bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dynamic Forecast: An Evolving Prediction of the 2024 Presidential Election
Authors: Lindsay Spencer C. , Allen Levi G.
Published: October 2024

In this article, we build a model to predict the state-level results of the 2024 election. We do so by using both polling from similar points in past election cycles and the results of the previous election. Notably, we update our model over time, and the coefficients of the two variables change as a result: the model puts more weight on polling as the election gets closer. As of September 1, 2024, we find that Kamala Harris is a narrow favorite to win the 2024 election, with a 57% chance of doing so. Currently, the model predicts she will win 289 electoral votes to Trump’s 249. However, there remains significant uncertainty, and the model will continue to be updated as the election nears.
Introduction to Forecasting the 2024 US Elections
Authors: Mongrain Philippe , Stegmaier Mary
Published: October 2024

This Special Issue presents a wide array of election forecasting models for the 2024 US elections. Most of these models generate forecasts for the presidential, congressional, and gubernatorial races. The contributions are characterized by the variety of their approaches: citizen forecasting, electronic markets, large language models, machine learning, poll-based models, and regression analysis. This introduction first summarizes some of the lessons and challenges of election forecasting. We then provide a brief context of the 2024 campaign and a short overview of the articles included in the Special Issue. The forecasts point to a tight presidential race. The two-party popular-vote predictions are almost evenly split, with some favoring Donald Trump and others Kamala Harris. However, among the models that offer an Electoral College forecast, three predict that Harris will win and five predict that Trump will return to the presidency.
Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Posthumous Dignity Therapy Schedule of Questions to Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Bennemann Ana Carolina Kotinda , Paiva Carlos Eduardo , Julião Miguel , Chochinov Harvey Max , Marques Céline , Costa Ricardo Filipe Alves , Oliveira Lívia Costa , Uchida Miwa Michelle , Trevizan Fulvio Bergamo , Valentino Talita Caroline de Oliveira , Paiva Bianca Sakamoto Ribeiro
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Dignity Therapy (DT) is a brief form of psychotherapy that helps people with life-threatening illnesses and their loved ones cope with emotional pain and demoralization. Unfortunately, not everyone has the opportunity to receive DT during their lifetime. Posthumous Dignity Therapy (PDT) was then devised to be administered to bereaved family members. However, PDT has not yet been validated or studied in the specific cultural and linguistic context of Portuguese-Brazilians. This study aims to fill this gap by validating PDT for the Portuguese (Brazilian) context.

Methods

Using Beaton’s methodology, including the processes of translation, synthesis, back-translation, evaluation by an expert committee, and pre-testing, the PDT Schedule of Questions underwent validation and cultural adaptation. The research was conducted in a Palliative Care Unit at a tertiary cancer hospital in Brazil.

Results

The questionnaire was translated, back-translated, and evaluated by the panel of experts, obtaining a Content Validity Index of 0.97. During the pretest phase, it was observed that the participant’s interview method needed to be changed from remote (telephone or videoconference) to in-person. Additionally, it was necessary to modify some terms related to death and dying, as they caused discomfort to the participants. As a result of this process, the PDT was modified, and adapted to the Brazilian cultural and linguistic reality.

Significance of results

This validation study will be significant for future DT research from the caregivers’ perspective and for projects aiming to implement this therapeutic modality in palliative care units, in addition to helping participants remember their loved ones better by providing a tangible legacy document that assists them emotionally and materially in coping with the grieving process.
Feasibility of mechanical rice transplanting in organic Italian rice system
Authors: Fogliatto Silvia , Zafferoni Giuseppe , Zefelippo Mario , De Palo Fernando , Airoldi Gianfranco , Dinuccio Elio , Vidotto Francesco
Published: October 2024

Rice cultivation in Italy is usually performed by direct seeding in flooded or in dry fields. Mechanical rice transplanting is a technique that can help control weeds and improve rice competition. To test the feasibility of the technique for different rice varieties in Italy, a study was conducted in the Lombardy region (northwest Italy), from 2016 to 2018. The study also evaluated the efficacy of hoeing in transplanted rice fields. The experiment consisted of two studies, a ‘field plot experiment’ (conducted from 2017 to 2018) and an ‘on-farm transplanting trial’ (conducted from 2016 to 2018). The ‘field plot experiment’ was carried out using a split plot design to determine the optimal transplanting distances within the row (12 or 17 cm) and the most suitable rice varieties for transplanting. Hoeing was performed once in 2017 and twice in 2018. Weed infestation was assessed by counting the number of weeds within a randomly placed square frame in the interrow areas, both before and after hoeing. Rice plant density, panicle density, yield, and yield components were also assessed. The ‘on-farm transplanting trial’ tested transplanting in several farms over the years. Different rice varieties were transplanted using the same machines, and hoeing was performed according to a predetermined schedule. Transplanter performance was assessed as well as rice yield data in all fields, while four fields were selected each year to assess hoeing efficacy against weeds. ANOVAs were used to test the differences in weed control and rice parameters among varieties and transplanting distances. The ‘field plot experiment’ showed that the transplanting distance did not affect weeds or rice variety. Transplanting at 12 cm within the row resulted in a higher plant density compared to 17 cm, however tillering compensated for the difference in the number of panicles. Carnaroli consistently recorded the lowest yield, less than 2 t ha−1, while Selenio, Spillo, and Laser seemed to be better suited for transplanting achieving the highest yield in 2018 (about 7 ha−1). In the ‘on-farm transplanting experiment’ hoeing was effective in controlling weeds, although the machineries used were not always able to function properly in saturated soil. Most of the transplanted field yielded approximately 3 to 5 t ha−1. Varieties with round grain exhibited the greatest yield variability among fields. The study suggests that to achieve a high yield in organic rice, the transplanting technique should be combined with an effective interrow tillage to control weeds.
Design of compact signal source with reduced phase noise for airborne pulse Doppler RF sensor
Authors: Kumar Vipin , Ghosh Jayanta
Published: October 2024

In this article, a low phase noise signal source to be used as local oscillator in pulse Doppler radio frequency (PDRF) sensor is proposed. Innovative design techniques for realization of the low phase noise frequency source using phase-locked loop (PLL) and dielectric resonator (DR) are presented. Qualitative investigations have been carried out on the effect of phase noise in PDRF sensor performance. An X-band vibration resistant PLL-based frequency source with phase noise better than −95 dBc at 1 kHz frequency offset has been designed here. It also presents the design of a 7.6 GHz low phase noise, vibration resistant DR oscillator. Systematic analysis of the key design aspects, their thermal-vibrational stability, and ease of integration with hybrid microwave integrated circuits have been disclosed. A prototype board is fabricated, assembled in a compact mechanical enclosure of dimension 55 × 55 × 15 mm3. Finally, developed module is experimentally validated under 7.6 g rms magnitude random vibration test in three axes and compared results with other state of-the-art similar works. The comparison clearly shows the merit of present research work over other similar existing works.
Negative Asymmetric Response of Pantropical Gross Primary Productivity to Precipitation Anomalies
Authors: Fan Lei , Dong Guanyu , Ciais Philippe , Xiao Xiangming , Xiao Jingfeng , Chen Xiuzhi , Luo Yiqi , Niu Shuli , Jiang Fei , Frappart Frédéric , Wigneron Jean‐Pierre , Li Xing , Cui Tianxiang , Pan Li , Fensholt Rasmus
Published: October 2024

The carbon sink in pantropical biomes play a crucial role in modulating the inter‐annual variations of global terrestrial carbon balance and is threatened by extreme climate events. However, it has not been carefully examined whether an increase in tropical gross primary productivity (GPP) can compensate the decrease during precipitation anomalies. Using the asymmetry index (AI) and multiple GPP products, we assessed responses of pantropical GPP to precipitation anomalies during 2001–2022. Positive AI indicates that GPP increases are greater than GPP decreases during precipitation anomalies, and vice versa. Our results showed an average negative pantropical GPP asymmetry, that is, GPP decreases exceeded the GPP increases during precipitation anomalies. In addition, a positive AI was found in tropical hyper‐arid and arid regions, which is opposite to the negative AI observed in tropical semi‐arid, sub‐humid, and humid regions. This suggest that tropical GPP asymmetry changes from positive to negative as the moisture increases. Notably, a significant decreasing trend of negative AI was observed over the entire tropical region, indicating that the negative effect of inter‐annual precipitation variations on pantropical vegetation productivity has enhanced. Considering the model predicted increasing climate variability and extremes, the negative impact of precipitation variability on tropical carbon cycle may continue to intensify. Lastly, the divergence in AI estimates among multiple GPP products highlight the need to further improve our understanding of the response of tropical carbon cycle to climate changes, especially for the tropical humid regions.
Spatial Distribution of Critical Metals and Chemostratigraphy in Co‐Rich Ferromanganese Nodules in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Ren Jiangbo , Yang Yong , Yu Miao , Liu Jiancheng , Luo Shuaijie , Li Jie , Deng Xianze , Zhang Xiuzhan , Dong Fang , Zhang Limin , Wei Zhenquan , He Gaowen
Published: October 2024

Ferromanganese nodules are important marine storehouses for critical metals and windows for changing oceans. Although advanced in situ analytical techniques have been applied to visualize the elemental distribution in the nodule cross‐sections, their spatial distribution remains largely uncertain. This study addresses this gap by employing micro X‐ray fluorescence mapping of parallel nodule cross‐sections to delineate the spatial distributions of critical metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Ti, Ni, and Cu) in three Co‐rich ferromanganese nodules from the northwestern Pacific Ocean. The 10‐layer Os isotopic compositions of one nodule closely align with the well‐documented marine Os isotope evolution of seawater, providing a chronological framework and a maximum age of ∼36 Ma for these nodules. Three concentric chemostratigraphic layers, labeled L1, L2, and L3, were identified from the inside out, based on microscopic structures and the distributions of critical metals. The early growth stage was marked by Mn‐rich, Si‐rich, and high Mn/Fe ratios, suggesting a diagenetic‐driven process attributed to high paleoproductivity conditions because of the low latitude of the study area at that time. The subsequent growth stages are all hydrogenetic in origin to be rich in Fe, Co, and Ti with low Mn/Fe ratios. The apparent detritus present during the second growth stage of the nodules may correspond to the stronger bottom currents in the early Miocene. The final mineralization stage indicates a more stable environment with diminished bottom current activity, leading to the formation of a dense, laminar hydrogenetic layer.
Assessment of Meteorological Drought in a Changing Environment: An Example in the Upper Yangtze River
Authors: Shen Jiaju , Yang Hanbo , Liu Ziwei , Li Changming , Li Sien , Cui Yaokui , Yang Dawen
Published: October 2024

Recent studies have suggested that drought projections using Palmer drought severity index (PDSI) and standardized evapotranspiration precipitation index (SPEI) may overestimate drought severity. This overestimation occurs because the potential evapotranspiration (PET) calculations fail to consider the interactive effects of vegetation responses such as increased leaf area index (LAI) and constrained stomatal conductance, which are influenced by elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations ([CO2]). To address this issue, our study replaced the traditional Penman‐Monteith (PM) equation with a recently proposed PET equation that includes the effects of changing [CO2] and LAI to assess droughts at monthly scale in the Upper Yangtze River basin, which experiences the vegetation greening. The findings indicated a consistent increasing trend in drought conditions with minimal discrepancy between the two equations over the historical period (1986–2017). This consistency arises because the water‐saving effects of increased [CO2] and the greening effects of rising LAI largely counterbalance each other. However, for the future period (2018–2100), projections using PM equation predicted an intensification of drought conditions. In contrast, the improved SPEI indicated no significant drought variations, and the improved PDSI suggested a wetting trend. This divergence can be attributed to the water‐saving effects increasingly outweighing the greening effects, as PET shows a decreasing sensitivity to LAI with LAI increasing, but maintains a near‐constant sensitivity to elevated [CO2]. Consequently, the indices based on PM equation tend to overestimate future drought severity. Overall, this study demonstrates that the new PET estimation method is more capable of responding to the changing environment.
AniMAIRE‐A New Openly Available Tool for Calculating Atmospheric Ionising Radiation Dose Rates and Single Event Effects During Anisotropic Conditions
Authors: Davis C. S. W. , Baird F. , Lei F. , Ryden K. , Dyer C.
Published: October 2024

AniMAIRE (Anisotropic Model for Atmospheric Ionising Radiation Effects) is a new model and Python toolkit for calculating radiation dose rates experienced by aircraft during anisotropic solar energetic particle events. AniMAIRE expands the physics of the MAIRE + model such that dose rate calculations can be performed for anisotropic solar energetic particle conditions by supplying a proton or alpha particle rigidity spectrum, a pitch angle distribution, and the conditions of Earth's magnetosphere. In this paper, we describe the algorithm and top‐level structure of AniMAIRE and showcase AniMAIRE's capabilities by analyzing the dose rate maps that AniMAIRE produces when the time‐dependent spectra and pitch angle distribution for Ground Level Enhancement (GLE) 71 are input. We find that the dose rates AniMAIRE produces for the event fall between the dose rates produced by the WASAVIES and CRAC:DOMO models. Dose rate maps that evolve throughout the event are also shown, and it is found that each peak in the input pitch angle distribution generates a dose rate hotspot in each of the polar regions. AniMAIRE has been made available openly online so that it can be downloaded and run freely on local machines and so that the space weather community can easily contribute to it using Github forking.
Forecasting Lakes' Chlorophyll Concentrations Using Satellite Images and Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Nagkoulis Nikolaos , Vasiloudis Giorgos , Moumtzidou Anastasia , Gialampoukidis Ilias , Vrochidis Stefanos , Kompatsiaris Ioannis
Published: October 2024

Satellite data are extensively used for water quality monitoring purposes, offering a significantly reduced cost compared to in situ data sampling. Using past measurements to predict future conditions remains a challenging task, because of the complexity of the natural phenomena that are involved, with great potential in terms of water resources management. This paper proposes a model that can be used to forecast Chlorophyll‐ (Chl‐) values in water bodies, which are a common water quality indicator. The operation of the model lays on the fact that typically Chl‐ increases and decreases periodically. First, we apply C2RCC, which is a common atmospheric correction algorithm, to Sentinel‐2 images to get Chl‐ maps for 15 lakes for 12 consecutive months around Europe. Then, we use this data set (1,000 Sentinel‐2 images) to train a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) to recognize spatiotemporal patterns. To accomplish this task, pix2pix algorithm is employed, matching consecutive past and current Chl‐ maps to future Chl‐ maps. This model has been applied to 3 water bodies around Europe that are not included in the 15‐lakes training data set and has been found to perform accurately, achieving high Pearson and Spearman correlations and low RMSE values. Overall, the model can be used to make Chl‐ maps' predictions with low computational cost and without using any in situ data and without the requirement of training for every water body.
Periostin+ myeloid cells improved long bone regeneration in a mechanosensitive manner
Authors: Wang Ziyan , Lin Minmin , Pan Yonghao , Liu Yang , Yang Chengyu , Wu Jianqun , Wang Yan , Yan Bingtong , Zhou Jingjing , Chen Rouxi , Liu Chao
Published: October 2024

Myeloid cells are pivotal in the inflammatory and remodeling phases of fracture repair. Here, we investigate the effect of periostin expressed by myeloid cells on bone regeneration in a monocortical tibial defect (MTD) model. In this study, we show that periostin is expressed by periosteal myeloid cells, primarily the M2 macrophages during bone regeneration. Knockout of periostin in myeloid cells reduces cortical bone thickness, disrupts trabecular bone connectivity, impairs repair impairment, and hinders M2 macrophage polarization. Mechanical stimulation is a regulator of periostin in macrophages. By activating transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), it increases periostin expression in macrophages and induces M2 polarization. This mechanosensitive effect also reverses the delayed bone repair induced by periostin deficiency in myeloid cells by strengthening the angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling. In addition, transplantation of mechanically conditioned macrophages into the periosteum over a bone defect results in substantially enhanced repair, confirming the critical role of macrophage-secreted periostin in bone repair. In summary, our findings suggest that mechanical stimulation regulates periostin expression and promotes M2 macrophage polarization, highlighting the potential of mechanically conditioned macrophages as a therapeutic strategy for enhancing bone repair.
Versatility of 14-3-3 proteins and their roles in bone and joint-related diseases
Authors: Zhou Renpeng , Hu Weirong , Ma Peter X. , Liu Chuan-ju
Published: October 2024

Bone and joint-related diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and bone tumors, pose significant health challenges due to their debilitating effects on the musculoskeletal system. 14-3-3 proteins, a family of conserved regulatory molecules, play a critical role in the pathology of these diseases. This review discusses the intricate structure and multifunctionality of 14-3-3 proteins, their regulation of signaling pathways, and their interactions with other proteins. We underscore the significance of 14-3-3 proteins in the regulation of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes, and bone remodeling, all key factors in the maintenance and dysfunction of bone and joint systems. Specific focus is directed toward elucidating the contribution of 14-3-3 proteins in the pathology of OA, RA, and bone malignancies, where dysregulated 14-3-3-mediated signaling cascades have been implicated in the disease processes. This review illuminates how the perturbation of 14-3-3 protein interactions can lead to the pathological manifestations observed in these disorders, including joint destruction and osteolytic activity. We highlight cutting-edge research that positions 14-3-3 proteins as potential biomarkers for disease progression and as innovative therapeutic targets, offering new avenues for disease intervention and management.
Animal life in the shallow subseafloor crust at deep-sea hydrothermal vents
Authors: Bright Monika , Gollner Sabine , de Oliveira André Luiz , Espada-Hinojosa Salvador , Fulford Avery , Hughes Ian Vincent , Hourdez Stephane , Karthäuser Clarissa , Kolar Ingrid , Krause Nicole , Le Layec Victor , Makovec Tihomir , Messora Alessandro , Mitchell Jessica , Pröts Philipp , Rodríguez-Ramírez Ivonne , Sieler Fanny , Sievert Stefan M. , Steger Jan , Tinta Tinkara , Winter Teresa Rosa Maria , Bright Zach , Coffield Russel , Hill Carl , Ingram Kris , Paris Alex
Published: October 2024

It was once believed that only microbes and viruses inhabited the subseafloor crust beneath hydrothermal vents. Yet, on the seafloor, animals like the giant tubeworm Riftia pachyptila thrive. Their larvae are thought to disperse in the water column, despite never being observed there. We hypothesized that these larvae travel through the subseafloor via vent fluids. In our exploration, lifting lobate lava shelves revealed adult tubeworms and other vent animals in subseafloor cavities. The discovery of vent endemic animals below the visible seafloor shows that the seafloor and subseafloor faunal communities are connected. The presence of adult tubeworms suggests larval dispersal through the recharge zone of the hydrothermal circulation system. Given that many of these animals are host to dense bacterial communities that oxidize reduced chemicals and fix carbon, the extension of animal habitats into the subseafloor has implications for local and regional geochemical flux measurements. These findings underscore the need for protecting vents, as the extent of these habitats has yet to be fully ascertained.
Identification of Shemin pathway genes for tetrapyrrole biosynthesis in bacteriophage sequences from aquatic environments
Authors: Wegner Helen , Roitman Sheila , Kupczok Anne , Braun Vanessa , Woodhouse Jason Nicholas , Grossart Hans-Peter , Zehner Susanne , Béjà Oded , Frankenberg-Dinkel Nicole
Published: October 2024

Tetrapyrroles such as heme, chlorophyll, and vitamin B12 are essential for various metabolic pathways. They derive from 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), which can be synthesized by a single enzyme (5-ALA synthase or AlaS, Shemin pathway) or by a two-enzyme pathway. The genomes of some bacteriophages from aquatic environments carry various tetrapyrrole biosynthesis genes. Here, we analyze available metagenomic datasets and identify alaS homologs (viral alaS, or valaS) in sequences corresponding to marine and freshwater phages. The genes are found individually or as part of complete or truncated three-gene loci encoding heme-catabolizing enzymes. Amino-acid sequence alignments and three-dimensional structure prediction support that the valaS sequences likely encode functional enzymes. Indeed, we demonstrate that is the case for a freshwater phage valaS sequence, as it can complement an Escherichia coli 5-ALA auxotroph, and an E. coli strain overexpressing the gene converts the typical AlaS substrates glycine and succinyl-CoA into 5-ALA. Thus, our work identifies valaS as an auxiliary metabolic gene in phage sequences from aquatic environments, further supporting the importance of tetrapyrrole metabolism in bacteriophage biology.
Antimicrobial and antibiotic-potentiating effect of calcium peroxide nanoparticles on oral bacterial biofilms
Authors: Bankar Neha , Latta Lorenz , Loretz Brigitta , Reda Bashar , Dudek Johanna , Hähl Hendrik , Hannig Matthias , Lehr Claus-Michael
Published: October 2024

Bacterial biofilms represent a prominent biological barrier against physical and chemical attacks. Disturbing the anaerobic microenvironment within biofilms by co-delivery of oxygen appears as a promising strategy to enhance the activity of an antibiotic. Here, we report the effect of oxygen-producing calcium peroxide nanoparticles (CaO2 NP) in combination with tobramycin sulfate (Tob). On Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms in vitro, the additive effect of CaO2 NP towards Tob activity enhanced biofilm eradication by 2 log compared to Tob alone. For natural biofilms grown in the oral cavity of human volunteers in situ, treatment by CaO2 NP alone slightly increased the fraction of dead bacteria from 44% in various controls, including Tob alone, to 57%. However, the combination of CaO2 NP with Tob further increased the fraction of dead bacteria to 69%. These data confirm the intrinsic antimicrobial and antibiotic-potentiating effect of CaO2 NP also in a clinically relevant setting.
Dairy cows inoculated with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1
Authors: Baker Amy L. , Arruda Bailey , Palmer Mitchell V. , Boggiatto Paola , Sarlo Davila Kaitlyn , Buckley Alexandra , Ciacci Zanella Giovana , Snyder Celeste A. , Anderson Tavis K. , Hutter Carl R. , Nguyen Thao-Quyen , Markin Alexey , Lantz Kristina , Posey Erin A. , Kim Torchetti Mia , Robbe-Austerman Suelee , Magstadt Drew R. , Gorden Patrick J.
Published: October 2024

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 haemagglutinin clade 2.3.4.4b was detected in the USA in 2021. These HPAI viruses caused mortality events in poultry, wild birds and wild mammals. On 25 March 2024, HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b was confirmed in a dairy cow in Texas in response to a multistate investigation into milk production losses1. More than 200 positive herds were identified in 14 US states. The case description included reduced feed intake and rumen motility in lactating cows, decreased milk production and thick yellow milk2,3. The diagnostic investigation revealed viral RNA in milk and alveolar epithelial degeneration and necrosis and positive immunoreactivity of glandular epithelium in mammary tissue. A single transmission event, probably from birds, was followed by limited local transmission and onward horizontal transmission of H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype B3.13 (ref. 4). Here we sought to experimentally reproduce infection with genotype B3.13 in Holstein yearling heifers and lactating cows. Heifers were inoculated by an aerosol respiratory route and cows by an intramammary route. Clinical disease was mild in heifers, but infection was confirmed by virus detection, lesions and seroconversion. Clinical disease in lactating cows included decreased rumen motility, changes to milk appearance and production losses. Infection was confirmed by high levels of viral RNA detected in milk, virus isolation, lesions in mammary tissue and seroconversion. This study provides the foundation to investigate additional routes of infection, pathogenesis, transmission and intervention strategies.
The individual and ecological characteristics of parental COVID-19 vaccination decisions
Authors: Hörnig Lukas , Schaffner Sandra , Schmitz Hendrik
Published: October 2024

Vaccination is a highly effective method to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate severe disease. In Germany, adult vaccination rates are relatively high at 85.5%, but rates are significantly lower for adolescents (69.6%) and children (20.0%). This discrepancy indicates that not all vaccinated parents choose to vaccinate their children. Analyzing data from a January 2022 online survey of 1,819 parents with children and adolescents, we explore the socio-economic factors influencing parents’ willingness to vaccinate themselves and their children. Our results show that individuals who vote for either side of the political extremes are less likely to vaccinate their children. This pattern is particularly strong for voters on the far right. In addition, we find that better educated parents are more likely to vaccinate both themselves and their children. Parents who vaccinate both themselves and their children demonstrate greater confidence in the vaccine’s effectiveness, while those who vaccinate only themselves are often motivated by a desire to regain personal freedoms. These insights highlight the need for targeted public health strategies to address specific concerns and improve vaccination rates among children and adolescents.
Proteo-genomic analyses in relatively lean Chinese adults identify proteins and pathways that affect general and central adiposity levels
Authors: Iona Andri , Yao Pang , Pozarickij Alfred , Kartsonaki Christiana , Said Saredo , Wright Neil , Lin Kuang , Millwood Iona , Fry Hannah , Mazidi Mohsen , Wang Baihan , Chen Yiping , Du Huaidong , Yang Ling , Avery Daniel , Schmidt Dan , Sun Dianjianyi , Pei Pei , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Hill Michael , Chen Junshi , Bragg Fiona , Bennett Derrick , Walters Robin , Li Liming , Clarke Robert , Chen Zhengming ,   China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: October 2024

Adiposity is an established risk factor for multiple diseases, but the causal relationships of different adiposity types with circulating protein biomarkers have not been systematically investigated. We examine the causal associations of general and central adiposity with 2923 plasma proteins among 3977 Chinese adults (mean BMI = 23.9 kg/m²). Genetically-predicted body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) are significantly (FDR < 0.05) associated with 399, 239, 436, and 283 proteins, respectively, with 80 proteins associated with all four and 275 with only one adiposity trait. WHR is associated with the most proteins (n = 90) after adjusting for other adiposity traits. These associations are largely replicated in Europeans (mean BMI = 27.4 kg/m²). Two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analyses in East Asians using cis-protein quantitative trait locus (cis-pQTLs) identified in GWAS find 30/2 proteins significantly affect levels of BMI/WC, respectively, with 10 showing evidence of colocalisation, and seven (inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H3, complement factor B, EGF-containing fibulin-like extracellular matrix protein 1, thioredoxin domain-containing protein 15, alpha-2-antiplasmin, fibronectin, mimecan) are replicated in separate MR using different cis-pQTLs identified in Europeans. These findings identified potential novel mechanisms and targets, to our knowledge, for improved treatment and prevention of obesity and associated diseases.
Functional MRI of imprinting memory in awake newborn domestic chicks
Authors: Behroozi Mehdi , Lorenzi Elena , Tabrik Sepideh , Tegenthoff Martin , Gozzi Alessandro , Güntürkün Onur , Vallortigara Giorgio
Published: October 2024

Filial imprinting, a crucial ethological paradigm, provides insights into the neurobiology of early learning and its long-term impact on behaviour. To date, invasive techniques like autoradiography or lesions have been used to study it, limiting the exploration of whole brain networks. Recent advances in fMRI for avian brains now open new windows to explore bird’s brain functions at the network level. We developed an fMRI technique for awake, newly hatched chicks, capturing BOLD signal changes during imprinting experiments. While early memory acquisition phases are understood, long-term storage and retrieval remain unclear. Our findings identified potential long-term storage of imprinting memories across a neural network, including the hippocampal formation, the medial striatum, the arcopallium, and the prefrontal-like nidopallium caudolaterale. This paradigm opens up new avenues for exploring the broader landscape of learning and memory in neonatal vertebrates, enhancing our understanding of behaviour and brain networks.
Candidatus Desulforudis audaxviator dominates a 975 m deep groundwater community in central Sweden
Authors: Westmeijer George , van Dam Femke , Kietäväinen Riikka , González-Rosales Carolina , Bertilsson Stefan , Drake Henrik , Dopson Mark
Published: October 2024

The continental bedrock contains groundwater-bearing fractures that are home to microbial populations that are vital in mediating the Earth’s biogeochemical cycles. However, their diversity is poorly understood due to the difficulty of obtaining samples from this environment. Here, a groundwater-bearing fracture at 975 m depth was isolated by employing packers in order to characterize the microbial community via metagenomes combined with prokaryotic and eukaryotic marker genes (16S and 18S ribosomal RNA gene). Genome-resolved analyses revealed a community dominated by sulfate-reducing Bacillota, predominantly represented by Candidatus Desulforudis audaxviator and with Wood-Ljungdahl as the most prevalent pathway for inorganic carbon fixation. Moreover, the eukaryotic community had a considerable diversity and was comprised of mainly flatworms, chlorophytes, crustaceans, ochrophytes, and fungi. These findings support the important role of the Bacillota, with the sulfate reducer Candidatus Desulforudis audaxviator as its main representative, as primary producers in the often energy-limited groundwaters of the continental subsurface.
A semi-transparent thermoelectric glazing nanogenerator with aluminium doped zinc oxide and copper iodide thin films
Authors: Al-Fartoos Mustafa Majid Rashak , Roy Anurag , Mallick Tapas K. , Tahir Asif Ali
Published: October 2024

To address the pressing need for reducing building energy consumption and combating climate change, thermoelectric glazing (TEGZ) presents a promising solution. This technology harnesses waste heat from buildings and converts it into electricity, while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. Here, we developed a TEGZ using cost-effective materials, specifically aluminium-doped zinc oxide (AZO) and copper iodide (CuI). Both AZO and CuI exhibit a high figure of merit (ZT), a key indicator of thermoelectric efficiency, with values of 1.37 and 0.72, respectively, at 340 K, demonstrating their strong potential for efficient heat-to-electricity conversion. Additionally, we fabricated an AZO-CuI based TEGZ prototype (5 × 5 cm²), incorporating eight nanogenerators, each producing 32 nW at 340 K. Early testing of the prototype showed a notable temperature differential of 22.5 °C between the outer and inner surfaces of the window glazing. These results suggest TEGZ could advance building energy efficiency, offering a futuristic approach to sustainable build environment.
Cryogenic quantum computer control signal generation using high-electron-mobility transistors
Authors: Ferraris Alberto , Cha Eunjung , Mueller Peter , Moselund Kirsten , Zota Cezar B.
Published: October 2024

Multiplexed local charge storage, close to quantum processors at cryogenic temperatures could generate a multitude of control signals, for electronics or qubits, in an efficient manner. Such cryogenic electronics require generating quasi-static control signals with small area footprint, low noise, high stability, low power dissipation and, ideally, in a multiplexed fashion to reduce the number of input/outputs. In this work, we integrate capacitors with cryogenic high-electron mobility transistor (HEMT) arrays and demonstrate quasi-static bias generation using gate pulses controlled in time and frequency domains. Multi-channel bias generation is also demonstrated. Operation at 4 K exhibits improved bias signal variability and greatly reduced subthreshold swing, reaching values of ~6 mV/decade. Due to the very low threshold voltage of 80 mV at 4 K and the steep subthreshold swing, these circuits can provide an advantage over the silicon-based complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor equivalents by allowing operation at significantly reduced drive bias in the low output voltage regime <1 V. Together with their high-speed operation, this makes HEMTs an attractive platform for future cryogenic signal generation electronics in quantum computers.
Biocompatible recombinant type III collagen enhancing skin repair and anti-wrinkle effects
Authors: Ye Mingzhu , Fan Yirui , Fu Caihong , He Huixia , Xiao Jianxi
Published: October 2024

Biocompatible and bioactive recombinant type III collagen (rCol III) for improved healing of UV-damaged skin.
Bending-induced enhanced spatial separation of dopants and long-lived conventional nanoribbon p–n junctions
Authors: Liu Xu , Yang Yu-Run , Wang Jing , Xu Rui-Ping , Liu Zhao , Liu Ying
Published: October 2024

Bending induces an enhanced doping preference in conventional nanoribbons, leading to significant spatial separation of p-type and n-type dopants and enabling the design of long-lived conventional nanoribbon p–n junctions.
Stochastic dynamics of hairballs in single-polymer growth
Authors: Jangid Pankaj , Punia Bhawakshi , Chaudhury Srabanti
Published: October 2024

A theoretical model is proposed to explain the growth-and-jump dynamics of polymer growth through hairball formation. The hairball can undergo conformational fluctuations, revealing the complex dynamics of the seemingly simple polymer growth process.
High accuracy uncertainty-aware interatomic force modeling with equivariant Bayesian neural networks
Authors: Rensmeyer Tim , Craig Ben , Kramer Denis , Niggemann Oliver
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate, that by using a novel adaptive step size method, high-quality Bayesian neural network inference via Markov chain sampling becomes practically viable for equivariant neural network architectures without a cold posterior effect.
Imine bond-directed assembly of polyoxometalate-based metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Yu Xiang , Xu Xinyu , Gao Lei , Luo Rengan , Liu Yi-Fan , Gu Yu-Hao , Yuan Shuai
Published: October 2024

A series of isostructural polyoxometalate-based MOFs were constructed by linking polyoxometalates and metal clusters with imine bonds under mild conditions.
Ruthenium, copper and ruthenium–copper complexes of an unsymmetrical phosphino pyridyl 1,8-naphthyridine PNNN ligand
Authors: Wu Jingyun , Stevens Michael A. , Gardiner Michael G. , Colebatch Annie L.
Published: October 2024

A new unsymmetrical dinucleating PNNN ligand is reported, the versatility of which is demonstrated by formation of heterobimetallic, homobimetallic and monometallic complexes.
Enhanced detection of aromatic oxidation products using NO3− chemical ionization mass spectrometry with limited nitric acid
Authors: Garmash Olga , Kumar Avinash , Jha Sakshi , Barua Shawon , Hyttinen Noora , Iyer Siddharth , Rissanen Matti
Published: October 2024

With limited concentration of reagent nitric acid (HNO3) in the nitrate ion-based chemical ionization mass spectrometry (NO3−-CIMS) we observed increased sensitivity towards many of the aromatic oxidation products.
Correction: High photocatalytic yield in the non-oxidative coupling of methane using a Pd–TiO2 nanomembrane gas flow-through reactor
Authors: Longo Victor , De Pasquale Luana , Tavella Francesco , Barawi Mariam , Gomez-Mendoza Miguel , de la Peña O’Shea Víctor , Ampelli Claudio , Perathoner Siglinda , Centi Gabriele , Genovese Chiara
Published: October 2024

Correction for ‘High photocatalytic yield in the non-oxidative coupling of methane using a Pd–TiO2 nanomembrane gas flow-through reactor’ by Victor Longo et al., EES. Catal., 2024, 2, 1164–1175, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00112E.
A polyamide and polyethylene multilayer composite with enhanced barrier and mechanical properties at high temperature
Authors: Fang Weiqing , Cheng Yu Hui , Pearson Adam , Huang Yige , Dargahi Ashkan , Duncan Mark , Runka Joel , Hammami Ahmed , Naguib Hani E.
Published: October 2024

An advanced multilayer thermoplastic composite, composed of Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PERT), Polyamide 12 (PA12), and Maleic Anhydride Grafted Polyethylene (MA), has been developed for high-temperature, high-pressure applications.
Tuning optical absorption in perovskite (K,Na)NbO3 ferroelectrics
Authors: Vetokhina V. , Nepomniashchaia N. , de Prado E. , Pacherova O. , Kocourek T. , Anandakrishnan S. S. , Bai Y. , Dejneka A. , Tyunina M.
Published: October 2024

Inhomogeneities of lattice strain can lead to substantial sub-gap optical absorption in perovskite oxide ferroelectrics.
Rutile-type metal dioxide (110) surfaces for the cyclic oxidation of methane to methanol
Authors: Naufal Farrel Dzaudan , Afifah Hasna , Wirmas Marleni , Agusta Mohammad Kemal , Saputro Adhitya Gandaryus , Yudistira Hadi Teguh , Staykov Aleksandar , Yoshizawa Kazunari , Mahyuddin Muhammad Haris
Published: October 2024

Strong Ir–C and Pt–C interactions promote heterolytic C–H activation and thus difficult HO–CH3 rebound, whereas a weak Mn–C interaction facilitates homolytic C–H activation leading to a stable ˙CH3 radical and a barrierless methanol formation.
Rapid identification of novel indolylarylsulfone derivatives as potent HIV-1 NNRTIs via miniaturized CuAAC click-chemistry-based combinatorial libraries
Authors: Gao Ping , Song Shu , Pannecouque Christophe , De Clercq Erik , Zhan Peng , Liu Xinyong
Published: October 2024

This article presents the rapid identification of novel indolylarylsulfone (IAS) derivatives as potent non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) for HIV-1 through a miniaturized click-chemistry-based combinatorial library approach.
Synthesis and evaluation of tetrahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]quinolin-1(2H)-ones as new tubulin polymerization inhibitors
Authors: Anisimov Mikhail N. , Boichenko Maksim A. , Shorokhov Vitaly V. , Borzunova Julia N. , Janibekova Marina , Mustyatsa Vadim V. , Lifshits Ilya A. , Plodukhin Andrey Yu. , Andreev Ivan A. , Ratmanova Nina K. , Zhokhov Sergey S. , Tarasenko Elena A. , Ipatova Daria A. , Pisarev Alexander R. , Vorobjev Ivan A. , Trushkov Igor V. , Ivanova Olga A. , Gudimchuk Nikita B.
Published: October 2024

New 1,5-disubstituted pyrrolidin-2-ones 1, 2 and 5-aryl-3,3a,4,5-tetrahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoline-1(2H)-ones 3 were explored as inhibitors of tubulin polymerization.
High density lath twins lead to high thermoelectric conversion efficiency in Bi2Te3 modules
Authors: Sun Qianqian , Wu Gang , Tan Xiaojian , Zhang Qiang , Guo Zhe , Pan Qiaoyan , Liu Guoqiang , Sun Peng , Wu Jiehua , Jiang Jun
Published: October 2024

By introducing the active telluride Ag9GaTe6 in p-type Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3, lath twin boundaries are induced as differential scattering centers for carriers and phonons, leading to improved ZT values and high thermoelectric conversion efficiencies.
Comb-like poly(β-amino ester)-integrated PEO-based self-healing solid electrolytes for fast ion conduction in lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Hui-Min , Geng Mengdi , Bai Jing , Zhou Dezhong , Hua Weibo , Liu Sheng , Gao Xueping
Published: October 2024

All-solid-state lithium–sulfur batteries (ASSLSBs) using comb-like poly(β-amino ester)-integrated PEO-based solid polymer electrolyte (PPAE–SPE) offer significant advantages in energy density and cycling stability.
A new planetary ball mill device with adjustable speed ratio for enhanced mechanochemical processes
Authors: Yntema Frank , Webster Cameron , Broumidis Emmanouil
Published: October 2024

A new planetary ball mill device capable of adjusting the speed ratio between the sun and planet disks is introduced, and its effect on the oxidative degradation of β-pinene is investigated.
Quasi-2D MIL-100 (Fe) synthesis via benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid self-assembly: organic dye adsorption at room temperature with dramatically enhanced kinetics
Authors: Rabiee Ghazal , Abbasi Alireza , Behbahani Mohammad
Published: October 2024

A quasi-2D MIL-100 (Fe) was synthesized via the self-assembly of BTC ligands, exhibiting significantly enhanced adsorption capacity and kinetics compared to its 3D counterpart.
The attract–kill inhibition mechanism in Ag/chitosan hydrogel for long-acting control of Ralstonia solanacearum
Authors: Chien Yi-Hsin , Lin Bo-Yan , Shih Han-Hsiang , Chen Chun-Yu , Chen Peng-Chieh
Published: October 2024

An encapsulated Ag/chitosan hydrogel with an “attract–kill” inhibition mechanism against Ralstonia solanacearum.
The synthesis of aryl amines enabled by rearrangement and demethylaromatization of cyclohexadienimines
Authors: Fang Xueyu , Xie Hongyan , Huang Hongkun , Wang Yu , Chen Tian , Yan Zhaohua , Yao Hua
Published: October 2024

The rearrangement and demethylaromatization of cyclohexadienimines (namely cyclohexadienone imines) were developed. m-Arylanilines and p-arylanilines were respectively generated under different conditions.
Theoretical mechanistic insights on the thermal and acid-catalyzed rearrangements of N-methyl-N-nitroanilines
Authors: Cheng Shi , Su Chongjie , Chen Tian , Xu Jiaxi
Published: October 2024

N-Methyl-N-nitroanilines generate radical pair complexes followed by aromatization under heating, while tandem N[1,2]-shift and radical pair complexes followed by tautomerization under acidic conditions rearrange to o- and p-nitro-N-methylanilines.
Photofluorochromic organic supramolecular compounds for multiple dynamic anticounterfeiting
Authors: Hua Yang , Huang Li , Shen Yuan , Huang Kun , Cui Wen-Bo , Li Zi-Yi , Zhang Hong
Published: October 2024

Photofluorochromic materials with highly efficient luminescence and color-changing behaviour displaying multiple dynamic anticounterfeiting and secure information encryption.
All-thiophene dendrimers based on cyclooctatetrathiophene: synthesis and aggregation-induced emission (AIE) features
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Zhao Chunmei , Qiu Shuai , Xu Wan , Li Chunli , Ma Zhiying , Cao Wei , Xu Li , Wang Hua
Published: October 2024

A novel class of all-thiophene dendrimers with obvious AIE emissions was designed and synthesized based on saddle-shaped cyclooctatetrathiophene (COTh) as building blocks.
Part I: determination of a structure/property transformation mechanism responsible for changes in the point of zero change of anatase titania with decreasing particle size
Authors: Leffler Miriam , Mirich Anne , Fee Jared , March Seth , Suib Steven L.
Published: October 2024

Below a diameter of approximately 28 nm, the surface crystal structure of anatase titania is known to change.
Synthesis of a nitrogen-rich dendrimer grafted on magnetic nanoparticles for efficient removal of Pb(ii) and Cd(ii) ions
Authors: Mirza Maziar , Bodaghifard Mohammad Ali , Darvish Fatemeh
Published: October 2024

The industrialization have presented a significant global challenge in removing heavy metal contaminants from wastewater. The prepared adsorbent showed good binding ability and excellent adsorption efficiency toward Pb(ii) and Cd(ii) metal ions.
Correction: Impact of ligand fields on Kubas interaction of open copper sites in MOFs with hydrogen molecules: an electronic structural insight
Authors: Nguyen Trang Thuy , Tran Hoan Van , Nguyen Linh Hoang , Nguyen Hoang Minh , Phan Thang Bach , Nguyen-The Toan , Kawazoe Yoshiyuki
Published: October 2024

Correction for ‘Impact of ligand fields on Kubas interaction of open copper sites in MOFs with hydrogen molecules: an electronic structural insight’ by Trang Thuy Nguyen et al., RSC Adv., 2024, 14, 26611–26624, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4RA03946G.
Linear scaling relationships in homogeneous photoredox catalysis
Authors: Kron Kareesa J. , Mallikarjun Sharada Shaama
Published: October 2024

In the photoredox catalytic cycle of CO2 reduction with organic chromophores, this work observes a linear relationship between the energies of (desirable) electron transfer to CO2 and (undesirable) carboxylation of the chromophore radical anion.
Binding of a single nitric oxide molecule is sufficient to disrupt DNA binding of the nitrosative stress regulator NsrR
Authors: Crack Jason C. , Le Brun Nick E.
Published: October 2024

The mechanism of NO sensing by the nitrosative stress regulator NsrR is elucidated. Binding of a single NO to one of the [4Fe–4S] clusters of dimeric NsrR results in dissociation of its complex with DNA.
Easy access to amphiphilic nitrogenous block copolymers via switchable catalysis
Authors: Liang Xue , Lv Jiachen , Qiang Hongru , Li Jiahui , Wang Wenli , Du Jianzhong , Zhu Yunqing
Published: October 2024

A novel switchable polymerization method enables the one-step/one-pot synthesis of well-defined polyester-b-polypeptoids from a monomer mixture of epoxides, cyclic anhydrides, and N-substituted N-carboxyanhydrides.