bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subsurface Marine Heatwaves in the South China Sea
Authors: Yao Yulong , Wang Chunzai
Published: October 2024

Marine heatwaves (MHWs), extreme warm ocean temperature events, greatly impact marine ecosystems. While most MHW studies in the South China Sea (SCS) focus on the sea surface, subsurface characteristics remain less explored. This study uses high‐resolution (1/12°) ocean reanalysis data sets to assess MHW properties with depth in the SCS from 1993 to 2022. We find that MHW intensities are typically stronger at subsurface levels (30–150 m) than at the surface, with significant spatial variations. The vertical structures of MHW maximum and cumulative intensities peak between 70 and 100 m with 2.7°C and 63°C days, respectively; MHW annual days and duration increase gradually from 10 to 2,000 m with duration peaks at 2,000 m (∼60 days), four times longer than that at the surface. The SCS experienced two major periods of extensive El Niño‐related subsurface MHWs from 1997 to 2002 and 2008 to 2014, with MHWs reaching depths of 150 m and covering 70% of the upper 40 m. Strong El Niño events strengthen the western Pacific subtropical high, reducing summer monsoon winds, weakening coastal upwelling east of Vietnam, and increasing water temperatures. Regions of elevated eddy kinetic energy in the SCS suggest that significant mesoscale eddy activities are situated east of Vietnam. In addition, notable eddy heat transport was observed in the above region and west of the Luzon Strait in the upper 1,000 m. This may help to explain the high maximum and cumulative intensities of MHWs exceeding 100 m in the northern SCS.
Machine Learning‐Driven Spatiotemporal Analysis of Ozone Exposure and Health Risks in China
Authors: Ma Chendong , Song Jun , Ran Maohao , Wan Zhenglin , Guo Yike , Gao Meng
Published: October 2024

Accurate and fine‐scaled prediction of ozone concentrations across space and time, as well as the assessment of associated human risks, is crucial for protecting public health and promoting environmental conservation. This paper introduces NetGBM, an innovative machine‐learning model designed to comprehensively model ozone levels across China's diverse topography and analyze the spatiotemporal distribution of ozone and exposure. Our model focuses on daily, weekly, and monthly predictions, achieving commendable coefficients of 0.83, 0.77, and 0.79, respectively. By constructing a gridded map of ozone and incorporating both land use and meteorological features into each grid, we achieved ozone prediction at a high spatiotemporal resolution, outperforming previous research in terms of performance and scale, particularly in regions with limited monitoring stations. The results can be further improved when applied to regional research using meteorological and ozone data from regional stations. Additionally, our research revealed that temperature is the most significant factor affecting ozone concentrations across China. In health risk assessment, we retrieved a high‐resolution spatial distribution of ozone‐attributed mortality for 5‐COD and daily ozone inhalation distributions during our study period. We concluded that ozone‐attributed mortality is predominantly caused by stroke and IHD, accounting for more than 70% of the total deaths in 2021, with the highest mortality rates in developed urban areas such as the NCP and the YRD. Our experiment demonstrated the potential of NetGBM in robustly modeling ozone across China with high spatiotemporal resolution and its applicability in measuring associated health risks.
Scenario‐Based Volcano Slope Stability Hazard Analysis: Case Study of Augustine Volcano, Alaska
Authors: Kanakiya Shreya
Published: October 2024

Volcanoes worldwide have undergone cyclic destruction of their edifices, generating catastrophic volcanic debris avalanches. Augustine Volcano in Alaska, USA, has a history of debris avalanches, causing cyclic destruction of the edifice and cascading hazards. These collapses, together with eruption‐related changes in the edifice structure, change the slope stability hazard of the volcano over time. This study aims to develop a current view of the slope stability hazard at Augustine Volcano by (a) characterizing collapse‐prone source areas on the edifice under various scenarios typical of dynamic volcanic environments and (b) identifying the controlling factors that underlie the slope stability hazard. Scenario‐based slope stability assessment was conducted using a quasi‐3D limit equilibrium method to test for the effect of various factors that drive or resist failure, including topography, shallow edifice structure, strength of edifice‐forming materials, pore fluid pressure distribution, and local and regional seismicity. Results show that in all scenarios assessed, the slopes of Augustine Volcano are stable with a factor of safety (FOS) greater than 1. The FOS, however, decreases with decreasing strength of edifice‐forming materials, pore fluid pressurization, and earthquake loading. The location of the relatively less stable slope, changes to the southwestern flank when accounting for subsurface heterogeneities derived from geophysical observations. Subsurface heterogeneity is thus a key underlying factor, along with steep topography, in controlling where collapse‐prone source areas occur, and it should be accounted for in volcanic slope stability hazard assessments.
Droughts Amplify Soil Moisture Losses in Burned Forests of Southeastern Amazonia
Authors: Silveiro Antônio C. , Silvério Divino V. , Macedo Marcia N. , Coe Michael T. , Maracahipes Leandro , Uribe Maria , Maracahipes‐Santos Leonardo , Oliveira Paulo Tarso S. , Rattis Ludmila , Brando Paulo M.
Published: October 2024

Soil moisture is a crucial variable mediating soil‐vegetation‐atmosphere water exchange. As climate and land use change, the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events and disturbances will likely alter feedbacks between ecosystem functions and soil moisture. In this study, we evaluated how extreme drought (2015/2016) and postfire vegetation regrowth affected the seasonality of soil water content (0–8 m depth) in a transitional forest in southeastern Amazonia. The experiment included three treatment plots: an unburned Control, an area burned every three years (B3yr), and an area burned annually (B1yr) between 2004 and 2010. We hypothesized that (a) soil moisture at B1yr and B3yr would be higher than the Control in the first years postfire due to lower transpiration rates, but differences between burned plots would decrease as postfire vegetation regrew; (b) during drought years, the soil water deficit in the dry season would be significantly greater in all plots as plants responded to greater evaporative demand; and (c) postfire recovery in the burned plots would cause an increase in evapotranspiration over time, especially in the topsoil. Contrary to the first expectation, the burned plots had lower volumetric water content than the Control plot. However, we found that droughts significantly reduced soil moisture in all plots compared to non‐drought years (15.6%), and this effect was amplified in the burned plots (19%). Our results indicate that, while compounding disturbances such as wildfires and extreme droughts alter forest dynamics, deep soil moisture is an essential water source for vegetation recovery.
Loss of body weight is dose-dependently associated with reductions in symptoms of hip osteoarthritis
Authors: Salis Zubeyir , Gallagher Ryan , Lawler Luke , Sainsbury Amanda
Published: October 2024

Background/objectives

While weight loss is recommended for managing hip osteoarthritis (OA), most evidence comes from knee OA studies, limiting its applicability to hip OA. This study addresses this gap by examining the effects of weight loss on hip OA symptoms.

Design and setting

A retrospective audit of routinely collected healthcare data from participants enrolled in the Osteoarthritis Healthy Weight for Life (OAHWFL) program, designed for individuals with knee or hip OA.

Participants

In total, 1714 adults with hip OA were selected from the OAHWFL program; 1408 completed the initial 18-week weight loss phase, while 306 did not complete it. After 18 weeks, participants transitioned to an indefinite weight maintenance phase.

Exposure

Percentage change in body weight from baseline at 18 weeks.

Outcomes

Changes in the five subscales of the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) (Pain, Activity Limitations in Daily Living, Stiffness and Range of Motion, Sports and Recreation Function, and Hip-related Quality of Life) from baseline to 18 weeks.

Statistics

Linear regression, adjusted for sex and baseline values of age, weight, and respective HOOS scores, assessed the relationship between percentage weight change (analyzed as both a continuous variable and in categories: ≤2.5%, >2.5–5.0%, >5.0–7.5%, >7.5–10%, and >10% of baseline weight) and changes in all five HOOS subscales.

Results

At baseline, participants had a mean age of 65.14 years, 70% were female, and 78% were individuals with obesity (Body Mass Index ≥30 kg/m2). A statistically significant dose-response relationship was observed between weight loss and improvements in all HOOS subscales, with the greatest improvement in the Hip-related Quality of Life subscale (14.42 points, 31.14%) for >10% weight loss.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that weight loss is associated with reduced symptoms of hip OA, supporting weight loss as an effective treatment strategy for hip OA.
Role of Planetary Health Diet in the association between genetic susceptibility to obesity and anthropometric measures in adults
Authors: Suikki Tiina , Maukonen Mirkka , Marjonen-Lindblad Heidi , Kaartinen Niina Erika , Härkänen Tommi , Jousilahti Pekka , Pajari Anne-Maria , Männistö Satu
Published: October 2024

Background/Objective

The roles of overall diet quality in linking genetic background with anthropometric measures are unclear, particularly regarding the recently developed Planetary Health Diet (PHD). This study aims to determine if the PHD mediates or moderates the relationship between genetic susceptibility to obesity and anthropometric measures.

Subjects/Methods

The study involved 2942 individuals from a Finnish population-based cohort (54% women, mean age 53 (SD ± 13) years). Habitual diet was assessed using a validated 130-item food frequency questionnaire, and the PHD Score (total score range 0–13 points) was adapted for Finnish food culture to evaluate diet quality. Genetic susceptibility to obesity was evaluated with a polygenic risk score (PRS) based on one million single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with body mass index (BMI). Baseline anthropometrics included weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and body fat percentage, with changes in these measures tracked over 7 years. A five-step multiple linear regression model and multivariable logistic regression with interaction terms were used to assess the mediating and moderating effects of the PHD. These analyses were also replicated in another Finnish cohort study (2 834 participants).

Results

PRS for BMI was positively associated with baseline BMI and changes in anthropometric measures, except waist circumference (p = 0.12). Significant associations were observed for baseline BMI and WC (p < 0.001), changes in BMI and WC (p = 0.01), and body fat percentage change (p = 0.05). However, the PHD (average score 3.8 points) did not mediate or moderate these relationships. These findings were consistent in the replication cohort.

Conclusion

Diet quality assessed with the PHD did not mediate or moderate the associations between genetic susceptibility to obesity and anthropometric measures. This lack of effect may be partly due to low adherence to the PHD and the older age of participants ( > 50 years) at baseline.
ERN GENTURIS guidelines on constitutional mismatch repair deficiency diagnosis, genetic counselling, surveillance, quality of life, and clinical management
Authors: Colas Chrystelle , Guerrini-Rousseau Léa , Suerink Manon , Gallon Richard , Kratz Christian P. , Ayuso Éloïse ,   ERN GENTURIS CMMRD Guideline Group, Andreiuolo Felipe , Azizi Amedeo A. , Beccaria Kevin , Burkhardt Birgit , Claret Beatrice , Dangouloff-ros Volodia , Drouet Youenn , Jongmans Marjolijn C. J. , van Kouwen Mariëtte , Ruiz-Ponte Clara , Svrcek Magali ,   Member of the European Reference Network on Genetic Tumour Risk Syndromes (ERN GENTURIS),   Member of the European consortium Care for CMMRD (C4CMMRD), Brugières Laurence , Wimmer Katharina
Published: October 2024

Constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD), first described 25 years ago, confers an extremely high and lifelong cancer risk, including haematologic, brain, and gastrointestinal tract malignancies, and is associated with several non-neoplastic features. Our understanding of this condition has improved and novel assays to assist CMMRD diagnosis have been developed. Surveillance protocols need adjustment taking into account recent observational prospective studies assessing their effectiveness. Response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and the effectiveness and toxicity of other treatments have been described. An update and merging of the different guidelines on diagnosis and clinical management of CMMRD into one comprehensive guideline was needed. Seventy-two expert members of the European Reference Network GENTURIS and/or the European care for CMMRD consortium and one patient representative developed recommendations for CMMRD diagnosis, genetic counselling, surveillance, quality of life, and clinical management based on a systematic literature search and comprehensive literature review and a modified Delphi process. Recommendations for the diagnosis of CMMRD provide testing criteria, propose strategies for CMMRD testing, and define CMMRD diagnostic criteria. Recommendations for surveillance cover each CMMRD-associated tumour type and contain information on starting age, frequency, and surveillance modality. Recommendations for clinical management cover cancer treatment, management of benign tumours or non-neoplastic features, and chemoprevention. Recommendations also address genetic counselling and quality of life. Based on existing guidelines and currently available data, we present 82 recommendations to improve and standardise the care of CMMRD patients in Europe. These recommendations are not meant to be prescriptive and may be adjusted based on individual decisions.
Heterozygous variants in the teashirt zinc finger homeobox 3 (TSHZ3) gene in human congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract
Authors: Kesdiren Esra , Martens Helge , Brand Frank , Werfel Lina , Wedekind Lukas , Trowe Mark-Oliver , Schmitz Jessica , Hennies Imke , Geffers Robert , Gucev Zoran , Seeman Tomáš , Schmidt Sonja , Tasic Velibor , Fasano Laurent , Bräsen Jan H. , Kispert Andreas , Christians Anne , Haffner Dieter , Weber Ruthild G.
Published: October 2024

Around 180 genes have been associated with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) in mice, and represent promising novel candidate genes for human CAKUT. In whole-exome sequencing data of two siblings with genetically unresolved multicystic dysplastic kidneys (MCDK), prioritizing variants in murine CAKUT-associated genes yielded a rare variant in the teashirt zinc finger homeobox 3 (TSHZ3) gene. Therefore, the role of TSHZ3 in human CAKUT was assessed. Twelve CAKUT patients from 9/301 (3%) families carried five different rare heterozygous TSHZ3 missense variants predicted to be deleterious. CAKUT patients with versus without TSHZ3 variants were more likely to present with hydronephrosis, hydroureter, ureteropelvic junction obstruction, MCDK, and with genital anomalies, developmental delay, overlapping with the previously described phenotypes in Tshz3-mutant mice and patients with heterozygous 19q12-q13.11 deletions encompassing the TSHZ3 locus. Comparable with Tshz3-mutant mice, the smooth muscle layer was disorganized in the renal pelvis and thinner in the proximal ureter of the nephrectomy specimen of a TSHZ3 variant carrier compared to controls. TSHZ3 was expressed in the human fetal kidney, and strongly at embryonic day 11.5-14.5 in mesenchymal compartments of the murine ureter, kidney, and bladder. TSHZ3 variants in a 5′ region were more frequent in CAKUT patients than in gnomAD samples (p < 0.001). Mutant TSHZ3 harboring N-terminal variants showed significantly altered SOX9 and/or myocardin binding, possibly adversely affecting smooth muscle differentiation. Our results provide evidence that heterozygous TSHZ3 variants are associated with human CAKUT, particularly MCDK, hydronephrosis, and hydroureter, and, inconsistently, with specific extrarenal features, including genital anomalies.
Beliefs surrounding the use of inhaled asthma medication in The Gambia: a qualitative study of asthma patients and healthcare workers
Authors: Jayasooriya S. , Inoue M. , Allen H. , Bojang M. , Ceesay A. , Touray S. , Cooper R. , Mortimer K. , Balen J.
Published: October 2024

Asthma-related mortality is high in low- and middle-income countries. Little is known about public perceptions of inhaled medicines. We conducted semi-structured interviews with asthma patients and healthcare workers at three secondary care facilities in The Gambia, between August and November 2022. Thematic analysis was used to interpret these data. A total of 20 patients and 15 healthcare workers were interviewed. Both groups noted limited access to inhalers was an issue resulting in continued use of oral medications. Some patients recognised the benefits of inhalers, yet beliefs that inhalers were dangerous were common. Reliance on oral short-acting beta agonists meant patients saw asthma as a recurrent acute condition resulting in an emphasis on hospital management with little awareness of inhaled preventative medicines. Increasing access to inhaled medicines has the potential to reduce costly avoidable admissions, but socio-cultural factors, in addition to medication supply, need addressing.
Thermal imaging and deep learning-based fit-checking for respiratory protection
Authors: Kim Hyunjin , Kim Tong Min , Choi Sae Won , Ko Taehoon
Published: October 2024

This study develops an artificial intelligence model to quickly and easily determine correct mask-wearing in real time using thermal videos that ascertained temperature changes caused by air trapped inside the mask. Five types of masks approved by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety were worn in four different ways across 50 participants, generating 5000 videos. The results showed that 3DCNN outperformed ConvLSTM in both binary and multi-classification for mask wearing methods, with the highest AUROC of 0.986 for multi-classification. Each mask type scored AUROC values > 0.9, with KF-AD being the best classified. This improved use of thermal imaging and deep learning for mask fit-checking could be useful in high-risk environments. It can be applied to various mask types, which enables easy generalizability and advantages in public and occupational health and healthcare system.
Maternal and neonatal factors’ effects on wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cell yield
Authors: Mahmoud Ranim , Bassiouny Mohamed , Badawy Ahmed , Darwish Ahmad , Yahia Sohier , El-Tantawy Nora
Published: October 2024

As Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are easily accessible, easy to isolate, and ethically acceptable, they represent a promising source of MSCs for use in regenerative medicine. Considering decisions on WJ-MSCs collection requires extensive knowledge of the factors that impact their yield. This study's aim was to evaluate the influence of parameters related to mothers and newborns on the WJ-MSCs yield. The WJ-MSCs were isolated and expanded after being isolated from 79 umbilical cord (UC) samples. Population doubling time and cell proliferation were assessed. By flow cytometry analysis, WJ-MSCs were identified by positivity of CD105, CD90, and CD73 and negativity of CD45 and CD34. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between UC width and P1 doubling time. Maternal age and WJ-MSC yield were shown to be negatively correlated. Birth weight and gestational age showed a significant positive correlation between WJ-MSCs yield and neonatal variables. No significant correlations were detected between the WJ-MSCs and the mother parity, nor the neonatal sex, fetal presentation, or head circumference. The WJ-MSCs yield increases with younger maternal age, higher gestational age, and increased neonatal birth weight. Hence, consideration should be given to these factors when selecting the ideal donors.
Study on the mechanical properties and microscopic evolution mechanisms of weathered granite soil
Authors: Wang Yizhao , Jia Ruiling , Li Yadong , Yang Kezheng , Cui Jie , Shan Yi
Published: October 2024

Studying the effects of weathering on the mechanical properties and microscopic evolution of weathered granite soil (WGS) is essential for connecting microstructure with macroscopic behavior. This study conducts systematic monotonic and cyclic triaxial tests, along with a series of microscopic tests on WGS samples, to explore the influence of weathering on WGS mechanical properties and the mechanism of granite weathering. Results indicate that both effective internal friction angle and effective cohesion decrease progressively with increased weathering. Completely weathered granite (CWG) exhibits greater dynamic strength compared to granite residual soil (GRS). Additionally, as weathering progresses, quartz fragments are lost, while feldspar and biotite weather to form secondary minerals such as kaolinite and illite, leading to an overall enrichment in aluminum and iron in the granite. Weathering causes structural deterioration of WGS. Finally, the mechanical parameters of WGS and their chemical weathering indices show a coefficient of determination ranging from 60 to 99%. This study helps elucidate the fundamental causes of performance changes in WGS, thereby optimizing engineering design and enhancing disaster prediction accuracy, while providing new research perspectives and experimental evidence for WGS.
Harnessing luciferase chemistry in regulated cell death modalities and autophagy: overview and perspectives
Authors: Hosseinkhani Saman , Amandadi Mojdeh , Ghanavatian Parisa , Zarein Fateme , Ataei Farangis , Nikkhah Maryam , Vandenabeele Peter
Published: October 2024

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the use of bioluminescence assays in advancing our understanding and studying cell death modalities and autophagy.
Correction: Piezoelectric PVDF and its copolymers in biomedicine: innovations and applications
Authors: Vodyashkin Andrey , Koshevaya Ekaterina , Makeev Mstislav , Kezimana Parfait
Published: October 2024

Correction for ‘Piezoelectric PVDF and its copolymers in biomedicine: innovations and applications’ by Vodyashkin Andrey et al., Biomater. Sci., 2024, 12, 5164–5185, https://doi.org/10.1039/d4bm00904e.
Employing a PhI(OAc)2-mediated domino reaction to assemble nitrogen-containing heterocyclic derivatives and assessing their anti-inflammatory activity
Authors: Li Xinyue , Fang Yuhua , Zhao Yuanyuan , Luo Shenshen , Xue Yuhui , Yong Tingting , Wang Bin
Published: October 2024

Metal-free radical cascade synthesis of substituted pyrazole derivatives was initiated by PhI(OAc)2 at 23 °C.
Aliovalent metal cation doping of La5Ti2AgO7S5 particles for improved photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Kageshima Yosuke , Otsuka Shiino , Iwaya Ryunosuke , Yonehara Haruto , Teshima Katsuya , Domen Kazunari , Nishikiori Hiromasa
Published: October 2024

Photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical performance of La5Ti2AgO7S5 photocatalytic particles is improved by aliovalent metal cation doping.
Electron donor–acceptor complex enabled photocascade strategy for the synthesis of trans-dihydrofuro[3,2-c]chromen-4-one scaffolds via radical conjugate addition of pyridinium ylide
Authors: Dey Sovan , Das Arindam , Yadav Ram Naresh , Boruah Palash Jyoti , Sarkar Koushik , Paul Amit Kumar , Hossain Md. Firoj
Published: October 2024

A photocascade strategy is disclosed for the synthesis of trans-dihydrofurocoumarin utilising the EDA complex followed by 1,4-radical conjugate addition of pyridinium ylide.
Reversible CO2 insertion into the silicon–nitrogen σ-bond of an N-heterocyclic iminosilane
Authors: Wang Jingyan , Hwang Gi Byoung , Knapp Caroline E. , Wilson Daniel W. N.
Published: October 2024

The reversible insertion of carbon dioxide into the silicon–nitrogen bond of an N-heterocyclic iminosilane is reported.
Catalytic asymmetric Michael and Nef-type sequential reaction of nitroolefin with azlactone to construct oxazole-fused succinimide
Authors: Weng Rui , Zhou Yuqiao , Zhang Yaqin , Feng Xiaoming , Liu Xiaohua
Published: October 2024

A series of oxazole-fused succinimides bearing vicinal quaternary carbon centers were synthesized via catalytic asymmetric Michael addition and Nef-type sequential reactions of nitroolefins with azlactones.
Circularly polarized luminescence induction on a Tb(iii) complex with a tris(o-tert-butylaryloxide)-functionalized 1,4,7-triazacyclononane ligand coordinating chiral 1-phenylethylamine
Authors: Shirai Sora , Muratsugu Satoshi , Matsui Hisaki , Harada Kazuhiro , Ehara Masahiro , Nakai Hidetaka , Tada Mizuki
Published: October 2024

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) activity was induced in a racemic Tb(tacn) complex by the coordination of a chiral 1-phenylethylamine ligand to the Tb centre.
The efficient triplet states formation of Se-modified PDI dimers and tetramers in solvents
Authors: Huang Feijun , Su Wenli , Yang Yubo , Wang Hang , Bo Zhishan , Jing Pengfei , Zhang Wenkai
Published: October 2024

The Se-modified PDI oligomers experience triplet states formation in the solvents, but there are differences in the efficiency of triplet state generation due to variations in molecular structure.
Densification of sodium and magnesium aluminosilicate glasses at ambient temperature: structural investigations by solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance and molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Logrado Millena , Gomes Yara Hellen Firmo , Inoue Tomiki , Nakane Shingo , Kato Yoshinari , Yamazaki Hiroki , Yamada Akihiro , Eckert Hellmut
Published: October 2024

Superposition of 17O triple-quantum magic-angle spinning NMR spectra of 20MgO–20Al2O3–60SiO2 (MAS**) and 20Na2O–20Al2O3–60SiO2 (NAS**) glasses prepared at ambient pressure (AP) and pressurized and decompressed at 25 GPa at room temperature (HP(25)).
Behind the glow: unveiling the nature of NanoLuc reactants and products
Authors: Bonardi Alessandro , Turelli Michele , Moro Giorgio , Greco Claudio , Cosentino Ugo , Adamo Carlo
Published: October 2024

Among all the possible candidates involved in the NanoLuc bioluminiescnce, this computational analysis identifies the enol tautomer of furimazine as a probable reactive species and the zwitterionic forms of furimamide as the luminescent product.
Exploiting graph theory in MD simulations for extracting chemical and physical properties of materials
Authors: Bougueroua Sana , Kolganov Alexander A. , Helain Chloé , Zens Coralie , Barth Dominique , Pidko Evgeny A. , Gaigeot Marie-Pierre
Published: October 2024

Some of our recent developments and applications of algorithmic graph theory for extracting the physical and chemical properties of materials from molecular dynamics simulations are presented.
Magneto-optical properties of heavily Fe-doped GaAs: a density functional approach
Authors: Zarpellon J. , Mosca D. H. , Varalda J.
Published: October 2024

Heavily Fe-doped GaAs, investigated using a DFT approach, reveals a spin polarized electronic band structure correlated with magnetic circular dichroism and complex Kerr and Faraday rotation angles in agreement with some previous experiments.
Experimental and theoretical investigation of the Auger electron spectra of isothiocyanic acid, HNCS
Authors: Schaffner Dorothee , Gerlach Marius , Karaev Emil , Bozek John , Fischer Ingo , Fink Reinhold F.
Published: October 2024

Experimental and theoretical Auger electron spectra of the HNCS molecule as obtained from resonant and nonresonant excitation.
Structural and sorption characteristics of an aerogel composite material loaded with flufenamic acid: insights from MAS NMR and high-pressure NOESY studies
Authors: Sobornova Valentina V. , Mulloyarova Valeriya V. , Belov Konstantin V. , Dyshin Alexey A. , Tolstoy Peter M. , Kiselev Mikhail G. , Khodov Ilya A.
Published: October 2024

The structural and sorption characteristics of a composite material consisting of a silica aerogel loaded with flufenamic acid were investigated using a variety of nuclear magnetic resonance techniques.
Spintronic performance of bent zigzag phosphorene nanoribbons: effects of mechanical deformation and gate voltage
Authors: Farghadan Rouhollah
Published: October 2024

This study explores how bending and gate voltage tune the spintronic properties of zigzag phosphorene nanoribbons (ZPNRs) for advanced applications.
Tunable valley polarization and high Curie temperature in two-dimensional GdF2/WSe2 van der Waals heterojunctions
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhang Kai , Zhu Yadong , Zhou Baozeng , Wang Xiaocha
Published: October 2024

The GdF2/WSe2 heterojunction exhibits spontaneous valley polarization and can be modulated by biaxial strain.
How do ecosystem service functions affect ecological health? Evidence from the Yangtze River Economic Belt in China
Authors: Wang Wei , Yang Jun , Yang Guishan , Wu Chao , Yu Jie
Published: October 2024

Ecosystem services serve as a bridge between social and economic impacts and ecological health.
Organic aerosol formation from 222 nm germicidal light: ozone-initiated vs. non-ozone pathways
Authors: Goss Matthew B. , Kroll Jesse H.
Published: October 2024

Ozone production can explain most indoor air quality impacts of 222 nm germicidal ultraviolet light (GUV222). However, GUV222 causes more new particle formation than is explained by ozone chemistry.
Converting waste PET into dimethyl terephthalate and diverse boronic esters under metal-free conditions
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Yu Yunkai , Wang Zhuo , Zhang Shaoyu , Gao Xiong , Liu Jiaming , Li Jing , Wu Weixiang , Mei Qingqing
Published: October 2024

An ionic liquid-catalyzed metal-free approach was proposed to upcycle waste PET into dimethyl terephthalate and boronic esters, facilitated by multiple hydrogen bonds.
Sulfonated sucrose-derived carbon: efficient carbocatalysts for ester hydrolysis
Authors: Wen Guodong , Na Duo , Yan Yukun , Liu Hongyang
Published: October 2024

A series of sulfonated carbon as efficient acid catalysts for ester hydrolysis reactions was prepared by simultaneous sulfonation and carbonization of sucrose with sulfosalicylic acid via hydrothermal carbonization.
Constructing FeCoNi-LDH/MOF heterostructures as cocatalysts on hematite photoanodes for high efficiency water splitting
Authors: Gao Qianyu , Yuhan Bai , Song Peilin , Dong Qingwen , Luo Jingjing , Zhao Shun , Tian Xiangwei , Xing Xiu-Shuang , Du Jimin
Published: October 2024

The ZIF-67/FeCoNi-LDH heterojunction catalyst provides abundant active sites and synergistic effect and enhances light absorption capacity and conductivity, thereby improving photogenerated carrier transport of the α-Fe2O3 photoanode.
Synthesis, structural analysis, DFT study, and catalytic performance of a glycine-Schiff base binuclear copper(ii) complex
Authors: López-Gastélum Karla-Alejandra , Chávez-Urías Iván-Fernando , López-González Luis E. , García Juventino J. , Flores-Alamo Marcos , Morales-Morales David , Galindo Jordi R. , Sugich-Miranda Rocío , Medrano Valenzuela Felipe , Velázquez-Contreras Enrique F. , Rocha-Alonzo Fernando
Published: October 2024

We report the synthesis of a binuclear copper(ii) complex with a Schiff base ligand from glycine, showing excellent catalytic performance in olefin cyclopropanation and C–S cross-coupling, with high yields, selectivity, and versatility.
Effect of the hydration shell on the red shift of the optical absorption bands of diketonate complexes
Authors: Lutoshkin Maxim A. , Taydakov Ilya V. , Matveev Petr I.
Published: October 2024

This work summarizes a spectral dataset of diketonate complexes and demonstrates the fundamental relationship between their spectral lines and the coordination nature of the metal ion.
Single-crystal-to-single-crystal MOF encapsulation of copper azide to prepare laser-sensitive primary explosives
Authors: Lv Ruibing , Pan Pengyang , Luo Zhenghang , Wang Ying , Liu Quancheng , Deng Hu , Zhang Qi
Published: October 2024

A novel 2D energetic MOF [Cu(ATRZ)(N3)2]n was prepared by single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation to encapsulating N3−, which is a new copper azide variant with excellent safety and excellent laser initiation performance.
Visible-light-induced thiol-mediated transfer hydrogenation/deuteration of activated alkenes, imines and azo compounds
Authors: Xuan Guo-Rong , Huang Rui-Yang , Wu Hua-Yue , Liu Miao-Chang , Zhou Yun-Bing
Published: October 2024

We have developed photochemical selective transfer hydrogenation/deuteration using H2O/D2O as the H/D-source under metal-free conditions.
Retraction: Short polyethylene glycol chains densely bound to soft nanotube channels for inhibition of protein aggregation
Authors: Kameta N. , Matsuzawa T. , Yaoi K. , Masuda M.
Published: October 2024

Retraction of ‘Short polyethylene glycol chains densely bound to soft nanotube channels for inhibition of protein aggregation’ by N. Kameta et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 36744–36750, https://doi.org/10.1039/C6RA06793J.
Enhanced gene transfection ability of sulfonylated low-molecular-weight PEI and its application in anti-tumor treatment
Authors: Tian Xiao-Li , Chen Ping , Hu Yue , Zhang Lan , Yu Xiao-Qi , Zhang Ji
Published: October 2024

Appropriate modification of LMW PEI not only enhanced gene transfection efficiency, but also provided a promising nucleic acid vaccine platform for anti-tumor immunotherapy.
Fabrication of highly sensitive flexible phototransistors through a unidirectional floating film transfer method using P4T2F-HD thin films
Authors: Shyam Radhe , Manaka Takaaki , Prakash Rajiv
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a fabrication technique for fabricating highly sensitive, flexible organic phototransistors (OPTs) suitable for advanced wearable and smart home applications.
End-to-end edge detection on self-rectifying resistive memory array
Authors: Pan Shurong , Liu Wenhan , Wang Hao , Huang Qijun , He Jin , Cheng Ruiqing , Chang Sheng
Published: October 2024

We fabricate the Cu2Te memristor with self-rectifying characteristics, and explore its application in edge detection, which is realized in a single step manner by a new Gauss–Laplace operator in a circuit with the memristor array.
Comparative analysis of canine and human HtrA2 to delineate its role in apoptosis and cancer
Authors: Mudrale Snehal P. , Dutta Shubhankar , Natu Kalyani , Chaudhari Pradip , Bose Kakoli
Published: October 2024

Therapeutically, targeting the pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins has been one of the major approaches behind devising strategies to combat associated diseases. Human high-temperature requirement serine protease A2 (hHtrA2), which induces apoptosis through both caspase-dependent and independent pathways is implicated in several diseases including cancer, ischemic heart diseases, and neurodegeneration, thus making it a promising target molecule. In the recent past, the canine model has gained prominence in the understanding of human pathophysiology that was otherwise limited to the rodent system. Moreover, canine models in cancer research provide an opportunity to study spontaneous tumors as their size, lifespan, and environmental exposure are significantly closer to that of humans compared with laboratory rodents. Therefore, using HtrA2 as a model protein, comparative analysis has been done to revisit the hypothesis that canines might be excellent models for cancer research. We have performed evolutionary phylogenetic analyses that confirm a close relationship between canine and human HtrA2s. Molecular modeling demonstrates structural similarities including orientation of the catalytic triad residues, followed by in silico docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies that identify the potential interacting partners for canine HtrA2 (cHtrA2). In vitro biophysical and protease studies depict similarities in interaction with their respective substrates as well as transient transfection of cHtrA2 in mammalian cell culture shows induction of apoptosis. This work, therefore, promises to open a new avenue in cancer research through the study of spontaneous cancer model systems in canines.
Structural insights into the membrane-bound proteolytic machinery of bacterial protein quality control
Authors: Ero Rya , Qiao Zhu , Tan Kwan Ann , Gao Yong-Gui
Published: October 2024

In bacteria and eukaryotic organelles of prokaryotic origin, ATP-dependent proteases are crucial for regulating protein quality control through substrate unfolding and degradation. Understanding the mechanism and regulation of this key cellular process could prove instrumental in developing therapeutic strategies. Very recently, cryo-electron microscopy structural studies have shed light on the functioning of AAA+ proteases, including membrane-bound proteolytic complexes. This review summarizes the structure and function relationship of bacterial AAA+ proteases, with a special focus on the sole membrane-bound AAA+ protease in Escherichia coli, FtsH. FtsH substrates include both soluble cytoplasmic and membrane-incorporated proteins, highlighting its intricate substrate recognition and processing mechanisms. Notably, 12 copies of regulatory HflK and HflC proteins, arranged in a cage-like structure embedded in the bacterial inner membrane, can encase up to 4 FtsH hexamers, thereby regulating their role in membrane protein quality control. FtsH represents an intriguing example, highlighting both its similarity to cytosolic AAA+ proteases with respect to overall architecture and oligomerization as well as its unique features, foremost its incorporation into a membrane-bound complex formed by HflK and HflC to mediate its function in protein quality control.
Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status and Basic Auditory Processing in Young Adults
Authors: Sharma Bhamini , Maggu Akshay R.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The current study aimed at investigating the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and basic auditory processing in young adults with normal hearing. Specifically, we sought to determine whether SES metrics, including parental education, parental occupation, and individual education attainment, influenced performance on tasks of basic auditory processing. Secondarily, we also aimed at understanding the interactive effects of SES and working memory on basic auditory processing.

Method:

A total of 38 young adults were included in the study. Self-reported SES measures were recorded through Likert scales, and auditory processing measures included tests for temporal fine structure (TFS) and spectrotemporal sensitivity (STS). Pearson correlation analyses were conducted to probe the relationships between SES indicators and auditory processing performance. Multiple linear regressions were conducted to understand the interactive effects of SES and working memory on auditory processing performance.

Results:

The analysis revealed no significant correlation between SES measures and basic auditory processing performance across TFS and STS tasks. Furthermore, analysis investigating the interaction between SES and working memory also yielded nonsignificant results. These findings indicate that, within this specific age cohort, SES information may not be indispensable for assessing basic auditory processing.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests that SES may not significantly influence basic auditory processing in young adults with normal hearing. However, further research with larger sample sizes and longitudinal designs is warranted to confirm these findings and explore potential age-related differences in the impact of SES on auditory processing across the lifespan.
Effect of Age and Gender on Categorical Perception of Vocal Emotion Under Tonal Language Background
Authors: Chen Yu , Wang Ting , Ding Hongwei
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

Categorical perception (CP) manifests in various aspects of human cognition. While there is mounting evidence for CP in facial emotions, CP in vocal emotions remains understudied. The current study attempted to test whether individuals with a tonal language background perceive vocal emotions categorically and to examine how factors such as gender and age influence the plasticity of these perceptual categories.

Method:

This study examined the identification and discrimination performance of 24 Mandarin-speaking children (14 boys and 10 girls) and 32 adults (16 males and 16 females) when they were presented with three vocal emotion continua. Speech stimuli in each continuum consisted of 11 resynthesized Mandarin disyllabic words.

Results:

CP phenomena were detected when Mandarin participants perceived vocal emotions. We further found the modulating effect of age and gender in vocal emotion categorization.

Conclusions:

Our results demonstrate for the first time that a categorical strategy is used by Mandarin speakers when perceiving vocal emotions. Furthermore, our findings reveal that the categorization ability of vocal emotions follows a prolonged course of development and the maturation patterns differ across genders. This study opens a promising line of research for investigating how sensory features are mapped to higher order perception and provides implications for our understanding of clinical populations characterized by altered emotional processing.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27204057
Does Language Ability Predict Natural Recovery From Stuttering?
Authors: Nippold Marilyn A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

This review article examines the proposal that language ability is a predictor or associate of natural recovery from stuttering. Specifically, this is the claim that preschool children who stutter (CWS) but have strong language skills are more likely to recover from this disorder naturally (without professional treatment) than those who have weaker language skills.

Method:

Studies that investigated this proposal are described, and their findings are reported in an effort to achieve greater clarity regarding this claim. The review includes studies that were published in peer-reviewed research journals in English since 1996.

Results:

Collectively, studies of language ability and natural recovery from stuttering have yielded mixed results. Although some studies found evidence to support an association, others did not, and still others yielded only partial support. Possible explanations for the complex and inconsistent findings are discussed, and suggestions are offered for speech-language pathologists who work with CWS.

Conclusions:

Language ability in preschool children is not a consistent or robust predictor or associate of natural recovery from stuttering. For this reason, it is risky to assume that a young child who stutters but has strong language skills is likely to recover from stuttering naturally and therefore does not require professional treatment for this disorder.
Group Aural Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gaeta Laura , Stark Rachel Keiko , Celio Noemi
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to synthesize published literature on group aural rehabilitation (AR) for older adults with hearing loss and update the research guidance since Hawkins (2005).

Method:

The scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Scoping Review extension and included five databases. Articles were selected for evaluation if they had been published since 2005, were primary research about group AR for older adults, and were in the English language. Evaluation criteria and data extraction were based on the study design, participant demographics, intervention, and outcome.

Results:

Three randomized controlled trials (Hickson et al., 2007; Preminger & Yoo, 2010; Preminger & Ziegler, 2008) met all criteria and were selected for further review. Common exclusion reasons included small sample sizes and study designs that were low on the hierarchy of evidence.

Conclusion:

A few published articles for group AR indicate effectiveness, but the area is in need of additional research that includes high-quality study designs, including consideration of effect sizes, reporting of participant demographics, variables specific to the intervention, and outcomes.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27122271
An Efficient Multiparty Threshold ECDSA Protocol against Malicious Adversaries for Blockchain‐Based LLMs
Authors: Wang Jing , Yuan Xue , Xu Yingjie , Zhang Yudi
Published: October 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have brought significant advancements to artificial intelligence, particularly in understanding and generating human language. However, concerns over management burden and data security have grown alongside their capabilities. To solve the problem, we design a blockchain‐based distributed LLM framework, where LLM works in the distributed mode and its outputs can be stored and verified on a blockchain to ensure integrity, transparency, and traceability. In addition, a multiparty signature‐based authentication mechanism is necessary to ensure stakeholder consensus before publication. To address these requirements, we propose a threshold elliptic curve digital signature algorithm that counters malicious adversaries in environments with three or more participants. Our approach relies on discrete logarithmic zero‐knowledge proofs and Feldman verifiable secret sharing, reducing complexity by forgoing multiplication triple protocols. When compared with some related schemes, this optimization speeds up both the key generation and signing phases with constant rounds while maintaining security against malicious adversaries.
Multi‐sensor missile‐borne LiDAR point cloud data augmentation based on Monte Carlo distortion simulation
Authors: Zhao Luda , Hu Yihua , Han Fei , Dou Zhenglei , Li Shanshan , Zhang Yan , Wu Qilong
Published: October 2024

Large‐scale point cloud datasets form the basis for training various deep learning networks and achieving high‐quality network processing tasks. Due to the diversity and robustness constraints of the data, data augmentation (DA) methods are utilised to expand dataset diversity and scale. However, due to the complex and distinct characteristics of LiDAR point cloud data from different platforms (such as missile‐borne and vehicular LiDAR data), directly applying traditional 2D visual domain DA methods to 3D data can lead to networks trained using this approach not robustly achieving the corresponding tasks. To address this issue, the present study explores DA for missile‐borne LiDAR point cloud using a Monte Carlo (MC) simulation method that closely resembles practical application. Firstly, the model of multi‐sensor imaging system is established, taking into account the joint errors arising from the platform itself and the relative motion during the imaging process. A distortion simulation method based on MC simulation for augmenting missile‐borne LiDAR point cloud data is proposed, underpinned by an analysis of combined errors between different modal sensors, achieving high‐quality augmentation of point cloud data. The effectiveness of the proposed method in addressing imaging system errors and distortion simulation is validated using the imaging scene dataset constructed in this paper. Comparative experiments between the proposed point cloud DA algorithm and the current state‐of‐the‐art algorithms in point cloud detection and single object tracking tasks demonstrate that the proposed method can improve the network performance obtained from unaugmented datasets by over 17.3% and 17.9%, surpassing SOTA performance of current point cloud DA algorithms.