bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transendothelial migration of the Lyme disease spirochete involves spirochete internalization as an intermediate step through a transcellular pathway that involves Cdc42 and Rac1
Authors: Alvarez-Olmedo Daiana , Kamaliddin Claire , Verhey Theodore B. , Ho May , De Vinney Rebekah , Chaconas George
Published: December 2024

Despite its importance in pathogenesis, the hematogenous dissemination pathway of
Borrelia burgdorferi
is still largely uncharacterized. To probe the molecular details of transendothelial migration more easily, we studied this process using cultured primary or telomerase-immortalized human microvascular endothelial cells in a medium that maintains both the human cells and the spirochetes. In
B. burgdorferi
-infected monolayers, we observed ~55% of wild-type spirochetes crossing the monolayer. Microscopic characterization revealed entrance points across the cellular surface rather than at cellular junctions, supporting a transcellular route. In support of this pathway, locking the endothelial junctions using a vascular endothelial protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP) inhibitor did not reduce transendothelial migration. We also used inhibitors to block the most common endocytic pathways to elucidate effectors that might be involved in
B. burgdorferi
uptake and/or transmigration. Directly inhibiting Cdc42 reduced spirochete transmigration by impeding internalization. However, blocking Rac1 alone dramatically reduced transmigration by ~84% and resulted in a concomitant doubling in spirochete accumulation in the cell. Our combined results support that
B. burgdorferi
internalization is an intermediate step in the transendothelial migration process, which requires both Cdc42 and Rac1; Cdc42 is needed for spirochete internalization, while Rac1 is required for cellular egress. These are the first two host proteins implicated in
B. burgdorferi
transmigration across endothelial cells.

IMPORTANCE

Lyme borreliosis is caused by
Borrelia burgdorferi
and related bacteria. It is the most common tick-transmitted illness in the Northern Hemisphere. The ability of this pathogen to spread to a wide variety of locations results in a diverse set of clinical manifestations, yet little is known regarding vascular escape of the spirochete, an important pathway for dissemination. Our current work has studied the traversal of
B. burgdorferi
across a monolayer of microvascular endothelial cells grown using a new culture system. We show that this occurs by passage of the spirochetes directly through cells rather than at cellular junctions and that internalization of
B. burgdorferi
is an intermediate step in transmigration. We also identify the first two host proteins, Cdc42 and Rac1, that are used by the spirochetes to promote traversal of the cellular monolayer. Our new experimental system also provides a new avenue for further studies of this important process.
Supplemental Material: Early Miocene to Pliocene magmatic and structural evolution of the Gulf of California margin in central Baja California (Mexico): The Mulegé–La Trinidad region, Baja California Sur
Authors: Busby C. , al. et
Published: December 2024

Item S1: Sample descriptions and XRF and ICPMS whole rock geochemistry, Item S2: Details of 40Ar/39Ar geochronological analytical methods and data, and Item S3: Geological map files in KMZ format.
Improving outcomes for very preterm babies in England: does place of birth matter? Findings from OPTI-PREM, a national cohort study
Authors: Pillay Thillagavathie , Seaton Sarah E , Yang Miaoqing , Bountziouka Vasiliki , Banda Victor , Campbell Helen , Dawson Kelvin , Manktelow Bradley N , Draper Elizabeth S , Modi Neena , Boyle Elaine M , Rivero-Arias Oliver
Published: December 2024

Objective

Babies born between 27+0and 31+6weeks of gestation contribute substantially towards infant mortality and morbidity. In England, their care is delivered in maternity services colocated with highly specialised neonatal intensive care units (NICU) or less specialised local neonatal units (LNU). We investigated whether birth setting offered survival and/or morbidity advantages to inform National Health Service delivery.

Design

Retrospective national cohort study.

Setting

LNU, NICU, England.

Patients

UK National Neonatal Research Database whole population data for births between 27+0and 31+6weeks of gestation, discharged from/died within neonatal units between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018. We linked baby-level data to mortality information from the Office for National Statistics.

Outcome measures

Death during neonatal care, up to 1 year (infant mortality), surgically treated necrotising enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity, severe brain injury (SBI), bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Intervention

Birth in NICU versus LNU setting. We used an instrumental variable (maternal excess travel time between the nearest NICU and LNU) estimation approach to determine treatment effect.

Results

Of 18 847 babies (NICU: 10 379; LNU: 8468), 574 died in NICU/LNU care, and 121 postdischarge (infant mortality 3.7%). We found no effect of birth setting on neonatal or infant mortality. Significantly more babies born into LNU settings experienced SBI (mean difference −1.1% (99% CI −2.2% to −0.1%)). This was attenuated after excluding births at 27 weeks, and early postnatal transfers.

Conclusions

In England, LNU teams should use clinical judgement, risk assessing benefits of transfer versus risk of SBI for preterm births at 27 weeks of gestation. 28 weeks of gestation is a safe threshold for preterm birth in either NICU/LNU settings.

Trial registration number

NCT02994849/ISRCTN74230187.
Alkaptonuria: a rare disease with multiorgan manifestation and a long-awaited diagnosis
Authors: Gundersen Anne Drasbech , Hornemann Borg Morten , Løkke Anders , Hilberg Ole
Published: December 2024

Alkaptonuria is a rare inherited disease resulting from a genetic variant leading to homogentisic acid accumulation in body tissues, causing a broad spectrum of symptoms. Our case involves a Caucasian male diagnosed in his 70s, who shares a constellation of symptoms and the diagnosis with his monozygotic twin brother. The symptoms include early-onset arthropathy, tendinopathy, osteopenia, discolouration of the auricular regions and fingers, scleral discolouration, secondary glaucoma, proteinuria, calcification of the mitral valve and black urethral and prostate stones. Additionally, the patient suffers from chronic cough, polyneuropathy and corpus cysts in the thoracic spine have been found. This case highlights the importance of holistic assessments, recognition of familial symptom patterns and early identification of key clinical indicators for rare disease diagnosis. It also underscores the challenge of differentiating rare symptomatic manifestations from those unrelated to alkaptonuria.
Mitigating unintentional injury deaths in sport and recreation: insights from 14 years of coroner recommendations in Québec, Canada
Authors: Richard Philippe , Gagné Mathieu , Sylvain-Morneau Jérémie , Perron Paul-André , Charbonneau Maxime
Published: December 2024

Background

Unintentional injury deaths in sport and recreation represent a significant public health concern. This study analysed coronial recommendations related to such deaths, focusing on case specifics and recurring themes from January 2006 to December 2019.

Methods

This mixed-methods study used data from the Bureau du coroner du Québec. Reports with recommendations were analysed by sex, age group, context, mechanism and activity. A four-phase thematic analysis was conducted to emphasise the developed themes and connect them with the existing literature.

Results

Of 1937 coronial reports reviewed, 13.3% (n=258) contained at least one recommendation, totalling 609 recommendations (31 per 100 activity-related deaths). Reports were more likely to contain at least one recommendation for women (20.3%, p=0.0004), paediatric populations (≤5 years: 30.3%, p<0.0001; 6–11 years: 29.3%, p=0.0003; 12–17 years: 27.6%, p<0.0001), and organised events (55.0%, p<0.0001), despite most deaths occurring among men, adults and during unstructured events. All-terrain vehicle and snowmobile activities showed significantly lower rates of reports with recommendations (8.1%, p=0.0008 and 8.6%, p=0.0044, respectively). Most frequently addressed themes wereDevelopment, inspection and modification of bicycle infrastructurefor cycling andLake and river safety measuresfor swimming.Conflict with other types of userswas the top theme for land motorsports, whilePersonal flotation device usewas the most common for navigation activities.

Conclusions

Patterns from reports with recommendations will be shared with the Bureau du Coroner du Québec to improve coronial practices. Integrating recurrent themes and recommendations with activity-specific risk factors will help identify critical patterns and inform preventive measures holistically.
Effect of PCM layer location on the building’s temperature distribution and thermal performance: A case study on tropical climatic cities in India
Authors: Dhayanithi J. , Hotta Tapano Kumar
Published: December 2024

The building’s energy storage capability and passive cooling performance depend on the building envelope. This study focuses on selecting and positioning the Rubitherm PCM (RT-42, RT-35 and RT-31) layer on the roof and exterior wall of a building envelope. In this analysis, a building of size 5[Formula: see text]m (length), 4[Formula: see text]m (width) and 3.5[Formula: see text]m (height) is considered and its thermal performance is carried out using the design-builder Software (Version 7.0). Three different thicknesses of PCM layer (20, 25 and 30[Formula: see text]mm) are incorporated between the building envelope’s vertical walls and roof to lower the building temperature. Also, three different PCM layer locations are considered for the building envelopes; case 1 (PCM layer placed close to the interior), case 2 (PCM layer placed in the middle) and case 3 (PCM layer placed close to the exterior). The study emphasizes the development of a numerical model by considering the buildings of three Indian cities (Delhi, Ahmedabad and Chennai) and three Indian climate zones (Composite, Hot-dry and Warm-Humid) during summer (May/June 2021). The PCM have different melting points and are selected based on the city’s average peak monthly temperature (Delhi: [Formula: see text]C, Ahmedabad: [Formula: see text]C and Chennai: [Formula: see text]C). Delhi experienced the highest solar intensity (on 10th June 2021) at 22[Formula: see text]kW, followed by Chennai (on 9th May 2021) at 20[Formula: see text]kW and Ahmedabad (on 13th May 2021) at 18[Formula: see text]kW. The idea is to identify a suitable PCM layer location and its thickness in the building envelope based on the thermal performance and load modulation capacity of the PCM-integrated wall. In Delhi, Ahmedabad and Chennai buildings respectively, the wall’s inner surface temperature difference was [Formula: see text]C, [Formula: see text]C and [Formula: see text]C, respectively with and without using the PCM wall. The maximum heat gain reduction is obtained at about 12–17% for case 3 with a 25[Formula: see text]mm thick PCM layer in all buildings. Thus case 3 with a 25[Formula: see text]mm thickness PCM layer gave the best cooling performance throughout the day for all analyzed cities. This highlights the role of PCM toward the thermal performance and temperature dilation of the building envelopes.
Electromagnetic response of the electron gas and the thermal Casimir pressure anomaly
Authors: Henkel Carsten
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a review of the nonlocal electromagnetic response functions for the degenerate electron gas, computed within standard perturbation theory, is given. These expressions due to Lindhard, Klimontovich and Silin are used to re-analyze the Casimir interaction between two thick conducting plates in the leading order at high temperatures (zeroth term of Matsubara series). Up to small corrections that we discuss, the results of the conventional Drude model are confirmed. The difference between longitudinal and transverse permittivities (or polarization tensors) yields the Landau (orbital) diamagnetism of the electron gas.
On the possible existence of wormholes in Rastall–Rainbow gravity
Authors: Pradhan Anirudh , Dayanandan B. , Zeyauddin M. , Banerjee Ayan
Published: December 2024

Recently, the Rastall–Rainbow gravity emerged as an intriguing modified gravity theory. This theory is a combination of two theories, namely, the Rastall theory and the Rainbow description. This study aims to investigate the potential existence of static, spherically symmetric wormholes in this gravity theory. Specifically, we provide precise solutions to asymptotically flat wormhole geometries for the specific choice of the redshift and shape functions. With the specific examples, we investigate some issues concerning energy conditions and adiabatic sound velocity. We also consider the “volume integral quantifier” to assess the total amount of energy-condition violation matter. Finally, we conclude that reducing Rastall’s parameters and adjusting the Rainbow functions may alleviate the violation of energy conditions.
Perturbative gradient flow coupling of the twisted Eguchi–Kawai model with the numerical stochastic perturbation theory
Authors: Ishikawa Ken-Ichi , Okawa Masanori , Takei Hironori
Published: December 2024

The gradient flow scheme has emerged as a prominent nonperturbative renormalization scheme on the lattice, where flow time is introduced to define the renormalization scale. In this study, we perturbatively compute the gradient flow coupling for the SU(N) Yang–Mills theory in the large-N limit in terms of the lattice bare coupling up to three-loop order. This is achieved by combining the twisted Eguchi–Kawai model with the numerical stochastic perturbation theory. We analyze the flow time dependence of the perturbative coefficients to determine the perturbative beta function coefficients, successfully computing the one-loop coefficient in the large-N limit using three matrix sizes [Formula: see text]. However, the higher-order coefficients are affected by large statistical errors. We also explore the potential for reducing these statistical errors through variance reduction combined with the large-N factorization property of the SU(N) Yang–Mills theory, and estimate the required number of samples for the precise determination of the higher-order coefficients.
Ternary chalcogenides NbInX2 (X = S, Se): A comprehensive investigation of mechanical, electronic, vibrational, optical and thermophysical properties
Authors: Mia M. H. , Parvin F. , Islam A. K. M. A. , Khatun Mst. A.
Published: December 2024

A comprehensive investigation of the unexplored mechanical, electronic, Mulliken bond population, vibrational, optical and thermophysical properties of the synthesized compounds NbIn[Formula: see text] (X = S, Se) have been made for the first time using the density functional theory. The chemical, mechanical and dynamical stabilities of the compounds are established in our calculations. Both compounds are soft, machinable and brittle. The anisotropic nature of the studied compounds is shown by 3D representations of elastic moduli. The density of states and electronic band structure demonstrate that the compounds are metallic. Fermi surfaces of both compounds are almost similar and contain both hole- and electron-like topologies. The characteristics of chemical bonding among different atoms of the compounds are studied via a charge density distribution map and bond population analysis. Both the compounds possess optical anisotropy. Reflectivity is high (above 44%) in the IR–visible–UV region indicating that the phases may be effective in reducing solar heat. Minimum thermal conductivity, [Formula: see text] (used to select appropriate material for thermal barrier coating) and its anisotropy are calculated for the first time. The results show that both compounds have [Formula: see text] much smaller than the reference value of 1.25[Formula: see text]W[Formula: see text]m[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]K[Formula: see text].
On (∈,∈∨q)-Fuzzy Ideals of Sheffer Stroke Hilbert Algebras with Respect to a Triangular Norm
Authors: Oner Tahsin , Rajesh Neelamegarajan , Borumand Saeid Arsham
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of [Formula: see text]-fuzzy ideals of Sheffer stroke Hilbert algebra with respect to [Formula: see text]-norm and derive some interesting result.
Notes on the total positivity of the compression of double Riordan arrays
Authors: Wang Yu , Liang Huyile , Wang Lijie , Zhang Jinyang
Published: December 2024

Let [Formula: see text];[Formula: see text] be the compression of a double Riordan array. We show that if [Formula: see text],[Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are all Pólya frequency formal power series, then [Formula: see text] is totally positive.
Propagation of SH-waves in a pre-stressed compound piezoelectric/piezomagnetic plate
Authors: Belyankova T. I. , Vorovich E. I. , Kalinchuk V. V.
Published: December 2024

A mathematical model of dynamic processes in a composite plate of prestressed piezoelectric (PE) and piezomagnetic (PM) layers is proposed. It is assumed that the initial strain state in the components of the plate is uniform and is induced by the action of initial mechanical stresses. In the quasi-static approximation, problems of shear horizontally polarized surface acoustic waves (SH-SAW) propagation in a PE/PM plate made of prestressed materials are considered. It is assumed that the materials of the plate layers in their natural state (NS) have symmetry class 6[Formula: see text]mm. The adhesion conditions are satisfied at the interface between the layers. The external surfaces of the heterostructure are in contact with the vacuum and are free from mechanical stress. Depending on the nature of the electrical and magnetic conditions specified on the external surfaces, four types of problems are considered. Using the example of a problem with electrically closed and magnetically open conditions on the external surfaces of a PZT-5H/CoFe2O4 plate, the features of the influence of the nature and magnitude of the initial mechanical effects on the velocities of SH waves are investigated. The possibility of changing the velocity characteristics of SAWs due to the initial mechanical effects is shown. The results are presented in dimensionless parameters and may be of significant interest for optimizing the structure of new materials in the development and design of devices and equipment operating on SH-SAW.
Investigation of Structural, Dielectric, Electrical, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Sr(Mn0.45Fe0.05)Nb0.5O3 for Electronic Device Applications
Authors: Mohanty Raj Mohan , Behera Srikant , Mishra Raj Kishore , Parida Sabyasachi , Anwar Muhammad Shahid , Nayak Priyabrata , Tripathy B. S.
Published: December 2024

This study explores the structural, dielectric, impedance, and optical characteristics of the perovskite compound Sr(Mn[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]Nb[Formula: see text]O3. The compound was prepared by the solid-state mixed-oxide method. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed a single-phase tetragonal crystal structure ([Formula: see text] Å, [Formula: see text] Å, [Formula: see text] Å, space group I4/mcm). Morphological analysis revealed an almost uniform grain distribution with minimal spacing. The Maxwell–Wagner phenomenon was observed in the frequency-dependent dielectric properties by considering various polarization mechanisms. A dielectric anomaly indicating a ferroelectric to paraelectric phase transition was observed around 260∘C during the temperature-dependent dielectric study. Impedance analysis demonstrated the NTCR behavior of the material. According to Jonscher’s power law, conduction is governed by nonoverlapping small polaron tunneling, explaining the relationship between conductivity with frequency. The activation energies for relaxation and conduction suggest electron hopping. Estimated band gap of 1.91[Formula: see text]eV is applicable for optoelectronic devices. The temperature-dependent resistance analysis indicates potential applications in N-type thermistors. The M–H hysteresis loop’s nonlinearity curve suggests weak ferromagnetism at low temperatures.
Reframing a Data Sharing Mechanism for the Riparian Nations of Helmand River Basin: Theory of Planned Behavior Is Revisited
Authors: LOODIN Najibullah , ECKSTEIN Gabriel , SINGH Vijay P. , SANCHEZ Rosario
Published: December 2024

Data and information exchange plays a crucial role in fostering water cooperation between the riparian nations of a shared watercourse. Taking an integrated approach combining Discourse Analysis and Document Analysis, this research aims at elucidating the challenges and the potential opportunities of data and information exchange on the Helmand River, a drought-stricken river basin shared between upstream Afghanistan and downstream Iran. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), we offer nuanced perspectives on the data exchange model developed by Wehn. We argue that there are other underlying and essential elements that hinder the meaningful engagement of the riparian nations of the Helmand River Basin in data and information exchange. As water is perceived as a critical national interest for both riparians, decisions regarding water allocation in the basin are deeply embedded in their emotional attachments to the flow of the Helmand River, thereby hindering their effective engagement in data and information exchange. Finally, we discuss the steps and procedures for successful data and information exchange and how commitment to reliable data and information exchange contributes to the re-establishment and enhancement of trust between the two riparian nations.
The Book Review Column
Authors: Tran Nicholas
Published: December 2024

Foundation Mathematics for Computer Science: A Visual Approach, 4th edition (Springer, 2023) by John Vince (Bournemouth University, UK) is a comprehensive collection of discrete and continuous mathematical topics that are covered in most undergraduate programs in computer science. The subtitle refers to the author's use of colored graphs and tables to illustrate the concepts.

Online Algorithms (Cambridge University Press, 2023) by Rahul Vaze (Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, India) is an accessible but rigorous introduction to the area aimed at advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students. The book covers the basic as well as applied online problems with a preference of elegant analysis over performance.

Privacy-preserving Computing for Big Data Analytics and AI (Cambridge University Press, 2023) by Kai Chen and Qiang Yang (Hong Kong University of Science and Technology) is a systematic examination of the history, theories, techniques, applications, and future of the field.

Prize-winning neuroscientist Terrence Sejnowski (University of California at San Diego) explains the technology and mathematics behind large language models such as ChatGPT and explores the debate on their so-called comprehension of language in ChatGPT and the Future of AI: The Deep Language Revolution (The MIT Press, 2024).
Open Problems Column
Authors: Gasarch William
Published: December 2024

Luca Trevisan passed away on June 19, 2024 at the age of 52, of cancer. He worked on randomness, approximation, and many other topics in theory. This column consists of open problems by Lance Fortnow, Oded Goldreich, Johan Hastad, Salil Vadhan, and David P. Williamson that Luca was interested in.
Distributed Computing Column 88
An Invitation to Local Algorithms
Authors: Alistarh Dan
Published: December 2024

Overview. In this quarter's column, we have a contribution from Dr. Václav Rozhon, who provides us with a new perspective on the impressive recent progress happening in the area of local algorithms.

Specifically, his column builds up introductory material in terms of definitions and simple examples, but in sufficient depth to understand complex recent results. This chapter is one of three parts of a larger survey written by the author, which I invite you to read if you would like to go deeper into this area. I would like to thank Dr. Rozhon for this tremendous effort in putting together this survey!
SIGACT News Online Algorithms Column 43: 2024 in review
Authors: Amouzandeh Aflatoun , Schmitt Sören , van Stee Rob
Published: December 2024

In this column, we will discuss some papers in online algorithms that appeared in 2024. As usual, we make no claim at complete coverage here, and have instead made a selection. If we have unaccountably missed your favorite paper and you would like to write about it or about any other topic in online algorithms, please don't hesitate to contact us!
Screen-Printing and 3D-Printing Technologies in Electrochemical (Bio)sensors: Opportunities, Advantages and Limitations
Authors: Kalligosfyri Panagiota M. , Miglione Antonella , Cinti Stefano
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical sensors and biosensors play pivotal roles for detecting target analytes in clinical pharmaceutical, environmental and agri-food monitoring. Although screen-printing represents an affordable and versatile approach to produce wide examples of devices, 3D-printing technique is emerging as a strong alternative in sensor manufacturing. Both approaches present significant opportunities for advancing sensor design, but each has distinct advantages and limitations that influence application suitability. This perspective article examines the experimental differences between screen- and 3D- printing for fabricating portable electrochemical devices. We discuss their opportunities, advantages and limitations across diverse fields, highlighting the experimental features depending on the analytical requirements.
Does force depression resulting from shortening against series elasticity contribute to the activation dependence of optimum length?
Authors: Mayfield Dean L. , Holt Natalie C.
Published: December 2024

Length-dependent Ca2+ sensitivity does not fully explain the activation dependence of optimum length ( L0). We demonstrate using an isolated muscle preparation and added series compliance that substantial force depression can arise during an isometric contraction, causing tetanic L0 to shift to a shorter length. Our findings illustrate that series compliance, via the work and length dependencies of force depression, partially uncouples force generation from myofilament overlap, which ultimately increases the activation (or force) dependence of L0.
Dysregulation of synaptic transcripts underlies network abnormalities in ALS patient-derived motor neurons
Authors: Kollstrøm Anna M. , Christiansen Nicholas , Sandvig Axel , Sandvig Ioanna
Published: December 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by dysfunction and loss of upper and lower motor neurons. Several studies have identified structural and functional alterations in the motor neurons before the manifestation of symptoms, yet the underlying cause of such alterations and how they contribute to the progressive degeneration of affected motor neuron networks remain unclear. Importantly, the short and long-term spatiotemporal dynamics of neuronal network activity make it challenging to discern how ALS-related network reconfigurations emerge and evolve. To address this, we systematically monitored the structural and functional dynamics of motor neuron networks with a confirmed endogenous C9orf72 mutation. We show that ALS patient-derived motor neurons display time-dependent neural network dysfunction, specifically reduced firing rate and spike amplitude, impaired bursting, but higher overall synchrony in network activity. These changes coincided with altered neurite outgrowth and branching within the networks. Moreover, transcriptional analyses revealed dysregulation of molecular pathways involved in synaptic development and maintenance, neurite outgrowth and cell adhesion, suggesting impaired synaptic stabilization. This study identifies early synaptic dysfunction as a contributing mechanism resulting in network-wide structural and functional compensation, which may over time render the networks vulnerable to neurodegeneration.
Study on the Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Properties of High‐Magnesium Nickel Slag‐Based Cementitious Backfill Materials
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Ma Kang , Yao Zequn , Tang Mingliang , Li Xiaodong , Shen Xiaodong , Guo Lijie , Hou Shuguang
Published: December 2024

High‐magnesium nickel slag (HMNS) is a type of metallurgical waste that has the potential for cementitious activity, and its high content of olivine minerals also makes it a potential for CO2 sequestration. We prepared HMNS‐based cementitious backfill materials (HMNS‐CBMs) using mechanical activation and chemical activation methods. Furthermore, we explored the sequestration efficiency of CO2 under accelerated carbonation conditions. The hydration products and carbonation products of the test blocks were analyzed by using a thermogravimetric‐differential scanning calorimeter and X‐ray diffraction. Additionally, the microstructure of the materials was analyzed by using mercury intrusion porosimetry and backscattered electron microscopy. Results showed that under carbonation conditions at 80°C for 72 h, the HMNS‐CBM had a CO2 adsorption content (CAC) of 6.62 wt.% after a 28‐day water curing period. Moreover, under the same curing conditions, the compressive strength of HMNS‐CBM treated with citric acid activation reached 49.35 MPa, which was the highest among all the studied samples. The addition of citric acid facilitated CO2 adsorption during the early water curing period and enhanced the development of compressive strength during the later water curing period.
Dynamic Nonrecurrent Congestion Event Detection and Tracking Method With DBSCAN on Speed Watersheds
Authors: Jin Jing , Wang Yizhou , Chen Anjiang , Dimitrijevic Branislav , Lee Joyoung
Published: December 2024

Nonrecurrent congestion (NRC) events caused by incidents bring unexpected delays and affect normal traffic operations. Imprecise NRC event detection methods can trigger false alarms and repetitive incident alerts for the same congestion event. The speed watershed from the historical profile based on DBSCAN can provide a reference for identifying NRC. This paper proposes a DBSCAN‐based dynamic NRC tracking (DyNRTrac) algorithm to detect and track NRC events. By comparing real‐time spatial–temporal patterns of the speed contour diagram against the historical speed contour diagram along a corridor, this method effectively distinguishes NRC events from regular traffic patterns. The proposed algorithm applies the Rauch–Tung–Striebel smoother for speed noise reduction and establishes a historical congestion profile for each recurrent congestion event within a corridor by each day of the week and season. A new event‐profile–based 3D speed volume comparison method is proposed to detect NRC events that do not significantly overlap with recurrent congestions in the historical profile. Finally, a bilevel congestion confirmation process is introduced for NRC persistency checking and filtering. The proposed algorithm was evaluated by using field travel time data and with the New Jersey Department of Transportation OpenReach incident database. Overall, the proposed model shows up to 88.3% detection rate for NRC that can match the incident in the database, and it shows superior detection rates on NRC events at a similar false alarm rate level when compared with three prior models over the same datasets. Furthermore, a detailed spatial–temporal map analysis is provided to show the capability of the proposed method in distinguishing NRC and RC and identifying nonaccidental NRC events, providing its potential for traffic operation management systems to assist traffic operators to be alerted about NRC events.
Effect of Culture Media on the Yield and Protein Content of Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) Kumm Mycelia
Authors: Maseko Kayise Hypercia , Regnier Thierry , Wokadala Obiro Cuthbert , Bartels Paul , Meiring Belinda
Published: December 2024

The development of alternative proteins derived from fungi‐based sources is gaining recognition due to their health benefits and lower environmental impact, compared to traditional animal‐based sources. In this study, we investigated the culture conditions for Pleurotus ostreatus mycelia, focusing on the nutritional requirements and yield optimization using solid surface culture and liquid‐state culture methods. Our findings indicate that optimal culture conditions involve glucose as the primary carbon source, with an initial pH of 6.0. By the eighth day of the culture period, media formulated with amaranth seed flour and Bambara groundnut flour yielded the highest mycelial protein content, characterized by a compact filamentous network with fewer open pores. Additionally, urea supplementation at 0.01% concentration on amaranth seed–based nutrient medium significantly increased the protein content from 31.4% to 38.7% (dry weight basis). The research findings contribute to the development of fungal‐based proteins, which are essential in the production of sustainable food products.
Generating a New Convolution Function From Mittag‐Leffler and Koebe Functions
Authors: Ghathith Ali Halil , Ali Ahmed Mohammed , Al-Neima Mohammed Thanoon
Published: December 2024

This paper describes the generation of a new function using the convolution process for a Mittag‐Leffler function of one parameter α and a Koebe function. The resulting function is characterized by many properties, the most important of which is that it is convergent. This paper finds many recursive relations, finds functions that are difficult to find using the inverse Laplace transform by analytic and mathematic programs, and finds several special cases. In addition, new formulas for the resulting function are obtained after using operations known as multiplication with a variable or an exponential function, division, integration, and differentiation.
Table 1 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Characteristics of a training set of patients with NSCLC and cancer-free smokers
Supplementary Table 3 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Supplementary Table 3. Associations between the ten ncRNAs in the biomarker panels and clinical and demographic data, analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficients.
Supplementary Table 1 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Supplementary Table 1. 93 lung cancer-associated ncRNAs tested by ddPCR in this study
Figure 2 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Performance of the three individual panels for diagnosing lung cancer in different ethnic groups in the training set. A, ROC curves depict the accuracy of the three-biomarker panel in diagnosing lung cancer in AAs, yielding an AUC of 0.90. B, ROC curves represent the accuracy of the four-biomarker panel in diagnosing lung cancer in WAs, with an AUC of 0.91. C, The pan-ethnic biomarker panel displays an AUC of 0.84 in the diagnosis of lung cancer, irrespective of racial populations.
Figure 1 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Differential expression heatmap of ncRNAs in plasma and sputum samples from AA and WA patients with lung cancer vs. their healthy counterparts. A, Among 59 AA patients with lung cancer and 46 cancer-free AA smokers, 12 ncRNAs showed statistically significant expression differences (all P < 0.05). B, In a comparison between 59 WA patients with lung cancer and 46 cancer-free WA smokers, 17 genes revealed statistically significant expression differences with a P value < 0.05. The color scale spans from green (indicating downregulation) to black (no change) and red (signifying upregulation). *ncRNAs with statistically significant reductions in expression in specimens from patients with lung cancer compared with specimens from cancer-free smokers.
Data from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Lung cancer significantly impacts mortality, with African Americans (AA) showing higher rates than White Americans (WA). ncRNAs play a crucial role in lung tumorigenesis. To identify ncRNA biomarkers associated with racial disparities in lung cancer, we used droplet digital PCR to examine 93 lung cancer–associated ncRNAs in plasma and sputum samples from participants of AA and WA backgrounds, including 118 patients and 92 cancer-free smokers. In the AA population, plasma showed differential expression of 10 ncRNAs, whereas sputum revealed four ncRNAs when comparing patients with lung cancer to the control group. In the WA population, the plasma displayed 11 ncRNAs, and the sputum had five ncRNAs showing differential expression between patients with lung cancer and the control group. For AAs, we identified a three-ncRNA panel (plasma miRs–147b, 324-3p, and 422a) for diagnosing lung cancer in AAs with 86% sensitivity and 89% specificity. For WAs, a four-ncRNA panel comprising sputum miR-34a-5p and plasma miRs–103-3p, 126-3p, and 205-5p was developed, achieving 88% sensitivity and 87% specificity. These panels remained effective across various stages and types of lung tumors and were validated in an independent cohort of 56 patients and 72 controls. Ethnicity-related ncRNA signatures hold promise as biomarkers for tackling racial disparities in patients with lung cancer.
Significance:
This study identifies ethnicity-related ncRNA biomarkers that differentiate lung cancer in AAs and WAs, offering diagnostic panels with high sensitivity and specificity. These findings provide a promising approach to addressing racial disparities in lung cancer detection and improving early diagnosis across diverse populations.
Territorios de Lectura, Escritura y Oralidad en el Eje Cafetero: una comprensión desde las narrativas de animadores socioculturales del Programa Cuenta con Efigas.
Authors: Ospina Ramírez David Arturo , Patiño López Jhoana , García Castillo Juan Carlos , Correa González Alejandra
Published: December 2024

El artículo tiene como objetivo comprender los territorios de lectura, escritura y oralidad (L.E.O) en el Eje Cafetero desde las narrativas de los animadores socioculturales del programa Cuenta con Efigas. La metodología utilizada es cualitativa, apoyada en la Investigación Acción Participativa (IAP) y el análisis de narrativas. Los participantes fueron 74 animadores socioculturales, incluidos docentes, bibliotecarios y gestores culturales, que trabajaron con 500 niños, niñas y jóvenes. Los resultados muestran transformaciones significativas en las prácticas de L.E.O en las comunidades, resaltando la importancia del enfoque sociocultural y de capacidades humanas en el desarrollo de habilidades comunicativas y críticas. Las conclusiones destacan la necesidad de democratizar estas prácticas para fomentar la participación activa y consciente de los individuos en sus comunidades.
Estimating Surfzone Currents with Near-Field Optical Remote Sensing
Authors: Dooley Ciara , Elgar Steve , Raubenheimer Britt , Gorrell Levi
Published: December 2024

Currents transport sediment, larvae, pollutants, and people across and along the surfzone, creating a dynamic interface between the coastal ocean and shore. Previous field studies of nearshore flows primarily have relied on relatively low spatial resolution deployments of in situ sensors, but the development of remote sensing techniques using optical imagery and naturally occurring foam as a flow tracer has allowed for high spatial resolution observations (on the order of a few meters) across the surfzone. Here, algorithms optical current meter (OCM) and particle image velocimetry (PIV) are extended from previous surfzone applications and used to estimate both cross-shore and alongshore 2-, 10-, and 60-min mean surface currents in the nearshore using imagery from both oblique and nadir viewing angles. Results are compared with in situ current meters throughout the surfzone for a wide range of incident wave heights, directions, and directional spreads. Differences between remotely sensed flows and in situ current meters are smallest for nadir viewing angles, where georectification is simplified. Comparisons of 10-min mean flow estimates from a nadir viewing angle with in situ estimates of alongshore and cross-shore currents had correlations r2 = 0.94 and 0.51 with root-mean-square differences (RMSDs) = 0.07 and 0.16 m s−1 for PIV and r2 = 0.88 and 0.44 with RMSDs = 0.08 and 0.22 m s−1 for OCM. Differences between remotely sensed and in situ cross-shore current estimates are at least partially owing to the difference between onshore-directed mass flux on the surface and offshore-directed undertow in the mid–water column.
Evaluation and Assimilation of FY-3E Microwave Instruments in the Yinhe Four-Dimensional Variational Assimilation System
Authors: Ma Shuo , Zhao Yanlai , Zhang Weimin , Cao Xiaoqun , Ren Kaijun , Yu Yi , Li Shaoying
Published: December 2024

The world’s first operational early morning-orbit meteorological satellite, Fengyun-3E (FY-3E), launched on 5 July 2021, and has expanded global data coverage for numerical weather prediction (NWP) of 6-h assimilation windows. To determine whether the early morning orbit affects microwave observations and the benefits to NWP, radiance from FY-3E microwave instruments was assimilated into the operational global Yinhe four-dimensional variational assimilation (YH4DVAR) system. The performance of the microwave instruments was first assessed based on the statistics of background departure. The sunlight conditions have little effect on FY-3E microwave observations, and ascending and descending pass observations could be uniformly assimilated for both the Microwave Humidity Sounder-2 (MWHS-2) and the Microwave Temperature Sounder-3 (MWTS-3). The standard deviation of observation minus background (OmB) after variational bias correction increased, indicating slightly reduced performance of MWTS-3 compared with equivalent Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) channels on SNPP/NOAA-20. Based on reduced OmB mean and standard deviation values, FY-3E MWHS-2 performs better than MWHS-2 on predecessor satellites. To test the impact of FY-3E microwave observations on the operational YH4DVAR system, three NWP experiments were performed from June to August 2022. All-sky assimilation of FY-3E MWHS-2 observations in the YH4DVAR system has a neutral to positive impact on forecast skill. Assimilation of FY-3E MWTS-3 under clear-sky conditions provides little benefit to the YH4DVAR system in longer-range forecasts but improves the fit to the background of stratospheric temperature-sounding channels of ATMS and Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit-A (AMSUA) and radiosonde temperature observations over 150–400 hPa in the Northern Hemisphere and humidity observations over 100–850 hPa.
The Relevance of Mean-State Critical Levels for the Intensification of Downslope Winds in a Coastal Mountainous Environment
Authors: Duine Gert-Jan , Carvalho Leila M. V. , Jones Charles , Thompson Callum F. , Brown William O. J. , Dumas John , Gomberg David , Hall Todd , Kittell Ryan
Published: December 2024

In wildfire-prone coastal Santa Barbara, California, downslope winds observed on the southern slopes of the east–west-oriented Santa Ynez Mountains are known as Sundowner winds (or Sundowners). One important feature of Sundowners is the remarkable spatial and temporal variability in lee-slope jet characteristics. Besides the intensity of the flow approaching the mountain range, the acceleration of the lee-slope jet can be influenced by reflected gravity waves associated with one or more of the following mechanisms: a self-induced critical level, an inversion close to mountaintop, and the presence of a mean-state critical level (MSCL). The relative contribution of these mechanisms to the enhancement of Sundowners is yet unknown. This study uses 32-yr simulations (hourly, 1-km grid spacing) complemented with observations collected during the Sundowner Winds Experiment (SWEX) to better quantify the relative contribution of these mechanisms and to quantify the importance of MSCLs. We show that when an MSCL is present below 5 km, less atmospheric forcing is necessary to attain similar lee-slope jet strengths compared to when MSCLs are absent or above 5 km. This was evidenced from simulations and verified with observations. Although MSCLs during Sundowners occur year-round, their relative frequency increases in summer, when temperatures are high and fuels are dry, enhancing wildfire risk. Properly identifying these processes contributes to improved understanding and predictability of Sundowners and many other hazardous downslope windstorms in coastal environments.

Significance Statement

Wildfires in coastal Santa Barbara, Southern California, are among the most disruptive hazards and are influenced by strong winds that accelerate down the southern slopes of the Santa Ynez Mountain range. These winds are locally known as Sundowner winds, due to their appearance around sunset. Our goal is to understand how different atmospheric situations influence the surface winds at the south-facing slopes of the mountain range. We find that when the atmosphere north of this mountain range contains a wind reversal (i.e., northerly winds turning southerly aloft), weaker winds below this reversal will induce winds on the south-facing slope that are stronger than with similar upstream winds without a reversal. Our findings are relevant to improve forecasting of Sundowner winds.
Courage and Charm: Annedore Leber, German Resistance, and Memory Activism, 1946–9
Authors: Sackett Robert E.
Published: December 2024

Interest in memory activism is the methodological starting point for this account of Annedore Leber, Social Democratic politician in post-1945 Berlin and surviving member of the resistance group that plotted the assassination attempt of 20 July 1944 on Adolf Hitler. Beginning in 1946, her memory work entailed a narrative to influence Germans, prone to view that plot as treasonous, to reconsider the resistance. Initially, her often-articulated contempt for the nation that had backed Hitler made this effort problematic: which Germans comprised her intended audience? The Cold War gave her an opening. She compared Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union. She called on Germans who opposed communism to appreciate the courage and love of freedom that informed anti-Nazi resistance. She re-enacted those resistance values by confronting the communists publicly. The other methodological angle regarding this research comes from awareness that the German patriarchy, despite defeat, was largely intact. Comments on Annedore Leber as a woman appeared in press coverage of her confrontation of communist leaders; men challenged her version of the resistance. How she met those challenges, assumed her stance as a politically active woman and expressed the necessity for women to engage in politics are key to understanding her activism.