bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating the Patient Perspective into Healthcare and Real-World Evidence: The Multi-site, Cross-Disease, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Project in the Medical Informatics Initiative (PCOR-MII)
Authors: Rogge A. A. , Mukowski-Kickhöfel R. , Boeker M. , Budde K. , Debertshäuser T. , Dugas M. , Erim Y. , Friederich H.-C. , Ganslandt T. , Giel K. , Henningsen P. , Herrmann T. , Heuschmann P. U. , Junne F. , Kohlbacher O. , Kribben A. , Löwe B. , Marschollek M. , Nensa F. , Oeltze-Jafra S. , Pape L. , Pryss R. , Schiffer M. , Schmidt-Ott K. , Storck M. , Suwelack B. , Thun S. , Ückert F. , Varghese J. , Zeier M. , Zipfel S. , de Zwaan M. , Rose M. , Prasser F.
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research within the Medical Informatics Initiative (PCOR-MII) project, focusing on the integration of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) into a large-scale national data sharing infrastructure, established in Germany by the Medical Informatics Initiative (MII). PCOR-MII aims to systematically address the interests of various stakeholders in patient-reported health data and three dimensions of clinical utility: (1) prediction, (2) monitoring, and (3) outcome assessment. The project builds upon harmonized technical, data, and compliance environments established at the participating institutions as part of the MII to deploy and roll out software solutions for capturing PROs and making them accessible within local electronic health record (EHR) systems. To overcome interoperability challenges, PCOR-MII is developing a construct-oriented PROM module for the Health Level 7 (HL7) Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR)–based German National Core Dataset. The project applies its approach to three patient populations with distinct characteristics: anorexia nervosa targeting risk prediction (dimension 1), kidney transplantation prioritizing health status and adherence monitoring (dimension 2), and persistent somatic symptoms primarily aimed at assessing and understanding outcomes (dimension 3). With their emphasis on different aspects of PROs, those application areas can serve as blueprints for a broader roll-out. PCOR-MII represents a structured and comprehensive effort to incorporate PROs into a national data infrastructure, promising more precise diagnostics, improved treatment decisions, and the generation of new biomedical insights. We believe that our structured approach may serve as a guiding framework for others aiming to implement PROs in diverse healthcare settings.
Fast Simulation of the Zero Degree Calorimeter Responses with Generative Neural Networks
Authors: Wojnar Maksymilian , Majerz Emilia , Dzwinel Witold
Published: January 2025

Applying machine learning methods to high-energy physics simulations has recently emerged as a rapidly developing area. A prominent example is the Zero Degree Calorimeter (ZDC) simulation in the ALICE experiment at CERN, where substituting the traditional computationally extensive Monte Carlo methods with generative models radically reduces computation time. Although numerous studies have addressed the fast ZDC simulation, there remains significant potential for innovations. Recent developments in generative neural networks have enabled the creation of models capable of producing high-quality samples indistinguishable from real data. In this paper, we apply the latest advances to the simulation of the ZDC neutron detector and achieve a significant improvement in the Wasserstein metric compared to existing methods with a low generation time of 5 ms per sample. Our focus is on exploring novel architectures and state-of-the-art generative frameworks. We compare their performance against established methods, demonstrating competitive outcomes in speed and efficiency. The source code and hyperparameters of the models can be found at https://github.com/m-wojnar/zdc.
Fundamental graphs for the maximum multiplicity of an eigenvalue among Hermitian matrices with a given graph
Authors: Johnson Charles R. , Leal-Duarte António , Saiago Carlos M.
Published: January 2025

Our purpose is to identify the graphs that are “fundamental” for the maximum multiplicity problem for Hermitian matrices with a given undirected simple graph. Like paths for trees, these are the special graphs to which the maximum multiplicity problem may be reduced. These are the graphs for which maximum multiplicity implies that all vertices are downers. Examples include cycles and complete graphs, and several more are identified, using the theory developed herein. All the unicyclic graphs that are fundamental, are explicitly identified. We also list those graphs with two edges added to a tree, and their maximum multiplicities, which we have found so far to be fundamental. A formula for maximum multiplicity is given based on fundamental graphs.
Keep using “democracy” in political theory
Authors: Pinder Mark
Published: January 2025

This paper is a contribution to a symposium on Herman Cappelen’s 2023 book The Concept of Democracy: An Essay on Conceptual Amelioration and Abandonment. In that book, Cappelen develops a theory of abandonment—a theory of why and how to completely stop using particular linguistic expressions—and then uses that theory to argue for the general abandonment of the words “democracy” and “democratic”. In this paper, I critically discuss Cappelen’s arguments for the abandonment of “democracy” and “democratic” in political theory specifically.
Multiple Loss of Heterozygosity in a Case of Rare Ovarian Mixed Germ Cell Tumor - Case Report and Overview of Literature
Authors: Hutník Juraj , Priščáková Petra , Repiská Vanda , Korbeľ Miroslav , Danihel Ľudovít , Šufliarsky Jozef , Kubičková Michaela , Gergely Lajos
Published: January 2025

Malignant germ cell tumors (GCTs) are characterized by pluripotency and exhibit diverse embryonic and extraembryonic structures. Approximately 10% of malignant GCTs are mixed germ cell tumors. The precise histogenic origins of GCTs remain elusive, mostly because of their rare occurrence. The aim of this study is to determine the histogenic origin of an extremely rare mixed germ cell tumor of the ovary consisting of embryonal carcinoma and non-gestational choriocarcinoma components using short tandem repeats genotyping by the quantitative-fluorescence PCR and capillary electrophoresis. The comparison of short tandem repeat profiles between the patient's blood DNA and microdissected tumor revealed a consistent loss of heterozygosity at multiple short tandem repeat loci, indicating a clonal origin for both embryonal carcinoma and non-gestational choriocarcinoma components suggesting a potential origin in abnormal meiotic processes. The presence of loss of heterozygosity in the vast majority of examined loci suggests an origin from aberrant meiosis, possibly due to errors in meiosis I or meiosis II. Due to the rarity of mixed germ cell tumors, it is difficult to assess the clinical significance of this exact histogenic origin. Further studies and meta-analyses of a larger cohort are next essential step to explore the clinical significance of GCT histogenic origins. This article aims to improve the understanding of the GCT etiology.
Thrust variations in small rotors due to corner and vertex effects on the ground side
Authors: Otsuka H. , Akaba S. , Hara T. , Nagai H. , Tokutake H.
Published: January 2025

Thrust changes near walls and the ground plane are influenced by the rotor’s position in indoor flight environments. This study evaluates variations in rotor thrust near a corner, which includes one wall and the ground plane, as well as a vertex, which involves two walls and the ground plane; these phenomena are referred to as the corner and vertex effects, respectively. Additionally, the rotor wake in the vertex effect was visualised using the laser sheet method, and wake velocity was measured with a hot-wire probe. The thrust change in the corner effect on the ground side was minimal, primarily depending on the ground effect. In the vertex effect, thrust decreased to 93% of the thrust outside the vertex effect when the rotor height above ground was 2.5 times the rotor radius, and the rotor was distanced from the two walls by 1.5 times the rotor radius. Flow visualisation and hot-wire velocimetry results suggest that the thrust decrease was caused by the flow recirculation structure between the fountain flow developed along the vertical corner and rotor inflow. The thrust decreases under conditions where the circulation structure appears, and fountain flow velocity accelerates the recirculation. These findings aid in planning the flight path of small multirotors in indoor flight conditions by providing guidance on distances that do not alter rotor thrust near corners and vertices.
Visual Propaganda and Biafran National Identity: Artists Constructing a Nation During Wartime
Authors: Wolff Rebecca
Published: January 2025

The secessionist state of Biafra enacted a propaganda campaign that simultaneously built support for its war of independence (the Nigerian Civil War, 1967–1970) and fostered nationalism. Integral to this effort, although understudied, were the currency, stamps, posters, and cartoons artists produced while working for the government. Putting these materials in dialogue with print and radio propaganda, and the Ahiara Declaration (the culminating treatise of Biafran nationalism), this article demonstrates how visual propaganda actualized a nation, constructed national identity, positioned Biafra as a foil to an irredeemable Nigeria, and defined a citizenry. Through the materials they created, artists shaped Biafra’s national consciousness.
MORE ON YET ANOTHER IDEAL VERSION OF THE BOUNDING NUMBER
Authors: KWELA ADAM
Published: January 2025

This is a continuation of the paper [J. Symb. Log. 87 (2022), 1065–1092]. For an ideal

$\mathcal {I}$

on

$\omega $

we denote

$\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}=\{f\in \omega ^{\omega }: f^{-1}[\{n\}]\in \mathcal {I} \text { for every } n\in \omega \}$

and write

$f\leq _{\mathcal {I}} g$

if

$\{n\in \omega :f(n)>g(n)\}\in \mathcal {I}$

, where

$f,g\in \omega ^{\omega }$

.

We study the cardinal numbers

$\mathfrak {b}(\geq _{\mathcal {I}}\cap (\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}} \times \mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}))$

describing the smallest sizes of subsets of

$\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}$

that are unbounded from below with respect to

$\leq _{\mathcal {I}}$

.

In particular, we examine the relationships of

$\mathfrak {b}(\geq _{\mathcal {I}}\cap (\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}} \times \mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}))$

with the dominating number

$\mathfrak {d}$

. We show that, consistently,

$\mathfrak {b}(\geq _{\mathcal {I}}\cap (\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}} \times \mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}))>\mathfrak {d}$

for some ideal

$\mathcal {I}$

, however

$\mathfrak {b}(\geq _{\mathcal {I}}\cap (\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}} \times \mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}))\leq \mathfrak {d}$

for all analytic ideals

$\mathcal {I}$

. Moreover, we give example of a Borel ideal with

$\mathfrak {b}(\geq _{\mathcal {I}}\cap (\mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}} \times \mathcal {D}_{\mathcal {I}}))=\operatorname {\mathrm {add}}(\mathcal {M})$

.
Adaptive particle refinement for compressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Nealon Rebecca , Price Daniel J.
Published: January 2025

We introduce adaptive particle refinement for compressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). SPH calculations have the natural advantage that resolution follows mass, but this is not always optimal. Our implementation allows the user to specify local regions of the simulation that can be more highly resolved. We test our implementation on practical applications including a circumbinary disc, a planet embedded in a disc, and a flyby. By comparing with equivalent globally high-resolution calculations, we show that our method is accurate and fast, with errors in the mass accreted onto sinks of less than 9% and speed ups of 1.07–6.62

$\times$

for the examples shown. Our method is adaptable and easily extendable, for example, with multiple refinement regions or derefinement.
Earliest Movement of Sarsen Into the Stonehenge Landscape: New Insights from Geochemical and Visibility Analysis of the Cuckoo Stone and Tor Stone
Authors: HARDING PHIL , NASH DAVID J. , CIBOROWSKI T. JAKE R. , MANIATIS GEORGIOS , COLMAN KIMBERLEY
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the results of new research on two sarsen stones, known as the Cuckoo Stone and Tor Stone, both former standing stones that lie on opposite banks of the River Avon and straddle the eastern border of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site. Geochemical analysis indicates that both stones were probably transported to their present site from West Woods on the Marlborough Downs in north Wiltshire, a source that likely also supplied the large sarsen monoliths at Stonehenge. The paper examines the geological conditions necessary for the formation of sarsen across the site of the present-day Salisbury Plain to address the apparent absence of natural sarsen in the area. The results are integrated with those of archaeological fieldwork from nearby contemporaneous sites to suggest that the Cuckoo Stone and Tor Stone were probably introduced into the Stonehenge landscape in the early part of the Late Neolithic period, ie, contemporary with Phase 1 of Stonehenge and some 400–500 years before the construction of the principal sarsen settings at the monument. Visibility analysis indicates that the two stones were probably intervisible and likely to have formed part of a planned landscape and were positioned to create a formal portal to the Stonehenge area on either bank of the River Avon.
Temporal dynamics hidden within species baselines – multifaceted decline of a lichen bioindicator (Bryoria fuscescens)
Authors: Ellis Christopher J. , Tomlinson Sam , Carnell Edward J. , Coppins Brian J. , Sutton Mark A.
Published: January 2025

Rapid advances in species distribution modelling have been facilitated by open availability of ‘big data’ and powerful statistical methods. A key consideration remains the time window over which field recorded occurrence data are sampled to develop a baseline species distribution. Too narrow, and distributions are incomplete and affected by sampling bias, too broad and distributions may fail to meet an assumption of equilibrium, having been affected by dynamic change across a range of different predictors. Lichens are a case in point; being diverse, functionally important and the subject of bioclimatic modelling for conservation assessment, they are nevertheless a specialist taxonomic group that is comparatively less well recorded compared to birds, mammals or vascular plants, for example. In this study, we examined the distribution of the ‘hair-lichen’ Bryoria fuscescens, based on UK record data. We partitioned records into sub-decadal periods (1970s, 1990s, 2010s), and accounting for recording effort, we compared these distributions to three predictors: an historical reconstruction of two different pollutants (sulphur dioxide and nitrogen deposition), and the climate (minimum mean temperature). We asked whether the strength of evidence for the effect of environmental predictors on Bryoria fuscescens distribution varied among the different decades, while also considering a potential for lag-effects. We show that a Bryoria fuscescens distribution that appears static, is dynamic when referenced against patterns of field recording effort. Climate was consistently important in explaining Bryoria fuscescens distribution, which was also affected by the changing pattern of pollution over time. This included a lag-effect of peak sulphur dioxide in the 1970s, and accrued effects of nitrogen deposition that strengthen over time. Overall, we conclude that Bryoria fuscescens has undergone a long-term decline in extent over the last six decades, caused by complex multivariate effects of air pollution, probably combined with climate warming. The ability to resolve these trends for assessment against future conservation targets depends critically on maintaining field identification skills and a sufficiently robust recording effort.
Helminth parasites of Galápagos mammals: a new cestode of the genus Raillietina from the endemic rice rat Nesoryzomys swarthi and a summary of parasites from both endemic and invasive rodents
Authors: Gardner Scott L. , Chesley Emma K. , Friedle Michael C. , Dursahinhan Altangerel T.
Published: January 2025

In this first report of endoparasites from endemic land-mammals of the Galápagos Islands, we describe a new species of cestode of the genus Raillietina (Cyclophyllidea: Davaineidae) from a species of Nesoryzomys and summarize the extent of helminth parasitism in both oryzomyine endemics and introduced species of Rattus. Up to the current time, no helminth parasites have been reported from rodents of the Galápagos, and little work has yet been done describing and synthesizing Galápagos parasite diversity. In historical times, several species of autochthonous rodents have occupied the islands including: Nesoryzomys narboroughi Heller 1904, N. fernandinae Hutterer and Hirsch 1979, N. swarthi Orr, 1938, and Aegialomys galapagoensis (Waterhouse, 1839). Colonization of the islands by humans brought 3 known species of synanthropic rodents: Rattus rattus, R. norvegicus, and Mus musculus which are suspected to have caused the extinction of at least 3 other oryzomyines in historical times.
Declarative and automatized phonological vocabulary knowledge in L2 listening proficiency: A training study
Authors: Saito Kazuya , Uchihara Takumi , Takizawa Kotaro , Suzukida Yui
Published: January 2025

By adopting a pre- and post-test design, the current study longitudinally examined the complex relationship between two different dimensions of phonological vocabulary knowledge (declarative vs. automatized) and their ultimate impacts on global L2 listening proficiency among 133 Japanese EFL students. The declarative group focused solely on what target words sound like and mean via meaning recognition tasks. The automatization group worked not only on such form-meaning mappings but also on prompt access to the target words in a semantically, collocationally, and grammatically appropriate manner via lexicosemantic judgment tasks. Compared to the declarative group, the automatization group showed relatively robust learning in both declarative and automatized dimensions of target words. Although neither training approach showed clear superiority, the results suggest that relative gains in automatized, rather than declarative, dimensions are associated with enhanced L2 listening proficiency. The distinction between declarative and automatized dimensions of phonological vocabulary knowledge, along with the absence of a direct link between training type and improved listening proficiency, offers valuable insights for future extension studies.
Intergenerational and intragenerational cooperation
Authors: Heath Joseph
Published: January 2025

This paper is a contribution to a symposium on Michael Otsuka’s book, How to Pool Risk Across Generations. Following Otsuka, one may distinguish three distinct systems of cooperation within a standard pension arrangement: the retirement system, the longevity risk pool and the investment risk pool. It is important to observe, however, that only the retirement system constitutes a genuine system of intergenerational cooperation, the other two are essentially intragenerational, in that they pool risks among members of a cohort. Otsuka is faulted for being occasionally less than clear on these distinctions.
Experience of home monitoring of children with complex CHD during the COVID-19 pandemic: lessons learnt
Authors: Gillender Jonathan , McCullough Julie E.M. , Browne Rosie , Sinclair Marlene , McCrossan Brian , Casey Frank
Published: January 2025

Objective:

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges to global healthcare. Face-to-face outpatient care was dramatically reduced. This study implemented a remote consultation service via a mobile app (Pexip) to monitor patients with major CHD.

Design:

Study design was quasi-experimental and prospective.

Setting:

Remote consultations were carried out at a tertiary paediatric cardiology centre in Northern Ireland.

Patients:

Children with major CHD aged 0–16years in Northern Ireland.

Intervention:

The intervention was a Pexip-enabled remote consultation.

Outcome measures:

Primary outcome measures included the number of attendances to hospital both initiated and avoided via remote consultation. Remote consultations were conducted by doctor and/or cardiac specialist nurse or by specialist nurse alone (52% vs. 48%).

Results:

In the study, 32 patients enrolled; three were non-responders and a further two excluded. There were 201 remote consultations delivered (mean = 7.4). There were 12 admissions to hospital resulting from the remote consultation; the commonest indication was abnormal oxygen saturations (42%). There were 38 hospital attendances avoided, predominantly related to infant feeding and medication advice (both 42%).

Conclusions:

A significant number of unnecessary hospital attendances were avoided (n = 38). Remote consultation technology proved a user-friendly and valuable adjunct to the provision of ongoing specialist patient care in challenging circumstances. There was a reduction in parental anxiety, and both parents and clinicians found this initiative beneficial to patient care. There was prompt identification of unwell children on remote consultations.
Covered stent repair of a veno-venous cavopulmonary window: a case report
Authors: Zhu Ye , Galindo Alvaro , Restrepo Humberto , Rothman Abraham
Published: January 2025

A 69-year-old man had an abnormal intracardiac course of a pacemaker lead. CT angiography demonstrated a window between the right upper pulmonary vein and the superior caval vein. The window was treated with covered stents in the superior caval vein, which was complicated by a chronic pericardial effusion that was treated with a pericardial window 6 months later.
Enhancing paediatric and congenital cardiology e-learning postgraduate education: insights from the Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology directed webinar series
Authors: Piccinelli Enrico , Heying Ruth , Albert-Brotons Dimpna C. , Bosschers Linda , Milanesi Ornella , Voges Inga , Sendzikaite Skaiste , Pitkänen-Argillander Olli , Michel-Behnke Ina , McMahon Colin J.
Published: January 2025

Objective:

A series of webinars covering widespread knowledge on paediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery topics was initiated by Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology, serving towards preparation for the Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology certification in paediatric and congenital cardiology. This study investigated the impact of webinars as educational tools for junior paediatric cardiologists in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era.

Materials and methods:

A cross-sectional survey design study using an online survey as a tool for the assessment of trainees. An open and closed-ended SurveyMonkey questionnaire was used to document the learners’ opinions on webinars. Results were reported using descriptive statistical analyses.

Results:

Twenty-seven Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology junior members participated in the online survey from twelve different countries. Most of the participants were trainees in paediatric cardiology (56%), and the remainder were junior consultants in paediatric cardiology. Approximately 70% found no difficulties in participating in the webinars. The webinars were appreciated by participants, who found the webinars interactive and highly educational with contents highly applicable to everyday clinical practice. Significant heterogeneity emerged in training programmes across Europe and worldwide in terms of programme duration, number of fellows, teaching approach, and assessments. Training opportunities such as courses, grants, and more webinars were suggested as tools to support continuous learning by the Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology.

Conclusion:

The Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology webinar series has confirmed the crucial role of online-based learning resources in the new generation of junior paediatric cardiologists. Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology webinars and the examination in paediatric cardiology may help standardise training across Europe, promoting the highest standards in patient care.
When Donald Trump Dropped the Bass: The Weaponization of Dubstep in Internet Trolling Strategies, 2011–2016
Authors: SPENCER EDWARD KATRAK
Published: January 2025

This article argues that in the age of social media, the affective power of music can dare listeners to become complicit with misogyny and right-wing populism. It investigates the weaponization of dubstep in internet trolling strategies by examining the genre's relationship with a type of user-generated content called ‘Major League Gaming [MLG] Montage Parodies’. Mixing musical and audiovisual analysis with digital methods, the article considers the origins of MLG Montage Parodies and then investigates the content's development from 2011 to 2016. As a memetic timbral topic, the dubstep drop was initially deployed in MLG Montage Parodies as a form of pubescent power play to troll young male gamers. But then in 2014, it was redeployed as anti-feminist ammunition amid the toxic masculinity of #GamerGate. Finally, it was weaponized by alt-right trolls during the 2015–2016 ‘Great Meme War’ that accompanied the US Presidential Race. The closing remarks reflect on the ethical, ontological, and disciplinary implications of the research and issue a call for memetic musical literacy.
Preventive effects of kefir on colon tumor development in Wistar rats: gut microbiota critical role
Authors: Brasiel Poliana Guiomar de Almeida , Dutra Medeiros Julliane , Costa de Almeida Thaís , Teodoro de Souza Claudio , de Cássia Ávila Alpino Gabriela , Barbosa Ferreira Machado Alessandra , Dutra Luquetti Sheila Cristina Potente
Published: January 2025

To clarify the effects of kefir in critical periods of development in adult diseases, we study the effects of kefir intake during early life on gut microbiota and prevention of colorectal carcinogenesis in adulthood. Lactating Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (C), kefir lactation (KL), and kefir puberty (KP) groups. The C and KP groups received 1 mL of water/day; KL dams received kefir milk daily (108 CFU/mL) during lactation. After weaning (postnatal day 21), KP pups received kefir treatment until 60 days. At 67 days old, colorectal carcinogenesis was induced through intraperitoneal injection of 1, 2-dimethylhydrazine. The gut microbiota composition were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and DESeq2 (differential abundance method), revealing significant differences in bacterial abundances between the kefir consumption periods. Maternal kefir intake strong anticancer power, suppressed tumors in adult offspring and reduced the relative risk of offspring tumor development. The gut microbiota in cecal samples of the KL group was enriched with Lactobacillus, Romboutsia, and Blautia. In contrast, control animals were enriched with Acinetobacter. The administration of kefir during critical periods of development, with emphasis on lactation, affected the gut microbial community structure to promote host benefits. Pearson analysis indicated positive correlation between tumor number with IL-1 levels. Therefore, the probiotic fermented food intake in early life may be effective as chemopreventive potential against colon tumor development, especially in lactation period.
Role of Barystatic Sea Level Change in Global Mass Conservation and Its Excitation to Length‐Of‐Day Variations
Authors: Shi Qiqi , Zhou Yonghong , Xu Cancan , Xu Xueqing
Published: January 2025

Barystatic sea level stores excess water mass from the atmosphere and land to maintain global mass conservations within the Earth system. Besides the secular contribution to global sea‐level rise, changes in barystatic sea level also play an important role in mass‐induced length‐of‐day (LOD) variations over a few years or shorter periods. Compared to barystatic sea level changes deduced from the geophysical models, Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment and GRACE follow‐on (GRACE/GFO) measurements provide actual observed ocean mass changes. Here, we investigate short‐term both seasonal (annual and semiannual) and non‐seasonal LOD variations caused by mass redistribution using GRACE/GFO mass estimates and effective angular momentum (EAM) products, particularly quantitatively assessing the excitation from the barystatic sea level. Note that correcting the problem of global mass non‐conservation is necessary for GRACE/GFO mass estimates in both spherical harmonic and mascon solutions to calculate the LOD excitation accurately. LOD mass term contributions derived from GRACE/GFO mass estimates considering global mass conservation show high consistency with satellite laser ranging results and are much closer to geodetic LOD observations than EAM products at seasonal and non‐seasonal time scales. The barystatic sea level exhibits the most significant amplitude in mass‐induced LOD variations, compensating for most land hydrological excitation, but shows no clear correlation with the atmosphere. Due to slight fluctuations in cryospheric effects and the substantial compensatory action of the barystatic sea level, differences in the land hydrological excitation do not lead to significant deviations in the total LOD mass term between EAM products and GRACE/GFO mass estimates.
Seismic Imaging of Halokinetic Sequences and Structures With High‐Resolution, Dual‐Element Acquisition, and Processing: Applications to the Gassum Structure in Eastern Jutland, Denmark
Authors: Westgate M. , Kucinskaite K. , Konstantinidis E. , Malehmir A. , Papadopoulou M. , Gregersen U. , Keiding M. , Bjerager M.
Published: January 2025

Understanding the structural intricacies of subsurface halokinetic formations is crucial for various geological applications, including geological capture and storage (geological carbon storage (GCS)). This study focuses on the seismic imaging of the Gassum structure in eastern Jutland, Denmark, employing high‐resolution, dual‐element acquisition, and processing techniques. The investigation aims to unravel details in the evolution of the salt dome and its implications for GCS potential. High‐resolution seismic data processing and interpretation reveals a skewed dome structure with steeper flanks on the western and northern sides, characterized by faults and stratigraphic thinning. The asymmetric growth of the dome suggests uneven salt loading during its genesis, influencing local stress fields and structural development, with evidence of syn‐tectonic subsidence that produced salt welds. This is supported by the presence of stratigraphic wedges and an increased depth of imaged horizons within steeper flanks of the dome. A mild piercement of the salt into overlying sediments, onlapping features, and the presence of normal faults that originate from the dome apex and extend radially, all indicate a reactive piercement process in the salt pillow's development stage. This produced an extensional regime in overlying strata, inducing sequence thinning and graben structures. Analysis of reservoir and seal properties unveils adequate conditions for GCS, with a continuous reservoir and thick primary and secondary seals. However, the presence of faults intersecting these formations raises concerns regarding long‐term storage stability. Further investigations into reservoir porosity, migration paths, and volumetric analysis are warranted for conclusive GCS assessments.
Increasing Health Burdens Driven by Global Trade Induced Air Pollution
Authors: Li Ruifei , Luo Yu , Zhu Xu , Zhang Jin , Hua Pei , Wang Zhenyu , Yang Wenyu , Chen Qiuwen , Li Hui
Published: January 2025

Globalization has led to an increasing geographical separation of primary input, consumption and production, and consequently to a substantial transboundary transfer of air pollution and associated health burdens through international trade. Here, we develop an integrated framework to determine the consumption‐ and income‐based global atmospheric emissions, and quantify the drivers of associated health impacts from 2000 to 2015, and evaluate the impacts of international trade on PM2.5‐related deaths by hypothetical scenarios. Results show that consumption transferred more primary PM2.5 emissions (2.2 Mt, 23.5%) and caused more additional mortality (241,000 deaths) through international trade than primary input (emission: 1.1 Mt, 12.3%, mortality: 167,000 deaths) in 2015. Top three key sectors contributed to more than half of emission flow driven by consumption (commercial, construction, electrical and machinery) and primary inputs (commercial, petroleum, and mining). Health benefits of reduced emissions intensity, which avoided 1.4 million deaths, were largely offset by not only increases in consumption and primary input levels but also population vulnerability, resulting in the increase in mortality (0.8 million) from 2000 to 2015. Changes in primary input (1.2 million deaths) contributed more to the rise in health burdens than changes in consumption (1.0 million deaths). Hypothetical scenarios show that the participation of Western Europe in international trade contributed to the reduction in global health burden, while the USA gained health benefits from international trade. Accordingly, our findings provide profound suggestions for future policy decisions from different perspectives and demonstrate that optimizing global supply chain through cooperation would mitigate the PM2.5‐related health impacts.
Asynchronous Changes in Vegetation Greenness and Climate Variables Isolines During 1986–2020 Over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Guo Yiqing , Wu Mousong , Yang Long , Zuo Ping
Published: January 2025

Vegetation greenness on the Tibetan Plateau has benefited from climate‐driven temperature and precipitation changes over the past decades. Whether and to what extent the horizontal and vertical shifts of vegetation isolines keep pace with the temperature and precipitation isolines, as well as hidden mechanisms remain elusive. Analyzing the greenness and climate data over 1986–2020, our study reveals widespread mismatch, with 76.9% (87.1%) of horizontal greenness isolines lagged or diverged from temperature (precipitation) isolines. Similarly, 55.8% (77.9%) of vertical isolines showed lagging or diverging patterns relative to temperature (precipitation) isolines. Horizontal shifts in vegetation isolines were influenced by slope, precipitation and grazing intensity; while their vertical shifts were primarily driven by water‐related factors that mitigate warming effects. The drivers responsible for asynchronous responses provide predictive understandings of alpine vegetation dynamics under a changing climate.
The Central Great Barrier Reef as a Net Source of Climatically Relevant Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Deschaseaux Elisabeth S. M. , Dunne Erin , Schulz Kai G. , Eyre Bradley D. , Harrison Daniel P.
Published: January 2025

Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) such as dimethyl sulfide (DMS), methanethiol (MeSH), isoprene, and monoterpenes partly control the Earth's radiation budget. As such, measuring coral‐reef BVOC emissions are important for understanding the impact of future climate and shading interventions that are being developed as part of the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program to protect the Australian Great Barrier Reef (GBR). Here we report high temporal resolution BVOC concentrations and fluxes from the central GBR in the austral summer of 2021–2022, including the first flux estimates of MeSH, isoprene, and monoterpenes from reef systems, using a proton‐transfer‐reaction quadrupole mass spectrometer. Median fluxes of DMS, MeSH, isoprene, and monoterpenes across the two voyages were 4.26 ± 2.53, 0.94 ± 0.64, 0.05 ± 0.03, and 0.03 ± 0.03 μmol m−2 d−1, respectively, indicating that the central GBR is a net source of climatically relevant BVOCs in summer. Dissolved concentrations of BVOCs were positively correlated with sea surface temperature and proximity to the coast, which was most likely due to a coastward gradient for chl‐a and nutrient concentrations. Predictably, wind speed and dissolved BVOC concentrations were the main drivers of BVOC fluxes. This study adds to our understanding of ocean‐atmosphere exchange processes in coral reef systems and will help improve model predictions of the local climate of the GBR under future climate change scenarios.
Age-dependent differences in breast tumor microenvironment: challenges and opportunities for efficacy studies in preclinical models
Authors: Falvo Paolo , Gruener Stephan , Orecchioni Stefania , Pisati Federica , Talarico Giovanna , Mitola Giulia , Lombardi Davide , Bravetti Giulia , Winkler Juliane , Barozzi Iros , Bertolini Francesco
Published: January 2025

Immunity suffers a function deficit during aging, and the incidence of cancer is increased in the elderly. However, most cancer models employ young mice, which are poorly representative of adult cancer patients. We have previously reported that Triple-Therapy (TT), involving antigen-presenting-cell activation by vinorelbine and generation of TCF1+-stem-cell-like T cells (scTs) by cyclophosphamide significantly improved anti-PD-1 efficacy in anti-PD1-resistant models like Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL), due to T-cell-mediated tumor killing. Here, we describe the effect of TT on TNBC growth and on tumor-microenvironment (TME) of young (6–8w, representative of human puberty) versus adult (12 m, representative of 40y-humans) mice. TT-efficacy was similar in young and adults, as CD8+ scTs were only marginally reduced in adults. However, single-cell analyses revealed major differences in the TME: adults had fewer CD4+ scTs, B-naïve and NK-cells, and more memory-B-cells. Cancer-associated-fibroblasts (CAF) with an Extracellular Matrix (ECM) deposition-signature (Matrix-CAFs) were more common in young mice, while pro-inflammatory stromal populations and myofibroblasts were more represented in adults. Matrix-CAFs in adult mice displayed decreased ECM-remodeling abilities, reduced collagen deposition, and a different pattern of interactions with the other cells of the TME. Taken together, our results suggest that age-dependent differences in the TME should be considered when designing preclinical studies.
Sanctuary for vulnerable Arctic species at the Borealis Mud Volcano
Authors: Panieri Giuliana , Argentino Claudio , Savini Alessandra , Ferré Bénédicte , Hemmateenejad Fereshteh , Eilertsen Mari H. , Mattingsdal Rune , Ramalho Sofia P. , Eidvin Tor , Youngs Sarah , Colson Beckett Casper , Michel Anna Pauline Miranda , Kapit Jason Alexander , Swanborn Denise , Rogers Alex D. , Angeles Ines Barrenechea , Polteau Stéphane , Kalenitchenko Dimitri , Buenz Stefan , Mazzini Adriano
Published: January 2025

Borealis is a recently discovered submerged mud volcano in the Polar North Atlantic, differing from the numerous methane seepages previously identified in the region. Here we show in situ observations from a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), capturing the release of warm (11.5 °C) Neogene sediments and methane-rich fluids from a gryphon at Borealis. The surrounding seafloor within the mud volcano features extensive carbonate deposits, indicating prolonged diffuse methane migration. Sampling and imagery reveal that Borealis supports unique habitats adapted to low-oxygen conditions near methane seeps. Additionally, the irregularly shaped carbonate structures serve as a natural shelter from bottom trawling and a substratum for sessile fauna and may function as nursery grounds for threatened fish species. This discovery underscores the ecological significance of cold seep ecosystems in the Polar North Atlantic, highlighting their role in biodiversity by serving as refuges for marine species and emphasizing the need for their conservation.
Automatic speech recognition predicts contemporaneous earthquake fault displacement
Authors: Johnson Christopher W. , Wang Kun , Johnson Paul A.
Published: January 2025

Significant progress has been made in probing the state of an earthquake fault by applying machine learning to continuous seismic waveforms. The breakthroughs were originally obtained from laboratory shear experiments and numerical simulations of fault shear, then successfully extended to slow-slipping faults. Here we apply the Wav2Vec-2.0 self-supervised framework for automatic speech recognition to continuous seismic signals emanating from a sequence of moderate magnitude earthquakes during the 2018 caldera collapse at the Kīlauea volcano on the island of Hawai’i. We pre-train the Wav2Vec-2.0 model using caldera seismic waveforms and augment the model architecture to predict contemporaneous surface displacement during the caldera collapse sequence, a proxy for fault displacement. We find the model displacement predictions to be excellent. The model is adapted for near-future prediction information and found hints of prediction capability, but the results are not robust. The results demonstrate that earthquake faults emit seismic signatures in a similar manner to laboratory and numerical simulation faults, and artificial intelligence models developed for encoding audio of speech may have important applications in studying active fault zones.
Investigating the Antiscale Magnetic Treatment Controversy: Insights from the Model Calcium Carbonate Scalant
Authors: ElMassalami M. , Teixeira M. S. , Elzubair A.
Published: January 2025

The antiscale magnetic treatment (ASMT) claims to utilize magnetic field to combat scaling. However, its underlying mechanism, effectiveness, and reliability remain controversial. To address these contentious aspects, we analyze the influence of a magnetic field on the different stages of typical scale formation, using
$${\text{CaCO}}_{3}$$
as a model scale. For simplification, we consider the working fluid, such as in domestic and industrial settings, as a homogeneous mixture of a supersaturated, multi-ionic solution and a suspension of neutral multiphase contaminants, a fraction of which is magnetic. We argue that the combined effects of pH variation and catalytic role of magnetic contaminants are crucial factors affecting the properties of the resultant scale. Based on these considerations, we clarify the controversy by showing that each side holds a valid piece of the overall picture of the ASMT process. Indeed, the two viewpoints on magnetic field’s influence on scaling can be explained along the following scenarios: (i) Within a non-contaminated, supersaturated solution, there is no significant field influence because, under typical laboratory conditions, the Lorentz force does not practically affect the scaling process. (ii) Within a high-pH, magnetically-contaminated, supersaturated solution, the field does have an influence: Here, gradient-force-driven agglomerated particulates can act as templates for heterogeneous nucleation and growth.
Strengthening biopolymer adhesives through ureolysis-induced calcium carbonate precipitation
Authors: Anjum Sobia , Parks Kendall , Clark Kaylin , Parker Albert , Heveran Chelsea M. , Gerlach Robin
Published: January 2025

Common adhesives for nonstructural applications are manufactured using petrochemicals and synthetic solvents. These adhesives are associated with environmental and health concerns because of their release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Biopolymer adhesives are an attractive alternative because of lower VOC emissions, but their strength is often insufficient. Existing mineral fillers can improve the strength of biopolymer adhesives but require the use of crosslinkers that lower process sustainability. This work introduces a novel approach to strengthen biopolymer adhesives through calcium carbonate biomineralization, which avoids the need for crosslinkers. Biomineral fillers produced by either microbially or enzymatically induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP and EICP, respectively) were precipitated within guar gum and soy protein biopolymers. Both, MICP and EICP, increased the strength of the biopolymer adhesives. The strength was further improved by optimizing the concentrations of bacteria, urease enzyme, and calcium. The highest strengths achieved were on par with current commercially available nonstructural adhesives. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using calcium carbonate biomineralization to improve the properties of biopolymer adhesives, which increases their potential viability as more sustainable adhesives.
Green building development utilising modified fired clay bricks and eggshell waste
Authors: Soliman Wafaa , Ahmed Yasser M. Z. , Ghitas Ahmed , El‑Shater Abdel‑Hamid , Shahat M. Abdelhamid
Published: January 2025

The inadequate thermal insulation of the building envelope contributes significantly to the high power consumption of air conditioners in houses. A crucial factor in raising a building’s energy efficiency involves utilizing bricks with high thermal resistance. This issue is accompanied by another critical challenge: recycling and disposing of waste in a way that is both economically and environmentally beneficial, including using it to fuel industrial growth, in order to reduce the harmful effects of waste on the environment as waste generation in our societies grows. To this end, the current study sought to assess whether integrating a specific amount of eggshell waste as CaCO3 filler within bricks consistently produces fired clay bricks with desirable thermal insulation capabilities. By systematically investigating the physicochemical and thermal characteristics of bricks doped with varying eggshell content, this work demonstrates how waste materials can be repurposed to produce sustainable construction materials with superior performance. The results highlight significant improvements in thermal conductivity, diffusivity, and effusivity, alongside favorable changes in porosity, bulk density, and mechanical strength. The XRD analysis revealed that once the firing temperature rises, a high insulation feature arises due to siliceous melt formation. EDX analysis gave important insights into the impact of eggshell dopants on the physicochemical parameters of burnt clay bricks. Compared to pristine brick, CEs7% brick constructed with clay and 7 wt% eggshell exhibited a 38.7% loss on dry shrinkage, an enhancement on average pore size of 78.8%, an apparent porosity of 52.7%, a bulk density of 8.3%, and a compressive strength of 57.5%. The reduced shrinkage enhances stability, while increased pore size and porosity improve thermal insulation, making the bricks more durable and energy-efficient. In this regard, the brick containing 10% eggshell that was fired at 1100°C possessed the greatest drop in heat conductivity (i.e., 50%), thermal diffusivity (30%), and thermal effusivity (30%) as compared to the pure one. Given the aforementioned findings, these additions hold the potential to reduce the energy required for both heating and cooling buildings. This brings us to the conclusion that combining eggshell waste to create calcium silicate makes it feasible to be utilized as a thermal insulation material, paving the way for improved construction materials’ performance and sustainability.