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Forest plantations are widespread globally. Young forest plantations (hereafter young forests) differ from natural old‐growth forests (hereafter old forests) in above‐ and below‐ground structures, shaping water and carbon cycling processes. While above‐ground differences are well studied, below‐ground hydrology and biogeochemical processes remain poorly understood. Here we asked: How do hydrological flow paths and dissolved carbon processes belowground differ between young and old forests? Using a process‐based hydro‐biogeochemical model (BioRT‐HBV) constrained by streamflow and dissolved organic and inorganic carbon (DOC and DIC) data, we analyzed three pairs of young‐old forests at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon, USA. Detailed simulations for a 57‐year‐old plantation (WS01) and a naturally regenerated ∼500‐year‐old forest (WS02) showed that the young forest had lower streamflow and smaller deep groundwater contributions (20%) than the old forest (30%). DOC was mainly produced in shallow soil but diverged with depth: transformed into DIC in the young forest and further produced in the old forest, yielding contrasting export patterns of flushing (DOC increases with discharge) and dilution (DOC decreases with discharge). These differences likely stem from variations in subsurface structures, supported by deeper, denser roots in old forest. Extending the analysis to two additional pairs showed (a) higher DOC and DIC concentrations in all old forests; (b) consistent DIC dilution patterns but variable DOC patterns. Numerical experiments indicate that these diverse DOC behaviors result from interactions among forest age, geology, and hydrological connectivity, and other factors, highlighting the overlooked role of forest development in subsurface carbon cycling.

Deforestation from artisanal, small-scale gold mining is transforming large regions of the tropics, from lush rainforest to barren collections of tailings and ponds. Natural forest regeneration is slow due to dramatic soil changes, and existing reforestation strategies are failing. Here we combine remote sensing, electrical resistivity imaging, and measurements of soil properties to characterize post-mining areas in the Madre de Dios region, Peru. We find that the post-mining landscape has dramatically changed water infiltration dynamics, driving decreases in subsurface water availability and presenting a major barrier to revegetation. Mining tailings are extremely hydraulically conductive, allowing for 14.76 m day −1 infiltration relative to 0.074 m day −1 in primary forest soils, leading to lower average soil moisture and extreme temperatures (60 °C). Electrical resistivity imaging reveals a highly resistive, 1.5–2 m deep layer of dry sand across the mining landscape. Areas close to the water table (e.g., pond edges) show higher soil moisture, lower temperatures, and greater natural regeneration compared to topographically elevated tailings. Our results suggest that access to water should be prioritized when targeting reforestation sites, potentially requiring large-scale geomorphological reconfiguration. As gold mining is expected to expand, responsible practices and remediation strategies must account for the critical yet often overlooked role of water. Post-mining areas in the Madre de Dios region of Peru exhibit altered water infiltration dynamics that hinder revegetation, according to remote sensing, electrical resistivity imaging, and soil property measurements.

How does climate control river chemistry? Existing literature has examined extensively the response of river chemistry to short‐term weather conditions from event to seasonal scales. Patterns and drivers of long‐term, baseline river chemistry have remained poorly understood. Here we compile and analyze chemistry data from 506 minimally impacted rivers (412,801 data points) in the contiguous United States (CAMELS‐Chem) to identify patterns and drivers of river chemistry. Despite distinct sources and diverse reaction characteristics, a universal pattern emerges for 16 major solutes at the continental scale. Their long‐term mean concentrations (Cm) decrease with mean discharge (Qm), with elevated concentrations in arid climates and lower concentrations in humid climates, indicating overwhelming regulation by climate compared to local Critical Zone characteristics such as lithology and topography. To understand the CmQm pattern, a parsimonious watershed reactor model was solved by bringing together hydrology (storage–discharge relationship) and biogeochemical reaction theories from traditionally separate disciplines. The derivation of long‐term, steady state solutions lead to a power law form of CmQm relationships. The model illuminates two competing processes that determine mean solute concentrations: solute production by subsurface biogeochemical and chemical weathering reactions, and solute export (or removal) by mean discharge, the water flushing capacity dictated by climate and vegetation. In other words, watersheds function primarily as reactors that produce and accumulate solutes in arid climates, and as transporters that export solutes in humid climates. With space‐for‐time substitution, these results indicate that in places where river discharge dwindles in a warming climate, solute concentrations will elevate even without human perturbation, threatening water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Water quality deterioration therefore should be considered in the global calculation of future climate risks. Key Points Continental‐scale river chemistry data show that mean discharge predominantly regulates mean concentrations of 16 solutes A simple watershed hydro‐biogeochemical reactor model illuminates that river chemistry is driven by the relative rates of solute addition (by reactions and input) and solute export Where river discharge dwindles in a warmer climate, higher concentrations will deteriorate water quality even without human perturbations

Nanoparticle mediated targeted delivery has been widely studied as it provides nanoparticle-cell surface interaction and helps shift biodistribution to diseased cells, thereby overcoming the disadvantages of conventional drug delivery methods. Fluorescent proteins have been used as markers to detect protein-protein interaction and can be used to track the movements of other proteins. The first part of this study aimed to produce fluorescent proteins at high yield, so we studied mOx GFP and codon optimized it for yeast. The second part of this study dealt with nanospringy linkers, specifically flagelliform, and its construction. Springy linkers are designed to reduce mechanical forces on bonds produced by the nanoparticle, which will stabilize adhesion. In previous studies, springy linkers with fewer amino acids base lengths were already constructed, and we investigated if we could construct them with high amino acid count. Springy linkers will pave the way to experiments to validate our theory.

Introduction: The Condylion-Gonion-Menton angle 1s a parameter related to the mandibular structure alone and 1s unaffected by anterior cranial base. This angle exhibits significant variations among the diverse vertical growth patterns in various sagittal malocclusions. These parameters further influence dentoalveolar heights in an individual. Understanding the correlation between this angle and dentoalveolar heights may then provide the key insights required during orthodontic treatment planning and selection of appropriate biomechanics for maintenance of dentoalveolar heights. Methods: Standardized cephalometric radiographs of 240 subjects were captured in centric occlusion with relaxed lips. Subjects were categorized into sagittal classes based on Angle's classification and ANB angle) and further subdivided into normodivergent, hypodivergent and hyperdivergent growth patterns based on Jarabak's ratio, mandibular plane angle and FMA, totalling nine groups. Linear and angular parameters were obtained from lateral cephalograms using Aut°CAD 2025 software. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Shapiro-Wilk test, Kruskal Wallis test, Dunn Bonferroni post hoc test, Pearson correlation analysis. Results: Anterior dentoalveolar heights, UADH and LADH showed statistically significant differences between horizontal, average and vertical growth patterns, increasing from horizontal to average group and being highest in vertical group. Pearson correlation analysis further revealed that both upper and lower anterior dentoalveolar heights (especially lower anterior dentoalveolar height) were significant predictors of variations in the Condylion-Gonion-Menton angle in different growth patterns. Conclusion: Lower anterior dentoalveolar height is the parameter most strongly associated with different vertical growth patterns. The Condylion-Gonion-Menton angle is a strong predictor of growth pattern.

In recent years, the importance of deregulated power systems has grown significantly, resulting in positive effects on stability, reliability, innovation, and investment in new energy grid technology. The competitive landscape among energy providers and distributors has empowered consumers to not only save money on their energy bills but also incorporate sustainable energy sources into the grid. To efficiently manage electricity distribution, deregulated power systems must include a smart grid and microgrid (MG). Herein, the potential for sustainable expansion of these systems, as well as their economic and environmental implications, are examined. A comprehensive grid system that integrates smart grids and MGs can offer a complete solution, catering to the evolving energy needs of communities and businesses. The advantages of establishing such a system, including improved grid stability, reliability, and increased utilization of renewable energy sources (RES), are highlighted. Furthermore, the integration of MGs and smart grids enhances the management of distributed generation, allowing power companies to optimize system operations for profitability and efficiency. By following these suggestions, businesses and stakeholders in the power sector can enhance the efficiency and responsibility of their systems, resulting in benefits for both the economy and the environment. This study examines the potential for sustainable expansion of deregulated systems including smart and microgrids and their economic and environmental implications. The findings highlight the advantages of establishing a system, including improved grid stability, reliability, and increased utilization of renewable sources. Integration of smart and microgrids enhances distributed generation management, allowing power companies to optimize system operations for profitability.

Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey concerning the practice of occlusal splint for treating temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) by the dental practitioners of Jabalpur. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire containing questions on diagnosis, treatment, and management of TMD was given to a total of 157 general dental practitioners in Jabalpur. The responses were collected; data analysis was done by Chi-square test. Results: Of the General Dental Practitioner's, nearly 78% of participants did not attend any continuing dental education on TMD per year. More than 10 years of experience (82%) was associated with increase in positive response for treatment of TMD patient. Both the diagnosis and treatment of TMD patient were done using combination methods. The duration of splint use was considered patient dependent (42.27%) irrespective of the years of practice. Soft splint was most commonly employed for treatment, and fabrication of splint was done on hinge and mean value articulator. Conclusion: The knowledge of occlusal splint by general practitioners was found to be insufficient for treating TMDs.

IntroductionOpiate-induced constipation is a common ailment amongst hospital inpatients, particularly in post-operative surgical patients. The response to laxative therapy is wide-ranging, with some patients remaining constipated despite treatment. Naloxegol is a gastrointestinal opiate antagonist that has approval from the National Institute of Clinical Excellence to treat opiate-induced constipation in patients failing laxative therapy.We present a Quality Improvement Project on the management of opiate-induced constipation failing laxative therapy, comparing standard therapy (continuation of laxative therapy) with a proposed alterative (prescription of Naloxegol) on a 30-bed post-operative surgical ward.MethodsAim – to reduce opiate-induced constipation in patients failing laxative therapy.Intervention – the prescription of Naloxegol in patients failing laxative therapy (defined as bowels not opening for ≥3 days, despite 4 consecutive days of laxatives). All laxatives were stopped on prescription of Naloxegol, and naloxegol was stopped on cessation of opiates.Baseline data collection – review of inpatients on opiates from the previous two months and identification of those failing laxative therapy. Measuring time taken for bowels to open and average number of bowel motions/week following the failure of laxative therapy.Prospective data collection – Weekly monitoring of bowel motions and rate of failing laxative therapy, measuring time taken for bowels to open and average number of bowel motions/week following the first prescription of Naloxegol, monitoring for adverse effects of Naloxegol (abdominal pain, nausea, headache).ResultsBaseline data110 patients were admitted October to November 2022, with the total of 36 on opiates. 63.9% of patients on opiates (23/36) failed laxative therapy during their admission. Following the failure of laxative therapy, the average time to bowels opening was 4 days and the average number of bowel motions/week was 2.65.Prospective dataThe project ran over 8 weeks from December 2022 to January 2023. A total of 58 patients were prescribed opiates, with 67.2% failing laxative therapy (39/58).A total of 13 patients were prescribed Naloxegol. Average time to bowels opening was 1.5 days (baseline of 4 days), with average number of bowel motions 5.1/week (baseline of 2.65). There were no adverse side effects from Naloxegol use.In addition, patients reported an improved experience using Naloxegol, finding it easier to take with a good laxative effect.ConclusionsThis project demonstrates how Naloxegol is both effective and fast-acting in the management of opiate-induced constipation failing laxative therapy, along with an improved patient experience. Our next steps include a cost analysis of Naloxegol vs. laxatives to assess the feasibility of more widespread inpatient use.

The primary neural circuit affected in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients is the corticospinal motor circuit, originating in upper motor neurons (UMNs) in the cerebral motor cortex which descend to synapse with the lower motor neurons (LMNs) in the spinal cord to ultimately innervate the skeletal muscle. Perturbation of these neural circuits and consequent loss of both UMNs and LMNs, leading to muscle wastage and impaired movement, is the key pathophysiology observed. Despite decades of research, we are still lacking in ALS disease-modifying treatments. In this review, we document the current research from patient studies, rodent models, and human stem cell models in understanding the mechanisms of corticomotor circuit dysfunction and its implication in ALS. We summarize the current knowledge about cortical UMN dysfunction and degeneration, altered excitability in LMNs, neuromuscular junction degeneration, and the non-cell autonomous role of glial cells in motor circuit dysfunction in relation to ALS. We further highlight the advances in human stem cell technology to model the complex neural circuitry and how these can aid in future studies to better understand the mechanisms of neural circuit dysfunction underpinning ALS.