bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Line-dropped gelatin multi-element calibration standards in LA-ICP-MS: a statistically verifying comparison with cryosectioned homogenized lung and liver as matrix-matched calibration standards and as corresponding reference materials
Authors: Thoröe-Boveleth Sven , Becker Ruth , Bertram Jens , Schettgen Thomas , Möller Manfred , Jonigk Danny , Kraus Thomas , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: November 2024

Calibrations in LA-ICP-MS are typically very time-consuming and complex, as they need to be matched to the samples being measured and sectioned on a microtome. Alternatively, gelatin can be in droplet form or as a section, which is a more recent development. In this study, we report on investigations where hot multi-element gelatin solutions are placed in a linear fashion on microscopic slides to conduct comparative statistical observations between doped tissue homogenates from the liver and lung. The tissue homogenates served as both samples (complete ablation) and calibration standards (partial ablation) for verification purposes. We explored the effects of different laser fluences (0.50–1.50 J/cm2), gelatin contents (0.3–20.0%) and section thicknesses (10–30 µm). To do this, we evaluated the samples by calculating median and mean values over the entire section with and without removal of elementary spikes (de-spiking). A reduction in distribution was achieved with averaging. The data was normalized using 13C as an internal standard. In these experiments and under these measurement conditions, it was observed that the selected laser fluences, gelatin contents, and section thicknesses did not visibly affect the results, making them comparable. Each sample could be assessed with each gelatin calibration, allowing for determination of expected reference values. Despite interruptions in the measurement operation, due to the high number of measurements, where samples and calibrations could not be analyzed in one measurement run, no negative effects of stopping and starting the LA-ICP-MS were observed.

Graphical abstract
Considerations for implementing regulation of decapods in science
Authors: Powell Adam , Agnalt Ann-Lisbeth , Heasman Kevin , Albalat Amaya
Published: November 2024

Decapod crustaceans, commonly utilised for pure or applied scientific research and commercial food production, have generally remained outside ethical debate. However, in the last decade many parts of the world have seen an increase in public interest in the welfare of decapod crustaceans and statutory legal protection has been introduced in several countries. Although still limited to a small number of countries and remaining relatively unharmonised, relevant legislation could be increasingly broadened to include decapods in further jurisdictions. Much existing legislation, originally intended for protecting terrestrial vertebrates during scientific study, might be unsuitable for aquatic invertebrates such as decapods. Indeed, precedence with many fish species and cephalopods suggests detail is lacking with respect to fundamental guidance. Therefore, similar inclusion of decapods into such legislation could make welfare or scientific goals more challenging to achieve unless relevant guidance is available, particularly to animal care practitioners. This horizon paper aims to summarise existing decapod legislation, and the considerations required should decapods be included in current conceptual frameworks and scientific legislation.
Understanding to intervene: The codesign of text classifiers with peace practitioners
Authors: Hawke Julie , Puig Larrauri Helena , Sutjahjo Andrew , Cerigo Benjamin
Published: November 2024

Originating from a unique partnership between data scientists (datavaluepeople) and peacebuilders (Build Up), this commentary explores an innovative methodology to overcome key challenges in social media analysis by developing customized text classifiers through a participatory design approach, engaging both peace practitioners and data scientists. It advocates for researchers to focus on developing frameworks that prioritize being usable and participatory in field settings, rather than perfect in simulation. Focusing on a case study investigating the polarization within online Christian communities in the United States, we outline a testing process with a dataset consisting of 8954 tweets and 10,034 Facebook posts to experiment with active learning methodologies aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of text classification. This commentary demonstrates that the inclusion of domain expertise from peace practitioners significantly refines the design and performance of text classifiers, enabling a deeper comprehension of digital conflicts. This collaborative framework seeks to transition from a data-rich, analysis-poor scenario to one where data-driven insights robustly inform peacebuilding interventions.
Resolutions of toric subvarieties by line bundles and applications
Authors: Hanlon Andrew , Hicks Jeff , Lazarev Oleg
Published: November 2024

Given any toric subvariety Y of a smooth toric variety X of codimension k, we construct a length k resolution of

${\mathcal O}_Y$

by line bundles on X. Furthermore, these line bundles can all be chosen to be direct summands of the pushforward of

${\mathcal O}_X$

under the map of toric Frobenius. The resolutions are built from a stratification of a real torus that was introduced by Bondal and plays a role in homological mirror symmetry.

As a corollary, we obtain a virtual analogue of Hilbert’s syzygy theorem for smooth projective toric varieties conjectured by Berkesch, Erman and Smith. Additionally, we prove that the Rouquier dimension of the bounded derived category of coherent sheaves on a toric variety is equal to the dimension of the variety, settling a conjecture of Orlov for these examples. We also prove Bondal’s claim that the pushforward of the structure sheaf under toric Frobenius generates the derived category of a smooth toric variety and formulate a refinement of Uehara’s conjecture that this remains true for arbitrary line bundles.
On the asymptotic enumerativity property for Fano manifolds
Authors: Beheshti Roya , Lehmann Brian , Lian Carl , Riedl Eric , Starr Jason , Tanimoto Sho
Published: November 2024

We study the enumerativity of Gromov–Witten invariants where the domain curve is fixed in moduli and required to pass through the maximum possible number of points. We say a Fano manifold satisfies asymptotic enumerativity if such invariants are enumerative whenever the degree of the curve is sufficiently large. Lian and Pandharipande speculate that every Fano manifold satisfies asymptotic enumerativity. We give the first counterexamples, as well as some new examples where asymptotic enumerativity holds. The negative examples include special hypersurfaces of low Fano index and certain projective bundles, and the new positive examples include many Fano threefolds and all smooth hypersurfaces of degree

$d \leq (n+3)/3$

in

${\mathbb P}^n$

.
“Nowhere but Everywhere”: The Principle of Legality and the Complexities of Judicial Discretion in Iran
Authors: Khodadadi Bahman
Published: November 2024

To comply with Shiʿi theological-jurisprudential justifications and dogmatic traditions, the Iranian postrevolutionary legal system formally enshrined the principle of legality of crime and punishment within the Iranian Constitution and important legal provisions. Despite this formal entrenchment and codification of its criminal law, which together act as a legal constraint on the traditionally excessive power of Muslim judges, the Iranian theocratic system has exempted religious sins from this principle by blurring the distinction between crime and sin and criminalizing certain sinful acts with unclear language. These two legal mechanisms not only violate the principle of legality and amplify legal uncertainty, but their reference to Sharia law also binds the fate of the accused more tightly to the discretion of the judge than to the letter of the law. Consequently, the religiopolitical predilections of judges have become a determining factor in findings of criminal responsibility and imposition of punishment on citizens.
Interactions of spontaneous abortion with FTO gene and dietary carotenoids; a case–control study
Authors: Amjadi Arezoo , Abbasi Mobarakeh Khadijeh , Doaei Saeid , Dorosti Masoumeh , Nami Sheyda , Mirshafaei Seyed Reza , Mirshafaei Masoomeh Alsadat , Ataei Kachooei Masoomeh , Shamsi-Goushki Ali , Saeedirad Zahra , Azizi Tabesh Ghasem , Khoshdooz Sara , Abdollahi Morteza , Shekari Soheila , Gholamalizadeh Maryam
Published: November 2024

Spontaneous abortion (SA) is considered one of the most prevalent adverse outcomes of pregnancy. SA may occur due to genetic susceptibility and various maternal factors such as nutritional status. The aim of this study was to assess how dietary carotenoids and the FTO gene are related to SA. This case–control study included 192 women with a history of SA as the case group and 347 healthy women without history of SA as the control group. To evaluate carotenoid intake, a valid 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used. The FTO gene was genotyped for the presence of the rs9939609 polymorphism using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain (ARMS-PCR). The results indicated a significant negative association between dietary intake of β-cryptoxanthin and SA in carriers of the TT genotype of the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism after adjustment for age, BMI, physical activity, smoking, alcohol drinking, and calorie intake (β = −0.28, P = 0.02). No association was found between SA with dietary intake of beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, and lycopene among carriers of different FTO genotypes. The FTO genotype may have an effect on the association between SA and carotenoid intake. Dietary intake of β-cryptoxanthin may act as a protective factor against SA only in carriers of the TT genotype of the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism.
Unpacking Bribery: Petty Corruption and Favor Exchanges
Authors: Romero Diego
Published: November 2024

The incidence of petty corruption in public service delivery varies greatly across citizens and geography. This paper proposes a novel explanation for citizen engagement in collusive forms of petty corruption. It is rooted in the social context in which citizen-public official interactions take place. I argue that social proximity and network centrality provide the two key enforcement mechanisms that sustain favor exchanges among socially connected individuals. Bribery, as a collusive arrangement between a citizen and a public official, relies on the same enforcement mechanisms. Using an original dataset from a household survey conducted in Guatemala, the analysis shows that social proximity and centrality allow citizens to obtain privileges through implicit favor exchanges and illicit payments. These findings are not driven by better access to information about the bribery market. This paper contributes to our understanding of the role of preexisting social relations in sustaining corrupt exchanges.
The admissible KMS bundles on classifiable C⁎-algebras
Authors: Neagu Robert
Published: November 2024

Given any unital, finite, classifiable

$\mathrm{C}^*$

-algebra A with real rank zero and any compact simplex bundle with the fibre at zero being homeomorphic to the space of tracial states on A, we show that there exists a flow on A realizing this simplex. Moreover, we show that given any unital

$\mathrm{UCT}$

Kirchberg algebra A and any proper simplex bundle with empty fibre at zero, there exists a flow on A realizing this simplex.
A possible new species of the Maculabatis gerrardi complex (Dasyatidae: Urogymninae) in the Indian Ocean coast off Southeastern Africa
Authors: Muhala Valdemiro , Guimarães-Costa Aurycéia , Macate Isadola Eusébio , Lutz Ítalo , Bessa-Silva Adam Rick , Rabelo Luan Pinto , Hasimuna Oliver J. , Evangelista-Gomes Grazielle , Vallinoto Marcelo , Sampaio Iracilda
Published: November 2024

The genus Maculabatis is a group of batoid rays from the Dasyatidae family, consisting of two main complexes: the gerrardi (spotted species) and the pastinacoides (plain species). This study investigated the diversity within the Maculabatis gerrardi complex, revealing the presence of two distinct geographical lineages, with a potential new species captured off the coast of Mozambique. Molecular analysis showed a significant divergence: COI sequences from Mozambique specimens exhibited over 99% similarity with M. gerrardi from South Africa but more than 2% divergence from those in the Indo-Pacific. Phylogenetic analysis identified two distinct subclades, suggesting at least two hidden lineages within the genus Maculabatis and consequently possible new undescribed species within M. gerrardi complex. These findings emphasize the importance of conducting additional research that integrates both morphological and molecular methods to better understand the group's diversity and evolutionary dynamics, ultimately supporting the development of effective conservation strategies.
MYT1L deficiency impairs excitatory neuron trajectory during cortical development
Authors: Yen Allen , Sarafinovska Simona , Chen Xuhua , Skinner Dominic D. , Leti Fatjon , Crosby MariaLynn , Hoisington-Lopez Jessica , Wu Yizhe , Chen Jiayang , Li Zipeng A. , Noguchi Kevin K. , Mitra Robi D. , Dougherty Joseph D.
Published: November 2024

Mutations reducing the function of MYT1L, a neuron-specific transcription factor, are associated with a syndromic neurodevelopmental disorder. MYT1L is used as a pro-neural factor in fibroblast-to-neuron transdifferentiation and is hypothesized to influence neuronal specification and maturation, but it is not clear which neuron types are most impacted by MYT1L loss. In this study, we profile 412,132 nuclei from the forebrains of wild-type and MYT1L-deficient mice at three developmental stages: E14 at the peak of neurogenesis, P1 when cortical neurons have been born, and P21 when neurons are maturing, to examine the role of MYT1L levels on neuronal development. MYT1L deficiency disrupts cortical neuron proportions and gene expression, primarily affecting neuronal maturation programs. Effects are mostly cell autonomous and persistent through development. While MYT1L can both activate and repress gene expression, the repressive effects are most sensitive to haploinsufficiency, likely mediating MYT1L syndrome. These findings illuminate MYT1L’s role in orchestrating gene expression during neuronal development, providing insights into the molecular underpinnings of MYT1L syndrome.
Structural effects of high laser power densities on an early bacteriorhodopsin photocycle intermediate
Authors: Bertrand Quentin , Nogly Przemyslaw , Nango Eriko , Kekilli Demet , Khusainov Georgii , Furrer Antonia , James Daniel , Dworkowski Florian , Skopintsev Petr , Mous Sandra , Martiel Isabelle , Börjesson Per , Ortolani Giorgia , Huang Chia-Ying , Kepa Michal , Ozerov Dmitry , Brünle Steffen , Panneels Valerie , Tanaka Tomoyuki , Tanaka Rie , Tono Kensuke , Owada Shigeki , Johnson Philip J. M. , Nass Karol , Knopp Gregor , Cirelli Claudio , Milne Christopher , Schertler Gebhard , Iwata So , Neutze Richard , Weinert Tobias , Standfuss Jörg
Published: November 2024

Time-resolved serial crystallography at X-ray Free Electron Lasers offers the opportunity to observe ultrafast photochemical reactions at the atomic level. The technique has yielded exciting molecular insights into various biological processes including light sensing and photochemical energy conversion. However, to achieve sufficient levels of activation within an optically dense crystal, high laser power densities are often used, which has led to an ongoing debate to which extent photodamage may compromise interpretation of the results. Here we compare time-resolved serial crystallographic data of the bacteriorhodopsin K-intermediate collected at laser power densities ranging from 0.04 to 2493 GW/cm2 and follow energy dissipation of the absorbed photons logarithmically from picoseconds to milliseconds. Although the effects of high laser power densities on the overall structure are small, in the upper excitation range we observe significant changes in retinal conformation and increased heating of the functionally critical counterion cluster. We compare light-activation within crystals to that in solution and discuss the impact of the observed changes on bacteriorhodopsin biology.
The role of manganese in CoMnOx catalysts for selective long-chain hydrocarbon production via Fischer-Tropsch synthesis
Authors: Chen Hao , Lian Zan , Zhao Xiao , Wan Jiawei , Pieters Priscilla F. , Oliver-Meseguer Judit , Yang Ji , Pach Elzbieta , Carenco Sophie , Treps Laureline , Liakakos Nikos , Shan Yu , Altoe Virginia , Wong Ed , Zhuo Zengqing , Yang Feipeng , Su Ji , Guo Jinghua , Blum Monika , H. Lapidus Saul , Hunt Adrian , Waluyo Iradwikanari , Ogasawara Hirohito , Zheng Haimei , Yang Peidong , Bell Alexis T. , López Núria , Salmeron Miquel
Published: November 2024

Cobalt is an efficient catalyst for Fischer−Tropsch synthesis (FTS) of hydrocarbons from syngas (CO + H2) with enhanced selectivity for long-chain hydrocarbons when promoted by Manganese. However, the molecular scale origin of the enhancement remains unclear. Here we present an experimental and theoretical study using model catalysts consisting of crystalline CoMnOx nanoparticles and thin films, where Co and Mn are mixed at the sub-nm scale. Employing TEM and in-situ X-ray spectroscopies (XRD, APXPS, and XAS), we determine the catalyst’s atomic structure, chemical state, reactive species, and their evolution under FTS conditions. We show the concentration of CHx, the key intermediates, increases rapidly on CoMnOx, while no increase occurs without Mn. DFT simulations reveal that basic O sites in CoMnOx bind hydrogen atoms resulting from H2 dissociation on Co0 sites, making them less available to react with CHx intermediates, thus hindering chain termination reactions, which promotes the formation of long-chain hydrocarbons.
Engineered transcription-associated Cas9 targeting in eukaryotic cells
Authors: Goldberg Gregory W. , Kogenaru Manjunatha , Keegan Sarah , Haase Max A. B. , Kagermazova Larisa , Arias Mauricio A. , Onyebeke Kenenna , Adams Samantha , Beyer Daniel K. , Fenyö David , Noyes Marcus B. , Boeke Jef D.
Published: November 2024

DNA targeting Class 2 CRISPR-Cas effector nucleases, including the well-studied Cas9 proteins, evolved protospacer-adjacent motif (PAM) and guide RNA interactions that sequentially license their binding and cleavage activities at protospacer target sites. Both interactions are nucleic acid sequence specific but function constitutively; thus, they provide intrinsic spatial control over DNA targeting activities but naturally lack temporal control. Here we show that engineered Cas9 fusion proteins which bind to nascent RNAs near a protospacer can facilitate spatiotemporal coupling between transcription and DNA targeting at that protospacer: Transcription-associated Cas9 Targeting (TraCT). Engineered TraCT is enabled in eukaryotic yeast or human cells when suboptimal PAM interactions limit basal activity and when one or more nascent RNA substrates are still tethered to the actively transcribed target DNA in cis. Using yeast, we further show that this phenomenon can be applied for selective editing at one of two identical targets in distinct gene loci, or, in diploid allelic loci that are differentially transcribed. Our work demonstrates that temporal control over Cas9’s targeting activity at specific DNA sites may be engineered without modifying Cas9’s core domains and guide RNA components or their expression levels. More broadly, it establishes co-transcriptional RNA binding as a cis-acting mechanism that can conditionally stimulate CRISPR-Cas DNA targeting in eukaryotic cells.
Carbon footprint distributions of lithium-ion batteries and their materials
Authors: Peiseler Leopold , Schenker Vanessa , Schatzmann Karin , Pfister Stephan , Wood Vanessa , Schmidt Tobias
Published: November 2024

Lithium-ion batteries are pivotal in climate change mitigation. While their own carbon footprint raises concerns, existing studies are scattered, hard to compare and largely overlook the relevance of battery materials. Here, we go beyond traditional carbon footprint analysis and develop a cost-based approach, estimating emission curves for battery materials lithium, nickel and cobalt, based on mining cost data. Combining the emission curves with regionalised battery production announcements, we present carbon footprint distributions (5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles) for lithium-ion batteries with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC811, 8-1-1 ratio; 59, 74 and 115 kgCO2 kWh−1) and lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP; 54, 62, 69 kgCO2 kWh−1) cathodes. Our findings reveal the dominating impact of material sourcing over production location, with nickel and lithium identified as major contributors to the carbon footprint and its variance. This research moves the field forward by offering a nuanced understanding of battery carbon footprints, aiding in the design of decarbonisation policies and strategies.
Inequality in pandemic effects on school track placement and the role of social and academic embeddedness
Authors: van de Werfhorst Herman G. , Zwier Dieuwke , Geven Sara , Bol Thijs , Haelermans Carla
Published: November 2024

Using register data and linked student-level sociometric survey data from the Netherlands, this study examines whether the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on schooling outcomes (track recommendation and track enrollment in the seventh and ninth grades) is conditional on students’ academic and social embeddedness in the school setting. We estimated the counterfactual outcomes for the cohort that went through the school transition during the pandemic based on the outcomes of the pre-pandemic cohort, with similar earlier achievements, schools, and social backgrounds. Results show that the pandemic’s effect on tracking outcomes is weaker than its effect on student test scores elsewhere reported. Nevertheless, the pandemic has had stronger adverse impact on disadvantaged students. Moreover, student self-efficacy, academic motivation, and parental involvement are related to more negligible negative pandemic effects on schooling outcomes. We find no evidence for an association between student grit or parental network centrality and the magnitude of estimated pandemic effects.
A hybrid modelling approach to compare chemical separation technologies in terms of energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions
Authors: Ignacz Gergo , Beke Aron K. , Toth Viktor , Szekely Gyorgy
Published: November 2024

Accurate energy system modelling of chemical separations is a critical component of technology selection to minimize operating costs, energy consumption and emissions. Here we report a hybrid modelling approach based on data-driven and mechanistic models to holistically compare chemical separation performance. Our model can be used to select the most suitable technology for a given chemical separation, such as membrane separation, evaporation, extraction or hybrid configurations, by training a machine learning model to predict solute rejection using an open-access membrane dataset. We estimated an average 40% reduction in energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions for industrially relevant separations using our methodology. We predicted and analysed 7.1 million solute rejections across several industrial sectors. Pharmaceutical purification could realize carbon dioxide emissions reductions of up to 90% by selecting the most efficient technology. We mapped the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and the reduction in operating costs globally, establishing parameter thresholds to facilitate corporate and governmental decision-making.
Interleukin-17A is a potential therapeutic target predicted by proteomics for systemic sclerosis patients at high risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Ono Yuuichi , Mogami Akira , Saito Ryuta , Seki Noriyasu , Ishigaki Sho , Takei Hiroshi , Yoshimoto Keiko , Chiba Kenji , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Kaneko Yuko
Published: November 2024

We explored effective therapeutic targets for systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients with high risk for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by plasma proteomics analysis. A total of fifty-seven patients with SSc were enrolled in the study and the prevalence of PAH was 19.3%. On the other hand, 75.4% of SSc patients showed the ratio of forced vital capacity percentage/diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide percentage> 1.6 and met criteria for high risk of PAH. Identification of elevated plasma proteins in SSc patients with high risk of PAH, followed by upstream regulator analysis, predicted interleukin (IL)-17A as a major upstream molecule. Furthermore, we performed in vitro neutralization study using MT-6194, a bispecific antibody targeting both IL-17A and IL-6 receptor. We found that MT-6194 broadly suppressed the increased expression of downstream molecules of IL-17A including IL-17A-related cytokines/chemokines, IL-17A-driven NF$$\kappa$$B pathway and IL-6-driven JAK/STAT pathway which were shown to be increased in SSc patients with high risk of PAH by the proteomics. Consequently, it is revealed that IL-17A is a promising target for early intervention in SSc patients with high risk for PAH.
Realizing high-performance four active plasmonic filters using a single structure
Authors: Elbialy Samar , El-den B. M. , Ashraf Eman
Published: November 2024

This research aims to contribute significantly to the field of plasmonic filtering technology within modern optical communication systems. By focusing on the development of a high-performance, more compact, and efficient design, this study explores the potential of hybrid plasmonic filters to revolutionize optical filtering applications. The approach leverages an innovative active material with electrically tunable permittivity, allowing for dynamic control over the filter’s optical properties. The research specifically examines four types of filters: low-pass filters (LPF), high-pass filters (HPF), band-pass filters (BPF), and band-reject filters (BRF). These filters are designed to operate effectively across a broad wavelength range of 1200–1800 nm, achieving a transmittance exceeding 98% at the output port, while maintaining isolation with transmittance below 2% at the isolated ports. The structure demonstrates a FWHM of approximately 216 nm for the band-pass filter and approximately 223 nm for the band-reject filter, which are considered moderate values, ensuring the versatility and multifunctionality of the design. The ultra-compact size, with a footprint of just 21 µm2, makes these filters particularly advantageous for integration into space-constrained optical communication systems.
Sand bed river dynamics controlling microplastic flux
Authors: Beaumont Hazel , Ockelford Annie , Morris-Simpson Phill
Published: November 2024

Microplastic contamination of river sediments has been found to be pervasive at the global scale and responsive to plastic and sediment bed properties, the flow regime and the river morphology. The physical controls governing the storage, remobilization and pathways of transfer in sand bed rivers remain unquantified. This means it is not currently possible to determine the risks posed by microplastic contamination within these globally significant river systems. Using controlled flume experiments we show that sand bed rivers can store up to 40% of their microplastic load within the sediment bed indicating that these environments can act as resilient sinks of microplastics. By linking bedform dynamics with microplastic transport characteristics we show that similarities exist between granular transport phenomena and the behavior, and hence predictability, of microplastic flux. Specifically, we demonstrate the inverse relationship between bedform celerity and microplastic retention within the bed can be used to predict microplastic flux. Further, we show that, in these environments, microplastic shape is more important than previously thought in controlling the fate of microplastics. Together, these findings are significant since they have important implications for the prediction and hence management of microplastic contamination in sand bed environments.
Comparative analysis of the efficacy of oblique lateral interbody fusion versus transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Chen Daodong , Liu Tao , Du Kunyang , Zhu Zhenjun
Published: November 2024

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) often necessitates surgical intervention when conservative treatments fail. Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion (OLIF) and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) are two commonly used techniques for treating LDH, each offering distinct surgical approaches. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of OLIF versus TLIF in terms of pain relief, functional outcomes, spinal alignment correction, fusion success, and postoperative recovery. A retrospective study was conducted on 133 patients who underwent either OLIF (n = 68) or TLIF (n = 65) between January 2020 and December 2022. Data on patient demographics, pain and functional outcomes (measured by Visual Analogue Scale [VAS] and Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]), radiological outcomes (sagittal and coronal Cobb angles, apical vertebra deviation), fusion and collapse rates, and postoperative recovery (ambulation time and hospitalization duration) were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using t-tests and chi-square tests, with significance set at P < 0.05. Both groups demonstrated significant postoperative improvements in pain and functional outcomes. OLIF resulted in significantly better long-term pain reduction (VAS 1.99 ± 0.67 vs. 2.29 ± 0.92, P = 0.03) and greater spinal alignment correction, particularly in sagittal Cobb angle and apical vertebra deviation (P < 0.001). The fusion rate was similar between OLIF (97.92%) and TLIF (96.61%, P = 0.56), but OLIF had a lower collapse rate (8.33% vs. 18.64%, P < 0.001). OLIF also facilitated faster postoperative recovery, with earlier ambulation and shorter hospitalization time (P < 0.001 for both). While both OLIF and TLIF are effective for treating LDH, OLIF offers superior long-term pain relief, better spinal alignment correction, reduced collapse rates, and faster recovery. These findings suggest that OLIF may be a more advantageous option for patients requiring lumbar interbody fusion.
Applying a transformer architecture to intraoperative temporal dynamics improves the prediction of postoperative delirium
Authors: Giesa Niklas , Sekutowicz Maria , Rubarth Kerstin , Spies Claudia Doris , Balzer Felix , Haufe Stefan , Boie Sebastian Daniel
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients who experienced postoperative delirium (POD) are at higher risk of poor outcomes like dementia or death. Previous machine learning models predicting POD mostly relied on time-aggregated features. We aimed to assess the potential of temporal patterns in clinical parameters during surgeries to predict POD.

Methods

Long short-term memory (LSTM) and transformer models, directly consuming time series, were compared to multi-layer perceptrons (MLPs) trained on time-aggregated features. We also fitted hybrid models, fusing either LSTM or transformer models with MLPs. Univariate Spearman’s rank correlations and linear mixed-effect models establish the importance of individual features that we compared to transformers’ attention weights.

Results

Best performance is achieved by a transformer architecture ingesting 30 min of intraoperative parameter sequences. Systolic invasive blood pressure and given opioids mark the most important input variables, in line with univariate feature importances.

Conclusions

Intraoperative temporal dynamics of clinical parameters, exploited by a transformer architecture named TRAPOD, are critical for the accurate prediction of POD.
Simple synthesis of [Au(NHC)X] complexes utilizing aqueous ammonia: revisiting the weak base route mechanism
Authors: Saito Riku , Prato Alberto , Rubbi Alessandro , Orian Laura , Scattolin Thomas , Nolan Steven P.
Published: November 2024

The role of aqueous ammonia in the preparation of [Au(NHC)Cl] complexes is examined. This weak base is capable of promoting C–H and S–H activations leading to Au-alkynyls and Au-thiolates under mild conditions using technical grade solvents in air.
Electronic and geometric effects in an Au@NiO core–shell nanocatalyst on the oxidative esterification of aldehydes
Authors: Zhan Shaoqi , Song Haohong , Wu Zili , Jiang De-en
Published: November 2024

Density functional theory and microkinetic modeling show that an Au@NiO core–shell nanostructure enhances the oxidative esterification of aldehydes by electron transfer from NiO to Au, stabilizing intermediates and lowering activation energies.
Penicichrysol A: an unprecedented polyketide produced by Penicillium chrysogenum
Authors: Mo Shuyuan , Huang Zhihong , Zeng Hanxiao , Wang Jianping , Zhang Yonghui , Hu Zhengxi
Published: November 2024

Chemical investigation of the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum afforded a skeletally unprecedented polyketide, namely penicichrysol A, featuring multiple contiguous quaternary carbons.
Facile Ru-catalysed synthesis of quinazolin-4(3H)-ones by tandem cyclization of 2-nitrobenzonitrile and alcohol derivatives under air
Authors: Phuc Ban Van , Nguyen Tien Dat , Minh Tuan Nguyen T. , Dao Phuong Anh , Thao Vy Phan T. , Nguyen Hien , Nguyen Ngoc Tuan , Ngo Quoc Anh , Hung Tran Quang , Dang Tuan Thanh
Published: November 2024

A facile Ru-catalysed synthesis of 2-arylquinazolin-4(3H)-ones from 2-nitrobenzonitriles and alcohols is described. This method features a broad substrate scope, high yields allowing for convenient and sustainable synthesis.
Spiropyran-based supramolecular elastomers with tuneable mechanical properties and switchable dielectric permittivity
Authors: Beccard Malte Sebastian , Nüesch Frank A. , Raman Venkatesan Thulasinath , Opris Dorina M.
Published: November 2024

Functionalization of poly(dimethylsiloxane-co-3-aminopropylmethylsiloxane) with an epoxy-modified spiropyran using a ZnCl2 catalyst yields materials with tunable solubility, mechanical and thermal properties, and switchable dielectric permittivity.
Pivotal role of solid phase interactions in the pressure-induced bi-stability of cyanide-bridged Fe2Co2 square complexes
Authors: Xu Buqin , Li Yanling , Gontard Geoffrey , Béneut Keevin , Parisiades Paraskevas , Deutsch Maxime , Lescouëzec Rodrigue
Published: November 2024

Pressure-sensitive (Fe–CN–Co) molecular switches can be obtained by controlling the crystallization temperature. Here, an intriguing conversion from FeIII–CoII to FeII–CoIII and back to FeIII–CoII upon increasing pressure at 200 K is rationalized.
A catalyst- and solvent-free visible-light-promoted bromination and chlorination of tertiary C(sp3)–H bonds
Authors: Rong Quanjin , Zhang Zhe , Meng Jingyu , Wang Fan , Liu Zhong-Quan
Published: November 2024

We report herein a visible-light-driven bromination/chlorination of 3° C(sp3)–H bonds without using any catalyst or solvent. This method features high site selectivity, scalability and excellent functional group tolerance, even in complex molecules.
Efficient construction of high-quality sulfonated porous aromatic frameworks by optimizing the swelling state of porous structures
Authors: Yang Lulu , Zhan Zhen , Zhao Lin , Zhang Chengxin , Wang Shaolei , Hu Wei , Zhu Guangshan
Published: November 2024

This work presents an efficacious solution to the fundamental challenge of conventional methods, and high-quality functional POPs materials would be synthesized using similar method in the future.
Electrocatalytic conversion of biomass-derived oxygenated aromatics to cycloalkanes
Authors: Kasad Meheryar R. , Jackson James E. , Saffron Christopher M.
Published: November 2024

Electrocatalytic transformation of oxygenated aromatics to cycloalkanes on activated carbon cloth-supported ruthenium and platinum under mild conditions (≤60°, atmospheric pressure) using hydrogen equivalents produced in situ by water splitting.
Nucleus of M31: Upper limits to the molecular and ionised gas content
Authors: Melchior Anne-Laure , Combes Françoise
Published: November 2024

We report observations performed with the NOrthern Extended Millimeter Array (NOEMA) and Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) of the nucleus of Andromeda (M31) that place strong constraints on the presence of gas in the cold or warm phase. M31 hosts the largest supermassive black hole (SMBH) closer than 1 Mpc to us. Its nucleus is silent, with some murmurs at the level of 4 × 10−9LEdd, and it is surrounded by a disc of old stars with a radius of 5 pc. The mass loss from these stars is expected to fill a molecular gas disc within the tidal truncation of 1 pc ( = 0.26 arcsec) of 104 M⊙, corresponding to a CO(1–0) signal of 2 mJy with a line width of 1000 km/s. We observed the nucleus with NOEMA in CO(2–1) and with ALMA in CO(3–2) with angular resolutions of 0.5″(1.9 pc) and 0.12″(0.46 pc), respectively. We exclude the presence of molecular gas with an upper limit of 3σ on the H2 mass of 195 M⊙ based on CO(3–2) ALMA observations. The CO(3–2) upper limit also constrains warm gas, which escapes detection in CO(1–0). The scenario of cold gas accumulation next to the nucleus of M31 that originates from mass loss of the old stellar population is not verified and excluded at a level of 150σ. The hot gas expelled by the stellar winds might instead never cool or fall onto the disc. Alternatively, the mass-loss rate of the stellar wind may have been overestimated by a factor 50, and/or the ionised gas has escaped from the nucleus. The SMBH in M31 clearly is in a low activity state, similar to what is observed for Sgr A* in the Milky Way (MW). Recently, a cool (104 K) ionised accretion disc has been detected around Sgr A* in the H30α recombination line with ALMA. If the sizes, masses, and fluxes were rescaled according to the mass of the black hole of M31 (35 times higher than in the MW) and its distance (97 times further away than in the MW), a similar disc might easily be detectable around the nucleus of M31. The expected signal would be eight times weaker that the signal detected in SgrA*. We searched for an ionised gas disc around the nucleus of M31 with NOEMA, and we place a 3σ upper limit on the H30α recombination line at a level twice lower than expected with a simple scaling of the SgrA*.
Influence of the C + H2O → H2CO solid-state reaction on astrochemical networks and the formation of complex organic molecules
Authors: Potapov Alexey , Garrod Robin T.
Published: November 2024

Context. The solid-state reaction C + H2O → H2CO has recently been studied experimentally and claimed as a new ‘non-energetic’ pathway to complex organic and prebiotic molecules in cold astrophysical environments.

Aims. We compared results of astrochemical network modelling with and without the C + H2O surface reaction.

Methods. A typical, generic collapse model in which a dense core forms from initially diffuse conditions was used along with the astrochemical kinetics model MAGICKAL.

Results. The inclusion of the reaction does not notably enhance the abundance of formaldehyde itself; however, it significantly enhances the abundance of methanol (formed by the hydrogenation of formaldehyde) on the dust grains at early times, when the high gas-phase abundance of atomic C leads to relatively rapid adsorption onto the grain surfaces. As a result, the gas-phase abundance of methanol is also increased due to chemical desorption, quickly reaching abundances close to ∼10−9 nH, which decline strongly under late-time, high-density conditions. The reaction also influences the abundances of simple ice species, with the CO2 abundance increased in the earliest, deepest ice layers, while the water-ice abundance is somewhat depressed. The abundances of various complex organic molecules are also affected, with some species becoming more abundant and others less. When gas-phase atomic carbon becomes depleted, the grain-surface chemistry returns to behaviour that would be expected if there had been no new reaction.

Conclusions. Our results show that fundamental reactions involving the simplest atomic and molecular species can be of great importance for the evolution of astrochemical reaction networks, thus providing motivation for future experimental and theoretical studies.
The accretion history of the Milky Way
Authors: Yang Yanbin , Caffau Elisabetta , Bonifacio Piercarlo , Hammer François , Wang Jianling , Mamon Gary A.
Published: November 2024

Dwarf spheroidal galaxies are known to be dominated by old stellar populations. This has led to the assumption that their gas-rich progenitors lost their gas during their infall in the Milky Way (MW) halo at distant look-back times. Here, we report a discovery of a tiny but robustly detected population of possibly young (∼1 Gyr old) and intermediate-mass (1.8 M⊙ ≤ M < 3 M⊙) stars in MW dwarf spheroidal galaxies. This was established on the basis of their positions in color–magnitude diagrams, after filtering out the bulk of the foreground MW using Gaia DR3 proper motions. We have considered the possibility that this population is made of evolved blue stragglers. For Sculptor, it seems unlikely, because 95.5% of its stars are older than 8 Gyr, leading to masses smaller than 0.9 M⊙. This would only allow blue straggler masses of less than 1.8 M⊙, which is much lower than what we observed. Alternatively, it would require the merger of three turnoff stars, which appears even more unlikely. On the other hand, the recent Gaia proper motion measurements of MW dwarf galaxies infer their low binding energies and large angular momenta, pointing to a more recent, ≤3 Gyr, infall. Although the nature of the newly discovered stars still needs further confirmation, we find that they are consistent with the recent infall of the dwarf galaxies into the MW halo, when star formation occurred from the ram pressurization of their gas content before its removal by the hot Galactic corona. The abundance of this plausibly young population of stars is similar to the expectations drawn from hydrodynamical simulations. These results point to a novel origin for MW dwarf spheroidal galaxies.
Temporal evolution of axially standing kink motions in solar coronal slabs: An eigenfunction expansion approach
Authors: Gao Yuhong , Li Bo , Shi Mijie , Chen Shaoxia , Yu Hui
Published: November 2024

Aims. We aim to provide more insights into the applicability of the much-studied discrete leaky modes (DLMs) in classic analyses to solar coronal seismology.

Methods. Under linear ideal pressureless magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), we examined 2D axial fundamental kink motions that arise when localized velocity exciters impact some symmetric slab equilibria. Continuous structuring is allowed. A 1D initial value problem (IVP) is formulated in conjunction with an eigenvalue problem (EVP) for laterally open systems, with no strict boundary conditions (BCs) at infinity. The IVP is solved by eigenfunction expansion, allowing a clear distinction between the contributions from proper eigenmodes and improper continuum eigenmodes. Example solutions are offered for parameters typical of active region loops.

Results. Our solutions show that the system evolves toward long periodicities due to proper eigenmodes (on the order of the axial Alfvén time), whereas the interference of the improper continuum may lead to short periodicities initially (on the order of the lateral Alfvén time). Specializing to the slab axis, we demonstrate that the proper contribution strengthens with the density contrast, but may occasionally be stronger for less steep density profiles. Short periodicities are not guaranteed in the improper contribution, the details of the initial exciter being key. When identifiable, these periodicities tend to agree with the oscillation frequencies expected for DLMs, despite the differences in the BCs between our EVP and classic analyses. The eigenfunction expansion approach enables all qualitative features to be interpreted as the interplay between the initial exciter and some response function, the latter being determined solely by the equilibria.

Conclusions. Classic theories for DLMs can find seismological applications, with time-dependent studies offering additional ways for constraining initial exciters.
Effect of ZnO Nanoparticles enhanced compost with different application methods on nutrient uptake and Grain Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa) Var. Inpari 32
Authors: Nurhidayati Nurhidayati , Basit Abdul , Tito Sama’ Iradat , Qur’ania Anita
Published: November 2024

A pot experiment using a randomized block design was conducted to test the effect of ZnO-nanoparticles enhanced compost (ZnONEC) with different application methods on nutrient uptake and grain yield of rice var. Inpari 32. The treatment tested was ZnO-NEC with various concentrations (50, 100 and 150 mg.kg-1) with direct soil and foliar application methods compared with control and inorganic fertilizer treatments. All treatments using ZnO-NEC fertilizer received 50% of the recommended dose of chemical fertilizer. The results showed that the application of ZnO-NEC 100-150 mg.kg-1 with foliar application had leaf greenness levels (SPAD Value) and N uptake that were the same as the use of inorganic fertilizer and significantly increased the uptake of P, K and Zn compared to the use of inorganic fertilizer. The ZnO-NEC 50 mg.kg-1 with direct soil application ZnO-NEC 100 and 150 mg.kg-1 with foliar application had the same high grain yield per hill as the inorganic treatment. These treatments had an average percentage of empty grains (9.14%) and grain moisture content of 27.10%, which was lower compared to the control and inorganic treatments. These findings provide new insight into the potential for using the technology of ZnO-nanoparticles enhanced compost to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.
Farmers’ perceptions and adaptation strategies in facing climate change: A study of shallot farmers in Batu City, Indonesia
Authors: Rianti Titis Surya Maha , Hindarti Sri , Maula Lia Rohmatul
Published: November 2024

Climate change is currently a challenge faced by farmers. Climate change has an impact on farming such as lower yields, more frequent pest and disease attacks, and unpredictable planting seasons. Therefore, farmers’ perceptions of climate change have a role in influencing their decisions about how to manage their land and crops. This study aims to investigate farmers’ perceptions of and responses to climate change. East Java’s Batu City served as the study’s location. Thirty shallot farmers participated in this trial, chosen at random. The analysis employed was qualitative descriptive. According to the analysis’s findings, 97% of farmers are aware of climate change and gather knowledge from various sources. Shallot farmers view climate change as a serious concern affecting crop harvests. Most Batu City’s shallot farmers are aware of and concur that weather-related variables, including wind, humidity, rainfall, and air temperature, significantly impact their shallot yield. To adjust to climate change, 73.3% of farmers decided to substitute other crops, and another 26.6% decided to keep growing shallots. To mitigate the effects of climate change and lower farming hazards, efforts must be made to strengthen farmers’ adaptive capacity.