bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maize‐Tripsacum‐Teosinte allopolyploid (MTP), a novel dwarf mutant inducer tool in maize
Authors: Zhou Yang , Li Yang , Luo Lin , Zhang Delong , Wang Xingyu , Chen Yu , Zhang Yibo , Zhang Qiyuan , Luo Hanyu , Xie Pengfei , Du Yiyang , Duan Saifei , Zhou Yong , Yang Tao , Li Xiaofeng , He Ruyu , Li Yingzheng , Cheng Mingjun , Li Yan , Ma Zhibin , He Jianmei , Rong Tingzhao , Tang Qilin
Published: October 2024

Dwarf plant architecture facilitates dense planting, and increased planting densities boost the maize yield. However, breeding applications of dwarfing materials for maize are currently limited. There is an urgent need remove the obstacles to applying dwarf resources. Here, we innovated a new method to add a novel maize dwarf germplasm through the distant hybridization of Maize–Tripsacum–Teosinte allopolyploid (MTP) with maize. We identified ten independent dwarf families with unique characteristics. Five germplasms in our library were controlled by their respective dwarf genes. However, no allele was controlled by Br2. Subsequently, d024 in the library was successfully fine mapped, revealing its linkage to indel‐4 in ZmCYP90D1. The indel‐4 polymorphism regulates the expression of ZmCYP90D1 and is controlled by an upstream transcription factor (ZmBES1/BZR1‐5). The indel‐4 of ZmCYP90D1 allele, which reduces plant height, originated from Tripsacum, a wild variety of maize. However, d024 exhibits sensitivity to brassinosteroids (BRs), with lower castasterone levels in the internodes than that in the wild type. Furthermore, ZmCYP90D1 interacted with ZmFDXs and ZmNAD(P)H to positively regulate the downstream BR synthesis pathway. Additionally, we showed that introgressing the indel‐4 of the Tripsacum allele into modern hybrids ensures yield potential and improves the harvest index under high‐density conditions. Overall, as we begin to manufacture highly engineered dwarf materials using the MTP, this approach will solve the problems faced by corn dwarfs.
Allelic Variation of BnaFTA2 and BnaFTC6 Is Associated With Flowering Time and Seasonal Crop Type in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Wan Ming , Zhao Dawei , Lin Shengzhe , Wang Pengfei , Liang Baoling , Jin Qingdong , Jiao Yushun , Song Yixian , Ge Xianhong , King Graham J. , Yang Guangsheng , Wang Jing , Hong Dengfeng
Published: October 2024

Different ecological types of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), including winter, spring, and semi‐winter cultivars, exhibit varying flowering times and cannot be planted in the same cultivation areas. FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) plays a key role in regulating flowering. In allotetraploid B. napus six copies of FT (BnaFT) have been reported. However, there is uncertainty about how the translated products of each paralog, as well as cis‐allelic variations at each locus, contribute functionally to flowering time and define specific crop types. In this study, we confirm that BnaFT exhibit distinct expression patterns in different crop types of rapeseed. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system, we provide functional evidence that the mutants between Bnaft paralogues affects the regulation of flowering time. Furthermore, we identify a new haplotype of BnaFT.A2 that is associated with early flowering time, although this appears necessary but not sufficient to confer a spring type phenotype. Three haplotypes of BnaFT.C6 were further identified and associated with both flowering time and crop types. We speculate that variations in both BnaFT.A2 and BnaFT.C6 may have undergone diversifying selection during the divergence of seasonal crop types in rapeseed.
A Next‐Generation Combinatorial Genomic Strategy Scans Genomic Loci Governing Heat Stress Tolerance in Chickpea
Authors: Mohanty Jitendra K. , Yadav Antima , Narnoliya Laxmi , Thakro Virevol , Nayyar Harsh , Dixit Girish P. , Jha Uday Chand , Vara Prasad P. V. , Agarwal Pinky , Parida Swarup K.
Published: October 2024

In the wake of rising earth temperature, chickpea crop production is haunted by the productivity crisis. Chickpea, a cool season legume manifests tolerance in several agro‐physiological level, which is complex quantitative in nature, and regulated by multiple genes and genetic networks. Understanding the molecular genetic basis of this tolerance and identifying key regulators can leverage chickpea breeding against heat stress. This study employed a genomics‐assisted breeding strategy utilizing multi‐locus GWAS to identify 10 key genomic regions linked to traits contributing to heat stress tolerance in chickpea. These loci subsequently delineated few key candidates and hub regulatory genes, such as RAD23b, CIPK25, AAE19, CK1 and WRKY40, through integrated genomics, transcriptomics and interactive analyses. The differential transcript accumulation of these identified candidates in contrasting chickpea accessions suggests their potential role in heat stress tolerance. Differential ROS accumulation along with their scavengers' transcript abundance aligning with the expression of identified candidates in the contrasting chickpea accessions persuade their regulatory significance. Additionally, their functional significance is ascertained by heterologous expression and subsequent heat stress screening. The high confidence genomic loci and the superior genes and natural alleles delineated here has great potential for swift genomic interventions to enhance heat resilience and yield stability in chickpea.
Factors affecting development of pseudothecia produced by Venturia effusa in vitro
Authors: Charlton Nikki D. , Bock Clive H. , Boykin Debbie , Young Carolyn A.
Published: October 2024

Pecan scab, caused by Venturia effusa, is the most destructive disease of pecan in the south‐eastern United States. The fungus was assumed to perpetuate solely through asexually produced conidia. Yet the identification of heterothallic mating type idiomorphs has led to successful crosses producing pseudothecia in vitro. To investigate factors influencing the development of pseudothecia, three isolates of each mating type (MAT1‐1 × MAT1‐2) were crossed pairwise on oatmeal agar. Pseudothecial production and maturation were assessed at 4, 8, 12, 16 and 22°C, with incubation periods of 2, 3 or 4 months, either with or without light (0 or 12 h photoperiod) during maturation. There were significant effects of temperature, month and cross on the production of pseudothecia. Similar numbers of pseudothecia were produced at 4, 8, 12 and 16°C (1.8–2.3 pseudothecia), but significantly fewer at 22°C (0.1 pseudothecia). Pseudothecia remained immature at 22°C suggesting a cold period is required for ascospore maturation. The isolate and mating type cross affected the number of pseudothecia, with both MAT1‐1 and MAT1‐2 contributing to the number produced, which interacted with time. MAT1‐1 had the greatest effect on the number of pseudothecia produced, but this was modulated by MAT2‐2. At the highest temperature there were no differences among mating type crosses. Light had no effect on maturation of pseudothecia in this study. The results indicate the likely temperatures and durations required to produce pseudothecia in the field; ascospores may play a role as primary inoculum in the disease cycle of pecan scab.
Parvovirus B19 rebound outbreak 2024 and implications for blood‐ and plasma‐product safety
Authors: Farcet Maria R. , Karbiener Michael , Aberham Claudia , Powers Nicholas , Aue Daniel , Kreil Thomas R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Since the beginning of 2024, several European countries reported unusually high numbers of Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) infections. An increase in B19V incidence rate might have implications for blood products for direct transfusion, however, large data sets for analysis of this outbreak are missing.

Study Design and Methods

B19V nucleic acid testing (NAT) of plasma donations collected between June 2018 and May 2024 from mainly Central European countries (n = 9.6 million) and the United States (n = 70.7 million) was done to the individual donation level.

Results

In Central Europe, there was a marked increase in B19V incidence from November 2023 onwards, which peaked in April 2024 with a 33‐fold higher than average B19V incidence versus before the COVID‐19 pandemic. In the United States, a similar trend was seen, with a yet still 6‐fold lower increase than in Europe at the same time. The largest increase in B19V positivity was seen in the youngest plasma donor cohort.

Discussion

A B19V infection gap during the COVID‐19 pandemic is likely the basis for the rebound outbreak in 2023/2024, particularly in Europe. B19V NAT of millions of plasma donations provides for large scale numbers to solidify available epidemiology insight, and to support adequate risk assessments. Based on the situation it may be prudent to consider B19V NAT for blood components specifically directed towards transfusion to higher risk recipients, or alternatively, preselecting B19V seropositive individuals or advanced age donors at higher likelihood of seropositivity and thus lower risk of virus transmission.
Ethnographic film as world‐making: Connecting visual anthropology with Science and Technology Studies
Authors: Verstappen Sanderien , Davies Sarah R.
Published: October 2024

This article initiates a dialogue between Science and Technology Studies (STS) and visual anthropology. It demonstrates how ethnographic filmmaking can be an avenue for STS research, teaching, and thinking. Highlighting similarities between knowledge practices in the natural sciences and the social sciences, it conceptualizes filmmaking as a world‐making project. This is a new answer to the persistent question of how to understand the use of film as a research method. Our argument is based on a collection of short films made during an interdisciplinary course which explored the potential of ethnographic filmmaking for investigating the day‐to‐day doings of science and technology.
Hamiltonian System-Based Symplectic Framework for Analytical Vibration Analysis of Microplates
Authors: Hu Zhaoyang , Li Rui
Published: October 2024

The classical elasticity is inadequate for the dynamic analysis of microplates due to the size effect. This study incorporates a higher-order strain gradient theory into the Hamiltonian system-based symplectic framework and derives new analytical solutions for the free vibration of microplates. The analytical solutions are obtained using rigorous mathematical techniques, including separation of variables, symplectic eigen expansion, and superposition, without relying on predetermined solution forms. Hence, they are not restricted to Lévy-type boundary conditions. Using these analytical solutions, we present comprehensive vibration results for microplates and perform detailed parametric studies to explore the impact of length scale parameters on the natural frequencies. Given the growing demand for microplates in advanced engineering applications, the obtained analytical solutions are expected to facilitate their design and performance optimization.
A Conceptual Design Method Based on Concept–Knowledge Theory and Large Language Models
Authors: Chen Liuqing , Xia Duowei , Jiang ZhaoJun , Tan Xinyang , Sun Lingyun , Zhang Lin
Published: October 2024

To obtain innovative concepts in the design, designers often need to retrieve and use interdisciplinary knowledge. Concept–knowledge (C–K) theory emphasizes the role of knowledge and introduces the knowledge (K) space and concept (C) space, employing operators to transform the contents between these spaces. Some studies, based on this theory, have successfully provided designers with different forms of knowledge to stimulate concept generation. However, the amount of knowledge provided in these studies is limited, and they fail to offer convenient methods for knowledge retrieval and reasoning, making it challenging to meet the needs of conceptual design across different fields. This paper proposes an enhanced C–K method leveraging large language models (LLMs) to help designers retrieve knowledge and uncover potentially new concepts. Our method redefines the C space and K space within the context of LLMs, dividing the properties of concept into function, appearance, and technology, and requiring the knowledge to correspond to these properties, thereby facilitating a structured connection between concepts and knowledge. Based on this definition, we achieved flexible knowledge retrieval and concept ideation leveraging LLMs. We also conducted a case study on wearable devices to validate our method. The results showed that our method helped designers to retrieve professional knowledge and inspired them to create feasible and innovative concepts.
Reliable underwater multi-target direction of arrival estimation with optimal transport using deep models
Authors: Yang Zehui , Nie Weihang , Ye Lingxuan , Cheng Gaofeng , Yan Yonghong
Published: October 2024

Multi-target direction of arrival (DoA) estimation is an important and challenging task for sonar signal processing. In this study, we propose a method called learning direction of arrival with optimal transport (LOT) to accurately estimate the DoAs of multiple sources with a single deep model. We model the DoA estimation problem as a multi-label classification task and introduce an optimal transport (OT) loss based on the OT theory to capture the intrinsic continuity within the angular categories. We design a cost matrix for the OT loss in LOT approach to characterize the order and periodicity of the angular grid. The LOT approach encourages reliable predictions closer to the ground truth and suppresses spurious targets. We also propose a lightweight channel mask data augmentation module for deep models that use items related to the covariance matrix as input. The proposed methods can be seamlessly integrated with different model architectures and we indicate the portability with experiments on several typical network backbones. Experiments across various scenarios using different measurements show the effectiveness and robustness of our approaches. Results on SwellEx-96 experimental data demonstrate the practicality in real applications.
ENSO affects the North Atlantic Oscillation 1 year later
Authors: Scaife Adam A. , Dunstone Nick , Hardiman Steven , Ineson Sarah , Li Chaofan , Lu Riyu , Pang Bo , Klein-Tank Albert , Smith Doug , Van Niekerk Annelize , Renwick James , Williams Ned
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate a 1-year lagged extratropical response to the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in observational analyses and climate models. The response maps onto the Arctic Oscillation and is strongest in the North Atlantic, where it resembles the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Unexpectedly, these 1-year lagged teleconnections are at least as strong as the better-known simultaneous winter connections. However, the 1-year lagged response is opposite

in sign to the simultaneous response such that 1 year later, El Niño is followed by a positive NAO, whereas La Niña is followed by a negative NAO. The lagged response may also interfere with simultaneous ENSO teleconnections. We show here that these effects are unlikely to be caused by residual aliasing of ENSO cycles; rather, slowly migrating atmospheric angular momentum anomalies explain both the sign and the timing of the extratropical response. Our results have implications for understanding ENSO teleconnections, explaining observed extratropical climate variability and interpreting seasonal to interannual climate predictions.
The global loss of avian functional and phylogenetic diversity from anthropogenic extinctions
Authors: Matthews Thomas J. , Triantis Kostas A. , Wayman Joseph P. , Martin Thomas E. , Hume Julian P. , Cardoso Pedro , Faurby Søren , Mendenhall Chase D. , Dufour Paul , Rigal François , Cooke Rob , Whittaker Robert J. , Pigot Alex L. , Thébaud Christophe , Jørgensen Maria Wagner , Benavides Eva , Soares Filipa C. , Ulrich Werner , Kubota Yasuhiro , Sadler Jon P. , Tobias Joseph A. , Sayol Ferran
Published: October 2024

Humans have been driving a global erosion of species richness for millennia, but the consequences of past extinctions for other dimensions of biodiversity—functional and phylogenetic diversity—are poorly understood. In this work, we show that, since the Late Pleistocene, the extinction of 610 bird species has caused a disproportionate loss of the global avian functional space along with ~3 billion years of unique evolutionary history. For island endemics, proportional losses have been even greater. Projected future extinctions of more than 1000 species over the next two centuries will incur further substantial reductions in functional and phylogenetic diversity. These results highlight the severe consequences of the ongoing biodiversity crisis and the urgent need to identify the ecological functions being lost through extinction.
Environment-independent distribution of mutational effects emerges from microscopic epistasis
Authors: Ardell Sarah M. , Martsul Alena , Johnson Milo S. , Kryazhimskiy Sergey
Published: October 2024

Predicting how new mutations alter phenotypes is difficult because mutational effects vary across genotypes and environments. Recently discovered global epistasis, in which the fitness effects of mutations scale with the fitness of the background genotype, can improve predictions, but how the environment modulates this scaling is unknown. We measured the fitness effects of ~100 insertion mutations in 42 strains of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
in six laboratory environments and found that the global epistasis scaling is nearly invariant across environments. Instead, the environment tunes one global parameter, the background fitness at which most mutations switch sign. As a consequence, the distribution of mutational effects is predictable across genotypes and environments. Our results suggest that the effective dimensionality of genotype-to-phenotype maps across environments is surprisingly low.
The coevolution of fungus-ant agriculture
Authors: Schultz Ted R. , Sosa-Calvo Jeffrey , Kweskin Matthew P. , Lloyd Michael W. , Dentinger Bryn , Kooij Pepijn W. , Vellinga Else C. , Rehner Stephen A. , Rodrigues Andre , Montoya Quimi V. , Fernández-Marín Hermógenes , Ješovnik Ana , Niskanen Tuula , Liimatainen Kare , Leal-Dutra Caio A. , Solomon Scott E. , Gerardo Nicole M. , Currie Cameron R. , Bacci Mauricio , Vasconcelos Heraldo L. , Rabeling Christian , Faircloth Brant C. , Doyle Vinson P.
Published: October 2024

Fungus-farming ants cultivate multiple lineages of fungi for food, but, because fungal cultivar relationships are largely unresolved, the history of fungus-ant coevolution remains poorly known. We designed probes targeting >2000 gene regions to generate a dated evolutionary tree for 475 fungi and combined it with a similarly generated tree for 276 ants. We found that fungus-ant agriculture originated ~66 million years ago when the end-of-Cretaceous asteroid impact temporarily interrupted photosynthesis, causing global mass extinctions but favoring the proliferation of fungi. Subsequently, ~27 million years ago, one ancestral fungal cultivar population became domesticated, i.e., obligately mutualistic, when seasonally dry habitats expanded in South America, likely isolating the cultivar population from its free-living, wet forest–dwelling conspecifics. By revealing these and other major transitions in fungus-ant coevolution, our results clarify the historical processes that shaped a model system for nonhuman agriculture.
A cautious approach to subsidies for environmental sustainability
Authors: Segerson Kathleen , Polasky Stephen , Scheffer Marten , Sumaila U. Rashid , Cárdenas Juan Camilo , Nyborg Karine , Fenichel Eli P. , Anderies John M. , Barrett Scott , Bennett Elena M. , Carpenter Stephen R. , Crona Beatrice , Daily Gretchen , de Zeeuw Aart , Fischer Joern , Folke Carl , Kautsky Nils , Kremen Claire , Levin Simon A. , Lindahl Therese , Pinsky Malin L. , Tavoni Alessandro , Walker Brian , Weber Elke U.
Published: October 2024

Transformational change is possible, but design and implementation must seek to avoid lock-in
The road to the Paris Agreement
Landing the Paris Climate Agreement: How It Happened, Why It Matters, and What Comes Next
Todd Stern
MIT Press, 2024. 280 pp.
Authors: Wong Gifford J.
Published: October 2024

An ambassador invites readers behind the scenes of the historic climate pact
Confronting division with wisdom
The Road to Wisdom: On Truth, Science, Faith, and Trust
Francis S. Collins
Little, Brown, 2024. 288 pp.
Authors: Nusbaum Howard
Published: October 2024

Pandemic era partisanship inspired an agency leader’s search for better conflict resolution
In Other Journals
Authors: Lavine Marc S. , Lopez Bianca , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Suleymanov Yury , Uzogara Ekeoma , Hurtley Stella M. , Yeston Jake S.
Published: October 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
No cosmic sign of dark photon
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: October 2024

Dark matter envoy would dim Big Bang’s afterglow
The glutamate receptor antagonist ifenprodil inhibits hepatitis E virus infection
Authors: Klöhn Mara , Gömer André , He Qiyu , Brown Richard J. P. , Todt Daniel , Wang Lin , Steinmann Eike
Published: October 2024

Infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV) represents a global problem, with over 20 million people infected annually. No specific antiviral drugs are available for treating HEV infection, necessitating the development of novel targeted therapeutics. Here, we report that the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist ifenprodil, a clinically approved drug used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), is an HEV inhibitor in liver-derived cells.
In vitro
investigation demonstrates that ifenprodil suppresses viral protein expression in a dose-dependent manner in human hepatoma cells by inhibiting early stages of viral infection. We also found that ifenprodil modulates host cell intrinsic biological processes distinct from virus-induced innate immunity, inhibiting HEV RNA accumulation in primary human hepatocytes. Finally, the inhibitory effect of ifenprodil
in vivo
was also tested in rabbits challenged with the HEV-3ra CHN-BJ-R14 strain. Fecal virus shedding was below the limit of detection in two animals for both ribavirin-treated and ifenprodil-treated rabbits compared to vehicle-treated control animals. Our data demonstrate that ifenprodil is an effective anti-HEV compound with potential as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of HEV infection.
Growth-phase-dependent control of rRNA synthesis in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Mendes Felgueira Catarina A. , Schneider David A.
Published: October 2024

Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is one of the most well-studied model organisms used in the scientific community. Its ease of manipulation, accessible growth conditions, short life cycle, and conserved eukaryotic metabolic pathways make it a useful model organism. Consequently, yeast has been used to investigate a myriad of phenomena, from microbial to human studies. Most of the research performed using this model organism utilizes yeast cell populations when they are growing exponentially, a growth phase aptly termed exponential or log phase. However, log phase encompasses several yeast generations and ranges several hours of yeast growth, meaning that there is a potential for variability during this “homogenous” growth phase. Cells in log phase require robust ribosome biogenesis to support their rapid growth and cell division. Interestingly, during log phase, ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis (which is the first and rate limiting step in ribosome biosynthesis) has been shown to decrease prior to growth rate decline in stationary phase. In this study, we utilized several genomic and biochemical methods to elucidate the relationship between subphases of log phase and rRNA synthesis. Our results indicate that as yeast cells progress through subphases of log growth, both polymerase I transcription and rRNA processing are repressed. Overall, this study establishes a growth-phase-dependent control of rRNA synthesis that unexpectedly begins prior to the switch to stationary phase (i.e., pre-diauxic shift) as a putative mechanism of anticipating nutrient starvation.

IMPORTANCE

Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is a ubiquitously used model organism in a wide range of scientific research fields. The conventional practice when performing yeast studies is to investigate its properties during logarithmic growth phase. This growth phase is defined as the period during which the cell population doubles at regular intervals, and nutrients are not limiting. However, this growth phase lasts hours and encompasses several yeast cell generations which consequently introduce heterogeneity to log growth phase depending on their time of harvest. This study reveals significant changes in the transcriptomic landscape even in early stages of exponential growth. The overall significance of this work is the revelation that even the seemingly homogenous log growth phase is far more diverse than was previously believed.
Discovery of benzo[c]phenanthridine derivatives with potent activity against multidrug-resistant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Liang Yi Chu , Sun Zhiqi , Lu Chen , Lupien Andréanne , Xu Zhongliang , Berton Stefania , Xu Peng , Behr Marcel A. , Yang Weibo , Sun Jim
Published: October 2024

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb), the pathogen responsible for tuberculosis (TB), is the leading cause of bacterial disease-related death worldwide. Current antibiotic regimens for the treatment of TB remain dated and suffer from long treatment times as well as the development of drug resistance. As such, the search for novel chemical modalities that have selective or potent anti-Mtb properties remains an urgent priority, particularly against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Mtb strains. Herein, we design and synthesize 35 novel
b
enzo[c]
p
henanthridine
d
erivatives (BPDs). The two most potent compounds, BPD-6 and BPD-9, accumulated within the bacterial cell and exhibited strong inhibitory activity (MIC
90
~2 to 10 µM) against multiple
Mycobacterium
strains while remaining inactive against a range of other Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. BPD-6 and BPD-9 were also effective in reducing Mtb survival within infected macrophages, and BPD-9 reduced the burden of
Mycobacterium bovis
BCG in the lungs of infected mice. The two BPD compounds displayed comparable efficacy to rifampicin (RIF) against non-replicating Mtb (NR-Mtb). Importantly, BPD-6 and BPD-9 inhibited the growth of multiple MDR Mtb clinical isolates. Generation of BPD-9-resistant mutants identified the involvement of the Mmr efflux pump as an indirect resistance mechanism. The unique specificity of BPDs to
Mycobacterium
spp. and their efficacy against MDR Mtb isolates suggest a potential novel mechanism of action. The discovery of BPDs provides novel chemical scaffolds for anti-TB drug discovery.

IMPORTANCE

The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is a serious global health threat. There remains an urgent need to discover new antibiotics with unique mechanisms of action that are effective against drug-resistant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb). This study shows that novel semi-synthetic compounds can be derived from natural compounds to produce potent activity against Mtb. Importantly, the identified compounds have narrow spectrum activity against
Mycobacterium
species, including clinical multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, are effective in infected macrophages and against non-replicating Mtb (NR-Mtb), and show anti-mycobacterial activity in mice. These new compounds provide promising chemical scaffolds to develop potent anti-Mtb drugs of the future.
Trench-parallel mid-ocean ridge subduction driven by along-strike transmission of slab pull
Authors: Cui Qihua , Li Zhong-Hai
Published: October 2024

Trench-parallel mid-ocean ridge (MOR) subduction is observed and/or predicted on the present Earth and during geological history. Slab break-off normally occurs after such a MOR subduction, leading to an absence of local slab pull. The driving force of such MOR subduction is a puzzling issue. We realize that the MOR is generally dislocated by transform faults, which means that the MOR does not enter the trench simultaneously along strike. In this case, the slab pull does not vanish simultaneously along the entire subduction zone. Consequently, the trench-parallel MOR subduction may be driven by along-strike transmission of neighboring slab pull. We tested this idea using a series of 3-D, high-resolution numerical models. The results indicate that the transform fault (TF) and fracture zone (FZ) should not be too weak in order for the lateral transmission of slab pull. Such rheological strength of a TF/FZ is consistent with observation-based inferences and rheological analyses. In addition, the thermal structure and strength of oceanic plates neighboring the MOR also affect the MOR subduction: faster spreading MOR in a younger plate leads to easier subduction. Based on the model results and geological constraints, we propose a self-driven MOR subduction model, which highlights the role of along-strike transmission of slab pull during diachronic entry of MOR into the trench.
Early Pleistocene glacier ice preserved in permafrost in the eastern Canadian Arctic
Authors: Coulombe Stéphanie , Fortier D. , Lacelle D. , St-Onge G. , Guertin-Pasquier A.
Published: October 2024

Extensive amounts of glacier ice can be buried and preserved in the permafrost for thousands to millions of years under favorable conditions. Here, we combine sedimentological, cryostratigraphic, and geochemical techniques together with radiocarbon and paleomagnetic dating to show that relict early Pleistocene glacier ice was preserved in the permafrost on Bylot Island (Nunavut). The buried glacial ice sits on top of a 2.8–2.4 Ma fossil forest deposit, and the glacio-fluvial sediments overlying the ice has normal-reversed-normal magnetic polarities, suggesting that the ice was in place since at least 0.773 Ma. As such, this represents the oldest glacier ice preserved in Arctic permafrost landscapes and the earliest evidence of a Pleistocene glaciation in the eastern Canadian Arctic. The findings highlight the resiliency of ice-rich permafrost to degradation; however, the ongoing climate warming and/or recent geomorphic disturbances have now exposed the early Pleistocene age buried glacial ice to melting.
Small granivores remove the seeds of 25 plant species at similarly high rates in an old-field plant community
Authors: Frasier Hailey , Lucenay Joel , Gillis Evan , Verra Audrey J. , Jones Riley M. , Schamp Brandon S.
Published: October 2024

Plant species vary in the number, size, and character of seeds produced; consequently, there is considerable reason for granivores to differentially target the seeds of some species, impacting plant species abundance and coexistence. In an old-field plant community, we set out trays of seeds for 25 plant species to test for the influence of plant species identity, seed size, native status, and time across the growing season on granivory (i.e., seed removal rates). Most seeds (83%), regardless of species identity, were removed by granivores, and removal rates were higher earlier in the growing season. Forb seeds were removed at slightly higher rates than graminoid seeds (∼4% more seeds removed, on average), but seed removal rates were not influenced by seed size or plant native status. Seed removal rate differed for only 4% of plant species pairs and these differences were small (∼3 out of 20 seeds). Seed removal per plant species was not associated with the field abundance of that plant species. Similarly high removal rates of differently sized seeds suggest that several granivore guilds with different size preferences are present in the community. Temporal variation in removal rates suggests a strong influence of seed availability on granivore behaviour.
The struggle to anticipate the future: political uses, technological approaches, and moral debates on climate change
Authors: Perdomo J.C.
Published: October 2024

This paper explores major academic debates that address why, as our scientific understanding of climate change increases, controversies about its causes and responses multiply. To this end, this research presents a discussion of the literature on the political, technological, and social conditions that generate divergent ideas on climate change. This article is divided into three sections. First, it is argued that climate knowledge tends to be contextualized to local concerns. Second, inherent technical limitations of climate models limit a direct translation between global climate science and local policies. Third, greater knowledge could not resolve controversies on climate change since values are inevitably part of understanding and elaborating solutions. Due to the high complexity of climate change, the intellectual fragmentation of its study, and the multiplication of contradictory information, it is crucial to present a broad overview of current academic contributions to strengthen public debate and informed decision-making.
XY-VBS phase boundary for the square-lattice $$J_1$$-$$J_2$$ XXZ model with the ring exchange
Authors: Nishiyama Yoshihiro
Published: October 2024

The square-lattice $$J_1$$

J
1

-$$J_2$$

J
2

XXZ model with the ring-exchange interaction K was investigated numerically. As for the hard-core-boson model with the nearest-neighbor hopping $$J_1/2$$

J
1

/
2

, namely, the $$J_1$$

J
1

-KXY model, it has been reported that the ring exchange leads to a variety of exotic phases such as the valence-bond-solid (VBS) phase. In this paper, we extend the parameter space to investigate the phase boundary between the XY (superfluid) and VBS phases. A notable feature is that the phase boundary terminates at the fully frustrated point, $$J_2/J_1 \rightarrow 0.5^-$$

J
2

/

J
1

→
0
.

5
-

. As a scaling parameter for the multi-criticality, the distance from the multi-critical point $$\delta (\ge 0)$$

δ
(
≥
0
)

is introduced. To detect the phase transition, we employed the high-order fidelity susceptibility $$\chi ^{(3)}_F$$

χ
F

(
3
)

, which is readily evaluated via the exact-diagonalization scheme. As a demonstration, for a fixed value of $$\delta $$
δ
, the XY-VBS criticality was analyzed by the probe $$\chi ^{(3)}_F$$

χ
F

(
3
)

. Thereby, with properly scaling $$\delta $$
δ
, the $$\chi ^{(3)}_F$$

χ
F

(
3
)

data were cast into the crossover-scaling formula to determine the multi-criticality.

Graphic abstract
Bifurcation Analysis for the Generalized Nosé–Hoover System
Authors: Salih Rizgar H. , Sprott Julien C. , Mohammed Bashdar M.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the generalized Nosé–Hoover system. The original version of the system is a chaotic system designed to represent the interaction between a harmonic oscillator and a heat bath maintained at a constant temperature. Despite its simplicity in just three dimensions, it exhibits complex and unusual dynamics. This investigation focuses on studying local bifurcations, including Saddle-Node and Hopf bifurcations, of the generalized Nosé–Hoover system. In terms of cyclicity, the Lyapunov quantities technique is used to demonstrate that three periodic orbits can bifurcate from the Hopf point. This mathematical research contributes to understanding the equilibrium points, their stability and the dynamics of the nonlinear model when some of the parameters are varied.
The Role of Information Usage Between Information Sharing and Performance
Authors: Sener Abdurrezzak , Avcilar Mutlu Yuksel , Barut Mehmet , Yildirim Mehmet Bayram
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study was to provide a holistic approach to establishing dyadic relationships between information sharing and operational performance as well as between operational and organisational performances into an extended relationship between ultimate suppliers and ultimate customers from the suppliers’ point of view. We introduced mediating impacts of information usage between information sharing and operational performance and perceived logistics performance between operational and organisational performances. The empirical data obtained from 209 retailers via a survey reveals that the integrated relationships are valid and significant. The mediating impacts of both information usage and perceived performance of logistics play a significant role in performance relationships and are paramount to the success of organisations.
AI in the Courtroom: Enhancing Legal Decision-Making through Predictive Modelling
Authors: Varshini Surisetty Hima , Varma Gottimukkala Sarayu , Pati Peeta Basa , Prabhakar Priyanka , Parida Shantipriya
Published: October 2024

Legal outcome prediction or legal judgement prediction is the process of making predictions of the possible outcome of a legal proceeding based on its case file. This work focuses on the importance of allowing less privileged or marginalised groups to have better access to law services. This work discusses the implementation of 13 different deep learning models and the results obtained for each of them. The range of models employed encompasses a spectrum from basic perceptron models to more complex convolutional network models and encoder-based models. The models like multi-layer perceptron (MLP), convolutional neural network (CNN) model, BERT, LegalBERT, DistilBERT, RoBERTa and the different combinations of these encoder-based models are implemented. The input to these models is the case files and their corresponding judgement status. Four different classes of petitions and appeals, submitted to the court, were considered to train all the models. The efficiency of these models was tested in terms of various performance metrics like training accuracy, testing accuracy, training loss, validation loss and [Formula: see text]1 score.
EXPRESS: A Framework for Execution Time Prediction of Concurrent CNNs on Xilinx DPU Accelerator
Authors: Goel Shikha , Kedia Rajesh , Sen Rijurekha , Balakrishnan M
Published: October 2024

Deep learning Processor Unit (DPU) is a highly configurable CNN accelerator that supports a variety of CNNs and can be implemented with multiple instances on the same FPGA. Many applications deploy concurrent execution of different CNNs and in such a setting, an execution time predictor can help “optimize” the DPU configurations to meet the performance requirements of different tasks. We characterize CNN execution on DPUs and reduce the variability in execution time due to interference from the operating system. Subsequently, we propose a machine learning-based framework (EXPRESS) to predict the execution time of any given CNN on a DPU configuration, considering CNN, DPU, and bus characteristics. We improvise EXPRESS to support heterogeneous CNNs in EXPRESS-2.0 by making features independent of the number of CNNs. Our entire experimentation is based on data from a real FPGA board for 16 standard CNNs. Our frameworks, EXPRESS and EXPRESS-2.0, significantly outperform state-of-the-art by achieving an average execution time prediction error of 2.2% and 0.7%, respectively. We illustrate the effectiveness of this low prediction error for design space exploration, which is very useful for embedded system application developers.
Towards a Hierarchical User Requirement Structure for Upper Limb Assistive Robotics
Authors: Frennert Susanne , Pozzi Maria , Persson Johanna , D’Ippolito Mariagrazia , Mattia Donatella , Díez-Rodríguez Eva , Oliviero Antonio , Fernández-Canosa Sara , Villamayor Vega Fátima , Giannotta Alessandro , Rossi Simone , D’avella Andrea , Prattichizzo Domenico
Published: October 2024

This article presents the results of an interdisciplinary study encompassing data collected from 108 in-depth interviews and 15 participatory workshops aimed at exploring the requirements of a diverse range of stakeholders in relation to assistive augmentative technologies. The study involved 39 post-stroke patients with hand paresis, 39 individuals with spinal cord injuries affecting upper limb function, 38 relatives and 65 healthcare professionals. Through qualitative analysis of the accumulated data, this research identified the multifaceted needs, preferences and aspirations of the study participants. We propose a structured hierarchy for user requirements, inspired by Maslow's hierarchy of needs. At the foundation of this pyramid are the essential functional requirements, forming the bedrock for the subsequent layers. Moving hierarchically, we identified reliability and security requirements, followed by usability and user experience considerations, recognition requirements and, finally, personal growth and self-fulfilment criteria. The foundational functional requirements must be fulfilled before other aspects can take precedence, creating a systematic approach to address the diverse needs of individuals with upper limb disabilities. The pyramid of requirements identified may significantly contribute to the scholarly community and lay the foundation for the development of assistive robotics that align with the desires of individuals with upper limb disabilities.
Fabrication of Die Sink Electrochemical Machining Tools Using Low Melting Fusible Alloy and Polymer Based Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Rajakumaran Maran , Dvivedi Akshay
Published: October 2024

The present work introduces a novel approach to fabricating die-sink tools for electrochemical machining (ECM) using low-melting fusible alloy and additive manufacturing. Three methods are proposed, each bettering the previous in manufacturing sustainability. The versatility of the process enables the fabrication of die-sink ECM tools that are hitherto considered challenging to fabricate. Finite element analysis was used to simulate the temperature rise of the low-melting (50 °C) tool due to Joule heating, accounting for electrolyte flow under various process parameters. A novel validation method employed a thermostat temperature probe as a cathode. Experiments based on the simulation data revealed that for a 4 mm tool diameter, the tool is unlikely to melt at 3 A current, 200 μm inter-electrode gap, 11.97 S m−1 electrolyte conductivity, and 1.7 m s−1 electrolyte velocity. A pulsed power supply was subsequently used to improve heat dissipation, and ECM was successfully carried out using tools of various shapes, demonstrating the effectiveness of the developed fabrication methods.
Non-Invasive Bio-Impedance Imaging and Sensing for Medical Diagnostics and Industrial Applications
Authors: Kumar Ramesh , Ratnesh Ratneshwar Kumar , Chauhan Rajeev Kumar , Kumar Ashok , Singla Manish Kumar , Gupta Ramji
Published: October 2024

Bio-impedance-based imaging technique stands at the intersection of medical/industrial imaging techniques and is also known as electrical impedance tomography (EIT), imparting a non-invasive, value-powerful approach for imaging biological tissues and procedures. We begin by elucidating the essential standards underlying EIT, focusing on the size of impedance variations inside an object (plastic pipe) to reconstruct its inner conductivity distribution. Subsequently, we delve into the numerous programs of EIT across numerous fields and discuss recent experimental strategies and advancements aimed at mitigating these boundaries, such as novel electrode configurations, advanced reconstruction algorithms, and incorporation of complementary imaging modalities. Finally, we underscore the importance of experimental research in advancing the capabilities and packages of EIT as a valuable device in industrial monitoring, specifically in bedside tracking, process pipelines, tank monitoring and also used for other medical or industrial detection, even as additionally exploring its rising roles in commercial and environmental applications.
Enhanced Sensing of Diseased Blood Samples through One-Dimensional MgO-SiO2 Photonic Crystal Sensor
Authors: J. Vaijayanthimala , A. Pon Bharathi , M. Ramkumar Raja , U. Arun Kumar
Published: October 2024

In this investigation, we present a tailored one-dimensional photonic crystal sensor (1D PCS), magnesium oxide (MgO) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) layers designed for the specific detection of diseased blood samples components, including plasma, platelets, red blood cells, and uric acid concentrations. The sensor structure is architecturally optimized for 6, 8,10,12,14, and 20 periods, encapsulating a central defect cavity that facilitates the interaction with the blood samples. Upon introducing the blood samples into this cavity, the transmittance spectrum is meticulously analyzed using the transfer matrix method to observe the variations in the defect mode’s wavelength. The study is conducted over a range of incident waves from wavelength 450 to 750 μm, enhancing the understanding of the sensor’s effect on the detection mechanism. In this context, our sensor demonstrates a remarkable sensitivity of approximately 815 nm per refractive index unit (RIU-1). It achieves a detection limit of 10–5, showcasing an exceptional ability to detect low concentrations of the infected blood components.Moreover, Q Factor of 3795 and FOM of 3369.18 indicate the sensor’s high precision in differentiating between healthy and infected blood samples.These findings underscore the potential of the proposed MgO-SiO2-based 1D PhC sensor in serving as a high-fidelity tool for biosensing application.
Review—Advancements in 2D Materials-Based Biosensors for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Alharthi Sarah , Ghobashy Mohamed Mohamady , Amin Lamiaa Galal , Mahmoud Safwat A. , Boraie Waleed E. , Madani Mohamed , Al-Gahtany Samera Ali , Darwesh Reem , Sharshir A. I. , Attia Mohamed S.
Published: October 2024

Rapidly developing two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as MoS2, graphene, and other transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), have opened new possibilities for biosensing technologies. These materials exhibit unique electrical, mechanical, and optical properties, making them ideal candidates for highly sensitive and selective biosensors. This review explores using 2D materials in biosensor applications, focusing on the piezoelectric properties of materials like MoS2 to detect biomolecules and disease markers. Moreover, integrating 2D materials in various biosensor platforms, such as electrochemical, optical, and piezoelectric sensors, highlights their potential to revolutionize healthcare diagnostics and environmental monitoring. The review also discusses the challenges and future directions for optimizing these biosensors for real-world applications.
Chronic central nervous system leptin administration attenuates kidney dysfunction and injury in a model of ischemia/reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: do Carmo Jussara M. , Hall John E. , Furukawa Luzia N. S. , Woronik Viktoria , Dai Xuemei , Ladnier Emily , Wang Zhen , Omoto Ana C. M. , Mouton Alan , Li Xuan , Luna-Suarez Emilio M. , da Silva Alexandre A.
Published: October 2024

A major new finding of this study is that chronic activation of leptin receptors in the CNS markedly attenuates acute kidney injury and protects against severe renal dysfunction after ischemia/reperfusion, independently of leptin’s anorexic effects.
Greater lactate accumulation does not alter peripheral concentrations of key appetite-regulating neuropeptides
Authors: McCarthy Seth F. , Bornath Derek P. D. , Tucker Jessica A. L. , Cohen Tamara R. , Medeiros Philip J. , Hazell Tom J.
Published: October 2024

Current evidence supports lactate’s role in exercise-induced appetite suppression. Here, we demonstrate a smaller degree of lactate accumulation with sodium bicarbonate ingestion and HIIT than our previous work and no subsequent suppression of acylated ghrelin concentrations, subjective appetite perceptions, or peripheral concentrations of neuropeptides. These results suggest either changes in central appetite-regulating neuropeptides are not reflected peripherally or the smaller magnitude of lactate accumulation did not generate exercise-induced appetite suppression as seen previously.