctuations. At the investigated site Lehmen there were direct indications of an influence of surface water due to elevated tritium concentrations in the groundwater (up to 13.3 Bq L−1). Using radon mass balance modelling, good agreements of simulated versus measured radon data with respect to two groundwater end‐member scenarios were obtained during intermediate flow (Spearman's ρ: 0.97 and 0.99; MAE: 10.1 and 3.4 Bq L−1) and near low flow (Spearman's ρ: 0.97 and 0.99; MAE: 11 and 6.5 Bq L−1). Considerable groundwater inflow was limited to the meander of Detzem, where cumulated groundwater inflow of about 19 m3 s−1 (9.5% of total discharge) and 4.2 m3 s−1 (3.8% of total discharge) was simulated during intermediate and near low flow, respectively. However, the groundwater inflow was relatively low compared to alpine streams, for example. The study will help to better identify and quantify GSI at the regional scale and provide methodological guidance for future studies focusing on inland waterways.
Environmental monitoring of the Capo Frasca military training site (West Sardinia): Operability and environmental protection balanced plan
Authors: Guerra Maurizio , Marangio Luigi , Pizzi Andrea , Rizzetto Paolo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Military activities in training areas can contaminate soil and groundwater through different persistent pollutants. This article reports the design of the operating procedure to assess and monitor the environmental impact of training activities carried out at the Capo Frasca military firing range (PCF) on the west coast of Sardinia. The procedure includes two steps: (i) a baseline investigation of soil to detect the impact of previous training activities at PCF, and (ii) the development of a post-training monitoring plan. Results of the baseline investigations revealed that the activities conducted at PCF over many decades have not significantly affected the soil quality. Energetic compounds (ECs) were found below the limit of detection (LOD), and some low exceedances of the screening values (SVs) for Cd, Cu, and Ni were recorded in small areas that coincided with parts of two operational areas. A human health risk assessment (HHRA) identified no relevant issues. Results of baseline investigation allowed the planning of a light, noninvasive post-training monitoring plan based on two levels, L1 and L2, where L1 involves only manual sampling of topsoil (0–0.2 m). If L1 reveals contamination, a more in-depth and extensive L2 follow-up monitoring will be implemented. Results of post-training monitoring are not yet available. This environmental investigation protocol is intended to be a practical tool for regulatory provisions and is expected to be useful and effective for firing range management. This investigation also emphasized that, compared with the international state-of-the-art, environmental surveys in Italian military ranges require the improvement of ECs set to be analyzed, lowering EC LOD, and establishing ECs SVs. In Sardinia, many military areas, including PCF, are considered areas of significant natural interest. Therefore, it is deemed beneficial to move beyond HHRA and undertake the ecological risk assessment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2060–2075. © 2024 SETAC
Key Points
After years of operational activity at the Capo Frasca Range (CFR), baseline environmental investigations have identified a very limited impact on soil quality, attributable to few exceedances of the screening values (SVs) for Cd, Cu, and Ni; in addition, energetic compounds were not detected. Given the exceedance of the SVs, a site-specific health risk analysis was conducted, revealing that the concentrations of metals (Cd, Cu, and Ni) found in the soils were below the acceptable contamination levels (ACLs). Based on the subsequent results, post-training monitoring was planned. Compared with the international state-of-the-art, environmental monitoring in Italian military ranges exhibits obvious deficits.