bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The GAPS programme at TNG
Authors: D’Arpa M. C. , Saba A. , Borsa F. , Fossati L. , Micela G. , Di Maio C. , Stangret M. , Tripodo G. , Affer L. , Bonomo A. S. , Benatti S. , Brogi M. , Fardella V. , Lanza A. F. , Guilluy G. , Maldonado J. , Mantovan G. , Nascimbeni V. , Pino L. , Scandariato G. , Sicilia D. , Sozzetti A. , Spinelli R. , Andreuzzi G. , Bignamini A. , Claudi R. , Desidera S. , Ghedina A. , Knapic C. , Lorenzi V.
Published: September 2024

Aims. We analysed six primary transits of the ultra-hot Jupiter KELT-9 b obtained with the HARPS-N high-resolution spectrograph in the context of the Global Architecture of Planetary Systems (GAPS2) project, to characterise the atmosphere via single-line analysis.

Methods. We extracted the transmission spectrum of each individual line by comparing the master out-of-transit spectrum with the in-transit spectra and computing the weighted average of the tomography in the planet reference frame. We corrected for the centre-to-limb variation and the Rossiter-McLaughlin effect by modelling the region of the star disc obscured by the planet during the transit and subtracting it from the master-out spectrum.

Results. We detected all six observable lines of the Balmer series within the HARPS-N wavelength range, from Hα to Hζ, with a significance exceeding 5σ. We also focussed on metal species, detecting Na I, Ca I, Ca II, Fe I, Fe II, Mg I, Ti II, Sc II, and Cr II lines. This is the first detection in the atmosphere of an exoplanet of Hϵ and Hζ lines, as well as of individual lines of Sc II and Cr II. Our detections are supported by a comparison with published synthetic transmission spectra of KELT-9b obtained accounting for non-local thermodynamic equilibrium effects. The results underline the presence of a systematic blueshift due to night-side to day-side winds.

Conclusions. The single-line analysis allowed us not only to assess the presence of atomic species in the atmosphere of KELT-9 b, but also to further characterise the local stratification of the atmosphere. Coupling the height distribution of the detected species with the velocity shift retrieved, we acknowledged the height distribution of night-side to day-side winds. Moreover, the study of the rotational broadening of the different species supports the prediction of a tidally locked planet rotating as a rigid body.
Zero Energy Vehicle Concept: L6e Electric Vehicle Design for Sustainable Urban Transportation
Authors: Polat A. Ozgur , Celtek S. Alperen , Kul Seda , Balci Selami , Rawat Nikita , Oubelaid Adel , Bajaj Mohit
Published: September 2024

Increasing energy consumption and growing environmental concerns have heightened the demand for sustainable energy solutions. In response to this demand, the concept of “zero energy” emerges, offering a comprehensive approach encompassing energy conservation, ecological sustainability, the battle against climate change, energy independence, and economic efficiency. This study presents the concept of a ‘Zero-Energy Vehicle’ for the first time in the literature. It explains the essential criteria for a vehicle to qualify as a Zero-Energy Vehicle. This study also aims to evaluate the suitability of CERYAN, an L6e class electric vehicle with the zero energy concept. CERYAN adopts Zero-Energy Vehicle principles by integrating solar panels, energy-efficient design, and fiberglass technology. This study highlights the potential of the zero energy concept to provide environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solutions in the field of transportation.
Fuzzy Power Management for Low Carbon Footprint Vehicles
Authors: Oubelaid Adel , Belkhier Youcef , Ali Ahmed Abdussalam , Avikal Shwetank , Bajaj Mohit
Published: September 2024

Currently, Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are gaining traction in the market due to their low or zero carbon footprint. In this study, the power management of a Fuel Cell (FC) and Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) using Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) is investigated. Due to its sensitivity and low power density, the FC is used in parallel with a battery that serves as a storage element during regenerative braking periods. The DC link voltage is regulated via a control loop associated with the battery. However, a current regulation loop is used in conjunction with the FC to condition its power flow. The simulation results obtained using MATLAB/Simulink confirm the effectiveness of the proposed fuzzy energy management strategy. Additionally, the presented results demonstrate the ability of FLC to provide convenient power sharing between the utilized power sources without exhausting any source.
Experimental study of heat exchanger for waste heat energy recovery from ceramic industries
Authors: Sashank S. Sravan , Padma Priya A. , Hussain Laeth , Pant Rajesh , Sapaev I.B.
Published: September 2024

The ceramics industry is renowned for using a lot of energy, particularly heat energy to produce ceramic goods because the roller hearth kiln plays a major role in making ceramic products. but it’s difficult cooling process generates significant waste heat, often releasing it into the environment, so there is a lot of excess heat energy loss. Several industries use heat exchanger systems to recover excess heat energy. In this paper, a double pipe heat exchanger (DPHE) is used to recover excess waste heat from the ceramic industry and also improve that energy in an effective way. This paper provides a theoretical analysis of a double-pipe heat exchanger as well as an experimental setup, methodology, results, and analysis of a heat exchanger designed for a kiln. DPHE technology plays a great role in the ceramic industry by lowering operational costs and energy consumption. In future research, further optimization of the DPHE system could lead to even greater energy efficiency and cost savings for ceramic manufacturers. This novel system of DPHE results that the first test condition achieves greater heat transfer rate than other DPHE condition i.e., approximately 1.33 times higher than others. In comparison, the first DPHE condition 5.69 % superior than third condition whereas 3.33 % than second DPHE condition respectively.
Revitalization of Ismail Marzuki’s songs to increase Generation Z’s appreciation toward the 20th century Indonesian national composers
Authors: Gustina Susi , Sukmayadi Yudi , Cipta Febri , Johan Enri
Published: September 2024

This research focuses on the revitalization of songs by Ismail Marzuki which is considered important as an effort to increase the appreciation of generation Z, towards Indonesian national composers of the early 20th century. The research problem is the revitalization efforts carried out by generation Z in several Ismail Marzuki’ songs. This research is qualitative using a case study method by exploring one case in a limited system. The subject of this research is some college students of Music Education Study Program and Music Study Program, FPSD, Indonesia University of Education (UPI). The research findings are the revitalization of several Ismail Marzuki’s songs to increase the appreciation of students as a part of generation Z is realized in music arrangements and performance. The evaluations of music arrangements and performance by Generation Z audiences show their appreciation toward the 20th Century Indonesian National Composers. The conclusion of this research is that students as a part of generation Z arranged several of Ismail Marzuki’s songs in the swing jazz style as a musical preference that is closely related to their previous musical educational background. Revitalization efforts are also manifested in music performance, which not only involve musical aspects, but also nonmusical ones. Musical arrangements that relevant to Generation Z characters as well as musical performances that collaborate musical and non-musical aspects have a significant impact on the Generation Z’s appreciation toward the 20th Century Indonesian National Composers.
Social media utilization in building branding Sanggar “Saiyo Sakato”
Authors: Ameva Dhaniel Rahmat , Masunah Juju , Milyartini Rita
Published: September 2024

Sanggar “Saiyo Sakato” has problems in meeting market tastes due to the limited quality of human resources. This article discusses the use of social media as a means of rebuilding public trust in the existence of the sanggar “saiyo sakato” through branding changes. The two main topics discussed are the process of changing branding through social media and the impact of changes on the sustainability of the studio. This research was conducted through descriptive research with a qualitative approach. Data were obtained through participant observation, document study of comments that appeared on social media, display of studio information on social media, and interviews with five participants, namely three people from the community before the change in studio branding and two consumers with the new branding. The research findings explain that the studio’s branding, which was previously a solo organ format, was changed to offering bridal accompaniment using saxophone, minang music entertainment with band and solo organ formats. Each studio member actively uploads videos as a promotion on their respective social media such as Facebook and Instagram. This strategy was able to attract consumers among young people. The results of this research are expected to be able to inspire how to rebuild public trust in the existence of art studios.
Hermeneutics fusion of horizons hans georg gadamer in understanding graffiti motif pucuk kapal jung Lampung
Authors: Witjaksono M. Dimas Yudi , Masunah Juju , Prawira Nanang Ganda
Published: September 2024

This research examines the phenomenon of art in Bandar Lampung coffee shops in the form of graffiti art expressions. The main question in this study is: what is the process of graffiti artists creating Jung’s ship’s ship motif works in placing the framework of local wisdom as their graffiti work? with the aim of understanding graffiti texts in proportion to Hans Georg Gadamer’s hermeneutic idea of horizon fusion which is applied to the graffiti text with the Jung Lampung ship’s top motif. The phenomenon of graffiti in urban public spaces has become a vital urban cultural marker, visual graffiti has developed far from its roots in New York and Philadelphia, evolving from a signature (tag) to sharpening a creative expression. However, in today’s urban environment, the practice of graffiti gives rise to contradictory effects and responses that can create criminal threats or artistic business opportunities. The method used to analyze graffiti data is using a cultural approach by interpreting the expressions of graffiti artists through the hermeneutic method. Based on this analysis, an intersection was found in the horizon fusion as a meeting of the past and present in the process of understanding himself (the artist) with the culture of the Lampung coastal community to create the identity of the graffiti work in the Bandar Lampung coffee shop.
Scintillation modeling with random phase gradient screens
Authors: Vasylyev Dmytro , Cahuasquí Juan Andrés , Hoque Mainul , Jakowski Norbert , Kriegel Martin , David Paul , Tagargouste Youssef , Buchert Stephan , Berdermann Jens
Published: September 2024

Multiple studies of scintillation phenomena have shown that, in certain situations, the intense phase fluctuations of trans-ionospheric radio signals are associated with the scattering on strong electron density gradients. The present study provides a theoretical framework for modeling such types of phase fluctuation events. Using the geometrical-optics approximation and retaining the second-order smallness correction in the expansion of the eikonal function, we relate the phase of the transmitted wave not only to the total electron content (TEC) of the ionosphere but also to the spatial gradient of the TEC. The considered correction term is related to the random refraction of signal rays on large-scale ionospheric structures, an effect, that becomes significant in the presence of strong electron density gradients. To conveniently simulate the wave propagation under such conditions, we propose the random phase gradient screen algorithm. For this purpose, we use the novel spatial electron density gradient product (NeGIX) based on in-situ observations of the Swarm Langmuir probe and ground-based TEC and TEC gradient observations. To illustrate the performance of the algorithm, we apply it to simulate a scintillation event over Europe and in the low-latitude region and compare the simulation results with scintillation indices, measured from GNSS ground observations. We show that in regions of the ionosphere where spatial ionospheric gradients are large, the phase gradient method shows better agreement with the observed scintillation levels than the conventional phase screen approach.
The Normal Static Two-Point Discrimination in the Palmar Aspect of Hand in Adults and Children in a Sample Indian Population
Authors: K. S.K. Pandian , Thatte M.R. , Agarwal Pawan , Rajendran S. , Ibrahim Mohamed , Babu G Vishnu , Madhavan Latha , Sharma A.N. , Ghanghurde Bipin , Dugad Anand , Kulkarni Onkar , Shah Harsh R. , Saraf Mansi , B. Rajesh , Krishnamorthy R. , Sridhar K. , Bhat Anil , Rao Surya
Published: September 2024

Background The normal ability to distinguish two points from one is known as the two-point discriminative (2PD) sense. This forms an extremely important assessment in patient with injuries to the nerves distributed to the upper extremity.

Objective The aim of this study was to estimate the normal reference values of static 2PD in healthy adults and children.

Materials and Methods A total of 624 normal adults comprising 380 men and 244 women were recruited randomly for the study at three different centers. Additionally, 172 healthy children, comprising 110 boys and 62 girls, were studied. Eight sensory areas in the palmar surface of the hand were delineated. The ability to distinguish the static 2PD was estimated in millimeters by using disk discriminator. The results were tabulated and statistically analyzed.

Results The mean static 2PD in the adult population ranged from 2.78 to 3.5 mm in the fingertips and 5.39 to 7.13 mm in the mid-palm. There was a statistically significant difference between men and women in zones 6, 7, and 8. In children, the observed 2PD values were 2.15 to 3.63 mm in the fingertips and 4.10 to 5.77 mm in the palm. Children have a significantly better 2PD sense when compared with adults.

Conclusion The normal value of static 2PD in the palmar surface of the hand among the Indian pediatric and adult populations was established in the study.
A Real-World Analysis of Oncological Outcomes in Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Requiring Marginal Mandibulectomy for Achieving Clear Surgical Margins
Authors: Nemade Hemant , Thaduri Abhinav , Gondi Jonathan T. , Chava Sravan Kumar , Kumar Anil , Raj Pratheek , Neelap Uma , S. L.M. Chandra Sekara Rao
Published: September 2024

Introduction Marginal mandibulectomy (MM) offers a conservative alternative to segmental resections for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) requiring clear margins without evident bone invasion. Despite its potential benefits, real-world outcomes related to surgical margins and oncological outcomes have not been studied sufficiently.

Methods This ambispective cohort study analyzed 183 patients undergoing MM from January 2015 to March 2021 to achieve clear margins without clinical bone involvement. The primary objective is to assess the disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with OSCC requiring MM to achieve clear surgical margins, and the secondary objective is to assess the impact of microscopic bone involvement on these outcomes. Kaplan–Meier estimates facilitated the survival analysis.

Results The cohort primarily comprised males (83.2%) with a median age of 50 years, the predominant subsite being the bucco-alveolar complex (94%). Microscopic bone involvement was found in 8.74% of patients. The distribution of surgical margins was 84.24% negative, 15.22% close, and 0.54% positive. The cohort's 3-year DFS and overall survival (OS) rates are 65 and 70%, respectively. Patients with microscopic bone involvement experienced lower DFS (odds ratio [OR] = 0.251, p = 0.013), and perineural invasion was also a significant negative prognostic factor for DFS (OR = 0.4, p = 0.01). Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in survival distributions based on bone involvement (p = 0.049).

Conclusion While MM can achieve favorable surgical margins in selected OSCC patients, microscopic bone involvement compromises DFS. Given the low incidence of bone involvement and high rate of negative margins, more conservative approaches might be justified in select patients. However, these findings require further validation in a larger cohort.
Light element (B, N) co-doped graphitic films on copper as highly robust current collectors for anode-free Li metal battery applications
Authors: Godbole Rhushikesh , Hiwase Shweta , Hossain Mujaffar , Kadam Supriya , Wable Minal , Rane Sunit , Mondal Sukanta , Das Bidisa , Banerjee Abhik , Ogale Satishchandra
Published: September 2024

We have examined the case of light atom (B, N) doped and co-doped graphitic films grown on copper for the anode-free Li Metal Battery (AFLMB) application. For nitrogen doping, the depositions were carried out by laser ablating pure graphite (Gr) in the presence of Nitrogen (N2) or Ammonia (NH3). In another interesting case, 5 wt. % Boron nitride (BN) was added into the graphite target itself to obtain BN-doped graphite films. It was found that the growth condition mediated film constitution and properties significantly influence the Coulombic efficiency and cycling stability of the cells when tested for AFLMB. The cycle life demonstrated by the cells of pure graphitic film (Gr) was only about 110 cycles, while the N-doped graphite films obtained using N2 gas (N2–Gr) exhibited stability up to about 300 cycles. Interestingly the N-doped films obtained using NH3 gas (NH3–Gr) exhibited a stability of 715 cycles and B, N co-doped graphite (BN–Gr) film resulted in an even longer cycle life of 795 cycles. Density functional theory calculations were also performed to deeply understand the interaction and binding energy of Lithium within the undoped and doped graphene sheets modeled through the addition of light elements. It was found that the binding of Li is stronger in the (B, N) co-doped graphene as compared to the N-doped graphene and undoped graphene but much weaker than the B-doped graphene. Therefore, an improved lateral Li diffusion in the (B, N) co-doped graphene is observed where the Li binding strength is optimum resulting in better cycling stability.
Structure–fire-retardant property correlations in biodegradable polymers
Authors: Xue Yijiao , Zhang Meng , Feng Jiabing , Zhang Yan , Chevali Venkata , Song Fei , Pan Zheng , Peng Hong , Zhou Yonghong , Song Pingan
Published: September 2024

Because of widespread public concern about plastic waste treatment and recycling, there is a global trend toward replacing non-biodegradable polymers with biodegradable polymers. However, the inherent flammability of most biodegradable polymers presents a significant barrier to their potential application, necessitating the rapid development of fire-retardant biodegradable polymers. Herein, three major categories of fire retardants (FRs), including intrinsic FRs, additive FRs, and fire-retardant coatings, especially widely studied additive FRs in the categories of organic, inorganic, and inorganic–organic, are reviewed, revealing how the physical and chemical structures of FRs affect the fire-retardant efficiency of biodegradable polymers and concluding the influencing factors of their fire retardance from the perspective of the physical and chemical structures of FRs. This work provides fundamental data and mechanistic analyses for the fire-retardant parameters of biodegradable polymers by integrating/adding diverse types of FRs, to provide guidance for fabricating highly efficient fire-retardant biodegradable polymer materials and inspiring the development of future research and application of functional biodegradable polymers toward circular economy and greater sustainability.
OpenLabSPM: Bare bone package of LabVIEW-based scanning probe microscope controller
Authors: Nomura Hikaru , Yamanishi Junsuke
Published: September 2024

With the extensive proliferation of scanning probe microscopy (SPM)-related technologies, there is a growing demand for a fully customizable SPM controller. In response, we have developed an SPM controller that allows users to incorporate additional functions using LabVIEW, a graphical programming language. This controller incorporates fundamental features such as one-dimensional and two-dimensional scanning, feedback control, and slope compensation. In addition, it includes capabilities to restrict the speed of probe movement and safeguard the probe. Our system consists of a host personal computer (PC) running the Windows operating system and a National Instruments Reconfigurable Input/Output board equipped with a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The FPGA supports real-time deterministic processing, including feedback and probe protection functions, operating asynchronously from the host PC through data exchange via direct memory access first-in-first-out. The system features a graphical user interface on the Windows OS, supplemented by a character-based user interface that utilizes command strings in JavaScript object notation format. Furthermore, we provide wrappers for these commands using the Python programming language. We anticipate that our fully customizable bare born package of LabVIEW-based controller will prove beneficial for researchers utilizing SPM and those managing instruments requiring scanning and feedback control.
Interpolating the radial distribution function in a two-dimensional fluid across a wide temperature range
Authors: Kryuchkov Nikita P. , Nasyrov Artur D. , Denisenko Ilya R. , Yurchenko Stanislav O.
Published: September 2024

Calculations of pair correlations in fluids usually require resource-intensive simulations or integral equations, while existing simple approximations lack accuracy. Here, we show that the pair correlation function for monolayer fluid-like systems can be decomposed into correlation peaks defined using Voronoi cells. Being properly normalized, these peaks exhibit a universal form, weak temperature dependence, and resemble those of an ideal gas, except for the first peak. As a result, we propose a simple and accurate approach to interpolate the pair correlation functions, suitable for molecular, colloids, and cellular fluids.
Sum-frequency generation spectro-microscopy in the reststrahlen band of wurtzite-type aluminum nitride
Authors: Mader D. S. , Niemann R. , Wolf M. , Maehrlein S. F. , Paarmann A.
Published: September 2024

Nonlinear-optical microscopy and spectroscopy provide detailed spatial and spectroscopic contrast, specifically sensitive to structural symmetry and order. Ferroics, in particular, have been widely studied using second harmonic generation imaging, which provides detailed information on domain structures but typically lacks spectroscopic detail. In contrast, infrared-visible sum-frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy reveals details of the atomic structure and bonding via vibrational resonances, but conventionally lacks spatial information. In this work, we combine the benefits of nonlinear optical imaging and SFG spectroscopy by employing SFG spectro-microscopy using an infrared free-electron laser. In particular, we demonstrate the feasibility of SFG spectro-microscopy for spectroscopy using in-plane anisotropic wurtzite-type aluminum nitride as a model system. We find the experimental spectra to agree well with our theoretical calculations, and we show the potential of our microscope to provide spatially resolved spectroscopic information in inhomogeneous systems such as ferroics and their domains in the near future.
Cascaded four-wave mixing process: A key to realize super-continuous coherent radiation with dual stimulated Raman scattering in mixed solutions
Authors: Wang Haixin , Dou Zhenguo , Liu Xiaokai , Li Aijun , Jia Erna , Sun Chenglin , Men Zhiwei
Published: September 2024

We proposed a coherent radiation scheme based on double-stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) induced cascaded four-wave mixing (FWM) in a mixed methanol–ethanol solution. The SRS of methanol has two characteristic vibrational peaks, which are attributed to the symmetric stretching vibration of –CH3 and the antisymmetric stretching vibration of –CH3. The addition of ethanol enhances the antisymmetric stretching vibration mode, and intensities of two peaks were similar when the volume ratio of methanol to ethanol was 7.5:2.5. Resonant amplification of the two SRS signals is achieved by refocusing the scattered light, and the stronger self-focusing effect not only converges the two beams but also generates a plasma-enhanced SRS process, realizing cascaded FWM. The frequency difference Δω between two FWM beams matches the frequency difference ΔΩ between the vibrational energy levels of the symmetric and antisymmetric stretching vibrations, and the stimulated excitation enhances FWM signals. The output coherent radiation light is a large broadband ranging from 592 to 668 nm and 721 to 797 nm, with a wavelength interval of about 3 nm. The intensity of light radiated at different wavelengths is not the same, with the strongest light at the center of the wavelength (630 and 759 nm). This technique has the potential to contribute to the development of a multi-wavelength cascaded Raman laser.
Restricted open-shell time-dependent density functional theory with perturbative spin–orbit coupling
Authors: Chibueze Chima S. , Visscher Lucas
Published: September 2024

When using quantum chemical methods to study electronically excited states of open-shell molecules, it is often beneficial to start with wave functions that are spin eigenfunctions. For excited states of molecules containing heavy elements, spin–orbit coupling (SOC) is important and needs to be included as well. An efficient approach is to include SOC perturbatively on top of a restricted open-shell Kohn–Sham (ROKS) time-dependent density functional theory, which can be combined with the Tamm–Dancoff approximation (TDA) to suppress numerical instabilities. We implemented and assessed the potential of such a ROKS-TDA-SOC method, also featuring the possibility of calculating transition dipole moments between states to allow for full spectrum simulation. Our study shows that the ROKS-TDA-SOC formalism yields a clear and easy-to-use method to obtain electronically excited states of open-shell molecules that are of moderate size and contain heavy elements.
High-skilled immigration enhances regional entrepreneurship
Authors: Tareque Inara S. , Guzman Jorge , Wang Dan
Published: September 2024

Immigrants are highly entrepreneurial. But, what is the broader relationship between high-skilled immigration and regional entrepreneurship activity beyond the ventures that immigrants establish themselves? Using administrative data on newly awarded H-1B visas in the United States, we document a positive relationship between high-skilled immigration and regional entrepreneurship. A doubling of immigrants to a metropolitan statistical area is followed by a 6% increase in entrepreneurship within three years. In contrast, continuing H-1Bs and the arrival of unskilled immigrants (H-2B visas) do not increase regional entrepreneurship. Focusing on Indian immigrants (representing about 70% of all H-1B visas), we find the effect is stronger in metropolitan statistical areas with a larger local Indian population, but not other nationalities, suggesting that presence of conationals facilitates the relationship between high-skilled immigration and regional entrepreneurship. We present this and other evidence as consistent with a knowledge transfer mechanism.
Structural and virologic mechanism of the emergence of resistance to M
pro
inhibitors in SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Hattori Shin-ichiro , Bulut Haydar , Hayashi Hironori , Kishimoto Naoki , Takamune Nobutoki , Hasegawa Kazuya , Furusawa Yuri , Yamayoshi Seiya , Murayama Kazutaka , Tamamura Hirokazu , Li Mi , Wlodawer Alexander , Kawaoka Yoshihiro , Misumi Shogo , Mitsuya Hiroaki
Published: September 2024

We generated SARS-CoV-2 variants resistant to three SARS-CoV-2 main protease (M
pro
) inhibitors (nirmatrelvir, TKB245, and 5h), by propagating the ancestral SARS-CoV-2
WK521
WT
in VeroE6
TMPRSS2
cells with increasing concentrations of each inhibitor and examined their structural and virologic profiles. A predominant E166V-carrying variant (SARS-CoV-2
WK521
E166V
), which emerged when passaged with nirmatrelvir and TKB245, proved to be resistant to the two inhibitors. A recombinant SARS-CoV-2
E166V
was resistant to nirmatrelvir and TKB245, but sensitive to 5h. X-ray structural study showed that the dimerization of M
pro
was severely hindered by E166V substitution due to the disruption of the presumed dimerization-initiating Ser1’-Glu166 interactions. TKB245 stayed bound to M
pro
E166V
, whereas nirmatrelvir failed. Native mass spectrometry confirmed that nirmatrelvir and TKB245 promoted the dimerization of M
pro
, and compromised the enzymatic activity; the Ki values of recombinant M
pro
E166V
for nirmatrelvir and TKB245 were 117±3 and 17.1±1.9 µM, respectively, indicating that TKB245 has a greater (by a factor of 6.8) binding affinity to M
pro
E166V
than nirmatrelvir. SARS-CoV-2
WK521
WT
selected with 5h acquired A191T substitution in M
pro
(SARS-CoV-2
WK521
A191T
) and better replicated in the presence of 5h, than SARS-CoV-2
WK521
WT
. However, no significant enzymatic or structural changes in M
pro
A191T
were observed. The replicability of SARS-CoV-2
WK521
E166V
proved to be compromised compared to SARS-CoV-2
WK521
WT
but predominated over SARS-CoV-2
WK521
WT
in the presence of nirmatrelvir. The replicability of SARS-CoV-2
WK521
A191T
surpassed that of SARS-CoV-2
WK521
WT
in the absence of 5h, confirming that A191T confers enhanced viral fitness. The present data should shed light on the understanding of the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2’s drug resistance acquisition and the development of resistance-repellant COVID-19 therapeutics.
Repression of Root Maggot,
Bradysia odoriphaga
through Soil Solarization in China
Authors: Hu Jingrong , Shi Caihua
Published: September 2024

The widespread distribution of
Bradysia odoriphaga
across China encompasses over 30 host plant species, including Chinese chives. Insecticide application represents the predominant approach for managing
B. odoriphaga
; however, this method poses risks of pesticide residue accumulation and associated health concerns. Recently, it has been demonstrated that soil solarization offers an alternative strategy for controlling
B. odoriphaga
infestations in Chinese chive fields without relying on chemical interventions. By elevating soil temperatures through solarization, effective eradication of
B. odorphiga
can be achieved while preserving the integrity of Chinese chive roots. This technological advancement lays the groundwork for future pest and disease management by leveraging differential temperature tolerances between hosts and pests.

Information

© The Authors 2024
Defect engineering strategies in monolayer VSe2 for enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction: a computational study
Authors: Hassan Rabia , Ma Fei , Li Yan , Hassan Rehan
Published: September 2024

Defect engineering is a powerful strategy for enhancing the catalytic properties of monolayer VSe2. In this work, we used density functional theory (DFT) to investigate the impact of point defects and hydrogen adsorption sites on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of VSe2. We analyzed the formation energies and hydrogen adsorption behavior of single and double vacancies in VSe2. The results show that V vacancy defect (D2), consecutive V-Se double vacancy defect (D3), and separate V-Se double defect (D4) exhibit the enhanced HER activity with Gibbs free energies (ΔG
H* = 0.04 eV, 0.04 eV and 0.06 eV, respectively) even surpassing that of platinum (ΔG
H* = − 0.1 eV). This study highlights the potential of defect-engineered VSe2 for efficient hydrogen evolution.
Generation of pulses and multiplying their repetition rate using the temporal fractional Talbot effect
Authors: Shakhmuratov Rustem
Published: September 2024

The generation of pulses from a periodic phase-modulated continuous wave (CW) laser field, which is transmitted through a group-delay-dispersion (GDD) circuit, is considered. A time lens (TL), consisting of a quadratic phase modulator and a GDD circuit is proposed in combination with temporal array illuminators (TAI) using another GDD circuit. The time lens producing field compression into pulses is realized for a particular value of the normalized fractional Talbot length (NFTL)

L

/

L

T

=

P

1

/

Q

1

, where L is the physical length of the GDD circuit, L

T
is the Talbot length,

P

1

=
1

, and Q
1 is an integer. The length of the GDD circuit is selected to convert a given parabolic phase-modulated CW laser field into short pulses repeated with a phase modulation period T in accordance with the chirp radar concept. If NFTL is increased by

1

/

Q

2

, where

Q

2

=
4

, 6, or 8, the pulse sequence period is shortened as

T

/

2

,

T

/

3

, and

T

/

4

, respectively. This is because the additional GDD circuit with NFTL

1

/

Q

2

, performs repetition rate multiplication of the initially prepared pulse sequence as TAI does. The maximum multiplication number considered in this paper is 12, which makes it possible to reduce the time interval between pulses by a factor of 12 and obtain a repetition rate 120 GHZ of picosecond pulses generated by phase modulation with frequency

f
=
1

/

T
=
10

GHz. The proposed method of pulse sequence generation with a discretely tunable period provides a new tool for optical signal processing in optical communication.
BSN: The First Light Curve Analysis of the Total Eclipse Binary System EL Tuc
Authors: Sarvari Elham , Fernández Lajús Eduardo , Poro Atila
Published: September 2024

We conducted the first light curve study of the binary star EL Tuc within the Binary Systems of South and North project’s framework. The photometric observations were made using standard multiband BVR

c

I

c
filters at an observatory in Argentina. We presented a new ephemeris for EL Tuc and a linear fit to the O – C diagram, utilizing our extracted times of minima and additional literature. We employed the PHysics Of Eclipsing BinariEs Python code and the Markov chain Monte Carlo approach for the system’s light curve analysis. The target system’s light curve solution required a cold starspot on the hotter component. We conclude that EL Tuc is a total contact binary system with a low mass ratio of q = 0.172 ± 0.002, an orbital inclination of i = 83.°74 ± 0.°40, and a fillout factor of f = 53.7% ± 1.6%. We used the P–a relationship and the Gaia Data Release 3 parallax method to determine the absolute parameters of EL Tuc to compare the precision of our results. This system was classified as W-type based on the mass and effective temperature of the companion stars. The positions of the systems were depicted on the M–L, M–R, T–M, and q–L
ratio diagrams. The relationship between the spectroscopic and photometric mass ratios of binaries was discussed.
Momentary Associations Between Physical Activity, Affect, and Purpose in Life
Authors: Kekäläinen Tiia , Luchetti Martina , Terracciano Antonio , Gamaldo Alyssa A , Sliwinski Martin J , Sutin Angelina R
Published: September 2024

Background

Physical activity is associated with both the hedonic (e.g., affect) and eudaimonic (e.g., purpose in life) aspects of well-being. While there is evidence linking momentary physical activity and affect in daily life, the examination of momentary purpose remains largely unexplored.

Purpose

This study investigates the bidirectional associations between physical activity, positive and negative affect, and momentary purpose using Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) and accelerometer data.

Methods

Middle-aged participants (40–70 years old, n = 291) wore accelerometers and completed three daily EMA surveys on momentary experiences for 8 consecutive days. Physical activity (active time and counts) from 20- to 60-min periods before and after EMA surveys were used in the analyses. Multilevel models were adjusted for temporal and contextual factors, age, sex, education, work status, and race/ethnicity.

Results

When participants were more physically active than usual, they reported feeling more purpose-driven and positive affect. Similarly, when participants reported feeling more purpose-driven or experiencing positive affect, they engaged in more physical activity in the subsequent time period. These associations were similar for physical activity from 20- to 60-min periods before and after the EMA survey. Physical activity and negative affect were not related in either direction.

Conclusions

In middle-aged adults’ daily lives, physical activity has bidirectional relations with purpose and positive affect. This study highlights the dynamic associations between physical activity and the positive aspects of both hedonic and eudaimonic well-being. Future interventions or public health programs should integrate physical activity and mental well-being to maximize mutual benefits.
Toward the genetic suppression of Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) through CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing of spermatogenesis-related genes, Tssk1 and topi for imparting male sterility
Authors: Ashok Karuppannasamy , Bhargava Chikmagalur Nagaraja , Pradeep Chalapathi , Pradhan Sanjay Kumar , Jha Girish Kumar , Maligeppagol Manamohan , Shivanna Bynakal , Asokan Ramasamy
Published: September 2024

Pest management based on CRISPR/Cas9-mediated site-specific mutations is an effective and environmentally safer strategy to suppress the pest population. However, the potential of this approach is yet to be tested on many important agricultural pests such as Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), a fit candidate for area-wide pest management. Therefore, in the present study, 2 spermatogenesis-related genes viz. Testis-specific zinc finger protein (topi) and Testis-specific serine protein kinase 1 (Tssk1) of B. dorsalis were edited to impart male sterility and its impact on further progeny. In this regard, topi and Tssk1 mutant populations deposited significantly fewer eggs per day (6.12 ± 0.36 and 3.60 ± 0.24, respectively) as compared to the control (11.16 ± 0.58 eggs per day). About the hatching rate, the above trend was observed, topi (44.51) and Tssk1 (30.04) as compared to the control (73.96). Furthermore, the total number of viable offspring for topi and Tssk1 populations decreased as a result of the cumulative progeny production ten days after the post-mating phase. It suggests that topi and Tssk1 from B. dorsalis could be potential targets for imparting male sterility in B. dorsalis.
Phylogeographical patterns match the floristic subdivisions: the diversification history of a widespread herb in subtropical China
Authors: Sun Zhixia , Yang Lihua , Kong Hanghui , Kang Ming , Wang Jing
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Subtropical China is dominated by evergreen broad-leaved forests (EBLFs) and is acknowledged as a critical region for its high floristic richness and endemism. Our understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms of such global biodiversity hotspots comes almost exclusively from long-lived tree species. Herbaceous plants represent critical biodiversity components in forests, but the diversification history of understorey herbs in subtropical EBLFs remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the phylogeographical patterns and demographic history of Oreocharis auricula, a widespread perennial herb endemic to the EBLFs of subtropical China.

Methods

Both chloroplast DNA sequences and single-copy nuclear genes were used to investigate the genetic variation among 657 individuals from 68 populations. Evidence from molecular dating, demographic history construction and species distribution modelling was also combined to infer the phylogeography and evolutionary history of O. auricula.

Key Results

Strong phylogeographical signals have been congruently observed using nuclear and plastid DNA markers, with the diversification patterns generally consistent with the recognized floristic subdivisions of subtropical China. Notably, we revealed an important phylogeographical barrier along the Nanling mountain range, which is also around a climatic transition at 24–26°N latitude in subtropical China, separating the south monsoon subtropical EBLFs from the mid-subtropical EBLFs. Demographic expansion and significant niche divergence were detected among the extant lineages, which may have diverged during the early Pleistocene.

Conclusions

The inherent characteristics of understorey herbs with limited dispersal and short generation time intensify the genetic divergence response of O. auricula to abiotic forces, contributing to the profound phylogeographical imprints of mountains and climate in such herbaceous flora. To further substantiate the generality of the identified patterns, it is paramount to extend phylogeographical investigations to other understorey herbaceous taxa in subtropical China. These results have expanded our understanding of the diversification processes of subtropical forests in China.
The impact of breast cancer radiation therapy exposure on the prevalence of breast arterial calcification
Authors: Ramin Seth K , Rubino Jessica , Austin-Strohbehn Judith M , Ali Thara , Jarvis Lesley , diFlorio-Alexander Roberta M
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Mammographic breast arterial calcification (BAC) is an emerging imaging biomarker of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in women. The purpose of this study was to assess if breast radiation therapy (RT) exposure impacts the screening utility of this imaging biomarker.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included women ages 40-75 years who underwent index screening mammography between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2012. Chart review was performed to extract data on the breast cancer RT exposure and CVD risk factors. Mammograms were reviewed for the presence of BAC. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine breast RT exposure and BAC, with adjustment for age, body mass index, smoking status, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, statin medication use, and antihypertensive medication use.

Results

Of the 1155 women included in this analysis, 222 (19.2%) had mammographic evidence of BAC, 122 (10.6%) had a history of RT exposure, and 39 (32%) women with RT exposure had mammographic BAC. Women with breast RT exposure had higher odds of BAC compared to women without (odds ratio: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.43, 3.28; P-value = .0008). However, this association became non-significant after multivariable adjustment, with the maximally adjusted model demonstrating an odds ratio of 1.52 (95% CI: 0.95, 2.40; P-value = .07).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that breast RT exposure does not impact the prevalence of mammographic BAC. Therefore, it does not affect its utility as an imaging biomarker of CVD risk.

Advances in knowledge

This is the first observational study addressing the knowledge gap pertaining to the influence of breast RT exposure on BAC.
Cardiovascular and diabetes outcomes among patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes after metabolic bariatric surgery or glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist treatment
Authors: Stenberg Erik , Ottosson Johan , Cao Yang , Sundbom Magnus , Näslund Erik
Published: September 2024

Background

With the increasing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, the availability of different treatment options remains essential. Studies comparing the outcomes of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists with those of metabolic bariatric surgery in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity are lacking.

Methods

Using propensity score matching, based on data from several nationwide clinical registries, patients who underwent primary metabolic bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy) were matched with patients who received glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists. Outcome measures included the occurrence of major cardiovascular events, microvascular complications, and potential side effects (alcohol/substance abuse, self-harm, and fractures).

Results

Over a mean follow-up of 7 years, major cardiovascular events occurred in 191 of 2039 patients (cumulative incidence 14.5%) in the surgery group compared with 247 of 2039 patients (19.6%) in the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist group (HR 0.75 (95% c.i. 0.62 to 0.91), P = 0.003). Patients in the surgery group had lower haemoglobin A1c values 5 years after treatment (mean difference 9.82 (95% c.i. 8.51 to 11.14) mmol/mol, P < 0.001) and fewer microvascular complications (retinopathy HR 0.88 (95% c.i. 0.79 to 0.99), P = 0.039; nephropathy HR 0.72 (95% c.i. 0.66 to 0.80), P < 0.001; and neuropathy or leg ulcers HR 0.82 (95% c.i. 0.74 to 0.92), P < 0.001), but a higher risk of alcohol/substance abuse (HR 2.56 (95% c.i. 1.87 to 3.50), P < 0.001), self-harm (HR 1.41 (95% c.i. 1.17 to 1.71), P < 0.001), and fractures (HR 1.86 (95% c.i. 1.11 to 3.12), P = 0.019).

Conclusion

Compared with glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist treatment, metabolic bariatric surgery is associated with superior metabolic outcomes and a lower risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, but a higher risk of alcohol/substance abuse, self-harm, and fractures.
Global Globin Network and adopting genomic variant database requirements for thalassemia
Authors: Halim-Fikri Hashim , Zulkipli Ninie Nadia , Alauddin Hafiza , Bento Celeste , Lederer Carsten W , Kountouris Petros , Kleanthous Marina , Hernaningsih Yetti , Thong Meow-Keong , Mahmood Muhammad Hamdi , Mohd Yasin Norafiza , Esa Ezalia , Elion Jacques , Coviello Domenico , Raja-Sabudin Raja-Zahratul-Azma , El-Kamah Ghada , Burn John , Mohd Yusoff Narazah , Ramesar Raj , Zilfalil Bin Alwi
Published: September 2024

Thalassemia is one of the most prevalent monogenic disorders in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). There are an estimated 270 million carriers of hemoglobinopathies (abnormal hemoglobins and/or thalassemia) worldwide, necessitating global methods and solutions for effective and optimal therapy. LMICs are disproportionately impacted by thalassemia, and due to disparities in genomics awareness and diagnostic resources, certain LMICs lag behind high-income countries (HICs). This spurred the establishment of the Global Globin Network (GGN) in 2015 at UNESCO, Paris, as a project-wide endeavor within the Human Variome Project (HVP). Primarily aimed at enhancing thalassemia clinical services, research, and genomic diagnostic capabilities with a focus on LMIC needs, GGN aims to foster data collection in a shared database by all affected nations, thus improving data sharing and thalassemia management. In this paper, we propose a minimum requirement for establishing a genomic database in thalassemia based on the HVP database guidelines. We suggest using an existing platform recommended by HVP, the Leiden Open Variation Database (LOVD) (https://www.lovd.nl/). Adoption of our proposed criteria will assist in improving or supplementing the existing databases, allowing for better-quality services for individuals with thalassemia.

Database URL: https://www.lovd.nl/