bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating food consumption, micronutrient intake and the contribution of large-scale food fortification to micronutrient adequacy in Tanzania
Authors: Goto Rie , Mlambo Liberty , Segovia De La Revilla Lucia , Swai Aleswa , Mshida Hoyce , Amos Alex , Karugendo Emilian , Osman Gareth , Tang Kevin , Codd Thomas , Chagumaira Christopher , Ferguson Elaine L , Ander E Louise , Jumbe Theresia , Masumo Ray , Dary Omar , Yourkavitch Jennifer , Pedersen Sarah , Leyna Germana H , Woldt Monica , Joy Edward JM
Published: November 2024

Objective:

To assess the potential contribution of large-scale food fortification (LSFF) towards meeting dietary micronutrient requirements in Tanzania.

Design:

We used household food consumption data from the National Panel Survey 2014–15 to estimate fortifiable food vehicle coverage and consumption (standardised using the adult female equivalent approach) and the prevalence at risk of inadequate apparent intake of five micronutrients included in Tanzania’s fortification legislation. We modelled four LSFF scenarios: no fortification, status quo (i.e. compliance with current fortification contents) and full fortification with and without maize flour fortification.

Setting:

Tanzania.

Participants:

A nationally representative sample of 3290 Tanzanian households.

Results:

The coverage of edible oils and maize and wheat flours (including products of wheat flour and oil such as bread and cakes) was high, with 91 percent, 88 percent and 53 percent of households consuming these commodities, respectively. We estimated that vitamin A-fortified oil could reduce the prevalence of inadequate apparent intake of vitamin A (retinol activity equivalent) from 92 percent without LSFF to 80 percent with LSFF at current fortification levels. Low industry LSFF compliance of flour fortification limits the contribution of other micronutrients, but a hypothetical full fortification scenario shows that LSFF of cereal flours could substantially reduce the prevalence at risk of inadequate intakes of iron, zinc, folate and vitamin B12.

Conclusions:

The current Tanzania LSFF programme likely contributes to reducing vitamin A inadequacy. Policies that support increased compliance could improve the supply of multiple nutrients, but the prominence of small-scale maize mills restricts this theoretical benefit.
Surveying, mapping, and translating: how property rights were created in Shanghai, 1860–1900?
Authors: Luo Fusheng
Published: November 2024

From 1860 to 1900, a modern system of property rights emerged in the International Settlement in Shanghai. This paper examines the largely overlooked process by which the Shanghai Municipal Council (SMC) brought about a system of well-functioning property rights through land surveys, mapping, and assessments. These methods worked hand-in-hand with road planning and construction in facilitating the expansion of the International Settlement to the Chinese-controlled area. Colonial officials, merchants, and Chinese intellectuals worked collectively and sometimes separately to generate knowledge about land and property by translating terms in the Chinese tradition. It argues that the efforts in institution-building and translation helped normalize the definition of property rights as things exclusively owned, strengthening the SMC's control over the land in Shanghai. These processes illuminate the relationship between empire-making and property rights by showing how property rights emerged and functioned in a semi-colonial context where multiple foreign authorities coexisted with the local government. The relatively secure system of property rights, which both foreign and Chinese merchants exploited, formed the foundation of a prosperous Shanghai in the twentieth century.
Can participatory democracy become “inclusive”? Class, mobilization and voice in participatory institutions
Authors: García-Espín Patricia
Published: November 2024

This article discusses reproductionist perspectives that assume there is little local participatory institutions can do to address the underrepresentation and the domination of some social groups. While there is also empirical basis to be skeptical, the evidence suggests that, occasionally, the reproduction of class inequalities can be counteracted. This encourages us to consider the conditions that favor greater participation of working-class, economically and culturally disadvantaged people. Comparing evidence from various studies in a range of countries, the article argues that certain contextual factors and inclusion tools produce higher rates of mobilization and more egalitarian deliberations. Specifically, the article focuses on the effects of three conditions: a) special mobilization efforts; b) design choices and inclusion tools; and c) the broadening of the political subject through cultural mobilization. As well as reflecting on the shortcomings of these factors, a new research agenda for social equality in participation is also proposed.
The Role of Sibling Patterns in the Educational Attainment of Hungarian Twins
Authors: Pári András , Engler Ágnes
Published: November 2024

Studies concerning twins with a sociological focus are scarce in Hungary as well as international research, although the number of twin births has increased dramatically worldwide. The raising and education of twins are tasks demanding special attention from both the family and institutions. In our study we examine these aspects, looking back from adulthood, using the narrow scope of the available data from research based on the ‘Hungarostudy 2021’ database (N total: 7000; n twins: 106). Our results, corresponding to the hypotheses of educational sociology, demonstrate how the relationships between family size and school career and increasing number of siblings reduces the chances of high educational attainment. A regression analysis confirmed that both the number of siblings and a later position in the birth order reduces the chance of obtaining a higher education. For the second child in a family, the chance of earning a university degree is reduced to to 0.743. The role of a large family concerning higher education showed a stronger relationship in the case of twins compared to nontwins. For twins, the sibling pattern has a decisive effect in educational attainment. Twins themselves have a 1.449 times higher chance of obtaining a higher education compared to nontwins (p = 0.101), and fraternal twins have half (0.517) the chance of obtaining a higher education compared to identical twins; but both results are not significant (p = 0.156).
Past Groundwater Drought in the North American Cordillera
Authors: Hunter S. C. , Allen D. M. , Kohfeld K. E.
Published: November 2024

Groundwater level records in North America are relatively short (<60 years), preventing long‐term analysis of historical changes in groundwater levels associated with drought. In this study, tree ring widths are used to reconstruct groundwater levels in three regions in the North American Cordillera: Central British Columbia (BC), Canada, the Southern Interior Region of BC, and the San Luis Valley in Colorado, USA. Periods with severe drought conditions, identified using regime shift and threshold analyses were: 1890–1900 and 1950–1970 in Colorado, around 1920–1940 in the BC Interior, and 1935–1945 in Central BC. The groundwater level reconstructions are correlated with several climate indices and have similar regime shifts as identified in streamflow and drought records. The groundwater level reconstructions are strongly related to winter snowpack, suggesting that the observed trend of declining snowpack in recent years may lead to declining groundwater availability in these regions.
The Vertical Structure of Turbulence Kinetic Energy Near the Arctic Sea‐Ice Surface
Authors: Peng Shijie , Yang Qinghua , Shupe Matthew D. , Han Bo , Chen Dake , Liu Changwei
Published: November 2024

Atmospheric turbulence over the Arctic sea‐ice surface has been understudied due to the lack of observational data. In this study, we focus on the turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) over sea ice and distinguish its two different vertical structures, the “Surface” type and the “Elevated” type, using observations during the Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate expedition (MOSAiC). The “Surface” type has the maximum TKE near the surface (at 2 m), while the “Elevated” type has the maximum TKE at a higher level (6 m). The TKE budget analysis indicates that the “Elevated” type is caused by the increased shear production of TKE at 6 m. In addition, spectral analysis reveals that the contribution to TKE by horizontal large eddies is enhanced in the “Elevated” type. Finally, how the vertical structure of TKE affects the parameterization of turbulent momentum flux is discussed.
Major Artifacts in ERA5 2‐m Air Temperature Trends Over Antarctica Prior to and During the Modern Satellite Era
Authors: Bromwich David H. , Ensign Alexandra , Wang Sheng‐Hung , Zou Xun
Published: November 2024

Global reanalyzes are widely used for investigations of Antarctic climate variability and change. The European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts 5th generation reanalysis (ERA5) is well regarded and spans 1940 to today. We investigate whether ERA5 reliably represents the 2‐m air temperature trends across the 1940–2022 (83 years) period at seasonal and annual time scales. We compare ERA5 temperatures with an observation‐based temperature reconstruction for Antarctica (RECON) that has monthly resolution for 1958–2022, the period of reliable observational availability. Results for individual stations are also examined. ERA5 anomalously warms Antarctica in relation RECON especially for the period prior to 1979 when satellite observations over the Southern Ocean were sparse. Trend hotspots that are shown to be artifacts are found at three locations and are present until today. The results demonstrate that ERA5 temperature trends can be questionable even today, but variability is well captured after 1979.
On the Implications of Ground‐Based High‐Definition Imaging of Io's Surface
Authors: Schmidt C. A.
Published: November 2024

The capability to observe temporal changes on Io's surface at optical wavelengths has recently been demonstrated by Conrad et al. (2024, https://doi.org/10.1029/2024GL108609) using new instrumentation at the Large Binocular Telescope. Monitoring of Io's surface morphology would be impactful since preexisting metrics of the degree, location and composition of Io's plume activities are severely limited. Relationships with external data sets appear especially fruitful. Comparisons with spatially resolved data on gas distributions and thermal hots spots would better characterize composition and chemistry in Io's volcanic plumes. Comparisons with measurements remote from Io are posed to advance our understanding of atmospheric escape and how eruptions connect to transient enhancements at disparate size and time scales in the extended neutral clouds and plasma torus.
Targeting G-quadruplex by TMPyP4 for inhibition of colorectal cancer through cell cycle arrest and boosting anti-tumor immunity
Authors: Li Peisi , Zhou Dawang , Xie Yumo , Yuan Ze , Huang Mingzhe , Xu Gaopo , Huang Junfeng , Zhuang Zhuokai , Luo Yanxin , Yu Huichuan , Wang Xiaolin
Published: November 2024

G-quadruplex (G4) is a noncanonical DNA secondary structure known to induce DNA damage and regulate the expression of immune-related genes. We aim to exploit the G4 folding as a treatment strategy to trigger anti-tumor immune response. In this study, we observe that the abundant genomic G4 in epithelial cells coexists with increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells in colorectal cancer tissue. Furthermore, our data substantiate the inhibitory effect of the G4 ligand TMPyP4 on cancer progression while concurrently stimulating anti-tumor immunity. Mechanistically, TMPyP4 impedes cancer cell proliferation and induces G2/M cell cycle arrest. Additionally, in vivo experiments demonstrate that TMPyP4 enhances the anti-tumor immune response by triggering DNA damage and activating the cGAS-STING pathway, which fosters CD8+ T cell activation and dendritic cell maturation. Importantly, the combined treatment of TMPyP4 and anti-PD1 exhibits a synergistic therapeutic effect on colorectal cancer. In summary, our findings underscore the potential of the G4 ligand TMPyP4 as a dual strategy to target colorectal cancer: inhibiting cancer progression and augmenting anti-tumor immunity through the activation of cGAS-STING pathway.
Single-cell landscape identified SERPINB9 as a key player contributing to stemness and metastasis in non-seminomas
Authors: Bian Zhouliang , Chen Biying , Shi Guohai , Yuan Haihua , Zhou Yue , Jiang Bin , Li Long , Su Hengchuan , Zhang Yanjie
Published: November 2024

Embryonal carcinoma (EC), characterized by a high degree of stemness similar to that of embryonic stem cells, is the most malignant subtype within non-seminomatous testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). However, the mechanisms underlying its malignancy remain unknown. In this study, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze four non-seminoma samples. Our differential expression analysis revealed high expression of SERPINB9 in metastatic EC cells. We conducted in vitro experiments to further investigate SERPINB9’s role in the progression of EC. Functionally, the knockdown of SERPINB9 in NCCIT and NTERA-2 leads to a diminished migratory capability and decreased cis-platin resistance, as demonstrated by Transwell migration assay and drug sensitivity assay. Moreover, embryoid bodies showed reduced size and lower OCT4 expression, alongside heightened expression of differentiation markers AFP, ACTA2, and CD57 in shSERPINB9 cells. In vivo, the role of SERPINB9 in maintaining cancer stemness was validated by the limiting dilution assay. Mechanistically, Bulk RNA-seq further showed downregulation of ERK1/2 signaling and WNT signaling pathways with concomitant upregulation of differentiation pathways subsequent to SERPINB9 knockdown. Additionally, the analysis indicated increased levels of cytokines linked to tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), such as IL6, IL11, IL15, CCL2, CCL5, and CXCL13 in shSERPINB9 cells, which were further validated by ELISA. Our research indicates that SERPINB9 plays a key role in driving tumor progression by enhancing tumor stemness and suppressing TLS. This study stands as the first to elucidate the molecular signature of non-seminomas at a single-cell level, presenting a wealth of promising targets with substantial potential for informing the development of future therapeutic interventions.
Revealing single-neuron and network-activity interaction by combining high-density microelectrode array and optogenetics
Authors: Kobayashi Toki , Shimba Kenta , Narumi Taiyo , Asahina Takahiro , Kotani Kiyoshi , Jimbo Yasuhiko
Published: November 2024

The synchronous activity of neuronal networks is considered crucial for brain function. However, the interaction between single-neuron activity and network-wide activity remains poorly understood. This study explored this interaction within cultured networks of rat cortical neurons. Employing a combination of high-density microelectrode array recording and optogenetic stimulation, we established an experimental setup enabling simultaneous recording and stimulation at a precise single-neuron level that can be scaled to the level of the whole network. Leveraging our system, we identified a network burst-dependent response change in single neurons, providing a possible mechanism for the network-burst-dependent loss of information within the network and consequent cognitive impairment during epileptic seizures. Additionally, we directly recorded a leader neuron initiating a spontaneous network burst and characterized its firing properties, indicating that the bursting activity of hub neurons in the brain can initiate network-wide activity. Our study offers valuable insights into brain networks characterized by a combination of bottom-up self-organization and top-down regulation.
Nanocarrier mediated delivery of insecticides into tarsi enhances stink bug mortality
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Perring Thomas M. , Jeon Su-Ji , Huang Huazhang , Xu Wen , Islamovic Emir , Sharma Bhaskar , Giraldo Ysabel Milton , Giraldo Juan Pablo
Published: November 2024

Current delivery practices for insecticide active ingredients are inefficient with only a fraction reaching their intended target. Herein, we developed carbon dot based nanocarriers with molecular baskets (γ-cyclodextrin) that enhance the delivery of active ingredients into insects (southern green stink bugs, Nezara viridula L.) via their tarsal pores. Nezara viridula feeds on leguminous plants worldwide and is a primary pest of soybeans. After two days of exposure, most of the nanocarriers and their active ingredient cargo (>85%) remained on the soybean leaf surface, rendering them available to the insects. The nanocarriers enter stink bugs through their tarsi, enhancing the delivery of a fluorescent chemical cargo by 2.6 times. The insecticide active ingredient nanoformulation (10 ppm) was 25% more effective in controlling the stink bugs than the active ingredient alone. Styletectomy experiments indicated that the improved active ingredient efficacy was due to the nanoformulation entering through the insect tarsal pores, consistent with fluorescent chemical cargo assays. This new nanopesticide approach offers efficient active ingredient delivery and improved integrated pest management for a more sustainable agriculture.
Hydrogel-embedded vertically aligned metal-organic framework nanosheet membrane for efficient water harvesting
Authors: Zhang Lingyue , Li Ruiying , Zheng Shuang , Zhu Hai , Cao Moyuan , Li Mingchun , Hu Yaowen , Long Li , Feng Haopeng , Tang Chuyang Y.
Published: November 2024

Highly porous metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheets have shown promising potential for efficient water sorption kinetics in atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) systems. However, the water uptake of single-component MOF absorbents remains limited due to their low water retention. To overcome this limitation, we present a strategy for fabricating vertically aligned MOF nanosheets on hydrogel membrane substrates (MOF-CT/PVA) to achieve ultrafast AWH with high water uptake. By employing directional growth of MOF nanosheets, we successfully create superhydrophilic MOF coating layer and pore channels for efficient water transportation to the crosslinked flexible hydrogel membrane. The designed composite water harvester exhibits ultrafast sorption kinetics, achieving 91.4% saturation within 15 min. Moreover, MOF-CT/PVA exhibits superior solar-driven water capture-release capacity even after 10 cycles of reuse. This construction approach significantly enhances the water vapor adsorption, offering a potential solution for the design of composite MOF-membrane harvesters to mitigate the freshwater crisis.
ONIX: a unified open-source platform for multimodal neural recording and perturbation during naturalistic behavior
Authors: Newman Jonathan P. , Zhang Jie , Cuevas-López Aarón , Miller Nicholas J. , Honda Takato , van der Goes Marie-Sophie H. , Leighton Alexandra H. , Carvalho Filipe , Lopes Gonçalo , Lakunina Anna , Siegle Joshua H. , Harnett Mark T. , Wilson Matthew A. , Voigts Jakob
Published: November 2024

Behavioral neuroscience faces two conflicting demands: long-duration recordings from large neural populations and unimpeded animal behavior. To meet this challenge we developed ONIX, an open-source data acquisition system with high data throughput (2 GB s−1) and low closed-loop latencies (<1 ms) that uses a 0.3-mm thin tether to minimize behavioral impact. Head position and rotation are tracked in three dimensions and used to drive active commutation without torque measurements. ONIX can acquire data from combinations of passive electrodes, Neuropixels probes, head-mounted microscopes, cameras, three-dimensional trackers and other data sources. We performed uninterrupted, long (~7 h) neural recordings in mice as they traversed complex three-dimensional terrain, and multiday sleep-tracking recordings (~55 h). ONIX enabled exploration with similar mobility as nonimplanted animals, in contrast to conventional tethered systems, which have restricted movement. By combining long recordings with full mobility, our technology will enable progress on questions that require high-quality neural recordings during ethologically grounded behaviors.
A dual-emission carbon dots/gold nanoclusters fluorescent probe for ratiometric and colorimetric detection of Pb2+ and Hg2+
Authors: Cai Hongxin , Shao Yixin , Yan Lingling , Yu Hang , Hu Qiang , Wang Yongqiang , Tu Xiude
Published: November 2024

A novel fluorescent probe, carbon dots/gold nanoclusters (CDs/AuNCs), was prepared for ratiometric and colorimetric detection of Pb2+ and Hg2+ simultaneously.
Hydrazone-linked covalent organic frameworks for fluorescence detection of Hg2+
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Yang Zhaowei , Meng Lingsuo , Li Xuehui , Wei Hongtao , Ning Jing , Wang Shitao , Cao Dapeng , Hao Long
Published: November 2024

A hydrazone-linked COF (DvDf-C3XJ-COF) with hydrogen-bond reinforcement and abundant coordination sites was synthesized, exhibiting strong fluorescence and high sensitivity/selectivity for Hg2+ detection, with a detection limit of 1.65 × 10−6 M.
Crystal-facet modulated pathway of CO2 photoreduction on Bi4NbO8Cl nanosheets boosting production of value-added solar fuels
Authors: Hao Peiting , Chi Haoqiang , Li Zhengdao , Lu Xinxin , Yang Yong , Zhang Yongcai , Zou Zhigang , Zhou Yong
Published: November 2024

Two Bi4NbO8Cl nanosheets with individually exposed (001) and (201) were synthesized for photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into CO and C2H5OH while only CO was produced on the bulk materials, and (201) typically accelerates the process of C–C coupling.
Phenol hydroxyl-modified imine-based covalent organic frameworks for enhanced solar-driven generation of H2O2via hydrogen bonds
Authors: Chen Lang , Qin Song , Hang Jiahui , Chen Bo , Kang Jinyang , Zhao Yang , Chen Shanyong , Jin Yongdong , Yan Hongjian , Wang Yuanhua , Xia Chuanqin
Published: November 2024

Photosynthesis of H2O2 has been considered an eco-friendly strategy.
β-Cyclodextrin and cucurbit[7]uril as protective encapsulation agents of the CO-releasing molecule [CpMo(CO)3Me]
Authors: Monteiro Rodrigo P. , Calhau Isabel B. , Gomes Ana C. , Lopes André D. , Da Silva José P. , Gonçalves Isabel S. , Pillinger Martyn
Published: November 2024

For inclusion compounds between the complex [CpMo(CO)3Me] (1) and β-cyclodextrin or cucurbit[7]uril, the macrocyclic hosts modulate to different degrees the UV light-mediated CO release from encapsulated 1.
HAase/GSH dual-responsive mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles for synergistic photodynamic/photothermal/pharmacological antibacterial therapy
Authors: Guo Wei , Huang Yunhan , Chang Jingrui , Wang Xinyu , Lu Bo
Published: November 2024

A dual-responsive, biodegradable nanoplatform based on mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles, is reported. It enables multimodal synergistic antibacterial therapy of photodynamic/photothermal/pharmacological therapy.
Alkali-assisted synthesis of polymeric carbon nitride photoanodes with defect and crystallinity-mediated charge transfer for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Li Xiaochun , Zheng Dongsheng , Wu Wentao , Long Xuebing , Yang Baoyi , Huang Xuejuan , Duan Jingjing , Liu Sijie , Lan Bang , Cao Renping
Published: November 2024

A PCN-based photoanode with an N-defect structure and improved crystallinity (KPCN) was developed using an alkali-assisted synthesis method, resulting in significantly enhanced PEC performance.
K, Rb-hydroxyborates series with deep-ultraviolet KRbB5O8(OH) possessing moderate second harmonic generation response
Authors: Ababaikeri Aihaimaitijiang , Pan Xueting , Hou Xueling , Han Jian
Published: November 2024

Three new hydroxyborate crystals, KRbB5O8(OH) (I), KRbB6O9(OH)2 (II), and K3.3Rb0.7B10O15(OH)4 (III) were synthesized. I features a short DUV cut-off edge (190 nm), an SHG (0.9 × KDP), and an experimental birefringence of 0.025@546.1 nm.
A convenient proline catalysed Paal–Knorr synthesis of highly substituted pyrrole: construction of a pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline scaffold
Authors: Sivaganesan Pooja , Elanchezhian Chibisree , Bansal Diksha , Sarkar Jit , Chaudhuri Saikat
Published: November 2024

This paper presents an efficient l-proline-catalyzed synthesis of pyrrole-2-carboxylates via Paal–Knorr synthesis. We also elaborated this methodology for the synthesis of pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline scaffold.
Coarsening dynamics of aster defects in model polar active matter
Authors: Mondal Soumyadeep , Popli Pankaj , Sarkar Sumantra
Published: November 2024

Arrested coarsening of asters in model polar active matter forms biologically relevant patterns.
Shape transformations in peptide–DNA coacervates driven by enzyme-catalyzed deacetylation
Authors: van Haren Merlijn H. I. , Helmers Nienke S. , Verploegen Luuk , Beckers Viveca A. C. , Spruijt Evan
Published: November 2024

Enzymatic deacetylation of peptide substrates results in stronger peptide–dsDNA interactions, leading to the transformation from gel-like to liquid coacervates.
Diagnostic Features of Childhood Apraxia of Speech: A Survey Study of Estonian, Finnish, and Lithuanian Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: Lahtein-Kürsa Marju , Padrik Marika , Daniutė Simona , Kairienė Daiva , Martikainen Anna-Leena , Vanhala-Haukijärvi Minna , Mailend Marja-Liisa
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

The primary aim of this study was to investigate how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) from Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania rate the significance of different features for diagnosing childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) in their languages.

Method:

An online survey was conducted among 197 Estonian, Finnish, and Lithuanian SLPs who have worked with children with CAS. The SLPs were asked to rate the significance of 63 features for CAS diagnosis in their respective language. Cross-linguistic patterns in diagnostic features were examined with simple correspondence analysis (SCA) and via descriptive statistics.

Results:

The ratings revealed six to seven diagnostic features that were considered very significant for CAS diagnosis by the majority of respondents in each country. The SCA highlighted differences between Lithuanian SLPs and Estonian and Finnish SLPs. Some possible language-specific associations were noted, such as palatalization errors for Lithuanian and Estonian and diphthong distortions for Estonian. The respondents from all countries rated highly those features that can easily be applied to most languages (e.g., groping) and gave lower ratings to features that may be influenced by the linguistic structure of different languages (e.g., word stress errors).

Conclusions:

Overall, SLPs provided high ratings to CAS features that occur universally across languages, whereas features specific to languages, such as prosody-related errors, were not as highly rated. Several language-specific features were highlighted, providing direction for future research and emphasizing the importance of language-specific considerations in CAS research and diagnosis.
Stochastic gradient descent in continuous time for drift identification in multiscale diffusions
Authors: Hirsch Max , Zanoni Andrea
Published: November 2024

We consider the setting of multiscale overdamped Langevin stochastic differential equations, and study the problem of learning the drift function of the homogenized dynamics from continuous-time observations of the multiscale system. We decompose the drift term in a truncated series of basis functions, and employ the stochastic gradient descent in continuous time to infer the coefficients of the expansion. Due to the incompatibility between the multiscale data and the homogenized model, the estimator alone is not able to reconstruct the exact drift. We therefore propose to filter the original trajectory through appropriate kernels and include filtered data in the stochastic differential equation for the estimator, which indeed solves the misspecification issue. Several numerical experiments highlight the accuracy of our approach. Moreover, we show theoretically in a simplified framework the asymptotic unbiasedness of our estimator in the limit of infinite data and when the multiscale parameter describing the fastest scale vanishes.
Sustainable Development Goals and wellbeing for resilient societies: shocks and recovery
Authors: Henrysson Maryna , Swain Ranjula Bali , Swain Ashok , Nerini Francesco Fuso
Published: November 2024

The ‘decade of action’ intended to accomplish the ambitious 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) faces notable challenges. Our investigation into the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on SDG progress reveals important lessons for shaping effective policy interventions to ensure resilient societies and overall well-being. Through systematic mapping and a rapid review approach, our analysis reveals that nearly 90% of the SDGs, specifically 144 targets, were adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, there is a glimmer of opportunity: 66 targets stand to gain from the crisis-induced transformations, provided that the right choices are made. Achieving this goal demands a comprehensive approach and decisive leadership to steer an inclusive economic recovery that also safeguards the environment while safeguarding the environment. The intricate interplay between the ongoing planetary and post-COVID-19 crises, environmental challenges, and conflicts underscores the need for a proactive, deliberate and well-informed approach, marked by collaborative decision-making, which is imperative for effectively steering the ‘decade of action’ toward achieving the SDGs. These complex challenges demand collective, decisive action, all with the overarching aim of securing a just and sustainable future for all.
The effect of aspect ratio and mass ratio on the flow-induced flutter of a thin flexible sheet
Authors: Kumar Dhiraj , Poddar Kamal , Kumar Sanjay
Published: November 2024

This study experimentally investigates the flow-induced flutter of a thin flexible sheet, focusing on how the sheet's aspect ratio and mass ratio affect its stability and flutter characteristics in the post-critical regime. The flutter frequency of the sheet was obtained using hotwire measurements, while flutter amplitude and mode shape were acquired through high-speed imaging. The flowfield around the flapping sheet was analyzed using particle image velocimetry (PIV). Based on experimental observations, we report the onset of flutter as a subcritical bifurcation with hysteresis. The dynamic characteristics of the sheet play a significant role in its flutter instability, with the onset and cessation of flutter occurring at a frequency close to the sheet's second-mode natural frequency. The results show that both aspect ratio and mass ratio significantly affect the critical wind speed and flutter characteristics in the post-critical regime. Both flutter frequency and amplitude decrease as the aspect ratio decreases. PIV measurements in various planes reveal the highly three-dimensional nature of the flow. Results from off-axis PIV show a pair of counter-rotating spiral vortices in the wake that oscillate and change orientation with the sheet's movement. Additionally, a theoretical analysis was conducted to derive an approximate analytical relationship between the aspect ratio and critical wind speed. Experimental results aligned well with theoretical predictions for sheets with low aspect ratios (aspect ratio ≤1) but deviated for sheets with higher aspect ratios (aspect ratio >1). The relevant scaling parameters have also been explored to represent the experimental data in a non-dimensional form.
Gyrokinetic flux-driven simulations in mixed TEM/ITG regime using a delta-f PIC scheme with evolving background
Authors: Murugappan M. , Villard L. , Brunner S. , Di Giannatale G. , McMillan B. F. , Bottino A.
Published: November 2024

In the context of global gyrokinetic simulations of turbulence using a particle-in-cell framework, verifying the delta-f assumption with a fixed background distribution becomes challenging when determining quasi-steady state profiles corresponding to given sources over long time scales, where plasma profiles can evolve significantly. The advantage of low relative sampling noise afforded by the delta-f scheme is shown to be retained by considering the background as a time-evolving Maxwellian with time-dependent density and temperature profiles. Implementation of this adaptive scheme to simulate electrostatic collisionless flux-driven turbulence in tokamak plasmas show small and nonincreasing sampling noise levels, which would otherwise increase indefinitely with a stationary background scheme. The adaptive scheme furthermore allows one to reach numerically converged results of quasi-steady state with much lower marker numbers.
Investigation of aerodynamic characteristics of concept wing design inspired by the sooty shearwater
Authors: Seyhan Mehmet , Yıldız Abdussamed , Çolak Aleyna , Yosma Enes , Kurdoğlu Şahismail , Dokumaci Kaan , Çetin Helin
Published: November 2024

Biomimetics, the practice of drawing inspiration from nature to solve engineering challenges, has gained significant traction in aerospace design, particularly in the development of more efficient wing structures. This study investigated the aerodynamic potential of concept wing designs inspired by the Sooty Shearwater (Ardenna Grisea), a seabird renowned for its long-distance migratory capabilities and energy-efficient flight patterns. By leveraging the unique wing morphology of the Sooty Shearwater, three biomimetic wing models were developed using the Goettingen 173 airfoil. These designs were tested in a wind tunnel, where force measurements and flow visualization techniques were employed to evaluate their performance. Force measurement results show that a two-stage stall occurs for both models 1 and 2, with lift coefficient (CL) reaching an intermediate value when the first step occurs. Based on flow visualization results, model 1 demonstrates enhanced aerodynamic performance relative to the other models by dividing the laminar separation bubble into two sections in the spanwise direction as a result of the large stall cell formation. The findings reveal how specific aspects of the shearwater's wing structure can be translated into unmanned aerial vehicle designs, potentially enhancing aerodynamic efficiency in low-speed, low-Reynolds-number flight regimes.
Negative longitudinal piezoelectric effect and electric auxetic effect in ferroelectric HfO2 and related fluorite-structure ferroelectrics
Authors: Zhang Shenglong , Zhao Ling-Xu , Ji Can , Yang Jia-Yue , Liu Linhua
Published: November 2024

Unusual negative longitudinal piezoelectric effect (NLPE) and electric auxetic effect (EAE) have essential implications for designs of piezoelectric sensors and actuators. The emerging ferroelectric HfO2 is recently discovered to have both effects, while the underlying physical mechanisms remain elusive. To understand and regulate these intriguing effects, it is crucial to investigate the piezoelectricity in ferroelectric HfO2 and related fluorite-structure ferroelectrics. Here, we corroborate using first-principles calculations that all twelve fluorite-structure ferroelectrics covered in this study possess the NLPE. A chemical tendency of piezoelectricity is demonstrated, i.e., the larger the “iconicity,” the stronger the NLPE. The structural origin is attributed to the predominant influence of the triple-coordinated anion displacement, namely, the more “ionic” fluorite-structure ferroelectrics exhibit larger anion displacement under a pressure or strain, which gives rise to a more negative internal-strain contribution dominating over the positive clamped-ion contribution and hence a stronger NLPE. Moreover, we confirm several electric auxetic materials in fluorite-structure ferroelectrics with finite electric field calculations. We find that the piezoelectricity of electric auxetic materials is suppressed by the external electric field along the polar direction, since it weakens the bonding heterogeneity. The unraveled fundamental understanding of the NLPE and EAE in this study may profoundly benefit the design and application of fluorite-structure ferroelectrics.
Applying resource-selection functions to assess host preference in the endemic endoparasite Pilostyles hamiltoniorum (Apodanthaceae) and its principal host Daviesia (Fabaceae)
Authors: Craig Ryan J. , Pittway Bethany , Wu Tingting , Turner Shane R. , Batley Jacqueline
Published: November 2024

Context Pilostyles are a genus of endoparasitic plants specific to the Fabaceae family. In Australia, three species are restricted to the South-west floristic region. Aims This study aimed to assess the use of resource-selection functions (RSFs) on populations of Pilostyles hamiltoniorum to understand host preference to the known host species of Daviesia. Methods Forty sites were chosen along the known distribution of P. hamiltoniorum, and infected and uninfected hosts were recorded at each site. The Manly resource-usage function was applied to the data to assess host use in populations of P. hamiltoniorum. Key results Only 9 of the 40 sites had populations large enough to assess host use. Out of these surveys, Pilostyles presented high preference for four hosts species, namely, Daviesia angulata, D. physodes, D. preisii and D. rhombifolia, with D. decurrens, observed to be the least favoured host. Conclusion Resource-selection indices showed to be a potential tool in understanding host preference within the genus Pilostyles, with evidence here indicating that host use is not equal within the environment. Implications The patterns of host use show that there are some unknown factors between each host affecting infection, along with the identification of strongly preferred hosts that could lead to future research in ex vitro cultivation.
Exogenous nitric oxide extends longevity in cut Lilium tigrinum flowers by orchestrating biochemical and molecular aspects
Authors: Aftab Moonisah , Yousuf Lone Haris , Wani Aijaz A. , Zargar Mohamad Arif , Tahir Inayatullah
Published: November 2024

Senescence represents a developmentally orchestrated and precisely regulated cascade of events, culminating in the abscission of plant organs and ultimately leading to the demise of the plant or its constituent parts. In this study, we observed that senescence in cut Lilium tigrinum flowers is induced by elevated ABA levels and the hyperactivation of lipoxygenase (LOX) activity. This cascade increased ROS concentrations, heightened oxidative damage, and disrupted cellular redox equilibrium. This was evidenced by elevated lipid peroxidation, attenuated antioxidant machinery, and reduced membrane stability index (MSI). Despite its known role in delaying flower senescence, the specific biochemical and molecular mechanisms by which nitric oxide (NO) regulates senescence in cut L. tigrinum flowers are not fully elucidated. Specifically, the interactions between NO signaling and ABA metabolism, the regulation of protease activity, and the influence of NO-mediated ROS scavenging, senescence-associated gene expression requires further exploration. Exogenous application of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a source of NO, mitigated senescence in L. tigrinum cut flowers by upregulating the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and reducing the LOX activity, an indicator of lipid peroxidation. SNP treatment also downregulated the relative expression of senescence-associated gene (SAG12),lipoxygenase 1 (LOX1), and abscisic aldehyde oxidase 3 (AAO3). NO also upregulated defender against apoptotic death 1 (DAD1) expression correlated with minimized protease activity and reduced α-amino acid content in SNP-treated tepals. This regulation was accompanied by increased contents of sugars, proteins and phenols and reduced abscisic acid content, which collectively delayed the senesecence and enhanced the longevity of L. tigrinum cut flowers. This study demonstrates that exogenous SNP application can effectively mitigate senescence in cut L. tigrinum flowers by modulating antioxidant enzyme activities, reducing oxidative stress, and regulating the expression of key senescence-associated genes. This study unravels the complex molecular networks involved in NO-mediated senescence delay, which may lead to the development of innovative approaches for improving flower longevity.
Feasibility of accelerometry in a self-directed upper limb activity program of a subacute setting with stroke survivors
Authors: Tse Tamara , Mak-Yuen Yvonne Y. K. , Young Wesley , Darzins Susan
Published: November 2024

Background Wearable devices, such as accelerometers, offer novel approaches to measuring post-stroke upper limb activity. Limited studies have explored feasibility of accelerometry. Guided by the Bowen Feasibility Framework, this feasibility study aimed to examine the practicality, acceptability, and limited efficacy of accelerometry in a self-directed upper limb program with stroke survivors using a pre-post study of sequentially eligible inpatients. Method Key metrics were: practicality (60% of participants had 10 hours of wear per day for 3 or more days), acceptability (adherence to recommended wear-time), and limited efficacy (correlation between Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and upper limb use from accelerometry data). Results Twelve stroke survivors were recruited over 7 months, mean age 73 years (range 39–94 years). Eight participants (67%) met the practicality and acceptability criteria. A moderate positive correlation existed between WMFT and upper limb use at admission (rs = 0.33, P = 0.42) and at discharge (rs = 0.42, P = 0.34). Conclusion Wearable devices were feasible and acceptable for most stroke survivors, however, one-third found the devices uncomfortable, and this should be factored into sample size calculations of future studies.
A molecular assessment of species boundaries and relationships in the Australian brine shrimp Parartemia (Anostraca: Parartemiidae)
Authors: Islam Md Aminul , Chaplin Jennifer , Lawrie Angus D’Arcy , Rahman Mahabubur , Pinder Adrian
Published: November 2024

Australian salt lakes contain a diverse range of endemic invertebrates. The brine shrimp Parartemia is among the most speciose and salt-tolerant of these invertebrates. The morphotaxonomy of Parartemia is well established but there has only been limited molecular assessment of the phylogenetic relationships and boundaries of the morphospecies. We used multiple genetic markers (nuclear 28S and mitochondrial 16S and COI) and tree-building methods (Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood) to investigate the phylogeny of Parartemia. We also used species delimitation methods to test the validity of morphological species designations. The data set included all but 2 of the 18 described Parartemia morphospecies, collected from a total of 93 sites from across southern Australia plus some sequences from GenBank. The results identified large amounts of molecular divergence (e.g. COI P-values of up to 25.23%), some groups of closely related species (which also usually shared some morphological similarities) and some distinctive species, although the relationships among divergent lineages were generally not well resolved. The most conservative set of results from the species delimitation analyses suggests that the morphotaxonomy is largely accurate, although many morphospecies comprised divergent genetic lineages separated by COI P-values of up to 17.02%. Two putative new morphospecies, three cryptic species and one synonymy were identified. Our findings improve the knowledge of Parartemia taxonomy and will facilitate the development of future studies and conservation of this taxon.
Hematite U-Pb dating of Snowball Earth meltwater events
Authors: Courtney-Davies Liam , Flowers Rebecca M. , Siddoway Christine S. , Tasistro-Hart Adrian , Macdonald Francis A.
Published: November 2024

The Snowball Earth hypothesis predicts global ice cover; however, previous descriptions of Cryogenian (720-635 Ma) glacial deposits are limited to continental margins and shallow marine basins. The Tavakaiv (Tava) sandstone injectites and ridges in Colorado, USA, preserve a rare terrestrial record of Cryogenian low-latitude glaciation. Injectites, ridges, and chemically weathered crystalline rock display features characteristic of fluidization and pervasive deformation in a subglacial environment due to glacial loading, fluid overpressure, and repeated sand injection during meltwater events. In situ hematite U-Pb geochronology on hematite-quartz veins, which crosscut and are cut by Tava dikes, constrain sand injection at ~690-660 Ma. We attribute early Tava sand injection episodes to basal melting associated with rifting and geothermal heating, and later injections to meltwater generation during ~661 Ma Sturtian deglaciation. A modern analog is provided by the Ross Embayment of Antarctica, where rift-related faults border sediment-filled basins, overpressurized fluids circulate in confined aquifers below ice, and extensive preglacial topography is preserved. Field evidence and geochronology in Colorado further highlight that deep chemical weathering of Proterozoic bedrock and denudation associated with the Great Unconformity predate Cryogenian injection of fluidized sand, consistent with limited glacial erosion.
Homeotic and nonhomeotic patterns in the tetrapod vertebral formula
Authors: Cerbus Rory T. , Hiratani Ichiro , Kawaguchi Kyogo
Published: November 2024

Vertebrate development and phylogeny are intimately connected through the vertebral formula, the numerical distribution of vertebrae along the body axis into different categories such as neck and chest. A key window into this relationship is through the conserved
Hox
gene clusters.
Hox
gene expression boundaries align with vertebral boundaries, and their manipulation in model organisms often results in the transformation of one vertebral type into its neighbor, a homeotic transformation. If the variety in the vertebrate body plan is produced by homeotic shifts, then the number of adjacent vertebrae will be inversely related when making interspecies comparisons since the gain in one vertebra is due to the loss in its neighbor. To date, such a pattern across species consistent with homeotic transitions has only been found in the thoracolumbar vertebral count of mammals. To further investigate potential homeotic relationships in other vertebrate classes and along the entire body axis, we compiled a comprehensive dataset of complete tetrapod vertebral formulas and systematically searched for patterns by analyzing combinations of vertebrae. We uncovered mammalian homeotic patterns and found balances between distal vertebrae not anticipated by a
Hox
-vertebral homeotic relationship, including one that emerged during the progression from theropods to birds. We also identified correlations between vertebral counts and intergenic distances in the
HoxB
gene cluster which do not align with the common picture of a colinear relationship between
Hox
expression and vertebral categories. This quantitative approach revises our expectations for the diversity of a
Hox
-mediated vertebrate body plan.