bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Operation of Cryogenic Calorimeters Through Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Angloher G. , Banik S. , Benato G. , Bento A. , Bertolini A. , Breier R. , Bucci C. , Burkhart J. , Canonica L. , D’Addabbo A. , Di Lorenzo S. , Einfalt L. , Erb A. , v. Feilitzsch F. , Fichtinger S. , Fuchs D. , Garai A. , Ghete V. M. , Gorla P. , Guillaumon P. V. , Gupta S. , Hauff D. , Ješkovský M. , Jochum J. , Kaznacheeva M. , Kinast A. , Kuckuk S. , Kluck H. , Kraus H. , Langenkämper A. , Mancuso M. , Marini L. , Mauri B. , Meyer L. , Mokina V. , Niedermayer K. , Olmi M. , Ortmann T. , Pagliarone C. , Pattavina L. , Petricca F. , Potzel W. , Povinec P. , Pröbst F. , Pucci F. , Reindl F. , Rothe J. , Schäffner K. , Schieck J. , Schönert S. , Schwertner C. , Stahlberg M. , Stodolsky L. , Strandhagen C. , Strauss R. , Usherov I. , Wagner F. , Wagner V. , Willers M. , Zema V. , Heitzinger C. , Waltenberger W.
Published: May 2024

Cryogenic phonon detectors with transition-edge sensors achieve the best sensitivity to sub-GeV/c$$^2$$

2

dark matter interactions with nuclei in current direct detection experiments. In such devices, the temperature of the thermometer and the bias current in its readout circuit need careful optimization to achieve optimal detector performance. This task is not trivial and is typically done manually by an expert. In our work, we automated the procedure with reinforcement learning in two settings. First, we trained on a simulation of the response of three Cryogenic Rare Event Search with Superconducting Thermometers (CRESST) detectors used as a virtual reinforcement learning environment. Second, we trained live on the same detectors operated in the CRESST underground setup. In both cases, we were able to optimize a standard detector as fast and with comparable results as human experts. Our method enables the tuning of large-scale cryogenic detector setups with minimal manual interventions.
Major comorbid diseases as predictors of infection in the first month after hip fracture surgery: a population-based cohort study in 92,239 patients
Authors: Gadgaard Nadia Roldsgaard , Varnum Claus , Nelissen Rob , Vandenbroucke-Grauls Christina , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Pedersen Alma Becic
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Comorbidity level is a predictor of infection in the first 30 days after hip fracture surgery. However, the roles of individual comorbid diseases as predictors of infection remain unclear. We investigated individual major comorbid diseases as predictors of infection after hip fracture surgery.

Methods

We obtained Danish population-based medical registry data for patients undergoing hip fracture surgery (2004–2018). Information was obtained on 27 comorbidities, included in various comorbidity indices, 5 years before surgery. The primary outcome was any hospital-treated infection within 30 days after surgery. Cumulative incidence of infection was calculated by considering death as competing risk. We used logistic regression to compute mutually adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval for infection.

Results

Of 92,239 patients with hip fracture, 71% were women, and the median age was 83 years. The most prevalent comorbidities were hypertension (23%), heart arrhythmia (15%), and cerebrovascular disease (14%). The 30-day incidence of infection was 15% and 12% among the total cohort and among patients with no record of comorbidities, respectively. Infection incidence was highest among patients with renal disease (24%), depression/anxiety (23%), and chronic pulmonary disease (23%), and lowest among patients with metastatic solid tumor (15%). Adjusted odds ratios of infection ranged from 0.94 [0.80–1.10] for metastatic solid tumor to 1.77 [1.63–1.92] for renal disease.

Conclusion

Most comorbid diseases were predictors of infection after surgery for hip fracture. Awareness of patients’ comorbidity profiles might help clinicians initiate preventive measures or inform patients of their expected risk.
Zinc oxide nanoparticles immobilized on polymeric porous matrix for water remediation
Authors: Asiri Abdullah M. , Pugliese Valerio , Coppola Gerardo , Khan Sher Bahadar , Alamry Khalid Ahmad , Alfifi Soliman Y. , Marwani Hadi M. , Alotaibi Maha M. , Petrosino Francesco , Chakraborty Sudip
Published: May 2024

This work proposes a novel approach to producing composite membranes by immobilizing and blending ZnO nanoparticles within a polymer matrix. The focus is investigating how different immobilization techniques impact membrane performance in critical technological applications, including membrane fouling mitigation and photocatalytic degradation. Lab-synthesized ZnO nanostructures were immobilized within a natural cellulose acetate (CA) matrix using a spray coating technique. To ensure comprehensive exploration, CA membranes with 12% and 15% wt polymer concentrations, which demonstrated superior overall performance in previous studies, were cast and prepared. The membranes underwent phase inversion, and a specially prepared ZnO solution was sprayed onto the membrane surface, creating a unique blend of polymer and nanoparticles. This comparative study highlights distinctions between nanomaterial immobilization techniques (mixing and spray coating) while maintaining identical polymer content. Such insights are crucial for both industrial applications and laboratory-scale research. The photocatalytic degradation of the reactive and toxic dye methylene blue (MB) served as a model reaction, employing a UV light module. Results unequivocally demonstrated that, irrespective of the immobilization technique employed, the combination of CA and ZnO nanoparticles significantly enhanced the photocatalytic activity of the membrane in degrading methylene blue (MB). Specifically, the dye concentration decreased from 25 to approximately 8 mg/L for both the spray coating and bulk immobilization methods, resulting in 62% and 69% dye degradation, respectively. These findings underscore the versatility of different immobilization techniques in various aspects of membrane technology. The CA-ZnO composite exhibited efficacy in photocatalytic MB degradation tests, offering promising alternatives for designing polymeric membranes tailored for contaminant removal, particularly in treating textile dye-contaminated aqueous solutions. The exploration of diverse immobilization techniques for nanocomposites presents an exciting avenue for optimization in different membrane technological processes.
Phytotoxicity and hormesis in common mobile organic compounds in leachates of wood-derived biochars
Authors: Thomas Sean C. , Ruan Ryan , Gale Nigel V. , Gezahegn Sossina
Published: May 2024

Although addition of pyrolyzed organic materials (biochars) to soil generally results in increased growth and physiological performance of plants, neutral and negative responses have also commonly been detected. Toxicity of organic compounds generated during pyrolysis, sorbed by biochars, and then released into the soil solution, has been implicated as a possible mechanism for such negative effects. Conversely, water-soluble biochar constituents have also been suggested to have “hormetic” effects (positive effects on plants at low concentrations); however, no specific compounds responsible have been identified. We investigated the relative phytotoxicity—and possible hormetic effects—of 14 organic compounds common in aqueous extracts of freshly produced lignocellulosic biochars, using seed germination bioassays. Of the compounds examined, volatile fatty acids (VFAs: acetic, propionic, butyric, valeric, caproic, and 2-ethylbutyric acids) and phenol, showed acute phytotoxicity, with germination-based ED50 values of 1–30 mmol L−1, and 2-ethylbutyric acid showed ED50 values of 0.1–1.0 mmol L−1. Other compounds (benzene, benzoic acid, butanone, methyl salicylate, toluene, and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol) showed toxic effects only at high concentrations close to solubility limits. Although phytotoxic at high concentrations, valeric and caproic acid also showed detectable hormetic effects on seedlings, increasing radicle extension by 5–15% at concentrations of ~ 0.01–0.1 mmol L−1. These data support the hypothesis that VFAs are the main agents responsible for phytotoxic effects of lignocellulosic biochar leachates, but that certain VFAs also have hormetic effects at low concentrations and may contribute to positive effects of biochar leachates on early plant development in some cases.

Graphical Abstract
Artificial intelligence, the common good, and the democratic deficit in AI governance
Authors: Coeckelbergh Mark
Published: May 2024

There is a broad consensus that artificial intelligence should contribute to the common good, but it is not clear what is meant by that. This paper discusses this issue and uses it as a lens for analysing what it calls the “democracy deficit” in current AI governance, which includes a tendency to deny the inherently political character of the issue and to take a technocratic shortcut. It indicates what we may agree on and what is and should be up to (further) deliberation when it comes to AI ethics and AI governance. Inspired by the republican tradition in political theory, it also argues for a more active role of citizens and (end-)users: not only as participants in deliberation but also in ensuring, creatively and communicatively, that AI contributes to the common good.
Cause-Specific Excess Mortality During the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2021) in 12 Countries of the C-MOR Consortium
Authors: Beeks Victoria Virginia , Achilleos Souzana , Quattrocchi Annalisa , Pallari Chryso Th. , Critselis Elena , Salameh Pascale , Rahmanian Haghighi Mohammad Reza , Rodriguez-Llanes Jose Manuel , Ambrosio Giuseppe , Artemiou Andreas , Gabel John , Bennett Catherine Marie , Cuthbertson Joseph , Zimmermann Claudia , Schernhammer Eva Susanna , Costa Antonio José Leal , de Carvalho Luciana Freire , Lobato Jackeline Christiane Pinto , Athanasiadou Maria , Critchley Julia Alison , Goldsmith Lucy Pollyanna , Kandelaki Levan , Glushkova Natalya , Davletov Kairat , Semenova Yuliya , Erzen Ivan , Verstiuk Olesia , Alekkou Dimos , Polemitis Antonis , Charalambous Andreas , Demetriou Christiana A. ,   The C-MOR Consortium
Published: May 2024

Background

This study investigated cause-specific mortality rates in 12 countries during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.

Methods

We collected weekly cause-specific mortality data from respiratory disease, pneumonia, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer from national vital statistic databases. We calculated excess mortality for respiratory disease (excluding COVID-19 codes), pneumonia, and CVD in 2020 and 2021 by comparing observed weekly against expected mortality based on historical data (2015–2019), accounting for seasonal trends. We used multilevel regression models to investigate the association between country-level pandemic-related variables and cause-specific mortality.

Results

Significant reductions in cumulative mortality from respiratory disease and pneumonia were observed in 2020 and/or 2021, except for Georgia, Northern Ireland, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine, which exhibited excess mortality for one or both causes. Australia, Austria, Cyprus, Georgia, and Northern Ireland experienced excess cumulative CVD mortality in 2020 and/or 2021. Australia, Austria, Brazil, Cyprus, Georgia, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Slovenia, experienced increased crude cumulative cancer mortality during 2020 and/or 2021 compared to previous years. Among pandemic-related variables, reported COVID-19 incidence was negatively associated with increased cancer mortality, excess respiratory, (2020) and pneumonia (2021) mortality, and positively associated with respiratory and CVD mortality (2021). Stringency of control measures were negatively associated with excess respiratory disease, CVD, and increased cancer mortality (2021).

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of substantial excess mortality from CVD, and notable reductions in respiratory disease and pneumonia in both years across most countries investigated. Our study also highlights the beneficial impact of stringent control measures in mitigating excess mortality from most causes in 2021.
Laws of Physics
Authors: Chen Eddy Keming
Published: May 2024

Despite its apparent complexity, our world seems to be governed by simple laws of physics. This volume provides a philosophical introduction to such laws. I explain how they are connected to some of the central issues in philosophy, such as ontology, possibility, explanation, induction, counterfactuals, time, determinism, and fundamentality. I suggest that laws are fundamental facts that govern the world by constraining its physical possibilities. I examine three hallmarks of laws-simplicity, exactness, and objectivity-and discuss whether and how they may be associated with laws of physics.
The Dogs of Tsenacomoco: Ancient DNA Reveals the Presence of Local Dogs at Jamestown Colony in the Early Seventeenth Century
Authors: Thomas Ariane E. , Hill Matthew E. , Stricker Leah , Lavin Michael , Givens David , de Flamingh Alida , Witt Kelsey E. , Malhi Ripan S. , Kitchen Andrew
Published: May 2024

Multiple studies have demonstrated that European colonization of the Americas led to the death of nearly all North American dog mitochondrial lineages and replacement with European ones sometime between AD 1492 and the present day. Historical records indicate that colonists imported dogs from Europe to North America, where they became objects of interest and exchange as early as the seventeenth century. However, it is not clear whether the earliest archaeological dogs recovered from colonial contexts were of European, Indigenous, or mixed descent. To clarify the ancestry of dogs from the Jamestown Colony, Virginia, we sequenced ancient mitochondrial DNA from six archaeological dogs from the period 1609–1617. Our analysis shows that the Jamestown dogs have maternal lineages most closely associated with those of ancient Indigenous dogs of North America. Furthermore, these maternal lineages cluster with dogs from Late Woodland, Hopewell, and Virginia Algonquian archaeological sites. Our recovery of Indigenous dog lineages from a European colonial site suggests a complex social history of dogs at the interface of Indigenous and European populations during the early colonial period.
Intellectual Virtue Signaling and (Non)Expert Credibility
Authors: HARRIS KEITH RAYMOND
Published: May 2024

In light of the complexity of some important matters, the best epistemic strategy for laypersons is often to rely heavily on the judgments of subject matter experts. However, given the contentiousness of some issues and the existence of fake experts, determining who to trust from the lay perspective is no simple matter. One proposed approach is for laypersons to attend to displays of intellectual virtue as indicators of expertise. I argue that this strategy is likely to fail, as non-experts often display apparent intellectual virtues while legitimate experts often display apparent intellectual vices. Then, I argue that this challenge is difficult to overcome, as experts who attempt to better exhibit apparent intellectual virtues would likely compromise their own reliability in the process. Finally, I discuss two conclusions—one more optimistic and one more pessimistic—that one might draw concerning the role of intellectual virtue in the identification of experts.
Two steps forward, one step back: negative spillovers in water conservation
Authors: Leong Ching , Buurman Joost , Tay Swee Kiat
Published: May 2024

Showering is one of the most water-intensive behaviours in urban households, accounting for 20–30% of water use. Real-time feedback from smart devices has been proven to significantly reduce water consumption in showers. Still, it is not known whether these devices have spillover effects on other water use behaviours. For the first time, we provide empirical evidence for a significant and negative within-domain spillover effect from the use of such devices, showing an increase in water use in other activities by 2.5% per day per household. Up to one-third of conservation effects are eroded by such spillovers, resulting in a two steps forward, one step back situation. Overall, however, net water use is still reduced by 4.7% in the 385 households that were observed. This study points out an important behavioural limit on the use of such smart shower devices and suggests that such use be accompanied by informational or other campaigns to reduce the large negative spillovers.
Turbulent Couette flow up to
Authors: Hoyas Sergio , Oberlack Martin
Published: May 2024

Two simulations of turbulent Couette flows were performed at friction Reynolds numbers of 1000 and 2000 in a large box of dimensions$L_x=16{\rm \pi} h$,$L_y=2h$and$L_z=6{\rm \pi} h$, wherehis the semi-height of the channel. The study focuses on the differences in the intensity and scaling of turbulence at these two Reynolds numbers. The 2000 case showed a lack of a clear log layer with a higher value of the Von Kármán constant$\kappa$than Poiseuille channels. The intensities were well-scaled in the buffer layer and below, with a second maximum of the streamwise intensity at approximately 350 wall units. Contrary to Poiseuille channels, the dissipation scales close to the wall in wall units. This fact can be attributed to the constant value of the derivative of the streamwise intensity in wall units. The intensities of the 2000 case showed remarkable differences compared with those at Reynolds number 1000 at the channel centre, likely due to the organization of large scales of the streamwise fluctuactions,$u$. These large scales were thought to be considered ‘infinite’. However, for the 2000 case, while all the structures have a width of$\ell _z \approx 6/8{\rm \pi} h$, their length varies from$\ell _x \approx 6{\rm \pi} h$to$\ell _x \approx 16{\rm \pi} h$, which clearly contradicts the trends obtained in the past. This is a new effect that has not been reported for turbulent Couette flow and points to the uncertainty and sensitivity that is observed for certain statistical quantities.
Decentring histories of science diplomacy: cases from Asia
Authors: Barrett Gordon , Homei Aya
Published: May 2024

This special issue brings together a diverse set of cases from Asia with the aim of decentring established historical narratives about science diplomacy. With a critical perspective bringing together the bodies of literature in the fields of the History of Science, Technology and Medicine (STM) and critical Asian Studies, we argue that these cases foreground a geopolitical history with multiple forms of sovereignty – often contested ones – and a range of political institutions and actors that enables us to revisit science diplomacy as a means for understanding the relationship between science and international affairs. In doing so, the articles in this issue consciously eschew the normative ‘centring’ of superpowers or Western imperial powers as the primary actors, focusing instead on the agency and subjectivity of actors within Asia, many of whom were prominent in their respective local contexts. Additionally, we argue that the cases presented here, which examine issues from across science, technology, medicine and the environment, collectively demonstrate the further need for the ‘science’ in ‘science diplomacy’ to be interpreted more broadly, incorporating as it does many aspects of human engagement with the material world.
Complete mitochondrial genome of Scathophaga stercoraria (Diptera: Scathophagidae) in wild plateau pika: genome descriptions and phylogenetic evolution
Authors: Zhang Haining , Chen Wangkai , Meng Ru , Duo Hong , Zhang Xueyong , Guo Zhihong , Shen Xiuying , Liu Qing , Li Zhi , Sun Donglei , Fu Yong
Published: May 2024

As a member of the Scathophagidae family, Scathophaga stercoraria (S. stercoraria) is widely distributed globally and is closely associated with animal feces. It is also a species of great interest to many scientific studies. However, its phylogenetic relationships are poorly understood. In this study, S. stercoraria was found in plateau pikas for the first time. The potential cause of its presence in the plateau pikas was discussed and it was speculated that the presence of S. stercoraria was related to the yak feces. In addition, 2 nuclear genes (18SrDNA and 28SrDNA), 1 mitochondrial gene (COI), and the complete mitochondrial genome of S. stercoraria were sequenced. Phylogenetic trees constructed based on 13 Protein coding genes (13PCGs), 18S and 28S rDNA showed that S. stercoraria is closely related to the Calliphoridae family; phylogenetic results based on COI suggest that within the family Scathophagidae, S. stercoraria is more closely related to the genus Leptopa, Micropselapha, Parallelomma and Americina. Divergence times estimated using the COI gene suggest that the divergence formation of the genus Scathophaga is closely related to changes in biogeographic scenarios and potentially driven by a combination of uplift of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) and dramatic climate changes. These results provide valuable information for further studies on the phylogeny and differentiation of the Scathophaga genus in the future.
Brain activity during reappraisal and associations with psychotherapy response in social anxiety and major depression: a randomized trial
Authors: Feurer Cope , Jimmy Jagan , Uribe Melissa , Shankman Stewart A. , Langenecker Scott A. , Craske Michelle G. , Ajilore Olusola , Phan K. Luan , Klumpp Heide
Published: May 2024

Background

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for patients with social anxiety disorder (SAD) or major depressive disorder (MDD), yet there is variability in clinical improvement. Though prior research suggests pre-treatment engagement of brain regions supporting cognitive reappraisal (e.g. dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [dlPFC]) foretells CBT response in SAD, it remains unknown if this extends to MDD or is specific to CBT. The current study examined associations between pre-treatment neural activity during reappraisal and clinical improvement in patients with SAD or MDD following a trial of CBT or supportive therapy (ST), a common-factors comparator arm.

Methods

Participants were 75 treatment-seeking patients with SAD (n = 34) or MDD (n = 41) randomized to CBT (n = 40) or ST (n = 35). Before randomization, patients completed a cognitive reappraisal task during functional magnetic resonance imaging. Additionally, patients completed clinician-administered symptom measures and a self-report cognitive reappraisal measure before treatment and every 2 weeks throughout treatment.

Results

Results indicated that pre-treatment neural activity during reappraisal differentially predicted CBT and ST response. Specifically, greater trajectories of symptom improvement throughout treatment were associated with less ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC) activity for CBT patients, but more vlPFC activity for ST patients. Also, less baseline dlPFC activity corresponded with greater trajectories of self-reported reappraisal improvement, regardless of treatment arm.

Conclusions

If replicated, findings suggest individual differences in brain response during reappraisal may be transdiagnostically associated with treatment-dependent improvement in symptom severity, but improvement in subjective reappraisal following psychotherapy, more broadly.
‘The Word of God taking up space’: Assessing the christological analogy for scripture
Authors: Platter Jonathan M.
Published: May 2024

This essay provides an assessment of the christological analogy for scripture, particularly for its usefulness in aid of a theological ontology of scripture. This analogy implies that scripture has something like ‘two natures’ – human and divine – like Jesus Christ has two natures. I argue that assessment of the analogy has been impaired by a lack of clarity in its application. On the one hand, the ambiguity relates to a tendency to apply the analogy for the (modernist) purposes of securing epistemic authority. On the other hand, I show that there are in fact three distinct forms of the analogy, each implying different things about the ‘twoness’ of scripture as well as its unity. After outlining the three forms of the analogy, I critically assess the unity they ascribe to scripture by means of the analogy.
Association analysis of grain mould resistance in a core collection of NPGS Ethiopian sorghum germplasm
Authors: Cuevas Hugo E. , Prom Louis K.
Published: May 2024

The Ethiopian core collection of the USDA-Agriculture Research Service, National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) includes 376 accessions and a genomic characterization that revealed 151,210 single nucleotide polymorphisms. This collection, however, lacks phenotypic characterization for several important agriculture traits. A total of 330 accessions from this NPGS Ethiopian core set were evaluated for grain mould resistance response across four tropical environments. Most of the accessions in the NPGS Ethiopian collection showed susceptibility to grain mould based on the low emergence rate and high seed deterioration observed in the seeds. The population structure of the collection was not related to grain mould resistance response suggesting this germplasm originated in regions with low disease pressure. The analysis identified two accessions with high emergence (PI 457867 and PI 454221) and three (PI 455036, PI 455213 and PI 330821) with low seed degradation. Genome-wide association analysis found genomic regions in chromosome 1, 3 and 8 associated with the observed grain mould resistance variation. Candidate gene analysis within these three loci identified diseases resistance genes involved in pathogen recognition and signalling cascades of the plant immunity system. These five NPGS Ethiopian accessions are candidates for use in a pre-breeding germplasm programme to develop improved germplasm with grain mould resistance.
Ultrahigh frequency path loss prediction based on K-nearest neighbors
Authors: Tikaria Mamta , Nigam Vineeta Saxena
Published: May 2024

Path loss prediction (PLP) is an important feature of wireless communications because it allows a receiver to anticipate the signal strength that will be received from a transmitter at a given distance. The PLP is done by using machine learning models that take into account numerous aspects such as the frequency of the signal, the surroundings, and the type of antenna. Various machine learning methods are used to anticipate path loss propagation but it is difficult to predict path loss in unknown propagation conditions. In existing models rely on incomplete or outdated data, which can affect the accuracy and reliability of predictions and they do not take into account the effects of environmental factors, such as terrain, foliage, and weather conditions, on path loss. Furthermore, existing models are not robust enough to handle the real-world variability and uncertainty, leading to significant errors in predictions. To tackle this issue, a novel ultrahigh frequency (UHF) PLP based on K-nearest neighbors (KNNs) is developed for predicting and optimizing the path loss for UHF. In this proposed model, a KNN-based PLP has been used to predict the path loss in the UHF. This technique is used for high-accuracy PLP through KNN forecast route loss by determining the K-nearest data points to a particular test point based on a distance metric. Moreover, the existing models were not able to optimize path loss due to complex and large-scale machine learning models. Therefore, the stochastic gradient descent technique has been used to minimize the objective function, which is often a measure of the difference between the model’s predictions and the actual output that will fine-tune the parameters of the KNN model, by measuring the similarity between data points. This model is implemented using Python to make it a lot more convenient.
What We Know About Neurocognitive Outcomes in Long-/Post-COVID-19 Adults
Authors: Seibert Susan , Hanke Alexander , Wieberneit Michelle , Bieler Luzie , Gräfenkämper Robin , Klatt Katrin , Widmann Catherine Nichols
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This review assesses neurocognitive studies on long-/post-COVID-19 adult patients, highlighting the research gaps. We categorize populations by infection severity, demographics, inclusion of controls, and psychological/biological factors. Methodologically, we analyzed 73 studies (95,600 subjects) from December 2019 to October 2022 using PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the PICO framework. Our findings revealed that most studies lacked control groups (88 %) and reported unclear overall cognitive outcomes (73 %). While the studies frequently assessed executive functions (86 %) and attention (85 %), there were few longitudinal studies. Varied reporting on sample sizes further complicated the analysis. The identified gaps encompass convenience sampling, limited longitudinal studies, and inadequate use of cognitive test batteries, leading to a discrepancy between expected and reported outcomes. The absence of standardized comparisons and inconsistent statistical methods exacerbated these gaps.
Leader Mindfulness, Passive Leadership, and the Mediating Role of Leader Anxiety
Authors: Walsh Megan M. , Lyubykh Zhanna , Arnold Kara A.
Published: May 2024

Abstract: A growing interest in mindfulness has turned researchers’ attention to investigate its role in prompting positive leader behaviors (e.g., transformational leadership). However, what remains less clear is whether mindfulness can help reduce passive leader behaviors – behaviors that are characterized by leader inaction yet can be highly consequential for employees and organizations. In this study, we examine how leader mindfulness relates to lower levels of passive leadership (i.e., management-by-exception passive and laissez-faire) by reducing leaders’ anxiety. Using data from a multiwave sample of leader–follower dyads, we found that leader mindfulness at Time 1 predicted both management-by-exception passive and laissez-faire leadership behaviors at Time 3, and these relationships were mediated by reduced leader anxiety at Time 2. We discuss implications of these findings and opportunities for future research.
Cloud Properties and Boundary Layer Stability Above Southern Ocean Sea Ice and Coastal Antarctica
Authors: Knight C. L. , Mallet M. D. , Alexander S. P. , Fraser A. D. , Protat A. , McFarquhar G. M.
Published: May 2024

Significant variability in climate predictions originates from the simulated cloud cover over the Southern Ocean. Historically, Southern Ocean cloud and aerosol properties have been less studied than their northern hemisphere counterparts, and cloud‐sea‐ice interactions over the Southern Ocean also remain largely unexamined. We used data from combined radar, lidar, radiometer, radiosonde, and ERA5 reanalysis profiles to investigate cloud property relationships to cloud temperature, sea‐ice concentration, and boundary layer stability. Our findings show correlations between both cloud macrophysical properties and radiative effects and sea‐ice concentration, and that the marine atmospheric boundary layer is more stable over higher sea‐ice concentrations. Mixed‐phase cloud frequency of occurrence was highest over the sea‐ice zone at 15%, three times higher than over cold water south of the Antarctic Polar Front. For temperatures greater than −15°C, low‐level, single‐layer clouds were more likely to precipitate ice if they were coupled to cold‐water or sea‐ice surfaces than if they were decoupled from these surfaces, with the highest percentage of clouds precipitating ice observed over sea ice. These findings suggest a surface source of ice‐nucleating particles at high southern latitudes that increases cloud glaciation probability. We discuss the implications of our results for future studies into the relationship between cloud properties, aerosols, sea ice, and boundary layer stability at high latitudes over the Southern Ocean.
Magnetospheric Sources of Theta Aurora: A Case Study Comparing Observations With SWMF Global Simulation
Authors: Hill S. C. , Pulkkinen T. I. , Brenner A. , Al Shidi Q. , Mukhopadhyay A. , Kullen A. , Frey H. , Zou S. , Liemohn M.
Published: May 2024

We present the first high resolution global MHD with coupled inner magnetosphere simulation results of an observed theta aurora event. We use the Space Weather Modeling Framework in the Geospace configuration, which produces accurate field aligned current closure in the ionosphere that is integral to theta aurora formation. At the location of the observed theta aurora, the simulation produces a narrow channel of Joule heating along both open and closed field lines, and between a pair of oppositely directed field‐aligned current sheets in the ionosphere. We demonstrate that this Joule heating pattern that we identify as theta aurora maps to a reconnection region at the magnetotail flanks as well as in the distant magnetotail. The theta aurora maps to a cross‐tail current disruption and field‐aligned current source region in a highly twisted magnetotail.
Tracking Gross Primary Productivity Using Satellite Solar Induced Fluorescence: Insights Across Agricultural Ecosystems of India
Authors: Behera Subhrasita , Dutta Debsunder
Published: May 2024

Accurately estimating gross primary productivity (GPP) in heterogeneous cropping systems from satellite data poses a challenge. In this study, for the first time, we examined how satellite solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) tracks GPP in India's diverse cropping system. A significant correlation (r = 0.70–0.90, p ≤ 0.05) at 0.0833° spatial resolution is observed between 8daily and monthly FLUXCOM GPP and Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment‐2 (GOME‐2) SIF. Compared to GOME‐2 SIF the finer resolution, TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) SIF showed greater potential (r = 0.80–0.95, p ≤ 0.05) in estimating GPP and crop productivity, except for Southern and Northeastern parts of India. These regions of India have heterogeneous cropland and low crop area fraction as identified from normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), near‐infrared reflectance of vegetation and local moran's index map of NDVI. This heterogeneity leads to differences in the timing of growth stages across the annual cycle, such that the SIF signal is characterized by low seasonal variability across the cycle, leading to low correlation between GPP and SIF. Further, in addition to physiological control the intra‐annual variability of GPP‐SIF relationship (GPP/SIF ratio) is influenced by temperature, radiation, and moisture availability during peak/late growing seasons. However, in the early growing season, it primarily relies on soil moisture. Our findings should help improve GPP estimation using SIF across the agricultural ecosystems of India.
Holocene Temperature and Water Stress in the Peruvian Andes: Insights From Lake Carbonate Clumped and Triple Oxygen Isotopes
Authors: Katz Sarah A. , Levin Naomi E. , Abbott Mark B. , Rodbell Donald T. , Passey Benjamin H. , DeLuca Nicole M. , Larsen Darren J. , Woods Arielle
Published: May 2024

Global climate during the Holocene was relatively stable compared to the late Pleistocene. However, evidence from lacustrine records in South America suggests that tropical latitudes experienced significant water balance variability during the Holocene, rather than quiescence. For example, a tight coupling between insolation and carbonate δ18O records from central Andean lakes (e.g., Lakes Junín, Pumacocha) suggest water balance is tied directly to South American summer monsoon (SASM) strength. However, lake carbonate δ18O records also incorporate information about temperature and evaporation. To overcome this ambiguity, clumped and triple oxygen isotope records can provide independent constraints on temperature and evaporation. Here, we use clumped and triple oxygen isotopes to develop Holocene temperature and evaporation records from three central Andean lakes, Lakes Junín, Pumacocha, and Mehcocha, to build a more complete picture of regional water balance (P–E). We find that Holocene water temperatures at all three lakes were stable and slightly warmer than during the latest Pleistocene. These results are consistent with global data assimilations and records from the foothills and Amazon basin. In contrast, evaporation was highly variable and tracks SASM intensity. The hydrologic response of each lake to SASM depends greatly on the physical characteristics of the lake basin, but they all record peak evaporation in the early to mid‐Holocene (11,700 to 4,200 years BP) when regional insolation was relatively low and the SASM was weak. These results corroborate other central Andean records and suggest synchronous, widespread water stress tracks insolation‐paced variability in SASM strength.
Soil Moisture Memory: State‐Of‐The‐Art and the Way Forward
Authors: Rahmati Mehdi , Amelung Wulf , Brogi Cosimo , Dari Jacopo , Flammini Alessia , Bogena Heye , Brocca Luca , Chen Hao , Groh Jannis , Koster Randal D. , McColl Kaighin A. , Montzka Carsten , Moradi Shirin , Rahi Arash , Sharghi S. Farnaz , Vereecken Harry
Published: May 2024

Soil moisture is an essential climate variable of the Earth system. Understanding its spatiotemporal dynamics is essential for predicting weather patterns and climate variability, monitoring and mitigating the effects and occurrence of droughts and floods, improving irrigation in agricultural areas, and sustainably managing water resources. Here we review in depth how soils can remember information on soil moisture anomalies over time, as embedded in the concept of soil moisture memory (SMM). We explain the mechanisms underlying SMM and explore its external and internal drivers; we also discuss the impacts of SMM on different land surface processes, focusing on soil‐plant‐atmosphere coupling. We explore the spatiotemporal variability, seasonality, locality, and depth‐dependence of SMM and provide insights into both improving its characterization in land surface models and using satellite observations to quantify it. Finally, we offer guidance for further research on SMM.
Quantifying the Hydrological Impacts of Irrigation on a Mediterranean Agricultural Context Through Explicit Satellite‐Derived Irrigation Estimates
Authors: Dari J. , Quintana‐Seguí P. , Barella‐Ortiz A. , Rahmati M. , Saltalippi C. , Flammini A. , Brocca L.
Published: May 2024

Water budget over anthropized basins is profoundly altered by human interventions, among which irrigation prevails. This study investigates how such water use affects hydrological flux and state variables by comparing two SURFEX/ISBA (SURFace EXternalisée/Interaction Sol Biosphère Atmosphère) Land Surface Model simulations performed over a portion of the Ebro basin (Spain) that includes a heavily irrigated area. The first simulation is forced by atmospheric input only, while the second one is fed with atmospheric forcing plus remote sensing‐derived irrigation amounts added to the liquid precipitation. Four main hydrological output variables are compared under the two configurations: surface soil moisture (SM), total evaporative flux (i.e., the sum of components from bare soil and vegetation) (E), drainage, and runoff. Results indicate that SM and E are the variables mostly impacted during the main watering season. Considering mean daily rates per each month, a maximum increase of +30% and of +220% is found over the irrigation districts in July for SM and E, respectively. The reliability of the results is supported by comparisons with satellite evapotranspiration data from MODIS (MODerate‐resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer). The inclusion of irrigation reduces the RMSE between monthly anomalies of modeled E and of MODIS reference data by 41% during the main watering season. Further validation through wavelet coherence analysis is also proposed. This study sheds light on the potential of explicit satellite‐derived irrigation water use data that, when integrated into modeling platforms, allow us to track and quantify anthropogenic impacts on water resources.
Multiomics profiling reveals VDR as a central regulator of mesenchymal stem cell senescence with a known association with osteoporosis after high-fat diet exposure
Authors: Chen Jiayao , Kuang Shuhong , Cen Jietao , Zhang Yong , Shen Zongshan , Qin Wei , Huang Qiting , Wang Zifeng , Gao Xianling , Huang Fang , Lin Zhengmei
Published: May 2024

The consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) has been linked to osteoporosis and an increased risk of fragility fractures. However, the specific mechanisms of HFD-induced osteoporosis are not fully understood. Our study shows that exposure to an HFD induces premature senescence in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), diminishing their proliferation and osteogenic capability, and thereby contributes to osteoporosis. Transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility analyses revealed the decreased chromatin accessibility of vitamin D receptor (VDR)-binding sequences and decreased VDR signaling in BMSCs from HFD-fed mice, suggesting that VDR is a key regulator of BMSC senescence. Notably, the administration of a VDR activator to HFD-fed mice rescued BMSC senescence and significantly improved osteogenesis, bone mass, and other bone parameters. Mechanistically, VDR activation reduced BMSC senescence by decreasing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and preserving mitochondrial function. Our findings not only elucidate the mechanisms by which an HFD induces BMSC senescence and associated osteoporosis but also offer new insights into treating HFD-induced osteoporosis by targeting the VDR-superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2)-ROS axis.
Flexible wide-range multidimensional force sensors inspired by bones embedded in muscle
Authors: Zhang Jie , Hou Xiaojuan , Qian Shuo , Huo Jiabing , Yuan Mengjiao , Duan Zhigang , Song Xiaoguang , Wu Hui , Shi Shuzheng , Geng Wenping , Mu Jiliang , He Jian , Chou Xiujian
Published: May 2024

Flexible sensors have been widely studied for use in motion monitoring, human‒machine interactions (HMIs), personalized medicine, and soft intelligent robots. However, their practical application is limited by their low output performance, narrow measuring range, and unidirectional force detection. Here, to achieve flexibility and high performance simultaneously, we developed a flexible wide-range multidimensional force sensor (FWMFS) similar to bones embedded in muscle structures. The adjustable magnetic field endows the FWMFS with multidimensional perception for detecting forces in different directions. The multilayer stacked coils significantly improved the output from the μV to the mV level while ensuring FWMFS miniaturization. The optimized FWMFS exhibited a high voltage sensitivity of 0.227 mV/N (0.5–8.4 N) and 0.047 mV/N (8.4–60 N) in response to normal forces ranging from 0.5 N to 60 N and could detect lateral forces ranging from 0.2–1.1 N and voltage sensitivities of 1.039 mV/N (0.2–0.5 N) and 0.194 mV/N (0.5–1.1 N). In terms of normal force measurements, the FWMFS can monitor finger pressure and sliding trajectories in response to finger taps, as well as measure plantar pressure for assessing human movement. The plantar pressure signals of five human movements collected by the FWMFS were analyzed using the k-nearest neighbors classification algorithm, which achieved a recognition accuracy of 92%. Additionally, an artificial intelligence biometric authentication system is being developed that classifies and recognizes user passwords. Based on the lateral force measurement ability of the FWMFS, the direction of ball movement can be distinguished, and communication systems such as Morse Code can be expanded. This research has significant potential in intelligent sensing and personalized spatial recognition.
IGF2BP2-modified circular RNA circCHD7 promotes endometrial cancer progression via stabilizing PDGFRB and activating JAK/STAT signaling pathway
Authors: Shi Rui , Zhao Rong , Shen Yan , Wei Sitian , Zhang Tangansu , Zhang Jun , Shu Wan , Cheng Shuangshuang , Teng Hua , Wang Hongbo
Published: May 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent a class of covalently closed, single-stranded RNAs and have been linked to cancer progression. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is a ubiquitous RNA modification in cancer cells. Increasing evidence suggests that m6A can mediate the effects of circRNAs in cancer biology. In contrast, the post-transcriptional systems of m6A and circRNA in the progression of endometrial cancer (EC) remain obscure. The current study identified a novel circRNA with m6A modification, hsa_circ_0084582 (circCHD7), which was upregulated in EC tissues. Functionally, circCHD7 was found to promote the proliferation of EC cells. Mechanistically, circCHD7 interacted with insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein (IGF2BP2) to amplify its enrichment. Moreover, circCHD7 increased the mRNA stability of platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRB) in an m6A-dependent manner, thereby enhancing its expression. In addition, the circCHD7/IGF2BP2/PDGFRB axis activated the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and promoted EC cell proliferation. In conclusion, these findings provide new insights into the regulation of circRNA-mediated m6A modification, and the new “circCHD7-PDGFRB” model of regulation offers new perspectives on circCHD7 as a potential target for EC therapy.
Hyperspectral retinal imaging biomarkers of ocular and systemic diseases
Authors: Saeed Abera , Hadoux Xavier , van Wijngaarden Peter
Published: May 2024

Hyperspectral imaging is a frontier in the field of medical imaging technology. It enables the simultaneous collection of spectroscopic and spatial data. Structural and physiological information encoded in these data can be used to identify and localise typically elusive biomarkers. Studies of retinal hyperspectral imaging have provided novel insights into disease pathophysiology and new ways of non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of retinal and systemic diseases. This review provides a concise overview of recent advances in retinal hyperspectral imaging.
Integrating human endogenous retroviruses into transcriptome-wide association studies highlights novel risk factors for major psychiatric conditions
Authors: Duarte Rodrigo R. R. , Pain Oliver , Bendall Matthew L. , de Mulder Rougvie Miguel , Marston Jez L. , Selvackadunco Sashika , Troakes Claire , Leung Szi Kay , Bamford Rosemary A. , Mill Jonathan , O’Reilly Paul F. , Srivastava Deepak P. , Nixon Douglas F. , Powell Timothy R.
Published: May 2024

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are repetitive elements previously implicated in major psychiatric conditions, but their role in aetiology remains unclear. Here, we perform specialised transcriptome-wide association studies that consider HERV expression quantified to precise genomic locations, using RNA sequencing and genetic data from 792 post-mortem brain samples. In Europeans, we identify 1238 HERVs with expression regulated in cis, of which 26 represent expression signals associated with psychiatric disorders, with ten being conditionally independent from neighbouring expression signals. Of these, five are additionally significant in fine-mapping analyses and thus are considered high confidence risk HERVs. These include two HERV expression signatures specific to schizophrenia risk, one shared between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and one specific to major depressive disorder. No robust signatures are identified for autism spectrum conditions or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Europeans, or for any psychiatric trait in other ancestries, although this is likely a result of relatively limited statistical power. Ultimately, our study highlights extensive HERV expression and regulation in the adult cortex, including in association with psychiatric disorder risk, therefore providing a rationale for exploring neurological HERV expression in complex neuropsychiatric traits.